Serum Total Cholesterol Levels Research Articles

The Substitution of Fish Meal or Chicken Meal With Yeast Culture in Diets of Bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus): Growth Performance, Serum Biochemical Indices, Intestinal Digestive Enzyme, Hepatic Antioxidant, and Hepatic and Intestinal Histology

The aim of this study was to reveal the effects of yeast culture replacing fish meal (FM) or chicken meal (CM) on the growth performance, serum biochemical indexes, intestinal digestive enzyme activities, hepatic antioxidant, and hepatic and intestinal histology of bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus). The basal diet contained 100 g/kg FM and 100 g/kg CM, and then yeast culture was used to decrease FM or CM level to 75 and 50 g/kg with yeast culture inclusion of 32 and 64 g/kg, respectively, resulting in five groups of isonitrogenous diets (control, FM75, FM50, CM75, and CM50). A total of 450 bullfrogs (45.5 ± 0.4 g initial weight) were fed the five diets for 50 days. (1) The FM50 group presented significantly lower weight gain, condition factor, hind leg index, and higher feed conversion ratio than the control group, while the other three groups of FM75, CM75, and CM50 showed no significant difference in growth performance when compared to the control group. (2) The serum triglyceride content of FM50 group was significantly lower, while the alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly higher than those of the control group. The serum total cholesterol levels were significantly lower in the CM50 group compared to the control group. (3) In intestinal digestive enzyme activities, the trypsin and α‐amylase activities in the CM75 and CM50 groups, the trypsin activity in the FM75 group, and lipase activity in the CM50 group were all significantly higher than those in the other groups. (4) The replacement of 50% FM with yeast culture (FM50 and CM50 groups) promoted the total antioxidant capacity in the liver, but compared to the control group, the intestinal villi height and muscularis propria thickness in the FM50 group were significantly lower. There was no difference (P > 0.05) in liver histology among all the groups. In conclusion, in a basal diet containing 100 g/kg FM and 100 g/kg CM, 32.0 and 64.0 g/kg yeast cultures could successfully replace 25% of dietary FM and 50% of dietary CM without negative effects on the growth performance, serum biochemical indexes, and hepatic and intestinal health of bullfrogs.

Uloga lipida u serumu u patogenezi arterijske hipertenzije

Hypertension is a key contributor to the high global burden of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, due to its increasing prevalence worldwide. In clinical practice, dyslipidemia and hypertension often coexist, possibly because they share similar underlying causes, such as endothelial dysfunction and obesity. Consequently, this review article presents the collective findings on the role of lipid profile parameters in arterial hypertension. Individuals with hypertension often have significantly higher mean serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), while exhibiting lower mean serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) compared to those without hypertension. TC and HDL-C play an important role in the pathogenesis of arterial hypertension. However, there is a lack of studies explaining the link between TG and LDL-C and arterial hypertension. Future studies are necessary to fully elucidate the exact mechanisms by which the mentioned lipid parameters contribute to arterial hypertension.

In silico molecular design phytoconstituents of Syzygium cumini (Indian Plum) as an antidiabetic scaffold

Insufficient insulin production results in hyperglycemia, a metabolic disorder known as diabetes mellitus (DM). The medical establishment still struggles to treat DM effectively and without side effects. As a result, there is an increase in demand for natural remedies with antidiabetic properties and few negative effects. The plant Syzygium cumini, which is used in traditional herbal medicine, is thought to have a variety of pharmacological properties. It also contains various additional chemical components in addition to terpenoids, tannins, anthocyanins, flavonoids, and other phenolic compounds. It has been hypothesized that S. cumini has antidiabetic characteristics because of the plant\'s high polyphenol and flavonoid content. The main aim of the current study was In silico test of the antidiabetic effects of various polyphenol-rich compounds such as anthocyanin (1), delphinidin (2), malvidin (3), petunidin (4), ellagic acid (5), gallic acid (6), myricetin (7), kaempherol (8), quercetin (9), betulinic acid (10), caffeic acid (11) and ferulic acid (12) from S. cumini against many targets related with DM to investigate the antidiabetic effect and prediction of the binding mode using molecular docking studies. These phytochemicals were chosen using computational techniques, and their ability to inhibit α-amylase was tested. These phytoconstituents have shown a lower α-amylase inhibitory activity capacity than voglibose. These phytochemicals additionally showed high binding energies, hydrogen bonds, and protein-ligand interactions. Additionally, these phytoconstituents\' ADMET characteristics met the safety requirements. As a result, S. cumini might be effective in the treatment of DM. The possible bioactive compounds discovered in this study could be used to develop diabetes-led medications. Serum levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol were also markedly decreased. The findings suggest that S. cumini may have pharmacological promise as a natural antidiabetic drug. The design and development of powerful, multi-functional candidate medications with few side effects for DM treatments can make use of this information.

ОЦЕНКА ЛИПИДНОГО ПРОФИЛЯ У ПАЦИЕНТОВ С АЛКОГОЛЬНОЙ БОЛЕЗНЬЮ ПЕЧЕНИ ПОСЛЕ СТАНДАРТНОГО ЛЕЧЕНИЯ

The success of standard therapy for alcoholic liver disease in terms of forecasting the risks of an adverse outcome is now assessed using the degree of decrease in the activity of laboratory markers of cytolysis and cholestasis. The study aims to examine a lipid profile through comparing of laboratory parameters in 28 patients aged forty to sixty with alcoholic liver disease before and after standard treatment in terms of mortality risks. When compared to the mortal risks before and after standard treatment in the group of patients with an achieved total cholesterol level of more than 5 mmol/L, the mortality risk was significantly reduced in patients with an achieved total cholesterol level of less than 5 mmol/L. It has been demonstrated that, in the presence of significant fluctuations in cholestasis indicators, a total cholesterol level in the blood serum of less than 5 mmol/L can be used as a criterion for reducing the mortality risk in patients after standard therapy for alcoholic liver disease.

The efficacy of Makiang tea drinking on serum lipid profile in the treatment of dyslipidaemia: A randomized controlled trial

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Makiang (MK) tea consumption on the serum lipid profile and oxidative stress biomarkers in participants with dyslipidemia. A randomized, single-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study was conducted at the Outpatient Department of Phayao Hospital, Thailand. This clinical trial enrolled 64 subjects (males and females), aged between 30 and 65 years with hyperlipidemia who were randomized using simple random sampling, receiving a 12-week MK tea (3 g/250 ml hot water) taken daily or a placebo. Body mass index, lipid profile, and serum oxidative stress markers were evaluated at the baseline and the end of the study. Within-group comparisons revealed that drinking only one cup of MK tea daily caused a significant reduction (p < 0.05 all) of total cholesterol (TC), total triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Meanwhile, between-group differences showed that serum TC, TG, and LDL-C levels significantly decreased (p < 0.05 all), whereas the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were unchanged. This phenomenon was accompanied by decreased serum malondialdehyde and increased endogenous enzymatic defence systems (p < 0.05 all). Thus, MK tea may be useful as an adjunct agent to improve the lipid profile in patients with dyslipidemia.

Positive effects of rutin on egg quality, lipid peroxidation and metabolism in post-peak laying hens.

Excessive fat deposition due to impaired fat metabolism in chickens is a major problem in the poultry industry. Nutritional interventions are effective solutions, but current options are limited. A safe phytochemical, rutin, has shown positive effects in animals, but its effect on lipid metabolism in poultry remains unknown. Hence, this study is to investigate the effects of rutin on egg quality, serum biochemistry, fat deposition, lipid peroxidation and hepatic lipid metabolism in post-peak laying hens. A total of 360 Taihang laying hens (49-week-old) were randomly divided into five groups and fed a basal diet (control group, 0%) and a basal diet supplemented with 300 (0.03%), 600 (0.06%), 900 (0.09%), and 1,200 (0.12%) mg rutin/kg feed, respectively. The results showed that eggshell strength was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the dietary rutin groups, whereas yolk percentage (p < 0.05), total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.01) and yolk fat ratio (p < 0.01) decreased linearly (p < 0.05) in the dietary rutin groups. Importantly, dietary rutin reduced serum triglyceride (TG) and TC levels, decreased abdominal lipid deposition and liver index (p < 0.05), and which concomitantly decreased hepatic lipid (TG, TC, and free fatty acid) accumulation (p < 0.05). An increase (p < 0.05) in total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase activity and a decrease (p < 0.05) in malondialdehyde levels were also found. At the same time, the activities of hepatic lipase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase and malic enzyme in the liver were decreased (p < 0.05). Dietary rutin also increased (p < 0.05) the expression of fatty acid oxidation-related genes (carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α, farnesoid X receptor). Additionally, it decreased fatty acid synthesis genes (sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c, acetyl-CoA carboxylase α, stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the addition of rutin (0.06-0.12%) to the diet improved the fat metabolism and increased liver antioxidant capacity in post-peak laying hens, and these positive changes improved egg quality to some extent.

Frequency of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease among the Non-Obese Population Presenting to the Gastrointestinal Outpatient Clinic

Background: It has been reported that Asian males with BMI ≤ 23 kg/m2 have considerably higher content of fat and visceral adipose tissue as compared to their Western counterparts. Multiple studies have reported variable frequency of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in lean population. However, the data is scarce regarding the prevalence of NAFLD in the lean Asian population. Objective: To determine the frequency of NAFLD among the non-obese population presenting to our clinic Methods: This cross-sectional study included all the lean individuals with BMI&lt; 23 kg/m2 presenting to the gastroenterology outpatient clinic from 1st November 2020 to 31st March 2022. Ultrasound abdomen was performed for the presence or absence of fatty liver which was diagnosed based on hyperechoic liver texture. The analysis of continuous variables was performed using the student t-test while the Chi-square test was applied for the analysis of categorical variables. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered as significant. Results: Among the 283 individuals presenting to the gastrointestinal clinic with BMI &lt; 23 kg/m2, the majority were females [150 (53%)]. Out of 283 patients, 118(41.7%) had hypertension, 114(40.3%) had hypertriglyceridemia while 86(29.7%) patients had diabetes. On ultrasound abdomen, fatty liver was observed in 92 (32.5%) patients including 59 (64.1%) females and 33 (35.9%) males. The statistical analysis documented a significant association of NAFLD with female gender (p=0.006), hypertension (p&lt;0.001), hypertriglyceridemia (p=0.13), high total lipids (p&lt;0.001), and serum cholesterol levels (p=0.005). However, no statistically significant association of fatty liver was observed with body mass index (p=0.823), age (p=0.169), and diabetes (p= 0.522). Conclusion: The presence of hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, raised total lipids and serum cholesterol levels and female gender were the factors significantly associated with the presence of fatty liver in the lean population. However, to validate our results, multicentered studies on a larger scale are required.

Breviscapine alleviates myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in diabetes rats.

To investigate the protective effect of breviscapine on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) in diabetes rats. Forty rats were divided into control, diabetes, MIRI of diabetes, and treatment groups. The MIRI of diabetes model was established in the latter two groups. Then, the treatment group was treated with 100 mg/kg breviscapine by intraperitoneal injection for 14 consecutive days. After treatment, compared with MIRI of diabetes group, in treatment group the serum fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, and glycosylated hemoglobin levels decreased, the serum total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels decreased, the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level increased, the heart rate decreased, the mean arterial pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, and fractional shortening increased, the serum cardiac troponin I, and creatine kinase-MB levels decreased, the myocardial tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6 levels decreased, the myocardial superoxide dismutase level increased, and the myocardial malondialdehyde level decreased (all P < 0.05). For treating MIRI of diabetes in rats, the breviscapine can reduce the blood glucose and lipid levels, improve the cardiac function, reduce the myocardial injury, and decrease the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, thus exerting the alleviating effect.

Effect of selenium nanoparticle on lipid profile in local Awassi male lambs

Background: This research describes the methodology used for the preparation of selenium nanoparticles from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and their administration to lambs for lipid profile checking, administration of selenium nanoparticles as a medication in lambs results in hypolipidemia. Aim: The study aimed to investigate the potential of selenium nanoparticles in improving lipid profiles in lambs. Methods: Healthy lambs (n=10) of similar age and weight were selected for the study. The animals were housed in individual pens with free access to water and a standard diet. The lambs were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (n=5) and the treatment group (n=5). The control group received a standard diet, while the treatment group received the same diet and oral administrated with selenium nanoparticles at 0.1 mg/kg body weight. The administration was carried out daily for a period of 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of each lamb at the beginning of the study (baseline) and at the end of the 2 weeks treatment period. The samples were collected in vacutainer tubes and allowed to clot. Serum was separated by centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 10 minutes and stored at -80°C for estimation of lipid Profile (Total Cholesterol, Triglyceride, High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL). The serum samples were used for the estimation of lipid profile levels using an enzymatic colorimetric method. The absorbance was measured at 540 nm using a spectrophotometer. Results: The results showed a significant decrease in serum total cholesterol, triglyceride and VLDL levels after selenium nanoparticle supplementation compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05), the results indicated a significant increase in serum HDL levels after selenium nanoparticle supplementation compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). This indicates that selenium nanoparticle supplementation has a beneficial effect on reducing total cholesterol levels in lambs. Conclusion: The conclusion section will summarize the findings of the study and highlight the potential of selenium nanoparticles in improving lipid profiles in lambs. The implications of the study for animal nutrition and health will be discussed, along with the need for further research in this area.

Electroacupuncture Reduces Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Obese Mice by Activating the Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathways and Repairing the Intestinal Barrier.

Electroacupuncture (EA) is used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms by which this approach safeguards against obesity-induced intestinal barrier damage has not been fully understood. This study aimed to assess whether EA could ameliorate intestinal barrier damage that had been reversed in a mouse model of obesity induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and whether this repair is correlated with ferroptosis and gut microbiota enhancement. To assess the potential of EA to prevent obesity and restore the intestinal barrier, we divided in C57BL/6J mice into two groups; one was fed with HFD and another one with a normal diet. Samples of stool, blood, fat, and intestinal epithelium were then evaluated, along with body weight. Following EA, we observed a significant reduction in body weight, fat accumulation, and serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels; an increase was seen in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. EA also activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway; upregulated the expression of GPX4, FTH1, and SLC7A11; and downregulated the expression of TFR1. In addition, the administration of EA resulted in a notable modification of the gut microbiota composition, characterized by a decrease in the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio. EA had beneficial effects on weight loss and showed potential ability to repair the intestinal barrier by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, inhibiting intestinal inflammation and ferroptosis, and regulating the intestinal microbiota to treat IBD caused by HFD-induced obesity.

Diagnostic Value of CRP, H-FABP, PCT, Lp-PLA2 and Cytokines in Stable Angina

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a significant cause of worldwide mortality and morbidity. This study aims to evaluate the levels of serum H-FABP (fatty acid-binding protein), hs-CRP (high sensitivity- CPR), Lp-PLA2 (lipoprotein PLA2), PCT (procalcitonin) and cytokines, in addition to routinely used diagnostic tests, Troponin I (Trop I), Myoglobin (MYO) and Creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) in patients with stable angina to determine their sensitivity in diagnosing stable angina and facilitating faster decision-making in the emergency unit. The current study was performed on 86 patients complaining stable angina, at Nasiriyah Heart Center from October 2021 to October 2022. Eighty-six, healthy subjects (age-matched) were taken as a control group. Blood samples were collected in the emergency department. Serum levels of hs CRP, H-FABP, CK-MB, Trop I, MYO, Lp-PLA2 and PCT were determined using electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay. Blood sugar and serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL and HDL were determined using Cobas C311 photometric assays. Serum IL-6 was determined by using electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay, while, IL-9, IL-1β and TNF-α were assayed by ELISA. The study showed that the level of troponin I didn’t significantly change in patients with stable angina. However, compared with healthy controls, patients showed a significant increase in serum levels of CK-MB, myoglobin, hs-CRP, H-FABP, Lp-PLA2 and PCT. Significantly elevated levels of serum IL-6, IL1β, IL-9 and TNF-α were also recorded in patients with stable angina compared to healthy controls. The results also revealed that patients with stable angina had significantly elevated serum levels of serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL and VLDL with a significant decline of serum HDL compared to healthy controls. We can concluded that, in addition to cTnI, CK-MB and MYO, other biomarkers such as hs-CRP, H-FABP, Lp-PLA2 and PCT are sensitive; and can serve as diagnostic indicators of stable angina pectoris for fast treatment. Furthermore, the detection of inflammatory biomarkers was found to be an additional diagnostic parameter in stable angina.

The Protective Effects of Andrographis paniculata against Cardiac Damage Induced by Diclofenac in Wistar Albino Rats

This study aimed to evaluate the potential preventative effects of Andrographis paniculata on cardiac damage produced by diclofenac in Wistar albino rats. The rats were randomly assigned to five groups: Group 1, which served as the normal control and was given only feed; Group 2, which served as the positive control and was given feed along with 100 mg/kg body weight diclofenac; Group 3, which received feed along with 100 mg/kg body weight diclofenac and 200 mg/kg extract; Group 4, which received feed along with 100 mg/kg body weight diclofenac and 400 mg/kg extract; and Group 5, which received feed along with 100 mg/kg body weight diclofenac and 200 mg/kg vitamin E. The oral administration of the extract was conducted over a period of 14 days, following which the animals were slaughtered on the 15th day in order to facilitate subsequent analysis. The findings indicated that administering Andrographis paniculata extract to the experimental groups led to a statistically significant increase in bodyweight for group 3 (167.33 ± 21.33) and group 4 (173.33 ± 17.63), as compared to the normal and positive control groups (p&lt;0.05). The research findings demonstrated a clear association between diclofenac administration and cardiac damage, with a statistically significant elevation in blood concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and malondialdehyde. Pretreatment with Andrographis paniculata resulted in a modulation of the decrease in levels of serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in group 2 compared to group 1. However, the administration of Vitamin E led to a significant decrease in serum total cholesterol (TC) level, triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) level, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, as well as an increase in serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activity compared to the positive control. ....

Does Fried Street Food (Kokor) affect Lipid Profiles and bodyweight? The Finding from Swiss Albino Mice

Background: Foods fried in palm oil on the streets change the oil composition and produce toxic byproducts. Even though the health implications of fried street food are not fully understood, Ethiopians frequently consume these items. Therefore, this study evaluated the impact of street kokor fried in palm oil on mice's lipid profiles and body weight. Methods: The experiment involved 32 Swiss Albino male and female mice, which were randomly separated into four groups with equal male and female subgroups. The experimental groups, Group II, Group III, and Group IV, got 10%, 20%, and 30% of the daily food intake, respectively. In contrast, the control group (Group-I) received only pellets and a vehicle (water). The mice were killed at the end of the sixth weeks after recieving a diethyl ether anesthetic. Once their blood was drawn through a heart puncture, lipid profile tests were performed on it. Results: In this experiment, the amount of street kokor cooked in palm oil had a significant impact on the mice' body weight [F (3, 24) = 13.841, p = 0.001] and all of the mice in the experimental groups had significantly lower body weights than the mice in Group I (the control group) (P 0.05). Similarly, the dose of palm oil fried street kokor had a significant effect on serum triglyceride (TG) [F (3, 24) = 17.72, p = 0.001], serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) [F (3, 24) = 90.344, p = 0.001], serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) [F (3, 24) = 25.38, p = 0.001] and serum total cholesterol (TC) level of the mice [F (3, 24) = 257.480, p = 0.001]. The experimental group mice's lipid profiles, except serum HDL level, were increased significantly compared with the control group mice (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Mice's body weight fell and serum lipid profiles were affected by palm oil-fried street kokor. This study found that palm oil-fried street kokor dramatically decreased mice's body weight. Furthermore, ingesting kokor cooked in palm oil significantly and proportionally elevated mice's serum lipid profiles (TG, LDL, and TC), but it also dramatically and inversely decreased HDL levels.

The effects of Garcinia cambogia (hydroxycitric acid) on lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Garcinia cambogia (GC) has antioxidant, anticancer, antihistamine, and antimicrobial properties. To determine the effect of GC on lipid profiles, a systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out. Up to February 9, 2023, six electronic databases (Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched at any time without limitations. Trials examining the impact of GC on serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in adults were included. The total effect was shown as a weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) in a random-effects meta-analysis approach. This systematic review and meta-analysis included 14 trials involving 623 subjects. Plasma levels of TC (WMD: -6.76 mg/dL; CI: -12.39 to -0.59, p-value = 0.032), and TG (WMD: -24.21 mg/dL; CI: -37.84 to -10.58, p < 0.001) were significantly reduced after GC use, and plasma HDL-C (WMD: 2.95 mg/dL; CI: 2.01 to 3.89, p < 0.001) levels increased. low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (WMD: -1.15 mg/dL; CI: -16.08 to 13.78, p-value = 0.880) were not significantly affected. The effects of lowering TC and TG were more pronounced for periods longer than 8 weeks. Consuming GC has a positive impact on TC, TG, and HDL-C concentrations. The limitations of this study include the short duration of analyzed interventions and significant heterogeneity. Nevertheless, it is imperative to conduct well-structured, and high-quality long-term trials to comprehensively evaluate the clinical effectiveness of GC on lipid profile, and validate these findings.

The Effect of Oral Administration of Hypericum Perforatum on Serum Glucose and Lipids, Hepatic Enzymes and Lipid Peroxidation in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Background: In this research, the beneficial effects of oral administration of Hypericum perfo­ratum (HP) on serum glucose and lipids, hepatic enzymes and the amount of malondialdehyde in Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats are studied. Materials and Methods: In this experi­mental study, 32 male rats where randomly divided into 4 groups of control, treatment-control, diabetic and treatment-diabetic. HP was orally administered to treatment groups over a period of 6 weeks. Serum glucose levels, triglyceride, total cholesterol along with HDL and LDL were all evaluated prior to initiation of the treatment, and at 3rd and 6th (last) week of treatment initiation, and in the end of the treatment, malondialdehyde and aminotransferase enzymes of the liver were evaluated. Results: regarding serum glucose levels and body weight measured in the 3rd and 6th week, the treatment-diabetic group didn’t show a significant change compared to the diabetic group, regarding serum total cholesterol and LDL levels, a significant decrease was observed and regarding serum HDL, a significant increase was documented. Furthermore, treating the treatment-diabetic group with HP did not result in any significant decrease in serum triglyceride, malondialdehyde or alanine aminotransferase but, in fact, did cause a significant decrease in aspartate aminotransferase. Conclusions: Oral administration of HP did in fact have a beneficial effect on lowering serum levels of total cholesterol, LDL and the hepatic enzyme as­partate aminotransferase and on raising the levels of HDL in diabetized rats with Streptozotocin. [GMJ.2017;6(4):319-29] DOI: 10.22086/gmj.v6i4.889

Rosuvastatin-loaded solid SMEDDS: an innovative approach for solubility augmentation and improved pharmacodynamic profile

The objectives undertaken in current work were to develop a new solid self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS) for poorly water-soluble Rosuvastatin Calcium (RST) and evaluate its antihyperlipidemic activity in rodent model. Solubility assessment in variety of excipients, screening studies and optimization of pseudoternary plots helped in development of liquid SMEDDS. Liquid SMEDDS of RST contained Capryol 90, Kolliphor EL and Transcutol HP as oil phase, surfactant and co-surfactant respectively which were evaluated for release, self-emulsification ability, percentage transmittance and globule size. Florite RE was used as the adsorbent to transform the optimized liquid SMEDDS into non-coherent powder which was then examined for micromeritic properties, solid state characterization and in vitro dissolution studies. It was additionally investigated for antihyperlipidemic activity in rats subjected to high fat diet. Optimized liquid SMEDDS of RST was found to undergo a swift transformation in a microemulsion having globule size in nanometric size range with consistent size distribution. The liquid SMEDDS adsorbed on Florite RE exhibited favorable micromeritic properties and spherical shape. XRD studies indicated amorphization of RST due to its molecular dispersion in S-SMEDDS. Enhanced in vitro rate of dissolution of optimized formulation was observed in comparison to pure drug and commercial product. There was considerable reduction (p < 0.001) in serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoproteins (LDL-C), very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL-C) when S-SMEDDS was administered and increment in high-density lipoproteins (HDL-C) level compared to plain drug suspension. RST S-SMEDDS holds great potential for enhancement of its physiochemical along with biological attributes.

Autonomic nervous system function assessed by heart rate variability and the presence of symptoms affecting activities of daily living in community-dwelling residents with chronic pain: The Hisayama Study.

Autonomic nervous system dysfunction has been reported to be associated with impaired activities of daily living (ADL) among patients with chronic pain, but the association has not been fully addressed in general populations. This study cross-sectionally investigated the association between autonomic nervous system function and the presence of subjective symptoms affecting ADL in community-dwelling residents with chronic pain. A total of 888 residents with chronic pain, aged 40-79 years, who underwent a health examination in 2017-2018 were included. Based on heart rate variability measured by fingertip pulse wave, the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN), root mean square of successive RR interval differences (RMSSD), low frequency (LF) power, and high frequency (HF) power were calculated. Symptoms affecting ADL were defined as those scoring ≥1 on the modified Rankin Scale. Odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for symptoms affecting ADL were estimated using a logistic regression analysis. The overall prevalence of symptoms affecting ADL was 39.4%. The ORs for symptoms affecting ADL increased significantly per 1-standard-deviation decrement in log-transformed SDNN (OR 1.23 [95% CI 1.06-1.44]), RMSSD (1.25 [1.08-1.45]), LF power (1.29 [1.11-1.52]), and HF power (1.29 [1.11-1.51]) after adjusting for age, sex, education, hypertension, diabetes, serum total cholesterol level, body mass index, past medical history, current smoking, current drinking, exercise, depressive symptoms, and pain intensity. Decreased heart rate variability was associated with the presence of symptoms affecting ADL among individuals with chronic pain in a Japanese community. Decrease in heart rate variability was associated with the presence of symptoms affecting ADL among individuals with chronic pain in a Japanese community. This article could help scientists understand the significance of autonomic nervous system dysfunction in the pathology of chronic pain. Approaches that target autonomic nervous system dysfunction may be an option to relieve or prevent symptoms affecting ADL for chronic pain sufferers.

Dietary cholesterol intake is not associated with the development of chronic kidney disease: Results from two Korean cohort studies

Background and aimsAlthough dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD), the relationship between dietary cholesterol and CKD remains unknown. We investigated the association between cholesterol intake and CKD risk. Methods and resultsThe Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2019–2021 (n = 13,769) and the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) (n = 9225) data were used for this study. Cholesterol intake was assessed using a 24-h recall food frequency questionnaire, and participants were categorized into three groups (T1, T2, and T3) based on cholesterol intake. Primary outcomes were prevalence and incidence of CKD. Higher cholesterol intake was modestly associated with increased serum levels of total, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the KNHANES. However, we found no significant association between cholesterol intake and CKD prevalence in the KNHANES, regardless of a history of hypercholesterolemia. In the KoGES, during a median follow-up of 11.4 years, cholesterol intake was not associated with incident CKD in participants without hypercholesterolemia (hazard ratio [HR] per 10 mg increase, 1.00; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 0.99–1.01) and in those with hypercholesterolemia (HR, 1.01; 95 % CI, 0.98–1.04). Egg consumption also showed no significant association with the risk of incident CKD. Additionally, cholesterol intake had no significant interaction on the relationships between serum cholesterol levels and incident CKD. ConclusionAlthough cholesterol intake was associated with increased serum cholesterol levels, it was not associated with CKD prevalence and incidence. Our findings suggest that reducing cholesterol intake alone may not be sufficient to prevent CKD.

Rice bran oil reduces organ-specific fat deposition, attenuates hyperlipidaemia and abnormal liver function in Long Evans rats with high fat intake

Introduction: High-calorie diets, particularly the quality of dietary fats, are regarded as an independent risk factor for developing obesity, hyperlipidaemia, and liver diseases. The present study examined the impact of rice bran oil (RBO) on organ-specific fat deposition, lipid profile, and liver function enzymes in Long Evans rats. Methods: Long Evans rats (n=24) were fed for six weeks with a controlled high-fat diet (HFD) to induce hyperlipidaemia and abnormal liver function. Rats were then divided into two groups: one group continued feeding on HFD, and the other group was fed with a RBO diet, replacing the fat source. After six weeks of feeding, six rats from each group were sacrificed and required analytical tests were performed. The remaining obese rats (n=12) were divided into continued HFD and RBO diet, and after sacrificing, essential analytical tests were done. Results: RBO feeding to hyperlipidaemic rats for six weeks significantly reduced brown adipose tissue, abdominal adipose tissue, epididymal adipose tissue, and liver fat compared to continuing HFD group (p&lt;0.05). Similarly, serum levels of total cholesterol, triacylglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were all decreased, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased in response to RBO compared to HFD (p&lt;0.05). Additionally, rats fed with RBO showed reduced alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels when compared with continuing HFD-fed rats (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: These findings suggest that RBO supports the reduction of fat storage from major fat depots, controls lipid profile, and restores healthy liver functions in rats.

The effect of green tea (Camellia sinensis) on lipid profiles and renal function in people with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most important microvascular complications of diabetes. Despite the modern treatments, herbs or medicinal plants have gained wide attention. One of these herbs is green tea (Camellia sinensis), which may have an impact on renal function, lipid profiles, and HbA1c. However, the evidence for this is unclear and limited. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of different doses of green tea on these parameters in type 2 diabetes patients (T2DM) with nephropathy. Sixty-six individuals with T2DM nephropathy (aged 30-70 years) were randomly assigned to receive three cups of green tea/day (n = 22), two cups of green tea/day (n = 22), and the control group (n = 22) for 12 weeks. Lipid profiles, glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and renal markers were measured before and after intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 23. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), least significant difference (LSD) post hoc, and analysis of covariance were used to compare quantitative variables. In total, 64 participants completed the study. Consuming three cups of infusion green tea per day (7.5 gr) led to a significant reduction in serum levels of total cholesterol (p = 0.009) and HbA1c (p = 0.006) and increased in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p = 0.02) compared with the control group who did not drink green tea. However, no significant differences were observed for other variables. In general, it was found that drinking three cups of green tea infusion (7.5 gr) per day produced beneficial effects on some lipid profiles and HbA1c without any adverse effects on renal function in patients with T2DM nephropathy. More studies are needed to fully elucidate these findings. Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir) under registry number: IRCT2014020114538N2.