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The accuracy of ultrasound findings in predicting the incidence of morbidly adherent placenta has been evaluated previously. In this study, we assessed the sensitivity and specificity of different quantitative findings of color Doppler and grayscale ultrasonography in predicting morbidly adherent placenta.

Background: Sepsis, a severe inflammatory response to infection, is a global health priority due to its high mortality and long-term disability rates. Its pathophysiology involves both inflammation and immune suppression. Managing sepsis requires significant healthcare resources and expenditure, with sepsis being a leading cause of hospital costs. Gut microbiotas play a crucial role in sepsis, and probiotics show promise in managing it by restoring microbial balance. Despite advances, targeted therapies for sepsis remain elusive, necessitating innovative approaches such as probiotic therapy. Method: Fifty-four eligible patients with sepsis will be randomly assigned to either the synbiotic or placebo group. The synbiotic supplement, KidiLact, comprises ten probiotic strains and prebiotic fructooligosaccharides. Participants will receive two sachets daily for 7 days, mixed with sterile water and administered orally or via gavage. Inflammatory factors including interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) will be evaluated. Anthropometric measurements, nutritional assessment, biochemical analysis, and clinical evaluation will be conducted to assess treatment outcomes. Statistical analysis will be performed to compare results between the two groups, employing SPSS version 19 with a significance level of P <.05. Conclusion: This randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate synbiotic supplementation effects on inflammatory markers and clinical outcomes in pediatric sepsis patients in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Probiotics have shown promise in reducing proinflammatory cytokines like IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP, which are vital in the inflammatory response. Synbiotics can enhance gut integrity, preventing pathogen translocation and reducing inflammation. If our expectations regarding the effects of probiotics are correct, we can use them as a cost-effective supplement to improve the condition of pediatric sepsis in hospitals. Trial registration: IRCT,IRCT20230523058266N1 Registered 30 October 2023, https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/71397. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionConsidering the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin and the evidence indicating the role of chronic inflammation in the pathophysiology of fatigue, this meta-analysis aimed to determine the significant effect of curcumin in reducing fatigue.Four main databases, including ISI Web of Knowledge, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, were searched from inception to July 2024 to identify randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of curcumin on fatigue scale. Meta-analysis was conducted using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) V2 and OpenMeta [Analyst] softwares. The overall estimate of effect size was measured using a random-effects model. To assess the presence of publication bias, funnel plots and Egger's regression test were utilized. The quality of each selected study was assessed using Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. Moreover, the GRADEpro tool was used in order to check the quality of evidence across studies.The meta-analysis of 13 trials, involving 763 subjects, demonstrated a significant decrease in fatigue following curcumin administration (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −1.267 (95% CI: −2.453 to −0.081), p = 0.036). The incidence of fatigue was not affected by curcumin administration. Improvement in fatigue was found to be associated with the time following intervention (≤8 weeks; SMD = −2.156; 95% CI: −3.955 to −0.358; p = 0.019 vs. >8 weeks; SMD = −0.092 (95% CI: −0.663–0.479), p = 0.753) and the health status of the participants. However, the dosage of curcumin did not show a significant correlation with the fatigue score.Curcumin supplementation presents a promising approach for managing fatigue due to its multifaceted mechanisms of action as a phytochemical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although various treatments are developed against COVID-19 variants, probiotic, and synbiotic adjunct therapy with several benefits such as safety, low cost, and availability could be needed for preventing or treating COVID-19 infection. Objective: The present systematic review aimed to assess the prophylactic efficacy of the probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic administration against COVID-19. Methods: The protocol of this systematic review was registered at the PROSPERO (Code number: CRD42023418900). The Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Sciences, and PubMed databases were systematically searched to define the clinical trials published up to November 2022 in the English language. The comparison of the incidence of COVID-19 disease and levels of specific antibodies against SARS-cov2 between the intervention and placebo groups were evaluated in this systematic review. Results: According to the five included trials, four indicated the incidence of COVID-19, and no significant differences were observed between the probiotic and placebo groups during 1, 2, or 3 months of follow-up in the mentioned studies. Regarding the antibody assays against SARS-Cov2 including IgM, IgG, or IgA reported by three eligible trials, there were no significant differences between the intervention and control groups. Conclusion: It seems that the administration of single or multi-strain probiotics or synbiotics had no prophylactic effects in different populations such as high-risk staff exposed to COVID-19, elderly nursing home residents, healthy adults, and household contact with COVID-19 patients during 1-to-3- months of intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: ADHD is widely recognized as the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in children. Recently, the potential role of gut microbiota as an etiological factor in ADHD has gained attention. This systematic review aims to investigate the potential impact of probiotic supplements on alleviating ADHD symptoms and influencing behavior. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS were searched from inception to May 2023. Only randomized controlled trials that have suitable data of the effects of probiotics/synbiotics on children with ADHD were enrolled. The risk of bias of the included studies was assessed by Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. Results: Five related randomized controlled trial were evaluated in the current review. Types of interventions ranged from single/multi strain probiotics to synbiotic. The duration of intervention in all of the studies were 2 to 3 months. The assessed outcomes were very diverse and different tools were used to report the symptoms in children. Among those which used Conners' Parent Rating Scale, a decrease in the total score occurred in the probiotic group, compared to the placebo group. An improvement in both intervention and control groups was seen in one study which used ADHD-Rating Scale. Conclusion: In summary, the combined findings from the reviewed studies suggest that probiotic supplements might potentially serve as a complementary intervention for ADHD. However, given the small number of studies, limited sample sizes, and the diversity of probiotic strains, further research is needed to clarify the effects of probiotics in children with ADHD. The observed tolerability of probiotics is noteworthy as none of the studies report adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) has been revealed as a severe illness with a wide‑ranging cardiac manifestation and has a worldwide burden on the health‑care system. Aims: Our aim in this study is to assess the impact of mild COVID‑19 infection on cardiac function in patients without previous structural heart disease. Settings and Design: We evaluated 100 outpatients with a history of mild COVID‑19 infection without needing hospitalization within 3 weeks to 3 months after recovery from the acute phase of the illness between August 2020 and July 2021. Subjects and Methods: The patients were compared with 105 healthy participants without a history of COVID‑19 as the control group. All participants underwent comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS statistics 23. For all tests, P < 0.05 was defined as statistically significant. Results: COVID‑19 patients had higher global longitudinal strain (P = 0.001), systolic pulmonary artery pressure (P = 0.008), RV E’ (P = 0.049), and RV A’ (P = 0.003), while had lower septal tissue velocities (P = 0.01) and left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) (LVEF) (P = 0.03). Abnormal EF (LVEF <55%) was noted in 19% of the COVID‑19 patients and 8.6% of the control group (P = 0.03). Moderate or more diastolic dysfunction was noted in 10 COVID‑19 patients but only in one participant in the control group (P = 0.005). Conclusions: Mild COVID‑19 infection can result in cardiac functional and structural changes, even in patients without known previous structural heart disease. Echocardiography can be a useful modality for risk assessment and follow‑up in patients with COVID‑19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current study intends to assess the impact of oral selenium intake on anti-Tg antibody in individuals with autoimmune hypothyroidism. Methods: In this double-blinded randomized controlled trial, two groups of 72 autoimmune hypothyroid patients were randomly assigned; One group received levothyroxine (LT4) and oral selenium and the other group was given placebo with LT4. Anti-Tg antibody, free T4, anti-TPO antibody, and TSH were identified in both groups before the treatment and also 3 months after treatment and analysis of data was done by SPSS software. Results: After the intervention, the average amount of anti-Tg antibody decreased in both of the groups, and this decrease was noticeably greater in the intervention group (P = 0.03). In the intervention group, the TSH level decreased after the intervention (p < 0.05), and the free T4 level increased after the intervention (p < 0.05); the changes in these two variables were statistically significant. Conclusion: Consumption of selenium, compared to placebo, in patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism drastically reduces the level of anti-Tg antibody, and it significantly increases the free T4 level. Also, there is a greater decrease in the level of TSH compared to the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Asthma is a common disease and curcumin has modest effect in inflammatory disorders. This study investigated the efficacy of nano-curcumin on asthma. Materials and Methods: In this double-blinded randomized clinical trial, 60 patients with non-atopic bronchial asthma were randomly stratified in two groups of intervention (N=30) and control (N=30) groups. Apart from their standard treatment, the intervention group received 40 mg nano-curcumin (soft gel) three times daily while the control group received placebo. During the 60-day study, patients were assessed using spirometry to measure Forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1). Asthma control test (ACT) was completed every 30 days and asthma quality of life questionnaire (AQLQ) was completed at the first and end of the study. Results: Totally, 31 patients (51.7%) were male and the mean age was 51.45±12.58 years. FEV1 was improved but there was no significant difference between intervention and control groups. ACT and AQLQ domains scores significantly improved. However, it was not statistically different between control and intervention groups. Conclusion: Nano-curcumin at administered dosage had no additive effect on the standard treatment in asthmatic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Body hair removal plays an important role in beauty standards, particularly for women. Finding a method that is easy to use, cheap, and can be done without supervision can significantly affect long-term hair reduction and reduce the side effects of hair removal. The present study investigated the impact of a containing 20% broad bean (Vicia faba) extract cream on axillary hair removal. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five female volunteers were randomly divided into A (right axillary intervention - left axillary placebo) and B (right axillary placebo - left axillary intervention). Depending on the group, each person used a cream containing 20% broad bean extract) "The extract made from the seeds and pods of broad beans.") on one side and a placebo on the other twice a day for three months. Volunteers shaved their axillary hairs three days before each visit and took pictures of both sides on the day of the visit with a trichoscope (to check the diameter and thickness of the hairs). Results: We found a decrease in thickness on the intervention group (the axilla where a cream containing broad bean extract was applied); however, this difference was not significant between the intervention side and the placebo. In terms of the number of hairs, the difference between the two groups was significant only in the second month despite the decrease on the intervention side. Evaluation based on the personal judgment of the volunteers showed that there was a substantial difference in terms of the number of hairs (p=0.012) and thinning of hair (p=0.02). Conclusion: Our findings showed that 20% broad bean extract cream could potentially reduce axillary hair growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the high prevalence of head and neck cancers in Iran, no studies have been conducted to investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and these cancers. Many Iranians suffer from vitamin D deficiency, which underscores the importance of conducting these studies in Iran. Objectives: This study aims at investigating the relationship between vitamin D levels and laryngeal cancer. Methods: This 1: 1 matched case-control study included 216 patients in Mashhad, Iran, who had not consumed vitamin D supplements for 3-months before study onset. Participants were grouped in 2 categories; the case group, which consisted of patients with laryngeal cancer whose squamous cell carcinoma was confirmed pathologically for the first time (new cases), and the control group, which consisted of individuals who did not have any cancer at the time of the study, confirmed by indirect laryngoscopy, and were identical to the patient group in terms of other risk factors for laryngeal cancer (smoking and alcohol abuse). First, the relevant checklist (including age, occupation, consumption of tobacco, alcohol use, etc., history of contact with mustard gas, wood, stone, metal, and cement industry, as well as history of reflux in the individual and cancer in relatives) was completed for all case and control group members. After taking blood samples, they were evaluated for serum levels of vitamin D3. Data were analyzed using chi-square, Mann-Whitney U or independent sample t-tests. Logistic regression was also used to determine the relation between vitamin D level and laryngeal cancer. Results: Mean age, sex and risk factors of laryngeal cancer were not significantly different between the two groups. Vitamin D level was significantly lower in patients with laryngeal cancer compared to control group (16.02 ± 3.62 ng/mL vs 25.19 ± 3.40 (P< 0.001)). Logistic regression analysis showed that vitamin D level is independently related to laryngeal cancer and has a protective effect on this neoplasm (OR= 0.54, 95%CI: 0.46 - 0.63, P < 0.001). Conclusions: A lower vitamin D level may be related to laryngeal cancer. However, the role of vitamin D deficiency as a risk factor for head and neck cancers and whether the treatment of this condition could prevent the incidence of such cancers is a matter of future investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the importance of polyphenol‐rich fruits in decreasing cardiovascular mortality, the impact of pomegranate juice (PJ) on blood pressure is still unclear. To determine the effect of PJ on blood pressure. PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched comprehensively using relevant keywords. All studies using pomegranate juice alone were included although limited to human studies and the English language. A random‐effects model and the generic inverse variance approach were used to determine quantitative data synthesis. Meta‐analysis of 14 clinical trials (n = 573 individuals) demonstrated a reduction in systolic BP (SBP) with pomegranate juice (MD: −5.02 mmHg, 95% CI: −7.55 to −2.48, p < 0.001). Effect of study duration showed pomegranate juice intake ≤2 months significantly decreased SBP (MD: −4.59 mmHg, 95% CI: −7.10 to −2.08, p < 0.001) and DBP (MD: −2.94 mmHg, 95% CI: −5.25 to −0.63, p = 0.01). Consumption of ≤300 mL pomegranate juice daily reduced SBP (MD: −6.11 mmHg, 95% CI: −9.22 to −3.00, p < 0.001). Counterintuitively, >300 mL/day of pomegranate juice showed no effect on SBP (MD: −3.28 mmHg, 95% CI: −6.85 to 0.27, p = 0.07) but a significant DBP reduction occurred (MD: −3.10 mmHg, 95% CI: −5.74 to −0.47, p = 0.02). Meta‐regression showed that the SBP‐lowering effect of pomegranate juice was associated with the dose of supplementation (p < 0.001). Pomegranate juice appeared to decrease SBP and DBP in a dose‐dependent manner, but the benefit was lost after 2 months of pomegranate juice intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The rate of olfactory loss related to COVID-19 was reported between 4-89 percent. There is no approved treatment for patients who experience anosmia after the mentioned infection. This systematic review aimed to assess the therapeutic effects of corticosteroids on anosmia in COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: Databases including PubMed, ISI Web of Sciences, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. Databases were searched up to September 2022 to find out randomized controlled trials that assessed the effect of corticosteroids on post-COVID anosmia/hyposmia. Only studies published in the English language were entered in this review. Results: Among the six relevant trials with a total population of 712, one study administered the combination therapy of both systemic and nasal corticosteroids, while others used intranasal corticosteroids. No significant difference was observed between the intervention (IG) and control (CG) groups in terms of duration of improvement from anosmia (mean difference:-1.799). The pooled effect of self-rating olfactory scores was assessed at 2 weeks and at the end point of the studies which revealed no significant effect in favor of the IG (pooled effect in 2 weeks: 0.739; in the endpoint: 1.32). The objective evaluation with different tools indicated that IG obtained higher scores at the endpoint of treatment. The pooled results showed that the number of patients who recovered from anosmia is higher in IG compared to CG (Odds Ratio: 1.719). Conclusion: It appears that the duration of corticosteroid therapy more than two weeks may be a considerable effect on the recovery of smell dysfunction in COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is the gold standard for the diagnosis of massive (MPE) and submassive pulmonary embolism (SMPE). Ultrasound has not been accepted as a diagnostic tool. We aim to evaluate the pattern of pulmonary Doppler echocardiography in patients with pulmonary embolism (PE). Methods: From 2020 to 2022, 30 patients with acute MPE or SMPE confirmed by CTA and normal pulmonary pressures were selected. A control group was created with 30 individuals without PE. All patients had an echocardiography Doppler study of the pulmonary flow with a focus on early systolic notching (ESN), McConnell's (MC) sign, Right ventricular outflow tract velocity time integral (RVOT VTI), segmental thickness variability (STV), right ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (RVEDD), tricuspid regurgitation (TR) gradient, pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), and acceleration (AT) or ejection time (ET). Results: ESN was identified in 96.6% of PE patients and 0% of the control group (p < 0.001). In comparison with the control group, STV (p < 0.001), RVOT VTI (p < 0.001), ET (p = 0.04), and AT (p < 0.001) values were lower in patients with PE while RVEDD, TR gradient, PAP, ESN, MC sign, and d‐shape were higher (p < 0.001). Identification of the ESN pattern and AT/ET < 0.4 showed excellent predictive ability for MPE and SMPE with a sensitivity of 97.0% and 100%, specificity of 99.0% and 97%, and an area under the ROC curve of 0.967 (95% CI 0.914−1.00) and 0.933 (95% CI 0.844−1.00), respectively. Conclusion: Doppler echocardiography with particular attention to ESN, may be a suitable noninvasive method for the diagnosis of MPE and SMPE. Further studies with more sample sizes are needed to confirm its diagnostic benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Pre‐eclampsia is a multisystem disorder characterized by symptoms of high blood pressure and proteinuria during pregnancy. It is associated with many complications and maternal and fetal mortality. This disorder may be associated with many cardiovascular complications and affect the function of the heart. Therefore, in this study, the structure and function of the right ventricle (RV) in patients with pre‐eclampsia have been investigated using echocardiography. Methods: This cross‐sectional study was conducted in Ghaem Hospital of Mashhad. Thirty‐two pregnant women, whose gestational age was 20 weeks or more, were considered as the case group after evaluating blood pressure and confirming proteinuria and pre‐eclampsia. Thirty‐two healthy pregnant women were also included in the study as a control group. The function of the RV was evaluated using two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography. Results: Investigating the results of the study shows that in pregnant women with pre‐eclampsia, RV fractional area change, and RV strain indices have decreased significantly compared with healthy pregnant women (p < 0.05). Also, the statistical analysis shows that no significant differences were observed in the two groups in terms of echocardiographic indices E, A, É, E/É, É/Á, E/A, pulmonary artery pressure, Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion, right ventricular diameter, and left ventricle mass index. Conclusion: According to the results of the study, it can be generally said that pre‐eclampsia may be associated with changes in the function and echocardiographic indices of the RV and may result in cardiac complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fetal exposure to maternal anxiety is associated with low birth weight and maternal stress may be led to constriction of uterine arteries. This study compared the relation of anxiety and uterine artery doppler flow indices in pregnant women with the high and low-risk of Down syndrome. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted among pregnant women in the second trimester that were classified as having a high or low risk according to their prenatal aneuploidy screening outcome. The high risk group underwent amniocentesis. Anxiety was initially assessed using the Spielberger State-Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and uterine artery blood flow indices were evaluated 2 times for the both groups. For the high-risk group first: immediately before amniocentesis and second: after two weeks follow up, when receiving the karyotype results and for the low-risk group in the first admission and two weeks later. Results: Totally, 375 pregnant women participated in our study that sorted into 2 risk populations based on the aneuploidy screening test, low-risk=176 and high-risk women=199. The high-risk group for Down syndrome amniocentesis showed abnormal results in the 23 cases (23/199). The mean state (P=0.003) and trait (P=0.033) of the Anxiety Inventory scores were significantly different between the groups. Baseline uterine artery indices were no significant difference between the groups. Baseline Uterine artery indices in the high-risk group was significantly different with follow-up (in both positive-amniocentesis and negative amniocentesis sub-groups) indices. Also, there was a weak and significant correlation in the uterine resistance index and STAI scores (P=0.008, r=0.137) during the follow-up period. Conclusion: All pregnant women experienced high level anxiety, especially in the high-risk group that may reduce after confirmation of prenatal aneuploidy screening test and also affects the Doppler indices. For all pregnant women; Stress management and emotional support training is recommended before and during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may lead to myocardial damage and arrhythmia. Patients with ECG changes have shown an increased risk of mortality. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to study the changes in the electrocardiogram, which may be of great significance for risk stratification of COVID-19-positive patients. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted to compare electrocardiogram changes and disease severity markers in COVID-19-positive patients admitted to a referral hospital between February 20 and March 20, 2020. RESULTS: Our study consisted of 201 cases, including 123 males and 78 females. Ages ranged between 16 and 97 years old. Fifty-two (25.9%) cases had a history of ICU admission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a low O2 saturation level (OR = 0.920, 95% CI 0.868–0.976, p=0.005), several lab tests, ECG changes (OR = 46.84, 95% CI 3.876–566.287, p = .002) and Age (OR = 1.03, 95% CI 1.000–1.065, p = .048) were the independent risk factors for predicting mortality rate. In addition, we utilized multivariate logistic regression analysis, demonstrating that LBBB (OR = 4.601, 95% CI: 1.357–15.600, p=0.014) is the only ECG risk factor associated with morbidity in elderly patients with ECG changes. CONCLUSIONS: ECG changes are strong indicators of high mortality rates in elderly COVID-19 patients. ECG interpretations should therefore be used for risk stratification and predicting the need for ICU admission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The immediate impacts of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on mental health of affected patients and psychiatric morbidities of these patients has been neglected by researchers. We assessed mental health outcomes and sleep status among inpatients and outpatients with COVID-19 who were initially referred to our COVID-19 clinic in Mashhad, Iran during April-October 2020. Method: In this ethically approved cross-sectional study, 130 patients with confirmed COVID-19 who were referred to outpatient clinics and wards of a referral hospital in Mashhad, Iran were surveyed during April-October 2020. Demographic data were collected after obtaining informed written consent. Validated Persian versions of insomnia severity index (ISI), 9-item patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9), and 7-item generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) and revised impact of event scale (IES-R) were used as main outcome measures (i.e. status of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and event-related distress). Analysis was performed with SPSS using binary logistic regression. P-values < 0.05 were considered significant. Results: Overall, 65 inpatients and 65 outpatients were surveyed. The two groups did not significantly defer in terms of insomnia and depression severity, but the outpatients showed higher levels of anxiety (52.3% vs. 24.6%, P = 0.005) and distress compared to inpatients (80.0% vs. 64.6%, P < 0.001). Male sex (OR = 0.017, 95%CI = 0.000-0.708, P = 0.032) exhibited independent and inverse association with depression in COVID-19 patients. Being married (OR = 0.102, 95% CI = 0.018-0.567, P = 0.009) was independently and inversely associated with anxiety. Insomnia was independently associated with event-related distress (OR = 7.286, 95%CI = 2.017-26.321, P = 0.002). Only depression was independently associated with insomnia (OR = 49.655, 95%CI = 2.870-859.127, P = 0.007). Conclusion: We found symptoms of psychological distress and anxiety to be more prevalent among outpatients with COVD-19 than inpatients. Insomnia can be a potential risk factor for adverse mental health outcomes in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Various fortification strategies have been proposed to account to treat or prevent vitamin D deficiency. However, the optimum fortification approach, and the effect of these on health is not widely understood. There have been controversial reports regarding the effect of vitamin D fortification on the lipid profile. The aim of present systematic review is the evaluation of administration of vitamin D fortified products on lipid profile. Methods: We used databases including PubMed/Medline, Web of Knowledge, Science Direct, Scopus and Cochrane Library. A search was conducted until 2020. Randomized controlled trials that have assessed the relationship between consumption of vitamin D fortified products and serum lipid profile were included. The relationship between fortification dose, dairy or non-dairy fortification as well as duration of intervention and plasma lipid profiles evaluated in separate sub-groups. Results: Among serum lipids including total cholesterol(TC), triglyceride(TG), low density lipoprotein(LDL) and high density lipoprotein(HDL), fortification of vitamin D was reported to have a significant effect on reducing TC (pooled estimate: -0.089 mmol/L, 95%CI: -0.134 to -0.044, p<0.001). Its effect on other lipid profiles were not significant (LDL pooled estimate:-0.115 mmol/L, 95%CI:-0.238 to 0.008; HDL pooled estimate:0.024 mmol/L, 95%CI:-0.024 to 0.071; TG pooled estimate:-0.176mmol/L, 95%CI:-0.499 to 0.148). Conclusion: This meta-analysis demonstrated that vitamin D fortification could significantly reduce TC both in long and short term interventions and in different products. However this reduction, whilst statistically significant, may not be clinically important. The effect of fortification on other lipid profile components vary depending on dose and duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) affects more than one billion individuals globally. We aimed to review all the published papers on vitamin D deficiency in in the country. Method: PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, Science direct and scientific information databases were searched for papers related to the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency for all age groups in Iran from 2000 to 2018. The Joanna Briggs Institute prevalence critical appraisal tool was applied for the assessment of the methodological quality of these studies. The Meta-analysis is based on the random effect model using Comprehensive Meta-analysis data analysis. Results: Eighty-seven original articles reported on participants with vitamin D insufficiency in Iran. According to the meta-analysis of the prevalence of moderately deficient of vitamin D in men and women as well as younger and older individuals (>18 years) using a cut-off point of 25(OH) D3<20 ng/mL was 39% and 51%, respectively. Vitamin D concentrations <30 ng/mL among Iranian populations in the cities of Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad, and Zahedan were reported to be higher than 90%. The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in Iranian women was higher than in men in various age groups. The highest prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in neonates, children, adults and pregnant women was observed in the Middle East. Most countries had a high prevalence of VDD in elderly people. Conclusion: Vitamin D insufficiency is common in the Iranian population and is an important public health problem that should be considered seriously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are early depolarizations of the myocardium which originate from the ventricle. PVCs have previously been considered a benign condition. The clinical significance of PVCs in patients without structural heart disease is controversial. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, patients with a palpitation complaint who underwent electrocardiography (ECG) Holter recording for 48 hours were analyzed. Patients with frequent PVCs (more than ten times in 1 hour) were identified and enrolled in the study. 26 patients were in the PVC group, and 26 patients were in the control group without PVC. The identified patients underwent an echocardiographic examination with strain modality. RESULTS: There were 15 women (57.7%) in the PVC group and 17 women (65.4%) in the control group (P = 0.57). Two patients in the PVC group and three patients in the control group were hypertensive (P > 0.99). There was only one patient with diabetes in PVC and control group (P > 0.99). There were two smokers in the PVC group, whereas there was no smoker in the control group (P = 0.49). In comparison between two groups, patients with frequent PVCs had significantly larger left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI) (P = 0.048) along with lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P = 0.011), lower (more positive) left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) (P = 0.001), and lower peak systolic mitral annular velocity (S') (P = 0.045). The left atrial volume index (LAVI) was significantly larger in the PVC group (P = 0.001). In speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) parameters, global peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) (P = 0.001) and peak atrial contraction strain (PACS) (P = 0.001) were significantly lower and time to peak longitudinal strain (TPLS) (P = 0.002) was significantly higher in the PVC group. CONCLUSION: In this study, left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) function and geometry were adversely affected by frequent PVCs. Early diagnosis of these effects is possible with echocardiography along with strain analysis. It can guide the timely treatment of PVC to avoid the harmful effects of frequent PVCs on the heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common medical complication of pregnancy. The current study aimed to investigate the possibility of a relationship between affective temperaments and GDM. This ethically approved cross-sectional study was conducted on 120 pregnant women with impaired glucose tolerance and 120 healthy pregnant women, all of whom were admitted to hospitals affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences for delivery during 2019. Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS)-21 and Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego-auto-questionnaire (TEMPS-A) were used to gather data. Mann–Whitney test was used to compare data between the two groups. A multivariate binary logistic regression model with maternal age, body mass index, and multiparity as the covariates was used to assess factors associated with GDM. Outcomes of TEMPS-A showed significantly higher scores of anxious and irritable temperaments in the GDM group compared to the control group (p = 0.014 and 0.023, respectively). Multivariate regression showed anxious temperament to be the sole independent predictor of GDM (odds ratio = 1.09, 95%confidence interval = 1.030–1.153; p = 0.003). DASS-21 anxiety score was also significantly higher among patients with GDM (p = 0.002). Severity of anxiety and stress according to DASS-21 was also significantly greater in patients with impaired glucose tolerance (p < 0.001 and p = 0.016, respectively). It is ostensible that affective temperaments, especially anxious temperament, are potentially associated with the development of GDM and impaired glucose metabolism during pregnancy. The association of affective temperaments with pregnancy complications has drawn compelling interest. The findings of this study showed significantly higher scores of anxious and irritable temperaments in GDM patients. GDM patients also showed significantly higher levels of anxiety compared to controls. Predominance of anxious temperament can be a potential risk factor that contributes to the development of GDM. Monitoring for GDM is especially recommended in pregnant women with predominant anxious and irritable temperaments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to assess the efficacy of Intraprostatic Onabotulinumtoxin-A (BTA) on the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and other objective measures of patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: Fifteen patients were included in this study. The drug (BTA; 150 IU) was reconstituted in 20 mL of 0.9% saline before administration to the patients. After providing urethral anesthesia, 20 intraurethral injections were made to lateral lobes of the prostate, 10 injections in each lobe. Follow-up visits were planned 3 and 12 months after the intervention. Pre- and post-interventional IPSS, Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Prostate Volume (PV), Post-Void Residue (PVR), and maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) compared via paired t-test. Finally, we reviewed the Pubmed database to provide a more precise conclusion. Results: The Mean±SD age of patients was 69±8.24 years, and the mean IPSS score decreased significantly from 24.3±3.3 to 14.6±3.7 (P<0.001) and 16.86±3.06 (P<0.009) on the 3rd and 12th months, respectively. The Mean±SD PSA, PVR, Qmax, and PV were 3.26±1.38, 82.33±35.55, 8.56±1.76, and 47.86±8.93, respectively at baseline. These factors significantly improved to 2.72±1.33 (P<0.000), 71.33±30.55 (P<0.000), 9.5±1.33 (P<0.011), and 42.86± 6.04 (P<0.000), respectively, on the 12th month follow-up. Conclusion: Although the overall results support the efficacy of BTA for BPH, the best route of administration, the most effective dose, the optimal number, and the volume of injections need further investigations. The probable placebo effect and underlying medical conditions (e.g., insulin resistance) should be considered as the confounding factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urticaria control test (UCT) is a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) for chronic urticaria (CU) patients. As a Persian version of the UCT was not available, the present research aimed to develop such a version, to test its reliability and validity as well as to evaluate urticaria control among Persian-speaking patients. This research was conducted at the Urticaria Centre of Reference and Excellence (UCARE) of Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad, Iran. In a first step, a linguistically validated Persian version of the UCT was developed through a structured forward and backward translation process and subsequent cognitive debriefing interviews. In a second step, the Persian version of the UCT was completed by 100 well-characterized CU patients together with two anchor instruments, the Chronic Urticaria Quality of life Questionnaire (CU-Q2oL) and the urticaria activity score (UAS), to obtain information on its internal consistency reliability and convergent validity. The Persian version of the UCT was found to have acceptable internal consistency reliability with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.68. In addition, the results obtained with the Persian UCT correlated with the CU-Q2oL total score (-0.48, p<0.001) and the UAS (-0.404, p= 0.001), suggesting convergent validity. Virtually all patients had poorly controlled CU (UCT<12). A Persian version of the UCT is now available and may help to improve the assessment and monitoring of disease control in Persian-speaking CU patients and to optimize treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malnutrition is prevalent in upper gastrointestinal cancer patients. The purpose of this study was a comprehensive assessment of nutritional status in newly diagnosed patients with esophageal cancer. Newly diagnosed esophageal cancer patients were referred to a chemo-radiation referral center in Mashhad, Iran, between February 2017 to February 2019. Anthropometric indices, a Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) tool, body composition, dietary intake, nutritional-related complications, and laboratory tests were assessed. One hundred and eighty-nine patients with a mean age of 67.1 ± 12 and a male to female ratio of 98 to 91 were included. Ninety-seven (51.3%) of patients had experienced significant weight loss and 56 (29.6%) were underweight at diagnosis. According to PG-SGA, 179 (94.7%) needed nutritional interventions. Reduced muscle mass and low handgrip strength were observed in 70 (39.4%) and 26 (14.4%) of patients, respectively. Inadequate intakes of energy (less than 24 kcal/kg/day) and protein (less than 1.2 g/kg/day) were found in 146 (77.8%) and 171 (91%) patients, respectively. The mean total daily energy and protein intakes of subjects were 943.8 ± 540 kcal/day, and 30.6 ± 21 g/day, respectively. The most common nutritional-related complications were as follows: dysphagia (84.8%), anorexia (31.6%), constipation (62.1%), esophageal pain (48.4%), and dyspepsia (41.1%). Our study demonstrated a high prevalence of malnutrition in newly diagnosed esophageal cancer patients. This fact demonstrates the importance of early screening of nutritional status via PG-SGA tool, clinical evaluation, dietary intake evaluations, and laboratory tests, based on which effective nutritional interventions and Symptoms management may be introduced in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Since mortality and morbidity of coronary artery disease are high, there is a need for non‐invasive diagnostic methods for early diagnosis and prediction of ischemic heart disease (IHD) outcome. This study aimed to assess the relationship between angiographic findings, the Presystolic wave (PSW) and some of the ischemic related parameters in echocardiography of the patients with chronic stable angina. Materials and methods: This cross‐sectional study was conducted on the patients with chronic angina pectoris who referred to a tertiary hospital for coronary angiography in Mashhad, Iran. Demographic and medical history of the patients, as well as echocardiography findings, including ejection fraction (EF), regional wall motion abnormalities (RWMA), PSW and diastolic function were recorded. Angiographic findings, including SYNTAX score were also assessed. Results: A total of 220 patients (132 males and 88 females) with the mean age of 62.43 ± 11.40 years old participated in this study. The prevalence of PSW was 49.1%. The absence of the PSW was related to more RWMA (P =.002), and higher stages of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) (P =.029) and higher SYNTAX score (P =.001). There was a significant association between the absence of the PSW and EF categories, especially in severe LV systolic dysfunction (LVEF < 30%) (P =.001). Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that PSW is strongly associated with the SYNTAX score. The absence of the PSW may indicate patients at high‐risk clinical status (higher SYNTAX score, severe systolic dysfunction, more RWMA, and higher stages of LVDD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PVAN), mainly caused by the BK virus, is one of the most important infectious complications of kidney transplantation. The leading histopathologic characteristics of PVAN is viral cytopathic effects, such as nucleomegaly with smudged or clumped chromatin and intranuclear ground-glass inclusion, mostly in tubular epithelial cells. Moreover, tubular necrosis, tubulitis, interstitial inflammation, atrophy, and fibrosis have been noted. Positive immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining for SV-40 highlights the infected epithelial cells of renal tubules. Methods: A total of 85 core needle biopsies of transplanted kidneys were evaluated histologically and were stained for SV-40 using the IHC method. In addition, a followup of graft failure was performed. Results: Our findings revealed that the frequency of polyomavirus infection in kidney transplant patients in the Northeast of Iran is 4.7%. There was no significant correlation between PVAN and graft rejection. Although a higher rate of graft loss was observed in PVAN patients, in comparison with non-PVAN patients (25% vs. 14.8%), the difference was not statistically significant. Moreover, patients with immunohistochemically confirmed PVAN and those with histopathologic features of viral-like cytopathic effects had significantly lower graft survival in the follow-up period (42.5 vs. 196.8 months and 109.4 vs. 205.7 months, respectively). Conclusion: The frequency of polyomavirus infection in kidney transplant patients in the Northeast of Iran is 4.7%. There was no significant correlation between PVAN and graft rejection. Furthermore, we observed that polyomavirus infection accelerates the course of graft loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the prognostic value of chest computed tomography (CT) imaging features in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 201 patients with COVID-19 were enrolled consecutively. The patients' chest CT scans were analyzed, and the disease severity was rated using two methods: (l) total lung involvement (TLI) in which each lobe is scored from 0 to 4 based on the percentage of involvement; and (2) modified TLI in which each lobe involvement score is multiplied by the number of its segments, and the sum is recorded as the modified TLI. The patients were categorized into four groups depending on their prognosis (patients admitted to hospital wards, patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs), patients with intubation during hospitalization, and expired patients). The relationship between both scoring methods and the clinical outcomes of patients was examined in the four groups. Results: The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed no significant difference between the two scoring methods (TLI and modified TLI) in predicting the patients' prognosis. The average disease severity based on the two scoring methods was significantly different between the four groups. Patients who were intubated during hospitalization and patients who expired had significantly higher scores than patients admitted to the ICUs and hospital wards (P= 0.001). The area under the ROC curve for the prediction of mortality was 0.81(95% CI: 0.72 - 0.90; P< 0.001); the TLI score of 18.5 could predict mortality with specificity of > 95%. Conclusion: The TLI scoring system can be used for predicting in-hospital mortality and ICU admission in COVID-19 patients. This scoring method can help us devise a better strategic healthcare plan during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Novel Coronavirus outbreak has posed a global threat. While the infection appears to be mild in most patients, considering its high rate of transmission, a large number of people are at risk of developing severe to critical illness in total which makes prognosis studies a priority. The aim of the present study was to evaluate red blood cell distribution width (RDW) as a predictive factor for diagnosing severe cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Materials and Methods: A total number of 204 inpatients diagnosed with COVID-19 including 122 men and 82 women (Mean age: 58.83±15.93 years old) treated at Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad, Iran were included in the study. Patients were divided into severe and moderate groups according to their clinical signs and examinations and pulmonary imaging features. Demographic Data, laboratory test results, treatments, patients' complications and outcome were recorded. Mann-Whitney U test and spearman correlation coefficient (r) were performed to assess RDW correlation with severity and serious complications in patients including intensive care unit (ICU) admission, shock, secondary infections, intubation, length of hospitalization and death. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves analysis was carried out to define the reliability of RDW as a predictive indicator in severe COVID-19. Results: The results showed statistical significant correlations between high levels of RDW and developing secondary infections and longer hospitalization (P values =0.001). The optimal cutoff for RDW to predict the length of hospitalization (= 7 days or more than 7 days) was estimated to be 14.65% with 94% sensitivity and 71.3% speciJicity. The area under curve was calculated to be 0.895 through Roc curve analysis. Conclusion: High predictive value of RDW, a routine blood test parameter, could be used in diagnosing COVID-19 patients at higher risk for developing secondary infections and longer hospital stay which in turn helps with better management of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The high incidence of coronary heart diseases requires early diagnosis to prevent complications. This study aims to assess the mean value of tissue mitral annular displacement (TMAD), using Speckle tracking echocardiography (2D STE) in patients with coronary artery stenosis. METHODS: 149 patients aged 50 to 76 years were included in this cross-sectional study who were admitted with primary diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) to the emergency department. In all patients, the TMAD data were measured using 2D speckle tracking technology. RESULTS: 149 patients with a mean age of 61.83 ± 7.14 years old were studied. Regarding the involved coronary artery as left anterior descending (LAD), right coronary artery (RCA), or left circumflex artery (LCX), the TMAD data was reduced significantly (P < 0.001) in the relevant walls [base of anterior and anteroseptum (4.46 ± 3.53 mm), base of inferior and inferoseptum (4.91 ± 3.81 mm), and base anterolateral and inferolateral walls (5.53 ± 3.827 mm), respectively.] TMAD in anterior, inferior, and lateral ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) were 2.64 ± 0.870, 4.78 ± 3.8, and 2.80 ± 0.83 mm, respectively which were significantly reduced compared to the non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and unstable angina (P < 0.001). TMAD in different LV function categories was only reduced in those with LAD lesion and with severe LV systolic dysfunction (2.47 ± 0.834 mm, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The current study describes a significant relationship between TMAD and left ventricular function, ACS type, and the culprit coronary artery. In different types of ACS, the TMAD value was worse in the subgroups of STEMI and in the walls affected by the stenosed coronary artery. This method might be helpful in defining the culprit coronary artery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) based on frame-to-frame tracking of acoustic speckles is a novel angle-independent method, used for evaluating myocardial deformation and recently to assess left atrium (LA) function. To the best of our knowledge, there is no investigation evaluating the predictor role of LA strain parameters in detection of coronary artery stenosis in ischemic heart disease. In this study, we assessed this parameter for predicting the culprit artery in patients underwent selective coronary angiography (SCA) in Mashhad, Iran. Materials and Methods: This was a case-control study, which was performed in Imam Reza and Ghaem Hospitals in Mashhad, Iran between 2017 and 2018 in patients referred for SCA. Subjects with two or three-vessel diseases were excluded. Sixty-five cases were included in the study and divided into four groups according to the vessel involved: Group (1): normal coronary artery subjects (n=36); group (2): patients with left anterior descending (LAD) artery stenosis (n=12); group (3): patients with left circumBlex artery (LCX) stenosis (n= 7) and group 4: patients with right coronary artery (RCA) stenosis (n=10). Patients underwent routine TTE and Speckle Tracking Imaging. Results: The mean age of participants was 56.72± 10.69 years old. The male/female ratio was 0.96. Mean absolute value of LA strain was 24.74% in normal subjects, while in groups with stenotic coronary artery disease, less values were deBined as 18.63%, 16.03% and 19.05%, respectively (p value=0.05). The amounts of left ventricle end systolic volume (LVESV), LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and Em of septal annulus were significantly different between normal group and those with LCX stenosis. Among different echocardiographic parameters, LA strain, LVESV and Em of septal annulus were defined as predictors of LCX occlusion with regression analysis. Conclusion: LA strain in subjects with coronary artery stenosis was lower than the strain in normal group and could predict isolated LCX occlusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this randomized controlled trial study was to assess the effects of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) compared with general nutritional advice (NA) on nutritional status in esophageal cancer (EC) patients during Chemoradiation (CRT). METHOD: The sample includes one hundred newly diagnosed patients with EC. The MNT group received individualized nutritional therapy. The NA group received general nutritional advice at the beginning of the participation. Patient-Generated- Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA), anthropometric indices, body composition, dietary intake, laboratory tests, and nutrition-related complications were assessed. RESULTS: Forty-nine cases were in the MNT group. The MNT group had significantly more favorable energy (26.4±14.1 vs. 18.2±11.2 kcal/kgw.day) and protein (1±0.6 vs. 0.7±0.4 g/kgw.day) intake than the NA group at the final evaluation. The PG-SGA score diminished but not significantly in both groups (11±6 vs. 12±6). As compared to the NA group, patients in the MNT group experienced more frequently no weight loss (21% vs. 11%) or mild weight loss (40% vs 35%) during the treatment. Meanwhile, moderate weight loss was more frequently observed in the NA group (26% vs. 44%). In the MNT group, those with severe weight loss had not proper adherence to the nutritional protocol. Mid-upper arm circumference, body composition, laboratory tests, physical performance, and nutrition-related complications were not significantly different between the two groups. CONCLUSION: As compared to general NA, MNT improved energy and macronutrients intake in patients with EC undergoing CRT which resulted in less severe weight loss and potentially better nutritional status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some reports indicated that Vitamin D may improve glycaemia indices in diabetic patients. The aim of this systematic and meta‐analysis was to evaluate effects of Vitamin D fortification on indices of glycemic control. Six databases (PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched, for randomized controlled trials that were published up to September 2018 and that compared the effect of Vitamin D‐fortified food versus regular diet in relation to glycemic control. Of the 4,379 studies originally found, 11 articles remained to be assessed for meta‐analysis. Vitamin D fortification was associated with a significant improvement in fasting serum glucose (mean difference [MD]: −2.772; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −5.435 to −0.109) and fasting serum insulin (MD: −2.937; 95% CI: −4.695 to −1.178) in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. A diet with food enriched with Vitamin D was associated with a significant improvement in homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (MD: −1.608; 95% CI: −3.138 to −0.079) but was not associated with a significant reduction in hemoglobin A1C (MD: 0.034; 95% CI: −0.655 to 0.069). This meta‐analysis indicates that Vitamin D fortification improves indices of glycemic control. Hence, food fortified with Vitamin D may be of potential therapeutic value in diabetic patients, as an adjuvant therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]