Mean Serum hsCRP Levels Research Articles

Association of Circulating Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and the Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Young Smokers

Introduction: Smoking causes cardiovascular risk which may alter the stability between the production and degradation of the extracellular matrix. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is a zinc-containing endopeptidase that degrades the extracellular matrix and plays a vital role in tissue remodeling. As a result, elevated serum MMP-9 levels produced by smoking, particularly at young age, raise the risk of future CHD. So this study aims to find out the possible relationship between circulating MMP-9 and the risk of cardiovascular disease in young smokers. Methods: The study was conducted on smokers with CHD subjects attending cardiology and medicine OP of the SRM Medical College Hospital and research center Tamil Nadu, India. The study group was divided into three groups. Group 1 includes 120 healthy controls as nonsmokers, Group 2 includes 120 smokers with Coronary heart disease (CHD), and Group 3 includes 120 smokers with diabetes and CHD subjects in the age group of 20-55 years. Serum MMP-9, hs-CRP, and APO-E levels were measured using the ELISA method and the lipid level was measured enzymatically using AU480 automatic analyzer (back man coulter). Results: The mean serum MMP-9, hs-CRP, and APO-E levels were significantly higher in both groups (p<0.05) when compared to controls. The study also shows a significant positive association between MMP-9 with hs-CRP, APO-E, smoking burden, and smoking intensity. Conclusion: The study concludes a significant association exists between cigarette smoking with MMP-9 and also relative exposure to circulating inflammation markers plays a potential role in the pathogenesis of CHD.

Smoking Induces the Circulating Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and Its Association with Cardiovascular Risk in Young Smokers

Smoking causes cardiovascular risk, which may alter the stability between the production and degradation of the extracellular matrix. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is a zinc-containing endopeptidase that degrades the extracellular matrix and is involved in tissue remodelling and several physiological processes. As a result, smoking-induced elevated serum MMP-9 levels, particularly at a younger age, raise the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Thus, this study aimed to determine the possible relationship between smoking-induced circulating MMP-9 and the risk of cardiovascular disease in young smokers. In this cross-sectional study, the patients were divided into three groups. Each group contains 120 study participants. Group one consisted of 120 healthy individuals with no physical and mental illness, group two consisted of 120 active smokers with a heart disease, and group three consisted of 120 active smokers with a heart disease and diabetes, who attended Sri Ramaswamy Memorial Hospital for cardiology checkup at the age of 20-55 years. The serum MMP-9, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and apolipoprotein-E (APO-E) levels were analyzed using the ELISA method, and the lipid levels were measured enzymatically using AU480 automatic analyzer (Beckman Coulter). Compared with non-smokers, the study shows that the mean serum MMP-9, hs-CRP, and APO-E levels were significantly higher in smokers (p<0.001). A strong relationship was also found between MMP-9 and hs-CRP, APO-E, smoking load, and smoking intensity. A significant association was found between cigarette smoking with MMP-9, and relative exposure to circulating inflammation markers plays a potential role in the pathogenesis of CHD.

Fasting Serum Lipid Profile and Its Association with Serum High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Patients with type II diabetes mellitus frequently have altered lipid profiles. Detection of serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein is associated with cardiovascular events in type II DM as the presence of subclinical inflammation. The study was undertaken to observe the fasting serum lipid profile level and its association with serum hs-CRP in type II DM.&#x0D; Materials and methods: A hospital-based observational study was carried out in the Outpatient Department of Endocrinology, Chittagong Medical College Hospital and Department of Biochemistry, Chittagong Medical College. By using non-probability consecutive sampling, a total of 176 participants were enrolled, with 126 type II DM and 50 in the control group. Plasma glucose and serum hs-CRP, fasting serum lipid profile was estimated.&#x0D; Results: The mean serum hs-CRP level in patients with type II DM (9.1 ± 0.36 mg/L) was significantly (p 0.0001) elevated as compared to control (4.3 ± 0.09 mg/L). The result showed an increase in serum total cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum HDLC and serum LDL-C among the diabetic patients when compared with the healthy control group. Serum hs-CRP was significantly associated with serum TG and serum LDL-C in type II diabetics. Moreover, serum hs-CRP was found to have a significant positive correlation with serum LDL-C and serum TG. Only 77.78% of patients had increased LDL-C but altogether 85.71% of patients had increased serum hs-CRP levels.&#x0D; Conclusion: According to the findings of this study,increased serum hs-CRP was well associated and positively correlated with components of the fasting lipid profile, indicating early identification of cardiovascular risk among type II diabetics.&#x0D; Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.21 (2); July 2022; Page 35-39

A study of effect of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular biomarkers in a tertiary care centre in the Kumaon Region

An important mechanism responsible for increased cardiovascular risks in chronic excessive alcohol use is the pro-oxidant effects of alcohol. There are some emerging risk factors like :- (i) lipoprotein(a) {Lp[a]}, (ii) High‑sensitivity C‑reactive protein (hs‑CRP), (iii) Lipid profile, (iv) Prothrombotic and proinflammatory factors that play an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. So we investigated the relation between the levels of cardiovascular biomarkers &amp; the degree of alcohol intake in alcoholic subjects. The present study was carried out in the Department of Biochemistry, in association with the Department of Medicine, Government Medical College, Haldwani. Estimation of Serum Level of hs-CRP &amp; Lp (a) byturbidimetric immunoassay. Serum Cholesterol by CHOD-POD &amp; Triglycerides by enzymatic colorimetric method. LDL cholesterol was calculated by Friedwald equation.The mean total cholesterol, TG, LDLc, hs-CRP, Lp(a) &amp; including HDLc levels were significantly raised (p &amp;#60; 0.05) in cases as compared to controls. The mean serum total cholesterol &amp; Lp (a) levels showed no significant association across different alcohol drinking groups (p&amp;#62;0.05). The mean TG &amp; LDLc levels were significantly (p&amp;#60;0.05) higher in occasional drinkers and heavy drinkers than that of low-moderate &amp; moderate drinkers. The mean serum HDL cholesterol levels in the occasional drinkers were significantly elevated in comparison to the low-moderate drinkers, moderate drinkers and heavy drinkers. The mean serum hs-CRP level in the mediocre and heavy drinkers was significantly low (p&amp;#60;0.05) as compared occasional drinkers and low-moderate drinkers. Our study suggests heavy drinking (&amp;#62;30drinks/week) must be strongly discouraged as it may lead to changes in cardiovascular markers and dyslipidemia. Our study also showed a beneficial effect of occasional drinking on HDLc and moderate drinking on hs-CRP.

Association of Serum High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein with Insulin Resistance in Patients with Type-ΙΙ Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is the major event in type-ΙΙ diabetes mellitus followed by an increasing degree of β-cell dysfunction. Chronic inflammation is the driving force for IR and type-ΙΙ DM. The process of inflammation induces hepatic synthesis of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (an acute-phase protein) which plays a role in IR. The study was undertaken to find out the association of serum hs-CRP with insulin resistance in patients with type-ΙΙ diabetes mellitus.&#x0D; Methodology: A hospital-based observational study was carried out in the Outpatient Department of Endocrinology, Chittagong Medical College Hospital and Department of Biochemistry, Chittagong Medical College. A total of 126 patients with type-II diabetes mellitus aged 40-64 years were included by non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Serum hs-CRP, fasting serum insulin was estimated. IR was calculated by using the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance index (HOMA-IR).&#x0D; Results: The mean serum hs-CRP level was 9.1 ± 0.36 mg/L in patients with type-II DM. Serum hs-CRP was significantly associated with insulin resistance and positively correlated with HOMA-IR in type-II diabetics. Body mass index (BMI) as one of the key indicators of insulin resistance was also associated with serum hs-CRP in this study population. Additionally serum hs-CRP was correlated positively with BMI and fasting serum insulin in patients with type-II DM.&#x0D; Conclusion: The results of this study concluded that increased serum hs-CRP was well associated and positively correlated with insulin resistance and its parameters signifying a possible role of subclinical inflammation in IR among patients with type-II diabetes mellitus.&#x0D; EMCJ. January 2022; 7(1): 15-20

Role of Cigarette Smoking on Serum Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme and Its Association With Inflammation and Lipid Peroxidation.

IntroductionCigarette smoking promotes angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) production and causes a substantial change in inflammation and oxidative stress, resulting in an increase in antioxidant activity and lipid peroxidation.ObjectiveThe study's goal is to determine the role of cigarette smoking on serum ACE and its relation with inflammatory markers and lipid peroxidation.MethodsThe cross-sectional study consists of three groups. The study participants are all men between the age group of 20 to 55 years. Group 1 includes 120 healthy controls as nonsmokers, Group 2 consists of 120 active smokers with coronary heart disease (CHD) and Group 3 includes 120 active smokers with diabetic CHD patients attending the SRM Medical College Hospital in Tamil Nadu for cardiology and medical Outpatient. Measurements of serum ACE, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9) were performed using the ELISA method (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Using a spectrophotometric approach, the total antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation, particularly Malondialdehyde (MDA), were assessed.ResultsThe mean serum ACE (92.35±10.28), oxLDL (48.59±8.56), hs-CRP (5.87±1.62), MMP-9 (89.20±30.19), and MDA (1.146±0.198) levels were significantly (p-value <0.0001) higher in smokers with CHD and diabetes (group 3) when compared to group 1 and group 2. On the other hand, the total antioxidant capacity (0.413±0.097) of smokers of group 3 was found to be (p<0.0001) significantly lower than those of group 1 and group 2. The study also demonstrated a significant correlation between ACE with MDA, ox-LDL, total antioxidant capacity, hs-CRP, MMP-9, smoking load, and smoking intensity in smokers.ConclusionThe study concludes a substantial correlation exists in smokers owing to ACE modification, which results in inflammation and lipid peroxidation activation. This is strongly associated with an increased risk of major cardiovascular events.

Study of association of C-reactive protein and alkaline phosphatase in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

The prevalence and incidence of type 2 diabetes are rising rapidly worldwide, especially in Asia. Diabetes has been linked to a shorter life expectancy mainly because of its complications, including heart disease, strokes, eye disease, inflammation and bone disease. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between high sensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in type 2 diabetes patients. Furthermore, we investigated correlation between serum hsCRP and ALP level with glycaemic triad (FBS, PPBS, HbA1c) in case and control group. A cross sectional study consists of 200 patients out of which 100 normal healthy control (Group I), case - 100 patients having type 2 DM (Group II). FBS, PPBS, HbA1c, hsCRP and ALP were measured. Mean serum hsCRP and ALP level were statistically significantly higher in case group compared to control group. Moreover, significant positive correlation was observed between hsCRP and ALP level as well as both with FBS, PPBS and HbA1c. Oxidative stress and inflammation appears to be a key component and also associated with poor glycaemic control and further pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications.

Effects of green cardamom supplementation on serum levels of Hs-CRP, dimethylarginine, nitric oxide and blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, clinical trial

PurposeCardamom contains phytochemicals with a potential role in lowering blood pressure (BP) and improving the inflammatory status in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, only a few studies have been carried out to evaluate the effect of cardamom in these patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of green cardamom supplementation on serum high-sensitivity C–reactive protein (hs-CRP), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), nitric oxide (NO), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in patients with T2DM. Materials and MethodsIn this double blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial, 83 patients with T2DM were divided randomly into two groups, including the green cardamom group (3 g/d, n = 41) and placebo group (3 g/d, n = 42). All patients received the supplements for 10 weeks. Serum levels of hs-CRP, ADMA, NO, SBP and DBP were measured at baseline and week 10. ResultsThe intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis showed a decrease in mean serum hs-CRP levels [from 5.22 (3.56) to 4.81 ng/ml (3.72); p < 0.05] along with a significant increase in mean serum NO levels [from 65.6 (22.6) to 84 Mµ (26.3)], (p < 0.001). There was a significant decrease in mean SBP in the cardamom group [from 125.2 (12.4) to 119.4 mm/hg (11.8)] compared to the placebo group [128.1 (15.6) to 126.7 mmHg (13.5)] (p < 0.001). Furthermore, ITT analysis showed a decrease in mean SBP [from 125.6 (12.2) to 120 mmHg (11.59)] (p < 0.001). Changes in serum ADMA and DBP levels were not statistically significant between the two groups. In addition, in Per-Protocol (PP) analysis, a significant decrease was found in mean serum hs-CRP levels in the cardamom group [from 5.25 (3.66) to 4.87 ng/ml (3.8)] compared to the placebo group [4.4 (3) to 5.7 ng/ml (4.2)]; (p < 0.05), along with a significant increase in mean serum NO levels in the cardamom group [from 62.9 (18) to 82.5 Mµ (24.6)] compared to the placebo group [70.7 (28) to 72.1 Mµ (25.8)]; (p < 0.001). ConclusionGreen cardamom may have beneficial effects on SBP, NO and hs-CRP levels in patients with T2DM. Improvement in BP and inflammatory markers can help prevent the complications from T2DM including cardiovascular risk in these patients.

High Sensitive C Reactive Protein (hsCRP) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) in Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Background: Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorders, characterized by hyperglycemia which results from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The prevalence and incidence of type 2 diabetes are rising rapidly worldwide. Diabetes has been linked to a shorter life expectancy mainly because of its complications, including heart disease, strokes, retinopathy, and chronic kidney disease and bone disease. Objective: To examine the relationship between high sensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: This study was a hospital based cross sectional study conducted at Dept. of Biochemistry, Ashiyan Medical College Hospital from January to June 2020. The study consists of 180 patients out of which 90 were normal healthy controls (Group I) and 90 patients having type 2 DM were included in case (Group II). FBS, PPBS, HbA1c, hsCRP and ALP of all subjects were measured. Results: Mean serum hsCRP and ALP level were statistically significant higher in case group compared to control group. Moreover, significant positive correlation was observed between hsCRP and ALP level as well as both with FBS, PPBS and HbA1c. Conclusions: Oxidative stress and inflammation appears to be a key component and also associated with poor glycaemic control and further pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications. All our finding suggest a link between oxidative stress, inflammation and glycaemic control in patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

ASSESSMENT OF THE THYROID PROFILE, HS-CRP AND LIPID PROFILE IN NEWLY DETECTED HYPOTHYROID ADULTS: CASE-CONTROL STUDY

Aim: to analyse the thyroid profile, hs-CRP and lipid profile in newly detected hypothyroid adults in comparison to controls and also to compare the above parameters in subclinical and clinical hypothyroid cases.&#x0D; Material and methods: The study was a cross sectional study which was carried in Nalanda Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, India from October 2019 to march 2020. Total 240 patients were divided into 2 groups. Group-1 for newly detected hypothyroid adults and Group 2 as Controls. Blood samples were collected with full aseptic precautions after obtaining informed consent. Clot activator that contains vacuum evacuated tubes for analysis of serum TSH, FT3, FT4, TC, HDL-c, LDL-c, TG, hs-CRP. Then after collection, serum samples were stored at -200 until analyzed. Anthropometric measurements for BMI, height (cm) and body weight (kg) were measured.&#x0D; Results: The mean age of cases and controls in our study was found to be 36.12±12.21years and 35.87±11.06years respectively (p = 0.81). BMI values in the study were higher in cases (27.24 ± 4.65kg/m2) compared to controls (25.17 ± 4.37kg/m2) and was statistically significant (P = 0.03). In the study, the mean TSH levels (15.27 ± 9.2µIU/ml) of cases were high compared to controls (3.1 ± 0.88µIU/ml) and were statistically significant (p&lt;0.001). The mean serum hs-CRP levels in both the study groups was within the reference range, but it was high and statistically significant in cases than in control (p = 0.004). The total cholesterol level in cases (182.29 ± 39.75mg/dl) and control (184.27±28.37mg/dl) were within the reference range and there was no statistical significance (p = 0.82). Further it was found that HDL-c in cases (45.89±9.47mg/dl) and control (52.87±6.7mg/dl) were found to be lower in cases compared to controls and the difference was statistically significant (p &lt; 0.001). The mean LDLc value in cases (145.14±34.12mg/dl) and control (132.05±32.14mg/dl) was high in cases and the difference was statistically significant (p= 0.01). The triglyceride levels of cases (159.26±49.87mg/dl) were significantly higher than that of control (146.23±29.27mg/dl) and was statistically significant (p=0.03). hs -CRP levels were in within reference range for 92 (76.67%) of cases and 109(90.83%)controls whereas above the normal range was seen in 28 (23.33%) cases and only 11(9.17%) controls. Out of 120, 64.17% (n=77) were subclinical hypothyroid (SCH) and 35.83% (n=43) were clinical hypothyroid (CH) cases. There was a significant increase in serum TSH in CH (24.11 ± 9.1µIU/ml) as compared to SCH (10.2 ± 2.2 µIU/ml). The difference was statistically significant (p&lt;0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: we concluded that the hypertriglyceridemia and at risk hs-CRP levels though seen in hypothyroid cases were more prominent in CH cases than SCH. Dyslipidemia and inflammatory markers were found to be increased in the cases that helped in prediction and evaluation of patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Impact of root canal treatment on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in systemically healthy adults with apical periodontitis - a preliminary prospective, longitudinal interventional study.

To assess the influence of root canal treatment on serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels in systemically healthy human adults. Fifteen individuals aged 20-40years diagnosed with apical periodontitis [Periapical Index (PAI) score ≥3] who were otherwise healthy took part in this prospective interventional study. Patients with moderate to severe periodontitis, systemic diseases and traditional cardiac risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia and smoking) were excluded. Root canal treatment was completed in two visits with an inter-appointment calcium hydroxide intracanal medicament. After 6months, healing of apical periodontitis was evaluated clinically and radiographically, and serum hsCRP levels were recorded. A paired sample T-test was used to compare the mean hsCRP values between the pre- and post-treatment groups. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare hsCRP values between patients with PAI scores of 3 and 4, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre- and postoperative PAI scores. The mean preoperative baseline serum hsCRP level was 2.88±1.06mgL-1 which can be associated with a moderate risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Based on the preoperative hsCRP levels, eight of the 15 patients were categorized as high risk (hsCRP>3mgL-1 ) and the other seven as medium risk (hsCRP 1-3mgL-1 ) for CVD. The mean preoperative hsCRP value of patients with a PAI score of 3 was 2.88±1.19mgL-1 , and the mean preoperative hsCRP of patients with a PAI score of 4 was 2.87±0.15mgL-1 , which was not significantly different (P=0.942). Six months after root canal treatment, the mean PAI score had significantly reduced from 3.2±0.42 to 1.4±0.69 (P=0.003). The PAI score had reduced to ≤2 in 87% of the patients, and the mean serum hsCRP levels had significantly reduced to 1.34±0.52mgL-1 (P<0.001). Ten of the 15 patients had a reduction in their CVD risk status. This study suggests that root canal treatment can reduce serum hsCRP levels in systemically healthy individuals with apical periodontitis.

C-reactive protein levels are associated with periodontitis and periodontal inflamed surface area in adults with end-stage renal disease.

Several studies have shown the relationship between periodontal disease and chronic kidney disease, but there is little evidence to assess the impact of the amount of inflamed periodontal tissue on the levels of systemic inflammatory markers. So the aim of this study is determine the association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and both periodontitis and periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) in adults with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Cross-sectional study was conducted with 176 adults with ESRD on regular hemodialysis. The participants were submitted to a full-mouth periodontal examination to determine the occurrence of periodontitis and PISA. Regression analysis was performed to test the independent association between periodontal conditions and serum hsCRP levels. A total of 98.9% of the participants had periodontitis, with stages III and IV found in 26.1% and 52.9%, respectively. Mean hsCRP and PISA was 6.57 (SD: 6.03) mg/L and 217.15 (SD: 271.50), respectively. In the adjusted analysis, mean serum hsCRP levels were significantly higher in patients with stage III and IV generalized periodontitis compared with no/localized/generalized stages I-II (7.67mg/L versus 5.72mg/L, P=0.028). After adjustments for confounding variables, individuals with PISA>490.56mm2 (85th percentile) had a 3.26-fold greater chance of having hsCRP above 5mg/L than their counterparts (OR=3.26; 95% CI: 1.25 to 8.49). The inflammatory burden imposed by periodontitis can increase serum hsCRP levels in adults with end-stage renal disease.

Association of high sensitivity C-reactive protein and metabolic syndrome components in middle-aged subjects without overt cardiovascular disease in LitHiR primary prevention programme

Summary Objectives: Circulating levels of inflammatory markers such as high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) have been reported to be associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), as well as with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Therefore, our objectives were to investigate the associations between hs-CRP levels and individual MetS components as well as to analyse if hs-CRP levels are linked with the number of MetS components present in middle-aged subjects. Design and methods: A cross-sectional study included 4628 middle-aged MetS subjects from the Lithuanian High Cardiovascular Risk primary prevention programme (LitHiR) from 2011 to 2020. MetS was diagnosed according to the National Cholesterol Education Program ATP III modified criteria. CRP was measured by a validated high-sensitivity assay. A hs-CRP cutpoint of 5 mg/l was used to differentiate high and low hs-CRP groups. Results: The mean value of hs-CRP was 3.23 ± 4.04 mg/l, and significantly increased as the number of components of MetS increased (p &lt; 0.001). The concentration of serum hs-CRP was significantly associated with waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose (all p &lt; 0.001). However, no statistically significant associations were found between hs-CRP and serum triglycerides (p = 0.340) or serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.148). Conclusions: Serum hs-CRP increased progressively with increased waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose in middle-aged subjects with MetS. The higher values of hs-CRP were more often present in obese subjects and women. The incremental rise in mean serum hs-CRP level was found with an increasing number of MetS components.

Diet Quality and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is commonly used as a biomarker for inflammation. Mild elevations of CRP have been seen in chronic autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and CRP has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Diet quality and certain dietary factors seem to influence CRP levels in healthy subjects. To date, the effect of diet on serum CRP in SLE has not been studied. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between dietary nutrients, antioxidant intake, and serum CRP in SLE. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 91 patients with SLE. High-sensitivity hsCRP values were determined using an immuno-turbidimetry assay in a Beckman Coulter analyzer (AU5800). Dietary intake of macro- and micronutrients was assessed through a 24-hr diet recall. Antioxidant nutrient intake was evaluated using the dietary antioxidant quality score (DAQs). Linear regression models were used to investigate the relationships between serum hsCRP levels, dietary nutrient intake, and DAQs. The mean serum hsCRP level observed (3.76 ± 6.68 mg/L) was above the established normal range. However, participating SLE patients had low-quality diets, and we found no significant correlations between dietary intake of macro- or micronutrients or antioxidant nutrient intake (DAQs) and serum CRP levels. Our study reveals that participating SLE patients had a low-quality diet that did not influence inflammatory status measured using serum CRP levels. Further interventional studies with high-quality diets in this population are necessary to dissect the role of diet on CRP levels in SLE.

High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein as Atherogenic Marker Among Type 2 Diabetes

Background: People with type 2 diabetes are threefold affected by cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared with non-diabetics. Many studies reported the absence of traditional CVD risk factors in a substantial portion of individuals experiencing clinical vascular events. Novel risk markers for CVD are often said to add independent predictive value for risk prediction. Objective: In the present study we evaluated different CVD risk factors based on highsensitivity C-reactive (hs- CRP) protein quartiles among diabetics and nondiabetics population. Methods: In this population- based cross- sectional study, we recruited a total of onehundred and nine participants (64 type 2 diabetics and 45 healthy controls). Venous blood sample collected from each subject. Body weight and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Biochemical analytes were measured according to standard procedures. Data analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Mean serum hs-CRP levels were significantly higher among diabetics (2.3 mg/l) compared to controls (1.8 mg/l; P = 0.019). Moreover, the 3rd &amp; 4th quartiles of hs-CRP were characterized by more frequency of diabetes as well as hypertension. The percent of participants with diabetes or hypertension seemed positively related to hs CRP concentrations. Lipid profile analysis revealed the highest levels of LDL-C and Apo B in 4th quartile hs-CRP. In addition, participants in the 4th quartile hs-CRP were characterized by the highest age, BMI, plasma glucose. However, there was European Scientific Journal November 2017 edition Vol.13, No.33 ISSN: 1857 – 7881 (Print) e - ISSN 1857- 7431 404 no clear association between levels of hs-CRP and the HbA1c, TC, TG, HDL-C, and Apo A1. Conclusion: Measurement of hs-CRP in diabetic patients might provide useful information for development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease and help in early intervention.

Assessing disease severity by hsCRP as a biochemical marker for psoriasis

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;span lang="EN-IN"&gt;For a complex chronic disease like psoriasis, having a biomarker to objectively assess the clinical severity can be very helpful in disease management.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;span lang="EN-IN"&gt;In a hospital based prospective study, 70 patients of psoriasis diagnosed clinically, were studied. The extent of disease severity was assessed using PASI and BSA and patients were grouped into having mild, moderate and severe disease using these scores. Serum high sensitivity &lt;/span&gt;C-reactive protein &lt;span lang="EN-IN"&gt;(hsCRP) levels were then estimated for each group&lt;/span&gt;.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;span lang="EN-IN"&gt;Of the 70 psoriasis cases enrolled, 46 patients were male and 24 females. Patients with early onset psoriasis were associated with higher values of hsCRP than those with late onset (r=-0.063; p=0.012). A positive correlation was seen between the PASI score and hsCRP levels (r=0.891; p≤0.001). On comparing mean PASI and mean hsCRP in severity groups (mild, moderate and severe), hsCRP was higher in the group with maximum severity (p≤0.001). &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;span lang="EN-IN"&gt;A negative correlation between the age of onset and hsCRP implies that, earlier the age of onset, higher is the value of hsCRP. Our study shows a positive correlation between the body surface area and PASI score both of which varied linearly with hsCRP values. The findings also suggest that patients with severe psoriasis have higher mean serum hsCRP levels than patients with mild psoriasiss.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-IN"&gt;We proposed hsCRP as a useful marker of psoriasis severity that could be used to monitor psoriasis and, together with PASI, as a global index of disease severity.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt; &lt;/p&gt;

Assessment of plasma homocysteine as a marker of acute renal injury in patients undergoing extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for renal stone disease - 1-year cross-sectional study

Context: Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) commonly used procedure for treating upper urinary tract stones may result in acute kidney injury (AKI) with release of biomarkers. Association of plasma total homocysteine (tHCy), serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and serum creatinine with renal dysfunction and their role as acute renal injury markers is to be assessed. Aim: The study aims to assess plasma tHCy as a marker of AKI in patients undergoing ESWL for renal stone disease and compare the same with other markers, i.e., serum creatinine and serum hs-CRP. Setting and Design: One-year cross-sectional study at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Subjects and Methods: Sixty-four patients undergoing ESWL for renal stone disease were investigated for plasma tHCy, serum creatinine, and serum hs-CRP 24 h before and after ESWL procedure. Patients were divided into AKI and non-AKI group. Statistical Analysis: SPSS statistical software, rates, ratios, percentages, and mean ± standard deviation. A P ͳ 0.05 at 95% confidence interval was considered as statistically significant. Results: Following ESWL, AKI developed in 56.25% of the patients. Post-ESWL mean plasma tHCy levels were significantly high in patients with AKI (21.01 ± 7.67 vs. 16.93 ± 7.44 μmol/L; P = 0.036) compared to those who did not develop AKI. The post-ESWL mean serum creatinine levels and mean change were significantly high in patients with AKI. The post-ESWL mean serum hs-CRP levels were comparable in patients with AKI and those who did not develop AKI. However, 72.22% of the patients with AKI had significant rise of serum hs-CRP (≥2-fold of baseline) level following ESWL which was the only insult on kidney in 24 h. Conclusion: Plasma tHcy, Serum hs-CRP, and Serum creatinine can be used as acute renal injury markers following ESWL in patients with renal stone disease.

A New Biomarker in Patients with Vitiligo: A Case-Control Study

Background: CRP is an acute phase protein secreted in the blood stream by the liver in response to inflammatory cytokines such as IL6 and several other systemic inflammation biomarkers. Since inflammatory and immune factors have a key role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo, we aimed to assess the relationship between the serum level of hsCRP (as a biomarker for systemic inflammation) and the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Methods: In this case-control study, we enrolled patients who had referred to the Dermatology Department of Valiasr Dermatology Hospital, Birjand, Iran, during 2013. The patients were diagnosed to have vitiligo by a dermatologist. The patients were divided into two groups: those with type A vitiligo (generalized, n=30) and those with type B vitiligo (segmental, n=30). Moreover, 30 people who had the inclusion criteria and did not have vitiligo were selected among those referring to the clinic as the control group and matched with the other two groups. The serum hsCRP levels were checked for all the patients in the three groups and compared. Data were compared between the three groups and analyzed using SPSS software. Results: We did not find any significant difference between the three groups with respect to sex, age, smoking habit, BMI, and history of diabetes mellitus. The serum level of hsCRP was 4.76±1.31 mg/l in patients with type a vitiligo, 3.71±1.03 in those with type B vitiligo, and 3.01±1.08 in those in the control group. The highest level of serum hsCRP was related to patients with type A vitiligo while the lowest mean was related to the control group. The mean serum hsCRP level was significantly higher in patients with type A compared with those with type B and the control group (P<0.001). However, in patients with type B and the control groups no significant different was seen in this regard (P=0.053). Moreover, we found that the serum level of hsCRP did not differ between the three groups with respect to BMI. Conclusion: We found an association between increased serum hsCRP level and generalized vitiligo. The usage of hsCRP alone is neither sensitive, nor specific in diagnosis of vitiligo but this association could imply that hsCRP could intensify the severity of vitiligo thus serum hsCRP level might be useful for evaluating the disease activity of vitiligo as Novel biomarker.

Serum High Sensitive C - reactive protein in Male Smokers of Bangladesh

Background: Smoking may cause systemic inflammation, and high level of serum high sensitive Creactive protein may be found in smoker as an indicator of inflammation.Objective: To assess the serum high sensitive C - reactive protein level in male smokers of Bangladesh.Methods: The present cross sectional study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka between July 2013 and June 2014. Hundred apparently healthy male regular cigarette smokers aged 20 to 40 years who smokes at least 5 sticks of cigarette per day for the last 5 years were included as study group. They were further divided in to 5-10 years, 11-15 years, 16-20 years and 1-10 cigarette sticks, 11- 20 cigarette sticks, more than 20 cigarette sticks/day depending on the duration of smoking and also according to consumption of number of sticks/day respectively. Age matched 100 apparently healthy male nonsmokers were included for control. To assess their inflammatory status, serum hs-CRP level was estimated by particles enhanced immunonephelometry using BN Systems in the Department of Microbiology &amp; Immunology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka. In addition, BMI and blood pressure were measured by standard method to observe their association with smoking.Results: The mean serum hs-CRP level was significantly higher in male smokers than that of non smokers which was progressively increased with duration of smoking and number of cigarette sticks consumed per day. Again, mean BMI was significantly lower and diastolic blood pressure was significantly higher in male smokers than those of non smokers.Conclusion: The result of this study can be concluded that serum hs-CRP level progressively increases with duration of smoking and number of cigarette sticks consumed per day in male smokers.Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2015, June; 10(1): 36-40

A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial related to the effects of melatonin on oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters of obese women.

Obesity, the global epidemic health problem, results in chronic disorders. Melatonin supplementation may prevent the adverse health consequences of obesity. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of melatonin supplementation on inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters in obese women. In randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 44 obese women were randomly assigned to melatonin (n=22) and placebo (n=22) groups. Subjects were supplemented with a daily dose of 6 mg melatonin or placebo with low calorie diet for 40 days. Serum TNF-α, IL-6, hsCRP, TAC, and MDA levels were assessed before and after intervention. In the melatonin group, mean serum TNF-α, IL-6, hsCRP, and MDA levels decreased significantly (p<0.05) from 3.52±0.72 pg/ml, 27.12±6.32 pg/ml, 2.54±0.49 mg/l, and 3.81±0.29 nmol/l to 1.73±0.07, 16.34±6.32, 1.67±0.27, and 2.79±0.29, respectively. Whilst in the placebo group the decrease in values were not statistically significant. Mean TAC level increased slightly (from 1.11±0.30 to 1.14±0.45 mmol/l) in the melatonin group whereas it decreased slightly (from 1.13±0.15 to 1.08±0.21 nmol/l) in the placebo group. Significant differences were observed only for TNF-α (p=0.02) and IL-6 (p=0.03) between the 2 study groups. Considering the improvements in inflammatory and oxidative stress factors in obese women, it seems that melatonin supplementation may provide beneficial effects in obesity treatment by ameliorating some of its complications. However, further studies are needed to make concise conclusions.