Role of omega-3 fatty acids and digoxin in cardiovascular diseases – A comprehensive review

Digoxin and omega-3 fatty acids are two different agents that have been studied for their potential roles in managing cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be a global health concern, with their prevention and management being of paramount importance. Omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have garnered substantial attention for their potential therapeutic role in mitigating CVD risk factors and improving cardiovascular health. This comprehensive review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the impact of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular diseases. The review encompasses a wide range of studies, including epidemiological investigations, and experimental research, to provide a holistic understanding of the mechanisms through which omega-3 fatty acids influence CVD. Key areas of focus include their effects on lipid profiles, inflammation, endothelial function, blood pressure regulation, and arrhythmia prevention. Additionally, their potential roles in secondary prevention, such as reducing the risk of recurrent myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death, are explored. The review also discusses the challenges and controversies surrounding omega-3 supplementation, including dosing, sources, and patient selection. Furthermore, it addresses emerging areas of research, such as the interplay between omega-3 fatty acids and gut microbiota, genetics, and personalized medicine. This comprehensive review underscores the multifaceted role of omega-3 fatty acids in cardiovascular diseases. While evidence suggests their potential benefits, further research is needed to refine recommendations and identify optimal strategies for integrating omega-3 fatty acids into cardiovascular disease prevention and management. Understanding the complexities of omega-3's effects on CVD will contribute to more effective and personalized approaches to improve cardiovascular healt

Optical polarimetry and photometry of comet 17P/Holmes

Comet 17P/Holmes was observed for linear polarisation using the optical polarimeter mounted on the 1.2m telescope atop Gurushikhar peak near Mt. Abu during the period November-December 2007. Observations were conducted through the IHW narrow band (continuum) filters. During the observing run the phase angle was near $13^{\circ}$ at which the comet showed negative polarisation. On the basis of the observed polarisation data we find comet 17P/Holmes to be a typical comet with usual dust characteristics. We note that radial rate of change of brightness in coma in red band is higher than that in blue band; it has decreased by a factor of 3.6 and 2.5 respectively in red and blue bands during the November - December run, indicating relative increase in the abundance of smaller dust particles out ward. Radial brightness variation seen near the nucleus on November 6 is indicative of the presence of a blob or shocked region beyond 10" from the nucleus which has gradually smoothened by December 13. The brightness distribution is found steeper during November 5-7 as compared to on December 13.Comment: 11pages, 7 figures, accepted for publication in MNRA

Precursor flares in OJ 287

We have studied three most recent precursor flares in the light curve of the blazar OJ 287 while invoking the presence of a precessing binary black hole in the system to explain the nature of these flares. Precursor flare timings from the historical light curves are compared with theoretical predictions from our model that incorporate effects of an accretion disk and post-Newtonian description for the binary black hole orbit. We find that the precursor flares coincide with the secondary black hole descending towards the accretion disk of the primary black hole from the observed side, with a mean z-component of approximately z_c = 4000 AU. We use this model of precursor flares to predict that precursor flare of similar nature should happen around 2020.96 before the next major outburst in 2022.Comment: to appear in the Astrophysical Journa