Irish journal of medical science
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Claudin proteins are a component of tight junctions found in cell-cell adhesion complexes. A central feature of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is intestinal permeability, with changes to claudin proteins potentially contributing to intestinal instability, inflammation, and the progression of NEC. A current area of interest is the development of a novel, noninvasive biomarker for the detection of NEC in neonates at risk of developing this disease, in order to reduce morbidity and mortality through earlier intervention. ⋯ Alterations to claudin proteins may reflect changes seen to intestinal permeability and inflammation in the context of NEC. Further research is necessary to understand the relevance of claudin proteins in the pathophysiology of NEC and their use as a biomarker.
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This study aimed to determine the absolute and relative test-retest reliability of the functional reach test (FRT) and the handgrip strength test (HGST) in older adults using nursing homes. ⋯ Findings show that the FRT and the HGST are reliable, have acceptable measurement error, and may be used for research and clinical purposes to assess functional balance and strength of the hands in older adults using nursing homes.
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The methods used in the diagnosis and screening of sarcopenia are not available everywhere. There is a need for more practical tests that can be used especially in the first step. ⋯ Our study indicated the relationship between blink rate with dynapenia and grip strength. Especially in patients with limited mobilization and where it is not possible to reach the hand dynamometer to measure grip strength, the blink rate can be used as an alternative test to detect dynapenia.
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For evaluating the severity of coronary heart disease (CHD), coronary arteriography may not be available everywhere due to technical limitations. MicroRNA-101a (miR-101a) associated with inflammation and cholesterol homeostasis. However, whether it related to presence and stratification of CHD is still unknown. ⋯ Circulating miR-101a may be considered as a novel biomarker for evaluating the presence and severity of CHD.
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Predicting morbidity and mortality in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is of extreme importance to make precise decisions for better outcomes. ⋯ ACR is a good predictor of PICU outcomes and is comparable to PIM 2 for mortality prediction.