High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels Research Articles

Preliminary Research on Dietary Supplementation of Potassium Magnesium Sulphate on Transport Stress in Finishing Pigs Prior to Slaughter

Transport stress prior to slaughter frequently induces a stress response, negatively affecting meat quality. This study investigated the impact of dietary potassium magnesium sulphate (PMS) supplementation during the fattening stage on the stress response and meat quality in finishing pigs subjected to transport stress. The experiment involved two phases. Initially, 48 finishing pigs (68.00 ± 0.40 kg) were randomly allocated into two groups: a control group receiving a basal diet (CON) and a PMS-supplemented group receiving the basal diet with 0.50% PMS. Each group was housed in six pens, with four pigs per pen. After 60 days of feeding, in the second phase, two pigs from each pen were randomly selected for slaughter, with one pig subjected to a 4 h transportation stress prior to slaughter. Pigs were categorized into four treatment groups based on diet and stress: (1) control without transport stress, (2) control with transport stress, (3) PMS-supplemented without transport stress, and (4) PMS-supplemented with transport stress. Serum, jejunum, and longissimus thoracis muscle (LM) samples were collected. The results indicated that dietary PMS supplementation did not significantly affect growth performance during the fattening stage (p > 0.05). However, following transport, the PMS pigs showed a reduction in norepinephrine and cortisol concentrations (p = 0.09, p < 0.05) and a significant increase in serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity (p < 0.05). Furthermore, PMS supplementation significantly increased serum catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activity, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (p < 0.05), while significantly reducing cholesterol (CHO) levels (p < 0.05). Transport stress adversely affected the intestinal health of finishing pigs, as evidenced by a decrease in intestinal villus height (0.05 < p < 0.1), a condition ameliorated by PMS supplementation. Additionally, transported pigs exhibited a higher drip loss24h in LM (p < 0.05), which was also alleviated through PMS supplementation. In conclusion, PMS supplementation mitigates transport stress and improves meat quality in finishing pigs.

The Association Between Metabolic Syndrome and the Risk of Endometrial Cancer in Pre- and Post-Menopausal Women: A UK Biobank Study

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a syndrome that comprises central obesity, increased serum triglyceride (TG) levels, decreased serum HDL cholesterol (HDL) levels, raised blood pressure (BP), and impaired glucose regulation, including prediabetic and diabetic glycaemic levels. Recently, the association with endometrial cancer (EC) has been described but it is unclear if the risk associated with MetS is higher than the individual effect of obesity alone. This study investigates the association between MetS components and differing MetS definitions on EC risk and compares the risk of MetS with the risk posed by obesity alone. It also analyses how MetS affects the risk of EC development in the pre- and post-menopausal subgroups. Methods: A prospective cohort study was undertaken using data from the UK biobank. Multivariable Cox proportional risk models with the time to diagnosis (years) were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of MetS and its components on the risk of EC. A subgroup analysis was also undertaken for pre- and post-menopausal participants. Kaplan–Meier (KM) was undertaken to assess the difference in the risk of EC development in differing BMI classes, and in pre- and post-menopausal subgroups. Results: A total of 177,005 females from the UK biobank were included in this study. Of those participants who developed EC (n = 1454), waist circumference > 80 cm, BMI > 30 kg/m2, hypertension > 130/80 mmHg, hyperlipidaemia and diabetes (HbA1C > 48 mmol/L were significant predictors of EC development, with waist circumference being the strongest predictor (HR = 2.21; 95% CI: 1.98–2.47, p < 0.001). Comparing the pre- and post-menopausal subgroup, hypertriglyceridaemia and diabetes were the strongest predictors of EC in the pre-menopausal subgroup (HR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.18–1.99 and HR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.08–2.12, p < 0.05, respectively). Raised waist circumference was not a significant independent predictor in the pre-menopausal subgroup. A KM curve analysis showed a clear distinction between those with and without MetS in the pre-menopausal group, suggesting a benefit of testing for MetS components in pre-menopausal women with obesity. Conclusions: Components of MetS, both independently and in combination, significantly increase the risk of EC. Screening those with obesity for MetS in their pre-menopausal years may help to identify those at the highest risk.

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol as a prognostic marker for 90-day transplant-free mortality in hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure

BackgroundHepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is linked to dyslipidemia and inflammatory responses. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and 90-day transplant-free (TF) mortality in patients with HBV-ACLF.MethodsA prospective cohort of 287 patients with HBV-ACLF from Beijing Ditan Hospital was enrolled between January 2016 and December 2019. The prognostic accuracy of lipid profile parameters was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and the association between HDL-C levels and mortality was assessed using a restricted cubic spline analysis. Correlations between lipid profile parameters and inflammatory factors were analyzed. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to assess 90-day TF mortality, and log-rank tests were used for comparison analysis. These results were internally validated between January 2020 and December 2023 (n=125).ResultsPatients with lower HDL-C levels exhibited higher mortality rates (adjusted hazard ratio for HDL-C < 0.13 mmol/L: 4.04, 95% confidence interval: 1.35–11.85) compared with those in the reference group (with HDL-C levels above 0.36 mmol/L). An “L-shaped” association was observed between HDL-C levels and TF mortality. The prognostic value of HDL-C (AUC at day 90: 0.732) was comparable to the model for end-stage liver disease score of 0.729. Additionally, HDL-C levels were inversely correlated with interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (all P<0.05). In the training cohort, the 90-day TF mortality rates were 8.3%, 15.2%, 24.0%, and 43.2% for the extremely low, low, medium, and high-risk subgroups, respectively, while in the validation cohort, they were 4.5%, 18.5%, 31.2%, and 44.7%, respectively.ConclusionsHDL-C levels < 0.13 mmol/L were associated with increased 90-day transplant-free mortality in patients with HBV-ACLF. An inverse correlation was found between HDL-C levels and inflammatory markers.

The clinical value of serum sirtuin-1 concentration in the diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

BackgroundMetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease and can affect individuals without producing any symptoms. We aimed to explore the value of serum sirtuin-1 (Sirt-1) in the diagnosis of MASLD.MethodsThis case-control study analyzed data collected from 190 individuals aged 20 to 60 years. Anthropometric parameters, demographic information, and serum biochemical variables—including glycemic parameters, lipid profiles, liver enzymes, and Sirt-1 levels—were assessed. The correlation between serum Sirt-1 and biochemical variables was examined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was employed to evaluate the diagnostic value of serum Sirt-1 in the context of MASLD.ResultsSerum Sirt-1 levels was significantly lower in the MASLD group (p < 0.001) and was inversely correlated with serum insulin (r = -0.163, p = 0.025), HOMA-IR (r = -0.169, p = 0.020) and triglyceride (r = -0.190, p = 0.009) and positively correlated with serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (r = 0.214, p = 0.003). The area under the curve (AUC) of Sirt-1 to predict the presence of MASLD was 0.76 (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.69, 0.82) with a sensitivity of 78.9, specificity of 61.1, positive predictive value (PPV) of 67.0%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 74.0%. The optimal cutoff, determined using Youden’s index, was 23.75 ng/mL. This indicates that serum Sirt-1 levels below 23.75 ng/mL may be indicative of MASLD.ConclusionsThe present study demonstrated that serum Sirt-1 levels were significantly lower in patients with MASLD. Furthermore, these levels were correlated with various metabolic parameters, including insulin resistance and the serum lipid profile. A serum Sirt-1 level below the cutoff of 23.75 ng/mL exhibited a significant association with the presence of MASLD, suggesting its potential utility in identifying patients with this condition.

Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in the Immediate Postoperative Period of Bariatric Surgery

Objectives: Since obesity and overweight are strongly associated with cardiovascular diseases, we investigated cardiovascular events risk in individuals who lost weight through bariatric surgery. Methods: Serum levels of glucose, insulin, triacylglycerol, HDL cholesterol, non-HDLDL cholesterol, and lipoprotein ratios were assessed in patients with obesity before and after bariatric surgery, including a 6-month follow-up period. Results: Bariatric surgery significantly improved BMI, triglyceride levels, glucose, and insulin sensitivity. However, HDL cholesterol levels dropped sharply in the first month (p &lt; 0.0001), coinciding with elevated atherogenic indices, indicating a transient increase in cardiovascular risk. By 6 months, indices improved significantly, HDL recovered, and LDL particle size increased, suggesting reduced atherogenic potential. Conclusions: Individuals undergoing bariatric surgery have a higher cardiovascular events risk in the immediate postoperative period. Health professionals should be aware of and monitor these patients closely.

Activating transcription factor-3 orchestrates the modulation of vascular anti-contractile activity and relaxation by governing the secretion of HDL-bound sphingosine-1-phosphate in perivascular adipose tissue.

Perivascular adipose tissues (PVATs) play a critical role in modulating vascular homeostasis and protecting against cardiovascular dysfunction-mediated blood pressure dysregulation. We demonstrated that the activating transcription factor-3 (Atf3) gene in the PVAT is crucial for improving vascular wall tension abnormalities; however, its protective mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we aim to determine whether ATF3 regulates PVAT-derived relaxing factor (PVDRF) biosynthesis and if its secretion contributes to vasorelaxation. This study employed an in vivo animal model using global Atf3-deficient mice, in vitro blood vessel myography, and biochemical analyses to evaluate ATF3-mediated PVDRF release and reactivity in the vasculature. Wild-type (WT) mouse thoracic aortic PVAT extracts significantly induced resting tone dilation and attenuated vasoconstrictor-induced contractile responses compared to Atf3-/- mice. Heat-stable PVAT extracts from WT mice caused sustained and reproducible vasodilation without tachyphylaxis in control aortic rings. Biochemical evaluation of PVDRF release revealed that Atf3-/- mice had lower sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) levels than WT mice. Furthermore, PVAT extracts from WT mice induced long-lasting vasorelaxation, which was significantly inhibited by the S1P3 receptor antagonist TY52156 and scavenger receptor class B type 1 receptor antagonist glyburide. ATF3 within the PVAT can modulate vascular function by strengthening sphingosine kinase 1 (sphk1)-S1P-S1P3 receptor lipid signalling and stimulating S1P binding to HDL to form the vasodilator HDL-S1P. ATF3 is an essential modulator for maintaining the physiological function of PVAT, providing a novel target for treatment of obesity-related cardiovascular diseases.

Lipid Profile of Under-5 Years Children from a Tertiary Care Centre

Introduction: There is a considerable lack of study estimating lipid profile levels in children below 5 years of age. We therefore carried out this cross-sectional study to evaluate the lipid profile level of healthy Indian children under five years of age from a tertiary level hospital in India. Methodology: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care center. We randomly enrolled 119 healthy children aged 1 month to 5 years, in whom Total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, and VLDL were measured in a random venous blood sample via a BA400 automatic analyzer by BioSystems using Glycerol Phosphate Oxidase/Peroxidase method using the principle of spectrophotometry. Total cholesterol was calculated as the sum of all the lipids detected. Results: Median age was 16 months (9.5 months - 28 months), and 59.6% were male. The overall mean reference range for Total cholesterol was 132.6±38.3 mg/dL, Triglycerides was 98.5±46.2 mg/dL, LDL was 71.5±25.0 mg/dL, HDL was 42.6±15.8mg/dL and VLDL was 19.6±9.3mg/dL. There was no significant difference in lipid profiles between the sexes. HDL level was significantly higher in those above 24 months (p=0.02), while the other components were similar between various age groups. Conclusion: There was no significant difference between the lipid profile of children in our cohort, and previously published studies. Levels of HDL cholesterol increased with age after 24 months of age.

Prospective role of lupeol from Pterocarpus santalinus leaf against diabetes: An in vitro, in silico, and in vivo investigation.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) can be treated with various medications. However, individuals in underdeveloped countries may face challenges in using these treatments due to side effects and high costs. Anti-diabetic medications can inhibit enzymes, such as α-amylase, which is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates. In this investigation, 16 phytoconstituents were identified from Pterocarpus santalinus leaf extract through GC-MS analysis, and their significant antioxidant activities were noted. Among these, the pure compound lupeol demonstrated α-amylase inhibition activity of 86.13±1.27% (IC50=58.50±0.83μg/mL) in vitro. Additionally, lupeol showed the highest binding affinity in silico using PyRx and CB-Dock, with values of -9.5 and -9.3kcal/mol, respectively. The in silico analysis also indicated that lupeol possesses acceptable ADMET properties, suggesting its potential as an anti-diabetic drug. A molecular dynamics simulation lasting 500 ns was conducted to evaluate hydrogen bonds, RMSF, RMSD, Rg, and SASA, confirming the stability and integrity of the docking scenarios. In STZ-induced diabetic mice, lupeol significantly reduced blood glucose levels by 70.82% from day 0 to day 28. Furthermore, lupeol markedly decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), while improving high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in these mice. The antidiabetic effect of lupeol was further validated through histological examinations of the pancreas, heart, kidney, and liver of treated mice, alongside correlation analysis, CAP, and ANOSIM tests. Based on the findings from the in vitro, in silico, and in vivo investigations, this study concludes that lupeol may have potential anti-diabetic effects through the inhibition of the α-amylase enzyme.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease: potential role of KL-6 and systemic inflammation

BackgroundIdiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, and fatal disease of the lungs. It is characterized by pulmonary and extrapulmonary comorbidities. So far, little is known as regards the prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities in IPF patients. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities in patients with IPF and correlate it with different radiological and laboratory indices of disease severity.MethodsThis prospective case–control study was performed on 134 IPF patients above 18 years. Diagnosis of IPF was based on diagnostic radiologic criteria addressed by ATS guidelines. Patients were recruited from the Pulmonology Department, Assiut University Hospitals, from June 2023 to June 2024. Cardiac comorbidities were assessed by ECG and echocardiography. All patients had C-reactive protein (CRP), Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6), and lipid profile including cholesterol level, triglyceride level, HDL-cholesterol level, and LDL-cholesterol level measured. Patients were divided into two groups: IPF patients with cardiovascular comorbidities and IPF patients without cardiovascular comorbidities. Comparison between both groups as regards clinical, radiological, and laboratory criteria was carried out.ResultsThe studied group consists predominantly of females (65%). Sixty out of the 134 documented IPF patients had cardiovascular comorbidities (44.7%), cardiomyopathy (mean ± SD: 43.63 ± 10.56), pulmonary hypertension (mean ± SD: 41.67 ± 15.32), ECG-ischemic changes (40.0%), and atrial fibrillation (13.3%). IPF patients with cardiovascular comorbidities vs. patients without had higher radiological HRCT total fibrosis score TFS (P value < 0.001). As regards laboratory serum biomarkers, the group with comorbidities showed significantly higher CRP, KL-6, cholesterol level, triglyceride level, and LDL-cholesterol level (P value < 0.001). Box plot analysis demonstrated significantly higher KL-6 serum level among IPF patients with cardiovascular comorbidities. Sensitivity 90.0%, specificity 94.6%, and accuracy 92.5% were associated with a cutoff value of KL-6 ≥ 299 for prediction of associated cardiovascular comorbidities among the studied IPF group.ConclusionsDyslipidemia and cardiovascular comorbidities were detected in a large group of IPF patients. These comorbidities were associated with a high HRCT TFS score. High serum levels of CRP and KL-6 were predictors of associated cardiovascular comorbidities in IPF.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov. NCT06539962.

Correlation of dyslipidemia characterized by abnormal cholesterol in first trimester with early pregnancy loss: a retrospective study.

Dyslipidemia has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes in observational studies. This study aimed to explore how variations in lipid levels during the first trimester might influence early pregnancy loss (EPL). Blood samples from pregnant women were analyzed to examine the relationship between EPL and lipid metabolism using logistic regression and restricted cubic splines (RCS). Sensitivity analysis was conducted to verify the robustness of the results. Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol (TC) levels at most times of 4-9weeks of gestation were associated with a higher risk of EPL, regardless of whether the control group was successful pregnancy or live birth. Specifically, taking the successful pregnancy group as a control example, increased EPL risks were observed in the highest quartile of plasma TC at 4weeks (OR = 2.18, 95%: 1.14-4.21) and 7weeks (OR = 4.30, 95%: 1.87-9.93) of pregnancy. Significant EPL risks were also noted in the third (Q3) and fourth (Q4) quartiles of LDL-C at 4weeks (Q3, OR = 2.98, 95%: 1.47-6.08; Q4, OR = 2.66, 95%: 1.27-5.55) and 7weeks (Q3, OR = 3.12, 95%: 1.44-6.73; Q4, OR = 5.17, 95%: 2.14-12.49). High TC levels (> 3.25-3.78mmol/L) and high LDL-C levels (> 1.92-2.04mmol/L) were linked to an increased risk of EPL compared to lower levels of TC (≤ 2.91-3.05mmol/L) and LDL-C (≤ 1.64-1.75mmol/L).RCS analysis further confirmed this finding that plasma TC and LDL-C levels at 4 and 7weeks of gestation may have a linear relationship with the risk of EPL. By the way, triglyceride levels at 6 and 8weeks of gestation were associated with a higher risk of EPL, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels at 5 and 9weeks of gestation have a completely opposite relationship with EPL risk. Elevated cholesterol levels during the first trimester are associated with an increased risk of early pregnancy loss, emphasizing the need for lipid monitoring during pregnancy and even before pregnancy.

Cross-trait multivariate GWAS confirms health implications of pubertal timing

Pubertal timing is highly variable and is associated with long-term health outcomes. Phenotypes associated with pubertal timing include age at menarche, age at voice break, age at first facial hair and growth spurt, and pubertal timing seems to have a shared genetic architecture between the sexes. However, puberty phenotypes have primarily been assessed separately, failing to account for shared genetics, which limits the reliability of the purported health implications. Here, we model the common genetic architecture for puberty timing using a multivariate GWAS, with an effective population of 514,750 European participants. We find 266 independent variants in 197 loci, including 18 novel variants. Transcriptomic, proteome imputation and fine-mapping analyses reveal genes causal for pubertal timing, including KDM4C, LEPR, CCNC, ACP1, and PCSK1. Linkage disequilibrium score regression and Mendelian randomisation analysis establish causal associations between earlier puberty and both accelerated ageing and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. We find that alanine aminotransferase, glycated haemoglobin, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and Parabacteroides levels are mediators of these relationships, and establish that controlling oily fish and retinol intake may be beneficial for promoting healthy pubertal development.

Effects of Enterococcus faecalis Supplementation on Growth Performance, Hepatic Lipid Metabolism, and mRNA Expression of Lipid Metabolism Genes and Intestinal Flora in Geese.

The effects of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) at a concentration of 1.0 × 108 CFU/mL on growth performance, hepatic lipid metabolism, and mRNA expression related to lipid metabolism, intestinal morphology, and intestinal flora were investigated in geese. A total of 60 male geese, aged 30 days and of similar weight, were randomly assigned to 2 groups. Each group was divided into six replicates, with five geese per replicate. During the 45-day experiment, the control group received a basal diet, while the experimental group was provided with the same basal diet supplemented with E. faecalis in drinking water at a concentration of 1.0 × 108 CFU/mL. E. faecalis significantly increased the half-eviscerated weight of geese and improved ileal intestinal morphology (p < 0.05). Serum triglyceride (TG) levels were significantly reduced on day 5, while serum total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were significantly decreased on day 25 (p < 0.05). By day 45, serum TG and free fatty acid (FFA) levels were also significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Additionally, E. faecalis significantly increased the HDL/LDL ratio and serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (p < 0.05). Serum insulin levels were significantly elevated on day 25, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels were significantly increased on day 45 (p < 0.05). On day 25 of the trial, hepatic TG levels, FFA levels, and Oil Red O-stained areas in the liver were significantly reduced (p < 0.05), accompanied by significantly decreased mRNA expression of hepatic acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCA) (p < 0.05). Conversely, the mRNA expression levels of fatty acid synthase (FASN), farnesoid X receptor (FXR), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP-1), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) were significantly elevated (p < 0.05). A 16S rRNA diversity analysis of ileal contents on day 25 revealed significant differences in intestinal flora composition between the control and E. faecalis groups. The 16S rRNA data demonstrated a strong correlation between microbial communities and lipid-related physiological and biochemical indicators (p < 0.05). In conclusion, E. faecalis supplementation promoted fatty acid oxidation, reduced blood lipid levels, alleviated hepatic lipid accumulation, and improved ileal morphology and intestinal flora diversity, thereby enhancing growth performance and lipid metabolism in geese. These findings suggest that E. faecalis is a promising probiotic candidate for development as a feed additive.

The Relationship Between Body Mass Index, Waist Circumference, Neck Circumference and Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Background: This study aimed to estimate the correlation between body mass index, waist circumference and neck circumference and cardiovascular risk factors in healthy adult men and women with no history of any disease or chronic drug intake from Diyarbakır and Dicle University medical faculties. Materials and methods: The study included 199 subjects, 113 males (mean age 36.5 ± 11.3 years) and 86 females (mean age 33.8 ± 11.7 years) aged between 20 and 73 years. Age, height, weight, blood pressure, pulse rate, anthropometric methods; waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), neck circumference (NC), blood glucose and insulin levels were determined. Insulin resistance was evaluated with the Homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) formula. Total-cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol levels were measured. Pearson correlation and independent t-test were applied to the obtained study parameters. Results: 47.7% of women were obese, 1.2% were morbidly obese and 59.3% of men were obese. Waist circumference correlated with systolic blood pressure (r=0.426, p&lt;0.001), diastolic blood pressure (r=0.414, p&lt;0.001), total cholesterol (r=0.450, p&lt;0.001), triglycerides (r=0.556, p&lt;0.001) and LDL-cholesterol (i=0.486, p&lt;0.001), and a negative correlation was found between waist circumference and HDL-cholesterol (r=0.261, p&lt;0.001). In women, the relationship between BMI and HOMA-IR (r-0.415, p&lt;0.001) was stronger than the relationship between waist circumference and HOMA-IR (r=0.333, p=0.02). In men, we found a positive correlation between waist circumference and HOMA-IR (r=0.271, p=0.04). In men, we found no correlation between BMI and HOMA-IR. Neck circumference was correlated with waist circumference (i=0.732), total cholesterol (r=0.534), triglycerides (r=0.365), LDL cholesterol (i=0.406), BMI (r=0.568), systolic blood pressure (r=0.200), diastolic blood pressure (r=0. 290), and glucose (r=0.280) (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: Waist circumference was more tightly correlated with metabolic parameters. Waist circumference may better reflect the risk of cardiovascular disease than BMI. Neck circumference measurement, a new obesity indicator, can also be used as an obesity assessment method. Keywords: Cardiovascular risk factors, body mass index, waist circumference, neck circumference

Serum homocysteine and lipid levels in the third trimester and their relationship with perinatal outcomes in diet-controlled gestational diabetes mellitus.

This study investigates the relationship between serum homocysteine, blood lipids, and perinatal outcomes in patients with diet-controlled gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and those with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). A prospective cohort of 150 diet-controlled GDM patients and 150 pregnant women with NGT, all delivering at our hospital, were selected based on predefined criteria. Data on demographics, physical parameters, and perinatal outcomes were compiled. Blood samples for fasting plasma glucose (FPG), homocysteine (Hcy), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein B (apoB), and apolipoprotein A1 (apoA1) were collected before delivery. GDM patients exhibited higher levels of FPG, Hcy, and the apoB/apoA1 ratio, but lower HDL-C and apoA1 levels compared to the NGT group. Adverse outcomes such as macrosomia, premature rupture of membranes, and postpartum hemorrhage were more prevalent in the GDM group. In GDM patients, neonatal birth weight positively correlated with FPG and TG levels. Stratified Hcy analysis in GDM showed no significant differences in perinatal outcomes. However, the third quartile of the apoB/apoA1 ratio had a lower incidence of macrosomia compared to the first quartile, and the second quartile showed a higher incidence of birth asphyxia. GDM patients demonstrated increased levels of Hcy, FPG, and the apoB/apoA1 ratio, correlating with more adverse perinatal outcomes than healthy pregnant individuals. The relationships between Hcy, lipids, and these outcomes remain inconclusive, highlighting the need for further research.

Total Cholesterol Levels in Users of Three-Month Injectable Contraceptives

Three-month injectable contraception is a type of hormonal contraception, which contains 150 mg Depo Medroxyrogesterone Acetate (DMPA) which is given every three months. Depo Medroxyrogesterone Acetate can reduce HDL cholesterol levels and can increase LDL levels. This study aims to determine cholesterol levels in three-month injection contraceptive users at the Kassi Kassi Community Health Center. The research design used was descriptive, in which respondents used injectable contraceptives for more than 1 year of use with a sample taken of 15 respondents using a purposive sampling technique with the inclusion criteria of subjects willing to be used as research samples, using 3-month injectable contraceptives for more than 1 year, aged 25 – 35 years old and fast for 8 – 10 hours. The research was conducted at the Kassi Kassi Health Center and Megarezky Makassar clinic in November 2021. The research results were obtained from 15 respondents, there were 6 respondents (40%) with normal cholesterol levels, and there were 9 respondents (60%) with high cholesterol levels. The conclusion is that the majority of 3-month injection contraceptive users have high cholesterol levels.

Association between cardiometabolic index and overactive bladder in adult American women: A cross-sectional study.

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common disorder, particularly in women, and its symptoms, including urgency, frequency, and nocturia, can significantly affect quality of life. The cardiometabolic index (CMI) is a novel metabolic risk indicator that has been receiving more attention lately. This study investigated the association between CMI and OAB in adult women. A cross-sectional analysis was performed using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) covering the years 2007 to 2018, including 6323 female participants. CMI was calculated based on waist-to-height ratio, triglyceride, and HDL cholesterol levels, while OAB was assessed using the overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS). The association between CMI and OAB was evaluated through multivariate logistic regression, generalized additive models (GAM), smoothing curve fitting, and subgroup analysis. We finally included male participants for sensitivity analysis. A significant positive association was found between female CMI and OAB prevalence (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.29-1.65). When compared to the lowest CMI quartile (Q1), women in the highest CMI quartile were 70% more likely to have OAB (OR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.42-2.04). Smoothed curve fitting analysis showed a linear association between CMI and OAB. Subgroup analysis revealed that the association between CMI and OAB was stronger in women aged 20-50 years as well as in women without hypertension. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of our result. CMI was significantly and positively associated with the prevalence of OAB, especially in women aged 20-50 years without hypertension. This finding provides a new perspective on metabolic risk management and may contribute to the early prevention and improvement of bladder function in women.

Dynamics of HDL-Cholesterol Following a Post-Myocardial Infarction Cardiac Rehabilitation Program.

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programs (CRP) are recommended for patients following acute coronary syndrome to potentially improve high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and prognosis. However, not all patients reach target HDL-C levels. Here we analyze the dynamics and predictors of HDL-C increase during CRP in patients following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction or occlusion myocardial infarction. We conducted a prospective study of myocardial infarction patients who completed exercise-based Phase 2 CRP. Data was collected on clinical variables, cardiovascular risk factors, treatment goals, pharmacological therapy, and health outcomes through questionnaires at the beginning and at the end of Phase 2 CRP. Lipid profile analysis was performed before discharge, 4 to 6 weeks after discharge, and at the end of Phase 2 CRP. Changes in lipid profiles were evaluated, and predictors of failure to increase HDL-C levels were identified by binary logistic regression analysis. Our cohort comprised 121 patients (mean age 61.67 ± 10.97 years, 86.8% male, and 47.9% smokers before admission). A significant decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were noted, along with an increase in HDL-C (43.87 ± 9.18 vs. 39.8 ± 10.03 mg/dL, p < 0.001). Patients achieving normal HDL-C levels (>40 mg/dL in men and >50 mg/dL in women) significantly increased from 34.7% at admission to 52.9% the end of Phase 2. Multivariable analysis revealed smoking history (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.35, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.11-0.96, p = 0.04), increased reduction in total cholesterol (HR = 0.94, 95% CI, 0.89-0.98, p = 0.004), and increased reduction in LDL-C (HR = 0.94, 95% CI, 0.89-0.99, p = 0.01) were inversely associated with failure to increase HDL-C levels. Conversely, higher HDL-C before CRP (HR = 1.15, 95% CI, 1.07-1.23, p < 0.001) and increased lipoprotein (a) (HR = 1.01, 95% CI, 1-1.02, p = 0.04) predicted failure to increase HDL-C levels. No significant correlations were found with Mediterranean diet adherence, weekly physical activity, training modalities, or physical fitness parameters. Participation in an exercise-based Phase 2 CRP led to mild but significant increases in HDL-C. Smoking history and patients experiencing substantial reductions in total cholesterol and LDL-C were more likely to experience HDL-C increases, unlike those with higher HDL-C and lipoprotein (a) levels before CRP.

Effects of partial replacement of soybean meal with Chlorella vulgaris and lysozyme on diarrheal incidence, plasma biochemical parameters, and immunity of weaned piglets.

The study aimed to investigate the effects of Chlorella vulgaris and lysozyme on growth performance, diarrhea rate, immune function, plasma biochemical parameters, and gut microbiota and metabolites of weaned piglets. Thirty weaned Xiangcun black piglets (BW, 11.47 ± 1.13 kg) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: corn-soybean meal-based basal diet (CON group), soybean meal replaced with 5% C. vulgaris (CHV group), and soybean meal replaced with 5% C. vulgaris and 100 mg/kg lysozyme (LYSO group). Growth performance was not affected by C. vulgaris or C. vulgaris with lysozyme supplementation, while soybean meal partially replaced by C. vulgaris without lysozyme reduced the diarrhea rate of weaned piglets. Plasma biochemical analysis showed that plasma albumin, alkaline phosphatase, and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in the CHV group and the total cholesterol and HDL-C levels in the LYSO group were higher when compared with the CON group. The LYSO group had increased interleukin (IL)-10 level in the jejunum and IL-1β level in the ileum while having a decreasing IL-6 level in the jejunum of piglets. Additionally, although Firmicutes and Megashaera_A abundances and short-chain fatty acid concentrations (including acetate, propionate, butyrate, and valerate) were reduced in the CHV group, but several beneficial bacteria (such as Actinobacteroita, Faecealibacterium, and Anaerovibrio) abundances were increased in the LYSO group. In summary, dietary C. vulgaris or C. vulgaris with lysozyme supplementation improved health of piglets in some contexts without affecting growth performance. Therefore, soybean meal replaced by 5% C. vulgaris with or without lysozyme as sustainable feed ingredients in piglet diets could be a viable alternative approach.

Impact of Berberine Hydrochloride-assisted Metformin on the Metabolism of Glycolipids and Serum Levels of TIMP-1 and TGF-β1 in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism, leading to hyperglycemia and increased risk of complications like renal fibrosis. Purpose This study’s purpose is to examine how berberine hydrochloride (BBR) and metformin (Met) work together to treat T2DM, as well as how these medications affect tissue type metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), glucose, and lipid metabolism levels in the blood and transforming growth factor β1. Methods Using a random number table approach, overall, 100 individuals with T2DM between October 2020 and October 2022 were chosen and classified into two groups: An experimental group and an untreated group, each with 50 patients. The untreated group received Met therapy, whereas the experimental group received BBR based on the untreated group. The two groups were compared regarding efficacy, cholesterol and glucose metabolism, renal function and renal fibrosis indices, and the frequency of adverse responses. Results The experimental group’s effective rate was 96.00% higher than that of the untreated group (82.00%). Following treatment, the experimental group had lower levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbAlc), insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and cholesterol (TC) than the untreated group, while the untreated group had greater levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Following the course of therapy, the observation group’s levels of cystatin (Cys-C), urinary β2 microglobulin (β2-MG), urine albumin excretion rate (UAER), and urinary microalbumin (ALB) were all lesser compared to the untreated group. Following treatment, the experimental group’s transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) levels, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and TIMP-1 were lesser than those of the untreated group. Conclusion When Met and BBR are taken together, patients with type 2 diabetes can effectively control their glucose and lipid metabolism, as well as their levels of TGF-β1, MMP-9, and TIMP-1. They can also postpone renal interstitial fibrosis and eventually improve their kidney function, all with a high degree of safety and significant effects.

Interaction between genetic risk score and dietary carbohydrate intake on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels: Findings from the study of obesity, nutrition, genes and social factors (SONGS).

Cardiometabolic traits are complex interrelated traits that result from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. This study aimed to assess the interaction between genetic variants and dietary macronutrient intake on cardiometabolic traits [body mass index, waist circumference, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triacylglycerol, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting serum glucose, fasting serum insulin, and glycated haemoglobin]. This cross-sectional study consisted of 468 urban young adults aged 20±1 years, and it was conducted as part of the Study of Obesity, Nutrition, Genes and Social factors (SONGS) project, a sub-study of the Young Lives study. Thirty-nine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) known to be associated with cardiometabolic traits at a genome-wide significance level (P<5×10-8) were used to construct a genetic risk score (GRS). There were no significant associations between the GRS and any of the cardiometabolic traits. However, a significant interaction was observed between the GRS and carbohydrate intake on HDL-C concentration (Pinteraction=0.0007). In the first tertile of carbohydrate intake (≤327g/day), participants with a high GRS (>37 risk alleles) had a higher concentration of HDL-C than those with a low GRS (≤37 risk alleles) [Beta=0.06mmol/L, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.01-0.10; P=0.018]. In the third tertile of carbohydrate intake (>452g/day), participants with a high GRS had a lower concentration of HDL-C than those with a low GRS (Beta=-0.04mmol/L, 95% CI -0.01 to-0.09; P=0.027). A significant interaction was also observed between the GRS and glycaemic load (GL) on the concentration of HDL-C (Pinteraction=0.002). For participants with a high GRS, there were lower concentrations of HDL-C across tertiles of GL (Ptrend=0.017). There was no significant interaction between the GRS and glycaemic index on the concentration of HDL-C, and none of the other GRS∗macronutrient interactions were significant. Our results suggest that young adults who consume a higher carbohydrate diet and have a higher GRS have a lower HDL-C concentration, which in turn is linked to cardiovascular diseases, and indicate that personalised nutrition strategies targeting a reduction in carbohydrate intake might be beneficial for these individuals.