Control Study Research Articles

Association between processed and ultra-processed food intake and the risk of breast cancer: a case-control study.

Results from studies investigating the association between ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and breast cancer are scarce and, in some cases, contradictory. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association between the intake of processed foods (PFs) and UPFs with the risk of breast cancer in Iranian women. The present case (n = 133) - control (n = 266) study was carried out at two general hospitals in Tehran, Iran. A 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the participants' dietary intake. Also, the NOVA classification was used to identifyPFs and UPFs. The association between PFs and UPFs with the odds of breast cancer was analyzed using logistic regression models. According to Model 1 of conditional logistic regression, the odds of breast cancer were higher in the last tertile of UPFs than in the first tertile (odds ratio (OR) = 1.930; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.080-3.449). In Model 2, no significant association was observed between the second and last tertiles of PFs and UPFs with the odds of breast cancer compared to the reference tertile. Also based on menopause status, the odds of breast cancer increased in the last tertile only among premenopausal women in Model 2 (OR = 3.656; 95% CI: 1.326-10.079). This study demonstrated that higher consumption of UPFs is associated with higher odds of breast cancer in premenopausal women.

Different ECLS Pump Configurations for Temporary Right Ventricular Assist Device in LVAD Patients: A Retrospective Case–Control Study

Background: Acute right ventricular failure is a critical complication after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, often managed with a temporary paracorporeal right ventricular assist device (RVAD). This study examined three extracorporeal life support (ECLS) systems regarding mortality, bleeding complications, and intensive care unit (ICU) stay duration. Methods: This monocentric, retrospective case–control study included all patients receiving LVAD with paracorporeal RVAD between 2009 and 2020. Three patient groups were formed: CentrimagTM (A), CardiohelpTM (B), and DeltastreamTM (C). Results: A total of 245 patients were included. Preoperative parameters were similar between the CentrimagTM and DeltastreamTM groups, but CardiohelpTM patients had worse Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) Scores (A: 1.7 ± 0.8, B: 1.36 ± 0.5, C: 1.9 ± 0.9; p < 0.05). In-hospital death rates were A: 61 (41.8%), B: 15 (32.6%), C: 29 (54.7%); p < 0.05, and reoperation due to bleeding rates were A: 32 (21.9%), B: 8 (17.4%), C: 25 (47.2%); p < 0.05, with the DeltastreamTM group showing the highest rates. This group also had increased thrombocyte consumption and prolonged ICU stays. Conclusions: Temporary RVADs lead to bleeding complications, affecting patient outcomes. The DeltastreamTM group had significantly higher bleeding complications, likely due to high pump revolution rates and thrombocyte decline. Due to the study’s retrospective nature and complex patient profiles, these interesting findings should be validated in future studies.

Plasma glucose, HbA1c, insulin and lipid profile in Sudanese type 2 diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease: a case control study

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its consequences are a serious global public health issue. By 2030, the number of people with type 2 diabetes is predicted to reach 439 million. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the plasma levels of glucose, HbA1c, insulin, and lipid profile in Sudanese T2DM patients. Methods: This case control study included 165 Sudanese patients with diabetic type 2 and a cardiovascular condition as cases and 165 diabetic type 2 volunteers without a cardiovascular disorder as controls. The concentrations of plasma glucose, HbA1c, and lipid profile were assessed using a Mindray BS-480 auto-chemistry analyzer, and insulin was analyzed using a Cobase 411 auto analyzer. The collected data were analyzed using statistical tools for social science computer programs (SPSS version 21). Results: According to the findings, (59.4%) of patients between the ages of (50-69). Females made up 50.9%. (38.2%) of patients had an illness duration of between (8-15 years). (41.8%) of individuals did not have hypertension. There was a substantial rise in BMI, FBG, HbA1c, HDL-C, and insulin among diabetics with cardiovascular disease compared to diabetics without cardiovascular disease (p-value = 0.001, 0.000, 0.018, and 0.000). Females had significantly higher blood TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, and BMI than males (p-values = 0.000, 0,001, and 0.000, respectively). There were significant positive correlation between FBS, HBA1c, insulin and duration of disease (r=0.155, p, value=0.005) (r=0.160, p, value=0.004)(r=0.103, p. value=0.061)respectively, while there were significant negative correlation between TC, TG,LDL-C, HDL-C and duration of disease (r=-0.152, p, value= 0.006)(r=-0.023, p, value=0.678)(r=-0.113, p, value= 0.040)(r=-0.145, p, value=0.008)respectively. Conclusion: When comparing diabetics with cardiovascular disease to diabetics without cardiovascular disease, there was a substantial rise in BMI, FBG, HbA1c, HDL-C, and insulin. FBS, HBA1c, insulin, and illness duration all had a strong positive connection.

Napsin-A Immunohistochemistry in the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis.

The diagnosis of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) relies on a limited set of stains, namely hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff-diastase (PAS-D), demonstrating abundant alveolar material representing mostly surfactant. As cells harboring surfactant also express Napsin-A (pneumocytes and macrophages), we hypothesized that it would also be expressed within alveoli in PAP. To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of Napsin-A in the diagnosis of PAP. A 12-year retrospective case control study was designed to identify cases of PAP and potential histologic mimics (intra-alveolar fibrin, pulmonary edema, diffuse alveolar damage, and alveolar mucinosis). PAS-D staining and Napsin-A immunohistochemistry were performed. Distribution and intensity were evaluated by using a semiquantitative 3-point scale. Positivity was defined as 2+ intensity score, regardless of distribution. Eleven cases of PAP and 46 control cases were identified. Napsin-A showed positivity in all PAP cases and 3 of 12 cases of edema. Among positive cases, all those with a 2+ distribution were PAP cases, with heterogeneous (1+) staining in all cases of edema. PAS-D showed positivity in all cases of PAP and most controls, except cases of edema. Sensitivity and specificity of Napsin-A for PAP were 100% and 94%, respectively, and of PAS-D for PAP, 100% and 21%, respectively. Double positivity for Napsin-A and PAS-D was 100% specific and sensitive for PAP. This study is the first to demonstrate that Napsin-A is highly specific for the diagnosis of PAP, more so than PAS-D. It also shows that the combined positivity of Napsin-A and PAS-D is 100% specific and sensitive for PAP.

Evaluation of somatosensory bedside testing and neurodynamics of the trigeminal nerve in craniofacial pain: A matched case–control study

ABSTRACT Objective The objective of this study was to investigate whether trigeminal somatosensory function and mechanosensitivity differ between groups with craniofacial neuropathic pain (CNP), non-neuropathic craniofacial pain (NNP), and healthy controls (HC). Methods Thirty-three participants were categorized into these groups, matched for age and sex. The study evaluated pain intensity, the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS), and various trigeminal somatosensory tests, including vibration, pressure pain, thermal detection, cold pain, and neurodynamic tests of the trigeminal nerve. Results Cold pain thresholds differed significantly among the three groups CNP, NNP, and HC (p = .047). No difference was found in vibration detection, pressure pain threshold, and thermal detection. Trigeminal nerve mechanosensitivity was significantly different among the three groups (p = .03), particularly between groups CNP and HC (p = .01). Conclusion Differences in aspects of trigeminal somatosensory function, including cold pain and trigeminal mechanosensitivity, exist between subjects with chronic craniofacial pain and HC. This implies that a clinical classification system for neuromusculoskeletal rehabilitation could be valuable in evaluating patients.

The free style “Twin V/Y Nasal Perforator Flaps”. An alternative to the forehead flap for nasal tip reconstruction. A case control study

IntroductionReplacing the skin along the nasal tip remains a challenge.Depending on the extent of the skin loss different local or regional flaps are available for reconstruction. If cutaneous replacement involves the nasal tip, the forehead flap can be used successfully. However, it requires a multi-stage procedure and can leave considerable scarring on the patient’s forehead. As an alternative, the authors present the free style “Twin V/Y Nasal Perforator Flaps” (TVYNPF), which can be used as a one-stage procedure for nasal tip reconstruction. Material and MethodsA series of five patients aged between 69 and 89 years with extensive basal cell carcinomas (BCC) at the nasal tip are presented (Table 1). The surgical procedure is explained in detail. Follow up ranged from 8 to 12 months. ResultsHealing was uneventful for all five patients and the shape, symmetry and aesthetical unity of the nasal tip and the alae of the nose were preserved in all patients without any functional impairment. All scars presented inconspicuous. ConclusionIn selected patients the free style TVYNPF proved to be a good alternative to the forehead flap for one-stage reconstruction of significant skin loss along the nasal tip, while preserving the aesthetics and function of the nose.

Influenza in travelers from Germany returning from abroad: a retrospective case–control study

BackgroundInfluenza is the most common vaccine-preventable infection among travelers, affecting approximately one percent of those travelling to subtropical and tropical destinations.MethodsWe analysed demographic, travel-related and clinical information from travelers diagnosed with influenza at our travel clinic between January 2015 and March 2020 and influenza-negative controls.ResultsWe included 68 travelers diagnosed with influenza and 207 controls. In total, 22.1% of influenza patients (n = 15) were older than 60 years and/or had comorbidities for which annual influenza vaccination is recommended, but only one had received an influenza vaccine. Patients with respiratory and musculoskeletal symptoms who presented during the German influenza season had the highest risk proportion of positive tests (54%, n = 25/46). Overall, three (4.4%) influenza patients were hospitalised, two (2.9%) received antiviral treatment, and eight (11.8%) received antibiotic therapy.ConclusionsInfluenza occurs throughout the year in international travelers and can cause significant morbidity. Travelers with febrile illness should be tested for influenza, especially if they have respiratory or musculoskeletal symptoms, present during the local influenza season, or have travelled to South-East Asia. Influenza vaccination coverage among international travelers needs to be improved among high-risk individuals.

Effectiveness of Visual Pedagogy and Printed Aids on Oral Hygiene Status of Institutionalized Children Who are Hard of Hearing in D. K District, Karnataka - A Randomized Control Study

Effectiveness of Visual Pedagogy and Printed Aids on Oral Hygiene Status of Institutionalized Children Who are Hard of Hearing in D. K District, Karnataka - A Randomized Control Study

Burden of postmenopausal breast cancer attributable to excess body weight: comparative study of body mass index and CUN-BAE in MCC-Spain study

Background10% of postmenopausal breast cancer cases are attributed to a high body mass index (BMI). BMI underestimates body fat, particularly in older women, and therefore the cancer burden attributable to...

Mood temperaments in adult patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

BackgroundThe incidence of various mood disorders and temperaments in ADHD patients is well-documented, irrespective of age. These temperamental differences cause emotional and behavioral instability, impacting individual and social functioning, and overall quality of life. This study evaluates different temperaments in adults with ADHD compared to those without ADHD.MethodsThis case–control study was performed on 75 adult ADHD patients as the case group and 75 adults without ADHD as the control group. A demographic questionnaire and a shortened Persian version of the TEMPS-A questionnaire were given and completed to the people included in the study to assess different mood temperaments.ResultsComparing different components of mood temperaments between the patients with and without ADHD showed significantly higher mean scores for irritable, anxious, depressed, and cyclothymic temperaments in those with ADHD as compared to a control group. In the group suffering from ADHD, women had significantly higher mean scores for dysthymic and anxious temperaments as compared to men, while the mean score for cyclothymic temperaments was significantly higher in men than in women. A high academic degree was associated with lower scores for mood temperaments, while mood temperaments were independent of patients’ age.ConclusionsThe higher score of various mood temperaments in patients with ADHD compared to people without this disorder is completely predictable, and this score can potentially affect the gender of the patients as well as their education level. Given the higher scores of temperamental traits in patients with adult ADHD, implementing screening programs aimed at identifying temperamental disorders in these patients is highly emphasized.

High levels of bisphenol A among infertile men can impair spermatogenesis by oxidative stress and elevated levels of microRNA-337

BackgroundStudies have shown that Bisphenol A may interfere with the process of spermatogenesis and result in a decrease in the quality of semen. Nevertheless, the fundamental processes remain unclear. This study was done to investigate the connections between exposure to Bisphenol A, spermatogenesis with microRNA-337, and malondialdehyde in infertile men.MethodsThis study was a case–control study on 73 participants. Infertile group (1a): azoospermia (n = 16), infertile group (1b): oligozoospermia (n = 22), and control group (2): normospermic (n = 35) were enrolled in this study. Full history, local examination, semen analysis, and urine and blood samples were taken from all participants. Urinary Bisphenol A, malondialdehyde, and serum microRNA-337 were measured.ResultsThe mean Bisphenol A level in azoospermia group shows statistically significant increase comparing to fertile control group. The mean microRNA-337 level in oligozoospermia and azoospermia group shows statistically significant increase comparing to fertile controls. The mean malondialdehyde level in infertility groups shows statistically significant increase comparing to fertile control group. No linear correlations were recorded between Bisphenol A levels with semen quality parameters, hormonal profile, and microRNA-337.ConclusionWhile there is no significant change in the levels of Bisphenol A between normal fertile males and infertile males with oligozospermia, a significant elevation in the BPA level was observed in infertile males with azoospermia. A significant upregulation of the miRNA-337 gene expression in infertile males either oligozospermia or azoospermia was also observed. In addition, lipid peroxidation as evident by the significant elevation of MDA levels was marked among infertile patients.

The association of early pregnancy ultrasound parameters with reproductive hormone levels: A retrospective case–control Study

The association between early pregnancy ultrasound parameters and reproductive hormone levels was investigated through a case–control study. Participants for this retrospective study were recruited from obstetrics and gynecology departments across multiple tertiary care centers over 2 years. Inclusion criteria for the case group included pregnant women in their first trimester with detailed ultrasound data, while the control group comprised nonpregnant women without hormonal disorders. A sample size of 850 was estimated to provide sufficient power for detecting differences in hormone levels. Hormone levels were assayed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 26.0. A total of 425 participants in each group were included after accounting for dropouts. For hCG, a strong positive correlation was observed with crown-rump length (R = 0.62, P < .001), gestational sac diameter (R = 0.59, P < .001), and a moderate correlation with yolk sac diameter (R = 0.40, P = .003). Progesterone levels exhibited moderate positive correlations with these ultrasound parameters, and estradiol levels demonstrated strong positive correlations. Conversely, follicle-stimulating hormone levels showed a moderate negative correlation with ultrasound measurements, while luteinizing hormone levels indicated a slight negative correlation. Prolactin levels were positively correlated with all ultrasound parameters in cases. The control group did not show any significant correlations between hormone levels and ultrasound parameters. The study concluded a significant association between early pregnancy ultrasound parameters and reproductive hormone levels in pregnant women, underscoring the potential of these hormones as biomarkers for pregnancy development.

Risk Factors Associated with Noncarious Cervical Lesions: A Case–Control Study

Risk Factors Associated with Noncarious Cervical Lesions: A Case–Control Study

Posture-dependent modulation of marmoset cortical motor maps detected via rapid multichannel epidural stimulation

Recent neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies have suggested substantial short-term plasticity in the topographic maps of the primary motor cortex (M1). However, previous methods lack the temporal resolution to detect rapid modulation of these maps, particularly in naturalistic conditions. To address this limitation, we previously developed a rapid stimulation mapping procedure with implanted cortical surface electrodes. In this study, employing our previously established procedure, we examined rapid topographical changes in forelimb M1 motor maps in three awake male marmoset monkeys. The results revealed that although the hotspot (the location in M1 that elicited a forelimb muscle twitch with the lowest stimulus intensity) remained constant across postures, the stimulus intensity required to elicit the forelimb muscle twitch in the perihotspot region and the size of motor representations were posture-dependent. Hindlimb posture was particularly effective in inducing these modulations. The angle of the body axis relative to the gravitational vertical line did not alter the motor maps. These results provide a proof of concept that a rapid stimulation mapping system with chronically implanted cortical electrodes can capture the dynamic regulation of forelimb motor maps in natural conditions. Moreover, they suggest that posture is a crucial variable to be controlled in future studies of motor control and cortical plasticity. Further exploration is warranted into the neural mechanisms regulating forelimb muscle representations in M1 by the hindlimb sensorimotor state.

THE TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT OF JUDO ON ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES: INCLUSION, ADAPTATION, AND PERFORMANCE INSIGHTS

Judo is celebrated for its inclusivity and adaptability, offering significant benefits for athletes with disabilities (PwD). It fosters physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, enhancing motor skills, coordination, and balance. For athletes with physical disabilities, mastering techniques such as falling safely promotes strength and agility. Moreover, engaging in judo boosts self-esteem and confidence as athletes achieve milestones like advancing through belt ranks and earning medals. The supportive environment encourages personal accomplishment and helps develop social skills through interaction with peers. Research highlights the diverse range of disabilities in judo, including visual, auditory, and intellectual impairments. Studies by Oblak et al. (2020) reveal the therapeutic benefits of judo for individuals with intellectual disabilities, emphasizing the need for more research in this area. Bocioacă and Marin (2023) explore the role of adapted judo for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Down syndrome, demonstrating improvements in integration skills through tailored practices. Additional research by Kons et al. (2021) and Krabben et al. (2017) addresses the dynamics of Paralympic judo, revealing challenges related to classification systems for visually impaired athletes. Kons et al. (2022) identify a concerning rise in injury rates among judo athletes with disabilities, indicating the need for improved safety measures. Lastly, the comparative study of neuromuscular control by Kons et al. (2019) shows that visually impaired judokas can excel in balance and certain strength metrics. Overall, these studies underscore judo’s role in promoting physical development and social integration for PwD, while also highlighting the need for further research to ensure equitable and inclusive practices in the sport.

Factors affecting fat myringoplasty in elderly patients with chronic otitis media: A case control study

BackgroundWe compared and analyzed the surgical results of fat myringoplasty between elderly and young adult patients with chronic otitis media. We also investigated whether underlying diseases and other factors impact the surgical outcome.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the data of 141 patients who underwent fat myringoplasty for chronic otitis media for five years. They were compared by age, sex, underlying disease, perforation size, pre- and postoperative pure tone audiometry, postoperative otorrhea, postoperative re-perforation, and cause of re-perforation.ResultPostoperative re-perforation was more common in the elderly group, albeit with no significant difference (p = 0.072). The factors affecting re-perforation were insufficient fat graft (44.4%), postoperative infection (33.3%), and nasal blowing (22.2%). Our findings revealed no significant association between preoperative perforation size and re-perforation (p = 0.391). Additionally, we found no significant relationship between hypertension and re-perforation (p > 0.99), nor between age group and postoperative infection (p = 0.488). Diabetes was also not significant (p = 0.640). Following surgery, both groups exhibited a significant improvement in hearing.ConclusionAlthough age and underlying conditions play significant roles in the healing process, our results suggest that external factors such as infection, nasal blowing, cough, and insufficient grafted fat tissue have a similarly significant impact on surgical outcomes in elderly patients with COM as they do in adults. In conclusion, the decision to perform surgery in elderly patients with COM should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s overall health status, hearing, use of hearing aids, and the indications for surgery.

Adiposity throughout Adulthood and Risk of Young Onset Breast Cancer Tumor Subtypes in the Young Women's Health History Study.

The role of adult adiposity in young-onset breast cancer (YOBC) subtype risk is not well understood. In this population-based case(n=1812)-control(n=1381) study of invasive YOBC (aged <50 years), cases were identified from the Los Angeles County and Metropolitan Detroit SEER registries, 2010-2015. Area-based, frequency-matched controls were sampled from the 2010 Census. General adiposity (body mass index (BMI)) and central adiposity (waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR)) across adulthood and covariates were collected from in-person interviews and measurements. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for adiposity and YOBC tumor subtypes (i.e., luminal A, luminal B, HER2+, triple negative (TN)) were calculated, overall and by parity, using multivariable weighted logistic regression. Obese young adult BMI was inversely associated with luminal A YOBC (OR=0.35, 95% CI 0.16-0.79); other subtype associations were non-significant. Similarly, adult overweight and obese BMIs were inversely associated with luminal A (respectively OR=0.66, 95% CI 0.48-0.91 and OR=0.59, 95% CI 0.46-0.87), but not other subtypes. Conversely, larger WC was associated with higher odds of luminal B and TN YOBC (respectively OR=1.48, 95% CI 1.01-2.15 and OR=2.48, 95% CI 1.52-3.88), but not other subtypes (with similar results for WHtR); highest odds were among parous women. Findings show greater general adult adiposity is associated with reduced odds of luminal A YOBC, while greater central adiposity is associated with increased odds of luminal B and TN YOBC, particularly among parous women. Additional studies of central adiposity and YOBC subtype risk, especially incorporating pregnancy history, are warranted.

Impact of storage on sterility of surgical instruments in autoclave bags

Background: There is no published veterinary research to support an optimal storage duration and method of sterile surgical instrumentation (SI) when using self-seal autoclave bags (SSABs), although aspects of research from human healthcare are transferable. Multiple pieces of research in human healthcare have demonstrated the ability of sterilisation packaging materials to maintain barrier integrity and sterility for several months poststerilisation. Research on an optimal storage method is inconclusive. Aims: To determine an ideal storage duration and method of single SI, packaged in SSABs and sterilised via an autoclave. To determine the current practice of sterilisation, storage methods and durations using SSABs in small animal practice. Methods: This mixed methods study consisted of an online questionnaire to investigate the current procedures for autoclave sterilisation in veterinary practice. Alongside this, a non-randomised control study was conducted to assess the sterility of single SI, packaged in SSABs and sterilised via autoclave, to determine an ideal storage duration and method. SI was sterilised and stored for one, three and six months, in open (on a shelf) and closed (in a box) environments. Results: The questionnaire indicated veterinary professionals are adopting a cautious approach to storage durations with 75.5% (n=40) storing sterile single SI for between one and three months, prior to reprocessing. The experimental study did not identify an optimal storage method and either open or closed could be used for effective storage in undisturbed conditions. It is highly probable that most SI were sterile at the end of the storage durations and for up to 6 months. Conclusions: Laboratory findings are mostly consistent with those in existing literature. Results suggest the storage of sterile SI, in either open or closed environments for up to 6 months was not detrimental to the sterility of the instruments. To encourage good sustainability performance, practices could extend the storage times of sterilised SI prior to reprocessing.

Association between serum branched chain amino acids, mammalian target of rapamycin levels and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a 1:1 matched case control study

BackgroundTo investigate the association between serum branched chain amino acids (BCAAs), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) levels and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in pregnant women.Methods1:1 matched case–control study was conducted including 66 GDM patients and 66 matched healthy pregnant women (± 3 years) in 2019, in China. Fasting bloods of pregnant women were collected in pregnancy at 24 ~ 28 weeks gestation. And the serum levels of valine (Val), leucine (Leu), isoleucine (Ile) and mTOR were determined. Conditional logistic regressions models were used to estimate the associations of BCAAs and mTOR concentrations with the risk of GDM.ResultsConcentrations of serum Val and mTOR in cases were significantly higher than that in controls (P < 0.05). After adjusted for the confounded factors, both the second tertile and the third tertile of mTOR increased the risk of GDM (OR = 11.771, 95%CI: 3.949–35.083; OR = 4.869 95%CI: 1.742–13.611, respectively) compared to the first tertile of mTOR. However, the second tertile of serum Val (OR = 0.377, 95%CI:0.149–0.954) and the second tertile of serum Leu (OR = 0.322, 95%CI: 0.129–0.811) decreased the risk of GDM compared to the first tertile of serum Val and Leu, respectively. The restricted cubic spline indicated a significant nonlinear association between the serum levels of mTOR and the risk of GDM (P values for non-linearity = 0.0058).ConclusionWe confirmed the association of higher mTOR with the increased risk of GDM in pregnant women. Pregnant women who were in the certain range level of Val and Leu were at lower risk of GDM. Our findings provided epidemiological evidence for the relation of serum BCAAs and mTOR with risk of GDM.

Serum melatonin levels and in a sample of Iranian patients with migraine

Migraine, a complex disorder, is characterized by recurrent headache episodes. The production of melatonin in the pineal gland, which is crucial for controlling circadian rhythms and sleep–wake cycles, is altered in various conditions, including neurological disorders such as migraine. Recent studies underscore the significance of serum melatonin levels in patients with chronic and episodic migraine, the focus of this study. This case‒control study, conducted from September 2017 to June 2020 in Tehran, Iran, selected potential participants aged 18–65 years from a headache clinic at Sina Hospital (affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences). Both episodic migraine and chronic migraine were diagnosed following the diagnostic criteria in the International Classification of Headache Disorders’ third edition. Melatonin levels were measured according to the instructions of the ELISA kits. There were significant differences in the frequency of headache days and the duration of abortive medication usage between the two groups (P value < 0.001). Besides, analysis revealed significantly lower serum melatonin levels in patients with episodic ((80.45–45.06) 72.83) and chronic migraine ((154.34–63.34) 70.38, P value < 0.001) than in healthy controls (281.25–160.86) 280). Although no considerable differences were found between episodic and chronic migraine patients, the current study demonstrated that serum melatonin levels were substantially greater in healthy controls than in patients with migraine.