Total Triglycerides Research Articles

Clinical and functional features and quality of life in various phenotypes of occupational asthma

Purpose. To study the characteristics of the content of neutral lipids and phospholipid fractions in the membranes of erythrocytes and blood plasma of adolescents with cephalalgia and arterial hypertension (AH). Materials and methods. Subject of the study – adolescents 12–17 years old (boys and girls) with cephalgia and the presence of AH (main group) and without AH (comparison group). Methods: questionnaires, laboratory, statistical. Examination program: verification of the clinical form of cephalgia (episodic, chronic); assessment of the presence of AH (using percentile tables, taking into account age, gender and height percentile); determination of the concentration of neutral lipids and phospholipid fractions in blood plasma and erythrocyte membranes using thin layer chromatography. Results. Of the 64 examined adolescents – patients of the pediatric department with recurrent cephalgia, the frequent (chronic) form of cephalgia was verified in 40 (62.5%) people, AH was diagnosed in 10 (25.0%) adolescents with chronic cephalgia and in 30 (75.0%) adolescents with this form of cephalalgia AH were not identified. Features of the lipid spectrum of adolescents with a chronic form of cephalgia associated with AH included a lower concentration of total lipids and triglycerides in erythrocyte membranes, higher values of the general phospholipids/free cholesterol ratio and a smaller number of statistically significant correlations. Conclusion. The features we identified in the lipid spectrum of erythrocyte membranes and blood plasma in adolescents with a frequent (chronic) form of cephalalgia associated with AH may indicate the presence in adolescents of initial minimal changes in the biochemical status of cell membranes at the stages of development of cardiovascular pathology – hypertension and coronary heart disease.

Lipid spectrum of cell membranes and blood plasma in adolescents with recurrent cephalgia associated with arterial hypertension. Methods of correction

Purpose. To study the characteristics of the content of neutral lipids and phospholipid fractions in the membranes of erythrocytes and blood plasma of adolescents with cephalalgia and arterial hypertension (AH). Materials and methods. Subject of the study – adolescents 12–17 years old (boys and girls) with cephalgia and the presence of AH (main group) and without AH (comparison group). Methods: questionnaires, laboratory, statistical. Examination program: verification of the clinical form of cephalgia (episodic, chronic); assessment of the presence of AH (using percentile tables, taking into account age, gender and height percentile); determination of the concentration of neutral lipids and phospholipid fractions in blood plasma and erythrocyte membranes using thin layer chromatography. Results. Of the 64 examined adolescents – patients of the pediatric department with recurrent cephalgia, the frequent (chronic) form of cephalgia was verified in 40 (62.5%) people, AH was diagnosed in 10 (25.0%) adolescents with chronic cephalgia and in 30 (75.0%) adolescents with this form of cephalalgia AH were not identified. Features of the lipid spectrum of adolescents with a chronic form of cephalgia associated with AH included a lower concentration of total lipids and triglycerides in erythrocyte membranes, higher values of the general phospholipids/free cholesterol ratio and a smaller number of statistically significant correlations. Conclusion. The features we identified in the lipid spectrum of erythrocyte membranes and blood plasma in adolescents with a frequent (chronic) form of cephalalgia associated with AH may indicate the presence in adolescents of initial minimal changes in the biochemical status of cell membranes at the stages of development of cardiovascular pathology – hypertension and coronary heart disease.

Atherogenic Index, Cardiovascular Risk Ratio, and Atherogenic Coefficient as Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease in Pre-eclampsia in Southeast Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Pre-eclampsia is a key trigger for maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Current evidence suggests an association between dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis. Thus, the importance of evaluating some indices of atherosclerosis during pregnancy cannot be over-emphasized. To evaluate the effect of some lipid profile indices as risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) among women with pre-eclampsia in Enugu, Southeast Nigeria. A cross-sectional study of two groups of eligible pregnant women between 20 and 40 weeks of gestation selected at three healthcare facilities in Enugu, Nigeria was carried out. The case group consisted of 160 women with pre-eclampsia, while the control group consisted of 160 normotensive pregnant women. Participants' fasting blood samples were analyzed for different fractions of lipids and their atherogenic indices were calculated. There were significantly higher mean levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglyceride (TG) [P < 0.001] in pre-eclampsia than in normal pregnancy. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), cardiovascular risk ratio (CRR), and atherogenic coefficient (AC) were significantly higher in pre-eclampsia than in normal pregnancy (P < 0.001) and there was a significant positive correlation between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and AIP (r = 0.421), CRR (r = 0.416) and AC (r = 0.634) for women with pre-eclampsia. Pre-eclampsia is associated with an increased risk of CVDs. Determining the atherogenic indices and assessing the AIP level in pre-eclamptic women may predict disease risk and help in early management and measures for its prevention.

Efficacy of Bay Leaf (Syzygium polyanthum) in Regulating Lipid Profile in Dyslipidemia Model Rats: A Systematic Review

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the world, more than any other disease. The leading cause of cardiovascular disease is dyslipidemia. Long-term use of simvastatin can cause other diseases. One of the medicinal plants known to have anti-cholesterol effects is a bay leaf (Syzygium polyanthum). This study aimed to determine how the administration of bay leaf extract regulates lipid profiles.Methods: This study used a systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines. Sampling in this study was done by collecting studies available in e-databases: PubMed and Google Scholar, with the inclusion criteria being experimental studies about the effect of bay leaf extract administration in regulating lipid profile in rats.Results: This study consisted of 10 experimental studies on rats. Eight studies showed an improved lipid profile, while two other studies did not show an improving lipid profile after the administration of bay leaf extract.Conclusion: Most studies revealed that bay leaf extract positively improves lipid profiles by lowering total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, increasing HDL levels, and having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Subchronic exposure to fenpyroximate causes multiorgan toxicity in Wistar rats by disrupting lipid profile, inducing oxidative stress and DNA damage

Background Fenpyroximate (FEN) is an acaricide that inhibits the complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain in mites. Data concerning mammalian toxicity of this acaricide are limited; thus the aim of this work was to explore FEN toxicity on Wistar rats, particularly on cardiac, pulmonary, and splenic tissues and in bone marrow cells. Methods rats were treated orally with FEN at 1, 2, 4, and 8 mg/Kg bw for 28 days. After treatment, we analyzed lipid profile, oxidative stress and DNA damage in rat tissues. Results FEN exposure increased creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities, elevated total cholesterol (T-CHOL), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations, while decreasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). It inhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, enhanced lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and modulated antioxidant enzymes activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase). Comet assay indicated that FEN induced a dose-dependent DNA damage, contrasting with the micronucleus test showing no micronuclei formation. Nonetheless, FEN exhibited cytotoxicity to bone marrow cells, as evidenced by a reduction in the number of immature erythrocytes among total cells. Conclusion FEN appears to carry out its genotoxic and cytotoxic activities most likely through an indirect pathway that involves oxidative stress.

Toxic effects of clindamycin-hydrochloride in healthy rodents

Background: Systemic administration of clindamycin-hydrochloride (an antibiotic) is mainly associated with gastro-intestinal disturbances and allergic reactions. Little is known of its haematological and biochemical toxicity.&#x0D; Objective: To evaluate the haematological and biochemical changes associated with indiscriminate administration of oral clindamycin-hydrochloride in clinically healthy rodents.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Twenty Wistar rats (130-189 grams) divided into four groups (A-D) of five rats each were used. Rats in group A (control) were treated with distilled water. Groups B-D received 0.2mL (below normal dose), 0.4mL (normal dose) and 1.0mL (above normal dose) of clindamycin-hydrochloride (75mg/5mL) at 8 hourly intervals, three times daily for 14 days, respectively. Thereafter, blood was collected through both ocular and cardiac puncture into ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) and lithium heparin bottles for evaluation of haematological and biochemical parameters, respectively.&#x0D; Results: Significant (P &lt; 0.05) increases in total white blood cell (WBC) counts and decreases in eosinophil (Eos) counts occurred in clindamycin-treated rats. In addition, significant (P &lt; 0.05) increases in concentrations of Total cholesterol, Triglyceride and High-density lipoprotein, respectively, as well as decreases in concentrations of Albumin, Alanine transaminase and Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, respectively also occurred in clindamycin-treated rats.&#x0D; Conclusion: Indiscriminate use of clindamycin-hydrochloride produces adverse haematological and biochemical changes in Wistar rats which may be a reflection of systemic toxicity, allergic reaction as well as liver and kidney dysfunction.

Effects of Benzo[a]pyrene on Food Metabolism and Reproductive Endocrine and Ovarian Development in Female Scallop Chlamys farreri at Different Reproductive Stages.

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) with the most carcinogenic effects of all the PAHs, has multiple toxic effects on marine bivalves. We investigated the interference mechanism of B[a]P on food metabolism (sugars, proteins, and sugars), and on reproductive endocrine and ovarian development in female scallops (Chlamys farreri). Scallops were exposed to different concentrations of B[a]P concentrations of 0, 0.38, 3.8, and 38 μg/L throughout gonadal development. Total cholesterol and triglyceride contents in the digestive glands were increased, and their synthesis genes were upregulated. The plasma glucose contents decreased with the inhibition of glycogen synthesis genes and the induction of glycolysis genes in the digestive gland. The results showed that B[a]P had endocrine-disrupting effects on scallops, that it negatively affected genes related to ovarian cell proliferation, sex differentiation, and egg development, and that it caused damage to ovarian tissue. Our findings supplement the information on B[a]P disruption in gonadal development of marine bivalves. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:748-761. © 2023 SETAC.

Complete novel review on Selenicereus undatus

Hylocereus undatus is characteristically the most cultivate vine cactus belonging to the family of Cactaceae, originating natively from Mexico and America. Commonly, it is well acknowledged under the name of “dragon fruit” Or “pitaya”. It is also called ‘buahnaga’ in Malaysia gives the meaning of dragon fruit. Dragon fruit is reported to have numerous health imparting phytochemicals such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and vitamin C which bestow strong antioxidant potential to dragon fruit. Betacyanin present in the red pulped dragon fruit protect the mice from diet-induced obesity and itsrelated metabolic disorders. The consumption of dragon fruit by type 2 diabetics substantially reduced the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol while it increased the levels of Dicholesteryl. It also significantly improves the insulin resistance in rats and decreases the blood glucose level in type II diabetic subjects. Our nature is surrounded with wide variety of plants and many of them are having medicinal properties. They contain the substances that provide nourishment essential for maintenance of life and for growth. The dragon fruit is a relatively super fruit on the Indian mark. Because of its appealing fruit color and mouth- watering pulp, nutraceutical value, excellent export potential, and highly remunerative in nature, it is gaining tremendous popularity among growers. Currently, several technologies can extend the shelf life of dragon fruit, such as coating it with wax or cassava starch and applying the Modified Atmospheric Packing.

Biological sex-related differences in the postprandial triglyceride response to intermittent hypoxaemia in young adults: a randomized crossover trial.

Obstructive sleep apnoea is characterized by chronic intermittent hypoxaemia and is independently associated with an increased risk of metabolic comorbidities (e.g. type II diabetes and ischaemic heart disease). These comorbidities could be attributable to hypoxaemia-induced alterations in blood lipid profiles. However, it remains unclear whether intermittent hypoxaemia alters triglyceridaemia differently between biological sexes. Therefore, we used a randomized crossover design to examine whether 6h of moderate intermittent hypoxaemia (15hypoxaemic cycles/h, 85% oxyhaemoglobin saturation) alters plasma triglyceride levels differently between men and women after a high-fat meal. Relative to men, women displayed lower levels of total triglycerides, in addition to denser triglyceride-rich lipoprotein triglycerides (TRL-TG; mainly very low-density lipoprotein triglycerides and chylomicron remnant triglycerides) and buoyant TRL-TG (mainly chylomicron triglycerides) during normoxia (ambient air) and intermittent hypoxaemia (sex × time: all P ≤ 0.008). Intermittent hypoxaemia led to higher triglyceride levels (condition: all P ≤ 0.016); however, this effect was observed only in men (sex × condition: all P ≤ 0.002). Compared with normoxia, glucose levels were higher in men and lower in women during intermittent hypoxaemia (sex × condition: P<0.001). The different postprandial responses between biological sexes occurred despite similar reductions in mean oxyhaemoglobin saturation and similar elevations in insulin levels, non-esterified fatty acid levels and mean heart rate (sex × condition: all P ≥ 0.185). These results support growing evidence showing that intermittent hypoxaemia impacts men and women differently, and they might help to explain biological sex-related discrepancies in the rate of certain comorbidities associated with intermittent hypoxaemia. KEY POINTS: Intermittent hypoxaemia is a key characteristic of obstructive sleep apnoea and alters lipid metabolism in multiple tissues, resulting in increased circulating triglyceride levels, an important risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases. Circulating triglyceride levels are regulated differently between biological sexes, with women typically displaying much lower fasting and postprandial triglyceride levels than men, partly explaining why women of all ages experience lower mortality rates from cardiometabolic diseases. In this study, healthy young men and women consumed a high-fat meal and were then exposed to 6h of intermittent hypoxaemia or ambient air. We show that postprandial triglyceride levels are significantly lower in women compared with men and that intermittent hypoxaemia leads to higher postprandial triglyceride levels in men only. These results might help us to understand better why women living with obstructive sleep apnoea experience lower rates of cardiometabolic diseases (e.g. type II diabetes and ischaemic heart disease) than men living with obstructive sleep apnoea.

Discovery of thiazolidinedione-based pancreatic lipase inhibitors as anti-obesity agents: synthesis, in silico studies and pharmacological investigations

A series of new 2,5-disubstituted arylidene derivatives of thiazolidinedione (16a-e, 17a-d, 18a-c) designed using molecular hybridization approach were synthesized, structurally characterized, and explored for their anti-obesity potential via inhibition of Pancreatic Lipase (PL). Compound 18a presented the most potent PL inhibitory activity with IC50 = 2.71 ± 0.31 µM, as compared to the standard drug, Orlistat (IC50 = 0.99 µM). Kinetic study revealed reversible competitive mode of enzyme inhibition by compound 18a with an inhibitory constant value of 1.19 µM. The most promising compound 18a revealed satisfactory binding mode within the active site of the target protein (human PL, PDB ID: 1LPB). Also, MM/PBSA binding free energy and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation analysis were performed for the most promising compound 18a, which showed potent inhibition according to the results of in vitro studies. Furthermore, a stable conformation of the 1LPB-ligand suggested the stability of this compound in the dynamic environment. The ADME and toxicity analysis of the compounds were examined using web-based online platforms. Results of in vivo studies confirmed the anti-obesity efficacy of compound 18a, wherein oral treatment with compound 18a (30 mg/kg) resulted in a significant reduction in the body weight, BMI, Lee index, feed intake (in Kcal), body fat depots and serum triglycerides. Compound 18a significantly decreased the levels of serum total cholesterol (TC) to 128.6 ± 0.59 mg/dl and serum total triglycerides (TG) to 95.73 ± 0.67 mg/dl as compared to the HFD control group. The present study identified disubstituted TZD derivatives as a new promising class of anti-obesity agents. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Lipid metabolism and functional somatic disorders in the general population. The DanFunD study.

Earlier studies on the association between plasma lipid profiles and functional somatic disorders (FSD) are mainly small case control studies hampered by selection bias and do not consider the great overlap between the various FSDs. The aim of the present study was to investigate the associations between various FSDs and plasma lipid profiles (total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol and triglycerides) in a large, unselected population. A cross-sectional general population-based study. The Danish Study of Functional Somatic Disorders (DanFunD) conducted in 2011-2015 in 10 municipalities in the western part of greater Copenhagen, Denmark. A total of 8,608 men and women aged 18-76 years were included in the analyses. Various delimitations of FSD such as chronic fatigue, chronic widespread pain, irritable bowel, and bodily distress syndrome were measured using validated self-administrated questionnaires. Lipid parameters were measured from fasting plasma samples using colorimetric slide methods with Vitros 4600/5600 Ortho Clinical Diagnostics. Logistic regression analyses were used to calculate possible associations between plasma lipids and the various delimitations of FSD. Associations are presented by OR (95% CI) and shown in boxplots. We found a positive association between bodily distress syndrome and triglycerides and non-HDL cholesterol and a negative association with HDL-cholesterol, but no consistent association with total cholesterol. A similar pattern was observed for persons with chronic fatigue, and to some degree for persons with chronic widespread pain, whereas persons with irritable bowel did not show a clear association with the lipid profiles. This is the first major study on plasma lipid profiles and FSD indicating an association between some delimitations of FSD and an unfavorable lipid profile. Due to the cross-sectional design, it cannot be determined whether the findings are consequences or determinants of FSD. Further studies-preferable prospective studies-are needed.

Major clinical outcomes of the regulation of metainflammation in patients with obesity in the light of nutrology: a systematic review

Introduction: Obesity stands out as a multifactorial disease that can cause several public health problems. There are 2.0 billion overweight and obese people in the world, and Brazil is in fifth place in the world ranking. A healthy nutritional status promotes immune function and can prevent the onset of a serious inflammatory process and severe infections, especially in times of pandemics such as COVID-19. Objective: It was to highlight the main clinical outcomes of the regulation of meta-inflammation in patients with obesity in the light of nutrology. Methods: The systematic review rules of the PRISMA Platform were followed. The research was carried out from August to September 2023 in Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: A total of 130 articles were found. A total of 42 articles were fully evaluated and 29 were included and developed in the present systematic review study. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the overall assessment resulted in 29 studies at high risk of bias and 21 studies that did not meet the GRADE. Most studies showed homogeneity in their results, with X2=71.7%&gt;50%. Research has shown that unbalanced eating patterns, such as the Western diet, rich in simple sugars, refined carbohydrates, and saturated and trans fatty acids, lead to chronic inflammatory responses, increased adipose deposition, and future comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity. Calorie restriction decreased CRP in obese patients and diet administration over 12 weeks had a beneficial effect. Furthermore, obese patients with antioxidant supplementation had lower values of BMI, waist circumference, fasting blood glucose level, and assessment of the homeostasis model of insulin resistance when compared to the placebo group, as well as having lower levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, malondialdehyde and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. n-3 PUFA supplementation can significantly reduce serum C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations.

Avocado intake and cardiometabolic risk factors in a representative survey of Australians: a secondary analysis of the 2011–2012 national nutrition and physical activity survey

BackgroundAvocados are a rich source of nutrients including monounsaturated fats, dietary fibre and phytochemicals. Higher dietary quality is reported in studies of consumers with higher avocado intakes. The present study aimed to examine avocado consumption and cardiometabolic risk measures in a representative sample of Australian adults.MethodsA cross-sectional analysis was performed using Australian Health Survey 2011-2013 (n = 2,736 observations). Day 1 24-hour recall data was used to examine reported avocado intake (whole avocados and avocado-containing products excluding avocado oil) and cardiometabolic risk measures (LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoprotein B, HbA1c, plasma glucose, systolic and diastolic blood pressure). T-tests and chi square analyses were conducted between low (5.21 [95% CI: 4.63, 5.79] grams/day) and high (44.11 [95% CI: 35.89, 52.33] grams/day) consumers of avocado.Results14.7% of Australians were ‘avocado consumers’ (n = 403 observations). Mean avocado intake was 24.63 (95% CI: 20.11, 29.15) grams per day, with a median intake of 10.40 (IQR: 4.49–26.00) grams per day for those considered ‘avocado consumers’. Consumers of avocados had a lower BMI and waist circumference (each, p ≤ 0.001), lower plasma glucose level (p = 0.03), and higher HDL cholesterol (p ≤ 0.001) when compared with non-consumers. A trend towards lower plasma glucose, HbA1c (each, p = 0.04) and higher dietary fibre intake (p = 0.05) was found between high and low consumers of avocado.ConclusionsOur study suggests favourable outcomes for avocado intake and cardiometabolic characteristics of consumers. Future studies should explore glucose homeostasis using a clinical trial design to understand potential relationships between avocado intake and cardiometabolic risk factors.

1166A&gt;C polymorphism of the &lt;i&gt;AGTR1&lt;/i&gt; gene as a marker metabolic disorders in the North residents

BACKGROUND: dyslipidemia is currently considered to be one of cardiovascular risk factors. Angiotensin II receptor type I (AGTR1) genetic polymorphisms are known as candidate genes for hypertension, diabetes, as well as for diabetes and obesity complications. Until now, there are not much data on how 1166A&gt;C (rs5186) polymorphism of the AGTR1 gene correlates with Northerners’ carbohydrate and lipid metabolism disorders. In addition, the data are contradictory. Following on from this, we see it is relevant to study the subject.AIM: this research assessed variants of 1166A&gt;C (rs5186) polymorphism of the AGTR1 gene as a predictor of dyslipidemia, carbohydrate metabolism disorders, overweight, and hypertension.MATERIALS AND METHODS: the North residents from Magadan Region, Caucasian by ethnicity, aged from 24 to 56 (average age 43.7± 1.4 yrs) participated in the survey. By real-time polymerase chain reaction we determined the single nucleotide polymorphism of the AGTR1 (rs5186) gene. We also analyzed physical development and cardiovascular variables as well as the concentrations of glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The insulin resistance index and the atherogenicity coefficient were calculated using standard methods.RESULTS: the examined subjects were one hundred and one volunteers. According to the results of genetic analysis, 55 people were assigned to the group of homozygotes for the wild type (AA) and 46 people were assigned to the group of the AGTR1*C allele variant carriers (heterozygotes and homozygotes AC+CC). Our findings contributed to the evidence on more unfavorable lipid pictures showed by the AGTR1*C allele variant carriers: significantly high values of total cholesterol (5,77±0,11, р=0.045), low-density lipoproteins (3,87±0,09, р=0.009), triglycerides (1,43±0,06, р=0.035), and atherogenicity coefficient (3,61±0,10, р=0.001), along with significantly low values of high-density lipoproteins (1,30±0,03, р=0,008). The above indicators were observed as opposed to significantly high fasting glycemia (5,74±0,14, р=0.006) and glycosylated hemoglobin (5,74±0,09, р=0.001) exhibited by the AA homozygotes subjects whose indices could be defined as the state of prediabetes. No intergroup differences were found in anthropometric or cardiovascular variables.CONCLUSION: thus, we could see impairments in the lipid pictures of the AGTR1*С polymorphic variant carriers along with the optimization of carbohydrate metabolism and no effect on the blood pressure or anthropometric characteristics.

Assessment of Retinal Microangiopathy in Patients with Balkan Endemic Nephropathy Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography-A Pilot Study.

Background and Objectives: It is well known that alterations in microvascular structure and function contribute to the development of ocular, renal, and cardiovascular diseases. Accordingly, the presence of fundus vascular changes in patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD) and Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) may provide information of prognostic value regarding the progression of renal disease. This study aimed to examine the associations between clinical characteristics and retinal optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) parameters in patients with BEN and compare them with those in CKD. Materials and Methods: This pilot study, conducted from March 2021 to April 2022, included 63 patients who were divided into two groups: the first group consisted of 29 patients suffering from BEN, and the second was a control group of 34 patients with CKD. Demographic, laboratory, clinical, and medication data were noted for all the patients included in this study. Each eye underwent OCT angiography, and the results were interpreted in accordance with the practical guide for the interpretation of OCTA findings. Results: Statistically significantly higher levels of total serum protein and triglycerides were recorded in the BEN group than in the CKD group, while the level of HDL cholesterol was lower. Based on the performed urinalysis, statistically significantly higher values of total protein and creatinine were detected in patients with CKD compared to the BEN group. It was demonstrated that the OCTA vascular plexus density of certain parts of the retina was in significant association with systolic and diastolic blood pressure, creatinine clearance, urinary creatinine, total cholesterol, diabetes mellitus type 2, age, body mass index, total serum and urinary protein, sCRP, and diuretic and antihypertensive treatment. Conclusions: In comparison with CKD, BEN leads to more significant disturbances in retinal vasculature density.

CARDIOPROTECTIVE AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF THE ARILS OF THE FRUIT OF BLIGHIA SAPIDA KD KOENIG (SAPINDACEAE) IN ISOPRENALINE-INDUCED MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION IN WISTAR RATS

Coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction are major global health issues, with myocardial infarction becoming more common. In the current study, the cardioprotective effects of methanol extract from the aril of the Blighia sapida fruit were assessed in relation to certain cardiac function biomarkers, endogenous antioxidant activity, and the pathology of the heart in Wistar rats that had undergone isoprenaline-induced myocardial infarction. Phytochemical screening was according to methods described by Trease and Evans. The LD50 of the extract was calculated using Lorke’s approach. The LD50 was calculated using nine (9) Wistar rats. For cardioprotective and antioxidant activities, six groups of seven Wistar rats each were formed from forty-two (42), which were divided at random. Group 1 were administered 1ml of normal saline daily, group 2 through 4 were pretreated with 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 750 mg/kg of the extract, respectively, for 28 days. Group 5 were administered 85 mg/kg of isoprenaline on days 26 and 27, 24 hours apart to cause myocardial infarction. Group 6 served as the positive control (pretreated with 2 mg/kg carvedilol for 28 days). The plant contains bioactive substances like alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, cardiac glycosides, cyanogenic glycosides, steroid glycosides, cardenolides, terpenes, and tannins. No mortality even at a dose of 5000mg/kg. Glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase all show considerable increases. Total troponin, troponin c, troponin I, creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB, and myoglobin, significantly decreased when compared to the isoprenaline group. Additionally, there was a significant drop in the levels of some biochemical markers in the extract treated groups compared to the isoprenaline control. Total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and ALT, AST, and ALP significantly decreased. Histological analysis revealed some degree of cardiac modification and a notable improvement. According to the data, the extract contains modest antioxidant and cardioprotective characteristics

Combination Therapy of Cuban Policosanol (Raydel®, 20 mg) and Intensive Exercise for 12 Weeks Resulted in Improvements in Obesity, Hypertension, and Dyslipidemia without a Decrease in Serum Coenzyme Q10: Enhancement of Lipoproteins Quality and Antioxidant Functionality in Obese Participants.

Obesity and overweight, frequently caused by a lack of exercise, are associated with many metabolic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Aerobic exercise effectively increases the high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and alleviates the triglyceride (TG) levels. The consumption of Cuban policosanol (Raydel®) is also effective in enhancing the HDL-C quantity and HDL functionality to treat dyslipidemia and hypertension. On the other hand, no study has examined the effects of a combination of high-intensity exercise and policosanol consumption in obese subjects to improve metabolic disorders. In the current study, 17 obese subjects (average BMI 30.1 ± 1.1 kg/m2, eight male and nine female) were recruited to participate in a program combining exercise and policosanol (20 mg) consumption for 12 weeks. After completion, their BMI, waist circumference, total fat mass, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) reduced significantly up to around -15%, -13%, -33%, -11%, and -13%, respectively. In the serum lipid profile, at Week 12, a significant reduction was observed in the total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels, up to -17% and -54% from the baseline, respectively. The serum HDL-C was elevated by approximately +12% from the baseline, as well as the percentage of HDL-C in TC, and HDL-C/TC (%), was enhanced by up to +32% at Week 12. The serum coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) level was increased 1.2-fold from the baseline in all participants at Week 12. In particular, the male participants exhibited a 1.4-fold increase from the baseline. The larger rise in serum CoQ10 was correlated with the larger increase in the serum HDL-C (r = 0.621, p = 0.018). The hepatic function parameters were improved; the serum γ-glutamyl transferase decreased at Week 12 by up to -55% (p < 0.007), while the aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase levels diminished within the normal range. In the lipoprotein level, the extent of oxidation and glycation were reduced significantly with the reduction in TG content. The antioxidant abilities of HDL, such as paraoxonase (PON) and ferric ion reduction ability (FRA), were enhanced significantly by up to 1.8-fold and 1.6-fold at Week 12. The particle size and number of HDL were elevated up to +10% during the 12 weeks, with a remarkable decline in the TG content, glycation extent, and oxidation. The improvements in HDL quality and functionality were linked to the higher survivability of adult zebrafish and their embryos, under the co-presence of carboxymethyllysine (CML), a pro-inflammatory molecule known to cause acute death. In conclusion, 12 weeks of Cuban policosanol (Raydel®, 20 mg) consumption with high-intensity exercise displayed a significant improvement in blood pressure, body fat mass, blood lipid profile without liver damage, CoQ10 metabolism, and renal impairment.

Effects of Spinach Extract and Licorice Extract on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Gut Microbiota in Weaned Piglets.

Anemia and weaning stress are important factors affecting piglet growth performance. Spinach extract and licorice extract have been used to improve anemia and antioxidant capacity, respectively. However, whether they have synergistic effects has not been reported. To evaluate the effects of mixed spinach extract and licorice extract on growth performance, serum biochemistry, antioxidant capacity, and gut microbiota in weaned piglets, a total of 160 weaned piglets were randomly allotted to four treatments with four replications of 10 piglets each. The four treatments were as follows: control (CON) group (basal diet), spinach extract (SE) group (basal diet + 1.5 kg/t spinach extract), licorice extract (LE) group (basal diet + 400 g/t licorice extract), and spinach extract and licorice extract (MIX) group (basal diet + 1.5 kg/t spinach extract + 400 g/t licorice extract). The results showed that, compared with the CON group, diets supplemented with spinach extract and licorice extract significantly increased the average daily gain (p < 0.05), while considerably reducing the feed-to-gain ratio (p < 0.05). Moreover, the MIX group exhibited a significant up-regulation of serum total protein, globulin, albumin, glucose, and triglyceride levels in comparison to the CON group (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, both the anemia and antioxidant capacity of piglets were effectively improved. Notably, the MIX group achieved even better results than the individual supplementation in terms of enhancing growth performance, which could potentially be attributed to the increased abundance of the Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group. These results demonstrated that the supplementation of diets with spinach extract and licorice extract improves the absorption of nutrients from the diet and antioxidant capacity in weaned piglets.

Prolonged Supplementation of Ozonated Sunflower Oil Bestows an Antiaging Effect, Improves Blood Lipid Profile and Spinal Deformities, and Protects Vital Organs of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) against Age-Related Degeneration: Two-Years Consumption Study.

Ozonated sunflower oil (OSO) is renowned for its diverse therapeutic benefits. Nonetheless, the consequences of extended dietary intake of OSO have yet to be thoroughly investigated. Herein, the effect of 2-year dietary supplementation of OSO was examined on the survivability, obesity, skeletal deformities, swimming behavior, and liver, kidney, ovary, and testis function of zebrafish. Results showed that the zebrafish feed supplemented with 20% (wt/wt) OSO for 2 years emerged with higher survivability and body weight management compared to sunflower oil (SO) and normal diet (ND)-supplemented zebrafish. Radio imaging (X-ray)-based analysis revealed 2.6° and 15.2° lower spinal curvature in the OSO-supplemented groups than in the SO and ND-supplemented groups; consistently, OSO-supplemented zebrafish showed better swimming behavior. The histology analysis of the liver revealed the least fatty liver change and interleukin (IL)-6 generation in the OSO-supplemented group. Additionally, a significantly lower level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptotic, and senescent cells were observed in the liver of the OSO-supplemented zebrafish. Also, no adverse effect on the kidney, testis, and ovary morphology was detected during 2 years of OSO consumption. Moreover, lower senescence with diminished ROS and apoptosis was noticed in the kidney and ovary in response to OSO consumption. The OSO supplementation was found to be effective in countering age-associated dyslipidemia by alleviating total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoproteins (LDL-C) and elevating high-density lipoproteins (HDL-C)/TC levels. Conclusively, prolonged OSO consumption showed no adverse effect on the morphology and functionality of vital organs; in fact, OSO supplementation displayed a protective effect against age-associated detrimental effects on spinal deformities, vital organ functionality, cell senescence, and the survivability of zebrafish.

Development of oral formulation of Lepidium seeds significantly decreases the high blood glucose levels in diabetic rats: in vitro formulation and in vivo antidiabetic performance

Background Lepidium sativum, Garden Cress (GC), seeds have a lot of natural molecules with a pronounced activity against different disorders. It was reported that GC seeds have the ability to lower the blood glucose level. Aim The aim of this work was to formulate GC seeds into oral tablets containing a fixed dose of the grounded seeds. Furthermore, the anti-diabetic performance of the prepared tablets was studied in the streptozotocin rats’ model in comparison with positive control metformin. Methods Micrometrics of GC grounded seeds with different excipients were investigated. Then, GC tablets were prepared via direct compression technique. GC tablets were characterized for their uniformity of dosage unit, friability, hardness, disintegration time, and in vitro release. The antidiabetic effect was studied in rats for a period of 28 days. Glycosylated hemoglobin, liver performance, and lipid levels include total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were also estimated. In addition, histopathological study of liver and pancreas was also performed. Results Prosolv®EasyTab produced tablets with higher hardness, lower disintegration time, and fast release. GC tablets significantly lower the elevated blood glucose level. In addition, they have antihyperlipidemic activity, hepatocellular protective role and restore the histology of the liver and pancreas. Conclusion GC tablets could be a promising alternative formulation to control the high blood glucose level in diabetic rats rather than chemically derivatized drugs.