Evaluation of three-year neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants prenatally exposed to substance use.

INTRODUCTION: Prenatal exposure to substance use is associated with long-term deficits in the neurodevelopment of children. The objective was to investigate the association between cognitive, motor, and language neurodevelopment at three years of age in infants prenatally exposed to substance use. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective matched case-control study was conducted. Biomarkers of fetal exposure were measured in meconium samples. The Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-III) were used to calculate neurodevelopment scores. RESULTS: 32 non-exposed and 32 exposed infants were evaluated, of which 16 were exposed to cannabis, 8 to ethanol, 2 to cocaine and 6 to more than one substance. Normal BSID-III scores ≥85 in all domains, were detected in 23 exposed infants to any substance and 29 infants non-exposed. Neurodevelopmental delay was detected in the language domain, specifically in male infants exposed to cannabis. Two infants exposed to cannabis had a severe developmental delay (score<70). Infants exposed to any substance obtained significantly lower total scores than control infants in all domains. Infants exposed to cannabis obtained significantly lower composite scores in the cognitive and motor domains. Infants exposed to more than one substance had lower scores in motor skills. By gender, only males exposed obtained significantly lower composite scores than non-exposed males in the cognitive domain. CONCLUSIONS: The most common and severe neurodevelopmental delay at 36 months was detected in the domain of language in male infants prenatally exposed to cannabis. Neurodevelopmental disorders detected can enable an early intervention and plan therapeutic strategies.

Liraglutide for the treatment of obesity among patients with hidradenitis suppurativaLiraglutida en el tratamiento de la obesidad en pacientes con hidradenitis supurativa / Liraglutide for the treatment of obesity among patients with hidradenitis suppurativa Liraglutida en el tratamiento de la obesidad en pacientes con hidradenitis supurativa

Background and aims: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is associated with obesity. Weight loss is frequently reflected in an amelioration in the severity of the lesions. Case reports have suggested that liraglutide might improve not only weight but also skin. We aimed to study the effects of liraglutide 3mg in patients with obesity and HS on metabolic and dermatological parameters. Methods: 14 patients started treatment with liraglutide for 3 months. Severity of the lesions was evaluated using the Hurley Staging System and quality of life with the DLQI (Dermatology Quality Index). Results: There was a significant reduction in BMI (39.3±6.2 vs 35.6±5.8; p=0.002), waist circumference (121.3±19.2 vs 110.6±18.1cm; p=0.01), CRP (4.5±2.2 vs 3±2.1mg/L; p=0.04), homocysteine (16.2±2.9 vs 13.3±3μmol/L; p=0.005) and plasma cortisol (15.9±4.8 vs 12.6±4.5μg/dL; p=0.007). Hurley (2.6±0.5 vs 1.1±0.3; p=0.002) and DLQI (12.3±2.8 vs 9.7±6.9; p=0.04) improved significantly. In multiple regression analysis, weight loss did not correlate with any inflammatory parameter or Hurley. Conclusions: Liraglutide 3mg is effective and safe among patients with HS and obesity. Long-term studies are mandatory to assess the effects of liraglutide on skin lesions and inflammatory markers among subjects with HS beyond weight loss.(AU)

Antecedentes y objetivos: La hidradenitis supurativa (HS) se asocia a la obesidad. La pérdida de peso frecuentemente comporta una mejora en la gravedad de las lesiones. Casos aislados han sugerido que la liraglutida podría mejorar no solo el peso sino también la piel. Nuestro objetivo fue estudiar los efectos de liraglutida 3mg en pacientes con obesidad y HS sobre los parámetros metabólicos y dermatológicos. Métodos: Catorce pacientes iniciaron tratamiento con liraglutida durante 3meses. La gravedad de las lesiones se evaluó mediante la Escala de Hurley y la calidad de vida con el Dermatology Quality Index (DLQI). Resultados: Hubo una reducción significativa en el IMC (39,3±6,2 vs 35,6±5,8; p=0,002), la circunferencia de cintura (121,3±19,2 vs 110,6±18,1cm; p=0,01), la PCR (4,5±2,2 vs 3±2,1mg/l; p=0,04), la homocisteína (16,2±2,9 vs 13,3±3μmol/l; p=0,005) y el cortisol plasmático (15,9±4,8 vs 12,6±4,5μg/dl; p=0,007). El Hurley (2,6±0,5 vs 1,1±0,3; p=0,002) y la DLQI (12,3±2,8 vs 9,7±6,9; p=0,04) mejoraron significativamente. En el análisis de regresión múltiple, la pérdida de peso no se correlacionó con ningún parámetro inflamatorio ni con el Hurley. Conclusiones: Liraglutida 3mg es eficaz y segura en pacientes con HS y obesidad. Serán necesarios estudios a largo plazo para evaluar los efectos de la liraglutida sobre las lesiones cutáneas y los marcadores inflamatorios en la HS más allá de la pérdida de peso.(AU)

Short-term effects of semaglutide among patients with obesity with and without food addiction: an observational study.

INTRODUCTION: Food addiction (FA) is highly prevalent among people with obesity (PwO) and may constitute a key factor in weight loss failure or weight regain. GLP-1 analogues have been shown to act on the mesolimbic system, which is related to hedonic overeating and substance abuse. We aimed to study the effects of low doses of semaglutide on FA symptomatology and to evaluate whether the presence of FA have a negative impact on weight loss despite treatment with semaglutide. METHODS: One hundred and thirteen PwO (45.5 ± 10.2 years) were evaluated anthropometrically baseline and after four months of treatment with semaglutide. PwO were evaluated for the presence of FA by completing The Spanish version of the Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 questionnaire (YFAS 2.0). RESULTS: Baseline BMI and fat mass (%) were greater among PwO with FA (35.8 ± 4.5 vs 33 ± 3.9 kg/m2and 44.2 ± 6.5 vs 40.1 ± 7.9%; p = .01). After four months of treatment with semaglutide, the prevalence of FA diminished from 57.5% to 4.2% (p < .001). The percentage of weight loss (6.9 ± 12.7 vs 5.3 ± 4.6%; p = .4) and the proportion of fat mass loss (2 ± 9 vs 1.6 ± 3.1%; p = .7) were comparable between PwO with and without FA. No differences regarding side effects and treatment discontinuations were seen between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Semaglutide is an effective tool for the amelioration of FA symptomatology among PwO. Despite PwO with FA had greater basal BMI and fat mass, semaglutide showed similar results compared to PwO without FA in terms of weight and fat mass loss at short term.

Liraglutide for the treatment of obesity among patients with hidradenitis suppurativa.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is associated with obesity. Weight loss is frequently reflected in an amelioration in the severity of the lesions. Case reports have suggested that liraglutide might improve not only weight but also skin. We aimed to study the effects of liraglutide 3mg in patients with obesity and HS on metabolic and dermatological parameters. METHODS: 14 patients started treatment with liraglutide for 3 months. Severity of the lesions was evaluated using the Hurley Staging System and quality of life with the DLQI (Dermatology Quality Index). RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in BMI (39.3±6.2 vs 35.6±5.8; p=0.002), waist circumference (121.3±19.2 vs 110.6±18.1cm; p=0.01), CRP (4.5±2.2 vs 3±2.1mg/L; p=0.04), homocysteine (16.2±2.9 vs 13.3±3µmol/L; p=0.005) and plasma cortisol (15.9±4.8 vs 12.6±4.5µg/dL; p=0.007). Hurley (2.6±0.5 vs 1.1±0.3; p=0.002) and DLQI (12.3±2.8 vs 9.7±6.9; p=0.04) improved significantly. In multiple regression analysis, weight loss did not correlate with any inflammatory parameter or Hurley. CONCLUSIONS: Liraglutide 3mg is effective and safe among patients with HS and obesity. Long-term studies are mandatory to assess the effects of liraglutide on skin lesions and inflammatory markers among subjects with HS beyond weight loss.

Enhancing Prostate Tumor Biobanking Reliability with Improved Sampling Technique and Histological Characterization.

Acquiring fresh and well-characterized tumor tissue samples is critical for conducting high-quality "omics" studies. However, it can be particularly challenging in the context of prostate cancer (PC) due to the unique nature of this organ and the high heterogeneity associated with this tumor. On the other hand, histopathologically characterizing samples before their storage without causing significant tissue alterations is also an intriguing challenge. In this context, we present a new method for acquiring, mapping, characterizing, and micro-dissecting resected prostate tissue based on anatomopathological criteria. Unlike previously published protocols, this method reduces the time required for histopathological analysis of the prostate specimen without compromising its structure, which is crucial for assessing surgical margins. Furthermore, it enables the delineation and micro-macro dissection of fresh prostate tissue samples, with a focus on histological tumor areas defined by pathological criteria such as Gleason score, precursor lesions (high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia - PIN), and inflammatory lesions (prostatitis). These samples are then stored in a Biobank for subsequent research analyses.

Relationship of depression with empathy, emotional intelligence, and symptoms of a weakened immune system.

Introduction: Previous studies have used different individual scales to examine the relationship of depression with emotional intelligence, empathy, and immune-based diseases. In this study, we used a combination of psychometric scales to examine the relationships of depression with emotional intelligence (intrapersonal and interpersonal), empathy (affective and cognitive), and symptoms of weakened immune system. Methods: This cross-sectional prospective study examined 158 volunteers (39 males and 119 females). A score of 10 or more on the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) was used to define depression. The Cognitive and Affective Empathy Test (TECA) was used to assess empathy, and the Profile of Emotional Competence (PEC) was used to assess the self-perception of intrapersonal and interpersonal competence. The symptoms of a weakened immune system (WIS) were assessed by measurements of permanent tiredness, frequent infections and colds, slow wound healing, persistent and recurrent diarrhea, recurring herpes, insomnia and difficulty sleeping, and dry eyes. Results: The total PEC score and intrapersonal PEC score had negative correlations with depression, and the WIS score had a positive correlation with depression. The TECA score had no significant correlation with depression or the WIS score, but had positive correlations with the total PEC score, intrapersonal PEC score, and interpersonal PEC score. Conclusion: The total PEC score, intrapersonal PEC score, and WIS score were significantly associated with depression. The TECA score was not significantly associated with depression or the WIS score. Our findings suggest that improving intrapersonal emotional skills may improve function of the immune system and reduce the symptoms of depression. We suggest that further studies examine the effect of targeted improvement of interpersonal skills (empathy) on depression.

Effects of liraglutide among patients living with psoriasis and obesity / Efecto de liraglutida en pacientes con obesidad y psoriasis

Background and aims There is a bidirectional relationship between obesity and psoriasis. Liraglutide has been shown to improve the severity of psoriatic lesions in patients with type 2 diabetes. We aimed to study the effects of liraglutide 3mg in patients with obesity and psoriasis. Methods Twenty patients started treatment with liraglutide 3mg for 3 months. Severity of the lesions was evaluated using the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) and the visual analogue scale of pain (VAS), and quality of life with the Dermatology Quality Index (DLQI). Results There was a significant reduction in BMI (38.9±5.8 vs. 36.4±5.6; p<0.001), CRP (4.5±2.4 vs. 3±2mg/L; p<0.01), homocysteine (13.3±3.6 vs. 11.9±3μmol/L; p<0.01), ferritin (185.4±142.2 vs. 97.43±114.4ng/mL; p=0.04) and plasma cortisol (12±3.1 vs. 11.6±2.2μg/dL, p=0.04). PASI (10±8.4 vs. 5.1±6; p<0.0001), VAS (4.1±2 vs. 2.3±0.92; p=0.009) and DLQI (12.7±7 vs. 6.4±5.6, p<0.0001) improved significantly. In multiple regression analysis, weight loss did not correlate with any inflammatory parameter or PASI. Conclusions Liraglutide 3mg for three months is effective and safe in reducing weight and improving psoriatic lesions among patients with psoriasis and obesity. Besides, there is an improvement in psoriatic lesions regardless of weight loss that deserves further studies (AU)

Antecedentes y objetivos Existe una relación bidireccional entre la obesidad y la psoriasis. Se ha demostrado que la liraglutida mejora la gravedad de las lesiones psoriásicas en pacientes con diabetes tipo 2. Nuestro objetivo fue estudiar los efectos de liraglutida 3mg en pacientes con obesidad y psoriasis. Métodos Veinte pacientes iniciaron tratamiento con liraglutida 3mg durante 3 meses. La gravedad de las lesiones se evaluó mediante el Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI), la escala visual analógica (EVA), y la calidad de vida con el Dermatology Quality Index (DLQI). Resultados Se redujeron significativamente el IMC (38,9±5,8 vs. 36,4±5,6; p<0,001), PCR (4,5±2,4 vs. 3±2mg/l; p<0,01), homocisteína (13,3±3,6 vs. 11,9±3μmol/l; p<0,01), ferritina (185,4±142,2 vs. 97,43±114,4ng/ml; p=0,04) y cortisol plasmático (12±3,1 vs. 11,6±2,2μg/dl, p=0,04). PASI (10±8,4 vs. 5,1±6; p<0,0001), EVA (4,1±2 vs. 2,3±0,92; p=0,009) y DLQI (12,7±7 vs. 6,4±5,6, p<0,0001) mejoraron significativamente. En el análisis de regresión múltiple, la pérdida de peso no se correlacionó con ningún parámetro inflamatorio o PASI. Conclusiones Liraglutida a dosis de 3mg/día durante 3 meses es eficaz y segura en reducir el peso y mejorar las lesiones cutáneas de pacientes con obesidad y psoriasis. Se constata además una mejoría de las lesiones psoriásicas independiente de la pérdida de peso que merece estudios adicionales (AU)

Relationship between Urinary Parameters and Double-J Stent Encrustation.

(1) Background: This study aimed to determine the relationship between metabolic urine conditions and the formation, severity, and composition of encrustations in ureteral stents. (2) Methods: Ninety stone-former patients requiring a double-J stent were prospectively enrolled. We collected 24 h metabolic urine samples and demographic data, including indwelling time and previous stone composition. The total deposit weight was obtained, and a macroscopic classification according to the degree of encrustation (null, low, moderate, and high) was created, allowing for intergroup comparisons. Stereoscopic and scanning electron microscopy were performed to identify the type of embedded deposits (calcium oxalate, uric acid, and infectious and non-infectious phosphates). (3) Results: In total, 70% of stents were encrusted; thereof, 42% had a moderate degree of encrustation. The most common encrustation type was calcium oxalate, but infectious phosphates were predominant in the high-encrustation group (p < 0.05). A direct correlation was observed between the purpose-built macroscopic classification and the encrustation weights (p < 0.001). Greater calciuria, uricosuria, indwelling time, and decreased diuresis were observed in stents with a higher degree of encrustation (p < 0.05). The urinary pH values were lower in patients with uric acid encrustations and higher in those with infectious phosphate encrustations (p < 0.05). When compared to non-encrusted stents, patients with calcium-oxalate-encrusted stent showed greater calciuria, phosphaturia, indwelling time, and reduced diuresis; patients with uric-acid-encrusted stent showed greater uricosuria; and patients with infectious and non-infectious phosphate encrustation showed greater urinary pH (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Metabolic urine conditions play a critical role in the formation, composition, and severity of double-J stent encrustation.

Effects of liraglutide among patients living with psoriasis and obesity.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: There is a bidirectional relationship between obesity and psoriasis. Liraglutide has been shown to improve the severity of psoriatic lesions in patients with type 2 diabetes. We aimed to study the effects of liraglutide 3mg in patients with obesity and psoriasis. METHODS: Twenty patients started treatment with liraglutide 3mg for 3 months. Severity of the lesions was evaluated using the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) and the visual analogue scale of pain (VAS), and quality of life with the Dermatology Quality Index (DLQI). RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in BMI (38.9±5.8 vs. 36.4±5.6; p<0.001), CRP (4.5±2.4 vs. 3±2mg/L; p<0.01), homocysteine (13.3±3.6 vs. 11.9±3µmol/L; p<0.01), ferritin (185.4±142.2 vs. 97.43±114.4ng/mL; p=0.04) and plasma cortisol (12±3.1 vs. 11.6±2.2µg/dL, p=0.04). PASI (10±8.4 vs. 5.1±6; p<0.0001), VAS (4.1±2 vs. 2.3±0.92; p=0.009) and DLQI (12.7±7 vs. 6.4±5.6, p<0.0001) improved significantly. In multiple regression analysis, weight loss did not correlate with any inflammatory parameter or PASI. CONCLUSIONS: Liraglutide 3mg for three months is effective and safe in reducing weight and improving psoriatic lesions among patients with psoriasis and obesity. Besides, there is an improvement in psoriatic lesions regardless of weight loss that deserves further studies.

Diet in Different Calcium Oxalate Kidney Stones.

Diet can be a helpful tool to enhance the quality of urine and lower the likelihood and recurrence of kidney stones. This study set out to identify the foods and nutrients that are associated with each type of calcium oxalate kidney stone formation. A single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted. Between 2018 and 2021, a sample of 90 cases (13 cases with papillary COM, 27 with non-papillary COM, and 50 with COD kidney stones), as well as a control group of 50 people, were chosen. A food intake frequency questionnaire was completed by the study's participants, and the results were compared between groups. Additionally, a comparison of the 24 h urine analysis between stone groups was made. Processed food and meat derivatives were linked to COM papillary calculi (OR = 1.051, p = 0.032 and OR = 1.013, p = 0.012, respectively). Consuming enough calcium may offer protection against non-papillary COM stones (OR = 0.997; p = 0.002). Similarly, dairy product consumption was linked to COD calculi (OR = 1.005, p = 0.001). In conclusion, a diet high in animal items may increase the risk of developing papillary COM stones. Consuming calcium may be preventive against non-papillary COM calculi, and dairy product consumption may be a risk factor for COD stones.

Estimated Phytate Intake Is Associated with Bone Mineral Density in Mediterranean Postmenopausal Women.

The main objective of this work was to explore the association of dietary phytate intake with bone mineral density (BMD) in a Mediterranean population of postmenopausal women. For this purpose, a cross-sectional analysis of 561 women aged 55-75 years with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome from a Mediterranean area and with data on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans in femur and lumbar spine was performed. Estimated phytate intake was calculated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Our results indicated that phytate intake was associated with BMD [ß(95%CI) per each 25 mg/100 kcal] in femoral neck [0.023(0.060-0.040) g/cm2], femoral Ward's triangle [0.033(0.013-0.054) g/cm2], total femur [0.018(0.001-0.035) g/cm2], and all the analyzed lumbar spine sites [L1-L4: 0.033(0.007-0.059) g/cm2] after adjusting for potential confounders. The sensitivity analysis showed that phytate intake was directly associated with lumbar spine BMD in women younger than 66 years, with a body mass index higher than 32.6 kg/cm2 and without type 2 diabetes (all p-for interactions < 0.05). The overall results indicated that phytate, a substance present in food as cereals, legumes and nuts, was positively associated with BMD in Mediterranean postmenopausal women. Phytate may have a protective effect on bone resorption by adsorbing on the surfaces of HAP. Nevertheless, large, long-term, and randomized prospective clinical studies must be performed to assess the possible benefits of phytate consumption on BMD in postmenopausal women.

Daily phytate intake increases adiponectin levels among patients with diabetes type 2: a randomized crossover trial.

AIM: Adiponectin, a major adipokine secreted by adipose tissue, has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. Myo-inositol hexaphosphate (phytate; InsP6) is a natural compound that is abundant in cereals, legumes, and nuts that has demonstrated to have different beneficial properties in patients with diabetes type 2. METHODS: We performed a randomized crossover trial to investigate the impact of daily consumption of InsP6 on serum levels of adiponectin, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1beta in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM; n = 39). Thus, we measure serum levels of these inflammatory markers, classic vascular risk factors, and urinary InsP6 at baseline and at the end of the intervention period. RESULTS: Patients who consumed InsP6 supplements for 3 months had higher levels of adiponectin and lower HbA1c than those who did not consume InsP6. No differences were found in TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1beta. CONCLUSION: This is the first report to show that consumption of InsP6 increases plasma adiponectin concentration in patients with T2DM. Consequently, our findings indicate that following a phytate-rich diet has beneficial effects on adiponectin and HbA1c concentrations and it could help to prevent or minimize diabetic-related complications.

Phytate Intake, Health and Disease: "Let Thy Food Be Thy Medicine and Medicine Be Thy Food".

Phytate (myo-inositol hexakisphosphate or InsP6) is the main phosphorus reservoir that is present in almost all wholegrains, legumes, and oilseeds. It is a major component of the Mediterranean and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets. Phytate is recognized as a nutraceutical and is classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Phytate has been shown to be effective in treating or preventing certain diseases. Phytate has been shown to inhibit calcium salt crystallization and, therefore, to reduce vascular calcifications, calcium renal calculi and soft tissue calcifications. Moreover, the adsorption of phytate to the crystal faces can inhibit hydroxyapatite dissolution and bone resorption, thereby playing a role in the treatment/prevention of bone mass loss. Phytate has a potent antioxidation and anti-inflammatory action. It is capable of inhibiting lipid peroxidation through iron chelation, reducing iron-related free radical generation. As this has the effect of mitigating neuronal damage and loss, phytate shows promise in the treatment/prevention of neurodegenerative disease. It is reported that phytate improves lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, increases adiponectin, decreases leptin and reduces protein glycation, which is linked with macrovascular and microvascular diabetes complications. In this review, we summarize the benefits of phytate intake as seen in in vitro, animal model, epidemiological and clinical trials, and we also identify questions to answer in the future.

Effects of weight stigma on BMI and inflammatory markers among people living with obesity.

OBJECTIVE: Weight stigma (WS) and prejudice are one of the most prevalent ways of discrimination among adults, comparable with rates of racial discrimination. Exposure to WS among patients with obesity (PWO) may make the adoption of healthy dietary patterns and regular physical activity even more challenging and, therefore, the achievement of weight loss. Additionally, WS could also induce physiological responses such as increased levels of inflammatory markers, due to stress exposure. METHOD: Subjects attending two obesity clinics were evaluated at baseline and after a minimum follow-up of six months. The weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS) and the Stigmatizing Situations Inventory (SSI) were administered to evaluate WS. Also, anthropometric and inflammatory markers, including cortisol, ferritin and C-reactive protein (CRP), were recorded at baseline. RESULTS: 79 PWO (87.3%♀, 45.5 ± 1.3 years, 35.9 ± 6.3 kg/m2) were included. At baseline, 72.2% started liraglutide as anti-obesity drug. Baseline body mass index (BMI) correlated positively with both WBIS (r = 0.23; p = 0.03) and SSI (r = 0.25; p = 0.02) scores. Mean percentual weight loss after a mean follow-up of six months was -7.28%. However, there was a negative, but not statistically significant, correlation between weight loss and both WBIS (r=-0.14; p = 0.2) and SSI (r=-0.19; p = 0.08). Regarding inflammatory markers, plasma cortisol levels at baseline correlated positively with WBIS (p = 0.005) and SSI (p = 0.02). CRP at baseline also presented a positive correlation with SSI (p = 0.03). No significant correlations were found for stigma tests and ferritin levels. DISCUSSION: As weight increases among PWO, so does stigma. Despite we did not find a significant negative association between the presence of WS and weight loss outcomes, there was an increase in inflammatory markers among PWO who experienced higher levels of WS.

Efficacy of Different Modalities and Frequencies of Physical Exercise on Glucose Control in People with Prediabetes (GLYCEX Randomised Trial).

To assess the efficacy of different modalities and frequencies of physical exercise on glycaemic control in adults with prediabetes. A two-phase, parallel, randomised, controlled clinical trial will be carried out, in 210 participants. In phase 1, 120 participants will be randomized into four arms: (1) aerobic exercise, (2) aerobic exercise combined with resistance, (3) high-intensity intervallic exercise and (4) control group. In phase 2, 90 new participants will be randomized into three arms, using the exercise modality that showed the best glycaemic control in phase 1 in the following manner: (1) frequency of 5 days/week, (2) frequency of 3 days/week and (3) frequency of 2 days/week. The control group (n = 30) will be included in phase 1 to evaluate the effect of any type of intervention versus no intervention. Data collection will be performed at baseline and after 15 weeks of follow up. Sociodemographic data, medication, comorbidity, blood biochemical parameters, blood pressure, anthropometric measurements, body composition, physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, quality of life and sleep questionnaires will be collected. Physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep will be further determined with an accelerometer, and continuous glycaemia will be determined with a glycaemic monitor, both during seven days, at two time points. The main dependent variable will be the reduction in the mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions. The impact of these interventions on health will also be evaluated through gene expression analysis in peripheral blood cells. The results of this study will contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind the glucose response to physical exercise in a population with prediabetes as well as improve physical exercise prescriptions for diabetes prevention. Increasing glycaemic control in people with prediabetes through physical exercise offers an opportunity to prevent diabetes and reduce associated comorbidities and health costs.

Identification of ALK-positive patients with advanced NSCLC and real-world clinical experience with crizotinib in Spain (IDEALK study).

OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence of ALK translocations in patients with advanced/metastatic NSCLC in Spain, to describe the clinical characteristics of these patients, and to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of treatment with crizotinib in a real-world setting. METHODS: This is an observational prospective and retrospective cohort study to determine the incidence of ALK translocations and to analyze the effectiveness and safety of crizotinib in a real-world setting. Patient characteristics, treatment patterns, time to best overall response, duration of treatment, objective response rates (ORR), rates of adverse events (AE), progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated in the ALK study cohort of patients treated with crizotinib (prospective and retrospective). ALK incidence and quality of life (QoL) questionnaires were measured from patients included in the prospective cohort. RESULTS: The incidence of ALK translocations was 5.5 % (31 of 559 patients). Compared with ALK-negative patients, ALK-positive patients were significantly younger, predominantly female, and non-smokers. In the crizotinib effectiveness and safety study, 91 patients (42 prospective, 49 retrospective) with ALK-positive NSCLC (43.9 % in first-line, 56.1 % in second or more lines) were included. The ORR was 59.3 % and the median duration of response was 13.5 months (IQR, 5.3-26.2). The median PFS was 15.8 months (95 % CI, 11.8-22.3) and the median OS was 46.5 months, with 53 patients (58.2 %) still alive at data cut-off date. Frequently reported AEs included elevated transaminases, gastrointestinal disorders, and asthenia. Most patients (76.5 %) reported improved or stable scores for global QoL during treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The observed incidence of ALK translocations in NSCLC patients is aligned with published reports. This analysis of the real-world clinical experience in Spain confirms the therapeutic benefit and safety of crizotinib in advanced/metastatic ALK-positive NSCLC. CLINICALTRIALS: gov: NCT02679170.

Phytate Dephosphorylation Products Also Act as Potent Inhibitors of Calcium Oxalate Crystallization.

Phytate has been classified as an anti-nutrient, but there are no adverse effects from the consumption of a balanced diet with 1 to 2 g of daily phytate (inositol-hexaphosphate, InsP6) as a calcium magnesium salt, the form naturally present in grains. Furthermore, recent research has shown that phytate consumption may prevent pathological calcifications, such as kidney stones and cardiovascular calcifications. However, many endogenous and exogenous enzymes can hydrolyze phytate to lower inositol phosphates (InsPs) that also have biological activity. We performed a controlled hydrolysis of phytate and identified the products (InsPs) using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The total level of all InsPs was measured using a non-specific methodology. In addition, we evaluated the effects of the InsP6 hydrolysates on calcium oxalate crystallization using scanning electron microscopy and measuring the time needed for the induction of crystallization. Our results indicate that InsP6 and its hydrolysis products functioned as effective inhibitors of calcium oxalate crystallization. Thus, even though InsP6 is hydrolyzed after consumption, the enzymatic products also have the potential to reduce pathological calcifications. Finally, although it is useful to measure the overall level of InsPs in biological fluids, such as urine, there is a need to develop simple analytical methods to quantify the level of individual InsPs.

Effect of phytate on hypercalciuria secondary to bone resorption in patients with urinary stones: pilot study.

The objective is to evaluate the effect of phytate supplements on calciuria in patients with urinary stones and elevated bone resorption. The secondary objective is to analyze the therapeutic effect of phytate based on measurements of serum markers of bone resorption. This is a controlled randomized study included patients according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and randomized them into two groups. Patients in the phytate group received a 380 mg capsule of calcium-magnesium InsP6 (Salvat Laboratories®) every 24 h for 3 months and patients in the control group received no treatment. All included patients were male or female, 18-65 years old, had hypercalciuria (> 250 mg/24 h), had a ß-Crosslaps level greater than 0.4 ng/mL, and had bone densitometry results indicative of osteopenia or osteoporosis in the femur and/or spine. At study onset, calciuria was 321 ± 52 mg/24 h in the phytate group and 305 ± 57 mg/24 h in the control group (p > 0.05). At 3 months, calciuria was significantly lower in the phytate group than the control group (226 ± 45 mg/24 h vs. 304 ± 58 mg/24 h, p < 0.05). At study onset, the mean ß-CrossLaps level was 1.25 ± 0.72 ng/mL in the phytate group and 0.57 ± 0.13 ng/mL in the control group (p < 0.05). However, at 3 months, the ß-CrossLaps level was significantly lower in the phytate group than in the control group (0.57 ± 0.13 ng/mL vs. 0.77 ± 0.42 ng/mL, p < 0.05). Phytate reduced calciuria in patients with hypercalciuria secondary to bone resorption. The ß-CrossLaps assay was effective for evaluating the efficacy of phytate on hypercalciuria during follow-up.

Long-term chronic joint pain after sleeve gastrectomy and its influence on clinical and psychological outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Bariatric surgery (BS) is effective in improving chronic joint pain (CJP). However, the long-term effects on this comorbidity are poorly understood. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of CJP in a sample of patients who had undergone BS with a minimum follow-up of 18 months. To determine whether or not there was any relationship between CJP and clinical or psychological outcomes after BS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study. The Lattinen index (LI) was used to evaluate CJP, using the cut-off point of 10 to define significant CJP (SCJP). RESULTS: Of the 110 subjects assessed, 31.2% (35/110) had SCJP. The patients with SCJP were older (57.4±13 vs 47.8±11.6 years; p<0.0001) and more time had elapsed since their BS (105.6±54.3 vs 78.5±39 months; p=0.023). The last BMI was higher in subjects with SCJP (35±5 vs 33.3±6.9kg/m2; p=0.05) and the percentage of patients who took significant regular exercise was lower (2.9% vs 68%; p<0.0001). Trauma problems after BS were more common in subjects with SCJP (61.8% vs 22.7%; p<0.0001). More patients with SCJP met depression criteria (47.1% vs 5.3%; p<0.0001) and/or were treated with antidepressants (38.2% vs 17.3%; p=0.003). Patients with SCJP reported fewer hours of sleep (6±1.4 vs 6.8±1.2h; p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS: SCJP is highly prevalent in patients who have had BS once they reach the weight plateau phase. There is an association between having SCJP and worse psychological and functional status, with potential detrimental metabolic effects.

Diabetes might not be a risk factor for worse prognosis among hospitalized patients due to COVID-19 in a Mediterranean area.

Introduction: Aim: type-2 diabetes (T2DM) seems to worsen the prognosis of patients admitted for COVID-19, although most studies included Asiatic patients. We aimed to assess whether this condition applies for Mediterranean patients. Methods: a total of 90 patients admitted for COVID-19 with T2DM were retrospectively compared with 50 patients without T2DM. Results: subjects with T2DM were older than their counterparts (73.3 ± 12.4 vs 53 ± 15.7 years; p < 0.0001). Either absolute lymphocyte count (1.1 ± 0.6 vs 1.3 ± 0.7 x 109/L; p = 0.005) or hemoglobin (11.9 ± 1.6 vs 13.1 ± 2.1 g/dL; p < 0.0001) were lower among subjects with T2DM. CRP and procalcitonin were higher among subjects with T2DM (91.9 ± 71.2 vs 70.1 ± 63.3 mg/L; p = 0.002 and 0.8 ± 0.3 vs 0.4 ± 0.1 ng/mL; p < 0.0001, respectively). Albumin was lower among patients with T2DM (3.4 ± 0.5 vs 3.8 ± 0.5 g/L: p < 0.001). Length of stay was longer among subjects with T2DM (11.7 ± 7.7 vs 9.7 ± 8.6 days; p = 0.01). However, both groups were comparable regarding both the proportion of subjects who were admitted to the ICU (16.5 % vs 8 %; p = 0.1) and mortality (11 % vs 4 %; p = 0.2). Conclusions: in a Mediterranean sample, despite of age, comorbidities, nutritional status, and inflammatory markers, subjects with T2DM with a proper glycemic control admitted for COVID-19 had similar prognostic outcomes than patients without this metabolic condition.

Introducción: Objetivo: la diabetes de tipo 2 (DM2) parece empeorar el pronóstico de los pacientes ingresados por COVID-19, aunque la mayoría de los estudios incluyeron pacientes asiáticos. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar si esto se aplica a los pacientes de una población Mediterránea. Métodos: un total de 90 pacientes ingresados por COVID-19 con DM2 se compararon retrospectivamente con 50 pacientes sin DM2. Resultados: los sujetos con DM2 eran mayores que sus contrapartes (73,3 ± 12,4 frente a 53 ± 15,7 años; p < 0,0001). El recuento absoluto de linfocitos (1,1 ± 0,6 vs. 1,3 ± 0,7 x 109/L; p = 0,005) o la hemoglobina (11,9 ± 1,6 vs. 13,1 ± 2,1 g/dL; p < 0,0001) fueron menores entre los sujetos con DM2. La PCR y la procalcitonina fueron mayores entre los sujetos con DM2 (91,9 ± 71,2 frente a 70,1 ± 63,3 mg/L; p = 0,002 y 0,8 ± 0,3 frente a 0,4 ± 0,1 ng/ml; p < 0,0001, respectivamente). La albúmina fue menor entre los pacientes con DM2 (3,4 ± 0,5 vs. 3,8 ± 0,5 g/L: p < 0,001). La estancia hospitalaria fue mayor entre los sujetos con DM2 (11,7 ± 7,7 frente a 9,7 ± 8,6 días; p = 0,01). Sin embargo, ambos grupos fueron comparables en cuanto a la proporción de sujetos con ingreso en la UCI (16,5 % vs. 8 %; p = 0,1) y la mortalidad (11 % vs. 4 %; p = 0,2). Conclusiones: en una muestra mediterránea, a pesar de la edad, las comorbilidades, el estado nutricional y los marcadores inflamatorios, los sujetos con DM2 con un adecuado control glucémico ingresados por COVID-19 tuvieron resultados pronósticos similares a los de los pacientes sin esta condición metabólica.