Factors associated with sepsis development in 606 Spanish adult patients with cellulitis.

BACKGROUND: Cellulitis, a frequent cause of admission of adult patients to medical wards, occasionally evolves to sepsis. In this study we analyze the factors related to sepsis development. METHODS: Prospective and observational study of 606 adult patients with cellulitis admitted to several Spanish hospitals. Comorbidities, microbiological, clinical, lab, diagnostic, and treatment data were analyzed. Sepsis was diagnosed according to the criteria of the 2016 International Sepsis Definitions Conference. Multiple logistic regression modelling was performed to determine the variables independently associated with sepsis development. RESULTS: Mean age was 63.4 years and 51.8% were men. Overall 65 (10.7%) patients developed sepsis, 7 (10.8%) of whom died, but only 4 (6.2%) due to cellulitis. Drawing of blood (P < 0.0001) or any (P < 0.0001) culture, and identification of the agent (P = 0.005) were more likely among patients with sepsis. These patients had also a longer duration of symptoms (P = 0.04), higher temperature (P = 0.03), more extensive cellulitis (P = 0.02), higher leukocyte (P < 0.0001) and neutrophil (P < 0.0001) counts, serum creatinine (P = 0.001), and CRP (P = 0.008) than patients without sepsis. Regarding therapy, patients with sepsis were more likely to undergo changes in the initial antimicrobial regimen (P < 0.0001), received more antimicrobials (P < 0.0001), received longer intravenous treatment (P = 0.03), and underwent surgery more commonly (P = 0.01) than patients without sepsis. Leukocyte counts (P = 0.002), serum creatinine (P = 0.003), drawing of blood cultures (P = 0.004), change of the initial antimicrobial regimen (P = 0.007) and length of cellulitis (P = 0.009) were independently associated with sepsis development in the multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Increased blood leukocytes and serum creatinine, blood culture drawn, modification of the initial antimicrobial regimen, and maximum length of cellulitis were associated with sepsis in these patients.

Very low level viraemia and risk of virological failure in treated HIV-1-infected patients.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to investigate whether very low level viraemia (VLLV) (20-50 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL) was associated with increased risk of virological failure (VF) as compared with persistent full suppression (< 20 copies/mL). METHODS: From the VACH Cohort database, we selected those patients who started antiretroviral therapy (ART) after January 1997 and who achieved effective viral suppression [two consecutive viral loads (VLs) < 50 copies/mL] followed by full suppression (at least one VL <20 copies/mL). We carried out survival analyses to investigate whether the occurrence of VLLV rather than maintaining full suppression at < 20 copies/mL was associated with virological failure (two consecutive VLs > 200 copies/mL or one VL > 200 copies/mL followed by a change of ART regimen, administrative censoring or loss to follow-up), adjusted for nadir CD4 cell count, sex, age, ethnicity, transmission group, type of ART and time on effective suppression at < 50 copies/mL. RESULTS: Of 21 480 patients who started ART, 13 674 (63.7%) achieved effective suppression at < 50 copies/mL, of whom 4289 (31.4%) further achieved full suppression at < 20 copies/mL after May 2009. A total of 2623 patients (61.1%) remained fully suppressed thereafter, while 1666 had one or more episodes of VL detection > 20 copies/mL (excluding virological failure). A total of 824 patients had VLLV after suppression at < 20 copies/mL. VLLV was not associated with virological failure as compared with persistent full suppression [hazard ratio (HR) 0.67; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44-1.00], independently of the number of blips recorded (from one to 18). CONCLUSIONS: In our population of HIV-infected patients on ART who achieved viral suppression at < 20 copies/mL, the risk of virological failure was no different for patients who remained fully suppressed compared with those who experienced subsequent episodes of VLLV.

Polymorphism of neuropeptide Y gene rs16147 modifies the response to a hypocaloric diet on cardiovascular risk biomarkers and adipokines.

BACKGROUND: The main genetic variant described in NPY gene is rs16147 (G-399A) and it is located within the promoter region upstream of the gene for neropeptide Y (NPY). We evaluate the effects of the rs16147 NPY gene polymorphism on metabolic changes secondary to weight loss after 3 months of a hypocaloric diet in adult obese patients. METHODS: A population of 82 obese patients was analysed in an interventional design of one arm. Before and after 3 months on a hypocaloric diet, an anthropometric evaluation, an assessment of nutritional intake and a biochemical analysis were performed. The statistical analysis was performed for combined GA and AA as a group (minor allele group) and GG as second group (major allele group) (dominant model). RESULTS: In A allele carriers, the mean (SD) decrease in weight was -2.8 (2.2) kg [decrease in non A allele carriers -2.6 (1.1) kg, P > 0.05), body mass index was -1.2 (0.6) kg m-2 [decrease in non A allele carriers -1.1 (0.8) kg m-2 , P > 0.05], fat mass was -1.7 (1.4) kg [decrease in non A allele carriers -1.9 (1.3) kg, P > 0.05], waist circumference was -5.5 (3.4) cm [decrease in non A allele carriers -3.7 (4.1) cm, P = 0.006], C-reactive protein (CRP) was -0.7 (0.6) mg dL-1 [decrease in non A allele carriers -0.1 (0.3) mg dL-1 , P = 0.02], insulin was -1.5 (0.4) mUI L-1 [decrease in non A allele carriers -0.8 (2.0) mUI L-1 , P = 0.001] and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was -0.4 (0.5) [decrease in non A allele carriers -0.2 (0.1), P = 0.005]. interleukin (IL)-6 changes were significant in A allele carriers [-0.7 (0.2) pg mL-1 ] versus non A allele carriers [-0.1 (0.3) pg mL-1 ] (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: We found that the rs164147 genotype affected the reduction of waist circumference, HOMA-IR, insulin, CRP and IL-6 levels in response to weight loss diet in obese subjects.

Factors associated with long-term CD4 cell recovery in HIV-infected patients on successful antiretroviral therapy.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to study the factors associated with immunological recovery in HIV-infected patients with suppressed viral load. METHODS: Nadir and current CD4 cell counts were recorded in 821 patients, as well as many demographic, epidemiological, lifestyle, clinical, therapeutic, genetic, laboratory, liver fibrosis and viral hepatitis parameters. RESULTS: The median age of the patients was 44.4 years [interquartile range (IQR) 40.3-48.0 years], the median time since HIV diagnosis was 15.3 years (IQR 10.5-18.9 years), the median time of suppressed viral load was 7.0 years (IQR 4.0-10.0 years) and the median time on the current antiretroviral regimen was 2.8 years (IQR 1.4-4.7 years). The median nadir and current CD4 counts were 193.0 (IQR 84.0-301.0) and 522.0 (IQR 361.0-760) cells/µL, respectively, separated by a median period of 10.2 years (IQR 5.9-12.9 years). The median CD4 count gain during follow-up was 317.0 (IQR 173.0-508.0) cells/µL. Many variables were associated with CD4 cell gains in univariate analyses, including age, gender, epidemiology, prior clinical conditions, fibrosis stage, transient elastometry, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), nadir CD4 count and hepatitis B and C virus infections and genotypes, as well as the durations of follow-up since nadir CD4 count, overall antiretroviral treatment, current antiretroviral regimen, protease inhibitor therapy and suppression of viral load. Multivariate analysis revealed that longer duration of HIV suppression (P < 0.0001), more advanced clinical Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stages (P < 0.0001), younger age (P = 0.0003), hepatitis C virus genotypes 1 and 4 (P = 0.003), sexual acquisition of HIV (P = 0.004), and lower transient elastometry values (P = 0.03) were independent predictors of CD4 cell gains. Overall, the model accounted for 14.2% of the variability in CD4 count. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to the duration of HIV suppression, HIV-related diseases, HIV epidemiology, age, hepatitis C virus genotypes, and liver fibrosis were independently associated with long-term immunological recovery.

Relation of the rs6923761 gene variant in glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor with weight, cardiovascular risk factor, and serum adipokine levels in obese female subjects.

BACKGROUND: Studies of the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor have been directed at identifying polymorphisms in the GLP-1 receptor gene that may be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular risk factors. Nevertheless, the role of GLP-1 variants on body weight, cardiovascular risk factors, and adipokines remains unclear in obese patients. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to analyze the effects of rs6923761 GLP-1 receptor polymorphism on body weight, cardiovascular risk factors, and serum adipokine levels in nondiabetic obese females. DESIGN: A sample of 645 obese nondiabetic Caucasian females was enrolled in a prospective way. Basal fasting glucose, c-reactive protein (CRP), insulin, insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)), total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides concentration, and adipokines were measured. Weights, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, fat mass by bioimpedance, and blood pressure measures were measured. RESULTS: Three hundred and twenty-seven participants (50.7%) had the genotype GG and 318 (49.3%) study subjects had the next genotypes; GA (270 study subjects, 41.9%) or AA (48 study subjects, 7.4%) (second group). In wild group (GG genotype), BMI (1.8 ± 2.3 kg/m(2) ; P < 0.05), weight (3.1 ± 1.3 kg; P < 0.05), fat mass (2.4 ± 1.1 kg; P < 0.05), waist circumference (2.7 ± 1.9 cm; P < 0.05), triglyceride levels (10.4 ± 5.3 mg/dl; P < 0.05), interleukin 6 (IL-6) (1.5 ± 0.9 ng/dl; P < 0.05), resistin (1.1 ± 0.3 ng/dl; P < 0.05), and leptin (30.1 ± 10.3 ng/dl; P < 0.05) levels were higher than mutant group (GA + AA). CONCLUSION: Data from our study revealed an association with decreased metabolic and cardiovascular markers in obese females. BMI weight, fat mass, waist circumference, triglycerides, leptin, resistin, and IL-6 serum levels were lower in subjects with A allele than non-A allele subjects.

Effect of Lys656Asn Polymorphism of Leptin Receptor Gene on Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Serum Adipokine Levels after a High Polyunsaturated Fat Diet in Obese Patients.

BACKGROUND: Human obesity is characterized by high levels of leptin, and leptin levels may change with weight loss and dietary restriction. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of Lys656Asn polymorphism in the leptin receptor gene on cardiovascular risk factors, weight loss, and serum leptin levels to a high polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) hypocaloric diet in obese patients. DESIGN: A sample of 132 obese patients was analyzed in a prospective way with a dietary intervention. The enriched PUFAs hypocaloric intervention consisted in a diet of 1,459 kcal, 45.7% of carbohydrates, 34.4% of lipids, and 19.9% of proteins. RESULTS: In wild-type group, BMI (-1.9 ± 1.4 kg/m(2) ), weight (-4.4 ± 3.2 kg), fat mass (-4.2 ± 3.8 kg), waist circumference (-4.1 ± 3.1 cm), systolic blood pressure (-7.0 ± 12.1 mmHg), diastolic blood pressure (-3.9 ± 6.8 mmHg), insulin (-1.8 ± 5.6 MUI/l) and HOMA-IR (-0.5 ± 1.5 Units) decreased. In mutant genotype group, BMI (-2.0 ± 2.1 kg/m(2) ), weight (-3.6 ± 4.1 kg), waist circumference (-3.1 ± 4.1 cm), total cholesterol (-25.2 ± 19.6 mg/dl), LDL cholesterol (-16.6 ± 25.6 mg/dl), and tryglicerides (-26.6 ± 39.1 mg/dl) decreased. Only leptin levels have a significant decrease in wild genotype group (-6.6 ± 10.2 ng/ml) (25.1%). CONCLUSION: Carriers of ASn656 allele have a different response than wild-type obese, with a lack of decrease in insulin levels, leptin levels, and HOMA-IR. However, obese patients with this mutant allele have a better lipid profile after weight loss.

Serum visfatin levels and metabolic syndrome criteria in obese female subjects.

BACKGROUND: Serum visfatin concentrations are associated with cardiovascular risk factors and obesity. Relation of this adipokine with metabolic syndrome is unclear. We decide to investigate the association between metabolic syndrome and visfatin levels in female obese subjects. SUBJECTS: A sample of 826 female obese subjects was analyzed. A complete nutritional and biochemical evaluation was performed. Serum visfatin levels were measured and to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, the definitions of the Adult Treatment Panel III was considered RESULTS: Mean age was 48.1 + 12.6 years. Patients were divided in three groups by tertiles of visfatin value, group I (<7.94 ng/ml), group II (7.95-11.78 ng/ml) and group 3 (>11.79 ng/ml). A total of 350 women had metabolic syndrome (42.4%). Values of body mass index, weight, fat mass and waist circumference were lower in patients in the highest tertile group of visfatin than the lowest and middle tertiles of visfatin. Values of C reactive protein were higher in patients in the highest tertile group of visfatin than the lowest and middle tertiles of visfatin. Correlation analysis showed a significant correlation among serum visfatin levels and the independent variables; total cholesterol (r = 0.14;p < 0.05) and C reactive protein (r = 0.12;p < 0.05). In the multivariate analysis, only visfatin concentration increase 0.123 ng/ml (CI95%:0.033-0.445) for each mg/dl of C reactive protein. CONCLUSION: Only C reactive protein remained associated in an independent way. Serum visfatin was not associated with the accumulation of metabolic syndrome factors or the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome in obese female subjects.

Effects of C358A polymorphism of the endocannabinoid degrading enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) on weight loss, adipocytokines levels, and insulin resistance after a high polyunsaturated fat diet in obese patients.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The C385A polymorphism of FAAH gene (rs324420C>A) has been associated with obesity. We investigate the role of this polymorphism on anthropometric and insulin resistance responses to a high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diet. METHODS: Obese individuals (no.=99) were assessed at baseline and after 3 months of a high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diet. RESULTS: Seventy-one patients (71.7%) had the genotype C385C and 28 (28.3%) patients had the C385A (26 patients, 26.3%) or A358A (2 patients, 2.0%) (A allele carriers group) genotype. In A allele carriers and after dietary intervention, total cholesterol (-16.3 ± 37.4 mg/dl) and LDL-cholesterol (-12.9 ± 6.5 mg/dl) levels decreased. In subjects with C385C genotype, the decreases were significant in total cholesterol (-12.3 ± 27.4 mg/dl), LDL-cholesterol (-7.5 ± 20.5 mg/dl), insulin (-2.2 ± 6.2 mUI/l), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-R) (-0.79 ± 1.15 units) levels. The weight loss was similar in both genotype groups (-4.1 ± 3.8 kg vs -4.2 ± 3.2 kg). Only leptin levels had a significant similar decrease in both genotypes. CONCLUSION: Subjects with C385C genotype of the FAAH showed an improvement on insulin and HOMA-R levels with a high polyunsaturated fat hypocaloric diet after weight loss during 3 months.

Association of anthropometric and biochemical markers with length of stay and mortality in the hospital.

INTRODUCTION: Malnutrition is associated with patient outcome, hospital stay and costs. The objective of our study was evaluated the relationship of different anthropometric and biochemical nutritional markers with hospital stance (days) and mortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A sample of 3087 hospitalized patients in a Universitary Hospital was enrolled. Nutritional status was assessed from anthropometric variables; body mass index (BMI), weight, weight loss in previous three months, tricipital skin fold thickness, midarm muscle circumference and midarm muscle area. Biochemical evaluation was assessed with albumin, prealbumin, transferrin and lymphocytes. Length of hospital stance and mortality were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 3087 patients were enrolled, mean age was 67.7±18.3 years, weight 63.3±15,7 kg and BMI 23.7±6.8, with a weight loss (3 months) of 6.3±4.6 kg. Length of stay was 24.7±22.1 days. A total of 2583 patients were discharged. Hospital discharge data showed 87.8% of patients went home, and a 12.2% of patients were discharged to a secondary Hospital. A (n=504) 16.3% of patients died. In the multivariate analysis with a dependent variable [length of stay (days)], only albumin levels remained as an independent predictor in the model (F=2.9; p < 0.05), with an increase of 3.1 days in hospital stay (CI 95%: 0.4-5.8) with each decrease of 1 g/dl of albumin. In multivariate analysis, an independent factor that decrease mortality was high albumin levels (hazard ratio: 0.41; 95% CI: 0.22-0.80), adjusted by age and sex. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows a significant association among serum albumin levels with length of stay in hospital and mortality.

A randomized clinical trial with two doses of an enteral diabetes-specific suplements in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus type 2.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of our study was to investigate whether two different daily doses of a high monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) specific diabetes enteral formula could improve nutritional variables as well as metabolic parameters. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a randomized, open-label, multicenter, parallel group study. 27 patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 with recent weight loss were randomized to one of two study groups: group 1 (two cans per day) and group 2 (three cans per day) for a ten week period. RESULTS: A significative decrease of HbA1c was detected in both groups. The decrease 0.98% (confidence interval 95% 0.19-1.88) was higher in group 2 than group 1 0.60% (confidence interval 95% 0.14-1.04). A significant increase of weight, body mass index, fat mass, albumin, prealbumin and transferrin was observed in both groups without statistical differences in this improvement between both groups. The increase of weight 4.59kg (confidence interval 95% 1.71-9.49) was higher in group 2 than group 1 1.46% (confidence interval 95% 0.39-2.54). Gastrointestinal tolerance (diarrhea episodes) with both formulas was good, without statistical differences (7.60% vs 7.14%: ns). CONCLUSIONS: A high monounsaturated fatty acid diabetes-specific supplement improved HbA1c and nutritional status. These improvements were higher with three supplements than with two per day.

A randomized clinical trial with two doses of a omega 3 fatty acids oral and arginine enhanced formula in clinical and biochemical parameters of head and neck cancer ambulatory patients.

INTRODUCTION: Postsurgical patients with head and neck cancer could have a high rate of ambulatory complications. The aim was to investigate whether oral ambulatory nutrition of head and neck cancer patients with recent weight loss, using two different doses of an omega 3 fatty acids and arginine enhanced diets could improve nutritional parameters. DESIGN: At Hospital discharge post surgical head and neck cancer patients (n=37) were asked to consume two or three cans per day of a designed omega 3 fatty acid and arginine enhanced supplement for a twelve week period. RESULTS: Albumin, prealbumin, transferrin and lymphocytes levels improved in both groups. Weight, fat mass and fat free mass improved during supplementation in group II (3 bricks per day). No differences were detected in anthropometric parameters in group I. Gastrointestinal tolerance with both formulas was good, no episodes were reported. There are no differences between both formulas on postsurgical complications rates. CONCLUSIONS: Omega 3 and arginine enhanced formulas improved blood protein concentrations and lymphocyte levels in ambulatory postoperative head and neck cancer patients. A high dose of arginine and omega 3 fatty acids formula improved weight, too.

Relation of -55CT polymorphism of UCP3 gene with weight loss and metabolic changes after a high monounsaturated fat diet in obese non diabetic patients.

AIMS: The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of -55CT polymorphism of UCP3 gene on metabolic response, weight loss and serum adipokine levels to a high monounsaturated fat hypocaloric diet in obese patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A sample of 128 obese patients was analyzed in a prospective way during 3 months. RESULTS: Eighty eight patients (21 males/67 females) (68.8%) had the genotype 55CC (wild genotype group) and 40 patients (8 males/32 females) (31.3%) 55CT (mutant genotype group). In wild genotype group, BMI (-1.6±1.3 kg/m2), weight (-4.3±3.7 kg), fat mass (-3.5±3.3 kg), waist circumference (-5.1±2.9 cm), total cholesterol (-7.2±10.6 mg/dl), LDL cholesterol (-5.3±12.8 mg/dl) and leptin (-4.7±10.1 ng/ml) decreased. In mutant genotype group, BMI (1.3±2.2 kg/m2), weight (-3.0±1.4 kg), fat mass (-2.5±1.1 kg), waist circumference (-2.8±3.1 cm) and leptin (-5.8±10.7 decreased. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with -55CC UCP3 genotype, a high mono-unsaturated hypocaloric diet reduced BMI, weight, waist circumference, waist to hip ratio, fat mass, LDL-cholesterol, total cholesterol and leptin levels. Carriers of T allele had a different response than -55CC patients, with a significant decrease of the same antropometric parameters, but lower than in the wild genotype group, and without significant changes in cholesterol levels.

Experience over 12 years with home enteral nutrition in a healthcare area of Spain.

BACKGROUND: The wide spread use of long-term enteral nutrition and the substantive costs dictate a need to study the outcome, as well as the clinical and epidemiological characteristics, of these patients. The present study aimed to analyse the incidence and characteristics of a cohort of patients on home enteral nutrition (HEN) over 12 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective observational study was performed between January 1999 and December 2010. All adult patients living in Valladolid West area who were discharged from the hospital on HEN were prospectively studied and followed up. RESULTS: The incidence of HEN ranged between 9.52 per 100, 000 inhabitants in 2001 to 30.0 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2009. HEN was administered orally in 472 patients (68.28%) (group 1), and through a nasogastric tube in 168 patients (24.30%), a percutaneous enteral gastrostomy tube in 47 patients (6.80%) and a jejunostomy in four patients (0.60%) (group 2; 219 patients). During the course of HEN, 31 patients had diarrhoea (4.5%), 17 patients had constipation and 12 patients had nausea. The mean (SD) duration of HEN was 159.9 (97) days. In multivariable analysis, an independent factor associated with death was age (hazard ratio = 1.03; 95% confidence interval - 1.01-1.05), adjusted by sex, route and diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: HEN has a high incidence in our area and it is a valid and safe technique for nutrition support.

Effect of a commercial hypocaloric diet in weight loss and post surgical morbidities in obese patients with chronic arthropathy, a randomized clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of our study was to evaluate in patients with obesity and surgical indication of orthopaedic surgery for chronic osteoarthritis (hip or knee), the impact on weight loss, metabolic control and post surgical co morbidities of a hypocaloric commercial formula (Optisource®) versus conventional nutritional advice before orthopaedic surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 40 patients were randomized in both branches: diet I with lunch and dinner substituted by two Optisource® (1109.3 kcal/day, 166.4 g of carbohydrates (60%), 63 g of proteins (23%), 21.3 g of lipids 17%) and intervention II with nutritional counselling that decreases 500 cal/day of the previous dietary intake. Previous and after 3 months of the treatment, a nutritional and biochemical study was realized. Postsurgical co-morbities have been recorded. RESULTS: 20 patients finished in each group. The improvement in weight (-7.56 ± 5.2 kg vs -5.18 ± 5.1 kg: p < 0.05), body mass index (-3.15 ± 2.2 vs -2.1 ± 1.9 kg/m2: p < 0.05), fat mass (-5.5 ± 5.9 kg vs -3.0 ± 2.6 kg: p < 0.05), insulin (-3.6 ± 3.8 mUI/L vs -3.0 ± 2.6) p < 0.05) and HOMA (-0.5 4 ± 1.2 vs -0.33 ± 1.14): p < 0.05) was higher in group I than in group II. All post surgical recorded parameters such as minutes of orthopaedic surgery, length of stay, vein thrombosis episodes, general infections complications, haemoglobin levels and days till independence of walking were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Obese patients with chronic osteoarthritis subsidiary of surgery, lose more weight, fat mass and improve more resistance to insulin treated with a mixed diet with a commercial formula hypocaloric that patients treated only with dietary advice.

Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis in Spain: clinical, prognostic, and genetic survey.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the CYP27A1 gene resulting in sterol-27-hydroxylase deficiency. Current information about CTX is based mainly on case reports, with only few large series reported. Although perceived as a potentially treatable condition, efficacy of chenodeoxycholic acid plus statin therapy remains unclear. To perform a nationwide survey of confirmed cases, with a thorough analysis of genotype-phenotype data and prognostic factors. METHODS: Retrospective review of the clinical and epidemiological aspects and mutations of all the patients diagnosed since 1992 in the main reference centers for genetic testing of CTX in Spain. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients from 19 families were identified. An average delay of 19 years was observed between symptom onset and clinical diagnosis. Two main clinical subgroups were recognizable: a classic form (cerebellar and other supratentorial symptoms) and a spinal form (chronic myelopathy). Cholestanol levels did not correlate with clinical presentation, severity or response to therapy. Despite treatment, five patients died during follow-up, one to 4 years after diagnosis. Thirteen different mutations were identified, with a higher frequency of p.R395C in Northwestern Spain and p.R405W in Southern Spain. None of the mutations could be associated with a particular clinical feature combination or prognosis. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first nationwide extensive series of CTX reported in Spain. The higher number of cases in some areas suggests a possible founder effect. Spinal forms had a less severe prognosis. A delayed diagnosis could contribute to the lack of significant response to treatment.

Effect of a probiotic on liver aminotransferases in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients: a double blind randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The present pilot trial was carried out to evaluate the effects of an acute treatment with a mixture containing 500 million of Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus per day in patients with non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). RESEARCH METHODS: A sample of 30 patients with NAFLD (diagnosed by liver biopsy) was enrolled and 28 patients were analyzed in a double blind randomized clinical trial. Patients were randomized to one of the following treatments during 3 months: group I, treated with one tablet per day with 500 million of Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus and group II, treated with one placebo tablet (120 mg of starch). RESULTS: In group I, alanine amino transferase (ALT: 67.7 +/- 25.1 vs. 60.4 +/- 30.4 UI/L; p < 0.05), aspartate aminotransferase activity (AST: 41.3 +/- 15.5 vs. 35.6 +/- 10.4 UI/L; p < 0.05) and gammaglutamine transferase levels (gammaGT: 118.2 +/- 63.1 vs. 107.7 +/- 60.8 UI/L; p < 0.05) decreased. In group II, all liver function parameters remained unchanged (ALT: 60.7 +/- 32.1 vs. 64.8 +/- 35.5 UI/L; p < 0.05), aspartate aminotransferase activity (AST: 31.7 +/- 13.1 vs. 36.4 +/- 13.8 UI/L; ns) and gammaglutamine transferase levels (gammaGT: 82.1 +/- 55.1 vs. 83.6 +/- 65.3 UI/L; ns). Anthropometric parameters and cardiovascular risk factors remained unchanged after treatment in both groups. CONCLUSION: A tablet of 500 million of Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, with a randomized clinical design, improved liver aminotransferases levels in patients with NAFLD.

Effect of simplification from protease inhibitors to boosted atazanavir-based regimens in real-life conditions.

BACKGROUND: Atazanavir (ATV) boosted with ritonavir (ATV/r) is a potent, well-tolerated, once-daily protease inhibitor (PI). Few data are available on this agent as a treatment simplification option for patients taking other PIs. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness and safety of ATV-containing regimens in patients who have simplified their antiretroviral treatment. METHODS: SIMPATAZ was a multicentre, prospective, noninterventional study in patients who had undetectable HIV RNA on their current PI-containing therapy and who were switched to an ATV/r-based regimen. Patients underwent a routine physical examination, and data were collected on HIV RNA levels, CD4 cell counts, liver function, lipid parameters, adverse reactions, adherence to treatment and patient satisfaction. RESULTS: A total of 183 patients were enrolled in the study and included in the analysis (80% were male, 29% had AIDS, and 52% were coinfected with HIV and hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus). The median baseline CD4 count was 514 cells/µL. Median exposure to previous HIV therapy was 8 years, and 32% of patients had a history of PI failures. Lopinavir boosted with ritonavir was the most frequent PI replaced (62%) and tenofovir+lamivudine /emtricitabine the backbone most used during the study (29%). The study drug was discontinued early by 25 patients (14%), two of whom discontinued as a result of adverse events (Hodgkin lymphoma and vomiting). Two patients died (lung cancer and myocardial infarction). At month 12, 93% of the study population had an undetectable HIV RNA viral load. Hyperbilirubinaemia >3 mg/dL and increased alanine aminotransferase levels>200 IU/L were observed in 38.5% and 4.4% of patients, respectively. Median changes from baseline to month 12 in total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were -13 mg/dL (-7%; P<0.0001), -19 mg/dL (-13%; P<0.0001) and -7 mg/dL (-6%; P=0.021), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In a real-world setting, switching from other PIs to ATV/r is a well-tolerated and safe option for improving the lipid profile and for retaining virological response in controlled pretreated patients.

Impairment of rapid repetitive finger movements and visual reaction time in patients with essential tremor.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The question whether patients with essential tremor (ET) have slowed movements as part of their clinical manifestations is still a matter of controversy. We analyzed basic motor function in patients with ET and in healthy matched controls. METHODS: We studied 61 patients with ET and 122 age- and sex-matched controls. Evaluation included four timed tests (pronation-supination, finger tapping and movement between two points, all with both hands, and walking test); and three tests performed on a personal computer (speed for pressing repetitively a key - frequency, visual reaction time and movement time, all with both hands). RESULTS: Essential tremor patients showed higher mean values for right and left finger tapping, left movement between two points; and with right and left frequency and reaction time. In the logistic regression study, ET patients showed significantly higher values than controls for right and left finger tapping; mean, SD, maximum and rank values of right and left frequency; and mean, SD, minimum, maximum and rank values of right and left visual reaction time. Tremor severity was not correlated with the altered values. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with ET showed impaired motor performance, at least in some tasks, such as rapid repetitive finger movements (finger tapping and frequency) and visual reaction time (impairment was not related with tremor severity). This probably means that patients with ET have some degree of bradykinesia.

Influence of Ala54Thr polymorphism of fatty acid-binding protein 2 on insulin resistance and adipocytokines in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2.

BACKGROUND: A transition G to A at codon 54 of FABP2 results in an amino acid substitution (ala 54 to Thr 54). This polymorphism could be associated with insulin resistance and adipocytokines in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of Thr54 polymorphism in the FABP2 gene on adipocytokines and insulin resistance in the fasted state in naïve patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. DESIGN: A population of 58 naïve patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (fasting glucose > 126 mg/dl) and obesity (body mass index > 30) was analyzed in a prospective way. An indirect calorimetry, tetrapolar electrical bioimpedance, blood pressure, a serial assessment of nutritional intake with 3 days written food records and biochemical analysis (lipid profile, adipocytokines, insulin, CRP and HOMA) were performed. The statistical analysis was performed for the combined Ala54/Thr54 and Thr54/Thr54 as a mutant group and wild type Ala54/Ala54 as second group. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients (56.9%) had genotype Ala54/Ala54 (wild type group) and 25 (43.1%) patients Ala54/Thr54 (19 patients, 32.8%) or Thr54/Thr54 (6 patients, 10.3%) (mutant group). C-reactive protein (5.6 +/- 4.2 vs 8.7 +/- 5.3 mg/dl: p < 0.05), insulin (22.9 +/- 11 vs 6.6 +/- 12 mUI/L: p < 0.05) and HOMA (7.65 +/- 5.3 vs 9.1 +/- 6.3: p < 0.05) were higher in mutant group than wild group. Anthropometric parameters, dietary intakes and adipocytokines were similar in both genotypes. CONCLUSION: The novel finding of this study is the association of the Thr54/Ala54 and Thr54/ Thr54 FABP2 genotypes with higher levels of C reactive protein, insulin and HOMA.

[Randomized clinical trial with a inulin enriched cookie on risk cardiovascular factor in obese patients]. / Ensayo clínico aleatorizado con una galleta enriquecida en inulina en el patrón de riesgo cardiovascular de pacientes obesos.

INTRODUCTION: Inulin is a prebiotic with potential benefit in cardiovascular risk factors. The aim of our work is to evaluate in obese patients the effect of a inulin enriched cookie on cardiovascular risk factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 34 patients were randomized in both branches: group I (inulin enriched cookie) Gullon SL(R) and group II (control cookie). Previous and after 1 month of the treatment, a nutritional and biochemical study was realized. RESULTS: 15 patients finished the procotol in each group. In group I, an increase in soluble fiber intake (inulin) was detected. In this group a significant decrease of total cholesterol (223.1 +/- 45.3 mg/dl vs 208.8 +/- 33.1 mg/dl; p < 0.05) and LDL cholesterol (142.9 +/- 39.2 mg/dl vs 131.4 +/- 28.6 mg/dl; p < 0.05) was reached. A non significant improvement in insulin levels and HOMA was detected in inulin-enriched cookie group, too. Anthropometric parameters did not change in both groups. The increase in soluble fiber intake did not produce any gastrointestinal adverse effect. CONCLUSION: The increase of fiber intake (3 g of inulin) from an enriched cookie reduced LDL cholesterol levels in obese patients.