Serum Levels Of Protein Research Articles

Efficacy of Postoperative Oral Nutritional Supplements in Geriatric Hip Fracture Patients Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Background/Objectives: Geriatric hip fracture patients have an increased risk of malnutrition. Proper nutritional supply in the perioperative period is very important for their recovery. Oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) are recommended in geriatric hip fracture patients to improve dietary intake and prevent complications. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of postoperative ONSs after total hip arthroplasty in geriatric hip fracture patients. Methods: A retrospective study of elderly patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty for hip fracture was conducted. Data from patients who received ONSs postoperatively until hospital discharge (ONS group, n = 69) were compared with patients who did not receive ONSs (control group, n = 168). Laboratory test results, including serum protein and albumin levels, length of hospital stay, and the incidence of postoperative medical complications of the two groups, were analyzed. Results: Preoperative serum protein and albumin levels were significantly higher in the control group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.010, respectively). However, the degree of decline for both protein and albumin levels was significantly less in the ONS group (p < 0.001 for both). Serum albumin levels were significantly higher in the ONS group at postoperative two-week follow-up (p = 0.006). The length of hospital stay was shorter in the ONS group (p < 0.001). The incidence of postoperative delirium was significantly higher in the control group (p = 0.007). Conclusions: In geriatric hip fracture patients, postoperative ONSs can improve postoperative nutritional status, shorten the length of hospital stay, and reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium.

Effect of Colchicine for Prevention of Recurrent Stroke in Ischemic Stroke Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Randomized Double-blinded Placebo-- controlled Trial

Background: It has been proposed that colchicine may have the potential to prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular dysfunctions. Objective: This study evaluated the impact of colchicine on preventing recurrent stroke in patients with both ischemic stroke (IS) and atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted at Golestan Hospital (Ahvaz, Iran) over one year, involving IS patients with AF. Demographic and clinical data were collected from the participants, who were then assigned to either the intervention or placebo groups. The experimental group was administered colchicine at a dosage of 0.05 mg twice daily for one year, while the control group received a placebo at a comparable dosage over the same timeframe. Results: In one year, 108 patients completed the study. There were 55 patients in the intervention group and 53 patients in the placebo group. During the second trimester of the trial, three patients in the colchicine group and 10 patients in the placebo group experienced recurrent strokes. Gastrointestinal issues were the most commonly reported complications (33 cases), followed by myalgia (8 patients). There were significant differences in the frequency of recurrent stroke and serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) between the colchicine and placebo groups (P &lt; 0.05) after intervention. Conclusion: In this study, colchicine was effective in reducing recurrent stroke and CRP levels in IS patients with AF compared to the control group. Further randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes and extended durations are recommended to validate the results of this trial.

Impact of Toxoplasma gondii on Serum Protein Levels and Mineral Content in Sheep and Goats at a Small Dairy Farm in White Nile State, Sudan

Aim: This study aims to investigate the effects of Toxoplasma gondii infection on the serum proteins and macro elements (Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphate) for sheep and goat. Introduction: In sheep and goats, Toxoplasma infection is a major cause of abortion and stillbirth. Subclinical infections are also quite common in adult animals of affected flocks and herds. Serum proteins and macro elements plays an essential role in animal metabolism. Materials and Methods: Serological survey of T. gondii was conducted using Latex Agglutination Test (LAT) for 20 sera collected from sheep and goats (8 and12 respectively) in white Nile State, Sudan. Results: Out of twelve goats’ serum and eight sheep serum samples, seven samples were found to be positive for Toxoplasma (58.33%) in goats and four samples were found to be positive for Toxoplasma (50%) in sheep, the remaining samples were negative. It was observed that serum Total protein (Tp) level was increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) in both species, and albumin (Alb) level decreased significantly (p&lt;0.05) in goats, while Globulin (Glob) was significantly (p&lt;0.05) low in sheep compared with control animals. The results showed that some minerals (Na and K) concentrations in the serum were higher in both sheep and goats compared to the controls. Conclusion: In conclusion infestation of goats with Toxoplama gondii increases the total protein, globulins and significantly decreases the albumin concentrations. For sheep the infestation increases the total protein, albumin and significantly decreases the globulin concentrations. Sheep and goats infected with Toxoplasma gondii showed increased serum sodium, potassium and magnesium levels affecting most of the enzyme systems.

Cellulose acetate electrophoretic separation of serum and urine proteins in Nigerian children with autism spectrum disorders

BackgroundAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by social communication challenges and restricted, repetitive behaviors. While genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute to ASD, the role of the immune system remains unclear. This study investigated the separation patterns of serum and urine proteins in Nigerian children with ASD compared to typically developing children and children with other NDDs.MethodsForty-seven participants aged 3–8 years were recruited, including 16 children diagnosed with ASD and 16 children with other NDDs, both according to DSM-5 criteria, along with 15 neurotypical children. Blood and urine samples were collected for protein analysis. Total protein and albumin levels were measured in both serum and urine using established methods. Protein separation in serum and urine was performed using cellulose acetate electrophoresis, followed by densitometry analysis of the electrophoretic patterns.ResultsThe results revealed no significant differences in total serum protein levels and most protein fractions between the groups. However, children with other NDDs exhibited significantly lower levels of alpha-2 globulin compared to neurotypical children. Conversely, both ASD and NDD groups showed significantly higher gamma globulin levels compared to the control group. Interestingly, spot urine protein levels were significantly higher in children with ASD compared to neurotypical children.ConclusionThe observed changes in alpha-2 and gamma globulin levels suggest potential immune system involvement in ASD and other NDDs. The higher urine protein excretion in the ASD group warrants further investigation to explore the potential of urinary protein biomarkers for ASD diagnosis.

Serum Level of S100B Protein as a Biomarker of Therapeutic Adherence in Parkinson’s Disease Patients

Pharmacological management of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is complex and may negatively impact patients' adherence to therapy. Several objective and subjective approaches are used to assess therapeutic adherence. Measurement of biological markers, that are well correlated with the effect of the medications, and that are distributed into easily accessible body fluids would be feasible approach for measuring therapeutic adherence for these medications. S100B protein has been proposed to be involved in the pathophysiology of PD. The study aims to measure the serum S100B level in PD patients and to assess its potentials to be used as a biomarker to predict therapeutic adherence in PD patients. Sixty-eight adult outpatients, of both genders, who were already diagnosed with PD, receiving different anti-Parkinson medications, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Hoehn and Yahr scale was used to determine the stage of disease; while, therapeutic adherence to treatment was assessed using the Arabic version of Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). Serum S100B level was measured by enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay. Serum S100B level of participants was 10.55 (13.3) ng/l, and there was no significant difference between medians of S100B protein according to disease stages, P =0.975. Serum S100B level in patients with poor therapeutic adherence [14.2 (13.2) ng/l] was significantly higher than that in patients with good therapeutic adherence [3.14 (3.34)]; P = 0.008. Furthermore, serum S100B level with the MMAS-8; (r= -0.414, P = 0.001). Finally, at a cut-off point 3.57 ng/l and above, serum S100B level was shown to have good potential [area under the curve (AUC)= 0.715], as biomarker of therapeutic adherence with 70.6% sensitivity and 70.6%, specificity; P = 0.008. In conclusion, serum S100B level in PD patients is negatively correlated with therapeutic adherence level and has good potentials as biomarker of therapeutic adherence in PD patients to anti-Parkinson medications.

Genetic evidence for efficacy of targeting IL-2, IL-6 and TYK2 signalling in the prevention of type 1 diabetes: a Mendelian randomisation study

Aims/hypothesisWe aimed to investigate the genetic evidence that supports the repurposing of drugs already licensed or in clinical phases of development for prevention of type 1 diabetes.MethodsWe obtained genome-wide association study summary statistics for the risk of type 1 diabetes, whole-blood gene expression and serum protein levels and investigated genetic polymorphisms near seven potential drug target genes. We used co-localisation to examine whether the same genetic variants that are associated with type 1 diabetes risk were also associated with the relevant drug target genetic proxies and used Mendelian randomisation to evaluate the direction and magnitude of the associations. Furthermore, we performed Mendelian randomisation analysis restricted to functional variants within the drug target genes.ResultsCo-localisation revealed that the blood expression levels of IL2RA (encoding IL-2 receptor subunit α [IL2RA]), IL6R (encoding IL-6 receptor [IL6R]) and IL6ST (encoding IL-6 cytokine family signal transducer [IL6ST]) shared the same causal variant with type 1 diabetes liability near the corresponding genes (posterior probabilities 100%, 96.5% and 97.0%, respectively). The OR (95% CI) of type 1 diabetes per 1-SD increase in the genetically proxied gene expression of IL2RA, IL6R and IL6ST were 0.22 (0.17, 0.27), 1.98 (1.48, 2.65) and 1.90 (1.45, 2.48), respectively. Using missense variants, genetically proxied TYK2 (encoding tyrosine kinase 2) expression levels were associated with type 1 diabetes risk (OR 0.61 [95% CI 0.54, 0.69]).Conclusions/interpretationOur findings support the targeting of IL-2, IL-6 and TYK2 signalling in prevention of type 1 diabetes.Data availabilityThe analysis code is available at https://github.com/jkoskenniemi/T1DSCREEN, which also includes instructions on how to download the original GWAS summary statistics.Graphical

Cold reducing acupuncture as adjunctive therapy for wrist joint disorder of active rheumatoid arthritis with dampness-heat obstruction：a randomized controlled trial

To compare the clinical efficacy between cold reducing acupuncture combined with western medication and western medication alone for wrist joint disorder of active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with dampness-heat obstruction. A total of 80 patients with wrist joint disorder of active RA with dampness-heat obstruction were randomly divided into a combination group (40 cases, 3 cases dropped out) and a western medication group (40 cases, 3 cases dropped out). The western medication group was treated with methotrexate tablets, 15 mg each time, once a week. The combination group was treated with cold reducing acupuncture at bilateral Hegu (LI 4), Houxi (SI 3), Waiguan (TE 5), etc. on the basis of the western medication group, once a day, 5 times a week. Both groups were treated for 8 weeks. The pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score, swelling score, morning stiffness score, Cooney wrist joint function score, ultrasound of wrist joint and serum level of C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) before and after treatment were compared in the two groups. After treatment, the pain VAS scores, swelling scores, morning stiffness scores, grey scale ultrasound (GSUS) grade of synovitis, power doppler ultrasound (PDUS) grade of synovitis of wrist joint and serum levels of CRP and ESR in the two groups were reduced compared with those before treatment (P<0.05), the Cooney wrist joint function scores were increased compared with those before treatment (P<0.05); the pain VAS score, swelling score, PDUS grade of synovitis of wrist joint and serum level of CRP and ESR in the combination group were lower than those in the western medication group (P<0.05), the Cooney wrist joint function score was higher than that in the western medication group (P<0.05). Cold reducing acupuncture combined with western medication could improve clinical symptoms and joint function, reduce inflammatory response in patients with wrist joint disorder of active RA with dampness-heat obstruction, and the efficacy is better than that of western medication alone.

Impact of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Parenteral Nutrition on Inflammatory Markers and Clinical Outcomes in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The heightened inflammatory response observed in COVID-19 patients suggests that omega-3 fatty acids (O3FA) may confer anti-inflammatory benefits. This randomized, double-blind, single-center clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of O3FA supplementation in parenteral nutrition (PN) on inflammatory markers in COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). A total of 69 patients were randomized into three groups: one received standard lipid emulsion, and two received O3FA (Omegaven®) at doses of 0.1 g/kg/day and 0.2 g/kg/day, respectively, in addition to Smoflipid®. The primary outcomes measured were serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) on days 1, 5, and 10 of PN initiation. Secondary outcomes included additional inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1Ra, CXCL10), hepatic function, triglyceride levels, and clinical outcomes such as mortality and length of ICU and hospital stay. Results indicated a significant reduction in CRP, IL-6, and CXCL10 levels in the group receiving 0.1 g/kg/day O3FA compared to the control. Additionally, the higher O3FA dose was associated with a shorter ICU and hospital stay. These findings suggest that O3FA supplementation in PN may reduce inflammation and improve clinical outcomes in critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Bioaccumulation of Deltamethrin and Piperonyl butoxide in Labeo rohita fish

Deltamethrin (DLM), in combination with the synergist piperonyl butoxide (PBO), is extensively used in pest control programs due to its potent pesticidal properties and appreciable safety margin. However, various research studies report their adverse effects on non-target organisms. In this study, we investigated the toxicity of DLM, PBO, and a DLM-PBO (3:1) combination on Labeo rohita (L. rohita) fish fingerlings. Fish behavior and mortality rates were recorded at different time intervals up to 96 h for concentrations of 0.003, 0.007, 0.015, 0.031, and 0.062 µg/mL, respectively. Biochemical, hematological, and histopathological studies were carried out. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to detect and quantify residues in fish samples. The LC50 values after 48 h for DLM, PBO, and DLM-PBO exposed fish fingerlings were found to be 0.028, 0.066, and 0.007 µg/mL, respectively. At a concentration of 0.003 µg/mL of DLM, PBO, and DLM-PBO, the treated fish fingerlings exhibited similar behavior to the control group. Hematological parameters, such as red blood cell (RBC) and white blood cell (WBC) counts, were reduced in the treated groups compared to the control. Biochemical parameters showed increased levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), while total serum protein levels decreased in DLM, PBO, and DLM-PBO treated fingerlings. Histopathological examination of liver, gill, and heart tissues revealed lesions with hydropic degeneration in the liver and fusions of gill lamellae in the treated tissues. Fish fingerlings exposed to the DLM-PBO combination appeared highly prone to toxicity compared to those treated with DLM and PBO separately.

The Impact of ARMS2 (rs10490924), VEGFA (rs3024997), TNFRSF1B (rs1061622), TNFRSF1A (rs4149576), and IL1B1 (rs1143623) Polymorphisms and Serum Levels on Age-Related Macular Degeneration Development and Therapeutic Responses.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major global health problem as it is the leading cause of irreversible loss of central vision in the aging population. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapies are effective but do not respond optimally in all patients. This study investigates the genetic factors associated with susceptibility to AMD and response to treatment, focusing on key polymorphisms in the ARMS2 (rs10490924), IL1B1 (rs1143623), TNFRSF1B (rs1061622), TNFRSF1A (rs4149576), VEGFA (rs3024997), ARMS2, IL1B1, TNFRSF1B, TNFRSF1A, and VEGFA serum levels in AMD development and treatment efficacy. This study examined the associations of specific genetic polymorphisms and serum protein levels with exudative and early AMD and the response to anti-VEGF treatment. The AA genotype of VEGFA (rs3024997) was significantly associated with a 20-fold reduction in the odds of exudative AMD compared to the GG + GA genotypes. Conversely, the TT genotype of ARMS2 (rs10490924) was linked to a 4.2-fold increase in the odds of exudative AMD compared to GG + GT genotypes. In females, each T allele of ARMS2 increased the odds by 2.3-fold, while in males, the TT genotype was associated with a 5-fold increase. Lower serum IL1B levels were observed in the exudative AMD group compared to the controls. Early AMD patients had higher serum TNFRSF1B levels than controls, particularly those with the GG genotype of TNFRSF1B rs1061622. Exudative AMD patients with the CC genotype of TNFRSF1A rs4149576 had lower serum TNFRSF1A levels compared to the controls. Visual acuity (VA) analysis showed that non-responders had better baseline VA than responders but experienced decreased VA after treatment, whereas responders showed improvement. Central retinal thickness (CRT) reduced significantly in responders after treatment and was lower in responders compared to non-responders after treatment. The T allele of TNFRSF1B rs1061622 was associated with a better response to anti-VEGF treatment under both dominant and additive genetic models. These findings highlight significant genetic and biochemical markers associated with AMD and treatment response. This study found that the VEGFA rs3024997 AA genotype reduces the odds of exudative AMD, while the ARMS2 rs10490924 TT genotype increases it. Lower serum IL1B levels and variations in TNFRSF1B and TNFRSF1A levels were linked to AMD. The TNFRSF1B rs1061622 T allele was associated with better anti-VEGF treatment response. These markers could potentially guide risk assessment and personalized treatment for AMD.

The relationship between Glasgow Prognostic Score and hospital duration in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases.

Both hypoalbuminemia and inflammation were common in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), however, the combination of the two parameters on hospital duration re-mained unknown. This is a retrospective two-centre study performed in two tertiary hospitals in Shanghai, China. Serum levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and albumin (ALB) were measured within 2 days of admission. Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), based on CRP and ALB, was calculated as follows: point "0" as CRP <10 mg/L and ALB ≥35 g/L; point "1" as either CRP ≥10 mg/L or ALB <35 g/L; point "2" as CRP ≥10 mg/L and ALB <35 g/L. Patients with point "0" were classified as low-risk while point "2" as high-risk. Length of hospital stay (LOS) was defined as the interval between admission and discharge. The proportion of low-risk and high-risk was 69.3% and 10.5% respectively among 3,009 patients (65% men). GPS was associated with LOS [β=6.2 d; 95% CI (confidence interval): 4.0 d, 8.4 d] after adjustment of potential co-variates. Each point of GPS was associated with 2.9 days (95% CI: 1.9 d, 3.9 d; ptrend<0.001) longer in fully adjusted model. The association was stronger in patients with low prealbumin levels, hypocalcaemia, and hypokalaemia relative to their counterparts. GPS was associated with LOS in IBD patients. Our results highlighted that GPS could serve as a convenient prognostic tool associated with nutritional status and clinical outcome.

Abstract P429: Stronger Association of Angiotensinogen with Mortality than Renin or Lactate in Critical Illness

Introduction: Sepsis and septic shock remain global healthcare issues associated with high mortality rates affecting millions every year despite best care efforts. Activation of the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) is an early event in sepsis, and renin levels may more strongly associate with mortality than serum lactate, a widely accepted index of patient status. We postulated that reduced levels of Angiotensinogen (AGT) may reflect a dysfunctional RAS driven by high renin levels but an attenuated expression of Ang II to adequately support tissue perfusion and blood pressure. This study compared the association with mortality of AGT to serum lactate and active renin in a subset of the VICTAS (Vitamin C, Thiamine, and Steroids in Sepsis) cohort (N=103) at baseline (day 0) prior to treatment. Methods: Serum levels of intact AGT and active renin protein were quantified by separate ELISAs. Biomarker discrimination for all-cause 30-day mortality was compared by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves generated by logistic regression models adjusted for age, sex, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, systolic blood pressure, and in-hospital vasopressor support. Association of serum AGT, renin, and lactate with mortality was assessed by Kaplan-Meier curves with log rank test and hazard ratios derived from Cox regression. Results: Median [interquartile range] serum levels for AGT were: 114 [78.2-205.4] nM; renin: 4.9 [2.2-13.6] pM; and lactate: 2.6 [1.7-3.8] mM. ROC curves revealed better discrimination of AGT for mortality than either active renin or lactate. The area under the curve (AUC) of AGT (0.82, 95% CI: 0.70, 0.93) was greater than lactate (AUC=0.68, 95% CI: 0.57, 0.80; p=0.022). Kaplan-Meier curves and log rank test also revealed that AGT levels below 114 nM associated with reduced survival. Renin levels greater than 4.9 pM were also associated with patient mortality albeit less than that for AGT while higher lactate levels (&gt;2.6 mM) were not associated with mortality in this cohort. Conclusion: AGT levels more strongly associated with 30-day mortality than renin or lactate in the VICTAS cohort. Reduced AGT may reflect increased consumption by high renin coupled with reduced expression by the liver ultimately impairing Ang II-AT 1 R tone in critically ill patients. The prospective assessment of circulating AGT may facilitate more precise therapeutic approaches treatment to restore a dysfunctional RAS and improve overall mortality in sepsis.

Investigation of the effects of IL-13 and IL-22 cytokine levels on disease activity, prognosis, and treatment response in multiple sclerosis patients treated with fingolimod and glatiramer acetate

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease. In this study, we investigated serum protein levels of Interleukin-13 (IL-13) and Interleukin-22 (IL-22) cytokines. These cytokines play an important role in the generation and regulation of the inflammatory response, which is the pathogenesis of MS, and are potential biomarkers for monitoring therapeutic response. cytokines may play a role in the development of MS lesions. Methods: The study included 66 MS patients and 22 healthy individuals. IL-13 and IL-22 cytokine protein levels were measured by ELISA from peripheral blood serum samples collected from the participants. Patient demographics and treatment history data were also collected. Results: IL-13 and IL-22 parameters were lower in MS patients compared to the control group. There was a significant difference between the patient and control groups in terms of IL-13 (p&lt;0.001). Although the mean IL-22 level of the control group was higher than the patient group, the difference did not reach a significant level (p: 0.257). Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that IL-13 and IL-22 cytokines play an important role in the pathogenesis of MS and are affected by fingolimod and glatiramer acetate treatment.

COVID-19 associated pulmonary embolism: clinical, biochemical and CT imaging findings.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection represented a disruptive pathology that emerged in late 2019 with profound implications ranging from individual health to health systems and world economy. Our study aimed to evaluate clinical, biochemical and computerized tomography (CT) parameters values in determining the severity of pulmonary embolism (PE) associated with COVID-19. We performed an observational cohort study evaluating demographic, clinical, biochemical, coagulation markers, as well as CT imaging parameters. In our study on 186 patients with COVID-19, we found that 31 patients (16,66%) had pulmonary embolism. Significant correlations for the patients with PE were detected in C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, serum ferritin, IL-6, serum myoglobin, NT-proBNP, D-dimers, serum proteins, transaminases as well as white cell blood counts. Patients with pulmonary embolism had a more severe lung involvement, with thrombi distribution mainly involving the lower lobes. Early identification of PE is an important step for timely and efficient treatment in the intensive care management of COVID-19 patients. Our study showed that high plasmatic values of lactate dehydrogenase, ferritin, IL-6, white blood cells and D-dimers and low proteins serum levels are strongly linked with COVID-19-associated pulmonary embolism.

Serum Procalcitonin ,Cystatin C, Kidney Injury Molecule -1 Levels in Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcer and Relation with Chronic Kidney Disease

Objective: To evaluate the serum levels of Procalcitonin (PCT), C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Cystatin C, and Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Methods: This case-control study included 120 participants divided into four groups: 30 with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), 30 with diabetic foot ulcers and chronic kidney disease (DFU &amp; CKD), 30 with diabetes mellitus (DM), and 30 healthy controls. The study was conducted from November 2023 to March 2024. Laboratory tests performed on all patients and controls included CBC, blood urea, serum creatinine, and serum CRP levels using a fully automated analyzer. PCT, Cystatin C, and KIM-1 levels were measured using the ELISA method. Results: The biomarkers PCT, CRP, and WBC showed a significant increase in the diabetic foot group and the diabetic foot with chronic kidney disease group. Additionally, there were positive correlations between PCT and CRP and Cystatin C, and between KIM-1 and Cystatin C. ROC analysis of PCT demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity (91.1% and 99%, respectively). Conclusion: Elevated Procalcitonin levels in diabetic foot patients can predict early infection even without clear clinical signs. Increased levels of Cystatin C and KIM-1 serve as good biomarkers for renal function and complications of diabetes, showing a close relationship with diabetic foot conditions.

The effects of Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 in patients with major depressive disorder: an eight-week double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex mental disorder, potentially linked to the gut-microbiota-brain axis. Probiotics like Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 (PS128) may improve depressive symptoms by modulating the gut microbiota based on our previous open trial. We conducted an 8-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to investigate the impact of PS128 on depression severity, markers of inflammation and gut permeability, and the gut microbiota composition in 32 patients with MDD with stable antidepressant treatment but moderate symptom severity. Following the 8-week intervention, both the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-17 score (HAMD), and Depression and Somatic Symptoms Scale (DSSS) showed a significant decrease in both groups (p<0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the change of depression severity between groups (p=0.203). Moreover, alterations in serum levels of high sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and intestinal fatty acid binding protein, as well as changes in the gut microbiota composition, did not exhibit significant differences before and after intervention or between the groups. In comparison to the placebo group, our study did not find significant effects of PS128 on depressive symptoms, biomarkers of inflammation and gut permeability, and the overall gut microbiota composition. Nonetheless, we observed a potential impact of PS128 on the symbiosis of specific taxa. To comprehensively understand the psychophysiological effects of PS128 in patients with MDD, further research with a larger sample size is imperative.

Complications and factors associated with mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

Objective: The aim of our study was to examine the factors associated with mortality in patients who underwent percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and identify biomarkers that may guide clinical practice. Methods: This retrospective observational study included adults who underwent PEG placement in our center. Demographic data, date of PEG placement, inpatient ward, PEG indication, time from admission to PEG placement, post-PEG complications, and outcome (discharge/mortality) were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with 90-day and 6-month mortality. Results: Of 100 patients included in the study, 52% were men and the median age was 73 years. The most common indication for PEG was malignancy (n=25, 25%). The most common minor complication was minor peristomal bleeding and peristomal infection requiring tube removal The most common major complication was aspiration pneumonia. Thirty-eight patients (38.0%) died within 90 days and 52 patients (52.0%) died within 6 months of PEG placement. The odds of 90-day mortality were 57.5% lower per 1-unit increase in total serum protein level (odds ratio [OR]: 0.425, 95% CI: 0.230–0.888; p=0.021), 1.6% higher per 1-unit increase in serum CRP (OR: 1.016, 95% CI: 1.006–1.027; p=0.003), and 13.6 times higher in patients with aspiration pneumonia (OR: 13.631, 95% CI: 2.997–61.988; p=0.001). For 6-month mortality, a 1-unit increase in serum albumin level was associated with 81.4% lower odds (OR: 0.186, 95% CI; 0.081–0.430; p&lt;0.001) and aspiration pneumonia with 22 times higher odds (OR: 21.984, 95% CI: 2.412–200.342; p=0.006). Conclusion: Aspiration pneumonia, low total serum protein and albumin levels, and high CRP level were associated with higher mortality.

Possible Association Between Vaspin Serum Levels and C-Reactive Protein in Obese Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Objective To investigate the levels of vaspin and C-reactive protein in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and to assess their potential as diagnostic markers for the condition. Methods Ninety adult women were involved in the study, fifty of whom were obese women diagnosed with PCOS, while forty women served as healthy controls in an observational, case-control study. Blood samples were obtained from the participants, and all of them were questioned by the researcher. Vaspin and C-reactive protein serum levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay specialized kits. Results The study found a significant increase in vaspin and C-reactive protein serum levels in women in the PCOS group compared with controls, with P-values of &lt;0.000 and 0.006, respectively. Vaspin serum level showed an AUC of 0.835, indicating it is a very good diagnostic marker for PCOS, while C-reactive protein had an AUC of 0.635, making it a moderate diagnostic marker for PCOS. The study also found a significant correlation between vaspin (pg/ml) and C-reactive protein (mg/l) with a P-value of 0.006. Conclusion The study found a significant increase in vaspin (pg/ml) and C-reactive protein (mg/l) serum levels in females with PCOS compared to control groups, with a significant positive correlation between the two biomarkers in PCOS. This suggests that vaspin and C-reactive protein may serve as useful diagnostic markers for PCOS.

Gamma gap as a prognostic marker of treatment response in patients with multiple myeloma.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is defined by the excessive growth of cancerous plasma cells in the bone marrow, resulting in the production of an abnormal monoclonal paraprotein and signs of damage to vital organs. The diagnosis of multiple myeloma can be complex. This paper centers on the diagnosis of MM and examines the role of the gamma gap (GG) in prompting tests to assess treatment effectiveness. Sixty individuals newly diagnosed with MM were selected from medical facilities in Iraq, specifically Baghdad Hospital/Medical City and Hematological Center, between November 2022 and March 2023. Additionally, 30 healthy participants were included as a comparison group. The assessment of suspected MM patients involves confirming the presence of a monoclonal paraprotein using serum electrophoresis (SEPG) and immunofixation (SIF), as well as analyzing free light chains (FLC). Spectrophotometric methods were used to measure total serum protein and albumin levels and calculate the globulin-to-albumin ratio by subtracting serum albumin from total serum protein. In most MM cases the monoclonal immunoglobulin (as M-spike) was identified and quantified by SPEP. Based on the findings from IFE detection, the prevalence of M-spike, particularly type IgG, was observed in 45 cases (83.3%), of which 40% were type κ, 24.6% were type λ, and 19.3% were of an unknown type. Additionally, type IgA was the second most prevalent (10 cases, 16.7%), with 14.3% being type κ and 1.7% being type λ. Moreover, the results indicated a significant association between GG and M-spike, as well as a strong correlation between GG and pre- and post-treatment M-spike levels. The area under the curve was deemed acceptable (AUC = 0.735, p = 0.0001), demonstrating high diagnostic accuracy (86.2) in distinguishing MM patients before and after treatment. The evaluation of GG in the serum of MM patients demonstrated elevated levels, which were significantly associated with patients post-treatment. Therefore, our findings have significant implications for the use of GG as a prognostic indicator for monitoring treatment response in MM patients.

Inflammasome Proteins Are Reliable Biomarkers of the Inflammatory Response in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is caused by abnormal blood vessel dilation and subsequent rupture, resulting in blood pooling in the subarachnoid space. This neurological insult results in the activation of the inflammasome, a multiprotein complex that processes pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-1 cytokines leading to morbidity and mortality. Moreover, increases in inflammasome proteins are associated with clinical deterioration in many neurological diseases. Limited studies have investigated inflammasome protein expression following aSAH. Reliable markers of the inflammatory response associated with aSAH may allow for earlier detection of patients at risk for complications and aid in the identification of novel pharmacologic targets. Here, we investigated whether inflammasome signaling proteins may serve as potential biomarkers of the inflammatory response in aSAH. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from fifteen aSAH subjects and healthy age-matched controls and hydrocephalus (CSF) no-aneurysm controls were evaluated for levels of inflammasome signaling proteins and downstream pro-inflammatory cytokines. Protein measurements were carried out using Simple Plex and Single-Molecule Array (Simoa) technology. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated using receiver operating characteristics (ROCs) to obtain information on biomarker reliability, specificity, sensitivity, cut-off points, and likelihood ratio. In addition, a Spearman r correlation matrix was performed to determine the correlation between inflammasome protein levels and clinical outcome measures. aSAH subjects demonstrated elevated caspase-1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein with a caspase recruiting domain (ASC), IL-18 and IL-1β levels in serum, and CSF when compared to controls. Each of these proteins was found to be a promising biomarker of inflammation in aSAH in the CSF. In addition, ASC, caspase-1, and IL-1β were found to be promising biomarkers of inflammation in aSAH in serum. Furthermore, we found that elevated levels of inflammasome proteins in serum are useful to predict worse functional outcomes following aSAH. Thus, the determination of inflammasome protein levels in CSF and serum in aSAH may be utilized as reliable biomarkers of inflammation in aSAH and used clinically to monitor patient outcomes.