Annals of medicine
-
Cardiac sympathetic hyperinnervation after myocardial infarction (MI) is associated with arrhythmogenesis and sudden cardiac death. The characteristics of cardiac sympathetic hyperinnervation remain underexposed. ⋯ Cardiac sympathetic hyperinnervation after MI occurs mainly in the borderzone from three days onwards and remains present at later timepoints, for at least 3 months. It is most commonly studied in male rats with permanent LAD ligation. The amount of hyperinnervation differs greatly between studies, possibly due to differential quantification methods. Further studies are required that evaluate cardiac sympathetic hyperinnervation over time and in the chronic phase, in transmural sections, in the female sex, and in MI with reperfusion.
-
We conducted this umbrella review to review the current evidence on the relationship between COVID-19 and sexual health in both men and women. ⋯ Our findings highlight the importance of sexual health among COVID-19 patients and people affected due to COVID-19. Further critical studies should investigate the mechanism underlying the association between COVID-19 and sexual health.
-
Review
The effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors on markers of subclinical atherosclerosis.
Despite the widespread use of classical cholesterol-lowering drugs to mitigate the adverse impacts of dyslipidaemia on atherosclerosis, many patients still face a substantial residual risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). This risk is partially attributed to non-traditional pathophysiological pathways. Latest evidence suggests that sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are beneficial for patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or established CVD by reducing morbidity and mortality. However, the underlying mechanisms of this benefit have not been clearly elucidated. It has been hypothesized that one possible mechanism could be the attenuation of subclinical atherosclerosis (SA) progression. ⋯ Further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms and the possible beneficial impact of SGLT2i on primary and secondary CVD prevention through attenuation of premature atherosclerosis progression.
-
The emergence of genetically-modified human proteins and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have presented a promising strategy for effectively managing diabetes. Due to the scarcity of clinical trials focusing on the safety and efficacy of semaglutide as an adjunctive treatment for patients with type 2 diabetes who had inadequate glycemic control with metformin, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. This was necessary to fill the gap and provide a comprehensive assessment of semaglutide compared to sitagliptin, a commonly prescribed DPP-4 inhibitor, in this patient population. ⋯ In conclusion, the administration of once-weekly Semaglutide exhibited a substantial reduction in HbA1c, average systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body weight, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), and a rise in pulse rate, as opposed to the once-daily administration of Sitagliptin.
-
Meta Analysis
Evidence and possible mechanism of Scutellaria baicalensis and its bioactive compounds for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.
Traditional Chinese medicines have been reported to have outstanding effects in the treating of hepatocellular carcinoma. Scutellaria baicalensis (S. baicalensis) has demonstrated anti-tumor, anti-angiogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Baicalein, wogonin, and baicalin are the main pharmacologically bioactive compounds of S. baicalensis. ⋯ Based on experimental and clinical evidence, we believe that S. baicalensis and its bioactive compounds have therapeutic potential and plausible mechanisms of action against hepatocellular carcinoma, in terms of efficacy and safety.