Hematological Indices Research Articles

Features of hematological indices in cataract in the dynamics of surgical treatment

BACKGROUND: Cataract is one of the most common ophthalmologic diseases leading to blindness. AIM: To study the features of hematological indices in men over 40 years old with different types of cataract before and after surgical treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The examination groups included 25 patients (25 eyes) with opacities localized in the cortical substance of the lens, 19 (19 eyes) with total opacities, 26 (26 eyes) with nuclear opacities, 30 (30 eyes) with subcapsular opacities; of these, 43 patients (43 eyes) had initial cataract, 39 (39 eyes) — immature, 18 (18 eyes) — mature cataract. The control group consisted of 30 people. All study participants underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination and assessment of hematological indices. The following integral hematological indices were calculated using generally accepted formulas: lymphocyte index (lymphocytes/neutrophils); leukocyte intoxication index; neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio index; neutrophil/monocyte ratio index; lymphocyte/monocyte ratio index; lymphocyte/eosinophil ratio index; leukocyte ratio and erythrocyte sedimentation rate index. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistica 10 package. The Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney nonparametric tests were used to assess differences in the groups. The critical level of statistical significance when testing scientific hypotheses was p 0.05. RESULTS: At all stages of cataract maturity, before and after surgery, unidirectional changes in the hematological indices were revealed: the lymphocyte and eosinophil ratio decreased (1.4–2.0; p=0.01), the neutrophils and monocytes (1.3–2.1; p=0.04), lymphocytes and monocytes (1.4–2.5; p=0.02) ratios, leukocytes and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (2.9–6.8; p=0.01) increased. In immature cataract, the intoxication index according to the hematological indices increased by 2 times in the dynamics of surgical treatment. At the same time, multidirectional changes in the hematological indices were revealed in cortical and subcapsular opacities of the lens, unidirectional changes — in nuclear and total opacities. CONCLUSION: Patients with nuclear and total cataracts have the greatest number of disturbances in the ratio of cell populations according to hematological indices, therefore they constitute a risk group for the development of complications.

Case report: The role and value of radiotherapy in treatment of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor

BackgroundInflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are rare soft-tissue neoplasms. Accordingly, there is no standardized therapy for unresectable or advanced IMT. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted molecular therapy play an important role in unresectable or advanced IMT.Case presentationWe present a 54-year-old man with a cough and chest distress case report. The thoracic surgeon performed the right upper pulmonary occupying lesion wedge resection and enlarged lymph node excision biopsy. Pathologic diagnosis revealed that the morphology of “right upper lung mass” was considered as Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor (IMT). Radiotherapy was indicated at a high dose: 5400cGy in 27 fractions of 2Gy over 5 weeks were delivered combined with cisplatin. The patient was given a CT/MRI and hematological index every 3 months and experienced no more adverse events. The patient survives with no tumor recurrence as of the last follow-up. Progression-free survival (PFS) exceeded 5 years.ConclusionsWe have reviewed the literature and summarized and discussed the radiotherapy treatment options and challenges for IMT. We first reported high-dose radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy treatment for unresectable IMT. Concurrent radiochemotherapy may be considered an intensive treatment for local progress, local recurrence, and nonresectable IMT patients.

Toxicological evaluation of Carthamus lanatus L (Carthame laineux) hydro-alcoholic extract in Wistar rats: acute oral toxic effects

Background: Despite the well-known phytotherapeutic properties of Carthamus lanatus L in traditional medicine, there is little evidence on its toxicity profile in hematological and biochemical parameters. Objective: This study was intended to evaluate the acute toxicity effect of Carthamus lanatus L. Methods: The toxicological impact of a hydroalcholic extract of Carthamus lanatus (HAECL) at 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight on hematological indices in rats was assessed gradually at 24 hours after 1, 10, and 14 days. Results: We observed no significant difference in the consumption of food, body weight, or relative organ weights. Hematological and biochemical parameters revealed the non-adverse effects of prolonged oral consumption of Carthamus lanatus except for a slight increase but no significant increase in ASAT and ALAT and a no significant decrease in the percentage of basophils. Conclusions: These data imply that the extract has a non-hematotoxic potential. Overall, the impact of carthamus lanatus extract in this study shows that it is unlikely to be hematotoxic and might be a promising candidate in the treatment of coronary heart disease if taken at the levels tested.

A prognostic nomogram for patients with III-IV nasopharyngeal carcinoma based on dynamic changes in the inflammatory and nutrition index.

The purpose of the study was to explore the value of dynamic changes in inflammatory and nutritional index after comprehensive treatment in patients with stage III-IVA nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). A prognostic model was also established and validated for progression-free survival (PFS) of patients. We retrospectively selected 279 NPC patients with stage III-IVA. Their general clinical data and hematological index were collected and then calculated the changes during treatment. X-tile software was used to determine the optimal cut-off value. COX regression, Lasso method, and Boruta method were used to variable selection and model establishment. Using the bootstrap internal validation method, concordance index (C-index), calibration plot, and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to evaluate the model. To test the prognostic value of the model, we have also evaluated the performance of the nomogram against a conventional tumor metastasis staging system (TNM). Multivariable COX regression analysis demonstrated that clinical staging, delta lymphocyte, delta monocyte, delta albumin, delta platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio and delta systemic immune inflammation index were related to the PFS of NPC patients. The C-index of the model was 0.712, and the calibration curve indicated that the model had good consistency. The C-index of the TNM staging system was 0.597, which was considerably lower compared to our model (P = 0.015). We demonstrated the predictive value of dynamic changes in inflammatory and nutritional indices for the prognosis of NPC by successfully establishing and validating a prognostic model for predicting 1- and 3-year PFS after comprehensive treatment in patients with stage III-IVA NPC.

Genetic screening of α-thalassemia fusion gene using routine flow-through hybridization

ObjectiveThe fusion gene is a rare form of α-thalassemia. Patients carrying the fusion gene could be misdiagnosed as normal or -α4.2deletion by the conventional thalassemia detection methods. The aim of this study was to present the detection of fusion genes using routine flow-through hybridization, as well as to analyze hematological and molecular characteristics.MethodsSamples were collected at our hospital from January 2019 to January 2024. Common thalassemia mutations in the Chinese population were conducted by flow-through hybridization. Samples showing faint coloration at the -α4.2 mutation site on hybridization membrane were considered suspicious. Samples detected as suspicious for -α4.2deletion were rechecked by conventional Gap-PCR. Those samples suspected of having -α4.2deletions were finally confirmed with specific primers for Gap-PCR and Sanger sequencing.ResultsOf the 32,083 samples, 25 samples (0.08%) were detected as suspected of having -α4.2 deletion by flow-through hybridization. However, upon reevaluation wtih conventional Gap-PCR reagents capable of detecting -α4.2 deletion, all were found to be negative for the deletion. Specific primers for Gap-PCR were designed, and fusion gene fragments were amplified. DNA sequencing of the HBA gene showed a 7-base mutation corresponding to the α-thalassemia fusion gene. Among the 25 samples, 22 were heterozygous carriers. Three samples were combined: one with Hb QS, one with β-thalassemia, and one with Hb G-Honolulu.Most hematological indices and capillary electrophoresis results were in the normal reference range.ConclusionThe fusion gene was present in 0.08% of the population in the Guangzhou region of Guangdong province, southern China. Conventional genetic methods tend to misdiagnose the fusion gene but can be effectively screened with flow-through hybridization.

Use of Non-Invasive Biomarkers and Clinical Scores to Predict the Complications of Liver Cirrhosis: A Bicentric Experience

Background and objectives: Liver cirrhosis is a chronic, progressive condition characterized by fibrosis and architectural distortion of the liver, leading to impaired liver function and severe complications. Accurately predicting these complications is crucial to the improvement of patient outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of various non-invasive biomarkers and clinical scores in assessing the risk of complications among cirrhotic patients. Materials and methods: We conducted an observational retrospective study involving 236 cirrhotic patients from two tertiary care hospitals in Italy and Romania, in a timespan ranging from January 2021 to March 2024. Data on clinical characteristics, liver function tests, hematological indices, various non-invasive biomarkers, and clinical scores were collected and analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to assess the accuracy of these biomarkers and clinical scores in predicting complications, including the presence of varices and hepato-renal syndrome. Results: The Child–Pugh score showed the highest accuracy for cirrhosis-related complications, with an area under curve (AUC) = 0.667. The red cell distribution width coefficient of variation followed closely with an AUC = 0.646. While the Child–Pugh score had a high specificity (85.42%), its sensitivity was low (37.97%). In patients with varices, non-invasive scores such as platelet distribution width (PDW) and the RDW-to-platelet ratio (RPR) showed modest predictive ability, with an AUC = 0.594. For hepato-renal syndrome, the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score showed the highest diagnostic accuracy with an AUC = 0.758. Conclusions: The most reliable biomarkers for detecting complications, varices, and hepato-renal syndrome, are, respectively, the Child–Pugh Score, PDW along with RPR, and the MELD score. However, while these scores remain valuable, the moderate diagnostic accuracy of other indices suggests the need for a more integrated approach to risk stratification. Future research should focus on validating these tools across different populations and incorporating emerging biomarkers to enhance predictive accuracy and inform more effective clinical decision-making.

Exposure to Gas Flaring Among Residents of Oil-Producing Communities in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta Region of Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study of Haematological Indices

Air pollution contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality globally. The Niger Delta Region of Nigeria flares the second largest amount of natural gas in the world, with residents of oil-producing communities bearing the burden of outdoor pollution that may have adverse effects on their health and well-being. Our study aimed to investigate the haematological indices of residents of a selected gas-flaring site. We conducted a cross-sectional study, wherein a total of eighty adults aged 24 to 73 years were recruited from communities located within a radius of approximately 5 to 10 km from the gas-flaring facility. Blood specimens were collected from consenting participants and analysed for various haematological parameters, including Red Blood Cell (RBC) count, Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Haemoglobin (HB), Mean Cell Haemoglobin (MCH), platelet count (PLT), White Blood Cell (WBC) count, neutrophil (NEU), lymphocytes (LYMs), and Monocyte + Basophil + Eosinophil (MXD). The analysis was performed using an automated Sysmex KX21N haematological analyser. Overall, there was a significant decrease in RBC counts (p < 0.001) and a significant elevation in WBCs (p < 0.001) among people residing within a 5 km radius compared to those residing within a 10 km radius. About 42.5% of males residing within a 5 Km radius exhibited low RBC counts in contrast to only 15% of males residing within a 10 km radius. The WBC levels were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.001) than the reference range among both males and females residing within a 5 km radius compared to those residing at a distance of 10 km. In the female population, 15% of individuals residing within a 5 km and 10 Km radius exhibited RBC levels below the reference category, while 7.5% showed RBC levels above the reference range. Exposure to gas flaring may alter haematological indices. It is, therefore, recommended that a comprehensive longitudinal study be conducted among residents of oil-producing communities and workers at gas-flaring facilities in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria to assess the potential environmental and health implications of their exposure to chemical pollutants.

CSIG-03. MT-125 INHIBITS NON-MUSCLE MYOSIN IIA AND IIB, SYNERGIZES WITH ONCOGENIC KINASE INHIBITORS, AND PROLONGS SURVIVAL IN GLIOBLASTOMA

Abstract We have shown that members of the non-muscle myosin II (NMII) family of molecular motors are non-redundant drivers of both invasion and proliferation in glioblastoma (GBM), consistent with the canonical roles NMII isoforms play in cell motility and cytokinesis. However, we have also found that NMII also has a non-canonical role by regulating oncogenic signaling pathways relevant to GBM pathogenesis. This unexpected finding has led us to identify and characterize MT-125, a highly specific small molecule inhibitor of the two predominant NMII isoforms in GBM (NMIIA and NMIIB), and we have studied its effects in pre-clinical GBM models. MT-125 has high brain penetrance and retention; an excellent safety profile in rodents and canines with no changes in metabolic or hematologic indices after prolonged administration; is well-tolerated with daily dosing for at least 85 consecutive days; blocks GBM invasion and cytokinesis, consistent with the canonical roles of NMII; and prolongs median survival by 35% as a single agent in murine GBM models. MT-125 increases signaling along both the PDGFR- and MAPK-driven pathways through a mechanism that involves the upregulation of reactive oxygen species, leading to oncogene addiction to these pathways. As a consequence, MT-125 is synthetically lethal when combined with FDA-approved, CNS-permeant inhibitors of PDGFR and mTOR in vitro. Combining MT-125 with sunitinib, a PDGFR inhibitor, or paxalisib, a combined PI3 Kinase/mTOR inhibitor, in vivo doubles median survival in a highly aggressive murine orthotopic GBM model. Furthermore, combining MT-125 with sunitinib produces tumor free remissions of >100 days--2.5-fold greater than median survival of either drug alone—in approximately 40% of mice. Our results provide a powerful rationale for developing NMII targeting strategies to treat cancer and demonstrate that MT-125 has strong clinical potential for the treatment of GBM.

Hematological and iron status in aerobic vs. anaerobic female athletes: an observational study

IntroductionPhysical training induces iron status impairment in athletic females in the short term and over prolonged periods. Nevertheless, the existing literature lacks a comprehensive evaluation of the differential impacts of aerobic vs. anaerobic training on hematological indices and iron status among adolescent female athletes. The aim of this study was to assess the hematological factors and iron status in aerobic vs. anaerobic training in athletic females.MethodsThis observational, cross-sectional study recruited twenty-five adolescent athletic females; thirteen of them participated in an aerobic sport (long-distance running), while twelve of them participated in an anaerobic sport (broad jumping). Hematological factors were assessed by analyzing blood concentrations of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), red blood cell (RBC) count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), while the iron status assessment was conducted through evaluating levels of serum transferrin and serum ferritin.ResultsAthletic females who participated in the aerobic sport showed significantly lower Hb (MD −0.84; 95% CI −1.63: −0.04; p = 0.041), Hct (MD −5.49; 95% CI −7.86: −3.12; p = 0.0001), RBC count (MD −0.37; 95% CI −0.57: −0.17; p = 0.001), and MCV (MD −5.15; 95% CI −9.41: −0.89; p = 0.020), as well as significantly higher MCHC (MD 2.99; 95% CI 2.18: 3.79; p = 0.0001) and serum transferrin (MD 46.77; 95% CI 10.95: 82.59; p = 0.013) than athletic females who participated in the anaerobic sport. However, there was an insignificant difference in serum ferritin levels (MD −3.18; 95% CI −11.49: 5.13; p = 0.437) between both groups.ConclusionExcept for the ferritin level that exhibited an insignificant difference between aerobic and anaerobic training, aerobic training was associated with a worse impact on the hematological factors and iron status than anaerobic training in adolescent athletic females.

Biochanin A Attenuates Psoriasiform Inflammation by Regulating Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway Activation and Attenuating Inflammatory Signalling.

Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition marked by an overabundance of keratinocytes and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the outer layer of skin. For the comprehensive management of intermediate to advanced psoriasis, innovative biological treatments have been developed. Products for the superficial therapy of mild to moderate psoriasis are still necessary, though. Trifolium pratense contains the isoflavone biochanin A (BCA), which exhibits antiviral, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties, and helps protect the integrity and function of the endothelium. Although investigations have not shown that BCA is effective in treating psoriasis, it has been shown to slow down the breakdown of the skin barrier by regulating keratinocyte growth. We sought to clarify the basic mechanisms behind BCA's impact on psoriasis in vitro and in vivo using experimental research via regulating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. By subjecting human primary keratinocytes to psoriasis-related cytokines, psoriasis-like keratinocytes were produced. The CCK8 test was used in this investigation to assess cell viability. BCA reduced keratinocyte growth and inflammatory cascade stimulation produced by TNF-α and IL-6, according to in vitro investigations conducted on HaCaT cells. The in vivo findings showed that six days of BCA therapy significantly decreased the skin, hematological indicators, levels of NO, TBARS, histopathological, and pro-inflammatory factors of COX-2, iNOS, NF-κB pathway. It additionally influenced the protein content of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17, IL-23, IL-1β in the epidermis along with IL-6, TNF-α among the epidermis and serum. In addition, in contrast to the IMQ group, BCA improved the skin's level of Nrf2/HO-1 protein, anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and antioxidant indicators like SOD, CAT, GST, GSH, GR, and Vit-C. Ultimately, our research shows that BCA was effective in treating psoriasis in pre-clinical animal models by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, leading to an increase in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory markers.

Lipid-core nanocapsules containing simvastatin do not affect the biochemical and hematological indicators of toxicity in rats.

Our research group previously studied the effectiveness of lipid-core nanocapsules (LNC) containing simvastatin (SV-LNC) in treating cognitive impairment in rats. While our results were promising, we needed to evaluate the potential toxicity of the nanoparticles themselves. This study aimed to compare the biochemical and hematological parameters of adult Wistar rats receiving LNC or SV-LNC to those receiving low doses of simvastatin crystals dispersed in a saline solution over 45days. We discovered that LNC and SV-LNC, which are both nanometers in size with low polydispersity index, negative zeta potential, and high SV encapsulation efficacy, were not more toxic than SV crystals based on various biochemical markers of hepatic, pancreatic, renal, mineral, bony, alkaline phosphatase, glucose, and uric acid damage. Furthermore, LNC exhibited no toxicity for hematological parameters, including red and white blood cell counts. Based on this animal model of toxicological study, our findings suggest that long-term administration of LNC is a safe and promising nanocarrier.

Comparative Effect of Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum Extract and their Mixture on some Haematological Indices of Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulceration in Albino Rats

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) which includes gastric and duodenal ulcer is one of the unresolved medical problems facing numerous patients in a wide range of age of both sexes worldwide. Many medicinal plants are known to exhibit antiulcer activity and some have been confirmed scientifically to possess gastro protective and antiulcer property and also found to be useful in its treatment. Among these medicinal plants turmeric (Curcuma longa) and black pepper (Piper nigrum) have been reported to possess gastroprotective potentials. However, the effect of the combination of turmeric and black pepper on the haematological indices of ulcerated rats hasn’t been considered. As a result, this study was designed to evaluate the effect of aqueous extract of Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum on some haematological parameters of indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration in albino rats. Total of sixty (60) albino rats was used for this study. After acclimatization for 14 days, the animals were randomly allocated into six groups (n=10).Group A (normal control): rats was fed on pellet and allowed free access to water, rats in Group B (Ulcerated control) were given only indomethacin at a dose of 50mg/Kg body weight. Animals in group C (Standard control) was given indomethacin after pre-treatment with omperazole (20mg/kg) body weight. Group D,E, and F comprised ulcerated rats pre-treated with turmeric (200mg/kg body weight), black pepper (100mg/kg body weight), turmeric and black pepper (200mg/Kg + 100mg/kg respectively) body weight. Treatments with the reference drug and extracts lasted for 21 days prior to ulcer induction on the twenty-third day.4 h post ulcer induction, the animals were humanely sacrificed under chloroform anaesthesia and blood samples were collected for further haematological studies. The result obtained from this study showed that there were no significant (p > 0.05) differences in PCV, HbC, TWBC, NEUT, MON, EOS, BAS, RBC and PLT levels across all groups, with LYM being significantly (p < 0.05) different in group E compared with Group F. The study found that Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum extracts, either alone or in combination, do not significantly alter haematological indices in albino rats with gastric ulcers caused by indomethacin, suggesting they may be beneficial without negative systemic impact. However, lymphocyte levels significantly decreased in the group treated with a mixture of Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum, suggesting a potential mild immunomodulatory effect. Keywords: Haematological Indices, Indomethacin, Ulcer, Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum

A Stacked Multimodality Model Based on Functional MRI Features and Deep Learning Radiomics for Predicting the Early Response to Radiotherapy in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

BackgroundThis study aimed to construct and assess a comprehensive model that integrates MRI-derived deep learning radiomics, functional imaging (fMRI), and clinical indicators to predict early efficacy of radiotherapy in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). MethodsThis retrospective study recruited NPC patients with radiotherapy from two Chinese hospitals between October 2018 and July 2022, divided into a training set (hospital I, 194 cases), an internal validation set (hospital I, 82 cases), and an external validation set (hospital II, 40 cases). We extracted 3404 radiomic features and 2048 deep learning characteristics from MRI modalities - T1WI, CE-T1WI, T2WI, and T2WI/FS. Additionally, both the ADC and its maximum (ADCmax) from DWI imaging, along with TBF and its maximum (TBFmax) from ASL imaging were derived. We used four classifiers (LR, XGBoost, SVM and KNN) and stacked algorithm as model construction methods. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to assess models. ResultsThe manual radiomics model leveraging XGBoost and the deep learning model based on KNN (the AUCs in the training set: 0.909, 0.823, respectively) showed better predictive efficacy than other machine learning algorithms. The stacked model that integrated MRI-based deep learning radiomics, fMRI, and hematological indicators, has a large improvement of AUC in the training set [0.984 (95%CI: 0.972 - 0.996)], the internal validation set [0.936 (95%CI: 0.885 - 0.987)], and the external validation set [0.959 (95%CI: 0.901-1)]. ConclusionsOur research has developed a clinical-radiomics integrated model based on MRI which can predict early radiotherapy response in NPC and provide guidance for personalized treatment.

Atractylodes macrocephala Rhizoma alleviates blood hyperviscosity induced by high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt diet via inhibition of gut-liver inflammatory activation and fibrinogen synthesis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceUnhealthy dietary patterns and lifestyle changes have been linked to increased blood viscosity, which is recognized as an important pathogenic factor in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The underlying mechanism may involve chronic inflammation resulting from intestinal barrier disruption induced by unhealthy diets. The rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (Called Baizhu in China), is a well-used “spleen-reinforcing” traditional Chinese medicinal herb used for thousands of years. Previous research has demonstrated its multiple gastrointestinal health benefits and its ability to regulate metabolic disorders. However, the effects of Baizhu on blood hyperviscosity induced by long-term unhealthy diets remain unclear. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to investigate the effects of the aqueous extract of Baizhu on blood hyperviscosity induced by unhealthy diet and to explore the possible mechanisms. Materials and methodsThe blood hyperviscosity model in SD rats was established utilizing a high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt diet (HFSSD). Subsequently, the rats underwent a twelve-week intervention with varying doses of Baizhu and a positive control. To evaluate the efficacy of Baizhu on blood hyperviscosity in model rats, we measured behavioral index, hemorheological parameters, inflammatory cytokines, hematology, adhesion molecules, as well as biochemical indicators in serum and liver. We also assessed the pathological states of the colon and liver. Furthermore, Western blotting, ELISA, IHC, and qRT-PCR were used to determine the effect of Baizhu on the IL-6/STAT3/ESRRG signaling pathway and FIB synthesis. ResultsThe intervention of Baizhu showed evident attenuating effects on blood viscosity and microcirculation disorders, and exhibit the capacity to moderately modulate parameters including grip, autonomous activities, vertigo time, TC, TG, LDL-c, inflammatory factors, adhesion factors, hematological indicators, etc. At the same time, it reduces liver lipid droplet deposition, restores intestinal integrity, and lowers LPS level in the serum. Subsequent experimental results showed that Baizhu downregulated the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB in colon tissue, as well as the expression of IL-6, TLR4, p-JAK2, p-STAT3, and ESRRG in liver tissue. Finally, we also found that Baizhu could regulate the levels of FIB in plasma and liver. ConclusionBaizhu protects HFSSD-induced rats from blood hyperviscosity, likely through repairing the intestinal barrier and inhibiting LPS/TLR4-associated liver inflammatory activation, thus suppressing FIB synthesis through the downregulation of IL-6/STAT3/ESRRG pathway.

Association of Vitamin D with Haematological Inflammatory Indices in Patients with Back Pain.

To assess the relationship between vitamin D and haematological inflammatory indices (HII) in chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients. Descriptive study. Place and Duration of the Study: Harran University Hospital, Sanliurfa, Turkiye, between September 2023 and February 2024. A total of 100 CLBP patients were divided into three groups according to their vitamin D levels as deficiency (<20 µg/L), insufficiency (20-30 µg/L), and sufficiency (30-80 µg/L). Demographic characteristics, serum parameters, and HII were compared among the three groups. Additionally, the association between vitamin D and other parameters were investigated. The three groups were similar in terms of age (p = 0.640), gender distribution (p = 0.057), body mass index (BMI, p = 0.855), C-reactive protein (CRP, p = 0.965), leucocyte count (p = 0.979), neutrophil count (p = 0.525), lymphocyte count (p = 0.246), monocyte count (p = 0.485), platelet count (p = 0.878), and HII including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR, p = 0.335), monocyte-to- lymphocyte ratio (MLR, p = 0.227), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (p = 0.898), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte*platelet ratio (NLPR, p = 0.543), systemic inflammatory index (SII, p = 0.300), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI, p = 0.187), and aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI, p = 0.219). No significant correlation was found between vitamin D concentration and other parameters (p >0.05). The coexistence of vitamin D deficiency and increased HII may accompany inflammatory conditions. However, no significant association was found between vitamin D level and HII in non-inflammatory CLBP. Inflammation, Low back pain, Neutrophil, Complete blood count, Vitamin D.

Association of Vitamin D with Haematological Inflammatory Indices in Patients with Back Pain.

To assess the relationship between vitamin D and haematological inflammatory indices (HII) in chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients. Descriptive study. Place and Duration of the Study: Harran University Hospital, Sanliurfa, Turkiye, between September 2023 and February 2024. A total of 100 CLBP patients were divided into three groups according to their vitamin D levels as deficiency (<20 µg/L), insufficiency (20-30 µg/L), and sufficiency (30-80 µg/L). Demographic characteristics, serum parameters, and HII were compared among the three groups. Additionally, the association between vitamin D and other parameters were investigated. The three groups were similar in terms of age (p = 0.640), gender distribution (p = 0.057), body mass index (BMI, p = 0.855), C-reactive protein (CRP, p = 0.965), leucocyte count (p = 0.979), neutrophil count (p = 0.525), lymphocyte count (p = 0.246), monocyte count (p = 0.485), platelet count (p = 0.878), and HII including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR, p = 0.335), monocyte-to- lymphocyte ratio (MLR, p = 0.227), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (p = 0.898), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte*platelet ratio (NLPR, p = 0.543), systemic inflammatory index (SII, p = 0.300), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI, p = 0.187), and aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI, p = 0.219). No significant correlation was found between vitamin D concentration and other parameters (p >0.05). The coexistence of vitamin D deficiency and increased HII may accompany inflammatory conditions. However, no significant association was found between vitamin D level and HII in non-inflammatory CLBP. Inflammation, Low back pain, Neutrophil, Complete blood count, Vitamin D.

Toxicological Evaluation of Sargassum polycystum in Mice with Loperamide-Induced Constipation

Constipation gradually increases in people after the age of 50 years leading to difficulty in stool passage. Until now, there have been no effective drugs without side effects. This study investigated the preventive potential and toxicity of Sargassum polycystum extract (SPE) against loperamide-induced constipation in mice. Daily oral administration of SPE (100, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) for 14 days significantly increased defecation frequency in constipation mice. Additionally, no significant differences in blood haematological and biochemical indices between the control, constipation and SPE-treated groups were detected. Histopathological examinations revealed non-toxic effects in liver, kidney and colon tissue samples from the SPE-treated groups compared with the control and constipation groups. Real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that the administration of SPE significantly modulated Saa3, Odc1 and Clu expressions that promote the health of living organisms compared with the control group. Overall, this study showed that daily oral administration of Sargassum polycystumfor 14 days could prevent constipation without any adverse effects. Sargassum polycystumis suitable for further use as a supplement or drug to manage constipation.

Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma in Xiamen

ObjectiveTo investigate the epidemiological characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma in Xiamen and offer recommendations for its control and prevention. Methods: Data obtained from liver cancer screening in 2016–2018 and 2019–2020 in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in Xiamen were collected using Xiamen Healthcare Big Data Platform. Epidemiological characteristics were analyzed descriptively by different years. Results: From 2016–2020, there were 3740 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in Xiamen. In the patients, the percentage of males was higher than that of females (83.13 % vs 16.87 %). From 2019–2020, there was an increase in the detection rates for disorders including hepatitis B, hypertension, diabetes, fatty liver and cirrhosis of the liver, and there was a decrease in the prevalence of hepatitis C. There was an increase in the values of all hematological indicators of infection in patients with liver cancer in 2019–2020 compared with the previous three years. From 2016–2020, there was a year-on-year increase in the prevalence of liver cancer and fatty liver. From 2018–2020, there was an increasing trend in the prevalence of liver cancer in overweight patients in the population with fatty liver. Conclusion: In 2019–2020, there was an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Comprehensive liver cancer screening provides an important guide for the prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer and for clinicians to assess patients’ condition.

Laboratory possibilities of prognosis of local complications in hip replacement

BACKGROUND: Endoprosthetics of large joints is a frequently performed operation in traumatology practice. The progression of local infectious sequela among postoperative patients is of major socio-economic importance since more than 30% of cases of inflammatory postoperative reactions are complicated by sepsis. In recent years, new criteria have been sought to assess the risks of infection in the field of surgical intervention, and prognostic scales have also been developed. AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic value of coagulological, biochemical and hematological indicators of the risk of hemorrhagic complications in patients after hip replacement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 85 patients who were in the clinic of Traumatology and Orthopedics of the I.I. Mechnikov for planned hip replacement. The average age of the patients was 64 ± 10 years. There were 46 women (54%), 39 men (46%). All patients underwent clinical and laboratory examination before surgery, the day after surgery and before discharge. All patients received rivaroxaban (10 mg 1 time/day) after surgery for the prevention of venous thromboembolic complications (46 patients) or apixaban (2.5 mg 2 times/day) (39 patients) during the entire period of stay in the clinic. Retrospectively, depending on the occurrence of complications, the patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 — 78 patients (42 women and 36 men), whose postoperative period passed without complications, and group 2 — 7 patients (4 women and 3 men), who had hemorrhagic cases. Screening coagulogram (International Normalized Ratio, Activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen) was performed on the STA Compact analyzer (Stago, France), biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, total calcium, ionized calcium, serum iron, C-reactive protein) were determined on the COBAS Integra 400plus analyzer, hematological parameters on the DxH800 analyzer (Beckman Coulter, USA). RESULTS: A retrospective analysis revealed that a decrease in serum iron in male patients before surgery is a marker of the prognosis of hemorrhagic complications. Prognostic significant laboratory indicators of the development of hemorrhagic complications in patients in the early period after hip replacement include an increase in fibrinogen and C-reactive protein; a decrease in serum iron. During the recovery period, the concentration of C-reactive protein and the relative number of monocytes are the most significant for assessing the risk of complications. CONCLUSIONS: Among the laboratory indicators in the structure of the weight coefficients of the prognosis of complications in patients undergoing hip replacement, it is necessary to evaluate the concentration of serum iron before surgery, especially in men, in the early postoperative period — C-reactive protein, fibrinogen and serum iron and at discharge — C-reactive protein and the number of monocytes as additional criteria for the risk of complications.

Construction and validation of a line chart for gestational diabetes mellitus based on clinical indicators

BackgroundGestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication of mid–to-late pregnancy. Here, we constructed a predictive model for GDM based on a combination of clinical characteristics and relevant serum markers.MethodsData from full-term singleton vaginal deliveries from January 2022 to January 2023 were retrospectively collected from the obstetrics department. The data collected were segregated and assigned to training, validation, and external test sets. Maternal demographic characteristics, living and working habits, and haematological indicators, such as liver function and lipids were collected using a questionnaire designed for the study. The “rms” package in R was used to explore GDM-associated factors through stepwise regression at P < 0.05. A predictive model was developed based on the results of multifactorial logistic regression analysis. We then evaluated the differentiation of the column-line graphical model and performed internal and external validation. To assess the accuracy of the bar graphical model, we plotted calibration and decision curves.ResultsData from 265 pregnant women were included in the training and internal validation sets, and data from 113 pregnant women were included in the external validation set. The logistic regression algorithm screened 8 indicators as predictors. A prediction model was constructed with ALT, TBA, TC, and TG levels while considering whether GDM affects appetite, the husband– wife relationship, family history, and parental relationships as predictors. The Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test revealed that the chi-square values for the modelling, internal validation, and external validation groups (χ2 = 5.964, 3.249, and 12.182, respectively) were all P > 0.05. The ROC curve AUCs for the three groups were 0.93 (95% CI: 0.89–0.97), 0.72 (95% CI: 0.62–0.81), and 0.68 (95% CI: 0.53–0.83), respectively.ConclusionIn this study, a GDM prediction model was constructed to achieve high performance in GDM risk prediction based on routine obstetric tests and information.