Mean Levels Research Articles

The Relationship between Iron Markers, Cortisol and Insulin Resistance in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant metabolic disorder occurring during pregnancy, associated with serious maternal and fetal complications if left untreated. The global prevalence of GDM emphasizes the urgent need for research into its pathogenesis and contributing factors, including hormonal changes, insulin resistance, and the role of iron metabolism. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between iron markers (hemoglobin, serum iron, and serum ferritin), cortisol, insulin resistance (measured by HOMA-IR), and the development of GDM in pregnant women between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study included 150 pregnant women, divided into GDM and non-GDM groups based on oral glucose tolerance test results. Iron markers, cortisol, fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR levels were measured. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Mann-Whitney U test for non-normally distributed variables. Results: Women with GDM exhibited significantly higher mean levels of hemoglobin (12.41±0.68 g/dl), serum iron (19.57±1.14 μmol/L), serum ferritin (25.92±2.58 ng/ml), cortisol (451.32±25.20 nmol/L), fasting plasma glucose (6.83±0.46 mmol/L), insulin (12.50±1.72 μU/mL), and HOMA-IR (3.83±0.78) compared to non-GDM participants (p<0.001 for all comparisons). These findings underscore the pronounced biochemical and hormonal alterations associated with GDM. Conclusion: The study identified a significant association between elevated levels of iron markers, cortisol, and insulin resistance with the development of GDM. These findings suggest that monitoring these parameters during pregnancy could be crucial for the early detection and management of GDM. Individualized iron supplementation strategies may be necessary to prevent iron overload and minimize GDM risk.

Online Resources for Robin Sequence; an Analysis of Readability.

The objective was to evaluate the readability of easily accessible parent-directed information concerning Robin Sequence (RS) online, compared to the American Medical Association (AMA)-recommended sixth grade (age 11-12) readability level. A Google search of the term “Pierre Robin Sequence information” was performed. The first ten websites were evaluated using six commonly used readability formulas. Sample texts from three websites were ‘translated’ by the authors, with the aim of achieving a sixth grade readability level. The following outcomes were used: Automated Readability Index (ARI), Coleman Liau Index (CLI), Gunning Fog Score, Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), Flesch Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), and Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) score. The mean pooled grade level of the top 10 included websites was 12.1 (age 17-18). The overall FRE Index was 45.8, which is equivalent to a College-grade reading level. The mean grade level by each test used was: Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level 11.6 (age 16-17), Gunning Fog Score 13.3 (age 18+), SMOG 10.0 (age 14-15), Coleman-Liau Index 13.8 (age 18+), and ARI 12.0 (age 17-18). The author-translated resources achieved pooled mean grade levels of 6.3-6.5. Parent-directed online materials concerning RS have a readability in excess of the AMA-recommended sixth grade reading level. Even though the condition is complex, more readable resources are achievable. Coproduction of parent-directed resources in association with public an patient involvement (PPI) contributors is encouraged.

Inverse association of serum albumin levels with diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetic patients: a cross-sectional study

This study aimed to explore the association between serum albumin (ALB) levels and diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. In this cross-sectional study, we retrospectively collected clinical data from patients with type 2 diabetes who were admitted to the Endocrinology Department of the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University between January 1, 2021, and December 1, 2022. All included patients underwent measurements of serum albumin levels and screening for diabetes-related complications. The association between serum albumin levels and retinopathy was assessed using logistic regression after adjusting for potential confounders. Further, stratified analyses and curve fitting were conducted to delve deeper into the relationship. After inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, a total of 1947 patients were analyzed. Among these, 982 were male and 965 were female. The mean serum albumin level was 39.86 ± 3.27 g/L. Diabetic retinopathy was present in 41.24% of the patients. After adjusting for potential confounders, we observed a significant inverse association between serum albumin levels and the incidence of retinopathy. Specifically, for every 10 g/L increase in albumin level, the odds of retinopathy decreased (odds ratio [OR] = 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.48–0.94; P = 0.0209).The curve fitting validated the inverse relationship between serum albumin and retinopathy without evidence of non-linearity or threshold saturation effects. Stratified analyses consistently indicated no interaction effects across subgroups. This cross-sectional study identified a significant inverse relationship between serum albumin levels and diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, due to the cross-sectional nature of this study, further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Cytokeratin-18 as a Non-invasive Biomarker and its Association with Biochemical Parameters in the Diagnosis of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Objective: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the chronic silent diseases in which its therapeutic options and noninvasive markers of disease activity and severity remain limited. We aimed in this study to assess cytokeratin-18 (CK18) as a new non-invasive biomarker to distinguish between NAFLD stages and its correlation with some biochemical parameters.
 Methods: A case control study was conducted on a sample of 90 subjects aged 12-79 years, categorized into three groups (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis "NASH", steatosis and controls). CK18, fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile parameters, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, and creatinine were determined. Low destiny lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and body mass index (BMI) were calculated in addition to performing complete blood count (CBC).
 Results: The results indicate that the mean level of serum CK18 in NASH cases was significantly higher than steatosis and control groups. CK18 has a positive correlation with triglycerides (TG) total cholesterol (TC), ALT, AST, FBG, urea, creatinine, age, BMI, and LDL-C, and a negative correlation with high density lipoprotein-cholesterol HDL-C. Finally, ROC curve showed that the sensitivity of CK18 test is 77.1% and specificity is 96.6%. The cut-off value for CK18 test is 161 U/L.
 Conclusions: In this study, a significant relationship was observed between CK18, hepatic enzymes, and NAFLD degrees. CK18 has good accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in diagnosing NASH.

The Study of Relationship between Plasma Fibrinogen Level and the Macrovascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients in a Tertiary Health Care Centre in Eastern India

Introduction: The macrovascular complications in patients of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are an expression of the generalized atherosclerotic process affecting the blood vessels of the body. Studies have revealed cardinal role of inflammation in the development of atherosclerosis. Literature review suggests that the level of plasma fibrinogen, an inflammatory marker, is elevated in T2DM and more so in those with the macrovascular complications. Therefore, this study was taken up with the aim to determine the association of plasma fibrinogen level with the macrovascular complications in patients of T2DM. Methods and aterials: This was a prospective observational study undertaken in Tata Main Hospital from November 2020 to October 2022. It included T2DM out-patients and those admitted in the Department of Medicine between the age group of 40 to 80 years. Patient’s clinical history and detailed physical examination were noted. Relevant blood tests (including HbA1c, lipid profile) and plasma fibrinogen levels were done. All patients were evaluated for complications of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), cerebrovascular disease and peripheral vascular disease using appropriate investigations. The statistical association was determined by chi -square (χ2) and independent sample t-tests where appropriate. The relationship between plasma fibrinogen level and the macrovascular complications was determined using binary logistic regression. Results: The study involved 180 patients. Their mean age was 58.63 ± 7.177 years with most patients in 51-60 years age group. Male preponderance was seen and the male to female ratio was 1.86:1. While the average duration of T2DM in the study population was 6.744 ± 2.376 years, mean HbA1c level was 8.2 ± 1.9% (range: 6.2% to 9.8%). The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 24.57 ± 2.49 Kg/m2, with 61.67 % of cases having BMI of 25-29.9. The mean fibrinogen level in patients was 446.50 ± 28.449 mg/dl (ranged: 358.3 mg/dl to 513.0 mg/d). Diabetics without complications had mean fibrinogen level of 443.3 ± 28.3 mg/dl while those with complications had level of 469.6 ± 16.8 mg/dl (P = 0.000). 43 (23.9%) patients had macrovascular complications. Peripheral vascular disease was observed in 31(17.2%), cerebrovascular disease in 16 (8.9%) and CAD in 20 (11.1%) patients while hypertension was observed in 68 (37.8%) patients. Fibrinogen level showed a positive relation with age (R- 0.541, P <0.001), male gender, BMI (R- 0.515, P=0.0001), total cholesterol levels more than 200 mg/dl (R-0.365, P = 0.0001) and HbA1c (R-0.355 with P = 0.0001). Binomial logistic regression demonstrated significant association between plasma fibrinogen level with macrovascular complications of diabetes (Wald test: 7.482, odds ratio-1.062, P<0.01). Furthermore, the association was found to be independent after adjusting for the confounding factors. Conclusion: Our study suggests that plasma fibrinogen level may be viewed as an independent risk factor for the development of macrovascular complications in T2DM patients. Hence, in these patients, it can be used as a marker for the prediction of the macrovascular complications.

Utility and optimal dose of nicorandil for physiological assessment of the femoropopliteal artery.

Nicorandil is widely used as a vasodilator for the physiological assessment of coronary arteries because of its usefulness and safety; however, there are no data on its use in peripheral arteries. To identify the utility of nicorandil and its appropriate dose for the physiological assessment on the femoropopliteal artery. We retrospectively enrolled patients from three institutes in which physiological assessment was carried out with various doses of nicorandil before treatment. Twenty-four femoropopliteal artery stenotic lesions from 22 patients were included. The nicorandil doses used were 2, 4, and 6 mg. Twenty-two lesions were also assessed using 30 mg of papaverine. The pressure gradient (PG) and peripheral fractional flow reserve (pFFR) were calculated based on the mean and systolic pressure levels. We examined the correlation of each parameter with the peak systolic velocity ratio (PSVR) based on the duplex ultrasound images using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Systemic blood pressure was assessed for safety. The correlations were higher for mean pressure-based parameters than for systolic pressure-based parameters. As the nicorandil dose increased, the correlations among PG, pFFR, and PSVR also increased (mean pressure-based PG: 2 mg, r = 0.360; 4 mg, r = 0.498; 6 mg, r = 0.694, mean pressure-based pFFR: 2 mg, r = -0.479; 4 mg, r = -0.469; 6 mg, r = -0.641). The blood pressure after the administration of 6 mg of nicorandil was low, and the median systemic mean pressure was 65 mmHg. A 4 mg dose of nicorandil is effective and safe for the mean pressure-based physiological assessment of lesions in the femoropopliteal artery.

Continuous 24-hour intraocular pressure monitoring in normal Chinese adults using a novel contact lens sensor system

AimsTo investigate the physiological nyctohemeral intraocular pressure (IOP) rhythms of normal Chinese adults using a novel contact lens sensor system (CLS) that can output IOP in millimetres of mercury (mm...

Hydrogeochemical characterization, quality assessment, and potential nitrate health risk of shallow groundwater in Dongwen River Basin, North China.

Assessing groundwater geochemical formation processes and pollution circumstances is significant for sustainable watershed management. In the present study, 58 shallow groundwater samples were taken from the Dongwen River Basin (DRB) to comprehensively assess the hydrochemical sources, groundwater quality status, and potential risks of NO3- to human health. Based on the Box and Whisker plot, the cation's concentration followed the order of Ca2+ > Mg2+ > Na+ > K+, while anions' mean levels were HCO3- > SO42- > NO3- > Cl-. The NO3- level in groundwater samples fluctuated between 4.2 and 301.3mg/L, with 67.2% of samples beyond the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria (50mg/L) for drinking. The Piper diagram indicated the hydrochemical type of groundwater and surface water were characterized as Ca·Mg-HCO3 type. Combining ionic ratio analysis with principal component analysis (PCA) results, agricultural activities contributed a significant effect on groundwater NO3-, with soil nitrogen input and manure/sewage inputs also potential sources. However, geogenic processes (e.g., carbonates and evaporite dissolution/precipitation) controlled other ion compositions in the study area. The groundwater samples with higher NO3- values were mainly found in river valley regions with intense anthropogenic activities. The entropy weight water quality index (EWQI) model identified that the groundwater quality rank ranged from excellent (70.7%) and good (25.9%) to medium (3.4%). However, the hazard quotient (HQ) used in the human health risk assessment (HHRA) model showed that above 91.38% of groundwater samples have a NO3- non-carcinogenic health risk for infants, 84.48% for children, 82.76% for females, and 72.41% for males. The findings of this study could provide a scientific basis for the rational development and usage of groundwater resources as well as for the preservation of the inhabitants' health in DRB.

Narcissists' affective well-being: Associations of grandiose narcissism with state affect level and variability.

Whereas grandiose narcissism has generally been found to be related to adaptive affective experiences (i.e., positive affective states), many theoretical conceptualizations have emphasized its associations with characteristics of low affective well-being (i.e., unstable, highly variable affective states). Empirical research on the association of grandiose narcissism with the mean level of and variability in affective states has been inconclusive, as studies have differed considerably in their conceptualizations and measurement of narcissism and affect dynamics and have suffered from methodological limitations. Here, we offer conceptual explanations for previously inconsistent findings, derive diverging hypotheses about different aspects of narcissism and affective well-being, and investigate these hypotheses in two daily diary and three experience-sampling data sets (overall N = 2,125; total measurements = 116,336). As hypothesized, we found diverging associations between agentic and antagonistic aspects of narcissism with affect levels: Whereas narcissistic admiration was related to more pleasant affective states, narcissistic rivalry was related to less pleasant ones. We also obtained some support for diverging effects of admiration and rivalry on affect variability. However, these associations were largely reduced when we corrected for (squared) mean levels of affective valence and arousal. In combination, these findings suggest that only the agentic aspect of grandiose narcissism is conducive to affective well-being, whereas its antagonistic aspect negatively influences affective well-being. Moreover, the assumed associations of grandiose narcissism with volatile affectivity seem to rely heavily on mean-level effects and primarily manifest in experiences of more diverse affective states rather than stronger or more frequent affective fluctuations in general. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Insights into Hyperparathyroidism-Jaw Tumour Syndrome: From Endocrine Acumen to the Spectrum of CDC73 Gene and Parafibromin-Deficient Tumours.

A total of 1 out of 10 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) presents an underlying genetic form, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia types 1, 2A, etc., as well as hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumour syndrome (HJT). We aimed to summarise the recent data, thus raising more awareness regarding HJT, from the clinical perspective of PHP in association with the challenges and pitfalls of CDC73 genetic testing and parafibromin staining. This narrative review included a sample-focused analysis from the past decade according to a PubMed search. We identified 17 original human studies (≥4 patients per article). The mean age at disease onset was between 20.8 and 39.5 years, while the largest study found that 71% of patients had HJT recognised before the age of 30. Males and females seemed to be equally affected, in contrast with sporadic PHP. PHP represented the central manifestation of HJT, occurring as the first manifestation in up to 85% of HJT cases. A biochemistry panel found a mean serum calcium level above the level of 12 mg/dL in PHP. PTH was elevated in HJT as well, with average values of at least 236.6 pg/mL. The most frequent pathological type in PHP was a parathyroid adenoma, but the incidence of a parathyroid carcinoma was much higher than in non-HJT cases (15% of all parathyroid tumours), with the diagnosis being established between the age of 15 and 37.5. In some families up to 85% of carriers suffered from a parathyroid carcinoma thus indicating that certain CDC73 pathogenic variants may harbour a higher risk. An important issue in HJT was represented by the parafibromin profile in the parathyroid tumours since in HJT both parathyroid adenomas and carcinomas might display a deficient immunoreactivity. Another frequent manifestation in HJT was ossifying fibromas of the jaw (affecting 5.4% to 50% of patients; the largest study found a prevalence of 15.4%). HJT was associated with a wide variety of kidney lesion (mostly: kidney cysts, with a prevalence of up to 75%, and renal tumours involved in 19% of patients). The risk of uterine lesions seemed increased in HJT, especially with concern to leiomyomas, adenofibromas, and adenomyosis. The underlying pathogenic mechanisms and the involvement of CDC73 pathogenic variants and parafibromin expression are yet to be explored. Currently, the heterogeneous expression of parafibromin status and, the wide spectrum of CDC73 mutations including the variety of clinical presentations in HJT, make it difficult to predict the phenotype based on the genotype. The central role of HJT-PHP is, however, the main clinical element, while the elevated risk of parathyroid carcinoma requires a special awareness.

A randomized controlled trial of a digital cognitive-behavioral therapy program (COMPASS) for managing depression and anxiety related to living with a long-term physical health condition.

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of COMPASS, a therapist-supported digital therapeutic for reducing psychological distress (anxiety/depression) in people living with long-term physical health conditions (LTCs). A two-armed randomized-controlled trial recruiting from LTC charities. Participants with anxiety and/or depression symptoms related to their LTC(s) were randomized (concealed allocation via independent administrator) to COMPASS (access to 11 tailored modules plus five thirty-minute therapist support sessions) or standard charity support (SCS). Assessments were completed online pre-randomization, at 6- and 12-weeks post-randomization. Primary outcome was Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety and Depression Scale; PHQ-ADS measured at 12-weeks. Analysis used intention-to-treat principles with adjusted mean differences estimated using linear mixed-effects models. Data-analyst was blinded to group allocation. 194 participants were randomized to COMPASS (N = 94) or SCS (N = 100). At 12-weeks, mean level of psychological distress was 6.82 (95% confidence interval; CI 4.55-9.10) points lower (p < 0.001) in the COMPASS arm compared with SCS (standardized mean difference of 0.71 (95% CI 0.48-0.95)). The COMPASS arm also showed moderate significant treatment effects on secondary outcomes including depression, anxiety and illness-related distress and small significant effects on functioning and quality-of-life. Rates of adverse events were comparable across the arms. Deterioration in distress at 12-weeks was observed in 2.2% of the SCS arm, and no participants in the COMPASS arm. Compared with SCS, COMPASS digital therapeutic with minimal therapist input reduces psychological distress at post-treatment (12-weeks). COMPASS offers a potentially scalable implementation model for health services but its translation to these contexts needs further evaluating. NCT04535778.

Serum Bicarbonate Levels Among Patients on Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome With and Without Kidney Replacement Therapy

OBJECTIVES: For patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) receiving venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) who develop acute kidney injury (AKI) requiring kidney replacement therapy (KRT), the inability to renally compensate for respiratory acidosis could result in increased sweep gas flow to normalize arterial pH. Our objective was to examine the relationship of serum bicarbonate levels, arterial pH, sweep gas flow, and Paco 2. DESIGN: This is a retrospective cohort study. We compared patients who received KRT while undergoing venovenous ECMO to patients who did not. SETTING: Vanderbilt University Medical Center, February 2019 to February 2022. PATIENTS: We examined data from adult patients receiving venovenous ECMO for ARDS. INTERVENTIONS: Values for serum bicarbonate, arterial pH, Paco 2, and sweep gas flow were collected daily from time of cannulation until the earlier of decannulation, 30 days, or death. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Of the 126 patients included, 53 (42.1%) received KRT and 73 (57.9%) did not. In patients who received KRT, mean serum bicarbonate levels remained between 22 and 28 mmol/L throughout the study period. Patients who did not receive KRT experienced an increase in mean serum bicarbonate levels over time up to 40 mmol/L (mean difference = –4.4 mmol/L [95% CI, –6.3 to –2.5 mmol/L]; p &lt; 0.0001). Mean values for Paco 2 (–5.2 [95% CI, –8.8 to –1.7]; p = 0.004) and pH (–0.03 [95% CI, –0.03 to –0.02]; p &lt; 0.0001) were lower in patients who received KRT than in patients who did not, despite higher sweep gas flow rates in patients who received KRT than in patients who did not (mean difference = 1.5 [95% CI, 0.8–2.3]; p &lt; 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: ARDS patients on venovenous ECMO with preserved kidney function experience an increase in bicarbonate concentration over time, compared to patients with AKI on KRT. Whether this increase in bicarbonate concentration increases pH, decreases sweep gas flow requirements, and facilitate weaning from venovenous ECMO requires examination in future research.

Micronutrients in infants suffering from cow’s milk allergy fed with dietary formulas and breast milk

IntroductionCow’s milk allergy (CMA) is the most common food allergy in infants. As this food allergy indicates a wide range of clinical syndromes due to immunological reactions to cow’s milk proteins, we aimed to evaluate the status of micronutrients in infants suffering from cow’s milk allergy.MethodsIn this historical cohort study, infants with CMA were divided into two equal groups: breastfeeding and diet formula feeding. Data were gathered by a form, including the micronutrients such as iron, selenium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamin D. Groups were compared and data were analyzed by the IBM SPSS version 21.ResultsThis study involved 60 six-month-old infants, and the findings revealed no significant difference between the two groups concerning magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamin D. However, infants in the formula-feeding group exhibited significantly elevated mean serum levels of iron and selenium, whereas breastfed infants displayed higher levels of calcium.ConclusionThe findings of this research revealed a significant difference in calcium, selenium, and iron levels between formula-fed and breastfed infants, even though all variables were within the normal range for both groups. In light of these results, conducting further studies with a larger sample size and extended follow-up periods becomes imperative.

Efektivitas Media Video Tutorial dalam Meningkatkan Keterampilan Menyetrika Pakaian Seragam Sekolah bagi Anak Disabilitas Intelektual Ringan

This research aims to prove that video tutorial media is effective in improving school uniform ironing skills for children with mild intellectual disabilities. This research uses a quantitative approach using the Single Subject Research type with an A-B-A design. The subject of this research was 1 child with mild intellectual disabilities in Class VII SLB Muhammadiyah Pauh IX Padang . The child cannot yet iron school uniforms. Technique data collection used is test deed . Then the data is analyzed with visual analysis of the graphs used For assess the data in condition And between condition . On baseline conditions (A1) were obtained inclination stability on range stability 3 .75 , mean level 25, limit above 26.875, limit below 23.125 and percentage 100% stability . On condition intervention (B) is obtained range stability 12 .75 , mean level 73.33, limit above 79.705, limit below 66,955 and percentage stability 16.66%. Then on baseline condition (A2) range stability 13 .5 , mean level 87.75, limit above 94.25, limit below 80.75 and percentage stability 75%. Results from research that has been done obtained that the skill of ironing school uniforms increased after intervention with video tutorial media . From the results the show that Video tutorial media is effective in improving school uniform ironing skills.

Comparison of serum uric acid levels between localised prostate cancer patients and a control group.

The aim of this study is to find out whether serum uric acid levels in patients with localised prostate cancer differ from patients with lower urinary tract symptoms without carcinoma prostate. We performed a prospective observational study of 60 patients having age ⩾ 50 years with c/o lower urinary tract symptoms( LUTS) evaluated by digital rectal examination (DRE), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level and ultrasonography kidney, ureter, bladder (USG KUB) prostate and patients who were suspicious for carcinoma prostate underwent trans rectal ultrasonography (TRUS) biopsy of prostate. Patients with biopsy s/o prostate cancer were evaluated for metastasis and localised cancer patients were considered as CASE group. Patients with negative biopsy and other patients having LUTS were considered as CONTROL group. The age, serum uric acid level, PSA value, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and white blood cell (WBC) count were measured. Serum uric acid level was compared in both the groups. The mean serum uric acid level was lower in prostate cancer group (4.77 mg/dl) than control group (6.22 mg/dl) that was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The mean PSA value was 7.43 ng/dl in cancer group and 2.72 ng/dl in control group. (p < 0.001). The mean C-reactive protein (CRP) values were 1.32 and 0.45 respectively (p < 0.001), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were found 21 and 10.5 respectively (p < 0.001)and total leucocyte counts (TLC) were found 6.450 and 5.120 respectively (p < 0.001). All were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The serum uric acid levels measured in localised prostate cancer patients were found to be reduced compared to the control group and inflammatory markers were found to be increased. Decreased levels of serum uric acid and increased levels of inflammatory markers were determined as risk factors for prostate cancer.

The possible anti-inflammatory effect of extra virgin olive oil with colchicine in treatment of resistant cases of familial Mediterranean fever in a cohort of pediatric Egyptian patients

BackgroundPeople of Mediterranean descent are primarily affected by the autoinflammatory genetic condition known as familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). The disease is resistant to colchicine therapy in 10–20% of patients. Numerous recent animal studies showed promising results of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to control inflammation. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of combining EVOO with colchicine in the treatment of colchicine-resistant familial Mediterranean fever (CRFMF) patients.ResultsBoth the frequency of episodes and inflammatory indicators significantly decreased after a three-month course of daily EVOO treatment with colchicine. The average erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of patients was 78.6 mm/h before the EVOO administration, and it dropped to 27.8 mm/h, after that. Additionally, after taking EVOO, the mean serum amyloid A (SAA) decreased from 123.82 mg/dl to 59.78 mg/L. Also, the average C-reactive protein (CRP) decreased from 34.22 to 7.84 mg/dl following its administration; the mean nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, and pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) level decreased from 134.92 to 64.23 pg/ml. The mean caspase-1 level decreased from 7.8 to 4.98 ng/ml; and the mean levels of cytokines, interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) decreased from 9.8, 18.14, and 52.7 pg/ml, respectively, to 5.95, 12.51, and 29.39 pg/ml. Finally following the administration of EVOO, there was a notable overall improvement in the quality of life of (CRFMF) patients.ConclusionEVOO demonstrated a significant positive impact when paired with the tolerated dosage of colchicine in the management of CRFMF. Improvements were observed in both clinical and laboratory settings, including a reduction in the attack frequency and serum levels of inflammatory markers, such as NLRP3, caspase-1, ESR, CRP, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α without any negative side effects.

THE RELATIONSHIP OF INTERLEUKIN-6 LEVELS AND THE DEGREE OF MYOPIA IN YOUNG ADULTS IN NORTH SUMATRA UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Background.&#x0D; Myopia is one of the refractive errors where parallel light from infinity is focused in front of the retina without accommodation. Various cytokines have been implicated in the development of myopia, including interleukin-6 (IL6) and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2). IL-6 is one of the pro-inflammatory cytokines that play a role in ocular disease pathology. Chronic subclinical inflammation may play a role in elongation of the eyeball, inflammation promotes the breakdown of the scleral extracellular matrix and results in axial elongation.&#x0D; Objective.&#x0D; To determine the relationship of interleukin-6 levels and the degree of myopia in young adults in North Sumatra University Hospital.&#x0D; Methods.&#x0D; This research is an analytic observational study with a case control design, held from February 2022. Primary and secondary data are collected from interviews and direct observation. Bivariate analysis of differences in interleukin-6 levels in myopia and emmetropia uses T-independent test, if the data are normally distributed. If the data are not normally distributed, then the Mann Whitney test is used. Bivariate analysis to analyze differences in interleukin-6 levels based on the degree of myopia uses the Kruskal Wallis test, followed by a post hoc test using the Mann Whitney test and t-independent.&#x0D; Results.&#x0D; A total sample consists of 30 patients who suffer from myopia and 30 control samples. The mean age in the myopia group was 28.87 years with the youngest age being 25 years and oldest age 34 years. Most of them are moderate myopia with 15 people (50%). There was no significant difference in interleukin-6 levels between myopia and control groups (p = 0.147). There was a difference in the mean level of interleukin-6 based on the degree of myopia (p = 0.005).&#x0D; Conclusions.&#x0D; There is an association between interleukin-6 levels and the degree of myopia in young adult patients. No differences in interleukin-6 levels were found significant between myopia and control groups.

Pharmacokinetics of florfenicol in serum and seminal plasma in beef bulls

The objectives of this study were to compare the serum and seminal plasma pharmacokinetic profiles of florfenicol (FLO) and florfenicol amine (FLA) after the administration of FLO either by IM or SC routes in beef bulls. Four clinically healthy Hereford bulls underwent a comprehensive physical exam, including breeding soundness examination, CBC, and chemistry profile panel. Bulls were healthy and classified satisfactory potential breeders. In one group (n = 2), a single dose of FLO was administered SC in the middle of the neck at a dose of 40 mg/kg of body weight. In the second group (n = 2), a single dose was administered IM in the muscles of the neck at a dose of 20 mg/kg. Concentrations of FLO and FLA in serum and seminal plasma were determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Blood and semen samples were collected before the administration of FLO and at 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 h after injection. The blood was collected from the coccygeal vessels, and semen was collected by electroejaculation. All samples were immediately refrigerated, processed within the first hour after collection, and finally stored at −80 °C. The mean level of total FLO in serum was higher when administered by the SC route (1,415.5 ng/mL) than by the IM route (752.4 ng/mL; P = 0.001). Differences were observed between the percentage of FLA in serum (1.8%; ranging from 1.3 to 2.9) and in seminal plasma (27.5%; ranging from 15.9 to 34.2; P = 0.0001). The mean level (±SD) of FLA was higher in seminal plasma compared to serum (467 ± 466 ng/mL and 18 ± 16 ng/mL, respectively; P = 0.001). The mean level of total FLO in seminal plasma was 1,454.8 ng/mL for the SC route and 1,872.9 ng/mL for the IM route without differences between the two routes (P = 0.51). Differences in the mean level of total FLO between serum and seminal plasma were detected (1,187 ± 2,069 ng/mL and 1,748 ± 1,906 ng/mL, respectively; P = 0.04). From the present investigation, it was concluded that FLO is a suitable antibiotic based on its pharmacokinetic attributes and may be employed for the treatment of bull genital infections when its use is indicated. To study the pharmacokinetics of FLO in seminal plasma, the analysis of FLA should be incorporated.

Serum Levels of Interleukin-1 Beta are Decreased in Patients with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis at the Time of Hospitalization

BACKGROUND: Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions. Some immunological and genetic factors are believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease, including tumor necrotic factor-alpha, interferon-gamma, and interleukin (IL)-17. IL-1β is one of the most prominent cytokines associated with the innate immune response. AIMS: The study aimed to evaluate the serum level of IL-1β in SJS/TEN and the relation between it and the progress of SJS/TEN. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at the National Hospital of Dermatology and Venereology, in Hanoi, Vietnam, from October 2017 to September 2019. 48 SJS/TEN patients, 43 erythema multiforme (EM) patients, and 20 healthy controls (HCs) participated. IL-1β levels were measured using the fluorescence covalent microbead immunosorbent assay (ProcartaPlex Immunoassay Panels kit, Thermo Fisher Scientific, USA). The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare serum IL-1β levels. The Wilcoxon tests were used to compare quantitative variables before and after the treatment. Differences were considered to be statistically significant at p &lt; 0.05. RESULTS: 19 SJS patients (39.5%) and 29 TEN patients (60.5%) participated in our study. The mean age was 49.3 years; the range was 19–77 years (47.9% males; 52.1% females). The most common causative drugs were traditional medicine (29.1%), carbamazepine (12.5%), and allopurinol (12.5%). On the day of hospitalization, the mean serum level of IL-1β of the SJS/TEN group was 26.4 ± 81.7 pg/mL, ranging from 0.5 pg/mL to 447 pg/mL. This level was significantly lower than that of the HCs group (p &lt; 0.001) but not lower than that of the EM group. The mean serum level of IL-1β in the SJS/TEN patients on the day of hospitalization was 26.4 ± 81.7 pg/ml, higher than that on the day of re-epithelialization (1.9 ± 5.6 pg/mL) and the difference was statistically significant with p &lt; 0.01. CONCLUSION: Serum IL-1β level in SJS/TEN patients is lower than in HCs. It is not a good biomarker to differentiate SJS/TEN from EM.

Reflective Engagement With a Digital Physical Activity Intervention Among People Living With and Beyond Breast Cancer: Mixed Methods Study.

People living with and beyond breast cancer can face internal barriers to physical activity (eg, fatigue and pain). Digital interventions that promote psychological acceptance and motivation may help this population navigate these barriers. The degree to which individuals (1) adhere to intervention protocols and (2) reflect on and internalize intervention content may predict intervention efficacy. The objective of this study was to characterize the nature of reflective processes brought about by an 8-week acceptance- and mindfulness-based physical activity intervention for insufficiently active survivors of breast cancer (n=75). Furthermore, we explored the potential utility of a metric of reflective processes for predicting study outcomes. Of the intervention's 8 weekly modules, 7 (88%) included an item that asked participants to reflect on what they found to be most useful. Two coders conducted directed content analysis on participants' written responses. They assessed each comment's depth of reflection using an existing framework (ranging from 0 to 4, with 0=simple description and 4=fundamental change with consideration of social and ethical issues). The coders identified themes within the various levels of reflection. We fit multiple linear regression models to evaluate whether participants' (1) intervention adherence (ie, number of modules completed) and (2) the mean level of the depth of reflection predicted study outcomes. Participants were aged on average 57.2 (SD 11.2) years, mostly non-Hispanic White (58/75, 77%), and mostly overweight or obese (54/75, 72%). Of the 407 responses to the item prompting personal reflection, 70 (17.2%) were rated as reflection level 0 (ie, description), 247 (60.7%) were level 1 (ie, reflective description), 74 (18.2%) were level 2 (ie, dialogic reflection), 14 (3.4%) were level 3 (ie, transformative reflection), and 2 (0.5%) were level 4 (ie, critical reflection). Lower levels of reflection were characterized by the acquisition of knowledge or expressing intentions. Higher levels were characterized by personal insight, commentary on behavior change processes, and a change of perspective. Intervention adherence was associated with increases in self-reported weekly bouts of muscle-strengthening exercise (B=0.26, SE 0.12, 95% CI 0.02-0.50) and decreases in sleep disturbance (B=-1.04, SE 0.50, 95% CI -0.06 to -2.02). The mean level of reflection was associated with increases in psychological acceptance (B=3.42, SE 1.70, 95% CI 0.09-6.75) and motivation for physical activity (ie, integrated regulation: B=0.55, SE 0.25, 95% CI 0.06-1.04). We identified a useful method for understanding the reflective processes that can occur during digital behavior change interventions serving people living with and beyond breast cancer. Intervention adherence and the depth of reflection each predicted changes in study outcomes. Deeper reflection on intervention content was associated with beneficial changes in the determinants of sustained behavior change. More research is needed to investigate the relations among digital behavior change intervention use, psychological processes, and intervention efficacy.