Serum Cholesterol Measurements Research Articles

Associations between pesticide exposure with biomarkers of stroke risk factors in farmers.

The extensive use of pesticides may cause acute and chronic intoxication. Therefore, this study aimed to reveal the associations between pesticide exposure and serum markers for stroke risk factors in farmers. A cross-sectional study was conducted with farmers, who used chemical pesticides in Seloprojo Village, Ngablak District, Magelang Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia. A questionnaire containing demographics, pesticide use, and aspects related to work was employed. Measurements of serum cholesterol, uric acid, glucose, cholinesterase, and fibrinogen levels were also conducted. Of the 106 subjects, 31 (29.2%) used organophosphates as chemical pesticides. There was a significant difference between organophosphate and nonorganophosphate groups in plasma fibrinogen levels. The organophosphate group had higher levels of fibrinogen (292.29 ± 67.56 mg/dL) than the non-organophosphate group (255.24 ± 38.90 mg/dL). Of the studied risk factors for stroke, there is a significant association between organophosphate exposure and increased plasma fibrinogen levels.

Exploring preventive care practices among unvaccinated individuals in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic

IntroductionBuilding on a Canadian study associating unvaccinated individuals to increased car accidents, we examined the relationship between COVID-19 vaccination status and US preventive care practices. MethodsWe queried the 2021 National Health Interview Survey. First, we fitted a model to identify respondent-level factors associated with receipt of at least one COVID-19 vaccination. Second, we fitted a survey-weighted logistic regression model adjusted for respondent-level characteristics to examine whether the receipt of at least one COVID-19 vaccination predicted the receipt of preventive care services. Preventive care services assessed included serum cholesterol, glucose, and blood pressure measurements, as well as guideline-concordant cancer screening including breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate cancer screening. ResultsFactors predicting receipt of COVID-19 vaccination were age (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 1.03; 95 % confidence interval (CI) [1.03–1.03]), Hispanic (aOR 1.25; 95 % CI [1.08–1.44]), and non-Hispanic Asian (aOR 3.52; 95 % CI [2.74–4.52]) ethnicity/race, and history of cancer (aOR 1.61; 95 % CI [1.13–2.30]). Unvaccinated respondents were less likely to have received serum cholesterol (aOR 0.69; 95 % CI [0.50–0.70), serum glucose (aOR 0.65; 95 % CI [0.56–0.75]), or blood pressure measurements (aOR 0.47; 95 % CI [0.33–0.66]); and were less likely to have received breast cancer (aOR 0.35; 95 % CI [0.25–0.48]), colorectal cancer (aOR 0.52; 95 % CI [0.46–0.60]) and prostate cancer screening (aOR 0.61; 95 % CI [0.48–0.76]). There was no significant association between unvaccinated respondents receiving cervical cancer screening (aOR 0.96; 95 % CI [0.81–1.13]; p = 0.616). ConclusionNon-receipt of COVID-19 vaccination was associated with non-receipt of preventive care services including cancer screening. Further studies are needed to assess if this association is due to system-level factors or reflects a general distrust of medical preventive care amongst this population.

Comparison of Serum IgE Level between Initial Attack and Relapse Cases of Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children

Background: Nephrotic Syndrome (NS) is a common and recurrent glomerular disease in childhood. Although the exact etiology of NS is not fully known, it is believed that immune system plays a pivotal role in its pathogenesis. Studies have been reported a strong association between NS and increased level of serum immunoglobulin E (IgE). In addition, children with recurrent NS, the IgE level significantly increases, and there is a higher relapse rate.
 Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the difference of Serum IgE level between initial attack and relapse cases of idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in children.
 Methodology: A cross sectional analytical study has been conducted on 35 initial attack and 35 relapse cases of idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome children admitted in the Department of paediatrics, Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital (SSMCMH), Dhaka from May 2021 to April 2022. Study subjects were enrolled by purposive sampling after confirming the diagnosis and fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Informed written consent was taken from each patient's legal guardian before enrollment. A detailed history and thorough physical examination was done in each patient on admission. With all aseptic precaution five ml of venous blood was collected and sent for serum albumin, serum cholesterol and serum IgE level measurement. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. Independent sample t test or Mann-whitney test was used to compare data between groups. P value of less than 0.05 was considered as significant.
 Results: The mean age of the studied samples was 3.86 (ranging from 2 to 6 years). Moreover, among the studied sample male was a little bit greater than female. A significant prevalence of relapse cases were found among the children with middle income family status (P<0.05).Spot urine protein and creatinine ratio and serum cholesterol level was significantly higher in patients experience relapse attack (P<0.05). However, serum albumin level was quite similar in both cases. The mean serum IgE of patients experiencing relapse attack was 985.11+433.65 which was significantly higher than patients experiencing initial attack 470.48+227.35 (P<0.001). 
 Conclusion: This study showed that serum IgE levels are higher in relapse cases of Nephrotic Syndrome than that of initial attack. Furthermore, serum IgE is more in frequent relapse as compared to infrequent relapse. Serum IgE levels have a positive correlation with disease activity and relapse of Nephrotic Syndrome.

Highly sensitive electrochemical detection of cholesterol based on Au–Pt NPs/PAMAM–ZIF-67 nanomaterials

A cholesterol biosensor was constructed by bimetallic (Au and Pt) and poly(amidoamine)-zeolite imidazole framework (PAMAM–ZIF-67). First, PAMAM–ZIF-67 nanomaterial was immobilized onto the electrode, and then Au and Pt were modified on the electrode by the electro-deposition method. Subsequently, cholesterol oxidase (ChOx) and cholesterol esterase (ChEt) were fixed on the electrode. The stepwise modification procedures were recorded by impedance spectroscopy and voltammetry. The current response presented a linear relation to the logarithm of cholesterol content when content ranged between 0.00015 and 10.24 mM, and the minimum detection concentration reached 3 nM. The electrode was also used for the cholesterol assay in serum, which hinted at its potentially valuable in clinical diagnostics.Graphical abstractAn electrochemical biosensor based on gold nanoparticles, platinum nanoparticles, and polyamide–zeolitic imidazolate frameworks was developed for detection of cholesterol. First, polyamide–zeolitic imidazolate frameworks nanomaterial was fixed onto the electrode modified of mercaptopropionic acid by Au–S bond. Then, gold nanoparticles and platinum nanoparticles were electrodeposited on the above electrode. Subsequently, cholesterol oxidase and cholesterol esterase were co-immobilized on the surface of the modified electrode to fabricate the cholesterol biosensor. The biosensor has also been used for the measurement of cholesterol in human serum, which implied potential applications in biotechnology and clinical diagnostics.

Verification of the analytical performance of the serum total cholesterol assay on Abbott Architect ci8200

Serum total cholesterol measurement is an essential aspect of preventive healthcare as high levels of cholesterol are linked to various diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Serum cholesterol measurement is a simple blood test that assesses the levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream. It is an important diagnostic tool that helps healthcare professionals evaluate a patient's risk of developing cardiovascular disease and make decisions regarding treatment and lifestyle changes. Our study aims to verify the analytical performance of the serum total cholesterol assay method using an Abbott kit on the Architect ci8200 automated system in the biochemistry laboratory of the Mohammed VI University Hospital of Oujda. The analytical performance of the kit was verified through flexible scope A by performing a performance study on the Architect ci8200. We evaluated the repeatability, the reproducibility, the imprecision of the measurements and the comparison between two Architect ci8200 automatons. All the results obtained are in conformity with the acceptability criteria recommended by the supplier and the Valtec protocol of the ‘Société Française de Biologie Clinique’ (SFBC), and the study is globally satisfactory. The analytical performance of the Architect ci8200 automated system was satisfactory for a reliable determination of total cholesterol. Verification of methods of dosage in the medical laboratory is crucial to ensure the accuracy, precision, and reliability of laboratory test results. Verification involves confirming that the test method employed is appropriate for the intended use, produces results that are consistent with the claimed performance characteristics, and meets the laboratory's quality control and quality assurance requirements.

Abstract 6486: Single nucleotide polymorphisms that predict serum cholesterol as a prostate cancer prognostic factor - a Mendelian randomization study

Abstract Introduction: Intracellular cholesterol metabolism plays an important role in prostate cancer progression and emergence of treatment resistance. However, it remains unclear whether serum cholesterol and lipoproteins are associated with prostate cancer outcomes. Studies on serum cholesterol and cancer are often confounded by lifestyle factors such as diet and obesity. A possible solution is to use instrumental variables, such as SNPs predicting serum cholesterol. According to the Mendelian randomization theory, germline SNP distribution is unaffected by confounding variables such as diet and lifestyle factors. Objective: To estimate whether SNPs that predict serum cholesterol and lipoproteins also predict mortality among a cohort of men with prostate cancer. Methods: Our study cohort consisted of 3,241 men diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1996-2015, using data collected by the Finnish Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer. Blood samples were genotyped by PRACTICAL consortium. A UCSC genome browser was utilized for selecting 85 SNPs in lipid metabolism-associated genes. Dates and causes of deaths between 1996-2015 were obtained from the Statistics Finland's statistics on causes of death. Information on serum cholesterol and lipoprotein measurements were obtained from a regional laboratory database.Scores predicting serum cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglyceride level by SNP genotype were created using linear regression and lasso regression. Risk of prostate cancer death and overall mortality by level of the SNP risk score were evaluated with multivariable-adjusted Cox regression. Follow-up started at prostate cancer diagnosis and continued until death, emigration or common closing date of Dec 31, 2015.Results: SNP score predicting total cholesterol stratified prostate cancer patients both for disease-specific (HR 1.27, 95% CI 0.49-3.28 for highest tertile vs. lowest) and overall survival (HR 1.43, 95% CI 0.94-2.20, p for trend = 0.077), albeit statistical significance was not reached. Similar survival differences were observed for SNP score predicting triglyceride level, but not for scores predicting LDL or HDL.Conclusions: SNPs predicting serum cholesterol and triglycerides are likely prognostic factors for survival of prostate cancer patients. This suggest serum cholesterol and lipoproteins areimportant in prostate cancer progression. Total cholesterol SNP scoreProstate-cancer specific survival Overall survival Citation Format: Sebastian Boele, Aino Siltari, Paavo Raittinen, Johanna Schleutker, Kimmo Taari, Kirsi Talala, Teuvo Tammela, Anssi Auvinen, Teemu J. Murtola. Single nucleotide polymorphisms that predict serum cholesterol as a prostate cancer prognostic factor - a Mendelian randomization study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 6486.

COMPARISON OF LIPID PARAMETERS IN MATERNAL SERUM AND NEWBORN CORD BLOOD

Background: One of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the modern period is coronary heart disease. The fetal origin concept has shown that the origins of this epidemic can be found as early as fetal life. A few research have compared the lipid profiles of cord blood from pre-term and term newborns, opening the door to early chronic disease prevention. Aim: The aim of the study was to compare lipid parameters in pre-term and term maternal serum and neonatal cord blood. Methods: In 300 newborns cord blood and 300 maternal serum samples, a cross-sectional research was performed. The placental side of the umbilical cord was used to collect cord blood samples, which were then examined for their lipid profiles, which included measurements of serum cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), and apolipoproteins including ApoA and ApoB. Results: When lipid parameters from maternal serum and neonatal cord blood were compared, maternal serum had statistically significant higher values for the apolipoproteins, atherogenic index (AI), and lipid profile. Lipid parameters (TC, TG, LDL, very low density lipoprotein, Apolipoprotein B, and AI) were higher in mothers of pre-term babies and also in cord blood of pre-term neonates. Comparison of lipid parameters of pre-term and term mothers and neonatal cord blood was highly significant. Conclusion: There was a significant association of cord blood and maternal lipid parameters; hence, change in maternal lipid levels might influences the lipid levels in the cord blood of neonates.

Abstract 3354: A gene expression signature of high serum cholesterol and prostate cancer outcomes

Abstract Statin use is associated with reduced risk of lethal prostate cancer potentially through effects on serum cholesterol. Using data from a prospective study with measured serum cholesterol among men subsequently diagnosed with prostate cancer, we developed a tumour gene expression score to reflect the pre-diagnosis serum cholesterol environment these tumours developed in, and applied this score to a separate study to examine the relationship with prostate cancer-specific outcomes. We identified 127 men with prostate cancer in the prospective Health Professionals Follow-up Study, whose prostate tumors underwent whole genome gene expression profiling. Pre-diagnosis serum cholesterol was measured a median of 3.3 years (IQR 1.5-4.8 years) prior to cancer diagnosis. We excluded men using statins either at time of blood draw for serum cholesterol measurement or at cancer diagnosis. Using tumor biopsy whole genome transcriptomic data from 232 prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy in Northern Ireland (NI), we generated the serum cholesterol score by summing z-score-transformed expression for each gene. PTEN status was measured using a published 50-gene transcriptional signature. Both signatures were dichotomized using the median cut-point. Age-adjusted and multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to compute HRs and 95% CI for associations of the cholesterol gene score with biochemical recurrence and metastasis risk. We identified in HPFS a set of 30 genes associated with pre-diagnostic serum cholesterol with a fold change ≥4 which included PTEN. In the NI Cohort, tumors with above median cholesterol scores had higher expression of the PTEN-null signature (p<0.001). Increased serum cholesterol tumor score was associated with higher Gleason grade (p<0.001); this relationship was stronger in PTEN-null tumours relative to PTEN-intact. Over a median follow-up of 11 years, 68 men experienced biochemical recurrence, and 28 developed metastasis. In age-adjusted analysis, patients with high serum cholesterol score had increased risk of recurrence (HR 1.84; 95% CI 1.13-2.99) and metastasis (HR 1.98; 95% CI 0.91-4.29), though the latter was not statistically significant. Associations with recurrence and metastasis were attenuated following further adjustment for Gleason score (HR 1.65; 95% CI, 0.98-2.77 and HR 1.49; 95% CI 0.66-3.35, respectively). Men with increased tumor gene expression of a serum cholesterol score, derived to reflect tumor development within a high serum cholesterol environment, were more likely to be diagnosed with a PTEN-null prostate cancer. These men had more aggressive prostate cancer at diagnosis and increased risk of recurrence, particularly men with PTEN-null disease. Our results support recent findings showing a reduced risk of PTEN-null prostate cancer in statin users, and inform our understanding of the potential role of serum cholesterol in prostate cancer etiology. Citation Format: Sarah Jane Winter, Sophia R. Halliday, Travis A. Gerke, Lorelei Ann Mucci, Konrad H. Stopsack, Gillian Prue, Suneil Jain, Emma H. Allott. A gene expression signature of high serum cholesterol and prostate cancer outcomes [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 3354.

Association of Body Composition With Serum Cholesterol and Body Mass Index in Healthy Pakistani Adults

Objective: To determine the association of serum cholesterol and body mass index with body composition in the healthy Pakistani adults.
 Study Design: Cross sectional study.
 Place and Duration of Study: Physiology Department, Army Medical College Rawalpindi/National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), in collaboration with Armed Forces Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (AFIRM) Rawalpindi and Clinical Pathology Laboratory (CPL), Pak-Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi. (Duration to be asked form the authors).
 Methodology: The total study sample of 100 participants was taken, that comprised of two groups. Group-1 included male participants (n=50) while group-2 included female participants (n=50). The participants were healthy adults of ages 18-60 years having same physical activity background. Body composition of the participants was evaluated by bioelectric impedance analysis machine. Measurement of serum cholesterol was carried out by the Bosh Diagnostic Kit. Body Mass Index (BMI) was determined by the formula.
 Results: Serum cholesterol was found to be significantly correlated with body fat mass and percent body fat in males (r-value = 0.90 and 0.82, p-value <0.001 and 0.002 respectively) and in females there was significantly positive correlation with the body fat mass (r-value=0.51, p-value 0.007), skeletal muscle mass (r-value = 0.59, p-value 0.005), total body water (r-value=0.67, pvalue 0.006) and fat free mass (r-value=0.47, p-value 0.008).
 Conclusion: Serum cholesterol and BMI were associated with the body composition in females but with only fat parameters in the males. .

Total serum cholesterol level in patients with major depressive disorder: Simple yet undermined

Human brain cholesterol acts as structural components of cellular membrane, synapse and dendrite formation.Researchers have found a possible association between low serum cholesterol levels and mood disorders though the literature from India in this regard is limited. To estimate serum levels of total cholesterol in patients with major depressive disorder. 75 patients of MDD were compared with equal number of age and sex matched controls. 5 ml of fasting sample of blood was obtained in a plain vacutainer to analyse total cholesterol level by Cholesterol oxidase-peroxidase method. Statistical analysis: The obtained results were tabulated and analyzed by multiple logistic regression analysis, independent t-test, Chi-square test and area under the curve. The mean level of cholesterol in cases (158.85±61.22 mg/dL) which was significantly lower compared to the controls (182.71±40.98 mg/dL) with P <0.01. The symptoms of MDD negatively correlated with lower serum cholesterol level with odds ratio of 0.99. There was statistically significant lower level of cholesterol in the MDD group below 140 mg/dL compared to the control group with P <0.001. As the measurement of total serum cholesterol is simple and cost effective, it can be used as an important biochemical marker for MDD.

Bariatric Surgery Leads to a Reduction in Antibodies to Apolipoprotein A-1: a Prospective Cohort Study

PurposeAutoantibodies against apolipoprotein A-1 have been associated with cardiovascular disease, poorer CV outcomes and all-cause mortality in obese individuals. The impact of bariatric surgery (BS) on the presence of circulating anti-apoA-1 IgG antibodies is unknown. This study aimed to determine the effect of bariatric surgery on auto-antibodies titres against Apolipoprotein A-1 (anti-apoA-1 IgG), looking for changes associated with lipid parameters, insulin resistance, inflammatory profile and percentage of excess body mass index loss (%EBMIL).Materials and MethodsWe assessed 55 patients (40 women) before, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. Baseline and post-operative clinical history and measurements of body mass index (BMI), serum cholesterol, triglycerides, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C and LDL-C), apoA-1, highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), fasting glucose (FG), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and HOMA-IR were taken at each point. Human anti-apoA-1 IgG were measured by ELISA.ResultsThe mean age of participants was 50 years. BS significantly improved BMI, %EBMIL triglycerides, HDL-C, apoA-1, hsCRP, HBA1c, FG and HOMA-IR. Baseline anti-apoA-1 IgG seropositivity was 25% and was associated with lower apoA-1 and higher hsCRP levels. One year after BS, anti-apoA-1 IgG seropositivity decreased to 15% (p = 0.007) and median anti-apoA-1 IgG values decreased from 0.70 (0.56–0.84) to 0.47 (0.37–0.61) AU (p < 0.001). Post-operative anti-apoA-1 IgG levels were significantly associated with a decreased post-surgical %EBMIL at 1 year.ConclusionBariatric surgery results in significant reduction in anti-apoA-1 IgG levels, which may adversely influence weight loss. The exact mechanisms underpinning these results are elusive and require further study before defining any clinical recommendations.Graphical abstract

Antihyperlipidemic activity of Petroselinum crispum seeds in high fat diet induced atherosclerosis in experimental animals

Atherosclerosis is one of the major contributing factors for the mortality due to cardiovascular diseases. Although a number of therapeutic agents are available still the management of atherosclerosis is not completely possible due to associated side effects with these therapeutic agents. Due to this herbal drug are considered as alternative for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Among this herbal drugsofPetroselinumcrispum seeds are considered as potential agent for the treatment of atherosclerosis. In the present study, hydroalcoholic extract and petroleum ether extract ofPetroselinumcrispum seeds was prepared and anti-atherosclerotic activity was evaluated in High fat diet induced atherosclerosis in rats. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of hydroalcoholic extract was carried and in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity was evaluated. Antiatherosclerotic activity was evaluated by measuring serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum LDL, VLDL and HDL level in animals. Animals were kept on high fat diet for 45 days and different doses of hydroalcoholic and petroleum ether extract were administered. Administration of different doses significantly attenuated the elevated level of serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum LDL, VLDL and elevated HDL level. Oxidative stress was also found to be significantly attenuated in in vitro and in vivo models. From the study it can be concluded that hydroalcoholic and petroleum ether extract of Petroselinumcrispum seeds significantly attenuated elevated oxidative stress and lipid profile.

Vitamin D Deficiency is Associated with Anemia, Cardiovascular Risk, and Lifestyle

Traditionally, Vitamin D has been associated primarily with bone health, while further investigations revealed that a sufficient amount is important for many organ functions. Data of 314 individuals were obtained from Erbil governorate public and private hospitals from patients admitted to there for testing their level of Vitamin D and other tests according to their doctor’s prescription. The variable related to their lifestyle, metabolic syndrome, and hematology evaluations were obtained. The body mass index , number of sleeping hours, number of hours spent with electronic devices, serum lipid level anemia-related tests were measured. The results showed that serum 25(OH) Vitamin D levels in studied individuals were related to hyperlipidemia serum cholesterol measures. The level of Vitamin B12 and Iron status were lower in the Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) individuals. Mean platelet volume was higher in vitamin-deficient patients which induces the risk of cardiovascular (CV) diseases. This finding suggests the relation between VDD and metabolic syndrome, CV, and anemia-related measurement.

Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Young Adolescents: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1988–2016

Lifestyle behaviors relevant to cardiovascular health are learned during childhood and continued into adulthood. Children and adolescents who participate in unhealthy behaviors have a higher lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Public health institutions publish behavior and clinical recommendations designed for adolescents to reduce their lifetime cardiovascular risk. We assessed the prevalence and trends of cardiovascular-relevant behaviors and clinical tests among early adolescents using a nationally representative database. In 2020, we compared the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among 1408 adolescents surveyed from 1988 to 1994 with that of 1812 adolescents surveyed from 2011 to 2016 by obtaining and comparing measures on physical activity, diet, body mass index, smoking status, cholesterol levels, hemoglobin A1c, sodium intake, and blood pressure. The prevalence of adherence to the current recommendations regarding physical activity, diet, and body weight declined over time. Conversely, the prevalence of adhering to recommendations to avoid smoking increased. Clinical indicators, including blood pressure control and normal measures of hemoglobin A1c and total serum cholesterol, showed mixed results, with more individuals showing signs of hyperglycemia, fewer showing signs of hypercholesterolemia, and the percentage of individuals with abnormal blood pressure remaining the same. The use of cardiometabolic medications also increased during the study period. Finally, the number of adolescents with all seven cardiovascular protective factors declined significantly during the study period, from 27.6% to 9.6%. Modern American teenagers aged 12 to 16 years have more cardiovascular risk factors relating mostly to diet, exercise, and obesity than those of a prior generation; however, smoking rates have also declined precipitously.

Endothelin-1 RS5370 gene polymorphism in primary nephrotic syndrome: A case-control study

IntroductionPrimary nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common glomerular disease in children. We assessed the genotypes and frequency of the rs5370 allelic variant of the EDN1 gene in children with primary NS. Patients and methodsWe conducted a case-control study in Mansoura University Children's Hospital, Egypt between December 2015 and January 2018. We recruited 50 patients with steroid-sensitive NS (SSNS) and 50 patients with steroid-resistant NS (SRNS) in addition to 100 healthy controls. The patients underwent clinical evaluations and tests including measurement of serum albumin, cholesterol, creatinine and urea levels and a 24-h urinary protein test. We used polymerase chain reaction methods to assess the genotypes of rs5370 variants of the EDN1 gene (GG, GT and TT) and alleles (T and G) in the groups under study. ResultsThe most frequent genotype of the EDN1 gene at the locus of interest in the control group was the GT genotype (88%; P=.001) while the GG genotype was more frequent in the NS group compared to the control group (P=.02). We did not find statistically significant differences between the NS and control groups in regard to the EDN1 rs5370 alleles (P=.69). The GG genotype was more frequent in the SSNS group compared to the SRNS and control groups (P=.03). When we compared allele frequencies between the control, SSNS and SRNS groups, we did not find significant differences (P=.89). The GT genotype was associated with normal blood pressure in children with NS (P=.007), while the GG genotype was associated with hypertension (P<.001). We did not find statistically significant differences in renal histopathology or serum cholesterol levels based on the genotype. ConclusionsThe GG genotype at the rs5370 locus of the EDN1 gene may be associated with an increased risk of primary NS and a better response to steroid therapy.

Polimorfismo rs5370 del gen de la endotelina-1 en el síndrome nefrótico primario: estudio de casos y controles

IntroductionPrimary nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common glomerular disease in children. We assessed the genotypes and frequency of the rs5370 allelic variant of the EDN1 gene in children with primary NS. Patients and methodsWe conducted a case-control study in Mansoura University Children's Hospital, Egypt, between December 2015 and January 2018. We recruited 50 patients with steroid-sensitive NS (SSNS) and 50 patients with steroid-resistant NS (SRNS) in addition to 100 healthy controls. The patients underwent clinical evaluations and tests including measurement of serum albumin, cholesterol, creatinine and urea levels and a 24-hour urinary protein test. We used polymerase chain reaction methods to assess the genotypes of rs5370 variants of the EDN1 gene (GG, GT and TT) and alleles (T and G) in the groups under study. ResultsThe most frequent genotype of the EDN1 gene at the locus of interest in the control group was the GT genotype (88%; P=.001) while the GG genotype was more frequent in the NS group compared to the control group (P=.02). We did not find statistically significant differences between the NS and control groups in regard to the EDN1 rs5370 alleles (P=.69). The GG genotype was more frequent in the SSNS group compared to the SRNS and control groups (P=.03). When we compared allele frequencies between the control, SSNS and SRNS groups, we did not find significant differences (P=.89). The GT genotype was associated with normal blood pressure in children with NS (P=.007), while the GG genotype was associated with hypertension (P<.001). We did not find statistically significant differences in renal histopathology or serum cholesterol levels based on the genotype. ConclusionsThe GG genotype at the rs5370 locus of the EDN1 gene may be associated with an increased risk of primary NS and a better response to steroid therapy.

Serum cholesterol levels and APOEε4 status potentiate metabolic decline in non‐demented individuals

AbstractBackgroundEpidemiological investigations have shown that midlife elevated total serum cholesterol levels increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, observational studies in late‐life subjects suggested that high cholesterol levels reduce the risk of dementia. Since hypometabolism is a pivotal marker of AD progression, understanding the impact of peripheral cholesterol levels over the brain’s metabolic state in older adults has become crucial to clarify these seemingly conflicting findings. Therefore, whether high serum cholesterol levels accelerate brain metabolic decline in older subjects remains a key question to be answered. Here, we investigated whether total serum cholesterol levels are associated with cerebral metabolic decline. We hypothesized that elevated total serum cholesterol levels accelerate metabolic decline in AD‐related brain regions.MethodWe evaluated 499 cognitively unimpaired and mild cognitive impaired elderly subjects (age&gt;55 years) from Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) with available total serum cholesterol measurements at baseline and longitudinal [18F]FDG‐PET scans. Voxel‐wise general linear modelling was used to assess the baseline association between total serum cholesterol levels and cerebral metabolic rate for glucose (CMRglc), as well as cholesterol’s impact over the 2‐year’s rate of metabolic decline. Age, gender, BMI, cholesterol treatment and diagnostic group were set as covariates for adjustment. APOEε4 genotype was used as both, a covariate or an interaction factor.ResultNo significant associations were observed at baseline. We found a negative correlation between cholesterol levels and the 2‐year CMRglc variation rates in brain regions affected in early stages of AD, which was driven by the interaction with APOEε4 status (Figure 1). Regions affected include the right precuneus (peak t(491) = ‐3.93, p&lt;0.0001) and the right posterior cingulate gyrus (peak t(491) = ‐4.12, p&lt;0.0001). Associations were greater in the right hemisphere.ConclusionOur results support the concept that the interaction of higher serum cholesterol levels with APOEε4 genotype accelerate metabolic decline in AD‐related brain regions. These findings complement cross‐sectional studies postulating that, even among older adults, serum cholesterol levels, in association with the APOEε4 status, might be related to brain functional changes similar to those observed in the development of AD.

Sex differences in the association between self-reported sleep duration, insomnia symptoms and cardiometabolic risk factors: cross-sectional findings from Brazilian longitudinal study of adult health

BackgroundThe U-shaped associations between sleep durations and cardiometabolic risk factors (glycated hemoglobin levels, obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension and cholesterol levels) are still inconclusive. Moreover, as sleep is comprised of quantitative and qualitative aspects, exploring both insomnia symptoms and sleep duration are relevant when evaluating the potential effects of sleep problems on health. The aim was to evaluate sex-specific associations between sleep problems and cardiometabolic risk factors.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used data from wave two of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil), including 7491 women and 6232 men. Questionnaires were administered to provide information about socioeconomic conditions, lifestyle, and sleep characteristics. A 12-h fasting blood sample was drawn to measure serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and glycated hemoglobin. Blood pressure, weight and height were also measured using standard equipment. Generalized additive models were used to evaluate the curve shape of the relationship between self-reported sleep duration and the outcomes. Logistic regression was performed to investigate the magnitude of the associations of self-reported sleep duration, insomnia symptoms, and short sleep plus insomnia symptoms with cardiometabolic risk factors.ResultsFor women, self-reported sleep duration and insomnia symptoms (either separately or linked to short sleep duration) were associated with obesity, hypertension and glycated hemoglobin after adjusting for the confounders. The magnitudes of the associations between self-reported short sleep duration plus insomnia symptoms and the outcomes were slightly increased, considering sleep duration or insomnia symptoms separately. For men, both long sleep duration and insomnia symptoms were associated with hypertriglyceridemia after adjusted for the confounders.ConclusionThese findings suggest possible sex-specific patterns, since obesity, hypertension and high glycated hemoglobin were associated with self-reported sleep duration and insomnia symptoms in women, but not in men, and reinforce the importance of considering quantitative and qualitative aspects of sleep for the prevention and management of the outcomes.

ANTIHYPERLIPIDEMIC ACTIVITY OF PETROSELINUM CRISPUM SEEDS IN HIGH FAT DIET INDUCED ATHEROSCLEROSIS IN EXPERIMENTAL ANIMALS

Atherosclerosis is one of the major contributing factors for the mortality due to cardiovascular diseases. Although a number of therapeutic agents are available still the management of atherosclerosis is not completely possible due to associated side effects with these therapeutic agents. Due to this herbal drug are considered as alternative for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Among this herbal drugsofPetroselinumcrispum seeds are considered as potential agent for the treatment of atherosclerosis. In the present study, hydroalcoholic extract and petroleum ether extract ofPetroselinumcrispum seeds was prepared and anti-atherosclerotic activity was evaluated in High fat diet induced atherosclerosis in rats. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of hydroalcoholic extract was carried and in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity was evaluated. Antiatherosclerotic activity was evaluated by measuring serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum LDL, VLDL and HDL level in animals. Animals were kept on high fat diet for 45 days and different doses of hydroalcoholic and petroleum ether extract were administered. Administration of different doses significantly attenuated the elevated level of serum cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum LDL, VLDL and elevated HDL level. Oxidative stress was also found to be significantly attenuated in in vitro and in vivo models. From the study it can be concluded that hydroalcoholic and petroleum ether extract of Petroselinumcrispum seeds significantly attenuated elevated oxidative stress and lipid profile.

Niemann-Pick type C: contemporary diagnosis and treatment of a classical disorder

Niemann-Pick type C is an uncommon neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorder that can cause a progressive neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with supranuclear vertical gaze palsy and a movement disorder. There have been...