Medicina
-
Background and Objectives: A polymorphism in the promoter region of the IL-6 gene would influence the level of IL-6 expression in patients with HCV, resulting in a pro-inflammatory response. Few studies have shown the association between -174G>C (rs1800795) and -1363G>T (rs2069827) polymorphisms and HCV infection, and their results have been contradictory. There are no data published in our population to study such an IL-6 stimulus against HCV infection and its impact on RNA secondary structure. ⋯ Results: The -174G>C and -1363G>T genotypes in the promoter region of patients with HCV were in strong allelic association (Δ = 0.97, p < 0.001). Interestingly, the bioinformatics analysis was well aligned with our experimental data. Conclusions: Based on the data, it can be inferred that IL-6 gene promoter polymorphisms are important in the dysregulation of IL-6 levels in patients with HCV.
-
Background and Objectives: The mechanisms connecting obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and cardiovascular disease are multifactorial, involving intermittent hypoxia, hypercapnia, and sympathetic activation. The aim of this study was to explore the oscillations of sympathetic activity during the sleep apnea episodes throughout the entire night in patients with OSA. Materials and Methods: The participants received whole-night polysomnography (PSG), and electrocardiogram (EKG) data from the PSG were collected for heart rate variability (HRV) analysis. ⋯ Conclusions: In the current study, the selected sleep apnea episodes throughout the entire night in patients with OSA occurred primarily during the non-REM stages. Additionally, we observed that sympathetic activity reached its peak in the window that includes hyperventilation at the end stage of apnea, potentially posing a cardiovascular risk. However, additional studies are needed to validate these results.
-
Review Meta Analysis
A Review and Meta-Analysis of the Safety and Efficacy of Using Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been used to reduce glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus since 2005. This meta-analysis discusses the mechanisms and potential benefits of several GLP-1 RAs. In particular, this meta-analysis focuses on the safety and associations with weight loss, glucose reduction, cardiovascular outcomes, heart failure, and renal outcomes of GLP-1 RAs to determine their benefits for patients with different conditions. ⋯ Moreover, semaglutide was associated with superior outcomes for heart failure and cardiovascular death in non-diabetic obesity patients, whereas liraglutide worsened heart failure outcomes in diabetic patients with a reduced ejection fraction. Additionally, semaglutide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide were beneficial in terms of composite renal outcomes: These GLP-1 RAs were significantly associated with less new or persistent macroalbuminuria, but not with improved eGFR deterioration or reduced requirement for renal replacement therapy. However, GLP-1 RAs may benefit patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or obesity.
-
Background and Objectives: The widespread use of tobacco has evolved with the popularity of vapes, especially among young people, despite the lack of clarity in warnings about their risks. Studies indicate the need for more effective communication about the oral risks of vaping. In addition to systemic, respiratory, and cardiovascular effects, vaping is associated with an increased risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease as well as reduced antioxidant capacity of saliva. ⋯ Conclusions: This review indicates that the use of vapes is associated with an increased risk of periodontitis and caries. Although users experience more oral problems than non-smokers, these are less severe than those of traditional smokers. The widespread prevalence, especially among young people, highlights the urgency of awareness campaigns to warn of risks and understand potential harm.
-
Review
Options for Topical Treatment of Oxidative Eye Diseases with a Special Focus on Retinopathies.
Antioxidants, usually administered orally through the systemic route, are known to counteract the harmful effects of oxidative stress on retinal cells. The formulation of these antioxidants as eye drops might offer a new option in the treatment of oxidative retinopathies. In this review, we will focus on the use of some of the most potent antioxidants in treating retinal neuropathies. ⋯ In this paper, we also introduce a relatively new strategy: the alkylation of two antioxidants, namely, edaravone and EGCG, to improve their insertion into the lipid bilayer of liposomes or even directly into cellular membranes, facilitating their crossing of epithelial barriers and targeting the posterior segment of the eye. The synergistic action of these antioxidants may offer a multifaceted defense against oxidative damage, holding potential for the treatment and management of oxidative retinopathies. Further research and clinical trials will be necessary to validate the safety and efficacy of these formulations, but the prospect of antioxidant-based eye drops represents a promising avenue for future ocular therapies.