Role of Sulfur Compounds in Garlic as Potential Therapeutic Option for Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Asthma.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease in the airways with a multifactorial origin but with inflammation and oxidative stress as related pathogenic mechanisms. Garlic (Allium sativum) is a nutraceutical with different biological properties due to sulfur-containing natural compounds. Studies have shown that several compounds in garlic may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases, including those related to the lungs. Therefore, it is possible to take advantage of the compounds from garlic as nutraceuticals for treating lung diseases. The objective of this article is to review the biological properties of the sulfur compounds present in garlic for the treatment of asthma, as well as the cellular mechanisms involved. Here, we discuss the potential therapeutic effects of garlic compounds in the modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as its antibiotic and antiviral activities for identifying and testing potential treatment options for asthma management.

Self-reported dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are associated with adipose tissue markers and glucose metabolism in apparently healthy subjects.

BACKGROUND: Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and resistin are associated with dysfunctional adipose tissue (AT)-related metabolic complications. The role of dietary eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) fatty acids in this relationship is unknown. AIM: To investigate the association of EPA and DHA with PAI-1 and resistin, as well as the role of this association on the glucose metabolism of apparently healthy subjects. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Thirty-six healthy individuals were included. Validated food frequency questionnaires were used to analyse dietary habits. Inflammatory and glucose metabolism markers were quantified. Subcutaneous AT samples were obtained, and adipocyte number, area, and macrophage content were assessed. RESULTS: In 36 subjects aged 56 ± 8 years and with a body mass index of 26 ± 4 kg/m2, logEPA, and logDHA showed significant association with logresistin and a marginal association with PAI-1. Adipocyte number, area, and lognumber of macrophages per adipocyte significantly correlated with PAI-1 but not with logresistin. Although logEPA and logDHA were independently associated with loginsulin, loginsulin resistance, and C-Peptide, the addition of logresistin, but not of PAI-1, into the multivariable model, abolished the associations. CONCLUSIONS: EPA and DHA could modulate glucose metabolism across AT functional states. Our data indicate that this association is independent of other metabolic risk factors.

Mecanismos moleculares de los efectos benéficos de la alicina sobre la enfermedad cardiovascular / Molecular mechanisms of the beneficial effects of allicin on cardiovascular disease

Resumen Las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) comprenden un grupo de enfermedades cuyo denominador común es la afectación de vasos sanguíneos, corazón y ritmo cardiaco. El tratamiento de las ECV representa costos muy altos para los sistemas de salud y está enfocado en el control de los factores de riesgo. A pesar de existir una gran variedad de fármacos para el tratamiento de las ECV, estas continúan siendo las principales causas de mortalidad, posiblemente debido a que su origen es multifactorial y por ello se requiere de más de un fármaco. En este contexto, la alicina, un compuesto derivado del ajo, ha mostrado regular la expresión de vías de señalización y factores de riesgo asociados a la progresión de las ECV. Por ello el objetivo del presente trabajo es revisar los mecanismos celulares y moleculares por medio de los cuales la alicina ejerce sus efectos terapéuticos y describir las evidencias científicas del porqué la alicina podría representar un potencial candidato para coadyuvar en el tratamiento de las ECV.

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) include a group of diseases whose common denominator is the affection of the blood vessels, heart, and heart rate. The treatment of CVD represents high costs to the health systems and is focused on the control of risk factors. Despite the existence of a great variety of treatments of the CVD, these continue as the main cause of mortality mainly due to the multifactorial origin, and therefore more than one drug is required. In this context, allicin, a compound derived from garlic, has shown regulate the expression of signaling pathways and risk factors associated with the progression of CVD. Therefore, the objective of this work is to review the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which allicin exert its therapeutic effects and to describe the scientific evidences why allicin represents a potential candidate to assist in the treatment of CVD.

Cellular Mechanisms Underlying the Cardioprotective Role of Allicin on Cardiovascular Diseases.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of diseases in which the common denominator is the affection of blood vessels, heart tissue, and heart rhythm. The genesis of CVD is complex and multifactorial; therefore, approaches are often based on multidisciplinary management and more than one drug is used to achieve the optimal control of risk factors (dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypertrophy, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation). In this context, allicin, a sulfur compound naturally derived from garlic, has shown beneficial effects on several cardiovascular risk factors through the modulation of cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways. Effective pharmacological treatments for CVD or its risk factors have not been developed or are unknown in clinical practice. Thus, this work aimed to review the cellular mechanisms through which allicin exerts its therapeutic effects and to show why it could be a therapeutic option for the prevention or treatment of CVD and its risk factors.

Mecanismos moleculares de los efectos benéficos de la alicina sobre la enfermedad cardiovascular.

Las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) comprenden un grupo de enfermedades cuyo denominador común es la afectación de vasos sanguíneos, corazón y ritmo cardiaco. El tratamiento de las ECV representa costos muy altos para los sistemas de salud y está enfocado en el control de los factores de riesgo. A pesar de existir una gran variedad de fármacos para el tratamiento de las ECV, estas continúan siendo las principales causas de mortalidad, posiblemente debido a que su origen es multifactorial y por ello se requiere de más de un fármaco. En este contexto, la alicina, un compuesto derivado del ajo, ha mostrado regular la expresión de vías de señalización y factores de riesgo asociados a la progresión de las ECV. Por ello el objetivo del presente trabajo es revisar los mecanismos celulares y moleculares por medio de los cuales la alicina ejerce sus efectos terapéuticos y describir las evidencias científicas del porqué la alicina podría representar un potencial candidato para coadyuvar en el tratamiento de las ECV.Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) include a group of diseases whose common denominator is the affection of the blood vessels, heart, and heart rate. The treatment of CVD represents high costs to the health systems and is focused on the control of risk factors. Despite the existence of a great variety of treatments of the CVD, these continue as the main cause of mortality mainly due to the multifactorial origin, and therefore more than one drug is required. In this context, allicin, a compound derived from garlic, has shown regulate the expression of signaling pathways and risk factors associated with the progression of CVD. Therefore, the objective of this work is to review the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which allicin exert its therapeutic effects and to describe the scientific evidences why allicin represents a potential candidate to assist in the treatment of CVD.

Uric acid is associated with morpho-functional adipose tissue markers in apparently healthy subjects.

BACKGROUND: Studies have focused on the search of novel biomarkers that allow to easily identify dysfunctional adipose tissue (AT). Uric acid (UA) could be produced and reabsorbed by AT. It has been suggested that the increases of UA concentrations participates in AT dysfunction. We investigated the association of UA with morpho-functional adipose tissue markers in apparently healthy subjects. METHODS: Forty apparently healthy individuals were included. Dietary habits and anthropometrical features were evaluated. Circulating concentrations of UA, adiponectin, leptin, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were quantified. Periumbilical subcutaneous AT samples were obtained and adipocyte number, adipocyte area, and macrophages content were assessed. RESULTS: The present study included 40 healthy subjects (67% women) with an average age of 57 ± 9 y, BMI of 26 ± 4 (kg/m2). UA showed a significant association with the number and mean area of adipocytes, macrophages number, adiponectin, and PAI-1. Although UA was independently associated with the number and mean area of adipocytes, macrophages number, adiponectin into the adjusted multivariable model. CONCLUSION: UA concentrations are associated with morpho-functional adipose tissue markers. Our results underscore the importance of UA as one earlier instigator of adipose tissue dysfunction in subjects without metabolic abnormalities.

Dysfunctional adiposity index as a marker of adipose tissue morpho-functional abnormalities and metabolic disorders in apparently healthy subjects.

Compared to body mass index, waist circumference (WC), and adiposity measurements, adipose tissue (AT) morpho-functionality evaluations are better predictors of cardiometabolic abnormalities (CA). The present study establishes a dysfunctional adiposity index (DAI) as an early marker of CA based on adipocytes morpho-functional abnormalities. DAI was established in 340 subjects without cardiovascular risk factors selected from a cross-sectional study (n=1600). Then, DAI was calculated in 36 healthy subjects who underwent subcutaneous AT biopsy. The correlation of DAI with adipocyte morphology (size/number) and functionality (adiponectin/leptin ratio) was analyzed. The DAI cut-off point was identified and its independent association with CA was determined in 1418 subjects from the cross-sectional study. The constant parameters to calculate the DAI were [WC/[22.79+[2.68*BMI]]]*[triglycerides (TG, mmol/L)/1.37]*[1.19/high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C, mmol/L)] for males, and [WC/[24.02+[2.37*BMI]]]*[TG(mmol/L)/1.32]*[1.43/HDL-C(mmol/L)] for females. DAI correlated with adipocytes mean area, adipocyte number and adiponectin/leptin ratio. DAI ≥1.065 was independently associated with diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, subclinical atherosclerosis, and hypertension. The present study highlights that DAI is associated with early CA independently of adiposity and other risk factors. Since DAI is obtained using accessible parameters, it can be easily incorporated into clinical practice for early identification of AT abnormalities in apparently healthy subjects.

Effects of Allicin on Pathophysiological Mechanisms during the Progression of Nephropathy Associated to Diabetes.

This study aimed to assess the impact of allicin on the course of diabetic nephropathy. Study groups included control, diabetes, and diabetes-treated rats. Allicin treatment (16 mg/kg day/p.o.) started after 1 month of diabetes onset and was administered for 30 days. In the diabetes group, the systolic blood pressure (SBP) increased, also, the oxidative stress and hypoxia in the kidney cortex were evidenced by alterations in the total antioxidant capacity as well as the expression of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2/Kelch ECH associating protein 1 (Nrf2/Keap1), hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), erythropoietin (Epo) and its receptor (Epo-R). Moreover, diabetes increased nephrin, and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) expression that correlated with mesangial matrix, the fibrosis index and with the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). The insulin levels and glucose transporter protein type-4 (GLUT4) expression were decreased; otherwise, insulin receptor substrates 1 and 2 (IRS-1 and IRS-2) expression was increased. Allicin increased Nrf2 expression and decreased SBP, Keap1, HIF-1α, and VEGF expression. Concurrently, nephrin, KIM-1, the mesangial matrix, fibrosis index, and the fibrotic proteins were decreased. Additionally, allicin decreased hyperglycemia, improved insulin levels, and prevented changes in (GLUT4) and IRSs expression induced by diabetes. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that allicin has the potential to help in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy. The cellular mechanisms underlying its effects mainly rely on the regulation of antioxidant, antifibrotic, and antidiabetic mechanisms, which can contribute towards delay in the progression of renal disease.

Control of blood pressure levels in patients with premature coronary artery disease: Results from the Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study.

High blood pressure (BP) is the major cardiovascular-risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), principally in young patients who have an important and increasing socioeconomic burden. Despite the Seventh Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC-7), recommended BP target <140/90 mm Hg for patients with stable CAD, in 2017 the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) updated BP target to <130/80 mm Hg. We aimed to analyze the prevalence of BP control in patients with premature CAD using both criteria. In addition, antihypertensive therapy, lifestyle, clinical, and sociodemographic characteristics of the patients were evaluated in order to identify factors associated with the achievement of BP targets. The present study included 1206 patients with CAD diagnosed before 55 and 65 years old in men and women, respectively. Sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical data were collected. The results indicate that 85.6% and 77.5% of subjects with premature CAD achieved JNC-7 non-strict and ACC/AHA strict BP target, respectively. Consistently, number of antihypertensive drugs and hypertension duration >10 years were inversely associated with BP targets, whereas total physical activity and smoking were directly associated with BP targets, regardless of BP criteria. Considering that age, gender, and hypertension duration are non-modifiable cardiovascular-risk factors, our results highlight the need for more effective strategies focused on increase physical activity and smoking cessation in young patients with CAD. These healthier lifestyles changes should favor the BP target achievement and reduce the socioeconomic and clinical burden of premature CAD.

Coronavirus infection in patients with diabetes.

Diabetes mellitus is a complex, multifactorial, chronic disease characterized by impaired metabolism of glucose, fats and proteins. Patients who suffer from it frequently have hyperglycemia and coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death. The comorbidities associated with diabetes are overweight and obesity, systemic arterial hypertension, atherogenic dyslipidemia and in some patients peripheral vascular disease, kidney damage, neuropathy and retinopathy. Chronic lack of control of the disease is associated with increased susceptibility to infections, which generally have few symptoms, but hyperglycemia is generally magnified, which worsens the course of infections. Since December 2019, when the disease caused by one of the coronaviruses (coronavirus 2 of severe acute respiratory syndrome, SARS-CoV-2) was identified and has been called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there have been some reports that associate the presence of diabetes with an increased risk of mortality. In this review article we have focused on four specific points: 1) epidemiology of the prevalence and mortality of COVID 19 in the general population and in the population with type 2 diabetes mellitus; 2) pathophysiology related to the binding of SARS-CoV-2 to receptors in subjects with diabetes; 3) the immune response induced by SARS-CoV-2, and 4) the outpatient and hospital treatment recommended in patients with diabetes who become infected with SARS-CoV-2.

La diabetes mellitus es una enfermedad crónica, compleja, multifactorial, que se caracteriza por alteración en el metabolismo de la glucosa, las grasas y las proteínas. Los pacientes que la padecen con frecuencia cursan con hiperglucemia y la enfermedad arterial coronaria es la principal causa de muerte. Las comorbilidades que se asocian a la diabetes son: sobrepeso y obesidad, hipertensión arterial sistémica, dislipidemia aterogénica y en algunos pacientes enfermedad vascular periférica, daño renal, neuropatía y retinopatía. El descontrol crónico de la enfermedad se asocia a mayor susceptibilidad a infecciones, las cuales generalmente cursan con pocos síntomas, pero generalmente se magnifica la hiperglucemia, lo cual empeora el curso de las infecciones. Desde diciembre de 2019, cuando se identificó la enfermedad producida por uno de los coronavirus (coronavirus 2 del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave, SARS-CoV-2) y que ha sido llamada enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), ha habido algunos reportes que asocian la presencia de diabetes con un mayor riesgo de mortalidad. En este artículo de revisión nos hemos enfocado en cuatro puntos específicos: 1) epidemiología de la prevalencia y de la mortalidad de COVID 19 en la población general y en la población con diabetes mellitus tipo 2; 2) fisiopatología relacionada con la unión del SARS-CoV-2 a los receptores en sujetos con diabetes; 3) la respuesta inmunológica inducida por el SARS-CoV-2, y 4) el tratamiento ambulatorio y hospitalario que se recomienda en los pacientes con diabetes que se infectan con SARS-CoV-2.

Chia (Salvia hispanica)-supplemented diet ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its metabolic abnormalities in humans.

BACKGROUND: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a public health problem lacking an approved pharmacological treatment. Omega-3 fatty acids have shown to reverse NAFLD. Chia is a seed rich in α-linolenic acid (ALA), antioxidants, and fiber; therefore, it could be useful to treat NAFLD. METHODS: In a single arm experimental design study, the effect of 25 g/day of milled chia was assessed in 25 patients with NAFLD. After two weeks of dietary stabilization (basal condition) and eight weeks of a chia-supplemented isocaloric diet, liver:spleen attenuation index and visceral abdominal fat (VAF) were measured by computed tomography. Lipids, lipoproteins, free fatty acids (FFA), and ALA plasma concentrations were also determined. RESULTS: Dietary chia supplementation induced an increase in plasma ALA concentration (75%) and dietary fiber (55%) consumption. After chia supplementation, VAF (9%), body weight (1.4%), total cholesterol (2.5%), non-high density lipoprotein cholesterol (3.2%), and circulating FFA (8%) decreased. Furthermore, NAFLD regressed in 52% of the treated patients (P < 0.05 for all). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study show that 25 g/day of milled chia ameliorates NAFLD. Chia is an accessible vegetal source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, which could have the potential to prevent metabolic abnormalities in NAFLD patients. Considering that there is no pharmacological treatment approved for NAFLD, the findings of the present study suggest that a chia-supplemented diet could be an innovative alternative to control this disease. RETROSPECTIVELY REGISTERED: https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT03942822.

Participation of white adipose tissue dysfunction on circulating HDL cholesterol and HDL particle size in apparently healthy humans.

OBJECTIVE: To use the combined presence of the elevated insulin resistance index in adipose tissue (Adipo-IR) and low values of adiponectin as a marker of dysfunctional adipose tissue, and to analyze its possible association with low values of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and small size of HDL particles. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: The analysis included 253 subjects with functional adipose tissue and 253 with dysfunctional adipose tissue, considering similar gender, age, and body mass index (BMI). Adipo-IR was considered when index values (free fatty acids × insulin concentrations) were ≥75th percentile. Low levels of adiponectin were considered when concentration in serum was <25th percentile (determined by ELISA). HDL size was estimated by a quantitative validated equation. Small HDL size was considered when values were <25th percentile. RESULTS: When comparing subjects with functional adipose tissue with those of dysfunctional adipose tissue, the latter had a higher prevalence of low HDL-C (51.4% vs. 64.0%; p = 0.004) and small HDL (56.9% vs. 67.6%; p = 0.009). Multivariate analysis indicated that independently from other metabolic risk factors, dysfunction of adipose tissue is significantly associated with low HDL-C (OR: 1.624 [CI 95%: 1.100-2.397]) and small HDL (OR: 1.462 [CI 95%: 1.000-2.139]). Adding BMI, waist circumference, and subcutaneous or visceral adipose tissue did not modify the association. CONCLUSIONS: Dysfunction of adipose tissue is associated with a 65 and 50% higher probability of having low HDL-C and small HDL. Identification of dysfunctional adipose tissue could be a useful tool in the clinical setting to prevent the cardiometabolic risk independently from adiposity.

Infección por coronavirus en pacientes con diabetes / Coronavirus infection in patients with diabetes

Resumen La diabetes mellitus es una enfermedad crónica, compleja, multifactorial, que se caracteriza por alteración en el metabolismo de la glucosa, las grasas y las proteínas. Los pacientes que la padecen con frecuencia cursan con hiperglucemia y la enfermedad arterial coronaria es la principal causa de muerte. Las comorbilidades que se asocian a la diabetes son: sobrepeso y obesidad, hipertensión arterial sistémica, dislipidemia aterogénica y en algunos pacientes enfermedad vascular periférica, daño renal, neuropatía y retinopatía. El descontrol crónico de la enfermedad se asocia a mayor susceptibilidad a infecciones, las cuales generalmente cursan con pocos síntomas, pero generalmente se magnifica la hiperglucemia, lo cual empeora el curso de las infecciones. Desde diciembre de 2019, cuando se identificó la enfermedad producida por uno de los coronavirus (coronavirus 2 del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave, SARS-CoV-2) y que ha sido llamada enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), ha habido algunos reportes que asocian la presencia de diabetes con un mayor riesgo de mortalidad. En este artículo de revisión nos hemos enfocado en cuatro puntos específicos: 1) epidemiología de la prevalencia y de la mortalidad de COVID 19 en la población general y en la población con diabetes mellitus tipo 2; 2) fisiopatología relacionada con la unión del SARS-CoV-2 a los receptores en sujetos con diabetes; 3) la respuesta inmunológica inducida por el SARS-CoV-2, y 4) el tratamiento ambulatorio y hospitalario que se recomienda en los pacientes con diabetes que se infectan con SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract Diabetes mellitus is a complex, multifactorial, chronic disease characterized by impaired metabolism of glucose, fats and proteins. Patients who suffer from it frequently have hyperglycemia and coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death. The comorbidities associated with diabetes are overweight and obesity, systemic arterial hypertension, atherogenic dyslipidemia and in some patients peripheral vascular disease, kidney damage, neuropathy and retinopathy. Chronic lack of control of the disease is associated with increased susceptibility to infections, which generally have few symptoms, but hyperglycemia is generally magnified, which worsens the course of infections. Since December 2019, when the disease caused by one of the coronaviruses (coronavirus 2 of severe acute respiratory syndrome, SARS-CoV-2) was identified and has been called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there have been some reports that associate the presence of diabetes with an increased risk of mortality. In this review article we have focused on four specific points: 1) epidemiology of the prevalence and mortality of COVID 19 in the general population and in the population with type 2 diabetes mellitus; 2) pathophysiology related to the binding of SARS-CoV-2 to receptors in subjects with diabetes; 3) the immune response induced by SARS-CoV-2, and 4) the outpatient and hospital treatment recommended in patients with diabetes who become infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Determinación del estado nutricional mediante el ángulo de fase en pacientes en hemodiálisis.

INTRODUCTION: Multi-frequency bio-impedance analysis (BIA) accurately evaluates body composition. OBJECTIVE: To assess nutritional status and its relationship with body mass index (BMI) or with BIA-obtained phase angle in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis. METHOD: BMI, BIA and dialysis malnutrition score (DMS) were assessed in 99 patients on hemodialysis (43.6 ± 17.2 years of age, 58.8% males). Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine BMI and phase angle independent associations with DMS. RESULTS: Malnutrition risk (DMS > 13) showed a gradual increase among patients with normal BMI and phase angle (44.4%), low BMI (45.8%), low phase angle (64.0%), and in those with both parameters at abnormal ranges (68.0%). The phase angle was the only variable that was independently associated with patient nutritional status (standardized coefficient beta -0.372, p < 0.001), accounting for 13.8% of DMS variation. CONCLUSION: Phase angle is inversely and independently associated with malnutrition risk in patients with ESRD, which suggests that BIA-assessed body composition might be better than BMI in the clinical assessment of patients with ESRD.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La bioimpedancia eléctrica multifrecuencia (BIE) evalúa con precisión la composición corporal. OBJETIVO: Investigar el estado nutricional y su relación con el índice de masa corporal (IMC) o el ángulo fase obtenido por BIE en pacientes con enfermedad renal terminal (ERT) en hemodiálisis. MÉTODO: En 99 pacientes en hemodiálisis (43.6 ± 17.2 años, 58.8 % varones) se evaluó IMC, BIE y puntuación de desnutrición (DMS, Dialysis Malnutrition Score). La independencia de las asociaciones del IMC y el ángulo fase con el DMS se determinó con regresión lineal múltiple. RESULTADOS: El riesgo de desnutrición (DMS > 13) se incrementó gradualmente entre los sujetos con IMC y ángulo fase normales (44.4 %), IMC bajo (45.8 %), ángulo fase bajo (64.0 %) y en aquellos con ambos parámetros anormales (68.0 %). El ángulo fase fue la única variable asociada independientemente con el estado nutricional de los pacientes (coeficiente beta estandarizado −0.372, p < 0.001), lo que explicó 13.8 % de la variación en el DMS. CONCLUSIONES: El ángulo fase se asocia inversa e independientemente con el riesgo de desnutrición en pacientes con ERT, lo que sugiere que la composición corporal evaluada por BIE pudiera ser mejor que el IMC en la valoración clínica de pacientes con esta enfermedad.

Determinación del estado nutricional mediante el ángulo de fase en pacientes en hemodiálisis / Determination of nutritional status by phase angle in hemodialysis patients

Resumen Introducción: La bioimpedancia eléctrica multifrecuencia (BIE) evalúa con precisión la composición corporal. Objetivo: Investigar el estado nutricional y su relación con el índice de masa corporal (IMC) o el ángulo fase obtenido por BIE en pacientes con enfermedad renal terminal (ERT) en hemodiálisis. Método: En 99 pacientes en hemodiálisis (43.6 ± 17.2 años, 58.8 % varones) se evaluó IMC, BIE y puntuación de desnutrición (DMS, Dialysis Malnutrition Score). La independencia de las asociaciones del IMC y el ángulo fase con el DMS se determinó con regresión lineal múltiple. Resultados: El riesgo de desnutrición (DMS > 13) se incrementó gradualmente entre los sujetos con IMC y ángulo fase normales (44.4 %), IMC bajo (45.8 %), ángulo fase bajo (64.0 %) y en aquellos con ambos parámetros anormales (68.0 %). El ángulo fase fue la única variable asociada independientemente con el estado nutricional de los pacientes (coeficiente beta estandarizado −0.372, p < 0.001), lo que explicó 13.8 % de la variación en el DMS. Conclusiones: El ángulo fase se asocia inversa e independientemente con el riesgo de desnutrición en pacientes con ERT, lo que sugiere que la composición corporal evaluada por BIE pudiera ser mejor que el IMC en la valoración clínica de pacientes con esta enfermedad.

Abstract Introduction: Multi-frequency bio-impedance analysis (BIA) accurately evaluates body composition. Objective: To assess nutritional status and its relationship with body mass index (BMI) or with BIA-obtained phase angle in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis. Method: BMI, BIA and dialysis malnutrition score (DMS) were assessed in 99 patients on hemodialysis (43.6 ± 17.2 years of age, 58.8% males). Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine BMI and phase angle independent associations with DMS. Results: Malnutrition risk (DMS > 13) showed a gradual increase among patients with normal BMI and phase angle (44.4%), low BMI (45.8%), low phase angle (64.0%), and in those with both parameters at abnormal ranges (68.0%). The phase angle was the only variable that was independently associated with patient nutritional status (standardized coefficient beta −0.372, p < 0.001), accounting for 13.8% of DMS variation. Conclusion: Phase angle is inversely and independently associated with malnutrition risk in patients with ESRD, which suggests that BIA-assessed body composition might be better than BMI in the clinical assessment of patients with ESRD.

Vitamin D Deficiency is not Associated with Fatty Liver in a Mexican Population.

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Association of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) with fatty liver (FL) disease is controversial. The purpose of this study was to analyze the association of VDD with FL. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Data on cardiovascular risk factors, medications, alcohol intake, smoking, diet, and physical activity were obtained. Biochemical, anthropometric, and blood pressure variables were measured. The 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was quantified through chemoluminescence. The presence of FL, defined as a liver/spleen attenuation index lower than 1.0, was identified through computed axial tomography (CAT). RESULTS: The study included 1,467 subjects (49.7% men) with a mean age of 53.3 ± 9.3 years and BMI of 28.3 ± 4.0 kg/m2. Only 11% had optimum values of vitamin D, and 25(OH)D concentration was lower in participants with FL. Multivariate logistic regression models, adjusted for age, gender, BMI, sampling season, glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HOMA-IR, hs-CRP, ALT, AST, and elevated VAT, revealed an association between FL and vitamin D (VD) insufficiency (RM 1.61 [0.99-2.61]) and with VDD (RM 1.68 [1.02-2.77]); however, statistical significance was lost when including caloric consumption and physical activity in the model. CONCLUSIONS: In Mexican adults, deficient VD concentration and FL were not independently associated of caloric consumption and physical activity.

Prevalencia y extensión de la calcificación arterial coronaria en población mexicana asintomática cardiovascular: estudio Genética de la Enfermedad Aterosclerosa / Prevalence and extent of coronary artery calcification in an asymptomatic cardiovascular Mexican population: Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study

Resumen: Objetivo: La prevalencia de calcificación arterial coronaria (CAC), marcador específico de aterosclerosis, no es conocida en México. Nuestro objetivo fue investigar la prevalencia y extensión de CAC y su asociación con factores de riesgo cardiovascular en población mexicana. Métodos: La CAC fue medida por tomografía computarizada multidetector en individuos asintomáticos que participaron en el estudio Genética de la Enfermedad Aterosclerosa. Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular y los medicamentos fueron registrados. Resultados: La muestra incluyó 1,423 individuos (49.5% hombres), con una edad de 53.7 ± 8.4 años. Los portadores de CAC mostraron prevalencias más altas de dislipidemia, diabetes, hipertensión y otros factores de riesgo. La prevalencia de CAC > 0 unidades Agatston fue de 27%, significativamente más alta en hombres (40%) que en mujeres (13%). Los valores medios del puntaje de CAC aumentaron consistentemente con la edad y fueron más altos en hombres que en mujeres en todos los grupos etarios. La edad y el c-LDL elevado se asociaron de manera independiente con la prevalencia de CAC > 0 en hombres y mujeres, mientras que la presión arterial sistólica en las mujeres, y el incremento de la edad en ambos géneros mostró una asociación independiente con la severidad de CAC. Conclusiones: En población mexicana la prevalencia y la extensión de CAC fueron mucho más altas en hombres que en mujeres y aumentaron consistentemente con la edad. Los predictores independientes de la prevalencia de CAC fueron la edad y el c-LDL.

Abstract: Objective: The prevalence of coronary artery calcification (CAC), a specific marker of atherosclerosis, is unknown in Mexico. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence and quantity of CAC and their association with cardiovascular risk factors in a Mexican population. Methods: CAC was measured by multidetector computed tomography in asymptomatic subjects who participated in the Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study. Cardiovascular risk factors and medication were recorded. Results: The sample included 1,423 individuals (49.5% men), aged 53.7 ± 8.4 years. Those with CAC showed a higher prevalence of dyslipidaemia, diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors. The prevalence of CAC > 0 Agatston units was significantly higher among men (40%) than among women (13%). Mean values of CAC score increased consistently with increasing age and were higher in men than women in each age group. Age and high low density lipoprotein cholesterol were independently associated with prevalence of CAC > 0 in men and women, while increasing systolic blood pressure in women and age in both genders showed an independent association with CAC extension. Conclusions: In the Mexican population the prevalence and extent of CAC were much higher in men than in women, and strongly increased with age. Independent predictors of CAC prevalence were age and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).

Prevalencia y asociación de la calcificación valvular aórtica con factores de riesgo y aterosclerosis coronaria en población mexicana / Aortic valve calcification prevalence and association with coronary risk factors and atherosclerosis in Mexican population

Resumen: Objetivo: La prevalencia de calcificación valvular aórtica (CVA) tiene influencia importante de la etnia y se desconoce en población mexicana. Nuestro objetivo fue investigar la prevalencia de CVA y sus asociaciones con factores de riesgo cardiovascular y calcificación arterial coronaria (CAC). Método: En 1,267 sujetos (53% mujeres) sin enfermedad coronaria conocida y con edad de 35 a 75 años, la CVA y la CAC se evaluaron mediante tomografía computada multidetector, utilizando el método de Agatston. Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular se documentaron en todos los participantes. Las asociaciones de CVA con CAC y factores de riesgo se estimaron usando el análisis de regresión logística múltiple. Resultados: La prevalencia global de CVA y CAC fue del 19.89% y del 26.5%, respectivamente. Ambas condiciones aumentaron con la edad y se encontraron con mayor frecuencia en hombres (25.5 y 37.1%, respectivamente) que en mujeres (14.9 y 13%, respectivamente). La CVA se observó en únicamente el 8.5% de los sujetos sin CAC, mientras que en aquellos con CAC 1-99, 100-399 y > 400 unidades Agatston, las prevalencias fueron del 36.8, 56.8 y 84%, respectivamente. El análisis de regresión logística múltiple ajustado por edad, género, obesidad, inactividad física, hipertensión, dislipidemia y valores altos de insulina, mostró que la presencia de CAC (RM [IC95%]: 3.23 [2.26-4.60]), obesidad (1.94 [1.35-2.79]), género masculino (1.44 [1.01-2.05]) y edad (1.08 [1.03-1.10]), fueron predictores independientes y significativos de la CVA. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de CVA es alta y se asocia significativamente con factores de riesgo aterosclerótico y CAC en población mexicana.

Abstract: Objetive: The prevalence of aortic valve calcification (AVC), strongly influenced by ethnicity, is unknown in Mexican population. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of AVC and its associations with cardiovascular risk factors and coronary artery calcification (CAC), in Mexican subjects. Methods: In 1,267 subjects (53% women) without known coronary heart disease, aged 35 to 75 years, AVC and CAC were assessed by multidetector-computed tomography using the Agatston score. Cardiovascular risk factors were documented in all participants. The associations of AVC with CAC and risk factors were assessed by multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: The overall prevalence of AVC and CAC was 19.89% and 26.5%, respectively. AVC and CAC increased with age and were found more frequently in men (25.5% and 37.1%, respectively) than in women (14.9% and 13.0%, respectively). AVC was observed in only 8.5% of subjects wit-hout CAC, while those with CAC 1-99, 100-399, and > 400 Agatston units had AVC prevalences of 36.8%, 56.8%, and 84.0%, respectively. The multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusted for age, gender, obesity, physical inactivity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and high insulin levels, showed that the presence of CAC (OR [CI95%]: 3.23 [2.26-4.60]), obesity (1.94 [1.35-2.79]), male gender (1.44 [1.01-2.05]) and age (1.08 [1.03-1.10]), were significant independent predictors of AVC. Conclusion: Prevalence of AVC is high and significantly associated with atherosclerotic risk factors and CAC in this Mexican population.

[Prevalence and extent of coronary artery calcification in an asymptomatic cardiovascular Mexican population: Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study]. / Prevalencia y extensión de la calcificación arterial coronaria en población mexicana asintomática cardiovascular: estudio Genética de la Enfermedad Aterosclerosa.

OBJECTIVE: The prevalence of coronary artery calcification (CAC), a specific marker of atherosclerosis, is unknown in Mexico. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence and quantity of CAC and their association with cardiovascular risk factors in a Mexican population. METHODS: CAC was measured by multidetector computed tomography in asymptomatic subjects who participated in the Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study. Cardiovascular risk factors and medication were recorded. RESULTS: The sample included 1,423 individuals (49.5% men), aged 53.7±8.4 years. Those with CAC showed a higher prevalence of dyslipidaemia, diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors. The prevalence of CAC>0 Agatston units was significantly higher among men (40%) than among women (13%). Mean values of CAC score increased consistently with increasing age and were higher in men than women in each age group. Age and high low density lipoprotein cholesterol were independently associated with prevalence of CAC>0 in men and women, while increasing systolic blood pressure in women and age in both genders showed an independent association with CAC extension. CONCLUSIONS: In the Mexican population the prevalence and extent of CAC were much higher in men than in women, and strongly increased with age. Independent predictors of CAC prevalence were age and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).

[Aortic valve calcification prevalence and association with coronary risk factors and atherosclerosis in Mexican population]. / Prevalencia y asociación de la calcificación valvular aórtica con factores de riesgo y aterosclerosis coronaria en población mexicana.

OBJETIVE: The prevalence of aortic valve calcification (AVC), strongly influenced by ethnicity, is unknown in Mexican population. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of AVC and its associations with cardiovascular risk factors and coronary artery calcification (CAC), in Mexican subjects. METHODS: In 1,267 subjects (53% women) without known coronary heart disease, aged 35 to 75 years, AVC and CAC were assessed by multidetector-computed tomography using the Agatston score. Cardiovascular risk factors were documented in all participants. The associations of AVC with CAC and risk factors were assessed by multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of AVC and CAC was 19.89% and 26.5%, respectively. AVC and CAC increased with age and were found more frequently in men (25.5% and 37.1%, respectively) than in women (14.9% and 13.0%, respectively). AVC was observed in only 8.5% of subjects without CAC, while those with CAC 1-99, 100-399, and >400 Agatston units had AVC prevalences of 36.8%, 56.8%, and 84.0%, respectively. The multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusted for age, gender, obesity, physical inactivity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and high insulin levels, showed that the presence of CAC (OR [CI95%]: 3.23 [2.26-4.60]), obesity (1.94 [1.35-2.79]), male gender (1.44 [1.01-2.05]) and age (1.08 [1.03-1.10]), were significant independent predictors of AVC. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of AVC is high and significantly associated with atherosclerotic risk factors and CAC in this Mexican population.