Thyroid Hormones Imbalances and Risk of Colorectal Cancer: a Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: No conclusive information is available about the association between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). We therefore aimed to summarize the findings of observational studies on the relation between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC. METHODS: A literature search was conducted using relevant keywords in online databases for appropriate publications through July 2023. Random effects model was used to calculate combined effect sizes (ESs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to investigate relationship between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and CRC risk. RESULTS: Totally, we included 13 studies in the current systematic review and meta-analysis, with a total sample size of 33,557,450 individuals and 25,363 cases of CRC. Pooling 13 effect sizes revealed no significant association between hypothyroidism and risk of CRC (combined effect size: 1.13, 95% CI 0.87-1.48, P = 0.343). There was also no significant association between hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC (combined effect size: 1.09, 95% CI 0.75-1.57, P = 0.638). Additionally, there were significant associations between hypothyroidism and risk of CRC in the Far Eastern studies, between hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC in the Middle East, along with small sample size studies. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis did not reveal any association between hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and risk of CRC. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42022331089.

Effects of N-acetylcysteine on aging cell and obesity complications in obese adults: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial.

Background: We decided to conduct this study with the aim of investigating the effects of N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) on obesity complications and senescence of visceral adipose tissue in obese adults. Methods and analysis: The present study was conducted as a randomized clinical trial (RCT) (Clinical trial registry number: IRCT20220727055563N1) on 40 obese adults candidates for bariatric surgery, who were randomly assigned to receive 600 mg of NAC (n = 20) or placebo as a control (n = 20) for 4 weeks. During bariatric surgery, visceral adipose tissue was used to examine gene expression and senescence cells using SA-ß-gal. Results: Our findings showed that intervention with NAC significantly reduces SA-ß-gal activity (as a marker of senescence) and expression of p16 and interleukin 6 (IL-6) genes in the visceral adipose tissue compared to placebo in obese adults for 4 weeks. In addition, our findings showed the potential and beneficial effect of NAC administration on reducing the levels of inflammatory factors including IL-6 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), as well as the level of fasting blood sugar (FBS), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and insulin compared to placebo after adjusting for confounders. No significant effect was indicated on anthropometric factors and lipid profile. Conclusion: Findings showed that NAC, in addition to having a potential beneficial effect on reducing some of the complications caused by obesity, seems to have synolytic/senomorphic potential as well. Clinical trial registration: [https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [IRCT20220727055563N1].

Association of fertility diet score with endometriosis: a case-control study.

Background and aims: Different factors, such as environmental, epigenetic, genetic and immunological, have been identified as potential risks for developing endometriosis. However, the correlation between dietary patterns and endometriosis is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the potential link between fertility diet score and the odds of endometriosis. Methods: This study was a hospital-based case-control study that took place in a gynecology clinic in Tehran, Iran, between February 2021 and January 2022. A total of 107 newly diagnosed endometriosis cases and 210 controls were included. The participants' habitual diets were evaluated using a food frequency questionnaire, and their fertility diet score was estimated using a point system based on Chavarro et al.'s criteria. The logistic regression was utilized to calculate the odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: The study found that women who adherence to fertility diet have a lower odds of endometriosis. This was observed in both the base model and the adjusted model, with a significant decrease in odds of endometriosis by 66% (OR = 0.44, 95%CI = 0.27-0.71, p = 0.001) and 54% (aOR = 0.46, 95%CI = 0.23-0.90, p = 0.022), respectively. Additionally, consuming vegetable proteins and multivitamins were also associated with lower odds of endometriosis. On the other hand, consuming animal proteins, heme iron, and having a high glycemic load were associated with significantly higher odds of endometriosis. Conclusion: Our research supports the hypothesis that following a fertility diet may decrease the odds of endometriosis in Iranian women. However, these findings should be verified through extensive, prospective studies.

Students' perception of e-learning during the Covid-19 pandemic: a survey study of Iranian nutrition science students.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 pandemic caused university closures, which created learning challenges for students worldwide. Switching to online educational systems had significant impact on students' performances. The current study aims to investigate the perception of university students from the Nutrition Science department regarding e-learning in Iran. METHODS: The design of the study is cross-sectional. Data were collected through online surveys from Iranian students from the Nutrition Sciences Department. Stratified random sampling was used to randomly select 955 participants. A self-administered validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Chi-Square tests were used for analysis of the data. RESULTS: Results revealed that 67.2% of students didn't have any former experience of e-learning. About 38.3% had moderate levels of Information Technology (IT) skills. Our results revealed that based on students' responses, being able to stay at home was one of the most common benefits of e-learning (39.1%). However, the most common challenge that students faced was related to technical problems (39.6%). When compared to e-learning, most students preferred face-to face type of learning. Students believed that this method no only increased their knowledge but also their skills and social competence as compared to e-learning. Only 28% of students rated e-learning as enjoyable. Furthermore, acceptance of online based education was statistically associated with students' degree level. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, students reported both advantages and disadvantages of e-learning but still reported that face-to-face learning is considered the most effective form of learning.

Dietary acid load, alternative healthy eating index score, and bacterial vaginosis: is there any association? A case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Changing the dietary pattern may be an alternative treatment for bacterial vaginosis, the prevalent vaginal infection in women. METHODS: One hundred and forty-three bacterial vaginosis-affected women diagnosed by Amsel criteria and 151 healthy controls aged 18 to 45 entered the current case-control research. To calculate the alternative healthy eating index and dietary acid load score, food consumption was recorded with an accurate and precise food frequency questionnaire. The dietary acid load was measured by potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) indices. Using logistic regression models, the association between the alternative healthy eating index and dietary acid load score with bacterial vaginosis was investigated. RESULTS: The last tertile of the alternative healthy eating index had a 75% decreased odds of experiencing bacterial vaginosis in the adjusted model (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.12-0.53, P for trend = 0.001). Besides, vegetables (aOR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.17-0.69, P for trend = 0.003), nuts and legumes (aOR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.23-0.87, P for trend = 0.028), and meats (aOR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.16-0.60, P for trend = 0.001) intake was linked to a decreased bacterial vaginosis odds. However, sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit juice (aOR = 3.47, 95% CI = 1.68-7.17, P for trend < 0.001), trans fatty acids (aOR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.18-4.43, P for trend = 0.005), and sodium (aOR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.67-7.06, P for trend = 0.002) intake were directly associated with bacterial vaginosis odds. There was no evidence of a link between dietary acid load and bacterial vaginosis. CONCLUSION: According to the present study's findings, there is no correlation between dietary acid load and the likelihood of developing bacterial vaginosis. However, following a plant-based dietary pattern based on the healthy eating index may lead to a lower odds of bacterial vaginosis.

Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity and Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: Among multiple factors that affect the etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diet has
an important contribution. Chronic oxidative stress has also been implicated in the development of PCOS. The
present study is an attempt to evaluate dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and its relationship with odds of
PCOS in Iran.
Materials and Methods: The study was carried out as a case-control study in hospital outpatient clinics, Tehran,
Iran. Totally, 310 female participants with a history of PCOS and 602 age-matched controls took part in this
study between June 2015 and December 2018. A reproducible and valid 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency
inventory was utilized to determine the entire antioxidants of the usual diet in order to calculate dietary
TAC. The relationship of dietary TAC with odds of PCOS were assessed adjusting for potential confounders
through an estimation of two multivariable conditional regression models. The first tertile was presented as a
reference category.
Results: In a fully adjusted model, the highest tertile of dietary TAC was associated with a reduced odds of
PCOS [odds ratio (OR): 0.81, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.59, 0.96, P for trend: 0.038). In addition, PCOS odds decreased in the highest tertile of α-tocopherol intake (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.88, P for trend:
0.023). The adjusted ORs in the highest tertile of vitamin C, ß-carotene and magnesium were 0.79 (95% CI: 0.83-0.97), 0.81 (95% CI: 0.67-0.98) and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.55-0.9 8) respectively, with a significant trend.
Conclusion: Our results provide evidence that there was a relationship between high TAC diets and lower odds of
PCOS.

Association of nutrition risk screening 2002 and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool with COVID-19 severity in hospitalized patients in Iran.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition affects normal body function and is associated with disease severity and mortality. Due to the high prevalence of malnutrition reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the current study examined the association between malnutrition and disease severity in hospitalized adult patients with COVID-19 in Iran. METHODS: In this prospective observational study, 203 adult patients with COVID-19 verified by real-time polymerase chain reaction test and chest computed tomography were recruited from those admitted to a university hospital in Iran. To determine COVID-19 intensity, patients were categorized into four groups. Malnutrition assessment was based on the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and nutrition risk screening score (NRS-2002). An ordinal regression model was run to assess the association between malnutrition and disease severity. RESULTS: In the studies sample of Iranian patients with COVID-19, 38.3% of patients had severe COVID-19. According to NRS-2002, 12.9% of patients were malnourished. Based on MUST, 2% of patients were at medium, and 13.4% of patients were at high risk of malnutrition. Malnutrition was associated with a higher odds of extremely severe COVID-19 according to NRS-2002 (odds ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.21-2.56; P=0.021). CONCLUSIONS: Malnutrition was not prevalent in the studies sample of Iranian patients with COVID-19; however, it was associated with a higher odds of extremely severe COVID-19.

Association between dietary patterns and bacterial vaginosis: a case-control study.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a predominant vaginal disturbance that affects about 25% of childbearing-aged women. Dietary consumption may have a crucial role in vaginal flora imbalances. This study was a hospital-based case-control study. In total, 144 incident BV cases and 151 healthy participants were recruited from the gynecology clinic in Tehran, Iran, between November 2020 and June 2021. Participants' typical diets were collected by a food frequency questionnaire. Vaginal flora was characterized based on the Amsel criteria. Factor analysis was used to pinpoint the principal dietary patterns. For logistic regression, the first tertile was assumed as a reference. Five principal dietary patterns emerged and were nominated as "Healthy diet," "Unhealthy diet," "Ovo-vegetarian diet," "Pseudo-Mediterranean diet," and "Western diet." The "Unhealthy diet" pattern were positively associated with BV (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41, 7.94; ptrend: 0.006), while adherence to the "Ovo-vegetarian diet" pattern was associated with a reduced odds of BV (aOR = 0.16; 95% CI 0.07, 0.34; ptrend < 0.001). These results provide evidence that following the "unhealthy diet" pattern may lead to developing BV, and plant-based eating patterns may be associated with reduced BV odds.

Is there any association between adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity with Bacterial Vaginosis? Results from a Case-Control study.

BACKGROUND: Bacterial vaginosis, BV, is a common inflammatory vaginal dysbiosis. The Mediterranean diet, MD, containing foods rich in antioxidant compounds, is shown to be beneficial for inflammatory conditions. This study aimed to investigate the association between MD adherence and dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) with BV. METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 143 BV-affected and 151 healthy individuals aged between 15 and 45 years. The Amsel criteria were used to detect newly diagnosed patients with BV by a gynecologist. The 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to record participants' dietary intakes in the last year. The reported data in the FFQ was used to measure adherence to the MD by calculating the Medi-Lite score and to measure the DTAC by calculating ferric-reducing antioxidant power, FRAP, based on the related databases. Logistic regression models were used to determine the association between Medi-Lite and DTAC and BV odds. RESULTS: The highest tertile of Medi-Lite score was associated with a reduced odds of BV in the crude model (Odds Ratio, OR: 0.49, 95% Confidence Interval, 95% CI 0.25, 0.96, P for trend: 0.023). This significant inverse association was not observed in the last model adjusted for age, body mass index (kg/m2), waist circumferences (cm), cigarette smoking, frequency of pregnancy, and physical activity (MET/h/d). In crude and adjusted odels, BV odds decreased in the highest tertile of vegetable (adjusted OR, aOR: 0.32, 95% CI 0.16, 0.63, P for trend: 0.001), fish (aOR: 0.46, 95% CI 0.25, 0.84, P for trend: 0.009), legumes (aOR: 0.26, 95% CI 0.14, 0.50, P for trend < 0.001), and meat (aOR: 0.29, 95% CI 0.15, 0.56, P for trend < 0.001) groups. There was no significant association between DTAC and BV odds. CONCLUSIONS: The significant inverse association between the MD adherence and BV odds did not remain after modifying for confounders; besides, DTAC was not associated with BV odds. However, some of the MD components might be associated with a reduced odds of BV.

Association of Dietary Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load, Insulin Index, and Insulin Load with Bacterial Vaginosis in Iranian Women: A Case-Control Study.

Background: Inconsistent findings have been reported for associations between dietary indices and bacterial vaginosis (BV). The aim of this study was to examine the association of dietary glycemic index (DGI), glycemic load (DGL), insulin index (DII), and insulin load (DIL) with BV among Iranian women. Methods: The current case-control study consisted of 144 new cases of BV and 151 controls. The diagnosis of BV was made based on the Amsel criterion in hospital clinics in Tehran, Iran, from November 2020 until June 2021. DGI, DGL, DII, and DIL were calculated from a validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The association between dietary carbohydrate indices and odds of BV were assessed adjusting for potential confounders through an estimation of two multivariate regression models. Results: The multivariate adjusted odds ratio (OR) comparing the highest tertile of dietary DGI and DGL with the lower tertile was 2.99 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.47-6.81; P trend = 0.003) and 4.01 (95% CI: 1.22-5.91; P trend = 0.029), respectively. In a fully adjusted model, the top tertile of dietary fiber compared to the bottom was associated with 88% (95% CI: 0.14-0.33) lower odds of BV (P trend < 0.001). DII and DIL were not significantly associated with odds of BV in both crude and adjusted regression models. Conclusion: The findings support the hypothesis of moderate, direct associations between DGI or DGL and BV. Also, a diet high in fiber decreases odds of BV.

The association between fertility diet score and polycystic ovary syndrome: A Case-Control study.

We performed this case-control study with 303 polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients and 588 age-matched controls to evaluate the relation between fertility diet score and odds of PCOS. In a fully adjusted model, the top tertile of fertility diet score compared to the bottom was associated with 22% [95%CI 0.71-0.93] lower odds of PCOS (P trend = 0.012). Ratio of monounsaturated to trans fat and vegetable protein was associated with a lower odd of PCOS. Animal protein intake and glycemic load were associated with a higher odd of PCOS. Based on our results, increasing the quality of the diet according to fertility diet score can reduce the odds of PCOS.

Associations between systemic inflammation and intestinal permeability with Onodera's prognostic nutritional index in critically ill patients.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition is a serious condition in critically ill patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationships between the Onodera's prognostic nutritional index (OPNI) and intestinal permeability and between OPNI and systemic inflammation in critically ill patients. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the general intensive care unit (ICU) of a university-affiliated hospital. A total of 162 patients admitted between May 2018 and December 2019, was included in the study. The OPNI was calculated at admission and categorized as ≤40 or >40. We assessed plasma endotoxin and zonulin concentrations as markers of intestinal permeability as well as serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) as markers of systemic inflammation upon admission under stringent conditions. The relationships between these markers and OPNI were assessed after adjusting for potential confounders through estimation of a binary logistic regression model. RESULTS: Median (interquartile range) hs-CRP, IL-6 zonulin, and endotoxin were significantly greater in the low OPNI subgroup than in the high OPNI subgroup (all P<0.05). Multivariate analyses showed significant association between serum IL-6 (odds ratio [OR], 0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64-0.96), serum hs-CRP (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.53-0.92), plasma endotoxin (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.72-0.93), and plasma zonulin (OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.75-0.98) levels with OPNI in the overall population. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide evidence that higher plasma endotoxin, zonulin, IL-6, and hs-CRP levels are associated with progressively lower OPNI in mixed ICU populations, particularly in surgical ICU patients.

Single high-dose vitamin D3 injection and clinical outcomes in brain tumor resection: A randomized, controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Vitamin D is known as a neuroprotective hormone with anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties. We evaluated the effect of vitamin D3 injection on vitamin D status and clinical outcomes in patients with low serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] undergoing craniotomy for brain tumor resection. METHODS: Patients with benign brain tumors and serum 25(OH)D levels ≤20 ng/mL were randomized to two groups with an equal number of subjects. The study group (n = 30) received intramuscular injection of 300,000 IU vitamin D3 prior to surgery. The control group (n = 30) was left without intervention, and both groups underwent routine therapies. RESULTS: On day 5 after craniotomy, the serum 25(OH)D levels increased significantly in the study group (P= <0.001). The length of ICU and hospital stay was significantly lower in the study group compared to the control group (P = 0.01 and P = 0.008, respectively). It was true when the age, tumor size, tumor type, Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score, and calcium and albumin levels at baseline entered the logistic regression model (OR = 0.17 (95%CI = 0.04-0.72, P = 0.01), and OR = 0.19 (95%CI = 0.04-0.82, P = 0.02), respectively). With and without the application of logistic regression analysis, there was no significant difference in perioperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: Intramuscular injection of 300,000 IU of vitamin D3 in patients with low serum levels of 25(OH)D undergoing craniotomy, could rise safely the serum 25(OH)D level. This intervention, significantly reduced the length of ICU stay and hospitalization. REGISTERED UNDER: Clinicaltrials.gov.identifier no: NCT03248544. Date: 8/14/2017.

Association of vitamin D deficiency with COVID-19 severity and mortality in Iranian people: a prospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to escalate, it is important to identify the prognostic factors related to increased mortality and disease severity. To assess the possible associations of vitamin D level with disease severity and survival, we studied 248 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in a single center in a prospective observational study from October 2020 to May 2021 in Tehran, Iran. METHODS: Patients who had a record of their 25-hydroxyvitamin D level measured in the previous year before testing positive with COVID-19 were included. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was measured upon admission in COVID-19 patients. The associations between clinical outcomes of patients and 25-hydroxyvitamin D level were assessed by adjusting for potential confounders and estimating a multivariate logistic regression model. RESULTS: The median (interquartile range) age of patients was 60 years (44-74 years), and 53% were male. The median serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level prior to admission decreased with increasing COVID-19 severity (P=0.009). Similar findings were obtained when comparing median serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D on admission between moderate and severe patients (P=0.014). A univariate logistic regression model showed that vitamin D deficiency prior to COVID-19 was associated with a significant increase in the odds of mortality (odds ratio, 2.01; P=0.041). The Multivariate Cox model showed that vitamin D deficiency on admission was associated with a significant increase in risk for mortality (hazard ratio, 2.35; P=0.019). CONCLUSIONS: Based on our results, it is likely that deficient vitamin D status is associated with increased mortality in COVID-19 patients. Thus, evaluating vitamin D level in COVID-19 patients is warranted.

Quercetin Ameliorates Lipid and Apolipoprotein Profile in High-Dose Glucocorticoid Treated Rats. / Quercetina Melhora o Perfil Lipídico e Apolipoproteico em Ratos Tratados com Glicocorticóides em Altas Doses.

Background Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely prescribed for the treatment of numerous clinical disorders due to their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties and one of the most common untoward effects of these drugs is dyslipidemia. Objective To evaluate the effect of quercetin, a plant-derived flavonoid, on the lipid profile of high-dose glucocorticoid treated rats. Methods A total of 32 Sprague-Dawley rats, were randomly distributed among four groups (8 rats per group) and treated for 6 weeks with one of the following: (i) normal saline; (ii) 40 mg/kg methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MP); (iii) MP + 50 mg/kg quercetin; (iv) MP + 150 mg/kg quercetin. MP was injected subcutaneously, and quercetin was administered by oral gavage 3 days a week. At the end of the study, the animals' lipid profile was measured by enzymatic kits. Data were analyzed and statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results The mean serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and LDL levels were drastically increased in GC-treated animals compared with the control group. Both doses of quercetin (50 and 150 mg/kg) ameliorated TC (43% and 45%), LDL (56% and 56%) and TG (46% and 55% respectively). Apo B/A1 ratio decreased more than 20% following quercetin intake and the decline in TC/HDL, TG/HL, LDL/HDL ratios were significant. Conclusions These data suggest that quercetin intake with both doses of 50 and 150 mg/kg could be considered as a protective agent for glucocorticoid-induced dyslipidemia. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(1):102-108.).

Quercetina Melhora o Perfil Lipídico e Apolipoproteico em Ratos Tratados com Glicocorticóides em Altas Doses / Quercetin Ameliorates Lipid and Apolipoprotein Profile in High-Dose Glucocorticoid Treated Rats

Resumo Fundamento Os glicocorticóides (GCs) são amplamente prescritos para o tratamento de numerosos distúrbios clínicos devido às suas propriedades anti-inflamatórias e imunomoduladoras, e um dos efeitos indesejáveis mais comuns desses medicamentos é a dislipidemia. Objetivo Avaliar o efeito da quercetina, um flavonoide derivado de plantas, no perfil lipídico de ratos tratados com glicocorticóides em altas doses. Métodos Um total de 32 ratos Sprague-Dawley foram distribuídos aleatoriamente entre quatro grupos (8 ratos por grupo) e tratados por 6 semanas com uma das seguintes opções : (i) solução salina normal; (ii) 40 mg/kg de succinato sódico de metilprednisolona (MP); (iii) MP + 50 mg/kg de quercetina; (iv) MP + 150 mg/kg de quercetina. O MP foi injetado por via subcutânea e a quercetina foi administrada por gavagem oral 3 dias por semana. No final do estudo, o perfil lipídico dos animais foi medido através de kits enzimáticos. Os dados foram analisados e a significância estatística foi estabelecida em p <0,05. Resultados Os níveis séricos médios de colesterol total (CT), triglicerídeos (TG) e LDL aumentaram drasticamente em animais tratados com GC em comparação com o grupo controle. Ambas as doses de quercetina (50 e 150 mg/kg) melhoraram o CT (43% e 45%), LDL (56% e 56%) e TG (46% e 55%, respectivamente). A razão Apo B/A1 diminuiu mais de 20% após a ingestão de Anti-Inflamatory Agents. Conclusões Esses dados sugerem que a ingestão de quercetina Quercetin; induzida por glicocorticóides. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(1):102-108)

Abstract Background Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely prescribed for the treatment of numerous clinical disorders due to their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties and one of the most common untoward effects of these drugs is dyslipidemia. Objective To evaluate the effect of quercetin, a plant-derived flavonoid, on the lipid profile of high-dose glucocorticoid treated rats. Methods A total of 32 Sprague-Dawley rats, were randomly distributed among four groups (8 rats per group) and treated for 6 weeks with one of the following: (i) normal saline; (ii) 40 mg/kg methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MP); (iii) MP + 50 mg/kg quercetin; (iv) MP + 150 mg/kg quercetin. MP was injected subcutaneously, and quercetin was administered by oral gavage 3 days a week. At the end of the study, the animals' lipid profile was measured by enzymatic kits. Data were analyzed and statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results The mean serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and LDL levels were drastically increased in GC-treated animals compared with the control group. Both doses of quercetin (50 and 150 mg/kg) ameliorated TC (43% and 45%), LDL (56% and 56%) and TG (46% and 55% respectively). Apo B/A1 ratio decreased more than 20% following quercetin intake and the decline in TC/HDL, TG/HL, LDL/HDL ratios were significant. Conclusions These data suggest that quercetin intake with both doses of 50 and 150 mg/kg could be considered as a protective agent for glucocorticoid-induced dyslipidemia. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(1):102-108.)

Effects of coadministration of DHA and vitamin E on spermatogram, seminal oxidative stress, and sperm phospholipids in asthenozoospermic men: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: It is unknown which compounds in spermatozoa or seminal plasma may be involved in the regulation of sperm motility. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of DHA (22:6n-3), vitamin E, and their probable interactions in men with asthenozoospermia. METHODS: A factorial, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in infertility clinics in Tehran, Iran. The participants were idiopathic asthenozoospermic men aged 20-45 y, with normal endocrine function. Their concentration of spermatozoa and percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa were equal to or above the lower reference limits, according to the fifth edition of the WHO guideline. Out of 717 men referred to the infertility clinics, 180 asthenozoospermic men were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups according to stratified blocked randomization by age and sperm concentration. Participants took daily 465 mg DHA plus 600 IU vitamin E (DE), 465 mg DHA plus placebo (DP), 600 IU vitamin E plus placebo (EP), or both placebo capsules (PP) for 12 wk. Sperm characteristics, oxidative stress of seminal plasma, serum and sperm membrane fatty acids, dietary intakes, anthropometric measurements, and physical activity were measured at baseline and after 12 wk. RESULTS: After the intervention, mean ± SD sperm progressive motility was greater in the DE group (27.9 ± 2.8) than in the DP (25.7 ± 3.4), EP (26.1 ± 2.8), and PP (25.8 ± 2.6) groups (P < 0.05). Sperm count (P = 0.001) and concentration (P = 0.044) increased significantly in the DE group compared with the other 3 groups, whereas other semen parameters were not significantly different between the groups after the intervention. Serum concentrations of n-3 PUFAs were significantly higher in the DE and DP groups than in the EP and PP groups. CONCLUSIONS: Combined DHA and vitamin E supplements led to increased sperm motility; however, no significant changes occurred in sperm morphology and vitality in asthenozoospermic men.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01846325.

Association of intestinal permeability with admission vitamin D deficiency in patients who are critically ill.

Emerging data have led to the hypothesis that vitamin D plays a role in promoting epithelial barrier dysfunction. Therefore, intestinal permeability becomes a significant determiner in the future of patients hospitalized in intensive care unit (ICU). The relationship between vitamin D and intestinal permeability remains unclear in patients who are critically ill. The aim of the study is to document the relationship between the admission vitamin D deficiency and markers of intestinal permeability in the critical care setting. This was a single-center, observational, prospective study in the general ICU of a university-affiliated hospital. A sample of 144 ICU-hospitalized adult patients was recruited between January and May 2018. The admission serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were measured and categorized as <20 and ≥20 ng/dL, respectively. Moreover, the admission plasma endotoxin and zonulin concentrations as markers of intestinal permeability were determined in stringent conditions. The association between markers of intestinal permeability and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels was assessed adjusting for potential confounders through an estimation of a binary logistic regression model. Our results showed that median plasma endotoxin and zonulin decreased with increasing serum levels of vitamin D categories (p=0.001) in the overall study population. Multivariate binary logistic regression analyses showed a significant association between the plasma endotoxin (OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.52) and zonulin (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.99) levels with serum levels of vitamin D categories in the overall population. Our finding suggests a relationship between vitamin D deficiency and early alterations in intestinal permeability. Thus, evaluating vitamin D levels in patients who are critically ill may be warranted.

Effects of Early Enteral Glutamine Supplementation on Intestinal Permeability in Critically Ill Patients.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Enteral administration of glutamine has been proposed as an effective recovery of intestinal barrier function. This amino acid has a modulating effect on the reducing bacterial translocation, which can influence immune functions of the intestine. The objective was to evaluate the effects of early enteral glutamine supplementation on intestinal permeability in critically ill patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 80 critically ill patients older than 18 years were randomly assigned to one of two groups according to the stratified blocked randomization by age and admission category. Consecutive participants took enteral formula plus 0.3 g/kg/day glutamine powder or enteral formula plus maltodextrin during the ICU stay for a maximum of 10 days. Plasma glutamine, endotoxin, zonulin, and antiendotoxin immunoglobulin (Ig)G/IgM concentrations were measured on days 5 and 10 of intervention. RESULTS: Out of 80 participants, 36 patients in the glutamine group and 34 patients in the control group were included in the analysis of the outcomes. Enteral glutamine significantly reduced plasma zonulin concentration up to 40% during 10 days. This reduction was significantly greater compared with that of the placebo group (p<0.001). Endotoxin concentration decreased in both groups; this reduction was significantly greater in the glutamine group (p = 0.014). The antiendotoxin IgM and IgG antibody levels increased in the glutamine group but decreased in the control group (p <0.001). There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes between two groups. CONCLUSION: Early enteral glutamine supplementation led to a declined intestinal permeability in critically ill patients. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Shariatpanahi ZV, Eslamian G, Ardehali SH, Baghestani AR. Effects of Early Enteral Glutamine Supplementation on Intestinal Permeability in Critically Ill Patients. Indian J Crit Care Med 2019;23(8):356-362.

Nutrient Patterns and Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: There are limited data on the role of nutrient patterns in development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The aim of the study is to document the relationship between nutrient patterns and PCOS. METHODS: In this study, 281 incident PCOS women and 472 controls were interviewed through the endocrine clinics between February 2013 and March 2015 in Tehran, Iran. Usual dietary intakes were obtained using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Factor analysis was conducted on the basis of 32 nutrients. Unconditional logistic regression was performed to ascertain odds ratios. The p<0.05 was considered for significance level. RESULTS: In principal component analysis two nutrient patterns emerged. Factor 1 had high loadings for riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, thiamin, magnesium, pantothenic acid, cobalamin, vitamin C, folate, vitamin D, total fiber, selenium, phosphorus, vitamin E, manganese, vitamin K, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, potassium and vegetable protein. Factor 2 characterized by high loadings for carbohydrate, animal protein, fat, cholesterol, saturated fatty acid, sodium, biotin, copper, iron, fluoride, zinc, and calcium. After adjusting for potential confounders, the risk of PCOS was significantly higher in the highest tertile of factor 2 (OR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.69-3.21). Conversely, being in the highest tertile of factor 1 was associated with a lower risk of PCOS (OR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.21-0.82). CONCLUSION: Our results provide a possible new insight into the interactions between nutrient intakes and PCOS.