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Search Results (438)

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Keywords = atherogenicity index

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15 pages, 266 KB  
Article
Carotid Intima–Media Thickness and Atherogenic Indices in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Evidence of Subclinical Atherosclerosis
by Aydin Balci, Yasar Inkaya and Serkan Sen
Life 2026, 16(6), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16060988 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 151
Abstract
Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease characterized by poor prognosis and accumulating evidence of systemic vascular involvement. Although cardiovascular comorbidities are recognized in IPF, the presence and extent of subclinical atherosclerosis are yet to be fully characterized. This [...] Read more.
Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease characterized by poor prognosis and accumulating evidence of systemic vascular involvement. Although cardiovascular comorbidities are recognized in IPF, the presence and extent of subclinical atherosclerosis are yet to be fully characterized. This study determined whether patients with IPF exhibit increased carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) and altered atherogenic indices compared with healthy controls. Methods: This retrospective case–control study enrolled 117 patients with IPF diagnosed based on international guidelines and 104 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. All participants underwent comprehensive pulmonary function testing, the 6-min walk test (6MWT), laboratory evaluation (including lipid profiles), and bilateral carotid Doppler ultrasonography for CIMT measurement. Atherogenic indices, including the atherogenic coefficient, cholesterol ratio risk (CRR), and atherogenic index, were calculated. Dyspnea severity was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS). Results: Patients with IPF exhibited significantly higher CIMT (0.78 ± 0.12 mm vs. 0.68 ± 0.10 mm, p < 0.001) and CRR (4.12 ± 1.23 vs. 3.45 ± 0.98, p < 0.001) compared with controls. After adjustment for age, sex, cumulative smoking exposure expressed as pack-years, BMI, and controlled hypertension, IPF status remained independently associated with higher CIMT (adjusted β = 0.086 mm, 95% CI: 0.057–0.115; p < 0.001) and CRR (adjusted β = 0.482, 95% CI: 0.191–0.773; p = 0.001). Furthermore, patients with IPF had significantly lower HDL cholesterol levels and higher VLDL cholesterol levels. CIMT correlated negatively with 6MWT distance (r = −0.312, p = 0.001) and positively with VAS dyspnea scores (r = 0.287, p = 0.002). Conclusions: Patients with IPF showed higher CIMT and more unfavorable atherogenic profiles than healthy controls, and these associations persisted after adjustment for major vascular risk factors. The observed relationships between CIMT, functional capacity, and dyspnea severity suggest a potential association between IPF and subclinical cardiovascular involvement. Prospective studies are warranted to clarify the clinical relevance and prognostic implications of these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Research)
19 pages, 665 KB  
Article
HDL-Associated Specific Paraoxonase-1 Activity Is Linked to Atherogenic Lipoprotein Measures in a High Cardiovascular Risk Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Linas Černiauskas, Viktorija Palšytė, Goda Aleknavičiūtė, Eglė Mazgelytė, Inga Bikulčienė, Jolita Badarienė, Egidija Rinkūnienė, Skaistė Arbačiauskaitė, Susann Allelein and Dovilė Karčiauskaitė
Antioxidants 2026, 15(6), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15060731 - 9 Jun 2026
Viewed by 233
Abstract
Despite increasing efforts to improve cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk evaluation and management, it remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. This has driven interest in high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-related biomarkers as indicators of oxidative stress and atherogenic processes not fully captured by [...] Read more.
Despite increasing efforts to improve cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk evaluation and management, it remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. This has driven interest in high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-related biomarkers as indicators of oxidative stress and atherogenic processes not fully captured by traditional lipid measurements. In this study, we examined specific paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity and its relationship with anthropometric, blood pressure, and lipid metabolism measures in 100 middle-aged Lithuanian individuals at high cardiovascular risk. HDL fractions were isolated using iodixanol-based density gradient centrifugation. PON1 concentration and arylesterase activity were measured, and specific activity was defined as arylesterase activity normalized to PON1 concentration. No significant associations were observed between specific PON1 activity and age, body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, smoking status, or statin use. Specific PON1 activity was independently associated with lower risk-weighted apolipoprotein B and lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. These exploratory findings suggest that higher specific PON1 activity may reflect a less atherogenic lipid profile in individuals at high cardiovascular risk, as indicated by its association with LDL-C and with risk-weighted apolipoprotein B. Because direct oxidative stress and inflammatory markers were not measured, interpretations regarding oxidative burden should be considered indirect and hypothesis-generating. Given the cross-sectional nature of the study and the relatively small sample size, these results should be interpreted as exploratory and hypothesis-generating. Further longitudinal studies in larger populations are needed to confirm these observations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Role of High-Density Lipoprotein—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 775 KB  
Article
Association of the VDR rs1544410 Polymorphism with Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiometabolic Traits in Institutionalized Older Adults
by Szymon Michniewicz, Krzysztof Chmielowiec, Magdalena Gibas-Dorna, Bartłomiej Czyżniewski, Ewa Pruszyńska-Oszmałek, Paweł Kołodziejski, Michał Tomasz Kowalski, Anna Grzywacz and Jolanta Chmielowiec
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5212; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125212 - 9 Jun 2026
Viewed by 87
Abstract
The rs1544410 (BsmI) polymorphism of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene has been implicated in metabolic regulation, although its role in metabolic syndrome (MetS) and related phenotypes remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate associations between rs1544410, MetS status, and anthropometric and biochemical [...] Read more.
The rs1544410 (BsmI) polymorphism of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene has been implicated in metabolic regulation, although its role in metabolic syndrome (MetS) and related phenotypes remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate associations between rs1544410, MetS status, and anthropometric and biochemical parameters in institutionalized older adults. A total of 95 participants were included, of whom 40% met the criteria for MetS. Anthropometric and biochemical profiles were assessed, and rs1544410 genotyping was performed. Differences between MetS and non-MetS groups were analyzed, and two-way ANOVA was used to evaluate genotype, MetS status, and their interaction effects. Participants with MetS showed an adverse cardiometabolic profile, characterized by higher triglycerides (TGs), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), as well as lower HDL-C levels compared with non-MetS individuals. No differences were observed for total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, or non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) between groups. Genotype distributions did not differ between MetS and non-MetS participants. However, significant genotype × MetS interactions were observed for TG and NEFA, with a borderline interaction for WHR that was not confirmed in post hoc analyses. Carriers of the rs1544410 AA genotype within the MetS group exhibited higher TG and NEFA levels compared with other genotypes, whereas no genotype-dependent differences were observed in the non-MetS group. Importantly, AIP was higher in participants with MetS, with the highest values observed in AA genotype carriers. In conclusion, the rs1544410 polymorphism was not associated with MetS status but was linked to MetS-related differences in TG, NEFA, and AIP, suggesting selective effects on lipid metabolism. Full article
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23 pages, 1519 KB  
Article
Nocturnal Hypoxic Exposure Combined with Two-Week Hypoxic Training and Calorie Restriction Improves Lipid Profile and Body Composition in Men with Obesity-Related Hypercholesterolemia: A Controlled Intervention Study
by Emil Jędrzejewski, Miłosz Czuba, Adam Niemaszyk, Kamila Płoszczyca, Katarzyna Kaczmarczyk and Robert Gajda
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(12), 5151; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27125151 - 6 Jun 2026
Viewed by 228
Abstract
Despite advances in lifestyle-based therapy, achieving clinically meaningful reductions in blood lipid levels remains a major challenge in obese men with secondary hypercholesterolemia. Hypoxic exposure encompassing both training sessions and nocturnal rest may offer a novel adjunct to conventional interventions; however, no study [...] Read more.
Despite advances in lifestyle-based therapy, achieving clinically meaningful reductions in blood lipid levels remains a major challenge in obese men with secondary hypercholesterolemia. Hypoxic exposure encompassing both training sessions and nocturnal rest may offer a novel adjunct to conventional interventions; however, no study has evaluated such a protocol in this population. Twenty sedentary men with obesity-related hypercholesterolemia were randomly allocated to a hypoxic group (H) or normoxic control group (C). Both groups completed an identical two-week high-intensity training program under an individualized calorie-restricted diet, residing at the same lowland location (~100 m above sea level). The H group trained and rested under normobaric hypoxia (FiO2 = 14.4%, simulated altitude ~3000 m, 8 h nightly); C remained under normoxic conditions. The H group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in body mass (−4.1%) and fat mass (−11.0%). Significant reductions in total cholesterol (−20.1%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (−21.3%), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (−23.1%), atherogenic index of plasma (−42.4%), and Castelli Risk Index I (−19.4%) occurred exclusively in the H group, accompanied by a strong downward trend in Castelli Risk Index II (p = 0.072). High-density lipoprotein cholesterol did not change; for triglycerides, a clear downward trend was observed in the H group, approaching statistical significance within-group (p = 0.052). The magnitude of cholesterol reduction was significantly associated with body mass and fat loss (r = 0.61–0.67). A two-week intervention combining hypoxic training with nocturnal normobaric hypoxic exposure and caloric restriction produces clinically relevant improvements in lipid profile and body composition in men with obesity-related hypercholesterolemia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism)
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14 pages, 692 KB  
Article
Physical Activity Modifies the Association Between Atherogenic Index of Plasma and New-Onset Diabetes in Middle-Aged and Older Adults
by Yuhong Song, Jinyan Lan, Yu Ke and Lixu Tang
Healthcare 2026, 14(11), 1529; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14111529 - 1 Jun 2026
Viewed by 227
Abstract
Background: While existing research has examined the association between the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and the incidence of new-onset diabetes, there is a paucity of evidence concerning the influence of physical activity (PA) on this relationship. This study aims to elucidate the [...] Read more.
Background: While existing research has examined the association between the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and the incidence of new-onset diabetes, there is a paucity of evidence concerning the influence of physical activity (PA) on this relationship. This study aims to elucidate the intricate relationships among AIP, PA, and new-onset diabetes in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: Data from the 2011–2020 CHARLS cohort were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic splines (RCS) assessed the association between AIP and diabetes risk. Effect modification by physical activity was examined via interaction terms and subgroup analyses, with sensitivity analyses excluding participants with dyslipidemia. Results: During follow-up, 717 participants developed diabetes. Each one-standard-deviation increase in AIP was associated with a significantly increased risk of diabetes (odds ratio (OR) = 2.266, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.807–2.843), with a linear dose–response relationship. A significant interaction was observed between AIP and physical activity. The association between AIP and diabetes was robust among non-exercisers (OR = 2.735, 95% CI: 2.087–3.582), but was markedly attenuated and non-significant among regular exercisers (OR = 1.471, 95% CI: 0.962–2.247). Sensitivity analysis yielded consistent results (OR = 2.259, 95% CI: 1.776–2.873). Conclusions: AIP is independently associated with an increased risk of new-onset diabetes in Chinese adults aged ≥45 years. Subgroup analyses indicated that physical activity significantly modified this association. The association was robust among non-exercisers but was markedly attenuated and became non-significant among regular exercisers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ageing Care: Spotlight on the Role of Physical Activity)
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15 pages, 476 KB  
Article
CXCL12 rs1801157 Polymorphism Is Associated with Antiatherogenic Lipoprotein Subfraction Profile Independent of Coronary Artery Disease Risk in a Turkish Population: A Case–Control Study
by İnci Deniz, Ayça Türer Cabbar, Fatma Tuba Akdeniz, Turgay İsbir and Seda Güleç Yılmaz
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(11), 4206; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15114206 - 29 May 2026
Viewed by 199
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of global mortality. The C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) gene has been implicated in atherosclerosis; however, its relationship with lipoprotein subfraction profiles remains unclear. The primary objective of this study was to investigate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of global mortality. The C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) gene has been implicated in atherosclerosis; however, its relationship with lipoprotein subfraction profiles remains unclear. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the association between the CXCL12 rs1801157 C>T single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and coronary artery disease (CAD) risk in a Turkish population. The secondary objective was to evaluate the relationship between this polymorphism and LDL and HDL lipoprotein subfraction profiles. Methods: This case–control study included 139 patients with angiographically confirmed CAD and 125 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed using TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subfractions were analyzed using the Lipoprint® polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis system. Multivariable logistic and linear regression analyses were performed, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and major cardiovascular risk factors. Results: No significant differences in rs1801157 genotype or allele distributions were observed between groups (overall χ2 = 0.459, p = 0.796). Logistic regression confirmed that the polymorphism was not an independent predictor of CAD risk (CT: OR = 1.396, p = 0.409; TT: OR = 1.458, p = 0.694). HDL-C was an independent protective factor (OR = 0.952, 95% CI: 0.910–0.996; p = 0.029). Notably, TT homozygous carriers exhibited significantly higher large HDL (p = 0.018) and intermediate HDL (p < 0.001) subfraction levels and markedly lower small LDL concentrations (p < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression confirmed these associations were independent of age, sex, and BMI. Conclusions: The CXCL12 rs1801157 variant does not directly influence CAD susceptibility but modulates lipoprotein quality by promoting larger HDL subfractions and reducing atherogenic small LDL particles, suggesting an indirect cardioprotective role through lipid metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coronary Artery Disease: Recent Developments and Emerging Trends)
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29 pages, 807 KB  
Article
Fatty Acid Profile, Oxidative Stability, and Quality Traits of Meat from Broilers Fed Raw or Fermented Rapeseed Cake
by Tatiana Dumitra Panaite, Gabriela Maria Cornescu, Mihaela Dumitru, Florentina Aldea, Ana Elena Cismileanu, Smaranda Mariana Toma, Dan Traian Râmbu, Georgeta Ciurescu and Nicoleta Corina Predescu
Foods 2026, 15(11), 1911; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15111911 - 28 May 2026
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Raw rapeseed cake represents a viable alternative protein source for broiler diets, and its fermentation may reduce anti-nutritional factors while improving its feeding value. This 35-day study involved 300 one-day-old ROSS 308 chicks (three groups, four replicates/group, with 25 broilers/replicate) raised on wood [...] Read more.
Raw rapeseed cake represents a viable alternative protein source for broiler diets, and its fermentation may reduce anti-nutritional factors while improving its feeding value. This 35-day study involved 300 one-day-old ROSS 308 chicks (three groups, four replicates/group, with 25 broilers/replicate) raised on wood shavings (16 broilers/m2). Broilers received either a control diet (corn–soybean meal) or diets supplemented with 200 g/kg of RRCs (raw rapeseed cakes) or fermented rapeseed cakes (FRCs). At the end of the trial, eight broilers per group were slaughtered, and breast and thigh samples were collected. The nutritional quality of the meat was assessed by proximate composition, fatty acid profile, and health-related lipid indices. In addition, oxidative status during shelf-life storage was evaluated based on myoglobin content (Mb), metmyoglobin concentration (metMb), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and lipid peroxidation, determined as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). The omega-3 fatty acid content in fresh breast and thigh samples was significantly higher in RRC and FRC groups compared to C (p = 0.014; p = 0.0001), which significantly decreased the omega-6/omega-3 ratio for both samples (p = 0.0001). The TBARS values exhibited a significant decrease (p < 0.0001) between groups for breast and thigh samples. The TAC values showed significantly higher antioxidant capacity in RRC and FRC breasts and thigh samples compared to C, considering both group differences (p < 0.0001) and shelf-life evaluation (p = 0.001). In thigh samples, the RRC group showed lower metMB values compared to the control group (p = 0.042), whereas differences in breast samples were not statistically significant (p = 0.054). Healthy lipid indexes registered significantly lower values for experimental groups, both for breast and thigh, and for linoleic/α-linolenic acid ratio (p = 0.0001), but for atherogenicity index (AI) (p = 0.0001) and thrombogenic index (TI) (p = 0.0001) only for the RRC group, while nutritive value index (NVI) significantly increased (p = 0.0001) on both groups. In conclusion, RRC and FRC may represent sustainable alternatives to soybean meal in broiler nutrition, supporting improvements in meat lipid profile and oxidative stability. Overall, the RRC group showed more significant effects on n-3 fatty acid enrichment and lipid quality indices, whereas the FRC mainly influenced proximate composition and selected color parameters. Full article
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17 pages, 969 KB  
Article
Nutritional Value and Fatty Acid Profile of Selected Fermented Food Products (Cheese, Sauerkraut, and Natto) as Vitamin K Sources: Compositional Assessment in the Context of Cardiovascular Disease Risk
by Hayat Hassen, Kinga Topolska, Agnieszka Kij, Marek Sady, Stanisław Kowalski, Renata B. Kostogrys, Tomasz Tarko and Magdalena Franczyk-Żarów
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(11), 5209; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16115209 - 22 May 2026
Viewed by 186
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain leading cause of human morbidity and mortality worldwide. With increasing attention to vitamin K intake’s effect on health, comprehensive knowledge of vitamin K dietary sources is important. This study aims to determine the nutritional value of selected fermented [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain leading cause of human morbidity and mortality worldwide. With increasing attention to vitamin K intake’s effect on health, comprehensive knowledge of vitamin K dietary sources is important. This study aims to determine the nutritional value of selected fermented food products (cheese, sauerkraut and natto) as a dietary vitamin K sources and to evaluate their lipid quality in the context of cardiovascular health. Methods: Two kinds of cow’s milk cheeses were selected. Regarding sauerkraut and natto, both commercial products and laboratory-produced samples were taken for comparison. Contents of phylloquinone (PK) and menaquinones (MKn) and fatty acids profiles were analyzed. Moreover, the following lipid quality indices were evaluated: Peroxidisability Index (PI); Atherogenicity Index (AI); Thrombogenicity Index (TI); and Hypocholesterolaemic/Hypercholesterolaemic (HH) ratio. Results: Sauerkraut demonstrated the highest phylloquinone content, while the highest content of MK-7 was found in natto. The fatty acid profile of natto was characterized by the highest proportions of linoleic acid (C18:2) and alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3). Natto’s lipid quality indices were the most favorable compared to cheese and sauerkraut. Conclusions: Based on its MK-7 content and lipid quality profile, natto demonstrates the greatest nutritional potential among the analyzed fermented products. These findings are based on compositional analysis and require confirmation through clinical studies investigating the cardiovascular effects of regular consumption of these specific products. Full article
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18 pages, 795 KB  
Article
Seasonal Variation in Pasture Availability During the Fattening Period Influences Lipid Profile and Nutritional Quality in the Semi-Extensive Production of Iberian Pigs
by José M. Martínez-Torres, Juan Florencio Tejeda, Juan M. García Casco and Elena González
Animals 2026, 16(10), 1531; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16101531 - 16 May 2026
Viewed by 312
Abstract
Iberian pigs reared in a semi-extensive outdoor system, known as cebo de campo, have their commercial feed supplemented with natural pasture. However, the availability and quality of pastures vary seasonally under the Mediterranean conditions of the southwestern Iberian Peninsula. This study evaluates [...] Read more.
Iberian pigs reared in a semi-extensive outdoor system, known as cebo de campo, have their commercial feed supplemented with natural pasture. However, the availability and quality of pastures vary seasonally under the Mediterranean conditions of the southwestern Iberian Peninsula. This study evaluates the effect of the seasonal fattening period on fatty acid content and nutritional quality indices (atherogenic index, thrombogenic index, hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio, and healthy fatty index) in subcutaneous adipose tissue and intramuscular fat from 258 purebred Iberian pigs raised under the cebo de campo system during three periods: winter–spring (December–April, n = 63), spring–summer (May–August, n = 99), and summer–autumn (August–November, n = 96). Winter–spring pigs exhibited significantly higher monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids and lower saturated fatty acids compared to spring–summer and summer–autumn groups in subcutaneous adipose tissue. Nutritional quality indices were more favorable in winter–spring pigs, indicating superior cardiovascular health benefits. Principal component analysis revealed clear seasonal group separation, with the first two components explaining 88.51% of the variance in subcutaneous fat. Significantly higher neophytadiene concentrations, a biomarker of pasture intake, in winter–spring pigs confirmed greater pasture consumption. These findings demonstrate that seasonal factors significantly influence the nutritional quality of meat produced in cebo de campo Iberian pig systems. This influence is much clearer in subcutaneous adipose tissue than intramuscular fat, as winter–spring fattening is associated with a more favorable lipid profile. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pigs)
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20 pages, 1238 KB  
Article
Fatty Acid Profile of Table Grapes: Impact of Cultivar and Fruit Protection on Saturated, Monounsaturated, and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Profile
by Nataly Tatiana Coronel Montesdeoca, Lucía Andreu-Coll, Guillermo Alexander Jácome Sarchi, Francisca Hernández and Esther Sendra
Foods 2026, 15(9), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15091585 - 4 May 2026
Viewed by 446
Abstract
Pre-harvest bagging protects table grapes from environmental stress, yet its interannual impact on the plant fatty acid profile remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the fatty acid profile and Atherogenicity Index (AI) and Thrombogenicity Index (TI) as health indices of three traditional [...] Read more.
Pre-harvest bagging protects table grapes from environmental stress, yet its interannual impact on the plant fatty acid profile remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the fatty acid profile and Atherogenicity Index (AI) and Thrombogenicity Index (TI) as health indices of three traditional cultivars (“Doña María”, “Dominga”, “Aledo”). Grapes were cultivated under bagged and unbagged conditions over two consecutive seasons characterized by contrasting thermal stress, and their lipid extracts were evaluated using gas chromatography and multivariate statistical tools. The analytical results revealed a profile predominantly composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids, primarily linoleic acid. Both genotype and protective bagging significantly modulated lipid accumulation. Uniquely, the extreme heatwave of the second season triggered a profound lipid remodeling, increasing the total polyunsaturated fraction by over 40% in “Doña María” as a putative adaptive response to maintain membrane fluidity. Nutritionally, all cultivars demonstrated exceptional cardioprotective potential, recording atherogenicity indices below 0.11. These findings provide novel insights into the resilience of table grapes, validating them as a robust source of functional lipids. Furthermore, tracking this lipid remodeling offers the agricultural industry a sensitive biochemical tool to optimize protective strategies and ensure crop quality under increasing climate volatility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Foods)
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20 pages, 926 KB  
Article
Methotrexate Exposure and Inflammatory–Metabolic Biomarker Networks in Hospitalized Patients with Psoriasis: A Network Analysis Approach
by Laura-Florina Nistor, Ruxandra-Cristina Marin, Laura Maria Endres, Gabriela S. Bungau, Ada Radu, Diana Alina Bei and Delia Mirela Tit
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(5), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19050720 - 1 May 2026
Viewed by 817
Abstract
Background: Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disorder strongly associated with cardiometabolic comorbidities. Although methotrexate (MTX) is widely used for moderate-to-severe disease, its influence on the relationships between inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers remains insufficiently characterized. Methods: This retrospective observational study included 132 hospitalized [...] Read more.
Background: Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disorder strongly associated with cardiometabolic comorbidities. Although methotrexate (MTX) is widely used for moderate-to-severe disease, its influence on the relationships between inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers remains insufficiently characterized. Methods: This retrospective observational study included 132 hospitalized adult patients with psoriasis, stratified into untreated (n = 101) and MTX-treated (n = 31) groups. Inflammatory markers, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and metabolic indices, triglyceride–glucose index (TyG), metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), were analyzed. Group comparisons were performed using Mann–Whitney U and χ2 tests. Spearman correlation matrices and regularized partial correlation networks (EBICglasso, γ = 0.5) were constructed separately for each group to explore inflammatory–metabolic connectivity. Results: MTX-treated patients exhibited lower NLR (p = 0.035) and fasting glucose levels (p = 0.004), while CRP, ESR, and composite metabolic indices did not differ significantly. In untreated patients, correlation analysis showed multiple significant cross-domain associations between inflammatory and metabolic markers. In contrast, fewer such associations reached statistical significance in the MTX-treated group. Network analysis indicated a less densely connected structure in the MTX group (9 vs. 12 non-zero edges); however, formal network comparison did not identify statistically significant differences between groups. Conclusions: Although fewer statistically significant cross-domain correlations were observed in MTX-treated patients, no statistically significant differences in network structure were detected between groups. These findings are exploratory and hypothesis-generating, not indicative of methotrexate-related modification of network structure, and are limited by the small size of the MTX-treated subgroup. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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12 pages, 443 KB  
Article
Atherogenic Index of Plasma Relationship with Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Frailty and Value as Determinant of Mortality in Elderly Patients with Severe Aortic Stenosis
by Annamaria Mazzone, Melania Gaggini and Cristina Vassalle
Metabolites 2026, 16(5), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16050289 - 22 Apr 2026
Viewed by 374
Abstract
Background: Frailty is a common finding in elderly subjects with severe aortic stenosis (AoS) and a strong predictor of mortality and disability after aortic valve surgery. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) is related to different cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, which in [...] Read more.
Background: Frailty is a common finding in elderly subjects with severe aortic stenosis (AoS) and a strong predictor of mortality and disability after aortic valve surgery. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) is related to different cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, which in turn are correlated to the progression of frailty as well as of AoS. Aim: to analyze the association of AIP with different CV risk factors and frailty scores and its value as a determinant of mortality in older adults with severe AoS. Methods: The association of AIP with a multidimensional assessment of frailty by using Fried criteria and the following indices; timed up-and-go test (TUG) for gait function; Charlson Index (CI), basic activities of daily living (BADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) for disability; mini–mental state examination for cognitive function evaluation (MMSE); Geriatric Depression Score for mood disorder (GDS); Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) for nutritional status was assessed in 102 elderly AoS patients (33 males; mean age 83 ± 6 yrs). Moreover, the relationship between AIP and demographic, lifestyle, traditional CV risk factors and CV mortality was also evaluated. Results: Significant relationships between AIP and glycemia and inflammatory parameters (CRP, ESR and fibrinogen) as well as with troponin I were found. Moreover, AIP significantly correlates with CI, BADL, IADL and MNA. However, the Kaplan–Meier analysis did not show any significant difference for survival rates according to AIP intervals of risk, whereas ejection fraction remained the only significant determinant after multivariate adjustment for mortality at the Cox proportional hazard models analysis in this patient population. Conclusions: Higher AIP is significantly associated with cardiometabolic risk and increased physical dysfunction risk and frailty in AoS pts, evidencing its potential use as a simple biomarker in this clinical setting, although it did not represent a significant determinant for mortality in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipid Metabolism in Age-Related Diseases: 2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 453 KB  
Article
Higher Dietary Antioxidant Index Is Associated with Better Lipid Profile in Women with Coronary Artery Disease
by Mariana Moya-García, Wendy Campos-Pérez, Mariana Pérez-Robles, Sissi Godínez-Mora, Sarai Citlalic Rodríguez-Reyes, Liliana Estefanía Ramos-Villalobos and Erika Martínez-López
Healthcare 2026, 14(8), 1085; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14081085 - 19 Apr 2026
Viewed by 375
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with coronary artery disease (CAD) being the most prevalent. An atherogenic diet contributes to oxidative stress by promoting lipid peroxidation in lipoproteins and cellular membranes, thereby compromising membrane integrity, which is reflected in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with coronary artery disease (CAD) being the most prevalent. An atherogenic diet contributes to oxidative stress by promoting lipid peroxidation in lipoproteins and cellular membranes, thereby compromising membrane integrity, which is reflected in lower phase angle (PhA) values. Dietary antioxidants play a crucial role in cellular health and in reducing atherosclerotic risk; therefore, the Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI) is an important measure, as dietary antioxidants may counteract oxidative damage. This study aimed to assess the association between anthropometric, PhA, and biochemical variables across groups classified according to DAI. Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study. A total of 107 subjects, with and without CAD, were included. Oxidized LDL (oxLDL) and oxidized HDL (oxHDL) were determined using the ELISA technique. PhA was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis, and DAI was calculated using the formula proposed by Wright et al. Results: DAI was positively associated with HDL concentrations in women with CAD, indicating that HDL levels increased by 5.8 mg/dL for each unit increase in DAI (R2 = 0.625, p = 0.001). Furthermore, for each unit increase in DAI, the TC/HDL ratio decreased by 0.3 (R2 = 0.625, p = 0.006), and the LDL/HDL ratio decreased by 0.2 (R2 = 0.506, p = 0.012). Conclusions: A higher DAI is associated with a more favorable lipid profile in women with CAD, particularly with higher HDL concentrations and lower TC/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Public Health and Preventive Medicine)
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15 pages, 360 KB  
Article
Normal-Weight Obesity and an Unfavorable Cardiometabolic Profile: Results from the Study of Workers’ Health (ESAT)
by Fernando Gomes de Jesus, Alice Pereira Duque, Grazielle Vilas Bôas Huguenin, Mauro Felippe Felix Mediano, Maicon Teixeira de Almeida, Carla Christina Ade Caldas, Silvio Rodrigues Marques-Neto and Luiz Fernando Rodrigues Junior
Healthcare 2026, 14(8), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14081008 - 11 Apr 2026
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Abstract
Background: Normal-weight obesity (NWO) is a nutritional status in which individuals have a normal body mass index (BMI) with a high percentage of body fat (%BF). However, the impact of elevated %BF on cardiometabolic risk remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate whether [...] Read more.
Background: Normal-weight obesity (NWO) is a nutritional status in which individuals have a normal body mass index (BMI) with a high percentage of body fat (%BF). However, the impact of elevated %BF on cardiometabolic risk remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate whether NWO is associated with worse cardiometabolic risk markers and scores. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a convenience sample of employees from a public hospital. Participants aged ≥18 years with a BMI between 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 were included in the study. %BF was categorized according to sex and age (InBody720). Normal weight and normal %BF (NWNB) and NWO were defined using cutoff points. Body composition, serum biochemical and inflammatory markers, hemodynamics, and autonomic function were considered cardiometabolic risk markers. The visceral fat area (VFA), atherogenic coefficient (AC), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), body shape index (ABSI), and Framingham Risk (FR) score were considered cardiometabolic risk scores. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Of the 228 eligible participants, 52 met the inclusion criteria (NWNB, N = 29 and NWO, N = 23). Participants with NWO presented worse values of lipid profiles, anthropometric measurements, hemodynamic parameters, and autonomic function indices. After adjustment for age and sex, NWO remained associated with selected cardiometabolic markers, particularly LDL-c, triglycerides, and autonomic indices, whereas body composition findings should be interpreted as confirmatory of the phenotype. Conclusions: In this cross-sectional secondary analysis, NWO was associated with worse cardiometabolic markers and selected risk scores compared with NWNB. These findings support an unfavorable cardiometabolic profile in individuals with NWO, but do not allow inferences about future cardiometabolic events or causal relationships. Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify its prognostic significance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Public Health and Preventive Medicine)
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30 pages, 2445 KB  
Article
Insulin Resistance and Atherogenic Dyslipidemia Drive Cardiac Remodeling and Cardiovascular Events After Kidney Transplantation
by Ioana Adela Ratiu, Cristina Mihaela Brisc, Alina Daciana Elec, Corina Moisa, Anamaria Ratiu, Edy Hagi-Islai, Cristian Adrian Ratiu, Ioana Paula Blaj-Tunduc, Victor Vlad Babeș and Emilia Elena Babeș
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(8), 2915; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15082915 - 11 Apr 2026
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Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality after kidney transplantation. The relative contribution of metabolic abnormalities and inflammatory burden to cardiac remodeling and subsequent clinical outcomes in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) remains incompletely understood. Methods: In this [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality after kidney transplantation. The relative contribution of metabolic abnormalities and inflammatory burden to cardiac remodeling and subsequent clinical outcomes in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) remains incompletely understood. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 152 KTRs underwent comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation at a stable post-transplant time point (12 ± 4 months after transplantation). Metabolic phenotype was assessed using metabolic syndrome and indices of insulin resistance and atherogenic dyslipidemia (TyG index, TG/HDL ratio, and atherogenic index of plasma [AIP]). Inflammatory status was evaluated using hs-CRP and complete blood count-derived indices. Echocardiographic damage composite (EDC) was defined as the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy, diastolic dysfunction, or left atrial enlargement. Patients were followed for major adverse clinical outcome (MACO), defined as cardiovascular event, graft failure, or death, and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). Results: At baseline, 78 patients (51.3%) met criteria for EDC. EDC was strongly associated with higher TyG, AIP, TG/HDL, LDL/HDL ratio, and metabolic syndrome, whereas inflammatory markers showed no association. In multivariable logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, eGFR, and proteinuria, TyG remained independently associated with EDC (OR 1.13 per 0.1 increase, 95% CI 1.05–1.21; p = 0.001), independent of hs-CRP. Similar results were observed when AIP was evaluated in place of TyG (OR 10.39, 95% CI 2.22–48.71; p = 0.003). During follow-up, 78 patients developed MACO and 49 developed MACCE. In Cox regression analysis, graft dysfunction and inflammatory markers independently predicted MACO, whereas TyG was no longer significant. In contrast, TyG remained an independent predictor of MACCE after adjustment for confounders and inflammatory markers (HR 1.10 per 0.1 increase, 95% CI 1.04–1.16; p < 0.001). Similar results were observed when AIP was tested in place of TyG (HR 10.8, 95% CI 3.06–38.11; p < 0.001). Echocardiographic damage did not independently predict outcomes after adjustment. Conclusions: In KTRs, metabolic abnormalities reflecting insulin resistance and atherogenic dyslipidemia are closely associated with cardiac remodeling one year after transplantation and remain specifically linked to subsequent cardiovascular events. In contrast, systemic inflammation and graft dysfunction are the primary determinants of overall adverse clinical outcomes. Simple metabolic indices such as TyG and AIP may provide practical tools for cardiovascular risk stratification in this population. In Cox proportional hazards models, TyG (HR 1.102, 95% CI 1.043–1.164, p = 0.001) and AIP (HR 10.8, 95% CI 3.06–38.11, p < 0.001) were independently associated with cardiovascular events during follow-up, underscoring the role of atherogenic dyslipidemia in cardiovascular risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Kidney Transplantation: 2nd Edition)
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