The effects of powdered drinks enriched with curcumin and probiotics on lipid profile and atherogenic indices in patients with metabolic syndrome: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Cardiovascular disease is prevalent globally and is the most common complication of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Previous studies have suggested that curcumin and probiotics may improve the lipid profile, so we aimed to investigate the effects of the edible powder enriched with these substances on lipid profile level and atherogenic indices such as Atherogenic Coefficient (AC), Castelli Risk Index-I (CRI-I), Castelli Risk Index-II (CRI-II), and Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP). In the present parallel randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial, 124 people with MetS with overweight or obesity were randomly allocated to 4 groups and were followed up for 8 weeks. The participants received a low-calorie diet and a daily sachet of enriched powder drink. The sachets contained either 109 CFU of probiotics or 1 g of curcumin, or probiotic + curcumin (pro + cur), or placebo, respectively. The fasting lipid profile and atherogenic indices were measured at the beginning and end of the study. One hundred and fourteen participants completed the study. At the end of the study, the within- and between-group comparisons showed no significant differences in lipid profile and atherogenic indices (p > .05). Based on the results of the current study, taking an oral powder containing 1 g curcumin and 109 CFU probiotics for 8 weeks had no effect on the lipid profile level and atherogenic indices; however, more studies are recommended.

Prevalence and factors associated with inter-arm systolic and diastolic blood pressure differences: results from the baseline Fasa Adult's Cohort Study (FACS).

BACKGROUND: One of the modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases is the inter-arm blood pressure difference (IAD), which can be easily measured. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors related to the Iranian population's inter-arm differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. METHOD: This cross-sectional study was conducted on the baseline data of participants who had Iranian nationality, were at least 1 year of residence in the area, aged within the age range of 35-70 years, and willed to participate from the Fasa Persian Adult Cohort Study (FACS). IAD for systolic and diastolic blood pressure was measured and categorized into two groups of difference < 10 and ≥ 10 mmHg. Logistic regression was used to model the association between independent variables and IAD. RESULTS: The prevalence of systolic and diastolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg was 16.34% and 10.2%, respectively, among 10,124 participants. According to the multivariable logistic regression models, age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.019 [95% CI: 1.013, 1.025]), body mass index (BMI) (aOR: 1.112 [95% CI: 1.016, 1.229]), having type 2 diabetes (aOR Yes/No: 1.172 [95% CI: 1.015, 1.368]), having chronic headaches (aOR Yes/No: 1.182 [95% CI: 1.024, 1.365]), and pulse rate (aOR: 1.019 [95% CI: 1.014, 1.024]) significantly increased the odds of systolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg. Additionally, high socio-economic status decreased the odds of systolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg (aOR High/Low: 0.854 [95% CI: 0.744, 0.979]). For diastolic IAD, age (aOR: 1.112 [95% CI: 1.015, 1.210]) and pulse rate (aOR: 1.021 [95% CI: 1.015, 1.027]) significantly increased the odds of diastolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg. Moreover, high socioeconomic status decreased the odds of diastolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg (aOR High/Low: 0.820 [95% CI: 0.698, 0.963]). CONCLUSION: The noticeable prevalence of systolic and diastolic IAD in general population exhibits health implications due to its' association with the risk of cardiovascular events. Sociodemographic and medical history assessments have potentials to be incorporated in IAD risk stratification and preventing programs.

Effects of L-Carnitine and Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Randomized, Controlled, Clinical Trial.

The prevalence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and its associated lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) increases with age. Considering that BPH drug treatment is associated with complications, this study aimed to investigate the effects of L-carnitine (LC) and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation as an adjunct therapy to finasteride in the management of LUTS in older men affected with BPH. Fifty eligible volunteers (25 per group) were randomly assigned to either intervention (finasteride + LC and CoQ10 supplements) or control (finasteride + placebo) groups. International prostate symptom score (IPSS), international index of erectile function (IIEF), quality of life index (QoL), as well as serum levels of Prostate-specific antigen (PSA), were assessed. Prostate ultrasound evaluation was also performed, before and after 8 wk of intervention. Supplementation with LC and CoQ10 led to a significant decrease in prostate volume (p < 0.001) as well as a significant increase in IIEF (p < 0.001), compared to the control group. However, there were no significant between-group differences in IPSS (p = 0.503), QoL scores (p = 0.339), and PSA levels (p = 0.482). CoQ10 and LC supplements might be beneficial in combination with standard therapies in the management of BPH and its related complications.

The effects of zinc supplementation on the metabolic factors in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with metabolic factors including obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and elevated inflammatory factors. Zinc (Zn) supplementation has been investigated as a potential adjunctive therapy in managing NAFLD outcomes. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial, 50 overweight or obese participants with NAFLD were randomized into 2 groups of 25 and received either 30 mg of daily Zn or a placebo for 8 weeks. Both groups were invited to follow a balanced energy-restricted diet and physical activity recommendations. RESULTS: Based on the between-group comparison, Zn supplementation caused a significant increase in the Zn level (P < 0.001) and a significant decrease in weight (P = 0.004), body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.002), waist circumference (P = 0.010), aspartate transaminase (AST) (P = 0.033), total cholesterol (TC) (P = 0.045), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P = 0.014), but it had no significant effect on alanine transaminase (ALT), fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride (TG), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of the present study indicated that 8-week supplementation of 30 mg daily Zn may increase the Zn serum level and decline anthropometric parameters, AST, TC, and LDL-C in NAFLD patients, so further research is suggested in the future. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was retrospectively registered at IRCT.ir as IRCT20191015045113N1 (December/8/2019).

Predictive value of triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride glycemic index for diabetes incidence in pre-diabetes patients: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The triglyceride glucose (TyG) and triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL-c) are the indices that can predict the progression of pre-diabetes to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to examine the relationship between TyG and TG/HDL-c indices with the incidence of T2DM in pre-diabetes patients. METHODS: A total of 758 pre-diabetic patients aged 35-70 years who were enrolled in a prospective Fasa Persian Adult Cohort were followed up for 60 months. TyG and TG/HDL-C indices were obtained at baseline data and divided into quartiles. The 5-year cumulative incidence of T2DM was analyzed by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis while controlling for baseline covariates. RESULTS: During 5 years of follow-up, there were 95 incident cases of T2DM, with an overall incidence rate of 12.53%. After adjusting for age, sex, smoking, marital status, socioeconomic status, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, hypertension, total cholesterol, and dyslipidemia, the multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) demonstrated that patients with the highest TyG and TG/HDL-C indices quartile were at higher risk of T2DM (HR = 4.42, 95%CI 1.75-11.21) and (HR = 2.15, 95%CI 1.04-4.47), respectively, compared to participants in the lowest quartile. As the quantiles of these indices increase, the HR value shows a significant increment (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of our study showed that the TyG and TG/HDL-C indices can be important independent predictors for the progression of pre-diabetes to T2DM. Therefore, controlling the components of these indicators in pre-diabetes patients can prevent developing T2DM or delay its occurrence.

Milk kefir drink may not reduce depression in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: secondary outcome analysis of a randomized, single-blinded, controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Depression is prevalent among individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and can cause poor health outcomes. Moreover, a solid bilateral association between NAFLD and depression has been shown, which may alleviate by kefir consumption. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effect of milk kefir drinks on the depression status of individuals with NAFLD. METHODS: In a secondary outcome analysis of a randomized, single-blinded, controlled clinical trial, 80 adults with grades 1 to 3 of NAFLD were included in an 8-week intervention. Participants were randomly assigned to Diet or Diet + kefir groups to either follow a low-calorie diet or a low-calorie diet along with a 500 cc milk kefir drink daily. The participants' demographic, anthropometric, dietary, and physical data were recorded before and after the study. Depression status was assessed using the Persian format of the second version of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II-Persian) at the baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention. RESULTS: Overall, 80 participants aged 42.87 ± 10.67 years were included in the analysis. The data on the baseline demographic, dietary, and physical activity of the groups were not significantly different. During the study, participants in Diet + Kefir group had a significantly decreased energy (P = 0.02), carbohydrate (P = 0.4), and fat consumption (P = 0.4). However, during the study, the depression score was not significantly reduced in the Diet group, the Diet + Kefir group showed a significant reduction in depression (P = 0.02). However, between-group analyses for changes in depression were not significant (P = 0.59). CONCLUSION: Consumption of milk kefir drink for 8 weeks may not reduce depression symptoms in adults with NAFLD. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered at IRCT.ir as IRCT20170916036204N6 (August 2018).

The possible relationship between the healthy eating index-2015 and the 10-year risk of cardiovascular diseases.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. This underlies the need to evaluate different targets, such as diet quality. In this regard, we conducted the present study to find whether the healthy eating index-2015 (HEI-2015) score is associated with a 10-year risk of CVDs based on Framingham Risk Score (FRS) and QRISK3 in different body mass index (BMI) groups. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was performed based on Shiraz University of Medical Sciences Employees Health Cohort Study (SUMS EHCS) data in April 2020. A total of 764 participants met the inclusion criteria. An expert performed demographic, anthropometric, and dietary evaluations. A semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was applied to assess the diet quality, and FRS and QRISK3 were used to evaluate the 10-year risk of CVDs. RESULTS: Based on the results, many components of HEI-2015 indicated an increasing trend through quartiles (p < 0.001). However, the consumption of refined grains in higher quartiles showed a decreasing trend (p < 0.001). The consumption of added sugar and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) in higher quartiles revealed an increasing trend (p < 0.001). In addition, lower HEI-2015 scores and lower whole grain consumption were significantly associated with higher BMI (p < 0.05). Also, lower consumption of fruits showed a significant relationship with higher risk scores of Framingham and QRISK3 (p < 0.05). Higher added sugar and SFAs intake was significantly related to lower FRS (p < 0.05). A significant reverse association between HEI-2015 and QRISK3 and Framingham risk scores was seen (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our findings support dietary recommendations to increase fruit and whole grains intake to prevent CVD and obesity. Moreover, a significant inverse association between HEI-2015 and QRISK3 and Framingham risk scores was observed. Since the results for added sugars and SFA intakes were controversial, further studies are needed.

Effects of probiotic and magnesium co-supplementation on mood, cognition, intestinal barrier function and inflammation in individuals with obesity and depressed mood: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Background: The co-occurrence of obesity and mood impairments named as "metabolic mood syndrome" (MMS) is often neglected in the obesity management. This study aimed to evaluate effects of Probio-Tec ®BG-VCap-6.5 and magnesium co-supplementation on mood, cognition, intestinal barrier function and serum C reactive protein (CRP) levels in participants with obesity and depressed mood. Design: Seventy-four eligible participants were randomly allocated to either Probio-Tec®BG-VCap-6.5 [containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG®) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis (BB-12®)] + Magnesium chloride or placebo for 9 weeks. Sociodemographic data were collected in the beginning. Anthropometric, dietary and physical activity (PA) assessments were carried out. Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores were assessed through validated questionnaires. Fasting plasma zonulin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and (CRP) were measured by ELIZA kits. Results: Of seventy-four participants (mean age 37.51 ± 8.10), 52 completed the study. Changes in serum LPS and zonulin were not different significantly between groups (-3.04 ± 44.75 ng/dl, 0.11 ± 5.13, ng/dl, p > 0.05 for LPS and 1.40 ± 48.78 ng/dl, -0.17 ± 6.60, p > 0.05 for zonulin, respectively). CRP levels reduced significantly in intervention group compared to placebo [-474.75 (-1,300.00, -125.00) mg/l vs. 175.20 (-957.75, 1,683.25) mg/l, p = 0.016]. Changes in BDI-II and MoCA scores were not significantly different between intervention (-7.13 ± 5.67, 1.20 ± 2.16, respectively) and placebo (-5.42 ± 6.71, 1.94 ± 1.86, respectively) groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Nine weeks of probiotic and magnesium co-supplementation resulted in decreased CRP levels as an indicator of inflammatory state with no significant effects on mood, cognition and intestinal integrity in individuals with obesity and depressed mood.

The Effect of Short-term Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) Diet on Hunger Hormones, Anthropometric Parameters, and Brain Structures in Middle-aged Overweight and Obese Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: The rising prevalence of obesity, as well as its detrimental effects on the brain, has drawn attention to specific dietary patterns. This study aimed to examine the effect of the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) pattern on anthropometric parameters, hunger hormones, and brain structures in overweight and obese women. Methods: This randomized trial was conducted in Shiraz between October 2018 and March 2019. We analyzed 37 healthy women with a mean age of 48±5.38 years and a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 32±0.69 Kg/m2. Participants were randomly allocated to a hypocaloric modified MIND diet or a hypocaloric control diet. Differences in anthropometric, laboratory analysis, and brain structure were determined at baseline and three-month follow-up. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22.0. Independent and paired sample t test were used to determine between and within differences. We also used mixed-model ANOVA to compare the mean differences between two-factor groups. Results: A more significant weight reduction (P<0.0001), BMI (P<0.0001), percentage of body fat (P=0.03), waist circumference (P=0.01), and Leptin concentration (P=0.03) were found in the MIND diet group. The results also showed a significant increase in Ghrelin (P=0.002) and GLP-1 (P=0.01) levels in the MIND diet group. The findings revealed no differences in the whole and regional brain structures between the two groups. Conclusion: For the first time, this study showed that the MIND diet intervention could improve the devastating effect of obesity on metabolic profiles and anthropometric parameters. However, we could not find its effect on brain structures.Trial registration number: IRCT20190427043387N1.A preprint of this study was published at https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.06.28.20142018v1.

Effect of MIND diet intervention on cognitive performance and brain structure in healthy obese women: a randomized controlled trial.

Previous studies suggested adherence to recently developed Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) associated with cognitive performance. This study aimed to examine the effect of MIND dietary pattern on cognitive performance features and changes in brain structure in healthy obese women. As a total of 50 obese women were assessed for eligibility, we randomly allocated 40 participants with mean BMI 32 ± 4.31 kg/m2 and mean age 48 ± 5.38 years to either calorie-restricted modified MIND diet or a calorie-restricted standard control diet. Change in cognitive performance was the primary outcome measured with a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. We also performed voxel-based morphometry as a secondary outcome to quantify the differences in brain structure. All of the measurements were administered at baseline and 3 months follow-up. Thirty-seven participants (MIND group = 22 and control group = 15) completed the study. The results found in the MIND diet group working memory + 1.37 (95% CI 0.79, 1.95), verbal recognition memory + 4.85 (95% CI 3.30, 6.40), and attention + 3.75 (95% CI 2.43, 5.07) improved more compared with the control group (ps < 0.05). Results of brain MRI consist of an increase in surface area of the inferior frontal gyrus in the MIND diet group. Furthermore, the results showed a decrease in the cerebellum-white matter and cerebellum-cortex in two groups of study. Still, the effect in the MIND group was greater than the control group. The study findings declare for the first time that the MIND diet intervention can reverse the destructive effects of obesity on cognition and brain structure, which could be strengthened by a modest calorie restriction.Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04383704 (First registration date: 05/05/2020).

Health-Related Quality of Life and Nutritional Status Are Related to Dietary Magnesium Intake in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study.

An insufficient intake of magnesium may be associated with the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We aimed to determine the relationship between health related quality of life (QoL), anthropometric indices and nutritional status with dietary magnesium intake in COPD patients. Sixty-one COPD patients participated in this cross-sectional study. QoL and nutritional status were assessed. Furthermore, body composition, calf circumference, and muscle strength were measured; equations were used to calculate fat-free mass index, body mass index, and muscle mass value. Dietary magnesium intake was assessed by three 24-hours recalls and magnesium intake was categorized as ≤ 188.08 mg/day (A group) and > 188.08 mg/day (B group). The χ2, independent-sample t-test and Mann-Whitney test were used for statistical analysis. The p values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Of QoL assessments the total and impact mean scores of St. George's respiratory questionnaire in the B group were significantly lower than the means of the A group (p value = 0.007 and 0.005, respectively). The instrumental activity of daily living score was significantly improved in patients with higher consumption of dietary magnesium (p = 0.02). Participants had a significantly lower mean score of patient-generated subjective global assessment in the B group compared to the A group (p = 0.003). Higher intake of dietary magnesium can lead to improve QoL and nutrition status.

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) oil could improve abdominal obesity, blood pressure, and insulin resistance in patients with metabolic syndrome: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Carthamus tinctorius L. (Safflower) has been widely recommended to treat metabolic disorders in traditional herbal medicine in Persia, China, Korea, Japan, and other East-Asian countries. The anti-hypercholesterolemic and antioxidant effects of this plant have been well documented, but its protective effects against Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) have not been fully illustrated. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of safflower oil on MetS risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 67 patients with MetS were administered either divided 8 g safflower oil or placebo daily for 12 weeks. All patients were advised to follow their previous diets and physical activities. RESULTS: Safflower oil resulted in a significant reduction in waist circumference (-2.42 ± 3.24 vs. 0.97 ± 2.53, p<0.001), systolic blood pressure (-8.80 ± 9.77 vs. -2.26 ± 8.56, p = 0.021), diastolic blood pressure (-3.53 ± 7.52 vs. -0.70 ± 6.21, p = 0.041), fasting blood sugar (-5.03 ± 10.62 vs. 2.94 ± 7.57, p = 0.003), and insulin resistance (-0.59 ± 1.43 vs. 0.50 ± 1, p = 0.012), but an increase in adiponectin level (0.38 ± 0.99 vs. -0.09 ± 0.81, p = 0.042) in the treatment group in comparison to the placebo group. The results revealed a direct relationship between leptin level and Body Mass Index (BMI) in both groups (p<0.001). In addition, increase in BMI resulted in a non-significant decrease in adiponectin level in both groups. Moreover, no significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding lipid profiles, leptin serum level, serum creatinine concentration, and other outcomes. CONCLUSION: Safflower oil without lifestyle modification improved abdominal obesity, blood pressure, and insulin resistance in patients with MetS.

Associations between FTO rs9939609 polymorphism, serum vitamin D, mental health, and eating behaviors in overweight adults.

Background: Despite the significant role of the Fat Mass and Obesity-Associated (FTO) gene in obesity, the underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Besides, vitamin D deficiency and obesity are mostly seen together, and it can be hypothesized that this nutrient may have an impact in the role of FTO genotype in adiposity.Objective: Thus, this study aimed to investigate the association of FTO rs9939609 gene polymorphism with eating behaviors, eating disorders, and general mental health in overweight adults, considering their vitamin D intake as a mediate confounding factor.Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 197 overweight adults in Shiraz, Iran. Genotyping was performed through amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (ARMS PCR). Mental health, vitamin D intake, eating behaviors and disorders were assessed by the validated questionnaires.Results: The risk allele of the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism (A) was significantly associated with a higher risk of eating behavior and mental health disorders (all P < 0.05). After considering vitamin D intake, the AA genotype carriers had significantly higher risks for poorer eating behavior (P = 0.002), mental health (P = 0.007), and general mental health (P = 0.039) compared with the TT carriers if they had insufficient vitamin D intake.Conclusion: In conclusion, these results indicated that the A-allele of the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism may be associated with poorer eating behaviors, mental health, and higher risk of eating disorders. It was also identified that the effect of FTO rs9939609 A risk allele on eating behavior and mental health may be limited to people with insufficient vitamin D intake.

The effect of genistein on insulin resistance, inflammatory factors, lipid profile, and histopathologic indices in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenism, irregular menstruation, ovulatory dysfunction, and insulin resistance. Recent studies have reported the possible role of phytoestrogens in PCOS. This animal study aimed to evaluate the effects of genistein on insulin resistance, inflammatory factors, lipid profile, and histopathologic indices on PCOS. METHODS: PCOS was induced by 1 mg/kg of letrozole in adult Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats then received normal saline (PCOS group), 150 mg/kg of metformin, or 20 mg/kg of genistein dissolved in 1% methylcellulose solution for 42 days. Body weight, the glycemic and lipid profile, and inflammatory, antioxidative, and histopathological parameters were assessed at the end of the intervention. RESULTS: Treatment with genistein significantly alleviated the increased level of fasting blood insulin (p=0.16) and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (p=0.012). In addition, the genistein group had significantly lower levels of serum malondialdehyde (p=0.039) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (p=0.003), and higher superoxide dismutase enzyme activity (p<0.001). Furthermore, the histopathological analysis indicated that genistein administration led to an increase in luteinization and the development of fewer cysts (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Biochemical and histopathological analyses indicated that genistein administration to rats with PCOS induced significant remission in oxidative, inflammatory, and glycemic and histopathologic parameters.

Muscle mass and function are related to respiratory function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as an airway limitation condition, is accompanied by alteration of muscle mass and function. We aimed to determine the relationship between disease severity and body composition, muscle function, and nutritional status in COPD patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 129 COPD participants. Muscle strength, body composition, and calf circumference (CC) were measured using a hydraulic hand dynamometer, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and a tape measure, respectively. Furthermore, fat-free mass index (FFMI), body mass index (BMI) and muscle mass value were calculated by equations. Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) was assessed as well. Nutritional status was also evaluated by subjective global assessment (SGA) questionnaire. SPSS software (version 21 ) was used, chi-square, fisher's exact test, univariate and multivariate linear regression models were used for statistical analysis. P-values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results: Based on FEV1 classification, 52.7% of the patients had severe conditions. The reports indicated that the prevalence of low CC was 54.2%, low muscle mass 38.7%, low FFMI 34.8%, low right handgrip strength 61.2% and low left handgrip strength 64.3%. Furthermore, there was an increasing trend based on FEV1 in low CC (p=0.032), low muscle mass (p=0.005), low FFMI (p=0.002), low right handgrip strength (p=0.004) and low left handgrip strength (p=0.014). The results of univariate analysis showed muscle mass (p=0.036), total protein (p=0.043), FFM (p=0.047), FFMI (p=0.007), SGA (p=0.029), right handgrip strength (p=0.004) and left hand grip strength (p=0.023) were associated with FEV1. In addition, the results of multivariate analysis demonstrated low values of FFMI (p=0.005) and right handgrip strength (p=0.042) were the main detrimental factors for FEV1. The results of multivariate analysis were confirmed by stepwise model. Conclusion: Low values of muscle mass and function are prevalent among COPD patients. The present study revealed that low FFMI and handgrip strength were closely related to disease severity.

Does vitamin D affect the association between FTO rs9939609 polymorphism and depression?

Background & objectives: Depression is a highly prevalent and multifactorial psychological disorder. Fat Mass and Obesity-Associated (FTO) gene and the serum vitamin D level are proposed to be involved in pathophysiology of depression. This study aimed to investigate the interactions between one FTO gene single nucleotide polymorphism, depression, and serum vitamin D level in overweight adults.Methods: One hundred and ninety-seven overweight adults were recruited in this cross-sectional study. FTO genotyping was performed by amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR). Depression severity was assessed using Beck's depression inventory (BDI-II). Serum vitamin D levels were measured using a direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.Results: A-allele carriers had higher Beck's depression score (P = 0.03). Multivariate regression models showed a positive association between the A-allele of FTO rs9939609 polymorphism and depression. Serum vitamin D level had no effect on the association between FTO genotype and depression.Conclusion: A-allele of FTO rs9939609 polymorphism might be associated with depression independent of serum vitamin D level. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these results.

Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Berberis integerrima and resveratrol on ovarian morphology and biochemical parameters in Letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome rat model: An experimental study.

BACKGROUND: Resveratrol and Berberis integerrima (B. integerrima) are known to be natural antioxidants and regulators of human metabolism. However, the effects of resveratrol and B. integerrima on the ovarian morphology in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are not obvious. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of B. integerrima in combination with resveratrol on some biochemical parameters and ovarian morphology in the letrozole-induced PCOS rat. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy adult female Sprague-Dawley rats aged 10-12 weeks weighing 200 ± 20 gr were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 10/each). Group I): normal; Group II): vehicle; Group III): letrozole-induced PCOS 1 mg/kg letrozole orally, rats receiving 1 cc normal saline orally; Group IV): PCOS + receiving 150 mg/kg metformin orally; Group V): PCOS + receiving 20 mg/kg resveratrol orally; Group VI): PCOS + 3 gr/kg barberry orally; and Group VII): PCOS + receiving 3 gr/kg barberry and 20 mg/kg resveratrol orally. All animals were followed-up for 63 days. The biochemical parameters and histological assessments of ovaries were performed. RESULTS: Resveratrol alone and/or in combination with B. integerrima treatment in rats led to a significant decrease in low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, malondialdehyde, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha concentrations (p = 0.02). The groups IV, V, VI, and VII showed a decrease in insulin resistance and an increase in the superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, and high-density lipoprotein (p = 0.01). No significant difference was observed between the level of serum glucose in the treatment groups. Number of cystic follicles had a significant decrease in barberry, resveratrol, and their combination groups (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Resveratrol, B. integerrima, and their combination as natural products with fewer side effects might be effective as an alternative medicine in treatment of PCOS.

The association between FTO genotype with macronutrients and calorie intake in overweight adults.

BACKGROUND: Dietary macronutrients may indirectly affect body weight through their interactions with the fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) gene. This study aimed to investigate the association between FTO gene rs9939609 polymorphism with macronutrients intake in overweight adults. METHODS: This study was carried out on 196 overweight adults of Shiraz, Iran. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The FTO gene was genotyped for rs9939609 polymorphism. The association between dietary macronutrients and the FTO genotype were assessed using linear regression after adjustments for sex, age, physical activity, and the serum levels of triglycerides, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and low density lipoprotein (LDL). RESULTS: The higher intake of carbohydrates (P < 0.001), fat (P = 0.009), and calorie (P = 0.001) were significantly associated with rs9939609 AA genotype (P = 0.001). Carriers of the AA genotype of rs9939609 had significantly higher calorie, fat, and carbohydrate intake than the carriers of the TT genotype after adjusting for age and sex (P = 0.019, P = 0.010 and P = 0.001, respectively). Further adjustments for physical activity, TG, LDL, and FBS did not change these results. CONCLUSION: The amounts of dietary calorie, carbohydrate, and fat intake were associated with FTO genotype. Further studies are warranted to confirm these associations and to identify the underlying mechanisms.

The Patients' Beliefs Regarding the Role of Food, Mucosal Trauma, Menstruation, and Psychological Stress in the Recurrence of Behçet's Disease Symptoms.

Behçet's disease is a systemic vasculitis. Mucocutaneous involvement is the most prominent finding, but triggering factors are not well-known. We decided to assess the beliefs of patients with Behçet's disease regarding the potential role of food, mucosal injury, menstruation, and stress in the appearance of symptoms. In this cross-sectional study, 60 patients with Behçet's disease who fulfilled the International Study Group criteria for Behçet's disease and referred to the outpatient Behçet's clinic of Motahari, affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, were included. A questionnaire was designed by the research team consisting of the rheumatologist involved in the study, two dietitians, and a psychiatrist. The patients were interviewed face-to-face to fill in the questionnaire. The assessed variables were all food categories, menstruation, psychological stress, and oral mucosal injury as the potential triggers of symptoms onset. The most common foods reported as triggers for oral ulcers were eggplant (78.3%), melon (68.3%), walnut (68.2%), and cantaloupe (66.7%). Walnut was reported by three patients (5%) as the most common trigger for genital ulcers. Nervous tension (83%) and annoying arguments (45%) were the two most common psychological stress triggers for oral ulcers. Seven patients (11.7%) reported tooth brushing, as the trigger for oral ulcers. The irregular menstrual cycle was a trigger for oral ulcers in only two patients. Food items such as eggplant, walnut and melon were common self-reported triggers for mucocutaneous lesions in patients with Behçet's disease. Nervous tension and annoying arguments were also common psychological triggers for oral aphthous ulcers.

Nutritional Quality's Key Role in the Odds of Overweight in Adults with rs9939609 Polymorphism of FTO Gene- the Role of Manganese and Vitamin D.

BACKGROUND: Obesity and overweight are the most prevailing problem in most countries. Overweight people are very susceptible to diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and cancers. Adequate intake of micronutrients along with a quality diet that is varied and balanced plays an important role regarding health and the immune system. Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between the quality of diet and different diseases. Genetics is a risk factor of great importance regarding obesity and overweight. Yet, the role of nutrition in relationship with the underlying mechanisms remains unclear and no specific pathways have been identified for this relation. METHODS: A valid food frequency questionnaire was employed to assess dietary intake. We calculated the INQ (Index of Nutritional Quality) of each dietary item using the following formulae: INQ=consumed amount of a nutrient per 1,000 kcal/recommended dietary allowance or adequate intake of that nutrient per 1,000 kcal. In a retrospective chart review, we determined the genotypes of FTO rs9939609 polymorphism (TT/AT/AA) via amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR). RESULTS: Models obtained from the resulting INQs of manganese as a continuous variable in relationship with waist circumference represented a significant association after multivariate adjustment of age, sex, height, fat free mass, weight, body mass index, marital status, TF, fasting blood sugar, low-density lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins, total cholesterol, insulin resistance, and total energy intake (odds ratio = 0.24, CI = 0.07-0.79). CONCLUSIONS: Intake of vitamin D from sunlight and its nutritional sources and adequate intake of Mn from a wide range of vegetables, legumes, seeds, and grains might be solutions for some overweight cases with FTO rs9939609 polymorphism.