Arch Med Sci
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There is growing interest in head-to-head comparison between different lipid-lowering nutraceuticals. The aim of our study was to test the lipid-lowering effect of dietary supplementation with low-dose monacolins from red yeast rice (2.8 mg per daily dose) combined with berberine (Armolipid Plus®) or highly standardized artichoke extract versus placebo. ⋯ Patients with polygenic hypercholesterolemia experienced a significant improvement in several cardiovascular risk factors in both ATC and Armolipid Plus® groups.
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Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation has been reported to negatively correlate with cancer cell proliferation and tumour development in many cancer types. Although cumulative evidence has demonstrated the apoptotic effect and cytotoxicity of DHA against tumour development in many cell types, the precise cellular and biochemical mechanisms of DHA-induced apoptosis in human endometrial cancer cells have not been investigated. ⋯ Further elucidation of the apoptotic mechanisms involving DHA treatment with ACS ablation could shed light on possible new treatment strategies for endometrial cancer. In addition, further research into the mechanisms of DHA and triacsin C-induced apoptotic mechanisms may lead to the development of therapeutic strategies for endometrial cancer.
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A common criticism of the classification of lupus nephritis is the relative scarcity of information regarding tubular, interstitial, and vascular changes compared to the available information regarding glomerular changes, even though their potential for independent progression is known. This study reviewed the importance of less explored lesions by the current and widely used 2003 classification of lupus nephritis of the International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society (ISN/RPS), with emphasis on the tubulointerstitial, podocyte, and vascular lesions, increasingly recognised as being important in the pathogenesis and prognosis of the disease. Recognition of these lesions can help with therapeutic decision-making, thereby allowing better results for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
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The aim was to observe the effect of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) deficiency on clinical severity and expression of Th1/Th2/Th17-associated cytokines in experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN). ⋯ Based on these findings, TLR4 may contribute to the pathogenesis of EAN by regulating Th17 cells and the production of Th17-associated factors. However, the exact mechanism remains unclear and more evidence is needed to elucidate its role in EAN.
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Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in the general population. Atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events, particularly stroke. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with a higher prevalence of AF and is an independent risk factor of increased mortality and stroke in AF patients. Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) for stroke prevention plays an important role in the treatment of patients with AF and increased bleeding risk. The impact of CKD on outcomes after LAAC has not been deeply investigated. We assessed whether percutaneous LAAC is safe and feasible in CKD patients. ⋯ In spite of a higher thromboembolic and bleeding risk in patients with severe CKD, LAAC is a safe and feasible option for stroke prevention.