Serum hs-CRP Levels Research Articles

Skin barrier function and changes of serum inflammatory factor level in hyperpigmentation disorders treated with Nd:YAG laser.

It was to compare the differences in efficacy and safety for the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders by Q-switched alexandrite (Q-SA) laser and Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. The clinical data of 86 patients with hyperpigmentation disorders were collected and grouped: in the Q-SA laser and Nd:YAG laser groups according to the treatment methods, with 43 cases in each group. The clinical efficacy, skin barrier function (transdermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum water content, pH value, proteoglycan content), degree of pigmentation, serum inflammatory factors (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6)), and adverse reaction rate were compared after treatment. Compared with the Q-SA laser group, Nd:YAG laser group had decreased scab formation, healing, and scab shedding time, TEWL, pH value, and proteoglycan content, the increased water content of stratum corneum, decreased pigmentation score and area, and decreased serum levels of hs-CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 (P<0.05). The total effective rates were 76.74% and 95.35%, and the adverse reaction rates were 30.23% and 6.98%, respectively in the Q-SA laser and Nd:YAG laser groups. Compared with the Q-SA laser group, Nd:YAG laser group had a higher total effective rate and lower incidence rate of adverse reactions (P<0.05). Nd:YAG laser plus rhEGF gel in the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders can effectively protect the skin barrier function, reduce skin pigmentation, reduce the inflammatory response, and improve the therapeutic effect, with high safety.

Elevation of preoperative serum hs-CRP is an independent risk factor for malnutrition in patients with gastric cancer.

Recent studies have reported hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) linked to clinicopathological characteristics and nutritional status of the tumor, but its clinical significance in GC remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between preoperative serum hs-CRP level and clinicopathological features and nutritional status in gastric cancer (GC) patients. The clinical data of 628 GC patients who met the study criteria were analyzed retrospectively. The preoperative serum hs-CRP level was divided into two groups (<1 mg/L and ≥1 mg/L) to evaluate clinical indicators. Nutritional Risk Screening and nutritional assessment of GC patients were performed by the Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS2002) and the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA), respectively. The data were subjected to chi-square test, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, respectively. The analysis of 628 GC cases revealed that 338 patients (53.8%) were on malnutrition risk(NRS2002≥3 points), and 526(83.8%) had suspected/moderate to severe malnutrition(PG-SGA≥ 2 points). Preoperative serum hs-CRP level was significantly correlated with age, tumor maximum diameter (TMD), peripheral nerve invasion (PNI), lymph-vascular invasion (LVI), depth of tumor invasion (DTI), lymph node metastasis (LNM), pTNM stage, body weight loss (BWL), body mass index (BMI), NRS2002 score, PG-SGA grade, hemoglobin (HB), total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), prealbumin (PAB) and total lymphocyte count (TLC). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that hs-CRP (OR=1.814, 95%CI=1.174-2.803; P=0.007), age, ALB, BMI, BWL and TMD were independent risk factors for existing malnutritional risk in GC. Similarly, non-malnutrition and suspected/moderate to severe malnutrition groups presented that hs-CRP (OR=3.346, 95%CI=1.833-6.122; P< 0.001), age, HB, ALB, BMI and BWL were independent risk factors for malnutrition in GC. In addition to the generally used nutritional evaluation indicators such as age, ALB, BMI, and BWL, the hs-CRP level may be used as a nutritional screening and evaluation indicator for GC patients.

Systemic Inflammation, Endothelial Function, and Risk of Periodontitis in Overweight/Obese Adults.

The network interaction between systemic inflammatory mediators, endothelial cell adhesion function, and adiponectin as mediators of the association between metabolic diseases and periodontitis has not been evaluated. The objective of this study is to assess whether the interaction of baseline serum levels of TNF-α, hs-CRP, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and adiponectin leads to periodontitis. Five hundred and ninety-seven overweight/obese (overweight: BMI 25 to <30 kg/m2; obese: >30 kg/m2) adults, aged 40-65 years, with complete 3-year follow-up data were included. Generalized structural equation models with negative binomial regression were used to estimate the regression coefficient (β) for the outcome number of teeth with probing pocket depth (PPD) ≥ 4 mm and bleeding on probing (BOP) at 3-year follow-up for a 1 standard deviation unit increase (Δ = +1SD) in each biomarker. After adjusting for multiple covariates, baseline ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 had significant direct effects on increased log-transformed number of teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm and BOP (β: 0.16; 95% CI: 0.02-0.30; β: 0.15; 95% CI: 0.02-0.30, respectively). Baseline hs-CRP showed a significant indirect effect via ICAM-1 on the log-transformed number of teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm and BOP (β: 4.84; 95% CI: 0.27-9.42). Thus, elevated serum ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 have a significant direct effect and increased hs-CRP has a significant indirect effect on the predicted level of periodontitis at the 3-year follow-up among overweight/obese Hispanic adults.

Relation between erythropoietin resistance and metabolic syndrome in hemodialysis patients: A multicentric propensity score matched analysis.

Erythropoietin (EPO) resistance is frequently reported in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common biochemical condition that comprises central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. The present study aimed to assess the relation between MetS and EPO resistance in HD patients. The present multicentric study included 150 patients with EPO resistance and 150 patients without EPO resistance. Short-acting EPO resistance was diagnosed if the erythropoietin resistance index is ≥1.0 IU/kg/gHb. Comparison between patients with EPO resistance and patients without resistance revealed that the former group had significantly higher body mass index, lower hemoglobin levels, lower albumin levels, higher ferritin levels, and higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels. In addition, patients in the EPO resistance group had significantly higher frequency of MetS (75.3% vs 38.0%, p < 0.001) and higher number of MetS components (2.7 ± 1.3 vs 1.8 ± 1.6, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified lower albumin levels (OR (95% CI): 0.072 (0.016-0.313), p < 0.001), higher ferritin levels (OR (95% CI): 1.05 (1.033-1.066), p< 0.001), higher hsCRP levels (OR (95% CI): 1.041 (1.007-1.077), p = 0.018), and MetS (OR (95% CI): 36.68 (2.893-465.05), p = 0.005) as predictors of EPO resistance in the studied patients. The present study identified MetS as a predictor of EPO resistance in HD patients. Other predictors include serum ferritin, hsCRP, and albumin levels.

A combination of Sophoraflavescens alkaloids and Panaxquinquefolium saponins attenuates coxsackievirus B3‑induced acute myocarditis in mice via NF‑κB signaling.

Timely treatment of viral myocarditis (VMC), a form of cardiac inflammation caused by viral infections, can reduce the occurrence of dilated cardiomyopathy and sudden death. Our previous study demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects of KX, a combination of Sophora flavescens alkaloids and Panax quinquefolium saponins, on an autoimmune myocarditis model in vivo. The present study explored the effects of KX on coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3)-induced acute VMC in mice. Mice were randomly divided into four groups: Control, VMC, KX-high (275 mg/kg) and KX-low (138 mg/kg). Mice in the VMC, KX-high and KX-low groups received injections of CVB3 to establish the VMC model, and those in the KX-high and KX-low groups also received KX by gavage (10 ml/kg) 2 h after virus injection until euthanasia was performed on day 7 or 21. Mice in the control group received an equal KX volume of purified water. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTn-I), IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in mouse serum was measured using ELISA. Myocardial tissue structure and degree of injury were observed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR were performed to detect the expression levels of NF-κB pathway-related mRNA and protein in myocardial tissue. The results showed that the inflammation and myocardial damage levels of the mice in the VMC group were higher at 7 days than those at 21 days. At both 7 and 21 days, KX decreased the serum CK-MB, LDH, cTn-I, IL-6, TNF-α and hs-CRP levels, and inhibited NF-κB pathway-related mRNA and protein expression in the myocardium of mice. These findings indicated that KX may reduce the inflammatory response and attenuate the pathological damage in the acute and subacute phases of CVB3-induced VMC through the NF-κB pathway.

Correlation of CRP level with intermediate and high Syntax Score in patients with acute coronary syndrome

In patients with acute coronary syndromes, inflammation has a major role in plaque rupture, which results in acute coronary artery obstruction. This vascular process is not limited only to the site of plaque destabilisation but also in the systemic level. So, it may be detected by determining plasma inflammatory markers. C-reactive protein (CRP) has been frequently studied in recent years and considered to be one of the most important markers. The SYNTAX score (SXscore) is a useful angiographic scoring system that has been developed to assess and quantify the extent, severity and complexity of coronary artery disease. In our study, we investigated whether baseline high-sensitivity CRP levels are associated with burden of coronary atherosclerosis assessed by SYNTAX score (SXScore). We enrolled 128 patients with ACS who underwent coronary angiography between January 2022 and November 2022. The patients were divided according to the SXScore: low SXScore (≤ 22), and intermediate-high SXScore (≥ 23). A total of 128 patients met the inclusion criteria and was included in the study. Among those 128 patients, 98 (76%) were males and 30 (23%) were females. The mean age of patients in the intermediate-high SXScore (61 ± 12 years) group was significantly higher than the low SXScore group (57 ± 10 years) with a P-value: 0.003. Coronary risk factor frequencies such as hypertension were present in 45%, type 2 diabetes mellitus in 42% and dyslipidemia in 83% of patients with no significant difference between both groups except for diabetes with a significant P-value: 0.008. Subjects with an intermediate-high SXScore had higher values of serum glucose, creatinine, peak troponin, and uric acid levels compared to the low SXScore subjects. In addition, the intermediate-high SXScore group showed significantly higher values of high sensibility CRP than the lower SXScore (17.8 ± 6.4 mg/L versus 10.2 ± 5.3 mg/L, P < 0.001). One of the most important results in this study was that serum hs-CRP levels on admission in patients with ACS could predict the severity and complexity of coronary atherosclerosis together with multivessel disease.

Correlation Between the Peripheral Neuropathy and Levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β and IL-6 in Senile Parkinson's Disease Patients.

This study was carried out to investigate the correlation between the onset of peripheral neuropathy and levels of hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and IL-6 in senile Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. For this purpose, a total of 60 PD patients and 60 age-matched healthy subjects were enrolled in this study and received the assessment for peripheral nerves by using the quantified method. Besides, levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β and IL-6 in serum were determined to analyze the correlation between the clinical features, including the severity of PD and cognitive decline, and the levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β and IL-6. Results showed that PD patients had more cases of peripheral neuropathy than those in the healthy control group. Levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β and IL-6 in the serum of PD patients were much higher than those in the healthy control (P<0.05). Besides, PD patients had lower scores of MMSE and MoCA but higher CNPI scores when compared to the healthy control group. As a result, we found that the severity of peripheral neuropathy was in a positive correlation with the levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β and IL-6. It was concluded that PD patients generally have peripheral neuropathy that may correlate with the increases in the levels of hs-CRP, IL-1β and IL-6, and early intervention may mitigate the development and progression of peripheral neuropathy.

Evaluation of Certain Inflammatory Markers in Transfusion Dependent β-Thalassemic Patients

To determine the serum concentration of certain inflammatory markers including TNF-α and hs-CRPβ-thalassemic patients on different types of treatmentand to investigate the possible correlation between these inflammatory markers and iron overload referred to by serum ferritin concentration, moreoverto assesswhether inflammation in β-thalassemia could be controlled by deferasirox or deferoxamine as compared to transfusion dependent patients without iron chelator. Ninety transfusion dependent β-thalassemic children with age range 13–75 months were included in this study, and 30 age and sex matched healthy subjects served as control,thepatients were divided into three groups according to the type of the treatment,each group included 30 patients Group1 comprised β-thalassemic patients without iron chelator, Group2 comprisedβ-thalassemic patients on deferasirox iron chelator while Group3 comprisedβ-thalassemic patients on deferoxamine iron chelator. Serum ferritin, hs-CRP, and TNF-α was measured for all participants by ELISA method. Compared with the control, the serum level of ferritin and hs-CRP were significantly elevated in all patients groups while the serum level of TNF-α were only significantly elevated in Group1 and Group3. Further analysis of the results revealed positive correlation between serum ferritin withTNF-α and with hs-CRP.A comparison among the patients groups show that patients on deferasirox (Group2) had significantly low level of TNF-α as compared to Group1 and Group3. On the other hand serum ferritin and hs-CRP concentration in Group3 were significantly higher than the other two groups, furthermore when Group3 patients are subdivided according to their compliance on deferoxaminethe result show that the serum level of ferritin, hs-CRP and TNF-α are significantly higher in poor compliance subgroup as compared to good compliancepatients and when good compliance subgroup are compared with Group2 no significant deference in the measured parameter was found. Chronic inflammatory state is present in these patients withincreased levels of inflammatory markers such as TNF-α andCRP. The observed correlations of ferritin with inflammatory markers imply that iron overload may play a key role in release of these markers. Chelation Therapy with deferasirox can attenuate inflammation and reduces inflammatory markers level while deferoxamine appear to be less effective as most patients suffer from poor compliance on this type of iron chelator.

Age-specific associations between inflammatory markers and remission of depression during antidepressant use

The roles of inflammatory markers in predicting the response to antidepressants are controversial. The levels of inflammatory markers increase with age. Here, we compared the associations of inflammatory markers with remission during 12-week pharmacotherapy according to patient age. Higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels were associated with non-remission in younger, but not older, patients. However, higher interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 levels were associated with non-remission in all patients, regardless of age. Differential associations were observed between inflammatory markers and remission, according to patient age. Patient age should be considered when predicting the response to antidepressants based on serum hsCRP level.

Probiotics and Prebiotics in Subclinical Hypothyroidism of Pregnancy with Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth

Evaluating efficacy of probiotics combined with prebiotics in small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) in subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in the second trimester. We collected data from 78 pregnant women with SCH (SCH group) and 74 normal pregnant women (control group) in second trimester, compare the differences in high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), result of lactulose methane-hydrogen breath test and gastrointestinal symptoms assessed by GSRS scale between two groups. In SCH group, 32 patients with SIBO were selected as intervention group. Treatment with probiotics + prebiotics for 21 days; The differences of lipid metabolism, hsCRP, thyroid function level, methane-hydrogen breath test results and GSRS scores before and after treatment were compared to evaluate the therapeutic effect. (1) The positive rate of SIBO and methane, hsCRP levels in SCH group were higher than those in control group (P < 0.05), the total score of GSRS scale, mean score of indigestion syndrome, and constipation syndrome in SCH group were higher (P < 0.05). (2) The mean abundance of hydrogen and methane were higher in SCH group. (3) After treatment, serum levels of thyrotropin(TSH), total cholesterol(TC), triglyceride(TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and hsCRP in intervention group were decreased, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was increased compared with before treatment (P < 0.05). (4) After treatment, methane positive rate, total score of GSRS scale, mean score of diarrhea syndrome, dyspepsia syndrome, and constipation syndrome were decreased (P < 0.05). (5) The average abundance of methane and hydrogen were lower. Probiotics combined with prebiotics are effective in the treatment of SIBO in pregnant SCH patients.Clinical Trial Registration Number: ChiCTR1900026326.

An inflamed subtype of difficult-to-treat depression

BackgroundChronic low-grade inflammation may play a role in the pathophysiology of depression, at least in a subset of patients. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) has been used to define an inflamed subgroup of depression with specific clinical characteristics and symptoms. In this study we investigated biochemical and clinical characteristics in patients with difficult-to-treat depression with and without chronic low-grade inflammation. MethodWe assayed plasma levels of interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, Interleukin (IL)-10, IL-6, IL-8, and vitamin D in a clinically well-characterized sample of patients with difficult-to-treat depression (n = 263) and healthy controls (n = 46). Serum hs-CRP levels were available in the patient group and were used to define “inflamed depression” (hs-CRP > 3 mg/L). Based on previous studies correlating specific depressive symptoms to inflammatory markers, we calculated a composite score of inflammatory depressive symptoms (Infl-Dep score). A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to identify patterns of variance in cytokines and vitamin D among patients. ResultsMean levels of IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly higher in depressed patients compared to controls, also after adjusting for sex, smoking, BMI, and age. None of the other inflammatory markers differed significantly between depressed patients and controls. Two components were extracted using PCA; one showed general cytokine elevations and one represented a pattern where IL-6 and IL-8 were inversely related to vitamin D (IL6-IL8-VitD component). The inflamed subgroup (hs-CRP > 3, n = 51) exhibited significantly higher BMI, higher Infl-Dep scores and higher IL6-IL8-VitD component scores than uninflamed patients (hs-CRP ≤ 3, n = 212). There were no significant differences in overall depression severity or suicidality between the inflamed and uninflamed groups. ConclusionOur results support the hypothesis of an inflamed subgroup of depression as a meaningful construct. This subgroup may have certain biological and clinical characteristics and more studies are needed to determine potential clinical implications.

Value of N-Terminal Pro B-Type Natriuretic Peptide, High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein, and Homocysteine Levels in Predicting Cardiovascular Events in Chronic Heart Failure Patients After Discharge

Objective: To investigate the value of N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and homocysteine (Hcy) levels in predicting cardiovascular events (CV) in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Methods: A total of 63 patients with CHF admitted to our hospital between June 2019 and July 2021 were selected. Their NT-proBNP, hs-CRP, and Hcy levels were detected at discharge, and a 12-month follow-up was done after their discharge to collect clinical data. The collected data were inclusive of data from 21 CHF patients with cardiovascular disease and 42 CHF patients without cardiovascular disease. The effect of NT-proBNP, hs-CRP, and Hcy levels on the occurrence of CV was analyzed. Results: The levels of NT-proBNP, hs-CRP, and Hcy in the group with cardiovascular disease were significantly higher than those in the group without cardiovascular disease (P &lt; 0.05); the levels of serum NT-proBNP, hs-CRP, and Hcy at discharge had certain value in predicting short-term CV in CHF patients (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: NT-proBNP, hs-CRP, and Hcy levels can be used to predict CV in CHF patients, thus having clinical application value.

Relationship between serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in South Indian population

Introduction and Aim: Cardiovascular disease are a leading cause of death in the world. Atherosclerosis plays the most important role in its pathophysiology. It is a slowly progressing chronic inflammatory process resulting in increased levels of inflammatory markers in serum. hs-CRP is a novel biomarker of coronary heart disease risk prediction. Type 2 diabetes mellitus individuals are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we aim to find the association of HbA1c with hs-CRP in the South Indian population. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study. The study participants were categorised into 3 groups based on their serum hs-CRP levels: Group 1 with hs-CRP &lt; 1.0 mg/L; group 2 with hs-CRP 1.0 – 3.0 mg/L and group 3 with hs-CRP &gt; 3.0 mg/L. The sample size was estimated to be 40 for each group. Age, fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, HbA1c, hs-CRP, total count, and ESR were collected. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS version 16.0. Results: Age showed no significant difference among the groups. FBS, PPBS, HbA1c, TLC, and ESR showed a significant difference among the 3 groups. TLC, FBS, PPBS, and HbA1c had a significant positive correlation with hs-CRP. Conclusion: hs-CRP has a statistically significant positive correlation with HbA1c, fasting blood sugar, and postprandial blood sugar Additionally, we also observed that total leukocyte count had a significant positive correlation with hs-CRP and HbA1c. Hence, our results show that impaired glycemic control is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies are associated with aberrant inflammatory circuits in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases.

Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies are markers for several systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARD). To assess whether anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies are related to abnormalities in inflammatory circuits. Cross-sectional study of consecutive outpatients with SARD. Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies and serum amyloid A protein were measured by ELISA; panels for 18 cytokines and nine chemokines were analyzed on a Luminex reading platform, while high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and complement were measured by nephelometry. Among 167 included patients, 143 had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 16 had primary Sjögren's syndrome and eight had systemic sclerosis; 41 (24%) were positive for anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies. Patients with anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies had higher serum levels of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, GM-CSF, IL-21, IL-22, hs-CRP and chemokines CCL4, CXCL8, CXCL10 and CXCL12, but lower levels of complement C4. Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibody titers were positively correlated with IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-21, IL-22, CXCL10, and hs-CRP, and negatively with complements C3 and C4. When only SLE patients were included, no association was identified between anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies and disease activity or organ-specific involvement. Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies are associated with aberrant cytokine circuits and elevated levels of angiogenic molecules and neutrophil and monocyte chemoattractants, which suggests an active role for these antibodies in SARD.

The effect of high oral loading dose of cholecalciferol in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients. A randomized placebo controlled trial.

Background and Aim: Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) is one of the most common progressive metabolic disorders worldwide. There are increasing scientific interests nowadays for the association between vitamin D status and Non-alcoholic fatty liver. Earlier studies have revealed that vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in Non-alcoholic fatty liver patients that contributes to poor outcomes. Hence, the present study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of oral cholecalciferol on Non-alcoholic fatty liver patients. Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted on 140 patients that were randomized either to group 1 that received the standard conventional therapy in addition to placebo or group 2 that received the standard conventional therapy in addition to cholecalciferol during the 4 months study period. Results: At the end of the study group 2 revealed significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the mean serum level of TG, LDL-C, TC, hsCRP as compared to their baseline results and group 1 results. Additionally, a significant improvement in the serum levels of ALT (p = 0.001) was seen in group 2 at the end of the study when compared to group 1. Whereas group 1 did not show any change in these parameters when compared to group 2 and their baseline results. Conclusion: Cholecalciferol was shown to have beneficial effects on serum ALT levels, hsCRP levels and lipid profile of NAFLD patients. Clinical Trial Registration: https://prsinfo.clinicaltrials.gov/prs-users-guide.html, identifier NCT05613192.

Study on the Mechanism of Allergic Rhinitis Based on the Expression of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, and Th17/Treg-IL10/IL-17 Axis Balance.

The pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR) is ambiguous, while it is clear that various immune cells and cytokines play crucial roles in its occurrence and development. To investigate the effect of exogenous interleukin-10 (IL-10) on the expression of fibrinogen (FIB), procalcitonin (PCT), hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and Th17/Treg-IL10/IL-17 axis balance in the nasal mucosa of rats with AR. In this study, 48 female-specific pathogen-free Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: blank control group, AR group, and IL-10 intervention group. The AR model was established in the AR group and IL-10 group. The rats in the control group were treated with normal saline; the rats in the AR group were given 20 μL of saline containing 50 μg of ovalbumin (OVA) every day. The rats in the IL-10 intervention group were intraperitoneally injected with 1 mL of 40 pg/kg IL-10 and provided with OVA. The IL-10 intervention group was composed of mice with AR that received IL-10. The behavior of nasal allergic symptoms (such as nasal itching, sneezing, and runny nose) and the hematoxylin and eosin staining of nasal mucosa were observed. The levels of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, IgE, and OVA sIgE in serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of Treg and Th17 cells in serum were detected by flow cytometry. The protein levels of TGF-β, IL-10, and IL-17 in nasal mucosa were detected by the Western-blot method. The scores of snots, nasal itching, and sneezing in the AR group were significantly higher than those in the control group, while the scores of the above symptoms in the IL-10 intervention group were lower than those in the AR group. The levels of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, IgE, and OVA sIgE in serum and the protein levels of IL-10 and IL-17 in the nasal mucosa in the AR group were higher than those in the blank control group. Meanwhile, the levels of FIB, PCT, hs-CRP, IgE, and OVA sIgE in serum and IL-10 and IL-17 protein in the nasal mucosa in the IL-10 group were lower than those in the AR group. IL-10 can relieve the allergy of AR rats by affecting the expression of FIB, PCT, and hs-CRP, as well as the balance of the Th17/Treg-IL10/IL-17 axis in the nasal mucosa of AR rats.

SATELLITE IMAGE-DERIVED NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTERICS EXPLAIN REGIONAL VARIATION IN CARDIOMETABOLIC DISEASE

We are aware of no study indicating the effects of synbiotic food consumption on metabolic profiles, inflammation and oxidative stress among diabetic patients. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of synbiotic food consumption on metabolic profiles, hs-CRP and biomarkers of oxidative stress in diabetic patients.This randomized double-blinded cross-over controlled clinical trial was performed among 62 diabetic patients aged 35–70 y. After a 2-wk run-in period, subjects were randomly assigned to consume either a synbiotic (n = 62) or control food (n = 62) for 6 weeks. A 3-week washout period was applied following which subjects were crossed over to the alternate treatment arm for an additional 6 weeks. The synbiotic food consisted of a probiotic viable and heat-resistant Lactobacillus sporogenes (1 × 107 CFU), 0.04 g inulin (HPX) as prebiotic with 0.38 g isomalt, 0.36 g sorbitol and 0.05 g stevia as sweetener per 1 g. Control food (the same substance without probiotic bacteria and prebiotic inulin) was packed in identical 9-gram packages. Patients were asked to consume the synbiotic and control foods three times a day. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and after a 6-wk intervention to measure metabolic profiles, hs-CRP and biomarkers of oxidative stress.Consumption of a synbiotic food, compared to the control, resulted in a significant decrease in serum insulin levels (changes from baseline: −1.75 ± 0.60 vs. +0.95 ± 1.09 μIU/mL, P = 0.03). Although we failed to find a significant effect of synbiotic food consumption on total- and LDL-cholesterol levels and HOMA-IR, the effects on FPG (22.3 vs. 4.2 mg/dL, P = 0.09), serum triglycerides (45.9 vs. 20.6 mg/dL, P = 0.08) and HDL-cholesterol levels (3.1 vs. −2 mg/dL, P = 0.06) tended to be significant. A significant reduction in serum hs-CRP levels (−1057.86 ± 283.74 vs. 95.40 ± 385.38 ng/mL, P = 0.01) was found following the consumption of synbiotic food compared with the control group. Supplementation with the synbiotic food led to a significant increase in plasma total GSH (319.98 vs. 19.73 μmol/L, P < 0.001) and serum uric acid levels (+0.7 vs. −0.1 mg/dL, P = 0.04) compared to the control food. No significant effect of the synbiotic food was observed on plasma TAC levels.In conclusion, consumption of a synbiotic food for 6 weeks among diabetic patients had significant effects on serum insulin, hs-CRP, uric acid and plasma total GSH levels.Clinical trial registration number: www.irct.ir: IRCT201201195623N1.

Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor and High Sensitive C-reactive Protein in Bipolar Depression and Unipolar Depression: The Practical Usage as a Discriminatory Tool.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) have been reported to play roles in depression and bipolar disorder (BD). However, the probable discriminatory properties of these biologic markers are less investigated. We aimed to assess the serum BDNF and hs-CRP levels among Iranian patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and BD during a depressive episode and investigate the optimum cut-off point for differential diagnosis of BD and MDD. We recruited 30 patients with MDD, 30 with BD in depressive mood and 30 healthy comparators. Blood sample was taken from each participant to measure BDNF and hs-CRP levels. We also used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to find an optimal cut-off point for differentiating MDD from BD according to pre-defined variables. The mean age of total study population was 37.3 ± 5.0 years (males: 49%). BDNF was significantly lower in patients with BD, followed by MDD subjects and healthy controls 541.0 ± 601.0 pg/ml vs. 809.5 ± 433.3 pg/ml vs. 1,482.1 ± 519.8, respectively, p < 0.001). The area under curve of ROC curve analysis for BD versus MDD was 0.704 (95% confidence interval: 0.564-0.844, p = 0.007). We also found that the BDNF cut-off value of 504 could appropriately distinguished BD from MDD (sensitivity: 73%, specificity: 70%). No significant association were identified in terms of hs-CRP levels. Patients suffering from BD had lowest BDNF levels compared to MDD or healthy adults and this biomarker could play a practical role differentiating MDD from BD. Several studies are required confirming our outcomes.

Association of Hs-CRP Levels in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes and it’s Correlation with Angiographic Severity of Coronary Artery Stenosis

Objectives: Significant advances have been made toward the development of biomarkers for prognostication of patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. One such marker is high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP). It is a marker of inflammation mainly used to predict the risk of adverse cardiovascular (CV) events. Recent research also supports its role in atherogenesis. It is involved throughout the process of atheromatous plaque development. However, limited information is available about the relationship between levels of hs-CRP levels in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and its association with outcomes. We conducted this study to assess the correlation between the levels of hs-CRP and the coronary angiographic findings in patients presenting with ACS and its correlation with outcomes. Materials and Methods: we carried an observational prospective study in patients presenting with ACS admitted to cardiology intensive coronary care unit in a tertiary care hospital. Patients underwent invasive coronary angiogram and serum Hs-CRP levels testing apart from other routine investigations. Correlation between severity of coronary stenosis, Hs-CRP levels and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at discharge was then assessed using statistical analysis. Results: Positive correlation was found between Hs-CRP levels and severity of coronary stenosis. Negative correlation was found between Hs-CRP levels and LVEF at discharge. Conclusion: We found that hs-CRP levels correlate well with angiographic severity. It was also observed that higher the hs-CRP levels more the number of vessels involved with patients with the left main + triple vessel disease (TVD) and TVD having maximum scores.

Association between serum levels of pentraxin-3, mannose binding lectin and high sensitivity C-reactive protein with renal transplantation

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) may increase morbidity and mortality. Therefore, early detection of inflammation in kidney transplant recipients with a high risk of transplant rejection is important. Objectives: This study was conducted to compare serum levels of pentraxin-3 (PTX-3), mannose binding lectin (MBL) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with chronic renal failure before and after transplantation. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried on 18-80 years old patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy who underwent kidney transplantation in Shahid Beheshti hospital of Babol in 2016. Before transplantation, one week later and two months after transplantation, the serum levels of PTX-3, MBL and hs-CRP were determined. Complications including acute transplant rejection and urinary tract infection were recorded since inflammatory markers were evaluated and compared at the time of complication. Results: The mean age of the patients was 42.07±12.47 years. Transplant rejection and urinary tract infection occurred in 3 (10%) and 4 (13.3%) of patients, respectively. Patients over 55 years of age and those with hypertension had significantly more complications (P=0.03 and P=0.02 respectively). Two months after transplantation, PTX-3 and MBL levels were significantly lower (PTX-3; 10.84±15.88 versus18.75±24.31 ng/dL, P=0.001 and MBL; 764.3±771.35 versus 1157.9±1299.75 ng/dL, P=0.006). In patients with complications, PTX-3, MBL and hs-CRP levels were 16.73±27.98 ng/dL, 710.0±613.19 ng/dL and 8.43±12.10 mg/L, respectively. No significant difference was found between inflammatory markers in complicated and uncomplicated patients. Comparison of changes in PTX-3, MBL and hs-CRP levels before and after transplantation showed a significant difference two months following transplantation compared to pre-transplantation and also one week after it for PTX-3 and MBL (PTX-3: P=0.001 and P=0.009, respectively; MBL: P=0.006 and P=0.03, respectively). Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, PTX-3 and MBL levels can be considered for determining the inflammatory status of kidney transplant patients and the prognosis of transplantation.