Establish Reference Values Research Articles

Ontogenetic features of hormonal status and metabolic profile of pigs in industrial technology

The hormonal and metabolic profile of conditionally healthy Yorkshire pigs of different age and sex groups was studied in an industrial pig farm. A statistically significant effect of age on the level of serum cortisol, triiodothyronine, and thyroxine in the studied pig groups was established. Increased cortisol levels compared to the literature data in almost all pig groups may indicate chronic stress, while increased secretion of thyroid hormones is an adaptive response associated with stress compensation. Biochemical parameters of blood serum in animals of different groups reflect age-related metabolic features. It was shown that the average parameter values for the groups as a whole are within the limits obtained by other authors. It was revealed that with age, there is a decrease in the content of glucose, triglycerides, and urea. At the same time, the level of total protein, albumins, and globulins in the blood serum of the studied pigs gradually increases with age. In some cases, reliable intersexual differences in the level of biochemical parameters were found, in particular, sows exceeded boars in cholesterol content, while the opposite pattern was noted for total protein. In general, the hormonal and metabolic profiles of the herd correspond to the “industrial” status of the complex. The ability to adapt, intensive protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism are obviously fixed by targeted breed selection. The established reference values of the hormonal status and metabolic profile parameters can be used to characterize pigs of high-intensity meat breeds under industrial technology conditions.

A straightforward method for assessing the technical image quality of reconstructed and synthetic 2D images for Digital breast tomosynthesis systems.

Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) is an advanced mammography technique for which there are currently no internationally agreed methods and reference values for image quality assessment. The aim of this multicentre study was to evaluate a simple method to assess the technical image quality of reconstructed and synthetic 2D (SM) images of different models of DBT systems using commercially available phantoms. The signal difference to noise ratio (SDNR) was chosen as an index of technical image quality and was evaluated for three commercial phantoms, Tomophan, Tormam and CIRS model 015, on 55 DBT systems (six vendors, nine models). SDNR was found to depend on several factors: detail size, average glandular dose (AGD), reconstruction algorithm, software version and applied post-processing. In particular, an increase in SDNR was observed with increasing detail size, AGD, as well as with the use of contrast-enhanced post-processing and iterative reconstruction algorithms. Most systems showed higher SDNR values in SM images respect to DBT for the largest details and a decrease for smaller details. This study proposes a straightforward method to assess the technical image quality of reconstructed DBT and SM images using three different commercial phantoms. The algorithms used to generate SM and DBT images might perform differently when applied to phantoms with homogeneous backgrounds compared to clinical breast structures. However this method could be used to establish reference values for technical image quality during quality control (QC) which could be used to monitor the consistency of the system's performance over time.

Establishing Reference Values in the Neuromuscular Ultrasound Laboratory Using the e-Norms Method: A Feasibility Study.

The standard procedure to establish reference values in a neuromuscular laboratory involves examining healthy controls, as nerve size varies with the population and muscle echo intensity (EI) is device-specific. We aimed to derive these reference values by extrapolation from a studied sample (the e-norms method), compare them with published reference values, and determine their diagnostic accuracy. We retrospectively analyzed data from consecutive patients who underwent nerve and/or muscle ultrasound in our ultrasound laboratory, which is a tertiary referral center for neuromuscular diseases in Southern Poland in the years 2018-2023. We plotted the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the nerve segments and EI of the individual muscles and derived descriptive statistics from the plateau of the e-norms curve. We compared the mean difference of the nerve size to other studies and determined the ability of the muscle EI to discriminate myopathic versus healthy subjects using receiver operator characteristics curves. We analyzed 1124 nerves and 1154 muscles from 109 and 99 subjects, respectively. The derived reference values for nerve CSA were mostly concordant with other studies, including all nerve segments in the legs and with the exception of compression sites and the most proximal nerve segments in the arms. Using the reference values for muscle EI established with the e-norms method, we were able to discriminate myopathic from healthy subjects with 85% sensitivity and 92% specificity. The e-norms is a feasible method to establish reference values in the neuromuscular ultrasound laboratory.

Anthropometric analysis of the external nose in young adults.

Anthropometric analysis of the midface is essential, especially for rhinoplasty surgeons, medical aesthetics, medical jurisprudence, and anthropology. The aim of this study was to provide data to describe of the anthropometric dimensions of the nose and face among Caucasian young adults in order to establish reference values. The study was conducted among 289 Polish students (115 men and 174 women). The mean age in the study group was 20.44 ± 1.93 years. In this study 10 linear measurements of the face and nose were determined, 7 indices were calculated, including Facial Index and Nasal Index. The prevalence of facial and nasal types was determined. The dimensions and indexes were compared in both sexes. The results obtained were compared with the results of other authors on Caucasian groups including the Polish population in similar age ranges. Statistical analysis was performed. The level of statistical significance was taken as p < 0.05. The most common face type in the study group was hyperleptoprosopic (very narrow face) and leptoprosopic (narrow face) 32.17%, 31.30% in the female group and 32.76%, 29.31%, in the male group, respectively. The most common nose type was leptorrhine (narrow nose), 74.76%. All measured linear dimensions were greater in men except for nasal root width. Similar results were obtained among indices with the exception of nasal length index. The results of the obtained measurements can be used by surgeons when planning reconstructive, corrective and aesthetic nasal surgery to ensure an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Diffusion tensor imaging in peroneal neuropathy: a prospective, single-centre study

ObjectiveDiffusion tensor imaging (DTI) showed promising results in diagnosing upper limb neuropathies, but its value in patients with foot drop due to peroneal neuropathy has not yet been investigated. We...

Establishing reference values for tensiomyography-derived parameters in soccer players: insights from a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression

Establishing reference values for tensiomyography-derived parameters in soccer players: insights from a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression

CHARACTERISTICS OF RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS OF CORD BLOOD OF NEWBORNS FROM MOTHERS IN THE RISK GROUP FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF HEMOLYTIC DISEASE OF NEWBORNS

A hemolytic disease of the newborn may occur when the mother and fetus are incompatible according to the AB0 system or the Rh factor. Hemolytic disease is primarily observed in instances where the mother has blood group 0(I) according to the AB0 system, and in the fetus or newborn, according to the degree and frequency of inheritance, it is A(II), B(III). It is the most prevalent manifestation of the newborn nosology, with the initial stage being growth itself, and the level of total bilirubin (its indirect fraction). It is probable that other clinical and biochemical indicators undergo direct metabolic changes in response not only to the state of progressive hyperbilirubinemia, but also as an adaptive mechanism even in the absence of hemolytic disease in children of this group. The aim of the study. To conduct an analysis of the relationships between the biochemical indicators of umbilical cord blood from mothers with 0(I) blood group and with a negative Rh(D) factor, regardless of the blood group, without signs of hemolytic disease (HDN). Research materials and methods. This work involved the analysis of 30 umbilical cord blood samples, as well as the determination of the infant group (according to the AB0 system) and rhesus blood affiliation. The objective was to assess the main biochemical indicators of the newborn's functional state. The analysis included total and direct bilirubin, total protein, albumin, the calculation of the albumin-globulin coefficient, glucose, urea, creatinine, and the activity of a group of enzymes (ALT, AST, γ-GT, AF, total LDH (LDHtotal)). The statistical calculation of the obtained results was carried out using the Pearson correlation test (rxy). Group comparisons were carried out using the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney-Test (for the coincidence of the Rhesus characteristics of maternal and cord blood) and the The Kruskal–Wallis test for comparing the average values ​​of three or more samples (for the coincidence of maternal and cord blood groups when inheriting this characteristic). The ratio of groups and rhesus was evaluated according to Fisher's comparative test (F-distribution). Research results and their discussion. In the correlation analysis of the obtained data, a positive correlation was noted according to the Pearson test between the level of albumin and total protein (rxy=0.867, p=0.000). In the format of nitrogenous exchange, probable changes are also observed between the concentration of urea and total protein (p=0.023), between urea and albumin (p=0.033), and between creatinine and urea (p=0.025). Our studies show positive correlations between the activity of AF and AST (rхy=0.914, р=0.000), between LDHtotal and AST (rхy=0.637, р=0.000), as well as between LDHtotal and AF (rхy=0.517, p=0.004). All these indicators are important for a comprehensive assessment of biochemical homeostasis. It was found that the inheritance from mother to child of the rhesus and group traits also affects the value of ALT, AST, creatinine. Concusions. The analysis of umbilical cord blood indicators in a small group of samples (30) indicates probable changes and correlational relationships between them. To enhance the reliability and significance of the data, we intend to expand the number of samples under study. This will enable us to either substantiate or invalidate the current findings and, in due course, establish reference values for the Bukovyna region.

Reference values for the adolescent post version of the Postconcussion Symptom Inventory from the German general population

The present study aims at providing reference values from the general pediatric population for the German version of the 21-item self-report post version of the Postconcussion Symptom Inventory for adolescents aged 13–17 years (PCSI-SR13) following pediatric traumatic brain injury (pTBI). A total of N = 950 adolescents completed an adapted version of the PCSI-SR13. Prior to establishing reference values using percentiles, psychometric properties (i.e., reliability and factorial validity) and regression analyses were examined to identify factors contributing to PCSI-SR13 scores. In addition, construct assessment in the general population sample was compared to that in the pTBI sample (N = 234) using measurement invariance analyses and direct comparisons at the score levels. The results indicate good reliability (Cronbach’s α and McDonald’s ω of 0.97 each). The four-factor structure covering physical, emotional, cognitive, and fatigue symptom groups could be replicated with χ2(183) = 995.96, p < 0.001, χ2/df = 5.44, CFI = 0.99, TLI = 0.98, RMSEA (90% CI) = 0.068 (0.064, 0.073), SRMR = 0.03. With minor restrictions, the assessment of symptoms was comparable between the general population and the pTBI samples. Participants in the pTBI sample reported a significantly higher symptom burden than those in the general population sample. Reference values were provided using the total sample without further stratification. Conclusion: For the German post version of the PCSI-SR13, reference values are now available for direct score comparisons and for drawing conclusions about the clinical relevance of the reported symptoms, while considering the prevalence in a comparable general population without a history of pTBI.Trial registration: The study is retrospectively registered in the German Clinical Trials Register and in the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ID DRKS00032854). What is Known:• Pediatric traumatic brain injury (pTBI) is a major cause of death and disability, with a wide range of incidence rates and symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and recovery.• The Postconcussion Symptom Inventory (PCSI), including recently translated and validated German versions, is a recommended tool for measuring self-reported symptoms in affected children and adolescents.What is New:• This study provides German-specific reference values for the PCSI-SR13, allowing health care professionals to better differentiate between symptoms that may occur in the general adolescent population with and without chronic health conditions and those caused by pTBI.• It highlights that adolescents with chronic health conditions but without a history of pTBI often report higher levels of emotional symptoms and fatigue, emphasizing the importance of a nuanced clinical assessment, including medical history.

Initial experiences with dynamic, quality indicator-based multimodal tissue analysis (M-Ref) with parallel assessment of viscosity and shear wave elastography in liver parenchyma alterations1.

Modern ultrasound technology enables detailed tissue morphology analysis. A novel approach involves measuring viscoelasticity or viscosity. This pilot study investigates the potential of a novel high-end ultrasound system with dynamic quality indicators and the M-Ref tool. Using a novel premium high-end ultrasound system (Resona A20/Mindray), comparative investigations were conducted on 52 patients, evaluating B-mode morphology, shear wave tissue elastography (STE), and viscosity (STVi) of the liver parenchyma. The study utilized a cohort of 25 healthy volunteers as a control group. The examinations were performed intercostally using a multifrequency convex probe SC7-1U (1-7 MHz) and breath-hold technique, ensuring that at least the highest or second-highest score in the dynamic quality control (5 stars) was achieved. Measurements were made in a color-coded region with a maximum 2 cm diameter and a depth of no more than 2 cm, avoiding bile ducts or blood vessels, at a depth up 2 cm from the liver capsule. A minimum of 10 measurements were taken for each parameter: liver steatosis (based on acoustic attenuation coefficient, USAT), viscosity (STVi), and shear wave elastography (STE) with correlation to fibrosis grade. Reference values for the control group were <1.4 m/s and <5 kPa for STE, with cirrhosis criteria defined as values >2.6 m/s and >15 kPa. For steatosis, values up to 0.5 dB/cm/MHz were considered normal, while values >0.8 dB/cm/MHz indicated fatty liver. Viscosity values <1.7 Pa.s were deemed normal, with >3.6 Pa.s indicating significant abnormality. Major causes of increased viscosity included severe steatosis, active hepatitis, hepatic tumors, or post-ablative states. In all cases, a high-quality indicator score (>93%) was achieved with at least 4/5 top reference markers in green. This pilot study confirms the comprehensive capabilities of multimodal imaging for tissue characterization using B-mode, elastography, and new techniques for assessing viscoelasticity. However, extensive multicenter evaluations will be needed to definitively establish reference values specific to the type of transducer and equipment used.

UPLC-MS/MS High-Risk Screening for Sphingolipidoses Using Dried Urine Spots

Background: Early detection of sphingolipidoses is crucial to prevent irreversible complications and improve patient outcomes. The use of urine samples dried on filter paper (DUS) is a non-invasive strategy that simplifies the collection, storage, and shipping of samples compared to using liquid urine specimens. Objectives: (1) Develop and validate a multiplex ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) methodology using DUS to quantify twenty-one lysosphingolipids normalized to creatinine for eight different sphingolipidoses. (2) Establish normal reference values to evaluate the clinical utility of the methodology. Methods: Samples were eluted from a 5 cm filter paper disk (~1 mL of urine) and extracted on Oasis MCX solid-phase extraction cartridges prior to injection in the UPLC-MS/MS system. Results: Urinary lysosphingolipids were stable on DUS at −80 °C and −30 °C for 117 days, at 21.5 °C and 4 °C for at least 26 days, and at 35 °C for 3 days. Globotriaosylsphingosine, glucosylsphingosine, and their analogs were elevated in patients with Fabry disease and Gaucher disease, respectively, compared to controls (p-value &lt; 0.0001). The analysis of related analog profiles suggests a better overall reliability in detecting patients early, especially for Fabry patients. Conclusions: This approach is feasible and might be useful for the early detection, monitoring, and follow-up of patients with sphingolipidoses.

Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool-Mixed Breastfeeding and Bottle-feeding: Reference values and factors associated with problematic feeding symptoms in healthy, full-term infants.

The Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool-Mixed Breastfeeding and Bottle-feeding (NeoEAT-Mixed Feeding) is a parent-report assessment of symptoms of problematic feeding in infants who are feeding by both breast and bottle. To establish reference values for the NeoEAT-Mixed Feeding and evaluate factors that contribute to symptoms of problematic feeding in healthy, full-term infants. Parents of 409 infants less than 7 months old completed an online survey. Median and percentile scores are presented for infants aged 0-2, 2-4, 4-6, and 6-7 months old. Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool-Mixed Feeding total score and scores for the Gastrointestinal Tract Function and Energy & Physiologic Stability subscales decreased with increasing infant age. Infant Regulation and Feeding Flexibility subscale scores remained stable over time, whereas Sensory Responsiveness subscale scores increased with increasing infant age. Infants with more gastrointestinal and gastroesophageal symptoms had higher NeoEAT-Mixed Feeding total scores. In healthy, full-term infants, symptoms of problematic feeding generally improve over the first 7 months, with the exception of symptoms related to sensory responsiveness. Gastrointestinal and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms are related to symptoms of problematic feeding. The reported reference values may be used to identify infants in need of further assessment, referral, and intervention. In healthy, full-term infants with concurrent gastrointestinal symptoms and problematic feeding, interventions targeted at gastrointestinal symptoms may help to improve symptoms of problematic feeding as well.

Supervised Automated Kinetic Perimetry (SAKP) Using Simulated Visual Field Data - Presentation of a New Examination Technique.

The aim of this study was to develop, optimise, train, and evaluate an algorithm for performing Supervised Automated Kinetic Perimetry (SAKP) using digitalised perimetric simulation data. The original SAKP algorithm was based on findings from a multicentre study to establish reference values by semi-automated kinetic perimetry (SKP) combined with an automated examination method with moving stimuli ("Program K", developed in Japan). The algorithm evaluated the outer angles of isopter segments and responded to deviations from expected values by placing examination vectors to measure the outer boundaries of the visual field (VF). Specialised interpolation methods were also used to create individual 3D hills of vision and local "probing vectors" to optimise the eccentricity of the vector origins. This algorithm was trained iteratively on seven representative digitalised 3D VF results from five typical classes and optimised in each step: (1) Normal VF, (2) Central scotoma, (3) Concentric VF constriction, (4) Retinal nerve fibre layer defects in the visual field (VFDs), (5) VFDs with respect to the vertical meridian. The optimised SAKP algorithm was then applied to a new set of twenty 3D VF results of varying origin and severity. The primary targets were measured in agreement between actual calculated VF expressed as accuracy (A), that is, the ratio between the area containing correct predictions and total area of predictions measured between 0 = worst and 1 = best, and examination duration (T). The results are given as median (and interquartile range). We also verified the test's robustness by varying individual error rates (ERs) and error magnitudes (EMs). The median and interquartile range (IQR, in brackets) for the total of representative VFs were 0.93 (0.02) for A and 7.0 min (5.2 min) for T, respectively. A gave the best result for altitudinal VFDs and VFDs with hemianopic character and macular sparing (0.98 each) and worst in superior wedge-shaped VFDs (0.78); T was shortest in blind spot displacement (3.9 min) and longest in hemianopic VFDs with hemianopic character and macular sparing with preserved temporal crescent (12.1 min). Error rate and magnitude (up to 30% each) only showed a comparatively low influence on A and T. The SAKP algorithm presented here achieves a comparatively high degree of accuracy and robustness for actual, simulated visual field data within acceptable examination times. This algorithm is currently being prepared for application in real patient examinations under clinical conditions.

Expert consensus on dynamic critical values of hemorrhagic diseases based on clinical practice (2024 version)

The condition of hemorrhagic diseases is frequently characterized by a dynamic process of rapid change, making the monitoring and management of these fluctuations essential to enhance clinical outcomes. However, to our knowledge, there is currently no established reference value for dynamic early warning standards. This consensus draws upon relevant literature and the practical experience of clinical experts to evaluate dynamic changes in patients with hemorrhagic diseases based on various perspectives such as laboratory tests, radiological imaging, and ultrasound examinations. It aims to formulate a consensus on dynamic critical values for hemorrhagic diseases grounded in clinical practice, thereby providing a framework for early warning in such patients.

Physical Demand Assessment of Volunteer Firefighters During Wildland Firefighting

Wildland firefighting is physically and mentally demanding. The aerobic capacity of firefighters is important due to the demands of the activity and the associated occupational risks. The main objectives of this study were to identify and characterise the physically demanding tasks undertaken by volunteer firefighters during wildland fires (real work conditions). A total of 125 firefighters replied to a survey about sociodemographic, biometric data, and work fitness assessment. A group of 23 was evaluated in a physical stress test using a VO2peak protocol to determine maximum oxygen consumption and ventilatory thresholds. The physical demands and physiological responses were collected during the operations at the firefront (n = 21). The results revealed that wildland firefighting entails physical demands that exceed established reference values, with maximum oxygen uptake exceeding 40%. The cardiovascular strain is particularly notable in tasks performed near the firefront, reflecting fatigue. The physical and cardiac demands associated with forest fire fighting have been demonstrated to contribute to occupational illnesses with prolonged exposure. This study underscores the imperative for interventions to enhance the identification and real-time monitoring of physiological parameters to enhance firefighters’ overall health and well-being.

The H-reflex study of the flexor carpi radialis muscle in healthy individuals.

This study aimed to investigate the physiological and anatomical factors influencing the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) H-reflex and to establish reference values for FCR H-reflex parameters in relation to these factors. The FCR H-reflexes, elicited by median nerve stimulation, were assessed in 80 healthy individuals both at rest and during isometric voluntary contraction (IVC). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed with H-reflex parameters as the dependent variables, while age, gender, height, arm length, and weight were included as independent variables. The FCR H-reflex was recorded bilaterally in nearly all healthy individuals (76 out of 80) during IVC, while it could be obtained in only 35% (28 out of 80) of these individuals at rest. During IVC, the maximum H-reflex amplitude (Hmax) and its ratio to the maximum M-response amplitude (Hmax/Mmax ratio) were significantly increased (p < 0.001). However, there were no changes in H-reflex latency, latency difference, conduction velocity (HRCV), or amplitude ratio (p > 0.05). In both conditions, age and arm length were the most important factors affecting H-reflex latency (p < 0.001), while HRCV was influenced only by age (p < 0.01). Women exhibited shorter H-reflex latencies (p < 0.01), and both Hmax amplitude and Hmax/Mmax ratio were higher in women during IVC (p < 0.05). The H-reflex amplitude ratio during IVC showed a tendency to decrease with age (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that FCR H-reflexes are more reliably elicited during IVC, and that both physiological and anatomical factors should be considered when assessing H-reflex abnormalities.

A statistically established reference value determined for the Vaxarray Coronavirus (CoV) seroassay to characterize vaccination and natural infection

Serological diagnostic tests are available that measure antibody levels against SARS-CoV-2 antigens. We utilized the Vaxarray Coronavirus (CoV) seroassay, which measures SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies against the full-length spike protein (FLS), receptor binding domain (RBD), and S2 extracellular domain (ECD). Previous serological studies have used reference values that have not been validated and require many samples. Here, we show statistically established reference values determined using the upper tail of the Student t-distribution method. The target population was any personnel age 18 years and older working on a U.S. Navy ship, and vaccinated with Wuhan variant. The relative fluorescence mean (RFM) reference values for the full-length spike protein, RBD, and S2 ECD were 17,731, 13,990 and 9096, respectively. By using generalized non-parametric regression and reference values for the RBD spike protein and S2 ECD of SARS-CoV-2, this study was able to distinguish vaccine-mediated immune responses from natural infections. We provide the method and statistical code as a resource to determine future reference values for other serological assays.

Determining normal and abnormal reference values for corrective osteotomy for congenital hand malformation: a study on the zone of provisional calcification and bone axis

PurposeThis study aims to establish reference values for the normal bone axis in children to assess the effectiveness of corrective osteotomy procedures and guide the treatment of congenital hand malformations and post-operative axis deviations.MethodsA retrospective study was carried out between January 1, 2022, and October 9, 2024. A total of 192 individuals were included. In both abnormal and normal individuals, we measured the angles within the zone of provisional calcification and the bone axis. The metacarpal, proximal, and distal phalanx of the thumb were measured in both males and females. We calculated the average and standard deviations for both groups. These normal reference values were then compared with the abnormal reference values of patients who had types II and IV polydactyly.ResultsOur work effectively established thorough reference values for the thumb's normal axis. Considering the success of corrective osteotomies in children with congenital deformities depends mostly on these values. In polydactyly type IV, we observed a change in the angle on the side with the axis deviation. Our results highlight the need for an exact preoperative design for thumb reconstruction. It also implies the possibility of choosing the side with little or no axis deviation during operation. This strategic selection can help prevent the need for additional osteotomies or subsequent surgeries.ConclusionEvaluating and preparing corrective osteotomy treatments benefits significantly from the reference values for the proper alignment of the thumb's bones. These results enable surgeons to predict the degree of corrective osteotomy needed, thereby improving postoperative surgical results and patient satisfaction.

Evaluation of Procalcitonin in Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Minahasa, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains a significant global health challenge, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates. In Indonesia, type 2 diabetes is increasing, with a substantial percentage of patients experiencing poor glycemic control. This study aims to explore the relationship between serum procalcitonin levels and fasting blood glucose (FBG) in patients with type 2 diabetes, assessing procalcitonin&amp;apos;s potential as a biomarker for diabetes complications. A total of 122 patients with confirmed type 2 diabetes were included, excluding those with infection or recent trauma. Clinical parameters, including blood pressures, body mass index (BMI), and blood samples for FBG and procalcitonin levels, were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0. The mean age of participants was 56.7 years, with 43.4% diagnosed with hypertension. A significant correlation was found between procalcitonin and FBG (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;p&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; = 0.024, r = 0.205), indicating a weak positive relationship. No significant differences in procalcitonin levels were observed between hypertensive and non-hypertensive patients. The findings suggest that procalcitonin may serve as a useful biomarker in managing complications associated with type 2 diabetes. While the correlation with FBG was weak, the role of inflammation in diabetes progression highlights the need for further investigation. Integrating procalcitonin testing into clinical practice could enhance patient management, and future research should explore the mechanisms linking procalcitonin levels to diabetes complications, as well as establish reference values for procalcitonin in diabetic populations.

Establishing Reference Values for Peak Expiratory Flow in the Peruvian Population from Primary Care: Contributing to SDG 3

Establishing Reference Values for Peak Expiratory Flow in the Peruvian Population from Primary Care: Contributing to SDG 3

A study on the measurement of the reference range of the whole blood viscosity in Thoroughbred horses.

This study aimed to measure the whole blood viscosity (WBV) in racehorses using a new viscometer and establish reference values, as well as to investigate the correlation between the WBV and the haematological parameters and serum chemistry. WBV measurements were conducted on 51 Thoroughbred horses using a novel U-shaped scanning capillary-tube viscometer. The reference values for the WBV were determined at various shear rates ranging from 1 s-1 to 1 000 s-1. Correlation analyses were performed to examine the correlation between the WBV and the haematological and serum chemistry parameters. The findings provide valuable reference data for the WBV in Thoroughbred horses and enhance understanding of the relationship between the WBV and routine blood tests in equine health assessment.