Low High-density Lipoprotein Levels Research Articles

GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND LIPID PROFILE OF ARCHACHATINA MARGINATA (GIANT AFRICAN LAND SNAIL) FED VARYING LEVELS OF RIPE EGGPLANT FRUITS BASED DIETS

The performance of African giant land snails (Archachatina marginata) fed ripe eggplant fruits was studied using eighty-four (84) juvenile (four months old) Archachatina marginata for eight (8) weeks. The study evaluated the snails' growth performance and lipid profile (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein and triglycerides). The snails were divided into four treatment groups, with twenty-one (21) snails per group in a completely randomized design (CRD). Treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4 had varying levels of ripe eggplant fruits at 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% inclusion levels respectively. Isocaloric and isonitrogenous feeds and water were provided ad libitum, while other management practices were strictly adhered to. The results showed no significant differences (P>0.05) in growth performance across treatments. The results also revealed that total cholesterol decreased (P<0.05) significantly as the levels of ripe eggplant fruits increased across treatments. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in low-density lipoprotein and triglycerides, while high-density lipoprotein differed (P<0.05) significantly across treatments. The result also showed a linear increase in high-density lipoprotein ("good" cholesterol) as the levels of ripe eggplant fruits increased across treatments. Therefore, a 15% inclusion level of ripe eggplant fruits in the diet of Archachatina marginata reduces total cholesterol levels and increases high-density lipoprotein without any adverse effect on growth. The study recommends using ripe eggplant fruits to formulate diets for animals with high cholesterol content and high levels of low-density lipoprotein in their meat.

LOW HIGH-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN LEVEL PROMOTES INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE IN LONG COVID PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMODIALYSIS ONE YEAR AFTER INFECTION

Objective: Long COVID, a syndrome characterized by persistent symptoms post-acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, poses unique challenges for patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (<1.2 mmol/L) have been implicated in heightened COVID-19 risk and associated cardiovascular complications in this patient population. This study aimed to explore the potential association between low HDL and inflammatory responses in long COVID among HD patients. Design and method: A total of 80 hemodialysis (HD) patients, aged 55 (44-62.5) years, with a dialysis vintage of 45 (21-78.6) months and a history of COVID-19, were enrolled in this cross-sectional cohort study. Among them, 45 (56.2%) were diagnosed with long COVID, while 35 (43.8%) had fully recovered. Lipid profiles and inflammatory markers, such as serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, and C-reactive protein (CRP), were assessed one year post-infection. The cytokines were measured using ELISA. Data were presented as median and interquartile interval [Me (Q25-Q75)] and compared using the Mann-Whitney test. Results: Patients experiencing long COVID exhibited significantly lower HDL levels compared to fully recovered individuals: 1.19 (1.06-1.76) vs 1.66 (1.32-1.92) mmol/L (p = 0.02). Among those with low HDL levels (<1.2 mmol/L), elevated concentrations of CRP, IL-6, and IL-17 were evident in comparison to patients with HDL concentrations exceeding 1.2 mmol/L (Fig. 1). Subsequent subgroup analysis revealed a more pronounced inflammatory profile in patients concurrently experiencing long COVID and exhibiting low HDL levels (Fig. 2). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that low HDL levels may enhance the inflammatory response in patients with long COVID undergoing HD one year post-infection, potentially promoting cardiovascular complications. Future research should focus on elucidating the pathways underlying this association and exploring novel strategies to mitigate inflammation and improve outcomes in long COVID among HD patients.

The Association of Sperm DNA Fragmentation With Serum Lipid Profile Among Males With Abnormal Semen Parameters: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study.

Through the ages, infertility, affecting 8% to 12% of couples worldwide, has been a perturbing clinical problem. Approximately 40% to 50% of all infertility cases are due to 'male factor' infertility. Semen analysis is crucial in routinely evaluating idiopathic male infertility. Studies support the idea that semen parameters are associated with serum lipids and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). Therefore, it is possible to evaluate male infertility by serum lipid levels, especially before assisted reproduction technology, and modify it by bringing about lifestyle modifications. This study aimed to measure the correlation of SDF with levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG),very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL),low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) among males with abnormal semen parameters. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the infertility clinic of a tertiary care hospital. A total of 106 infertile males with abnormal semen analysis as per the WHO criteria (2010) were enrolled in the study. After routine semen analysis, SDF was studied using the comet assay. The serum fasting lipid profile was analyzed using the spectrophotometric kit in the autoanalyzer. The relationship of SDF with serum lipid profile parameters was analyzed. Out of 106 infertile men, 52% (n = 55) had severe SDF. A modest positive correlation was observed between SDF (percentage of DNA in comet tail) and serum lipid values (serum TG, serum LDL, and serum VLDL). Our study is novel in its research on the correlation between SDF and serum lipid values. Based on the findings of our study, it can be concluded that a significant level of SDF was observed in men with high levels of serum TG, LDL, and VLDL. This provokes a potential relationship between sperm DNA integrity and serum lipid profile, which warrants further research.

Jatropha curcas L. Leaf Extract Effects on Blood Pressure and Lipid Levels in Hypertensive Rats with High-Fat Diet

Background: One of the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease (CAHD) is dyslipidaemia or high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides (TG) and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Hypertension is also a cause of cardiovascular disease. One potential plant to lower LDL levels and blood pressure is Jatropha curcas, which is known to contain saponins, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the ethanol extract of Jatropha curcas leaves (EEJCL) on blood pressure, LDL levels, and HDL levels in hypertensive rats given a high-fat diet. Methods: This study is an experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design on male Wistar strain rats. Rats were divided into seven groups, namely the normal group, control group (induced with NaCl and given a high-fat diet), Captopril group, Simvastatin group, and EEJCL groups given doses of 1.8, 2.7, and 4.05 g/kg BW. The data obtained were analysed using the One-Sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test, Homogeneity of Variance, One-Way ANOVA, and Tukey Test. Results: The results showed that the administration of EEJCL could significantly lower LDL levels and blood pressure and increase HDL levels (p < 0.05) at doses of 1.8, 2.7, and 4.05 g/kg BW, and the dose of 4.05 g/KgBW was the most optimal dose. Conclusion: EEJCL has a potential for development in the treatment of hypertension and dyslipidaemia.

Impact of Dyslipidemia on Tear Film and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Interplay between Serum Lipid Profile and Ocular Surface Health.

To determine the relationship between dyslipidemia and dry eye disease (DED), as well as its influence on tear film and meibomian glands. This cross-sectional study included 40 patients with a mean age of 35.2 ± 13.9 years without any history of dyslipidemia. DED and serum lipid profile were evaluated after 8 hours of fasting. Patients were classified according to serum lipid levels with the following cut-off values: total cholesterol (TC) (200 mg/dl), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (40 mg/dl), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (130 mg/dl), and triglycerides (TG) (150 mg/dl). The relationship between serum lipid levels and DED was analyzed with the following variables: dry eye questionnaire-5 (DEQ-5), first (F-NIBUT) and average (A-NIBUT) noninvasive breakup time, tear meniscus height (TMH), lipid layer grade (LLG), conjunctival bulbar redness (CBR), and upper (U-LAMG) and lower (L-LAMG) loss area of meibomian glands. Regarding tear film, patients with elevated TC and LDL levels reported significantly higher DEQ-5 scores and TMH (P < 0.05), while those with lower HDL levels showed significantly higher LLG (p < 0.05). Regarding MGD, patients with elevated TC, LDL, and TG, as well as lower HDL levels showed significantly higher L-LAMG (p < 0.05). HDL was correlated with LLG (p < 0.05), while TC was correlated with TMH (p < 0.05) and L-LAMG (p < 0.05), respectively. Disorders in TC, HDL, LDL, and TG levels were associated with DED, having an impact on the tear film and meibomian glands, specifically in DEQ-5 scores, LLG, and L-LAMG.

Association between the severity of hard-to-treat psoriasis and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome: A hospital-based cross-sectional study in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Psoriatic lesions on the scalp, face, intertriginous, genitals, palms/soles, and nails are often delay diagnosed, hard-to-treat, and cause disability. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is one of the most frequent and significant comorbidities in psoriasis. Many studies have discovered a link between psoriasis and MetS, but none have specifically assessed the hard-to-treat psoriasis in Indonesian population. This is a multicenter study involving four dermatology referral hospitals to investigate the association between psoriasis severity that has hard-to-treat lesions with the prevalence of MetS in Jakarta, Indonesia. Data was collected from April to October 2022. The severity of 84 hard-to-treat psoriasis patients was measured by Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores. The participants divided into PASI score >10 (severe) and ≤ 10 (mild-moderate) groups. MetS was identified based on the modified National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III. MetS was found in 64.3% of patients. Patients with a PASI score>10 had a significantly higher risk of metabolic syndrome compared to those with a score ≤ 10 (78.6% vs 50%, OR 3.667; 95% CI 1.413-9.514; p = 0.006). The prevalence of hypertension (p = 0.028), low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (p = 0.01), mean fasting blood sugar (p = 0.018), and triglyceride levels (p = 0.044) between the two groups differed significantly. This study found most frequent components of MetS were abdominal obesity, decreased levels of HDL cholesterol, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia respectively. Individuals with severe hard-to-treat psoriasis had a 3.67 times more likely to have MetS rather than the mild-moderate group.

Exploring the bi-directional relationship between periodontitis and dyslipidemia: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.

As periodontitis and dyslipidemia are diseases that occur with high incidence, the relationship between them has attracted much attention. Previous studies on these diseases have tended to focus on lipid parameters and periodontitis, we aimed to investigate the relationship between dyslipidemia and periodontitis. A comprehensive search to identify the studies investigating the relationship between dyslipidemia and periodontitis was performed on PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library before the date of August, 2023. Studies were considered eligible if they contained data on abnormal blood lipid parameters and periodontitis. Studies that reported mean differences and 95% confidence intervals or odds ratios were used. A total of 73 publications were included in the meta-analysis. Hyper total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels are risk factors for periodontitis. Periodontal disease is a risk factor for high TG and low HDL levels. Three months after periodontal treatment, the levels of TC, TG and HDL were significantly improved, and statin treatment only improved gingival index (GI) levels compared to that of the dietary control. The findings reported here suggest that the mutual promotion of periodontitis and dyslipidemia can be confirmed. Non-surgical periodontal therapy may improve lipid abnormalities. It can't be demonstrated whether systematic application of statins have a better effect on the improvement in periodontal status in patients with dyslipidemia compared to that of the control.

Assessment of the blood lipid spectrum of workers under stressful conditions labor

The importance of dyslipidemia for health lies in the potentiation of cardiovascular diseases. We assessed the blood lipid spectrum and types of dyslipidemia in people with intense work (men aged 35.7 ± 0.8 years, n = 58). Body mass index (BMI) and nutritional status were determined. We assessed working conditions according to the degree of harmfulness and danger. A survey was conducted to establish the fact of tobacco and alcohol consumption. Mental work with high psycho-emotional stress and intensity of the work process in conditions of physical inactivity was assessed as harmful — 3.2. The proportion of smokers was 10.3 %, 100.0 % drank alcohol in moderate doses periodically. Body weight 84.6 ± 1.3 kg, BMI — 26.1 ± 0.3 kg/m2. The proportion of people with overweight and obesity was 68.4 %. Elevated triglycerides (TG) were detected in 17.7 %, total cholesterol (TC) in 60.3 %, low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in 74.0 %, reduced high-density lipoproteins (HDL) in 17.0 %. The atherogenic coefficient (AC) was 3.58 ± 0.13; in 51.8 % it exceeded the normal value. An adequate and inadequate response of the body to living conditions was evidenced by high and low levels of HDL: in 30.2 % and 5.4 % of those examined. The leading type of dyslipidemia was hypercholesterolemia (in 44.6 %). The proportion of mixed and atherogenic was 5.4 % and 1.8 %. In 23.2 %, excess levels of TC, LDL and TG in various combinations were recorded against the background of high HDL; their KA was normal. It can be assumed that physical inactivity against the background of intense work are risk factors for the development of dyslipidemia.

Racial Discrimination and Metabolic Syndrome in Young Black Adults

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common health condition that predisposes individuals to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and disproportionately affects Black and other racially and ethnically minoritized people. Concurrently, Black individuals also report more exposure to racial discrimination compared with White individuals; however, the role of discrimination in the development of MetS over time and associated mediators in these pathways remain underexplored. To evaluate the association between racial discrimination and MetS in rural Black individuals transitioning from late adolescence into early adulthood and to identify potential mediating pathways. This longitudinal cohort study included Black adolescents enrolled in the Strong African American Families Healthy Adults (SHAPE) Project between June 2009 and May 2021. Families resided in rural counties of Georgia, where poverty rates are among the highest in the nation. Analyses included 322 of the 500 participants who originally enrolled in SHAPE and who were eligible to participate. Guardians provided information about socioeconomic disadvantage. Analyses were conducted in April 2023. Youths reported exposure to racial discrimination annually from ages 19 to 21 years. MetS was the main health outcome and was measured at ages 25 and 31 years. MetS was diagnosed according to the International Diabetes Federation guidelines, which requires central adiposity (ie, waist circumference ≥94 cm for males and ≥80 cm for females) and at least 2 of the 4 additional components: signs of early hypertension (ie, systolic blood pressure ≥130 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure ≥85 mm Hg); elevated triglyceride levels (ie, >150 mg/dL); elevated fasting glucose level (ie, ≥100 mg/dL); or lowered high-density lipoprotein levels (ie, <40 mg/dL in men and <50 mg/dL in women). At age 25 years, markers of inflammatory activity (ie, soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor [suPAR]) and sleep problems were collected to consider as potential mediators. In 322 participants (210 [65.2%] female) ages 19 to 21 years, more frequent exposure to racial discrimination was associated with higher suPAR levels (b = 0.006; 95% CI, 0.001-0.011; P = .01) and more sleep problems at age 25 years (b = 0.062; 95% CI, 0.028-0.097; P < .001) as well as a 9.5% higher risk of MetS diagnosis at age 31 years (odds ratio [OR], 1.10; 95% CI, 1.01-1.20; P = .03). Both suPAR (b = 0.015; 95% CI, 0.002-0.037) and sleep problems (b = 0.020; 95% CI, 0.002-0.047) at age 25 years were significant indirect pathways. No significant interactions between sex and discrimination emerged. This study suggests that racial discrimination in late adolescence is associated with MetS among Black young adults through biobehavioral pathways. Thus, health interventions for MetS in Black adults will need to contend with sleep behaviors and inflammatory intermediaries as well as address and reduce exposure to racial discrimination to narrow disparities and promote health equity.

The underlying mechanisms by which Post-Traumatic Growth is associated with cardiovascular health in male UK military personnel: The ADVANCE cohort study.

Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) is associated with good cardiovascular health, but the mechanisms of this are poorly understood. This cross-sectional analysis assessed whether factors of PTG (Appreciation of Life (AOL), New Possibilities (NP), Personal Strength (PS), Relating to Others (RTO) and Spiritual Change (SC)) are associated with cardiovascular health in a cohort of 1006 male UK military personnel (median age 34). The findings suggest AOL, PS and RTO are associated with better cardiovascular health through cardiometabolic effects (lower levels of triglycerides, and total cholesterol) and haemodynamic functioning (lower diastolic blood pressure), but not inflammation. However, NP and SC were associated with poorer cardiovascular health through cardiometabolic effects (lower levels of high-density lipoproteins and higher levels of total cholesterol) and AOL had a non-linear association with low-density lipoproteins. These findings suggest that the relationship between PTG and cardiovascular functioning is complex and in need of further scrutiny.

Key Risk Factors for Intracerebral Hemorrhage According to Regional Population-Based Stroke Registry

Introduction. Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) registry data allow assessing epidemiological parameters and risk factors in different age, gender, race, ethnicity, and other subgroups.&#x0D; This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of key risk factors in a group of Yakutsk residents with primary hypertensive ICH included in the regional population-based stroke registry from 2015 to 2017.&#x0D; Materials and methods. This study of risk factors was conducted in patients with hypertensive ICH (n = 251) from the regional population-based stroke registry, including 133 (53%) men and 118 (47%) women of Asian or Caucasian races. We performed statistical analysis of data.&#x0D; Results. The analysis of risk factors showed that the prevalence of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption was higher in men with ICH compared with women (p 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of hypertension, history of myocardial infarction, dyslipidemia, or diabetes mellitus in patients with ICH in gender or ethnicity subgroups. Fibrillation and other heart diseases were more common in Caucasian patients than in Asian (p = 0.005). ICH was associated with high levels of low-density lipoproteins and triglycerides with low levels of total cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins compared with healthy individuals.&#x0D; Conclusions. We described gender and ethnic differences in the prevalence of risk factors in patients with hypertensive ICH.

Unravelling genetic architecture of circulatory amino acid levels, and their effect on risk of complex disorders.

Variations in serum amino acid levels are linked to a multitude of complex disorders. We report the largest genome-wide association study (GWAS) on nine serum amino acids in theUK Biobank participants (117944, European descent). We identified 34 genomic loci for circulatory levels of alanine, 48 loci for glutamine, 44 loci for glycine, 16 loci for histidine, 11 loci for isoleucine, 19 loci for leucine, 9 loci for phenylalanine, 32 loci for tyrosine and 20 loci for valine. Our gene-based analysis mapped 46-293 genes associated with serum amino acids, including MIP,GLS2, SLCgene family, GCKR, LMO1, CPS1and COBLL1.The gene-property analysis across 30 tissues highlighted enriched expression of the identified genes in liver tissues for all studied amino acids, except for isoleucine and valine, in muscle tissues for serum alanine and glycine, in adrenal gland tissues for serum isoleucine and leucine, and in pancreatic tissues for serum phenylalanine. Mendelian randomization (MR) phenome-wide association studyanalysis and subsequent two-sample MR analysis provided evidence that every standard deviation increase in valine is associated with 35% higher risk of type 2 diabetes and elevated levels of serum alanine and branched-chain amino acidswith higher levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride andlow-density lipoprotein, and lower levels ofhigh-density lipoprotein. In contrast to reports by observational studies, MR analysis did not support a causal association between studied amino acids and coronary artery disease, Alzheimer's disease, breast canceror prostate cancer. In conclusion, we explored the genetic architecture of serum amino acids and provided evidence supporting a causal role of amino acids in cardiometabolic health.

Metabolic Profile and Long-Term Risk of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress-Related Disorders

Biomarkers of lipid, apolipoprotein, and carbohydrate metabolism have been previously suggested to be associated with the risk for depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, but results are inconsistent. To examine whether the biomarkers of carbohydrate, lipid, and apolipoprotein metabolism are associated with the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. This population-based cohort study with longitudinal data collection assessed 211 200 participants from the Apolipoprotein-Related Mortality Risk (AMORIS) cohort who underwent occupational health screening between January 1, 1985, and December 31, 1996, mainly in the Stockholm region in Sweden. Statistical analysis was performed during 2022 to 2023. Lipid, apolipoprotein, and carbohydrate biomarkers measured in blood. The associations between biomarker levels and the risk of developing depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders through the end of 2020 were examined using Cox proportional hazards regression models. In addition, nested case-control analyses were conducted within the cohort, including all incident cases of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, and up to 10 control individuals per case who were individually matched to the case by year of birth, sex, and year of enrollment to the AMORIS cohort, using incidence density sampling. Population trajectories were used to illustrate the temporal trends in biomarker levels for cases and controls. A total of 211 200 individuals (mean [SD] age at first biomarker measurement, 42.1 [12.6] years; 122 535 [58.0%] male; 188 895 [89.4%] born in Sweden) participated in the study. During a mean (SD) follow-up of 21.0 (6.7) years, a total of 16 256 individuals were diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or stress-related disorders. High levels of glucose (hazard ratio [HR], 1.30; 95% CI, 1.20-1.41) and triglycerides (HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.10-1.20) were associated with an increased subsequent risk of all tested psychiatric disorders, whereas high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.80-0.97) were associated with a reduced risk. These results were similar for male and female participants as well as for all tested disorders. The nested case-control analyses demonstrated that patients with depression, anxiety, or stress-related disorders had higher levels of glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol during the 20 years preceding diagnosis, as well as higher levels of apolipoprotein A-I and apolipoprotein B during the 10 years preceding diagnosis, compared with control participants. In this cohort study of more than 200 000 participants, high levels of glucose and triglycerides and low levels of high-density lipoprotein were associated with future risk of depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. These findings may support closer follow-up of individuals with metabolic dysregulations for the prevention and diagnosis of psychiatric disorders.

Assessment of Serum Cathepsin k and Lipid Profile in Chronic Coronary Syndrome Patients

Abstract Background: The most affected public illness around the world in both industrialized and unindustrialized countries is chronic coronary syndrome (CCS). In a medical context, the measurement of lipid profile in the blood is considered as one of the most common diagnostic techniques. In addition, there is a correlation between increased level of cathepsin k (CatK) and CCS, and thus cathepsin is considered a useful biomarker for CCS. Objective: For the assessment of CatK, triglyceride (TG), cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and high density lipoprotein (HDL) level and to examine the probable relation of them with CCS in Babylon province. Materials and Methods: CatK, TG, cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, and HDL were estimated in 100 subjects; 50 patients with CCS and 50 healthy subjects participated in this study. Patients and control groups with an age ranged above 40 years. The CatK level was assessed by sandwich-ELISA technique whereas the level of TG, cholesterol, and HDL was assessed in serum by enzymatic colorimetric method. Also, cholesterol-LDL was measured by using Friedewald equation. Results: Serum level of CatK displayed a significant increase in CCS patients (P ≤ 0.01) compared with control group, whereas serum cholesterol-HDL level significantly decreased (P = 0.001). Also serum levels of cholesterol and cholesterol-LDL a significant increase (P ≤ 0.001), (P = 0.00) compared with control group. In contrast, the current study observed non-significant change in serum TG and VLDL (P = 0.45), (P = 0.71) respectively in CCS patients. Conclusion: Circulating CatK is a good biomarker for CCS disorders and that higher levels of CatK and lipid profile are closely related to the presence of CCS among CCS patients.

Case report: Young onset stroke from familial hypercholesterolemia

Introduction. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a medical condition that leads to extremely high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, increasing the risk of ischemic heart disease, including myocardial infarction. However, the link between FH and ischemic stroke is still debatable. In this case, we report a young adult female who had FH and high levels of LDL and suffered from an early-onset ischemic stroke. Case presentation. A 38-year-old female presented with acute numbness and weakness in her right limb, as well as speech difficulty. She had no history of hypertension, migraine, or diabetes, but did have a history of eyelid xanthoma. The results of the neurological examination confirmed a slightly gradual response, a mild weakness in her right limb, and a slightly reduced response to touch and pain. Laboratory tests showed very high cholesterol and LDL levels, as well as an increased CRP level. Radiological examination via a CT scan revealed lesions within the left frontotemporal region. The patient was prescribed dual antiplatelet therapy and vascular risk factor medication, and after 6 days of treatment, was discharged to go home. Conclusion. We present a case of ischemic stroke in a young patient with clinically diagnosed FH, highlighting the possibility of FH in those with early-onset cerebrovascular disease.

Could High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Alone be a Predictive Biomarker for Patients with Erectile Dysfunction?

This study aimed to assess High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) levels as a predictor of ED in 105 men aged 20-60, to determine whether HDL levels alone could indicate Erectile Dysfunction (ED) risk independently of other factors. Despite the numerous cardiovascular risk factors associated with ED, this study uniquely focused on the predictive value of HDL levels, aiming to highlight its standalone significance in ED risk assessment. The study analyzed the interaction of HDL levels with variables such as BMI and smoking status to improve understanding of lipid profiles in assessing and managing ED Logistic regression was conducted to assess the link between low HDL levels (

Association of whole blood copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in overweight and obese children.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common metabolic disorder in overweight and obese children, and its etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear, lacking effective preventive and therapeutic measures. This study aims to explore the association between whole blood copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium and iron levels and NAFLD in overweight and obese children aged 6 to 17 years, providing a scientific basis for the prevention and intervention of early NAFLD in overweight and obese children. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect relevant data from overweight and obese children who visited the Hunan Children's Hospital from January 2019 to December 2021 through questionnaire surveys. Fasting blood samples were collected from the subjects, and various indicators such as blood glucose, blood lipid, and mineral elements were detected. All children were divided into an overweight group (n=400) and a NAFLD group (n=202). The NAFLD group was divided into 2 subgroups according to the ALT level: A non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) group and a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) group. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the association between minerals (copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron) and NAFLD, NAFL and NASH. A total of 602 subjects were included, of whom 73.6% were male, with a median age of 10 (9, 11) years, and a body mass index (BMI) of 24.9 (22.7, 27.4) kg/m2. The intergroup comparison results showed that compared with the overweight group, the NAFLD group had higher levels of age, BMI, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lower level of high density lipoprotein (HDL). The NAFL group had higher levels of age, BMI, DBP, SBP, ALT, and AST, and lower levels of HDL compared with the overweight group. The levels of age, BMI, DBP, SBP, TG, LDL, ALT, and AST of NASH were higher than those in the overweight group, while the level of HDL was lower than that in overweight group (all P<0.017). After adjusting for a variety of confounders, the OR of NAFLD for the highest quantile of iron was 1.79 (95% CI 1.07 to 3.00) compared to the lowest quantile, and no significant association was observed between copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium, and NAFLD. The subgroup analysis of NAFLD showed that the OR for the highest quantile of iron in children with NAFL was 2.21 (95% CI 1.26 to 3.88), while no significant association was observed between iron level and NASH. In addition, no significant associations were observed between copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium levels and NAFL or NASH. High iron level increases the risk of NAFLD (more likely NAFL) in overweight and obese children, while copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and other elements are not associated with the risk of NAFLD in overweight and obese children.

Comparative Effects of Fermented and Unfermented Parkia biglobosa Bean Seeds in Diabetic Induced Experimental Rats

Aims: The present work investigates the hypoglycemic effect of fermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa (PB, African locust beans) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Its effect was compared with that of unfermented Parkia biglobosa.&#x0D; Methodology: In order to assess the hypoglycemic effects of the fermented seeds on experimental animals, fasting blood sugar (FBS), total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were determined. The microbiota analysis of the fecal sample was also determined.&#x0D; Result: Alloxan administered to the rats significantly increased the FBS of the test animals. However, dietary supplementation with fermented PB for three weeks ameliorated the FBS of the rats like that of the unfermented group. The animals fed with fermented Parkia biglobosa gained weight like those fed with unfermented Parkia biglobosa. High levels of HDL and low levels of LDL were observed in animals treated with fermented Parkia biglobosa compared with low levels of HDL and high levels of LDL observed in animals treated with unfermented Parkia biglobosa.&#x0D; Conclusion: The results of this present study demonstrate that both fermented and unfermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa exert a hypoglycemic effect. Hence, Parkia biglobosa has an anti-diabetic property with fermented form seemingly better.

Lipid parameters and depression in patients with chronic tinnitus: A cross-sectional observation

BackgroundPathophysiological theories assume importance of metabolic abnormalities in patients with major depression - and possibly chronic tinnitus. Although chronic tinnitus frequently correlates with depression, links between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and depression are uninvestigated. MethodsTwo-hundred patients with chronic tinnitus (Mage = 55; 51% female) were examined. Serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), HDL, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), non-HDL, as well as LDL/HDL and TC/HDL ratios were analysed. Questionnaires included depression subscales of the ICD-10 Symptom Rating, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS_D), and the Berlin Mood Questionnaire (BSF). Multivariate analyses of covariance and linear regression models - which controlled age, tinnitus-related distress and perceived stress - investigated between-subgroup differences (p < 0.05) and linear associations between HDL indices and depression (p < 0.01). ResultsHDL levels did not differ for tinnitus-symptom durations, smoking and alcohol use levels, statin or antihypertensive drug use, and body-mass indices. Relative to non-to-mildly depressed patients with chronic tinnitus, patients with moderate-to-severe depression (n = 45; 23%) had significantly lower HDL levels (d = −0.35) and higher LDL/HDL (d = 0.39) and TC/HDL ratios (d = 0.40). Across participants, HDL-levels were negatively associated with depression as measured by the HADS_D and BSF_indifference scales. ConclusionsIn keeping with general depression research, low serum HDL levels correlate with depressive symptomatology in patients with chronic tinnitus. This association may be influenced by proximal (e.g. modulations of HPA-axis activity) or distal factors (e.g. maladaptive coping behaviours) – both of which should be conceptualized within psychological stimulus-processing frameworks.

Sirtuin-1 level and gene polymorphisms in multiple sclerosis

BackgroundSirtuin-1 (SIRT1) may affect multiple sclerosis (MS) disease. This study aimed to investigate the level of serum SIRT1, mRNA expression and genetic polymorphisms in Egyptian MS sufferers. Also, to assess its role as a possible biomarker in predicting the risk of MS and to evaluate the association between its levels and disability of MS. Measurement of SIRT1, serum level, mRNA expression level and genotyping for sirtuin-1 gene polymorphisms in 240 Egyptian subjects; 120 MS sufferers and 120 healthy control subjects.ResultsThere was a significant diminishment of level of serum sirtuin-1, and sirtuin-1 mRNA expression in MS sufferers compared to control subjects. Different sirtuin-1 single nucleotide polymorphism frequencies were statistically significant in MS sufferers compared to the control subjects. Moreover, a negative correlation of serum level of sirtuin-1 in MS sufferers with MS disease duration, disability according to Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score, cholesterol, and triglyceride serum levels. Regarding the sirtuin-1 gene polymorphisms in MS sufferers, the rs7895833 GG genotype had significant higher cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels than the GA and AA genotypes and that the rs7069102 GG genotype had a higher LDL level than the CG and CC genotypes while the rs2273773 TT genotype was significantly associated with cholesterol, and LDL levels than the TC and CC genotypes. No significant difference was detected in EDSS score comparing different sirtuin-1 genotypes among MS sufferers. In MS sufferers, rs7895833 G allele can be independently associated with cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels. rs7069102 C allele can be independently associated with LDL level. With regard to rs2273773, T allele, it can be independently associated with cholesterol and LDL levels.ConclusionThere was a significant association between different sirtuin-1 gene polymorphisms and dyslipidemia which may modulate the course of MS disease. Furthermore, serum sirtuin-1 level can be considered as a possible predictor of disability in multiple sclerosis sufferers.