Asociación de marcadores inflamatorios y de disfunción endotelial con la depresión en la enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica

Fundamento: la depresión es una de las complicaciones no neurológicas más frecuentes en la enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Objetivo: determinar la asociación de marcadores inflamatorios y de disfunción endotelial con la depresión en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico, prospectivo de corte transversal en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica en fase aguda (N=22) y no aguda (N=37); atendidos en el Instituto de Neurología y Neurocirugía y el Hospital Manuel Fajardo, de La Habana, Cuba. Se recogieron variables demográficas, factores de riesgo, etiología y localización del infarto, deficiencia neurológica, discapacidad para las actividades de la vida diaria (índice de Barthel), neuropsicológicas (depresión por inventario de Beck y test de Hamilton). Se determinó proteína C-reactiva, alfa-1-antitripsina, complementos C3 y C4 y microalbuminuria. Resultados: las puntuaciones de las pruebas neuropsicológicas no tuvieron diferencias significativas entre la fase aguda y no aguda, pero hubo un aumento estadístico de la frecuencia de pacientes sin depresión y con ligera depresión en la fase no aguda. En la fase aguda, el complemento C4 y en la fase no aguda el complemento C3, la proteína C-reactiva y el alfa-1-antitripsina se correlacionaron directamente con la puntuación del inventario de Beck. La proteína C-reactiva y C3 se correlacionaron estadísticamente con la puntuación del test de Hamilton. En el análisis multivariado, la proteína C-reactiva mostró asociación independiente con el grado de depresión por el test de Hamilton. Conclusiones: la proteína C-reactiva pudiera estar relacionada con la severidad de la depresión, quizás por asociación con la discapacidad para las actividades de vida diaria.

Foundation: depression in ischemic cerebrovascular disease is one of the most frequent non-neurological complications. Objective: to determine the association of inflammatory markers and endothelial dysfunction with depression in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease. Methods: an analytical, prospective, cross-sectional study was carried out in patients with acute (N=22) and non-acute (N=37) ischemic cerebrovascular disease; treated at the Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery; and the Manuel Fajardo Hospital, in Havana, Cuba. Demographic variables, risk factors, etiology and location of the infarction, neurological deficiency, disability for activities of daily living (Barthel index), neuropsychological (depression by Beck inventory and Hamilton test) were collected. C-reactive protein, alpha-1-antitrypsin, C3 and C4 complements, and microalbuminuria were determined. Results: the scores of the neuropsychological tests did not have significant differences between the acute and non-acute phase, but there was a statistical increase in the frequency of patients without depression and with slight depression in the non-acute phase. In the acute phase, C4, and in the non-acute phase, C3, C-reactive protein and alpha-1-antitrypsin were directly correlated with the Beck inventory score. C-reactive protein and C3 were statistically correlated with the Hamilton test score. In the multivariate analysis, C-reactive protein showed an independent association with the degree of depression by the Hamilton test. Conclusions: C-reactive protein could be related to the severity of depression, perhaps by association with the disability for activities of daily living.

A cross-sectional study to estimate the serum level of C-reactive protein among pediatric meningitis with bacterial etiology

Background: Bacterial meningitis is a global public health issue. C-reactive protein (CRP) has suitable diagnostic value in distinguishing between bacterial and aseptic meningitis especially in cases of negative bacterial culture of the blood and spinal fluid. Aim and Objective: The objective of this study was to estimate the serum level of CRP among pediatric meningitis cases with bacterial etiology. Materials and Methods: The hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was performed in a tertiary care pediatric hospital in Eastern India from June to August, 2021 with 150 samples. Patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected for this study after obtaining informed consent. Cerebrospinal fluid sample was collected as per standard guidelines. Phenotypic identification of bacteria including antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by automation (Vitek 2 compact, bioMerieux). Quantitative estimation of CRP was performed in a solid phase and sandwich-format immunometric assay using a gold antibody conjugate. Human rights, welfare, and autonomy were protected as per national ethical guidelines. Results: Median age (Inter Quartile Range) of 150 cases was 3(1–4.5) year. Escherichia coli (60.52%, 23/38) was the commonest isolate (P < 0.00000001 by Binomial test calculation) followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (34.24%, i.e., 13/38). A total of 43/150 (28.66%) participants had higher serum CRP. Serum CRP was raised more in Gram-negative bacterial etiology (36 out of 38, 94.73%). Mean serum CRP was higher in Gram-negative cases (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Serum CRP was found significantly higher in meningitis caused by Gram-negative bacteria.

Inflammation in Cardiovascular Disease: Current Status and Future Perspectives

Abstract Atherosclerosis has been defined as an inflammatory disease. Three decades of research have pointed to a pivotal role of interleukin 6 for many aspects of cardiovascular disease, not the least of which is atherosclerosis. In this review, experimental and clinical studies are reported on a timeline, exploring mechanisms and possible explanations that form the basis of current knowledge. Some successful clinical trials were proof of concept studies, showing that not only inflammatory biomarkers are related to cardiovascular outcomes, but also that decreasing inflammation can reduce cardiovascular events. Great advances have been made in the management of residual cardiovascular risk due to cholesterol, thrombosis, and metabolic diseases, but the next frontier now seems to be targeting inflammation. In the upcoming years, the importance of inflammation will be evaluated in high-risk patients with chronic kidney disease, after acute coronary heart disease or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Inflammation seems to precede the development of cardiovascular risk factors. Moreover, counseling for a heathy lifestyle and, when necessary, the use of cardiometabolic therapies capable of decreasing inflammation, might be important.

Utilidad de la proteína C-reactiva para determinar la gravedad de infección por SARS-CoV-2 en Perú

Introducción: En los últimos años se han estudiado diversos biomarcadores para determinar los casos graves de COVID-19. La proteína C-reactiva (PCR) ha mostrado alta sensibilidad en la identificación de pacientes con enfermedad grave y utilidad comparable a la tomografía. Objetivo: Determinar la utilidad de la PCR para predecir gravedad de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes hospitalizados en el Centro Médico Naval del Perú durante el periodo enero-septiembre del año 2021. Métodos: Se empleó un diseño de tipo cuantitativo, observacional, analítico, retrospectivo, y de tipo prueba diagnóstica. Se calculó un tamaño muestral de 503 pacientes, quienes fueron divididos en dos grupos de acuerdo a su gravedad. Resultados: Se determinó un punto de corte óptimo de 10,92 mg/L de los valores de PCR para el diagnóstico de enfermedad grave por COVID-19. Se calculó un área bajo la curva (AUC) de 0,762 y se obtuvieron valores de sensibilidad, especificidad, valores predictores positivo, negativo y precisión diagnóstica de 78,88%, 66,4%; 41,42%; 87,01%; y 67,27%, respectivamente. El normograma de Fagan mostró una probabilidad posprueba de 41%. En el modelo ajustado fueron significativas la PCR (ORa = 4,853; IC95% 2,987-7,886; p = 0,001), además de la ferritina (ORa = 1,001; IC 95%: 1,001-1,002; p = 0,001) e hipotiroidismo (OR ajustado = 4,899; IC 95%: 1,272-18,872; p = 0,021). Conclusiones: El presente estudio mostró la asociación entre la PCR y la gravedad de infección por SARS-CoV-2 en un modelo ajustado, mostrando su potencial utilidad y contribuyendo a determinar el punto de corte de la PCR en población peruana y su comparación a nivel internacional.

Background: Recently, many biomarkers have been studied to determine severe cases of COVID-19. C-reactive protein (CRP) has shown high sensitivity in identifying patients with severe disease and utility comparable to computed tomography. Aim: To determine the usefulness of CRP to predict the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients hospitalized at the Naval Medical Center of Peru during the period January-September in the year 2021. Methods: A quantitative, observational, analytical, retrospective, and diagnostic test type design was used. A sample size of 503 patients was calculated, which were divided into two groups according to their severity. Results: An optimal cut-off point of 10.92 mg/L for CRP levels was determined for the diagnosis of severe COVID-19. An area under the curve (AUC) of 0.762 was calculated and sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and diagnostic accuracy values of 78.88%, 66.4%; 41.42%; 87.01%; and 67.27%; respectively. Fagan's normogram showed a post-test probability of 41%. In the adjusted model, CRP (aOR = 4.853; 95% CI 2.987-7.886; p = 0.001), ferritin (aOR = 1.001; 95% CI: 1.001-1.002; p = 0.001) and hypothyroidism (adjusted OR = 4899; 95% CI: 1272-18872; p = 0.021) showed significance. Conclusions: The present study showed an association between CRP and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in an adjusted model, showing its potential utility and contributing to determine the cut-off point of CRP in the Peruvian population and its international comparison.

Evaluation of relationship between markers of inflammation and blood pressure in subjects attending OPD in a tertiary care center in Chennai

Background: The incidence and prevalence of hypertension have been increasing steadily in the present era. Inflammation is a proven key factor in the pathogenesis of hypertension. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a known marker of vascular inflammation leading to hypertension. High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is a sensitive marker of assessment of inflammatory changes before the rise in CRP. Aims and Objectives: The goal of this study was to decipher the stage at which inflammation starts related to changes in hypertension using CRP as well as hs-CRP. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study which included 120 individuals, who were subdivided into three groups - Normotensive: 40, pre-hypertensive: 40, and hypertensive. JNC classification was used for the categorization of blood pressure. hs-CRP was analyzed as per the principle of ELISA. Results: There was a significant difference in hs-CRP between normotensive and hypertensive. A strong association between hypertension, CRP, and hs-CRP was found. Conclusion: hs-CRP is a sensitive marker for early assessment of inflammatory components in hypertension.

Proteína C reactiva y su progresión en el tiempo para la detección de las fugas anastomóticas / C-reactive protein and its progression over time for the detection of anastomotic leaks

Introducción. Las fugas anastomóticas son una complicación común y crítica en cirugía gastrointestinal, por lo que su identificación y tratamiento temprano son necesarios para evitar resultados adversos. El uso convencional con un valor límite de la proteína C reactiva ha demostrado una utilidad limitada. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la utilidad de la medición seriada de la proteína C reactiva en la detección de fugas anastomóticas. Métodos. Revisión prospectiva de base de datos retrospectiva de pacientes sometidos a cirugía abdominal mayor con al menos una anastomosis intestinal. Se midió la proteína C reactiva al tercer y quinto día posoperatorio. Las complicaciones se categorizaron según la clasificación de Clavien-Dindo. La precisión diagnóstica fue evaluada por el área bajo la curva. Resultados. Se incluyeron 157 pacientes, el 52 % mujeres. La edad promedio fue de 63,7 años. El mayor número de cirugías correspondió a gastrectomía (36,3 %), resección anterior de recto (15,3 %) y hemicolectomía derecha (13,4 %). El 25,5 % tuvieron alguna complicación postoperatoria y el 32,5 % (n=13) presentaron fuga en la anastomosis. El aumento de la proteína C reactiva tuvo un área bajo la curva de 0,918 con un punto de corte de aumento en 1,3 mg/L, sensibilidad de 92,3 % (IC95% 78 ­ 100) y una especificidad de 92,4 % (IC95% 88 ­ 96). Conclusiones. El aumento de 1,3 mg/L en la proteína C reactiva entre el día de la cirugía y el quinto día fue un predictor preciso de fugas anastomóticas en pacientes con cirugía abdominal mayor

Introduction. Anastomotic leaks are a common and critical complication in gastrointestinal surgery. Their identification and early treatment are necessary to avoid adverse results, and conventional use with a cutoff value of C-reactive protein has shown limited utility. The objective of this study was to determine the usefulness of serial measurement of C-reactive protein in the detection of anastomotic leaks. Methods. Prospective review of a retrospective database of patients undergoing major abdominal surgery with at least one intestinal anastomosis. C-reactive protein was measured on the third and fifth postoperative days. Complications were classified according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated by the area under the curve.Results. 157 patients were included, 52% were females. The average age was 63.7 years. The largest number of surgeries corresponded to gastrectomies (36.3%), anterior resection of the rectum (15.3%) and right hemicolectomies (13.4%). 25.5% had some postoperative complication and 32.5% (n=13) had anastomosis leaks. The increase in C-reactive protein had an area under the curve of 0.918 with an increase cut-off point of 1.3 mg/L, sensitivity of 92.3% (95% CI 78-100) and specificity of 92.4%. (95% CI 88-96). Conclusions. The 1.3 mg/L increase in C-reactive protein between the day of surgery and the fifth day was an accurate predictor of anastomotic leaks in patients with major abdominal surgery

Proteína C reactiva como biomarcador predictivo de fuga anastomótica en cirugía oncológica colorrectal: estudio de cohorte retrospectivo / C-reactive protein as a predictive biomarker of anastomotic leak in colorectal cancer surgery: A retrospective cohort study

Introducción. La fuga anastomótica es la complicación más grave del tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer de colon por su alta morbimortalidad. El diagnóstico evidente, manifestado por la salida de contenido intestinal por drenajes o la herida quirúrgica, ocurre tardíamente (entre el 6º y 8º día). El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar la variación de los valores de la proteína C reactiva postoperatoria para hacer un diagnóstico precoz. Métodos. Estudio observacional, analítico, retrospectivo, de una cohorte de pacientes con neoplasia, en quienes se realizó cirugía oncológica con anastomosis intestinal, entre enero de 2019 y diciembre de 2021. Se midieron los valores en sangre de proteína C reactiva postoperatoria (1°, 3° y 5° días). Resultados. Se compararon 225 casos operados que no presentaron fuga con 45 casos con fuga. En los casos sin fuga, el valor de proteína C reactiva al 3º día fue de 148 mg/l y al 5º día de 71 mg/l, mientras en los casos con fuga, los valores fueron de 228,24 mg/l y 228,04 mg/l, respectivamente (p<0,05). Para un valor de 197 mg/l al 3º día la sensibilidad fue de 77 % y para un valor de 120 mg/l al 5º día la sensibilidad fue de 84 %. Conclusión. El mejor resultado de proteína C reactiva postoperatoria para detectar precozmente la fuga anastomótica se observó al 5º día. El valor de 127 mg/l tuvo la mejor sensibilidad, especificidad y valor predictivo negativo, lo cual permitiría el diagnóstico temprano y manejo oportuno de esta complicación

Introduction. Anastomotic leak is the most serious complication of surgical treatment of colon cancer due to its high morbidity and mortality. The obvious diagnosis manifested by the exit of intestinal content through drains or the operative wound, occurs late (between the 6th and 8th day). The objective of this work was to study the postoperative C-reactive protein values to make an early diagnosis. Methods. Observational, analytical, retrospective study of a cohort of patients undergoing colorectal surgery for neoplasia, between January 2019 and December 2021, who underwent oncological surgery with intestinal anastomosis and measured CRP blood values on 1st, 3rd and 5th post-operative days. Results. Two-hundred-twenty-five operated cases that did not present leaks were compared with 45 cases with leaks, with CRP values on the 3rd and 5th day of 148mg/l and 71mg/l in cases without leakage and CRP values of 228.24mg/l and 228.04 mg/l in cases with leakage on the 3rd and 5th day, respectively (p<0.05), CRP value of 197mg/l on the 3rd day has a sensitivity of 77%; CRP value of 120mg/l on the 5th day, has a sensitivity of 84%. Conclusions. The best result for CPR to early diagnosis of anastomotic leak was observed on the 5th day, having the value of 127 mg/l the best sensitivity, specificity and NPV, which would allow early diagnosis and timely management

Prognostic value of serum albumin and C-reactive protein levels in the elderly for assessing morbidity and mortality in a tertiary care center

Introduction: There is an increased population of elderly globally due to advancement of technology in health care. Elderly individuals are susceptible to various diseases, owing to deficits in nutrition or healthy lifestyle. Serum albumin and C‑reactive protein (CRP) are found to be sensitive to nutritional status as well as inflammation. This study is an attempt to analyze the prognostic value of CRP and serum albumin and analyze its usefulness as a prognostic marker in assessing morbidity and mortality in elderly patients. Methodology: One hundred patients above the age of 65 years and were admitted to the emergency care facilities of our tertiary care center were recruited for the study. Serum albumin and CRP estimation was done on the day of admission along with Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and was follow-up till discharge. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate relationship between the serum values and CCI scores. Results: It was observed that 83.3% (10/12) of deaths occurred in those with low serum albumin levels, and 91.6% (11/12) with high CRP levels. The hazard ratio shows a 6% increased probability of death with one unit increase in CRP, whereas a one unit increase in serum albumin value decrease the probability of death. Conclusion: The present study concludes that low serum albumin and high CRP levels at the time of admission in the elderly population are associated with high CCI scores, longer hospital stay, and increased risk of mortality, demanding their estimation in the elderly in emergency and acute care facilities.

Proteína C-reativa como preditor para complicações pós-operatórias em cirurgias colorretais / C-reactive protein as postoperative complications predictor of colorectal surgeries

ABSTRACT Background: The use of inflammatory markers in order to accurate the diagnosis, decrease the reoperation rate and enable earlier interventions during the postoperative period of a colorectal surgery is increasingly necessary, with the purpose of reducing morbimortality, nosocomial infections, costs and time of a readmission. Objective: To analyze C-reactive protein level on the third postoperative day of an elective colorectal surgery and compare the marks between reoperated and non-reoperated patients and to establish a cutoff value to predict or avoid surgical reoperations. Methods: Retrospective study based on the analysis of electronic charts of over 18-year-old patients who underwent an elective colorectal surgery with primary anastomoses during the period from January 2019 to May 2021 by the proctology team of Santa Marcelina Hospital Department of General Surgery with C-reactive protein (CRP) dosage taken on the third postoperative day. Results: We assessed 128 patients with a mean age of 59.22 years old and need of reoperation of 20.3% of patients, half of these due to dehiscence of colorectal anastomosis. Comparing CRP rates on the third postoperative day between non-reoperated and reoperated patients, it was noted that in the former group the average was of 153.8±76.2 mg/dL, whereas in reoperated patients it was 198.7±77.4 mg/dL (P<0.0001) and the best CRP cutoff value to predict or investigate reoperation risk was 184.8 mg/L with an accuracy of 68% and negative predictive value of 87.6%. Conclusion: CRP levels assessed on the third postoperative day of elective colorectal surgery were higher in patients who were reoperated and the cutoff value for intra-abdominal complication of 184.8mg/L presented a high negative predictive value.

RESUMO Contexto: O uso de marcadores sanguíneos para tentar acurar o diagnóstico, reduzir a taxa de readmissão e possibilitar intervenções mais precoces no pós operatório de cirurgia colorretal é cada vez mais necessário, a fim de almejar reduzir a morbimortalidade, infecções nosocomiais, custos e tempo de uma reinternação. Objetivo: Analisar o nível da proteíne C reativa (PCR) no terceiro dia de pós-operatório de cirurgia colorretal eletiva e comparar os valores entre pacientes reoperados e não reoperados e estabelecer um valor de corte para prever ou afastar re-intervenção cirúrgica. Metodos: Estudo retrospectivo através da análise de prontuários eletrônicos de pacientes maiores que 18 anos submetidos a cirurgia colorretal de forma eletiva com anastomoses primárias no período de janeiro de 2019 a maio de 2021 pelo serviço de Coloproctologia do Departamento de Cirurgia Geral do Hospital Santa Marcelina com dosagem da PCR no 3º pós-operatório. Resultados: Foram avaliados 128 pacientes com média de idade de 59,22 anos e necessidade de reoperação em 20,3% dos pacientes, sendo metade desses por deiscência de anastomose colorretal. Ao se comparar os valores de PCR no 3º pós operatório entre os pacientes não reoperados e os reoperados, observou-se que nos primeiros a média foi de 153,8±76,2 mg/dL, enquanto nos pacientes reoperados foi de 198,7±77,4 mg/dL (P<0,0001) e, o melhor valor de corte de PCR para predizer ou investigar o risco de reoperação, foi 184,8 mg/dL com uma acurácia de 68% e valor preditivo negativo de 87,6%. Conclusão: Os níveis de PCR avaliados no 3º pós-operatório de cirurgia colorretal eletiva foram maiores em pacientes reoperados e o valor de corte para complicações intra-abdominal de 184,8 mg/L apresentou elevado valor preditivo negativo.

Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and indirect bilirubin may participate in systemic inflammation of patients with psoriatic arthritis

Abstract Background Previous studies have suggested that systemic metabolic abnormalities are closely related to psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and indirect bilirubin (IBIL), two essential active substances in hepatic metabolism that have been demonstrated as an oxidative and anti-oxidative factor respectively, have been proved to be involved in oxidative stress damage and inflammation in several human diseases. However, their role in PsA remains unclear. Methods In this retrospective comparative cohort study, a case group of 68 PsA patients and a control group of 73 healthy volunteers from the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University were enrolled. Serum GGT, IBIL, GGT/IBIL ratio and C-reactive protein (CRP), a well applied bio-marker of systemic inflammatory in PsA, were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, the relationship of GGT, IBIL and GGT/IBIL with CRP were explored in PsA patients. Finally, the patients were divided into high inflammation group and low inflammation group according to the median value of CRP. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used for the association of systemic inflammation level with GGT, IBIL and GGT/IBIL. Results Compared with healthy controls, PsA patients exhibited significantly higher serum GGT, GGT/IBIL, and CRP levels and lower IBIL levels. Serum GGT and GGT/IBIL were positively correlated with CRP, whereas IBIL were negatively correlated with CRP. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that serum GGT was a risk factor for high CRP in PsA, whereas IBIL was a protective factor. Furthermore, GGT/IBIL was a better indicator of high CRP condition in PsA patients than either GGT or IBIL alone, as determined by the receiver operating characteristic curves. Conclusion GGT and IBIL may participate in the pathogenesis of PsA. Additionally, GGT, IBIL and the balance of the two may reflect systemic inflammation mediated by oxidative stress events related to metabolic abnormalities to a certain extent.

Construction of a risk warning model for acute lung injury caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection / 中华传染病杂志

Objective:To investigate the risk factors of acute lung injury (ALI) caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection, and to construct a risk warning model. Methods:Patients with Staphylococcus aureus infection confirmed by sputum or blood culture admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University from January 1, 2020 to May 10, 2022 were enrolled and divided into ALI group and non-ALI group. The age, smoking status, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), albumin, oxygenation index and other clinical data were compared between the two groups. Univariate analysis was performed by using independent sample t test and chi-square test. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to screen the independent risk factors of ALI caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection, and a risk warning model was constructed. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive ability of the model. Results:There were 96 cases of Staphylococcus aureus infection, including 68 cases (70.8%) in ALI group, of which 41 cases (60.3%) were positive in sputum culture and 27 cases (39.7%) were positive in blood culture. Compared with the non-ALI group, the proportion of patients aged ≥60 years in ALI group was lower (58.8%(40/68) vs 64.3%(18/28)), the proportion of smoking was higher (58.8%(40/68) vs 35.7%(10/28)), and the differences were both statistically significant ( χ2=0.76 and 0.03, respectively, both P<0.05). The levels of CRP, PCT and NLR in the ALI group were all higher than those in non-ALI group, while oxygenation index and albumin level were both lower, and the differences were all statistically significant ( t=-5.28, -3.46, -9.87, 12.83 and 3.08, respectively, all P<0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that CRP (odds ratio ( OR)=1.973, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.956 to 2.989), PCT ( OR=3.734, 95% CI 1.014 to 13.746), NLR ( OR=1.152, 95% CI 1.058 to 2.254) and albumin ( OR=1.527, 95% CI 1.110 to 2.102) were independent risk factors for ALI caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection. The areas under the ROC curve of CRP, PCT, NLR, albumin and the risk warning model constructed from the combination of four risk factors were 0.69, 0.81, 0.83, 0.78 and 0.93, respectively. The sensitivities were 65.14%, 89.91%, 84.40%, 56.88% and 98.17%, respectively. The specificities were 62.37%, 60.22%, 65.59%, 80.64% and 93.55%, respectively. The accuracy of the effectiveness test of the risk warning model was 84.97%. Conclusions:CRP, PCT, NLR and albumin are the independent risk factors for ALI caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection. The risk warning model based on the above factors has a good early warning effect on ALI caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection.

The diagnostic value of serum levels of pro calcitonin, β2 defensins, C-reactive protein and the positive rate of group B streptococci in preterm premature rupture of membranes with amniotic infection / 中国医师杂志

Objective:To explore the diagnostic value of serum levels of pro calcitonin (PCT), β2 defensins (HBD-2), C-reactive protein (CRP) and the positive rate of group B streptococci (GBS) in preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM) with amniotic infection.Methods:This study was a retrospective study. 156 pregnant women with preterm PROM who were diagnosed by the Obstetrics Department of the Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology from January 2017 to January 2022 were selected as the study subjects. According to whether there was amniotic infection, they were divided into 57 infected women and 99 non infected women. The levels of serum PCT, HBD-2 and CRP before delivery were compared between the two groups, and the positive rate of GBS in vaginal discharge was detected, and the receiver operating curve (ROC) was used to analyze the value of various indicators in diagnosing amniotic cavity infection in preterm PROM mothers.Results:The serum levels of PCT, HBD-2, CRP, and GBS positivity in the infected group were significantly higher than those in the non infected group, with statistically significant differences (all P<0.01); The area under the curve (AUC) value, sensitivity, and specificity of serum PCT for diagnosing preterm PROM with amniotic cavity infection were 0.894, 82.56%, and 80.74%, respectively; The AUC value of HBD-2 for diagnosing preterm PROM with amniotic cavity infection was 0.792, the sensitivity was 70.78%, and the specificity was 77.59%; The AUC value, sensitivity, and specificity of CRP in diagnosing preterm PROM with amniotic cavity infection were 0.756, 68.94%, and 72.78%, respectively; The positive rate of GBS in vaginal discharge was 0.733, the sensitivity was 64.91%, and the specificity was 81.82%. Conclusions:The serum levels of PCT, HBD-2, CRP and the positive rate of GBS in vaginal discharge of pregnant women with preterm PROM complicated with amniotic infection will increase significantly. All indicators have high practical value for the diagnosis of preterm PROM complicated with amniotic infection.

Influencing factors of severe pneumonia in children with respiratory syncytial virus infection / 中国医师杂志

Objective:To explore the influencing factors of severe pneumonia in children with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection.Methods:A retrospective case-control study was used to collect 210 children with RSV infected pneumonia admitted to Hebei Children′s Hospital from October 2017 to October 2020. Among them, 70 children with severe pneumonia were included in the severe pneumonia group, and 140 children with common pneumonia were included in the common pneumonia group; the baseline data and relevant laboratory indicators of the two groups were compared; Logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of severe pneumonia in children infected with RSV.Results:The proportions of wheezing, congenital heart disease, respiratory failure, heart failure and pleural effusion of children in severe pneumonia group were higher than those in common pneumonia group, and the forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV 1) were lower than those in common pneumonia group (all P<0.05); the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), CD8 + cells, RSV load and Beclin-1 in severe pneumonia group were higher than those in common pneumonia group, and the levels of CD4 + cells and 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1, 25-(OH) 2D] were lower than those in common pneumonia group (all P<0.05). After treatment, the levels of CRP, CD8 + cells and Beclin-1 in children with severe pneumonia were lower than those before treatment, and the levels of CD4 + cells and 1, 25-(OH) 2D were higher than those before treatment (all P<0.05). Multiple regression model analysis was established. The results showed that congenital heart disease, high CRP level, high CD8 + cells, high RSV load and high Beclin-1 level were risk factors for severe pneumonia in children with RSV infected pneumonia (all OR>1, P<0.05), and high CD4 + cells and 1, 25-(OH) 2D level were protective factors (all OR<1, P<0.05). Conclusions:Severe pneumonia in children with RSV infected pneumonia may be affected by congenital heart disease, CRP, CD4 + cells, CD8 + cells, 1, 25-(OH) 2D, RSV load and Beclin-1.

Efficacy of Sishen pill compound combined with mesalazine in the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and its effect on the circadian rhythm of symptoms / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of Sishen pill compound combined with mesalazine in the treatment of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and its effect on the circadian rhythm of symptoms. Methods:A total of 136 patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis who received treatment in Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 2018 to December 2020 were included in this prospective randomized controlled trial. These patients were divided into a treatment group ( n = 68) and a control group ( n = 68). The treatment group was treated with Sishen pill compound combined with mesalazine. The control group was treated with mesalazine alone. All patients were treated for 12 weeks. Clinical efficacy, as well as morning abdominal pain grade, morning diarrhea score, fecal trait score, Mayo score, hemoglobin, and hypersensitive C-reactive protein pre- and post-treatment, were compared between the two groups. Results:Total response rate in the treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group [91.18% (62/68) vs. 72.06% (49/68), χ2 = 8.28, P < 0.05]. After treatment, morning diarrhea score, morning abdominal pain score, fecal trait score, Mayo score, hemoglobin, and hypersensitive C-reactive protein in the treatment group were (0.47 ± 0.56) points, (0.53 ± 0.56) points, (3.01 ± 0.72) points, (7.13 ± 1.38) points, (108.04 ± 12.21) g/L, (4.00 ± 2.19) mg/L, respectively, and they were (0.84 ± 0.56) points, (1.12 ± 0.56) points, (4.40 ± 0.76) points, (3.25 ± 1.44) points, (102.15 ± 12.61) g/L, and (6.07 ± 3.66) mg/L respectively in the control group. There were significant differences in these indexes between the treatment and control groups ( t = 3.59, 5.95, 10.06, 9.62, 2.78, 3.99, all P < 0.05). Conclusion:Sishen pill compound combined with mesalazine can effectively reduce clinical symptoms of active ulcerative colitis, increase hemoglobin level, decrease C-reactive protein level, improve the efficiency of treatment, reduce symptoms and the number of diarrhea rhythms, and improve stool symptoms of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis patients.

Efficacy of atomization with budesonide, salbutamol, and acetylcysteine in the adjuvant treatment of bronchopneumonia in children / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of atomization with budesonide, salbutamol, and acetylcysteine in the adjuvant treatment of bronchopneumonia in children.Methods:Seventy-two children with bronchopneumonia admitted to Huaiyuan Jingtu Hospital from July 2021 to June 2022 were retrospectively included in this study. These children were divided into BS and BSY groups according to different treatment methods. Based on conventional treatment, the BS group was given atomization treatment with budesonide and salbutamol, and the BSY group was given atomization treatment with budesonide, salbutamol, and acetylcysteine. After two courses of treatment, clinical efficacy, duration to improvements in symptoms and signs, adverse drug reactions, and changes in serum C-reactive protein and procalcitonin levels after treatment relative to those before treatment were compared between the two groups. The optimal medication plan was investigated.Results:The total response rate in the BSY group was 91.67% (33 cases/36 cases), which was significantly higher than 72.22% (26/36) in the BS group ( χ2 = 4.59, P = 0.032). The incidence of adverse drug reactions in the BSY group was 11.11% (4/36), which was significantly lower than 19.44% (7/36) in the BS group ( χ2 = 0.96, P = 0.326). After treatment, the levels of C-reactive protein and procalcitonin in the BSY group were (5.86 ± 5.66) mg/L and (2.59 ± 0.74) μg/L, respectively, which were lower than (15.64 ± 5.85) mg/L and (4.71 ± 0.93) μg/L in the BS group ( t = 7.20, 10.70, both P < 0.001). The durations to the disappearance of symptoms and signs including fever, cough, lung rales, and X-ray lung shadow in the BSY group were significantly shorter compared with the BS group ( t = 11.85, 4.19, 2.72, 2.39, all P < 0.05). Conclusion:Atomization with budesonide, salbutamol, and acetylcysteine in combination for the adjuvant treatment of bronchopneumonia in children can quickly relieve the clinical symptoms of children, improve the lung signs, reduce the degree of inflammation, and has a remarkable therapeutic effect on bronchopneumonia in children.

Effects of sex factor on different transfusion strategies / 中国基层医药

Objective:To collect and analyze laboratory indicators of patients of different sexes after blood transfusion, evaluate the effectiveness of blood transfusion, and provide a theoretical basis for formulating more scientific blood transfusion plans.Methods:The clinical data of 808 patients who underwent blood transfusion in The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Science and Technology from January 2020 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the blood transfusion strategy and the department to which the patients were admitted, these patients were divided into four groups: surgical restrictive blood transfusion group (group A: 72 males and 69 females), surgical non-restricted blood transfusion (group B: 77 males and 118 females), medical restrictive blood transfusion (group C: 184 males and 126 females), and medical non-restricted blood transfusion (group D: 110 males and 52 females). Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analyses were performed.Results:In group A, after blood transfusion, hemoglobin level in female patients was significantly higher than that in male patients [79.0 (71.5, 87.0) g/L vs. 75.5 (69.0, 82.8) g/L, Z = -2.18, P = 0.029], and C-reactive protein in female patients was significantly lower than that in male patients [21.3 (0.0, 56.0) mg/L vs. 37.0 (3.3, 95.5) mg/L, Z = -1.97, P = 0.049]. In groups B, C, and D, there were no significant differences in hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and hematocrit between male and female patients (all P > 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that the difference in hemoglobin levels between before and after blood transfusion was statistically significant ( P = 0.009). After a blood transfusion, hemoglobin level in female patients was 1.44 times that in male patients. Conclusion:The tolerance of female patients to blood loss is higher than that of male patients in surgical restrictive blood transfusion, so the threshold value of hemoglobin given to female patients during blood transfusion can be lower than that of male patients. In the case of the same blood loss, priority of blood transfusion can be given to male patients. In the case of scarce blood resources, the total amount of blood transfused for female patients can be approximately reduced.

Clinical effects of Jiakang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole on hyperthyroidism / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical effects of Jiakang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole on hyperthyroidism. Methods:A total of 100 patients with hyperthyroidism admitted to Shanxian Central Hospital from February 2018 to January 2021 were included in this study. They were randomly divided into a study group and a control group, with 50 patients in each group. The control group was treated with methiimidazole, and the study group was treated with Jiakang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole. Thyroid function, serum levels of osteocalcin (OCN), β-CTx, hypersensitive C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were compared between the two groups. Results:After treatment, serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4) in the study group were (3.10 ± 1.36) mU/L, (5.76 ± 1.25) pmol/L, (15.22 ± 1.95) pmol/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (4.88 ± 1.47) mU/L, (7.13 ± 1.32) pmol/L, (19.07 ± 2.02) pmol/L in the control group ( t = 5.27, 4.71, 6.29, all P < 0.05). Serum OCN, β-CTx, hS-CRP, and IL-6 in the study group were (17.36 ± 2.62) μg/L, (0.32 ± 0.04) μg/L, (4.07 ± 0.86) mg/L, and (1.38 ± 0.21) pg/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (26.05 ± 2.88) μg/L, (0.51 ± 0.09) μg/L, (6.23 ± 0.91) mg/L, (1.89 ± 0.28) pg/L in the control group ( t = 12.37, 10.40, 7.39, 8.57, all P < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the study group was significantly lower than that in the control group [6.00% (3/50) vs. 12.00% (3/50), χ2 = 14.78, P < 0.05). Conclusion:Jikang Pingxiao prescription combined with methiimidazole can effectively reduce the inflammatory responses in patients with hyperthyroidism, inhibit the expression of OCN and β-CTX in the serum, and improve thyroid function. The combined method is scientific and reasonable, and is suitable for clinical application. It has good therapeutic effects on hyperthyroidism and is worthy of clinical promotion.

Efficacy of Zhibitai capsules combined with low-dose atorvastatin in the treatment of cervical arteriosclerosis and its effects on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and regulatory T cells in the peripheral blood / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of Zhibitai capsules combined with low-dose atorvastatin in the treatment of cervical arteriosclerosis and its effects on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and regulatory T cells in the peripheral blood. Methods:A total of 104 patients with carotid arteriosclerosis admitted to Fenyang Hospital from January 2021 to April 2022 were retrospectively included in this study. They were divided into a control group ( n = 52) and an observation group ( n = 52) according to different treatment methods. The control group was orally given atorvastatin calcium tablets 20 mg once a day. The observation group was orally given atorvastatin calcium tablets 10 mg once a day, and Zhibitai capsules 0.24 g, one capsule in the morning and one capsule in the evening. After 8 weeks of treatment, changes in total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and regulatory T cell proportion in the peripheral blood were evaluated. Results:After treatment, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level and regulatory T cell proportion in the observation group were (1.53 ± 0.29) mmol/L and (5.52 ± 1.38)%, respectively, which were significantly higher than (1.19 ± 0.21) mmol/L and (4.48 ± 0.86)% respectively in the control group ( t = 6.84, 4.61, both P < 0.05). Total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in the observation group were (2.88 ± 0.27) mmol/L, (1.21 ± 0.15) mmol/L, (2.01 ± 0.19) mmol/L, (2.58 ± 0.43) mg/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (3.68 ± 0.41) mmol/L, (1.33 ± 0.19) mmol/L, (2.69 ± 0.31) mmol/L, (3.70 ± 0.25) mg/L, respectively in the control group ( t = 11.75, 3.57, 12.31, 17.23, all P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in carotid plaque size pre-treatment between the two groups, but the plaque size decreased after treatment compared with before treatment. The efficacy of Zhibitai capsules combined with low-dose atorvastatin in the treatment of cervical arteriosclerosis in the observation group was superior to that in the control group ( P < 0.05). Conclusion:Oral administration of Zhibitai capsules combined with low-dose atorvastatin for the treatment of cervical arteriosclerosis is safe and has few adverse reactions. The combined therapy can decrease serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, increase the proportion of regulatory T cells in the peripheral blood, help stabilize plaques, and reduce plaque size.

Effects of butylphthalide combined with alteplase on acute ischemic stroke / 中国基层医药

Objective:To analyze the effects of butylphthalide combined with alteplase on acute ischemic stroke.Methods:A total of 176 patients with acute ischemic stroke who received treatment at The Second People's Hospital of Liaocheng from November 2020 to October 2021 were prospectively included in this study. They were divided into control and combined treatment groups ( n = 88/group) according to hospital registraction number. The control group was given intravenous thrombolysis with alteplase. The combined treatment group was intravenously administered alteplase for 6 hours followed by butylphthalide sodium chloride injection. The two groups were treated for 2 consecutive weeks. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, clinical efficacy, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels as well as the incidence of adverse drug reactions were compared between the two groups. Results:After thrombolysis, the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in the combined treatment group were (4.23 ± 1.75) points, (6.42 ± 2.05) ng/L, (13.42 ± 3.59) ng/L, and (3.17 ± 0.94) mg/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (7.28 ± 1.93) points, (9.58 ± 2.79) ng/L, (22.28 ± 3.73) ng/L, and (5.23 ± 1.25) mg/L, respectively in the control group ( t = 10.98, 20.29, 16.06, 12.36, all P < 0.001). The total response rate in the combined treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group [94.32% (83/88) vs. 80.68% (71/88), χ2 = 7.48, P < 0.05]. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse drug reactions between the combined treatment and control groups [6.82% (6/88) vs. 11.36% (10/88), χ2 = 0.01, P > 0.05]. Conclusion:Butylphthalide combined with alteplase for the early treatment of acute ischemic stroke can increase therapeutic efficacy, improve neurological function, and reduce inflammatory responses. The combined therapy has a positive clinical value in the early treatment of acute ischemic stroke.

Efficacy of recombinant human interferon α2b in the adjuvant treatment of neonatal pneumonia / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of recombinant human interferon α2b in the adjuvant treatment of neonatal pneumonia.Methods:A total of 60 children with neonatal pneumonia who received treatment in Lingbi County People's Hospital from January 2020 to January 2022 were included in this study. They were randomly divided into study and control groups ( n = 30/group). The control group was treated with conventional therapy and the study group was treated with recombinant human interferon α2b and conventional therapy. All children were treated for 7 days. The time to clinical symptom remission, total response rate, and inflammatory factor levels were compared between the two groups. Results:Before treatment, there were no significant differences in general data between the study and control groups (all P > 0.05). After treatment, the time to body temperature recovery, rale disappearance, cough disappearance, and shortness of breath disappearance in the study group were (4.03 ± 1.27) days, (5.13 ± 1.72) days, (4.96 ± 1.64) days, and (5.45 ± 1.52) days, respectively, which were significantly shorter than (5.13 ± 1.52) days, (6.73 ± 1.85) days, (6.73 ± 1.82) days, and (6.82 ± 1.74) days, respectively in the control group ( t = 3.04, 3.46, 3.95, 3.24, all P < 0.05). The total response rate in the study group was 93.3% (28/30), which was significantly higher than 80.0% (24/30) in the control group, and clinical efficacy was better in the study group than that in the control group ( Z = 2.40, P = 0.016). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, interleukin-6, and serum amyloid A in the study group were (2.96 ± 0.84) mg/L, (0.72 ± 0.33) μg/L, (6.25 ± 2.18) mg/L, and (3.48 ± 1.13) mg/L, respectively, which were significantly lower than (4.02 ± 1.53) mg/L, (1.16 ± 0.47) μg/L, (8.04 ± 2.06) ng/L, and (6.42 ± 2.03) mg/L, respectively in the control group ( t = 3.32, 4.19, 3.26, 6.93, all P < 0.05). Conclusion:Recombinant human interferon α2b for the adjuvant treatment of neonatal pneumonia can shorten the time to clinical symptom remission, decrease inflammatory factor levels, and improve clinical efficacy.