Impact of Systemic Inflammation and Autoimmune Diseases on apoA-I and HDL Plasma Levels and Functions

The cholesterol of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) and its major proteic component, apoA-I, have been widely investigated as potential predictors of acute cardiovascular (CV) events. In particular, HDL cholesterol levels were shown to be inversely and independently associated with the risk of acute CV diseases in different patient populations, including autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders. Some relevant and direct anti-inflammatory activities of HDL have been also recently identified targeting both immune and vascular cell subsets. These studies recently highlighted the improvement of HDL function (instead of circulating levels) as a promising treatment strategy to reduce inflammation and associated CV risk in several diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. In these diseases, anti-inflammatory treatments targeting HDL function might improve both disease activity and CV risk. In this narrative review, we will focus on the pathophysiological relevance of HDL and apoA-I levels/functions in different acute and chronic inflammatory pathophysiological conditions

Limits imposed by salt to the growth of the halophyte Sesuvium portulacastrum

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Evaluation of Dependence Among Benzodiazepines in Population of Elderly Subjects Followed in Psychiatric Service in Sfax

IntroductionBenzodiazepines (BZD) are the most consumed psychotropic drugs by the elders. This prescription can lead to the dependence which is a major public health problem particularly in this population.ObjectivesTo study the prevalence of dependence of the (BZD) in elderly subjects followed as outpatients and to identify the factors associated with it.MethodsIt was a cross-sectional study of 60 patients aged 65 years and older followed at the psychiatric consultation of the UH Hédi Chaker of Sfax; for 3 months. We used:– Questionnaire containing demographic and clinical data.– The cognitive scale of attachment to benzodiazepines (ECAB), a score ≥ 6 indicates dependence.ResultsThe average age of patients was 67.78 years, with a sex-ratio M/W = 0.46. They were smoking in 58.3% of cases. The most frequent psychiatric disorders were mood disorders (40%) followed by anxiety disorders (13.3%). The absence of diagnosis was observed in 23.3% of cases. A psychotropic drugs were associated with BZD in 86.7%. The most prescripted BZD was lorazépam (90%). Withdrawal signs were present in 90% of cases. The prevalence of BZD dependence has been estimated at 80%.BZD dependence was significantly correlated with smoking (P = 0.00), with psychotropics association (P = 0.04) and with signs of withdrawal (P = 0.001).ConclusionIt appears from our study the importance of BZD dependence in the elderly what it is a source of withdrawal difficulty. So we need make more effort to comply with recommendations regarding the prescription of these molecules.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.</jats:sec

Epidemiological profile of drug users in Tunisia

IntroductionChanging cultural values and increasing economic stress are leading to initiation into substance use. Despite religious and legal constraints on Muslims against the consumption of drugs, drug addiction is a widespread problem and is destroying the lives of many individuals and families, in Tunisia.ObjectivesTo examine the socio-demographic characteristics of Tunisian addicts and to identify the drugs commonly used.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study, which included 200 patients at the addiction treatment center “Aide et Ecoute” in Sfax (Tunisia). The survey was conducted during the month of January to September 2014.ResultsOnly males were found to get treatment in the addiction center for various addictions. The mean age was 33.32 years and the mean age for starting substance use was 17.30 years. More than half (65.9%) were not married and 59.5% had involvement with criminal justice. Substance dependence was commonly seen in poor and middle socioeconomic class. The most common substance used was buprenorphine (34.8%). There was a significant relation between buprenorphine consumption and immigration (P= 0.013). Peer pressure was one of the most important factors for trial of substance in our study.ConclusionAs the mean age of initiation of substance abuse was early twenties, in liaison with schools and colleges, some recreational activities can be generated to prevent diversion of youth towards the devil of drug abuse.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.</jats:sec