Visceral and subcutaneous abdominal fat is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease while augmenting Metabolic Syndrome's effect on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A cross-sectional study of NHANES 2017-2018.

BACKGROUND: The aim was to evaluate the effect different types of abdominal fat have on NAFLD development and the effects of abdominal fat has on the association between Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and NALFD. METHODS: Data was collected from the cross-sectional NHANES dataset (2017-2018 cycle). Using the controlled attenuation parameter (USG CAP, dB/m), which measures the level of steatosis, the cohort was stratified into two groups: NAFLD(+) (≥274 dB/m) and NAFLD(-). Using complex samples analyses, associations between liver steatosis or NAFLD and types of abdominal fat area [Total abdominal (TAFA), subcutaneous (SAT), and visceral (VAT)] were determined. Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) was calculated to evaluate the associations between adipose tissues and NAFLD. Logistic regression was used to determine the risk [odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI)]. Participants were also classified by MetS, using the Harmonizing Definition criteria. RESULTS: Using 1,980 participants (96,282,896 weighted), there was a significant (p<0.001) correlation between USG CAP and TAFA (r = 0.569), VAT (r = 0.645), and SAT (r = 0.479). Additionally, the risk of developing NAFLD was observed for total abdominal obesity (OR = 19.9, 95%CI: 5.1-77.8, p<0.001), visceral obesity (OR = 9.1, 95%CI: 6.2-13.5, p<0.001) and subcutaneous obesity (OR = 4.8, 95%CI: 3.2-6.9, p<0.001). Using 866 participants (44,399,696 weighted), for visceral obesity, participants with MetS and visceral obesity (OR = 18.1, 95%CI: 8.0-41.3, p<0.001) were shown to have a greater risk than participants with MetS only (OR = 6.3, 95%CI: 2.6-15.2, p<0.001). For subcutaneous obesity, again, participants with MetS and subcutaneous obesity (OR = 18.3, 95%CI: 8.0-41.9, p<0.001) were shown to have a greater risk than the MetS-only group (OR = 10.3, 95%CI: 4.8-22.4, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: TAFA, VAT, and SAT were positively associated with USG CAP values and increased the risk of developing NAFLD. Also, the type of abdominal fat depots did affect the association between MetS and NAFLD.

Concurrence of hyperinsulinemia and hyperuricemia significantly augmented all-cause mortality.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hyperinsulinemia and hyperuricemia are known to increase the risk of mortality due to certain complications, such as Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, despite their common comorbidities, their combined effect has not been evaluated. The study's aim was to evaluate the combine effect of hyperinsulinemia and hyperuricemia on all-cause mortality. METHODS AND RESULTS: NHANES datasets (cycles 2003-2018) were examined. Differences between groups were evaluated using Rao-Scott Chi-square and General Linear Model for categorical and continuous data, respectively. Hazard Ratios (HR) were calculated using Cox regression with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). There was significant difference (p < 0.05) in the mortality rate between the control group (2.3 ± 0.2%), the hyperinsulinemia only group (3.1 ± 0.3%), the hyperuricemia only group (4.0 ± 0.8%), and both conditions (5.1 ± 0.8%). Individually, when compared to the control group, there was a significant increase in mortality risk for hyperinsulinemia (HR: 1.50, 95%CI: 1.12-2.01, p = 0.007) and hyperuricemia (HR: 1.80, 95%CI:1.18-2.75, p = 0.006). However, when both conditions were present, there appeared an additive effect in the mortality risk (HR: 2.32, 95%CI: 1.66-3.25, p < 0.001). When stratified by BMI class, only normal weight participants presented with a significant risk (HR: 7.00, 95%CI: 2.50-20.30, p < 0.001). Also, when stratified by age, only participants older than 40 years presented a risk (HR: 2.22, 95%CI: 1.56-3.16, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Alone, hyperuricemia and hyperinsulinemia significantly increased the mortality rate; however, the combined presence of both pathologies was associated with a significantly augmented mortality rate. Normal weight participant or that were >40 years old had a greater risk for mortality.

An assessment of mental health of Mexican and Colombian medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic / Una evaluación de la salud mental de estudiantes de medicina Mexicanos y Colombianos durante la pandemia de COVID-19

Abstract Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic caused the cessation of academic activities from the face-to-face format to confinement and virtual classes, in which little is studied about its effect on mental health. Objective Determine levels of depression, anxiety, and stress in medical students in Mexico and Colombia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, depression, anxiety, and stress were compared by gender, education status, and country. Method A cross-sectional study was carried out with 426 medical students. Data was collected using an online survey containing the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21) questionnaire. Results Overall scores for depression, anxiety, and stress were 6.7 ± 1.2, 8.8 ± 1.2, and 5.6 ± 1.2, respectively. Females had significantly higher overall scores for depression (.24-fold increase), anxiety (.25-fold increase), and stress (.40-fold increase) than males (p ≤ .01). The risk for anxiety and stress by school year showed that basic years were associated with higher scores than advanced years (.25 and .38-fold increase, respectively). For females, starting medical school did show an increased risk of depression when compared to male students in their basic years (.38-fold increase). Lastly, students from Mexico had an increased risk for depression and anxiety (p ≤ .022 and p ≤ .004, respectively) but not for stress (p ≤ .402), when compared to students from Colombia. Discussion and conclusion Significant anxiety and depression were observed in medical students from Mexico and Colombia. Factors associated with an increased risk of depression and anxiety are students in their basic years as well as being female.

Resumen Introducción La pandemia de COVID-19 provocó el cese de las actividades académicas desde el formato presencial al confinamiento de las clases virtuales, de las que poco se ha estudiado sobre su efecto en la salud mental. Objetivo Determinar los niveles de depresión, ansiedad y estrés en estudiantes de medicina de México y Colombia durante la pandemia de COVID-19; además de comparar depresión, ansiedad y estrés por género, nivel educativo y país. Método Se realizó un estudio transversal con 426 estudiantes de medicina. Los datos se recopilaron mediante una encuesta en línea que contenía el cuestionario DASS-21. Resultados Las puntuaciones generales de depresión, ansiedad y estrés fueron 6.7 ± 1.2, 8.8 ± 1.2 y 5.6 ± 1.2, respectivamente. Las mujeres tuvieron puntajes generales significativamente más altos para depresión (.24-fold increase), ansiedad (.25-fold increase) y estrés (.40-fold increase). El riesgo de ansiedad y estrés por año escolar mostró que los años básicos se asociaron con puntajes más altos que los estudiantes en años los avanzados (.25 y .38-fold increase). Para las mujeres, cursar años básicos mostró un mayor riesgo de depresión en comparación con los estudiantes varones (.38-fold increase). Por último, los estudiantes mexicanos tuvieron un mayor riesgo de depresión y ansiedad (p ≤ .022 y p ≤ .004, respectivamente) pero no de estrés (p ≤ .402) en comparación con los estudiantes Colombianos. Discusión y conclusión Se observó ansiedad y depresión significativas en estudiantes de medicina mexicanos y colombianos. Los factores asociados a un mayor riesgo de depresión y ansiedad fueron; ser estudiante en años básicos además de ser mujer.

The Effect of Microbiome Therapies on Waist Circumference, a Measure of Central Obesity, in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Microbiome therapies (probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotics) have been proposed as adjuvants in the control of central obesity; however, their results for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) remain inconclusive. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of microbiome therapies on central obesity as measured by waist circumference (WC), and to evaluate the effect of microbiome therapies for glycemic parameters (fasting glucose [FPG], fasting insulin [FPI], hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c], and insulin resistance [HOMA1-IR]) in patients with T2D. METHODS: SCOPUS, Pubmed, EBSCO, and LILACS databases were searched for studies that investigated the effect of microbiome therapies on WC up to June 1, 2022. Heterogeneity was determined using Cochran's Q test and quantified using the inconsistency index. The random effects model was used to calculate the pooled difference in means (DM) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Egger's test and Beggs-Muzamar's test were used to assess publication bias. RESULTS: Fifteen reports were included (443 treated and 387 controls). Overall, a significant decrease in WC was found (DM = -0.97 cm; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] = -1.74 to -0.20; P = 0.014); however, when stratified by type of microbiome therapy, only probiotics significantly decreased WC (DM = -0.62 cm; 95%CI = -1.00 to -0.24; P = 0.002). No effect was observed for prebiotics and synbiotics. With respect to glycemic parameters, HbA1c, FPG, and HOMA1-IR significantly decrease with microbiome therapies (P ≤ 0.001). When stratified by the type of therapy, for probiotic treatments, HbA1c, FPG, and HOMA1-IR scores decrease (P < 0.001). For prebiotic treatments, HbA1c and FPG (P ≤ 0.001) levels decrease, whereas FPI increased (P = 0.012). Synbiotic treatments were only associated with an increase in FPI (P = 0.031). CONCLUSION: Findings indicate that using probiotics alone improved WC in patients with T2D. Both probiotics and prebiotics decreased HbA1c and FPG; however, prebiotics and synbiotics resulted in an increase in FPI. The formulation of the therapy (single vs multi) had no difference on the effect.

Probiotics' effect on visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Probiotics are shown to alter the microbiota, leading to a favorable environment, in which weight loss and metabolic parameters are improve. However, the results on probiotics' effect on specific types of central adipose tissues, mainly visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), are conflicting. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review, aimed to evaluate the effects of probiotics on VAT and SAT. PubMed, SCOPUS, EBSCO, and LILACS databases were searched for studies that investigated the effect of probiotics on VAT and SAT. Fixed effects were used to calculate the pooled difference in means (DM) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Fourteen publications met the inclusion criteria, which consisted of 1523 participants. For VAT, overall, there was a significant decrease (DM = -3.63 cm2, 95% CI: -5.08 to -2.17, p < 0.001). When stratified by type of probiotic, single Bifidobacterium (DM = -4.49 cm2, 95% CI:-7.37 to -1.61, p = 0.002) and single Lactobacillus probiotics (DM = -3.84 cm2, 95% CI:-5.74 to -1.93, p < 0.001) resulted in significant reductions. Mixed probiotics had no effect. For SAT, overall, there was a significant decrease (DM = -2.91 cm2, 95% CI:-4.82 to -1.01, p = 0.003), and when stratified by type of probiotic, single Lactobacillus (DM = -3.39 cm2, 95% CI:-5.90 to -0.88, p = 0.008) and mixed probiotics (DM = -5.97 cm2, 95% CI:-10.32 to -1.62, p = 0.007) resulted in a significant decrease. Single Bifidobacterium probiotics had no effect. Using meta-regression, no association was observed between the total daily probiotic dose and VAT or SAT reduction. This study shows that probiotics have a beneficial effect on central adiposity. Single Lactobacillus-based probiotics reduced VAT and SAT, whereas Bifidobacterium-based probiotics reduce VAT.

Denosumab improves glucose parameters in patients with impaired glucose tolerance: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Receptor activator of NF-κß ligand (RANKL) is crucial for the development of hepatic insulin resistance and poor glucose uptake; therefore, inhibiting RANKL with Denosumab could improve fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and insulin (FPI). METHODS: A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the effects of Denosumab on glycemic parameters. PubMed, SCOPUS, EBSCO, and LILACS databases were searched for studies that investigated the effect of Denosumab on FPG, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), FPI, and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA1-IR). The pooled standard difference in means (SDM) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated. The results were stratified into (1) Normal Glucose Tolerance (NGT) and (2) Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT). RESULTS: Six publications (1203 participants) were included. There was a significant association between Denosumab and FPG (SDM = -0.388, 95%CI: -0.705 to -0.070, p = .017) and with HOMA1-IR (SDM = -0.223, 95%CI: -0.388 to -0.058, p = .008), but not for HbA1c and FPI. When stratified by glucose tolerance, the association between Denosumab and FPG, HbA1c, and HOMA1-IR was present for the IGT group. Lastly, Denosumab had a time-dependent effect on HbA1c (slope = -0.037, 95%CI: -0.059 to -0.015, p < .005). CONCLUSIONS: Denosumab significantly improved glycemic parameters. This outcome was more prominent for subjects with compromised glucose tolerance, positing that Denosumab can be used as a treatment to improve glucose metabolism for persons with pre-diabetes and diabetes.

The association between interleukin-6 promoter polymorphisms and rheumatoid arthritis by ethnicity: A meta-analysis of 33 studies.

OBJECTIVE: We performed a meta-analysis to determine the effect Interleukin-6 (IL-6) promoter polymorphism (-174 G>C, -572 G>C, and -597 G>A) have on the development rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by ethnicity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PubMed, EBSCO, LILACS, and Scopus databases were searched for studies exploring the association between any IL6 polymorphisms and RA until November 2018. Genotype distributions were extracted and, depending on the level heterogeneity, determined by the ψ2-based Q test and the Inconsistency Index (I2), fixed-effects or random-effects models were used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) for the heterozygous, homozygous, dominant, recessive, and allelic genetic models. RESULTS: From 708 identified publications, 33 were used in this analysis. For the -174 polymorphism, Asians (ORheterozygous=7.57, 95%CI: 2.28-25.14, ORhomozygous=5.84, 95%CI: 2.06-16.56, ORdominant=7.21, 95%CI: 2.30-22.63, ORrecessive=5.04, 95%CI: 1.78-14.28, ORallelic=6.60, 95%CI: 2.26-19.28, p<.05) and Middle East countries (ORheterozygous=2.30, 95%CI: 1.10-4.81, ORdominant=2.27, 95%CI: 1.22-4.22, ORallelic=2.29, 95%CI: 1.24-4.23, p<.05) were associated with a significant risk of developing RA. Whereas, for Latinos, the C-allele was associated with a benefit (ORhomozygous=0.26, 95%CI: .08-.82, ORrecessive=.25, 95%CI: .08-.80, p<.05). For the -572 polymorphism, Asians demonstrated a significant association for the homozygous and recessive genetic models (8 studies, ORhomozygous=1.56, 95%CI: 1.16-2.09, ORrecessive=1.63, 95%CI: 1.08-2.45, p<.05). For the -597 polymorphism, no association was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Here, the -174 G>C polymorphism increased the risk of developing RA in Asians and Middle East populations. Interestingly, for Latinos, the polymorphism was associated with a benefit. For the -572 polymorphism, only the Asian population showed an increased risk of developing RA for the CC genotype.

Association between the L55M and Q192R polymorphisms of the paraoxonase-1 gene and age-related macular degeneration: a meta-analysis / Associação entre os polimorfismos L55M e Q192R do gene da paraoxonase1 e a degeneração macular relacionada à idade: uma meta-análise

ABSTRACT Purpose: Paraoxonase-1 activity is associated with age-related macular degeneration. Two polymorphisms (L55M and Q192R) were shown to increase paraoxonase-1 activity and have been implicated in the development of age-related macular degeneration. The results of studies that have examined these polymorphisms are conflicting, showing no effect, as well as increased or decreased risk. Therefore, this meta-analysis was conducted to determine the effect of these polymorphisms on age-related macular degeneration. Methods: PubMed, EBSCO, LILACS, and Scopus databases, as well as and the retrieved bibliographies of publications were searched for case-control studies that examined for paraoxonase-1 polymorphisms and age-related macular degeneration. Data were analyzed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 2.2 and the NCSS Statistical Version 2020 software. Genotype distributions were extracted and, depending on the level of heterogeneity, fixed effects or random effects models were used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the heterozygous, homozygous, dominant, recessive, and allelic genetic models. Results: Overall, for the L55M polymorphism, none of the genetic models demonstrated a significant association. However, for non-Asian populations, a significant association was determined for the heterozygous and dominant genetic models (ORrange=1.24-1.27, p<0.05). For the Asian population, the heterozygous, dominant, and allelic genetic models demonstrated a benefit/protective factor (ORrange=0.29-0.35, p<0.05). For the Q192R polymorphism, none of the genetic models demonstrated a significant association. However, when the cohort was grouped by ethnicity, a significant association was determined in the Asian population for the recessive and allelic genetic models (ORrange=1.63-2.08, p<0.05). However, for the non-Asian population, there was no association observed. Also, there was no identifiable risk when the cohort was stratified into exudative and non-exudative cases. Conclusions: The paraoxonase-1L55M polymorphism increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration in non-Asian populations, whereas in Asian populations, the polymorphism exerts a protective effect. However, for the paraoxonase-1 Q192R polymorphism, only the Asian population demonstrated a risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.(AU)

RESUMO Objetivo: A atividade da paraoxonase1 está associada à degeneração macular relacionada à idade. Dois polimorfismos (L55M e Q192R) mostraram aumentar a atividade da paraoxonase1 e foram implicados no desenvolvimento da degeneração macular relacionada à idade. Os estudos que examinaram esses polimorfismos apresentaram resultados conflitantes: nenhum efeito, risco aumentado ou diminuído. Assim, esta meta-análise foi realizada para determinar o efeito desses polimorfismos na degeneração macular relacionada à idade. Métodos: Foi feita uma busca nos bancos de dados PubMed, EBSCO, LILACS e SCOPUS, bem como nas bibliografias compiladas das publicações, buscando-se estudos caso-controle que tivessem analisado os polimorfismos da paraoxonase1 e a degeneração macular relacionada à idade. Os dados foram analisados com software Comprehensive Meta-Analysis, versão 2.2, e NCSS Statistical, versão 2020. As distribuições de genótipos foram extraídas e, dependendo do nível de heterogeneidade, modelos de efeitos fixos ou aleatórios foram utilizados para calcular razões de probabilidade (RPs) combinadas, com intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC 95%) para os modelos genéticos heterozigoto, homozigoto, dominante, recessivo e alélico. Resultados: Em geral, nenhum dos modelos genéticos demonstrou associação significativa para o polimorfismo L55M. Entretanto, em populações não asiáticas, foi determinada uma associação significativa para os modelos genéticos heterozigoto e dominante (RPfaixa=1,24-1,27, p<0,05). Para a população asiática, os modelos heterozigoto, dominante e alélico mostraram um fator benéfico ou protetor (RPfaixa=0,29-0,35, p<0,05). Para o polimorfismo Q192R, nenhum dos modelos genéticos demonstrou qualquer associação significativa. Porém, quando a coorte foi agrupada por etnia, determinou-se uma associação significativa na população asiática para os modelos genéticos recessivo e alélico (RPfaixa=1,63-2,08, p<0,05). Contudo, nenhuma associação foi observada para a população não asiática. Não houve risco identificável quando a coorte foi estratificada em exsudativa e não exsudativa. Conclusões: Determinamos que o polimorfismo L55M da paraoxonase1 de fato aumenta o risco de desenvolvimento de degeneração macular relacionada à idade em populações não asiáticas, enquanto que em populações asiáticas, esse polimorfismo tem um efeito protetor. Porém, para o polimorfismo Q192R da paraoxonase1, apenas a população asiática demonstrou risco de desenvolver degeneração macular relacionada à idade.(AU)

Metformin does not improve insulin sensitivity over hypocaloric diets in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review of 12 studies.

OBJECTIVE: To improve insulin action, most clinicians prescribe Metformin in patients with insulin resistance (IR). Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), in which IR is an important physiopathological mechanism, treatment with Metformin and specialized diets have been suggested to reduce the patient's IR. However, numerous studies have demonstrated conflicting results with respect to supplementing a diet with Metformin. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to determine if Metformin provides a benefit in conjunction with hypocaloric diets to improve insulin sensitivity in PCOS women. METHODS: PubMed, SCOPUS, LILACS, and EBSCO databases and retrieved studies' bibliographies were searched for prospective studies that investigated the effect between Metformin and hypocaloric diets in PCOS women until April 2020. Pre- and post-intervention values for fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting plasma insulin (FPI), and IR indices (HOMA1-IR, ISI, and QUICKI) were extracted. Using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software, the pooled standard difference in the means (SDM) and 95%CIs were calculated. RESULTS: 11 publications (12 studies) were selected. There was not a benefit of adding Metformin to a hypocaloric diet with respect to FPG (SDM= -0.17; 95%CI: -0.48-0.14, p = .28) and FPI (SDM = 0.16; 95%CI: -0.24-0.55, p = .45). None of the IR indices also demonstrated any benefit of using Metformin when a diet intervention was implemented (HOMA1-IR: SDM = 0.28; 95%CI: -0.27-0.84, p = .315; ISI: SDM = 0.344; 95%CI: -0.17-0.85, p = .186; QUICKI: SDM= -0.01; 95%CI: -0.42-0.41, p = .968). CONCLUSION: Here, we determined that adding Metformin to hypocaloric diets did not improve serum glucose or insulin concentrations as well as IR in PCOS women.

Metabolic Age, an Index Based on Basal Metabolic Rate, Can Predict Individuals That are High Risk of Developing Metabolic Syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Every 10 years, an adult's basal metabolic rate (BMR), independent of their BMI, decreases 1-2% due to skeletal muscle loss, thus decreasing an adult's energy requirement and promoting obesity. Increased obesity augments the risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome (MetS); however, an adult's healthy lifestyle, which increases BMR, can mitigate MetS development. To compare different BMRs for certain ages, Metabolic age (Met-age) was developed. AIM: To assess the association between Met-age and MetS and to determine if Met-age is an indicator of high-risk individuals for MetS. METHODS: Four hundred thirty-five attendees at 2 clinics agreed to participate and gave signed informed consent. MetS risk was assessed by the ESF-I questionnaire. Met-age was determined using a TANITA bio-analyzer. Strengthen of association was determined by calculating Spearman's rho and predictability was evaluated by the area-under-a-receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC). Difference-in-age (DIA) = [chronological age - Met-age]. RESULTS: There was a difference between the low-risk (n = 155) and the high-risk (n = 280) groups' Met-age (37.8±16.7 v. 62.9±17.3) and DIA (1.3±17.4 v. - 10.5±20.8, p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between the ESF-I questionnaire and Met-age (rho = - 0.624, p < 0.001) and a negative correlation for DIA (rho = - 0.358, p < 0.001). Met-age was strongly predictive (AUC = 0.84, 95% CI 0.80-0.88), suggesting a 45.5 years cutoff (sensitivity = 83.2%, specificity = 72.3%). DIA was a good predictor (AUC = 0.68, 95% CI 0.63-0.74) with a - 11.5 years cutoff (sensitivity = 52.5%, specificity = 82.8%). CONCLUSION: Met-age highly associated with and is an indicator of high-risk individuals for MetS. This would suggest that increases in Met-age are associated with augmented MetS severity, independent of the individual's chronological age.

Association between the L55M and Q192R polymorphisms of the paraoxonase-1 gene and age-related macular degeneration: a meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Paraoxonase-1 activity is associated with age-related macular degeneration. Two polymorphisms (L55M and Q192R) were shown to increase paraoxonase-1 activity and have been implicated in the development of age-related macular degeneration. The results of studies that have examined these polymorphisms are conflicting, showing no effect, as well as increased or decreased risk. Therefore, this meta-analysis was conducted to determine the effect of these polymorphisms on age-related macular degeneration. METHODS: PubMed, EBSCO, LILACS, and Scopus databases, as well as and the retrieved bibliographies of publications were searched for case-control studies that examined for paraoxonase-1 polymorphisms and age-related macular degeneration. Data were analyzed using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 2.2 and the NCSS Statistical Version 2020 software. Genotype distributions were extracted and, depending on the level of heterogeneity, fixed effects or random effects models were used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the heterozygous, homozygous, dominant, recessive, and allelic genetic models. RESULTS: Overall, for the L55M polymorphism, none of the genetic models demonstrated a significant association. However, for non-Asian populations, a significant association was determined for the heterozygous and dominant genetic models (ORrange=1.24-1.27, p<0.05). For the Asian population, the heterozygous, dominant, and allelic genetic models demonstrated a benefit/protective factor (ORrange=0.29-0.35, p<0.05). For the Q192R polymorphism, none of the genetic models demonstrated a significant association. However, when the cohort was grouped by ethnicity, a significant association was determined in the Asian population for the recessive and allelic genetic models (ORrange=1.63-2.08, p<0.05). However, for the non-Asian population, there was no association observed. Also, there was no identifiable risk when the cohort was stratified into exudative and non-exudative cases. CONCLUSIONS: The paraoxonase-1L55M polymorphism increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration in non-Asian populations, whereas in Asian populations, the polymorphism exerts a protective effect. However, for the paraoxonase-1 Q192R polymorphism, only the Asian population demonstrated a risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.

Association between Osteoprotegerin and Charcot Neuroarthropathy: a systematic review.

AIMS: Osteoprotegerin (OPG) has been associated with Charcot Neuroarthropathy (CN); however, three studied OPG polymorphisms (1181C > G, 245A > C and 950 T > C) have yielded conflicting results. Therefore, this meta-analysis was conducted to determine the difference in serum OPG concentrations between healthy controls and diabetics with and without CN and the effect OPG polymorphisms have on CN development. METHODS: PubMed, LILAC, SCOPUS, and EBSCO databases and retrieved publications' bibliographies were searched for studies that examined for OPG and CN. Depending on the heterogeneity, fixed or random effects were used to calculate the pooled odds ratio (OR) or standard difference in means (SDM) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for 5 genetic models (heterozygous, homozygous, dominant, recessive, and allelic) and serum concentrations, respectively. RESULTS: Seven publications (12 studies) demonstrated that serum OPG concentrations were more elevated in subjects with CN (SDM = 0.719, 95%CI = 0.555-0.883, p < 0.001). When CN was compared to healthy controls or diabetics, the difference was more prominent for healthy controls (SDM = 1.043, 95%CI = 0.676-1.409, p < 0.001) than diabetics (SDM = 0.639, 95%CI = 0.456-0.821, p < 0.001) and the SDM difference was significant (p = 0.013). Using 6 publications (9 studies), neither the 1181C > G or the 950 T > C polymorphisms showed any significant associations for any genetic model. For the 245A > C polymorphism, only the homozygous genetic model showed a significant association between the polymorphism and CN (OR = 2.850, 95%CI: 1.051-7.729, p = 0.040). CONCLUSIONS: Here, we determined a potential correlation between the CN and serum OPG concentrations and that only the CC genotype of the 245A > C polymorphism showed an increased risk of developing CN.

Metabolic age correlates better than chronological age with waist-to-height ratio, a cardiovascular risk index.

OBJECTIVES: Chronological age confers an increased risk for cardiovascular disease; however, chronological age does not reflect the subject's current health status. Therefore, we assessed whether Metabolic age (Met-age), based on free fat mass, is a predictor of cardiovascular risk (CVR). METHODS: Subjects attending either IMSS UMF-2 or CUSC-1 were asked to participate. CVR was assessed using the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), whereas Met-age was determined using the TANITA bio-analyser (model: BC-545F Fitscan). The strengthen of association was determined by calculating Pearson's r and predictability was determined by the area-under-a-receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS: 284 subjects participated in this study, of which 61.6% had increased CVR. As expected, the chronological age was significantly higher in the CVR(+) group than the CVR(-) group (47.3±14.4 v. 35.2±12.7, respectively, p<.001) as well as Met-age (59.3±15.5 v. 34.3±14.3, respectively, p<.001). There was a strong association between WHtR and Met-age (r=.720, p<.001) and a moderate association for chronological age (r=.407 p<.001); however, the correlation between WHtR and Met-age was significantly better than chronological age (Z=-5.91, p<.01). Met-age was a good predictor of CVR (AUC=.88, 95%CI: .83-.92, p<.001), whereas chronological age was a fair predictor (AUC=.72, 95%CI: .66-.78, p<.001). However, Met-age showed a higher discriminatory capacity for CVR than chronological age (z=-4.597, p<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Here, we determined that Met-age correlated with a CVR index, WHtR, and was able to predict subjects with increased CVR better than chronological age.

Prediction of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in women undergoing in vitro fertilization using estradiol levels, collected ova, and number of follicles.

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to determine whether estradiol (E2) levels (Day 3 and fold change to Day 10), antral follicle count (AFC), and number of ova collected could predict ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and culdocentesis intervention. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of patient charts between January 2008 and December 2017. OHSS was defined using American Society for Reproductive Medicine criteria. Predictability was evaluated by measuring the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS: The cohort included 319 women (166 controls, 153 OHSS, of whom 54 had severe OHSS). The OHSS group had higher E2Day 3 (249 ± 177 vs. 150 ± 230 ng/L), E2FoldChange (32.2 ± 29.1 vs. 20.1 ± 23.8), AFC (18.2 ± 9.1 vs. 11.6 ± 8.3), and number of ova collected (21.1 ± 9.0 vs. 10.1 ± 6.5). E2Day 3 (AUC = 0.76, 95%CI: 0.71-0.82), E2FoldChange (AUC = 0.71, 95%CI: 0.65-0.77), AFC (AUC = 0.75, 95%CI: 0.70-0.81), and number of ova collected (AUC = 0.85, 95%CI: 0.81-0.89) were predictive for OHSS. All variables were predictive for culdocentesis intervention (E2Day 3: AUC = 0.63, 95%CI: 0.55-0.70; E2FoldChange: AUC = 0.63, 95%CI: 0.55-0.71; AFC: AUC = 0.74, 95%CI: 0.68-0.80; number of ova collected: AUC = 0.80, 95%CI: 0.75-0.85). CONCLUSIONS: Day 3 E2 levels and number of ova collected predict patients who could develop OHSS and may require culdocentesis.

The Association Between Interleukin-6 Promoter Polymorphisms and Rheumatoid Arthritis by Ethnicity: A Meta-Analysis of 33 Studies.

OBJECTIVE: We performed a meta-analysis to determine the effect Interleukin-6 (IL-6) promoter polymorphism (-174 G>C, -572 G>C, and -597 G>A) have on the development rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by ethnicity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PubMed, EBSCO, LILACS, and Scopus databases were searched for studies exploring the association between any IL6 polymorphisms and RA until November 2018. Genotype distributions were extracted and, depending on the level heterogeneity, determined by the ψ2-based Q test and the Inconsistency Index (I2), fixed-effects or random-effects models were used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) for the heterozygous, homozygous, dominant, recessive, and allelic genetic models. RESULTS: From 708 identified publications, 33 were used in this analysis. For the -174 polymorphism, Asians (ORheterozygous=7.57, 95%CI: 2.28-25.14, ORhomozygous=5.84, 95%CI: 2.06-16.56, ORdominant=7.21, 95%CI: 2.30-22.63, ORrecessive=5.04, 95%CI: 1.78-14.28, ORallelic=6.60, 95%CI: 2.26-19.28, p<.05) and Middle East countries (ORheterozygous=2.30, 95%CI: 1.10-4.81, ORdominant=2.27, 95%CI: 1.22-4.22, ORallelic=2.29, 95%CI: 1.24-4.23, p<.05) were associated with a significant risk of developing RA. Whereas, for Latinos, the C-allele was associated with a benefit (ORhomozygous=0.26, 95%CI: .08-.82, ORrecessive=.25, 95%CI: .08-.80, p<.05). For the -572 polymorphism, Asians demonstrated a significant association for the homozygous and recessive genetic models (8 studies, ORhomozygous=1.56, 95%CI: 1.16-2.09, ORrecessive=1.63, 95%CI: 1.08-2.45, p<.05). For the -597 polymorphism, no association was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Here, the -174 G>C polymorphism increased the risk of developing RA in Asians and Middle East populations. Interestingly, for Latinos, the polymorphism was associated with a benefit. For the -572 polymorphism, only the Asian population showed an increased risk of developing RA for the CC genotype.

Diets with lower carbohydrate concentrations improve insulin sensitivity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are associated with increased levels of insulin resistance (IR). Other than treatment with insulin-sensitizing drugs, specialized diets have also been implemented to reduce the patient's IR. However, the capacity of certain diets, concerning with the severity of the patient's IR, to improve insulin sensitivity has not fully been explored. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to determine in PCOS subjects from low to severe IR, if hypocaloric diets improve insulin sensitivity. STUDY DESIGN: PubMed, SCOPUS, EBSCO, and LILACS databases and retrieved studies' bibliographies were searched for prospective studies that investigated the association between diets and IR in PCOS women until October 2018. Diet was defined as a modification of the patients' nutrition intake according to caloric restriction, change in protein intake, or by using a specialized diet. IR measures (HOMA1-IR), pre- and post-intervention were extracted. Using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software, depending on the level heterogeneity, determined by the ψ2-based Q-test and the I2-test, fixed-effects or random-effects models were used to calculate the pooled standard paired differences (SPD) and 95 %CI. RESULTS: 20 publications (25 studies) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Due to the heterogeneity of the diets, the random-effects model was used. In 48 % of the studies, the diets led to a decrease of IR, where 44 % had no effect. In 2 studies, the diets increased IR. Overall, the diets decreased IR (SPD=-0.58; 95 %CI: -0.81 to -0.36). Subjects with severe IR (HOMA1-IR>4.2) had a marked improvement (SPD=-1.22; 95 %CI: -1.61 to -0.84). Moreover, diets low in carbohydrate (<50 %) was also determined to improve IR (SPD=-0.86; 95 %CI: -1.23 to -0.50). CONCLUSIONS: Here, we demonstrate that diets are more likely to improve IR in PCOS women with severe IR. Therefore, it is crucial to determine a subject's IR status before considering any intervention containing a diet.

Validation of a non-laboratorial questionnaire to identify Metabolic Syndrome among a population in central Mexico.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the reliability of a non-laboratorial questionnaire, the Encuesta de Identificación de Sujetos Metabólicamente Comprometidos en Fase-I (ESF-I) for identifying Metabolic Syndrome among a population in central Mexico. METHODS: Clinical and biochemical parameters were collected for 232 participants from 1 June 2012 - 31 August 2013. Three definitions of Metabolic Syndrome (Harmonizing, National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel and Adult Treatment Panel III [ATPIII], and International Diabetes Federation [IDF]) were used to allocate subjects to either the normal or Metabolic Syndrome positive (MetS+) group. The predictability of the questionnaire was determined by the Area-Under-the-Receiver-Operating Characteristic curve (AUC). Youden's index was calculated and the highest score was considered the optimal cutoff value. Cohen´s kappa (κ) was calculated to determine the level of agreement between the ESF-I questionnaire (max score: 15 based on 15 items) and Metabolic Syndrome. RESULTS: From 53.8% - 60.7% of the participants were determined to be MetS+. The average questionnaire score was significantly higher in the MetS+ group for each definition (4.0 vs. 8.0, P < 0.05). The ESF-I questionnaire was predictive for the Harmonizing definition (AUC = 0.841, 95%CI: 0.790 - 0.892), the ATPIII definition (AUC = 0.827, 95%CI: 0.774 - 0.880), and the IDF definition (AUC = 0.836, 95%CI: 0.785 - 0.887). A cutoff value of 7 was determined for each definition; therefore, the cohort was re-categorized based on questionnaire results. There was a strong agreement between the ESF-I questionnaire and MetS (Harmonizing: accuracy = 77.6%, κ = 0.554; ATPIII: accuracy = 74.1%, κ = 0.489; IDF: accuracy = 74.6%, κ = 0.495, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The ESF-I questionnaire can identify MetS+ patients, and therefore, lead to earlier diagnoses, reduced number of consultations, and lower costs with easier application.

C677T and A1298C methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphisms and breast cancer susceptibility among Latinos: a meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Previous meta-analyses have shown an ethnic dependency of the C677T and the A1298C methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphisms, with no focus on the Latino population. For Latinos, many studies have examined these polymorphisms and breast cancer susceptibility, yielding no concise result. Therefore, we undertook this meta-analysis to determine the effect these polymorphisms have on breast cancer risk for Latinos. METHODS: PubMed, EBSCO, LILACS, Scopus, and Latin American-specific databases were searched for studies exploring the association between the MTHFR polymorphisms and breast cancer susceptibility in Latinos until January 2019. Genotype distributions were extracted and, depending on the level heterogeneity determined by the ψ2-based Q test and the I2 test, fixed-effects or random-effects models were used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the heterozygous, homozygous, dominant, recessive, and allelic genetic models. No publication bias was detected by the Begg-Mazumdar's test and Egger's test. RESULTS: Of the 280 retrieved publications, 9 studies were included: 9 for the C677T polymorphism and 5 for the A1298C polymorphism. For the C677T polymorphism, there was an elevated risk for the homozygous (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.05-1.92), the dominant (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.02-1.31), the recessive (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.01-1.75), and the allelic model (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.03-1.33, p < 0.01). No association between the A1298C polymorphism and the risk to develop breast cancer was determined. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that, for Latinos, the C677T polymorphism is associated with a significant risk for developing breast cancer, whereas the A1289C polymorphism does not.

Validation of a non-laboratorial questionnaire to identify Metabolic Syndrome among a population in central Mexico / Validación de un cuestionario en el que no se recurre al diagnóstico de laboratorio para detectar el síndrome metabólico en una población de la zona central de México / Validação de um instrumento de coleta de dados não laboratoriais para identificar síndrome metabólica em uma população da região central do México

ABSTRACT Objective To determine the reliability of a non-laboratorial questionnaire, the Encuesta de Identificación de Sujetos Metabólicamente Comprometidos en Fase-I (ESF-I) for identifying Metabolic Syndrome among a population in central Mexico. Methods Clinical and biochemical parameters were collected for 232 participants from 1 June 2012 - 31 August 2013. Three definitions of Metabolic Syndrome (Harmonizing, National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel and Adult Treatment Panel III [ATPIII], and International Diabetes Federation [IDF]) were used to allocate subjects to either the normal or Metabolic Syndrome positive (MetS+) group. The predictability of the questionnaire was determined by the Area-Under-the-Receiver-Operating Characteristic curve (AUC). Youden's index was calculated and the highest score was considered the optimal cutoff value. Cohen´s kappa (κ) was calculated to determine the level of agreement between the ESF-I questionnaire (max score: 15 based on 15 items) and Metabolic Syndrome. Results From 53.8% - 60.7% of the participants were determined to be MetS+. The average questionnaire score was significantly higher in the MetS+ group for each definition (4.0 vs. 8.0, P < 0.05). The ESF-I questionnaire was predictive for the Harmonizing definition (AUC = 0.841, 95%CI: 0.790 - 0.892), the ATPIII definition (AUC = 0.827, 95%CI: 0.774 - 0.880), and the IDF definition (AUC = 0.836, 95%CI: 0.785 - 0.887). A cutoff value of 7 was determined for each definition; therefore, the cohort was re-categorized based on questionnaire results. There was a strong agreement between the ESF-I questionnaire and MetS (Harmonizing: accuracy = 77.6%, κ = 0.554; ATPIII: accuracy = 74.1%, κ = 0.489; IDF: accuracy = 74.6%, κ = 0.495, P < 0.001). Conclusion The ESF-I questionnaire can identify MetS+ patients, and therefore, lead to earlier diagnoses, reduced number of consultations, and lower costs with easier application.

RESUMEN Objetivo Determinar la fiabilidad de un cuestionario en el que no se recurre al diagnóstico de laboratorio, la Encuesta de Identificación de Sujetos Metabólicamente Comprometidos en Fase-I (ESF-I), para detectar el síndrome metabólico en una población de la región central de México. Métodos Se recogieron parámetros clínicos y bioquímicos de 232 participantes desde el 1 de junio del 2012 al 31 de agosto del 2013. Se usaron tres definiciones de síndrome metabólico (la unificadora, la del Grupo de Expertos en el Tratamiento de Adultos [ATPIII] del Programa Nacional de Educación sobre el Colesterol y la de la Federación Internacional de la Diabetes [FID]) para asignar los participantes al grupo normal o al grupo de síndrome metabólico positivo (SMet+). Se determinó la previsibilidad del cuestionario con el área bajo la curva de eficacia diagnóstica (curva ROC). Se calculó el índice de Youden y la puntuación más alta se consideró el valor de corte óptimo. El coeficiente (k) de Cohen se calculó para determinar el grade de acuerdo entre el cuestionario ESF-I (máxima puntuación: 15 sobre 15 ítems) y el síndrome metabólico. Resultados Del 53,8 % al 60,7 % de los participantes se asignaron al grupo SMet+. La puntuación promedio del cuestionario fue significativamente mayor en el grupo de SMet+ para cada definición (4,0 vs. 8.0, P < 0.05). El cuestionario ESF-I fue predictivo para la definición unificadora (AUC = 0,841, 95 % CI: 0,790 - 0,892), la definición ATPIII (AUC = 0,827, 95 % CI: 0,774 - 0,880) y la definición de la FID (AUC = 0,836, 95 % CI: 0,785 - 0,887). Se determinó un el valor de corte óptimo de 7 para cada definición; por lo tanto, se reclasificó la cohorte según los resultados del cuestionario. Hubo una gran coincidencia entre el cuestionario ESF-I y SMet (unificadora: exactitud = 77,6 %, κ = 0,554; ATPIII: exactitud = 74,1 %, κ = 0,489; FID: exactitud = 74,6%, κ = 0,495, P < 0,001). Conclusiones El cuestionario ESF-I puede detectar pacientes con SMet+ y, por lo tanto, conducir a diagnósticos más tempranos, reducir la cantidad de consultas y reducir los costos con una aplicación más fácil.

RESUMO Objetivo Determinar a confiabilidade de um instrumento de coleta de dados não laboratoriais, Encuesta de Identificación de Sujetos Metabólicamente Comprometidos en Fase-I (pesquisa de identificação de indivíduos com comprometimento metabólico em fase I, ESF-I) para identificar síndrome metabólica em uma população da região central do México. Métodos Foram coletados parâmetros clínicos e bioquímicos de 232 participantes da pesquisa entre 1° de junho de 2012 e 31 de agosto de 2013. O estudo se baseou em três definições de síndrome metabólica (definição harmonizada do Painel de Especialistas do Programa Nacional de Educação em Colesterol dos Estados Unidos [NCEP]; Painel para Tratamento de Adultos III [ATPIII]; e Federação Internacional de Diabetes [FIL]) para alocar os participantes em um grupo normal ou em um grupo com síndrome metabólica (SM). A previsibilidade do instrumento foi determinada pela área sob a curva ROC (característica de operação do receptor) (AUC). O índice de Youden foi calculado e o escore mais alto foi considerado o valor ideal de corte. O coeficiente kappa de Cohen (κ) foi calculado para determinar o grau de concordância entre o questionário ESF-1 (pontuação máxima de 15 em 15 itens) e a síndrome metabólica. Resultados Foi determinado que 53,8% a 60,7% dos participantes apresentavam SM. A pontuação média no instrumento foi significativamente maior no grupo SM com cada uma das definições usadas (4,0 vs. 8,0, P<0,05). O questionário ESF-I foi preditivo com a definição harmonizada (AUC 0,841; IC 95% 0,790-0,892), com a definição do ATPIII (AUC 0,827; IC 95% 0,774-0,880) e com a definição da FIL (AUC 0,836; IC 95% 0,785-0,887). Um valor de corte de 7 foi determinado para cada definição e a coorte foi recategorizada de acordo com os resultados do instrumento. Foi observada uma forte concordância entre o questionário ESF-I e o grupo SM (harmonizada: precisão = 77,6%, κ = 0,554; ATPIII: precisão = 74,1%, κ = 0,489; FIL: precisão = 74,6%, κ = 0,495, P<0,001). Conclusão O questionário ESF-I é capaz de identificar pacientes com síndrome metabólica, possibilitando o diagnóstico precoce, um número menor de consultas e um custo menor com uma aplicação mais simples.

Low serum uric acid concentration augments insulin effects on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

AIM: Insulin and uric acid were shown affect the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), but no studies examine their interaction. Therefore, we conducted this study to determine their biological interaction in subjects from central Mexico. METHODS: 433 subjects were enrolled for a cross-sectional study. MetS was defined according to the Harmonizing Definition. Hyperuricemia was defined as ≥7.0 mg/dL in males and ≥5.8 mg/dL in females. Hyperinsulinemia was defined as ≥11.0 µU/mL. Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was calculated to determine the association between uric acid or insulin and MetS. Logistic regression was used to determine the risk (odds ratio) of developing MetS. Biological interactions were determined by the PROCESS Macro and Anderson's method. RESULTS: Insulin and uric acid levels were elevated in MetS positive group (p < .05) and correlated with the number of MetS components (r = 0.276 and r = 0.166, p < .001, respectively). The interaction between uric acid and insulin was associated with the number of MetS components (PROCESS Model 1, interaction coefficient = -0.009, 95%CI: -0.017 to -0.001, p = .036). Johnson-Neyman analysis suggests the interaction is lost when uric acid concentration increased >7.0 mg/dL. When the cohort was separated by hyperinsulinemia and hyperuricemia, there was a significant risk of developing MetS for subjects with hyperuricemia (odds ratio = 2.3; 95%CI: 1.1-4.8, p < .05), hyperinsulinemia (odds ratio = 3.1; 95%CI: 1.9-4.9, p < .05), or both (odds ratio = 7.4; 95%CI: 3.2-17.2, p < .05); however, there was no multiplicative or additive interaction. CONCLUSION: Here, we show that uric acid and insulin augments the prevalence of MetS; however, no biological interaction was determined for hyperuricemia and hyperinsulinemia.