Decrease In Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Research Articles

Auxological and metabolic effects of long-term treatment with recombinant growth hormone in children born small for gestational age: a retrospective study.

Children born small for gestational age (SGA) not showing catch-up during the first two years of life reportedly show an impaired growth rate and adult height, as well as a worse metabolic outcome, mainly in terms of glycemic and lipid profile, compared to general population. In SGA children with short stature, treatment with recombinant growth hormone (GH) is currently recommended until adolescence; therefore, it may last long-term. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the auxological and metabolic effects and the safety of long-term recombinant GH treatment in SGA children. The study included 15 SGA children (5 F, 10 M; mean age: 6.78 yrs) treated with GH for at least 48 months. Growth and metabolic parameters, including glycemic and lipid profile, transaminases, and urycemia, were collected every six months. Compared to baseline, SGA children showed a significant improvement in height, weight, and growth rate after four yaers of treatment with GH (p ≤ 0.002), being already evident after six months of treatment (p < 0.001). Noteworthy, patients showed a constant, significant improvement in height throughout the treatment, as it was significantly higher at each follow-up compared to the previous one, until 42 months of treatment, except at 30 months of treatment (p < 0.001 T6VST12; p < 0.01 T12VST18, T18VST24; p < 0.05 T30VST36, T36VST42). Considering metabolic parameters, compared to baseline, a recurring increase in glycemia (p ≤ 0.028 vs T30, T36, and T48) and decrease in AST (p ≤ 0.035 vs T36, T42, and T48) and an occasional decrease in LDL cholesterol (p ≤ 0.04 vs T24 and T42) and triglycerides (p = 0.008 vs T18) and increase in urycemia (p = 0.034 vs T42). Considering safety profile, treatment was well tolerated, as the most frequently reported adverse event was poor compliance (20%); no hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia or hyperstransaminasemia occurred throughout the treatment, CONCLUSIONS: Long-term GH treatment showed to be effective in improving height and growth rate in SGA children, with a positive impact of metabolic profile and a safety profile, although glycemia should be carefully monitored over time.

Impacts of ainuovirine-based and efavirenz-based antiretroviral therapies on the lipid profile of HIV/AIDS patients in southern China: a real-world study.

The newly approved third-generation oral anti-HIV-1 drug, ainuovirine (ANV), was used in combination with nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) in our study, and its effects on the lipid profile of antiretroviral-experienced HIV/AIDS patients are unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of antiretroviral agents on the lipid profile in patients with HIV/AIDS. We conducted a real-world prospective study involving treatment-naive and treatment-experienced adult participants living with HIV-1 infection provided with ANV- or efavirenz (EFV)-based regimens. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants with an HIV-1 RNA level of <50 copies/mL at week 24 of treatment. Secondary endpoints included the change from baseline in CD4+ T-cell count and lipid profile. A total of 60 treatment-naive and 47 treatment-experienced participants received an ANV-based regimen, while 88 treatment-naive and 47 treatment-experienced participants receiving an EFV-based regimen were, respectively, matched as controls. At week 24 following treatment, the proportion of participants with an HIV-1 RNA level of <50 copies/mL and the mean changes of CD4+ T-cell counts from baseline were significantly higher in naive-ANV group than those in naive-EFV group (p < 0.01). Compared with the EFV group, both naive and experienced ANV groups exhibited a favorable lipid profile, including constant changes in total cholesterol and triglycerides, a significant decrease in LDL-cholesterol (p < 0.0001), and a dramatic increase in HDL-cholesterol (p < 0.001). The efficacy of ANV was non-inferior to EFV when combined with two NRTIs. Patients receiving ANV-based regimens had a decreased prevalence of dyslipidemia.

The Effect of Exercise During Ketogenic Diet on Hepatokines and Blood Lipid Profile in Overweight or Obese Men

Background and Aims Liver heptokines are important factors in obesity-related diseases. Both exercise and diet are essential interventions for obesity control. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of six weeks of aerobic and resistance exercises and ketogenic diet on fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) selenoprotein P. levels and blood lipid profile in overweight or obese men. Methods This is a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design. Participants were 36 overweight or obese male college students with a body mass index above 25 kg/m2 , who were selected using a convenience sampling method, and were randomly divided into three groups including aerobic exercise + ketogenic diet (n=12), resistance exercise + ketogenic diet (n=12), and ketogenic diet (n=12). Aerobic exercise consisted of moderate-intensity running for six weeks at three sessions per week. Resistance training consisted of circuit training for six weeks at three sessions per week. The ketogenic diet included the restriction of carbohydrate intake to ≤10% of total daily energy intake. Fasting blood samples were collected in pre-test and post-test phases. Serum levels of FGF21 and selenoprotein P. were measured by the ELISA method, and blood lipid profile including total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL were measured by enzyme assay method. Two-way mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical analysis. Bonferroni post hoc test was used for between-group comparison and paired t-test was used for within-group comparison. Results The interaction effect of time and group was no significant for FGF21 (P˃0.05), but the main effect of time was significant (P=0.001). All three groups showed a significant increase in FGF21 in the posttest phase compared to the pretest phase (P≤0.05). The selenoprotein P. serum level was not significantly different between groups or between two evaluation times (P˃0.05). The interaction effect of time and group was not significant for lipid profile (P˃0.05). The within-group comparison indicated a significant decrease in LDL and total cholesterol and an increase in HDL in all groups (P≤0.05). Conclusion It seems that both aerobic and resistance exercises during a ketogenic diet can increase FGF21 and improve lipid profile in overweight or obese men. There is no significant difference between the two methods. They have no superiority over the ketogenic diet alone in affecting heptokines and lipid profile.

Review on PCSK9: A Pertinent Therapeutic Target in Cardiovascular Disease

A Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 is considered a zymogen, extensively found in the liver. PCSK9 is found in circulation in the plasma, where it attaches to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors on the cell surface, is internalized, and subsequently directs the receptors to be degraded by lysosomes. Investigations of naturally or organically found PCSK9 gene variations, which generated high levels of plasma LDL cholesterol deviations and varied atherosclerosis proportion factors, released floods of pharmaceutical along with biological and live sciences research into the world. Significant advances in our understanding of the physiological control of PCSK9 led quickly to the development of biological inhibitors of PCSK9 that are now available for purchase. These inhibitors decreased LDL cholesterol levels with other improved cardiovascular outcomes. The current manuscript will show the rapid development of PCSK9, beginning with its discovery as a novel gene and progressing through its use as a therapeutic target, followed by its testing on animals and humans and, eventually, its use in outcome trials and clinical applications.

Effect of chronic apple consumption (Malus domestica Borkh.) on the lipid profile of adults with dyslipidemia: a systematic review

Aim: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) are among the main causes of death worldwide and dyslipidemias account for one of the risk factors for these diseases. Habitual apple consumption appears to be inversely associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. Then, this systematic review aims to investigate the effect of chronic apple consumption on the lipid profile of adults with dyslipidemia. Methods: A systematic search was performed in electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus, without restriction of year of publication. Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials in humans that investigated the effect of chronic consumption of whole fresh or dried apple, for a period longer than two weeks of intervention on the lipid profile. Results: Based on the methodology used and following the pre-established search strategies, 4,468 articles were found. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, five articles were selected for qualitative evaluation, covering 522 adult participants of both sexes. Three randomized controlled trials included in this review demonstrated that there was a decrease in plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) concentrations, in addition to an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) concentration. Two other studies found different results. Low risk of bias was identified in three studies. Conclusions: The analysis of the studies indicates that the consumption of fresh and/or dried apples with the peel has a beneficial effect on the lipid profile of adults, with a decrease in TC and LDL-c. These effects may be related to polyphenols and soluble fibers, among other functional compounds present in this fruit.

Observational study of inclisiran effectiveness in Moscow healthcare

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of PCSK9 inhibitors (alirocumab, inclisiran and evolocumab) in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and failure to achieve the target low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level for the period from November 21, 2022 to December 31, 2023.Material and methods. For the observational study, 50 patients were included in the inclisiran therapy group and 30 patients in the control group (patients with ASCVD receiving PCSK9 inhibitors (alirocumab, n=1; evolocumab, n=29)). All study participants had their anamnestic data analyzed, and initially underwent electrocardiography, echocardiography, extracranial and lower limb Doppler ultrasound, and laboratory tests (complete blood count, biochemical blood tests, lipid profile). Three medical organizations of the Moscow State Healthcare System participate in the study.Results. Interim data are presented to evaluate the effectiveness of PCSK9 targeted therapy in patients with ASCVD, obtained 3 months from the study start. The comparison groups were comparable in main clinical characteristics. When analyzing the lipid-lowering effect of inclisiran in the examined patients with ASCVD, LDL-C level significantly decreased from 2,53±0,10 mmol/l to 110±0,08 mmol/l (by 56,5%), p&lt;0,0001, while the target LDL-C level &lt;1,4 mmol/l was achieved by 77,5% of the subjects. Analysis of the lipid-lowering effect of alirocumab/evolocumab showed a significant LDL-C decrease from 2,48±0,16 mmol/l to 1,07±0,11 mmol/l (by 56,8%), p&lt;0,0001.Conclusion. The use of PCSK9 targeted therapy (alirocumab or inclisiran or evolocumab) in patients with ASCVD in Moscow make it possible to achieve target LDL-C levels, which are indicated in clinical guidelines, by 3 months.

Comparative efficacy and safety of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics for type 2 diabetes management: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

AimsTo compare the effects of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics for type 2 diabetes (T2D) management. MethodsWe searched PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL, and grey literature sources to December 2022 for randomized trials of the impacts of probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics in patients with T2D. We performed network meta-analyses with a Bayesian framework to calculate mean difference [MD] and 95 % credible interval [CrI] and rated the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Results68 randomised trials were included. All results are presented in comparison to the placebo. Supplementation with probiotics (MD: -0.25 %, 95%CrI: -0.42, -0.08; GRADE = moderate) and synbiotics (MD: -0.31 %, 95%CrI: -0.61, -0.04; GRADE = very low) resulted in a trivial/unimportant decrease in glycated hemoglobin. Supplementation with probiotics (MD: -0.69 mmol/L, 95%CrI: -0.98, -0.40; GRADE = very low) and synbiotics (MD: -0.82 mmol/L, 95%CrI: -1.22, -0.43; GRADE = very low) resulted in a trivial/unimportant decrease in fasting plasma glucose. Supplementation with probiotics resulted in a small but important decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD: -0.19 mmol/L; 95%CrI: -0.34, -0.05; GRADE = very low). Supplementations had moderate effects on serum triglyceride (GRADE = low). ConclusionsExisting evidence is uncertain and does not support supplementation with probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics for T2D management.

Effects of proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 inhibitors on inflammatory and hemostatic parameters in post myocardial infarction patients

Despite progress in treatment, elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)), represent a significant part of the residual risk. Both are associated with inflammation and the coagulation fibrinolytic system. The purpose of our research was to evaluate the effect of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) on lipid parameters and indicators of inflammation, coagulation and fibrinolysis. We included 100 post myocardial infarction (MI) patients with insufficiently controlled LDL-C values despite the maximum dose of statin, and highly elevated Lp(a). Patients received alirocumab or evolocumab (150 mg sc or 140 mg sc every two weeks, respectively), or placebo for 6 months.In patients receiving PCSK9i, a significant decrease in total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, triglycerides (TG) and Lp(a), and an increase in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.001 for all) was found. Before treatment, the concentrations of TC, LDL-C and TG correlated with the concentrations of thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (r = 0.41, p < 0.001; r = 0.353, p < 0.001; r = 0.311, p = 0.003, respectively), and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (r = 0.302, p = 0.007; r = 0.218, p = 0.049; r = 0.278; p = 0.013, respectively). The concentrations of TC and LDL-C correlated with overall fibrinolytic potential (r = −0.220, p = 0.034; r = −0.207, p = 0.047, respectively). The concentration of TG was related to the concentration of interleukin 6 (r = 0.290, p = 0.004) and interleukin 8 (r = 0.332, p = 0.001). No correlations between Lp(a) and inflammatory or hemostatic variables were found. No associations were found after treatment. Our results show that inflammatory cytokines and fibrinolytic parameters are related to LDL-C and not Lp(a) in post-MI patients before and with neither of them following PCSK9i treatment.The trial registration number: NCT04613167, Date of registration: November 3, 2020.

Age and the Residual Risk of Cardiovascular Disease following Low Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol Exposure.

We believe that there is sufficient evidence from basic science, longitudinal cohort studies and randomised controlled trials which validates the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) or lipid hypothesis. It is important that we can communicate details of the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction that the average patient could expect depending on the scale of LDL-C decrease following lipid lowering therapy. It is also essential that residual risk (ResR) of CVD be highlighted. To achieve this aim by using existing trial evidence, we developed mathematical models initially for relative risk reduction (RRR) and absolute risk (AR) reduction and then showed that despite optimising LDL-C levels, a considerable degree of ResR remains that is dependent on AR. Age is significantly associated with AR (odds ratio: 1.02, 95% confidence intervals: 1.01-1.04) as was previously demonstrated by analysing the Whickham study cohort using a logistic regression model (age remaining significant even when all the other significant risk factors such as sex, smoking, systolic blood pressure, diabetes and family history were included in the regression model). A discussion of a paper by Ference et al. provided detailed evidence of the relationship between age and AR, based on lifetime LDL-C exposure. Finally, we discussed non-traditional CVD risk factors that may contribute to ResR based on randomised controlled trials investigating drugs improving inflammation, thrombosis, metabolic and endothelial status.

Особливості ліпідного та вуглеводного обмінів у пацієнтів з гастроезофагеальною рефлюксною хворобою на тлі цукрового діабету 2-го типу залежно від наявності ожиріння

Особливості ліпідного та вуглеводного обмінів у пацієнтів з гастроезофагеальною рефлюксною хворобою на тлі цукрового діабету 2-го типу залежно від наявності ожиріння

Biochemical Blood Plasma Changes of Awassi Sheep Using Different Levels of Olive Pulp

16 male Awassi lambs were used, four months age weaning was diagnosed bythe teeth, it was placed in the animal field and left to acclimate for 14 days, then the actual experiment was introduced for a period of three months. The lambs were reared in four standard barns with a stage containing feeders and water troughs, it was divided from the inside by iron partitions into three sections. Four lambs, each treated under hygienic conditions, were placed in each section, underwent a treatment and vaccination program that supported to ensure her safety and that she was free from diseases. The animals were divided into four groups were T1: was fed on a diet devoid of olive pulp (control group). And fed on a diet containing 5, 10 and 15% olive pulp were T2, T3 and T4 respectively. fed on a diet containing 15% olive pulp. The results indicated that all olive pulp treatments led to a significant decrease in LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, uric acid, ALP and ALT, with a significant increase in HDL, total protein, albumin, globulin, phosphorus and calcium compared to the control treatment. The addition of 15% olive pulp in the diets of Awassi lambs gave the best results compared to a concentration of 5 and 10% olive pulp.

Qualitative and quantitative ultrasound parameters of carotid atherosclerotic plaques in patients with moderate cardiovascular risk according to the SCORE scale: 7-year prospective follow-up study

Aim. To assess asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis in patients with moderate cardiovascular risk over a 7-year prospective follow-up using non-invasive ultrasound markers.Material and methods. Eighty patients (47 men and 33 women) aged 53,1±5,9 years with moderate Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) level, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) of 2,7-4,8 mmol/l and asymptomatic hemodynamically insignificant (stenosis &lt;50%) carotid atherosclerosis (CA). Patients underwent CA ultrasound (PHILIPS IU22) at baseline and after 7 years. Plaque number, maximum plaque height, total plaque height, total CA stenosis, visual plaque morphology, gray-scale median (GSM), and intima- media thickness of the right and left common CAs were assessed. All patients were prescribed atorvastatin therapy at a dose of 10-40 mg until a target LDL-С level &lt;2,6 mmol/l was achieved.Results. During the follow-up period, a significant increase was noted in the number of plaques, the maximum and total plaque height, total CA stenosis, and intima- media thickness of the right and left common CAs. An increase in GSM was detected in 79% of plaques on statin therapy. Plaque echoicity increased by 4,90 [0,51; 17,41] (p &lt;0,001) or 7,2% [0,7%; 29%] (p&lt;0,001) over seven years. Regression analysis adjusted for sex and age showed the dependence of GSM changes (ΔGSM) on changes in the LDL-C level (ΔLDL-C) (p=0,049). With a decrease in LDL-C by 1 mmol/l, an increase in average GSM was noted by 5,9 (0,03-11,78). The maximum plaque height increased significantly after 7-year follow-up from 1,80 [1,50; 2,20] to 2,00 [1,63; 2,68] mm (p=0,044). In patients who reached a LDL-C level of 1,8 mmol/l, the maximum plaque height decreased more than in patients who did not reach this level (-0,07 [-0,45; 0,14] mm and 0,20 [-0,05; 0,40] mm, respectively (p=0,028)). Regression analysis adjusted for sex and age did not reveal a relationship between the change of maximum plaque height with ΔLDL-C and Δhigh-density lipoprotein cholesterol, but with LDL-C level after 7 years.Conclusion. Statin therapy in patients with CA stenosis &lt;50% stabilizes the plaques due to echogenicity increase. LDL-C &lt;1,8 mmol/l can lead to a decrease in maximum plaque height.

Dyslipidemia Protective Effect of Resistant Starch-Based Dough Meals on Diabetes-Induced Rats

Aim: The adoption of functional foods as healthy diet therapy for the management of metabolic disorders such as diabetes is in vogue in the present world where many are no longer consuming carbohydrate or starchy foods. This study investigated the effect of resistant starch-based dough meals on dyslipidemia in rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes.&#x0D; Place and Duration: Functional Foods Laboratory and Animal House of Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Akure, from July 2022 to February 2023.&#x0D; Methodology: Flour samples were prepared by dispersing the flour into boiling water and turning and being allowed to cook for 15 min to obtain dough meals: PLD – (100% Plantain flour), used as a control sample; PLPRD – plantain flour: pigeon pea flour: rice bran flour (73.08:15.15:11.76); PSPRD – native plantain starch: pigeon pea flour: rice bran flour (73.08:15.15:11.76); AP1SPRD – acetylated plantain starch: pigeon pea flour: rice bran flour (73.08:15.15:11.76); AP2SPRD – acetylated plantain starch: pigeon pea flour: rice bran flour (70.67:18.15:11.18). The weight gained, food intake, haematological parameters, fasting blood glucose and lipid profile of the resistant starch-based dough meal were compared with the commercial flour product, CRD (100% Cerolina flour: wheat and soybean) and the DM (untreated high-fat diet–STZ-induced diabetic rats) and NC (Normal control rats).&#x0D; Results: The weight gained and food intake ranged from 50.98±0.53 g to 180.12±1.07 g in NC and 33.98±1.64 g to 140.87±1.80 g in DM. The feed conversion ratio to the feed efficiency ratio was 0.28:0.25 and 4.15:3.53 in NC and DM respectively, which attributed to the food product to weight loss. The values of the haematological parameters (PCV, RBC, HB, MCV, MCH and MCHC) confirmed that the experimental rats had no trace of infection due to the generation of antibodies by WBC and differential counts (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, monocytes and lymphocytes). Rats fed with DM+AP1SPRD showed a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol and triglyceride, and an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HLDL-C).&#x0D; Conclusion: A resistant starch-based dough meal was significant for the production of short-chain fatty acids with lots of benefits on health. The intervention of resistant starch-based dough meals, AP1SPRD and AP2SPRD used in this study, almost normalized metabolic profiles in the experimental rats, similar to the control group by reducing the total cholesterol, total triglycerides and LDL-C while increasing HDL-C.

The antihyperlipidemic effect of a combined supplement of standardized dry extracts of amla (Emblica officinalis), walnut (Juglans regia), olive (Olea europaea) and red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus) powder: Reduction in circulatory low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and remnant cholesterol (RC) levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia

Background: Hyperlipidemia is associated with a higher rate of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular disease. Conventional drugs such as statins are effective in controlling hyperlipidemia; however, they are associated with various side effects, especially myalgia. Nutraceutical lipid-lowering interventions are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among patients who are intolerant or refractory to statins. Substantial preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that extracts of amla, walnut, and olive, and red yeast rice (RYR) powder possess significant antihyperlipidemic effects.Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction of a combined supplementation of standardized dry extracts of amla fruit (500 mg), walnut leaves (50 mg), olive fruit (25 mg), and RYR powder (33.6 mg) (Cholesfytol NG®) in hypercholesterolemic patients.Methods: This was a real-life setting, retrospective, observational, single-arm, non-randomized study in hypercholesterolemic patients (total cholesterol (TC) ≥ 200 mg/dL or low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) ≥ 130 mg/dL), enrolled at 57 general practitioner (GP) surgeries in Belgium from March 2020 to January 2022. These patients received a GP-prescribed daily single dosage of two oral tablets of Cholesfytol NG® supplementation for 2 months to overcome their hypercholesterolemia in the absence of a conventional lipid-lowering drug (n = 208) or with a lipid-lowering drug (n = 13). At 2-month follow-up, the lipid profile was re-evaluated, alongside a patient’s questionnaire on treatment general satisfaction and willingness to pursue supplementation.Results: After supplementation, TC decreased by 15%, LDL-C by 19%, non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (non-HDL-C) by 20% (all p &amp;lt; 0.0001), triglycerides (TG) by 9% (p = 0.0028) (−18.4%, p = 0.0042, in patients with baseline TG &amp;gt; 180 mg/dL, n = 58), and remnant cholesterol (RC) by 12% (p = 0.0001). These changes were unaffected by statin intolerance status in patients who received Cholesfytol NG® alongside statin. The supplement was well tolerated by all patients, and no serious adverse events or supplement-emergent effects were reported. Most patients were satisfied with the supplementation and wanted to pursue the nutraceutical.Conclusion: According to the results of this study, a combined supplementation of amla, walnut, and olive extracts, and RYR powder exerts a significant antihyperlipidemic effect, leading to a decrease in circulatory LDL-C and RC levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia. The supplementation bears excellent safety and tolerability, and is rated as satisfactory and pursuable, even among patients with statin intolerance.Clinical Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov; identifier number: NCT06002893

Ezetimibe and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionIndividuals diagnosed with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACD) are exposed to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels has been established as an effective approach to mitigate these risks. However, a comprehensive and up-to-date meta-analysis investigating the LDL-C-lowering effectiveness and the impact on coronary atherosclerotic plaque compositions of Ezetimibe has been lacking.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review by meticulously analyzing databases such as MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane CENTRAL for randomized controlled trials that evaluated the efficacy of ezetimibe in lowering LDL-C levels and its influence on coronary atherosclerotic plaques among individuals with ACD. This review encompassed studies available until August 1, 2023. In our analysis, we employed the weighted mean difference (WMD) as the aggregated statistical measure, accompanied by the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultsWe encompassed a total of 20 eligible studies. Our findings unveiled that the combined therapy involving ezetimibe alongside statins led to a more substantial absolute decrease in LDL-C in comparison to using statins alone. This difference in means amounted to (−14.06 mg/dl; 95% CI −18.0 to −10.0; p = 0.0001). Furthermore, upon conducting subgroup analyses, it became evident that the intervention strategies proved effective in diminishing the volume of dense calcification (DC) in contrast to the control group.ConclusionsOur study findings indicate that the inclusion of ezetimibe in conjunction with statin therapy leads to a modest yet meaningful additional reduction in LDL-C levels when compared to using statins in isolation. Importantly, the introduction of ezetimibe resulted in a significant decrease in the volume of DC. However, it is worth noting that further investigation is warranted to delve deeper into this phenomenon.

Effectiveness of rosuvastatin and pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with concurrent course of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and diabetes mellitus type 2

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of rosuvastatin and pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with asthma-COPD overlap (ACO) concurrent with type 2 diabetes (T2D).Material and methods. A total of 26 patients with ACO and T2D were examined, with an average age of 61 [55.6; 67.8]. In addition to standard therapy, patients in the main group were prescribed rosuvastatin and a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Treatment efficacy was assessed using questionnaires (CAT, ACQ, SGRQ), dyspnea severity scale (mMRC), BODE index, pulmonary function, bioimpedance analysis, 6-minute walk test, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism status, levels of 8-isoprostane, sCD14, CRP, stable nitric oxide (NO) metabolites - nitrite and nitrate ions, and endothelin-1 in the blood. Results. In the main group, a significant improvement was observed during the treatment course, including a 40% reduction in the BODE index (p&lt;0.05), a 33.4% decrease in dyspnea on the mMRC scale (p&lt;0.05), a 28.5% reduction in CAT, a 40.8% decrease in ACQ, and a 20.6% decrease in SGRQ. Other notable improvements included a 1.3% decrease in BMI, a 13% reduction in body fat percentage, a 23.5% decrease in visceral fat level, a 16% increase in patients' tolerance to physical activity, a 27.5% increase in FEV1 (p&lt;0.05), an 8.1% decrease in fasting blood glucose (p&lt;0.01), a 20% reduction in triglycerides (p&lt;0.05), a 24.9% decrease in LDL cholesterol, and a 27.2% decrease in total cholesterol (p&lt;0.05). Additionally, there was a 23.8% decrease in CRP levels (p&lt;0.05), a two-fold reduction in blood 8-isoprostane levels (p&lt;0.05), a 58% reduction in serum sCD14 levels, a 59.8% increase in stable nitric oxide metabolites (p&lt;0.05), and a 55% decrease in endothelin-1 levels (p&lt;0.05).Conclusions. The use of rosuvastatin and pulmonary rehabilitation significantly improves the quality of life for patients with the concurrent presentation of COPD, asthma, and T2D. It reduces the severity of dyspnea, enhances tolerance to physical activity, improves pulmonary function, lowers visceral fat levels and body fat percentage, enhances lipid profile, and improves endothelial function, all while concurrently reducing oxidative stress and systemic inflammation without worsening carbohydrate metabolism.

The modification effect of fasting blood glucose level on the associations between short-term ambient air pollution and blood lipids

ABSTRACT The association between short-term ambient air pollution (AAP) exposure and blood lipids is inconsistent across populations. This study aimed to investigate the modifying effects of fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels on the associations between short-term AAP exposure and blood lipids in 110,637 male participants from Beijing, China. The results showed that FBG modified the association between short-term AAP exposure and blood lipids, especially low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). In the hyperglycemia group, a 10-μg/m3 increase in particles with diameters ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5), particles with diameters ≤ 10 μm (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), or a 1-mg/m3 increase in carbon monoxide (CO) was associated with a 0.454%, 0.305%, 1.507%, 0.872%, or 3.961% increase in LDL-C, respectively. In the nonhyperglycemic group, short-term increases in air pollutants were even associated with small decreases in LDL-C. The findings demonstrate that lipids in hyperglycemic individuals are more vulnerable to short-term AAP exposure than those in normal populations.

Obesity and Dyslipidemia.

This article sumarizes pathopysiological consequencies between obesity and dyslipidemia and aims to bring some practical approach. Dyslipidemia is often present in individuals with obesity and simultaneusly, many obese individuals have lipid metabolism disorders. Especially the abdominal obesity increases the cardiometabolic risk because of the presence of atherogenic dyslipidemia while the total low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) may be normal. LDL-C is the primary goal in dyslipidemia treatment. Apoliprotein B (Apo B) and non - high density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) should be estimated to precise the cardiovascular risk and represents the secondary goal in treatment. Weight loss either with diet or antiobestic medication induces the decrease in triglycerides (TG) and LDL-C and the increase in HDL-C. Composition of nutrients, esp. fatty acids, influences lipid levels. Bariatric surgery is efficient in weight loss and has a significant effect on serum lipids. Dyslipidemia and obesity present common diseases that must be managed to decrease the cardiovascular risk and the risk of obesity-related complications.

Efficacy, safety, adherence and persistence of PCSK9 inhibitors in clinical practice: a single country, multicenter, observational study (AT-TARGET-IT)

Abstract Background PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) significantly decrease LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), either as monotherapy or in addition to the maximally tolerated dose of statin and/or ezetimibe. Yet, few data are available on efficacy and background lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) adjustment in patients treated with PCSK9i in real-world observations. Purpose AT-TARGET-IT is an Italian multicenter registry involving 9 Italian centers, designed to assess efficacy, adherence, and persistence of PCSK9i, as well as prescribing doctors’ behavior in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). Methods From June through November 2021, we enrolled patients with PCSK9i first prescription from 6 months before inclusion through starting of PCSK9i use. Clinical and demographic characteristics, concomitant therapies, blood chemistry, were recorded at the time of first prescription and at the latest observation preceding inclusion in the study. Background therapy was assessed at baseline and during follow-up, evaluating treatment withdrawal, reduction of doses, or changes from statin-ezetimibe association to single drug therapy. Results 798 patients were enrolled. The median reduction in LDL-C levels was 64.9%. After stratification for CV risk, 63.8% achieved LDL-C target; of them, 83.3% took LLTs at PCSK9i initiation and 16.7% did not (Figure 1). 760 patients (95.2%) showed high adherence to therapy, 13 (1.6%) partial adherence, and 25 (3.1%) poor adherence (Figure 2). At 6 months, 99.7% of patients enrolled in the study remained on therapy; there were 519 and 423 patients in the study with a follow-up of at least 12 and 18 months, respectively. Persistence in these groups was 98.1% and 97.5%, respectively. Overall, 3.5% of patients discontinued therapy. No differences in efficacy, adherence, and persistence were found between alirocumab and evolocumab. Conclusion PCSK9i are safe and effective in clinical practice, leading to very high adherence and persistence to therapy, and achievement of recommended LDL-C target in most patients, especially when used as combination therapy.Stratified LDL-C target achievementAdherence and persistence status

Abstract 16617: Effects of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin-Kexin Type 9 Inhibitors on Inflammatory and Haemostatic Parameters in Coronary Artery Disease Patients

Background and aims: Despite progress in treatment, elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) represent a significant part of the residual risk. Both are associated with inflammation and the coagulation fibrinolytic system. The purpose of our research was to evaluate the effect of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) on lipid parameters and indicators of inflammation, coagulation and fibrinolysis. Methods: We included 100 patients after a myocardial infarction with insufficiently controlled LDL-C values despite the maximum dose of statin, and highly elevated Lp(a). Patients received alirocumab or evolocumab (150mg sc or 140g sc every two weeks; respectively) or placebo for 6 months. Results: In the group receiving PCSK9i, a significant decrease in total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, triglycerides (TG) and Lp(a), and an increase in high density lipoprotein cholesterol (p&lt;0.001 for all) was found. Before treatment concentrations of TC, LDL-C and TG correlated with the concentration of thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (r=0.41, p&lt;0.001; r=0.353, p&lt;0.001; r=0.311, p=0.003; respectively), and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (r=0.302, p=0.007; r=0.218, p=0.049; r=0.278; p=0.013; respectively). The concentration of TC and LDL-C correlated with overall fibrinolytic potential (r=-0.220, p=0.034; r=-0.207, p=0.047; respectively). The concentration of TG was related to the concentration of interleukin 6 (r=0.290, p=0.004) and interleukin 8 (r=0.332, p=0.001). No correlations between Lp(a) and inflammatory or haemostatic variables were found. No associations were found after treatment. Conclusion: Our results show that fibrinolytic parameters and inflammatory cytokines are related to the concentration of LDL-C and not Lp(a) before and with neither of them after treatment with PCSK9i.