BACKGROUND: Various issues can arise during blood transfusion, including red blood cell alloimmunization due to incompatible blood units. For example, anti-S and anti-s antibodies can lead to hemolytic transfusion reacti...BACKGROUND: Various issues can arise during blood transfusion, including red blood cell alloimmunization due to incompatible blood units. For example, anti-S and anti-s antibodies can lead to hemolytic transfusion reactions. Therefore, extended phenotyping is necessary for various blood groups other than ABO and RhD antigens, especially for multiply transfused patients such as patients with sickle cell disease. This study aimed to analyze the fre-quencies of the S and s antigens and phenotypes among the healthy blood donors. METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted by retrieving the registries of healthy blood donors. Blood donations were performed at the blood bank of King Abdulaziz Medical City - Western Region (KAMC-WR), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Serological analysis was performed for S and s antigens based on solid phase technique. RESULTS: A total of 27,027 healthy blood donors were enrolled in this study. Out of these, Saudi and non-Saudi blood donors accounted for 83.64% and 16.36%, respectively. The rates of S and s antigens among Saudis were 59.70% and 84.07, respectively. In contrast, the frequencies in non-Saudis were 54.53% and 87.11%, respectively. Regarding the phenotypes, S+s+ was the most prevalent among Saudi Arabians, with 43.89%, followed by S-s+ (40.18%), S+s- (15.81%), and S-s- (0.12%). The distribution in non-Saudis was as follows: S-s+ at 45.22%, S+s+ at 41.89%, S+s- at 12.64%, and S-s- at 0.25%. The frequencies of the phenotypes showed a statistically significant difference between Saudis and non-Saudis (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The incidences of the S and s antigens and phenotypes have been reported in both populations. We highly recommend to extend the transfusion screening panel to include the S and s antigens to preclude the red blood cell alloimmunization to these antigens.
BACKGROUND: Otitis is a very common infection, mainly affecting children, and the main indication for prescribing antibiotics. This study investigated the epidemiology and antibiotic resistance profile of bacterial patho...BACKGROUND: Otitis is a very common infection, mainly affecting children, and the main indication for prescribing antibiotics. This study investigated the epidemiology and antibiotic resistance profile of bacterial pathogens asso-ciated with otitis in patients of all ages in Crete, Greece. METHODS: From January 2013 through December 2022, patients diagnosed with otitis, based on clinical signs and symptoms and otoscopy findings, were enrolled in the study. Ear discharge samples were collected by tympanοcentesis or by using sterile swabs and were promptly transported to the microbiology laboratory for further processing. Cultures for bacterial pathogens were performed according to laboratory protocols. Bacteria were identi-fied by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry and antimicro-bial susceptibility testing by Vitek 2 system. RESULTS: Out of the 939 samples examined, 600 (63.9%) were positive for bacterial pathogens. P. aeruginosa was the most prevalent microorganism detected (29.5%), followed by S. aureus (18.9%) and Enterobacterales (12.8%). The isolation rate of P. aeruginosa significantly increased during the study period (p = 0.0001). P. aeruginosa resistance rates to ticarcillin/clavulanate, piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime, cefepime, aztreonam, imipenem and meropenem were 6.4%, 3.4%, 3.4%, 3.8%, 3.3%, 2.1%, and 2.1%, respectively. Ceftazidime resistance remained around the same levels during the study period, while resistance to piperacillin/ tazobactam, cefepime, imipenem, and meropenem doubled over the years 2018 - 2022 (p = 0.48, p = 0.49, p = 0.65, and p = 0.65, respectively). S. aureus penicillin-resistance was extremely high (87.4%). Resistance rates to methicillin, erythromycin, and clindamycin were 21.2%, 14.6%, and 11.9%, respectively. Forty-one percent of the methicillin-resistant strains were multidrug-resistant (MDR). All isolates were susceptible to gentamicin, rifampicin, linezolid, daptomycin, tigecycline, teicoplanin, and vancomycin. Among Enterobacterales, high rates of resistance were observed for ampicillin, amoxicillin/ clavulanate, colistin, tigecycline, and tetracycline, ranging from 34.1% to 82.5%. CONCLUSIONS: P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and the Enterobacterales are the predominant bacterial pathogens causing otitis in our area. Regarding Gram-negatives, although resistance rates to commonly-used antibiotics are low, they are increasing over time. Continued surveillance of the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of bacterial pathogens causing otitis is necessary to reassess updated antimicrobial policies and develop appropriate guidelines.
BACKGROUND: Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia characterized by the t(15;17)(q22;q21) translocation. Although it typically responds well to therapy, certain genetic aberrations, inc...BACKGROUND: Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia characterized by the t(15;17)(q22;q21) translocation. Although it typically responds well to therapy, certain genetic aberrations, including ider(17)(q10)t(15;17)(q22;q21) and FLT3-ITD mutations, have unclear prognostic implications. METHODS: A 61-year-old female patient presented with dizziness and persistent bruising. Laboratory and imaging studies revealed coagulopathy and intracranial hemorrhage. Morphological, immunophenotypic, cytogenetic, molecular, and FISH analyses confirmed APL with both ider(17)(q10)t(15;17)(q22;q21) and FLT3-ITD mutation. RESULTS: Despite standard ATRA and idarubicin induction therapy, there was no improvement in leukemic burden, and the patient succumbed to worsening hemorrhage one week after emergency surgery. CONCLUSIONS: This case of APL with coexisting ider(17) and FLT3-ITD mutations exhibited an aggressive course and resistance to standard treatment. These findings suggest that such patients may require intensified therapeutic strategies and closer monitoring.
BACKGROUND: Matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) has been widely used in clinical microbiology laboratories as a rapid and reliable tool for pathogen identification. Th...BACKGROUND: Matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) has been widely used in clinical microbiology laboratories as a rapid and reliable tool for pathogen identification. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the newly-developed Autof MS1000 in comparison with the Vitek MS. METHODS: A total of 578 clinical isolates consisting of 136 Enterobacterales, 76 non-fermenting Gram-negative bacilli, 17 other Gram-negative bacilli, 240 Gram-positive cocci, 30 Gram-positive bacilli, 52 anaerobic bacteria, and 27 yeasts were tested simultaneously by the two systems. The direct smear method was performed for bacteria and the formic acid extraction method for yeasts. Discrepant results were confirmed by 16S rRNA or ITS region sequencing. RESULTS: The Autof MS1000 and Vitek MS identified 93.3% and 95.5% of the strains at the species level, respectively. Three isolates (0.3%) yielded "no identification" results with Vitek MS, and no "unreliable" results (0%) were obtained with Autof MS1000. The Autof MS1000 and Vitek MS misidentified 1.5% and 1.4% of the isolates, respectively. Overall, there was significant agreement between the two systems (p < 0.001). In terms of identification times, the Autof MS1000 was approximately three times faster than the Vitek MS. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate that the Autof MS1000 provides comparable results to the Vitek MS and can be used for the rapid identification of microorganisms. Furthermore, this study highlights the need for any MALDITOF MS system to implement regular database expansion for the identification of rarely encountered microorganisms.
BACKGROUND: Light-transmission aggregometry is the gold standard for assessing platelet function. The scoring system, designed based on the results obtained using two different concentrations of agonists on semi-automate...BACKGROUND: Light-transmission aggregometry is the gold standard for assessing platelet function. The scoring system, designed based on the results obtained using two different concentrations of agonists on semi-automated analyzers, is commonly used to confirm the effects of antiplatelet drugs in Japan. Given the time-intensive and laborious nature of LTA, along with the lack of standardization across laboratories and devices, automated and consistent methods to monitor platelet function are imperative. Recently, we developed a new parameter and equipped an automated coagulation analyzer with it. In this study, a new parameter, "collagen-induced platelet aggregation level (CPAL)," was developed, and its basic performance was evaluated and compared with the maximum aggregation rate of 1.0 mM arachidonic acid (AA-MA) and the result of the VerifyNow aspirin assay, ex-pressed in aspirin reaction units (ARU), performed on patients on antiplatelet therapy. METHODS: An automated coagulation analyzer was equipped with CPAL. CPAL is calculated as a score from 0.0 to 10.0 based on platelet aggregation patterns with 1.0 and 5.0 µg/mL collagen. Within-run precision was calculated by conducting five replicate analyses of the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from healthy volunteers and 1.0 mM aspirin-spiked PRP. The dose-response effect of aspirin was evaluated using several concentrations of aspirin and PRP obtained from healthy volunteers. A comparative study was conducted using 62 PRP samples obtained from patients receiving antiplatelet therapy. RESULTS: The coefficient of variation in within-run precision was within 5% for CPAL. Aspirin treatment affected CPAL expression in a concentration-dependent manner. A significant correlation was observed between CPAL and AA-MA (r = 0.70, p < 0.001). However, a very weak or no correlation was observed between CPAL and ARU (r = 0.17, p = 0.179). CONCLUSIONS: CPAL exhibits acceptable performance. It showed good correlation with AA-MA but not with the ARU of VerifyNow, which changed with slight differences in aspirin concentration. CPAL is a new platelet aggregation scoring system that may be used to monitor the effects of aspirin using an automated coagulation analyzer.
BACKGROUND: Recent evidence suggests a significant connection between acute pancreatitis and acute lung injury. This study employs bibliometric methods to visually analyze research papers on these topics from the last tw...BACKGROUND: Recent evidence suggests a significant connection between acute pancreatitis and acute lung injury. This study employs bibliometric methods to visually analyze research papers on these topics from the last two decades, establishing a scientific basis for future research directions and key issues in the field. METHODS: The paper on acute pancreatitis and acute lung injury from 2004 to 2024 was sourced from the SCI-Expanded of Web of Science. Only English articles were analyzed, using VOSviewer and CiteSpace for data visualization. RESULTS: A total of 257 publications underwent analysis. Dalian Medical University was recognized as the top institution based on the number of publications, citation counts, and H-index scores. The most productive author identified was Chen HL, while the journal featuring the highest volume of publications was the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Key terms that appeared most frequently included "acute lung injury," "acute pancreatitis," "severe acute pancreatitis," and "inflammation". CONCLUSIONS: The research highlights ARDS, mortality rates, mechanisms, Atlanta classification, organ failure, and protective measures as central themes in ongoing studies. These insights are crucial for upcoming research. Nonetheless, investigating the causes of lung injury due to acute pancreatitis remains in its preliminary stages and necessitates further exploration.
BACKGROUND: Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is an important biomarker for clinical evaluation of immune system function and multiple myeloma. The hook effect may lead to a false decrease in IgA test results, especially at extreme...BACKGROUND: Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is an important biomarker for clinical evaluation of immune system function and multiple myeloma. The hook effect may lead to a false decrease in IgA test results, especially at extremely high IgA concentrations, which may mask the true disease state and result in misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis. METHODS: We report a case of false decrease in IgA due to the hook effect. RESULTS: The detection values of IgA (6.89 g/L), IgM (0.33 g/L), and IgG (2.72 g/L) in the patient were significantly different from the serum globulin level (52.5 g/L). After dilution, the true value of IgA was retested to be 37.25 g/L. The original value of IgA was falsely reduced due to the hook effect. CONCLUSIONS: When the IgA test results contradict the serum globulin levels, attention should be paid to the hook effect. Laboratory personnel should obtain the true level of IgA through sample dilution retesting to avoid misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis of multiple myeloma.
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to improve circulating free DNA (cfDNA) purification methods by using quantitative analysis of housekeeping genes as a quality indicator to minimize leukocyte DNA contamination and ensure acc...BACKGROUND: This study aimed to improve circulating free DNA (cfDNA) purification methods by using quantitative analysis of housekeeping genes as a quality indicator to minimize leukocyte DNA contamination and ensure accurate plasma DNA assessment for cancer biomarker research. METHODS: Two genes were selected: LINE-1 (L1) and TOP1. Two primer pairs were designed to amplify both cfDNA and the contaminating genomic DNA, resulting in short- and long-stranded amplicons. Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to determine the copy number of the small and large amplicons of the two target genes. The copy number values and the ratio between small and large amplicons (S/L) in DNA artificially fragmented by sonication were compared. To evaluate the effects of storage time and temperature on cfDNA extraction, cfDNA was extracted from K2EDTA tubes under different temperature conditions (4°C vs. 25°C) and storage periods (1, 3, 7, and 14 days), with cfDNA collected in Streck tubes as the standard for comparison. RESULTS: The S/L value of L1 and TOP1 increased proportionally with the degree of fragmentation (up to 174 bp), with TOP1 being more sensitive to fragmentation. When plasma DNA was extracted using three different commercial kits, the mean S/L of L1 and TOP1 mostly decreased on the third day of storage compared to the first day. The changes in the S/L ratio of the different assays at 25°C were in the order of Bioneer > ABI > Qiagen. The Qiagen kit consistently produced the highest S/L ratio among the three kits and was most similar to the results from the Streck tube. CONCLUSIONS: qPCR assays using single- and multi-copy reference genes to quantify and evaluate the degree of plasma DNA fragmentation were developed and assessed. The copy number ratio of small and large amplicons effectively represents the fragmentation status of the sheared DNA. This assay provides a valuable tool for assessing plasma DNA quality and fragmentation status.
BACKGROUND: Hb J-Sardegna represents a rare hemoglobin (Hb) variant with no previously documented interference in HbA1c quantification. In this study, we report the first case of Hb J-Sardegna incidentally identified in...BACKGROUND: Hb J-Sardegna represents a rare hemoglobin (Hb) variant with no previously documented interference in HbA1c quantification. In this study, we report the first case of Hb J-Sardegna incidentally identified in a diabetic patient, demonstrating significant discordance between measured blood glucose levels and disproportionately elevated HbA1c values. METHODS: The patient presented to our institution for follow-up evaluation of thyroid nodules, during which diabetes screening was clinically indicated. Plasma glucose levels were measured using biochemical analyzers, while HbA1c quantification was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Hb fractions analysis was conducted by capillary electrophoresis (CE), with subsequent confirmation of the suspected variant through Sanger sequencing. RESULTS: Laboratory investigations revealed markedly elevated glucose levels (fasting: 8.79 mmol/L; 2-hour postprandial: 18.09 mmol/L), while HPLC analysis demonstrated a discordantly elevated HbA1c of 32.23%. CE identified an abnormal Hb fraction (Hb J peak: 31.8%), with subsequent Sanger sequencing confirming the presence of Hb J-Sardegna (HBA2:c.151C>G) and the intronic variant IVS-II-89T>C (HBA1:c.301-61T>C). Notably, all hematological parameters remained within normal ranges. CONCLUSIONS: This study reports for the first time that Hb J-Sardegna can interfere with HbA1c quantification, highlighting the importance for laboratory technicians to carefully interpret chromatographic profiles when analyzing HbA1c results.
BACKGROUND: Recent studies show sCD40L as a potential biomarker for thrombotic risk and cancer progression. Accurate measurement of sCD40L level is critical for research and clinical applications. However, variations in...BACKGROUND: Recent studies show sCD40L as a potential biomarker for thrombotic risk and cancer progression. Accurate measurement of sCD40L level is critical for research and clinical applications. However, variations in preanalytic conditions, sample types and discrepancies in reference range across ELISA kits pose challenges to standardization in biobanking and research reproducibility. METHODS: sCD40L levels were measured using two ELISA kits. Bayesian statistical methods defined reference ranges, and paired t-tests and Pearson's correlation assessed differences and correlation between kits. RESULTS: The reference range for sCD40L using the R&D kit was 1,095.48 - 6,603.00 pg/mL, and for the Invitrogen kit, 1,620.00 - 10,405.00 pg/mL. There was a statistically significant difference between kits (p = 0.0019), and a strong correlation (r = 0.88) in serum samples. CONCLUSIONS: sCD40L reference values differ by ELISA kit, underscoring the need for institution-specific reference ranges. Serum, not plasma, is preferable for sCD40L measurement. Establishing standardized reference ranges will improve the reliability of sCD40L as a biomarker in research fields.
BACKGROUND: In July 2024, our hospital confirmed a rare case of facial infection with Mycobacterium scrofulaceum. The patient visited our hospital due to pain and pus discharge from the right orbital incision for one mon...BACKGROUND: In July 2024, our hospital confirmed a rare case of facial infection with Mycobacterium scrofulaceum. The patient visited our hospital due to pain and pus discharge from the right orbital incision for one month. The patient suffered multiple facial fractures due to trauma three months ago. He underwent systemic anti infection treatment and open reduction and internal fixation surgery at an external hospital. After the surgery, there was repeated swelling around the orbit, and the patient did not fully recover. One month ago, the infraorbital area was swollen again, locally ruptured, and purulent discharge was visible. After self-flushing and dressing change, the condition improved. Recently, there has been swelling around the eye socket again. In order to seek further treatment, he came to our hospital for treatment. Outpatient diagnosis: 1. Multiple space infections in the right orbit, temporal region, and skull base; 2. Postoperative open facial bone fracture. METHODS: CT (skull and neck), facial wound pus: bacterial culture and identification, acid fast staining, Gram staining, T-SPOT tuberculosis infection detection, identification of Mycobacterium species (DNA microarray chip method), Metagenomic Next-generation Sequencing (mNGS). Other related auxiliary examinations included blood routine, urine routine, liver function, kidney function, electrocardiogram, etc. Results: CT (skull and neck) results: 1. After multiple fractures of the maxillofacial bone and anterior skull base, there is abnormal enhancement density shadow in the right maxillofacial region, indicating infection. Clinical laboratory tests: blood routine + high-sensitivity CRP (whole blood): white blood cell count 9.66 x 109/L, total neutrophil count 6.87 x 109/L, whole blood high-sensitivity C-reactive protein 46.21 mg/L, coagulation function: fibrinogen detection 6.61 g/L, D-dimer determination 1,231.52 FEU/L, inflammatory markers: interleukin-6 15.48 pg/mL, procalcitonin 0.037 ng/ml; Liver function test: total protein 85.2 g/L, globulin 44.4 g/L, aspartate aminotransferase 12.8 U/L. Facial wound pus examination: T-SPOT tuberculosis infection test: positive, with 40 antigen stimulated pore spots. Bacterial Gram staining: A small amount of Gram positive bacilli were found. Acid fast staining: acid fast bacilli detected ++: bacterial culture + identification: growth of mycobacteria ++, identification of mycobacterial species (DNA microarray method): Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, identification of Metagenomic Next-generation Sequencing (mNGS): Mycobacterium scrofulaceum. Clinical treatment plan: Chlorpheniramine 200 mg/d, Clarithromycin 0.5 g/d; Moxifloxacin 0.4 g/d, locally applied with 3% boric acid solution wet compress to enhance local wound dressing change. After 2 months of hospitalization, the patient's orbital swelling significantly improved, no obvious purulent discharge was observed locally, and the infection indicators significantly decreased. The patient improved and was discharged from the hospital. CONCLUSIONS: This article reports a rare case of facial infection caused by Mycobacterium scrofulaceum. Mycobacterium scrofulaceum was quickly and accurately identified through mycobacterial strain identification (DNA microarray chip method) and mNGS. Reasonable treatment measures were adopted clinically, and the patient improved and was discharged. We hope that in the future, this study can provide assistance for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of Mycobacterium scrofulaceum infection.
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) on sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS: A total of 32 mice were randomly...BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) on sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS: A total of 32 mice were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 8 per group): the control group (control group), lipopolysaccharide treatment group (LPS group), Dl-3-n-butylphthalide group (LPS + NBP group), and ferrostatin-1 group (LPS + Fer-1 group). Renal function was assessed by measuring serum creatinine (SCr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dis-mutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and glutathione (GSH), were quantified in renal tissues. Histopathological evaluation of renal injury was performed using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. The protein expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and western blot. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the LPS group exhibited significantly higher levels of SCr and BUN, decreased renal tissue levels of SOD, T-AOC, and GSH, as well as increased MDA levels and renal injury scores (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the LPS group exhibited significant downregulation of Nrf2, HO-1, GPX4, and SLC7A11 protein expression (p < 0.05). Compared with the LPS group, drug intervention significantly reversed the above-mentioned changes in both the LPS + NBP and LPS + Fer-1 groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: NBP can attenuate SA-AKI by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning (DL), is transforming parasitic disease diagnosis by addressing challenges in accuracy and accessibility. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and mach...BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning (DL), is transforming parasitic disease diagnosis by addressing challenges in accuracy and accessibility. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and machine learning (ML) offer rapid detection of pathogens causing malaria, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis, promising significant advancements in global health. METHODS: This letter reviewed AI applications, focusing on CNNs and ML for detecting parasitic pathogens in clinical samples, imaging, and epidemiological data. The analysis highlights model efficacy, challenges such as data variability and bias, and the potential of AI integration with portable diagnostics in resource-constrained settings. RESULTS: AI-driven diagnostics demonstrate superior sensitivity and specificity in identifying malaria, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis compared to conventional methods. However, data heterogeneity and algorithmic bias pose challenges. Combining AI with portable tools shows potential for improving diagnosis in endemic regions. CONCLUSIONS: AI, particularly DL, holds transformative potential for parasitic disease diagnosis. Overcoming data and bias challenges is essential for ethical and equitable implementation. Collaborative efforts to integrate AI with portable diagnostics can enhance global health outcomes in endemic areas.
BACKGROUND: Mycobacterium tuberculosis may persist latently within the host, often presenting with atypical clinical features. In the context of immunosuppression, latent infection can reactivate, and the increased susce...BACKGROUND: Mycobacterium tuberculosis may persist latently within the host, often presenting with atypical clinical features. In the context of immunosuppression, latent infection can reactivate, and the increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections further complicates the diagnosis and management of tuberculosis. METHODS: We report the case of a patient with connective tissue disease and a history of pulmonary nodule resection, who developed respiratory symptoms following two months of methylprednisolone therapy. The initial diagnosis was community-acquired pneumonia. Targeted next-generation sequencing of sputum identified pathogens. RESULTS: tNGS identified multiple pathogens, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Cryptococcus, and rhinovirus. Retrospective analysis suggested that tuberculosis likely resulted from the reactivation of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli at the site of a previously resected pulmonary lesion. CONCLUSIONS: In immunosuppressed patients, latent tuberculosis reactivation and rare infections should be considered. When symptoms are atypical, tNGS provides an effective tool for rapid and accurate pathogen detection to guide treatment.
BACKGROUND: The non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHHR) has emerged as a novel lipid biomarker with potential relevance to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), y...BACKGROUND: The non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHHR) has emerged as a novel lipid biomarker with potential relevance to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), yet its role remains underexplored. METHODS: Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2017 through 2023, we investigated the relationship between NHHR and NAFLD. NHHR values were log-transformed (LnNHHR) to achieve normal distribution. Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were applied to examine the association between NHHR and both NAFLD and hepatic fibrosis. Robustness was evaluated through subgroup and sensitivity analyses. RESULTS: NHHR levels were significantly elevated in individuals with NAFLD and hepatic fibrosis compared to those without (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression indicated a positive correlation between increased LnNHHR and NAFLD risk [odds ratio (OR): 2.94, p < 0.001], whereas no significant association was found with hepatic fibrosis (OR: 1.02, p = 0.870). Participants in the highest LnNHHR quartile (Q4) had a 3.09-fold higher likelihood of NAFLD compared to those in the lowest quartile (Q1) [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.60 - 3.67, p < 0.001]. However, no significant trend was observed for hepatic fibrosis across quartiles (p > 0.05). RCS analysis revealed a J-shaped relationship between LnNHHR and both NAFLD (pinteraction < 0.001) and hepatic fibrosis (pinteraction = 0.006). Stratified analyses further demonstrated that NHHR's impact on NAFLD varied across age groups (pinteraction = 0.024), while its effect on hepatic fibrosis differed by education level (pinteraction = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: NHHR is strongly linked to an increased risk of NAFLD, suggesting that improving NHHR levels may help mitigate hepatic steatosis.
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the clinical features, coagulation, and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with pelvic tumor and to construct a prediction model for postoperative DVT event...BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the clinical features, coagulation, and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with pelvic tumor and to construct a prediction model for postoperative DVT events. METHODS: Clinical data of 161 patients with pelvic tumors (preoperative DVT group n = 22, non-DVT group n = 139; postoperative DVT group n = 35, NDVT group n = 125; and one case of postoperative pulmonary thrombosis was excluded) were retrospectively analyzed. Age, BMI, disease type, FIGO stage, and coagulation parameters (prothrombin time, PT; activated partial thromboplastin time, APTT; fibrinogen, FIB; D-dimer, D-D; plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, PAI-1) were compared. The key variables were screened using principal component analysis. The prediction model for postoperative DVT was built through logistic regression, and its efficacy was tested using a ROC curve. RESULTS: PT, D-D, and PAI-1 were significantly higher in the preoperative DVT group than in the non-DVT group (p < 0.001), and APTT was significantly shorter (p = 0.002). The postoperative DVT group was characterized by advanced age (p = 0.032), a higher proportion of ovarian and endometrial cancers, a greater percentage of advanced FIGO stages (p = 0.002), longer postoperative bedtime of more than 72 hours (p = 0.028), and higher levels of PT, FIB, D-D, and PAI-1 (p < 0.001). Principal component analysis showed age and D-D as the main contributing factors. The logistic regression model showed that age (OR = 1.02, p = 0.05), elevated D-D (OR = 1.02, p = 0.001), FIGO stages III and IV (OR = 3.60, p = 0.048), absence of thrombolytic prophylaxis in the postoperative period (OR = 2.85, p = 0.049), and the presence of adjuvant therapy in the postoperative period (OR = 1.02, p = 0.038) were independent risk factors for postoperative DVT, and the AUC of the model reached 0.865 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Age, preoperative DVT, D-D level, and tumor stage are independent predictors of postoperative DVT in pelvic tumors. The constructed prediction model has high clinical value.
BACKGROUND: Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell malignancy characterized by monoclonal immunoglobulin production. Daratumumab has improved therapeutic outcomes but can interfere with laboratory assessments. METHODS: A 73-y...BACKGROUND: Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell malignancy characterized by monoclonal immunoglobulin production. Daratumumab has improved therapeutic outcomes but can interfere with laboratory assessments. METHODS: A 73-year-old woman with IgG kappa multiple myeloma achieved remission after initial treatment, then relapsed and received DRD. A monoclonal IgG kappa spike was observed on follow-up SPEP and IFE. RESULTS: Daratumumab, due to its IgG1 kappa structure, may mimic disease-related monoclonal proteins, potentially leading to false detection of residual disease and misclassification of complete response as very good partial response. CONCLUSIONS: Recognizing such interference and ensuring strong clinician-biologist collaboration is essential for accurate response interpretation.
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and laboratory features of primary IgG-κ with κ free light chain plasma cell leukemia. METHOD: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and laboratory fea...BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and laboratory features of primary IgG-κ with κ free light chain plasma cell leukemia. METHOD: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and laboratory features of a case of primary plasma cell leukemia of the IgG-κ with κ free light chain type and reviewed the literature on patients with primary plasma cell leukemia. RESULT: The patient's white blood cell count was 36.95 x 109/L, hemoglobin was 43 g/L, platelet count was 64 x 109/L. Push film review: the number of white blood cells was significantly increased, and a type of cell was seen, with medium cytosol, polarized nucleus, abundant cytoplasm, stained areas, and rounded inclusions, which accounted for 90% of the total number of white blood cells. IgG 89.8 g/L, IgA < 0.26 g/L, IgM < 0.26 g/L, complement C3 0.33 g/L, complement C4 0.09 g/L; blood β2 microglobulin > 24.4 mg/L, ferritin 429.72 ng/mL. Serum protein electrophoresis: M protein bands were found, and the M protein content was 71.84 g/L. Serum immunofixation electrophoresis: precipitating bands were found in the IgG lane, two precipitating bands were found in the κ lane, and the monoclonal immunoglobulin type was IgG-κ with κ free light chain type. Flow cytometry: plasma cells accounted for 69.61% of the total, and their immunophenotypes were CD28+, CD38+, CD138+, CD27+ partially, CD269+ in small amount, CD19-, CD20-, and intracellular immunoglobulin Kappa light chain restriction expression, suggesting primary plasma cell leukemia. CONCLUSIONS: For primary plasma cell leukemia, we should pay attention to the changes in the abnormal morphology and number of plasma cells. With the help of bone marrow smear, flow cytometry and other tests, we can make a clear diagnosis as early as possible and actively carry out treatment at an early stage.
BACKGROUND: Vacuum blood collection tube closures, as critical components ensuring sample integrity, face escalating challenges. Conventional halogenated butyl rubber closures exhibit limitations including needle-induced...BACKGROUND: Vacuum blood collection tube closures, as critical components ensuring sample integrity, face escalating challenges. Conventional halogenated butyl rubber closures exhibit limitations including needle-induced debris, compromised cryogenic elasticity, and nitrosamine leaching, which elevate preanalytical errors and interfere with PCR efficiency. METHODS: This study aimed to analyze rubber stopper structure and formulation and assess wear resistance, antipuncture performance, and puncture debris. We photographed and measured puncture resistance before and after needle punctures on 10 brands and tested the Mindray 7500 and the Sysmex XN1500 needles. RESULTS: Rubber stoppers mainly use bromobutyl rubber (BIIR), with some using chlorinated butyl rubber (CIIR). Both domestic and international rubber stoppers show good wear resistance and comply with national standards. Blood collection needles showed no damage after 20 punctures on 10 tube caps and remained undamaged after 50 and 100 punctures on high-wear tubes. The Improve's type B tube had the highest puncture resistance; the Hongyu's the lowest. The Mindray 7500 showed less wear and lower puncture resistance than the Sysmex XN1500 on high-wear and domestic tubes. The Mindray 7500 had the highest puncture resistance on the BD caps and the lowest on the Sanli caps. The Sysmex XN1500 had the highest on the Improve's type B caps and the lowest on the Sanli caps. CONCLUSIONS: A single blood collection needle can perform 20 punctures on all 10 brands. The Mindray 7500 showed less wear and lower puncture resistance than the Sysmex XN1500 on high-wear and domestic tubes.