Antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant activities of Pistacia atlantica: A systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies.

To determine the pharmaceutical applications, we assessed the evidence from preclinical studies about the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant potential of Pistacia atlantica (PA) as a natural source for prevention and treatment of diabetes. A comprehensive literature search of the articles published until March 12, 2022 was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Web of Sciences, and Scopus databases, using relevant keywords. This meta-analysis included 12 articles that examined the blood glucose (BG), insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled effect size. Findings indicated that PA supplementation significantly decreased BG, HOMA-IR, TC, TG, and MDA, and increased insulin and SOD in diabetic animals compared with control group (p < .05). However, PA supplementation had no significant effects on HDL-C (p > .05). The subgroup analysis also confirmed the beneficial effect of PA supplementation with longer duration (>4 weeks) and higher doses (≥100 mg/kg/day) as well as in the extract type. The studies have heterogeneity associated with methodological diversity and there were some concerns about the risk of bias, especially about randomization and blind outcome assessment. This meta-analysis provided convincing evidence for antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant activity of PA in animals. Further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the plant.

Effects of green tea supplementation on serum concentrations of adiponectin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: A decrease in adiponectin concentration is associated with obesity-related diseases such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and cardiovascular disease (CVD). OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the effects of green tea supplementation on serum concentrations of adiponectin in patients with T2DM. METHODS: A systematic search was performed on the ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Embase and Scopus to find articles related to the effects of the green tea supplementation on adiponectin concentrations in T2DM patients, up to June 2019. Meta-analyses were performed using both the random and fixed effects model where appropriate. RESULTS: The initial search yielded 1010 publications. Data were pooled from five trials including 333 patients with T2DM. A meta-analysis of five RCTs demonstrated that green tea supplementation significantly increased adiponectin concentrations compared to control groups. CONCLUSION: Our meta-analysis revealed that green tea supplementation increased adiponectin concentrations in patients with T2DM.

Association between deficient levels of circulating vitamin D, dietary intake of vitamin D, calcium and retinol, and risk of colorectal cancer in an Iranian population: A case control study.

AIM: We aimed to assess the association between deficient levels of circulating vitamin D, dietary intake of vitamin D, calcium and retinol, and risk of colorectal cancer in an Iranian population. METHODS: In this retrospective case-control study that was conducted between 2012 and 2015, 278 first incident colorectal cancer cases (colon cancer = 103; rectal cancer = 175), and 278 sex and age matched healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Serum 25(OH)D, dietary vitamin D, and calcium intake were assessed. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) between studied factors and colorectal cancer. Estimates of OR were calculated according to both bivariate analyses based on the matching factors and multivariate analyses, with additional adjustment for potential confounders. RESULTS: A strong inverse linear dose-response association was seen between serum 25(OH)D and colorectal cancer (P for trend = .002). In comparison to serum 25(OH)D more than 40 nmol/L, lower serum concentrations were significantly associated with an increased OR of colorectal cancer. When analyzing anatomical subsites separately, lower circulating 25(OH)D was associated with higher OR for both colon and rectum cancers. Dietary vitamin D and calcium intake were not associated with colorectal cancer. Interaction analysis between serum 25(OH)D and the amount of calcium intake demonstrated that the lowest level of both factors was associated with an increased OR of colorectal cancer. The highest OR of colorectal cancer that was associated with lowest circulating 25(OH)D was stronger at the highest retinol intakes. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated an inverse strong association between 25(OH)D concentration and colorectal cancer in an Iranian population.

Effects of resistance training combined with a ketogenic diet on body composition: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

We evaluated the effects of ketogenic diets (KDs) on body mass (BM), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage (BFP) compared to non-KDs in individuals performing resistance training (RT). Online electronic databases including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, SCOPUS, and Ovid were searched to identify initial studies until February 2021. Data were pooled using both fixed and random-effects methods and were expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Out of 1372 studies, 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that enrolled 244 volunteers were included. The pooled results demonstrated that KDs significantly decreased BM [(WMD = -3.67 kg; 95% CI: -4.44, -2.90, p < 0.001)], FM [(WMD = -2.21 kg; 95% CI: -3.09, -1.34, p < 0.001)], FFM [(WMD = -1.26 kg; 95% CI: -1.82, -0.70, p < 0.001)], BMI [(WMD = -1.37 kg.m-2; 95% CI: -2.14, -0.59, p = 0.022)], and BFP [(WMD = -2.27%; 95% CI: -3.63, -0.90, p = 0.001)] compared to non-KDs. We observed beneficial effects of KDs compared to non-KDs on BM and body fat (both FM and BFP) in individuals performing RT. However, adherence to KDs may have a negative effect on FFM, which is not ameliorated by the addition of RT.

"Association between dietary inflammatory index (DII) and risk of irritable bowel syndrome: a case-control study".

BACKGROUND: Pathophysiology of IBS is not well recognized; however, several studies have shown the possible relationship between diet and risk of IBS. We assessed the ability of the dietary inflammatory index (DII) to predict the risk of IBS. METHODS: The subjects were 155 IBS cases and 310 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (aged ≥18 years). The participants were recruited from June, 2019 to March, 2020. IBS was recognized using the Rome IV criteria. DII score was computed based on dietary intake using a 168-item FFQ. The DII score was calculated based on energy-adjusted amounts of nutrients using residual method. Logistic regression models were used to estimate multivariable odds ratios (ORs). RESULTS: The mean DII score was significantly higher among IBS patients in comparison to healthy controls (0.78 ± 2.22 vs. - 0.39 ± 2.27). In crude model, increase in DII as continuous variable was associated with a significant increase in the risk of IBS (OR (95% CI): 1.26 (1.1-15.38)). Furthermore, the association remained significant even after adjusting for age and sex (OR (95% CI): 1.28 (1.1-17.41)) and after multivariate adjustment (OR (95% CI): 1.38 (1.2-1.56)). In crude, age and sex adjusted and multivariate-adjusted models subjects in fourth quartile of DII had higher OR in comparison to subjects in first quartile. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a possible positive association between a pro-inflammatory diet and the risk of IBS. Thus, encouraging intake of more anti-inflammatory dietary factors and reducing intake of pro-inflammatory factors may be a strategy for reducing risk of IBS.

Effect of Green Tea on Anthropometric Indices and Body Composition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

AIM: Previous studies that investigated the effect of green tea/green tea extract on anthropometric indices among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients found inconsistent results. Thus, in order to clarify the efficacy of green tea supplementation on anthropometric indices and body composition, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to sum up the evidence of randomized controlled trials. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in the Scopus, ISI Web of Science and PubMed to find the related articles, up to June 2019. Meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model, and the I2 index was used to evaluate the heterogeneity. RESULTS: Eleven articles were eligible. Our meta-analysis indicated that green tea consumption significantly decreased body weight, body mass index (BMI), and body fat (BF). The beneficial effect of green tea intake was observed in long-term intervention (>8 weeks), at lower doses of green tea (dosage ≤800 mg/day), and in overweight patients. CONCLUSION: This study revealed the beneficial effects of green tea consumption in reducing body weight, BMI, and BF in T2DM patients. It should be noted that green tea was effective in long-term intervention, at lower doses of green tea, and in overweight patients.

Effect of green tea on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Several studies have investigated the potential beneficial effects of green tea in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, we aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effect of supplementary intake of green tea on fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and HOMA-IR in patients with T2DM. METHODS: A systematic search was performed in Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus without any language and time restriction up to June 2019, to retrieve the related RCTs. Meta-analysis was carried out using both the random and fixed effects model where appropriate. I2 index was used to evaluate the heterogeneity. RESULTS: Initial search yielded 780 publications. Fourteen articles were eligible. Our meta-analysis indicated that the supplementary intake of green tea had no significant effect on FPG, fasting insulin, HbA1c and HOMA-IR in patients with T2DM. CONCLUSION: Results of the present systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that the supplementary intake of green tea had no significant effect on FPG, fasting insulin, HbA1c and HOMA-IR in patients with T2DM.

The Effects of Probiotic/Synbiotic on Serum Level of Zonulin as a Biomarker of Intestinal Permeability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to obtain a conclusive result on the influence of probiotics/synbiotic on serum levels of zonulin. Data related to serum levels of zonulin were extracted to determine the effects of probiotic/synbiotic on intestinal permeability. METHODS: The literature search was conducted across the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Pub-Med, Scopus and ISI Web of Science, Search up to Nov 2018. Clinical trials evaluating the effect of probiotic/synbiotic on serum zonulin levels of all human subjects were included. RESULTS: Nine studies (including 496 intervention and 443 control subjects) met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. According to the meta-analysis, probiotic/synbiotic has a significant effect on serum zonulin reduction (WMD=-10.55 [95% CI: -17.76, -3.34]; P=0.004). However, the high level of heterogeneity was observed among the studies (I2=97.8, P<0.001). The subgroup analysis suggested study quality, blinding, study duration, Participants age, subject's health status and supplement type as sources of heterogeneity. CONCLUSION: Probiotic/synbiotic have favorable effects on serum levels of zonulin as a measure of intestinal permeability. However, the results should be interpreted with caution due to the high heterogeneity and further evidence is required before definitive recommendations can be made.

Effect of Different Dietary Approaches in Comparison with High/Low-Carbohydrate Diets on Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Dietary modification is an effective method for preventing and managing hypertension. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of different dietary approaches for comparing high- and low-carbohydrate diets on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP, respectively) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We carried out a comprehensive literature search using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus without any language and time restrictions until April, 2019. We carried out a meta-analysis using both fixed and random effects models where appropriate and used the I2 index to evaluate heterogeneity. We identified 16 eligible studies, with a total of 1,610 participants. The overall pooled net effect of different dietary approaches on SBP and DBP were -2.29 mmHg [95% confidence interval (CI): -3.49 to -1.1] and -1.03 mmHg (95% CI: -1.77 to -0.29), respectively, compared with high-carbohydrate diets. Indeed, diets high in monounsaturated fatty acids more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP than high-carbohydrate diets, whereas high-protein diets were not effective. Furthermore, we found that different dietary approaches, such as low-fat diets, did not reduce SBP or DBP to a greater extent than low-carbohydrate diets. Overall, the results of our meta-analysis show that diets high in monounsaturated fatty acids are more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP than diets high in carbohydrate, whereas other dietary approaches were not effective.

First Serological & Molecular Study of Coxiella burnetii in Stray, Domestic Cats, and Their Owners in Iran.

Coxiella burnetii, the agent of Q fever, is recognized as a worldwide zoonosis a wide host and potentially complex reservoir systems. Infected ruminants are the main source of infection for humans, but cats also represent a potential source of infection. The prevalence of C burnetii in cats in Iran is unknown and the risks of transmission to humans are undetermined. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of C burnetii in domestic cats and their owners. An Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used for detection of anti-C burnetii antibodies in both cats and humans. Cats serum samples and humans serum samples (n = 85) were tested with indirect ELISA. C burnetii was diagnosed using real time- polymerase chain reaction. Antibodies were detected in 19 sera of 85 (22.35%) samples in stray cats, 9 sera of 78 (11.53%) samples of domestic cats and 4 sera of 78 (5.12%) samples of their owners. This first study of C burnetii prevalence in cats in Iran has indicated that positive samples can be found throughout the country and these results confirm that Iranian cats have been exposed to C burnetii. Moreover, this study demonstrates that cat owners, breeders and veterinary personnel might be at higher risk of exposure of C burnetii.

Effect of L-Carnitine Supplementation on Lipid Profiles of Patients with Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Results of previous studies regarding the effect of L-carnitine on lipid profiles in the patients with liver diseases are contradictory. This meta-analysis was performed to assess the effect of L-carnitine on serum levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) in overweight patients with liver diseases. A systematic search was carried out using the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane library databases to identify articles published before April 2019 investigating the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on patients with liver disease. There was no language or time limitation for the studies. A meta-analysis was carried out using both the random and fixed effects model where appropriate, and I2 index were used to evaluate heterogeneity. These results indicated that L-carnitine supplementation significantly reduces blood levels of TC and TG in patients with liver disease, whereas carnitine had no effect on the levels of HDL and LDL. The reducing effect of L-carnitine on both TC and TG was found following long-term carnitine supplementation (≥24 weeks), supplementation with doses less than or equal to 2,000 mg/d, and in patients with chronic hepatitis C. This meta-analysis indicates the beneficial effect of L-carnitine on TC and TG in overweight patients with liver disease, particularly patients with chronic hepatitis C, in both long-term and low doses.

Effects of gradual weight loss v. rapid weight loss on body composition and RMR: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis compared the effects of different rates of weight loss (WL), but equivalent total WL, on body composition and RMR. Studies examining gradual v. rapid WL on body composition and RMR in participants with overweight/obesity published up to October 2019 were identified through PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and Ovid databases. Meta-analysis was carried out using a fixed or random effects model as appropriate. Although the magnitude of WL was similar (mean difference 0·03 kg, 95 % CI ­0·65, 0·71), gradual WL promoted greater reductions in fat mass (FM) (­1 kg, 95 % CI ­1·70, ­0·29) and body fat percentage (BFP) (­0·83 %, 95 % CI ­1·49, ­0·17). Gradual WL significantly preserved RMR compared with rapid WL (407·48 kJ, 95 % CI 76·76, 118·01). However, there was no significant difference in waist and hip circumferences, waist:hip ratio and fat-free mass (FFM) between gradual and rapid WL. The present systematic review and meta-analysis indicates beneficial effects of gradual WL, as compared with rapid WL, on FM, BFP and RMR in individuals with overweight/obesity. However, FFM changes and anthropometric indices did not significantly differ following different rates of WL.

Effects of the Mediterranean diet on cardiovascular risk factors in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: We aimed to investigate the effect of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHOD: A systematic search was performed in Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane library and PubMed databases to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to the effect of the MedDiet in patients with NAFLD, up to July, 2019. There was no language and time limitation. Meta-analyses were performed using both the random and fixed effects model where appropriate, and I2 index was used to evaluate the heterogeneity. RESULTS: Primary search yielded 467 publications. Five RCTs were eligible. Our meta-analysis indicated that the MedDiet resulted in a significant decrease in serum levels of triglyceride and total cholesterol, and a decrease in body weight and HOMA-IR in comparison to a control diet, in NAFLD patients. Whereas, there were no significant improvement in the MedDiet group compared with the control group regarding other variables such as liver enzymes and blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis indicated the advantageous effects of the MedDiet on some cardiovascular risks factors, as compared with a control diet. It seems that the MedDiet can be considered as an appropriate strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk factors in NAFLD patients.

Effect of green tea extract on lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have indicated controversial results regarding the efficacy of green tea extract (GTE) in improving the lipid profile of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to pool data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS: A systematic search was performed in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases, without any language and time restriction until August 2019, to retrieve the RCTs which examined the effects of GTE on serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride (TG) or total cholesterol (TC) in T2DM patients. Meta-analyses were carried out using a random effects model. I2 index was used to evaluate the heterogeneity. RESULTS: Initial search yielded 780 publications. Of these, seven studies were eligible. The supplementary intake of GTE improved lipid profile by reducing serum TG concentrations in patients with T2DM. Meanwhile, subgroup analyses based on duration of interventions (≤8 and > 8 weeks) and intervention dosage (≤800 and > 800 mg/day) showed that the GTE supplementation longer than 8 weeks and in doses >800 mg/day resulted in a significant decrease in serum TG concentrations. Furthermore, intervention longer than 8 weeks with doses lower than 800 mg/day resulted in a significant reduction in serum TC concentrations. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, present systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the supplementary intake of GTE may improve lipid profile by reducing serum concentrations of TG in patients with T2DM. Furthermore, the results of our stratified analyses suggested that long-term GTE intervention may reduce serum concentrations of TG and TC.

Effect of Vitamins C and E Co-Supplementation on Serum C-Reactive Protein Level: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Studies assessing the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on levels of circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) show contradictory results. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on CRP. A systematic search was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, Cochrane, Embase, and the Web of Science without any language or time restriction (until 31 March 2019) to retrieve RCTs that examined the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on CRP. A meta-analysis was carried out using a random effects model, and I2 indexes were used to evaluate the heterogeneity. The search yielded 5,134 publications, including 8 eligible RCTs. The results indicate that vitamin C and E co-supplementation does not significantly impact levels of serum CRP [weighted mean difference and 95% confidence interval with random effects model analysis: -0.22 mg/L (-0.85, 0.41), P=0.5]. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that vitamin C and E co-supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP in participants ≥30 years of age, but significantly increased serum CRP in participants <30 years of age. The results of this meta-analysis indicate beneficial effects of vitamins C and E co-supplementation on CRP in participants ≥30 years of age, and not in younger participants. To confirm these results, further well-designed RCTs are needed.

Serum Concentrations of Vitamin D, Calcium, Phosphorus and Trace Minerals in Adults and Children with Haemophilia A: Association with Disease Severity, Quality of Life, Joint Health and Functional Status.

Background : To investigate the serum levels of 25(OH)D and minerals in adults and children with haemophilia A, and the possible association of these factors with Pediatric Haemophilia/Haemophilia Activities List (PedHAL/HAL), Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and Haemophilia-specific quality of life (QoL) index this case-control study was conducted. Materials and Methods: Eighty five haemophilia A patients (HP) registered in Hemophilia Society of Lorestan province were recruited. Along with HP, sex and age matched healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Linear regression was used to evaluate the possible relation between biochemical factors and other variables. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the biochemical factors between three or more independent groups. Results: Results indicated that serum zinc, phosphorus and magnesium were significantly lower, whereas, serum level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was statistically higher in HP compared with HCs. Other biochemical factors including calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were not different between groups. Serum 25(OH) D was lower only in children with haemophilia and not in adults. Percentage of subjects who were vitamin D deficient was higher in HP vs. HCs (57.6% vs. 35.3%), and also this rate was higher in children with haemophilia vs. adults (77.8% vs. 48.3%). Lower serum concentrations of assessed minerals and vitamin D were associated with lower physical activity, poor QoL and worst joint health, and these associations were stronger in children. Conclusion: Present study indicated that serum levels of vitamin D and minerals were low in HP, and these low levels were associated with poor QoL, lower physical activity and worst joint health.

Effect of different dietary approaches compared with a regular diet on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIMS: We aimed to investigate the effect of different dietary approaches on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) in Type II diabetes (T2D). METHODS: A systematic search was performed in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane library without any language and time restriction up to December 2018, to retrieve the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which examined the effects of different dietary approaches on SBP and DBP in T2D patients. Meta-analyses were carried out using a random effects model. I2 index was used to evaluate the heterogeneity. RESULTS: Twenty four RCTs with 1130 patients were eligible. The dietary modifications were more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP vs. control diet. The Low-sodium, High-fiber, DASH, Low-fat, Low-protein and Vegan dietary approach were significantly more effective in reducing SBP compared to a control diet. The High-fiber, Low-fat, Low-protein and Vegan diet were significantly more effective in reducing DBP. The Low-sodium and High fiber diets had the greatest lowering effect on SBP and DBP in T2D patients. CONCLUSIONS: Adopting healthful dietary modifications were more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP vs. control. The High-fiber and Low-sodium diets had the greatest lowering effect on SBP and DBP in T2D.

Assessment of Nutritional Status and Related Factors of Lactating Women in the Urban and Rural Areas of Southwestern Iran: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: During the lactation period, mothers are at an increased risk of nutritional deficiencies due to improper dietary patterns, physiological changes, and various socio-demographic factors. The present study aimed to examine the nutritional status, dietary intake, and related factors among lactating women in the urban and rural areas of Khorramabad, Lorestan province in the southwest of Iran. METHODS: The present population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Khorramabad (Iran) during April-July 2012. The study population included 708 lactating mothers who were referred to the health centers in Khorramabad (10 urban health centers and 30 rural health/community centers). A multi-stage sampling method was used to recruit the participants. The nutritional status and food intake of the participants were assessed over three days using the 24-hour dietary recall (24HDR) and dietary record (DR) questionnaires. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 16.0) with the Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, paired t test, independent t test, and Pearson correlation coefficient. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The mean age and body mass index (BMI) of the mothers were 29.78±6.24 years and 26.11±3.70 kg/m2, respectively. There was a significant difference in calorie intake between the different categories of age, BMI, education level, job status (P<0.001) and lactation stage (P=0.034). The energy and nutrient intakes, except iron and phosphor, were statistically lower (P<0.05) than the prescribed Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). The intake of vitamins K, B1, B2, B3, and C; protein, magnesium, phosphor, zinc, copper, and iodine by mothers in the rural areas was significantly higher (P<0.05) than those in the rural areas. Higher intakes of energy and macronutrients by the lactating mothers had a significant negative correlation with an increase in age and had a significant positive correlation with a higher BMI (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Lactating women in the urban and rural areas of Khorramabad (Iran) had a poor nutritional status. Nutrition education and a modified dietary pattern during the lactation period are recommended.

Neuroprotective and Anti-inflammatory Role of Atorvastatin and Its Interaction with Nitric Oxide (NO) in Chronic Constriction Injury-induced Neuropathic Pain.

Prevention and treatment of neuropathic pain (NP) is one of the most difficult problems in clinical practice since the underlying mechanism of NP is unclear. In previous studies, the increased production of nitric oxide (NO) has been closely linked to the induced NP. In this study, we assessed the effect of atorvastatin through NO mechanism, on inflammation, thermal hyperalgesia, thermal allodynia, and mechanical allodynia as well as sciatic nerve histological score in rat with chronic constriction injury (CCI) model. Finally, we specified the role of cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 in the spinal cord. Treatment with atorvastatin and L-NAME (NO inhibitor) attenuated the thermal hyperalgesia, thermal allodynia and mechanical allodynia induced by CCI. The antinociceptive consequence was better elevated with a combination of atorvastatin and L-NAME in comparison with the other groups. In addition, the treatment with these drugs also attenuated the CCI-induced TNF-α and IL-6 level in the spinal cord. Furthermore, the histological analysis showed a low level of inflammation in the sciatic nerve in the CCI rats co-treated with atorvastatin and L-NAME. Findings of our study in NP-induced CCI in the rat model demonstrate that inhibition of NO displays antinociceptive and anti-neuroinflammatory effects of atorvastatin in peripheral and central nervous system. In addition, we found that inhibition of the NO by atorvastatin could be one of the most important anti-inflammatory pathways of atorvastatin effect.

Serum Levels of Chemerin, Apelin, and Adiponectin in Relation to Clinical Symptoms, Quality of Life, and Psychological Factors in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Adipokines have endocrine roles in metabolism and immunity. Dysregulation of adipokine levels is associated with several diseases with chronic inflammation. We aimed to assess the serum concentrations of chemerin, apelin, and adiponectin in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Furthermore, we evaluated the possible association of these adipokines with clinical symptoms, quality of life (QoL), and psychological factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this case-control study, 114 male and female IBS patients were recruited from outpatient clinics. Along with the IBS patients, 114 sex and age-matched healthy volunteers were recruited. Patients filled in the questionnaires of the IBS severity scoring system (IBSSS), gastrointestinal (GI) and somatic symptoms, IBS specific QoL (IBS-QoL), and psychological disorders, and went to the lab for blood sampling. RESULTS: Serum levels of both adiponectin and apelin were significantly (P=0.04, 0.03, respectively) lower, whereas chemerin was significantly (P=0.01) higher in IBS patients. Chemerin was higher in IBS-D compared with both IBS-C and IBS-A, while apelin and adiponectin were not different between subtypes. After adjustments for confounders only, chemerin had a positive association with IB severity scoring system and GI symptoms. Furthermore, chemerin had positive associations, whereas apelin and adiponectin had inverse associations with somatic symptoms and psychological factors. There were no significant associations between adipokines including chemerin, apelin, and adiponectin, and IBS-QoL. CONCLUSIONS: Chemerin had significant associations with both the severity of clinical symptoms and psychological factors in IBS; thus, it could be considered as a potential therapeutic target in these patients; however, further studies are needed.