Diabetes control could through platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in hemograms

Diagnostic accuracy of eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and eosinophil-to-neutrophil ratio as biomarkers for differentiating between fungal and bacterial infection in necrotising otitis externa

INTRODUCTION

Necrotizing otitis externa (NOE) is a serious, progressive, and potentially life-threatening infection of the external auditory canal, affecting soft tissue and bone. The most common organism causing NOE is Pseudomonas Aeruginosa and less common are Fungal infections. When managing a patient with NOE, a culture is taken from the EAC in order to tailor the appropriate antimicrobial treatment, however commonly, the culture is sterile. Inflammation biomarkers may be used as adjuncts to inform on the differential diagnosis and as prognostic markers.

AIM

To characterize and compare values and ratios of components of the complete blood count (CBC) at admission, at patients with positive swab culture.

METHODS

A retrospective study of NOE patients was conducted. We included all patients admitted between the years 2001-2023, for whom a culture swab tested positive. We compared CBC findings at hospitalization between bacteria and fungi-positive culture patients.

RESULTS

Eosinophils-to-Neutrophils Ratio (ENR) was significantly lower in the fungal group compared to the bacterial group 0.023 ± 0.02 and 0.04 ± 0.03, respectively (p-value = 0.025). Eosinophils-to-Leukocyte Ratio (ELR) was significantly lower in the fungal group compared to the bacterial group 0.058 ± 0.04 and 0.12 ± 0.1 respectively (p-value = 0.009). For definition of ELR ≤ 0.1 we found that, sensitivity was 88% (95%CI = 0.679-0.979) and NPV 90% (95%CI = 0.709-0.982). For definition of ENR ≤ 0.03 sensitivity was 88% (95%CI = 0.679-0.979) and NPV 88% (95%CI = 0.679-0.979).

CONCLUSION

Lower values of ELR and ENR in patients with NOE are associated with fungal infection and can serve as a tool in adjusting an appropriate antimicrobial therapy in cases of sterile or when no culture is available.

Assessment of the systemic immune-inflammation index in type 2 diabetic patients with and without dry eye disease: A case-control study

Background

The inflammation plays a role in the pathophysiology of type-2 diabetes progression, and the mechanism remains unclear. The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is a novel inflammatory marker for type 2 diabetes patients and integrates multiple indicators in complete blood counts and routine blood tests.

Aim

Since there is no international diagnostic standard for dry eye disease (DED), this study uses low-cost inflammatory blood biomarkers to investigate the correlation between SII and DM2-DED and determine the diagnosis indices of other biomarkers in DM2-DED.

Methodology

A case-control retrospective analysis of totel patients n = 293 randomly selected and categorized into four groups: DED, DM2, DM2-DED, and healthy subjects. Demographic and blood biomarker variables were classified as categorical and continuous variables. The platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocytes-to-lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and SII were calculated platelet count multiply by NLR and analyzed for their correlation for all groups.

Results

Focusing on DM2-DED patients was more common in females, 59.6%, than in males, 40.2%. The mean ages were 60.7 ± 11.85 years, a statistically significant difference with all groups. In the study group DM2-DED, there was an increase in all blood markers compared to all remaining groups except PLR. Only neutrophil, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and fasting blood sugar levels were statistically significant differences in DM2-DED patients (p > 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively) compared to all groups. There was a positive correlation between HbA1c and PLR, HbA1c and NLR, and HbA1c and SII (r = 0.037, p = 0.705; r = 0.031, p = 0.754; and r = 0.066, p < 0.501, respectively) in the DM2-DED group.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that elevated SII values were linked to elevated HbA1c in DM2-DED patients. The potential of SII and HbA1c as early diagnostic indicators for ocular problems associated with diabetes mellitus is highlighted by their favorable connection in diagnosing DM2-DED.

Role of Platelet/Lymphocyte, Neutrophil/Lymphocyte, and Interleukin-37/Interleukin-17 Ratios in the Occurrence and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

This study was designed to investigate the correlation of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and interleukin (IL)-37/IL-17 ratio with the incidence/treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Firstly, fifty-eight patients with RA treated at the first affiliated hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from January 2018 to January 2019 were selected as the RA group; forty-nine healthy volunteers were enrolled in the control group. RA patients were treated with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Next, the NLR, PLR, IL-37, IL-17 and 28-joint disease activity score using erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) were deleted in two groups. Subsequently, Spearman correlation analysis was adopted for the correlations of various indicators before and after treatment in two groups. According to the analysis results, the levels of NLR, PLR, IL-37, and IL-17 before treatment in the RA group were higher than those in the control group (P < .05), but the difference in the IL-37/IL-17 level between the two groups was not significant (P > .05). After treatment, NLR, PLR, and IL-37/IL-17 levels were significantly reduced in RA patients (P < .05). NLR and PLR were significantly positively correlated with DAS28-ESR, ESR and C-reactive protein (CRP), of which represented the disease activity of RA. NLP was strongly correlated with IL-37/IL-17. Collectively, NLR, PLR, IL-37, and IL-17 are closely related to the occurrence of RA. In addition, NLR and IL-37/IL-17 are more suitable than PLR in reflecting the therapeutic effect. Therefore, IL-37/IL-17 can be considered as a new indicator for reflecting the treatment effectiveness of RA.

Prognostic value of the geriatric nutritional risk index and other hematological markers on long-term survival in the geriatric population

OBJECTIVES

The prognostic value of hematological markers has not been extensively explored in the geriatric population, particularly in the presence of the frailty phenotype among hospitalized individuals. Therefore, our study aimed to assess the influence of the frailty phenotype in hospitalized geriatric individuals on hematological markers and their impact on short- and long-term outcomes.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study. This study involved hospitalized individuals who were followed during their hospitalization and for nearly 2 years after discharge. At baseline, Fried's frailty phenotype was assessed, as well as hematological markers, including neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil-monocyte ratio, platelet-lymphocyte ratio, systemic inflammation index, prognostic nutritional index, geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI), and C-reactive protein-albumin ratio. The phase angle derived from bioelectrical impedance analysis was likewise considered a prognostic biomarker. Our main outcomes were hospital length of stay and mortality during follow-up.

RESULTS

Frailty occurred in 43.2% of the population. Individuals with the frailty phenotype exhibited worse hematological markers and lower phase angle values. Low GNRI and elevated C-reactive protein-albumin ratio values were independently associated with mortality (hazard ratio = 6.88, 95% confidence interval 2.0-23.6; hazard ratio = 2.2, 95% confidence interval 1.1-4.4). Only higher values of the systemic inflammation index were independently associated with prolonged hospital stays.

CONCLUSION

Hematological markers may serve as a feasible tool for prognostic assessment. Individuals with the frailty phenotype and low GNRI represented a worst-case scenario. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 312-318.

Association of Hematological Parameters and Diabetic Neuropathy: A Retrospective Study

Background

Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and is characterized by persistent inflammation. Hematological parameters have emerged as a novel marker for detecting chronic inflammatory conditions, including diabetes.

Aim

We aim to examine the association between HbA1c levels, which can indicate the presence of diabetic neuropathy, and hematological parameters to explore the possibility of using hematological parameters as a new indicator for DN in T2DM patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 768 (483 males and 284 females) medical records of adult T2DM patients with or without neuropathy who attending the outpatient neuromuscular clinic at King Abdul-Aziz University Hospital from January 2016 to December 2021.

Results

The results showed significant increases in HbA1c levels (p=0.000), lymphocyte levels (p=0.028), and the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (p=0.011). In the T2DM group, HBA1C levels were found to be positively correlated with age (r=0.306, p=0.000), neutrophil (NEUT) (r=0. 287, p=0.000), platelet (PLT) (r=0. 148, p=0.039), and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (r=0.306193, p=0.0007), and negatively correlated with gender (r=-0.306193, p=0.0007). In the T2DMN group, HBA1C levels showed a positive correlation with hemoglobin (HB) (r=0.084, p=0.045), PLT (r=0.087, p=0.037), and PLT/mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) ratio (PLT/MCH ratio) (r=0.12, p=0.004), and a negative correlation with age (r=-0.204, p=0.000), gender (r=-0.086, p=0.041), weight (WT) (r=-0.113, p=0.007), Body Surface Area (BSA) (r=-0.09, p=0.031), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (r=-0.292, p=0.000), and MCH (r=-0.186, p=0.000).

Conclusion

Our study found a significant association between HbA1c, a biomarker for diabetic neuropathy, and various hematological parameters (HB, MCV, MCH, PLT, PLT/MCH ratio) in T2DMN patients. By effectively controlling and monitoring these variables, it may be feasible to prevent or delay the progression of peripheral neuropathy in diabetic patients. However, further research is needed to validate these findings.

Neutrophil: Lymphocyte and Platelet: Lymphocyte ratios measured before transplantation and their correlation with new-onset diabetes post-transplantation in renal transplant recipients

PURPOSE

Our goal was to evaluate the neutrophil:lymphocyte (NLR) and platelet:lymphocyte (PLR) ratios measured before transplantation and their correlation with new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) in renal transplant recipients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted our study in 324 adult patients consecutively admitted to Military Hospital 103, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, who received kidney allografts from living donors. These patients were followed-up during the first 2 years post-transplantation for NODAT. We examined the association between NLR and PLR measured prior to transplantation in patients with NODAT: NLR and PLR were calculated based on the results of the complete blood count. The criteria for diagnosis of a fully symptomatic NODAT case were based on the guidelines established by the American Diabetes Association and included fasting venous blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, with or without an oral glucose tolerance test.

RESULTS

The overall rate of NODAT during the two years after kidney transplantation was 13.6%. We found mean values of age and body mass index (BMI), and median values of NLR, PLR, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, and the arteriosclerosis ratio in the NODAT group to be significantly higher than those of the non-NODAT group (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, an adjusted multivariate regression analysis showed that age (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.727, p < 0.001), BMI (AUC = 0.846, p < 0.001), serum hs-CRP levels (AUC = 0.884, p < 0.001), NLR (AUC = 0.888; p < 0.001), and PLR (AUC = 0.818; p < 0.001) had predictive value for NODAT.

CONCLUSION

NLR and PLR measured before transplantation were good predictors for NODAT in the first 2 years post-renal transplantation.

Assessment of the Clinical Value of Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with higher mortality as a result of poor prognosis and unavailability of effective treatment options. This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical value of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) to aid in differentiating early hepatocellular carcinoma from liver cirrhosis patients. Three hundred and nine (309) patients including 155 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 154 patients with liver cirrhosis were enrolled in this study. General clinical characteristics and blood parameters of each patient were collected, calculated, and retrospectively analyzed. Mann-Whitney U test was calculated to compare the two groups. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was performed to investigate the diagnostic potential of PLR in the prediction of HCC at a cut-off with high accuracy (area under the curve [AUC]) > 0.80. Hemoglobin (HB) concentration, red blood cell (RBC) count, neutrophil (NEU) count, platelet count, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were significantly higher in the HCC patients than in the liver cirrhosis patients (p < 0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC, optimal cut-off value, sensitivity, and specificity of PLR to predict HCC patients were 0.912, 98.7, 81.2%, and 80.6% respectively. The results suggest that PLR is a potential biomarker that can be used to predict early HCC.

Serum resolvin D1 potentially predicts neurofunctional recovery, the risk of recurrence and death in patients with acute ischemic stroke

Resolvin D1 (RvD1) represses inflammation, oxidative damage and neural injury related to acute ischemic stroke (AIS) progression. The present study aimed to explore the association of serum RvD1 with disease features, neurological recovery and prognosis in patients with AIS. A total of 212 patients with newly diagnosed AIS, whose serum RvD1 was quantified at admission and at discharge using an ELISA were enrolled in the current study. The modified Rankin scale (mRS) score was noted at 3 months after patient enrolment (M3), and patients were followed up for a median duration of 11.4 (range, 1.1-21.0) months. The median RvD1 in patients with AIS at admission was 1.07 (range, 0.11-9.29) ng/ml and it was negatively correlated with the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (r=-0.160; P=0.009) and C-reactive protein level (r=-0.272; P<0.001), but it was not correlated with comorbidities or other biochemical indexes. RvD1 at admission was lower in patients with mRS >2 at M3 (P=0.001), recurrence (P=0.001) or death (P=0.032) compared with that in patients without the aforementioned characteristics, which had a general ability to estimate mRS >2 at M3 [area under curve (AUC), 0.633], as well as lower risk of recurrence (AUC, 0.745) and death (AUC, 0.757) according to receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analyses. The median RvD1 was raised to 1.70 (range, 0.30-16.62) ng/ml at discharge. RvD1 at discharge was able to forecast mRS >2 at M3 (AUC, 0.678) and was able to predict the risk of recurrence (AUC, 0.796) and death (AUC, 0.826) in the ROC curve analyses. Increased serum RvD1 was associated with an attenuated inflammation status, and predicted improved neurological recovery, and lower risk of recurrence and death in patients with AIS. More specifically, its level at discharge exhibits a better prognostic utility than that at admission.

Evaluation of the role of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and mean platelet volume (MPV) time series as predictors of diagnosis and prognosis of hemotoxic snakebite

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the predictive value of NLR, PLR, and MPV time series for diagnosis and prognosis of hemotoxic snakebite envenomation.

METHODS

This is a prospective study among snakebite patients admitted to the Poison Control Center of Ain Shams University Hospitals and Assiut University Hospitals from the beginning of July 2019 to the end of October 2021. Patients were classified according to their clinical severity into three groups: mild, moderate, and severe.

RESULTS

The maximum incidence of snakebite was found in males (95%) from rural areas (80%); at lower limbs (70%); at night (51%); and during the autumn season (43.3%). The admission NLR and PLR can predict hemotoxic snakebite envenomation with an AUC of 0.940 and 0.569. The combination of NLR with PLR can develop a more predominant prediction of snakebite envenomation with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.979. Furthermore, higher admission NLR and PLR levels are associated with prolonged hospital stays.

CONCLUSION

While NLR and PLR levels may be helpful in the diagnosis of snakebite, MPV plays no part in the prognosis of snakebite patients. Serial NLR, PLR initially, at 24 hours, and predischarge can be used to evaluate the early treatment response.

Association between systemic immune-inflammation index and diabetes: a population-based study from the NHANES

Background

Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) has been reported to be associated with diabetes. We aimed to assess possible links between SII and diabetes.

Methods

Data were obtained from the 2017-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database. After removing missing data for SII and diabetes, we examined patients older than 20 years. Simultaneously, the relationship between SII and diabetes was examined using weighted multivariate regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and smooth curve fitting.

Results

There were 7877 subjects in this study, the average SII was 524.91 ± 358.90, and the prevalence of diabetes was 16.07%. Weighted multivariate regression analysis found that SII was positively associated with diabetes, and in model 3, this positive association remained stable (OR = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02-1.06; p = 0.0006), indicating that each additional unit of SII, the possibility of having diabetes increased by 4%. Gender, age, BMI, regular exercise, high blood pressure, and smoking did not significantly affect this positive link, according to the interaction test (p for trend>0.05).

Discussion

Additional prospective studies are required to examine the precise connection between higher SII levels and diabetes, which may be associated with higher SII levels.

Role of simple inflammatory parameters in predicting the severity of coronary artery disease

OBJECTIVE

In our study, we aimed to find simple, useful biomarkers in patients with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction to predict coronary artery severity.

METHODS

Between May 2022 and December 2022, patients diagnosed with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction according to the European cardiology guidelines were included in our study. The Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery score was calculated to determine the severity of coronary artery disease. These patients were classified into two groups according to Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery≥23 and Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery<23 scores. Biochemical markers such as platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were studied in blood tests taken before coronary angiography in patients diagnosed with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction according to current guidelines. These two groups were compared in terms of the data obtained.

RESULTS

There were 281 patients in group 1 and 67 patients in group 2. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic data such as age and gender. Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio [group 1=125 (26-134) and group 2=156 (73-293); p=0.001] and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [group 1=2.71 (1.3-30.2) and group 2=3.2 (2.1-32.1); p=0.002] were higher in the group of patients with a Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery score of <23, while lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio [group 1=3.6 (0.56-11) and group 2=3.4 (0.64-5.75); p=0.017] was lower in group 2.

CONCLUSION

We observed that elevated platelet-to-lymphocyte and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios showed coronary artery severity. Multivessel disease and chronic total occlusion rates were observed to be higher in patients with high platelet-to-lymphocyte and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios.

Predictive Models of Muscle Strength in Older People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Purpose

To propose predictive models for absolute muscle strength (AMS) of elderly people with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM2) in primary health care.

Patients and Methods

The cross-sectional study was conducted with 138 elderly diabetics. The AMS was measured by a JAMAR® hydraulic handgrip dynamometer, determined by the sum of both hands. The following indices were evaluated: waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), body mass index (BMI), Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP), Triglyceride/High Density Lipoprotein (TG/HDL) ratio and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR). Multiple linear regression was used in the statistical analysis.

Results

The final regression model indicated 66.4% (R²=0.66) of the variation in AMS. WHtR decreased AMS by 41.1% (β = -0.19; t = -3.70; p < 0.001), while PLR by 11.3% (β = -0.12; t = -2.36; p = 0.020). Male sex increased AMS by 10.6% (β = 0.32; t = 4.16; p < 0.001), and lean mass (LM) by 0.89% (β = 0.46; t = 6.03; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

WHtR and PLR predicted a decrease, while male sex and LM predicted an increase in AMS. It is suggested that these markers be used as screening measures for variation in AMS in older adults with DM2. These results have relevant practical application in primary health care since the markers are easy to use.

Decreased Alu methylation in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients increases HbA1c levels

INTRODUCTION

Alu hypomethylation is a common epigenetic process that promotes genomic instability with aging phenotypes, which leads to type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM). Previously, our results showed significantly decreased Alu methylation levels in type 2 DM patients. In this study, we aimed to investigate the longitudinal changes in Alu methylation levels in these patients.

RESULTS

We observed significantly decreased Alu methylation levels in type 2 DM patients compared with normal (p = 0.0462). Moreover, our findings demonstrated changes in Alu hypomethylation over a follow-up period within the same individuals (p < 0.0001). A reduction in Alu methylation was found in patients with increasing HbA1c levels (p = 0.0013) and directly correlated with increased HbA1c levels in type 2 DM patients (r = -0.2273, p = 0.0387).

CONCLUSIONS

Alu methylation in type 2 DM patients progressively decreases with increasing HbA1c levels. This observation suggests a potential association between Alu hypomethylation and the underlying molecular mechanisms of elevated blood glucose. Furthermore, monitoring Alu methylation levels may serve as a valuable biomarker for assessing the clinical outcomes of type 2 DM.

Association of Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between systemic immune-inflammation (SII) index with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the general population of the United States (U.S.).

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of subjects in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-2018. For the analysis of the association between SII index and risk of NAFLD, the restricted cubic spline (RCS) plot, we performed multivariable logistic regression models and subgroup analysis. In addition, generalized additive models with smooth functions were conducted for the relationship between the SII index and the ZJU index, the BARD score, and the NAFLD fibrosis score.

Results

There were a total of 1197 individuals in our study. Taking into account known confounding variables, compared with the lowest quartiles, the odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals for NAFLD across the quartiles were 0.923 (0.585, 1.455), 0.563 (0.351, 0.901), and 1.061 (0.669, 1.682), respectively. As shown by the RCS plot, the SII index was linked with NAFLD risk in a U-shaped pattern. Based on the results of subgroup analysis, SII index and NAFLD risk were U-curve correlated among participants in all age groups, male or female, with or without hypertension, with diabetes mellitus, and with a BMI of <30 or >30 kg/m2. The SII index was linearly positive with the ZJU index but negative with the NAFLD fibrosis score. However, the SII index and BARD score showed a trend of first decreasing, then increasing, and then decreasing.

Conclusion

The U-shaped relationships exist between SII index and risk of NAFLD, which highlighted that we should focus on the dynamic change of SII index.

Diabetes mellitus, its prevalence, awareness, and control in Panama: Data from ENSPA 2019, a national cross-sectional study

Diabetes mellitus (DM) represents an important global burden of disease. In Panama, DM was investigated in 1 study utilizing questionnaires and in another using biomarkers, but at subnational level. Using data from a recent cross-sectional country-wide population-based study that included biomarkers, we estimated the prevalence of DM, its awareness, and control; evaluating possible risk factors. We used data from 4400 participants aged 18 years or older from the National Health Study of Panama (ENSPA) study conducted in 2019 at a national level. Weighted prevalence and 95% confidence intervals for DM, awareness, and control were estimated by sociodemographic factors, family history of DM, tobacco and alcohol use, nutritional status, and hypertension. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using logistic regression models to assess the possible risk factors associated with DM prevalence and awareness. We generated OR estimates by pooling ENSPA data with a previous regional study, prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. The prevalence of DM was estimated to be 12.4% (10.9%-14.05%). In both men and women, age, family history of diabetes (OR in men: 4.0 ([2.4-6.7]; OR in women 3.5 [2.5-4.8]), and obesity (OR in men: 2.6 [1.4-5.1]; OR in women: 2.0 [0.9-4.5]) were associated with DM. Diagnosed and controlled hypertension was associated with DM only in women (OR: 2.1 [1.2-3.6]). DM awareness was estimated to be 62.6% (56.3%-68.9%). In both men and women, DM awareness was associated with age and a family history of diabetes (OR in men: 6.6 [2.4-18.4]; OR in women 1.9 ([1.1-3.6]). In women, having secondary education (OR: 1.9 [0.9-3.9]) and being diagnosed with uncontrolled hypertension (OR: 3.3 [1.2-9.5]) was also associated to DM awareness. Men in the ENSPA study were less likely to be aware of DM than those in the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (OR: 0.2 [0.0-0.7]). Less than half of the individuals diagnosed with DM had their condition controlled (39.6% [31.4%-47.8%]). This study revealed that the prevalence, awareness, and control of DM were similar to recent estimates reported in other Latin American countries. It also provides a baseline regarding DM and associated risk factors in Panama at a country-level knowledge that is essential for health policy development and useful in clinical practice.

Effect of Benaglutide on Gut Microbiota and Fecal Metabolites in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Objective

Benaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) that has been approved in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is known to lead to significant weight loss, and it is hypothesized that changes in gut microbiota may play a significant role in such weight loss. However, it is unclear how gut microbiota and metabolites change as a result of benaglutide treatment.

Methods

Healthy participants and patients with T2DM were included in this study. They received differentiated treatments, and stool specimens were collected separately. These stool specimens were subjected to 16S ribosomal RNA amplicon and metagenomic sequencing to create fecal metabolomic profiles. The diversity of gut microbiota and metabolic products in the stools of each participant was analyzed.

Results

The data showed that Faecalibacterium prausnitzii was abundant in the gut microbiota of the control group, which was entirely made up of healthy individuals; however, it showed a statistically significant decrease in patients with T2DM treated with metformin alone, while no significant decrease was observed in patients treated with metformin combined with benaglutide. A metagenomic analysis revealed that benaglutide could improve the fecal microbiota diversity in patients with T2DM. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant correlation between the changes in the metabolites of patients with T2DM and the changes in their gut microbiota (including F. prausnitzii) after treatment with metformin and benaglutide.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the weight-reducing effect of benaglutide is attributed to its ability to normalize the gut microbiota of patients with T2DM, particularly by increasing the abundance of F. prausnitzii.

Hematocytological, biochemical, and hemostasis parameters' role in predicting the possibility of the various forms of the COVID-19 course in hospitalized Ukrainian patients: A cross-sectional study

Background and Aims

The main objective of this study is to establish the characteristics of blood laboratory parameters in hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Ukrainian patients and the significance of the above-mentioned parameters for predicting the course of the disease.

Methods

Hematocytological, biochemical, and hemostasis methods of research have been used. Groups of patients with different forms of the coronavirus disease course have been analyzed (lethality - recovery, recovery with a severe and mild course).

Results and Conclusion

Age is one of the risk factors for COVID-19 mortality. Absolute values of neutrophils, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), systemic inflammation index, d-dimer, C-reactive protein, and soluble fibrin complex can be used by clinicians to effectively differentiate between two possible outcomes (lethality vs. recovery). A higher number of stab leukocytes, d-NLR, and platelets concentration have been recorded in patients with severe COVID-19 cases, compared to mild ones. The risk of adverse COVID-19 outcome (lethality) is significantly linked with d-dimer and NLR (odds ratio 1.42). The risk of a severe course of the disease was significantly associated with the count of leukocytes (odds ratio 4.96).

Could Systemic Inflammatory Index Predict Diabetic Kidney Injury in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?

BACKGROUND

The systemic inflammatory index (SII) is a new inflammatory marker that has been the subject of various studies in diseases with chronic inflammation. Diabetic nephropathy is a disease associated with chronic inflammation. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between SII and diabetic nephropathy.

METHODS

Patients with diabetes who applied to our outpatient clinic were included in the study. Diabetic patients were divided into two groups: those with diabetic nephropathy and those without. In addition, healthy individuals who applied to our clinic for general check-ups during these dates were included as the control group. The SII values and other characteristics of the three study groups were compared.

RESULTS

The median SII value for those with DKI was 584 (178-4819); for those without DKI, it was 282 (64-618); and for the control group, it was 236 (77.5-617) (p < 0.001). SII was significantly and positively correlated with BMI, weight, blood glucose, HbA1c, CRP, and creatinine, and negatively correlated with the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) value. SII values higher than 336 have 75% sensitivity and 70% specificity in detecting DKI.

CONCLUSION

The SII value can predict diabetic kidney injury in diabetics, and it can be used as an adjunctive diagnostic tool.

Role of hematological parameters in pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus: A review of the literature

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by hyperglycemia and abnormalities in insulin secretion and activity. There are numerous hematological parameters; however, this review article only focuses on red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell indices, platelet count, white blood cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, and monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio, which play an essential role in the pathogenesis of DM. Also, this review article aims to report the relationship between these hematological parameters and the development of DM. In con-clusion, this article shows that increased levels of platelets, red blood cells, hematocrit, lymphocytes, eosinophils, neutrophils, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, and monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio and decreased levels of hemoglobin are involved in the pathogenesis of DM. However, the role of basophils in DM is unknown yet.

The Association between Placental Abruption and Platelet Indices

Objective: Placental abruption (PA) is an obstetric emergency. This study investigated the use of platelet indices in PA in its early stages to determine if it could aid in diagnosis. Materials and Methods: Sixty-two pregnant women with PA and 130 pregnant women who delivered due to idiopathic preterm delivery were included in this case-control study. Blood samples including platelet indices, biochemical, and coagulation parameters were obtained before cesarean section. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were recorded. Results: There was no significant difference between the groups as to hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood count. Platelet, mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were significantly lower, platelet distribution width (PDW) was significantly higher in the PA patients. Conclusion: In the current study, MPV and PLR were lower and PDW was higher in PA patients. These parameters may be useful in assessment of PA.

A Novel Inflammatory Marker for the Diagnosis of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: Platelet-Count-to-Lymphocyte-Count Ratio

BACKGROUND

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is a chronic autoimmune thyroiditis that causes systemic inflammation in the body, leading to hypothyroidism and an enlargement of the thyroid gland.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to reveal whether there is a relationship between Hashimoto's thyroiditis and the platelet-count-to-lymphocyte-count ratio (PLR), which is used as a new inflammatory marker.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we compared the PLR of the euthyroid HT group and the hypothyroid-thyrotoxic HT group to the controls. We also evaluated the values of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4 (fT4), C-reactive protein (CRP), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet count in each group.

RESULTS

The PLR of the subjects with Hashimoto's thyroiditis was found to be significantly different from the control group (p < 0.001), with the rankings as follows: hypothyroid-thyrotoxic HT 177% (72-417) > euthyroid HT 137% (69-272) > control group 103% (44-243). In addition to the increased PLR values, an increase in CRP values was also observed, revealing a strong positive correlation between the PLR and CRP in the HT patients.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we found out that the PLR was higher in the hypothyroid-thyrotoxic HT and euthyroid HT patients than in a healthy control group.

The Value of Peripheral Blood Cell Ratios in Primary Membranous Nephropathy: A Single Center Retrospective Study

Background

Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Forty percent of the patients continue to progress and eventually develop into chronic renal failure. Although phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) is the major antigen of PMN, the clinical features do not often parallel with the antibody titers. Therefore, it is significant to find relative credible markers to predict the treatment response.

Methods

One hundred and eighteen PMN patients were recruited. The response to treatment was defined as ALB≥30g/L at 6 months and complete remission (CR) or not at the end of the follow-up. Renal outcome endpoint was defined as 50% or more Cr increase at the end.

Results

The patients with poor treatment effects had numerically higher platelet-lymphocytes ratio (PLR). For patients with CR or not, the difference was near to statistic significant (P=0.095). When analyzing CR or not, the fitting of the binary logistic regression model including both PLA2R Ab titer and PLR (Hosmer-Lemeshow test: χ ²=8.328, P = 0.402; OR (PLA2R Ab titer) = 1.002 (95% CI 1.000-1.004, P = 0.042); OR (PLR) = 1.006 (95% CI 0.999-1.013, P = 0.098)) was markedly better than that with only PLA2R Ab titer (Hosmer-Lemeshow test: χ ²=13.885, P = 0.016). The patients with renal function deterioration showed significantly higher monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) (0.26 (0.22-0.31) vs 0.18 (0.13-0.22), P = 0.012).

Conclusion

PMN patients with poor treatment response tended to have higher PLR at the time of renal biopsy, and a higher MLR was associated with poor renal outcomes. Our findings suggested that PLR and MLR might be used to predict treatment efficacy and prognosis for PMN patients, respectively.

Evaluation of descriptive performances of platelet indices, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and platelet/lymphocyte ratio in aortic dissections

OBJECTIVE

Mechanical damage resulting from aortic dissection creates a thrombus in the false lumen, in which platelets are involved. Platelet index is useful for the function and activation of platelets. The aim of this study was to show the clinical relevance of the platelet index of aortic dissection.

METHODS

A total of 88 patients diagnosed with aortic dissection were included in this retrospective study. Demographic data and hemogram and biochemistry results of the patients were determined. Patients were divided into two groups: deceased and surviving patients. The data obtained were compared with 30-day mortality. The primary outcome was the relationship of platelet index with mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 88 patients, 22 of whom were female (25.0%), diagnosed with aortic dissection, were included in the study. It was determined that 27 (30.7%) of the patients were mortal. The mean age of the entire patient group was 58±13 years. According to the DeBakey classification of aortic dissection of the patients, the percentages of the 1-2-3 type were determined as 61.4, 8.0, and 30.7%, respectively. Platelet index was not found to be directly related to mortality. Increase in age, decrease in bicarbonate value, and presence of diabetes mellitus were associated with mortality.

CONCLUSION

Although there were no significant changes in platelet index in aortic dissection, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and platelet/lymphocyte ratio were found to be high in line with the literature. In particular, the presence of advanced age diabetes mellitus and decrease in bicarbonate are associated with mortality.

Association of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio with Diabetic Kidney Disease in Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been extensively studied in a variety of diseases. However, research on their relationship with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is limited. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between these two indicators and renal function in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes and assess whether they can serve as predictors of DKD.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 655 Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes. Subjects were divided into three groups according to the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR). The differences in the NLR and PLR among the groups and their correlation with renal function were analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze independent risk factors for DKD, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the predictive values of the NLR and PLR for the disease.

Results

The NLR and PLR were significantly different among the three groups, and they increased with increasing levels of albuminuria. Pearson's correlation analysis showed that the NLR and PLR were positively correlated with the UACR but negatively correlated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (p<0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that these two indicators were independent risk factors for DKD (p<0.001). The results of ROC curve analysis suggested that the NLR (AUC=0.794; 95% CI, 0.760-0.827; p<0.001) and PLR (AUC=0.665; 95% CI, 0.623-0.706, p<0.001) had important diagnostic value for DKD.

Conclusion

The NLR and PLR were closely associated with renal function among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes, and high NLR and PLR values may serve as predictors of DKD.

Do neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and platelet to lymphocyte ratio associate with frailty in elderly inpatient with comorbidity?

OBJECTIVE

Inflammation is one of the pathogenesis of frailty, Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are newly proposed inflammatory indicators. This study aimed to explore the relationship between NLR, PLR and frailty in elderly inpatient with comorbidity.

METHODS

Inpatient elderly with comorbidity in our geriatric department from January 2015 to December 2018 were selected, and three groups, which included frailty, pre-frailty and robust, were divided by 5-item FRAIL scale. General data of the patients were collected, and comprehensive geriatric assessment was performed. NLR and PLR were calculated by neutrophil, lymphocyte and platelet in blood. SPSS24.0 software was used for analysis.

RESULTS

CONCLUSION: Although results from the present study revealed associations between frailty and neutrophil and NLR in elderly inpatient with comorbidity, the potential role of these inflammation indicators on frailty needs further prospective investigation and researches involving larger population to improve its reliability.

Evaluation of prognostic markers in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2

Prognostic markers are the biomarkers used to measure the disease progression and patient outcome regardless of treatment in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aimed to analyze laboratory parameters as prognostic markers for the early identification of disease severity. In this study, 165 patients attending Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital with COVID-19 were enrolled and divided into severe and non-severe groups. The demographic data, underlying co-morbidities, and laboratory findings were analyzed and compared between severe and non-severe cases. The correlation between the disease criticality and laboratory parameters was analyzed. Cut-off values of parameters for severe patients were speculated through the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve, and regression analysis was performed to determine the risk factors. Patients with severe COVID-19 infection had significantly higher absolute neutrophil count, neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), ferritin, positive carbohydrate reactive protein (CRP), glucose, urea, creatinine, and aspartate aminotransferase, while lower absolute lymphocyte count, absolute eosinophil count (AEC), and red blood cell count in comparison to non-severe infection. ROC analysis gave a cut-off value (sensitivity, specificity) of age, AEC, NLR, PLR, and ferritin as 47.5 years (70.2, 64.7%), 335 cells/mm3 (74, 67%) 3.3 (68.4, 63.7%), 129 (77.2, 51%), and 241 ng/mL (74.0%, 65.0%) respectively. Risk factor analysis showed higher age, low AEC, high ferritin, and positive CRP as independent risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 infection. Hematological and inflammatory markers, including novel NLR and PLR, should be assessed to aid clinicians in the early identification of severe cases, prioritization of cases, and effective management to decrease the mortality of COVID-19 patients.

Elevated levels of monocyte-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-lymphocyte ratio in adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury

BACKGROUND

Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are blood indicators of systemic inflammation. This study aims to compare the levels of inflammatory indicators derived from blood routine tests between adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and those with non-NSSI.

METHODS

A total of 201 adolescents with mood or emotional disorders were enrolled in this study, among which 106 had engaged in NSSI and 95 had never engaged in NSSI. NLR, MLR, and PLR were calculated based on the complete blood cell count.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in demographic data between the two groups. The NSSI group exhibited significantly higher MLR (P = 0.001) and PLR (P = 0.007) than the non-NSSI group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that MLR (OR 1.545, 95%CI [1.087-2.281], P = 0.021) and PLR (OR 1.327, 95%CI [1.215-1.450], P < 0.001) were independently associated with NSSI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses demonstrated that for differentiating NSSI from non-NSSI, the optimal cut-off value of MLR was 0.135 and the area under curve was 0.638 ([0.561- 0.715], P < 0.001), with a sensitivity of 90.60% and a specificity of 33.70%; the optimal cut-off value of PLR was 127.505 and the area under curve was of 0.611 ([0.533-0.689], P < 0.001), with a sensitivity of 39.60% and a specificity of 81.10%.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic inflammation, as indicated by elevated MLR and PLR, was found to be strongly associated with NSSI among adolescents.

The diagnostic model for early detection of gestational diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetic nephropathy

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and gestational diabetic nephropathy (GDN) have become an increasingly serious problem worldwide, which can cause a large number of adverse pregnancy consequences for mothers and infants. However, the diagnosis of GDM and GDN remains a challenge due to the lack of optimal biomarkers, and the examination has high requirements for patient compliance. We aimed to establish a simple early diagnostic model for GDM and GDN.

METHODS

We recruited 50 healthy pregnant (HP), 99 GDM patients, 99 GDN patients at Daping Hospital. Renal function indicators and blood cell indicators were collected for all patients.

RESULTS

Compared with HP, GDM, and GDN patients exhibited significantly higher urea/creatinine ratio and NEU. The diagnostic model1 based on the combination of urea/creatinine ratio and NEU was built using logistic regression. Based on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) of the diagnostic model was 0.77 (0.7, 0.84) in distinguishing GDM from HP, and the AUC of the diagnostic model was 0.94 (0.9, 0.97) in distinguishing GDN from HP. Meanwhile, the diagnostic model2 based on the combination of β2-mG, PLT, and NEU in GDM and GDN patients was built using logistic regression, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC ROC) was 0.79 (0.73, 0.85), which was larger than the individual biomarker AUC.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that the diagnostic model established by the combination of renal function indicators and blood cell indicators could facilitate the differential diagnosis of GDM and GDN patients.

Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio, Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio and Their Dynamic Changes with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cohort Study in China

BACKGROUND

This study aimed at investigating the relationships between Platelet-Lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and their dynamic changes (∆PLR, ∆NLR) with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a Chinese cohort study.

METHODS

This study recruited 41,439 individuals who were diagnosed without T2DM at first health examination and completed at least one follow-up. The relationships between NLR, PLR, ∆PLR, ∆NLR and T2DM risk were analyzed using the Cox regression model with corresponding Hazard Ratios (HRs) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

PLR exhibited significant correlation with T2DM risk in a linear reverse dose-response pattern, the corresponding HRs and 95% CIs were 0.81 (0.72, 0.90), 0.71 (0.63, 0.80) and 0.56 (0.49, 0.64) respectively (P_trend < 0.001) for Q2, Q3 and Q4 vs Q1 after adjusting for age, gender, BMI, TG, TC, HDL-C, FPG, ALT, AST, heart rate, smoking, family history of diabetes, and alcohol consumption at baseline in Model 3. The significance remained in subgroups of women, <45 years, ≥45 years, BMI ≥ 24, with fatty liver disease, without fatty liver disease and normotension. Comparing with the largest decrease group of NLR (∆NLR < -0.32), the risk of T2DM increased for -0.003 ≤ ∆NLR < 0.31 (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.01-1.36) and ∆NLR ≥ 0.31 (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.06-1.43).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher PLR could reduce the risk of T2DM. Larger increase of NLR could increase T2DM risk.

Is there a correlation between preoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, platelet-to-lymphocyte, and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratios and postoperative pain in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery?

Many thoracic surgery procedures are now performed with video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). Postoperative pain is a common condition in patients undergoing VATS. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) are effective in evaluating postoperative pain in patients undergoing VATS.This prospective observational study was performed between March 2021 and September 2021 at a tertiary thoracic surgery center. The study included patients who had undergone elective VATS. Preoperative and postoperative NLR, PLR, LMR, hemogram values and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) were recorded.A total of 105 patients were analyzed. A positive correlation was observed between postoperative monocyte, neutrophils and VAS resting and VAS cough levels in the early postoperative period. No significant correlation was found between preoperative and postoperative NLR, PLR, and LMR values and VAS rest and VAS cough values. When compared to the preoperative period, a negative correlation was found between the change in the postoperative LMR value and the VAS rest and VAS cough values in the early postoperative period.When compared to the preoperative period, the change in postoperative neutrophil, postoperative monocytes, and postoperative LMR values in patients undergoing VATS in thoracic surgery can be used as a guide in the objective evaluation of postoperative acute pain. It is the belief of the researchers that comprehensive new studies on this subject will contribute significantly to the determination of objective criteria in postoperative pain evaluation.

Monocyte-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Was an Independent Factor of the Severity of Spinal Tuberculosis

Purpose

The purpose was to explore the relationship between monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and the severity of spinal tuberculosis.

Methods

A total of 1,000 clinical cases were collected, including 496 cases of spinal tuberculosis and 504 cases of nonspinal tuberculosis. Laboratory blood results were collected, including C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cells (WBC), hemoglobin (HGB), platelets (PLT), neutrophil count, percentage of neutrophils, lymphocyte count, percentage of lymphocytes, monocyte count, percentage of monocytes, MLR, platelets -to- monocyte ratio (PMR), platelets -to- lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil -to- lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelets -to- neutrophil ratio (PNR). The statistical parameters analyzed by the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to construct the nomogram. The nomogram was assessed by C-index, calibration curve, ROC curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) curve.

Results

The C-index of the nomogram in the training set and external validation set was 0.801 and 0.861, respectively. Similarly, AUC was 0.801 in the former and 0.861 in the latter. The net benefit of the former nomogram ranged from 0.1 to 0.95 and 0.02 to 0.99 in the latter nomogram. Furthermore, there was a correlation between MLR and the severity of spinal tuberculosis.

Conclusion

MLR was an independent factor in the diagnosis of spinal tuberculosis and was associated with the severity of spinal tuberculosis. Additionally, MLR may be a predictor of active spinal tuberculosis.

Tanshinone IIA prevents acute lung injury by regulating macrophage polarization

OBJECTIVE

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a serious respiratory dysfunction caused by pathogen or physical invasion. The strong induced inflammation often causes death. Tanshinone IIA (Tan-IIA) is the major constituent of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge and has been shown to display anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of Tan-IIA on ALI.

METHODS

A murine model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI was used. The lungs and serum samples of mice were extracted at 3 days after treatment. ALI-induced inflammatory damages were confirmed from cytokine detections and histomorphology observations. Effects of Tan-IIA were investigated using in vivo and in vitro ALI models. Tan-IIA mechanisms were investigated by performing Western blot and flow cytometry experiments. A wound-healing assay was performed to confirm the Tan-IIA function.

RESULTS

The cytokine storm induced by LPS treatment was detected at 3 days after LPS treatment, and alveolar epithelial damage and lymphocyte aggregation were observed. Tan-IIA treatment attenuated the LPS-induced inflammation and reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines released not only by inhibiting neutrophils, but also by macrophage. Moreover, we found that macrophage activation and polarization after LPS treatment were abrogated after applying the Tan-IIA treatment. An in vitro assay also confirmed that including the Tan-IIA supplement increased the relative amount of the M2 subtype and decreased that of M1. Rebalanced macrophages and Tan-IIA inhibited activations of the nuclear factor-κB and hypoxia-inducible factor pathways. Including Tan-IIA and macrophages also improved alveolar epithelial repair by regulating macrophage polarization.

CONCLUSION

This study found that while an LPS-induced cytokine storm exacerbated ALI, including Tan-IIA could prevent ALI-induced inflammation and improve the alveolar epithelial repair, and do so by regulating macrophage polarization.

Can Complete Blood Count Picture Tell Us More About the Activity of Rheumatological Diseases?

Background:

In clinical practice, distinguishing disease activity in patients with rheumatological illnesses is challenging.

Objectives:

We aimed to investigate clinical associations of hemogram-derived indices, namely: red cell distribution width (RDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) with disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods:

In 250 patients with rheumatological disease and 100 healthy age-matched controls, we investigated disease activity scores and indicators and evaluated their association with hemogram-derived indices values.

Results:

Compared with the control group, RDW, MPV, and PLR significantly increased (P < .001) in the three studied disorders (RA, SLE, and AS), but LMR dramatically decreased. SII was considerably higher in RA and AS patients compared with controls but not in SLE patients. On the other hand, NLR rose dramatically in SLE patients compared with controls (P = .043), but did not change much in RA and AS patients (P > .05). RDW and MPV showed significant changes (P < .001) in the three studied diseases (RA, SLE, and AS) according to disease activity. They significantly increased across worsening activity scores. Only in the SLE group, PLR was significantly increased with disease activity (P < .001), while LMR showed a significant decrease (P = .016).

Conclusions:

Clinicians must pay close attention to complete blood count (CBC) analysis and its various derived ratios to better characterize the activity of rheumatological disorders and anticipate the disease course and prognosis.

Plasma C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-3 concentrations are associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy

INTRODUCTION

To analyze the associations of circulating C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-3 (CTRP3) concentrations with several metabolic parameters and to investigate the possible role of CTRP3 in subjects with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 347 participants were recruited in this study, and plasma CTRP3 concentrations were analyzed in subjects with DPN (n=172) and without DPN (non-DPN, n=175). The nerve conduction test and oral glucose tolerance test were performed, and Neuropathy Symptom Score (NSS)/Neuropathy Disability Score (NDS) and biochemical parameters were measured in all participants.

RESULTS

Plasma CTRP3 concentrations were significantly lower in patients with DPN compared with those in patients with diabetes without DPN (p<0.01), despite the comparable glucose and lipid metabolism levels in both groups. Groups with a higher plasma CTRP3 level had a faster nerve conduction velocity. In addition, plasma CTRP3 concentrations were negatively correlated with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), urea acid (UA), triglyceride, NSS and NDS (p<0.05) after being adjusted for age and sex. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that plasma CTRP3 concentrations were significantly correlated with DPN after being controlled for age, sex, body mass index, HbA1c, blood pressure, lipid profiles, and renal function.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma CTRP3 concentrations were significantly lower in patients with DPM and positively correlated with nerve conduction velocity. The relationship between CTRP3 levels and DPN is independent of the glucose and lipid status. Therefore, circulating CTRP3 might serve as a predictor of impairment of nerve conduction in patients with DPN.

Mean platelet volume and platelet to lymphocyte count ratio are associated with hepatitis B-related liver fibrosis

AIM

Chronic hepatitis B is associated with important morbidity and mortality. Inflammation has a pivotal role in hepatic fibrosis of this population. Hemogram-derived inflammatory predictors, such as mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), are supposed as inflammatory markers in various diseases. We aimed to compare MPV and PLR of the patients with chronic hepatitis B to those of healthy controls and to observe possible correlation between these markers and fibrosis.

METHODS

Chronic hepatitis B patients that visited our outpatient gastroenterology clinics were enrolled in the study. Healthy volunteers were enrolled as controls. MPV, PLR and other parameters of the study groups were compared.

RESULTS

Median MPV of the mild fibrosis, advanced fibrosis control groups were 8.1 (6.6-13) fL, 8.2 (6.3-14.5) fL and 7.2 (4.6-8.9) fL, respectively (P < 0.001). Median PLR of the mild fibrosis, advanced fibrosis control groups were 99.5 (36-259) %, 119 (61-1547) % and 122 (64-197) %, respectively (P = 0.02). PLR was correlated with the ISHAK score (r = 0.32, P = 0.002). A MPV value greater than 7.52 fL have 80% sensitivity and 56% specificity in determining advanced fibrosis (AUC: 0.68, P = 0.002, 95% confidence interval, 0.58-0.77).

CONCLUSION

We think that increased MPV and decreased PLR are characteristics of chronic hepatitis B disease. Moreover, increased MPV could predict advanced fibrosis in this population.

Characteristics of platelet-associated parameters and their predictive values in Chinese patients with affective disorders

OBJECTIVE

Platelets are increasingly considered to play an important role in inflammation and are being regarded as a putative bridge linking mental diseases and inflammatory response. Platelet-associated haematological parameters including mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), plateletcrit (PCT), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), platelet to albumin ratio (PAR) and red blood cell distribution width (RDW) to platelet ratio (RPR), have been recently investigated as simple, easily available, and inexpensive inflammatory markers. In this study, we aimed is to use large-scale clinical data to study platelet parameters in patients with affective disorders, to further investigate the predictive power of platelet parameters for major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD).

METHODS

The retrospective, naturalistic, cross-sectional study analysed the data of 14,007 Chinese affective disorder patients, including 4,801 patients with first-episode MDD, 4,098 patients with recurrent MDD, 3,444 patients with BD manic episodes and 1,664 patients with BD depressive episodes. Meanwhile, 6,847 healthy subjects were served as the control group. The differences in the MPV, PDW, PCT, SII, PLR, PAR, RPR and albumin among different groups were compared, and the contributing factors for the occurrence of MDD or BD were analysed.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in MPV, PDW, PCT, SII, PLR, RPR and albumin values among the study groups. In the subjects, patients experiencing BD manic episodes had the highest mean values of MPV and SII, patients experiencing BD depressive episodes had the lowest mean values of platelet counts and PAR, and patients with MDD had the highest mean values of PLR and RDW. The levels of MPV, PDW and albumin were independently correlated with MDD and BD, and they are important predictors for differentiating patients with MDD or BD from healthy controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that different affective disorders have unique platelet parameter variation patterns, highlighting the role of platelet parameters and systemic inflammation in the pathophysiology of MDD and BD.

Predictive value of NLR and PLR in missed miscarriage

Background

The aim of the study was to investigate the predictive value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in missed miscarriage.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 400 women (involving 200 with missed early miscarriage and 200 with normal pregnancy but terminate by artificial abortion) were included. General clinical data and complete blood count (CBC) such as white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), platelet (PLT), red blood cell distribution width‐standard deviation (RDW‐SD), platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), neutrophil count, and lymphocyte count were collected, and the NLR and PLR were calculated for both groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was used to calculate the predictive value.

Results

There was no significant difference in the WBC, RBC, PLT, RDW‐SD, PDW, neutrophil, lymphocyte, NLR, and PLR between the two groups (p > 0.05).But MPV was lower in the missed early miscarriage group than in the control group (p < 0.05), and the area under the working curve (AUC) of ROC was 0.58, specificity and sensitivity was 69% and 47%, respectively.

Conclusion

NLR and PLR were not the suitable indictor for missed miscarriage, but MPV should be a concern in the first trimester.

Comparative analysis of anthropometric indices with serum uric acid in Iranian healthy population

BACKGROUND

The relationship between elevated serum uric acid (SUA) levels and hypertension, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease has been established. In this study, the relation of SUA levels to anthropometric indices, blood cell count and lipid profile was examined.

METHODS

Anthropometric parameters including body-mass index, waist circumference, waist to height ratio, waist to hip ratio, waist to pelvic ratio, neck circumference (NC), body fat mass (BFM), basal metabolic rate (BMR), visceral fat level (VFL) and percent body fat (PBF), along with complete blood cell count, lipid profile and SUA were obtained from 2921 young and middle-aged Iranian healthy subjects. To assess the normality of data, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used. Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, Chi-square and Spearman correlation tests were used for evaluating the association between variables. Simple and multiple regression analyses were also performed.

RESULTS

The results of data analysis showed all studied factors were correlated with SUA level except VFL, BFM, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio. The highest correlation was with NC, BMR, hematocrits (HCT) and triglycerides (TG). The backward method revealed that TG, LDL, HDL, neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelet, HCT, BMR and skinfold fat thickness were factors related to SUA.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the finding of this study, SUA level is related to anthropometric indices, lipid profile and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in healthy population. SUA measurement might be advisable to identify those at increased risk of health problems whom might benefit from further evaluation.

Investigation of serum level relationship anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody and inflammatory cytokines (IL1-β, IL-6) with vitamins D in type 2 diabetes

Background

Various factors are involved in the development and progression of diabetes mellitus, from cytokines and autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells to vitamin D.This study aimed to investigate the association of serum levels of anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD) and inflammatory cytokines with vitamin D in type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

This case-control study was performed on 30 patients with T2D and 30 healthy individuals in Mashhad hospitals in 2020. Lipid profile, creatinine, uric acid, FBS, HbA1c, and blood pressure were recorded. All study variables were measured, particularly serum vitamin D, anti-GAD, and inflammatory cytokine levels in diabetic patients, and the data were compared to those from healthy subjects by performing an appropriate statistical analysis.

Results

Diabetic patients with a mean age of 52.9 ± 10.4 years, including 16 women and healthy individuals with a mean age of 48.5 ± 10.4 years, including 16 women, were studied. BMI level (P = 0.002), systolic blood pressure (P = 0.034), HbA1c, insulin, IL-6, IL1-β, anti-GAD levels, and insulin resistance in diabetic patients were significantly higher than the control group (P = 0.001). The vitamin D level in the control group was significantly higher than in the case group (P = 0.0001). The results showed a significant direct relationship between IL-6, IL-1β, and anti-GAD with HbA1c, FBS, insulin, and insulin resistance. However, there was a significant inverse relationship between IL-6, IL-1β, and anti-GAD with vitamin D.

Conclusions

Inflammatory cytokines and anti-GAD and vitamin D are associated with diabetes, and thus controlling these factors can help improve T2D.

A Retrospective Analysis of Hematologic Parameters in Patients with Early Diabetic Kidney Disease

OBJECTIVE

To retrospectively analyze the hematologic parameters in patients with early Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) to define potential biomarkers that can be used to predict early DKD.

METHODS

134 diabetic patients without nephropathy and 49 patients with early DKD were enrolled for this study and the hematologic parameters were retrospectively analyzed. Paired comparison was conducted by T-test and the predicting value of any statistically different parameter was tested using the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (ROC) analysis model.

RESULTS

The number of Neutrophil (N) was higher (P <0.001) while monocyte (M) was lower (P <0.01) in the early DKD group than that of DM group without nephropathy. In addition, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was higher while platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) was significantly lower in the early DKD group(P <0.001). Results from ROC curve analysis showed the sensitivity and specificity of PLR to predict early DKD were 83.7% and 82.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

PLR may be a potential hematologic parameter that can be used to predict early DKD.

Predictive Value of Systemic Immune-Inflammation index and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with Severe COVID-19

Objective: It was initially reported that a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) had been identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.To date, COVID-19 is still threatening all humanity and has affected the public healthcare system and the world economic situation. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has also been demonstrated that associated with severity of COVID-19, but little is known about systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) relation with COVID-19. Methods: One hundred and twenty-five patients with diagnosed COVID-19 including non-severe cases (n = 77) and severe cases (n = 48) were enrolled in this study. Each patient of clinical characteristic information, blood routine parameters, and the haemogram-derived ratios were collected, calculated, and retrospectively analyzed. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) was performed to investigate whether these parameters could be used to the predictive value of patients with severe COVID-19. Results: White blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil count (NEU), red cell volume distribution width (RDW), NLR, Platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-platelet ratio (NPR), and SII were significantly higher in the severe groups than in the non-severe group (p < 0.01).Conversely, the severe group had a markedly decreased lymphocyte count, basophil (Baso#) count, red blood cell count (RBC), Hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) (P < 0.01).ROC curve analysis showed the AUC, optimal cut-off value, sensitivity, specificity of NLR and SII to early predict severe-patients with COVID-19 were 0.867, 7.25, 70.83%, 92.21% and 0.860, 887.20, 81.25%, 81.82%, respectively. Conclusion The results suggest that the SII and NLR is a potential new diagnosed biomarker in severe-patients with COVID-19.

The Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

INTRODUCTION

As a severe and specific neurovascular complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains the leading cause of vision loss and preventable blindness in adults aged 20 to 74. The pathogenesis of DR is not completely understood, however, studies indicate that chronic inflammation plays a significant role. Emerging evidence suggests that the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and the monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) are novel potential inflammatory response markers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between the NLR, PLR, MLR, and DR.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

290 patients who had been diagnosed with T2DM participated in the study. Patients were categorized into three groups: 142 control subjects with T2DM, 124 subjects with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), and 24 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Characteristics, laboratory data, as well as NLR, PLR and MLR levels of the study groups were compared.

RESULTS

In patients with DR, the median NLR, PLR, and MLR were significantly higher than in patients without DR (p = 0.012, p < 0.001, and p = 0.043, respectively). In the post hoc analysis, there was no correlation between the severity of retinopathy and the increase in NLR or PLR. Multiple logistic regression revealed that the PLR was an independent risk factor for DR (odds ratio [OR]: 1.020, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.010-1.029 p = 0.026). Based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the cutoff value of PLR as an indicator for diagnosing DR was estimated to be 129.65, with a sensitivity and specificity of 53.4% and 76.1%, respectively, and an area under the curve of 0.668 (95% CI: 0.605-0.730, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that PLR may be an independent risk factor for evaluating DR in type 2 diabetes patients.

Association between visit-to-visit variability of glycemic indices and lipid profile and the incidence of coronary heart disease in adults with type 2 diabetes

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this study, we aimed to assess the association between visit-to-visit variability of fasting blood sugar (FBS), HbA1c, blood sugar 2 h post-prandial (BS2hpp), lipid indices, creatinine, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP) and incident CHD in patients with type 2 diabetes during a median follow-up of ten years. The current case-cohort study consisted of 1500 individuals with type 2 diabetes, followed up for the occurrence of CHD from 2002 to 2019. The patients had at least four annual follow-ups during which glycemic and lipid profile were measured. Co-efficient of variance (CV) for each parameter was calculated by 10-21 measurements. Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the association between CV of glycemic indices, lipid profile, blood pressure, creatinine, weight and incident CHD during the follow-up period. Hazard ratios (HR) were adjusted for the confounding variables. Glycemic indices variability (i.e., CV-HbA1c, CV-FBS, and CV-BS2hpp), were significantly higher in the group with incident CHD (P=0.034, P=0.042, and P=0.044, respectively). Hazard ratios were 1.42 (95 % CI=1.13-2.09) for CV-HbA1c, 1.37 (95 % CI=1.02-2.10) for CV-FBS, and 1.16 (95 % CI=1.01-1.63) for CV-BS2hpp (P=0.012, P=0.046, P=0.038, respectively). Creatinine was significantly higher in the group with incident CHD (P=0.036) and it was significantly associated with higher incidence of CHD (HR=1.14, 95 % CI=1.02-2.17, P=0.048). Visit to visit variability of glycemic indices of the patients with type 2 diabetes is associated with incident CHD independent of their baseline and mean values.

Neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio and monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio as predictors of free-wall rupture in patients with acute myocardial infarction

Backgrounds

Free‐wall rupture (FWR) has a high mortality rate. We aimed to find sensitive predictive indicators to identify high‐risk FWR patients by exploring the predictive values of neutrophil percentage‐to‐albumin ratio (NPAR) and monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (MLR) on patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods

76 FWR patients with AMI were collected, and then 228 non‐CR patients with AMI were randomly selected (1:3 ratio) in this retrospective study. The independent influencing factors of FWR were evaluated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to evaluate the predictive value of NPAR and MLR for FWR.

Results

According to the results of multivariate logistic regression analysis, emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.094–0.751, p = 0.012), angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)/angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) treatment (OR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.044–0.659, p = 0.010), NPAR (OR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.031–7.044, p = 0.043), and MLR (OR = 5.99, 95% CI: 2.09–17.168, p = 0.001) were the influencing factors of the FWR patients with AMI, independently. Additionally, the NPAR and MLR were the predictors of FWR patients, with AUC of 0.811 and 0.778, respectively (both p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In summary, the emergency PCI and ACEI/ARB treatment were independent protective factors for FWR patients with AMI, while the increase of MLR and NPAR were independent risk factors. What's more, NPAR and MLR are good indicators for predicting FWR.

Predictive significance of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte for cytomegalovirus infection in infants less than 3 months: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of the hematological parameters in the identification of human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in infants less than 3 months.

METHODS

A single-center, observational study of infants with CMV infection was conducted retrospectively. Routine blood parameters were analyzed in CMV-infected infants and controls with no differences of birthweight, sex, gestational age at birth, and date of admission. Furthermore, receiver-operating curve was used to assess the predictive value of the hematological parameters for CMV infection.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety cases with CMV infection were studied retrospectively. Compared with the control group, there were significant differences in the white blood cell count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, platelet count, hemoglobin, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte (PLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte (LMR) for the patients with CMV infection (all p < 0.001). The best predicted values for CMV infection based on the area under the curve (AUC) were NLR and PLR with the optimal cut-off value of 0.28 and 65.36. NLR-PLR score of 0, 1, or 2 based on an elevated NLR (>0.28), an elevated PLR (>65.36), or both. NLR-PLR score for CMV infection prediction yielded higher AUC values than NLR or PLR alone (0.760 vs. 0.689, 0.689; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The NLR combined with PLR is potentially useful as a predictor of CMV infection in infants less than 3 months.

The Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio Associated with Depression in Diabetes Patients in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Background

This study investigated patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and the role of the platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in comorbid clinically relevant depression (CRD) in these individuals, so as to determine the association between PLR and depression.

Material and Methods

All data used in this research is originally from the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). CRD in DM patients was screened via a Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). PLR was calculated by platelet and lymphocyte counts. The associations between PLR and CRD in DM patients were determined using multivariable logistic regression models, weighted generalized additive models, and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). The second outcome was the relationship between suicide tendency and PLR.

Results

We selected 3537 DM patients from 2009 to 2016 in database. PLR was statistically significantly associated with risk of CRD in diabetic patients (p trend<0.05 in non-adjusted and adjusted model) and had a predictive value (AUC = 0.559). We also found a U-shaped association between PLR and CRD in patients with DM. The break point was 69.2. To the right of 69.2, the OR (95% CI) was 1.00 (1.00, 1.01). To the left of it, the OR (95% CI) was 0.97 (0.95, 1.00). We have found that PLR is not related to suicidal tendencies.

Conclusion

PLR is an independent risk factor for CRD in DM patients, and the relationship between them is nonlinear. When PLR was around 69.2, patients with diabetes had the lowest risk of depression. Further research is needed to clarify the nonlinear relationship between PLR and depression in DM patients.