Tg Ratio Research Articles

Association between atherogenic index of plasma and asymptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis in middle-aged and elderly women: A cross-sectional study in Shandong, China

Background and aimsThe atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) is associated with progression of atherosclerosis and used to describe how pro- or anti-atherogenic components are balanced. However, the association of AIP with asymptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis (aICAS) is uncertain. The purpose of this study is to investigate the association between AIP and aICAS in rural China. Methods and resultsA total of 1990 participants aged ≥40 years free of stroke or transient ischemic attack were enrolled in this study. The presence of aICAS was examined by Transcranial Doppler ultrasound and confirmed by magnetic resonance angiography. The adjusted AIP (aAIP) was calculated according to the ratio of TG and HDL-C and further separated into 4 quartiles. Multiple logistic regression was used to investigate the association between aAIP and aICAS, and the dose-response relationship was explored by restricted cubic spline. After adjusting for conventional confounders, aAIP was significantly higher in the aICAS group than that in the non-aICAS group. Furthermore, the common odds ratios for aICAS risk increased with increasing aAIP quartiles. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that aAIP was independently associated with aICAS in female or middle-aged and elderly (age ≥50 years), and superior to other lipid profiles. Multiple-adjusted spline regression showed the dose-response association between aAIP levels and aICAS prevalence. ConclusionsAIP might be independently and positively associated with the prevalence of aICAS in middle-aged and elderly women, which might be superior to traditional and nontraditional lipid profiles in rural China.

Strength and microstructure characteristics of red-bed weathered residual soil stabilized by Titanium Gypsum-Cement

Due to its unfavorable engineering characteristics, the red-bed weathered residual soil (RBRS) frequently necessitates remedial measures to conform to design specifications. Solidification with the aid of binders stands out as a prevalent technique employed to enhance the engineering attributes of RBRS. This study investigates the characteristics of RBRS stabilized with Titanium Gypsum-Cement (TGC) by conducting unconfined compressive strength tests on solidified soil with varying contents and curing times. Additionally, SEM and MIP tests were conducted to analyze the internal structure change, reaction mechanism, and hydration characteristics of the TGC-stabilized soil. The experimental findings revealed that the stress-strain response of specimens with varying proportions and curing times exhibited four distinct phases, namely the compaction stage, linear elastic deformation stage, pre-peak failure stage, and post-peak stage. Increasing cement content led to greater ductility in the stress-strain curve, while a higher ratio of TG to cement in the admixture resulted in a milder trajectory with a gradual decline in unconfined compressive strength. The stabilized soil with TGC ratio 6:4 (10%) and 9:6 (15%) met the compressive strength requirement at curing times of 7, 14, and 28 days. Microscopic investigations revealed the formation of hydration products, including CSH, with the incorporation of TGC. The resulting three-dimensional network effectively enveloped soil particles, enhancing inter-particle bonding and permeating mesopores and macropores, leading to soil structure compaction.

Increased Adipocyte Hypertrophy in Patients with Nascent Metabolic Syndrome.

Background and Aims: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), a global problem, predisposes to an increased risk for type 2 diabetes and premature cardiovascular disease. While MetS is associated with central obesity, there is scanty data on adipocyte hypertrophy, increased fat cell size (FCS), in MetS. The aim of this study was to investigate FCS status in adipose tissue (AT) biopsy of patients with nascent MetS without the confounding of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, smoking, or lipid therapy. Methods and Results: Fasting blood and subcutaneous gluteal AT biopsies were obtained in MetS (n = 20) and controls (n = 19). Cardio-metabolic features, FFA levels, hsCRP, and HOMA-IR were significantly increased in patients with MetS. Waist-circumference (WC) adjusted-FCS was significantly increased in patients with MetS and increased with increasing severity of MetS. Furthermore, there were significant correlations between FCS with glucose, HDL-C, and the ratio of TG: HDL-C. There were significant correlations between FCS and FFA, as well as endotoxin and monocyte TLR4 abundance. Additionally, FCS correlated with readouts of NLRP3 Inflammasome activity. Most importantly, FCS correlated with markers of fibrosis and angiogenesis. Conclusions: In conclusion, in patients with nascent MetS, we demonstrate WC-adjusted increase in FCS from gluteal adipose tissue which correlated with cellular inflammation, fibrosis, and angiogenesis. While these preliminary observations were in gluteal fat, future studies are warranted to confirm these findings in visceral and other fat depots.

Ultrasound radiomics nomogram for predicting large-number cervical lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid carcinoma.

To evaluate the value of preoperative ultrasound (US) radiomics nomogram of primary papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) for predicting large-number cervical lymph node metastasis (CLNM). A retrospective study was conducted to collect the clinical and ultrasonic data of primary PTC. 645 patients were randomly divided into training and testing datasets according to the proportion of 7:3. Minimum redundancy-maximum relevance (mRMR) and least absolution shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were used to select features and establish radiomics signature. Multivariate logistic regression was used to establish a US radiomics nomogram containing radiomics signature and selected clinical characteristics. The efficiency of the nomogram was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve, and the clinical application value was assessed by decision curve analysis (DCA). Testing dataset was used to validate the model. TG level, tumor size, aspect ratio, and radiomics signature were significantly correlated with large-number CLNM (all P< 0.05). The ROC curve and calibration curve of the US radiomics nomogram showed good predictive efficiency. In the training dataset, the AUC, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were 0.935, 0.897, 0.956, and 0.837, respectively, and in the testing dataset, the AUC, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were 0.782, 0.910, 0.533 and 0.943 respectively. DCA showed that the nomogram had some clinical benefits in predicting large-number CLNM. We have developed an easy-to-use and non-invasive US radiomics nomogram for predicting large-number CLNM with PTC, which combines radiomics signature and clinical risk factors. The nomogram has good predictive efficiency and potential clinical application value.

Evaluating the spatial and temporal variability of groundwater uptake by riparian vegetation in a humid southeastern US catchment

AbstractIn environments with shallow water tables, vegetation may use groundwater to support transpiration (TG). This process has been carefully studied in some arid climates but rarely in humid climates—even those with severe droughts and seasonal water deficits. As such, the role of TG in humid‐catchment hydrology is poorly constrained. We analysed water table fluctuations from nine monitoring wells along three transects in a second‐order forested catchment to estimate TG at plot and whole‐riparian zone scales. Average TG estimated around all well locations ranged from 1.06 to 4.95 mm d−1 and did not change systematically as a function of distance from stream channel or with plot‐scale tree basal area. Counter to some previous studies, we found that TG was greater when the water table depth was deeper. Furthermore, the pattern of TG with water table depth was not monotonic at all locations. The ratio of TG to potential evapotranspiration tended to increase over the growing season, reflecting the progressive decrease in soil moisture storage and a greater reliance by vegetation on groundwater. Due to the lack of consistent spatial patterns in TG, we explored the number of monitoring wells needed to consistently estimate average TG within the 95% confidence bounds of the true mean. Based on this analysis, six or more wells were needed to consistently fall within the 95% confidence interval of the true mean. While this is based on the observed variability at a single site, it provides information for others considering this approach in similar upland forested catchments in humid regions.

Subclinical markers of liver damage in patients with arterial hypertension and obesity

To investigate the possibility of preclinical detection of liver damage in patients with hypertension and obesity. The study included 168 patients with hypertension aged 30 to 60 years. All patients underwent general clinical and laboratory-instrumental examination, including ultrasound of the abdominal organs with Doppler assessment of blood flow and determination of markers such as ALT, AST, TG, lipid profile indicators at inclusion, after a month, three months and nine months. Depending on the presence of obesity, all patients with hypertension were divided into two groups. Obese patients had a statistically significant increase in office blood pressure, FSI, the ratio of TG and LDL-C to HDL-C, a more significant higher average levels of glucose, TG and ALT levels, as well as impaired hepatic blood flow according to ultrasound. Indicators of FSI, ALT/AST ratio, ratio of TG and LDL-С to HDL-C as well as assessment of hepatic blood flow indicators can be used for early diagnosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, as they predict liver steatosis.

ERCC2 rs13181 Polymorphism Association with Glioma Risk: an Update Meta-Analysis.

Glioma is the most common type of primary brain tumour which accounts for about 30% of all brain and central nervous system tumours, and approximately 70% of adult malignant brain tumours. Numerous studies have been performed to assess the relationship between ERCC2 rs13181 polymorphism and the risk of glioma development, yet these findings of these studies are often inconsistent and contradictory. Therefore, the aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the role of ERCC2 rs13181 in glioma developing. In this work, we have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. In order to collect the results of relevant studies on the association of ERCC2 rs13181 gene polymorphism with glioma, we initially searched the Scopus, Embase, Web of Science (WoS), PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases, without a lower time limit, and until June 2020. In order to analyse the eligible studies, the random effects model was used and the heterogeneity of the studies was investigated with the I 2 index. Data analysis was performed within the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (version 2). The total number of studies that focused on patients with glioma was 10. The odds ratio of GG vs TT genotype in patients with glioma based on meta-analysis was 1.08 (0.85-1.37: 95% confidence interval), which indicates the increasing effect of GG vs TT genotype by 0.08. The odds ratio of GG + TG vs TT genotype in patients with glioma was 1.22 (1.38-1.7: 95% confidence interval) based on meta-analysis, which indicates the increasing effect of GG + TG vs TT genotype as 0.22. The odds ratio of TG vs TT genotype in patients with glioma was 1.2 (0.38-1.4: 95% confidence interval), which shows the increasing effect of TG vs TT genotype by 0.2. The odds ratio of G vs T genotype in patients with glioma based on the meta-analysis was 1.15 (1.26-1.4: 95% confidence interval), which indicates the increasing effect of G vs T genotype by 0.15. The odds ratio of GG vs TG + TT genotype in patients with glioma based on meta-analysis was 1.22 (1.33-1.45: 95% confidence interval), which indicates the increasing effect of GG vs TG + TT genotype by 0.22. The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis show that ERCC2 rs13181 polymorphism and its genotypes are an important risk factor for genetic susceptibility to glioma tumour.

Identification of Dysbetalipoproteinemia by an Enhanced Sampson-NIH Equation for Very Low-Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol.

Dysbetalipoproteinemia (hyperlipoproteinemia type III, HLP3) is a genetic disorder that results in the accumulation of cholesterol on highly atherogenic remnant particles. Traditionally, the diagnosis of HLP3 depended upon lipoprotein gel electrophoresis or density gradient ultracentrifugation. Because these two methods are not performed by most clinical laboratories, we describe here two new equations for estimating the cholesterol content of VLDL (VLDL-C), which can then be used for the diagnosis of HLP3. Using results from the beta-quantification (BQ) reference method on a large cohort of dyslipidemic patients (N = 24,713), we identified 115 patients with HLP3 based on having a VLDL-C to plasma TG ratio greater than 0.3 and plasma TG between 150 and 1,000 mg/dl. Next, we developed two new methods for identifying HLP3 and compared them to BQ and a previously described dual lipid apoB ratio method. The first method uses results from the standard lipid panel and the Sampson-NIH equation 1 for estimating VLDL-C ( S -VLDL-C), which is then divided by plasma TG to calculate the VLDL-C/TG ratio. The second method is similar, but the Sampson-NIH equation 1 is modified or enhanced ( eS -VLDL-C) by including apoB as an independent variable for predicting VLDL-C. At a cut-point of 0.194, the first method showed a modest ability for identifying HLP3 (sensitivity = 73.9%; specificity = 82.6%; and area under the curve (AUC) = 0.8685) but was comparable to the existing dual lipid apoB ratio method. The second method based on eS -VLDL-C showed much better sensitivity (96.5%) and specificity (94.5%) at a cut-point of 0.209. It also had an excellent AUC score of 0.9912 and was superior to the two other methods in test classification. In summary, we describe two new methods for the diagnosis of HLP3. The first one just utilizes the results of the standard lipid panel and the Sampson-NIH equation 1 for estimating (VLDL-C) ( S -VLDL-C) and can potentially be used as a screening test. The second method ( eS -VLDL-C), in which the Sampson-NIH equation 1 is modified to include apoB, is nearly as accurate as the BQ reference method. Because apoB is widely available at most clinical laboratories, the second method should improve both the accessibility and the accuracy of the HLP3 diagnosis.

Triglyceride to High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio in Acute Myocardial Infarction And Its Relationship with Angiographic Severity

Background: In acute myocardial infarction (AMI) the extent of the coronary artery lesion is evaluated by coronary angiogram (CAG). Recent evidences suggest that, ratio of triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) could be a non-invasive marker for the prediction of the extent of coronary artery lesion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between TG/HDL-C ratio and the extent of coronary artery lesion assessed by coronary CAG among AMI patients. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess relationship between TG to HDL-C ratio and extent of coronary artery lesion in AMI patients. Materials &amp; Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Cardiology, Chittagong Medical College Hospital in 224 admitted AMI patients. Blood samples were taken within 24 hours of admission following AMI for fasting lipid profile assessment, (total cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and TG). Each patient was underwent CAG within 2 to 6 weeks of the events and angiographic findings were classified according to presence of significant stenosis, number of vessel involved and Gensini score. Results: The subjects consisted of 197 males and 27 females with a mean age of 51.24 (±11.22) years. Mean value of TC was 185.74 (±41.96) mg/ dL, TG was 222.17 (±99.05) mg/dL, HDL-C was 38.92 (±5.46) mg/dL, LDL-C was 127.99 (±36.94) mg/dL, TG/HDL-C was 5.91 (±2.99), median Gensini score was 28 (Range:1-146). Analysis of receiver operating characteristic curves showed that only TG/HDLC and TG were useful for detecting high Gensini score (score &gt;42), with the former more area under the curve (AUC: 0.611; 95% CI: 0.531-0.691; p=0.008). The TG/HDL-C was an independent predictive factor (Odds ratio: 2.706; 95% CI: 1.397-5.242; p = 0.003) for the presence of significant coronary artery lesion on CAG. Linear regression analysis revealed that, age and TG/HDL-C ratio significantly predicted Gensini score. Conclusion: TG and HDL-C ratio was independently associated with extent of coronary artery lesion. Bangladesh Heart Journal 2021; 36(2): 82-88

Hypolipidemia associated with inactivation of TM6SF2 is due to decreased VLDL-lipids secretion

Abstract Background A missense variant in Transmembrane 6 Superfamily Member 2 [TM6SF2 (E167K)] is associated with reduced plasma lipid levels and protection from coronary atherosclerosis. The substitution of lysine for glutamate at residue 167 is associated with a marked decrease in TM6SF2 protein expression, consistent with a loss-of-function mutation. However the biological role of TM6SF2 is not known, and the mechanism(s) responsible for the hypolipidemia associated with mutation gene has not been fully defined. To elucidate the pathological mechanism for the hypolipidemia associated with TM6SF2 deficiency, we inactivated Tm6sf2 in mice and rats. Methods Tm6sf2−/− mice were generated as described previously. Two lines of Tm6sf2−/− rats with different frameshift mutations in exon 1 were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Primary hepatocytes were isolated from WT and Tm6sf2−/− mice for microscopy. Rats were fasted 16 or 4 hours and tissues were collected on ice for cell fractionation, and in liquid nitrogen for biochemical analyses. Frozen samples were stored at −80°C for subsequent analyses. Result In both mice and rats, inactivation of Tm6sf2 recapitulated the phenotype of humans with the E167K substitution: steatosis, reduced plasma lipid levels, and transaminitis. The phenotype was readily apparent in animals fed chow diets. Both species had reduced secretion of VLDL-TG, as determined by TRITON WR1399 injection, with no decrease in secretion of ApoB. Experiments in isolated perfused livers from WT and Tm6sf2−/− mice confirmed that the decreased TG secretion observed in intact animals reflected reduced TG secretion from the liver. Lipidomic analysis of the liver perfusates by by LC-MS indicated that secretion of cholesteryl esters, and phospholipids was also decreased in the KO animals. Taken together, these findings are consistent with a role for TM6SF2 in lipidation of ApoB-containing lipoproteins. To further elucidate the function of TM6SF2, we used fluorescence microscopy and cell fractionation to determine the subcellular localization of the protein. Microscopic analysis showed that TM6SF2 co-localized with ER and Golgi markers, but cell fractionation studies indicated that the protein is located primarily in the smooth ER. The ratio of TG to ApoB was lower in Golgi fractions from TM6sf2−/− rats than in corresponding fractions from WT animals. Conclusions Since the sequela of TM6SF2 inactivation are already apparent in the Golgi, we speculate that TM6SF2 promotes lipidation of VLDL in a pre-Golgi compartment. We are currently performing additional studies to further define the specific mechanism whereby TM6SF2 promotes lipidation of ApoB-containing lipoproteins. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): National Institutes of Health

Measurement of thyroglobulin level in lateral neck lymph node fine needle aspiration washout fluid in papillary thyroid cancer.

Thyroglobulin (Tg) level of fine needle aspiration (FNA) washout fluid (FNA-Tg) is useful to detect cervical lymph node (LN) metastasis in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). The objective of this study was to determine appropriate cutoff values of serum Tg (S-Tg) and FNA-Tg levels for diagnosis of lateral neck LN metastasis and investigate their diagnostic performance. A total of 169 patients with PTC who underwent modified radical neck dissection (mRND) were retrospectively reviewed at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital (Seoul, Korea) from December 2011 to September 2019. Diagnostic performance of FNA-Tg, Tg ratio (FNA-Tg level/S-Tg level), and FNA-Tg combined with Tg ratio was evaluated by correlation with FNA cytology results. FNA-Tg level ≥20 ng/mL exhibited 86.6% sensitivity, 66.7% specificity, and 81.7% accuracy. Tg ratio ≥3 exhibited lower sensitivity but higher specificity (82.7% and 73.8%, respectively) than FNA-Tg level ≥20 ng/mL. FNA-Tg level ≥20 ng/mL combined with Tg ratio ≥3 had 81.9% sensitivity, 80.5% accuracy, and an integrated area under the curve (iAUC) of 0.790. Measurement of FNA-Tg level increases preoperative diagnostic accuracy for the detection of metastatic LNs in patients with PTC. Diagnostic accuracy is higher using a 20 ng/mL FNA-Tg cutoff level. Tg ratio is also valuable and FNA-Tg combined with Tg ratio shows promise.

The Ratio of Thyroglobulin in Wash-Out Fluid From Fine-Needle Aspiration to Serum Thyroglobulin Level in the Evaluation of Metastatic Cervical Lymph Nodes in Patients With Papillary Thyroid Cancer

Abstract Fine needle aspiration with cytology analysis and thyroglobulin level of the aspirated biopsy (FNAB-Tg), is an important tool to assess metastasis to cervical lymph nodes (CLN) in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) who have suspicious lymph node features on ultrasound. Despite the great diagnostic accuracy of the FNAB-Tg, studies failed to define the best cutoff value for FNAB-Tg. In our study, we describe a novel way in performing the Tg washout and process it locally at our laboratory (tertiary care center). We used the FNAB-Tg to serum thyroglobulin level (FNAB-Tg/ Tg serum) ratio to help overcome the heterogeneity in both cutoff values and the assays used to detect thyroglobulin level. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 22 PTC or suspected PTC patients, who have suspicious cervical lymph nodes on ultrasound. All patients underwent fine-needle aspiration, with cytology analysis and FNAB-Tg from the suspicious CLNs. FNAB-Tg was obtained in all subjects using the following method: Blood samples are drawn from the patient’s peripheral vein and placed in two yellow top tubes (3 ml of blood in each tube). 1 ml of normal saline (NS) is added to Tube # 1 (Tg Serum tube). The suspected lymph node aspirate is obtained via US-guided FNA. It is washed in 1 ml of NS and added to tube #2 (FNAB-Tg washout tube). Both tubes are sent to our local laboratory for Tg assay. The FNAB-Tg/ Tg serum ratio is calculated. If FNAB-Tg/Serum-Tg ratio&amp;gt;3, this is suggestive of CNL metastasis. We compared our results to the histopathology reports after neck dissection.59% (13/22) patients had cytology results consistent with metastatic PTC. 12 out of these 13 patients had an FNAB-Tg/serum Tg ratio &amp;gt;3 and one had FNAB-Tg/serum TG ratio &amp;lt; 3, though the FNAB-Tg was 4474 ng/ml and serum Tg was 2444 ng/ml. Metastatic PTC to these CLNs was confirmed on pathology report from total thyroidectomy or neck dissection. Six patients of the 22 studied (27%) had negative cytology with FNAB-Tg/serum Tg ratio &amp;gt; 3. 5 of these patients underwent neck dissection in our institute and confirmed to have metastatic PTC to these CLNs. One patient elected to have surgery in his home country and the pathology report is not available at this time. Three patients of the 22 studied (14%) had negative cytology and FNAB-Tg/serum Tg ratio &amp;lt;3. 2 of them underwent thyroid surgery or neck dissection and the final pathology report was concordant with the FNAB-Tg results. The FNAB-Tg/serum Tg ratio is a novel method to overcome the differences in cutoff values and assays used to measure the Tg level both in serum and FNAB. An FNAB–Tg/serum Tg ratio &amp;gt;3 is more accurate than cytology in detecting cervical lymph node metastasis in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). In our study, 27% of CLN metastasis would have been missed if FNAB cytology was used alone. This will help to optimize the surgical approach in patients with PTC before initial surgery or for suspected recurrence.

Triglyceride/High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio: A Clue to Metabolic Syndrome, Insulin Resistance, and Severe Atherosclerosis.

High serum levels of triglycerides (Tg) and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) are characteristic of the Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). We assessed the ratio of Tg to HDL-C as a way to identify MetS and insulin resistance. We also evaluated its association with severity of carotid atherosclerosis. Data were analyzed from three cohorts totaling 13,908 participants. MetS was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Optimal cut-off for Tg/HDL-C ratio was obtained using Youden's index in receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses. The risk of MetS and IR in those with a Tg/HDL-C ratio above the optimum cutoff was evaluated by logistic regression analysis. A Tg/HDL-C ratio above the optimal cutoff level significantly increased the odds ratio for MetS in the three cohorts (OR 6.00, 4.04, and 3.50, least in the healthy population), identified insulin resistance defined by the homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (p< 0.0001), and was strongly associated with atherosclerosis severity (p= 0.0001). Tg/HDL-C ratio identifies persons with MetS, insulin resistance, and severe atherosclerosis. It should be used more widely to identify patients at high risk. This is clinically important because insulin resistance is treatable.

SERUM THYROGLOBULIN AND ANTI THYROGLOBULIN LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH THYROID NODULES

Objectives: To compare the levels and pathological values of serum Tg and TgAb between the patients with benign and malignant thyroid nodules and evaluate the relationship between serum Tg and TgAb levels with the rim characteristic and elasticity score of the nodule by thyroid elasto-echography. Subjects: 30 patients with thyroid nodules, Serum Tg and TgAb levels and thyroid elasto-echography are examen before operation. Results: The ratio of the positive Tg level of malignant thyroid nodules was higher than the benign thyroid nodules (16.7% vs 8.3%) but the serum Tg level was not significantly different (33.48 ± 38.67 ng/ml vs 27.32 ± 28.44 ng/ml, p &gt; 0.05) and The ratio of positive TgAb level of malignant thyroid nodules was higher than that of benign thyroid nodules (22.2% vs 0%) but serum TgAb level was not different (64.15 ± 14.91 UI/ml vs 16.9 ± 14.48 UI/ml, p &gt; 0.05). The combination of the ratio of positive Tg and positive TgAb level did not show any difference in the ratio of pathological value between benign and malignant thyroid nodules (5.6% vs 0%). Serum Tg levels in patients with irregular rim thyroid nodules were higher than those in patients with regular rim thyroid nodules but the serum Tg level was not different when evaluated with the elastic score. Conclusions: The mean level and ratio of the pathological value of serum Tg and TgAb did not differ between malignant and benign thyroid nodules. There is a relationship between serum Tg level and irregular rim characteristic of thyroid nodule (p &lt; 0.05). Key words: serum thyroglobulin level, serum anti thyroglobulin level, thyroid nodule.

Cross-polarization dynamics and conformational study of variously sized cellulose crystallites using solid-state 13C NMR

Cellulose forms crystalline fibrils, via biosynthesis, that can be just a few nanometers wide. The crystallinity is a structural factor related to material performance. Recently, many routes to isolate these fibrils as nanocellulose have been developed, and there exist various types of nanocellulose with different crystallinities. Quantitative assessment of the crystallinity of nanocellulose is thus essential to advance knowledge in the high performance and functionality of such materials. Solid-state 13C cross-polarization/magic-angle spinning (CP/MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a strong tool to investigate the structural features and dynamics of solid cellulose. The crystallinity is often evaluated by using the NMR signal ratio of the C4 crystalline and noncrystalline regions as a crystallinity index (CI) value. To calculate the CI value, it is necessary to examine the dependence of the contact time (CT) for CP on the signal intensity and set the optimum CT at a maximum of the signal intensity. However, the dependence has not been investigated for evaluation of the CI value of various cellulose samples with different crystal sizes. Here, we optimized the CT for evaluation of the CI value of cellulose with different crystal sizes. The error in the CI at the optimized CT was ~ 3%. At the optimized CT, the structural change after surface modification by TEMPO-oxidation was also analyzed from the NMR spectra of the C6 region. The relationship between the CI value and the degree of oxidation shows that it is possible to evaluate the degree of oxidation from the NMR spectra irrespective of the crystallinity of cellulose. Furthermore, the C4-based CI value was linearly correlated with the C6-based trans-gauche (tg) ratio, which is approximated by a function, CI = 0.9 tg ratio.

Abstract 48: Plant-based Diet Index and Cardiometabolic Risk Markers: Exploring the Role of the Gut Microbiome

Objectives: To investigate the association between a plant-based diet index and microbial composition and functionality, as well as the inter-relationships between plant-based diets, gut microbiome, and cardiometabolic risk markers. Design and method: Metagenomic profiling was performed on 916 fecal samples collected among 301 men who participated in the Men’s Lifestyle Validation Study. Using data from a food frequency questionnaire, a Plant-based Diet Index (PDI) was derived to assess the adherence to a plant-based diets. The associations between PDI adherence and the relative abundance of microbial species and pathways were evaluated using Multivariate Association with Linear Models (MaAsLin2). P values below 0.25 after false discovery rate correction following the Benjamini-Hochberg method were considered statistically significant. Results: After multivariate adjustment, the value of the PDI score was significantly and positively associated with the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (Spearman r=0.10, P=0.005). Specifically, the PDI was significantly associated with the relative abundance of 77 taxa (including 39 species) out of 506 filtered taxa and 15 pathways (out of 80 filtered features). In particular, a higher adherence to the PDI was significantly, positively, associated with of the relative abundance of Firmicutes and of pathways involving degradation of complex plant carbohydrates. It was also inversely associated with the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria, as well as pathways involved in the urea cycle and amino acid biosynthesis. We also found that 14 species significantly interacted with PDI in modulating plasma ratio of TG to HDL-C. The association of PDI with lower TG to HDL ratio was significantly strengthened in the presence of the species positively correlated with the PDI score, such as Ruminococcus lactaris , Haemophilus parainfluenzae, and Methanobrevibacter smithii or in the absence of the species inversely correlated with the PDI score, such as Paraprevotella spp. Conclusions: A greater adherence to a plant-based diet was associated with a microbial profile featured by higher abundance of species in Firmicutes and depletion of species in Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria, and such a profile may further strengthen the favorable associations between plant-based diets and human cardiometabolic risk.

Abstract MP68: Dietary Lignan and Cardio-metabolic Risk: Exploring the Role of the Gut Microbiome

Background and Study Purpose: The conversion of plant lignans to enterolignans for absorption is mediated through the gut microbiota. We explored the interconnections between the intake of dietary lignans, circulating concentrations of plasma enterolignans, the gut microbiome, and cardio-metabolic risk factors (LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, &amp; triglycerides). Design and method: The study was a repeated cross-sectional survey of up to 4 stool samples. Dietary lignan intake was assessed by two 7 day weighed records administered to coincide with fecal sample collection. DNA was extracted from 916 samples provided by 301 participants, and RNA was extracted from 369 samples from a subgroup of 96 participants. P&lt;0.25 after false discovery rate correction was considered statistically significant. Results: A high ratio of plasma enterolactone to dietary lignan was significantly associated with the relative abundance of 35 species (24 enriched and 11 depleted species), including 8 Bacteroidetes and 13 Firmicutes species. Greater dietary lignan was only significantly associated with a lower plasma ratio of triglyceride to HDL when plasma enterolactone was high. The association between dietary lignans and ratio of TG to HDL was mainly mediated by plasma enterolactone level (mediation effect: 74.3%, P=0.002), which was partially captured by the weighted species score (mediation effect: 28.6%, P=0.02). We observed several significant interactions between dietary lignans and presence of species on ratio of TG to HDL, suggesting that the protective effect of dietary lignans on CVD risk factor depends on the presence/abundance of certain microbiota. The relative abundance of microbial pathways involved in I-isoleucine biosynthesis and glutaryl-coa degradation pathways were significantly greater in in participants with a higher level of plasma enterolactone. Conclusion: The health benefits of dietary lignans on lipid levels may be modified by the greater enrichment of biologically relevant microbiota species. FIGURE

Hepatoprotective and Renoprotective Properties of Lovastatin-Loaded Ginger and Garlic Oil Nanoemulsomes: Insights into Serum Biological Parameters.

Background and Objectives: Dyslipidemia is gaining much attention among healthcare professionals because of its high association with the malfunctioning of a number of normal physiological and metabolic processes in the body. Obesity is directly interconnected with dyslipidemia and is said to be a denouement of hyperlipidemia and, if left untreated, may lead to intense damage to organs that are directly involved in fat metabolism. The objective of this study was to investigate the synergistic antiobesity and anti-hyperlipidemic activities along with hepato- and renoprotective potential of nanoemulsomes (NES) of lovastatin (LTN)-loaded ginger (GR) and garlic (GL) oils. Materials and Methods: LTN nanoemulsomes co-encapsulated with GR oil and GL oil were prepared by a thin hydration technique. Eight-week-old male Wistar rats weighing 200–250 g were induced with hyperlipidemia via a high-fat diet (HFD) comprising 40% beef tallow. Body weight, serum biochemical lipid parameters, and those for liver and kidney functions, serum TC, LDL-C, vLDL-C, HDL-C, TG, atherogenic index (AI), ALT, AFT, ALP, γ-GT, total protein (TP), serum albumin and globulin ratio (A/G), serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and blood urea, and histopathology of hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained liver and kidney sections of all aforementioned groups were examined in the treated animals. Results: Nanoemulsomes of LTN-loaded GR and GL oils provided synergistic effects with LTN, exerted better ameliorative actions in reducing serum TC, LDL-C, vLDL-C, triglycerides, and AI, and improved serum HDL-C levels. Serum ALT, AST, ALP, and γ-GT levels were in the normal range for nanoemulsome groups. H&E stained liver and kidney sections of these animals confirmed better hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects than LTN alone. Serum biochemical parameters for renal functions also claimed to be in the moderate range for nanoemulsome-treated groups. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that nanoemulsomes of LTN-loaded GR and GL oils synergistically provided better antihyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, and renoprotective effects as compared to LTN alone.

Effect of Carbamazepine on Serum Cholesterol and Atherogenic Ratios in Young Adults with Epilepsy

Background: Epilepsy is a common chronic neurological disorder worldwide. Carbamazepine is one of the most commonly used antiepileptic drugs. It is a hepatic cytochrome P 450 enzyme inducer which is thought to cause alteration of serum lipids. Objective: To evaluate the effect of carbamazepine on serum cholesterol and atherogenic ratios in young adult epileptic patients. Materials and methods: This prospective study was conducted in the epilepsy clinic and Neurology OPD of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, from December, 2017 to March, 2019. A total fifty seven newly diagnosed epileptic patients fulfilling the study criteria were studied. Serum TC, HDL-C, TG was measured by using Beckman Coulter- AU680 analyzer machine and LDL-C was calculated according to the Friedewald formula in the laboratory of Department of Biochemistry, BSMMU. Results: The mean (±SD) serum TC, LDL, TG, TC/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C were significantly increased (p-value &lt; 0.001) at 3 months of carbamazepine therapy in comparison to the baseline levels. The mean (±SD) serum HDL was decreased at 3 months of therapy which was not statistically significant (p-value: 0.135). Conclusion: Carbamazepine caused significant rise in serum TC, LDL-C, TG and atherogenic ratios (TC/HDL-C, LDL-C/HDL-C), and insignificant reduction in the serum HDL-C level after three months of therapy. Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2018; Vol. 34 (1): 32-38

Clinical value of TSH-stimulated thyroglobulin in evaluation of metastasis from differentiated thyroid carcinoma after 131I treatment

Objective To investigate the critical value of TSH-stimulated Tg(sTg) in the diagnosis of metastasis from DTC, and to evaluate the diagnostic value of the ratio of sTg to suppressed Tg (sTg/suppressed Tg). Methods A total of 330 post-operative DTC patients(87 males, 243 females, age range: 12-70 years)who underwent thyroid remnant ablation from August 2008 to December 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Their serum TgAb levels were normal. The patients were divided into non-metastasis group(147 cases)and metastasis group(183 cases) according to results of ultrasonography, CT and WBS. The difference of sTg between the two groups were compared by Mann-Whitney rank sum test. ROC curve was used to analyze the relationship between sTg, sTg/suppressed Tg ratio and metastasis, the cutoff value was calculated. Results The sTg was significantly different between the non-metastasis group and metastasis group: 1.0 (0.1, 2.0) μg/L vs 36.5 (3.9, 126.7) μg/L; u=-6.642, P<0.05. The AUC for ROC curve in metastasis group was 0.85, and the cutoff value was 2.05 μg/L, with the sensitivity 85.2%, specificity 67.3%, and accuracy 82.3%. While sTg<2.05 μg/L, the AUC of sTg/suppressed Tg ratio was 0.941, and the cutoff value was 4.3, with the sensitivity 93.3%, specificity 88.2%, and accuracy 92.3%. Conclusions The sTg has a specific value for the diagnosis of metastasis from DTC after operation and the cutoff value is 2.05 μg/L in this set of patients. The ratio of sTg/suppressed Tg could be used to correct the sTg and to improve the diagnostic sensitivity. Key words: Thyroid neoplasms; Neoplasm metastasis; Radiotherapy; Iodine radioisotopes; Thyroglobulin