Longitudinal relationships between BMI and hs-CRP among people with schizophrenia.

In people with schizophrenia (PwS), inflammation and metabolic issues significantly increase morbidity and mortality. However, our ability to understand inflammatory-metabolic mechanisms in this population has been limited to cross-sectional studies. This study involved 169 PwS and 156 non-psychiatric comparisons (NCs), aged 25-65, observed between 2012 and 2022 with 0 to 5 follow-ups post-baseline. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), a marker of inflammation, was measured via a particle-enhanced immuno-turbidimetric assay. Body mass index (BMI) was used as a proxy for metabolic function. The measurement intervals for hs-CRP and BMI ranged between 6 and 48 months. Linear mixed models (LMM) results revealed that at all time points, PwS has a higher hs-CRP (t (316) = 4.73, p < .001) and BMI (t (315) = 4.13, p < .001) than NCs; however, for BMI, this difference decreased over time (t (524) = -5.15, p < .001). To study interrelationships between hs-CRP and BMI, continuous time structural equational modeling (CTSEM) was used, accounting for uneven measurement intervals. CTSEM results showed that both hs-CRP predicted future BMI (Est. = 12.91, 95 % CI [7.70; 17.88]) and BMI predicted future hs-CRP (Est. = 1.54, 95 % CI [1.00; 2.04]), indicating a bidirectional relationship between inflammation and metabolic function. Notably, the influence of hs-CRP on future BMI was more robust than the other lagged relationship (p = .015), especially in PwS (Est. = 2.43, 95 % CI [0.39; 0.97]). Our study highlights the important role of inflammation in metabolic function and offers insights into potential interventions targeting inflammation in PwS.

Assessment of ventilatory functions and associated inflammatory markers among workers in slaughterhouses.

OBJECTIVE: Meat processing is among the most extensive industries globally. However, data on the effects of occupational exposure on the pulmonary health of slaughterhouse workers is limited. Ascertaining the impact of the slaughterhouse atmosphere on the breathing habits of laborers exposed to it and the inflammatory markers associated with it was the aim of the current investigation. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed on 82 non-smoker subjects of 41 male workers working in one of the major slaughterhouses in Cairo, Egypt, matched to 41 controls of administrative personnel. An elaborate questionnaire encompassing medical and occupational history was administered to each participant in the research. General and local systemic examinations and ventilatory function tests were carried out, and serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured. RESULTS: Respiratory symptoms were more prevalent with a statistically significant decline in ventilatory function parameters (FVC%, FEV1%, FEV1/FVC, FEF 25%, FEF 50%, FEF 75%, and PEF%) among the exposed group compared to those of control. In addition, there was a significantly higher serum level of inflammatory markers (IL-6 and hsCRP) among the exposed group compared to the control group, with a negative correlation with ventilatory functions. Moreover, there was a positive association between levels of serum IL-6 and hsCRP and the age and duration of employment of workers. CONCLUSION: There was a notable increase in the prevalence of respiratory disorders and inflammatory markers among slaughterhouse workers. Additionally, there was a substantial decrease in ventilatory function parameters, which could be attributed to the bioaerosols they encountered in the workplace.

The combined effect of triglyceride-glucose index and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with chronic coronary syndrome: A multicenter cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) are the commonly used biomarkers for insulin resistance and systemic inflammation, respectively. We aimed to investigate the combined association of TyG and hsCRP with the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS). METHODS: A total of 9421 patients with CCS were included in this study. The primary endpoint was defined as a composite of MACE covering all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and revascularization. RESULTS: During the 2-year follow-up period, 660 (7.0%) cases of MACE were recorded. Participants were divided equally into three groups according to TyG levels. Compared with the TyG T1 group, the risk of MACE was significantly higher in the TyG T3 group. It is noteworthy that among patients in the highest tertile of TyG, hsCRP >3 mg/L was significantly associated with an increased risk of MACE, whereas the results were not significant in the medium to low TyG groups. When patients were divided into six groups according to hsCRP and TyG, the Cox regression analysis showed that patients in the TyG T3 and hsCRP >3 mg/L group had a significantly higher risk of MACE than those in the TyG T1 and hsCRP ≤3 mg/L group. However, no significant interaction was found between TyG and hsCRP on the risk of MACE. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that the concurrent assessment of TyG and hsCRP may be valuable in identifying high-risk populations and guiding management strategies among CCS patients.

Associations of different inflammatory factors with atherosclerosis among patients with psoriasis vulgaris.

Background: This study aimed to measure the associations between different inflammatory factors, namely interleukin (IL)-17A, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and atherosclerosis in patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at two hospitals in Hanoi, Vietnam. A total of 125 patients with psoriasis vulgaris and 50 healthy controls were recruited. Clinical characteristics and atherosclerosis were assessed. IL-17A, TNF-α, and hs-CRP levels were measured. Results: Psoriasis vulgaris patients with atherosclerosis had higher levels of hs-CRP (median = 1.22; interquartile range-IQR = 0.34-12.11) and IL-17A (median = 1.30; IQR = 0.43-4.28), but a lower level of TNF-α (median = 0.54; IQR = 0.13-3.41) compared to those without atherosclerosis (p < 0.05). Only LogIL-17A was positively related to atherosclerosis in psoriasis patients (Odds Ratio-OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.06-4.38, p < 0.05). After excluding systemically treated patients, LogIL-17A and Log TNF-α were associated with the likelihood of atherosclerosis (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study suggests a link between elevated levels of IL-17A and TNF-α and subclinical atherosclerosis. Further investigation on a larger scale is required to establish the causality of this relationship.

Omega-3 fatty acids effectively mitigate high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) biomarker of inflammation in acute myocardial infarction patients: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Myocardial infarction (MI) is considered an inflammatory disease and among the leading causes of death globally. An essential indicator of inflammation, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), is linked with the acute MI prognosis. We aimed to examine the impact of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) as an anti-inflammatory supplement on hs-CRP levels in acute MI patients. Sixty patients with acute MI participated in this randomized, placebo-controlled trial. For 30 days, patients were randomized to receive omega-3 PUFAs (2 g/day, N = 30) or placebo (N = 30) on top of guideline-directed medical therapy. An initial and endpoint measurement of hs-CRP was performed. We found that the hs-CRP levels in both omega-3 PUFAs and placebo groups remarkably decreased following 30 days of treatment (decreasing from 1.84 (2.3) and 1.3 (2.6) to 0.38 (0.54) and 0.63 (1.12) mg/dL, respectively; P < 0.001). Following the 30 days of treatment, the reducing impact of omega-3 PUFAs (↓ 1.54 (1.98) mg/dL) on hs-CRP was more robust than the placebo group (↓ 0.92 (1.57) mg/dL, P = 0.008). Furthermore, the WBC, cholesterol, LDL, and triglyceride levels were markedly decreased in omega-3 and placebo groups after 30 days of therapy (P < 0.001 for all). However, no remarkable differences were reported in the level of these parameters after 30 days of therapy between both studied groups. Our findings showed that omega-3 PUFAs decrease hs-CRP amounts in patients with acute MI. Omega-3 PUFA supplementation may be an appropriate candidate in patients with early-stage acute MI for inhibiting inflammation.

Type-2 diabetes mellitus with or without metabolic syndrome and their associated critical factors: A study from Northern India.

Background: Diabetes mellitus is associated with carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism abnormalities. Uncontrolled hyperglycaemia can result in dysfunction of various organs such as eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart and blood vessels leading to long-term complications like nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, stroke and ischaemia. The main objective of the study was to identify critical factors in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM) with metabolic syndrome (mets) compared with Type 2 DM without mets and their association in the development of Type 2 DM to Type 2 DM with mets and cardiovascular complications. This can aid in improving the clinical management and the consequences of the disease. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, a tertiary care centre in Northern India. All patients who were aged between 35 and 65 years of age were enrolled. Enrolled subjects were divided into three groups, Group I: 50 healthy people; Group II: 50 Type 2 DM without mets; and Group III: 50 Type 2 DM with mets. These patients were subjected to Anthropometric and biochemical parameter assessment. Results: On comparing Group III with control and Group II significant difference was observed in these parameters, that is, elevated TGs (P = 0.001), reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level (P = 0.001), elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (0.011), high serum insulin fasting (P = 0.010), weight (P = 0.021), waist circumference (P = 0.001) and BMI (P = 0.001). In the control group, head circumference was significantly lower compared to Group II (P = 0.001) and Group III (P = 0.001). Conclusion: On the basis of observed observation, it has been suggested that low enzymatic activity with poor glycaemic control may further progress Type 2 DM into Type 2 DM with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular complications. High hs-CRP concentration and high fasting insulin can be independent predictor of cardiovascular complications.

Association between high risk of obstructive sleep apnea and inflammatory markers in a population sample of young and middle-aged adults in the Miami Heart Study.

STUDY OBJECTIVES: There are limited data depicting the association between high risk of OSA and the levels of inflammatory markers in a population-based sample free from CVD. In a large U.S. cohort enriched with a Hispanic population and free of cardiovascular disease (CVD), we aimed to assess the association between high risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and inflammatory markers. METHODS: We analyzed data for 2359 clinical CVD-free participants from the Miami Heart Study, aged 40-65 (May 2015 - Sept 2018). High risk of OSA included those with a high risk using the Berlin questionnaire. Poisson regression analyses were utilized to examine the associations between high risk of OSA (reference: low risk of OSA) and hs-CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α levels (continuous) in univariate and multivariate models (adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and BMI, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and smoking). RESULTS: 552 (28%) participants were categorized as having a high risk of OSA. Patients with a high risk of OSA had higher median values of hs-CRP (2.3 vs. 1.0), IL-6 (1.9 vs. 1.4), and TNF-α (1.2 vs. 1.1) when compared to those with a low risk of OSA (all p < 0.001). When adjusting for age, sex, and race/ethnicity, the mean difference between patients with high and low risk of OSA in hs-CRP was 2.04 (95% CI 1.85, 2.23), and 0.73 (95% CI 0.57, 0.89) in IL-6. These differences were attenuated when further adjusting for CVD risk factors but remained statistically significant for hs-CRP: (0.38, 95% CI 0.21, 0.55). CONCLUSIONS: After accounting for CVD risk factors, individuals at high risk of OSA had significantly higher levels of hs-CRP, suggesting that OSA screening identified subclinical inflammation in this population sample of individuals free of CVD.

Effect of Crushed Flaxseed Consumption on Cardiovascular Risk Indicators in Menopausal Women.

Flaxseed is known for its numerous health benefits and is often used in the prevention and treatment of civilizational diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of consuming crushed flaxseed on cardiovascular risk in 51 menopausal women. The intervention lasted for 8 weeks, during which participants received a daily dose of 40 g of crushed flaxseed from two varieties with differing lignan contents. Participants were divided into three subgroups based on the variety of flaxseed consumed: (1) high-lignan group (HL), (2) low-lignan group (LL), and (3) control group (no flaxseed consumption). Biochemical blood parameters were measured using a BiOLis 24i Premium automatic analyzer. Body composition was assessed using an InBody 720 device. In the lipid profile, we observed a significant increase in total cholesterol (T-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, along with a significant decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in both the HL and LL groups. Triglyceride (TG) levels exhibited no significant change, whereas high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were significantly reduced in both the HL (p < 0.01) and LL (p < 0.01) groups. Visceral fat area (VFA) and percent body fat (PBF) showed a slight decreasing trend in the HL group, whereas in the LL group, VFA showed a slight increase. Body mass index (BMI) remained stable across all groups. These findings suggest that for the modulation of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, the daily dosage, duration of consumption, form of intake, and the specific variety of flaxseed (based on lignan content) are crucial factors.

A retrospective study of Parkinson's disease in Southwest China 2021-2024: An age-based approach.

BACKGROUND: Globally, Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the common neurodegenerative diseases in the elderly with increasing morbidity and disability, and its clinical pathogenesis is not clear. OBJECTIVE: To compare the differences in disease severity and blood biomarkers levels and their correlation between patients with early-onset Parkinson's disease (EOPD) and late-onset Parkinson's disease (LOPD). METHODS: A total of 342 patients diagnosed with PD were retrospectively collected. PD patients were categorized into EOPD (24 patients) and LOPD (318 patients) according to the age of onset of the disease. The Hoehn-Yahr (HY) staging was used to assess the severity of the disease in PD patients. Subjective rating scales such as the Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE) were used to assess the motor and non-motor functions of the patients. The differences of objective blood biomarkers such as triglyceride (TG) between the two groups were investigated. The correlation between them and PD was explored by logistic analysis. RESULTS: Percentage of EOPD group with HY staged as intermediate to late and Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease-Autonomic (SCOPA-AUT), Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's disease Rating Scale-III (MDS-UPDRS-III), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score and TG, non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (N-HDL-C), homocysteine (HCY), apolipoprotein B (Apo-B), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were lower than those in the LOPD group (P < 0.05); and the proportion of HY staged as early stage, Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) and Fatigue severity scale (FSS) scores and the levels of vitamin B12 were higher than those in the LOPD group (P < 0.05). The results of Multifactorial Logistic regression analysis showed that N-HDL-C [OR = 1.409, 95 % CI (1.063, 1.868)], Apo-B [OR = 0.797, 95 % CI (0.638, 0.997)], Vitamin B12 [OR = 0.992, 95 % CI (0.987, 0.998)] and hs-CRP [OR = 1.124, 95 % CI (1.070, 1.182)] were independent factors affecting the severity of PD, with significant differences between groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: N-HDL-C, Apo-B, Vitamin B12, and hs-CRP levels play an important role in the progression of PD.

Evaluation of ß2-microglobulin in the condition and prognosis of psoriasis patients.

BACKGROUND: Numerous studies have linked the inflammatory pathway in psoriasis and metabolic disease, while no specific marker defined it. It is worth exploring the association of ß2-microglobulin (ß2M) in psoriasis severity and comorbidities. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the correlation between blood ß2M level and psoriasis severity, to explore the inflammatory factors influencing the occurrence of psoriasis comorbidities such as arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension. METHODS: Ninety-seven psoriasis patients were analyzed in the cohort retrospective study during 12 weeks. RESULTS: Significantly higher levels of blood ß2M and ESR were observed in the group that patients' PASI ≥10 than in the group that PASI <10. Blood ß2M level had strong significantly positive correlations with the PASI in Pearson's correlation analysis. In the model that systemic inflammatory factors to find psoriasis comorbidity risk factors, logistic regression analysis showed that blood ß2M level was the significant risk factor associated with diabetes and hypertension. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) was the significant risk factor associated with arthritis. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with a severer psoriasis tended to have higher blood ß2M levels and severer inflammatory state. In the systemic inflammation indexes, the level of blood ß2M affected the risk of hypertension and diabetes, and hsCRP affected the risk of arthritis in patients with psoriasis.

Increased Tryptophan Catabolism Provides Predictive Value to Chronic Heart Failure Patients with Low-Grade Inflammation.

Kynurenine to tryptophan ratio (KTR), which serves as an indicator for evaluating indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase activity and inflammation, has been reported to be linked with cardiovascular incidences. However, its correlation with cardiovascular outcomes in patients suffering from heart failure (HF) remains to be explored. The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of KTR in HF. The concentration of tryptophan and kynurenine were quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and the KTR value was calculated in a population of 3150 HF patients. The correlation between plasma KTR levels and the occurrence of adverse cardiovascular events was evaluated for its prognostic value. We also assessed the role of KTR in addition to the classic inflammatory biomarker hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in different subtypes of HF. We found that increased KTR levels were associated with an elevated risk and severity of the primary endpoints in different subtypes of HF. The simultaneous evaluation of KTR and hs-CRP levels enhanced risk categorization among HF patients. Furthermore, the KTR index presented complementary prognostic value for those HF patients with low-grade inflammation (hs-CRP ≤ 6 mg/L). Our results indicated plasma KTR is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events. Plasma KTR levels in patients with HF can provide both concurrent and complementary prognostic value to hs-CRP.

Diagnostic efficacy of ACA, aß2-GP1, hs-CRP, and Hcy for cerebral infarction and their relationship with the disease severity.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of anti-cardiolipin antibodies (ACA), anti-ß2-glycoprotein I antibodies (aß2-GP1), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and homocysteine (Hcy) in cerebral infarction and to explore their relationship with disease severity. METHODS: Medical records of 67 cerebral infarction patients admitted from May 2020 to January 2023 and 50 healthy individuals undergoing health checkups were retrospectively analyzed. The levels of ACA, aß2-GP1, hs-CRP, and Hcy were compared, their correlation with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores was assessed, and their diagnostic efficacy across different disease severities were evaluated. A joint predictive score formula, defined as -6.054712173 + aß2-GP1*1.906727231 + Hcy*0.576221974, which combines aß2-GP1 and Hcy levels, was developed to assess the likelihood of cerebral infarction in our study population. RESULTS: The levels of ACA, aß2-GP1, hs-CRP and Hcy, and joint predictive score were significantly higher in the patient group (all P < 0.001). ROC analysis yielded AUCs of 0.887 for ACA, 0.894 for aß2-GP1, 0.899 for hs-CRP, 0.880 for Hcy, and 0.954 for the joint predictive score. Delong's test showed no statistical difference in most indicators compared to the joint predictive score (P > 0.05), except aß2-GP1 (P < 0.05). Pearson's correlation analysis indicated that aß2-GP1, Hcy, and the joint predictive score were positively correlated of with NIHSS score (all P < 0.05), while ACA and hs-CRP were not (P > 0.05). Notable differences in aß2-GP1 and the joint predictive score were observed among varying severity levels (P < 0.01), with the joint predictive score showing superior diagnostic efficacy in distinguishing between mild and moderate/severe cases (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: ACA, aß2-GP1, hs-CRP, and Hcy are effective biomarkers for diagnosing cerebral infarction, and are positively correlated with disease severity. The joint predictive score demonstrates enhanced accuracy in discerning degree of severity.

Inflammatory Markers and Aortic Aneurysms: Exploring the Role of Hs-CRP and MHR in Ascending Aortic Aneurysm Development.

Background: Aortic aneurysms, particularly those affecting the ascending aorta, pose significant health risks due to their potential to cause life-threatening complications such as rupture and dissection. While the etiology of ascending aortic aneurysms has traditionally been associated with non-inflammatory processes, emerging evidence suggests a potential role of inflammation in their development. Methods: This study investigates the relationship between inflammatory markers and ascending aortic aneurysms, focusing on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and the monocyte-to-HDL ratio (MHR). A total of 135 patients with ascending aortic aneurysms and 40 control subjects underwent comprehensive evaluations, including echocardiography, computed tomography imaging, and serum biomarker measurements. Results: The results indicate significantly elevated levels of hs-CRP and MHR in patients with ascending aortic aneurysms compared to the control group, suggesting a potential inflammatory component in the pathogenesis of these aneurysms. However, the precise mechanisms underlying this association remain to be elucidated. Conclusion: Despite limitations such as the cross-sectional study design and relatively small sample size, this study provides valuable insights into the potential involvement of inflammation in ascending aortic aneurysms. Further research, including longitudinal studies and histopathological analysis of aortic tissue, is warranted to confirm these findings and explore the utility of inflammatory markers as diagnostic and prognostic indicators in this patient population.

Physical activity and circulating inflammatory markers and cytokines during pregnancy: A population-based cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Physical activity (PA) during pregnancy has numerous benefits, which may be mediated via effects on the immune system. However, supportive evidence is inconsistent and is mainly from studies in high-risk groups. We estimated the effect of PA during pregnancy on systemic inflammatory markers and cytokines in mothers recruited in the Barwon infant study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The Barwon infant study is a prebirth cohort of 1064 mothers recruited in the Barwon Region of Victoria, Australia. Participants reported their previous week's PA at their 28-week antenatal appointment using the International PA Questionnaire. Women were grouped into low, moderate, and high PA categories based on daily duration and weekly frequency of walking, moderate- or vigorous-intensity PA. Women reporting moderate levels of PA, consistent with current recommendations, served as the comparison group. Markers of systemic inflammation, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), glycoprotein acetyls (GlycA), and 17 cytokines were measured at 28 weeks gestation and log transformed as appropriate. Regression analyses adjusted for maternal smoking, gestational diabetes mellitus, prepregnancy BMI, and household size were performed. RESULTS: Compared to women in the moderate group (n = 371, 42%), women reporting low PA (n = 436, 50%) had 10.1% higher hsCRP (95% CI (3.7% to 16.6%), p < 0.01) while women in high PA (n = 76, 9%) had a 14% higher hsCRP (95% CI (3.1% to 24.8%), p = 0.01). Women in the high PA category had higher interleukin (IL)-4 (q = 0.03) and IL-9 (q = 0.03) levels compared to those in moderate category. Each vigorous MET minute/week was associated with lower GlycA (ß = -0.004, 95% CI (-0.044 to 0.035); p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Low and high PA are each associated with higher hsCRP than moderate PA, suggesting that undertaking the recommended moderate PA during pregnancy decreases systemic inflammation. High PA affects T cell-associated cytokines during pregnancy. Evidence from our study suggests that PA can modulate the immune responses during pregnancy. Studies are now required to assess whether PA during pregnancy impacts maternal and infant clinical outcomes by modifying inflammatory responses.

Effects of Low and High Doses of Aspirin on Inflammatory Markers in Diabesity Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Introduction The intertwined nature of obesity and diabetes, termed diabesity, is a significant health concern. Aspirin has been recognized for its potential in mitigating inflammation-related health issues, a key concern in managing diabesity. However, the optimal aspirin dosage and its impact on specific inflammatory markers, viz. high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and interleukin (IL)-6, over time remain a subject of ongoing research. Objective This study investigated the effects of different doses of aspirin (150mg and 300mg) on the levels of hs-CRP and IL-6 over a period of 6 months. Methods This cross-sectional observational quasi-experiment study involved 125 confirmed type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with obesity aged ≥40 years. Blood samples were collected for analyzing hs-CRP and IL-6 levels. Demographics and clinical characteristics, such as BMI, waist-hip ratio, blood parameters, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and hs-CRP, were analyzed. Results At baseline, both the 150 mg and 300 mg aspirin dose groups had similar median levels of hs-CRP. After two months, there was no significant difference (p=0.150). However, by six months, the 150mg dose group had a significantly higher median hs-CRP than the 300 mg dose group (p=0.003). The 150 mg dose group had a significantly higher median level of IL-6 levels at baseline (median; 40.0) compared to the 300 mg dose group (median; 2.27, p<0.0001). After two months, the levels of IL-6 in both groups were similar (median; 2.27 and 2.23 respectively, p<0.0001). By the end of six months, the groups had no significant difference (median; 0.53 and 2.22 respectively, p=0.128). Conclusion The dose of aspirin may significantly impact the levels of hs-CRP and IL-6 over time, with the effects being more pronounced after six months of treatment. These findings suggest that aspirin, a commonly used and cost-effective medication, could potentially be leveraged in a more targeted manner to manage inflammation (CRP and IL-6 levels) in individuals with diabesity.

Association of Apolipoprotein E (APOE) Polymorphisms With Serological Lipid and Inflammatory Markers.

Background  The study aims to assess the association of apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms with serological lipid and inflammatory markers to determine their potential role in predicting the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and Alzheimer's disease (AD).  Methodology  A total of 915 individuals underwent testing for lipid and inflammatory biomarkers at Vibrant America Clinical Laboratory. Clinical data, blood lipid and inflammatory profiles, and APOE genotyping were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).  Results Compared to the E3/E3 genotype, individuals with E2/E3 genotypes showed higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, apolipoprotein A (APOA), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and myeloperoxidase (MPO). E2/E4 genotype carriers had higher levels of HDL, triglycerides, Lp(a), and N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (BNPNT). E3/E4 genotypes were associated with elevated levels of total cholesterol, LDL, Lp(a), hs-CRP, small-density low-density lipoprotein (SDLDL), oxidized LDL (OXLDL), MPO, LDL-CAL, PLAC, and APOB. The E4/E4 group displayed higher concentrations of total cholesterol, LDL, APOB, Lp(a), hs-CRP, SDLDL, OXLDL, MPO, LDLCAL, and PLAC compared to E3/E3 carriers. These findings highlight the potential atherogenic effect of the ε4 allele and the protective effect of the ε2 allele based on lipid and inflammatory marker profiles.  Conclusions This study provides strong evidence linking APOE gene polymorphism to abnormal serum lipid and inflammatory profiles. Individuals carrying the ε4 alleles exhibited dysregulated lipid metabolism and abnormal inflammatory markers, increasing their risk of CVD and AD. Early detection and prompt diagnosis are crucial for implementing therapeutic, dietary, and lifestyle interventions to mitigate risks and prevent or delay lipid and inflammation-related disorders.

Effects of silymarin as adjuvant drug on serum levels of CTRP3, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Silymarin is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. We investigated these effects on serum levels of CTRP3, Anti-CCP, and hs-CRP in individuals with Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this study, 42 individuals with RA were recruited and their serum specimens were collected, serum levels of hs-CRP, AntiCCP antibodies, and CTRP3 were measured using ELISA. DNA was extracted and investigated for the existence of possible new mutations in the gene encoding CTRP3 using the PCR technique; the desired fragments were then amplified and sequenced. Another blood sample was collected from the case group after taking livergol for three months (3 doses of 140 mg/day) and the tests were repeated. Anti-CCP Abs levels in the postintervention responding group decreased compared to preintervention (p<0.001) while in the non-responding group, the levels increased after the intervention compared to the levels before the intervention (p=0.019). Additionally, CTRP3 levels in the responding group increased postintervention (p=0.003), however, in the non-responding group the levels decreased postintervention when compared to preintervention (p=0.02). The responding group had significantly lower levels of hs-CRP when compared to that of preintervention (p=0.005) whereas the non-responding group had significantly higher levels of postintervention (p<0.001). Moreover, the results of sequencings of exon 6 on CTRP3 gene showed the presence of mutations in exon 6 (position 215:C>T, 338:G>A, 359:A>C, and 153:T>C). Silymarin could be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Plasma levels of bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein correlate with systemic inflammation in acute coronary syndrome.

Background: Neutrophils play important roles in atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis. Bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI) is mainly expressed in the granules of human neutrophils in response to inflammatory stress. This observational, cross-sectional study investigated the plasma level of BPI in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and its correlation with blood neutrophil counts and circulating inflammatory biomarkers. Methods: A total of 367 patients who had acute chest pain and who were admitted to our hospital for coronary angiography (CAG) and/or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) from May 1, 2020 to August 31, 2020 were recruited. Among them, 256 had a cardiac troponin value above the 99th percentile upper reference limit and were diagnosed with ACS. The remaining patients (n = 111) were classified as non-ACS. The TIMI and GRACE scores were calculated at admission. The Gensini score based on CAG was used to determine atherosclerotic burden. Plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-1ß, myeloperoxidase-DNA (MPO-DNA), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), S100A8/A9, and BPI were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Correlations of plasma BPI levels with examination scores and levels of circulating inflammatory biomarkers were explored. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the diagnostic efficacy of BPI for ACS and myocardial infarction. Results: Patients in the ACS group showed significantly higher plasma BPI levels compared to the non-ACS group (46.42 ± 16.61 vs. 16.23 ± 6.19 ng/mL, p < 0.05). Plasma levels of IL-1ß, MPO-DNA, hs-CRP, and S100A8/A9 in the ACS group were also significantly higher than those in the non-ACS group (all p < 0.05). In addition, plasma BPI levels were positively correlated with the TIMI, GRACE, and Gensini scores (r = 0.176, p = 0.003; r = 0.320, p < 0.001; r = 0.263, p < 0.001, respectively) in patients with ACS. Plasma BPI levels were also positively correlated with blood neutrophil counts (r = 0.266, p < 0.001) and levels of circulating inflammatory biomarkers (IL-1ß, r = 0.512; MPO-DNA, r = 0.452; hs-CRP, r = 0.554; S100A8/A9, r = 0.434; all p < 0.001) in patients with ACS. ROC curve analysis revealed that the diagnostic efficacy of BPI for ACS was not inferior to that of IL-1ß, MPO-DNA, hs-CRP, S100A8/A9, or blood neutrophil counts. ROC analysis also showed that the diagnostic efficacy of BPI for myocardial infarction was not inferior to that of creatine kinase (CK)-MB or cardiac troponin I. Conclusion: BPI is associated with systemic inflammation in ACS and may be involved in the process of atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis. The potential of BPI as a prognostic and diagnostic biomarker for ACS should be investigated in clinical settings.

Joint association of TyG index and high sensitivity C-reactive protein with cardiovascular disease: a national cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Both the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, as a surrogate marker of insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation are predictors of cardiovascular diseases; however, little is known about the coexposures and relative contributions of TyG index and inflammation to cardiovascular diseases. Using the nationally representative data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), we conducted longitudinal analyses to evaluate the joint and mutual associations of the TyG index and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) with cardiovascular events in middle-aged and older Chinese population. METHODS: This study comprised 8 658 participants aged at least 45 years from the CHARLS 2011 who are free of cardiovascular diseases at baseline. The TyG index was calculated as Ln [fasting triglyceride (mg/dL) × fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2]. Cardiovascular events were defined as the presence of physician-diagnosed heart disease and/or stroke followed until 2018.We performed adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression and mediation analyses. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 58.6 ± 9.0 years, and 3988 (46.1%) were females. During a maximum follow-up of 7.0 years, 2606 (30.1%) people developed cardiovascular diseases, including 2012 (23.2%) cases of heart diseases and 848 (9.8%) cases of stroke. Compared with people with a lower TyG index (< 8.6 [median level]) and hsCRP < 1 mg/L, those concurrently with a higher TyG and hsCRP had the highest risk of overall cardiovascular disease (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.300; 95% CI 1.155-1.462), coronary heart disease (aHR, 1.294; 95% CI 1.130-1.481) and stroke (aHR, 1.333; 95% CI 1.093-1.628), which were predominant among those aged 70 years or below. High hsCRP significantly mediated 13.4% of the association between the TyG index and cardiovascular disease, while TyG simultaneously mediated 7.9% of the association between hsCRP and cardiovascular risk. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight the coexposure effects and mutual mediation between the TyG index and hsCRP on cardiovascular diseases. Joint assessments of the TyG index and hsCRP should be underlined for the residual risk stratification and primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases, especially for middle-aged adults.

Dynamics of Serum Inflammatory Markers and Adipokines in Patients: Implications for Monitoring Abnormal Body Weight: Preliminary Research.

This study aimed to investigate the influence of abnormal body weight on inflammatory markers and adipokine levels across varied body mass index (BMI) categories. The cohort included 46 participants categorized into normal BMI (group I; n = 19), overweight (group II; n = 14), and obesity (group III; n = 13). Inflammatory markers (hsCRP and IL-6) and adipokines (Adiponectin, Leptin, Nesfatin-1, and Zinc-α2-glycoprotein) were assessed to discern effective indicators of inflammation in individuals with abnormal body weight. Additionally, the full lipid profile was also assessed (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, HDL-C). The results indicated significant biochemical changes, particularly in IL-6 and Leptin levels, in participants with a BMI over 25. The levels of ZAG protein were negatively correlated with the HDL-C and LDC-L levels with statistical significance (Pearson: -0.57, p = 0.001, and Pearson: -0.41, p = 0.029, for HDL-C and LDL-C, respectively), suggesting that the level of ZAG is also inversely proportional to the amount of cholesterol. Statistical analyses revealed decreased Zinc-α2-glycoprotein (ZAG) levels and increased Adiponectin, Leptin, and IL-6 levels in individuals with abnormal body weight. Correlation analyses demonstrated a statistically significant upward trend for IL-6 (p = 0.0008) and Leptin (p = 0.00001), with a similar trend observed for hsCRP without statistical significance (p = 0.113). IL-6 levels in the overweight group were 158.71% higher than in the normal-weight group, while the obese group exhibited a 229.55% increase compared to the normal-weight group. No notable changes have been recorded for the levels of Nesfatin-1. Based on our results, we propose IL-6, Leptin, and ZAG as potential biomarkers for monitoring interventions and assessing patient conditions in those with abnormal BMIs. Further research with a larger patient cohort is warranted to validate these correlations in overweight and obese individuals.