TAREQ S. HARB, MD

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This study focuses on lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a particle in the blood that is mainly influenced by genetics. Researchers found that elevated Lp(a) levels are linked to serious heart diseases and can affect up to 20% of people worldwide, even when traditional cholesterol levels are managed well. Understanding Lp(a) is important because it helps experts develop new treatments that could lower cardiovascular risks. Who this helps: Patients with elevated Lp(a) levels and related heart conditions.

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This study looked at lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), a genetic marker that can predict the risk of heart and blood vessel diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. It found that high levels of Lp(a) (50 mg/dL or higher) significantly increase the risk of serious heart problems and should lead to stronger treatments for other risk factors. Currently, there are no approved medications that effectively lower Lp(a), but new treatments are being tested that may help reduce its levels and improve heart health. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of heart disease, especially those with high Lp(a) levels.

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This study looked at how a blood marker called lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is connected to heart inflammation in men with HIV who have effectively controlled their virus. Researchers found that higher levels of Lp(a) were linked to increased inflammation in the arteries of these men, with a specific measurement showing an increase of nearly 2 units in coronary inflammation for each unit increase in Lp(a). While using statins (medications that help lower cholesterol) was associated with less inflammation in the heart arteries, it did not change the relationship between Lp(a) and inflammation. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV, particularly those managing their virus effectively.

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This study looked at how smoking and using heated tobacco products affect heart function in young Lebanese university students, and whether being physically active makes a difference. Researchers found that higher dependence on these tobacco products led to changes in heart activity measurements, especially in those who were less active; for example, heavy users had significantly higher heart interval values. This matters because it shows that using tobacco products can increase heart risks even in young people, but being physically active can help reduce those risks. Who this helps: This helps young smokers and users of heated tobacco, as well as their health care providers.

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This research studied how a drug called vericiguat affects blood vessel function in conditions of high glucose, which is common in diabetes. The researchers found that vericiguat significantly improved the ability of blood vessel cells to produce a crucial molecule called cGMP, restoring their normal function. Specifically, the cells treated with vericiguat showed better results compared to those that weren’t treated, indicating its potential to reverse damage caused by high glucose. Who this helps: This benefits patients with diabetes and metabolic syndrome by offering a new treatment option to improve blood vessel health.

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This study examined the effects of a drug called evolocumab on heart inflammation in patients who recently suffered a heart attack. Out of 55 participants, those who received evolocumab showed a significant reduction in heart inflammation compared to those who received a placebo. Specifically, lower inflammation levels were associated with better heart function six months later, indicating that targeting this inflammation early can improve recovery. Who this helps: This benefits heart attack patients by improving their recovery process and long-term heart health.

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This study looked at how advanced biologic therapies (ABT) affect the risk of heart and blood vessel problems in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The researchers found that patients taking ABT faced significantly lower chances of experiencing major cardiovascular events compared to those on other treatments, with risks dropping from 11.9% to 8.3% in the first year and from 21.2% to 15.0% over five years. This is important because it suggests that these therapies might help protect IBD patients' heart health. Who this helps: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

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This study looked at how certain harmful substances in the blood, called oxidized phospholipids (OxPLs), change after a heart attack and how a drug called evolocumab can affect these changes. Among 96 patients, those who received evolocumab didn’t experience an increase in these harmful substances, whereas those who received a placebo saw levels of OxPL-apo(a) rise from 52.6 to 61.7 nmol/L and OxPL-apoB from 6.7 to 8.8 nmol/L over 30 days. This matters because preventing the rise of these substances could lower the risk of further heart problems after a heart attack. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from heart attacks.

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This study looked at the relationship between levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) and the occurrence of dangerous heart rhythms called ventricular arrhythmias (VA) in a large group of adults. The researchers found that patients with high Lp(a) levels (over 75 nmol/L) had a lower chance of being free from VA compared to those with low levels (84.3% vs. 86.1%), and over time, those with high Lp(a) had significantly more instances of VA. This is important because it shows that high Lp(a) levels can increase the risk of serious heart issues, which could help doctors identify patients who need closer monitoring or treatment. Who this helps: Patients at risk for heart problems and their doctors.

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This study looked at the pollution levels in ten major rivers in Lebanon to see if the water is safe for irrigation. It found that 40% of the river samples had too many harmful bacteria, while 4 out of 10 had water that was too acidic or too high in nitrates to be safe for irrigation. This is important because polluted water can harm people's health, wildlife, and the environment. Who this helps: This helps farmers and communities in Lebanon who rely on river water for irrigation.

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This study looked at how levels of a substance called homocysteine (Hcy) affect the heart health of people living with HIV, particularly those in an inner-city African American community. The researchers found that 23.3% of participants with coronary artery narrowing (stenosis) had high Hcy levels, compared to only 13.1% of those without stenosis. This means that high Hcy levels increase the risk of heart problems for people living with HIV, especially in this group. Who this helps: This research benefits patients living with HIV and their healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of monitoring and managing homocysteine levels.

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This study looked at how satisfied patients are with the pharmaceutical services at primary healthcare centers run by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in the West Bank. Out of 938 patients surveyed, the overall satisfaction score was 4.10 out of 5, indicating general happiness with the services, especially with the staff interactions (average score of 4.19). However, satisfaction with therapy management was lower (average score of 3.99), and factors like pharmacy location, waiting area, and cleanliness significantly affected patient satisfaction. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving medication and healthcare from these centers.

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This paper studies a protein called PCSK9, which is known for lowering cholesterol levels but may also affect how plaques form in blood vessels that lead to heart disease. Researchers found that PCSK9 influences various factors involved in this plaque development, suggesting it plays a more complex role in heart health than previously thought. Understanding how PCSK9 works could lead to new treatments for preventing heart disease. Who this helps: Patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.

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This research paper discusses the role of new medications called PCSK9 inhibitors, which lower cholesterol and protect heart health. The authors reviewed various studies and found that these drugs not only help manage cholesterol levels but also may play a role in treating other serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. This is important because effective cholesterol management can lead to fewer heart-related issues and improved overall health for many patients. Who this helps: Patients with high cholesterol and heart disease.

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Researchers studied how a drug called vericiguat affects blood vessel cells when these cells are exposed to high glucose levels, a condition linked to diabetes and inflammation. They found that high glucose reduced the production of a molecule called cGMP, which is important for relaxing blood vessels. However, treating the cells with vericiguat restored cGMP levels and improved blood vessel relaxation, showing significant improvement in function. Who this helps: This benefits patients with diabetes or related conditions that affect blood vessel health.

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This study looked at how levels of lipoprotein(a), a genetic marker linked to heart disease risk, can change within the same person over time. Researchers found that nearly 40% of people had significant changes in their Lp(a) levels, which led to over half of those previously classified as at intermediate risk being reclassified to either low or high risk for heart disease. This is important because it shows that repeated testing can provide a better assessment of cardiovascular risk for individuals who don't have clear results. Who this helps: Patients at intermediate risk for heart disease.

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This study looks at how the connection between the heart, brain, and nervous system (called the neurocardiac axis) works normally and how problems in this system can lead to heart diseases like high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries. Researchers found that persistent stress can harm this connection and contribute to these cardiovascular issues. Understanding this axis is crucial for developing better treatments and improving patient care in heart-related conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart diseases and their doctors.

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This study looked at how inflammation, specifically through a substance called interleukin-6 (IL-6), affects the production of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] in liver cells. Researchers found that reducing a protein called PPARγ led to higher Lp(a) levels when IL-6 was present, while using a drug called pioglitazone lowered those levels. These findings are significant because they highlight PPARγ as a potential target for new treatments for patients experiencing high Lp(a) levels due to inflammation, which is linked to heart disease. Who this helps: Patients with inflammatory conditions and elevated Lp(a) levels.

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This study looked at lipoprotein(a) levels in patients who had a heart attack to see if a single measurement taken during the hospital visit accurately predicted levels six months later. They found that the levels actually increased from an average of 53.5 nmol/L when patients were admitted to 58.0 nmol/L six months later. This matters because it shows that one early test isn't enough to understand the long-term heart disease risk for these patients after a heart attack. Who this helps: Patients recovering from heart attacks and their doctors.

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This study examined a new imaging method, 18 F-FDG PET, to help diagnose spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), a condition often overlooked in women with heart issues. Among four women in a clinical trial, this imaging technique successfully detected signs of inflammation in the affected heart arteries, suggesting it could be a valuable tool for confirming SCAD diagnosis. This matters because accurate identification of SCAD can lead to better treatment options and prevention of serious heart problems. Who this helps: This benefits women at risk for SCAD and their doctors.

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This study looked at how a medication called evolocumab, which inhibits a protein known as PCSK9, affects blood platelets and the lining of blood vessels in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The researchers found that after 30 days, patients who received evolocumab had lower levels of markers for platelet activation (PF4) and blood vessel dysfunction (von Willebrand factor) compared to those who received a placebo. This is important because reducing these markers can lead to better outcomes for patients with ACS. Who this helps: This benefits patients with acute coronary syndrome.

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This study looked at how different health-related articles define terms like misinformation, disinformation, and fake news. Researchers reviewed 41 systematic reviews, finding 75 different definitions, with 78% of the studies focusing on public health emergencies like COVID-19. The findings show that while there is some consistency, there are also many inconsistencies in how these terms are defined, which can lead to confusion in making informed health decisions. Who this helps: This helps health practitioners and policymakers ensure they accurately communicate and address misinformation.

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In Lebanon, there's no organized lung cancer screening program, with most screenings happening only if a doctor recommends it or a patient asks for it. A study at the American University of Beirut Medical Center reviewed records of patients screened from June 2019 to June 2021 and found that 8 out of 165 patients had concerning findings that required further investigation. This highlights the need for a well-structured lung cancer screening program to improve early detection and treatment in Lebanon. Who this helps: Patients at risk for lung cancer.

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This study looked at how the functioning of blood vessels in the heart (coronary endothelial function) changes with age in people with HIV compared to those without it. It found that individuals with HIV had worse blood vessel function at younger ages, while in those without HIV, blood vessel function decreased as they got older. Specifically, coronary function was significantly lower for people with HIV across all age groups, indicating that factors apart from age are negatively affecting their vascular health. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with HIV by highlighting the need for early cardiovascular assessments and interventions.

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This study created a framework to improve how health care guidelines are developed and updated in real-time, ensuring they stay current with new medical evidence. A group of 51 experts worked together to refine this framework, which emphasizes that each recommendation can be updated individually, and it outlines essential steps for planning, producing, and sharing these guidelines. This is important because it helps medical professionals make well-informed decisions based on the latest research, which can lead to better patient care. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the proteins found in milk exosomes from humans and cows to better understand milk's nutritional value. Researchers identified 229 proteins from human milk and 239 from cow milk, with 176 being unique to humans and 186 unique to cows, while 53 proteins were shared between the two. Knowing the specific proteins in milk can help improve infant nutrition by highlighting essential nutrients for babies. Who this helps: This helps infants and those caring for them, like parents and pediatricians.

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This study looked at how ready frontline doctors in Jordan are to handle the COVID-19 crisis. Researchers surveyed 308 doctors and found that only 18.5% had all the necessary protective gear, while 56.2% had protocols in place for dealing with COVID-19 patients. The average preparedness score was 4.9 out of 10, and those with protocols and enough protective equipment felt more ready to manage COVID-19 cases, highlighting significant gaps that need to be addressed to protect both doctors and patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare systems prepare better for handling COVID-19 cases.

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This study focused on developing a method to extract exosomes, tiny particles in milk that play important roles in nutrition and immune function. Researchers successfully used a technique they previously created for cow's milk on human milk, confirming that the exosomes from both types of milk had similar features. This is significant because having a reliable method to isolate high-quality exosomes can enhance our understanding of their potential benefits in infant nutrition and medical applications. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and healthcare professionals working with infant nutrition and immune health.

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This study looked at how fortified milk affects the growth and nutritional health of young children aged 6 to 47 months. Researchers found that while fortified milk had a small impact on weight gain (only an increase of 0.17 kg, which is not much), it significantly reduced the risk of anemia by 68% compared to regular milk. This matters because proper nutrition is essential for children's development, and fortified milk can help address nutrient deficiencies during a critical growth period. Who this helps: This helps young children who need better nutrition and their parents.

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This research examined how sensory processing relates to sleep and crying behaviors in infants with colic. Out of 44 breastfed infants under four months, 77% showed unusual sensory processing scores, with many scoring atypically in areas like sensation seeking and avoiding. Infants with atypical sensory responses tended to sleep about 68 minutes longer each day than those with typical responses, but overall, the study found that sensory processing doesn't seem to play a significant role in colic. Who this helps: This helps parents and caregivers of infants with colic by providing insights into their children's behavior and sleep patterns.

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This study examined various treatments for colic in infants under six months old who are breast-fed. Researchers found that giving infants probiotics, especially Lactobacillus reuteri, reduced crying time by an average of 55.8 minutes per day, while fennel oil reduced crying time by about 72.1 minutes per day. These findings are important because they highlight effective options for parents dealing with colicky infants, aiming to provide relief and improve the wellbeing of both the baby and family. Who this helps: Parents of colicky infants.

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This study looked at how common certain stomach issues are in babies under 12 months old, like colic and constipation, and how these might affect their health later on. Researchers found that colic affects between 2% and 73% of infants, while regurgitation affects 3% to 87%, and functional constipation ranges from 0.05% to 39.3%. Understanding these symptoms is important because they could indicate potential health problems in the future for some babies. Who this helps: This helps parents and pediatricians identify and manage gastrointestinal issues in infants early on.

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Researchers studied whether new techniques and devices improved the treatment outcomes for patients with complex heart artery blockages, known as bifurcation lesions. They found that using newer stents and methods led to fewer serious heart complications over two years—only 5.7% of patients faced major issues in 2009 compared to 11.3% in 2005. This improvement is important because it shows that modern techniques can enhance patient safety and health in heart procedures. Who this helps: Patients with heart artery blockages.

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This study looked at the effects of two types of drug-eluting stents—everolimus-eluting stents (EES) and paclitaxel-eluting stents (PES)—in treating patients with serious heart issues called unprotected left main lesions. Over two years, patients using EES had significantly better outcomes, with only 4.1% experiencing serious heart problems compared to 9.9% in the PES group, and 7.6% having overall treatment failure versus 16.3% with PES. This research highlights that EES is a safer and more effective option, cutting complications by over half. Who this helps: This helps patients with serious heart conditions and doctors treating them.

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This study looked at the different energy levels of a molecule called RbH(+) to understand how electrons behave within it. Researchers calculated energy states for this molecule and found that their results matched well with existing data, particularly for 19 specific electronic states. This matters because it helps improve our understanding of molecular behavior, which could have implications for areas like chemistry and materials science. Who this helps: This benefits researchers in chemistry and physics who study molecular interactions.

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This study looked at a medical procedure called CT-guided percutaneous cryotherapy, which uses extreme cold to treat kidney tumors. In a group of 48 patients with 49 tumors, the procedure was generally safe and comfortable, with average tumor sizes of 3.3 cm treated effectively, leading to a significant reduction in tumor size over time. After 12 months, treated areas had shrunk significantly, and only 8.3% of tumors failed to respond as expected. Who this helps: This benefits patients with kidney tumors and doctors treating them.

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In this study, researchers tested a method called cryotherapy, which involves freezing breast lumps known as fibroadenomas, to see how well it works and how patients feel during and after the treatment. They treated 42 lumps in 29 young women, finding that the average size of the lumps shrank from about 4.2 cubic centimeters to just 0.7 cubic centimeters after one year, which is a 73% reduction. The treatment was mostly pain-free, and patients were very happy with the results, experiencing no significant complications. Who this helps: This helps women with breast fibroadenomas looking for a minimally invasive treatment option.

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This study examines a rare case of a heart condition called constrictive pericarditis caused by the fungus Candida glabrata in a healthy person who hadn't had heart surgery. The patient had previously undergone abdominal surgery for a stomach issue, which likely contributed to the condition. The findings show that if this type of pericarditis is caught early and treated effectively, patients have a much better chance of recovery than in past cases. Who this helps: This benefits patients with constrictive pericarditis, especially those without major health issues or prior surgeries.