Mid-arm muscle circumference cutoff points in patients with cirrhosis: Low muscle mass related to malnutrition predicts mortality.

OBJECTIVES: Muscle loss is one of the phenotypic criteria of malnutrition, is highly prevalent in patients with cirrhosis, and is associated with adverse outcomes. Mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC) estimates the skeletal muscle mass and is especially helpful in cases of fluid overload. This study aimed to propose MAMC cutoff points for patients with cirrhosis and demonstrate its association with 1-year mortality. METHODS: This is an analysis of cohort databases from five reference centers in Brazil that included inpatients and outpatients with cirrhosis aged ≥18 y. The nutritional variables obtained were the MAMC (n = 1075) and the subjective global assessment (n = 629). We established the MAMC cutoff points stratified by sex based on the subjective global assessment as a reference standard for malnutrition diagnosis, considering the sensitivity, specificity, and Youden index. An adjusted Cox regression model was used to test the association of MAMC cutoff points and 1-year mortality. RESULTS: We included 1075 patients with cirrhosis, with a mean age of 54.8 ± 11.3 y; 70.4% (n = 757) male. Most patients had alcoholic cirrhosis (47.1%, n = 506) and were classified as Child-Pugh B (44.7%, n = 480). The MAMC cutoff points for moderate and severe depletion were ≤21.5 cm and ≤24.2 cm; ≤20.9 cm and ≤22.9 cm for women and men, respectively. According to these cutoff points, 13.8% (n = 148) and 35.1% (n = 377) of the patients had moderate or severe MAMC depletion, respectively. The 1-year mortality rate was 17.3% (n = 186). In the multivariate analysis adjusted for sex, age, MELD-Na, and Child-Pugh scores, a severe depletion in MAMC was an independent increased risk factor for 1-year mortality (HR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.24-2.35, P < 0.001). Each increase of 1 cm in MAMC values was associated with an 11% reduction in 1-year mortality risk (HR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85-0.94, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Low MAMC classified according to the new cutoff points predicts mortality risk in patients with cirrhosis and could be used in clinical practice.

Academic trajectory of Prof. Ana Marlúcia Oliveira: contributions to the field of food and nutrition in Brazil. / Trajetória acadêmica da Profa. Ana Marlúcia Oliveira: contribuições para o campo da alimentação e nutrição no Brasil.

It will be presented the main academic contributions of Professor Ana Marlúcia Oliveira (AMO) (in memoriam), nutritionist, professor at the School of Nutrition at the Federal University of Bahia, Ph.D. in epidemiology and CNPQ Researcher level A, from 1980 to 2021. Professor Ana accumulated, throughout her academic career, scientific articles published in national and international journals; book and book chapters authored by her; papers presented at scientific events, in addition to guiding scientific projects, dissertations and theses. She has coordinated several research projects in the field of food and nutrition in public health, with a focus on nutritional epidemiology. The scope of the subjects addressed in her scientific production expressed the concern that mobilized her around the production of knowledge to face the complex health and nutrition problems in Brazil. Her way of being in the world, welcoming and caring for people who approached her seeking qualification opportunities, her example, words and teachings influenced, and still influence, the trajectory and training of nutritionists, professors and researchers at ENUFBA and other national and international institutions. She was a Brazilian researcher and intellectual committed to the health of the most vulnerable populations and the fight against malnutrition and hunger in our country. Her wide and fruitful work left us a legacy to be remembered and continued. Some of her friends, colleagues and collaborators pay this tribute to her memory, to her example and to the legacy she left for all of us and future generations.

São apresentadas neste artigo as principais contribuições acadêmicas da Profa. Marlúcia Oliveira (AMO) (in memoriam), nutricionista, docente da Escola de Nutrição da Universidade Federal da Bahia, Doutora em Epidemiologia e Pesquisadora A do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPQ), no período de 1980 a 2021. A Profa. Ana acumulou, ao longo de sua carreira acadêmica, artigos científicos publicados em periódicos nacionais e internacionais; livro e capítulos de livro de sua autoria; trabalhos apresentados em eventos científicos, além de ter orientado projetos de iniciação científica, dissertações e teses. Coordenou vários projetos de pesquisa no campo da alimentação e nutrição em saúde coletiva, com foco na epidemiologia nutricional. O escopo dos assuntos abordados na sua produção científica expressou a inquietude que a mobilizava em torno da produção de conhecimentos para o enfrentamento dos complexos problemas de saúde e nutrição do Brasil. Sua forma de ser no mundo, acolhendo e cuidando das pessoas que se aproximavam em busca de oportunidades de qualificação, seu exemplo, suas palavras e ensinamentos influenciaram, e ainda influenciam, a trajetória e a formação de nutricionistas e de professores e pesquisadores na Escola de Nutrição da Universidade Federal da Bahia (ENUFBA) e em outras instituições nacionais e internacionais. Trata-se de uma pesquisadora e intelectual brasileira comprometida com a saúde das populações mais vulneráveis e com o combate contra a desnutrição e a fome no nosso país. Sua vasta e fecunda obra nos deixou um legado a ser lembrado e continuado. Alguns dos seus amigos, colegas e colaboradores prestam este tributo à sua memória e ao legado que ela deixou para todos nós e para as próximas gerações.

Efficacy of silymarin in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease - the Siliver trial: a study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent liver diseases globally. Pharmacological treatments for NAFLD are still limited. Silymarin, a compound extracted from Silybum marianum, is an herbal supplement traditionally used in folk medicine for liver disorders. It has been proposed that silymarin may possess hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. The present trial aims to assess the efficacy of silymarin supplementation in the adjuvant treatment of NAFLD in adult patients. METHOD: This is a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial recruiting adult NAFLD patients in therapy on an outpatient basis. Participants are randomized to an intervention (I) or control (C) group. Both groups receive identical capsules and are followed for 12 weeks. I receives 700mg of silymarin + 8mg vitamin E + 50mg phosphatidylcholine daily, while C receives 700mg maltodextrin + 8mg vitamin E + 50mg phosphatidylcholine daily. Patients undergo a computerized tomography (CT) scan and blood tests at the beginning and end of the study. Monthly face-to-face consultations and weekly telephone contact are carried out for all participants. The primary outcome assessed will be change in NAFLD stage, if any, assessed by the difference in attenuation coefficient between liver and spleen, obtained by upper abdomen CT. DISCUSSION: The results of this study may provide a valuable opinion on whether silymarin can be used as adjuvant therapy for the management or treatment of NAFLD. The data presented on the efficacy and safety of silymarin may provide more foundation for further trials and for a possible use in clinical practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study has been approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Professor Edgard Santos University Hospital Complex, Salvador BA, Brazil, under protocol 2.635.954. The study is carried out according to guidelines and regulatory standards for research involving humans, as set out in Brazilian legislation. Trial registration - ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT03749070. November 21, 2018.

Trajetória acadêmica da Profa. Ana Marlúcia Oliveira: contribuições para o campo da alimentação e nutrição no Brasil / Academic trajectory of Prof. Ana Marlúcia Oliveira: contributions to the field of food and nutrition in Brazil

RESUMO São apresentadas neste artigo as principais contribuições acadêmicas da Profa. Marlúcia Oliveira (AMO) (in memoriam), nutricionista, docente da Escola de Nutrição da Universidade Federal da Bahia, Doutora em Epidemiologia e Pesquisadora A do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPQ), no período de 1980 a 2021. A Profa. Ana acumulou, ao longo de sua carreira acadêmica, artigos científicos publicados em periódicos nacionais e internacionais; livro e capítulos de livro de sua autoria; trabalhos apresentados em eventos científicos, além de ter orientado projetos de iniciação científica, dissertações e teses. Coordenou vários projetos de pesquisa no campo da alimentação e nutrição em saúde coletiva, com foco na epidemiologia nutricional. O escopo dos assuntos abordados na sua produção científica expressou a inquietude que a mobilizava em torno da produção de conhecimentos para o enfrentamento dos complexos problemas de saúde e nutrição do Brasil. Sua forma de ser no mundo, acolhendo e cuidando das pessoas que se aproximavam em busca de oportunidades de qualificação, seu exemplo, suas palavras e ensinamentos influenciaram, e ainda influenciam, a trajetória e a formação de nutricionistas e de professores e pesquisadores na Escola de Nutrição da Universidade Federal da Bahia (ENUFBA) e em outras instituições nacionais e internacionais. Trata-se de uma pesquisadora e intelectual brasileira comprometida com a saúde das populações mais vulneráveis e com o combate contra a desnutrição e a fome no nosso país. Sua vasta e fecunda obra nos deixou um legado a ser lembrado e continuado. Alguns dos seus amigos, colegas e colaboradores prestam este tributo à sua memória e ao legado que ela deixou para todos nós e para as próximas gerações.

RESUMO It will be presented the main academic contributions of Professor Ana Marlúcia Oliveira (AMO) (in memoriam), nutritionist, professor at the School of Nutrition at the Federal University of Bahia, Ph.D. in epidemiology and CNPQ Researcher level A, from 1980 to 2021. Professor Ana accumulated, throughout her academic career, scientific articles published in national and international journals; book and book chapters authored by her; papers presented at scientific events, in addition to guiding scientific projects, dissertations and theses. She has coordinated several research projects in the field of food and nutrition in public health, with a focus on nutritional epidemiology. The scope of the subjects addressed in her scientific production expressed the concern that mobilized her around the production of knowledge to face the complex health and nutrition problems in Brazil. Her way of being in the world, welcoming and caring for people who approached her seeking qualification opportunities, her example, words and teachings influenced, and still influence, the trajectory and training of nutritionists, professors and researchers at ENUFBA and other national and international institutions. She was a Brazilian researcher and intellectual committed to the health of the most vulnerable populations and the fight against malnutrition and hunger in our country. Her wide and fruitful work left us a legacy to be remembered and continued. Some of her friends, colleagues and collaborators pay this tribute to her memory, to her example and to the legacy she left for all of us and future generations.

Metabolic and nutritional triggers associated with increased risk of liver complications in SARS-CoV-2.

Obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancer and smoking are risk factors for negative outcomes in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which can quickly induce severe respiratory failure in 5% of cases. Coronavirus disease-associated liver injury may occur during progression of SARS-CoV-2 in patients with or without pre-existing liver disease, and damage to the liver parenchyma can be caused by infection of hepatocytes. Cirrhosis patients may be particularly vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 if suffering with cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction. Furthermore, pharmacotherapies including macrolide or quinolone antibiotics and steroids can also induce liver damage. In this review we addressed nutritional status and nutritional interventions in severe SARS-CoV-2 liver patients. As guidelines for SARS-CoV-2 in intensive care (IC) specifically are not yet available, strategies for management of sepsis and SARS are suggested in SARS-CoV-2. Early enteral nutrition (EN) should be started soon after IC admission, preferably employing iso-osmolar polymeric formula with initial protein content at 0.8 g/kg per day progressively increasing up to 1.3 g/kg per day and enriched with fish oil at 0.1 g/kg per day to 0.2 g/kg per day. Monitoring is necessary to identify signs of intolerance, hemodynamic instability and metabolic disorders, and transition to parenteral nutrition should not be delayed when energy and protein targets cannot be met via EN. Nutrients including vitamins A, C, D, E, B6, B12, folic acid, zinc, selenium and ω-3 fatty acids have in isolation or in combination shown beneficial effects upon immune function and inflammation modulation. Cautious and monitored supplementation up to upper limits may be beneficial in management strategies for SARS-CoV-2 liver patients.

Influence of nutritional assistance on mortality by COVID-19 in critically ill patients.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Evidence suggests the existence of an association between the institution of nutritional therapy and clinical outcomes in patients with critical COVID-19. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of nutritional assistance on COVID-19 mortality in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU). METHODS: This is a subset of the cohort "Influence of nutritional therapy on clinical prognosis in patients with COVID-19: a multicenter retrospective cohort study". Clinical and nutrition assistance information (type of assistance, evaluation of anthropometric status, and time of introduction of nutritional therapy) and presence of diabetes, hypertension and previous respiratory disease were collected from electronic medical records. To evaluate the association between the variables of interest and mortality, the hazard ratio was estimated. RESULTS: We evaluated 153 critically ill patients ≥18 years old, affected by COVID-19, with a rate of mortality of 77.8%. Among non survivors 58.8% were female, 52.9% aged <65 years, 66.4% had arterial hypertension, 46.2% diabetes mellitus and 81.5% had an early onset of nutritional support. Initiation of nutritional therapy after 48 h (HR: 2.57; 95% CI: 1.57-4.20) and the presence of obesity (HR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.04-2.31) were associated with higher mortality, even after adjustment for potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggests that the provision of early nutritional therapy should be prioritized, with greater attention directed to obese patients, and the nutritional assistance can contribute favorably to the clinical evolution and prognosis of critically ill patients with COVID-19.

A poorer nutritional status impacts quality of life in a sample population of elderly cancer patients.

RATIONALE: Quality of Life (QoL) is impaired in cancer, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition. A diagnosis of cancer in elderly patients further exacerbates risks of negative health outcomes. Here we investigated associations between QoL and nutritional status in a sample population of mostly socially deprived elderly cancer patients. METHOD: 432 cancer patients were recruited for this cross-sectional study at point of admission to a tertiary referral hospital for cancer treatment. Patient-generated subjective global assessment (PG-SGA) assessed nutritional status. Functional assessment of cancer therapy- general (FACT-G) quantified QoL. Relationship between PG-SGA and QoL was assessed by Spearman correlation. PG-SGA outcomes were compared against FACT-G scores employing Mann-Whitney test. Bivariate Linear Regression Model was employed to investigate influences of sociodemographic, clinical and nutritional status upon QoL. RESULTS: 37.5% of participants were malnourished or at risk. 39% were illiterate and 54.6% had family income lower than minimum wage. Malnourished patients showed lower FACT-G scores (76.8 vs. 84.7; p = 0.000). Poor nutritional diagnosis was inversely correlated with all QoL domains. Bivariate regression analysis showed that lower PG-SGA scores (ßo = - 1.00; p = 0.000) contributed to FACT-G score deterioration, the male gender showed better QoL scores, and other clinical and sociodemographic variables did not show relationship. CONCLUSION: Poorer nutritional status was significantly associated with worsened physical, social, emotional and functional well-being QoL domains in elderly cancer patients. Poorer nutritional status is an independent risk factor for worsened QoL. Future policies aimed at particularly vulnerable populations may improve QoL and health outcomes.

Zinc supplementation combined with antidepressant drugs for treatment of patients with depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: Zinc is an essential trace mineral required for the function of brain and neural structures. The role of zinc supplementation in the prevention and treatment of depression has been suggested in clinical studies that reported a reduction in depressive symptoms. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review was to determine whether zinc supplementation vs placebo can prevent or improve depressive symptoms in children, adolescents, or adults. DATA SOURCES: Five electronic databases were searched, and studies published until September 2019 were included without language restriction. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized, controlled, crossover trials that evaluated the effect of zinc supplementation vs a comparator for prevention or improvement of depressive symptoms in children, adolescents, or adults were eligible for inclusion. DATA EXTRACTION: Two authors independently performed data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment. RESULTS: The initial search identified 12 322 studies, 5 of which were eligible for meta-analysis. The standardized mean difference (SMD) showed an average reduction of 0.36 point (95%CI, -0.67 to -0.04) in the intervention group compared with the placebo group. Forstudies in which the mean age of participants was ≥ 40 years, the SMD was reduced by 0.61 point (95%CI, -1.12 to -0.09) in the intervention group vs the placebo group. The meta-analysis by sample size (< 60 individuals and ≥ 60 individuals) did not show an effect of zinc supplementation in reducing depressive symptoms (SMD -0.28; 95%CI, -0.67 to -0.10; and SMD -0.52; 95%CI, -1.10 to 0.06). CONCLUSION: Zinc supplementation may reduce depressive symptoms in individuals treated with antidepressant drugs for clinical depression. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number CRD42018081691.

Adiposidade Corporal e Apolipoproteínas em Crianças e Adolescentes: Metanálise de Estudos Prospectivos / Body Adiposity and Apolipoproteins in Children and Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies

Resumo Fundamento Excesso de adiposidade corporal e doenças cardiovasculares são problemas mundiais com crescente prevalência em crianças e adolescentes, sendo necessário investigar a relação destes, afim de construir estratégias de enfrentamento. Objetivo Investigar influência do excesso de adiposidade corporal sobre os níveis séricos de apolipoproteínas B e A1 (ApoB e ApoA1) em crianças e adolescentes. Métodos Busca sistemática nas bases de dados Medline/PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, Web of Science, Ovid e Science Direct de coortes consideradas elegíveis, avaliando-se qualidade metodológica e risco de viés; estudos combináveis, com boa qualidade e baixo risco de viés foram analisados com metanálise; a medida sumária utilizada foi a diferença de média ponderada e seu respectivo intervalo de confiança a 95%. Resultados 8 artigos preencheram os critérios de elegibilidade, incluindo indivíduos com média de idade variando de 9 a 15,7 anos. Para a metanálise, incluíram-se 4 artigos, com total de 7.974 crianças e adolescentes. Observou-se aumento médio de 4,94 mg/dL (IC 95%: 4,22 a 5,67 mg/dL) nos níveis de ApoB naqueles com excesso de adiposidade. Para a ApoA1, identificou-se redução média de -8,13 mg/dL (IC 95%: - 9,09 a -7,17 mg/dL) nos níveis séricos desse marcador em indivíduos com maior adiposidade corporal. Além disso, a influência do excesso de adiposidade corporal sobre os níveis de ApoA1 e ApoB foi maior entre adolescentes do que entre crianças. Conclusões O excesso de adiposidade corporal influenciou tanto na redução dos valores de ApoA1 quanto no aumento dos níveis de ApoB em crianças e adolescentes, e tais alterações foram mais relevantes entre adolescentes.(Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Abstract Background Excess Weight and Cardiovascular Diseases are health problems with increasing prevalence among children and adolescents, hence the need to investigate the issues related to them to better deal with the problem. Objective To investigate the influence of excess adiposity on the levels of apolipoprotein B and A1 in children and adolescents. Methods A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, Web of Science, Ovid and Science direct databases, searching for cohort eligible studies and evaluating their results, methodological quality and risk of bias; combinable studies with good quality and low risk of bias were evaluated by meta-analysis. The summary measure used was the weighted mean difference (WMD) with its respective 95% confidence interval. Results 8 articles attended the eligibility criteria including individuals with age mean varying from 9 to 15.7 years of age. The meta-analysis included 4 articles with a total of 7,974 children and adolescents. It was observed a mean increase of 4,94mg/dL (95%CI: 4,22 to 5,67) in the ApoB levels in individuals with excess of body adiposity. For the ApoA1, we identified a mean reduction of -8,13mg/dL (95%CI: -9,09 to -7,17 mg/dL) in its levels in children and adolescents with higher body adiposity. Beside this, the influence of excess adiposity on the ApoB and ApoA1 levels was higher between adolescents than children. Conclusions The excess of body adiposity influenced both the reduction of ApoA1 values and the increase of ApoB levels, being these changes more relevant among adolescents. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Body Adiposity and Apolipoproteins in Children and Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies. / Adiposidade Corporal e Apolipoproteínas em Crianças e Adolescentes: Metanálise de Estudos Prospectivos.

BACKGROUND: Excess Weight and Cardiovascular Diseases are health problems with increasing prevalence among children and adolescents, hence the need to investigate the issues related to them to better deal with the problem. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of excess adiposity on the levels of apolipoprotein B and A1 in children and adolescents. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, Web of Science, Ovid and Science direct databases, searching for cohort eligible studies and evaluating their results, methodological quality and risk of bias; combinable studies with good quality and low risk of bias were evaluated by meta-analysis. The summary measure used was the weighted mean difference (WMD) with its respective 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: 8 articles attended the eligibility criteria including individuals with age mean varying from 9 to 15.7 years of age. The meta-analysis included 4 articles with a total of 7,974 children and adolescents. It was observed a mean increase of 4,94mg/dL (95%CI: 4,22 to 5,67) in the ApoB levels in individuals with excess of body adiposity. For the ApoA1, we identified a mean reduction of -8,13mg/dL (95%CI: -9,09 to -7,17 mg/dL) in its levels in children and adolescents with higher body adiposity. Beside this, the influence of excess adiposity on the ApoB and ApoA1 levels was higher between adolescents than children. CONCLUSIONS: The excess of body adiposity influenced both the reduction of ApoA1 values and the increase of ApoB levels, being these changes more relevant among adolescents. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0).

FUNDAMENTO: Excesso de adiposidade corporal e doenças cardiovasculares são problemas mundiais com crescente prevalência em crianças e adolescentes, sendo necessário investigar a relação destes, afim de construir estratégias de enfrentamento. OBJETIVO: Investigar influência do excesso de adiposidade corporal sobre os níveis séricos de apolipoproteínas B e A1 (ApoB e ApoA1) em crianças e adolescentes. MÉTODOS: Busca sistemática nas bases de dados Medline/PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, Web of Science, Ovid e Science Direct de coortes consideradas elegíveis, avaliando-se qualidade metodológica e risco de viés; estudos combináveis, com boa qualidade e baixo risco de viés foram analisados com metanálise; a medida sumária utilizada foi a diferença de média ponderada e seu respectivo intervalo de confiança a 95%. RESULTADOS: 8 artigos preencheram os critérios de elegibilidade, incluindo indivíduos com média de idade variando de 9 a 15,7 anos. Para a metanálise, incluíram-se 4 artigos, com total de 7.974 crianças e adolescentes. Observou-se aumento médio de 4,94 mg/dL (IC 95%: 4,22 a 5,67 mg/dL) nos níveis de ApoB naqueles com excesso de adiposidade. Para a ApoA1, identificou-se redução média de -8,13 mg/dL (IC 95%: - 9,09 a -7,17 mg/dL) nos níveis séricos desse marcador em indivíduos com maior adiposidade corporal. Além disso, a influência do excesso de adiposidade corporal sobre os níveis de ApoA1 e ApoB foi maior entre adolescentes do que entre crianças. CONCLUSÕES: O excesso de adiposidade corporal influenciou tanto na redução dos valores de ApoA1 quanto no aumento dos níveis de ApoB em crianças e adolescentes, e tais alterações foram mais relevantes entre adolescentes.(Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0).

Phase angle as a marker for sarcopenia in cirrhosis.

BACKGROUND: In patients with cirrhosis nutritional disturbances can progress to sarcopenia, worsening the disease prognosis. Phase angle (PA) may be a useful marker for sarcopenia in this clinical population reflecting the cellular integrity level. This cross-sectional and prospective study evaluated the association between low PA values and clinical/nutritional variables in cirrhosis with emphasis on sarcopenia. METHODS: Male patients with cirrhosis (n = 122) were grouped according their PA values (>4.9° or ≤ 4.9°) after performing electrical bioimpedance. Sarcopenia diagnosis was assessed by considering appendicular skeletal muscle mass indexes <7.0 kg/m2 (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and non-dominant handgrip strength (HGS) < 27 kg (dynamometry). Logistic regression model was used to examine the correlation between clinical/nutritional variables and PA values and the ROC curve area was calculated to identify the power of PA values in predicting sarcopenia. RESULTS: Sarcopenic patients presented lower HGS (19.57 vs. 30.55, p = 0.000), PA value (4.18 vs. 5.39, p = 0.005), SM (17.17 vs. 22.00 (p = 0.05), reactance (36.76 vs. 51.11, p = 0.023), and albumin (3.10 vs. 3.75, p = 0.037), as well as higher resistance values (512.56 vs. 457.01, p = 0.021) and CRP levels (7.89 vs. 3.53, p = 0.040) than non-sarcopenic patients. Furthermore, the PA values ≤ 5.05° were able to predict with high sensitivity the diagnosis of sarcopenia in the studied population. CONCLUSION: In male patients with cirrhosis, low PA values may reflect disease prognosis by correlating to sarcopenia among other clinical/nutritional changes and performed as a good marker for this main nutritional complication when ≤5.05°.

Malnutrition and cardiovascular risk in haemodialysis patients with chronic kidney disease / Desnutrição e risco cardiovascular em pacientes com doença renal crônica em hemodiálise

ABSTRACT Objective To verify the association between nutritional status and traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors in haemodialysis patients. Methods A cross-sectional study with 132 patients over 18 years of age on haemodialysis to evaluate nutritional status through Subjective Global Assessment. Information on traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors were obtained using a structured questionnaire; the Framingham score was also used to assess cardiovascular risk. Data analysis was performed using the Chi-square Test or Fischer Exact Test and a Log-binomial Regression Model. Results Malnutrition affected 31.1% of patients. Among them, a higher percentage of smokers (p=0.016), former smokers (p=0.034) and diabetes Mellitus patients (p=0.001) were detected. Malnutrition was found to be 4.53 times more prevalent in diabetic individuals (95%CI: 1.99-10.27) and 2.26 times more prevalent among former smokers (95%CI: 1.04-4.95). Malnourished individuals exhibited a 4.03 times prevalence of moderate to severe cardiovascular risk. Conclusion A high prevalence of malnutrition and of other risk factors for cardiovascular disease were observed. Such factors included diabetes Mellitus, smoking and former smoker conditions and were associated with malnutrition. Inaddition, it was found that malnourished individuals were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease within 10 years.

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar associação entre estado nutricional e fatores de riscos cardiovasculares tradicionais e não tradicionais em pacientes em hemodiálise. Métodos Estudo transversal com 132 pacientes maiores de 18 anos em hemodiálise, analiando-se o estado nutricional por meio da avaliação subjetiva global. Informações sobre fatores de riscos tradicionais e não tradicionais paradoenças cardiovasculares foram obtidos a partir de questionário estruturado e utilizou-se ainda o Escore de Framingham para avaliar risco cardiovascular. Na análise dos dados foram utilizados o teste Qui-quadrado ou teste Exato de Fischer, e Modelo de Regressão Log-binomial. Resultados A desnutrição estava presente em 31,1% dos indivíduos. Tabagistas (p=0,016), ex-tabagistas (p=0,034) e pessoas com diabetes Mellitus (p=0,001), apresentavam maior percentual de desnutrição. Verificou-se que a desnutriçãoera 4,53 vezes mais prevalente em indivíduos diabéticos (95%CI: 1,99-10,27) e 2,26 vezes mais prevalente entre os ex-tabagistas (95%CI: 1,04-4,95). Indivíduos com desnutrição tinham 4,03 vezes mais prevalência do risco cardiovascular moderado a grave. Conclusão Observou-se uma elevada prevalência da desnutrição e de outros fatores de riscos para doenças cardiovasculares. Dentre esses fatores, convém citar a diabetes Mellitus, o tabagismo e o ex-tabagismo que apresentaramassociação com a desnutrição. Além disso, verificou-se que os indivíduos desnutridos tinham probabilidade maior de desenvolver doença cardiovascular em 10 anos.

Nutritional Assessment of Oncology Elderly by Different Methods / Estado Nutricional de Idosos Oncológicos por meio de Diferentes Métodos

Introduction: The nutritional status and localization of the tumor are essential in the evaluation of the elderly with cancer, since they are related to morbimortality and have a direct impact on survival. Objective: To evaluate the nutritional status according to the mini nutritional assessment, body mass index and calf circumference, to identify the degree of agreement between these parameters and to verify the association between the nutritional status and the different types of cancer. Method: Cross-sectional study with elderly oncology patients admitted to a referral hospital in Salvador, Bahia. Data were collected using the mini nutrition assessment (reduced version), structured questionnaire for the collection of clinical data and sociodemographic profile, and anthropometric data. Descriptive analysis, chi-square test (x²) and Kappa test were performed. Results: It was observed that 41%, 54.3% and 74.3% of the patients presented adequate nutritional status according to the mini nutritional assessment, Body Mass Index and Calf Circumference, respectively, with moderate agreement (Kappa=0, 59) between Body Mass Index and mini nutritional assessment. The highest nutritional status was observed in patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer. Conclusion: In this study the mini nutritional assessment was more sensitive to identify inadequacy in the nutritional status when compared with the Body Mass Index and calf circumference; an association between nutritional status and tumor location was also observed. Probably, the subjective parameters of the mini nutritional assessment justify the diagnosis of earlier malnutrition, favoring nutritional intervention

Introdução: O estado nutricional e a localização do tumor são essenciais na avaliação do idoso com câncer, pois relacionam-se com morbimortalidade e impactam diretamente na sobrevida. Objetivo: Avaliar o estado nutricional segundo a mini avaliação nutricional, índice de massa corporal e circunferência da panturrilha, identificar o grau de concordância entre esses parâmetros e verificar a associação entre o estado nutricional e os diferentes tipos de câncer. Método: Estudo transversal, com pacientes idosos oncológicos internados em um hospital de referência em Salvador, Bahia. Na coleta dos dados, utilizou-se a mini avaliação nutricional (versão reduzida), questionário estruturado para coleta de dados clínicos e perfil sociodemográfico, e antropométricos. Realizaram-se análise descritiva, teste de qui--quadrado (x²) e teste Kappa. Resultados: Observou-se que 41%, 54,3% e 74,3% dos pacientes apresentavam estado nutricional adequado segundo a mini avaliação nutricional, índice de massa corporal e circunferência da panturrilha, respectivamente, com uma concordância moderada (Kappa=0,59) entre índice de massa corporal e mini avaliação nutricional. Os maiores comprometimentos do estado nutricional foram observados nos pacientes com diagnóstico de câncer de cabeça e pescoço. Conclusão: Neste estudo, a mini avaliação nutricional foi mais sensível para identificar inadequação no estado nutricional quando comparada com o índice de massa corporal e circunferência da panturrilha; observou-se ainda associação entre o estado nutricional e a localização do tumor. Provavelmente, os parâmetros subjetivos da mini avaliação nutricional justificam o diagnóstico de desnutrição mais precoce, favorecendo a intervenção nutricional.

Introducción: El estado nutricional y localización del tumor son esenciales en la evaluación del anciano con cáncer, pues se relacionan con morbimortalidad e impactan directamente en la supervivencia. Objetivo: Evaluar el estado nutricional según la mini evaluación nutricional, índice de masa corporal y circunferencia de la pantorrilla, identificar el grado de concordancia entre esos parámetros y verificar la asociación entre el estado nutricional y los diferentes tipos de cáncer. Método: Estudio transversal, con pacientes ancianos oncológicos internados en un hospital de referencia en Salvador, Bahia. En la recolección de los datos se utilizó la mini evaluación nutricional (versión reducida), cuestionario estructurado para recolección de datos clínicos y perfil sociodemográfico, y antropométricos. Se realizó análisis descriptivo, prueba de chi-cuadrado (x²) y prueba Kappa. Resultados: Se observó que 41%, 54,3% y 74,3% de los pacientes presentaban adecuado estado nutricional según la Mini Evaluación Nutricional, Índice de Masa Corporal y Circunferencia de la pantorrilla, respectivamente, con una concordancia moderada (Kappa=0, 59) entre índice de masa corporal y mini evaluación nutricional. Dado que los mayores compromisos del estado nutricional se observaron en los pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de cabeza y cuello. Conclusión: En este estudio la mini evaluación nutricional fue más sensible para identificar inadecuación en el estado nutricional cuando comparada con el Índice de Masa Corporal y Circunferencia de la pantorrilla; se observó una asociación entre el estado nutricional y la localización del tumor. Probablemente, los parámetros subjetivos de la mini evaluación nutricional justifican el diagnóstico de desnutrición más precoz, favoreciendo la intervención nutricional.

Effect of silymarin on biochemical indicators in patients with liver disease: Systematic review with meta-analysis.

AIM: To evaluate the effect of silymarin on the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (γGT) in patients with liver diseases. METHODS: A systematic review with meta-analysis of ramdomized and controlled clinical trials was performed, evaluating the effects of sylimarin in patients with hepatic diseases, published by January 31, 2016. Clinical trials were sought on the basis of The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane Library, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Lilacs and Clinical Trials. The trials with adult and elderly patients of both sexes, with Liver Diseases who took oral silymarin supplementation, as extract or isolated, as well as Silymarin combined with other nutrients, were included. The trials should provide information about the intervention, such as dosages and detailing of the product used, besides the mean and standard deviation of serum levels of ALT, AST and γGT of the baseline and at the end of the intervention. RESULTS: An amount of 10904 publications were identified. From those, only 17 were included in the systematic review and 6 in the meta-analysis, according to the used selection criteria. In this meta-analysis, the results indicated a reduction of 0.26 IU/mL (95%CI: -0.46-0.07, P = 0.007) at the level of ALT and 0.53 IU/mL (95%CI: -0.74-0.32, P = 0.000) at the serum levels of AST after using the silymarin, both, statistically significant, but with no clinical relevance. There was no significant change in the γGT levels. Subgroup analyzes were also performed for the biochemical markers in relation to the type of intervention, whether silymarin isolated or associated with other nutrients and the time of intervention (whether ≥ 6 mo or < 6 mo). Significant differences were not found. The evaluated studies presented a high degree of heterogeneity and low methodological quality in the carried out analysis. CONCLUSION: Silymarin minimally reduced, but without clinical relevance, the serum levels of ALT and AST. It is necessary to carry out studies with more appropriate methodological designs.

Factors Associated with Insulin Resistance in Patients with Chronic HCV Genotype 1 Infection without Obesity or Type 2 Diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of insulin resistance (IR) and its association with clinical parameters in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 without obesity or type 2 diabetes. METHODS: One hundred and twenty-seven HCV-infected patients admitted to the Nutrition and Hepatology Clinic were included. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney test, Fisher's exact test, and Poisson regression analysis. RESULTS: The prevalence of IR (homeostasis model assessment [HOMA]-IR ≥ 3.0) was 37.0%. The independent predictors for IR included the following: aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 1.5 times the upper normal limit (odds ratio [PR] = 2.06, 95% CI, 1.16-3.66; PR = 2.32, 95% CI, 1.26-4.49, respectively); gamma glutamyl transferase (γGT) ≥ 85 U/L (PR = 2.09, 95% CI, 1.12-4.12); increased waist circumference (PR = 2.24, 95% CI, 1.25-4.17); increased waist : hip ratio (PR = 2.24, 95% CI, 1.11-5.17); increased body fat percentage (PR = 2.21, 95% CI, 1.01-5.79); overweight (PR = 2.54, 95% CI, 1.40-4.82); and metabolic syndrome (PR = 3.05, 95% CI, 1.69-5.44). High ALT levels and anthropometric parameters remained in the model of multivariate regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings showed a significantly high prevalence of insulin resistance in nondiabetic, nonobese patients with hepatitis C genotype 1. High ALT levels and anthropometric parameters were significantly associated with IR after multivariate regression analysis. Our data show the importance of monitoring IR, weight, and body composition in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Nutritional management seems to be important in the control of comorbidities related to excess weight and the enhancement of therapeutic responses.

Breastfeeding and maternal weight changes during 24 months post-partum: a cohort study.

The relationship between breastfeeding and the loss of weight gained during pregnancy remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between breastfeeding and maternal weight changes during 24 months post-partum. We studied a dynamic cohort comprising 315 women living in two cities in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The outcome variable was change in the post-partum weight; the exposure variable was the duration and intensity of breastfeeding. Demographic, socio-economic, environmental, reproductive and lifestyle factors were integrated in the analysis as covariates. The data were analysed using multiple linear regression and linear mixed-effects models. The average cumulative weight loss at 6 months post-partum was 2.561 kg (SD 4.585), increasing at 12 months (3.066 kg; SD 5.098) and decreasing at 18 months (1.993 kg; SD 5.340), being 1.353 kg (SD, 5.574) at 24 months post-partum. After adjustment, the data indicated that for every 1-point increase in breastfeeding score, the estimated average post-partum weight loss observed was 0.191 kg at 6 months (P = 0.03), 0.090 kg at 12 months (P = 0.043), 0.123 kg at 18 months (P < 0.001) and 0.077 kg at 24 months (P = 0.001). Based on these results, we concluded that despite the low expressiveness, the intensity and duration of breastfeeding was associated with post-partum weight loss at all stages of the study during the 24-month follow-up.

Is overweight a risk factor for wheezing in pre-school children? A study in 14 Brazilian communities

To evaluate the association between overweight and wheezing in pre school children in 14 small Brazilian communities...

Determinants of postpartum weight variation in a cohort of adult women: a hierarchical approach / Determinantes de la variación del peso postparto en una cohorte de mujeres adultas; un enfoque jerárquico

INTRODUCTION: Retention of the weight gained during pregnancy or the weight gain postpartum has been associated with increased prevalence of obesity in women of childbearing age. OBJECTIVE: To identify determinants of weight variation at 24 months postpartum in women from 2 towns in Bahia, Brazil. METHODS :Dynamic cohort data of 325 adult women were collected for 24 months postpartum. Weight variation at 24 months postpartum was considered a response variable. Socioeconomic, demographic, reproductive, related with childbirth variables and lifestyle conditions were considered exposure variables. A linear mixed-effects regression model with a hierarchical approach was used for data analysis. RESULTS: Suitable sanitary conditions in the household (2.175 kg; p = 0.001) and participation social programs for income transfer (1.300 kg; p = 0.018) contributed to weight gain in distal level of determinants, while at intermediate level, pre gestational overweight and surgical delivery had effects on postpartum weight, causing an average increase of 3.380 kg (p < 0.001) and loss of 2.451 kg (p < 0.001), respectively. At proximal level, a score point increase for breastfeeding yielded an average postpartum loss of 70 g (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Our results indicate the need to promote weight control during and after pregnancy, encourage extended breastfeeding, and improve living conditions through intersectoral interventions (AU)

Introducción: La retención del aumento de peso durante el embarazo y el aumento de peso después del parto se ha asociado a una mayor prevalencia de la obesidad en las mujeres en edad fértil. Objetivo: Identificar los factores determinantes de la variación del peso en los 24 meses posparto, en mujeres adultas en dos municipios de Bahía/Brasil. Métodos: En una cohorte dinámica se incluyeron 325 mujeres, acompañadas durante 24 meses. La variación del peso a los 24 meses después del parto se consideró variable de respuesta y los factores socioeconómicos, demográficos, reproductivos, de la estilo de vida y factores relacionados con el niño, son las variables de exposición. En el análisis de datos se construyeron modelos de regresión lineal de efectos mixtos con un enfoque jerárquico para identificar los determinantes de la variación del peso posparto. Resultados: Han contribuido al aumento de peso en el nivel distal, inadecuadas condiciones sanitarias de la vivienda (2,175 kg, p = 0,001) y la participación en los programas sociales de transferencia de ingresos (1.300 kg; p = 0,018). En el nivel intermedio, el exceso de peso antes del embarazo aumentó el peso después del parto en una media de 3,380 kg (p < 0,001), mientras que el parto por cesárea contribuyó a la pérdida de 2,451 kg (p < 0,001). A nivel proximal, el aumento de un punto en la puntuación de la lactancia materna contribuyo con la pérdida de 70 g (p = 0,002) en la media del peso posparto. Conclusiones: Estos resultados indican a la necesidad de las acciones de salud dirigidas a controlar el peso durante el embarazo y después del parto incluyendo la promoción de la lactancia materna durante largos períodos y la mejora de las condiciones de vida, que implica acciones intersectoriales (AU)

Índice de massa corporal obtido por medidas autorreferidas para a classificação do estado antropométrico de adultos: estudo de validação com residentes no município de Salvador, estado da Bahia, Brasil / Validity of the body mass index calculated from self-reported values for the classification of anthropometric status in adults: validation study with residents in the municipality of Salvador, state of Bahia, Brazil

Objetivo: avaliar a validade do índice de massa corporal (IMC) calculado a partir de medidas autorreferidas e aferidas, para uso na classificação antropométrica. Métodos: estudo de validação realizado com 65 adultos residentes em Salvador, que responderam a entrevista telefônica e tiveram peso e estatura aferidos. Utilizou-se teste t-pareado e coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCIC); estimou-se sensibilidade, especificidade e valor preditivo positivo (VPP) do IMC obtido a partir do peso e estatura autorreferidos e aferidos. Resultados: mulheres superestimaram sua estatura em 3,15cm (p<0,001), resultando em subestimação do IMC de 1,39kg/m² (p<0,001), sem comprometimento da classificação antropométrica (p>0,05). Foram encontrados CCIC maiores que 60,0 por cento para peso, estatura e IMC, segundo idade, sexo e escolaridade, exceto para estatura entre homens; e boa acurácia para medidas autorreferidas. As medidas gerais de sensibilidade, especificidade e VPP foram 92,9 por cento, 78,4 por cento e 76,5 por cento, respectivamente. Conclusão: o IMC autorreferido mostou-se válido para ser utilizado na classificação antropométrica populacional.

Objective: to evaluate the validity of body mass index (EMI) calculated from self-reported weight and height and measured for use in anthropometric classification. Methods: validation study involving 65 adults from Salvador city, Brazil, using a telephone interview with weight and height measured in person. Paired t-test and interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were calculated; sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) of self-reported EMI were estimated and verified. Results: women overestimated height by 3.15cm (p<0.001) with EMI underestimation of 1.39kg/m² (p<0.001), but without impairment on anthropometric classification (p>0.05). The study showed ICC greater than 60.0 percent for weight, height and EMI, considering age, gender and schooling, except for male height; and accuracy for self-reported measures. The general measures of sensitivity, specificity and PPV were 92.9 percent, 78.4 percent and 76.5 percent, respectively. Conclusion: self-reported EMI showed to have been valid to be used on population anthropometric classification and monitoring.

Metabolic syndrome in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1 infection who do not have obesity or type 2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: The individual components of metabolic syndrome may be independent predictors of mortality in patients with liver disease. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its related components in hepatitis C virus-infected patients who are not obese and do not have type 2 diabetes. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 125 patients infected with hepatitis C virus genotype 1. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation. Anthropometric data were measured according to standardized procedures. Bioimpedance analysis was performed on all patients. RESULTS: Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed in 21.6% of patients. Of the subjects with metabolic syndrome, 59.3% had hypertension, 77.8% had insulin resistance, 85.2% were overweight, 48.1% had a high waist circumference, 85.2% had an increased body fat percentage, and 92.3% had an elevated waist:hip ratio. In the bivariate analysis, female sex (OR 2.58; 95% CI: 1.09-6.25), elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (γGT) (OR 2.63; 95% CI: 1.04-7.29), elevated fasting glucose (OR 8.05; 95% CI: 3.17-21.32), low HDL cholesterol (OR 2.80; 95% CI: 1.07-7.16), hypertriglyceridemia (OR 7.91; 95% CI: 2.88-22.71), elevated waist circumference (OR 10.33; 95% CI: 3.72-30.67), overweight (OR 11.33; 95% CI: 3.97-41.07), and increased body fat percentage (OR 8.34; 95% CI: 2.94-30.08) were independent determinants of metabolic syndrome. Using the final multivariate regression model, similar results were observed for abdominal fat (OR 9.98; 95% CI: 2.63-44.41) and total body fat percentage (OR 8.73; 95% CI: 2.33-42.34). However, metabolic syndrome risk was also high for those with blood glucose >5.55 mmol/L or HDL cholesterol <0.9 mmol/L (OR 16.69; 95% CI: 4.64-76.35; OR 7.23; 95% CI: 1.86-32.63, respectively). CONCLUSION: Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent among hepatitis C virus-infected patients without type 2 diabetes or obesity. Metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with hypertension, insulin resistance, increased abdominal fat, and overweight.