Pregnant women's use and attitude toward Mobile phone features for self-management.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine the current use of mobile phones by pregnant women and their attitudes towards the use of a variety of prenatal care services through mHealth. METHODS: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Iran in 2021. The study population included 168 pregnant women who referred to specialist obstetrics and gynecology clinic. The data collection tool was a questionnaire that included the demographics of the participants, their current mobile phone usage, and their attitudes toward mobile phone use for prenatal care services. The data were analyzed in SPSS with descriptive and analytical statistics. RESULTS: The majority of participants (84.2%) had a smartphone and access to mobile internet. More than half of the respondents (58.9%) used their mobile phone for (only) phone calls, and 36.7% occasionally used mobile internet to access prenatal care services. To get information about the pregnancy and to communicate with other pregnant women, the participants mainly used social media, and to get reminders, they preferred phone calls. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, pregnant women have a positive attitude towards using mobile phones for obtaining health services and prefer social media to seek prenatal care services. There seems to be a need for pregnant women to have high levels of digital health literacy and be advised by healthcare providers on using this technology to access prenatal care services.

Effects of folate supplementation on recurrence and metabolic status of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2/3 in overweight and obese women: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Inconsistent evidence showed that folate supplementation may be associated with reduced risk of cancer due to improved metabolic profiles and reduced markers of oxidative stress and inflammation. The aim of this investigation was to quantify the effects of folate supplementation on the recurrence and other metabolic factors of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2/3 (CIN2/3). METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed among 60 overweight/obese women with CIN2/3. Definitive CIN2/3 confirmation was done via biopsy, pathological diagnosis, as well as colposcopy. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group to take 5 mg/day folate supplements or placebo group (n = 30 in each group) for 12 weeks. RESULTS: The results of the current study showed a non-significant decrease in recurrence of CIN2/3 in the folate group in comparison with the placebo group (3.3% vs. 16.7%, P = 0.08). Compared with the placebo, folate supplementation significantly decreased plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels (P < 0.001), serum insulin values (in the crude model) (P = 0.01), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (P = 0.01). Also, folate supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (P = 0.002) and total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.04) and a significant reduction in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (P = 0.015) in comparison with the placebo group. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, folate supplementation for 12 weeks among overweight/obese women with CIN2/3 showed a non-significant decrease in its recurrence and had beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and oxidative stress markers.

Vaginal and oral use of probiotics as adjunctive therapy to fluconazole in patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis: A clinical trial on Iranian women.

Background and Purpose: Vulvovaginal candidiasis is considered the second most prevalent gynecologic infection among women and one of the main reasons for referring to a gynecologist. During recent decades, probiotic usage has been defined as one of the therapeutic regimens for vaginal candidiasis management, but these findings were controversial. The current study was conducted to determine the effect of fluconazole plus vaginal and oral probiotics supplementation on clinical and mycological improvement of vaginal candidiasis concomitant with antifungal susceptibility of Candida species to fluconazole. Materials and Methods: This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 76 women with vaginal candidiasis admitted to Naghavi and Imam Reza Gynecology Clinics in Kashan, Central Iran, from July 2017 to March 2020. Patients were diagnosed according to vaginal candidiasis symptoms and positive culture for Candida species. The patients were divided into two groups; one of them received fluconazole plus vaginal and oral probiotics, while the other one received fluconazole with placebo. The clinical and mycological findings were recorded before and after the treatment. In vitro, the fluconazole susceptibility test was determined by the microdilution method according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (M27-A3) for the baseline Candida isolates. Conclusion: Based on the findings, 35 days after the intervention, a significant reduction was reported in vaginal candidiasis symptoms in the probiotics supplementation group. Although probiotics supplementation therapy was a better mycological cure, compared to the fluconazole with the placebo group, this difference was not significant (68.4% vs. 46.9%, P=0.184). Exclusion of resistant and susceptible dose-dependent strain in the regression model demonstrated a significant reduction in positive culture probiotics in the supplementation group. Results: Oral and vaginal supplementation with probiotics for 4 weeks played a significant role in the elimination of vaginal candidiasis symptoms. Adjustment of clinical and mycological responses with drug resistance patterns of patients could open a promising horizon for probiotics consumption as a complementary treatment.

Distribution of Human Papillomavirus and Antisperm Antibody in Semen and Its Association with Semen Parameters Among Infertile Men.

BACKGROUND: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be associated with infertility. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been identified as a potential agent in male infertility. Also, anti-sperm antibodies (ASA) have been detected in men with infertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and association of HPV and ASA in infected semen of infertile men. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was performed on 96 infertile men referring to infertility treatment center of Kashan University of Medical Sciences during March 2017 till September 2017 in Iran. Semen analysis and diagnostic PCR test were performed for detection of HPV DNA. The semen parameters in HPV infected and ASA positive samples were compared with HPV non-infected and ASA negative samples. Chi square test was used to determine the correlation between variables and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: HPV DNA and ASA were detected in 17.4% and 15.2% of 96 semen samples, respectively. Semen volume, sperm count, sperm motility and the normal morphology rate were significantly decreased in HPV-positive subjects (p=0.004, p= 0.016, p<0.001, and p=0.017, respectively). Also, sperm motility was significantly decreased in ASA-positive subjects (p=0.002), also patients with HPV infection had a higher rate of ASA than the non-HPV group. In contrast to ASA, HPV infection had a significant correlation with education level (p=0.039). CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that asymptomatic seminal infection of HPV and ASA by adversely affecting sperm quality, in particular sperm motility and count, may play an important role in male infertility.

Phone-based interventions to control gestational weight gain: a systematic review on features and effects.

Objective: The aim of this study was to summarize the evidence regarding the effects and the features of phone-based interventions to control gestational weight gain (GWG).Methods: We included studies that evaluated the effects of phone-based interventions on controlling GWG. The characteristics of studies, effects, and features of interventions were extracted.Results: A total of 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Outcomes were categorized into three groups (GWG control, proportion of women returning to pre-pregnancy weight, and proportion of women who exceeded the Institute of Medicine recommendations for GWG). Although most studies (66%) showed a statistically significant positive effect of phone-based interventions on the GWG control, the effects on the other outcome categories were found to be inconsistent. While the included studies used phone call and short messaging service (SMS), no study used the other functions of telephones and mobile phones such as video call, internet access, social networks, and smartphone applications. Regarding the functionalities, phone calls were used to provide guidance for healthy weight gain and communication with healthcare providers. SMS provided reminders, educational materials, and guidance.Conclusion: Phone-based interventions can help pregnant women control GWG by providing guidance, reminders, and educational materials. When these interventions use multiple functionalities, they are more effective in controlling GWG.

Effects of Flaxseed Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation on Regression and Metabolic Status in Endometrial Hyperplasia: A randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Data on the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on clinical symptoms and metabolic profiles in patients with endometrial hyperplasia (EH) are limited. This intervention was performed to assess the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on clinical symptoms and metabolic profiles in patients with endometrial hyperplasia (EH). METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 40 women diagnosed with simple endometrial hyperplasia (EH). EH diagnosis was performed based on specific diagnostic procedures of biopsy. Participants were randomised into two groups to intake 1,000 mg omega-3 fatty acid supplements from flaxseed oil (n = 20) or placebo (n = 20), twice a day for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and after the 12-week intervention to determine related markers. RESULTS: Compared with the placebo, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (-7.1 ± 9.6 vs. +2.0 ± 4.9 mg/dL, P = 0.001), serum insulin levels (-1.5 ± 4.6 vs. +1.6 ± 3.9 µIU/mL, P = 0.02) and homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (-0.4 ± 1.1 vs. +0.4 ± 1.0, P = 0.02). In addition, a significant increase in plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (+102.6 ± 69.6 vs. +5.0 ± 37.1 mmol/L, P < 0.001) and total glutathione (GSH) levels (+63.6 ± 84.9 vs. -3.0 ± 69.4 µmol/L, P = 0.01) were seen following the supplementation of omega-3 fatty acid compared with the placebo. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation had no significant effect on regression, lipid profiles, and other biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, we found that omega-3 fatty acid administration for 12 weeks to subjects with EH significantly improved FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR, TAC and GSH levels, but did not influence regression, lipid profiles, and other biomarkers of inflammatory and oxidative stress.

Comparison of the diagnostic value of the visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and Pap smear in cervical cancer screening.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the diagnostic value of VIA with Pap smear in screening for cervical cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 440 women who had eligibility criteria, in Kashan city were assessed. All women underwent Pap smear test and then a visual inspection with acetic acid and colposcopy-biopsy (Gold Standard). Then, the diagnostic value indices including the specificity, sensitivity, positive and negative predictive values for the results of VIA and Pap smear were analyzed by SPSS V16 software. RESULTS: Finding showed that 29.9% of women had abnormal Pap smear. The false positive rate of Pap smear was 40.2%, and its false negative rate was 37.4%. For VIA, the false positive and false negative rates were 21.2% and 4.6%. The sensitivity, specificity, NPV and PPV of Pap smear was 29.7%, 85.5%, 59.8%, 62.6%, and these values for VIA was 94.6%, 81.6%, 78.8%, 95.4% respectively. Combination of Pap smear and VIA showed the sensitivity of 97.3% and 100% in low grade and high grade cervical lesions. CONCLUSION: VIA has a higher sensitivity than Pap smear in detection of low and high grade cervical lesions, however, its specificity is less than Pap smears. Therefore it is recommended to use of VIA along with Pap smear to reach a higher sensitivity.

Comparison of myo-inositol and metformin on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and gene expression related to insulin and lipid metabolism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

This investigation was conducted to evaluate comparison of myo-inositol and metformin on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and gene expression related to insulin and lipid metabolism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This randomized controlled trial was conducted on 53 women with PCOS, aged 18-40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups to take either myo-inositol (n = 26) or metformin (n = 27) for 12 weeks. Myo-inositol supplementation, compared with metformin, significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (ß -5.12 mg/dL; 95% CI, -8.09, -2.16; p=.001), serum insulin levels (ß -1.49 µIU/mL; 95% CI, -2.28, -0.70; p<.001), homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (ß -0.36; 95% CI, -0.55, -0.17; p<.001), serum triglycerides (ß 12.42 mg/dL; 95% CI, -20.47, -4.37; p=.003) and VLDL-cholesterol levels (ß -2.48 mg/dL; 95% CI, -4.09, -0.87; p=.003), and significantly increased the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (ß 0.006; 95% CI, 0.002, 0.01; p=.006) compared with metformin. Moreover, myo-inositol supplementation upregulated gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) (p=.002) compared with metformin. Overall, taking myo-inositol, compared with metformin, for 12 weeks by women with PCOS had beneficial effects on glycemic control, triglycerides and VLDL-cholesterol levels, and gene expression of PPAR-γ.

The effects of curcumin-containing supplements on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Besides other benefits, curcumin is getting more recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting the importance of curcumin application for chronic disease prevention. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to assess the influence of curcumin-containing supplements on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched till January 2018 for eligible studies. The selected studies were evaluated for their quality using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and relevant data were extracted from included studies. Data were pooled using the inverse variance method and expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Fifteen RCTs were included in the final analysis. The meta-analysis indicated that curcumin supplementation significantly decreased interleukin 6 (IL-6) (SMD -2.08; 95% CI [-3.90, -0.25]; p = 0.02), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (SMD -0.65; 95% CI [-1.20, -0.10], p = 0.02), and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (SMD -3.14; 95% CI [-4.76, -1.53], p < 0.001). Though, curcumin supplementation had no significant effect on tumor necrosis factor-alpha (SMD -1.62; 95% CI [-3.60, 0.36]; p = 0.10) and superoxide dismutase levels (SMD 0.34; 95% CI [-1.06, 1.74], p = 0.63). Overall, this meta-analysis suggests that taking curcumin-containing supplements may exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties through a significant reduction in IL-6, hs-CRP, and MDA levels.

The Effects of Folic Acid Supplementation on Recurrence and Metabolic Status in Endometrial Hyperplasia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Data on the effects of folic acid supplementation on clinical symptoms and metabolic profiles of patients with endometrial hyperplasia (EH) are limited. This investigation was performed to evaluate the effects of folic acid supplementation on clinical symptoms and metabolic status of patients with EH. METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 60 women diagnosed with EH. Diagnosis of EH was made based on biopsy results. Participants were randomly allocated to 2 groups to take 5 mg/d folic acid supplements (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks. RESULTS: After the 12-week intervention, folic acid supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (ß -3.99 mg/ dL; 95% CI, -7.39, -0.59; P = 0.02), serum insulin levels (ß -2.82 µIU/mL; 95% CI, -4.86, -0.77; P = 0.008), homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (ß -0.68; 95% CI, -1.20, -0.17; P = 0.009), triglycerides (ß -16.47 mg/dL; 95% CI, -28.72, -4.22; P = 0.009) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol (ß -3.29 mg/dL; 95% CI, -5.74, -0.84; P = 0.009), and significantly increased the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (ß 0.01; 95% CI, 0.004, 0.03; P = 0.01) compared with the placebo. Additionally, folic acid intake resulted in a significant reduction in serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (ß -0.36 mg/L; 95% CI, -0.52, -0.21; P < 0.001) compared with the placebo. Folic acid supplementation did not affect other metabolic parameters. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, we found that folic acid administration for 12 weeks to subjects with EH improved glycemic control, triglycerides, VLDL-cholesterol and hs-CRP levels, but did not influence recurrence and other metabolic profiles.

The effects of fish oil omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on mental health parameters and metabolic status of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of fish oil omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on mental health parameters and metabolic status of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS: This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 60 women with PCOS, aged 18-40 years old. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups to receive either 2 × 1000 mg/day fish oil omega-3 fatty acid (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) after lunch for 12 weeks. Metabolic profiles were quantified at baseline and after the 12-week intervention. RESULTS: Compared with the placebo, omega-3 fatty acid intake led to a significant improvement in Beck Depression Inventory [ß (difference in the mean outcomes measures between treatment groups after intervention) -1.05; 95% CI: -1.84, -0.26; p = .01], general health questionnaire (ß -1.68; 95% CI: -3.12, -0.24; p = .02) and depression anxiety and stress scale (ß -2.03; 95% CI: -3.60, -0.46; p = .01). Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation significantly decreased serum insulin levels (ß -2.09 µIU/mL; 95% CI: -3.77, -0.41; p = .01), homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (ß -0.74; 95% CI: -1.13, -0.34; p < .001), total testosterone (ß -0.23 ng/mL; 95% CI: -0.39, -0.06; p = .03) and hirsutism (ß -0.75; 95% CI: -1.17, -0.33; p = .001), and significantly increased the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (ß 0.01; 95% CI: 0.003, 0.02; p = .008) compared with the placebo. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acid intake resulted in a significant decrease in high sensitivity C-reactive protein (ß -1.46 mg/L; 95% CI: -2.16, -0.75; p < .001) and malondialdehyde (ß -0.28 µmol/L; 95% CI: -0.52, -0.05; p = .03); also significant rises in plasma total glutathione (ß 59.09 µmol/L; 95% CI: 7.07, 111.11; p = .02) was observed compared with the placebo. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation did not change other metabolic parameters. CONCLUSION: Overall, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for 12 weeks to patients with PCOS had beneficial effects on mental health parameters, insulin metabolism, total testosterone, hirsutism and few inflammatory markers and oxidative stress.

Long-Term Vitamin D Supplementation and the Effects on Recurrence and Metabolic Status of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia Grade 2 or 3: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on the recurrence and metabolic status of patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or 3 (CIN2/3). METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was carried out among 58 women diagnosed with CIN2/3. Participants were randomly assigned into 2 groups to receive either 50,000 IU vitamin D3 (n = 29) or placebo (n = 29) every 2 weeks for 6 months. RESULTS: The recurrence rate of CIN1/2/3 was 18.5 and 48.1% in the vitamin D and placebo groups respectively (p = 0.02). When we excluded CIN1, the recurrence rate of CIN2/3 became nonsignificant. Vitamin D supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (-7.8 ± 9.2 vs. -1.1 ± 8.6 mg/dL, p = 0.006) and insulin levels (-3.2 ± 4.8 vs. -0.9 ± 3.4 µIU/mL, p = 0.03), and significantly increased quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (0.01 ± 0.02 vs. 0.002 ± 0.01, p = 0.02) compared with the placebo. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (-815.3 ± 1,786.2 vs. 717.5 ± 1,827.3 ng/mL, p = 0.002) and a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (113.4 ± 137.4 vs. -53.7 ± 186.7 mmol/L, p < 0.001) following the supplementation of vitamin D compared with the placebo. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D3 supplementation for 6 months among women with CIN2/3 had beneficial effects on CIN1/2/3 recurrence and metabolic status; however, it did not affect CIN2/3 recurrence.

The effects of fish oil on gene expression in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to determine the effects of fish oil administration on gene expression related to insulin, lipid and inflammation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 40 subjects with PCOS, aged 18-40 years. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups to take either 1000 mg omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil (n = 20) or placebo (n = 20) twice a day for 12 weeks. Gene expression related to insulin, lipid and inflammation was quantified in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of PCOS women with RT-PCR method. RESULTS: Our study demonstrated that after the 12-week intervention, compared with the placebo, fish oil supplementation upregulated gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) (P < .001) in PBMC of subjects with PCOS. In addition, compared to the placebo, taking fish oil supplements downregulated gene expression of interleukin-1 (IL-1) (P = .02) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) (P = .01) in PBMC of subjects with PCOS. We did not observe any significant effect of fish oil supplementation on gene expression of lipoprotein(a) [LP(a)], low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), glucose transporter 1 (GLUT-1), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-ß) in PBMC of subjects with PCOS. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, fish oil supplementation for 12 weeks to subjects with PCOS significantly improved gene expression of PPAR-γ, IL-1 and IL-8, but did not influence gene expression of LP(a), LDLR, GLUT-1, TNF-α and TGF-ß.

The Effects of Flaxseed Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation on Metabolic Status of Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of flaxseed oil omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on metabolic status of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS: This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 60 women with PCOS according to the Rotterdam criteria aged 18-40 years old. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups to receive either 1,000 mg flaxseed oil omega-3 fatty acids (n=30) or placebo (n=30) twice a day for 12 weeks. Metabolic, endocrine, inflammatory factors were quantified at baseline and after the 12-week intervention. RESULTS: After the 12-week intervention, compared to the placebo, flaxseed oil omega-3 supplementation significantly decreased insulin values (-2.6±7.7 vs.+1.3±3.9 µIU/mL, P=0.01), homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (-0.7±1.7 vs.+0.3±0.9, P=0.01), mF-G scores (-1.2±1.7 vs. -0.1±0.4, P=0.001), and increased quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (+0.01±0.02 vs. -0.01±0.02, P=0.01). In addition, supplementation with flaxseed oil omega-3 resulted in significant decreases in serum triglycerides (-5.1±20.9 vs.+9.7±26.1 mg/dL, P=0.01), VLDL-cholesterol (-1.0±4.2 vs.+1.9±5.2 mg/dL, P=0.01) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (-1.6±3.1 vs.+0.2±1.5 mg/L, P=0.004) compared to the placebo. We did not see any significant effect of flaxseed oil omega-3 supplementation on hormonal and other lipid profiles, and plasma nitric oxide levels. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, flaxseed oil omega-3 supplementation for 12 weeks in women with PCOS had beneficial effects on insulin metabolism, mF-G scores, serum triglycerides, VLDL-cholesterol and hs-CRP levels, but did not affect hormonal and other lipid profiles, and plasma nitric oxide levels.

Effects of Long-Term Vitamin D Supplementation on Regression and Metabolic Status of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia: a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

We are not aware of any study examining the effects of long term vitamin D administration on regression and metabolic status of patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 (CIN1). This study was performed to evaluate the effects of long-term vitamin D administration on regression and metabolic status of patients with CIN1. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed among 58 women diagnosed with CIN1. CIN1 diagnosis was performed based on specific diagnostic procedures of biopsy, pathological diagnosis, and colposcopy. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups to take 50,000 IU vitamin D3 supplements (n = 29) or placebo (n = 29) every 2 weeks for 6 months. Fasting blood samples were taken at the beginning of the study and end-of-trial to measure related markers. After 6 months of vitamin D administration, greater percentage of women in the vitamin D group had regressed CIN1 (84.6 vs. 53.8%, P = 0.01) than those in the placebo group. Long-term vitamin D supplementation increased serum-25(OH) vitamin D levels in the intervention group compared to the placebo group (+12.3 ± 11.4 vs. -0.1 ± 3.7 ng/mL, P < 0.001). In addition, vitamin D intake led to significant decreases in serum insulin levels (-5.3 ± 7.3 vs. +2.4 ± 5.9 µIU/mL, P < 0.001), homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (-1.2 ± 1.6 vs. +0.5 ± 1.2, P < 0.001), homeostatic model assessment-Beta cell function (P = 0.005) and a significant elevation in quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (+0.03 ± 0.04 vs. -0.007 ± 0.02, P < 0.001) compared with the placebo group. Additionally, significant increases in plasma nitric oxide (NO) (+15.5 ± 10.3 vs. +4.0 ± 13.4 µmol/L, P = 0.001), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (P = 0.04), total glutathione (GSH) (+11.8 ± 153.5 vs. -294.2 ± 595.1 µmol/L, P = 0.01) and a significant reduction in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (-0.8 ± 1.0 vs. -0.03 ± 1.4 µmol/L, P = 0.03) were observed following the administration of vitamin D supplements compared with the placebo group. In conclusion, vitamin D3 administration for 6 months among women with CIN1 resulted in its regression and had beneficial effects on markers of insulin metabolism, plasma NO, TAC, GSH and MDA levels. Clinical trial registration number www.irct.ir : IRCT201412065623N30.

Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Metabolic Status in Pregnant Women: a Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Limited data is available on the effects of multispecies probiotic supplementation on metabolic status in pregnant women in the first half of pregnancy. The current study was carried out to determine the effects of multispecies probiotic capsule supplementation on metabolic status among pregnant women in the first half of pregnancy. METHODS: A randomized clinical trial was conducted among 60 pregnant women aged 18-37 years. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: group A (n = 30) received multispecies probiotic supplements containing three probiotic bacteria spices Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium bifidum (2 × 109 CFU/g each) and group B (n = 30) received placebo from 9 weeks of gestation for a duration of 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at the beginning of the study and after 12 weeks of intervention to determine metabolic profiles, inflammatory cytokines and biomarkers of oxidative stress. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of intervention, compared to the placebo group, the pregnant women who consumed probiotic capsule had significantly decreased serum insulin concentrations (-1.5 ± 4.8 vs. +1.3 ± 5.2 µIU/mL, P = 0.03), the homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (-0.3 ± 0.9 vs. +0.3 ± 1.1, P = 0.04), the homeostasis model of assessment-estimated b cell function (HOMA-B) (-7.2 ± 23.1 vs. +5.3 ± 22.6, P = 0.03) and increased quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) (+0.01 ± 0.05 vs. -0.01 ± 0.02, P = 0.03). In addition, changes in serum triglycerides levels (-14.7 ± 46.5 vs. +37.3 ± 74.2 mg/dL, P = 0.002), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (-1.0 ± 2.6 vs. +1.7 ± 4.3 mg/L, P = 0.004), plasma nitric oxide (NO) (+6.8 ± 9.3 vs. -4.7 ± 7.4 µmol/L, P < 0.001), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (+171.9 ± 187.6 vs. -51.9 ± 208.8 mmol/L, P < 0.001) and glutathione (GSH) concentrations (+34.3 ± 71.6 vs. -36.9 ± 108.3 µmol/L, P = 0.004) in supplemented women were significantly different from those of the placebo group. However, after controlling for baseline levels, age and BMI at the study baseline, the changes in plasma GSH were not significantly different between the groups. CONCLUSION: Overall, probiotic supplementation for 12 weeks among pregnant women in the first half of pregnancy had beneficial effects on markers of insulin metabolism, triglycerides, biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Effects of long-term folate supplementation on metabolic status and regression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to determine the effects of long-term folate supplementation on regression and metabolic status of patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 (CIN1). METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed among 58 women diagnosed with CIN1, ages 18 to 55 y old. Participants were randomly divided into two groups to receive 5 mg/d folate supplements (n = 29) or placebo (n = 29) for 6 mo. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and 6 mo after intervention to quantify related markers. RESULTS: A greater percentage of women in the folate group had regressed CIN1 (83.3 versus 52.0%, P = 0.019) than those in the placebo group. Long-term folate supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in serum insulin levels (-1.6 ± 6.2 versus +2.6 ± 6.9 µIU/mL, P = 0.018) and homeostatic model assessment-beta cell function (HOMA-B) (-13.0 ± 39.0 versus +11.2 ± 42.3, P = 0.028) compared with the placebo. Additionally, plasma glutathione (GSH) levels were significantly increased (+81.5 ± 264.1 versus -220.9 ± 342.5 µmol/L, P < 0.001) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly reduced (-1.0 ± 1.1 versus +0.1 ± 1.6 µmol/L, P = 0.004) in the folate group compared to the placebo. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, folate supplementation (5 mg/d) for 6 mo among women with CIN1 resulted in its regression as well as led to decreased serum insulin, HOMA-B, plasma MDA and increased plasma GSH levels; however, it did not affect other metabolic profiles.

The favourable effects of long-term selenium supplementation on regression of cervical tissues and metabolic profiles of patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

This study was conducted to assess the effects of long-term Se administration on the regression and metabolic status of patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 (CIN1). This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was carried out among fifty-eight women diagnosed with CIN1. To diagnose CIN1, we used specific diagnostic procedures of biopsy, pathological diagnosis and colposcopy. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups to receive 200 µg Se supplements as Se yeast (n 28) or placebo (n 28) daily for 6 months. After 6 months of taking Se supplements, a greater percentage of women in the Se group had regressed CIN1 (88·0 v. 56·0 %; P=0·01) compared with those in the placebo group. Long-term Se supplementation, compared with the placebo, resulted in significant decreases in fasting plasma glucose levels (-0·37 (sd 0·32) v. +0·07 (sd 0·63) mmol/l; P=0·002), serum insulin levels (-28·8 (sd 31·2) v. +13·2 (sd 40·2) pmol/l; P<0·001), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance values (-1·3 (se 1·3) v. +0·5 (se 1·4); P<0·001) and a significant elevation in quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (+0·03 (sd 0·03) v. -0·01 (sd 0·01); P<0·001). In addition, patients who received Se supplements had significantly decreased serum TAG (-0·14 (sd 0·55) v. +0·15 (sd 0·38) mmol/l; P=0·02) and increased HDL-cholesterol levels (+0·13 (sd 0·21) v. -0·01 (sd 0·15) mmol/l; P=0·003). In addition, compared with the placebo group, there were significant rises in plasma total antioxidant capacity (+186·1 (sd 274·6) v. +42·8 (sd 180·4) mmol/l; P=0·02) and GSH levels (+65·0 (sd 359·8) v. -294·2 (sd 581·8) µmol/l; P=0·007) and a significant decrease in malondialdehyde levels (-1·5 (sd 2·1) v. +0·1 (sd 1·4) µmol/l; P=0·001) among those who took Se supplements. Overall, taking Se supplements among patients with CIN1 led to its regression and had beneficial effects on their metabolic profiles.