Group Level Research Articles

Oxidative stress in the alveolar lavage fluid of children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.

To investigate the correlation between oxidative stress in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) and the clinical characteristics of severe MPP (SMPP) and refractory MPP (RMPP). Clinical and BALF-related data were collected from 83 patients with MPP, of which 29 had SMPP and 54 had general MPP (GMPP); 37 patients were in the RMPP group and 46 in the non-RMPP group. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) as well as the activity levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) in BALF were detected. Logistic regression analyses were performed on MDA, AOPP, SOD, GSH-PX, gender, heat peak, neutrophil percentage, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, d-dimer, lung consolidation, sputum embolus, and pleural effusion. The levels of MDA and AOPP in the BALF of the MPP group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < .05), whereas SOD and GSH-PX levels were lower than those in the control group (p < .05). The BALF AOPP levels in the RMPP group were higher than those in the non-RMPP group, and the SOD and GSH-PX levels in the BALF were lower than those in the non-RMPP group; the difference was statistically significant (p < .05). The levels of MDA and AOPP in the BALF of children in the SMPP group were higher than those in the GMPP group, and the levels of SOD and GSH-PX were lower than those in the GMPP group, with statistically significant differences (p < .05). The C-index of the logistic regression model was 0.960 (95% confidence interval 0.958-0.963), which indicates that the model has good predictive ability. Advanced oxidation protein products may be a marker for predicting the conditions of SMPP and RMPP, and the prediction model can assess the risk of progression in children to RMPP, which is conducive to clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Biochemical analysis of soft tissue infectious fluids and its diagnostic value in necrotizing soft tissue infections: a 5-year cohort study

BackgroundNecrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI) are rapidly progressing and life-threatening conditions that require prompt diagnosis. However, differentiating NSTI from other non-necrotizing skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) remains challenging. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of the biochemical analysis of soft tissue infectious fluid in distinguishing NSTIs from non-necrotizing SSTIs.MethodsThis cohort study prospectively enrolled adult patients between May 2023 and April 2024, and retrospectively included patients from April 2019 to April 2023. Patients with a clinical suspicion of NSTI in the limbs who underwent successful ultrasound-guided aspiration to obtain soft tissue infectious fluid for biochemical analysis were evaluated and classified into the NSTI and non-necrotizing SSTI groups based on their final discharge diagnosis. Common extravascular body fluid (EBF) criteria were applied.ResultsOf the 72 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 10 patients with abscesses identified via ultrasound-guided aspiration were excluded. Based on discharge diagnoses, 39 and 23 patients were classified into the NSTI and non-necrotizing SSTI groups, respectively. Biochemical analysis revealed significantly higher albumin, lactate, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and total protein levels in the NSTI group than in the non-necrotizing SSTI group, and the NSTI group had significantly lower glucose levels and pH in soft tissue fluids.In the biochemical analysis, LDH demonstrated outstanding discrimination (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.955; p < 0.001) among the biochemical markers. Albumin (AUC = 0.884; p < 0.001), lactate (AUC = 0.891; p < 0.001), and total protein (AUC = 0.883; p < 0.001) levels also showed excellent discrimination. Glucose level (AUC = 0.774; p < 0.001) and pH (AUC = 0.780; p < 0.001) showed acceptable discrimination. When the EBF criteria were evaluated, the total scores of Light’s criteria (AUC = 0.925; p < 0.001), fluid-to-serum LDH ratio (AUC = 0.929; p < 0.001), and fluid-to-serum total protein ratio (AUC = 0.927; p < 0.001) demonstrated outstanding discrimination.ConclusionBiochemical analysis and EBF criteria demonstrated diagnostic performances ranging from acceptable to outstanding for NSTI when analyzing soft tissue infectious fluid. These findings provide valuable diagnostic insights into the recognition of NSTI. Further research is required to validate these findings.

The Stress-Induced Hyperprolactinemia Might Not be That Stress-Induced as Argued: Observational Case-Control Study

The mechanism behind prolactin (PRL) elevation in stress-induced hyperprolactinaemia (si-HP) in humans is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of psychological stress and venous puncture (VP) pain on si-HP. The study included 91 individuals (nine males, 82 females) referred for HP. Anxiety levels were assessed using the Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3 (ASI-3) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-1 and STAI-2), and visual scales were used to evaluate trypanophobia, nosocomephobia, and scanxiety. Serial PRL measurements (SPM) were performed with venous cannula (VC) at 0 minutes (min), 30 min, and 60 min for the first 32 patients and with the VP method at the same intervals for the following 59 patients. si-HP was defined as PRL levels at 60 min (PRL60min) decreasing to normal limits according to gender. There were 23 HP (-), 25 HP (+), and 19 si-HP individuals, as well as 24 with macroprolactinaemia. The frequency of si-HP in the VC group (n = 7/32) was similar to that in the VP group (12/59, p=0.9). The PRL0min and PRL60min levels of the VC group were similar to those of the VP group. Trypanophobia, nosocomephobia, scanxiety, ASI-3, STAI-1, and STAI-2 scale scores were similar between the si-HP group and other groups. Trypanophobia, nosocomephobia, scanxiety, ASI-3, STAI-1 and STAI-2 scales scores were not correlated with PRL0min, or PRL60min levels. Si-HP is independent of states momentary or trait anxiety, and phobias trypanophobia, nosocomephobia and scanxiety. In this context, the relevance of the nomenclature of si-HP is controversial.

Overexpression of SULT1E1 alleviates salt-processed Psoraleae Fructus-induced cholestatic liver damage

ObjectiveSalt-processed Psoraleae fructus (SPF) is widely used as a phytoestrogen-like agent in the treatment of osteoporosis. However, due to improper clinical use or misuse, resulting in liver damage. In this study, network pharmacology was employed to analyze the mechanism of cholestatic liver damage. An adeno-associated virus overexpressing SULT1E1 (rAAV8-SULT1E1) was constructed and the hepatotoxicity of SPF, psoralen, and isopsoralen was determined. MethodsBy utilizing three databases inclding TCMSP, TCMID, and BATMAN- TCM, the targets of the three databases were summarized, and a total of 45 psoralen compounds were included. Network pharmacology analysis was then performed. The adenoviral vectors were injected into the tail vein of C57BL6 mice to elucidate the role of SULT1E1 in SPF-induced cholestasis-mediated hepatotoxicity in vivo. SPF (10 g/kg), psoralen, and isopsoralen (50 mg/kg each) were intragastrically administered to mice for 30 d. B-ultrasound and samples were collected and examined for follow-up experiments. ResultsA total of 854 targets were predicted for 45 active components, with 151 cholestasis-mediated hepatotoxicity-related disease targets obtained for SPF. A total of 126 pathways were enriched based on KEGG pathway analysis, with the “estrogen signaling pathway” identified as one of the top 20 pathways. In terms of pathological hepatic changes, treated mice had visually swollen hepatocytes, dilated bile ducts, and elevated serum biochemical markers, which were more prominent in mice treated with isopsoralen than in those treated with other compounds. Notably, the overexpression of SULT1E1 could reverse liver damage in each treatment group. B-ultrasound was used to observe the size of the gallbladder in vivo. The size of the gallbladder was found to significantly increase on day 30 after treatment in the SPF-, psoralen-, and isopsoralen-treated groups, especially the SPF group. Compared with the expression levels in the negative control group (rAAV8-empty+con), the expression levels of FXR, Mrp2, Bsep, SULT1E1, SULT2A1, Ntcp, and Nrf2 decreased, whereas those of CYP7a1 and IL-6 increased in the SPF-, psoralen-, and isopsoralen-treated groups. ConclusionThe overexpression of SULT1E1 could alleviate the decreased or increased expression of indicators, indicating that SULT1E1 is an important target gene for SPF-induced liver damage. The severity of liver damage was significantly lower in the rAAV8-SULT1E1 groups than in the rAAV8-empty groups.

Does concomitant diazepam and ethanol use modulate age-related cognitive decline in mice?

BackgroundConcomitant use of alcohol and benzodiazepines are described among elderly, raising concerns about their combined impact on memory. We aimed to evaluate the long-term impact of chronic diazepam use associated with ethanol intoxication on memory in aging mice. MethodsTwelve-month-old male C57BL6 mice were assigned into 4 groups: ethanol (OH), diazepam (DIA), diazepam + ethanol (DOH) and control (CTL). For 16 weeks, ethanol was available ad libitum and diazepam was mixed with food. Behavioral testing, performed during and after treatment cessation included working memory and visual recognition memory assessment. The second session was implemented with spatial reference learning and memory assessment in the Barnes maze test. In vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) acquisitions were performed to quantify hippocampal metabolites during and after cessation treatment. ResultsDuring treatment, visual recognition memory was significantly different between groups with the DIA group exhibiting the worst performance. MRS acquisition highlighted higher glutamate and choline levels in OH and DOH groups in comparison to CTL and DIA groups. After treatment wash-out, there was no difference between in the different memories evaluated. Only the learning phase of the spatial reference memory test differed significantly with worst performance in OH groups. Three months after treatment cessation, there was no remanent effect of diazepam + ethanol on hippocampal metabolites changes. ConclusionsWe did not evidence additive effect of ethanol and diazepam on memory and hippocampal metabolite levels. The disturbances observed during treatment were no remanent, highlighting the benefits of discontinuing these substances.

Citizen science promotes knowledge, skills and collective action to monitor and protect freshwater streams

Abstract Citizen science has great potential to foster ecological knowledge, skills and collective action for biodiversity conservation. To date, however, there are few experimental studies of behaviour change outcomes induced by citizen science. We assessed the effects of citizen science in ecological stream monitoring on participants' individual and collective behaviour and action intentions to protect streams beyond the immediate scope of the citizen science project. For this we applied a three‐wave, quasi‐experimental survey design with a citizen science treatment group (N = 213 participants of the project FLOW in Germany) and two control groups (waiting control group: N = 92, panel control group: N = 250). In addition, we analysed citizen science effects on potential predictors of freshwater conservation behaviour, such as knowledge, skills, awareness of stream stressors and group identification. Results of linear mixed‐model analysis showed that, compared to the control groups, citizen scientists significantly increased their objective stream‐related knowledge, their self‐reported stream monitoring skills and their awareness of stream stressors. These changes remained stable 6 weeks after the citizen science intervention. Notably, citizen scientists also reported increased identification with their citizen science project group and higher levels of collective and personal behaviour to protect streams at posttest (e.g. contacting local politicians with ideas for stream protection or using biodegradable detergents). Analysis revealed that increases in group identification and collective stream protection behaviour were significantly correlated. We could show that the citizen science intervention was particularly effective for participants with high intrinsic motivation and for those with low prior knowledge and experience in stream monitoring. Synthesis and applications. Citizen science can serve as a useful tool to promote ecological understanding, awareness and collective action to conserve freshwater streams. By fostering volunteer skills and community building, citizen science projects can empower participants with different levels of experience to engage in freshwater monitoring and protection. Decision makers should actively support approaches for citizen participation in freshwater monitoring, recognising that collective engagement of diverse community members is needed to finally meet the European Water Framework Directive's goal of restoring the good ecological status of freshwater ecosystems. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

The roles of task-specific self-efficacy and enjoyment in EFL learners’ development of speaking CALF: A longitudinal study

This longitudinal study adopts a person-centred approach to examine EFL learners’ development of speaking CALF; the fluctuating correlations of affective ID variables (self-efficacy and enjoyment), as well as their impacts on oral task performance over time. Thirty-one Chinese EFL learners completed eight oral tasks bi-weekly over six months, followed by post-task scales to measure task-specific self-efficacy and enjoyment. Data were subjected to group-based multi-trajectory modelling (GBMM) to discern the development of speaking CALF, moving correlation analysis to explore the interactions between task-specific self-efficacy and enjoyment, and panel data regression to examine the longitudinal impact of task-specific self-efficacy and enjoyment on oral task performance. GBMM results revealed variability at both the group and individual levels, despite similar educational backgrounds and learning contexts, as evidenced by differing speaking CALF patterns. Moving correlation analyses revealed dynamic, non-linear trends between self-efficacy and enjoyment. Panel data regression analyses suggested that higher levels of affective ID variables would generate better oral performance, as evidenced by speaking CALF patterns. This study successfully integrated ID variables into TBLT research within a CDST framework for enhancing our understanding of the complex nature of EFL learners’ speaking competence and underscoring the interconnectivity between task-specific self-efficacy and enjoyment.

Adapting to Individual Differences: An Experimental Study of Language Evolution in Heterogeneous Populations.

Variations in language abilities, use, and production style are ubiquitous within any given population. While research on language evolution has traditionally overlooked the potential importance of such individual differences, these can have an important impact on the trajectory of language evolution and ongoing change. To address this gap, we use a group communication game for studying this mechanism in the lab, in which micro-societies of interacting participants develop and use artificial languages to successfully communicate with each other. Importantly, one participant in the group is assigned a keyboard with a limited inventory of letters (simulating a speech impairment that individuals may encounter in real life), forcing them to communicate differently than the rest. We test how languages evolve in such heterogeneous groups and whether they adapt to accommodate the unique characteristics of individuals with language idiosyncrasies. Our results suggest that language evolves differently in groups where some individuals have distinct language abilities, eliciting more innovative elements at the cost of reduced communicative success and convergence. Furthermore, we observed strong partner-specific accommodation to the minority individual, which carried over to the group level. Importantly, the degree of group-wide adaptation was not uniform and depended on participants' attachment to established language forms. Our findings provide compelling evidence that individual differences can permeate and accumulate within a linguistic community, ultimately driving changes in languages over time. They also underscore the importance of integrating individual differences into future research on language evolution.

Trends in socioeconomic disparities in urban heat exposure and adaptation options in mid-size U.S. cities

There is ample evidence that Environmental Justice communities experience high levels of extreme heat. However, it is unknown how disparities in urban heat exposure and adaptation options change over time. This study investigates socioeconomic disparities over time in urban heat exposure and adaptation options in eight mid-sized Northeastern cities. We ask: How were socioeconomic factors associated with heat exposure and adaptation options over time? We analyzed disparities at the census block group level and census block level, respectively. At the census block group level, we ran spatial regression models between socioeconomic variables, including race, income, gender, and age, and heat exposure and adaptation variables, including land surface temperature, normalized different vegetation index (NDVI), tree cover, and air conditioning ownership rate. We found that: Low median household income is always associated with high LST and low NDVI from 1990 to 2020; Low percentage of females is always associated with high LST and low NDVI from 1990 to 2020. High percentage of POC is associated with high LST in 2010 and 2020, but not in 1990 and 2000; Low median household income and low percentage of elderly are associated with lower tree cover; High percentage of POC, low percentage of elderly, and low median household income are associated with lower AC rates. In analysis at the census block level by city, we found that disparities in urban heat exposure between predominantly POC and predominantly white communities increased in most cities during 1990-2020. Predominantly POC communities consistently have lower vegetation cover over time in most cities. Disparities in vegetation cover per unit area increased in most cities, whereas disparities in vegetation cover per capita decreased in most cities. Our findings of the trends in disparities in heat exposure and adaptation are useful for forecasting disparities in the future. These findings also suggest that interventions should prioritize cities with increasing disparities in heat exposure and adaptation.

Evaluating peripheral blood lymphocyte subset composition and lipopolysaccharide-induced cytokine secretory activity in mononuclear leukocyte cultures from patients with febrile and meningeal forms of tick-borne encephalitis

Introduction.Multiple studies on immune response in patients with various clinical forms of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) have shown conflicting results. The study aim was to estimate the changes in peripheral blood lymphocyte subset counts and activity of spontaneous and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated cytokine production in the mononuclear leukocyte cultures in patients with febrile and meningeal acute TBE.Materials and methods.Groups 1 and 2 included 16 and 12 patients with febrile and meningeal acute TBE, respectively. The control group included 13 healthy donors. Hemogram and T-lymphocyte, T-helper cell, T-cytotoxic and NK cell counts were analyzed by flow cytometry at week 1 of the disease as well as the spontaneous and LPS-stimulated secretion levels of TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-8, and MCP-1 were assessed by ELISA in the supernatants of mononuclear cell cultures twice: during hospitalization and two weeks later. Statistical analysis was performed by the Mann–Whitney U-test, and Wilcoxon test.Results.Group 2 demonstrated significant decrease in spontaneous and/or LPS-stimulated levels of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, and TNFα, but showed higher IL-8 level as compared with Group 1. In addition, spontaneous and/or LPS-induced levels of IL-6 and TNFαin Group 2 did not significantly differ from the controls, which presumably also indicated the suppression of their production. In contrast, spontaneous and/or LPS-induced levels of IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, and TNFαin Group 1 were higher than in the controls. The spontaneous IL-10 level in the patients from both groups were higher than in the controls. Peripheral blood lymphocyte and T-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte counts in both groups of TBE patients were lower than in the controls. There was significant increase in neutrophil counts, decrease in NK cell count in Group 2 as compared to the patients with a milder febrile form.Conclusion.Meningeal acute TBE patients was presumably associated with inadequate immune response with NK cell deficiency, T-cell dysfunction, increased neutrophil count in the peripheral blood and impaired pro-inflammatory cytokine production related to innate immune response.

BOOK REVIEW: CORPUS LINGUISTICS AND SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION: PERSPECTIVES, ISSUES, FINDINGS

This article discusses the application of corpus linguistic methods in second language acquisition (SLA) research. It highlights the significance of utilizing native and learner corpora, along with automated tools for corpus annotation and analysis, to explore various aspects of SLA. The article is based on a book titled "Corpus Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition: Perspectives, Issues, Findings," which covers five chapters. These chapters delve into topics such as variations in L2 usage at a group level, factors influencing L2 processing and production, group-level longitudinal trajectories of L2 development, and inter- and intra-learner variability in L2 development. The book aims to provide valuable insights and methodologies for researchers interested in employing corpus linguistic methods to enhance their SLA research.

Anti-inflammatory effects of tiotropium in copd: a randomized double-blind trial

IntroductionChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major global health issue characterized by respiratory symptoms and exacerbations, significantly impacting mortality and quality of life. Muscarinic antagonists are known to prevent exacerbations, possibly by mitigating airway inflammation. This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of tiotropium in patients with COPD by examining inflammatory protein profiles in sputum and blood, and genome-wide expression in sputum.MethodsWe conducted the prospective, double-blind, randomized-controlled ANTIOFLAM trial. Patients with COPD GOLD II and worse, aged≥40 years and with≥10 smoking pack years were included. After a 4-week wash-out period of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and anticholinergics, participants were randomized to 6 weeks of treatment with placebo or tiotropium (soft mist inhaler, 5 µg daily). Our primary endpoint was a decrease of sputum interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 levels in the tiotropium group when compared to the placebo group.ResultsWe evaluated samples of 33 participants (n=17 placebo and n=16 tiotropium). Changes in sputum proteins interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 were significantly higher after treatment with tiotropium when compared to placebo (p&lt;0.05). Differential expression analysis did not reveal gene expression differences including interleukin-6 and −8.ConclusionWe did not find tiotropium to have anti-inflammatory effects in sputum or blood of patients with COPD. In contrast, we found 6 weeks of treatment with tiotropium to increase the concentration of almost all tested sputum inflammatory proteins when compared to placebo, while RNA expression levels did not change.

Effects of propolis supplementation on prooxidant-antioxidant balance, oxidative stress biomarkers, and body composition in obese patients with NAFLD: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Background: Oxidative stress is one of the main hits in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Propolis (PRP), a natural substance made by bees from plant extracts, has been reported to have antioxidant properties. The present clinical trial investigated the effect of Iranian PRP on prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), oxidative stress biomarkers, and body composition in obese patients with NAFLD. Methods: In the present double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial, 44 obese patients with NAFLD were randomly allocated to either Iranian PRP (1500 mg/d) or placebo (1500 mg/d) accompanied by a calorie-restricted diet (CRD) for eight weeks. PAB, oxidative stress biomarkers, and body composition were assessed at baseline and the end of the study. Results: There was a significant reduction in PAB levels over the trial in both groups. However, the between-group difference was not significant at the endpoint. At the end of the study, the inter-group comparison showed a significant decrease in serum glutathione peroxidase level in the placebo group compared to the PRP group after adjusting for confounding variables based on models 1 (P=0.027) and 2 (P=0.028). No significant within- or between-group differences in other studied oxidative stress biomarkers were found. Moreover, no between-group differences were observed for body composition and dietary intakes of energy and antioxidant micronutrients. Conclusion: Iranian PRP supplementation (1500 mg/d) for eight weeks could prevent the reduction of glutathione peroxidase levels compared to the control group. However, it could not affect other oxidative stress biomarkers, body composition, or dietary intakes of energy and antioxidant micronutrients.

Research on the spoilage potential and metabolic patterns of specific spoilage bacteria in grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) during cold storage

Pseudomonas fragi and Serratia liquefaciens are key spoilage microorganisms in aerobically packed groupers during cold storage. Spoilage bacteria were inoculated into fillets to investigate their spoilage potential. The results showed that P. fragi had stronger degradation activity, and the P. fragi inoculated group had higher total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) and K values, lower water holding capacity (WHC), and textural qualities. The P. fragi inoculated group had higher levels of carbonyl groups and lower levels of sulfhydryl groups, indicating higher levels of protein oxidation. The secondary and tertiary structure of myofibrillar protein (MP), scanning electron microscopy, and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) analyses showed that P. fragi degraded myofibrils more and induced water loss from the muscle. Metabolomics analyses indicated that purine metabolism and glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism were important pathways associated with P. fragi spoilage; linoleic acid metabolism and β-alanine metabolism were important pathways for S. liquefaciens spoilage.

Towards Standardized Assessment of Outcomes in Back Pain—Validation of Linking Studies Between Disease-Specific and Generic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures

Background: Comparing outcomes across different health measurement tools is essential where various patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are used. In spinal surgery, where recent studies show that over 30 different PROMs are applied, this need becomes even more pressing. Although several statistical transformations between the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the PROMIS Profile 29 have been proposed, validation studies on conversion equations and cross-walk tables remain limited. In this study, we examined the agreement between observed ODI scores and those predicted from the PROMIS Profile 29 in a large sample of patients with low back pain, collected from routine clinical care. Methods: We compared the performance of regression and linking models at both the individual and group levels. Using Bland–Altman plots, we assessed the mean difference, 95% limits of agreement, root mean squared error (RMSE), and standardized mean differences (Cohen’s d) between predicted and observed ODI scores. Results: While group-level agreement was satisfactory, with negligible effect sizes, individual prediction accuracy was relatively poor. Additionally, regression models showed inconsistent performance across the ODI score range, though incorporating more domains marginally improved predictions. Conclusions: The equipercentile linking approach demonstrated stable agreement across all ODI scores, making it the preferred method. Future regression models should account for nonlinear relationships between PROMs to enhance prediction accuracy.

Correlation study between lipid profile parameters and liver function enzymes in Babylon province

Objective: The present study was an observational case control design. The data of study were collected in the period from first of January 2024 to March 2024. The study was conducted from clinical Laboratory private in Hilla City, Babylon province, Iraq. Material and methods: A total number of subjects involved in this study was 150 patients, from both sex (male and female) with age range (5-85). Blood samples were taken from each one to determination lipid profile tests (total cholesterol, total triglyceride, High and Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP, TSB) and investigation the correlation between them. Results: The results showed that, these were significant correlation between these tests according to male groups, the strength and direction of the correlation between TC and TG levels. The value being significant suggests that there was a moderate strong relationship between these variables (0.491). A strong positive correlation between TC and LDL levels (0.799), HDL and ALP levels (0.290), ALT and AST levels (0.777). In addition, a positive association between AST and ALP levels (0.125), TC and LDL levels (0.799). On the other hand, a weak negative association TC and AST levels (0.045), TC and TSB levels (-0.185), TG and HDL levels (-0.04). TG and AST levels (-0.065), TG and TSB levels (-0.184), HDL and ALT levels (0.123), HDL and AST levels (-0.133), ALT and TSB levels (-0.08) and between ALP and TSB levels (-0.08). However, a moderate negative association between TG and LDL levels (-0.32) and a very weak negative association between HDL and TSB (-0.016). Conclusion: In male group, a strong positive correlation between TC and LDL levels, HDL and ALP levels, ALT and AST levels. A positive association between AST and ALP levels, TC and LDL levels, these were significant correlation between these tests according to female groups, the strength and direction of the correlation between TC and TG levels, a moderate strong relationship between these variables, TC and LDL levels, ALT and AST levels, ALT and ALP levels, ALT and TSB levels, AST and ALP levels, AST and TSB levels and ALP and TSB levels. And moderately strong negative correlation between HDL and ALT levels. So, a relatively weak positive correlation between LDL and AST levels in female group. Moderately positive correlation between LDL and ALP levels and between LDL and TSB levels.

MTORC1 and mTORC2 Levels in Patients With Psoriasis

Introduction: In recent years, the role of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, which is one of the intracellular signaling pathways and known as the main control pathway of metabolism, in the pathogenesis of psoriasis has been emphasized. Objectives: We sought to investigate the importance of the mTOR pathway in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Methods: Forty patients with psoriasis and 40 healthy volunteers were included in this case-control study. Serum fasting mTORC1 and mTORC2 levels of the study groups were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Serum mTORC1 and mTORC2 levels were significantly lower in patients with psoriasis than controls (p= 0.001). A positive correlation was found between serum mTORC1 and serum mTORC2 levels in patients with psoriasis (p=0,001, r=0,826). Conclusion: The lower serum levels of mTORC1 and mTORC2 complexes which are active signalling molecules in the cell, were found to be lower in patient with psoriasis, suggesting that it may be an indicator of increased intracellular activation of these molecules. Our opinion that agents that can effectively inhibit both mTOR complexes may be more effective in the treatment of psoriasis.

Evaluation of the preventive effect of sublingual immunotherapy for pediatric bronchial asthma

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the effectiveness of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) in preventing the exacerbation of asthma. MethodsThis retrospective study investigated the changes in the rate of continuous steroid inhalation introduced over three years due to SLIT in 328 patients aged 5–15 years who were diagnosed with allergic rhinitis between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019. These patients were not initially prescribed with continuous steroid inhalation. SLIT and symptomatic treatment groups were compared over 3 years using chi-square and Fisher's exact tests, controlling for age with multiple regression analysis. The SLIT subgroups and factors contributing to asthma exacerbation were examined as secondary endpoints. ResultsThe study comprised 151 patients in the SLIT group and 177 patients in the symptomatic treatment group, with higher average age and IgE levels in the SLIT group. High continuation rates for SLIT were observed over 3 years. Asthma exacerbation within 3 years was notably lower in the SLIT group, particularly in the cedar-only and combined SLIT groups. Multiple regression analysis confirmed the duration of SLIT as a significant factor in preventing asthma exacerbation. Additionally, Fisher's exact test supported these findings. ConclusionThis study demonstrated the effectiveness of SLIT in reducing the exacerbation of asthma in children with allergic rhinitis. SLIT was associated with lower rates of asthma exacerbation over a three-year period compared to symptomatic treatment.

Effects of resistance and strength training on serum phosphorus levels in male footballers: implications for physical educators and sports trainers

Background and Study Aim. Sports performance and overall health of athletes are highly dependent on various physiological markers. Among these, blood biochemistry is of great importance and should be carefully considered in athletes' training regimens. However, the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels still requires further clarification and more effective solutions. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of strength and resistance training on serum phosphorus levels in elite male soccer players. Material and Methods. A sample of 90 volunteers was recruited from football athletes in the Peshawar division. Thirty participants were selected from each of the under-16, under-19, and under-23 age groups. They were divided into three groups: the Resistance Training Group (RTG), the Strength Training Group (STG), and the Control Group (CG). Each group consisted of 30 participants, with 10 from each age category. Phosphorus levels and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) were assessed before and after a 12-week strength and resistance training intervention. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and paired sample t-tests were used to evaluate changes over time. Results. Significant improvements were observed in serum phosphorus levels in the Resistance Training Group (4.77±0.258 vs. 3.66±0.207, P&lt;0.001) and in the Strength Training Group (4.31±0.304 vs. 3.66±0.209, P&lt;0.001). A 12-week regimen of strength and resistance training significantly improved serum phosphorus levels among the participants. Analysis of variance indicated that both strength and resistance training significantly affected serum phosphorus levels after 12 weeks of intervention. Tukey’s HSD test revealed that the effects of resistance training were more pronounced than those of strength training. Conclusions. This study highlights the importance of incorporating both strength and resistance training in athletic programs. These training approaches are crucial for optimizing physical health and performance. The findings underscore the need for educators and trainers to adapt and refine their methods to maximize the benefits of these interventions. By doing so, they can enhance the effectiveness of training regimens and contribute to the overall well-being of athletes.

Efficacy and safety of Danlou tablets in the treatment of stable angina pectoris with intermingled phlegm and blood stasis syndrome in coronary heart disease: a multicenter randomized controlled study

ObjectivesIn this study, we assessed the clinical efficacy and safety of Danlou tablets in the treatment of stable angina pectoris (SAP) with intermingled phlegm and blood stasis (IPBS), to provide high-quality evidence-based medical evidence for the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease.MethodsIn this multicenter randomized controlled study, 304 patients diagnosed with stable angina pectoris with IPBS enrolled from 12 national traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) clinical research centers in China were randomly assigned to the treatment group and the control group at a ratio of 1:1. Each group was divided into four subgroups based on the results of TCM syndrome differentiation: IPBS, IPBS combined with qi deficiency, IPBS combined with qi stagnation, and IPBS combined with toxin accumulation. The control group was treated with routine Western medicine. In addition to routine Western medicine treatment, the treatment group (the IPBS group) was treated with Danlou tablets or Danlou tablets supplemented by interventional therapies based on the results of traditional Chinese medicine differentiation. The frequency of angina attacks per week was the main efficacy evaluation indicator and the secondary efficacy evaluation indicators included angina symptom score, Seattle Angina Questionnaire, an electrocardiogram (ECG) efficacy evaluation, a cardiac Doppler two-dimensional ultrasound, an electrocardiogram treadmill exercise test, blood lipids, blood glucose, a coagulation function test, hemorheology indicators, homocysteine, C-reactive protein (CRP) or high sensitivity-CRP, TCM syndromes (syndrome score, tongue, pulse), and long-term prognosis (endpoint outcome, cardiovascular events).ResultsThere were 300 cases in the full analysis set (FAS), 266 in the per-protocol set (PPS), and 300 in the safety set. Regarding the main efficacy indicator, after treatment, the reduction in the frequency of weekly angina attacks in the treatment group was significantly greater than that in the control group (P &amp;lt; 0.05). The results of the FAS and PPS were consistent. Regarding the secondary efficacy evaluation indicators, the angina symptom, TCM syndrome, ECG evaluation, Seattle Angina Pectoris Questionnaire, and 36-item Health Status Survey Summary Form scores of the treatment group were significantly higher than the control group (P &amp;lt; 0.05) and the homocysteine levels of the treatment group were significantly reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05). The results of the FAS and PPS were consistent. In the PPS, the triglyceride levels in the treatment group were significantly lower than those in the control group after treatment (P &amp;lt; 0.05). The activated partial thromboplastin time in the treatment group decreased significantly (P &amp;lt; 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the safety indicators and incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups.ConclusionTreatment with Danlou tablets and the modified combination therapy based on Western medicine treatment could improve angina pectoris symptoms of patients with SAP and IPBS syndrome and its concurrent syndromes, and improve patients’ quality of life. Furthermore, the treatment is safe, has a long-term prognosis, and is worth further promotion and application in clinical practice.Clinical Trial Registrationhttps://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojEN.html?proj=235570, ChiCTR registry, ChiCTR1900023708.