Significant Changes In Cholesterol Research Articles

Metabolic effects and cardiovascular disease risks of antiviral treatments in patients with chronic hepatitis B

AbstractDifferent antiviral treatments for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) have been known to have different metabolic effects. This study aimed to reveal whether tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)‐induced dyslipidemia and its associated outcomes are significant. This study utilized 15‐year historical cohort including patients with CHB in Korea and consisted of two parts: the single‐antiviral and switch‐antiviral cohorts. In the single‐antiviral cohort, patients were divided into four groups (entecavir [ETV]‐only, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate [TDF]‐only, TAF‐only, and non‐antiviral). Propensity score matching (PSM) and linear regression model were sequentially applied to compare metabolic profiles and estimated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risks longitudinally. In the switch‐antiviral cohort, pairwise analyses were conducted in patients who switched NAs to TAF or from TAF. In the single‐antiviral cohort, body weight and statin use showed significant differences between groups before PSM, but well‐balanced after PSM. Changes in total cholesterol were significantly different between groups (−2.57 mg/dL/year in the TDF‐only group and +2.88 mg/dL/year in the TAF‐only group; p = 0.002 and p = 0.02, respectively). In the TDF‐only group, HDL cholesterol decreased as well (−0.55 mg/dL/year; p < 0.001). The TAF‐only group had the greatest increase in ASCVD risk, followed by the TDF‐only group and the non‐antiviral group. In the switch‐antiviral cohort, patients who switched from TDF to TAF had a higher total cholesterol after switching (+9.4 mg/dL/year) than before switching (−1.0 mg/dL/year; p = 0.047). Sensitivity analysis on data with an observation period set to a maximum of 3 years for NA treatment showed consistent results on total cholesterol (−2.96 mg/dL/year in the TDF‐only group and +3.09 mg/dL/year in the TAF‐only group; p = 0.001 and p = 0.005, respectively). Another sensitivity analysis conducted on statin‐treated patients revealed no significant change in cholesterol and ASCVD risk. TAF was associated with increased total cholesterol, whereas TDF was associated with decreased total and HDL cholesterol. Both TAF and TDF were associated with increased ASCVD risks, and statin use might mitigate these risks.

The Effect of Dangke on Changes in Total Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels in Obesity White Rats

Background: Obesity is the excessive accumulation of fat in the body which disrupts health with the risk of metabolic system disorders in the form of increased cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. The prevalence of obesity in Makassar City is 24.05%, which is the highest prevalence in South Sulawesi. Dangke contains Lactic Acid Bacteria in the form of probiotics which have the ability to anti-inflammatory mechanisms and fat metabolism in the body. Purpose: To determine the effect of dangke on changes in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in obese white rats. Method: Pure experimental research design with Pre Post Randomized Clinical Trial Design. Data analysis used the independent T test/Mann-Whitney test and paired T test/Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test with a value of <0.05. Results: Comparison of total cholesterol and triglyceride levels before and after intervention in the control group showed p-values of 0.12 and 0.01, meaning there was no significant change in cholesterol and there was a significant change in triglycerides. Comparison of total cholesterol and triglyceride levels before and after intervention in the dangke group p-values were 0.47 and 0.12, meaning there was no significant change in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The difference in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels before the intervention in the control and dangke groups showed p-values of 0.37 and 0.78, meaning there was no significant change in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The difference in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels after intervention in the control and dangke groups obtained p-values of 0.38 and 0.32, which means there was no significant change in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Conclusion: There was no significant change in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the control and dangke groups when given dangke, but there was a tendency to decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels after the intervention in the dangke group.

Efficacy of probiotics and fibers on metabolic disturbances associated with antipsychotics: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

IntroductionHuman gut microbiota plays an important role in metabolic health. Atypical antipsychotics can lead to metabolic abnormalities and changes in the gut microbiota. Multiple studies have examined the role of probiotics in suppressing antipsychotics-induced weight gain, but they have never been examined in a meta-analysis.ObjectivesThis network meta-analysis aims to compare the effect of probiotics + fibers, probiotics only, and fibers only on metabolic abnormalities induced by atypical antipsychotics.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL) for all relevant studies. We used mean difference with its 95% confidence interval as our effect size. Primary outcomes were body weight and body mass index (BMI), while secondary outcomes were changes in other cardiometabolic risk factors.ResultsWe included 4 randomized controlled trials comprising 319 patients. For body weight, probiotics + fibers (MD -3.96, 95% CI [-5.16, -2.76]), fibers only (MD -1.91, 95% CI [-3.81, -0.01]), and probiotics only (MD -1.37, 95% CI [-2.07, 0.66]) were significantly superior to placebo. Probiotics + fibers (MD -1.52, 95% CI [-2.11, -0.92]), but not fibers only or probiotics only, was associated with significant changes in BMI. Probiotics + fibers was also associated with significant changes in cholesterol (MD -0.37, 95% CI [-0.67, -0.07]), insulin levels (MD -3.37, 95% CI [-5.35, -2.10]), and insulin resistance index (MD -1.35, 95% CI [-1.94, -0.76]). There were no significant adverse events reported in the included studies.ConclusionsProbiotics + fibers, probiotics only, and fibers can be effective in controlling antipsychotics-induced metabolic abnormalities, with probiotics + fibers being the most effective regimen. All three treatments were safe and well tolerated by patients.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Comparison of the antisclerotic effect of hydroalcoholic extracts of Ocimum basilicum and Otostegia persica with quinacrine by inhibition of phospholipase A2 in male Wistar rats.

Objective:Hypercholesterolemia is now considered a major risk factor for development of atherosclerosis. The phospholipase A2 superfamily of enzymes has causal involvement in atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is one of the main causes of mortality in developed countries and in some developing countries such as Iran. The present study was designed to investigate the antihypercholesterolemic and antiatherogenic potentiality of ethanolic extracts of Ocimum basilicum (O. basilicum) and Otostegia persica (O. persica) in high-fat diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rats. Materials and Methods:In this study, 35 male rats were randomly divided into 1 normal diet and 4 high-fat diet groups. After two months of high-fat diet, measurement of cholesterol and LDL showed a significant difference between the groups. The 5 groups were as follows: Healthy rats receiving physiological serum, hypercholesterolemic rats without any treatment, hypercholesterolemic rats receiving quinacrine (30 mg/kg), hypercholesterolemic rats treated with extract of O. persica (300 mg/kg), and hypercholesterolemic rats treated with O. basilicum extract (300 mg/kg). Treatment was carried out for 40 days and finally, blood samples were collected and examined for cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, C-reactive protein, phospholipase A2, and interleukin-6 levels.Results:Treatment of hypercholesterolemic rats with ethanolic extracts of O. persica and O. basilicum did not cause significant changes in cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL or HDL levels. They caused a significant decrease in the levels of inflammatory factors of IL-6, PLA2 and CRP (p <0.05).Conclusion:Ethanolic extracts of O. persica and O. basilicum have antisclerotic effects by reducing the inflammatory factors and PLA2 activity.

ДИНАМИКА ПОКАЗАТЕЛЕЙ ЛИПИДНОГО ОБМЕНА У ИСПЫТУЕМЫХ В ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТЕ С 5-СУТОЧНОЙ «СУХОЙ» ИММЕРСИЕЙ

Blood samples from six 25–40 y.o. male subjects in a 5-d dry immersion (DI) experiment were analyzed for cholesterol, cholesterol of high- (HDLP), low- (LDLP) and very low density lipoproteins, triglycerides, apolipoproteins А1 (аpoА1) and apolipoproteins В (аpоВ), non-esterified (free) fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxibutyrate and phospholipids. Atherogenic indices were calculated, as well as the ratios of cholesterol, аpоВ/аpоА1 and cholesterol/phospholipids. No significant changes in cholesterol or lipoprotein fractions were determined. Increases in the triglyceride level and apoB/apoA1 ratio as harbingers of incipient atherogenesis showed up on the final day in DI and disappeared two days later. The process of readaptation to normal conditions is accompanied by the development of a stress reaction characterized by increased use of lipid substrates (phospholipids, β-hydroxybutyrate, NEFA) for energy synthesis.

Фітопрепарат часнику знижує артеріальний тиск і зменшує окисний стрес, збільшуючи вміст H2S у плазмі крові у пацієнтів з артеріальною гіпертензією

Arterial hypertension (AH) is a multifactorial disease that is accompanied by the development of oxidative-nitrosative stress and insufficient production of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). We hypothesized that garlic bio supplement Full Spectrum Garlic (Swanson Health Product, USA) may be used as a potential H2S donor in treatment of AH in patients. The aim was to study the effect of garlic on blood pressure, ROS generation and cNOS/iNOS activity, biochemical in male 28-39 years old patients with grade II AH. It was found that 10 days of standard antihypertensive therapy (adrenoblockers, ACE inhibitors) with 30 days of garlic supplementation reduced mean systolic and diastolic pressures by 9 and 8 mm Hg respectively. Positive effects of garlic consumption on hemodynamic parameters were observed: enddiastolic volume increased by 8% and peripheral vascular resistance decreased by 11,3% . In the blood plasma of patients, H2S levels increased by 43,6% , the production of ROS and the content of lipid peroxidation products decreased significantly. It is important that the cNOS activity was increased by 130% and iNOS activity decreased by 38,3%. No significant changes in cholesterol, urea, creatinine, glucose, as well as erythrocyte parameters were observed, which indicates the tolerance of the garlic supplements. Thus, the hypotonic effect of garlic is realized by increasing endogenous H2S in plasma, improving endothelium-dependent relaxation of blood vessels and reducing the manifestations of oxidative stress, which makes it promising to use it in the complex therapy of hypertension.

1159-P: Metformin Monotherapy Changes Gut Microbiota in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes

Current clinical guidelines suggest metformin as the first-line therapy to treat type 2 diabetes. Despite its use for over 60 years, the precise mechanisms of metformin are still not fully discovered. Traditionally, liver was thought to be the main target of metformin action. More recently, gut has become the center of attention due to the increasing evidences suggesting the antidiabetic effect of metformin is derived from the gut. We aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic effects of metformin and the changes of gut microbiota in newly-diagnosed and drug-naive type 2 diabetes. We recruited 22 patients with newly-diagnosed and drug-naive type 2 diabetes from the outpatient clinic in a university hospital in southern Taiwan. Before and after metformin monotherapy for three months, we collected the biochemical data and measured fecal microbiota by quantitative real-time PCR with 16S rRNA gene sequencing. At the end of three months, there were totally 14 patients continued on metformin monotherapy and completed the collection of stool samples. Our results discovered that body-mass index, HbA1C, and fasting blood glucose decreased while HDL-C increased significantly after metformin monotherapy for three months. There were no significant changes in cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-C, and HOMA-IR. Using quantitative real-time PCR with 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we found that Akkermansia and Escherichia increased significantly. The two major phylum of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes did not have significant changes after three-month metformin monotherapy. We revealed that the antidiabetic effects of metformin associated with the changes of microbiota including Akkermansia and Escherichia. Understanding the interaction between metformin and gut microbiota in newly-diagnosed type 2 diabetes can help to identify important microbiota species related to the antidiabetic effect of metformin. In the future, gut microbiota has the potential to serve as a new therapeutic tool or target in treating type 2 diabetes. Disclosure W. Hung: None. W. Hung: None. Funding Kaohsiung Medical University

Correlation of metabolic parameters, neurotrophin-3, and neurotrophin-4 serum levels in women with schizophrenia and first-onset depression

Background: Neurotrophin-3 (NTF3) and neurotrophin-4 (NTF4) play a crucial role in the neurodevelopment, differentiation, survival, and protection of neurons in different brain regions. Schizophrenia and depression are highly associated with metabolic abnormalities. Longitudinal and cross-sectional comparisons of NTF3 and NTF4 levels, as well as clinical and metabolic parameters, were studied in schizophrenia, first-episode depression, and control groups.Materials and methods: Serum NTF3 and NTF4 levels, body mass index (BMI), fasting serum glucose and lipid profile: cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) were measured at baseline and week 8 in 133 women: 55 patients with schizophrenia (19 with first-episode and 36 chronic), 30 patients with a first-episode depression and 48 healthy controls. The severity of the symptoms was evaluated with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Beck Depression Inventory.Results: Longitudinal and cross-sectional comparisons did not detect any differences in the serum levels of NTF3 and NTF4 between studied groups. NTF3 and NTF4 levels were strongly correlated. Correlation of NTF3 and HDL-C levels at baseline was observed. Significant changes in cholesterol and fasting serum glucose levels in first-episode depression patients during 8 weeks of treatment were detected. Significant differences in BMI and LDL-C levels between schizophrenia and first-episode depression patients were discovered.Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first research which correlates NTF3 and NTF4 with metabolic parameters. Our study does not support the theory that the peripheral levels of NTF3 and NTF4 are disturbed in schizophrenia or first-episode depression.

Tier 3 specialist weight management service and pre-bariatric multicomponent weight management programmes for adults with obesity living in the UK: A systematic review.

SummaryBackgroundNHS England has recommended a multidisciplinary weight management services (MWMS—Tier 3 services) for patients requiring specialized management of obesity, including bariatric surgery, but clinical and measurable health‐related outcomes from these services remains fragmented. We therefore undertook a systematic review to explore the evidence base of effect on body weight loss and comorbidities outcomes of Tier 3 or UK pre‐bariatric MWMPs.MethodsAMED, CINAHL, EMBASE, HMIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, HDAS search and Google Scholar were searched from January 2000 to September 2017 in a free‐text fashion and crossed‐references of included studies to identify potential illegibility. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) published Tier 3 original study abstracts/articles; (b) intervention studies with before and after data; (c) studies that included any sort of MWMPs conducted on British residents with obesity; and (d) studies included T2DM measurements in a MWMPs.ResultsIn total, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria. The total number of participants analysed was N = 11,735. Baseline accumulative average BMI was calculated at 42.54 kg/m2, weight 117.88 kg and waist circumference 126.9 cm. And at 6 months, 40.73 kg/m2, 112.17 kg and 120.3 cm, respectively. Secondary outcome variables were as improved with reduction in HbA1c, fasting blood sugars, insulin usage and blood pressure. Physical activity increased at 3 months then declined after 6 months with no significant changes in cholesterol levels.ConclusionTier 3 and MWMPs have a short to mid‐ranged positive effect on obese patients (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) living in the UK regarding accumulated reduction in weight, glycaemic control, blood pressure and with subtle improvements in physical activity.

Effect of lisinopril and perindopril on serum lipid profile in Albino rabbits

Background: Hypertension with dislipidemia is becoming a common morbidity, since ACE inhibitors are the first line of antihypertensive drugs so present study was undertaken with the aim to evaluate the possible effects of ACE inhibitor on lipid profile in albino rabbits.Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, GSVM Medical College, Kanpur. Rabbits were divided into 2 groups with 6 in each group. Rabbits of Group I was given Lisinopril in dose of 0.25mg/kg and of group II was given Perindopril in dose of 0.20mg/kg for a period of 6 weeks. Lipid profile estimation (Serum Total cholesterol, serum HDL, serum LDL, serum Triglycerides and serum VLDL) was done at day 0, 7, 21 and 45 respectively.Results: After analysis Rabbits of group-I (Lisinopril) showed 3.1% decrease in serum cholesterol level at 45th day (P&lt;0.001). Serum HDL level increased by 6.4% and 14.3% at day 21 and 45 respectively (P&lt;0.05). Increase in serum Triglyceride level was 2.6% at day 45 (P&gt;0.05). Serum LDL level decreases by 4.4% and 8.6% at day 21 and 45 respectively (P&lt;0.001). There was no significant change in Serum VLDL level. Rabbits of group- II (Perindopril) showed decreased total cholesterol levels by 2.6% (P&lt;0.05). There was an increase in HDL level by 6.8 % at day 45(P&lt;.05). Triglycerides and VLDL levels were not significantly altered while serum LDL level decreases by 6.7% at day 45 (P&lt;0.01).Conclusions: From our study it was concluded that Lisinopril had a favourable effect on serum lipid profile by decreasing total cholesterol, increasing serum HDL level. It may increase triglycerides, decrease LDL. Perindopril increase serum HDL and decreases LDL, there is no significant change in cholesterol, TG and VLDL levels.

Social jet-lag potentiates obesity and metabolic syndrome when combined with cafeteria diet in rats

Background/ObjectivesModern lifestyle promotes shifted sleep onset and shifted wake up time between weekdays and weekends, producing a condition termed “social-jet lag.” Disrupted sleep promotes increased appetite for carbohydrate and fat-rich food, which in long term leads to overweight, obesity and metabolic syndrome. In order to mimic the human situation we produced an experimental model of social-jet lag (Sj-l). With this model, we explored the link between shifted sleep time with consumption of a cafeteria diet (CafD) and the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Subjects/MethodsThe first experiment was designed to create and confirm the model of Sj-l. Rats (n=8–10/group) were exposed to a shifted sleep time protocol achieved by placing the rats in slow rotating wheels from Monday to Friday during the first 4h of the light period, while on weekends they were left undisturbed. The second experiment (n=8–12/group) explored the combined effect of Sj-l with the opportunity to ingest CafD. All protocols lasted 12weeks. We evaluated the development of overweight and indicators of metabolic syndrome. The statistical significance for all variables was set at P<0.05. ResultsSj-l alone did not affect body weight gain but induced significant changes in cholesterol in metabolic variables representing a risk factor for metabolic syndrome. Daily restricted access to CafD in the day or night induced glucose intolerance and only CafD during the day led to overweight. Sj-l combined with CafD induced overconsumption of the diet, potentiated body weight gain (16%) and promoted 5 of the criteria for metabolic syndrome including high insulin and dislipidemia. ConclusionPresent data provide an experimental model of social-jet lag that combined with overconsumption of CafD, and maximized the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Importantly, access to CafD during the night did not lead to overweight nor metabolic syndrome.

MP37-08 A NEW INSIGHT FOR THE TREATMENT OF PRIMARY MACRONODULAR ADRENAL HYPERPLASIA: ADRENAL SPARING SURGERY EARLY OUTCOMES

You have accessJournal of UrologyAdrenal1 Apr 2017MP37-08 A NEW INSIGHT FOR THE TREATMENT OF PRIMARY MACRONODULAR ADRENAL HYPERPLASIA: ADRENAL SPARING SURGERY EARLY OUTCOMES Fabio Tanno, Victor Srougi, Vania Brondani, Madson Almeida, Berenice Mendonca, Miguel Srougi, Jose Chambo, and Maria Fragoso Fabio TannoFabio Tanno More articles by this author , Victor SrougiVictor Srougi More articles by this author , Vania BrondaniVania Brondani More articles by this author , Madson AlmeidaMadson Almeida More articles by this author , Berenice MendoncaBerenice Mendonca More articles by this author , Miguel SrougiMiguel Srougi More articles by this author , Jose ChamboJose Chambo More articles by this author , and Maria FragosoMaria Fragoso More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2017.02.1140AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Partial Adrenalectomy (PA) has dramatically changed the treatment of patients affected by pathologies that affect both adrenal glands. Currently, evidences regarding the use of PA to treat primary macronodular adrenal hyperplasia(PMAH) are limited, including a small number of cases described as part of cohorts related to a variety of adrenal gland tumors. To date, the outcomes of this surgical treatment on hypercortisolism control is not known. In order to overcome the hormonal replacement caveats while minimizing the risks of hypercortisolism relapse, we performed a series of simultaneous total adrenalectomy of largest adrenal gland and contra-lateral partial adrenalectomy(adrenal sparing surgery) in patients with PMAH. METHODS Ten patients diagnosed with PMAH were treated surgically with adrenal sparing surgery. Primary endpoint was hypercortisolism remission, considered when patients had physiologic cortisol levels (5-25 μg/L) without hormonal reposition. Adrenal insufficiency and latent adrenal insufficiency were defined when oral hydrocortisone reposition was needed, with the dose of > 0,2 mg/kg/day and = 0,2 mg/kg/day, respectively.Secondary endpoints were clinical and metabolic parameters improvement. Body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, cholesterol, lipid and glucose levels, were measured before and 12 months after the procedure. Medications to control comorbidities were also assessed and compared. RESULTS There were no intra-operative complications and average operation time was 189 ± 34 minutes. Median hospitalization period was 7,5 days and one patient needed surgical hematoma drainage. With a median follow-up of 24 months (range: 13 to 63 months), 40% of the cohort had complete hypercortisolism remission, 20% persisted with latent adrenal insufficiency and 40% with adrenal insufficiency. Hypercortisolism recurrence was not observed. Median systolic/diastolic blood pressures were 155/95 before and 123/80 after the procedure (p < 0,001). Median number of medications to control blood hypertension diminished from 3 to 1(p < 0,001). There was no significant change in cholesterol, lipid and glucose blood levels as well as the number of diabetes and lipid lowering medications. Median BMI decreased from 31,7 ± 7,8 to 28,4 ± 4,7(p = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS An early assessment revealed that adrenal sparing surgery is a feasible procedure to treat patients affected by PMAH, providing hypercortisolism remission and potentially avoiding the drawbacks of lifetime corticosteroids replacement. © 2017FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 197Issue 4SApril 2017Page: e477-e478 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2017MetricsAuthor Information Fabio Tanno More articles by this author Victor Srougi More articles by this author Vania Brondani More articles by this author Madson Almeida More articles by this author Berenice Mendonca More articles by this author Miguel Srougi More articles by this author Jose Chambo More articles by this author Maria Fragoso More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Effect of yoga training on inflammatory cytokines and C-reactive protein in employees of small-scale industries.

OBJECTIVE:The present study intends to see the effect of yoga practices on lipid profile, interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and high-sensitivity-C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) among apparently healthy adults exposed to occupational hazards.MATERIALS AND METHODS:In the present study, 48 participants aged 30–58 years (41.5 ± 5.2) who were exposed to occupational hazards were randomized into two groups, that is, experimental and wait-list control. All the participants were assessed for lipid profile, IL-6, TNF-α, and hs-CRP at the baseline and after completion of 3 months of yoga training intervention. The experimental group underwent yoga training intervention for 1 h for 6 days a week for 3 months, whereas control group continued with their daily activities except yoga training. Data analysis was done using statistical software SPSS Version 20.0. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and independent t-test.RESULTS:The results of within group comparison revealed highly significant changes in cholesterol (P < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein (P < 0.001), low-density lipoprotein (LDL)(P < 0.01), hs-CRP (P < 0.01), IL-6 (P < 0.001), and TNF-α (P < 0.001) in experimental group. Comparison between experimental and control group revealed significant changes in cholesterol (P < 0.01), LDL (P < 0.05), IL-6 (P < 0.01), TNF-α (P < 0.01), and hs-CRP (P < 0.01).CONCLUSION:A yoga-based lifestyle intervention seems to be a highly promising alternative therapy which favorably alters inflammatory markers and metabolic risk factors.

Comparison of Serum Lipid and Thyroid Profiles Before and After Scaling and Root Planning in Periodontitis Subjects

Background: Hyperlipidemia and Thyroid disorders are considered to be related with systemic inflammation. Periodontitis has been found to release inflammatory cytokines to systemic circulation. So, it could be related with these two systemic conditions. Aim: Determination of effect of changes in periodontal status obtained by scaling and root planing on serum lipid and thyroid profiles. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 30 subjects with chronic periodontitis. Subjects with history of periodontal treatment in the past six months, diabetes and on anti hyperlipidemic/thyroid drugs or active tobacco smoking were excluded. Periodontal parameters (gingival index, plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth) and metabolic parameters, like, fasting serum lipid profile and thyroid profiles were taken at baseline and 90 days. At baseline, conventional periodontal therapy i.e., full mouth scaling and root planing was performed without any prescription of antibiotics or mouthwashes. Results: There were significant improvement (p<0.05) in all periodontal parameters. Correspondingly, there were significant (p<0.05) decrease in the levels of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), Triglycerides and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). There was significant (p<0.05) increase in HDL levels, but no significant changes in cholesterol, VLDL and triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels. Conclusion: The improvement in periodontal status is reflected in improvement of serum lipid profile. This effect is not very obvious on thyroid status.

Vitamin D Therapy to Reduce Blood Pressure and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Resistant Hypertension

Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are associated with higher prevalent blood pressure. We tested whether high-dose intermittent oral vitamin D therapy could reduce blood pressure and left ventricular mass in patients with hypertension resistant to conventional treatment. We conducted a parallel-group, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial. Patients with supine office blood pressure &gt;140/90 mm Hg on ≥3 antihypertensive agents received 100 000 U oral vitamin D3 or matching placebo every 2 months. Office and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol were measured at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 months; left ventricular mass index was measured by cardiac MRI on a subgroup at baseline and 6 months. The primary outcome was mean 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure at 6 months. A total of 68 participants were randomized, 34 in each group. Mean age was 63 (SD 11) years, mean baseline office blood pressure was 154/84 (13/10) mm Hg, and mean baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was 42 (16) nmol/L. Treatment with vitamin D did not reduce 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (adjusted treatment effects: systolic, +3 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, –4 to +11; P =0.33; diastolic, –2 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, –6 to +2; P =0.29); similar results were seen for office blood pressure. Left ventricular mass index was measured in a subgroup (n=25); no reduction was seen with vitamin D treatment (adjusted treatment effect, +4 g/m 2 ; 95% confidence interval, 0 to +7; P =0.04). There was no significant change in cholesterol or glucose levels. Thus, 6 months of intermittent, high-dose oral vitamin D3 did not reduce blood pressure or left ventricular mass in patients with resistant hypertension.

Chronic ethanol consumption decreases serum sulfatide levels by suppressing hepatic cerebroside sulfotransferase expression in mice

Epidemiological studies demonstrate a possible relationship between chronic ethanol drinking and thrombotic diseases, such as myocardial infarction and stroke. However, the precise mechanism for this association remains unclear. Sulfatides are endogenous glycosphingolipids composed of ceramide, galactose, and sulfate, known to have anti-thrombotic properties. Low (0.5 g/kg/day), middle (1.5 g/kg/day), and high (3.0 g/kg/day) doses of ethanol were administered for 21 days intraperitoneally to female wild-type mice, and serum/liver sulfatide levels were measured. No significant changes in cholesterol and triglycerides were seen in serum and liver by ethanol treatment. However, serum/liver sulfatide levels were significantly decreased by middle- and high-dose ethanol treatment, likely due to downregulation of hepatic cerebroside sulfotransferase (CST) levels. Marked decreases in the expression of catalase and superoxide dismutases and ensuing increases in lipid peroxides were also observed in the livers of mice with middle- and high-dose ethanol treatment, suggesting the association between the suppression of hepatic CST expression and enhancement of oxidative stress. Furthermore, serum levels of tissue factor, a typical pro-coagulant molecule, were significantly increased in the mice with middle- and high-dose ethanol treatment showing decreases in serum sulfatide levels. Collectively, these results demonstrate that chronic ethanol consumption reduces serum sulfatide levels by increasing oxidative stress and decreasing the expression of CST in the liver. These findings could provide a mechanism by which chronic ethanol drinking increases thrombotic events.

Feasibility study for efficacy of group weight management programmes achieving therapeutic weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of traditional diabetes and weight management advice to short‐term use of a very low calorie diet combined with traditional education in a group setting for people with type 2 diabetes.MethodsA 12‐week, non‐randomised dietary intervention was used including a control and treatment group in a community setting targeting obese individuals with type 2 diabetes. Participants attended a pilot programme aiming to lose 5–10% body weight. Main outcome measures included percentage weight loss, change in HbA1c and total cholesterol.ResultsAt 12 weeks more participants in the treatment group achieved significant weight loss of 5–10%, an average loss of 6.6 kg and a significant change in HbA1c (P = 0.017). Overall there was no significant changes in cholesterol for either group (P = 0.9).ConclusionsThe study demonstrates the feasibility for short‐term use of a very low‐calorie diet for medically significant change in weight and HbA1c in obese people with type 2 diabetes and could provide a realistic framework clinical management of weight in a group setting.

AB0697 Tocilizumab in systemic and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis: results of a retrospective evaluation in real-life clinical practice

BackgroundInterleukin-6 (IL-6) is a proinflammatory cytokine that is overexpressed in patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). A key role of this cytokine in the pathogenesis of such group of chronic...

Statins affect AQP2 traffic

the aquaporin-2 water channel (AQP2) plays a critical role in mediating vaopressin action in the kidney collecting duct (4). Physiologically, vasopressin acts by activating the V2 receptor on the basolateral side of these cells to trigger a classical G protein-coupled activation cascade resulting in increased cAMP and activation of protein kinase A (PKA). With the realization that AQP2 translocation from vesicles in the cytoplasm to the apical membrane increases apical water permeability (12, 13), studies then followed showing that PKA phosphorylation of the COOH terminal of AQP2 triggers the vesicular traffic that transfers AQP2 to the apical membrane in response to vasopressin (3, 5). A comprehensive review of this field has recently been published in the American Journal of Physiology-Renal Physiology (10). But, like for most important physiological pathways, the list of factors affecting apical AQP2 levels has grown year by year with increasing complexity. The abundance of AQP2 in the apical membrane is affected by its rate of endocytosis as well as exocytosis (8, 11). Moreover, cAMP and PKA are not the only intracellular mechanisms involved. It was discovered that modulation of cGMP and PGE2 pathways also impact AQP2 traffic (1, 2, 18). Adding even further to this complexity are new observations indicating that the statins so widely used clinically to reduce cholesterol can also affect levels of AQP2 in the apical membrane. Initial studies examined long-term actions of statins and were believed to be due to statins' established action of decreasing membrane cholesterol (14). A previous study had shown that levels of apical AQP2 channels are increased by cholesterol depletion because of reduced clathrin-mediated endocytosis of AQP2 (7). However, work by Li et al. (6) published in an issue of the American Journal of Physiology-Renal Physiology now shows that even acute exposure to simvastatin for times known to cause no significant changes in cholesterol can increase apical membrane AQP2 both in cultured cells and in Brattleboro rats, a strain that lacks any vasopressin. The significance of these new findings extends beyond the identification of yet another pharmacological effect of statins. Intriguingly, the authors provide strong evidence that the effect on AQP2 traffic is due to simvastatin's downregulation of RhoA activity, since overexpression of RhoA blocks elevation of AQP2 by simvastatin (6). Thus these studies add additional support to previous studies suggesting that statins have important effects on Rho GTPases (9, 16). Rho GTPases, in turn, appear to regulate the cytoskeleton and very likely endocytosis and vesicle trafficking (15, 17). Important details on exactly how Rho GTPases act to regulate AQP2 vesicle traffic are still unresolved. It also remains to be determined if there are similar effects of statins on endocytosis of other important kidney transporters or if AQP2 alone is affected. Nevertheless, this interesting new work strongly implicates RhoA in AQP2 regulation.

Effect of a 6-Week Wrestling and Wrestling –Technique Based Circuit Exercise on Plasma Lipoprotein Profiles and Hormone Levels in Well-Trained Wrestlers

The effect of 6 weeks of wrestling and wrestling–technique based circuit exercise on the plasma lipoprotein profile and selected hormonal changes was examined in 20 well-trained senior wrestlers. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups, an experimental group participated in 6 weeks of wrestling and wrestling–technique based circuit exercise (WTBCE) and the control group that remained sedentary. Blood samples were taken 48 hours before and after the first and last session of exercise training, respectively. Growth hormone (GH), insulinlike growth factor (IGF-1), testosterone, cortisol, insulin, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides (TG), fasting blood sugar (FBS), plasma volume (PV), body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat, maximum power, fatigue index and VO2max were measured. In the experimental group, significant decreases were observed in fasting FBS, IGF-1, GH, insulin, cortisol, PV, body weight, BMI, and body fat. Significant increases were observed in testosterone, maximum power, fatigue index and VO2max. No significant changes in cholesterol, HDL, LDL and TG, were seen in the experimental group. However, when the data was adjusted for the mean decrease of plasma volume in the exercise group, it was shown that cholesterol and HDL decreased significantly (p<0.05). There were no significant changes observed in the control group. We concluded that the significant decreases, especially in GH and IGF-1 can affect senior wrestlers' growth during the in-season training.