Search Results (3,724)

Background: Fixed-dose combinations of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe are increasingly used in clinical practice, but real-world data on their effectiveness and safety in large populations remain limited. Methods: This prospective, single-group, open-label, non-interventional observational study was conducted in the Republic of Korea to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Rovazet^® (a fixed-dose combination of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe). Patients were prospectively enrolled from 235 institutions (50 general hospitals and 185 private clinics) as part of routine clinical practice over a five-year period. Lipid profiles and medication compliance questionnaire results were collected at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks of treatment. Results: A total of 5527 patients with dyslipidemia, the majority were men (53.0%), and the mean age was 60.4 years. Rovazet^® significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by 23.5% at 12 weeks (from 117.47 ± 50.65 mg/dL to 81.14 ± 38.20 mg/dL; p < 0.0001) and by 27.4% at 24 weeks (from 117.47 ± 50.65 mg/dL to 74.52 ± 33.36 mg/dL; p < 0.0001). Total cholesterol was significantly reduced by 17.7% at 12 weeks and by 19.8% at 24 weeks. Rovazet^® treatment reduced triglycerides by 4.1% at 12 weeks and by 7.2% at 24 weeks. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased by 4.5% at 12 weeks and by 7.9% at 24 weeks following Rovazet^® treatment. These changes in lipid profiles were consistent, regardless of cardiovascular risk profiles. By 24 weeks of treatment with Rovazet^®, 91.8% of patients had reached their target LDL-C goals. Adverse drug reactions were reported in 2.81% of patients, most of which were minor, indicating that Rovazet^® was well tolerated. Conclusions: Rovazet^® was effective in improving lipid profiles and well tolerated in Korean adults with dyslipidemia. Full article

Background: While epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a known predictor of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, lipomatous hypertrophy of the interatrial septum (LHIS) is composed of metabolically active fat such as brown adipose tissue, which may exert a different effect. This study investigates the coronary atherosclerosis profile in patients with LHIS using CTA, compared with a propensity score-matched control group. Methods: A total of 142 patients were included (n = 71 with LHIS and n = 71 controls) and propensity score-matched for age, gender, BMI, and the major CV risk factors (matching level, <0.05). CTA imaging parameters included HRP, coronary stenosis severity (CADRADS), and CAC score. Results: The mean age was 60.9 years +/− 10.6, there were nine (6.3%) women, and the mean BMI is 28.04 kg/m² +/− 4.99. HRP prevalence was significantly lower in LHIS patients vs. controls (21.1% vs. 40.8%; p < 0.011), while CAC (p = 0.827) and CADRADS (p = 0.329) were not different, and there was no difference in the obstructive disease rate. There was no difference in lipid panels (cholesterol, LDL, HDL, TG) and statin intake rate. Conclusion: HRP prevalence is lower in patients with LHIS than controls, while coronary stenosis severity and CAC score are not different. Clinical relevance: LHIS may serve as imaging biomarker for reversed CV risk. Full article

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and dementia may share common pathogenic factors such as atherosclerosis and hyperlipoproteinemia. Dyslipidemia-induced oxidative stress contributes to dementia comorbidity in CVD. Abelmoschus esculentus (AE, okra) potentiates in alleviating hyperlipidemia and diabetes-related cognitive impairment. This study evaluated the effects of AE in hyperlipidemic ApoE^−/− mice treated with streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) and fed a high-fat diet (17% lard oil, 1.2% cholesterol). AE fractions F1 or F2 (0.65 mg/kg) were administered for 8 weeks. AE significantly reduced serum LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides, and glucose, improved cognitive and memory function, and protected hippocampal neurons. AE also lowered oxidative stress markers (8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine, 8-OHdG) and modulated neuronal nuclei (NeuN) and doublecortin (DCX) expression. In vitro, AE promoted neurite outgrowth and neuronal differentiation in retinoic acid (RA)-differentiated human SH-SY5Y cells under metabolic stress (glucose and palmitate), alongside the upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). These findings suggest AE may counter cognitive decline via oxidative stress regulation and the enhancement of neuronal differentiation. Full article

Elevated levels of atherogenic lipoproteins are known to be associated with an increased risk of incident and recurrent cardiovascular events. Knowing that the immediate post-acute coronary syndrome (ACS) period is associated with the maximum risk of recurrent events, the gradual escalation of therapy allows the patient to remain above the targets during the most vulnerable period. In addition, the percentage of lipid-lowering levels for each class of drugs is predictable and has a ceiling. Hence, it is prudent to immediately start with a combination of lipid-lowering drugs following ACS according to the baseline lipid levels. Multiple studies with injectable lipid-lowering agents (PCSK9 inhibitors) such as EVOPACS, PACMAN MI, and HUYGENS MI have shown the feasibility of achieving LDL-C goals by day 28 and beneficial plaque modification in non-infarct-related coronary arteries. Recently, a study from India demonstrated that an upfront triple combination of oral lipid-lowering agents was able to achieve LDL-C goals in a majority of patients in the early post-ACS period. This notion is also supported by a few recent lipid-lowering guidelines advocating for an upfront dual combination of a high-intensity statin and ezetimibe following ACS. Henceforth, the goal should not only be the achievement of lipid targets but also their early achievement. However, the impact of this strategy on long-term cardiovascular outcomes is yet to be ascertained. Full article

Background/Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine disorder frequently associated with metabolic and inflammatory disturbances. Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, pomegranate juice has been proposed as a potential adjunctive therapy in managing PCOS. To evaluate the effects of pomegranate juice on hormonal, inflammatory, and lipid parameters and body mass index (BMI) in women with PCOS. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Comprehensive searches were performed in electronic databases including Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Embase from inception to July 2025, using keywords and MeSH terms related to “polycystic ovary syndrome” and “pomegranate juice” without language restrictions. The primary outcomes were changes in serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), lipid profile parameters (HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol), and body mass index (BMI). Results: Four RCTs published between 2020 and 2023, encompassing 128 women with PCOS, were included. The meta-analysis revealed significant reductions in testosterone (MD: −0.05; 95% CI: −0.07 to −0.03; p < 0.0001; I² = 0%, two studies, 85 participants) and hs-CRP (SMD: −0.85; 95% CI: −1.35 to −0.35; p = 0.0009; I² = 20%, two studies, 85 participants), along with increases in HDL (MD: 6.21; 95% CI: 2.43 to 10.00; p = 0.001; I² = 0%, two studies, 85 participants) and reductions in triglycerides (MD: −23.30; 95% CI: −45.19 to −1.42; p = 0.04; I² = 0%, two studies, 85 participants). No significant changes were observed in LH, LDL, total cholesterol, or BMI. Conclusions: Pomegranate juice demonstrates promising effects as an adjunctive intervention in women with PCOS, improving androgen levels, inflammatory markers, and certain lipid parameters. Further long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hyperlipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. Polyphenols found in polyphenol-rich extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) have been shown to possess strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. The present study aimed to assess the effects of two types of EVOO with different polyphenol content and dosages on the lipid profile of hyperlipidemic patients. Methods: In this single-blind, randomized clinical trial, 50 hyperlipidemic patients were randomized to receive either a higher-dose, lower-phenolic EVOO (414 mg/kg phenols, 20 g/day) or a lower-dose, higher-phenolic EVOO (1021 mg/kg phenols, 8 g/day), for a period of 4 weeks. These doses were selected to ensure equivalent daily polyphenol intake in both groups (~8.3 mg of total phenols/day), based on chemical analysis performed using NMR spectroscopy. The volumes used (8–20 g/day) reflect typical daily EVOO intake and were well tolerated by participants. A group of 20 healthy individuals, separated into two groups, also received the two types of EVOO, respectively, for the same duration. Primary endpoints included blood levels of total blood cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, lipoprotein-a (Lpa), and apolipoproteins A1 and B. Measurements were performed at baseline and at the end of the 4-week intervention. Linear mixed models were performed for the data analysis. Results: The higher-phenolic, lower-dose EVOO group showed a more favorable change in total blood cholesterol (p = 0.045) compared to the lower-phenolic, higher-dose group. EVOO intake was associated with a significant increase in HDL (p < 0.001) and reduction in Lp(a) (p = 0.040) among hyperlipidemic patients in comparison to healthy individuals. Conclusions: EVOO consumption significantly improved the lipid profile of hyperlipidemic patients. Higher-phenolic EVOO at lower dosages appears to be more effective in improving the lipid profile than lower-phenolic EVOO in higher dosages. Full article

Background/Objectives: Conventional ketogenic diets, although effective for weight loss, often contain high total and saturated fat intake, which leads to increased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Thus, the Healthy Ketogenic Diet (HKD) was developed to address these concerns. It emphasizes calorie restriction, limiting net carbohydrate intake to 50 g per day, prioritizing unsaturated fats, and reducing saturated fat intake. However, adherence to the HKD remains a challenge in urban, time-constrained environments. Therefore, this pilot randomized controlled trial aimed to investigate the effects of Healthy Ketogenic Diet Ready-To-Eat (HKD-RTE) meals (provided for the first month only) versus HKD alone on weight loss and metabolic parameters among overweight adults. Methods: Multi-ethnic Asian adults (n = 50) with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 27.5 kg/m² were randomized into the HKD-RTE group (n = 24) and the HKD group (n = 26). Both groups followed the HKD for six months, with the HKD-RTE group receiving HKD-RTE meals during the first month. Five in-person workshops and mobile health coaching through the Nutritionist Buddy Keto app helped to facilitate dietary adherence. The primary outcome was the change in body weight at 6 months. Linear regression was performed on the change from baseline for each continuous outcome, adjusting for demographics and relevant covariates. Logistic regression was performed on binary weight loss ≥ 5%, adjusting for demographics and relevant covariates. Results: In the HKD group, participants’ adherence to the 50 g net carbohydrate target was 15 days, while that in the HKD-RTE group was 19 days over a period of 30 days. Participants’ adherence to calorie targets was 21 days in the HKD group and 23 days in the HKD-RTE. The average compliance with the HKD-RTE meals provided in the HKD-RTE group was 55%. The HKD-RTE group experienced a greater percentage weight loss at 1 month (−4.8 ± 3.0% vs. −1.8 ± 6.2%), although this was not statistically significant. This trend continued up to 6 months, with the HKD-RTE group showing a greater percentage weight reduction (−8.6 ± 6.8% vs. −3.9 ± 8.6%; p = 0.092). At 6 months, the HKD-RTE group had a greater reduction in total cholesterol (−0.54 ± 0.76 mmol/L vs. −0.05 ± 0.56 mmol/L; p = 0.283) and LDL-C (−0.43 ± 0.67 mmol/L vs. −0.03 ± 0.52 mmol/L; p = 0.374) compared to the HKD group. Additionally, the HKD-RTE group exhibited greater reductions in systolic blood pressure (−8.3 ± 9.7 mmHg vs. −5.3 ± 11.0 mmHg), diastolic blood pressure (−7.7 ± 8.8 mmHg vs. −2.0 ± 7.0 mmHg), and HbA1c (−0.3 ± 0.5% vs. −0.1 ± 0.4%) than the HKD group (not statistically significant for any). Conclusions: Both HKD-RTE and HKD led to weight loss and improved metabolic profiles. The HKD-RTE group tended to show more favorable outcomes. Short-term HKD-RTE meal provision may enhance initial weight loss, with sustained long-term effects. Full article

Background: Despite therapeutic advances, morbidity and mortality remain high in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), primarily due to increased cardiovascular risk. Objectives: Our study aimed to evaluate the cardiovascular risk profile and biomarker dynamics in patients with RA and PsA treated with Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis). To our knowledge, this is the first study assessing Lp(a) levels in this context. Methods: This prospective, observational study assessed 48 adult patients. The follow-up period was 12 months. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors and biological markers, including lipid profile, lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], and uric acid (UA), were assessed at baseline and follow-up. Correlations between JAKi therapy, lipid profile changes, and cardiovascular risk factors were investigated. Cox regression analysis was used to identify predictors of non-major cardiovascular events. Results: A strong positive correlation was observed between baseline and 12-month Lp(a) levels (r = 0.926), despite minor statistical shifts. No major cardiovascular events occurred during follow-up; however, 47.9% of patients experienced non-major cardiovascular events (e.g., uncontrolled arterial hypertension, exertional angina, and new-onset arrhythmias). Active smoking [hazard ratio (HR) 9.853, p = 0.005], obesity (HR 3.7460, p = 0.050), and arterial hypertension (HR 1.219, p = 0.021) were independent predictors of these events. UA (HR 1.515, p = 0.040) and total cholesterol (TC) (HR 1.019, p = 0.034) were significant biochemical predictors as well. Elevated baseline Lp(a) combined with these factors was associated with an increased event rate, particularly after age 60. Conclusions: Traditional cardiovascular risk factors remain highly prevalent and predictive, underscoring the need for comprehensive cardiovascular risk management. Lp(a) remained stable and may serve as a complementary biomarker for risk stratification in JAKi-treated patients. Full article

Background: The consumption of coffee has been widely debated regarding its effects on health. This study aims to analyze the correlations between daily coffee intake and sleep, blood pressure, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical markers in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and hypertension over a 12-month period. Methods: An observational study was conducted with 40 participants with T2D and hypertension, comprising 20 females and 20 males. Participants were monitored for their daily coffee consumption over a 12-month period, being assessed every 3 months. Linear regression was utilized to assess interactions and relationships between variables, providing insights into potential predictive associations. Additionally, correlation analysis was performed using Pearson’s and Spearman’s tests to evaluate the strength and direction of linear and non-linear relationships. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Significant changes were observed in fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, body mass index, sleep duration, nocturnal awakenings, and waist-to-hip ratio (p < 0.05) over the 12-month study in both sexes. No significant differences were noted in the remaining parameters (p > 0.05). The coffee consumed by the participants was of the “traditional type” and contained sugar (2g per cup) for 100% of the participants. An intake of 4.17 ± 0.360 cups per day was found at baseline and 5.41 ± 0.316 cups at 12 months (p > 0.05). Regarding correlation analysis, a higher coffee intake was significantly associated with shorter sleep duration in women (r = −0.731; p = 0.037). Conversely, greater coffee consumption correlated with lower LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in women (r = −0.820; p = 0.044). Additionally, a longer sleep duration was linked to lower FBG (r = -0.841; p = 0.031), HbA1c (r = -0.831; p = 0.037), and LDL-C levels in women (r = -0.713; p = 0.050). No significant correlations were observed for the other parameters in both sexes (p > 0.05). Conclusions: In women, coffee consumption may negatively affect sleep duration while potentially offering beneficial effects on LDL-C levels, even when sweetened with sugar. Additionally, a longer sleep duration in women appears to be associated with improvements in FBG, HbA1c, and LDL-C. These correlations emphasize the importance of a balanced approach to coffee consumption, weighing both its potential health benefits and drawbacks in postmenopausal women. However, since this study does not establish causality, further randomized clinical trials are warranted to investigate the underlying mechanisms and long-term implications—particularly in the context of T2D and hypertension. Full article

Background/Objectives: Estrogen deficiency contributes to dyslipidemia and visceral adiposity, increasing cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women. Sargassum fulvellum (Sf), a brown seaweed rich in bioactive compounds, possesses lipid-regulating properties that may be enhanced by lactic acid bacteria fermentation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fermented S. fulvellum (SfLlLm), prepared using Lactococcus lactis and Leuconostoc mesenteroides, on lipid metabolism and adipose tissue remodeling in an ovariectomized (OVX) mouse model of estrogen deficiency. Methods: Female C57BL/6 mice underwent ovariectomy and were fed an AIN-76A diet supplemented with either unfermented Sf or SfLlLm for eight weeks. Sham-operated and 17β-estradiol-treated OVX groups served as controls. Serum lipid levels—total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, and HDL-C—were assessed, and histological analysis of visceral adipose tissue was conducted to evaluate adipocyte morphology. Results: OVX-induced estrogen deficiency led to increased total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-C, along with hypertrophic changes in visceral adipocytes. Supplementation with fermented Sargassum fulvellum (SfLlLm) markedly improved these parameters, reducing total cholesterol by 6.7%, triglycerides by 9.3%, and LDL-C by 52.9%, while increasing HDL-C by 17.5% compared to the OVX controls. SfLlLm also normalized visceral adipocyte size and distribution. These effects were comparable to or exceeded those of 17β-estradiol treatment. Conclusions: Fermented SfLlLm ameliorated dyslipidemia and visceral adiposity under estrogen-deficient conditions. These findings support its potential as a functional dietary intervention for managing postmenopausal lipid disorders and associated metabolic complications. Full article

Background and Objectives: Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are closely linked and associated with a higher risk of complications. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of once-weekly semaglutide in achieving a composite endpoint of A1C and weight reduction. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study assessed the effectiveness of semaglutide in obese patients with T2D at a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia. This study included patients who received semaglutide treatment for 12 months, and the endpoint was reducing A1C by ≥ 1% and body weight by ≥ 5% after 12 months of starting semaglutide. Secondary endpoints include predictors of achieving the composite endpoint and the effect on the lipid profile. Results: The present study enrolled 459 participants, with dyslipidemia and hypertension being the most common comorbidities. After 12 months of treatment with semaglutide, 42% of the patients achieved the composite endpoint. Semaglutide significantly reduced weight, BMI, A1C, FBG, total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides. The subgroup analysis showed that patients who achieved the composite endpoint were younger and had significantly lower use of insulin. Females in the study had significantly higher BMI, A1C, and HDL levels and lower levels of triglycerides compared to males. Multivariate analysis revealed that baseline BMI (aOR = 0.953; 95% CI: 0.915 to 0.992; p = 0.02), baseline A1C (aOR = 1.213; 95% CI: 1.062 to 1.385; p = 0.004), and receiving insulin (aOR = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.001 to 0.343; p = 0.007) were significant predictors of composite endpoint achievement. Conclusions: Semaglutide is a valuable option for the treatment of obese patients with T2D. This study found that semaglutide is effective in reducing weight and A1C and improving the lipid profile. The predictors of achievement of the composite endpoint were lower baseline BMI, higher baseline A1C, and insulin non-use. Full article

Background: Chronic stress in childhood and adolescence leads to excessive cortisol secretion, adipokines production and obesity with all the negative mental and physical effects on the health of individuals and adulthood. Objectives: The aim of the present non-randomized controlled trial was to investigate the effect of a stress management protocol with diaphragmatic breathing (DB) and physiotherapy exercise on stress, body composition, cardiorespiratory and metabolic markers of children and adolescents with morbid obesity. Methods: The study included 31 children and adolescents (5–18 years old) with morbid obesity (22 in the intervention arm and 9 controls). All participants completed anxiety questionnaires and a self-perception scale. Forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), blood pressure (BP) and SpO₂ were measured. Fasting glucose, uric acid, triglycerides, HbA1c, (AST/SGOT), (ALT/SGPT), HDL, LDL, insulin, ACTH, cortisol, HOMA-IR, 17-OH, S-DHEA, SHBG were assessed, and anthropometric measurements were also performed. Results: In the intervention group, 4 months after the treatment, an improvement was noted in the BMI, BMI z-score, waist-to-height ratio, FEV1, SpO₂, pulse and systolic BP. HDL increased, ALT/SGPT and insulin resistance improved. Positive changes were observed in temporary and permanent stress and self-esteem of children in the intervention group, including anxiety, self-perception, physical appearance, etc. Conclusions: A combined exercise and DB protocol has a positive effect on stress, by improving body composition, reducing insulin resistance, and ameliorating physical and mental health and quality of life of pediatric patients with morbid obesity. Full article

Background: Taste changes are common during pregnancy and can have a significant impact on dietary habits. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the influence of the perception of sweet and fat taste on diet in pregnant diabetic women. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included 66 pregnant women, 33 with gestational diabetes and 33 with pre-gestational type 2 diabetes. Taste perception tests were conducted to evaluate thresholds for detecting sweet and fatty tastes. Dietary surveys were used to assess daily nutrient intake, and various biochemical parameters, such as glycemia, HbA1c, and cholesterol, were analyzed. Results: The low-fat taster group (threshold > 0.75 mmol/L) included more patients with diabetes compared to those with gestational diabetes. All diabetic patients had low sucrose perception. Although pregnant women with gestational diabetes detected sweetness at high concentrations, pregnant women with diabetes detected it at lower concentrations (0.012 ± 0.023 mmol/L vs. 0.006 ± 0.005 mmol/L; p = 0.3). High-fat tasters exhibited elevated glycemia compared to low-fat tasters (6.04 ± 1.88 mmol/L vs. 7.47 ± 3.4 mmol/L; p = 0.03). They also had higher cholesterol (p = 0.04) and lower HDL-C levels (4.96 ± 1.04 mmol/L vs. 1.36 ± 0.29 mmol/L; p = 0.03). High-fat tasters showed more frequent daily consumption of oil, butter, cheese, and chocolate. The highly sweet tasters had higher cholesterol levels and lower LDL levels. Individuals who reported being highly sensitive to sweet taste consumed more daily oil, sweetened yogurt, or cream desserts, as well as white sugar. Conclusions: These findings indicate that altered sensitivity to fat and sweet tastes is associated with different dietary habits and metabolic profiles in pregnant women with diabetes. Specifically, reduced sensitivity to the taste of fat is associated with higher consumption of high-fat foods and poorer lipid profiles. In contrast, sensitivity to sweet taste correlates with an increased intake of sugary and fatty foods. Understanding these taste-related behaviors can help develop personalized nutritional strategies to improve metabolic control and maternal–fetal outcomes in this high-risk group. Full article

Background and Objectives: In recent years, there has been growing interest in the production of ingredients rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, such as green banana flours. This study evaluated the effect of consumption of mixed green banana pulp (PF) and peel (PeF) flours on the body weight gain, adiposity, lipid profile, and intestinal morphology of Wistar rats. Methods: Male young rats were divided into four groups (n = 8) that received a standard diet (SD), or one of the following three test diets: M1 (SD + 90% PF/10% PeF), M2 (SD + 80% PF/20% PeF), or P (SD + 100% PF) for 28 days. Results: Rats from M1, M2, and P groups showed reduced body weight gain and adiposity and had lower contents of total cholesterol, LDL-c, VLDL-c, and triglycerides. Animals from M1 and M2 groups had an increase in cecum weight, fecal moisture, acetic acid concentration, and crypt depth and reduced fecal pH. Moreover, consumption of the M1, M2, and P diets increased the expression of proteins involved in intestinal functionality. Significant negative correlations were observed between consumption of resistant starch and soluble dietary fiber, from the flours, and weight gain (r = −0.538 and r = −0.538, respectively), body adiposity (r = −0.780 and r = −0.767, respectively), total cholesterol (r = −0.789 and r = −0.800, respectively), and triglycerides (r = −0.790 and r = −0.786, respectively). Conclusions: Mixed green banana pulp and peel flour proved to be a viable alternative as a food ingredient that can promote weight loss, improve lipid profile and intestinal morphology, and minimize post-harvest losses. Full article

Genomic instability markers are important hallmarks of aging, as previously evidenced within the European study of biomarkers of human aging, MARK-AGE; however, establishing the specific metabolic determinants of vascular aging is challenging. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of the susceptibility to oxidation of serum LDL particles (LDLox) and the plasma metabolization products of nitric oxide (NOx) on relevant genomic instability markers. The analysis was performed on a MARK-AGE cohort of 1326 subjects (635 men and 691 women, 35–75 years old) randomly recruited from the general population. The Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting causal inference algorithm was implemented in order to assess the potential causal relationship between the LDLox and NOx octile-based thresholds and three genomic instability markers measured in mononuclear leukocytes: the percentage of telomeres shorter than 3 kb, the initial DNA integrity, and the DNA damage after irradiation with 3.8 Gy. The results showed statistically significant telomere shortening for LDLox, while NOx yielded a significant impact on DNA integrity. Overall, the effect on the genomic instability markers was higher than for the confirmed vascular aging determinants, such as low HDL cholesterol levels, indicating a meaningful impact even for small changes in LDLox and NOx values. Full article