Atherogenic Coefficient Research Articles

EFFECT OF DIHYDROQUERCETIN ON HYPERCHOLESTERINEMIA

The article is devoted to the study of the natural flavonoid dihydroquercetin (0.0125 g per 1 kg of animal weight in daily diet) effect on the development of experimental hypercholesterolemia in rabbits “Chinchilla”. Dihydroquercetin was obtained by extraction with ethyl acetate from crushed Siberian larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb., 1833) wood chips with several cycles of subsequent recrystallization from water (purity 90–92%). Hypercholesterolemia was induced by an atherogenic diet: 0.35 g of cholesterol in the diet per 1 kg of animal weight. The duration of the experiment was two months. It was shown that the introduction of dihydroquercetin into the daily diet of rabbits with alimentary hypercholesterolemia does not significantly affect the level of total cholesterol, as well as the concentration of its atherogenic fractions of LDL and VLDL in the blood. Nevertheless, it was found that, in comparison with the model of hypercholesterolemia, this natural compound contributes to the maintenance of an increased concentration of HDL cholesterol, which has an antiatherogenic effect. Accordingly, this reduces the value of the blood atherogenic coefficient, which reflects the degree of risk of atherosclerosis. In general, the data obtained predetermines the need for further research using various approaches to modeling hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in experimental animals.

Роль васкулоэндотелиального фактора роста в патогенезе стеатоза печени и дислипидемии

Цель исследования - изучение роли васкулоэндотелиального фактора роста в патогенезе неалкогольного стеатоза печени и дислипидемии при метаболическом синдроме. Методика. Обследовано 35 пациентов с неалкогольным стеатозом печени, в том числе 22 женщины и 13 мужчин. Группу контроля составили 12 сопоставимых по полу и возрасту лиц без патологии печени и признаков метаболического синдрома. Наличие жирового гепатоза подтверждали методом ультразвукового исследования. У пациентов с патологией печени рассчитывали индексы-предикторы стеатоза: Fatty Liver Index (FLI) и Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI). У всех участников исследования определяли уровни провоспалительных цитокинов и васкулоэндотелиального фактора роста (ВЭФР), оценивали также липидный спектр крови и функциональные печеночные пробы. Результаты. У пациентов со стеатозом печени наблюдалось значимое увеличение уровней провоспалительных цитокинов, ВЭФР, общего холестерина и липопротеинов низкой и очень низкой плотности. Индекс атерогенности также был значимо выше, чем в контрольной группе. Концентрация ВЭФР положительно коррелировала с показателями окружности талии, тимоловой пробы, уровнями общего холестерина, липопротеинов низкой плотности и индексом атерогенности. Чувствительность FLI составила 91,4%, HSI - 97,1%. При этом, значения FLI и HSI значимо коррелировали с уровнем ВЭФР. Заключение. Полученные данные позволяют предположить, что ВЭФР, один из основных маркеров эндотелиальной дисфункции, может играть немаловажную роль в патогенезе неалкогольного стеатоза печени и дислипидемии у пациентов с метаболическомим синдромом The aim of the study was to assess the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis and dyslipidemia in patients with signs of metabolic syndrome. Methods. 35 patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, including 22 women and 13 men, were evaluated. The sex- and age-matched control group consisted of 12 people without liver pathology and metabolic syndrome criteria. Presence of hepatic steatosis was confirmed by an ultrasound examination. The Fatty Liver Index (FLI) and the Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI) were calculated for patients with hepatic steatosis. Concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and VEGF were measured for all participants. Also, blood biochemistry, including the lipid profile and liver function tests, was analyzed. Results. In patients with hepatic steatosis, levels of proinflammatory cytokines and VEGF were significantly increased. Also, concentrations of total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins, and very low-density lipoproteins were higher in patients with the liver pathology than in the control group. Atherogenic coefficient was increased in hepatic steatosis. Significant correlations were observed between VEGF and waist circumference, thymol test, total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins, very low-density lipoproteins, and atherogenic coefficient. Sensitivity of FLI and HIS was 91.4% and 97.1%, respectively. Also, FLI significantly correlated with HSI and VEGF level. Conclusion. The study suggested that VEGF, of the main markers of endothelial dysfunction, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis and dyslipidemia in patients with signs of metabolic syndrome.

Insights into Cardiovascular Disease Risk Based on Platelet Indices and Lipid Ratios in Reference to Glycemic Control and Duration of Diabetes

Background: Diabetic patients are at the risk of untimely atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The level of blood lipids, their ratios, glycosylated hemoglobin, and platelet indices are potential markers for the assessment of cardiovascular disease risk in diabetic patients. This study aims to insights into cardiovascular disease risk among diabetic patients in reference to glycemic control and duration of diabetes on the basis of lipid ratios and platelet indices by comparing with healthy controls.
 Materials and Methods: A case control study was carried out among the patients, diagnosed as type 2 diabetes mellitus at Dhulikhel hospital-Kathmandu University hospital. Socio-demographic questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical tests was performed. Descriptive analysis and independent T-test for the testing relationship between categorical variables along with correlation was done.
 Results: Nearly one-third of diabetic patients were under poor glycemic control with high risk of cardiovascular diseases on the basis of blood lipid ratios and platelet indices. Cardiac risk ratio, Atherogenic Index of Plasma, and Atherogenic Coefficient was found to be significantly high in diabetic compared to the control group (5.22±1.54 vs. 3.71±0.99, p <0.05), (0.33±0.18 vs. 0.22±0.14, p <0.05), (4.22±1.54 vs. 2.71±0.99, p <0.05) respectively. Similarly Mean Platelet Volume was also significantly higher in diabetic compared to the control group (10.16±1.43 vs. 9.06±0.81, p <0.05).
 Conclusion: Poor glycemic control seems riskier than prolonged diabetes on the basis of blood lipids, their ratios and platelet indices.

Вплив гіпоандрогенемії на складові метаболічного синдрому в підлітків із затримкою статевого розвитку

Мета — дослідити вплив гіпоандрогенемії (ГА) на формування компонентів метаболічного синдрому (МС) у хлопців із затримкою статевого розвитку. Матеріал і методи. Комплексне дослідження проведено у 55 хлопців 14-18 років із клінічними ознаками затримки статевого розвитку та лабораторно підтвердженим зниженим рівнем тестостерону (<12,0 нмоль/л) (основна група). Групу порівняння становили 44 практично здорових однолітки із нормальним рівнем статевого дозрівання. Оцінювали статевий та фізичний розвиток хлопців. Визначали рівні загального тестостерону (ЗТ) та естрадіолу (Е 2), сексстероїдзв’язуючого глобуліну (СЗГ), загального холестерину (ЗХС), тригліцеридів (ТГ), холестерину ліпопротеїдів високої щільності (ХС ЛПВЩ), рівень натще глюкози та імунореактивного інсуліну в сироватці крові. Розраховували співвідношення (Т/Е 2), індекс вільного андрогена (ІВА); показники холестерину ліпопротеїдів низької щільності (ХС ЛПНЩ) та коефіцієнту атерогенності (КА), індекс інсулінорезистентності НОМА. Статистичний аналіз виконано в програмі SPSS17.00. Результати. У підлітків із ГА зниження рівня ЗТ поєднувалось із достовірними зменшеннями співвідношення Т/Е 2 (40,35±28,02 ум.од., р<0,05) та ІВА (22,08±6,05 ум. од., р<0,05) на тлі зниження рівня СЗГ (28,11±3,64 нмоль/л, р<0,05). За індивідуального аналізу у 23,6% хворих із ГА діагностовано ознаки інсулінорезистентності (ІР). Встановлено, що хлопці з ГА мали вірогідно більші показники ЗХС (4,91±0,17 нмоль/л, р<0,05), ТГ(1,15±0,12 нмоль/л, р<0,05) та ХС ЛПНЩ (2,65±0,19 нмоль/л, р<0,05) порівняно зі здоровими однолітками. Доведено наявність негативних зв’язків рівнів ЗТ, СЗГ із вмістом ЗХС та позитивного зв’язку Е 2 із ЗХС, які не залежали від віку та індексу маси тіла (ІМТ). Висновки. Низькі рівні ЗТ у хлопців вже в підлітковому віці асоціюються з порушеннями ліпідного профілю, які можуть бути предиктором формування МС. Підлітки з ГА потребують динамічного спостереження та комплексного лікування, спрямованого на покращення репродуктивного потенціалу та попередження прогресування метаболічних порушень.

Genetic and metabolic markers in the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in children

Objective — to study the relationship of the NR1H4 gene polymorphisms and metabolic markers of the blood serum and bile acids in bile.Materials and methods. The observations, involving 55 children aged 10 to 17, have been performed at the Institute «Gastroenterology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine». The children were divided into two groups: the group 1 included patients with non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (n = 40); comparison group 2 consisted from children without NAFLD (n = 15). The investigation methods included PCR, biochemical, chromatographic analyses, and ELISA method.Results. As a result of the study, associations of NR1H4 gene genotypes (SNP rs11110390 (C/T)) with dyslipidemia, indicators of carbohydrate metabolism in children with NAFLD were revealed. The NR1H4 gene variability had a clear correlation with the increased probability of the NAFLD development in children. Dyslipidemia, which develops in children with the TT genotype, is characterized by the raised atherogenic coefficient and the decreased serum levels of HDL, that play the protective role. An imbalance in the bile acids’ levels in bile was observed.Conclusions. It has been established that carrier of the polymorphic variant SNP rs11110390 (C/T) of the NR1H4 gene in the homozygous state was associated with an increased probability of developing NAFLD in children. The changes in the lipid profile were detected with the «wild» genotype NR1H4 and in the homozygous state (TT). The increased levels of insulin, HOMA‑IR index in children with NAFLD can testify the development of insulin resistance as a factor in the formation of hepatic steatosis. An imbalance has been revealed in the levels of bile acids in portions B and C in the form of increased cholic acid levels of in the gallbladder bile and decreased levels in the liver.

Relationship between atherogenic indices and acquired premature ejaculation.

The aim of this study is to evaluate blood lipid parameters and level of atherogenic indices in acquired premature ejaculation (PE) patients. Between 2020 January and June 2020, 96 patients diagnosed with PE in our clinic and 84 control patients who applied to the urology outpatient clinic for other urological reasons were included in the study. Detailed medical and sexual histories of the patients were taken, and physical examination findings were recorded. In addition, 5-question premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) was applied to patients and estimated intravaginal ejaculation latency times (IELT) were recorded. The mean values of lipid parameters; Risk Index of Castelli-1 (CRI-1 (Total cholesterol/ HDL)), CRI-2 (LDL/ HDL), Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP (log10 (triglyceride/ HDL)) and Atherogenic Coefficient (AC (HDL/ non-HDL)) were calculated. The average PEDT score was 7.68+5.05 (2-22), and the IELT arithmetic mean was 150.39+121.53 (5-900) seconds. In the APE group, triglyceride and AIP values were found to be higher than the control group (triglyceride: 188.75+76.39 versus 157.20+87.45; p=.049; AIP: 0.46+0.33 versus 0.35+0.35; p=.040). A fair positive correlation was found between PEDT scores and AIP values (r=.355, p<.001). AIP was found to be related to APE, and it was also found to be related to symptom severity.

Dietary Fat and Cholesterol Interactively Alter Serum Lipids and Gut Microbiota in Wistar Rats

Effects of dietary fat type on serum lipids and gut microbiota in cholesterol-fed rats were investigated. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were assigned (8/group) into three cholesterol-free (control) diets containing Corn Oil (CO), Sheep Tallow (ST) or Olive Oil (OO) or three cholesterol-supplemented (experimental) diets (COC, STC, OOC) and given ad libtium for nine weeks. Serum lipids, atherogenic indexes and several biological parameters were determined. Total Bacterial Counts (TBC) and seven bacterial groups were assessed. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol was higher (p&lt;0.003) in CO (89.9 ± 6.5 mg/dl) and OO (80.9 ± 3.0 mg/dl) than ST (55.9 ± 4.3 mg/dl). Higher (p&lt;0.05) total cholesterol and atherogenic coefficient were respectively found in OOC (131.4 ± 9.9 mg/dl, 1.20 ± 0.03 mg/dl) and COC (113.6 ± 10.6 mg/dl, 1.46 ± 0.35 mg/dl) than OO (96.4 ± 2.6 mg/dl, 0.19 ± 0.03 mg/dl) and CO (93.6 ± 2.6 mg/dl, 0.04 ± 0.03 mg/dl), but not in STC (95.8 ± 6.5 mg/dl, 0.70 ± 0.20 mg/dl) versus ST (87.0 ± 7.8 mg/dl, 0.60 ± 0.06 mg/dl). Neither fat nor cholesterol affected body weight, food intake, Bacteroidetes, Clostridium cluster IV, Lactobacillus, and Prevotella. Total Bacterial Count, Clostridium Coccoides-Eubacterium rectalae and Bacteroides were respectively higher (p&lt;0.001) in ST (74.0 ± 20.0, 53.1 ± 8.5, 103.6 ± 32.3) than OO (24.8 ± 3.1, 18.9 ± 5.8, 32.3 ± 15.5). Bacteroides was higher (p&lt;0.05) in ST (103.6 ± 32.3) than COC (38.7 ± 7.8), and STC (97.2 ± 13.5) than OO (32.3 ± 15.5) or COC (38.7 ± 7.8). Firmicutes and Clostridium Coccoides-Eubacterium rectalae were respectively lower (p&lt;0.05) in STC (15.3 ± 1.2, 19.0 ± 4.3) and COC (19.0 ± 2.8, 14.4 ± 1.5) than ST (30.3 ± 4.7, 53.3 ± 8.5) and CO (32.7 ± 2.8, 33.0 ± 7.8), but not in OOC (23.5 ± 3.7, 34.4 ± 6.0) versus OO (25.3 ± 4.7, 18.9 ± 5.8).In conclusion, dietary fat and cholesterol alter serum lipids and gut microbiota in an interaction that is likely to have clinical connotations in cholesterol-related disorders.

The importance of pathological insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia

Aim : to assess dynamic changes in insulin resistance (IR), hyperinsulinemia (HI) and related parameters of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, endothelial dysfunction, pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic states in pregnancy complicated with preeclampsia (PE). Materials and Methods . A prospective observational study was conducted consisting of laboratory monitoring 148 high-PE-risk pregnant women comprising Group I - 72 women with overt PE; 36 healthy women with physiological course of pregnancy were included into Group II. All women were assessed level of venous blood glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), triglycerides (TG), leptin, placental lactogen, uric acid, tumor necrosis factor-a, C-reactive protein, circulating endothelial cells, fibronectin, nitric oxide metabolites, platelet aggregation at gestational periods 11-14 weeks, 18-21 weeks and 30-34 weeks. We also calculated insulin resistance index, atherogenic coefficient, and TG/HDL ratio, estimating accumulation and distribution of adipose tissue. Results . There were found physiological changes in IR and HI, lipid, endothelial-hemostasis axis, pro-inflammatory, placental parameters supposed to provide proper fetal energy supply during normal pregnancy. During PE, these parameters were aberrantly elevated starting from early pregnancy stage due to failure of gestational adaptation mechanisms, which acquire important pathogenetic significance therein. Conclusion . A holistic view at the mechanisms of forming atherogenic transformation of the lipid profile, endothelial dysfunction, pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic status, oxidative stress, hyperuricemia, visceral type of abdominal wall fat deposition as well as correlation analysis data indicate that all such changes were associated with unified pathogenetic arm consisting of pathological IR and HI serving as early baseline mechanisms in PE development.

Association between biological age, clinical and biochemical indicators, manifestation of cognitive disorders and health indicators in patients with arterial hypertension

The aim of this work was to determine the association between biological age (BA), clinical and biochemical parameters, cognitive functions and subjective health assessment in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) and low-grade cardiovascular risk (CVR).Materials and methods. The examinations involved 95 patients (50 men and 45 women) with the mean age of 43.8 years — from 25 to 59.8 years. All patients were divided into 2 groups: control group consisted of patients without hypertension (n = 24) and the second (main) group included patients with grade 1 — 2 stages 1 — 2 AH with low and moderate CVR (n = 71). Each group was dived into two subgroups:: 25 — 44 years old and 45 — 60 years old patients. Clinical, biochemical and anthropometric parameters were determined in patients. BA of patients was determined using the method named after A. G. Gorelkin and B. B. Pinkhasov, cognitive dysfunction was assessed based on the results of the questionnaires, namely Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSS), and health status was estimated using European Quality of Life Questionnaire (EQ-5D).Results. Significant differences were found between patients of the main and control groups in terms of BA (p = 0.000), weight (p = 0.016), body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.02), waist circumference (WC) (p = 0.001) and thigh circumference (p = 0.013). Analysis of the parameter values distribution in patients aged from 25 to 45 years old with and without AH showed significant differences in BA (p = 0.025), weight (p = 0.009), BMI (p = 0.048), WC (p = 0.007), levels of triglyceride (TG) (p = 0.025), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) (p = 0.025), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p = 0.000), atherogenic coefficient (AC) (p = 0.001), creatinine (p = 0.007) and MoCA results (p = 0.000). Patients in the main group aged 45 to 60 years had significant differences in the levels of total cholesterol (p = 0.002), TG (p = 0.015), VLDL-C (p = 0.042), AC (p = 0.010), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (p = 0.042), increased alanine aminotransferase (p = 0.021), DSS (p = 0.000) compared with controls. Decrease in cognitive functions in patients with AH in comparison with controls (p &lt; 0.05) was observed according to the results of the MoCA in young people and DSS in middle-aged people. BA assessment demonstrated a link with DSS test results and health indicators in both young and middle-aged patients.Conclusions. Not only can middle-aged patients with AH and low CVR have cognitive impairments, but also young patients. MoCA questionnaires can be effective for the identification of cognitive disorders in young patients, whereas DSS test can be useful in middle-aged people. BA can be used as an indicator of health disorders in patients with AH, both young and middle-aged.

Prevention of doxorubicin-induced dyslipidaemia, plasma oxidative stress and electrolytes imbalance in Wistar rats by aqueous leaf-extracts of Chromolaena odorata and Tridax procumbens

This study investigated the ability of aqueous leaf-extracts of Chromolaena odorata and Tridax procumbens to modulate plasma biomarkers of oxidative stress, electrolytes, lipid profiles and atherogenic indices in doxorubicin treated rats. Doxorubicin was administered at 15 mg/kg body weight (intra-peritioneally, 48 h prior to sacrifice); metformin was administered daily at 250 mg/kg (orally, for 14 days); while both extracts were daily administered at 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg (orally, for 14 days). The plasma malondialdehyde, triglyceride, apolipoprotein B, total cholesterol, non-high density lipoproteins cholesterol, low density lipoproteins cholesterol and very low density lipoproteins cholesterol, calcium, chloride and sodium concentrations; atherogenic index of plasma, cardiac risk ratio, atherogenic coefficient and Castelli's risk index II of Test control were significantly (p<0.05) higher than those of all the other groups. However, their plasma ascorbic acid, reduced glutathione, high density lipoproteins cholesterol, potassium and magnesium concentrations were significantly (p<0.05) lower than those of all the other groups. In addition, the plasma catalase and superoxide dismutase activities of Test control were significantly (p<0.05) lower than those of the others. The above imply that the extracts have the ability to prevent doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress, dyslipidaemia and electrolytes imbalance. These results suggest that, at least in part, due to antioxidant and hypolipidaemic properties, aqueous extracts of T. procumbens and C. odorata leaves may potentially reduce the risk of doxorubicin-induced cardiovascular disorders.

Features of Myocardial Remodeling and Changes in the Blood Lipid Spectrum in Experimental Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiomyopathy and Atorvastatin Administration.

Structural myocardial reorganization and changes in the blood lipid spectrum in rats were studied after administration of a single sublethal dose of doxorubicin (15 mg/kg) alone and in combination with atorvastatin (20 mg/kg/day over 7 days). It was established that doxorubicin induced the development of dyslipidemia in experimental animals (the concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and VLDL increased by 2.2, 2.0, and 1.96 times, respectively; the atherogenic coefficient increased by 3.4 times by day 7 of the experiment). In animals with experimental anthracycline cardiomyopathy treated with atorvastatin, the concentrations of the main components of the blood lipid spectrum increased less markedly. Atorvastatin alone induces moderate myocardial remodeling in comparison with more pronounced changes in the structural organization of the myocardium in rats treated with doxorubicin alone. Course treatment with atorvastatin under conditions of doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy reduced the severity of myocardial remodeling: the decrease in the volume density of cardiomyocytes and the increase in the volume density of the connective tissue were less pronounced in the dynamics of the experiment.

Functional gall-bladder disorders and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: clinical features and new approaches to therapy

Introduction. Statistical data indicate a frequent combination of functional biliary disorders with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.Aim. To study the efficacy and safety of Phosphogliv® URSO in patients with functional disorders of the gall-bladder, biliary sludge in combination with fatty hepatosis in comparison with the group receiving monotherapy ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA).Materials and methods. The study included 30 patients with a diagnosis of functional gall-bladder disorder, biliary sludge in combination with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Patients of the main group received monotherapy with Phosphogliv® URSO. The comparison group received monotherapy UDCA. After three-month therapy, the dynamics of clinical symptoms, laboratory parameters, and ultrasound parameters were assessed.Results. Positive dynamics of clinical manifestations of functional disorders of the gallbladder, as well as parameters of cholestatic syndrome and bilirubin level was observed in both groups. In patients taking Phosphogliv® URSO, a significant decrease in cytolysis syndrome indicators was recorded, a significant difference was revealed in relation to an increase in HDL levels and a decrease in the atherogenic coefficient in the main group. When assessing the ultrasound parameters of the gall-bladder in patients of group 1, a significant decrease in the thickness of its wall, reverse development of biliary sludge, an improvement in the contractile function of the gall-bladder in comparison with the UDCA monotherapy group were revealed.Conclusion. The use of a combined medicine containing glycyrrhizic acid and UDCA (Phosphogliv® URSO) can be recommended for patients with functional disorders of the gallbladder, biliary sludge and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, given its more pronounced anticytolytic effect, restoration of functional disorders of the gallbladder and resolution of biliary sludge in comparison with monotherapy UDCA.

Pattern and Atherogenic Index of Dyslipidaemia among Hypertensive Patients

Objective: To describe the prevalence, pattern and atherogenic index of dyslipidaemia among hypertensive patients.Method: Cross-sectional study of hypertensive subjects at first presentation in a community-based cardiology clinic in Delta State, Nigeria. The Delta State University Teaching Hospital Health Research Ethics Committee granted ethical approval for the study. Fasting serum lipid profile was retrieved and atherogenic indices calculated. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 23.0.Result: The mean age of the 227 subjects was 55.4 (±13.6) years, and 111 (48.9%) were males. A total of 154 (67.8%) had at least one abnormal lipid profile level, out of which 56.5% were females (p=0.018). The pattern of dyslipidaemia [isolated (56, 36.4%), two-combined (65, 42.2%), and mixed (33, 21.4%)] did not differ by sex (p = 0.173). The predisposition to high cardiovascular risk was predicted by atherogenic index of plasma (59.5%),atherogenic coefficient (43.6%), Castelli ratios I, II (29.1%, 26.9%).Conclusion: The prevalence of dyslipidaemia was 67.8%. Two-combined dyslipidaemia was the most common pattern&#x0D; Keywords: Dyslipidaemia, atherogenic index, hypertension, prevalence, Nigeria

Atherogenic risk assessment of naive HIV-infected patients attending Infectious Diseases Service of Kinshasa University Teaching Hospital, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Background and aim: Metabolic abnormalities are common in HIV/AIDS. Increasingly, lipid ratios are used as screening tools for dyslipidaemia in these medical conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of 4 lipid ratios to predict cardiovascular risks. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and analytical study included 105 HIV+ patients followed in Kinshasa University Teaching Hospital (KUTH). Four indices [Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), Castelli Risk Index (CRI) I and II, Atherogenic coefficient (AC)] were compared. Statistical analyzis consisted of measuring frequencies and means, Student’s t-tests, ANOVA and Ficher’s exact test, and the calculation of the Kappa value. Results: Lipid ratios predicted respectively the risk in 62% (AIP), 28.6% (CRI-I) and 23.8% (CRI-II). CRI-I and II were elevated, especially in women. The AIP appeared to be a better predictor than CRI-I and II to assess dyslipidaemia in general and the high-risk frequency. The cholesterol detected risk in 66.7% (Low HDL-C), 50% (High LDL-C), 38.9% (High TC and/or TG). The atherogenic risk was higher with age, advanced WHO stage, HIV-TB, HBV-HCV co-infections, smoking and alcohol intake. Haemoglobin (Hb) and CD4 counts were low when the risk was high. Age ≥ 50 years, stage 4 (WHO), CD4s+ ≤ 200 cells/µL were independent factors associated with atherogenic risk. Conclusion: Lipid ratios can be used as reliable tools for assessing cardiovascular risk of naïve HIV-infected patients who received HAART.

Impact of Atherogenic Indexes in Saphenous Vein Graft Stenosis.

ResumoFundamento Os enxertos de veias safenas (EVS) são frequentemente usados em pacientes submetidos a cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio (CRM).Objetivos Avaliar as relações entre índices aterogênicos e estenose de EVS. Métodos: No total, 534 pacientes (27,7% mulheres, com idade média de 65±8,4 anos) submetidos a CRM e angiografia coronariana eletiva foram incluídos no estudo. Pacientes com pelo menos uma estenose EVS ≥50% foram alocados ao grupo estenose EVS (+) (n=259) e pacientes sem estenose foram classificados como EVS (-) (n=275). O índice aterogênico plasmático (IAP) e o coeficiente aterogênico (CA) foram calculados a partir dos parâmetros lipídicos de rotina dos pacientes. A significância foi estabelecida no nível p<0,05.Resultados O número de pacientes com histórico de hipertensão (HT), diabetes mellitus (DM), acidente vascular cerebral e insuficiência cardíaca (IC) se mostrou significativamente maior no grupo EVS (+) do que no grupo EVS (-). O colesterol total, triglicerídeos e colesterol LDL mostraram-se significativamente mais altos e o colesterol HDL mostrou-se menor no grupo EVS (+) do que no grupo EVS (-). IAP (p<0,001) e CA (p<0,001) apresentaram-se significativamente mais altos no grupo EVS (+) do que no grupo EVS (-). A análise ROC mostra que tanto o IAP quanto o CA mostraram-se melhores que o colesterol HDL, colesterol LDL e colesterol não HDL na predição de estenose de EVS. Na análise multivariada, histórico de DM, HT, acidente vascular cerebral, IC, número de enxertos de safena, colesterol HDL, colesterol LDL, colesterol não HDL, IAP e CA foram fatores de risco independentes para estenose de EVS.Conclusão O IAP e o CA foram preditores independentes de estenose de EVS. Além disso, tanto o IAP quanto o CA têm melhor desempenho na predição de estenose de EVS do que o colesterol LDL, colesterol HDL e colesterol não HDL. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(3):538-544)

Diabetic Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy: Insulin Resistance, Lipids and Simvastatin

Background: Treatment of diabetic cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a complex process, that includes: lifestyle modification; reducing of insulin resistance (IR); optimal glycemic control; management of diabetic dyslipidemia; antioxidants; vitamins; treatment of myocardial metabolic abnormalities; thrombosis and others. The aim of study was to investigate the effects of simvastatin on insulin resistance and blood lipid profile parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and the definite stage of cardiac autonomic neuropathy. Methods: The study involved 107 patients with type 2 DM among them 16 patients without CAN, 19 with subclinical stage of CAN and 72 with definite CAN. Median age of patients was 53.6±0.41 years, disease duration - 4.12±0.24 years and median glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) - 7.01%±0.09%. The control group included 14 almost healthy people without DM. Patients with definite CAN were allocated into two treatment groups: 1st group - 22 patients received standard hypoglycemic therapy and simvastatin 20 mg/day; 2nd group - control (n = 15). The duration of the study was 3 mos. The concentrations of glucose, HbA1c, immunoreactive insulin (IRI) in the blood were determined. Lipid metabolism was assessed by the concentration of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG) measurements. The IR index (HOMA-IR), atherogenic coefficient (AC), TG/HDL-C parameters, and TG-glucose (TyG) index were calculated. Result: It was established that in patients with type 2 DM with subclinical stage of CAN there was statistically significant increase in the parameters of HbA1c, IRI, TC, TG and HOMA-IR, AC, TyG indices and decrease of TG/HDL-C and HDL-C compared to control; increase of IRI, TG, TG/HDL-C and TyG indices compared to patients with type 2 DM without CAN. The definite stage of CAN is characterized by an increase of HbA1c, IRI, TC, LDL-C levels and HOMA-IR, AC indices and a significant decrease in the concentration of HDL-C (compared to patients with subclinical CAN). As a result of our study, we found out that prescription of simvastatin to patients with definite stage of CAN was accompanied by a statistically significant decrease in the concentration of TC, LDL-C, TG and an increase in the content of HDL-C (compared to 2nd, control group). Conclusion: Obtained results justify the appropriateness of statins prescription to patients with type 2 DM and the definite stage of CAN.

Fasting plasma glucose, lipid ratios, and atherogenic coefficient are the risk factors for hypertension in chronic kidney disease patients on hemodialysis: A report from the Regional High Speciality Hospital of Peninsular Yucatan, Mexico

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with the development of cardivascular disease (CVD). CKD is one of the major public health problems in Mexico. Derived parameters of lipid profile, namely atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), atherogenic coefficient (AC), and Castelli risk index (CRI I and CRI II) are useful for predicting hypertension among CKD patients on hemodialysis that are not widely reported from Mexico. Objective of the present study was to find interrelationships among blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and derived parameters of lipid profile (AIP, AC, CRI-I, and CRI-II) among adult CKD patients on hemodialysis in a hospital in Yucatan, Mexico. Methods: An observational study was performed using the medical records (2016 and 2017) of 47 CKD patients on hemodialysis in the Regional High Speciality Hospital of Yucatan Peninsula (HRAEPY in Spanish acronym). Multiple linear regression models were developed to evaluate the use of FPG level and derived parameters of lipid profile (AC, CRI-I, and CRI-II) as risk factors predicting mean arterial pressure (MAP). Results showed remarkable prevalence of excess weight (55% overweight, 15% obesity) and hypertension (64%) in the sample. Correlation coeffcients and multiple linear regression models showed significant rise of blood pressure in association with elevated FPG level and derived lipid profile parameters. The results confirm the use of FPG, AC, CRI-I and CRI-II as the indicators for an early diagnosis of hypertension and related CVDs among CKD patients on hemodialysis.

Pilosocereus gounellei (Cactaceae) stem extract decreases insulin resistance, inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardio-metabolic risk in diet-induced obese mice

Ethnopharmacological relevancePilosocereus gounellei (xique-xique) is a popular cactus from Caatinga, traditionally used to counter inflammatory processes and indicated as a hypoglycemic agent. Previous studies have shown that mice treated orally with saline extract of P. gounellei stem (containing flavonoids and sugars) showed decreased serum lipid levels. Aim of the studyIn this work, we evaluated whether this extract would have beneficial effects against hyperglycemia and inflammatory status related to obesity in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). MethodsObese animals were treated daily per os with the extract (EXT; 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg), metformin (MET; 400 mg/kg), or saline solution (diet-induced obese, DIO) for 21 days. A group of non-obese animals served as the control. We evaluated lipid profile, glucose and insulin tolerance, atherogenic indices, histological alterations, cytokine levels, and oxidative stress in liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. ResultsAt the end of the experiment, mice from EXT groups showed lower body weight and total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides compared with the DIO group; in addition, HDL-cholesterol levels and glucose and insulin tolerance were similar to those of the control group. When compared with the DIO group, the extract-treated mice showed reduction in cardiac risk ratio, atherogenic coefficient, atherogenic index of plasma, and Castelli's Risk Index II; decrease in epididymal fat; reduction in steatosis, collagen deposition, and liver inflammation; lower serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1); inhibited lipid peroxidation; and increased superoxide dismutase levels in liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. ConclusionThe P. gounellei saline extract was able to improve physiological parameters of obese mice, which highlight the potential of this plant as source of compounds with biotechnological relevance for pharmaceutical industry.

Dietary Mannan-oligosaccharides potentiate the beneficial effects of Bifidobacterium bifidum in broiler chicken.

This study investigated the effects of dietary Bifidobacterium bifidum (BFD) and mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS), as a synbiotic, on the production performance, gut microbiology, serum biochemistry, antioxidant profile and health indices of broiler chicken. Six dietary treatments were T1 (negative control), T2 (positive control-20mg antibiotic BMDkg-1 diet; BMD: bacitracin methylene disalicylate), T3 (0·1% MOS+106 CFU BFD per g feed), T4 (0·1% MOS+107 CFU BFD per g feed), T5 (0·2% MOS+106 CFU BFD per g feed) and T6 (0·2% MOS+107 CFU BFD per g feed). Significantly (P<0·01) better growth performance and efficiency was observed in birds supplemented with 0·2% MOS along with 106 CFU BFD per g of feed compared to BMD and control birds. Supplementation with 0·2% MOS along with either 106 or 107 CFU BFD per g feed reduced (P<0·01) the gut coliform, Escherichia coli, total plate count, and Clostridium perfringens count and increased the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium count. Significantly (P<0·01) higher serum and liver antioxidant enzyme pool, serum HDL cholesterol and lower serum glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, cardiac risk ratio, atherogenic coefficient and atherogenic index of plasma were observed in birds supplemented with 0·2% MOS along with 106 CFU BFD per g of feed compared to control or BMD supplemented birds. Better production performance, gut microbial composition, serum biochemistry, antioxidant profile and health indices were depicted by broiler chicken supplemented with 0·2% MOS and 106 CFU BFD per g of feed.

Assessment of Atherogenic Indices and Markers of Cardiac Injury in Albino Rats Orally Administered with Tartrazine Azo Dye

Aim: Assess the effect of tartrazine azo dye on atherogenic indices and markers of cardiac injury in albino rats.&#x0D; Study Design: A total number of 63 rats were used for the study. The study was divided into two phases, 1 and 2, which lasted for 30 and 60 days respectively. Phase 1 had 35 rats, 20 as test and 15 as control, while phase 2 had 28 rats, 16 as test and 12 as control. In each phase the test groups were given 7.5mg/kg of tartrazine orally on daily basis over the stipulated period while the control groups were not treated with tartrazine.&#x0D; Methodology: At the end of the study, 5ml of whole blood was collected from the jugular veins into Lithium Heparin bottles. The sample was spun, plasma collected and analyzed for cardiac Troponin I (cTn-I) and cardiac Troponin T (cTn-T), Total creatinekinase (CK), creatinekinase MM (CK-MM), and creatinekinase MB (CK-MB). Lipid parameters like total cholesterol (TC), High density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and Triglyceride (TG) which were also analysed. Atherogenic indices such as atherogenic coefficient (AC), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), Non High density lipoprotein-cholesterol (nHDL-C), and castelli risk indices 1 and 2 (CRI-1 and CRI-2) were also calculated. In addition, cardiac tissues were collected, fixed in 10% formol saline and examined histologically using Haematoxylin and Eosin stain. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism version 8.02.&#x0D; Results: The results obtained indicate significant increases in nHDL-C, total CK and cTn-T after 30 and 60 days of treatment with tartrazine at ADI doses against controls. Other atherogenic indices such as AIP, AC, CRI-1 and CRI-2 as well as markers of cardiac injury such as cTn-I and CK-MB indicated non-significant increases.&#x0D; Conclusion: Orally administered tartrazine over a 60 day period induced cardiac injury as shown by the significant increase in the cTn-T and total CK as well as hypertrophied nuclei of cardiomyocytes. This goes to say chronic administration of tartrazine even at the recommended daily dose could pose the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is also supported by an increase in nHDL cholesterol.