Relationship between dietary inflammatory index, plant-based dietary index, and bacterial vaginosis: A case-control study.

OBJECTIVE: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common inflammatory condition affecting the vaginal microbiome. In the present study we aimed to explore the relationship between dietary inflammatory index, plant-based dietary index, and BV. METHODS: In this case-control study, 143 individuals with BV and 151 healthy participants aged 15-45 years were included. Bacterial vaginosis diagnosis was based on the Amsel criteria by a gynecologist. Participants' dietary intakes over the past year were assessed using a 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Logistic regression models were employed to analyze the association between dietary inflammatory index, plant-based dietary index, and BV odds. RESULTS: Our study revealed that elevated dietary inflammatory index scores were strongly associated with higher BV odds in the crude model (odds ratio [OR]: 2.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.57-5.30, P value <0.001), and even after accounting for potential confounding factors (adjusted OR: 3.52, 95% CI: 1.66-7.46, P value = 0.001). While no significant relationship was observed between total plant-based dietary index and healthy plant-based dietary index scores with BV odds, a clear positive association existed between unhealthy plant-based dietary index and the odds of BV (aOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.09-4.15, P value = 0.018). CONCLUSION: A positive correlation may exist between unhealthy plant-based dietary index and the likelihood of BV. Furthermore, the dietary inflammatory index may remain linked to increased BV odds.

The effect of weight loss therapies on sirtuin 1 regulation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Recent evidence shows the role of sirtuin 1(SIRT1), a family of evolutionarily conserved proteins, as a potential therapeutic target in the prevention and treatment of obesity and metabolic diseases. Some evidence shows the moderating effects of weight loss interventions on this factor. However, the findings are contradictory. In order to obtain a better viewpoint from them, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of weight loss interventions on SIRT 1 modulation. METHODS: For this study, we searched four electronic databases using predefined keywords from inception until March 2024. We includedrandomized controlled trials that evaluated the effect of weight reduction strategies on SIRT1 levels. The random-effects model analysis was used to obtain the pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). The meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan version 5.3 software and Stata version 12.0. RESULTS: Twelve studies with 627 volunteers were included. The pooled findings showed that weight loss interventions have no significant effect on the modulation of SIRT1 compared to the control group (pooled WMD of 0.58 ng/mL; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.17 to 1.33; p = 0.130). However, subgroup analysis showed that weight loss interventions significantly modulate SIRT1 at metabolic disease (WMD: 1.2 ng/mL, 95% CI: 0.11 to 2.62, I2 = 82.9%). In addition, subgroup findings indicated health status and body mass index (BMI) as sources of high and potential heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the findings, weight loss therapies in individuals having a metabolic disorder appear to generate a considerable increase in SIRT1 levels.

The association between dietary phytochemical index and bacterial vaginosis risk: secondary analysis of case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: By studying the dietary habits of patients with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and the controls, we aim to find out whether the dietary intakes of phytochemicals could reduce the odds of BV. To the best of our knowledge, no study has ever examined the matter before. Therefore, we decided to conduct this secondary analysis of case-control study to examine the association between dietary phytochemicals and BV. METHOD: This case-control study was conducted at the gynecological clinic of Imam Hossein Hospital using a convenience sampling method from November 2020 to June 2021. To diagnose BV, all participants underwent examination by a gynecologist, assessing the presence of 3 or 4 criteria from the Amsel criteria. A validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used. The phytochemical index was determined using McCarty's method. To assess the association between dietary phytochemical intake and the odds of BV, binary logistic regression was utilized. RESULTS: After adjusting for potential confounders, the association between phytochemical index and BV remained significant (odds ratio (OR) = 0.349, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.176-0.695, p-value = 0.003). Furthermore, each unit increase in fat intake was associated with higher odds of BV (OR = 1.008, 95% CI: 1.002-1.014, p-value = 0.006), and a positive family history of BV continued to show significantly increased odds of BV (OR = 3.442, 95% CI: 2.068-5.728, p-value < 0.001). CONCLUSION: In summary, the findings of this study indicate that increased consumption of dietary phytochemicals is associated with a reduced risk of BV among Iranian women of reproductive age. Additional research, especially longitudinal dietary studies, is required to explore the potential impact of dietary modifications on BV.

Exploring the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol in individuals with epilepsy: an umbrella review of meta-analyses and systematic reviews.

BACKGROUND: Epilepsy ranks among the most prevalent neurological conditions worldwide. Cannabidiol (CBD) has received authorization for epilepsy treatment, yet utilizing CBD is linked to a variety of adverse events (AEs). This umbrella review aims to explore risk and frequency of AEs in epilepsy patients undergoing treatment with CBD. METHODS: International electronic databases comprising Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science were extensively searched from the most ancient data accessible until May 2024. In line with fundamental principle of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA), this umbrella review was executed. RStudio software version 2023.03.1 along with R software 4.3.2 was used for our statistical analyses. RESULTS: Thirteen meta-analyses and systematic reviews were included. CBD use in epileptic patients compared to controls can be meaningfully linked with 10.87% becoming seizure-free (RD: 10.87%, 95%CI: 2.39%, 19.34%; I2 = 80%). Compared to controls, a meaningful 73% increase in 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency was observed (RR: 1.73, 95%CI: 1.47, 2.03; I2 = 0%). In epileptic individuals who using CBD with the dosage of 20 mg/kg/d, a higher incidence of treatment withdrawal was detected (RR: 4.39, 95%CI: 2.46, 7.83; I2 = 0%). CONCLUSION: In this umbrella review of meta-analyses and systematic reviews, CBD use in epileptic patients was linked to an increased risk of ample AEs. Further research, specifically targeting various epilepsy categories, is essential to fully understand the effectiveness and potential side effects of CBD across different epilepsy forms.

Ex vivo Anti-Senescence Activity of N-Acetylcysteine in Visceral Adipose Tissue of Obese Volunteers.

INTRODUCTION: Excessive visceral adiposity is known to drive the onset of metabolic derangements, mostly involving oxidative stress, prolonged inflammation, and cellular senescence. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a synthetic form of l-cysteine with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-senescence properties. This ex-vivo study aimed to determine the effect of NAC on some markers of senescence including ß-galactosidase activity and p16, p53, p21, IL-6, and TNF-α gene expressions in visceral adipose tissue in obese adults. METHODS: This ex-vivo experimental study involved 10 obese participants who were candidates for bariatric surgery. Duplicate biopsies from the abdominal visceral adipose tissue were obtained from the omentum. The biopsies were treated with or without NAC (5 and 10 mm). To evaluate adipose tissue senescence, beta-galactosidase (ß-gal) activity and the expression of P16, P21, P53, IL-6, and TNF-α were determined. ANOVA test was employed to analyze the varying markers of cellular senescence and inflammation between treatment groups. RESULTS: The NAC at concentrations of 5 mm and 10 mm resulted in a noteworthy reduction ß-gal activity compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Additionally, the expression of P16, P21, and IL-6 was significantly reduced following treatment with NAC (5 mm) and NAC (10 mm) compared to the control group (All p < 0.001). DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Taken together, these data suggest the senotherapeutic effect of NAC, as it effectively reduces the activity of SA-ß-gal and the expression of IL-6, P16, and P21 genes in the visceral adipose tissue of obese individuals.

Shining a Light on Trace Elements: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Serum Concentrations in Febrile seizure.

Febrile seizures (FS) are a common occurrence in pediatric patients and are typically triggered by high fevers above 100.4°F (38°C), often associated with viral or bacterial infections such as respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. Recent research suggests that the serum concentration of trace elements may play a role in the occurrence of FS. This study aimed to assess the association between serum levels of trace elements and FS in pediatric patients. A comprehensive search of four databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar, was conducted up to February 2024. The study followed the PICO structure, focusing on the Population (pediatric patients with FS), Intervention (serum concentrations of selenium, zinc, magnesium, and copper), Comparison (with or without controls), and Outcome (occurrence of FS). The methodological quality of the included observational studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) tool. Out of a total of 168 papers, 37 met the inclusion criteria for this meta-analysis, covering studies published between 2018 and 2023. Lower serum zinc levels were observed in pediatric patients with FS compared to control groups (SMD: -1.25, 95% CI: -1.47, -1.03). Conversely, higher serum copper levels were found in control groups compared to those with FS (SMD: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.82). Additionally, lower serum magnesium levels were detected in the FS group compared to controls (SMD: -0.76, 95% CI: -1.57, 0.05), while serum selenium levels were approximately two times lower in the FS group than in controls (SMD: -2.23, 95% CI: -2.76, -1.70). Our meta-analysis suggests that pediatric patients with FS have lower serum concentrations of trace elements compared to controls. Further research is warranted to elucidate the potential role of trace elements in the pathogenesis of FS. This meta-analysis and systematic review was registered in the International prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024519163). Registry URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024519163 registry number: CRD42024519163.

Effects of N-acetylcysteine on the expressions of UCP1 and factors related to thyroid function in visceral adipose tissue of obese adults: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Evidences have shown that obesity is influenced by various factors, including various hormones such as thyroid hormones and the body's metabolism rate. It seems that practical solutions such as weight loss diets and common drugs can affect these potential disorders. In this study, we investigate one of these common drugs, N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), on expressions of UCP1 and factors related to thyroid function in adults with obesity. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The current investigation was carried out as a randomized clinical trial (RCT) including 43 adults with obesity who were potential candidates for bariatric surgery. These individuals were randomly divided into two groups: 600 mg of NAC (n = 22) or placebo (n = 21) for a duration of 8 weeks. Visceral adipose tissue was utilized in the context of bariatric surgery to investigate the gene expression of UCP1 and thyroid function. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed in duplicate for UCP1, DIO2, DIO3, THRα and ß, and 18s RNA (as an internal control) using the provided instructions to investigate the expression of the respective genes. RESULTS: Our findings revealed that after 8 weeks compared to placebo, NAC caused a significant decrease in the expression of the DIO3 gene as one of the genes related to thyroid function and metabolism. However, regarding other related genes, no statistically significant was found (despite the increase in UCP1, DIO2, and THRα expression and decrease in THRß expression). In addition, after adjustment of possible confounders, no significant effect was observed on anthropometric factors and serum levels of thyroid hormones. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that, following an 8-week period, NAC effectively decreases the expression of the DIO3 gene in the visceral fat tissue, in comparison to the placebo.

Thyroid Hormones Imbalances and Risk of Colorectal Cancer: a Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: No conclusive information is available about the association between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). We therefore aimed to summarize the findings of observational studies on the relation between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC. METHODS: A literature search was conducted using relevant keywords in online databases for appropriate publications through July 2023. Random effects model was used to calculate combined effect sizes (ESs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to investigate relationship between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and CRC risk. RESULTS: Totally, we included 13 studies in the current systematic review and meta-analysis, with a total sample size of 33,557,450 individuals and 25,363 cases of CRC. Pooling 13 effect sizes revealed no significant association between hypothyroidism and risk of CRC (combined effect size: 1.13, 95% CI 0.87-1.48, P = 0.343). There was also no significant association between hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC (combined effect size: 1.09, 95% CI 0.75-1.57, P = 0.638). Additionally, there were significant associations between hypothyroidism and risk of CRC in the Far Eastern studies, between hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC in the Middle East, along with small sample size studies. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis did not reveal any association between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42022331089.

Effects of N-acetylcysteine on aging cell and obesity complications in obese adults: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial.

Background: We decided to conduct this study with the aim of investigating the effects of N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) on obesity complications and senescence of visceral adipose tissue in obese adults. Methods and analysis: The present study was conducted as a randomized clinical trial (RCT) (Clinical trial registry number: IRCT20220727055563N1) on 40 obese adults candidates for bariatric surgery, who were randomly assigned to receive 600 mg of NAC (n = 20) or placebo as a control (n = 20) for 4 weeks. During bariatric surgery, visceral adipose tissue was used to examine gene expression and senescence cells using SA-ß-gal. Results: Our findings showed that intervention with NAC significantly reduces SA-ß-gal activity (as a marker of senescence) and expression of p16 and interleukin 6 (IL-6) genes in the visceral adipose tissue compared to placebo in obese adults for 4 weeks. In addition, our findings showed the potential and beneficial effect of NAC administration on reducing the levels of inflammatory factors including IL-6 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), as well as the level of fasting blood sugar (FBS), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and insulin compared to placebo after adjusting for confounders. No significant effect was indicated on anthropometric factors and lipid profile. Conclusion: Findings showed that NAC, in addition to having a potential beneficial effect on reducing some of the complications caused by obesity, seems to have synolytic/senomorphic potential as well. Clinical trial registration: [https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [IRCT20220727055563N1].

Association of fertility diet score with endometriosis: a case-control study.

Background and aims: Different factors, such as environmental, epigenetic, genetic and immunological, have been identified as potential risks for developing endometriosis. However, the correlation between dietary patterns and endometriosis is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the potential link between fertility diet score and the odds of endometriosis. Methods: This study was a hospital-based case-control study that took place in a gynecology clinic in Tehran, Iran, between February 2021 and January 2022. A total of 107 newly diagnosed endometriosis cases and 210 controls were included. The participants' habitual diets were evaluated using a food frequency questionnaire, and their fertility diet score was estimated using a point system based on Chavarro et al.'s criteria. The logistic regression was utilized to calculate the odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: The study found that women who adherence to fertility diet have a lower odds of endometriosis. This was observed in both the base model and the adjusted model, with a significant decrease in odds of endometriosis by 66% (OR = 0.44, 95%CI = 0.27-0.71, p = 0.001) and 54% (aOR = 0.46, 95%CI = 0.23-0.90, p = 0.022), respectively. Additionally, consuming vegetable proteins and multivitamins were also associated with lower odds of endometriosis. On the other hand, consuming animal proteins, heme iron, and having a high glycemic load were associated with significantly higher odds of endometriosis. Conclusion: Our research supports the hypothesis that following a fertility diet may decrease the odds of endometriosis in Iranian women. However, these findings should be verified through extensive, prospective studies.

Students' perception of e-learning during the Covid-19 pandemic: a survey study of Iranian nutrition science students.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 pandemic caused university closures, which created learning challenges for students worldwide. Switching to online educational systems had significant impact on students' performances. The current study aims to investigate the perception of university students from the Nutrition Science department regarding e-learning in Iran. METHODS: The design of the study is cross-sectional. Data were collected through online surveys from Iranian students from the Nutrition Sciences Department. Stratified random sampling was used to randomly select 955 participants. A self-administered validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Chi-Square tests were used for analysis of the data. RESULTS: Results revealed that 67.2% of students didn't have any former experience of e-learning. About 38.3% had moderate levels of Information Technology (IT) skills. Our results revealed that based on students' responses, being able to stay at home was one of the most common benefits of e-learning (39.1%). However, the most common challenge that students faced was related to technical problems (39.6%). When compared to e-learning, most students preferred face-to face type of learning. Students believed that this method no only increased their knowledge but also their skills and social competence as compared to e-learning. Only 28% of students rated e-learning as enjoyable. Furthermore, acceptance of online based education was statistically associated with students' degree level. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, students reported both advantages and disadvantages of e-learning but still reported that face-to-face learning is considered the most effective form of learning.

Dietary acid load, alternative healthy eating index score, and bacterial vaginosis: is there any association? A case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Changing the dietary pattern may be an alternative treatment for bacterial vaginosis, the prevalent vaginal infection in women. METHODS: One hundred and forty-three bacterial vaginosis-affected women diagnosed by Amsel criteria and 151 healthy controls aged 18 to 45 entered the current case-control research. To calculate the alternative healthy eating index and dietary acid load score, food consumption was recorded with an accurate and precise food frequency questionnaire. The dietary acid load was measured by potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) indices. Using logistic regression models, the association between the alternative healthy eating index and dietary acid load score with bacterial vaginosis was investigated. RESULTS: The last tertile of the alternative healthy eating index had a 75% decreased odds of experiencing bacterial vaginosis in the adjusted model (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.12-0.53, P for trend = 0.001). Besides, vegetables (aOR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.17-0.69, P for trend = 0.003), nuts and legumes (aOR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.23-0.87, P for trend = 0.028), and meats (aOR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.16-0.60, P for trend = 0.001) intake was linked to a decreased bacterial vaginosis odds. However, sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit juice (aOR = 3.47, 95% CI = 1.68-7.17, P for trend < 0.001), trans fatty acids (aOR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.18-4.43, P for trend = 0.005), and sodium (aOR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.67-7.06, P for trend = 0.002) intake were directly associated with bacterial vaginosis odds. There was no evidence of a link between dietary acid load and bacterial vaginosis. CONCLUSION: According to the present study's findings, there is no correlation between dietary acid load and the likelihood of developing bacterial vaginosis. However, following a plant-based dietary pattern based on the healthy eating index may lead to a lower odds of bacterial vaginosis.

Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity and Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: Among multiple factors that affect the etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diet has
an important contribution. Chronic oxidative stress has also been implicated in the development of PCOS. The
present study is an attempt to evaluate dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and its relationship with odds of
PCOS in Iran.
Materials and Methods: The study was carried out as a case-control study in hospital outpatient clinics, Tehran,
Iran. Totally, 310 female participants with a history of PCOS and 602 age-matched controls took part in this
study between June 2015 and December 2018. A reproducible and valid 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency
inventory was utilized to determine the entire antioxidants of the usual diet in order to calculate dietary
TAC. The relationship of dietary TAC with odds of PCOS were assessed adjusting for potential confounders
through an estimation of two multivariable conditional regression models. The first tertile was presented as a
reference category.
Results: In a fully adjusted model, the highest tertile of dietary TAC was associated with a reduced odds of
PCOS [odds ratio (OR): 0.81, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.59, 0.96, P for trend: 0.038). In addition, PCOS odds decreased in the highest tertile of α-tocopherol intake (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.88, P for trend:
0.023). The adjusted ORs in the highest tertile of vitamin C, ß-carotene and magnesium were 0.79 (95% CI: 0.83-0.97), 0.81 (95% CI: 0.67-0.98) and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.55-0.9 8) respectively, with a significant trend.
Conclusion: Our results provide evidence that there was a relationship between high TAC diets and lower odds of
PCOS.

Association of nutrition risk screening 2002 and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool with COVID-19 severity in hospitalized patients in Iran.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition affects normal body function and is associated with disease severity and mortality. Due to the high prevalence of malnutrition reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the current study examined the association between malnutrition and disease severity in hospitalized adult patients with COVID-19 in Iran. METHODS: In this prospective observational study, 203 adult patients with COVID-19 verified by real-time polymerase chain reaction test and chest computed tomography were recruited from those admitted to a university hospital in Iran. To determine COVID-19 intensity, patients were categorized into four groups. Malnutrition assessment was based on the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and nutrition risk screening score (NRS-2002). An ordinal regression model was run to assess the association between malnutrition and disease severity. RESULTS: In the studies sample of Iranian patients with COVID-19, 38.3% of patients had severe COVID-19. According to NRS-2002, 12.9% of patients were malnourished. Based on MUST, 2% of patients were at medium, and 13.4% of patients were at high risk of malnutrition. Malnutrition was associated with a higher odds of extremely severe COVID-19 according to NRS-2002 (odds ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.21-2.56; P=0.021). CONCLUSIONS: Malnutrition was not prevalent in the studies sample of Iranian patients with COVID-19; however, it was associated with a higher odds of extremely severe COVID-19.

Association between dietary patterns and bacterial vaginosis: a case-control study.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a predominant vaginal disturbance that affects about 25% of childbearing-aged women. Dietary consumption may have a crucial role in vaginal flora imbalances. This study was a hospital-based case-control study. In total, 144 incident BV cases and 151 healthy participants were recruited from the gynecology clinic in Tehran, Iran, between November 2020 and June 2021. Participants' typical diets were collected by a food frequency questionnaire. Vaginal flora was characterized based on the Amsel criteria. Factor analysis was used to pinpoint the principal dietary patterns. For logistic regression, the first tertile was assumed as a reference. Five principal dietary patterns emerged and were nominated as "Healthy diet," "Unhealthy diet," "Ovo-vegetarian diet," "Pseudo-Mediterranean diet," and "Western diet." The "Unhealthy diet" pattern were positively associated with BV (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41, 7.94; ptrend: 0.006), while adherence to the "Ovo-vegetarian diet" pattern was associated with a reduced odds of BV (aOR = 0.16; 95% CI 0.07, 0.34; ptrend < 0.001). These results provide evidence that following the "unhealthy diet" pattern may lead to developing BV, and plant-based eating patterns may be associated with reduced BV odds.

Is there any association between adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity with Bacterial Vaginosis? Results from a Case-Control study.

BACKGROUND: Bacterial vaginosis, BV, is a common inflammatory vaginal dysbiosis. The Mediterranean diet, MD, containing foods rich in antioxidant compounds, is shown to be beneficial for inflammatory conditions. This study aimed to investigate the association between MD adherence and dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) with BV. METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 143 BV-affected and 151 healthy individuals aged between 15 and 45 years. The Amsel criteria were used to detect newly diagnosed patients with BV by a gynecologist. The 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to record participants' dietary intakes in the last year. The reported data in the FFQ was used to measure adherence to the MD by calculating the Medi-Lite score and to measure the DTAC by calculating ferric-reducing antioxidant power, FRAP, based on the related databases. Logistic regression models were used to determine the association between Medi-Lite and DTAC and BV odds. RESULTS: The highest tertile of Medi-Lite score was associated with a reduced odds of BV in the crude model (Odds Ratio, OR: 0.49, 95% Confidence Interval, 95% CI 0.25, 0.96, P for trend: 0.023). This significant inverse association was not observed in the last model adjusted for age, body mass index (kg/m2), waist circumferences (cm), cigarette smoking, frequency of pregnancy, and physical activity (MET/h/d). In crude and adjusted odels, BV odds decreased in the highest tertile of vegetable (adjusted OR, aOR: 0.32, 95% CI 0.16, 0.63, P for trend: 0.001), fish (aOR: 0.46, 95% CI 0.25, 0.84, P for trend: 0.009), legumes (aOR: 0.26, 95% CI 0.14, 0.50, P for trend < 0.001), and meat (aOR: 0.29, 95% CI 0.15, 0.56, P for trend < 0.001) groups. There was no significant association between DTAC and BV odds. CONCLUSIONS: The significant inverse association between the MD adherence and BV odds did not remain after modifying for confounders; besides, DTAC was not associated with BV odds. However, some of the MD components might be associated with a reduced odds of BV.

Association of Dietary Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load, Insulin Index, and Insulin Load with Bacterial Vaginosis in Iranian Women: A Case-Control Study.

Background: Inconsistent findings have been reported for associations between dietary indices and bacterial vaginosis (BV). The aim of this study was to examine the association of dietary glycemic index (DGI), glycemic load (DGL), insulin index (DII), and insulin load (DIL) with BV among Iranian women. Methods: The current case-control study consisted of 144 new cases of BV and 151 controls. The diagnosis of BV was made based on the Amsel criterion in hospital clinics in Tehran, Iran, from November 2020 until June 2021. DGI, DGL, DII, and DIL were calculated from a validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The association between dietary carbohydrate indices and odds of BV were assessed adjusting for potential confounders through an estimation of two multivariate regression models. Results: The multivariate adjusted odds ratio (OR) comparing the highest tertile of dietary DGI and DGL with the lower tertile was 2.99 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.47-6.81; P trend = 0.003) and 4.01 (95% CI: 1.22-5.91; P trend = 0.029), respectively. In a fully adjusted model, the top tertile of dietary fiber compared to the bottom was associated with 88% (95% CI: 0.14-0.33) lower odds of BV (P trend < 0.001). DII and DIL were not significantly associated with odds of BV in both crude and adjusted regression models. Conclusion: The findings support the hypothesis of moderate, direct associations between DGI or DGL and BV. Also, a diet high in fiber decreases odds of BV.

The association between fertility diet score and polycystic ovary syndrome: A Case-Control study.

We performed this case-control study with 303 polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients and 588 age-matched controls to evaluate the relation between fertility diet score and odds of PCOS. In a fully adjusted model, the top tertile of fertility diet score compared to the bottom was associated with 22% [95%CI 0.71-0.93] lower odds of PCOS (P trend = 0.012). Ratio of monounsaturated to trans fat and vegetable protein was associated with a lower odd of PCOS. Animal protein intake and glycemic load were associated with a higher odd of PCOS. Based on our results, increasing the quality of the diet according to fertility diet score can reduce the odds of PCOS.

Associations between systemic inflammation and intestinal permeability with Onodera's prognostic nutritional index in critically ill patients.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition is a serious condition in critically ill patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationships between the Onodera's prognostic nutritional index (OPNI) and intestinal permeability and between OPNI and systemic inflammation in critically ill patients. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the general intensive care unit (ICU) of a university-affiliated hospital. A total of 162 patients admitted between May 2018 and December 2019, was included in the study. The OPNI was calculated at admission and categorized as ≤40 or >40. We assessed plasma endotoxin and zonulin concentrations as markers of intestinal permeability as well as serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) as markers of systemic inflammation upon admission under stringent conditions. The relationships between these markers and OPNI were assessed after adjusting for potential confounders through estimation of a binary logistic regression model. RESULTS: Median (interquartile range) hs-CRP, IL-6 zonulin, and endotoxin were significantly greater in the low OPNI subgroup than in the high OPNI subgroup (all P<0.05). Multivariate analyses showed significant association between serum IL-6 (odds ratio [OR], 0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64-0.96), serum hs-CRP (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.53-0.92), plasma endotoxin (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.72-0.93), and plasma zonulin (OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.75-0.98) levels with OPNI in the overall population. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide evidence that higher plasma endotoxin, zonulin, IL-6, and hs-CRP levels are associated with progressively lower OPNI in mixed ICU populations, particularly in surgical ICU patients.

Single high-dose vitamin D3 injection and clinical outcomes in brain tumor resection: A randomized, controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Vitamin D is known as a neuroprotective hormone with anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties. We evaluated the effect of vitamin D3 injection on vitamin D status and clinical outcomes in patients with low serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] undergoing craniotomy for brain tumor resection. METHODS: Patients with benign brain tumors and serum 25(OH)D levels ≤20 ng/mL were randomized to two groups with an equal number of subjects. The study group (n = 30) received intramuscular injection of 300,000 IU vitamin D3 prior to surgery. The control group (n = 30) was left without intervention, and both groups underwent routine therapies. RESULTS: On day 5 after craniotomy, the serum 25(OH)D levels increased significantly in the study group (P= <0.001). The length of ICU and hospital stay was significantly lower in the study group compared to the control group (P = 0.01 and P = 0.008, respectively). It was true when the age, tumor size, tumor type, Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score, and calcium and albumin levels at baseline entered the logistic regression model (OR = 0.17 (95%CI = 0.04-0.72, P = 0.01), and OR = 0.19 (95%CI = 0.04-0.82, P = 0.02), respectively). With and without the application of logistic regression analysis, there was no significant difference in perioperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: Intramuscular injection of 300,000 IU of vitamin D3 in patients with low serum levels of 25(OH)D undergoing craniotomy, could rise safely the serum 25(OH)D level. This intervention, significantly reduced the length of ICU stay and hospitalization. REGISTERED UNDER: Clinicaltrials.gov.identifier no: NCT03248544. Date: 8/14/2017.