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Thromboembolism, a serious complication in patients with liver abscesses, can lead to organ deterioration if left untreated. However, factors associated with thromboembolism in these patients remain poorly understood. We aimed to identify the factors associated with liver abscess complications, with a focus on thromboembolism and metastatic infection. Data from 325 patients diagnosed with liver abscesses between March 2019 and June 2023 were retrospectively collected. Baseline clinical and laboratory variables associated with thromboembolic events and metastatic infections were analyzed using logistic regression. A nomogram for predicting thromboembolism was constructed using significant predictors. Among the 325 patients, the median age was 68.0 years, and included 129 women. Fifty patients experienced thromboembolic events and 44 had metastatic infections. Significant predictors for thromboembolic events included white blood cell (WBC) ≥ 20,000/µL (odds ratio [OR] 3.401, p = 0.002), platelet count < 100,000/µL (OR 3.291, p = 0.004), and abscess septation (OR 2.704, p = 0.007). Age ≥ 65 years (OR 0.457, p = 0.040), WBC ≥ 20,000/µL (OR 3.340, p = 0.005), and abscess septation (OR 2.909, p = 0.008) were identified as factors associated with metastatic infections. A nomogram was constructed to predict thromboembolism using the following four variables: WBC ≥ 20,000/µL platelet count < 100,000/µL, albumin < 2.8 g/dL, and abscess septation, and demonstrated an AUROC of 0.755. Our study is the first to develop a reliable nomogram for thromboembolism prediction, utilizing easily accessible clinical parameters. This innovative model enables clinicians to efficiently identify high-risk patients, facilitating the implementation of additional studies to mitigate the risk of overlooked thromboembolic events in these at-risk individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background Methods Results Conclusion Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a Mendelian disorder characterized by a point mutation in the β‐globin gene that leads to sickling of erythrocytes. Several studies have shown that absolute neutrophil count is strongly associated with clinical severity of SCD, suggesting an apparent role of white blood cells (WBC) in SCD pathology. However, the mechanism by which genetic variants lead to WBC count differences in SCD patients remains unclear.Genome‐wide association (GWA) analyses were carried out amongst a cohort of 2409 Brazil SCD participants. Association of WBC count and genetic markers were investigated in homozygous sickle cell anaemia participants and compound heterozygous sickle cell haemoglobin C participants.GWA analysis showed that variants in genes TERT, ACKR1, and FAM3C are associated with WBC count variation. The well‐studied association between WBC count and Duffy null phenotype (variant in ACKR1) in healthy populations was replicated, reinforcing the influence of the SNP rs2814778 (T>C) in WBC count.Genetics plays an important role in regulating WBC count in patients with SCD. Our results point to possible mechanisms involved in WBC count variation and as increased WBC count is associated with more severe SCD, these results could suggest potential therapeutic targets for individuals with SCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Thromboembolism, a serious complication in patients with liver abscesses, can lead to organ deterioration if left untreated. However, factors associated with thromboembolism in these patients remain poorly understood. We aimed to identify the factors associated with liver abscess complications, with a focus on thromboembolism and metastatic infection. Data from 325 patients diagnosed with liver abscesses between March 2019 and June 2023 were retrospectively collected. Baseline clinical and laboratory variables associated with thromboembolic events and metastatic infections were analyzed using logistic regression. A nomogram for predicting thromboembolism was constructed using significant predictors. Among the 325 patients, the median age was 68.0 years, and included 129 women. Fifty patients experienced thromboembolic events and 44 had metastatic infections. Significant predictors for thromboembolic events included white blood cell (WBC) ≥ 20,000/µL (odds ratio [OR] 3.401, p = 0.002), platelet count

Endah Wulandari,1 Rr Ayu Fitri Hapsari2 1Department of Biochemistry, Islamic State University Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta of Medicine Faculty, South Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia; 2Department of Histology, Islamic State University Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta of Medicine Faculty, South Tangerang, Banten, IndonesiaCorrespondence: Endah Wulandari, Department of Biochemistry, Islamic State University Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta of Medicine Faculty, South Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia, Email endah.wulandari@uinjkt.ac.idPurpose: The main aim of this study was to compare and analyze hematological profiles using menstrual blood, as an alternative to peripheral blood.Patients and Methods: This study used menstrual and peripheral blood samples from women who were menstruating. The design of this research is analytical observational.Results: Menstrual blood can show an overall hematological profile similar to peripheral blood. Data shows the detection of blood component parameters, white blood cells and reticulocytes in MB with a range within and outside normal blood. Data on MB that show higher values (WBC, MCH, MCHC, PLT, RDW-CV, PDW, MPV, P-LCR, PCT, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils, reticulocytes, LFR, Ret-He) and lower values lower (RBC, HGB, HCT, MVC, RDW-SD, Eosinophils, IRF, MFR, HFR) when compared with peripheral blood controls. The hematological profiles of Menstrual and peripheral blood showed significant differences (p < 0.01) for several parameters, while several other parameters did not show significant differences (p > 0.05) according to the Wilcoxon test.Conclusion: All hematological profile parameters were detected in menstrual blood. The new concept that menstrual blood can be used as a supporting medium for hematological examinations opens up opportunities for developing independent hematological detection tools in productive women.Keywords: hematological, menstrual blood, peripheral blood, WBC, RBC, reticulocyte

Abstract This study aimed to elucidate the effects of long day and night shifts on immune cells in a population of nurses. This cross-sectional study in December 2019 was based on a group of nurses. 1568 physically healthy caregivers were included, including 1540 women and 28 men. 1093 nurses had long-term shift work (working in a rotating system for > 1 year). The receiver operating characteristic curve, Ensemble Learning, and Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate factors related to long-term shift work. The night shift group nurses had significantly higher MPV, PLCR, and WBC and significantly lower BASO%, ELR, MCHC, PLR, RDW-CV, and RDW-SD (P

Aim: Red blood cells and white blood cells are the main cells of blood.These two types of cells have significant differences in number, nucleus, and other intracellular organelles such as mitochondria, ribosomes, and metabolic pathways. Enzymes are important proteins found in these cells. MAPKinase (Mitogen activated protein kinase) superfamily are protein kinases playing key role in phosphorylation of threonine, thyrosine and serine in the enzymes of the family and target proteins during kinase cascades in metabolic pathways of cells. They are found in nucleated cells from unicellular to multicellular. These enzymes have important roles in regulating various processes of eukaryotic cells, including cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, apoptosis and in various signaling pathways and gene expression as well. These enzymes are ubiquitously expressed and evolutionarily conserved in eukaryotes. In mammalian cells, there are three well-known MAPK including extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) 1/2, c-Jun N-terminal Kinase 1, 2, 3 (JNK1/2/3) and p38 MAPK α,β,δ,γ ERK, JNK and p38 isoforms are grouped according to their motif, structure and function. ERK 1/2 is related to the response to growth factors, hormones and inflammatory stimuli, while JNK1/2/3 and p38 MAPK α, β, δ, and γ are activated through environmental or cellular stress and inflammatory stimuli. JNK enzyme is activated under stress. JNK pathway has role in apoptosis and cell survival. The presence of JNK is essential for stress-induced mitochondrial cytochrome c release. Cytochrome c together with Apaf activates the initiator caspase 9. If the defect in the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondrial membrane is likely to cause a defect in the release of pro-apoptotic molecules such Smac/DIABLO, AIF. The aim of the study is to investigate the JNK enzyme level in blood anucleated cell such as RBC compared to nucleated cell like WBC. Materials and Methods: RBCs were isolated from a fresh blood. WBCs (Mononuclear) were separated from blood using Ficoll solution. Their suspensions were prepared in isotonic condition using 0.9 % NaCl. In next step, the number of cells counted by means of cell counter followed by lysis RBCs by ultrasonic homogenizer and lysis of WBCs using ultrasonic bath. Considering that, the presence of hemoglobin following the lysis of RBCs affects the assay of JNK level by ELISA immunoassay technique, hence 6 mM zinc sulfate used to remove the hemoglobin. Two kinds of lysates were centrifuged to separate the lysed cells membranes before assay the level of JNK. Then, the level of JNK in the RBC and WBC lysates were measured using ELISA technique. Results: Regarding that the number of RBCs in sample was 1000 times more than WBCs one per sample volume, but the JNK enzyme level showing 1.72 x10 -2 ng/ml per cell and 6.2 x 10 -6 ng/ml per cell in WBCs and RBCs respectively. As a result, JNK enzyme level in each WBC is 2770 fold more than each RBC. Conclusion: In comparison with WBCs having nuclei and high level of JNK enzyme, RBCs due to losing their nuclei during differentiation from stem cells in bone marrow show low level of JNK enzyme denoting blocking of pathways related to MAPK enzymes. This is an evidence that the absence of nucleus does not support of MAPK family enzyme and related pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to elucidate the effects of long day and night shifts on immune cells in a population of nurses. This cross-sectional study in December 2019 was based on a group of nurses. 1568 physically healthy caregivers were included, including 1540 women and 28 men. 1093 nurses had long-term shift work (working in a rotating system for > 1 year). The receiver operating characteristic curve, Ensemble Learning, and Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate factors related to long-term shift work. The night shift group nurses had significantly higher MPV, PLCR, and WBC and significantly lower BASO%, ELR, MCHC, PLR, RDW-CV, and RDW-SD (P < 0.01). ROC curves showed that WBC, PLR, ELR, RDW_CV, and BASO% were more related to the night shift. Ensemble Learning, combined with the LASSO model, finally filtered out three indicators of night shifts related to ELR, WBC, and RDW_SD. Finally, logistic regression analysis showed that the nurses' night shift situation greatly influenced two peripheral blood ELR and WBC indicators (ELR: log (OR) = − 3.9, 95% CI: − 5.8– − 2.0; WBC: log (OR) = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.18–0.32). Finally, we showed that, unlike WBC, the relative riskiness of ELR showed opposite results among junior nurses and middle-senior nurses (log (OR) 6.5 (95% CI: 1.2, 13) and − 7.1 (95% CI: − 10, − 3.8), respectively). Our study found that prolonged night shifts were associated with abnormal WBC and ELR, but after strict age matching, WBC remained significantly different. These findings help to confirm that COVID-19 and tumorigenesis (e.g., breast cancer) are significantly associated with circadian rhythm disruption. However, more detailed studies are needed to confirm this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores the impact of banking sector performance on renewable energy consumption and focuses on a panel of 43 countries, including 38 OECD countries and five Western Balkan countries for the period 2010-2022. Recognizing the crucial role of the banking sector in financing renewable energy investments, the study evaluates the influence of five key banking sector performance indicators: the ratio of cost to revenue, asset quality, return on assets, financial stability, and return on equity. The research employs both random and fixed effects models to analyze panel data for the OECD and Western Balkan countries. The Hausman Test results indicated that the Random Effects model was the most suitable for the OECD data, as it efficiently uses within and between country variations without correlation issues. For the Western Balkans, the Fixed Effects model was preferred, as it controls for unobserved heterogeneity that could bias the results. This methodological choice ensures robust and accurate econometric analysis tailored to the specific data characteristics of each region. The key findings of the study reveal that within OECD countries, there is a positive relationship between financial stability, the ratio of cost to revenue, and the return on assets with renewable energy consumption. On the other hand, our analysis shows that in the Western Balkan countries, the quality of banking assets stands out as a key factor influencing renewable energy consumption. These findings emphasize the banking sector's critical role in achieving sustainable energy transitions and show that specific financial policies, such as providing green loans, offering tax incentives for renewable energy investments, and implementing more strict asset quality regulations, could improve the effectiveness of renewable energy investment across different regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The autoimmune-mediated chronic condition known as type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is typified by the degeneration of the pancreatic ß cells that produce insulin. Method: The study included 75 T1DM patients and 25 healthy subjects. Results: Hematological tests which included WBC, RBC, Hb, HCT, MCV, platelets and differential for patients and controls showed significant differences (p<0.05) found in WBC, platelets, neutrophils in patients as compared with the control group, while no significant differences(p>0.05) were found in the results of RBC, Hb, HCT, MCV, lymphocytes between the groups of patients and controls. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate in patients and the healthy groups, where the results of the study showed a significant increase in ESR (p<0.05) of the patients (25.14±1.59mm/hr) compared with the healthy group (23.83±1.704mm/hr). Biochemical Tests: The results of estimation of the biochemical parameters values showed Significant increases were found in the results of blood sugar in patients as compared with the control group, while no significant differences (p>0.05) were found in the results of creatinine and urea between the patients and controls. Conclusions: According to the current study, compared to the control group, diabetes patients had significantly higher levels (p<0.05) of many inflammatory indicators, including WBC, platelets, neutrophils, and ESR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukemia or blood cancer has its roots in the bone marrow. It is distinguished by irregular white blood cell proliferation. Early diagnosis of leukemia is crucial to increase the effectiveness of its treatment. However, manual methods to detect and classify leukemia from blood microscopic images are time-consuming and susceptible to inter and intra-observer variations. Therefore, a low-cost, fully automated, and robust system for leukemia detection and classification is required. Many algorithms have been found in the literature to detect it but not to classify its four different types with high accuracy. The proposed study uses different CNN-based algorithms to detect leukemia and classify its types. AlexNet, DenseNet, ResNet, and VGG16 were used. Images from three datasets were tested; 108 images from the ALL-IDB dataset, 547 images ASH Image bank, and 15 images captured in the biomems and bionanotechnology laboratory at JUST. The best results were achieved by retraining a pre-trained model through transfer learning with fine-tuning weights. All models used gave acceptable accuracies, reaching 99.8%, 99.7%, and 94% for training, validation, and testing sets, respectively. The proposed study provides clear, accurate, and reliable guidance to researchers who are working on leukemia detection and classification, and hence provides the medical staff with an easy and effective system to diagnose leukemia without any human intrusion; furthermore, it is expected to save time and effort at a lower price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundIn many diseases, sex differences in diagnostics and therapy play role that is increasingly becoming recognized as important. C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) levels are determined as inflammatory markers to detect inflammation and even infection after total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). The general course of white blood cell, CRP, and hemoglobin (Hb) levels after TSA is well known, but there is insufficient evidence of a possible association with sex. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether there is an influence of sex on CRP, WBCs, and Hb after TSA in the first 10 days after surgery in a complication-free course in male and female patients and to re-evaluate the specific postoperative CRP, WBC, and Hb course with their maximums (minimum for Hb) and further course until the end of the inpatient period.MethodsWe retrospectively studied patients treated with TSA, reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA), and prosthesis replacement between 2015 and 2021. Patients with active inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, secondary osteoarthritis, active cancer, and documented postoperative complications were not included. CRP, WBC, and Hb levels before shoulder arthroplasty (SA) and up to 10 days after SA were recorded and analyzed for sex differences.ResultsData from a total of 316 patients (209 women and 107 men) were finally analyzed. There were no sex differences in the CRP and WBC values, but women had significantly lower preoperative Hb values, postoperative Hb values, and minimum Hb values. There were no significant differences in Hb, CRP, or WBC levels in the prosthesis exchange group.ConclusionThe progression of CRP and WBC levels showed no sex-specific significant differences after TSA within the first 7 postoperative days. The study confirmed a decreased Hb value for women at all stages of SA. Blood loss was significantly higher for RSA than for TSA for both men and women.

BackgroundIn trials conducted in India, recombinant granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) improved survival in alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH). The aim of this trial was to determine the safety and efficacy of pegfilgrastim, a long-acting recombinant GCSF, in patients with AH in the United States.MethodsThis prospective, randomized, open label trial conducted between March 2017 and March 2020 randomized patients with a clinical diagnosis of AH and a Maddrey discriminant function score ≥32 to standard of care (SOC) or SOC+pegfilgrastim (0.6 mg subcutaneously) on Day 1 and Day 8 (clinicaltrials.gov NCT02776059). SOC was 28 days of either pentoxifylline or prednisolone, as determined by the patient's primary physician. The second injection of pegfilgrastim was not administered if the white blood cell count exceeded 30,000/mm3 on Day 8. Primary outcome was survival at Day 90. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI), hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), hepatic encephalopathy, or infections.FindingsThe study was terminated early due to COVID19 pandemic. Eighteen patients were randomized to SOC and 16 to SOC+pegfilgrastim. All patients received prednisolone as SOC. Nine patients failed to receive a second dose of pegfilgrastin due to WBC > 30,000/mm3 on Day 8. Survival at 90 days was similar in both groups (SOC: 0.83 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.57-0.94] vs. pegfilgrastim: 0.73 [95% CI: 0.44-0.89]; p > 0.05; CI for difference: -0.18-0.38). The incidences of AKI, HRS, hepatic encephalopathy, and infections were similar in both treatment arms and there were no serious adverse events attributed to pegfilgrastim.InterpretationThis phase II trial found no survival benefit at 90 days among subjects with AH who received pegfilgrastim+prednisolone compared with subjects receiving prednisolone alone.Fundingwas provided by the United States National Institutes of Health and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism U01-AA021886 and U01-AA021884.

Incorporating plyometric exercises (PE) into soccer players' conditioning routines is vital for boosting their performance. Nevertheless, the effects of PE sessions with diverse volume loads on inflammation, oxidative stress, and muscle damage are not yet clearly understood. This study aimed to examine the effects of altering the volume-loads of PE on indicators of oxidative muscle damage and inflammation. The study involved forty young male soccer players who were randomly assigned to three different volume-loads of PE (Low volume-load [100 jumps]: LVL, n = 10; Moderate volume-load [150 jumps]: MVL, n = 10; and High volume-load [200 jumps]: HVL, n = 10) and a control group (CON = 10). The levels of various biomarkers including delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), leukocytes, neutrophils, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured at different time points. These measurements were taken at rest, immediately after completion of PE, and 24-, 48-, and 72-hours post-PE. The CK, LDH, DOMS, 8-OHdG, MDA, and PC levels were significantly increased (p < 0.05) after the PE protocol, reaching their peak values between 24 to 48 hours post-PE for all the volume-loaded groups. The levels of leukocytes, neutrophils, and IL-6 also increased after the PE session but returned to resting values within 24 hours post-PE. On the other hand, CRP levels increased at 24 hours post-PE for all the treatment groups (p < 0.05). The changes observed in the indicators of muscle damage and inflammation in response to different volume-loads of PE was not significant. However, the HVL and MVL indicated significant differences compared to LVL in the 8-OHdG (at 48-hour) and MDA (at 72-hour). Athletes engaging in higher volume-loads demonstrated more pronounced responses in terms of biochemical variables (specifically, LVL < MVL < HVL); however, these changes were not statistically significant (except 8-OHdG and MDA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Analyze and find out the association between blood pressure and hematological parameters among hypertensive and normotensive individuals. Methodology: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted from January to December 2022 on a total of 45 patients diagnosed with primary hypertension and 45 normotensive individuals aged between 25-60 at GMC, Kozhikode. All the participants, after receiving informed consent, were subjected to a detailed history, blood pressure measurement, and hematological analysis. The data were entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. A statistically significant p-value was defined as one that was less than 0.05. Results: The mean values of BMI (27.87±5.4), WBC (7.60±1.65), RBC (4.72±0.65), HEMOGLOBIN (13.26±1.12), HEMATOCRIT (40.7±2.81), MCV (87.5±5.3), MCH (28.50±2.36), MCHC (32.66±2.20), RDW-SD (46.22±4.53), RDW-CV (14.02±1.2), Platelet Count (249.8±51.66), PDW (12.7±2.2), MPV (9.3±0.89), PCT (0.23±0.05) were increased in primary hypertensive group compared to age and sex matched normotensive group. Statistically significant differences were observed in WBC, RBC, Hb, HCT, MCH, RDW, PLT, PDW, MPV, and PCT. However, MCV and MCHC did not show statistically significant differences. Conclusion: Hypertension has an impact on red blood cells and its indices, white blood cells, platelet count and its indices. Hence, it can be used to monitor the prognosis of the disease and manage hypertensive related complications. It also helps to prevent complications associated with hematological aberrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From fundamental research exploring molecular mechanisms to advanced endeavours like the development of artificial white blood cells, white blood cells have widespread applications due to their crucial role in safeguarding the body, defending against infection, and eliminating external pathogens, serving as indicators of several diseases. So, white blood cells must be separated efficiently with high purity to make the passive microdevices more effective for diagnostic applications. In this study, we investigated how cell concentration and viscosity collectively impact the margination of white blood cells in an inertial flow microchannel. We aim to improve white blood cell separation efficiency in microfluidic devices. Unlike previous studies that examined individual factors, this research focused on the interplay between bio-physical properties like cell interaction and viscosity. To explore their correlation, we diluted the blood with phosphate-buffered saline and viscoelastic fluid to manipulate the viscosity and cell concentration. Viscoelastic fluid improved white blood cells margination, while higher viscosity and low cell concentration decreased it. Maintaining blood-like viscosity, optimizing cell-free layer width, and promoting cell-cell interaction in the focusing zone collectively enhanced white blood cells margination.

The use of antibiotic growth promoters in broiler production has been the norm in developing countries, however, the increased rate of antibiotic resistance in humans has resulted in the search for alternatives without negative residual effects. This study investigated the effect of dietary olive garlic extract oil (OGEO) supplementation on the performance and haematological indices of broilers. The experiment lasted for 42 days and broilers were fed varying levels of OGEO‑supplemented diets at the starter (0–21 days) and finisher (22–42 days) phases using two hundred and forty unsexed Ross broilers. Four experimental diets were formulated for the two phases and the diets were designated as diet 1(control (without OGEO)) while diets 2, 3, and 4 were supplemented with OGEO at 1 % (10 g/kg diet) 3 % (30 g/kg diet) and 5 % (50 g/kg diet). Each had four replicates containing fifteen birds per replicate. Performance was measured weekly and haematological indices were determined on days 21 and 42. Data collected were analysed in a one‑way analysis of variance (SAS, 2000) and significant differences were determined using Tukey’s test. Body weight (BW) increased linearly (L) (p = 0.003) and quadratically (Q) (p = 0.006) with dietary supplementation of OGEO at 1 % for broilers on day 21. Similarly, at day 42, BW increased (L, p = 0.006; Q, p = 0.029) for the broiler on the same treatment. Mortality reduced (Q, p = 0.035) for broilers fed 1 % OGEO‑supplemented diet at day 42. At day 21, Packed cell volume (PCV, 47.33 %) (Q, p = 0.033) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV, 130.83pg) (Q, p = 0.008) increased for broilers fed 1 % and 3 % OGEO supplemented diet respectively. Supplementation of OGEO at 3 % increased (Q, p = 0.036) PCV (37.33 %) and haemoglobin (Q, p = 0.021) (137.30 g/L) at day 42. In conclusion, the supplementation of OGEO in the diet of broilers at 1 % resulted in improved WG and reduced mortality. The PCV and haemoglobin of broilers can be increased with the supplementation of OGEO up to 3 % in the diet of broilers; it is thus a suitable alternative to antibiotics for improved performance and immunity.

While modifying dietary patterns can reduce the effects of inflammation in obesity, less is known about the impact of dietary patterns on inflammation levels in women of different ethnicities. This study investigated the link between dietary patterns and mediators associated with inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cells (WBCs), among obese Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White women. CRP and WBC counts were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2003 and 2010. Based on their recorded responses to two 24 h recall interviews, individuals were grouped into one of three dietary patterns: healthy plant-based, less healthy plant-based, or animal-based. Comparisons were run between obese Hispanic and Non-Hispanic women assigned to the same dietary pattern groups and between dietary pattern groups within ethnic groups. CRP and WBCs increased in obese Non-Hispanics as dietary patterns moved from healthy plant-based to animal-based (pCRP = 0.002 and pWBC = 0.017). Regardless of the dietary pattern, CRP and WBC expression were similar in Hispanic women. In addition, WBCs were higher in Hispanics compared to Non-Hispanics when both populations adhered to healthy plant and less healthy plant dietary patterns. The results indicate that dietary patterns may influence Hispanics' inflammation differently than Non-Hispanics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present an analysis of stability of solutions corresponding to a variable coefficient's wave equation subject to a locally Kelvin–Voigt damping and distributed effect driven by a nonnegative function b(x)≥0$$ b(x)\ge 0 $$ with dynamic Wentzell boundary conditions and delay term. By using frequency domain approach method, we show that under a suitable assumption between the internal damping function c$$ c $$ and the boundary delay feedback, considering some geometrical assumptions on the boundary of Ω$$ \Omega $$, supposing that the relaxation function h$$ h $$ decay exponentially to zero, that the energies of the problem decay exponentially to zero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood cancer occurs due to changes in white blood cells (WBCs). These changes are known as leukemia. Leukemia occurs mostly in children and affects their tissues or plasma. However, it could occur in adults. This disease becomes fatal and causes death if it is discovered and diagnosed late. In addition, leukemia can occur from genetic mutations. Therefore, there is a need to detect it early to save a patient's life. Recently, researchers have developed various methods to detect leukemia using different technologies. Deep learning approaches (DLAs) have been widely utilized because of their high accuracy. However, some of these methods are time-consuming and costly. Thus, a need for a practical solution with low cost and higher accuracy is required. This article proposes a novel segmentation and classification framework model to discover and categorize leukemia using a deep learning structure. The proposed system encompasses two main parts, which are a deep learning technology to perform segmentation and characteristic extraction and classification on the segmented section. A new UNET architecture is developed to provide the segmentation and feature extraction processes. Various experiments were performed on four datasets to evaluate the model using numerous performance factors, including precision, recall, F-score, and Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC). It achieved an average 97.82% accuracy for segmentation and categorization. In addition, 98.64% was achieved for F-score. The obtained results indicate that the presented method is a powerful technique for discovering leukemia and categorizing it into suitable groups. Furthermore, the model outperforms some of the implemented methods. The proposed system can assist healthcare providers in their services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundAntithyroid drugs, such as methimazole (MMI), are standard therapies for the medical management of thyrotoxicosis. Agranulocytosis is a rare but lethal adverse effect of antithyroid medications. We have reported 2 cases of MMI-induced agranulocytosis with similar risk factors that likely predisposed them to this adverse reaction.Case reportCase 1 involved a 71-year-old woman, with a history of Graves disease, who presented with an altered mental status. She was recently discharged on 40 mg of MMI twice daily, and she continued this dose for 2 months. She was readmitted and found to have neutropenic fever in the setting of MMI-induced agranulocytosis. MMI was discontinued, and she was started on filgrastim. Her cell counts gradually improved, and she was subsequently discharged.Case 2 involved a 68-year-old woman, with a history of Graves disease, who presented with severe back pain, nausea, and vomiting. She was recently discharged on 10 mg of MMI twice daily, which was increased to 10 mg 3 times a day. She was readmitted to the hospital because of a septic shock in the setting of pneumonia, colitis, bacteremia, and MMI-induced agranulocytosis. A bone marrow biopsy showed a polyclonal infiltrate with up to 85% plasma cells. Despite treatment with antibiotics, filgrastim, and continuous renal replacement therapy, she ultimately passed away.DiscussionAlthough these cases had differing outcomes, they shared similar features and risk factors, including older age, female sex, and relatively higher doses of MMI.ConclusionClose follow up and awareness of risk factors, such as age, female sex, and higher doses of MMI, may decrease the risk of MMI-induced agranulocytosis and fatal outcomes.

Abstract Objective To explore the forewarning immunological indicators during periodontal attachment loss progression in American adults. Methods A total of 5744 participants with periodontal attachment loss were enrolled from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) 2009–2014. In which, dependent variable was the counts of teeth with severe attachment loss (depth of periodontal probing was above 5 mm). Independent variables were circulatory immunological indexes, including counts of white blood cells (WBC), Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Neutrophils, Eosinophils, and Basophils. The association among variables was examined using multivariable linear regression models, fitting with smoothing curves, and generalizing additive models. Results Based on the indicators of 5744 subjects, we found that severe attachment loss tended to occur in the elderly or males and was accompanied by higher WBC, Monocytes, and Neutrophils, as well as lower poverty-income ratio and educational qualification. WBC (above the inflection point: 6200 cells/µL) and Neutrophils (above the inflection point: 3300 cells/µL) counts were positively associated with attachment loss progression in each multivariable linear regression model. On subgroup analyses, stratified by sex and race, the positive correlation of WBC or Neutrophils with severe attachment loss was stable in both men and women, as well as in all races except blacks (WBC β = − 0.0576, 95% CI − 0.1945 to 0.0793, Neutrophils β = − 0.0527, 95% CI − 0.2285 to 0.1231). Conclusion Increasing WBC (above 6200 cells/µL) and Neutrophils (above 3300 cells/µL) counts were risk indicators of severe periodontal attachment loss among all races, except in blacks.

Introduction: This new viral syndrome named as Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by WHO. Some laboratory parameters change in the patients with covid-19. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating laboratory parameters in the patients with COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional-analytical study was conducted in the hospitals of Shahid Sadoughi of Yazd, Imam Jafar Sadegh of Meibod and Shahid Ziaei of Ardakan between April and May 2019. The study population was patients with Covid-19 with a positive PCR test, 275 people were included in the study using the available sampling method. The checklist of this study included demographic information, hospitalization information and test values (CBC, diff, ESR, AST, ALT, Cr, Urea, LDH, PT, PTT, INR). Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 17 and the significance level was considered less than 0.05. Results: A significant difference was observed between the values of WBC, Lymphocyte, Neutrophil, ESR, Urea, Creatinine, LDH, AST tests in the two groups that died and recovered. Among the patients who were hospitalized in the general departments, ICU or both, a significant difference was found between the patients who recovered and those who died (P=0.000). Significantly, more number of hospitalization days and older age were observed in deceased patients (P=0.000). Conclusion: In the present study, we came to the conclusion that in addition to increasing the level of WBC, neutrophil, urea, creatinine, LDH and AST in deceased patients, a decrease in lymphocytes was also observed and these results can be used in future crises of Covid-19.

Background: Sysmex DI-60 and Sysmex XN-1000 are automatic analyzers that can be used to check WBC differential counts. Ensuring the suitability of the WBC differential count results from the two tools can help in daily practice. Objective: Knowing the suitability of the WBC differential count examination results on the Sysmex DI-60 and Sysmex XN-1000. Method: Observational analytical research with a cross-sectional design. The data analyzed were differential WBC count data from samples of babies who underwent Complete Blood Count examinations on the Sysmex XN-1000 device and IT Ratio on the Sysmex DI-60 device without intervention (pre-classification results) at the Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Prof. Head overMarch 2023 - April 2023. Results: 81 samples were analyzed. The neutrophil value on the Sysmex DI-60 and Sysmex vs 34.15% ± 14.83%, median monocytes 4.00% (0.00-30.00)% vs 13.05% (1.30-34.40) %, median eosinophils 3.50% (0.00-31.00)% vs 3.75% (0.00-29.90)%, and median basophils 0.75% (0.00-16.00)% vs 0.30% (0, 00-2.90)%. The eosinophil variable did not show a significant difference between the results of the Sysmex DI-60 and Sysmex XN-1000 examinations (p=0.081). The results of the correlation analysis showed that there was a significant, strong, positive correlation between Sysmex DI-60 and Sysmex. Strong positive significance in the lymphocyte variable (r=0.818). However, no significant correlation basophil variable (r=0.044). Bland-Altman analysis shows that the most appropriate differential count examination is the eosinophil variable. Conclusion: Automatic WBC analyzers apply not only one examination method to detect WBC. The use of the Sysmex DI-60 and Sysmex XN-1000 provides automation for checking the WBC differential count with different working principles. In this study, there was only agreement between the differential count results for the eosinophil variable, so when operating these tools, intervention from a Clinical Pathologist was still required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a specific type of hematologic neoplasm in which outcomes may be affected by many variables such as the patient's age, gender, conventional karyotyping reports, lactate dehydrogenase concentration, and white blood cell count at diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic significance of those factors on the overall survival of patients diagnosed with ALL. The current study includes 65 patients diagnosed with ALL who were tested for cytology, conventional karyotyping, and immunophenotyping. The results of the current study have indicated the average patient’s age was 14 years old. In addition, around 47.7% of patients had chromosomal abnormalities. Furthermore, the patients with LDH levels higher than 450 IU/L, and WBC counts over 100 X109 (Cell /L) had a shorter overall survival in month compared to other groups. However, the results suggested that conventional karyotyping, LDH, and WBC count might be used as good prognostic tests in patients with ALL at diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Early leakage detection following bariatric procedures is crucial, but a standardized evaluation method is lacking. The aim was to validate the potential benefits of postoperative day 1 (POD1) C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and white blood cell (WBC) counts in distinguishing at-risk patients following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) while considering the impact of obesity-related chronic inflammation. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 261 consecutive patients aged 18–65 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 32.5–50 kg/m2 who underwent primary RYGB between 2017 and 2022. Sequential changes in CRP levels and WBC counts measured 48 h preoperatively and on POD1 morning were collected and compared between patients with/without complications and in patients without complications stratified by preoperative CRP levels. Results: Female patients and those with a higher BMI tended to have higher baseline CRP levels, which were positively related to postoperative CRP. Patients experiencing complications had higher WBC counts and a higher prevalence of WBC counts >14,000/μl (77.8% vs. 25.4%; p<0.001) than those without complications. Baseline CRP ≥ 0.3 mg/dl, a longer operative time, and blood loss >10 ml were significantly more common with WBC counts above 14,000/μl; a reasonable range of change in WBC count (∆WBC) derived from its positive correlation to postoperative WBC count (r=0.6695) may serve as a useful complementary indicator. Conclusion: An individualized CRP threshold setting and integrated interpretation of the WBC count can be more appropriate than using static criteria for differentiating at-risk patients after RYGB. Further studies are needed to validate these findings and determine their generalizability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the nature of their work, coal miners have historically faced significant exposure to large amounts of dust, placing them at a heightened risk. The present study was conducted to explore the hazardous effects of inhalation of coal dust on the haematological parameters of underground coal miners. 120 underground coal miners (60 workers having 5-10 years of experience and the other 60 having 10-20 years of experience) and 62 matched non-exposed to coal dust subjects as control from the locality were recruited for the study. After obtaining consent, different physiological parameters were measured, and blood was collected for assessment of haematological parameters. Observations revealed that there were lower mean values of total RBC count, haemoglobin level, MCV, PCV, MCHC and MCH in coal mine workers whereas mean values of Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) and ESR were increased in the workers group. Further, coal dust exposure causes increased total leucocyte to count as well as a differential count of lymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte, and eosinophil in the workers group but, a decreased differential count of basophils was detected among coal dust-exposed workers. All the changes in haematological parameters were found to occur experience-dependent and maximum changes were observed in workers having 10-20 years of working experience. There is a significant likelihood of coal mine workers experiencing changes in their blood composition, which suggests the harmful impact of coal dust on this group. Further, haematological parameters will help health professionals to screen any pathologic conditions and may help to prevent coal dust exposure-associated haematological disorders and complications thereof. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the forewarning immunological indicators during periodontal attachment loss progression in American adults. Methods: A total of 5744 participants with periodontal attachment loss were enrolled from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) 2009–2014. In which, dependent variable was the counts of teeth with severe attachment loss (depth of periodontal probing was above 5 mm). Independent variables were circulatory immunological indexes, including counts of white blood cells (WBC), Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Neutrophils, Eosinophils, and Basophils. The association among variables was examined using multivariable linear regression models, fitting with smoothing curves, and generalizing additive models. Results: Based on the indicators of 5744 subjects, we found that severe attachment loss tended to occur in the elderly or males and was accompanied by higher WBC, Monocytes, and Neutrophils, as well as lower poverty-income ratio and educational qualification. WBC (above the inflection point: 6200 cells/µL) and Neutrophils (above the inflection point: 3300 cells/µL) counts were positively associated with attachment loss progression in each multivariable linear regression model. On subgroup analyses, stratified by sex and race, the positive correlation of WBC or Neutrophils with severe attachment loss was stable in both men and women, as well as in all races except blacks (WBC β = − 0.0576, 95% CI − 0.1945 to 0.0793, Neutrophils β = − 0.0527, 95% CI − 0.2285 to 0.1231). Conclusion: Increasing WBC (above 6200 cells/µL) and Neutrophils (above 3300 cells/µL) counts were risk indicators of severe periodontal attachment loss among all races, except in blacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value of combined detection of PCT, IL-6, CRP, and WBC in neonatal sepsis. The study selected 50 neonatal sepsis patients treated in Pucheng County Hospital from April 2018 to June 2020 as the patient group, and 50 healthy newborns as the control group. Before treatment, white blood cell count (WBC) was performed on all neonates, and serum PCT, IL-6, and CRP levels were detected by ELISA. After treatment, serum levels of these four biomarkers in the effective/non-effective groups were observed. The results noted higher levels of these four biomarkers in the patient group rather than the control group before treatment, and in the effective group rather than the non-effective group after treatment. ROC analysis found that the area under curve (AUC), specificity and sensitivity of the combined detection were better than those of the single detection. In short, combined detection of these four biomarkers has a high diagnostic value for neonatal sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The similarity between Crohn's disease (CD) and non-CD, especially with ulcerative colitis (UC) or intestinal tuberculosis (ITB), makes the diagnostic error rate not low. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an efficient, fast, and simple predictive model that can be applied in clinical practice. The purpose of this study is to establish the risk prediction model for CD based on five routine laboratory tests by logistic-regression algorithm, to construct the early warning model for CD and the corresponding visual nomograph, and to provide an accurate and convenient reference for the risk determination and differential diagnosis of CD, in order to assist clinicians to better manage CD and reduce patient suffering. Methods: Using a retrospective analysis, a total of 310 cases were collected from 2020 to 2022 at The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, who were diagnosed by comprehensive clinical diagnosis, including 100 patients with CD, 50 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), 110 patients with non-inflammatory bowel disease (non- IBD) diseases (65 cases of intestinal tuberculosis, radioactive enterocolitis 39, and colonic diverticulitis 6), and 50 healthy individuals (NC) in the non-CD group. Risk prediction models were established by measuring ESR, Hb, WBC, ALb, and CH levels in hematology. The models were evaluated and visualized using logistic-regression algorithm. Results: 1) ESR, WBC, and WBC/CH ratios in the CD group were higher than those in the non-CD group, while ALb, Hb, CH, WBC/ESR ratio, and Hb/WBC ratio were lower than those in the non-CD group, and the differences were statistically significant (all p < 0.05). 2) CD occurrence had a strong correlation with the WBC/CH ratio, with the correlation coefficient exceeding 0.4; CD occurrence was correlated with other indicators. 3) A risk prediction model containing age, gender, ESR, ALb, Hb, CH, WBC, WBC/CH, WBC/ESR, and Hb/WBC characteristics was constructed using a logistic-regression algorithm. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the curve of the model were 83.0%, 76.2%, 59.0%, 90.5%, and 0.86, respectively. The model based on the corresponding index also had high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.88) for differentiating CD from ITB. Visual nomograph based on the logistic-regression algorithm was also constructed for clinical application reference. Conclusions: In this study, a CD risk prediction model was established and visualized by five conventional hematological indices: ESR, Hb, WBC, ALb, and CH, in addition to a high diagnostic accuracy for the differential diagnosis of CD and ITB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by the abnormal production of ovarian androgens resulting in elevated levels of male sex hormones in women. This condition is often marked by the development of a group of small cysts, fluid-filled sacs (cysts) in the ovaries. This study aimed to analyze serum levels of prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and specific hematological parameters in women with PCOS. In total, 70 women were enrolled, of which 50 were diagnosed with PCOS at an obstetrics institution in Karbala from February and May 2022, and 20 were excluded. Participant selection was based on the Rotterdam 2003 criteria, and we excluded postmenopausal women, those with hyperprolactinemia, and those with overt thyroid dysfunction. The control group included 20 fertile women with normal hormone levels, regular menstrual cycles, and no signs of hyperandrogenism, as verified by ultrasonography. Ages 15 to 46 were similar with regard to the frequency of illness, with those under 36 having a higher incidence. Data were collected via questionnaires, hormone level assessments, and complete blood count (CBC) tests. There was a significant increase in hormone levels (LH, FSH, prolactin, TSH) and CBC values (WBC, Hb, and Plt) in the PCOS group compared to the control group. We observed that women between 26 and 35 were more susceptible to PCOS. Furthermore, women who were overweight demonstrated a higher susceptibility to the syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White blood cells (WBCs) are one of the main components of blood produced by the bone marrow. WBCs are part of the immune system that protects the body from infectious diseases and an increase or decrease in the amount of any type that causes a particular disease. Thus, recognizing the WBC types is essential for diagnosing the patient's health and identifying the disease. Analyzing blood samples to determine the amount and WBC types requires experienced doctors. Artificial intelligence techniques were applied to analyze blood samples and classify their types to help doctors distinguish between types of infectious diseases due to increased or decreased WBC amounts. This study developed strategies for analyzing blood slide images to classify WBC types. The first strategy is to classify WBC types by the SVM-CNN technique. The second strategy for classifying WBC types is by SVM based on hybrid CNN features, which are called VGG19-ResNet101-SVM, ResNet101-MobileNet-SVM, and VGG19-ResNet101-MobileNet-SVM techniques. The third strategy for classifying WBC types by FFNN is based on a hybrid model of CNN and handcrafted features. With MobileNet and handcrafted features, FFNN achieved an AUC of 99.43%, accuracy of 99.80%, precision of 99.75%, specificity of 99.75%, and sensitivity of 99.68%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of our research was to assess the effect of Enrofloxacin (fluoroquinolone antibacterial drug) on WBC indices of different kinds of poultry at young age. In order to study the dynamics we performed two series of experiments employing groups as follows: Group 1 – control group (one-day-old chicks, receiving pure drinking water), Group 2 – experimental group (one-day-old chicks, receiving Enrofloxacin via drinking water at concentration 200 g/L for 10 consecutive days), Groups 3 and 4 were made with one-day-old ducklings, the experiment design was the same as with chicks. Blood samples were drawn from every bird on Day 1, Day 3, Day 5, Day 7 and Day 9 after the drug withdrawal. We performed differential leukocyte count, leukogram was made and we also calculated leukocyte (hematological) indices. The data analysis showed reliable changes of blood indices both in chicks and in ducklings. The greatest changes in the results of both experimental groups as compared to the control groups were observed on Day 7, but they were not lasting. We observed more pronounced and lasting changes in the leukogram of Group 2, while duckling blood showed reliable changes of leukocyte indices. But all in all dynamics in WBC indices that we observed did not show toxic effect of the drug on bird organism.

The prothrombotic and proinflammatory properties of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) have been hypothesized to play a role in the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19; however, the prognostic impact of Lp(a) on the clinical course of COVID-19 remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate whether Lp(a) may be associated with biomarkers of thrombo-inflammation and the occurrence of thrombotic events or adverse clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. We consecutively enrolled a cohort of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and collected blood samples for Lp(a) assessment at hospital admission. A prothrombotic state was evaluated through D-dimer levels, whereas a proinflammatory state was evaluated through C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, and white blood cell (WBC) levels. Thrombotic events were marked by the diagnosis of deep or superficial vein thrombosis (DVT or SVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and critical limb ischemia (CLI). The composite clinical end point of intensive care unit (ICU) admission/in-hospital death was used to evaluate adverse clinical outcomes. Among 564 patients (290 (51%) men, mean age of 74 ± 17 years) the median Lp(a) value at hospital admission was 13 (10–27) mg/dL. During hospitalization, 64 (11%) patients were diagnosed with at least one thrombotic event and 83 (15%) patients met the composite clinical end point. Lp(a), as either a continuous or categorical variable, was not associated with D-dimer, CRP, procalcitonin, and WBC levels (p > 0.05 for all correlation analyses). In addition, Lp(a) was not associated with a risk of thrombotic events (p > 0.05 for multi-adjusted odds ratios) nor with a risk of adverse clinical outcomes (p > 0.05 for multi-adjusted hazard ratios). In conclusion, Lp(a) does not influence biomarkers of plasma thrombotic activity and systemic inflammation nor has any impact on thrombotic events and adverse clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study included the definition of over crowding in traditional settlements, confinement of animals and not going out to graze in natural pastures which causes stress and its impact on the characteristics and standards in the blood. Metabolism for two weeks by oral dosing of 3 g, 6 g and control group and we found that the best use of a concentration of 3 g gives good results for adaptation and changes the number of white blood cells, as there was a significant increase in stressed animals when adding vitamin C and the variation decreased significantly(P < 0.05) for the lymphocytes and the value of granulocytes increased, significant (P < 0.05) differences were found between the values and the number of granulocytes, lymphocytes in a good measure to indicate changes caused by environmental stress, overcrowding and there is a significant increase in the values number of red blood cells and that vitamin C will enhance immunity and the ability to resist and adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for many serious diseases. While complete cessation of smoking is the best option to reduce harm from smoking, adverse impacts of smoking on health could persist for several years after cessation. Therefore, Biomarkers of Potential Harm (BoPH) are useful in interim evaluations of the beneficial effects of smoking cessation or switching to potentially lower-risk tobacco products. A 14-day smoking abstinence study was conducted under clinical confinement conditions and enrolled 70 subjects into younger (24–34 years, n = 33) and older (35–60 years, n = 37) age cohorts. Biomarkers of Exposure (BoE), which indicate exposure to nicotine and other toxicants, were measured at baseline, 7 and 14 days. Several BoPH including previously identified eicosanoids (leukotriene 4 (LTE4) and 2,3-dinor thromboxane 2 (2,3-d-TXB2) and others were evaluated. Significant declines in BoE, LTE4, 2,3-d-TXB2, neutrophils, WBC and select RBC, and arterial blood gas parameters were observed in both age cohorts at Days 7 and 14 compared to baseline, while other BoPH (e.g., FeNO) showed age-related effects. Rapid and reproducible reductions in LTE4, 2,3-d-TXB2 WBC, and neutrophil counts were consistently detected following smoking abstinence, indicating the value of these markers as useful BoPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]