Low High-density Lipoprotein Levels Research Articles

A Comprehensive Study on Sudden Deafness for Analyzing Their Clinical Characteristics and Prognostic Factors.

Background: To study the factors associated with the prognosis of patients with sudden deafness to facilitate clinical treatment and improve efficacy. Methods: A total of 414 patients with sudden deafness treated in Zhenjiang First People's Hospital from January 2020 to December 2022 were chosen. Relevant data were gathered and the effectiveness of treatment was assessed by comparing hearing test results before and after hospital admission and divided into effective and ineffective groups, and the effectiveness of each factor was analyzed using univariate analysis, Spearman's correlation analysis, and multifactor logistic regression. Results: The 2 groups had significant differences in age, presence of tinnitus, degree of hearing loss, and triglyceride levels. Spearman's rank correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between hearing threshold of at least 81 dB at 250 to 8000 Hz, the low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride levels, and the prognosis (r < 0, P < .001). A positive correlation exists between high-density lipoprotein levels and prognosis (r > 0, P < .001). Receiver operating characteristic curve showed LDL level, age, and time since disease onset appears to be highly predictive. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age >47 years, LDL >2.93 mmol/L, and time to presentation >10 days after disease onset are at higher risk for poor prognosis. Conclusion: Factors that influence the prognosis of patients with sudden deafness include age, tinnitus symptoms, high LDL levels, and the type of hearing curve. Early intervention and targeted treatment should be given to high-risk patients to improve the outcome of sudden deafness in clinical practice.

A scoping review on natural cholesterol lowering supplements sold in South African pharmacies.

Dyslipidaemia is defined as elevated total or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels or low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Patients may often make use of natural cholesterol lowering supplements (NCLSs) available at the pharmacy; however, limited information on these supplements is readily available. Pharmacists should be knowledgeable about NCLSs to ensure that the use of these supplements is supported by evidence and to provide appropriate advice to patients for desirable therapeutic outcomes. This study aimed to identify the NCLSs being sold in South African pharmacies and review the scientific evidence for each of the ingredients in these NCLSs. Seventeen NCLS products were identified, and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) scoping review methodology was used to conduct a literature review of NCLSs. From the ingredients reviewed it is evident that co-enzyme Q10, probiotics and sterols have sufficient evidence supporting their use. However, there is still limited scientific evidence available to validate the remaining ingredients. Further research on NCLSs will provide practising pharmacists and practitioners with a guide of the evidence available on the various ingredients in NCLSs. This study provides a review of the available literature on the NCLSs being sold in the pharmacies across South Africa to provide pharmacists with a collated document of the evidence behind these popular supplements to assist them in making evidence based informed decision regarding natural products for cholesterol.

Study the Association of Fat Mass and Obesity-associated (FTO) Gene Polymorphisms (SNP rs9939609) with Biochemical Markers in Obese Iraqi Patients

This study aimed to evaluate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP rs-9939609) of the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene with body mass index (BMI) and some biochemical markers in obese patients. The fat and mass obesity (FTO) gene variant specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP rs-9939609) with the T to A missense mutation may have a powerful association with obesity. This case-control study included 106 obese patients (57 males and 49 females) and 80 healthy control (40 males and 40 females). DNA was extracted from whole blood, and then the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system - polymerase chain reactions (ARMS.PCR) technique was used to limit the single nucleotide gene polymorphisms (rs9939609) of the FTO gene. Lipid profile, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), fasting blood sugar, insulin and FTO concentrations were measured by standard methods. In this study, the A allele in the rs9939609 was at a higher frequency of 35 (33.1%) in the obese patients and at a significant p-value = 0.039 compared with control 15 (18.7%). It significantly increased in the additive model and allele frequency (p= 0.003, 0.002 respectively). The rs9939608 SNP showed a significant association with increased BMI, insulin and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMO-IR) with p-values of 0.001, 0.001 and 0.028 respectively. After making adjustments for age and sex, lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were observed in the AA and TA genotypes compared to the TT genotype (p = 0.004). While, no significant differences were recorded between the rs9939608 SNP and HbA1C, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in obese patients

Impact of clonal haematopoiesis on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease according to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in general population.

Clonal haematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP), defined as a clonal expansion of age-related recurrent somatic mutations, has recently emerged as a novel cardiovascular risk factor. However, the precise role of CHIP in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains unclear. Among 4300 asymptomatic Korean participants aged 40-79 years, we investigated the risk of ASCVD by CHIP and the interplay between CHIP and conventional risk factors in ASCVD development. Additionally, we assessed changes in coronary arteries based on the presence of CHIP using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). CHIP was present in 363 participants (8.4%), and its prevalence increased with age. Commonly mutated genes were DNMT3A, TET2, and ASXL1, in order. During the follow-up (median 4.7 years), 18 ASCVD cases (5.0%) were observed in CHIP carriers vs. 62 (1.6%) in non-carriers (P < 0.001), indicating an elevated risk of ASCVD associated with CHIP [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 2.49; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.45-4.29; P < 0.001]. Notably, with high levels of LDL cholesterol, CHIP enhanced the risk of ASCVD (adjusted HR 6.20; 95% CI 3.14-12.23; P < 0.001), demonstrating synergism between CHIP and LDL cholesterol levels (S-index 4.94; 95% CI 1.08-22.53; P = 0.039). Serial CCTAs confirmed that CHIP, in conjunction with high LDL cholesterol levels, had a significant early impact on coronary arteries, revealing new measurable coronary atherosclerosis, mainly with unstable plaque, in proximal lesions. The presence of CHIP was significantly associated with the risk of ASCVD, promoting the early stage of atherosclerosis through synergy with high LDL cholesterol in the general population.

Abstract WP213: Exploring Contrast Extravasation and Associated Variables in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients After Mechanical Thrombectomy: Single Center Experience

Introduction: Head CT hyperdensity (HCH) commonly follows mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for large vessel occlusion (LVO), often due to contrast extravasation (CE) or intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Given the 20-88% prevalence in studies, understanding associated variables is crucial for outcomes. Risk factors for ICH after MT are studied, but CE understanding is lacking. We investigated CE occurrence variables and their impact on outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from 164 patients (mean age 65 years, 51% men, 59% White) with LVO who underwent MT in our center (between 2019-2022) with initial and repeat post-MT CT scans within a 24-hour window. CE was defined as the disappearance or reduction of HCH on repeat CT within 24 hours; those with both CE and ICH were excluded. We investigated demographic information, risk factors, lab values, procedural, and neurological outcome data. Parametric and non-parametric tests compared variables between CE and ICH. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were computed through multivariate logistic regression to evaluate the association of CE with the variables. Results: HCH was reported in 56.1% (92 out of 164) of patients in our cohort. CE and ICH were detected in 34 (20.4%) and 58 (35.4%) patients. In unadjusted models, our patients with CE had higher low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (111 mg/dL vs. 80 mg/dL, p=0.04) and lower complete reperfusion score (29.4% vs. 55.2%, p=0.02) (Table 1). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated a higher aOR (1.03, 95%CI 1-1.06, p=0.03) of LDL in patients with CE (Table 2). Conclusion: Our findings revealed a notable association between CE and higher LDL levels. Elevated LDL levels are often linked to systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, vascular changes, and disruptions in the blood-brain barrier, increasing the likelihood of CE. This association prompts further investigation into the underlying pathophysiology of CE.

Association Between Smoking and Lipid Profile in Men Aged 35 to 70 Years: Dose-Response Analysis.

Dyslipidemia is linked to various health complications, including cardiovascular disease and inflammation. This study aimed to assess the association between smoking and lipid profile in the Tabari cohort population. Data from the Tabari Cohort Study involving 4,149 men were analyzed. A standardized questionnaire collected smoking history, while blood samples measured lipid levels and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Statistical analysis utilized chi-square tests and logistic regression, adjusting for potential confounders. The prevalence of smoking was 893 (21.52%; urban: 20.6%, mountainous: 23.8%, significant level: .024). The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) among smokers 1.48 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25-1.77, p < .001) was the same as non-smokers. The adjusted OR of high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in men with 1 to 10, 11 to 20, and more than 20 cigarettes per day was 0.95 (95% CI: 0.73-1.25), 1.30 (95% CI: 0.99-1.71), and 2.64 (95% CI: 1.32-5.27) and low HDL was equal to 1.34 (95% CI: 1.06-1.68), 1.61 (95% CI: 1.26-2.05), and 2.24 (95% CI: 1.13-4.42) compared with non-smokers, respectively. The study findings indicate that smoking is associated with lower HDL levels, even after adjusting for potential confounders. The odds of low HDL and high LDL increases with higher smoking intensity. The low HDL and high LDL levels in individuals smoking over 20 cigarettes/day, respectively, show a 2.24-fold and a 2.64-fold increased odds compared to non-smokers. These findings highlight the importance of smoking cessation in relation to lipid profiles and related health risks.

Analysis of Influencing Factors of Hyperuricemia in Tibetan Population in Nagqu City, Tibet

To analyze the prevalence of hyperuricemia (HUA) among the Tibetan population in Nagqu City, Tibet and to uncover the relevant influencing factors. From July 2020 to August 2021, 763 Tibetan natives from Bangor County (specifically Xinji Township and Jiaqiong Township) and Seni District (specificially Sexiong Township), Nagqu City were investigated by multi-stage cluster random sampling method and the prevalence of HUA was studied by retrospective analysis. Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression were used to analyze the influencing factors of HUA prevalence. The overall prevalence of HUA among the Tibetan population in the three townships of Nagqu City was 19.66% (150/763). In particular, the prevalence in men was 35.00%, while that in women was 8.58%, showing significant difference (P<0.05). According to the results of univariate analysis, there were significant differences in the distribution of sex, abnormal liver function, abnormal hemoglobin, hyperlipidemia, high level of low-density lipoprotein, hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, abnormal creatinine, hyperhomocysteinemia, obesity, and hypertension between HUA and non-HUA patients (P<0.05). Multiple logistic regression showed that female sex (odds ratio [OR]=0.195, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.120-0.315) was a protective factor for HUA, while abnormal liver function (OR=2.812, 95% CI: 1.685-4.692), abnormal creatinine (OR=7.374, 95% CI: 1.446-37.620), high level of low-density lipoprotein (OR=2.357, 95% CI: 1.011-5.492), and hyperlipidemia (OR=3.056, 95% CI: 1.886-4.951) were independent risk factors. The prevalence of HUA is relatively high in Nagqu city and the prevalence of HUA is much higher in men than that in women. Male sex, abnormal liver function, abnormal creatinine, elevated low-density lipoprotein, and hyperlipidemia may be the risk factors for HUA in the local Tibetan population.

Medicinal herbs consumption in relation to cardiometabolic indices and coronary artery stenosis in participants undergoing coronary angiography: A cross-sectional study.

Few studies have investigated the association between herbal medicine consumption and coronary artery disease severity. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between the frequency of medicinal herbs consumption and coronary artery stenosis (CAS), lipid profile, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and blood pressure level in participants undergoing coronary angiography. This study was conducted on 662 participants aged 35-75 years. Serum cardiometabolic markers were measured using standard kits. The extent and severity of CAS were evaluated using the Gensini score (GS) and syntax score (SS). Higher consumption of Thymus vulgaris and Sumac was associated with decreased odds of artery-clogging according to the GS. A higher intake of Thymus vulgaris and Mentha was associated with lower levels of serum cholesterol and triglyceride. Monthly intake of Thymus vulgaris, and weekly/daily intake of Mentha, Nigella Sativa, and Cuminum Cyminum were associated with lower low-density lipoprotein. Weekly/daily intake of Turmeric and Thymus vulgaris were associated with lower high-density lipoprotein levels and monthly intake of Mentha was related to lower serum FBS levels. Higher consumption of Mentha, Mentha pulegium L, Lavandula angustifolia, and Nigella Sativa was associated with lower levels of systolic blood pressure. According to the results of the present study, herbs consumption might be related to a reduction in CAS risk factors.

Coronary atherosclerosis and periodontitis have similarities in their clinical presentation.

Periodontitis (PE) and coronary heart disease (CHD) possess multiple mechanisms for a putative association. This case-control study compared the periodontal status among CHD subjects to controls without CHD, while also investigating atheroma invasion by known periodontal pathogens. 161 subjects participated in this study were divided into three CHD groups: No CHD, chronic CHD, acute CHD. Additional analysis involved grouping subjects according to number of atheromas: no atheroma, 1-4 atheromas, 5-18 atheromas. Data were collected from medical records, periodontal examinations, and questionnaires that included demographic, behavioral, and oral health variables. Angiographic catheterizations were analyzed according to the number of atheroma lesions, lesion size, lesion location, and atheroma lesion stability. Lipoprotein profile, inflammatory markers and cells were analyzed. The microbiological branch added 30 individuals who had their atheroma lesion and subgingival plaque analyzed using polymerase chain reaction probes against the 16 s region, red complex and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans' DNA. Subjects with CHD had high levels of systemic inflammatory markers and low levels of high-density lipoproteins compared to subjects without CHD. Subjects without CHD and clear coronaries had a prevalence of mild CAL, while individuals with more atheroma lesions had advanced CAL and more active PE. Subjects with more advanced CAL were 4 times more likely to have CHD compared to subjects with less, which is comparable to smoking. Only 4 subjects had the screened pathogens detected in atheroma, although these subjects also have the screened pathogens in subgingival plaque. However, 80% of atheromas had bacteria. CHD and PE showed similarities in progression while active PE led to more atheroma lesions that also tended to be larger in size.

Abstract C103: Differential acquisition of extracellular lipid correlates with pancreatic cancer subtype and metastatic tropism

Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive disease, and the third leading cause of cancer-related death with a 5-year overall survival rate of less than 5%. Recent studies have identified two major subtypes of pancreatic cancer, basal and classical, that are predictive of patient prognosis, with basal tumors corresponding with more aggressive disease. While transcriptional signatures define basal and classical tumors and cell lines, little is known regarding the metabolic vulnerabilities linked to the basal versus classical state. Using unbiased computational interrogation to uncover metabolic genes correlating with known markers of classical PDAC, we identified high expression of Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9) – a negative regulator of receptor mediated uptake of cholesterol containing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – as correlating with several established markers of classical PDAC. In contrast, PCSK9 expression is suppressed in Basal PDAC. Accordingly, basal PDAC uptake high levels of LDL, are sensitive to LDL depletion and show higher dependence on cholesterol uptake, relative to classical PDAC. As lipoproteins are produced in the liver, we hypothesized that basal PDAC cells may more efficiently seed and grow within the liver. Consistent with this hypothesis, low PCSK9 expression is correlated with liver metastasis in mouse models of PDAC and patient PDAC specimens. Ongoing studies will interrogate the role of PCSK9 and cholesterol uptake and utilization in metastatic tropism, and uncover unique features and vulnerabilities of the most aggressive variant of PDAC. Citation Format: Gilles Rademaker, Grace A. Hernandez, Longhui Qiu, Kwun W. Wen, Aakriti Jain, Grace A. Kim, Roberto Zoncu, Rushik M. Perera. Differential acquisition of extracellular lipid correlates with pancreatic cancer subtype and metastatic tropism [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Pancreatic Cancer; 2023 Sep 27-30; Boston, Massachusetts. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C103.

Effects of insulin resistance on cardiovascular risk factors in obese and non-obese patients

Objectives: It is known that insulin resistance increases cardiovardiovascular risk. But it could not obviously be understood whether insulin resistance itself or the metabolic syndrome parameters, like obesity, that already exist in most of them, are responsible for this increased risk. Our aim is to determine cardiovascular risks in obese and non-obese insulin-resistant patients. Methods: One hundred thirty-nine patients were included in the study. They were divided into 4 groups: Group 1 (having obesity and insulin resistance), Group 2 (having only insulin resistance but not obesity), Group 3 (having obesity but not insulin resistance), and Group 4 (having neither obesity nor insulin resistance). Patients having any systemic disease were excluded. Insulin resistance is calculated via Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) formula. Electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and lipid parameters of these patients were compared. Results: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels of Group-4 were higher than Group 1 and Group 2. There was no statistical difference in HDL cholesterol levels between Group 3 and the others. Triglyceride and very low-density lipoprotein levels were higher in Group 1. There was no difference in P wave dispersion between the groups. In echocardigraphy, epicardial fat tissue thickness of Group 1 was significantly higher. Prevalance of diastolic dysfunction was higher in Group 1 compared to Group 4. Conclusions: Insulin resistance itself is a risk factor for low HDL levels independent of obesity. When obesity is added to insulin resistance, other cardiovascular risk factors appear, like high triglyceride levels, increase in epicardial fat tissue thickness and presence of diastolic dysfunction. Early detection of insulin resistance may alert us to the risks of cardiovascular diseases.

Burden of Dyslipidemia and Metabolic Syndrome among Indigenous Black African Secondary School Students in Lagos, Nigeria

_Introduction:_ Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of risk factors which together increase the chance of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. In MetS, especially among overweight and obese people, blood pressure and blood glucose are elevated, excess body fat accumulates abdominally, and there is dyslipidemia – notably low level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and high level of triglycerides. _OBJECTIVES: _This study has three objectives: (i) determine the prevalence of dysglycemia and of dyslipidaemia among Nigerian adolescents relative to gender (boys and girls), stage of adolescence (early and late) and BMI-for-age percentile (lean and overweight/obese) (ii) to quantify the burden of lipid abnormalities (excessive Total cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) and Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol) among Nigerian adolescents, which have appeared as substantial covariates of coronary heart disease (CHD) and (iii).To evaluate the association of overweight/obesity, dysglycemia and dyslipidaemia with MetS at (≥90th percentile). _POPULATION AND METHODS: _An institution-based, cross-sectional, descriptive, epidemiological study was conducted from October 2019 to March 2020. A multi-stage sampling approach was used to recruit 650 students aged 10-19 years in secondary schools within Lagos State of Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and anthropometric measurements. Fasting venous blood samples were collected for plasma glucose and lipid profile analysis. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured. A p-value &lt;0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Twenty-six questionnaires were discarded due to incomplete data. _RESULTS:_ A total of 650 adolescents aged between 10 and 19 years were included but 624 were analyzed with 26 discarded due to incomplete data. The overall means (±sd) of age was 14.7±2.2 yrs. with no significant difference between boys (14.8±2.2) yrs. and girls (14.7±2.1 yrs.). Girls were significantly heavier (t-test=-2.24, P-value=0.03) than boys (19.5±4.1 vs 18.7±4.5 kg/m2). The overall prevalence of hyperglycemia was 11.7%. The mean Systolic blood pressure (SBP) of overweight/obese subjects (113.6±11.9 mm Hg) was significantly higher (t-test=-8.81, P-value&lt;0.00001) than that of lean subjects. Approximately 19% and 12% of the study subjects had impaired and diabetic fasting blood glucose (FBG), especially females, those in early-stage adolescence and the overweight subjects. The median lipid levels were 199.4 mg/dL for TC, 180.8 mg/dL for TG, 55.9 mg/dL for HDL and 289.6 mg/dL for LDL respectively. Only 53 (8.3%) subjects had abnormal levels of combined TC, TG, HDL, and LDL. Boys were 1.59 more likely to have dyslipidemia compared to girls (χ²=2.66, P-value=0.10, Or=1.59, 95% CI=0.92, 2.76) and overweight/obese subjects were 1.53 more likely to develop dyslipidemia compared to lean subjects (χ²=0.86, P-value=0.35, OR=1.53, 95% CI=0.62, 3.77). Overweight with dyslipidemia were significantly younger (t-test=2.54, P-value=0.04). The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) was 8.3% with roughly 15%, 44%, 32% and 9% of the study subjects having 0, 1, 2 or ≥3 risk factors for MetS. _CONCLUSION: _A higher proportion of male, mid-adolescent, and overweight students had a minimum of 3 risk factors for MetS_. _This is likely to impose a high burden on future health. Preventing the increasing burden of lipid abnormalities among Nigerian adolescents is essential. The extent to which the problem might affect other areas of Nigeria needs investigation. Multivariate regression analysis shows that the overall relationship between MetS ≥90th percentile and five predictor variables – FBG, TC, TG, HDL, and BMI-for-age, was significant (P-VALUE&lt;0.00001) and all of them contributed to the observed MetS≥90th percentile among the study subjects.

Exploring dyslipidemia and cardiovascular morbidity in chronic kidney disease patients: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent health concern with significant implications for patient health. This study investigates the relationship between dyslipidemia and cardiovascular morbidity in CKD patients. CKD is characterized by kidney damage, reduced glomerular filtration rate, and is associated with various complications, including cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidemia, characterized by abnormal lipid levels, is common in CKD patients and contributes to the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications. Materials and Methods: This 1-year cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center in northern India. The study included 160 patients aged 16 and above who had been diagnosed with CKD. Researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of lipid profiles in these patients and assessed cardiovascular morbidity through a review of clinical records. Results: In our study, we observed that 96 out of 160 patients diagnosed with CKD exhibited lower than recommended levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Furthermore, in patients with CKD Stages IV and V, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were notably elevated. Triglyceride levels (TGs) were consistently elevated across the board in our study. Specifically, the mean TGLs were 159, 162.8, 211, and 246.8 in CKD Stages II, III, IV, and V, respectively, which was statistically significant. In addition, total cholesterol levels were found to be elevated in 110 out of 160 patients within our study group. Most of the patients with CKD were found to have systolic or diastolic dysfunction on two-dimensional echocardiography. Furthermore, associated coronary artery disease was higher in Grade III and Grade V CKD patients. The study yielded several notable findings regarding cardiovascular morbidity in CKD patients. Cardiovascular morbidity was observed in a significant proportion of CKD patients, highlighting the strong link between CKD and heart-related complications. Abnormal lipid profiles, such as low levels of HDL and elevated levels of LDL-C, were prevalent in CKD patients with cardiovascular morbidity. An association between the severity of CKD, as determined by Stage, and the presence of cardiovascular morbidity was evident. Patients with advanced CKD Stages (IV and V) were more likely to exhibit cardiovascular complications. Dyslipidemia, particularly elevated TGLs, was implicated as a potential contributor to cardiovascular morbidity in CKD patients. Conclusion: This study underscores the significance of cardiovascular morbidity in CKD patients and its association with dyslipidemia. Findings suggest that early diagnosis and management of dyslipidemia are essential for mitigating the long-term cardiovascular consequences in CKD patients. Health-care providers should be vigilant in monitoring lipid profiles in CKD patients and implementing appropriate interventions to reduce their risk of cardiovascular complications. By integrating the study’s findings on cardiovascular morbidity with dyslipidemia in CKD patients, health-care practitioners can better understand the multifaceted nature of this condition and tailor their treatment strategies accordingly.

LOW HIGH-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN LEVEL ASSOCIATED WITH ENHANCED INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE AND ONE-YEAR PERSISTENCE OF LONG COVID IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMODIALYSIS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL COHORT STUDY

Background: Long-term consequences of COVID-19, known as long COVID, present distinctive hurdles for patients receiving hemodialysis treatment. Reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (&lt; 1.22 mmol/L) have previously been demonstrated to be associated with heightened susceptibility to COVID-19 and immediate COVID-19-related adverse outcomes in this patient population. However, the potential association between HDL levels and the persistence of long COVID has not been examined within the hemodialysis cohort. The present study aimed to explore the relationship between HDL levels and inflammatory responses one year after COVID-19 among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: A total of 80 patients treated with hemodialysis, 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 C-reactive protein, and interleukins -6 and -17, were assessed one year post-infection. 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 &lt; 0.0001). The HDL cut-off point of less than 1.22 mmol/L demonstrated a sensitivity of 84.9% and specificity of 95.3% to predict one-year long COVID persistence in our cohort. Among the patients with HDL levels &lt; 1.22 mmol/L, elevated concentrations of C-reactive protein (р = 0.003), interleukin-6 (p = 0.005), and interleukin-17 (p &lt; 0.0001) were evident compared to those with HDL concentrations exceeding 1.22 mmol/L. Subsequent subgroup analysis revealed a more pronounced inflammatory profile in patients concurrently experiencing long COVID and exhibiting low HDL levels. Conclusion: The obtained results suggest that a low level of HDL (&lt; 1.22 mmol/L) may exacerbate the inflammatory response in patients undergoing hemodialysis, potentially contributing to the persistence of long COVID even a year after infection. Future research is necessary to elucidate the pathogenetic mechanisms of this relationship and explore potential strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Prevalence of proteinuria and its associated factors in hypertensive diabetic patients.

Hypertensive diabetic patients are at increased risk for chronic kidney disease. Proteinuria is an early sign of kidney damage. Limited research is available on proteinuria and on its associated factors in hypertensive patients with diabetes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of proteinuria and its associated factors in hypertensive diabetic patients. The current retrospective study utilized medical records and hospital computers to collect sociodemographic and medical information about the study patients in two major hospitals in Jordan. Binary regression analysis was used to find the factors that are significantly and independently associated with the presence of proteinuria. Data from 522 hypertensive diabetic patients were investigated. Factors including age (OR=0.691; 95% CI: 0.930-0.994; p<0.01), high-density lipoprotein level (OR=0.450; 95% CI: 0.211-0.960; p<0.05), and higher glomerular filtration rate (OR=0.964; 95% CI: 0.950-0.977; p<0.01) were associated with proteinuria among the study patients. In contrast to metformin (OR=0.237; 95% CI: 0.098-0.572; p<0.01), patients who received insulin (OR=1.992; 95% CI: 1.136-3.492; p<0.05), thiazide diuretics (OR=1.848; 95% CI: 1.108-3.083; p<0.05), calcium channel blockers (OR=1.833, 95% CI: 1.110-3.028, p<0.05), or beta-blockers (BBs) (OR=2.199, 95% CI: 1.257-3.848, p<0.01) had a higher likelihood of having proteinuria. For preserving kidney function, it is deemed necessary to perform regular checkups for proteinuria among hypertensive diabetic patients, particularly in young patients, patients with low levels of high-density lipoprotein, and those with a lower glomerular filtration rate.

The prevalence of extracranial carotid atherosclerosis detected via ultrasound imaging: A single-centre study in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

To assess the prevalence of carotid atherosclerosis in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Data on patients who underwent carotid ultrasound examinations between 2017-2021 were collected retrospectively from the archive of King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Patient characteristics, blood lipid profiles, and plaque features were extracted from the medical records and ultrasound images. Descriptive data were presented as percentages. In total, 1334 patients were reviewed. Of these, 13.5% had carotid plaques and were included in the analysis. The mean patient age was 69.8±10.4 years, and 76.1% were men. The prevalence of hypertension was 62.7% and the prevalence of diabetes was 50%, and 7.2% of patients were smokers. Regarding blood lipid profiles, 6.5% of patients had high total cholesterol, 15.1% had high triglyceride levels, and 10.7% had high low-density lipoprotein levels. The median (interquartile range) stenosis was 34.4 (17.2) %, while the median plaque length was 5 (6) mm and thickness was 3 (1) mm. The median carotid intima-media thickness was 1 (0.3) mm. Regarding plaque distribution, 62.7% of plaques were in the carotid bulb. Additionally, 28.3% was in the internal carotid artery, 6.1% was in the common carotid artery, and 2.7% was in the external carotid artery. The prevalence of carotid atherosclerosis among patients in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was low. A high prevalence of hypertension and diabetes (≥50%) was observed among the patients. Multicenter studies involving larger Saudi samples are warranted to explore carotid atherosclerosis risk factors.

Correlation between Dyslipedemia and Urine Albumin Excretion in Non Diabetic Obese Subjects: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Obesity is a global health concern, and recent research has shown that it can cause kidney problems, especially in non diabetics. Obesity-related dyslipedemia, characterised by aberrant lipid profiles, may contribute to kidney damage. Aim: The purpose of the present cross-sectional study was to shed light on the complex interaction between dyslipedemia and renal health by examining the relationship between dyslipedemia and urine albumin excretion in non diabetic obese adults. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional investigation was conducted in the Outpatient Obesity Clinic of the Endocrinology Department at a Tertiary Hospital in Kerala, India. A total of 144 non diabetic obese individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 years. All subjects provided informed consent, and ethical approval was obtained. The primary inclusion criteria were a Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 25.0, the absence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), and the absence of proteinuria. Urine and blood samples were collected for laboratory testing, and statistical analysis was conducted using International Business Machines (IBM) Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Statistics 20.0. Results: Dyslipedemia was found to be common, with low High-Density Lipoproteins (HDL) levels in 41.4% of participants, high Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL) levels in 49.6%, high Triglycerides (TG) levels in 29.7%, and high Total Cholesterol (TC) levels in 43%. The study revealed that obese individuals with dyslipedemia excrete albumin at a significantly higher rate than obese individuals without dyslipedemia. Furthermore, a weak correlation between TG levels and the Urine Albumin Creatinine Ratio (UACR) was discovered. However, UACR did not significantly correlate with metabolic risk markers such as Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG), serum insulin, blood pressure, HDL, LDL, TC, and systolic/Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP). Conclusion: The results of the present study demonstrate that dyslipedemia significantly contributes to kidney damage in non diabetic obese individuals. The presence of dyslipedemia in obese then could serve as an early warning sign of potential renal problems. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex interactions between obesity, dyslipedemia, and renal health. These insights could be crucial for developing effective preventative and intervention methods in this context.

Overview of obesity and effect of bariatric surgery in Aljouf area, Saudi Arabia

Abstract Introduction: Studies have shown that obesity is increasingly prevalent in Saudi Arabia (SA). As the nation has witnessed economic growth and associated lifestyle changes, obesity has emerged as a significant problem, according to the findings of Salem et al. in 2022. Although obesity has reached a prevalence of 41.1% in males and 77.6% in females in SA,research on this topic has been lacking. Aim: To highlight the prevalence of obesity in Aljouf area and demonstrate the effect of bariatric surgery on patient health. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review using relevant demographic and clinical data from 2020 onward collected from the Arcus Air system. Statistical analysis: Descriptive statistical analysis was performed, and numerical data were presented as median (interquartile range [IQR]) and categorical data as frequencies and percentages. Numerical variables were tested for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk normality test. Statistical significance was set at P&lt;0.05 were considered significant. STATA® 15.1 was employed for the analysis. Results: We included 196 patients who underwent bariatric surgery. Their median age was 34 years (range,17–52), and females constituted 65% . Approximately 80% of the study subjects had a baseline body mass index (BMI) of &gt;40kg/m2, and approximately 13% had diabetes mellitus (DM). Ten days after surgery, a significant decline was observed in the median BMI of 39.3 (37.3–41.4) compared to the pre-operative median BMI of 42 (40–44 ). A further significant decrease was observed in BMI three months later (median BMI: 33.7 [31–36.98]). This was paralleled by improvement in HbA1c levels in patients with DM or pre-diabetes, with a median value of 5.5% (5.4–6.6) three months after surgery compared to a baseline median of 6.6% (6.2–7.4). Discussion: The data demonstrated that obesity was more prevalent in females than males. We observed a statistically significant change in weight loss based on BMI in the first ten days following the procedure (39; 37.2–41.3) and again at the three-month follow-up (33.7; 31–36.98), P &lt;0.0001. Patients with comorbidities such as DM and hypertension showed significant health improvements, unlike those with high high-density or low-density lipoprotein levels. Conclusion: Bariatric surgery is an effective approach to weight reduction in patients with obesity. The study demonstrated significant reductions in comorbidities (DM and HTN), in addition to overall health improvements. There is a need to raise awareness of obesity’s effects on society. Further studies are required in northern regions.

Clinical relevance of cluster analysis in phenotyping allergic rhinitis in the paediatric population of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian voivodeship, Poland.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the most common allergic disease in the world, and additionally, its prevalence is successively increasing. Children with AR constitute a heterogeneous group of patients differing both in the course of AR and in the frequency of asthma coexistence. It is possible to identify children with AR at risk of a more severe course of the disease by analysing the potential family, environmental and clinical factors related to the development of the disease; the findings will help identify patients with a higher risk of developing asthma in the future, and who will benefit the most from early allergen-specific immunotherapy. Evaluation of clinical relevance of cluster analysis in phenotyping AR based on an analysis of selected clinical and environmental factors. The study sample was 80 children (7-17 y.o.) with AR, including 28 children with associated asthma. The effects of AR symptoms on the patients daily functioning, skin prick tests (Allergopharma), allergen-specific IgE for airborne allergens (Biocheck GmbH), total cholesterol, cholesterol high-density lipoprotein (HDL), cholesterol low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride levels in the blood (ARCHITECTcSystem), FeNO and nNO concentrations (HypAir FeNO Medisoft) and results of methacholine challenge test (Lungtest 1000Ispa) were analysed. Four clusters of patients with AR were extracted, differing in the incidence and severity of AR symptoms and the coincidence of asthma. Most of the children from cluster 1 (n = 24; 85.71%) and cluster 2 (n = 15; 78.95%) had persistent AR, while most of the children from cluster 3 (n = 11; 73.33%) and cluster 4 (n = 14; 77.78%) had intermittent AR. The co-occurrence of asthma was significantly higher in cluster 1 than in other clusters (p = 0.0002). Children in clusters 3 and 4 reported a lower impact of AR symptoms on daily functioning (p = 0.0153). Children in cluster 1 had significantly more often an abnormally high total cholesterol level (p = 0.033) and in cluster 4 significantly more often abnormally high triglyceride levels (p = 0.009) were observed. Patients in cluster 2 were significantly less likely to have abnormal high LDL levels (p = 0.015). Children with AR from the Kuyavian-Pomeranian voivodeship differing in the course of AR, the frequency of coexistence of asthma, and occurrence of lipid parameter abnormalities.

Status of glycemic control and lipid profile in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A descriptive cross-sectional study

Introduction: Dyslipidemia in diabetes mellitus is commonly seen in the form of high total cholesterol (TC), high lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL), high triglyceride (TG) and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. This study was done to study the association of glycemic control with lipid profile in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients. Methods:This was a cross sectional, observational study conducted from December 2018 to June 2020 at Universal College of Medical Sciences and Teaching Hospital, Bhairahawa. It involved 125 patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus (68 males and 57 females), who visited in outpatient department of Internal Medicine. Laboratory tests [(Fasting Blood Sugar(FBS), Post Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS), Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c), Renal Function Test (RFT) and Fasting Lipid Profile] were noted. The data was analyzed with SPSS Version 25. Descriptive statistics like frequency, percentage,mean and standard deviation (SD) were calculated. Independent t-test was used to measure the association between glycated hemoglobin with blood glucose level and glycated hemoglobin with lipid profile. Results: The study patients were categorized into two groups on the basis of HbA1C level [(good glycemic control ≤7 (n=33) and poor glycemic control &gt;7 (n=92)]. In good glycemic control the mean TC was 143.30, LDL 71.88, HDL 43.70, VLDL 29.55, TG 134.39 mg/dl while in poor glycemic control the mean TC was 182.47, LDL 114.85, HDL 32.03. VLDL 36.61, TG 179.33 mg/dl with p-value &lt;0.05. Conclusions: There was significant positive association of HbA1c with TC, LDL, VLDL, TG and significant negative association with HDL.