Relationship of Nutritional Status, Inflammation, and Serum Albumin Levels During Acute Illness: A Prospective Study

Prognostic value of the fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) in patients with chronic heart failure across the different ejection fraction spectrum

The ratio of fibrinogen to albumin (FAR) is considered a new inflammatory biomarker and a predictor of cardiovascular disease risk. However, its prognostic value for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) with different ejection fractions (EFs) remains unclear. A total of 916 hospitalized patients with CHF from January 2017 to October 2021 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University were included in the study. Death occurred in 417 (45.5%) patients out of 916 patients during a median follow-up time of 750 days. Among these patients, 381 patients suffered from HFrEF (LVEF <40%) and 535 patients suffered from HFpEF or HFmrEF (HFpEF plus HFmrEF, LVEF ≥ 40%). Patients were categorized into high-level FAR (FAR-H) and low-level FAR (FAR-L) groups based on the optimal cut-off value of FAR (9.06) obtained from receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Upon analysing the Kaplan - Meier plots, the incidence of death was significantly higher in all patients with FAR-H and patients in both HF subgroups (p < 0.001). The multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses indicated that the FAR was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality, regardless of heart failure subtype. (HR 1.115, 95% CI 1.089-1.142, p < 0.001; HFpEF plus HFmrEF, HR 1.109, 95% CI 1.074-1.146, p < 0.0001; HFrEF, HR 1.138, 95% CI 1.094-1.183, p < 0.0001) The optimal cut-off value of FAR in predicting all-cause mortality was 9.06 with an area under the curve value of 0.720 (95% CI: 0.687-0.753, p < 0.001), a sensitivity of 68.8% and a specificity of 65.6%. After adjusting for the traditional indicators (LVEF, Lg BNP, etc.), the new model with the FAR had better prediction ability in patients with CHF. Elevated FAR is an independent predictor of death in CHF and is not related to the HF subtype.

Serum fibrinogen/albumin ratio and early neurological deterioration in patients with recent small subcortical infarction

BACKGROUND

Serum fibrinogen/albumin ratio (FAR) is a new inflammatory marker related to a variety of diseases, and it has been shown to be associated with stroke. This study is to investigate the relationship between serum FAR and early neurological deterioration (END) in patients with recent small subcortical infarction (RSSI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Consecutive RSSI patients admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from June 2015 to June 2022 were enrolled. The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was utilized to evaluate the severity of the patients at admission and within seven days post-admission. END was defined as an increase of ≥2 points in NIHSS score from admission or ≥1 point in the motor item of the score within seven days post-admission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify risk factors for END. The correlation between FAR and END was investigated using restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis. Subgroup analysis was used to assess stability across different populations.

RESULTS

A total of 766 RSSI patients were included in the analysis, with 538 males (70.24%). END occurred in 115 (15.01%) patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that FAR (OR = 1.016, 95%CI: 1.005-1.028), PAD (OR = 1.805, 95%CI: 1.161-2.807) and age (OR = 1.028, 95%CI: 1.009-1.048) were associated with END in RSSI patients. RCS analysis indicated a linear correlation between FAR and END (p for nonlinear = .128). Subgroup analysis indicated association between FAR and END in male (OR = 1.02, 95%CI: 1.00-1.03), patients aged ≤65 years (OR = 1.02, 95%CI: 1.00-1.03) and patients without smoking history (OR = 1.02, 95%CI: 1.00-1.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated FAR levels were associated with the occurrence of END within seven days after admission in RSSI patients, especially in men, age ≤65 years, or patients without smoking history.

Prognostic significance of C-reactive protein-albumin-lymphocyte (CALLY) index after primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

In this study, the relationship between C-reactive protein-albumin-lymphocyte (CALLY) index, a novel composite indicator based on inflammation and nutrition, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) was investigated in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 438 patients with STEMI who were treated at a single center between January 2017 and December 2020. The CALLY index was calculated for each patient on admission. The predictive value of the CALLY index for short- and long-term MACEs was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC) analysis, and the corresponding AUC values were calculated. Clinical characteristics were analyzed after categorizing the population based on the optimal cut-off value of the CALLY index. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to determine factors independently associated with MACEs, while logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with the severity of coronary artery lesions. Kaplan-Meier estimation and log-rank test were used to assess event-free survival rates among different CALLY index groups. Additionally, Spearman's correlation test was used to determine the association between the CALLY index and the Gensini score.

RESULTS

The AUC for predicting short-term MACEs in STEMI patients using the CALLY index was 0.758, while the AUC for predicting long-term MACEs was 0.740. Similarly, the AUC values were 0.815 and 0.819, respectively, when evaluating the short- and long-term mortality rates using the CALLY index. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that a high CALLY index (threshold of 1.50) independently reduced the risk of short-term MACEs in patients with STEMI (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.274, 95 % confidence interval [CI] = 0.121-0.621, P=0.002). Multivariable Cox regression also demonstrated that a high CALLY index (threshold > 0.91) independently reduced the occurrence of long-term MACEs during follow-up in STEMI patients (HR=0.439, 95 % CI=0.292-0.659, P<0.001). Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a high CALLY index (threshold > 1.13) independently reduced the risk of severe coronary artery lesions in patients with STEMI (odds ratio = 0.299 [95 % CI=184-0.485], P<0.001). A positive correlation was observed between the CALLY index and the Gensini score (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The CALLY index is a novel, convenient, and valuable prognostic indicator exhibiting a protective effect against both short- and long-term MACEs in patients with STEMI, emphasizing the significance of inflammation/nutrition in this patient population.

Predictive value of the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score to assess long-term mortality (10 Years) in patients with hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Malnutrition is associated with poor outcomes in patients with chronic diseases. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with hypertension and relationship between malnutrition severity and long-term mortality in these patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study included 11,278 patients with hypertension from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database. The degree of malnutrition was assessed using the Controlled Nutritional Status score, with patients divided into normal, mild, and moderate-to-severe groups. After 10 years of follow-up, the results showed that patients who died had higher CONUT scores, poorer nutritional status, and lower albumin, total cholesterol, and lymphocytes than those who survived (P < 0.05). The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that patients with poor nutritional status had a significantly higher risk of all-cause death. In the Non-Lipid Lowering Drugs group, the CONUT score (hazard ratio (HR): 1.225; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.162-1.292; P < 0.0001), as well as mild (HR: 1.532; 95% CI 1.340-1.751; P < 0.0001) and moderate-to-severe malnutrition (HR: 2.797; 95% CI: 1.441-5.428; P = 0.0024), were independent predictors of long-term mortality. The competing risk regression models showed that cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality increased with increasing CONUT scores. The results were robust in both subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Malnutrition significantly impacts long-term mortality in hypertensive patients. The CONUT score may be a useful tool for assessing the nutritional status of patients with hypertension in the non-lipid-lowering population and for predicting their long-term mortality.

The Association Between the Fibrinogen-to-Albumin Ratio and Intracranial Arterial Stenosis in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke

The association between the fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) and intracranial arterial stenosis (ICAS) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has not yet been reported. In this large-scale investigation, 7894 AIS patients with ICAS-evaluation imaging data from the Third China National Stroke Registry were included. ICAS was defined as >50% stenosis of the intracranial arteries. We dichotomized the degree of ICAS into stenosis and occlusion. The number of ICAS lesions was the total number of intracranial stenotic arteries. Fibrinogen and albumin levels were assessed in the central laboratory of Beijing Tiantan Hospital. Univariate and multivariate analyses with logistic regression were used to determine the association between the FAR quartiles and ICAS. A total of 3900 (49.66%) patients had ICAS. Compared with those of the lowest FAR quartile, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the highest FAR quartile were 1.26 (1.10-1.44), 1.15 (.99-1.33), and 1.19 (1.01-1.39) for ICAS, symptomatic ICAS, and asymptomatic ICAS, respectively. An elevated FAR was also associated with occlusion (adjusted OR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.10-1.49) and lesion number ≥2 (adjusted OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.07-1.45).

Association between nutritional status indices and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in older adults: insights from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-2018

While previous studies have identified a relationship between dietary intake and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the influence of overall nutritional status on NAFLD development has not been thoroughly investigated. This study sought to explore the association between different nutritional status indicators and NAFLD among the older adults. Nutritional status was evaluated using controlling nutritional status (CONUT), prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and nutritional risk index (GNRI), while NAFLD was identified based on a controlled attenuation parameter ≥ 285 dB/m, measured using transient elastography. The analysis included multivariate regression, receiver operating characteristic analysis, eXtreme Gradient Boosting and subgroup analysis to investigate the relationships between nutritional status indices and NAFLD. The study enrolled 1409 participants for the main analysis, with an NAFLD prevalence of 44·7 %. After accounting for potential confounders, a positive association between PNI and NAFLD was observed. Participants in the third and fourth quartiles of PNI showed increased odds of NAFLD compared with the lowest quartile (Q3: OR = 1·45, 95 % CI (1·03, 2·05); Q4: OR = 2·27, 95 % CI (1·59, 3·24)). Similarly, higher GNRI quartiles were significantly associated with greater odds of NAFLD (Q4 v. Q1: aOR = 1·84; 95 % CI (1·28, 2·65)). Conversely, higher CONUT values were linked to a reduced prevalence of NAFLD (OR = 0·65, 95 % CI (0·48, 0·87)). This study highlights that suboptimal nutritional status, indicating overnutrition as evaluated by PNI, GNRI and CONUT, is positively linked with the risk of NAFLD in individuals aged 50 years and above.

Predicting High-Flow Nasal Cannula Oxygen Therapy Failure in Patients With Acute Hypoxaemic Respiratory Failure Using Machine Learning: Model Development and External Validation

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To develop and validate a prediction model for high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) failure in patients with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure (AHRF).

BACKGROUND

AHRF accounts for a major proportion of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and is associated with high mortality. HFNC is a non-invasive respiratory support technique that can improve patient oxygenation. However, HFNC failure, defined as the need for escalation to invasive mechanical ventilation, can lead to delayed intubation, prolonged mechanical ventilation and increased risk of mortality. Timely and accurate prediction of HFNC failure has important clinical implications. Machine learning (ML) can improve clinical prediction.

DESIGN

Multicentre observational study.

METHODS

This study analysed 581 patients from an academic medical centre in Boston and 180 patients from Guangzhou, China treated with HFNC for AHRF. The Boston dataset was randomly divided into a training set (90%, n = 522) and an internal validation set (10%, n = 59), and the model was externally validated using the Guangzhou dataset (n = 180). A random forest (RF)-based feature selection method was used to identify predictive factors. Nine machine learning algorithms were selected to build the predictive model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and performance evaluation parameters were used to evaluate the models.

RESULTS

The final model included 38 features selected using the RF method, with additional input from clinical specialists. Models based on ensemble learning outperformed other models (internal validation AUC: 0.83; external validation AUC: 0.75). Important predictors of HFNC failure include Glasgow Coma Scale scores and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores, albumin levels measured during HFNC treatment, ROX index at ICU admission and sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study developed an interpretable ML model that accurately predicts the risk of HFNC failure in patients with AHRF.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Clinicians and nurses can use ML models for early risk assessment and decision support in AHRF patients receiving HFNC.

REPORTING METHOD

TRIPOD checklist for prediction model studies was followed in this study.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

Patients were involved in the sample of the study.

Is the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score a novel biomarker for predicting mortality in patients with middle cerebral artery infarctions undergoing mechanical thrombectomy?

BACKGROUND

The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score, easily calculated parameter, indicating systemic inflammation and nutritional status INTRODUCTION: In this study, we used the HALP score in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT) to predict 90-day mortality.

METHOD

122 patients with AIS who underwent either MT or MT and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) for middle cerebral artery (MCA) M1 occlusion. The HALP score was calculated, demographic data, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, and mortality status in retrospectively reviewed. The effectiveness of the HALP score in predicting mortality within 90 days was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic ( ROC) curves. The optimal cutoff value for HALP was 13.10.

RESULTS

A HALP score <13.10 increased the risk of death within 90 days and was associated with a higher incidence of large artery thrombosis. Cardioembolism and hyperlipidemia were more common in patients with high (>13) HALP scores. In addition to the HALP score, the length of hospital stay, 24-h National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (NIHSS), number of days of intubation, acute physiologic assessment and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II score, and symptom-to-groin time were statistically significant risk factors for mortality within 90 days.

DISCUSSION

The HALP score is an easily calculated, inexpensive, and noninvasive parameter that can be used to predict mortality in patients with MCA M1 occlusion undergoing reperfusion therapy. Low HALP scores indicate a poor prognosis. Thus, there is a relationship between the HALP score and survival.

Clinical usefulness of C-reactive protein-albumin-lymphocyte (CALLY) index as a prognostic biomarker in patients undergoing surgical resection of pancreatic cancer

PURPOSE

The C-reactive protein-albumin-lymphocyte (CALLY) index, which simultaneously evaluates the nutritional, immunological, and inflammatory statuses, is a new prognostic biomarker in patients with various cancers; however, no study has reported the clinical significance of the CALLY index in patients with pancreatic cancer. This study aimed to investigate whether the preoperative CALLY index is a prognostic biomarker in patients undergoing surgical resection of pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 461 patients with pancreatic cancer who underwent surgical resection between January 2013 and December 2022. The overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazards regression models.

RESULTS

The optimal cut-off value for the preoperative CALLY index was 1.9. In the low CALLY group, patients were older (p = 0.012), more patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (p = 0.002), the median tumor size was larger (p < 0.001), more patients had pathologically confirmed metastatic lymph nodes (p = 0.015) and worse pathological stage (p = 0.015), and fewer patients received adjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.003). A low CALLY index was associated with decreased OS (22.1 vs. 37.9 months) and RFS (12.4 vs. 16.4 months). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the preoperative CALLY index was an independent prognostic factor for OS (p < 0.001) and RFS (p = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

The preoperative CALLY index is a prognostic biomarker for both OS and RFS in patients undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer.

Novel Challenges and Opportunities for Anesthesia and Perioperative Care in Microvascular Flap Surgery: A Narrative Review

Complex microvascular techniques and in-depth knowledge of blood rheology and microanastomosis function are required for success in microvascular flap surgery. Substantial progress has been achieved in preventing complications, but the rate of flap loss is still significant and can have significant adverse effects on the patient. Flap thrombosis, flap hematoma, and flap loss are the most frequent and severe major surgical complications. Advances in understanding the pathophysiology of different flap complications, the use of preoperative risk assessment and new treatment concepts could improve the perioperative care of microvascular flap surgery patients. Our aim was to outline novel avenues for best practice and provide an outlook for further research of anesthesia and perioperative care concepts in microvascular flap surgery.

Relationship between albumin and rheumatoid arthritis: Evidence from NHANES and Mendelian randomization

With the rising incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the increasing percentage of serum RF negativity, more and more accurate methods are urgently needed for the early diagnosis and prevention of RA, among which serum albumin (ALB) is closely related to the development of RA, and it is expected to become a new auxiliary diagnostic means, but its relationship with RA is not clear, so the present study aimed to investigate the Causal relationship. In this study, we used a generalized linear model and smoothed curve fitting to comprehensively evaluate the relationship between ALB and RA through the data of ALB and RA in the NHANES database, in addition, we further used inverse variance weighted (IVW) in Mendelian randomization (MR) in conjunction with the other 4 methods to further validate and clarify the causal relationship. The results were also examined for heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy to assess whether the results were robust. Finally, we used Bayesian co-localization analysis to clarify that ALB and RA share common genetic loci. In the observational study, after correction for multiple confounders, ALB remained more significantly negatively associated with RA (OR = 0.66, [95% CI = 0.51-0.86], P = .003), and subgroup analyses showed significant negative associations in both men and women (men: OR = 0.67, [95% CI = 0.46-0.99], P = .046; females: OR = 0.66, [95% CI = 0.44-1.00], P = .049). In further MR analysis, IVW: ALB on RA, OR = 0.70 [95% 0.52-0.93], P = .013; RA on ALB, OR = 0.95 [95% CI = 0.93-0.98], P < .001. The results of the MR analyses were in agreement with those of NHANES, which did not share a common genetic locus in co-localization analysis. There is a significant relationship between ALB and RA, and the reduction of ALB may be one of the risk factors for RA, as well as one of the outcomes in the development of RA.

Serum albumin level is associated with mortality and hospital stays: A real-world data analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The value of serum albumin might be underestimated, especially in cancer patients. We thus aimed to evaluate the association between serum albumin level at hospital admission and clinical outcomes in hospitalized patients with cancer.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, cross-sectional, and real-world data analysis. Hospitalized adult patients with malignant cancer were recruited from two tertiary hospitals. Serum level of albumin, which was measured within 24 h after hospital admission, was the exposure. Length of hospital stays (LOS) was the primary and all-cause in-hospital mortality was the secondary outcomes. Other information, including age, sex, types of cancer, history of hypertension and diabetes, surgery, blood routine test, liver and renal function, and dietary intake, were also abstracted from medical records.

RESULTS

A total number of 5187 adult patients with cancer (2949 were men and 2238 women; average age 61.6 ± 12.4 years and average albumin 40.3 ± 5.2 g/L) were included. The prevalence of hypoalbuminemia was 12.2 % (634/5187). Older patients, patients with liver injury, anemia, and with high level of WBC were positively, while those with overweight and high level of total triglycerides, were negatively associated with hypoalbuminemia. After adjustment of covariates, hypoalbuminemia was significantly associated with longer LOS in the current study. The increase of 5 g/L in serum level of albumin could result in 1.09 days (95%CI: -1.38, -0.80 days) shorter in LOS. The increase of 5 g/L in serum level of albumin was also associated with 45 % lower in risk of mortality (OR = 0.55; 95 % CI: 0.43, 0.7) after fully adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum albumin level at admission was associated with both LOS and mortality in patients with malignant cancer.

First-Trimester Preeclampsia-Induced Disturbance in Maternal Blood Serum Proteome: A Pilot Study

Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex and multifaceted obstetric syndrome characterized by several distinct molecular subtypes. It complicates up to 5% of pregnancies and significantly contributes to maternal and newborn morbidity, thereby diminishing the long-term quality of life for affected women. Due to the widespread dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of existing approaches for assessing PE risk, there is a pressing need for ongoing research to identify newer, more accurate predictors. This study aimed to investigate early changes in the maternal serum proteome and associated signaling pathways. The levels of 125 maternal serum proteins at 11-13 weeks of gestation were quantified using liquid chromatography-multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (LC-MRM MS) with the BAK-125 kit. Ten serum proteins emerged as potential early markers for PE: Apolipoprotein M (APOM), Complement C1q subcomponent subunit B (C1QB), Lysozyme (LYZ), Prothrombin (F2), Albumin (ALB), Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein (AZGP1), Tenascin-X (TNXB), Alpha-1-antitrypsin (SERPINA1), Attractin (ATRN), and Apolipoprotein A-IV (APOA4). Notably, nine of these proteins have previously been associated with PE in prior research, underscoring the consistency and reliability of our findings. These proteins play key roles in critical molecular processes, including complement and coagulation cascades, platelet activation, and insulin-like growth factor pathways. To improve the early prediction of PE, a highly effective Support Vector Machine (SVM) model was developed, analyzing 19 maternal serum proteins from the first trimester. This model achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.91, with 87% sensitivity and 95% specificity, and a hazard ratio (HR) of 13.5 (4.6-40.8) with p < 0.001. These findings demonstrate that serum protein-based SVM models possess significantly higher predictive power compared to the routine first-trimester screening test, highlighting their superior utility in the early detection and risk stratification of PE.

Early Mortality Stratification with Serum Albumin and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score at Emergency Department Admission in Septic Shock Patients

Background: Early risk stratification is crucial due to septic patients' heterogeneity. Serum albumin level may reflect the severity of sepsis and host status. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic ability of the initial sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score alone and combined with serum albumin levels for predicting 28-day mortality in patients with septic shock. Methods: We conducted an observational study using a prospective, multicenter registry of septic shock patients between October 2015 and May 2022 from 12 emergency departments in the Korean Shock Society and the results were validated by examining those from the septic shock cohort in Asan Medical Center. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to compare the predictive values of SOFA score alone and SOFA score combined with serum albumin level. Results: Among 5805 septic shock patients, 1529 (26.3%) died within 28 days. Mortality increased stepwise with decreasing serum albumin levels (13.6% in albumin ≥3.5, 20.7% in 3.5-3.0, 29.7% in 3.0-2.5, 44.0% in 2.5-2.0, 56.4% in <2.0). The albumin SOFA score was calculated by adding the initial SOFA score to the 4 points assigned for albumin levels. ROC analysis for predicting 28-day mortality showed that the area under the curve for the albumin SOFA score was 0.71 (95% CI 0.70-0.73), which was significantly higher than that of the initial SOFA score alone (0.68, 95% CI: 0.67-0.69). Conclusions: The combination of the initial SOFA score with albumin can improve prognostic accuracy for patients with septic shock, suggesting the albumin SOFA score may be used as an early mortality stratification tool.

New Approaches Based on Inflammatory Indexes in the Evaluation of the Neoplastic Potential of Colon Polyps

Colorectal polyps, precursors to colorectal cancer (CRC), require precise identification for appropriate diagnosis and therapy. This study aims to investigate the differences in hematological and inflammatory markers, specifically the CALLY index, HALP score, and immuno-inflammatory indexes, between neoplastic and nonneoplastic polyps. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 758 patients aged 61.0 ± 11.8 who underwent polypectomy between June 2021 and May 2024. Patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma (n = 22) were excluded. The polyps were classified into neoplastic and nonneoplastic categories based on histopathological evaluation. The study compared the CALLY index, HALP score, and various inflammatory indexes between neoplastic and nonneoplastic polyps. Out of 758 polyps analyzed, 514 were neoplastic, and 244 were nonneoplastic. Neoplastic polyps exhibited significantly lower CALLY and HALP scores (p < 0.05) and higher immuno-inflammatory indexes (p < 0.05) compared to nonneoplastic polyps. Dysplasia status, polyp diameter, and sigmoid colon localization were significant factors in determining neoplastic growth potential. No significant differences were observed in polyp localization in the proximal and distal colon segments or in solitary versus multiple polyps. The CALLY and HALP scores and immuno-inflammatory indexes can serve as valuable markers for distinguishing neoplastic from nonneoplastic polyps. These indexes reflect underlying inflammatory and immune responses, highlighting their potential utility in the early detection and risk stratification of colorectal polyps. Integrating these markers into clinical practice may enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient management, leading to timely interventions and better outcomes for individuals at risk of CRC.

C-reactive protein to albumin ratio and risk of incident metabolic syndrome in community-dwelling adults: longitudinal findings over a 12-year follow-up period

AIM

The C-reactive protein to albumin (CRP/Alb) ratio has emerged as a novel biomarker for various inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the CRP/Alb ratio and incident metabolic syndrome (MetS) with a large-sample, community-based Korean cohort over a 12-year follow-up period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Among 10,030 participants, a total of 6205 participants aged 40-69 years without MetS were selected from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES). The baseline CRP/Alb ratio was divided into quartiles. The definition of newly developed MetS was the one proposed by the 2009 Joint Interim Statement of Circulation. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident MetS were calculated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models after adjusting for potentially confounding variables.

RESULTS

During the 12-year follow-up period, MetS developed in 2535 subjects (40.9%, 2535/6205) with an incidence rate of 5.6-11.9 (over 2 years). Compared to the reference first quartiles, the HRs (95% CIs) of incident MetS in the second, third, and fourth quartiles increased in a dose-response manner. Compared to the reference quartile, the HRs (95% CIs) of the incidence of MetS for the second, third, and fourth quartiles of CRP/Alb ratio were 1.12 (0.99-1.27), 1.24 (1.11-1.40), and 1.51 (1.34-1.69) after adjusting for age, sex, smoking status, alcohol intake, physical activity, total cholesterol, mean arterial pressure, HOMA-IR, and total energy intake.

CONCLUSIONS

High CRP/Alb ratio at baseline may be a useful surrogate indicator of future incident MetS.

Association Between Postoperative Decrease of Albumin and Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Craniotomy for Brain Tumors

BACKGROUND

Serum albumin reflects nutritional status and is associated with postoperative complications and mortality. Delta albumin (ΔAlb), defined as the difference between preoperative and lowest postoperative levels, could predict complications and mortality, even with postoperative levels above 30 g/L prompting albumin infusions. This study aimed to assess how ΔAlb relates to outcomes in craniotomy patients with brain tumors.

METHODS

This retrospective study screened patients diagnosed with a brain tumor who underwent cerebral surgery from a single Chinese hospital between December 2010 and April 2021. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on their ΔAlb levels: <5 g/L (normal), 5-9.9 g/L (mild ΔAlb), 10-14.9 g/L (moderate ΔAlb), and ≥15 g/L (severe ΔAlb). The primary outcome was postoperative 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

Among the 9660 patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumors, the median ΔAlb level after craniotomy was 7.3 g/L. ΔAlb was associated with increased postoperative 30-day mortality; odds ratios for mild, moderate, and severe ΔAlb were 1.93 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17-3.18, P = 0.01), 2.21 (95% CI, 1.28-3.79, P = 0.004), and 7.26 (95% CI, 4.19-12.58, P < 0.01), respectively. Significantly, ΔAlb >5 g/L was found to have a strong association with a higher risk of mortality, even when the nadir Alb remained greater than 30 g/L (odds ratio, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.13-3.00, P = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumor resection, a mild degree of ΔAlb was associated with increased 30-day mortality, even if the nadir Alb remained greater than 30 g/L. Moreover, ΔAlb was associated with postoperative complications and longer lengths of stay.

Hypoalbuminemia is Highly Prevalent in Patients with Periprosthetic Joint Infection and Strongly Associated with Treatment Failure

OBJECTIVE

The role of hypoalbuminemia throughout the course of chronic periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains poorly understood. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of hypoalbuminemia in periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) patients and to explore the association between hypoalbuminemia and treatment outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 387 PJI cases who underwent two-stage exchange arthroplasty between January 2007 and August 2020, of which 342 were reimplanted. The mean follow-up period was 7.9 years. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for hypoalbuminemia and to assess the effect of hypoalbuminemia at 1st- and 2nd-stage exchange on the treatment outcome. Furthermore, the impact of dynamic changes in hypoalbuminemia was investigated.

RESULTS

The prevalence of hypoalbuminemia at 1st- and 2nd-stage exchange was 22.2% and 4.7%, respectively. Patients with age ≥ 68 years and those with isolation of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus, or Gram-negative bacteria exhibited a higher risk of hypoalbuminemia. Hypoalbuminemia at 1st-stage was significantly related to treatment failure (OR = 3.3), while hypoalbuminemia at 2nd-stage raised the OR to 10.0. Patients with persistent hypoalbuminemia at both the 1st- and 2nd-stage exchanges had a significantly higher rate of treatment failure than patients with hypoalbuminemia at the 1st-stage but normal albumin levels at the 2nd-stage exchange (55.6% vs 20.0%, p = 0.036).

CONCLUSION

One in five patients with chronic PJI exhibits hypoalbuminemia. Hypoalbuminemia is more likely to develop in patients of advanced age and those infected by specific highly virulent organisms. Also, our results highlight the close association between hypoalbuminemia and treatment outcomes.

Association between lactate-to-albumin ratio and short-time mortality in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVE

The lactate-to-albumin ratio (LAR) has been confirmed to be an effective prognostic marker in sepsis, heart failure, and acute respiratory failure. However, the relationship between LAR and mortality in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains unclear. We aim to evaluate the predictive value of LAR for ARDS patients.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (v2.2) database.

PATIENTS

769 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS).

INTERVENTIONS

We divided the patients into two subgroups according to the primary study endpoint (28-days all-cause mortality): the 28-day survivors and the 28-day non-survivors.

MEASURES

Multivariate Cox Regression, Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were used to investigate the relationship between LAR and short-time mortality in patients with ARDS.

MAIN RESULTS

The 28-day mortality was 38 % in this study. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that LAR was an independent predictive factor for 28-day mortality (HR 1.11, 95 %CI: 1.06-1.16, P < 0.001). The area under curve (AUC) of LAR in the ROC was 70.34 % (95 %CI: 66.53 % - 74.15 %) that provided significantly higher discrimination compared with lactate (AUC = 68.00 %, P = 0.0007) or albumin (AUC = 63.17 %, P = 0.002) alone. LAR was also not inferior to SAPSII with the AUC of 73.44 % (95 %CI: 69.84 % - 77.04 %, P = 0.21). Additionally, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis displayed that ARDS patients with high LAR (> the cut-off value 0.9055) had a significantly higher 28-day overall mortality rate (P < 0.001) and in-hospital mortality rate (P < 0.001). However, patients in high LAR group had shorter length of hospital stay (P < 0.001), which might be caused by higher in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

We confirmed that there was a positive correlation between LAR and 28-day mortality. This could provide anesthesiologists and critical care physicians with a more convenient tool than SAPSII without being superior for detecting ARDS patients with poor prognosis timely.

Prognostic value of red blood cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio in ICU patients with coronary heart disease and diabetes mellitus

Background

The red blood cell distribution width (RDW)-to-albumin ratio (RAR) has emerged as a potentially valuable prognostic indicator in diverse medical conditions. However, the prognostic significance of RAR in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and diabetes mellitus (DM) remains uncertain and requires further investigation.

Methods

This study aims to investigate the prognostic significance of RAR in ICU patients with coexisting CHD and DM through a retrospective cohort analysis using data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database (version 2.2). The study population included patients aged 18 years or older who were diagnosed with both CHD and DM. The primary endpoint was 1-year mortality, and the secondary endpoints included 30-day mortality, 90-day mortality, hospital length of stay (LOS), and ICU LOS.

Results

A total of 3416 patients, of whom 64.64% were male, were included in the study. The 30-day mortality, 90-day mortality, and 1-year mortality were 7.08%, 7.44%, and 7.49%, respectively. After adjusting for confounding factors, multivariate Cox proportional risk analysis demonstrated that high RAR levels were associated with an increased risk of 30-day mortality (HR, 1.53 [95% CI 1.17-2.07], P = 0.006), 90-day mortality (HR, 1.58 [95% CI 1.17-2.13], P = 0.003), and 1-year mortality (HR, 1.58 [95% CI 1.17-2.13], P = 0.003). Furthermore, the restricted cubic spline (RCS) model indicated a linear relationship between RAR and 1-year mortality.

Conclusion

The results suggest that RAR holds potential as a valuable prognostic biomarker in ICU patients with both CHD and DM. Elevated RAR levels were found to be significantly associated with increased mortality during hospitalization, facilitating the identification of individuals at higher risk of adverse outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating RAR into risk stratification and overall management strategies for ICU patients with coexisting CHD and DM.

Associations of HALP score with serum prostate-specific antigen and mortality in middle-aged and elderly individuals without prostate cancer

Background

The association between the Hemoglobin, Albumin, Lymphocyte, and Platelet (HALP) score and serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and all-cause mortality remains underexplored. We aimed to investigate the relationship between HALP score and these outcomes among middle-aged and elderly individuals without prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

This cross-sectional study included participants aged 40 years and older from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2010. HALP score was calculated using the formula: HALP score = (Hemoglobin × Albumin × Lymphocytes)/Platelets. High PSA level was defined as a percentage free PSA (%fPSA) less than or equal to 25% and a total PSA (tPSA) level equal to or higher than 4.0 ng/mL. Mortality data were obtained through December 30, 2019 by linking to the National Death Index.

Results

Among 7,334 participants, 6,826 were classified as having low PSA level, while 508 were categorized as having high PSA level. Logistic regression revealed lower odds of high PSA level with higher HALP quartiles (P trend<0.001). Among 508 participants with high PSA level, over a median follow-up period of 10.13 years (IQR: 5.42-13.17 years), a total of 268 all-cause deaths were recorded. Cox regression analysis showed that participants in the highest HALP quartile had the lowest risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 0.527, 95% CI: 0.368-0.754) in participants with high PSA level. Restricted cubic spline analysis indicated a non-linear and negative correlation between HALP score and all-cause mortality, with an inflection point at 43.98 (P for non-linearity = 0.009). Random survival forest analysis ranked HALP score as the most significant predictor for all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

Our study highlights that the HALP score the HALP score is associated with high PSA level and all-cause mortality among middle-aged and elderly individuals without PCa. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and elucidate underlying mechanisms.

Elevated serum albumin-to-creatinine ratio as a protective factor on clinical outcomes among critically ill patients with sepsis: a retrospective study

Background

The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic significance of serum albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) in critically ill patients with sepsis.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed sepsis cases admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University between January 2015 and November 2023. The patients were divided into four groups based on their ACR upon admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Laboratory data were collected at the time of ICU admission, and the primary outcome measure was in-hospital all-cause mortality. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were generated to illustrate the differences in 30-/60-day mortality among the various groups. Multivariate Cox regression models and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were utilized to explore the association between ACR and all-cause mortality in sepsis patients. Subgroup analyses were conducted to examine the impact of other covariates on the relationship between ACR and all-cause mortality.

Results

A total of 1,123 eligible patients were included in the study, with a median ACR of 0.169. The in-hospital mortality rate was 33.7%, the ICU mortality rate was 31.9%, and the 30-day mortality rate was 28.1%. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that patients with higher ACR had a significantly lower risk of 30-/60-day mortality (log-rank p < 0.001). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses revealed that ACR was an independent predictor of in-hospital death (HR: 0.454, 95% CI 0.271-0.761, p = 0.003), ICU death (HR: 0.498, 95% CI 0.293-0.847, p = 0.010), and 30-day death (HR: 0.399, 95% CI 0.218-0.730, p = 0.003). For each 1-unit increase in ACR, there was a 1.203-fold decrease in the risk of death during the hospital stay. The RCS curve illustrated a non-linear negative correlation between ACR and in-hospital mortality (p for non-linear =0.018), ICU mortality (p for non-linear =0.005), and 30-day mortality (p for non-linear =0.006). Sensitivity analysis indicated consistent effect sizes and directions in different subgroups, confirming the stability of the results.

Conclusion

Low ACR levels were identified as independent risk factors associated with increased in-hospital, ICU, and 30-day mortality in sepsis patients. ACR can serve as a significant predictor of the clinical outcome of sepsis.

The HALP score as a prognostic factor in metastatic biliary cancer

BACKGROUND

Biliary tract cancers are serious diseases and new biomarkers may be useful for the optimal management and prediction of these cases. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score, a novel composite marker, in patients with metastatic biliary tract cancer.

METHODS

Patients with biliary tract cancers were analyzed retrospectively. Laboratory values, patient and disease characteristics, and survival rates were evaluated. The diagnostic impact of the HALP score was assessed with regression analyses.

RESULTS

The study included 106 individuals with metastatic biliary tract cancer. Based on the median HALP score, ≥ 2.22 was considered a high score and < 2.22 was considered low. The overall average survival time was found to be 11.4 months. Patients with low HALP scores had median overall survival of 9.5 months, while those with high HALP scores had median overall survival of 15.9 months. In multivariate analysis, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, CA19-9 level, and HALP score remained significant predictors of overall survival.

CONCLUSION

The HALP score appears to be a useful prognostic marker in patients with metastatic biliary tract cancer.

Effect of a Phytochemical-Rich Olive-Derived Extract on Anthropometric, Hematological, and Metabolic Parameters

BACKGROUND

Extra virgin olive oil is a fundamental component of the Mediterranean diet. It contains several molecules that sustain human well-being by modulating cellular metabolism and exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ageing effects to protect normal tissues, and it can exert anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic effects on cancer cells. Metabolites found in different parts of the olive tree, including leaves, also possess properties that might help in cancer prevention and promote wellness in aging. Olive mill wastewater (OMWW), a liquid residue produced during olive oil extraction, represents an environmental issue. However, it is rich in phytochemicals with potential beneficial properties. Dietary supplements based on OMWW can be produced for nutritional supplementation with advantages to the ecology.

PURPOSE

This work aims to measure hematochemical, anthropometric, and metabolomic parameters in volunteers taking an OMWW dietary supplement, Oliphenolia® (OMWW-OL).

METHODS

The supplementation of OMWW-OL 25 mL twice daily for 30 days was tested on a pilot cohort of volunteers with characteristics close to metabolic syndrome. Hematochemical, anthropometric, serum biomarkers and serum metabolomic parameters were analyzed before the intervention, at 30 days, and 30 days after stopping consumption.

RESULTS

A total of 29 volunteers were enrolled, and 23 completed the study. The participants' parameters at baseline were measured, and then twice daily at 30 days of treatment and 30 days after assumption discontinuation. Although treatment was with an olive derivative, their weight did not increase. Their body mass index, instead of augmenting, slightly decreased, particularly in the women. Also, hydration increased, especially in the women, while blood pressure, glycemia, and insulin decreased. Cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, and triglycerides were stable, and LDL levels decreased, while vitamin D levels, alongside calcium, perceptibly increased. Albumin also increased. All the values were in support of an equilibrium, with no damaging effects. By mass spectrometry analysis, we also found favorable changes in the vitamin D/histamine and homocysteine/methionine ratios, an increase in a new metabolite of unknown formula, and the vitamin D/unknown metabolite ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

Supplementation of OMWW-OL has no detrimental effects and might imply the beneficial modulation of several biological parameters. Although this is a small pilot study, with limited potency, it preliminarily suggests that the OMWW extract use could be potentially valuable for people at risk of metabolic syndrome. Some of these parameters could also be relevant in supporting healthy ageing and in cancer prevention.

Exploring the J-shaped relationship between HALP score and mortality in cancer patients: A NHANES 1999-2018 cohort study

Background

The recent hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) scores, combined with various clinically available indicators, can comprehensively evaluate the nutritional and immune status of patients. Some observational studies have found a positive correlation between HALP score and cancer prognosis, but the clinical application of HALP score has raised concerns due to the presence of confounding factors. The aim of this study is to explore the relationship between HALP score and long-term mortality in cancer patients.

Methods

We extracted 3832 cancer patients with complete baseline information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The COX regressions and restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves were used to explore the nonlinear relationship between HALP score and long-term mortality risk in cancer patients. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) curve was conducted to evaluate the impact of HALP score on long-term mortality risk. Additionally, subgroup analysis was conducted to verify the stability of the above results.

Results

We divided participants into 4 groups based on HALP score, and the COX regression results showed that risk of long-term mortality tended to be lower in cancer patients with high HALP scores. Meanwhile, the RCS curves showed that there was a nonlinear association. The results remained stable in subgroup analyses and in breast cancer, colorectal cancer, cervix and uterus cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer and skin cancer.

Conclusions

HALP score were independently associated with the risk of long-term mortality in cancer patients, and there is also a non-linear association. This will provide new perspectives on clinical and nutritional interventions for cancer patients.

The Association Between Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index at Admission and Readmission in Patients with Bronchiectasis

Purpose

Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), calculated by (neutrophils count × platelet count)/lymphocytes count, is a novel index of the local immune response and systemic inflammation response. The SII has been shown to play an important role in the prognosis of many diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer and COPD. However, its role in the prognosis of bronchiectasis remains unclear and requires further investigation. This study aimed to investigate the association between SII and readmissions in patients with acute exacerbations of bronchiectasis.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all bronchiectasis patients admitted to the respiratory ward in Beijing Chaoyang Hospital from January 2020 to January 2022. Patients were classified into four groups according to the quartiles of log2(SII) at admission. The primary endpoint was readmission at 1-year follow up. Univariate and multivariate cox regression models were applied to investigate the relationship between SII and readmissions at 1-year follow up in patients with bronchiectasis.

Results

A total of 521 patients were included in our study. The median (IQR) SII at admission were 506.10 (564.84). Patients with higher SII tended to be older, male, past and current smokers, have lower BMI, and more dyspnea symptoms. They also had higher inflammatory markers and received a greater spectrum of antibiotics and more intravenous glucocorticoids. Higher SII at admission were independently associated with readmission in patients with acute exacerbations for bronchiectasis following confounder adjustment (OR =1.007; 95% CI, 1.003-1.011; p <0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with elevated SII levels were typically older males, often smokers, with lower BMI and increased dyspnea. They received more antibiotics and intravenous glucocorticoids. Higher SII at admission are associated with readmission in patients with acute exacerbations of bronchiectasis. SII has potential clinical value as a predictive biomarker for clinical outcomes in bronchiectasis, offering a valuable tool for management strategies.

Risk Factors for Postoperative Major Morbidity, Anastomotic Leakage, Re-Surgery and Mortality in Patients with Colonic Perforation

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to determine the risk factors associated with postoperative major morbidity, anastomotic/suture leakage, re-surgery and mortality in patients undergoing emergency surgery for colonic perforation. Methods: A total of 204 adult patients treated surgically for colonic perforation from 2016 to 2021 at the University Hospital Erlangen were included in a retrospective analysis. Patient demographics and pre-, intra- and postoperative parameters were obtained and evaluated among various outcome groups (in-hospital major morbidity, anastomotic/suture leakage, re-surgery and 90-day mortality). Results: Postoperative in-hospital major morbidity, anastomotic/suture leakage, need of re-surgery and 90-day mortality occurred in 45%, 12%, 25% and 12% of the included patients, respectively. Independent risk factors for in-hospital major morbidity were identified and included the presence of any comorbidity, a significantly reduced preoperative general condition, the localization of perforation in the right hemicolon and the need for an intraoperative blood transfusion. The only independent risk factor for anastomotic/suture leakage was the presence of any comorbidity, whereas no independent risk factors for re-surgery were found. An age > 65 years, a significantly reduced preoperative general condition and the need for an intraoperative blood transfusion were independent risk factors for 90-day mortality. Conclusions: Our study identified risk factors impacting postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing emergency surgery for colonic perforation. These patients should receive enhanced postoperative care and may benefit from individualized and targeted therapeutic approaches.

Correlation between malnutrition and mortality in older patients aged ≥90 years with multimorbidity

OBJECTIVES

Malnutrition is prevalent in geriatric patients and associated with poor prognosis. This study aimed to evaluate the incremental prognostic value of different nutritional assessment tools in patients (90 years and older) with multimorbidity in China.

METHODS

Patients aged ≥90 years with multimorbidity from the Geriatric Research Center in Nanjing Jinling Hospital from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2018 were analyzed. Patients were followed until December 31,2022. The nutrition status was assessed according to the mini nutritional assessment (MNA), the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI), and the prognostic nutritional index score (PNI), respectively. The outcome was all-cause death. Kaplan-Meier method was used to draw the survival curve, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional risk regression analysis was used to explore the influencing factors of all-cause death in the patients.

RESULTS

160 participants aged 90(90,91) years were included. During a median follow-up of 5.41(3.12-7.64) years, 106(66.25 %) patients died. Deceased patients had lower MNA [20.75(16.75,23.00) vs. 26.00(24.00,26.00); p < 0.001], lower GNRI [96.21±8.75 vs. 100.94±6.80; p = 0.001] and lower PNI [46.16(40.77,49.57) vs. 47.75(45.36,51.53); p = 0.010] than did survivors. According to MNA, GNRI, and PNI score, 93(58.1 %), 72(45.0 %) and 41(25.6 %) of participants were at risk of malnutrition. Multivariate analysis revealed that malnutrition was independently associated with increased risk for mortality by MNA score (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.502, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.561-4.009, p<0.001), GNRI score (adjusted HR 1.650, 95 % CI, 1.117-2.438, p = 0.012), and PNI score (adjusted HR 2.894, 95 % CI, 1.891-4.431, p<0.001). Furthermore, the inclusion of malnutrition indicators in the survival prediction model significantly improved the predictive power of mortality.

CONCLUSION

The risk of malnutrition, as assessed by MNA, GNRI and PNI, in long-lived patients with multimorbidity is a strong independent predictor of mortality and adds significant prognostic information to the survival models.

Impact of hypoalbuminemia on outcomes following pancreaticoduodenectomy: a NSQIP retrospective cohort analysis of 25,848 patients

BACKGROUND

Efforts to preoperatively risk stratify and optimize patients before pancreaticoduodenectomy continue to improve outcomes. This study aims to determine the impact of hypoalbuminemia on outcomes following pancreaticoduodenectomy and outline optimal hypoalbuminemia cut-off values in this population.

METHODS

The ACS-NSQIP (2016-2021) database was used to extract patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy, comparing those with hypoalbuminemia (< 3.0 g/L) to those with normal albumin. Demographics and 30-day outcomes were compared. Multivariable modeling evaluated factors including hypoalbuminemia to characterize their independent effect on serious complications, and mortality. Optimal albumin cut-offs for serious complications and mortality were evaluated using receiver-operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

We evaluated 25,848 pancreaticoduodenectomy patients with 2712 (10.5%) having preoperative hypoalbuminemia. Patients with hypoalbuminemia were older (68.2 vs. 65.1; p < 0.0001), and were significantly more likely to be ASA class 4 or higher (13.9% vs. 6.7%; p < 0.0001). Patients with hypoalbuminemia had significantly more 30-day complications and after controlling for comorbidities hypoalbuminemia remained a significant independent factor associated with 30-day serious complications (OR 1.80, p < 0.0001) but not mortality (OR 1.37, p = 0.152).

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoalbuminemia plays a significant role in 30-day morbidity following pancreaticoduodenectomy. Preoperative albumin may serve as a useful marker for risk stratification and optimization.

Lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio combined with albumin upon admission predicts coronary artery dilation and aneurysm formation in pediatric patients with Kawasaki disease: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

We aimed to explore simple and effective clinical parameters or combinations to predict coronary artery dilation and aneurysm formation in pediatric patients with Kawasaki disease (KD).

DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included pediatric patients with KD from January, 2013 to December, 2022. Multiple demographic and clinical data were collected, collated, and calculated from the medical records. Then they were divided into the coronary artery dilation and aneurysm formation group or the non-coronary artery dilation and aneurysm formation group. Lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) was transformed into its natural logarithm and expressed as lnLCR.

RESULTS

A total of 64 pediatric patients with KD were enrolled in this cohort study after 1:3 propensity score matching (PSM). For each unit increase in lnLCR, the possibility of coronary artery dilation and aneurysm formation decreased to 0.419 times the original value. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of lnLCR combined with albumin (ALB), ALB, and lnLCR to classify pediatric patients with KD into the coronary artery dilation and aneurysm formation group were 0.781, 0.692, and 0.743, respectively.

CONCLUSION

LCR combined with ALB upon admission is a promising predictor of coronary artery dilation and aneurysm formation in pediatric patients with KD.

Inflammatory Burden Index (IBI) and Hemoglobin, Albumin, Lymphocyte, and Platelet (HALP) Score in Alzheimer's Disease: A Retrospective Comparative Study

OBJECTIVE

 This study aimed to evaluate the differences between Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and controls in biochemistry and peripheral hemogram parameters neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, platelet, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, lipid profile, inflammatory burden index (IBI), and hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score and the relationship between inflammatory and immunonutritive biomarkers and cognitive impairment in patients.

METHOD

Data from 79 patients with AD and 42 controls were included in the study. Medical data of the participants were obtained from hospital records. IBI was obtained by using the following formula: CRP × neutrophil/lymphocyte. HALP score was calculated as (hemoglobin (g/L) × albumin (g/L) × lymphocytes (/L))/platelets (/L).

RESULTS

 Neutrophil count (p=0.003, effect size=0.60), CRP level (p<0.001, effect size=0.87), and IBI (p<0.001, effect size=0.93) were significantly higher in AD patients compared to the control group; hemoglobin (p<0.001, effect size=1.03), lymphocyte count (p<0.001, effect size=0.78), albumin level (p<0.001, effect size=1.31), and HALP score (p<0.001, effect size=0.85) were lower. According to the Standardized Mini Mental Test (SMMT) score, neutrophil count (p=0.001), CRP (p<0.001), and IBI (p<0.001) were significantly higher and lymphocyte count (p=0.001) and HALP score (p<0.001) were lower in the group with severe cognitive impairment. Albumin levels were highest in the group with mild cognitive impairment. In the patient group, there was a moderately significant negative relationship between SMMT score and age (p<0.001, r=-0.437), neutrophil count (p=0.033, r=-0.240), CRP (p<0.001, r=-0.451), and IBI (p<0.001, r=-0.538). Lymphocyte count (p<0.001, r=0.412), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (p=0.049, r=0.223), albumin levels (p=0.001, r=0.357), and HALP score (p<0.001, r=0.486) were moderately positively associated with SMMT score. Age (β=-0.437, p<0.001), HALP score (β=0.403, p<0.001), and IBI (β=-0.322, p=0.004) were found to be predictors for the severity of cognitive impairment.

CONCLUSION

Our results revealed that inflammation and immunonutritive status play an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. Novel inflammatory and immunonutritive biomarkers, and IBI and HALP score may be promising clinical tools that may pave the way for more personalized treatment strategies and interventions for patients.

Association between dietary inflammatory index and all-cause mortality in patients with osteopenia or osteoporosis: A retrospective cohort study from the NHANES 2007-2018

Objective

Osteoporosis is an inflammatory disease that causes a large disease burden worldwide. Dietary inflammation index (DII), a comprehensive assessment index that reflects the pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory level of diet was related to multiple inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to explore the association between DII and all-cause mortality in patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, data of patients aged ≥ 45 years diagnosed as osteopenia or osteoporosis and had complete dietary intake information were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2007-2010, 2013-2014, 2017-2018). Dietary intake information was obtained from 24-h dietary recall interviews and was used to calculate the DII score. Weighted univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were utilized to explore the association between DII and all-cause mortality in patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia, with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses based on different age, gender and complications were further assessed this association.

Results

A total of 5,381 patients were included. Until December 31, 2019, 1,286 all-cause deaths occurred. After adjusting all covariates, high DII was associated with the high odds of all-cause mortality among patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia (HR=1.28, 95 %CI: 1.10-1.48), especially in the male (HR=1.38, 95 %CI: 1.06-1.78), aged < 65 years (HR=1.49, 95 %CI: 1.09-2.02), and without the history the cardiovascular disease (HR=1.30, 95 %CI: 1.03-1.65), diabetes mellitus (HR=1.27, 95 %CI: 1.06-1.52) and chronic kidney disease (HR=1.28, 95 %CI: 1.03-1.58).

Conclusion

A pro-inflammatory diet may have an adverse effect on the prognosis of osteoporosis patients.

C-reactive protein/albumin ratio as a novel predictor for nutritional status of geriatric patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR) is a novel parameter that has been reported as a significant prognostic marker in some diseases. The purpose of the present research was to investigate the predictive value of this ratio with regard to nutritional status in geriatric patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 154 geriatric patients (age ≥65 years) who consecutively presented to the internal medicine outpatient clinic were included in this cross-sectional study. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) was used as a reference to determine the nutritional status of the patients. Based on the MNA results, the patients were divided into two groups: normal nutrition and malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. The median CAR of malnourished patients or those at risk of malnutrition was significantly higher than that of patients with normal nutritional status (p = .012). A significant negative correlation was also observed between the MNA score and the CAR (r = -0.196, p = .015). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that the CAR was a significant predictor of malnourishment or the risk of malnutrition (p = .012).

CONCLUSION

The CAR could predict which geriatric patients were malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. CAR may be used as a new tool in the nutritional screening of geriatric patients.

Effect of physical activity on patients of NSCLC

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of physical activity on both therapeutic efficacy and immune-related adverse events (irAEs) during immunotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Physical activity was divided into three groups: light physical activity (LPA), moderate physical activity (MPA), and vigorous physical activity (VPA) for laboratory indexes, efficacy, and irAEs. A multivariate logistic regression was employed to analyze the relationship between sedentary behavior with efficacy and irAEs.

RESULTS

The study included 121 patients. The three levels of physical activity were not significantly associated with efficacy or irAEs. However, noteworthy disparities were observed in base-hemoglobin levels (F = 3.4, P = 0.037) and base-lymphocyte levels (χ2 = 6.13, P = 0.047) among the three groups. After treatment, we identified statistically significant variations in albumin levels (P = 0.012) and lymphocyte counts (P = 0.035). Furthermore, a negative correlation emerged between pre-treatment sedentary behavior duration and immune-efficacy (β: -0.005, P = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, within the cohort of NSCLC patients undergoing single immunotherapy or a combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy, physical activity is closely related to immune and inflammatory indicators in patients, and prolonged sitting will reduce the therapeutic effect.

CAR, mGPS and hs-mGPS: What is among them the best gero-biomarker for age-related diseases? And for what clinical application?

The identification of biomarkers linked to the onset, progression, and prevention of age-related diseases (ARD), in the era of personalized medicine, represents the best goal of geroscience. Geroscience has the fundamental role of exploring and identifying the biological mechanisms of aging to suggest interventions capable of stopping/delaying the many pathological conditions and disabilities related to age. Therefore, it has become its key priority, as well as that of clinical practice and research, based on identifying and validating a range of biomarkers, geromarkers, which can be used to diagnostic, prognostic, or predictive clinical purposes. Indeed, geromarkers have, the potential to predict ARD trajectories and facilitate targeted interventions to slow down the related disabilities. Here our attention is paid to the inflammatory indexes (CAR, mGPS, hs-mGPS) linked to the relationship between the plasma levels of two inflammatory analytes, the typical positive protein of the acute phase, and the negative one, i.e. c-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin, respectively. These indexes allow us to understand the magnitude of the two main mechanisms predicted to influence the aging process, including inflammation and immunosenescence, as well as the degree of ARD severity. Evidence on their relationship with ARD is widely reported and discussed, to understand which can represent the best ARD geromarker, and its clinical application.

Hypoalbuminemia predicts early postoperative complications following noninfectious revision total shoulder arthroplasty

PURPOSE

This study investigates the association between preoperative hypoalbuminemia and 30-day postoperative complications following noninfectious revision total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA).

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for all patients who underwent noninfectious revision TSA from 2015 to 2021. The study population was divided into two groups based on preoperative serum albumin: normal albumin (≥ 3.5 g/dL) and hypoalbuminemia (< 3.5 g/dL). Logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the relationship between preoperative hypoalbuminemia and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Compared to normal albumin, hypoalbuminemia was independently associated with a significantly greater likelihood of experiencing any complication (odds ratio [OR] 3.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.04-5.19; P < .001), sepsis (OR 9.92, 95% CI 1.29-76.35; P = .028), blood transfusions (OR 2.89, 95% CI 1.20-6.93; P = .017), non-home discharge (OR 2.88, 95% CI 1.55-5.35; P < .001), readmission (OR 3.46, 95% CI 1.57-7.58; P = .002), and length of stay > 2 days (OR 3.00, 95% CI 1.85-4.86; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative hypoalbuminemia was associated with early postoperative complications following revision TSA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III; Retrospective Cohort Comparison; Prognosis Study.

A simple nomogram for predicting the mortality of PICU patients with sepsis-associated encephalopathy: a multicenter retrospective study

Background

As one of the serious complications of sepsis in children, sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is associated with significantly poor prognosis and increased mortality. However, predictors of outcomes for pediatric SAE patients have yet to be identified. The aim of this study was to develop nomograms to predict the 14-day and 90-day mortality of children with SAE, providing early warning to take effective measures to improve prognosis and reduce mortality.

Methods

In this multicenter, retrospective study, we screened 291 patients with SAE admitted to the PICU between January 2017 and September 2022 in Shandong Province. A least absolute shrinkage and selector operation (LASSO) method was used to identify the optimal prognostic factors predicting the outcomes in pediatric patients with SAE. Then, multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed based on these variables, and two nomograms were built for visualization. We used the area under the curve (AUC), calibration curves and decision curves to test the accuracy and discrimination of the nomograms in predicting outcomes.

Results

There were 129 patients with SAE in the training cohort, and there were 103 and 59 patients in the two independent validation cohorts, respectively. Vasopressor use, procalcitonin (PCT), lactate and pediatric critical illness score (PCIS) were independent predictive factors for 14-day mortality, and vasopressor use, PCT, lactate, PCIS and albumin were independent predictive factors for 90-day mortality. Based on the variables, we generated two nomograms for the early identification of 14-day mortality (AUC 0.853, 95% CI 0.787-0.919, sensitivity 72.4%, specificity 84.5%) and 90-day mortality (AUC 0.857, 95% CI 0.792-0.923, sensitivity 72.3%, specificity 90.6%), respectively. The calibration plots for nomograms showed excellent agreement of mortality probabilities between the observed and predicted values in both training and validation cohorts. Decision curve analyses (DCA) indicated that nomograms conferred high clinical net benefit.

Conclusion

The nomograms in this study revealed optimal prognostic factors for the mortality of pediatric patients with SAE, and individualized quantitative risk evaluation by the models would be practical for treatment management.

Inflammatory markers as prognostic markers in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Various inflammatory markers, including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR), have been linked to the effectiveness of immunotherapy in multiple types of malignancies. We investigated how these inflammatory markers affect the prognosis of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) receiving immunotherapy.

Methods

The databases PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were systematically searched up until March 26, 2024, to identify relevant literature. Hazard ratios (HR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were extracted from the eligible studies. Data analysis was conducted using Review Manager and STATA 17.0 software to assess the impact of each indicator on prognosis. Subgroup analysis was performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity in the data.

Results

The analysis included sixteen studies with 1316 patients. A higher baseline NLR was significantly associated with poorer overall survival (OS) (pooled HR: 1.55, 95%CI: 1.14-2.11, P=0.006) and progression-free survival (PFS) (pooled HR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.21-2.10, P<0.05). Furthermore, a high NLR after immunotherapy was strongly correlated with poor OS (pooled HR: 5.43, 95% CI: 3.63-8.12, P<0.01). Additionally, higher baseline C-reactive CAR was significantly associated with worse OS (pooled HR: 2.58, 95% CI: 1.96-3.40, P<0.01).

Conclusion

The inflammatory markers NLR and CAR serve as effective prognostic biomarkers for immunotherapy in patients with HNSCC. However, the practical application of clinical detection requires further validation through large-scale prospective studies to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Red blood cell distribution width to albumin ratio associates with prevalence and long-term diabetes mellitus prognosis: an overview of NHANES 1999-2020 data

Background

Erythrocyte dysfunction is a characteristic of diabetes mellitus (DM). However, erythrocyte-associated biomarkers do not adequately explain the high prevalence of DM. Here, we describe red blood cell distribution width to albumin ratio (RAR) as a novel inflammatory biomarker for evaluating an association with DM prevalence and prognosis of all-cause mortality.

Methods

Data analyzed in this study were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2020. A total of 40,558 participants (non-DM and DM) were enrolled in the study; RAR quartiles were calibrated at Q1 [2.02,2.82] mL/g, Q2 (2.82,3.05] mL/g, Q3 (3.05,3.38] mL/g, and Q4 (3.38,12.08] mL/g. A total of 8,482 DM patients were followed (for a median of 84 months), of whom 2,411 died and 6,071 survived. The prevalence and prognosis associated with RAR and DM were analyzed; age and sex were stratified to analyze the prevalence of RAR in DM and the sensitivity of long-term prognosis.

Results

Among non-DM (n=30,404) and DM (n=10,154) volunteers, DM prevalence in RAR quartiles was 8.23%, 15.20%, 23.92%, and 36.39%. The multivariable odds ratio (OR) was significant for RAR regarding DM, at 1.68 (95% CI 1.42, 1.98). Considering Q1 as a foundation, the Q4 OR was 2.57 (95% CI 2.11, 3.13). The percentages of DM morbidity varied across RAR quartiles for dead (n=2,411) and surviving (n=6,071) DM patients. Specifically, RAR quartile mortality ratios were 20.31%, 24.24%, 22.65%, and 29.99% (P<0.0001). The multivariable hazard ratio (HR) for RAR was 1.80 (95% CI 1.57, 2.05). Considering Q1 as a foundation, the Q4 HR was 2.59 (95% CI 2.18, 3.09) after adjusting for confounding factors. Sensitivity analysis revealed the HR of male DM patients to be 2.27 (95% CI 1.95, 2.64), higher than females 1.56 (95% CI 1.31, 1.85). DM patients who were 60 years of age or younger had a higher HR of 2.08 (95% CI1.61, 2.70) as compared to those older than 60 years, who had an HR of 1.69 (95% CI 1.47, 1.94). The HR of RAR in DM patients was optimized by a restricted cubic spline (RCS) model; 3.22 was determined to be the inflection point of an inverse L-curve. DM patients with a RAR >3.22 mL/g suffered shorter survival and higher mortality as compared to those with RAR ≤3.22 mL/g. OR and HR RAR values were much higher than those of regular red blood cell distribution width.

Conclusions

The predictive value of RAR is more accurate than that of RDW for projecting DM prevalence, while RAR, a DM risk factor, has long-term prognostic power for the condition. Survival time was found to be reduced as RAR increased for those aged ≤60 years among female DM patients.

Controlling nutritional status score in the prediction of cardiovascular disease prevalence, all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease population: NHANES 1999-2018

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition is prevalent in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and associated with adverse outcomes, while COPD is intricately linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD), sharing common risk factors. The controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score, a promising tool for assessing malnutrition, warrants investigation into its predictive ability for cardiovascular disease prevalence and mortality in COPD patients.

METHODS

Based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), this study analyzed 1501 adult COPD patients from 1999 to 2018. The endpoints were CVD prevalence, mortality related to CVD, and overall mortality. We evaluated the correlation of the CONUT score with each outcome using logistic regression and Cox regression models. The prognostic evaluation of patients was conducted using Kaplan-Meier curves in accordance with the CONUT score. We formed the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for evaluating the CONUT score's discriminative capability.

RESULTS

The prevalence of malnutrition was 21.31% in COPD populations. Logistic analyses suggested a distinct connection between the CONUT score and CVD prevalence (OR:1.86, 95%CI:1.28-2.70) in individuals with COPD. The CONUT score demonstrated a significant correlation with a heightened risk of CVD mortality (HR: 1.86, 95%CI: 1.27-2.74) and overall mortality (HR: 1.50, 95%CI: 1.18-1.91). The prognostic outcomes might be effectively discriminated by the CONUT score, as seen by the Kaplan-Meier curves.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the CONUT score provides an uncomplicated and readily attainable marker for forecasting CVD prevalence, total mortality, and mortality from CVD among COPD patients.

Association of high fibrinogen to albumin ratio with long-term mortality in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage

Background

The association between fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) and in-hospital mortality in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) has been established. However, the association with long-term mortality in spontaneous ICH remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the association between FAR and long-term mortality in these patients.

Methods

Our retrospective study involved 3,538 patients who were diagnosed with ICH at West China Hospital, Sichuan University. All serum fibrinogen and serum albumin samples were collected within 24 h of admission and participants were divided into two groups according to the FAR. We conducted a Cox proportional hazard analysis to evaluate the association between FAR and long-term mortality.

Results

Out of a total of 3,538 patients, 364 individuals (10.3%) experienced in-hospital mortality, and 750 patients (21.2%) succumbed within one year. The adjusted hazard ratios (HR) showed significant associations with in-hospital mortality (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.31-1.99), 1-year mortality (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.25-1.67), and long-term mortality (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.28-1.64). Notably, the HR for long-term mortality remained statistically significant at 1.47 (95% CI, 1.15-1.88) even after excluding patients with 1-year mortality.

Conclusion

A high admission FAR was significantly correlated with an elevated HR for long-term mortality in patients with ICH. The combined assessment of the ICH score and FAR at admission showed higher predictive accuracy for long-term mortality than using the ICH score in isolation.

ALBI Grade Is Associated with Clinical Outcomes of Critically Ill Patients with AKI: A Cohort Study with Cox Regression and Propensity Score Matching

Background

The albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade has surfaced as a viable substitute for assessing liver functional reserve in individuals afflicted with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). ALBI grade also demonstrates the capacity to stratify distinct patient subcohorts bearing disparate prognostic implications in not only HCC but also other inflammatory diseases like acute pancreatitis. However, the association between ALBI grade and clinical outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) remains mysterious.

Methods

The dataset was sourced from the Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care Database IV (MIMIC-IV) version 2.0. ALBI grade was calculated in a nomogram utilizing albumin and bilirubin. In order to ascertain the connection between ALBI grades and clinical outcomes of patients with AKI, Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was employed with in-hospital, 30- and 90-day mortality as end points, respectively. The Kaplan-Meier (K-M) curve was employed to gauge the cumulative incidence of mortality based on various ALBI grades. To explore potential nonlinear relationships, the Restricted Cubic Spline (RCS) approach was adopted. Furthermore, a subgroup analysis was conducted to validate the durability of the correlation between ALBI grade and in-hospital mortality. Furthermore, equilibrium of confounding variables was also achieved through the application of propensity score matching (PSM).

Results

The study encompassed a total of 12,518 patients (ALBI grade 1 : 2878, grade 2 : 6708, and grade 3 : 2932). Patients with heightened ALBI grades displayed a significant correlation with increased mortality in both univariate and various multivariate Cox regression models. RCS depicted a predominantly linear relationship. The robustness of the correlation was also affirmed across multifarious subpopulations through subgroup analysis. The association still remains after PSM.

Conclusion

Elevated ALBI grade was associated with worse clinical outcomes of critically ill patients with AKI.

Predictive value of the C-reactive protein to albumin ratio in the treatment of septic arthritis in young children: a retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Septic arthritis (SA) can cause lifelong disability in children due to joint dysfunction but there is controversy regarding the timing of surgery in SA. The C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CAR) has emerged as a novel marker of inflammation and has been extensively used in predicting inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, and systemic inflammation. Despite advancements, few studies have evaluated the role of CAR in SA. Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate whether CAR could serve as predictive indicators for determining whether patients under four years old with SA should be managed conservatively or require surgical intervention, and to analyze its predictive accuracy.

HYPOTHESIS

An increase in CAR values among patients under four years old with SA indicates the requirement of surgical intervention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled SA children under four years old and divided them into two groups, the surgery and conservative groups. The clinical data between the two groups were compared and multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess the independent predictors of SA requiring surgery. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to determine the predictive ability of CAR in SA requiring surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 82 SA children were included, with 42 children (51.3%) in the surgery group and 40 children (48.7%) in the conservative group. CAR ≥ 1.165 [OR = 12.641, 95% CI (4.264-37.479), p < 0.001] was an independent predictive indicator for surgery in SA children under four years old, with a predicted sensitivity of 0.714, specificity of 0.850, and AUC of 0.793 [95% (0.694-0.893)] indicating good predictive accuracy.

DISCUSSION

CAR to be an independent predictive indicator patients under four years old with SA. And a CAR value ≥ 1.165 upon admission in these patients suggests the necessity for surgical intervention.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, Retrospective study.

Association between nutrition-related indicators with the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and all-cause mortality in the elderly population: evidence from NHANES

Background

This study aims to use six nutrition-related indicators to assess the relationship between nutritional status and the risk of COPD as well as the all-cause mortality rate, and to determine the most reliable predictive indicators.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning the years 2013 to 2018 were extracted. Nutritional status was evaluated using Controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score, Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), Advanced Lung Cancer Inflammation Index (ALI), Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), Triglycerides (TG) × Total Cholesterol (TC) × Body Weight (BW) Index (TCBI), and Albumin-to-Globulin Ratio (AGR) nutritional-related indicators. Multivariate weighted logistic and Cox regression models were employed to assess the correlation between the six nutritional-related indicators and the risk of COPD and as all-cause mortality. The restricted cubic spline tests were applied to explore potential nonlinear relationships, and ROC curves and C-index analyses were conducted to compare the predictive capabilities of different indicators. Stratified analysis and propensity score matching (PSM) to assess the robustness of the results.

Results

In this study, Lower ALI, lower GNRI, and higher CONUT scores were positively correlated with an increased risk of COPD (OR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.10-2.84) (OR: 8.66, 95% CI: 2.95-25.5), and (OR: 5.11, 95% CI: 1.72-15.2), respectively. It was found that ALI and GNRI had a non-linear relationship with the risk of COPD. After propensity score matching (PSM), the associations between ALI, GNRI, CONUT scores, and COPD remained consistent. Lower ALI, PNI, and GNRI scores were positively associated with all-cause mortality in COPD patients (HR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.10-5.27), (HR: 3.76, 95% CI: 1.89-7.48), and (HR: 4.55, 95% CI: 1.30-15.9), respectively, with GNRI displaying a non-linear relationship with all-cause mortality. ROC curve and C-index analyses indicated that ALI had the best predictive ability for both COPD risk and all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

ALI, GNRI, and CONUT scores are correlated with the risk of COPD, while ALI, PNI, and GNRI scores are associated with all-cause mortality in COPD patients. Compared to other nutritional scores, ALI may provide more effective predictive value for both risk and all-cause mortality.

Albumin-dNLR score could be an etiological criterion to determine inflammation burden for GLIM in medical inpatients over 70 years old: A multicenter retrospective study

Aim

To validate the role of the albumin-derived neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (ALB-dNLR) score in diagnosing malnutrition in medical inpatients over 70 years old.

Methods

This is a retrospective cross-sectional study involving 7 departments from 14 Chinese hospitals. The ALB-dNLR score was calculated, and outcomes between groups with positive and negative ALB-dNLR scores were compared after propensity score matching (PSM). Afterwards, the outcomes were compared between the groups receiving nutrition support and those not receiving support among malnourished patients diagnosed using the Global Leadership Initiative Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria after PSM.

Results

Out of 10,184 cases, 6165 were eligible. 2200 cases were in the positive ALB-dNLR score group. After PSM, 1458 pairs were analyzed, showing lower in-hospital mortality (0.8 % vs. 2.1 %, p = 0.005) and a lower nosocomial infection rate (5.9 % vs. 11.0 %, p < 0.001) in the negative ALB-dNLR score group. In malnourished patients, 259 pairs were analyzed after PSM. It showed better outcomes in mortality (0.8 % vs. 3.5 %, p = 0.033), nosocomial infection rate (5.4 % vs. 15.4 %, p < 0.001), length of stay (LOS) (13.8 ± 10.3 vs. 18.4 ± 14.1, p < 0.001), and total hospital cost (3315.3 ± 2946.4 vs. 4795.3 ± 4198.2, p < 0.001) in the support group. In malnourished patients with ALB-dNLR score as the sole etiological criterion, 94 pairs were calculated. It showed better outcomes in mortality (0.0 % vs. 6.4 %, p = 0.029), nosocomial infection rate (7.4 % vs. 18.1 %, p = 0.029), LOS (13.7 ± 8.3 vs. 19.8 ± 15.2, p = 0.001), and total hospital cost (3379.3 ± 2955.6 vs. 4471.2 ± 4782.4, p = 0.029) in the support group.

Conclusions

The ALB-dNLR score was validated to predict in-hospital mortality in medical inpatients over 70 years old. Malnutrition patients diagnosed by the GLIM criteria and using the ALB-dNLR score might benefit from nutrition support.

Neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio is a potential marker of intravenous immunoglobulin resistance in Kawasaki disease

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance in Kawasaki disease (KD) was associated with coronary artery lesions. Neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) is an index of mortality in several inflammatory diseases. This study focused on the association of NPAR with IVIG- resistance in KD. Clinical and laboratory data of 438 children with KD before IVIG treatment were retrospectively analyzed. Notably, high NPAR was associated with older age, high WBC, NP, ALT, total bilirubin and CRP, as well as with high the incidence of IVIG-resistance, and with low hemoglobin (Hb), PLT, ALB and sodium levels. NPAR (OR: 2.366, 95% CI: 1.46-3.897, p = 0.001) and Hb (OR: 0.967, 95% CI: 0.944-0.989, p = 0.004) were independent risk factors for IVIG-resistance. NPAR showed linear relation with IVIG-resistance (p for nonlinear = 0.711) and the nonlinear correlation was found between IVIG-resistance and Hb (p for nonlinear = 0.002). The predictive performance of NPAR was superior to Beijing model (z = 2.193, p = 0.028), and not inferior to Chongqing model (z = 0.983, p = 0.326) and the combination of NPAR and Hb (z = 1.912, p = 0.056). These findings revealed that NPAR is a reliable predictor of IVIG-resistance.

Development and validation of prediction model for technique failure in peritoneal dialysis patients: An observational study

AIM

This study aimed to establish a prediction model in peritoneal dialysis patients to estimate the risk of technique failure and guide clinical practice.

METHODS

Clinical and laboratory data of 424 adult peritoneal dialysis patients were retrospectively collected. The risk prediction models were built using univariate Cox regression, best subsets approach and LASSO Cox regression. Final nomogram was constructed based on the best model selected by the area under the curve.

RESULTS

After comparing three models, the nomogram was built using the LASSO Cox regression model. This model included variables consisting of hypertension and peritonitis, serum creatinine, low-density lipoprotein, fibrinogen and thrombin time, and low red blood cell count, serum albumin, triglyceride and prothrombin activity. The predictive model constructed performed well using receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve value, C-index and calibration curve.

CONCLUSION

This study developed and verified a new prediction instrument for the risk of technique failure among peritoneal dialysis patients.

Predictive value of hematocrit, serum albumin level difference, and fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio for COVID-19-associated acute respiratory failure

Background

Acute respiratory failure is the main clinical manifestation and a major cause of death in patients with COVID-19. However, few reports on its prevention and control have been published because of the need for laboratory predictive indicators. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of hematocrit level, serum albumin level difference, and fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio for COVID-19-associated acute respiratory failure.

Material and methods

A total of 120 patients with COVID-19 from the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University were selected between December 2022 and March 2023. Patients were divided into acute respiratory failure and non-acute respiratory failure groups and compared patient-related indicators between them using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine the discrimination accuracy.

Results

In total, 48 and 72 patients were enrolled in the acute respiratory failure and non-acute respiratory failure groups, respectively. The Quick COVID-19 Severity Index scores, fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio, hematocrit and serum albumin level difference, fibrinogen, and hematocrit levels were significantly higher in the acute respiratory failure group than in the non-acute respiratory failure group. A Quick COVID-19 Severity Index >7, fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio >0.265, and hematocrit and serum albumin level difference >12.792 had a 96.14 % positive predictive rate and a 94.06 % negative predictive rate.

Conclusion

Both fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio and hematocrit and serum albumin level difference are risk factors for COVID-19-associated acute respiratory failure. The Quick COVID-19 Severity Index score combined with fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio, and hematocrit and serum albumin level difference predict high and low risks with better efficacy and sensitivity than those of the Quick COVID-19 Severity Index score alone; therefore, these parameters can be used collectively as a risk stratification method for assessing patients with COVID-19.

Impact of early high protein intake in critically ill patients: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Conflicting findings regarding the impact of High protein intake during the early phase in critically ill patients have been reported. Therefore, we aimed to assess the influence of higher early protein intake on the prognosis of critically ill patients.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial involved 173 critically ill patients who stayed in the Intensive Care Unit/Emergency ICU (ICU/EICU) for at least 7 days. The Low group (n = 87) and High group (n = 86) received protein supplementation of 0.8 g/kg.d and 1.5 g/kg.d, respectively, within 1-3 days of enteral nutrition (EN) initiation, with both groups transitioning to 1.5 g/kg.d on the 4th day. The serum prealbumin (PA), blood urea nitrogen/creatinine, and rectus femoris muscle thickness and cross-sectional area of all patients was measured on the 1th, 3rd, 5th, 7th day, and the day of ICU/EICU discharge.

RESULTS

Patients in both Low and High groups showed no significant differences in age, APACHE II scores, or other demographic and baseline characteristics. There were also no significant differences in the primary outcome (28-day mortality rate) and secondary outcomes (incidence rate of refeeding syndrome and EN tolerance score) between the two groups. However, the Low group exhibited a significantly higher 28-day mortality rate (HR = 2.462, 95% CI: 1.021-5.936, P = 0.045) compared to High group, as determined by Cox proportional hazards models incorporating the time factor. The High group exhibited significantly shorter durations of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay compared to the Low group. Serum PA levels were higher, and rectus femoris muscle atrophy rates were lower in the High group. Furthermore, for septic patients, high protein intake significantly reduced the 28-day mortality rate despite a small sample size (n = 34).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that increasing early protein intake to 1.5 g/kg.d may be safe and help improve the nutritional status and prognosis of critically ill patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000039997, https://www.chictr.org.cn/ ).