Serum Levels of Antioxidant Vitamins in Relation to Coronary Artery Disease: A Case Control Study of Koreans

With the changes in trends of disease pattern from infectious to chronic degenerative disease, cardiovascular disease has been considered as the major cause of death in Korea.Numerous studies have been done on the antioxidant effects of some vitamins in the prevention of chronic illness, but not many in relation to the cardiovascular disease.Therefore, the relation between antioxidant vitamins, mainly α-tocopherol (α-T) and B-carotene (B-C), and coronary artery disease (CAD) such as angina pectoris and myocardial infarction has been investigated in this study.The blood samples were obtained from the CAD patients who were angiographically diagnosed within a month (100 case group). Patients who had an experience of PTCA or CABG were excluded from the study. Control subjects were healthy adults who had normal EKG values, no chest pain and no past history of cardiac disease (100 control group). All subjects were free of serum lipid lowering drugs. Serum α-T and B-C were analysed using HPLC. In addition to antioxidant vitamins, serum lipids (total cholesterol, HDL, TG) were also measured. Each case and control was matched in terms of age and sex. And all the CAD risk factors such as blood pressure, smoking, alcohol, serum lipid profile and BMI were adjusted to determine pure effect(s) of α-T and B-C on the CAD.The concentrations of both α-T and B-C were significantly lower in the CAD group than those in control group (P<0.05); in CAD group, mean values of α-T and B-C were 11.9±7.2 (μg/ml), 35.8±3.1 (μg/dl) respectively. As for the levels of B-C, it shows inverse relation with age, but not for the α-T Ievels. Serum levels of both vitamins did not show any significant differences in terms of sex, but men have a tendency o higher levels of B-C,but lower levels of α-T

Implication of serum levels of interleukin-18 and nitric oxide in tumor growth and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer

To study the effect of IL-18 and nitric oxide(NO) on the growth and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods Serum IL-18 and nitrate and nitrite levels in 82 patients with NSCLC and 20 healthy control subjects were measured by using ELISA and Griess.Results The levels of serum IL-18 were (334.2±31.0)ng/L in NSCLC patients and (151.3±22.0)ng/L in control subjects,respectively.The levels of nitrate and nitrite were (237.1±21.0)μmol/L in NSCLC patients and (44.2±15.0)μmol/L in control subjects.The levels of serum IL-18 and nitrate and nitrite were not related with age,gender,histological types in patients with NSCLC.The levels of serum IL-18 was closely associated with TNM stage,lymph node metastasis and distal metastasis,but not with its degree and organ types of metastasis.There was a negative correlation between the levels of serum IL-18 and nitrate and nitrite.Conclusion Serum IL-18 and nitrate and nitrite levels may be useful to evaluate the prognosis of the patients with NSCLC.16 refs,2 tabs.

Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Serum Level Is Correlated with Fibrosis Severity in Treatment-Naïve, Chronic Hepatitis B Patients in Côte d’Ivoire (West Africa)?

HBsAg serum level (quantification) may be useful for managing hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection patients. However few studies especially in Africa have evaluated the association between HBsAg serum level and liver fibrosis severity. The objective of this study was to estimate the correlation between HBsAg serum level and liver fibrosis severity with treatment naive chronic hepatitis B patients in Cote d’Ivoire. Methodology: It is a prospective study covering from February 1st, 2014 to April 30st, 2015 at Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire de Yopougon and a private medical office in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire. Inclusion criteria for patients were: HBsAg positive, known HBeAg status, serum HBsAg levels, serum HBV DNA levels, complex serum markers and absence of HCV, HDV, or HIV co-infection, drinking more than 30 g/day for men and 20 g/day in women over 10 years, metabolic disease and/or hepatic overload. Pearson’s Chi-square test (r2), Anova, Spearman, T-Student, Pearson’s (r) correlations and Mann Withney’s Test were carried out as appropriate. A p value < 0.05 was taken as significant. Results: We recruited, 105 patients (77 men) of whom the medium age was 39.01 ± 9.72 years. Predominant hepatitis B viral genotype was E (93%). Less than 10% patients had an inactive HBV in HBeAg-negative. Patients had an average high HBsAg serum level (mean 12111.2 ± 10617.4 IU/ml) as well as the one viral load (mean 4.4 e7 ± 7.5 e7). Serum ALAT levels averaged at the upper limit of normal value. The average liver fibrosis score was 0.34 ± 0.22 and the degree of viral activity was 0.19 ± 0.20. Half of our patients had no fibrosis (35.24%) or had mild fibrosis (20.95%). No significant association was observed between HBsAg serum level and patient age (p = 0.3994), genre (p = 0.8075) or serum ALT levels (p = 0, 0787). In multivariate analysis, there’s a significant correlation (r = 0.239, p = 0.014) between HBV DNA levels and HBsAg serum level. There’s a significant correlation (r = 0.923, p < 0.0001) between HBsAg serum level and the dosage of alpha-fetoprotein. HBsAg serum level was not associated with the fibrosis stage (p = 0.281). HBsAg levels average with patients without fibrosis or carry a slight fibrosis (F0, F1) was higher than patients with moderate to severe fibrosis (F2, F3, F4): 13679.2 UI/ml ± 1956.48 versus 10610.52 UI/ml ± 8998.99 (p = 0.29). There’s a negative correlation between HBsAg level and the liver fibrosis score was negative (r = -0.069, p = 0.48). No significant association between HBsAg level and the liver fibrosis patients that were normal (p = 0.7965) or elevated (p = 0.5845). HBV DNA level was significantly associated with fibrosis score (r = 0.30, p = 0.0018). Conclusion: This study shows that there’s a negative correlation between HBsAg serum level and liver fibrosis severity treatment naive with African chronic hepatitis B viral HBeAg-negative patients.

Diagnostic value of serum vascular endothelial growth factor and interleukin-17 in primary hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND Despite significant advancements in the medical treatment of primary hepato-cellular carcinoma(PHC)in recent years,enhancing therapeutic effects and im-proving prognosis remain substantial challenges worldwide.AIM To investigate the expression levels of serum vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)and interleukin(IL)-17 in patients with PHC and evaluate their diagnostic value while exploring their relationship with patients’clinical characteristics.METHODS The study included 50 patients with confirmed PHC who visited Wuhan Han-yang Hospital from January 2021 to January 2022,and 50 healthy individuals from the same period served as the control group.Serum VEGF and IL-17 levels in both groups were measured by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay,and their diagnostic value was assessed using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curves.Pearson correlation analysis was performed to examine the relationship between serum VEGF and IL-17 levels.Pathological data of the PHC patients were analyzed to determine the relationship between serum VEGF and IL-17 levels and pathological characteristics.RESULTS Serum VEGF and IL-17 levels were significantly higher in the study group com-pared to the control group(P<0.05).No significant association was observed between serum VEGF and IL-17 levels and gender,age,combined cirrhosis,tumor diameter,or degree of differentiation(P>0.05).However,there was a significant relationship between clinical TNM stage,tumor metastasis,and serum VEGF and IL-17 levels(P<0.05).Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between serum VEGF and IL-17(P<0.05).ROC analysis demonstrated that both serum VEGF and IL-17 had good diagnostic efficacy for PHC.CONCLUSION Serum VEGF and IL-17 levels were significantly higher in PHC patients compared to healthy individuals.Their levels were closely related to pathological features such as tumor metastasis and clinical TNM stage,and there was a significant positive correlation between VEGF and IL-17.These biomarkers may serve as valuable reference in-dicators for the early diagnosis and treatment guidance of PHC.

Impact of transcranial electrical stimulation on serum neurotrophic factors and language function in patients with speech disorders

BACKGROUND Speech disorders have a substantial impact on communication abilities and quality of life.Traditional treatments such as speech and psychological therapies frequently demonstrate limited effectiveness and patient compliance.Transcranial electrical stimulation(TES)has emerged as a promising non-invasive treatment to improve neurological functions.However,its effectiveness in enhancing language functions and serum neurofactor levels in individuals with speech disorders requires further investigation.AIM To investigate the impact of TES in conjunction with standard therapies on serum neurotrophic factor levels and language function in patients with speech disorders.METHODS In a controlled study spanning from March 2019 to November 2021,81 patients with speech disorders were divided into a control group(n=40)receiving standard speech stimulation and psychological intervention,and an observation group(n=41)receiving additional TES.The study assessed serum levels of ciliary neurotrophic factor(CNTF),glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor(GDNF),brainderived neurotrophic factor(BDNF),and nerve growth factor(NGF),as well as evaluations of motor function,language function,and development quotient scores.RESULTS After 3 wk of intervention,the observation group exhibited significantly higher serum levels of CNTF,GDNF,BDNF,and NGF compared to the control group.Moreover,improvements were noted in motor function,cognitive function,language skills,physical abilities,and overall development quotient scores.It is worth mentioning that the observation group also displayed superior perfor CONCLUSION This retrospective study concluded that TES combined with traditional speech and psychotherapy can effectively increase the levels of neurokines in the blood and enhance language function in patients with speech disorders.These results provide a promising avenue for integrating TES into standard treatment methods for speech disorders.

TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR－ALPHA SERUM LEVELS AND IN VITRO PRODUCTION IN PATIENTS WITH HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS（HIV） INFECTION

Patients with AIDS(Acquired Immunodeficiency Srudrome) have immunoldgic abnormalities resulting from functional defects in HIV(Human Immunodeficiency Virus)-infected CD4+lymphocytes and monocytes. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)is known to mediate cachexcia.Todetermine if TNF is responsible for 'wasting syndrome' in AIDS.we studied serum levels and in vitro production of TNF-alpha in 21 HIV-seropositive men(10 AIDS,2 ARC, 9 HIV+)and 8 HIV seronreative controls.Both a bloassay and TNF-specific ELISA were used.All patiend except onebad undctectable levels of serum TNF. while control sera contained 4.2±2.5μg/L of TNF,Peripheral blood mononuclear cell(PBMNC)was tested for spontaneous,LPS-induced or PHA and PMA-induced TNF production at different times in culture(24-72h).Patients cells Produced significantlyless TNF than normal PBMNC under all experimental conditions:e.g,18-45μg/L in conttols vs.0.4～13μg/L in patients(P<0.001)at 72 hours using PHA and PMA as activators.Cell viabilitywas 85% in all cultures.No significant differences in TNF release were detected between AIDS patients with cachexia or opportunistic infectious and other HIV-seropositive men.This study showedthat most HIV-infected persons had no dctectable serum TNF-αand that their PBMNC produced subnormal quantities of this cytoklne in vitro,suggesting that TNF is not involved in the pathogenesis ofthe cacbexia associated with AIDS.

Serum leptin level in Sudanese women with unexplained infertility and its relationship with some reproductive hormones

BACKGROUND The excessive concentration of leptin has negative effects on all aspects of female reproduction.Despite this established relationship,the exact role of leptin in women’s fertility is not clear enough and needs more clarification.AIM To evaluate the serum leptin levels in Sudanese women and to ascertain the relationship between serum leptin levels and unexplained infertility(UI).METHODS A matched(age and body mass index)case-control study was conducted from March 2021 to February 2022.The study samples were 210 women with UI and 190 fertile women of reproductive age who were attending the maternity hospitals and fertility clinics in Khartoum state Sudan.The serum concentration of leptin and other serum biomarkers were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.RESULTS The results showed that there was a highly statistically significant difference between the two groups(P<0.001)for all examined eight biomarkers.Whereby,leptin,luteinizing hormone(LH)/follicular stimulating hormone(FSH)ratio,prolactin hormone(PRL)and testosterone(T)were significantly higher in the UI group compared with the control group.In contrast,FSH and estradiol(E2)/T ratio were significantly lower in the UI group than in the control group and the effect size test for the difference between the two groups was very large(effect size>0.80),for leptin level,LH/FSH ratio,PRL level,and E2/T ratio,and large(effect size 0.50-≤0.80)for FSH and T.CONCLUSION This study reveals that leptin could be a potential biomarker for UI in Sudanese women and it may be useful for identifying women with a high risk of infertility.

The effects of enhanced external counterpulsation on the serum level of C-reactive protein and endothelin-1 in patients with ischemic stroke

Objective To explore the effects of enhanced external counterpulsation(EECP)on the serum level of C-reactive protein and endothelin-1 in patients with cerebral ischemic stroke,to provide clinical evidence for the treatment and secondary prevention of patients with serebral ischemic stroke.Methods Total 187 patients with ischemic stroke and enrolled measure the serum level

Study on the correlation and predictive value of serum pregnancyassociated plasma protein A, triglyceride and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels with gestational diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND Gestational diabetes mellitus(GDM)is a concern due to its rapid increase in incidence in recent years.AIM To investigate the correlation and predictive value of serum pregnancyassociated plasma protein A(PAPP-A),triglyceride(TG),and 25-hydroxyvitamin D[25-(OH)D]with GDM in early pregnancy.METHODS A total of 99 patients in early pregnancy admitted to Peking University International Hospital from November 2015 to September 2017 were included,and underwent a fasting glucose test and oral glucose tolerance test screening at 24-28 wk of pregnancy.Of these cases with GDM,51 were assigned to group A and the remaining 48 cases without GDM were enrolled in group B.Serum PAPP-A,TG and 25-(OH)D in the two groups were compared and their correlation with blood sugar was analyzed.In addition,their diagnostic value in GDM was determined using receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve analysis.RESULTS Group A had markedly lower serum PAPP-A and 25-(OH)D levels and a significantly higher serum TG level than group B,with statistical significance(P<0.05).Furthermore,Pearson analysis identified that PAPP-A and 25-(OH)D levels were negatively correlated with fasting blood glucose(FBG)levels(r=-0.605,P<0.001),(r=-0.597,P<0.001),while TG and FBG levels were positively correlated(r=0.628,P<0.001).The sensitivity,specificity,area under the curve(AUC)and optimal cut-off value of serum PAPP-A level in the diagnosis of GDM were 72.55%,82.35%,0.861 and 16.340,respectively,while the sensitivity of TG in diagnosing GDM was 86.27%,the specificity was 66.67%,the AUC was 0.813,with an optimal cut-off value of 1.796.The corresponding sensitivity,specificity,AUC and optimal cut-off value of serum 25-(OH)D were 64.71%,70.59%,0.721 and 23.140,respectively.Moreover,multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that FBG,vascular endothelial growth factor,Flt-1,serum PAPP-A,TG,and 25-(OH)D were related risk factors leading to GDM in patients.CONCLUSION Serum PAPP-A,TG,and 25-(OH)D levels are all correlated with blood glucose changes in GDM,and are independent factors affecting the occurrence of GDM and have certain value in the diagnosis of GDM.

Relationship of serum GDF11 levels with bone mineral density and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal Chinese women

Growth differentiation factor 11 （GDF11） is an important circulating factor that regulates aging. However, the role of GDF11 in bone metabolism remains unclear. The present study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between serum GDF11 level, bone mass, and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal Chinese women. Serum GDF11 level, bone turnover biochemical markers, and bone mineral density （BMD） were determined in 169 postmenopausal Chinese women （47-78 years old）. GDF11 serum levels increased with aging. There were negative correlations between GDF11 and BMD at the various skeletal sites. After adjusting for age and body mass index （BMI）, the correlations remained statistically significant. In the multiple linear stepwise regression analysis, age or years since menopause, BMI, GDF11, and estradiol were independent predictors of BMD. A significant negative correlation between GDF11 and bone alkaline phosphatase （BAP） was identified and remained significant after adjusting for age and BMI. No significant correlation was noted between cross-linked N-telopeptides of type I collagen （NTX） and GDF11. In conclusion, GDF11 is an independent negative predictor of BMD and correlates with a biomarker of bone formation, BAP, in postmenopausal Chinese women. GDF11 potentially exerts a negative effect on bone mass by regulating bone formation.

The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 geneE670G polymorphism and serum lipid levels in the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han populations

Background The association of E670G polymorphism in the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) gene and serum lipid profiles is inconsistent in dif- ferent ethnic groups.Bai Ku Yao is a special subgroup of the Yao minority in China.The present study was undertaken association of PCSK9 E670G polymorphism and several environmental factors with serum lipid levels in the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han populations.Methods A total of 649 subjects of Bai Ku Yao and 646 participants of Han Chinese were randomly selected from our previous stratified randomized cluster samples.Genotyping of the PCSK9 E670G polymorphism was performed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism combined with gel electrophoresis,and then confirmed by direct sequencing. Results The levels of serum total cholesterol(TC),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C) and apolipoprotein(Apo) AI were lower in Bai Ku Yao than in Han(P【0.01 for all).The frequency of A and G alleles was 98.00%and 2.00%in Bai Ku Yao,and 95.20%and 4.80%in Han(P【0.01);respectively. The frequency of AA,AG and GG genotypes was 95.99%,4.01%and 0%in Bai Ku Yao,and 91.02%, 8.36%and 0.62%in Han(P【0.01);respectively.There were also significant differences in the genotypic and allelic frequencies between n and the ratio of ApoAI to ApoB in Han Chinese but not in Bai Ku Yao were different between the AA and AG/GG genotypes(P【0.05 for all).The G allele carriers had higher serum HDL-C and higher ApoAI to ApoB ratio than the G allele noncarriers.When serum lipid parameters in Han were analyzed according to sex,the G allele carriers had higher serum HDL and ApoAI levels in males (P【0.05),and lower ApoB level and higher ApoAI to ApoB ratio in females(P【0.05 for all).Multiple linear regression analysis showed that serum HDL-C levels were correlated with genotypes in both ethnic groups(P【0.05 each).Serum lipid parameters were also correlated with sex,age,body massindex,alcohol consumption,cigarette smoking,and blood pressure in both ethnic groups(P【0.05-0.001).Conclusions These results suggest that the PCSK9 E670G polymorphism is mainly associated with some serum lipid parameters in the Han population,both gender show different relations to different serum lipid parameters.The G allele carriers might have higher serum lipid profiles than the G allele noncarriers. ormal LDL-C(≤3.20 mmol/L) and high LDL-C subgroups (】 3.20 mmol/L,P【0.01;respectively) in Bai Ku Yao, and between normal ApoB(≤1.14 g/L) and high ApoB subgroups(】 1.14 g/L,P 【 0.01;respectively) in Han.

Interactions of the apolipoprotein A5 gene polymorphisms and alcohol consumption on serum lipid levels

Objectives Apolipoprotein(Apo) A5 gene poly-morphisms and alcohol consumption have been associated with increased serum triglyceride(TG) levels,but little is known about their interactions on serum lipid levels.The present study was undertaken polymorphismsand alcohol consumption on serum lipid levels.Methods A total of 516 unrelated nondrinkers and 514 drinkers aged 15 -89 were randomly selected from our previous stratified randomized cluster samples.Genotyping of the ApoA5was performed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism,and then confirmed by direct sequencing.Interactions of the ApoA5alcohol consumption were assessed by using a cross-product term between genotypes and the aforementioned factor.Results The levels of total cholesterol (TC),TG,high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C), ApoA1 and ApoB were higher in drinkers than in nondrinkers (P【0.05-0.001).The genotypic and allelic frequencies of the three single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs) were not different between the two groups.The levels of TG in non-drinkers, and TC,TG,low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)and ApoB in drinkers were different among the three -1131T】C genotypes(P【0.05-0.001).The -1131C allele carriers had higher serum TC,TG,LDL-C and ApoB levels than the allele noncarriers.The levels of TG,HDL-C and ApoB in nondrinkers,and TG and HDL-C in drinkers were different between the two c.553G】T genotypes(P【0.05-0.01).The C.553T allele carriers had higher serum TG and ApoB levels,and lower HDL-C levels than the allele noncarriers.Serum lipid levels in nondrinkers were not different among the three c.457G】A genotypes(P【0.05 for all), but the levels of HDL-C,LDL-C,ApoA1 and ApoB in drinkers were different between the GG and GA/AA geno-types (P【0.05-0.001).The C.457A allele carriers had lower serum HDL-C,LDL-C,ApoAl and ApoB levels than the allele noncarriers.We also observed four haplotypes:G-G-T, G-G-C,G-A-T,and T-G-C with frequencies ranging from 0.06 to 0.87,representing 100%of all haplotypes in the both populations.The ApoA5 haplotypes were significantly(P【0.05) associated at the global level with TC,TG,HDL-C, LDL-C,Apo1,and ApoB,even after correction for multiple testing with permutation test.In particular,carriers of haplo-type G-G-C had significantly higher TC,TG,LDL-C,ApoB than noncarriers,whereas carriers of haplotype C-A-T had significantly lower TC,LDL-C,ApoAl and ApoB,and higher HDL-C than noncarriers.Serum TC levels in nondrinkers were correlated with -1131T】C genotype and allele(P【0.05 for each),whereas serum TC,TG and LDL-C levels in drinkers were associated with -1131 T】C and C.553G】T genotypes,or c.457G】A alleles(P【0.05-0.001).Serum lipid parameters were also correlated with several environmental factors in the both groups.Conclusions The differences in serum lipid profiles between the drinkers and nondrinkers might partly result from different interactions of ApoA5 gene polymor phisms and alcohol consumption.genotypes and -1131T】C, c.553G】T and c.457G】A to detect the interactions of the ApoA5

Serum ferritin levels in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and tic disorder

BACKGROUND Iron plays an important role in neurodevelopmental functions in the brain.Serum ferritin levels are different in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and tic disorder than in healthy children.AIM To explore the current status of iron deficiency in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and its sex and age effects.METHODS A total of 1565 children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD),1694 children with tic disorder(TD),93 children with ASD and 1997 healthy control children were included between January 1,2020,and December 31,2021 at Beijing Children's Hospital.We describe the differences in age levels and ferritin levels between different disease groups and their sex differences.The differences between the sexes in each disease were analyzed using the t test.The incidence rate of low serum ferritin was used to describe the differences between different diseases and different age groups.A chi-square test was used to analyze the difference in the incidence of low serum ferritin between the disease group and the control group.Analysis of variance was used for comparisons between subgroups,and regression analysis was used for confounding factor control.RESULTS A total of 1565 ADHD patients aged 5-12 years were included in this study,and the average serum ferritin levels of male and female children were 36.82±20.64μg/L and 35.64±18.56μg/L,respectively.A total of 1694 TD patients aged 5-12 years were included in this study,and the average serum ferritin levels of male and female children were 35.72±20.15μg/L and 34.54±22.12μg/L,respectively.As age increased,the incidence of low serum ferritin in ADHD and TD first decreased and then increased,and 10 years old was the turning point of rising levels.The incidence of ADHD with low serum ferritin was 8.37%,the incidence of TD with low serum ferritin was 11.04%,and the incidence of the healthy control group with low serum ferritin was 8.61%,among which male children with TD accounted for 9.25%and female children with TD accounted for 11.62%.There was a significant difference among the three groups(P<0.05).In addition,there were 93 children with ASD with an average serum ferritin level of 30.99±18.11μg/L and a serum ferritin incidence of 15.05%.CONCLUSION In conclusion,low serum ferritin is not a risk factor for ADHD or TD.The incidence of low serum ferritin levels in children with ADHD and TD between 5 and 12 years old decreases first and then increases with age.

Association of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism and serum lipid levels in the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han populations

Objectives The association of methylenetetrahy-drofolate reductase(MTHFR) gene polymorphism and serum lipid profiles is still controversial in diverse ethnics.Bai Ku Yao is an isolated subgroup of the Yao minority in China. The aim of the present study was to eveluate the association of MTHFR C677Tpolymorphism and several environmental factors with serum lipid levels in the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han populations.Methods A total of 780 subjects of Bai Ku Yao and 686 participants of Han Chinese were randomly selected from our previous stratified randomized cluster samples.Genotyping of the MTHFR C677T was performed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism combined with gel electrophoresis,and then confirmed by direct sequencing.Results The levels of serum total cholesterol(TC),high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C), apolipoprotein(Apo) AI and ApoB were lower in Bai Ku Yao than in Han(P【0.05-0.001).The frequency of C and T alleles was 77.4%and 22.6%in Bai Ku Yao,and 60.9%and 39.1%in Han(P【0.001);respectively.The frequency of CC,CT and TT genotypes was 58.7%,37.3%and 4.0%in Bai Ku Yao,and 32.6%,56.4%and 11.0%in Han(P【 0.001);respectively.The levels of TC and LDL-C in both ethnic groups were significant differences among the three genotypes(P【0.05-0.01).The T allele carriers had higher serum TC and LDL-C levels than the T allele noncarriers. The levels of ApoB in Han were significant differences among the three genotypes(P【0.05).The T allele carriers had higher serum ApoB levels as compared with the T allele noncarriers. The levels of TC,TG and LDL-C in Bai Ku Yao were correlated with genotypes(P【0.05-0.001),whereas the levels of LDL-C in Han were associated with genotypes(P【 0.001).Serum lipid parameters were also correlated with sex, age,body massindex,alcohol consumption,cigarette smoking, and blood pressure in the both ethnic groups.Conclusions The differences in serum TC,TG,LDL-C and ApoB levels between the two ethnic groups might partly result from different genotypic and allelic frequencies of the MTHFR C677Tor differentMTHFR gene-enviromental interactions.

Acrylamide Alters Cytoskeletal Protein Level in Rat Serum

To study biomarker of acrylamide （ACR） induced neuropathy, Wistar rats received 20 or 40 mg/kg of ACR by ip injection and the levels of light neurofilament （NF-L）, middle NF （NF-M）, heavy NF （NF-H）, β-actin, α-tubulin, and β-tubulin proteins in serum were evaluated using both SDS-PAGE and Western blotting. Compared to controls, NF-L and NF-M decreased,

A predictive score for retinopathy of prematurity by using clinical risk factors and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 levels

AIM：To detect the impact of insulin-like growth factor-1（IGF-1）and other risk factors for the early prediction of retinopathy of prematurity（ROP）and to establish a scoring system for ROP prediction by using clinical criteria and serum IGF-1 levels.METHODS：The study was conducted with 127 preterm infants.IGF-1 levels in the 1st day of life,1st,2nd,3rd and4th week of life was analyzed.The score was established after logistic regression analysis,considering the impact of each variable on the occurrences of any stage ROP.A validation cohort containing 107 preterm infants was included in the study and the predictive ability of ROP score was calculated.RESULTS：Birth weights（BW）,gestational weeks（GW）and the prevalence of breast milk consumption were lower,respiratory distress syndrome（RDS）,bronchopulmonarydysplasia（BPD）and necrotizing enterocolitis（NEC）were more frequent,the duration of mechanical ventilation and oxygen supplementation was longer in patients with ROP（P〈0.05）.Initial serum IGF-1 levels tended to be lower in newborns who developed ROP.Logistic regression analysis revealed that low BW（〈1250 g）,presence of intraventricular hemorrhage（IVH）and formula feeding increased the risk of ROP.Afterwards,the scoring system was validated on 107 infants.The negative predictive values of a score less than 4 were 84.3%,74.7%and 79.8%while positive predictive values were 76.3%,65.5%and71.6%respectively.CONCLUSION：In addition to BW〈1250 g and IVH,formula consumption was detected as a risk factor for the development of ROP.Breastfeeding is important for prevention of ROP in preterm infants.

Changes and Clinical Value of Serum Cortisol Levels in Patients with Hypertensive Disorder in Pregnancy

Objective:To investigate the changes and the corresponding clinical value of serum cortisol levels in patients with hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.Methods:In this study,90 patients with different degrees of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy who were admitted from August 2018 to August 2019 in our hospital were set as the research objects.90 cases were grouped according to the diagnostic criteria in Obstetrics and Gynecology,including 30 cases in each of the hypertension group,the preeclampsia group,and the eclampsia group.Another 30 healthy pregnant women were selected as the control group.The serum cortisol levels of pregnant women in the above four groups were measured.Results:Compared with the control group,the serum cortisol levels in the other three groups were significantly increased.In perinatal outcome,compared with the control group,the three groups of patients had an increase in Apgar score,preterm birth,stillbirth rate,growth restriction rate and neonatal asphyxia rate.There were significant differences between groups(P<0.05),and showed as gestational hypertension<preeclampsia<eclampsia.Conclusion:With the exacerbation of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy,the serum cortisol level continues to increase,which has a serious adverse effect on the prognosis of the perinatal infants.

The effects of consumption of raw garlic on serum lipid level, blood sugar and a number of effective hormones on lipid and sugar metabolism in hyperglycemic and/or hyperlipidemic individuals ——Benefit of raw garlic consumption

Diabetes mellitus is one of the worldwide largest growing metabolic diseases. In this study the effects of consumption of raw garlic on serum lipid level, blood sugar and a number of effective hormones on lipid and sugar metabolism (thyroid hormones and insulin) in individuals either with high level of blood sugar or lipid were investigated. Eighty five volunteers having following clinical history enrolled in the study: Group 1: having blood sugar more than 126 mg/dl (30 vo-lunteers);Group 2: having cholesterol higher than 245 mg/dl (30 volunteers);Group 3: having blood sugar over 126 mg/dl and cholesterol more than 245 mg/dl (25 volunteers). In group 1, there wasn’t a sig-nificant differences between biochemical factors be-fore and after garlic consumption, whereas, in the second group after 6 weeks of garlic consumption a decline in cholesterol (P < 0.001), FBS and TG (P < 0.01) was observed but HDL-C (P < 0.001) was in-creased. Six weeks after termination of garlic con-sumption, cholesterol (P < 0.001), FBS and TG (P < 0.05) were in- creased and HDL-C (P < 0.01) was de-creased. In the third group, total cholesterol (P < 0.001), FBS (P < 0.01) and HbA1c decreased while HDL-C was in- creased. Other factors, including thy-roid hormones (T3, T4), TSH and insulin showed no significant alte- ration. In conclusion our results shown that raw garlic consumption can reduce the FBS and Lipid in hyperglycemic and/or hyperlipidemic individuals.

The relation between serum phosphorus levels and long-term mortality in Chinese patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Background Elevated serum phosphorus levels may be associated with adverse outcomes in cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to investigate the relation between serum phosphorus levels and risk of all-cause mortality in Chinese patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who had preserved renal function at baseline. Methods We enrolled patients with STEMI who had preserved renal function at baseline in Xuanwu Hospital from January 2011 to December 2016. Those patients were divided into four groups based on serum phosphorus levels. All-cause mortality rates were compared between groups. Mean duration of follow up was 54.6 months. We used Cox proportional-hazards models to examine the relation between serum phosphorus levels and all-cause mortality after adjustment for potential confounders. Results 1989 patients were involved and 211 patients (10.6%) died during follow-up. Based on serum phosphorus levels, patients were categorized into the following groups:< 2.50 mg/dL (n = 89), 2.51–3.50 mg/dL (n = 1066), 3.51–4.50 mg/dL (n = 672) and > 4.50 mg/dL (n = 162), respectively. The lowest mortality occurred in patients with serum phosphorus levels between 2.51–3.50 mg/dL, with a multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio of 1.19 (95% CI: 0.64–1.54), 1.37 (95% CI: 1.22–1.74), and 1.46 (95% CI: 1.35–1.83) in patients with serum phosphorus levels of < 2.50 mg/dL, 3.51–4.50 mg/dL and > 4.50 mg/dL, respectively. Conclusions Elevated serum phosphorus levels were associated with all-cause mortality in Chinese patients with STEMI who had preserved renal function at baseline.

Analysis on Serum Trace Element Levels of Echinococciasis Patients in Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan,China,2011

In Garze Tibetan autonomous prefecture inSichuan province, China, 41 echinococciasis patientswho had received surgical treatment were recruitedin the study, and 82 health persons who had livedin Garze for at least 10 years were selected ascontrols. The serum levels of Zn, Se and Cu of thecases and controls were detected. The resultsshowed that most echinococciasis cases weredistributed in Shiqu county （17.1%, 7/41）, and only1 case was distributed in Yajiang county （2.4%）. Themale to female ratio of the cases was 1：1.56. Theechinococciasis patients were mainly aged 30-39years （36.59%, 15/41）. And, the cases aged 20-49years accounted for 68.29% （28/41）. Comparedwith health controls, the serum levels of Zn and Seof the cases significantly declined. However, theserum level of Cu of the cases had no significantlychange. It was confirmed that the serum levels ofZn and Se were interrelated with the prevalence ofechinococciasis.