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Objective Smoking is a common public problem leading to increases in oxidative stress and decreases in the levels of some micronutrients, finally affecting adipokine levels. The aim of this study was to compare the serum levels of omentin (intelectin-1), chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes in male smokers and non-smokers. Methods 40 male smokers and 40 male non-smokers with a mean age of 38.6 ± 14.1 years were included in this study. Serum levels of omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α were measured. To calculate the daily intake of energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, and some of the micronutrients, the 24-h recall and semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used. Results Omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α levels in male smokers were lower than non-smokers, but these differences were not statistically significant. However, after adjustment for total and saturated fat intakes and age, omentin (β = 138.4, p = 0.027) and TNF-α (β = 144.5, p = 0.015) revealed significant differences. Conclusion The serum levels of omentin, chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes were not significantly different between smokers and non-smokers. Further population studies are needed to clarify this subject.

In this systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical controlled trials (CCTs) we aimed to investigate the efficacy of KDs as an adjuvant therapy on cardiometabolic outcomes in patient with cancer compared to conventional non-ketogenic diets. Only CCTs involving cancer patients that were assigned to either a KD or a standard diet control group were selected. Two reviewers independently extracted the data, and a meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to estimate weighted mean differences (WMDs) and confidence intervals (CIs) in body composition, metabolite, lipid profile, liver and kidney function parameters and quality of life. This meta-analysis showed a significant reduction in body weight (WMD= -2.99 kg; 95% CI: -4.67, -1.31; and

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of propolis and melatonin supplementation on inflammation, clinical outcomes, and oxidative stress markers in patients with primary pneumosepsis.This pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted on 55 patients with primary pneumosepsis who were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. In the three intervention groups, the patients received propolis alone (1,000 mg/day), propolis (1,000 mg/day) plus melatonin (20 mg/day), and melatonin alone (20 mg/day). The control group received placebo. The inflammatory and oxidative stress markers as well as clinical outcomes were evaluated before and after the intervention, and the 28-day survival rate was also recorded.After the intervention, the combination of propolis and melatonin significantly reduced interleukin-6 (-55.282 pg/mL) and C-reactive protein (-21.656 mg/L) levels, while increasing gavage intake (326.680 mL/day) and improving some clinical outcomes (APACHE II, SOFA, and NUTRIC scores) compared to the control group. However, no significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of oxidative stress and hematological indices. In addition, there was no significant difference in the 28-day survival rate between the groups (p = 0.07).Supplementation with propolis and melatonin may improve clinical outcomes by reducing inflammation. Further investigations are required to confirm these findings.Hintergrund und Zielsetzung: Mit der vorliegenden Studie sollten die Auswirkungen einer Supplementierung mit Propolis und Melatonin auf das Entzündungsgeschehen, die klinischen Ergebnisse und die Marker für oxidativen Stress bei Patienten mit primärer Pneumosepsis untersucht werden. Material und Methoden: An dieser randomisierten kontrollierten Pilotstudie nahmen 55 Patienten mit primärer Pneumosepsis teil, die randomi­siert den Interventionsgruppen bzw. der Kontrollgruppe zugewiesen wurden. In den drei Interventionsgruppen erhielten die Patienten Propolis als Monotherapie (1’000 mg/Tag), Propolis (1’000 mg/Tag) plus Melatonin (20 mg/Tag) und Melatonin als Monotherapie (20 mg/Tag). Die Kontrollgruppe erhielt ein Placebo. Vor und nach der Intervention wurden die Entzündungsmarker sowie die Marker für oxidativen Stress und die klinischen Ergebnisse beurteilt, und es erfolgte eine Erfassung der 28-Tage-Überlebensrate. Ergebnisse: Nach der Intervention war unter der Kombination von Propolis und Melatonin ein signifikanter Rückgang der Konzentration von Interleukin-6 (–55,282 pg/mL) und C-reaktivem Protein (–21,656 mg/L) gegenüber der Kontrollgruppe zu beobachten, wohingegen die Aufnahme von Sondennahrung (326,680 mL/Tag) zunahm und einige klinische Ergebnisse (APACHE-II-, SOFA- und NUTRIC-Scores) eine Verbesse­rung zeigten. In Hinblick auf den oxidativen Stress und die hämatologischen Indizes bestand jedoch kein signifikan­ter Unterschied zwischen den Gruppen, und auch bei der 28-Tage-Überlebensrate fand sich kein signifikanter Unterschied zwischen den Gruppen (p = 0,07). Schlussfolgerung: Eine Supplementierung mit Propolis und Melatonin kann die klinischen Ergebnisse durch eine Verringe­rung des Entzündungsgeschehens verbessern. Zur Bestätigung dieser Ergebnisse sind weitere Untersuchungen erforderlich.

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are involved in the development of several age-related complications. The protective role of soluble receptors for AGEs (sRAGE) against deleterious effects of AGEs has been indicated in several studies. However, findings on the association of AGEs or sRAGE with mortality are equivocal. In this meta-analysis we aimed to present a quantitative estimation of the association between circulating AGEs or sRAGE and all-cause or cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. A comprehensive literature search was performed to determine relevant publications through the online databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to 29 November 2020. Prospective observational studies assessing the association between circulating AGEs or sRAGE and all-cause or CVD mortality were included. Seven studies with a total of 3718 participants and 733 mortality cases (345 CVD deaths) were included in the meta-analysis for assessing the association between circulating AGEs and mortality. Our results showed that higher circulating AGEs were associated with increased risk of all-cause (pooled effect measure: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.09; P = 0.018, I(2) = 77.7%) and CVD mortality (pooled effect measure: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.14; P = 0.015, I(2) = 80.2%), respectively. The association between sRAGE and mortality was assessed in 14 studies with a total of 16,335 participants and 2844 mortality cases (419 CVD deaths). Serum concentrations of sRAGE were not associated with the risk of all-cause mortality (pooled effect measure: 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.01; P = 0.205, I(2) = 75.5%), whereas there was a significant link between sRAGE and the risk of CVD mortality (pooled effect measure: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.04; P = 0.02, I(2) = 78.9%). Our findings showed that a higher serum AGE concentration was associated with increased risk of all-cause and CVD mortality. In addition, higher circulating sRAGE was related to increased risk of CVD mortality. This review was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42021236559.

Inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Based on the anti-inflammatory properties of French maritime pine bark extract and the neuroprotective effects, we aimed to evaluate the effects of its supplementation on TBI. Sixty-seven TBI patients admitted to the intensive care units (ICUs) were enrolled. After stabilizing the hemodynamic status, the intervention group received 150 mg of French maritime pine bark extract supplementation (Oligopin) with enteral nutrition for 10 days. The control group received a placebo. Inflammatory status and oxidative stress markers were measured three times. Also, clinical and nutritional statuses were assessed. Supplementation, significantly decreased IL-6 (β = -53.43 pg/ml, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -91.74, -15.13, p = .006), IL-1β (β = -111.66 pg/ml, 95% CI = -183.79, -39.5402, p = .002) and C-reactive protein (β = -19.99 mg/L, 95% CI = -27.23, -12.76, p ˃ .001) in the intervention group compared to control group after 10 days. Clinical scores including acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II and sequential organ failure assessment were reduced (β = -3.72, 95% CI = -5.96, -1.49, p = .001and β = -2.07, 95% CI = -3.23, -0.90, p < .001, respectively), and Nutric score was reduced compared to control group (β = -.60, 95% CI = -1.08, -0.12, p = .01). The survival rate was higher by 15% in the intervention group compared to control group. Oligopin supplementation in TBI patients in ICU reduced inflammation and improved the clinical status and malnutrition score and thereby reducing the mortality rate.

Background: Critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) are often hyper-metabolic and hyper-catabolic and at risk of malnutrition. This study aimed to evaluate the amount of energy and protein intake and its correlation with the required amount in critically ill patients. Method: Seventy patients with critical conditions who were admitted to ICU were eligible (age ≥18 years and over a 3-day stay in ICU). Basic characteristics, medical history, and laboratory test results were extracted from the patients' medical records. Anthropometric indices and APACHE II questionnaire were assessed by an expert nurse. The calorie and protein requirement of patients were considered 25 kcal/kg/day and 1.2 g/kg/day, respectively. Result: Mean age in the target population was 57.69 ± 20.81 years, and 48.6% were men. The mean actual energy intake was significantly lower than the requirement (531.27 ±365.40 vs. 1583.77 ± 329.36 Kcal/day, P˂0.001). The mean actual protein intake was significantly lower than the requirement (14.94 ±18.33 vs. 74.11 ± 17.89 gr/day respectively, P˂0.001). Patients had a growing trend in providing energy and protein over time. There is a significant reverse correlation between the age of patients and total lymphocyte count (r= -0.38, P=0.003). Also, there is a significant reverse correlation between the Glasgow coma scale and the duration of mechanical ventilation (r=-0.49, P˂0.001). The lowest average calorie and protein intake are in patients with poisoning. Conclusion: The amount of calorie and protein intake in critically ill patients is significantly less than the recommended amount, therefore, it is necessary to perform routine nutritional assessments.

There are few studies about the relationship between dietary patterns and aggression. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the main dietary patterns and aggression scores among adolescent girls in Iran.This cross-sectional study was conducted on 670 adolescent girls. The 168-item self-administered Semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to evaluate dietary intake and to identify major dietary patterns, while factor analysis was applied. Aggression was evaluated by the validated Persian version of the Buss-Perry questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed by crude and adjusted models.Three main dietary patterns including healthy, fast food, and Western were identified. A significant positive association was found between more adherence to Western dietary pattern and the presence of a high aggression score (OR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.32-3.05, p-Although Western dietary patterns were associated with increased aggression risk, there was no significant relationship between healthy and fast food dietary patterns and the prevalence of a high aggression score. Further studies, particularly longitudinal intervention studies, are required to clarify this relationship.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Non-invasive body contouring devices have fewer side effects and are the new techniques for the treatment of obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of microwave technology on the abdominal obesity and anthropometric indices of overweight adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS This clinical trial was conducted on 53 overweight adults aged 18-65 years who referred to Behbood Clinic in Tehran, Iran. The participants were exposed to microwave technology (radiofrequency: 2.5 GHz) based on a standard treatment protocol at three intervals (0, 20, and 40 days). Abdominal obesity, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat mass, and fat thickness were measured at the beginning and 20, 40, and 60 days after the study. In addition, three-day dietary records were collected at intervals. RESULTS In total, 77.6% of the subjects were female and 22.4% were male. The mean calorie intake of the participants was 2245.14 ± 1981.16 kcal/day. Microwave shock significantly reduced fat thickness in four abdominal areas (p

The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of carotenoids on selected inflammatory parameters. PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of science were searched from inception until April 2021. The random-effect model was used to analyze data and the overall effect size was computed as weighted mean difference (WMD) and corresponding 95% of confidence interval (CI). A total of 26 trials with 35 effect sizes were included in this meta-analysis. The results indicated significant effects of carotenoids on C-reactive protein (CRP) (WMD: ‒0.54 mg/L, 95% CI: ‒0.71, ‒0.37, P < 0.001), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) (WMD: ‒0.54 pg/mL, 95% CI: ‒1.01, ‒0.06, P = 0.025), however the effect on tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was not significant (WMD: ‒0.97 pg/ml, 95% CI: ‒1.98, 0.03, P = 0.0.059). For the individual carotenoids, astaxanthin, (WMD: ‒0.30 mg/L, 95% CI: ‒0.51, ‒0.09, P = 0.005), lutein/zeaxanthin (WMD: ‒0.30 mg/L, 95% CI: ‒0.45, ‒0.15, P < 0.001), and β-cryptoxanthin (WMD: ‒0.35 mg/L, 95% CI: ‒0.54, ‒0.15, P < 0.001) significantly decreased CRP level. Also, only lycopene (WMD: ‒1.08 pg/ml, 95%CI: ‒2.03, ‒0.12, P = 0.027) led to a significant decrease in IL-6. The overall results supported possible protective effects of carotenoids on inflammatory biomarkers.

Background Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by varying severity in attention deficit and hyperactivity. Studies have shown deficiencies in the serum level of magnesium and vitamin D in people with ADHD. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of vitamin D and magnesium supplementation on mental health in children with ADHD. Methods We conducted a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 66 children with ADHD. Participants were randomly allocated to receive both vitamin D (50,000 IU/week) plus magnesium (6 mg/kg/day) supplements (n = 33) or placebos (n = 33) for 8-weeks. Strengths and difficulties questionnaire was used to evaluate children’s mental health at baseline and the end of the study. Results After eight weeks of intervention, the serum levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3 and magnesium increased significantly in the intervention group compared with the control group. Also, children receiving vitamin D plus magnesium showed a significant reduction in emotional problems (p = 0.001), conduct problems (p = 0.002), peer problems (p = 0.001), prosocial score (p = 0.007), total difficulties (p = 0.001), externalizing score (p = 0.001), and internalizing score (p = 0.001) compared with children treated with the placebo. Conclusion Vitamin D (50,000 IU/week) and magnesium (6 mg/kg/day) co-supplementation for a duration of 8-weeks could improve the behavioral function and mental health of children with ADHD. However, further well-designed studies with a larger sample size are needed. Trial registration IRCT2016030326886N1.

A crucial component of the immune system are chemokiness. Chemokine's dysregulation has been linked to a number of pathological diseases. Recently, CXCL17, a chemokine belonging to the CXC subfamily, was identified. With regard to a number of physiological conditions and disorders, CXCL17 either has homeostatic or pathogenic effects. Some research suggests that CXCL17 is an orphan ligand, despite the fact that G protein-coupled receptor (GPR) 35 has been suggested as a possible receptor for CXCL17. Since CXCL17 is primarily secreted by mucosal epithelia, such as those in the digestive and respiratory tracts, under physiological circumstances, this chemokine is referred to as a mucosal chemokine. Macrophages and monocytes are the cells that express GPR35 and hence react to CXCL17. In homeostatic conditions, this chemokine has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and chemotactic properties. CXCL17 promotes angiogenesis, metastasis, and cell proliferation in pathologic circumstances like malignancies. However, other studies suggest that CXCL17 may have anti-tumor properties. Additionally, studies have shown that CXCL17 may have a role in conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, and systemic sclerosis. Additionally, deregulation of CXCL17 in some diseases may serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis. Clarifying the underlying mechanism of CXCL17's activity in homeostatic and pathological situations may thus increase our understanding of its role and hold promise for the development of novel treatment strategies.

The evidence provided by meta-analyses on the beneficial impacts of cinnamon supplementation on anthropometric indices are still conflicting. Present study's aim was to evaluate the effects of cinnamon on obesity indices by an umbrella meta-analysis. The electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus were systematically searched up to March 2021. Data for the effects of cinnamon on anthropometric indices were collected from the meta-analyses. An umbrella meta-analysis was carried out using a random-effects model. The pooled effects of 7 meta-analyses showed that cinnamon supplementation significantly reduced body weight (ES: -0.67 kg; 95% CI: -0.99, -0.35, p ˂ .001), body mass index (ES: -0.45 kg/m

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality, morbidity, and financial losses and has a high prevalence across the world. Several studies have investigated the association between various CVD types with zinc and copper status as the essential minerals for the human body, proposing contradictory and similar results. This narrative review aimed to survey the correlations between zinc and copper status in the human body and some risk factors of CVD, as well as the assessment methods of zinc and copper status in the human body. According to the reviewed articles, zinc and copper deficiency may increase the risk of coronary heart disease, valvular regurgitation, and myocardial lesions, cardiac hypertrophy. Furthermore, it could lead to the expanded mitochondrial compartments of the heart, acute and chronic heart failure, and elevation of inflammation markers, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-6. Two methods are primarily used for the assessment of zinc and copper in the human body, including the direct method (measurement of their concentrations) and indirect method (determining the activity of zinc- and copper-containing enzymes). Both these methods are considered reliable for the assessment of the zinc and copper levels in healthy individuals. Serum or plasma levels of these elements are also commonly used for the assessment of the correlation between zinc and copper status and CVD. But, which one is a more accurate indicator in relation to CVD is not yet clear; therefore, further studies are required in this field.

Introduction Protein-energy wasting (PEW) is common in hemodialysis patients and is linked with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Regarding importance of nutrition in these patients, a recent study was administered to evaluate the nutritional status of hemodialysis patients. Materials In this cross-sectional study 540 HD patients from 15 dialysis centers were evaluated. The nutritional status of the patients was determined by Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), Dialysis Malnutrition Score (DMS), and Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS). Their dietary intakes were assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Result Based on DMS, 66.7% of HD patients were well nourished and the prevalence of mild-to-moderate and severe PEW were 32.4% and 0.9% in HD patients, respectively. Based on MIS, 65.2% of HD patients were well nourished and the prevalence of mild-to-moderate and severe PEW was 34.0%. The prevalence of mild-to-moderate and severe malnutrition based on SGA was 35.0% and 1.1%, respectively. Energy and protein intake in 85.6% and 80.6% of patients respectively were less than the minimum recommended amount. Conclusion HD patients are at risk of malnutrition and in this regard training the patient, periodic assessment of nutritional status, and referring them to a dietitian seems necessary.

Propolis is a sticky, resinous material gather from plants and is blended with wax and other constituents. It is reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and blood glucose-lowering properties. This review aims to summarise evidences for the cellular and molecular mechanism of Propolis in inflammation, oxidative stress, and glycemic control. Propolis stimulate the production and secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines and to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines and due to its various antioxidant and poly-phenolic compounds may has a role in control and treating some of the chronic diseases. Most studies have shown that Propolis may affect metabolic factors including plasma insulin levels, and it has proposed that it could be used in the prevention and treatment of T2D Mellitus. In general, to demonstrate the definite effects of Propolis on chronic diseases, more studies are required using larger sample sizes and various doses of Propolis, using better characterized and standardized agents.

Background: Obesity is a risk factor for mood disorder (such as depression and anxiety). We aimed to assess application of A Body Shape Index (ABSI) and abdominal volume index (AVI), as new indices of obesity to evaluate the relationship between obesity and depression/anxiety. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on 307 overweight and obese women (249 females, 58 males) 20-60 years in Iran in 2017-2018. The anthropometric measures including weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, body fat and derived values of body mass index, waist–hip ratio, AVI and ABSI were evaluated. HADS questionnaire for depression and anxiety completed. Results: Prevalence of depression was 36.1% in women; men 24.1%; overweight 28.1%; obese 36.5 % and central obesity 33.7%. Anxiety was apparent in 27.1% of overweight 30.3 % obese and 29.6% central obesity. People with depression and anxiety had higher WC, BF and AVI. ABSI had no significant correlation with depression/anxiety. The odds of depression (1.06; 95% CI, 1.02-1.12) and anxiety (1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.11) were elevated with increase AVI. Conclusion: Our results suggested that AVI as an indirect measure of abdominal obesity along with WC and BF could be useful in predicting the relationship between obesity and depression/anxiety. Keywords: Abdominal volume index; anxiety; depression.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Clinical efficacy of zinc (Zn) supplementation in the improvement of oxidative stress biomarkers has been investigated in some clinical trial studies. The purpose of the current dose-response meta-analysis is to systematically aggregate and evaluate all related studies to highlight the possible effect of Zn supplementation on oxidative stress. METHODS Systematic search was performed on Scopus, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science and Embase up to 31 December 2020. The random effect method was used to perform pooled analysis. Possible sources of heterogeneity were found using subgroup analysis and meta-regression. In the presence of publication bias, trim and fill analysis was performed to adjust the results. Non-linear relationship between effect size and variables was investigated by performing dose-response analysis. The quality of included studies was assessed using Cochrane Collaboration's tool. RESULTS Pooled-analysis of 18 studies showed that Zn supplementation improved MDA and Hcys levels (SMD = -1.53 μmol/L; 95% CI: -2.22, -0.85; P

It remains unknown whether statin therapy in combination with ezetimibe is a beneficial and equivalent alternative to statin monotherapy in reducing proinflammatory cytokines. In the present systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to assess the effect of combination therapy with statins and ezetimibe on some proinflammatory cytokines. Databases, including MEDLINE, SciVerse, Scopus, and Clarivate Analytics Web of Science databases, were searched up to February 2022, for terms related to combination therapy with statins and ezetimibe and proinflammatory cytokines. The quality of the included studies was evaluated with Cochrane risk of bias tool 1, and weighted mean difference [WMD] and SD of changes were used for meta-analysis. The results were expressed as differences in means and 95 % CIs with an inverse variance and a random-effects model. Finally, 12 studies [13 arms] were included in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis. The average patient's age ranged from 49.3 to 71 years, and the duration of intervention lasted seven days to 12 months. Overall, our result did not show any significant reduction in interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) (3 randomized controlled trial studies (RCTs), 292 participants, WMD: -0.4 pg/ml; 95 % CI: -1.3, 0.4, P = 0.3, I

Cytokines are considered vital mediators of the immune system. Down- or upregulation of these mediators is linked to several inflammatory and pathologic situations. IL-26 is referred to as an identified member of the IL-10 family and IL-20 subfamily. Due to having a unique cationic structure, IL-26 exerts diverse functions in several diseases. Since IL-26 is mainly secreted from Th17, it is primarily considered a pro-inflammatory cytokine. Upon binding to its receptor complex (IL-10R1/IL-20R2), IL-26 activates multiple signaling mediators, especially STAT1/STAT3. In cancer, IL-26 induces IL-22-producing cells, which consequently decreases cytotoxic T cell functions and promotes tumor growth through activating anti-apoptotic proteins. In hypersensitivity conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and allergic disease, this cytokine functions primarily as the disease-promoting mediator and might be considered a biomarker for disease prognosis. Although IL-26 exerts anti-microbial function in infections such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, and leprosy, it has also been shown that IL-26 might be involved in the pathogenesis and exacerbation of sepsis. Besides, the involvement of IL-26 has been confirmed in other conditions, including graft versus host disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Therefore, due to the multifarious function of this cytokine, it is proposed that the underlying mechanism regarding IL-26 function should be elucidated. Collectively, it is hoped that the examination of IL-26 in several contexts might be promising in predicting disease prognosis and might introduce novel approaches in the treatment of various diseases.

Background and aims: Possible protective effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L) have been reported in several randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Current systematic review was performed to summarize the efficacy of saffron intake on liver enzymes. Methods: An electronic database search was conducted on PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane for RCTs comparing effect of saffron and placebo on liver enzymes from inception to July 2021. There was no restriction in language of included studies and we calculated the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) for each variable. Random-effect model was used to calculate effect size. Results: Eight studies (n = 463 participants) were included in the systematic review. The saffron intake was associated with a statistically significant decrease in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (SMD: -0.18; 95% CI: -0.34, -0.02; I-2 = 0%) in comparison to placebo intake. Our results also indicated that saffron consumption did not have a significant effect on alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (SMD: -0.14; 95% CI: -0.36, 0.09; I-2 = 47.0%) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels (SMD: 0.14; 95% CI: -0.18, 0.46; I-2 = 42.9%) compared to placebo. Conclusions: Saffron intake showed beneficial impacts on circulating AST levels. However, larger well-designed RCTs are still needed to clarify the effect of saffron intake on these and other liver enzymes. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Purpose: There is growing evidence that bone health is decreased in individuals with HIV infection. Vitamin D deficiency is also highly prevalent among HIV-infected patients. The literature was systematically reviewed to determine whether bone health and bone-related parameters may improve with vitamin D supplementation in HIV-infected individuals. Methods: Four databases were systematically searched for randomized clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation in HIV infection, published from January 1990 to September 2021. No language or publication restrictions were applied. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% CIs are reported. A random-effects model was used to perform meta-analysis. Findings: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria (N = 733 participants at study completion). The mean ages of the patients in the included trials ranged from 10 to 49 years. The meta-analysis indicated that with vitamin D supplementation, serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25[OH]D) level was significantly increased (SMD, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.70; I-2 = 94.4%), but there were no significant effects on levels of serum 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D (1,25-[OH](2)D) (SMD, 0.29; 95% CI, -0.07 to 0.64; I-2 = 67.4%), total bone mineral density (SMD, 0.07; 95% CI, -0.23 to 0.37; I-2 = 00.0%), spine bone mineral density (SMD, 0.15; 95% CI, -0.19 to 0.49; I-2 = 17.3%), and parathyroid hormone level (SMD, -0.18; 95% CI, -0.37 to 0.02; I-2 = 1.2%) in HIV-infected patients. (C) 2022 Elsevier Inc. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

BACKGROUND Enteral immunomodulatory nutrition is recommended as an adjuvant therapy for patients in intensive care units (ICU), but its effectiveness is incompletely understood. AIM The aim of this review was to examine the effect of a commonly used immunomodulatory formula-omega-3 fatty acids, γ-linolenic acid, and antioxidants-on clinical outcomes and mortality risk in critically ill patients. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHOD PubMed, Scopus, and Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) Web of Knowledge databases were searched until 18 February 2021. RCTs that used the immunomodulatory formula in the ICU were included. RESULTS Ten RCTs (1166 participants) were included in the meta-analysis. The immunomodulatory formula reduced the duration of ICU stay weighted mean difference [(WMD): -2.97 days; 95%CI: -5.59, -0.35)], mechanical ventilation (WMD = -2.20 days, 95%CI: -4.29, -0.10), sequential organ failure assessment and multiple organ dysfunction scores (Hedge's g: -0.42 U/L; 95% CI: -0.74, -0.11), decreased 8-day overall mortality risk (RR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.58, 0.91), and extended the ICU-free days (WMD: 4.06 days, 95% CI: 0.02, 8.09). The improvement in respiratory function and reduction in mortality risk was more in patients with acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Furthermore, the reduction in mechanical ventilation and mortality risk was more evident in older (>60 years) vs young adults. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Taken together, the immunomodulatory formula may enhance clinical practice for critical care nurses, such that the prevalence and/or susceptibility to secondary conditions commonly encountered in the ICU (ie, ALI and ARDS) could be attenuated, ultimately allowing critical care nurses to focus their care on the primary reason for which a patient is in the ICU. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO.

Smoking is a common public problem leading to increases in oxidative stress and decreases in the levels of some micronutrients, finally affecting adipokine levels. The aim of this study was to compare the serum levels of omentin (intelectin-1), chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes in male smokers and non-smokers.40 male smokers and 40 male non-smokers with a mean age of 38.6±14.1 years were included in this study. Serum levels of omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α were measured. To calculate the daily intake of energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, and some of the micronutrients, the 24-h recall and semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used.Omentin, chemerin, and TNF-α levels in male smokers were lower than non-smokers, but these differences were not statistically significant. However, after adjustment for total and saturated fat intakes and age, omentin (β=138.4, p=0.027) and TNF-α (β=144.5, p=0.015) revealed significant differences.The serum levels of omentin, chemerin, TNF-α, and some micronutrient intakes were not significantly different between smokers and non-smokers. Further population studies are needed to clarify this subject.

Background & Objective: Prior studies have shown that meal composition may affect the metabolic responses and arterial stiffness indices. Due to the lack of a comprehensive study that concurrently compares metabolic responses and vascular stiffness indices after receiving three different meals in lean and obese men, this pilot study has been conducted with a three-phase parallel design, aiming to investigate the effects of meal composition on the metabolic parameters and arterial stiffness indices of lean and obese adults. Materials and Methods: This pilot, parallel clinical trial has been performed on 20 male adults aged 18-35 years who are disease-free and selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran. The subjects have completed three interventions at a one-week interval, including high carbohydrate (70% carbohydrates, 10% protein, 20% fat), high protein (30% protein, 50% carbohydrates, 20% fat), and high fat meal (50% fat, 40% carbohydrates, 10% protein). Postprandial effects have been assessed within 360 minutes after each meal, including the energy expenditure component (resting energy expenditure, thermic effects of feeding, respiratory quotient, and substrate oxidation) and arterial stiffness indices (augmentation index and pulse wave velocity). In addition, blood sampling has been performed to measure glucose, insulin, free fatty acids, and lipid profile. Results: The study has started since September 2020 and will continue until January 2021. The assessment of the intervention outcomes will be carried out six hours after the end of the intervention. Conclusion: The differences in the postprandial responses c affect the metabolic and vascular parameters due to different meal compositions, thereby providing beneficial data for the establishment of new strategies in terms of nutritional education and metabolic/vascular improvement.

OBJECTIVES Kidney transplantation is an essential treatment in management of kidney failure patients. The present study evaluated and compared the nutritional status of renal transplant patients before and 6 months after kidney transplantation and in comparison with healthy individuals. METHODS A multi-center, case-control study was conducted among 40 kidney transplant recipients and 40 healthy adults. Biochemical tests, anthropometric indices, and dietary intake were collected at baseline and 6 months post-transplant and compared with healthy controls. RESULTS Anthropometric indices of the participants increased in post-transplant period compared to baseline (p

Background: Prostate cancer is a major malignancy, affecting men, worldwide. The protective effect of dietary or supplemental lycopene on prostate cancer has been reported in several studies; however, the findings are equivocal. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplemental lycopene on PSA level, by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Methods: We searched online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, up to 9 Jun 2020, to obtain relevant publications. The publication search was not limited by language or date. Results: A total of 1036 records were identified in the systematic search; from these, 9 were included in the systematic review and 6 in meta-analysis. The pooled analysis of the 6 studies showed no significant differences in PSA levels in subjects treated with lycopene or tomato extract containing lycopene (WMD= −0.12 ng/ml; 95% CI: −0.62, 0.38 ng/ml; P = 0.64) compared to the control. Conclusion: Overall, tomato extracts or lycopene treatment yielded no significant effect on PSA level compared to the control. However, more consistent clinical trials, with larger sample sizes, are required to better discern the actual effect of tomato extract or lycopene on PSA level.

Background: Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) that occurs under stressful conditions affecting all organs of the body. Previous studies have shown that propolis and melatonin have the potential to improve inflammation and oxidative stress, so the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of these supplements on SIRS treatment.Method: This was a randomized, controlled clinical trial in SIRS patients comprising 55 subjects that were randomly assigned to 3 intervention or control groups. In the 3 intervention groups, patients were treated with propolis alone (at dose of 1000 mg/day), propolis (1000 mg/day) plus melatonin (20 mg/day), and melatonin alone (20 mg/day) respectively, while there was no intervention in the control group. The inflammatory and oxidative stress markers and clinical outcomes were measured before and after of the intervention, also 28-day survival rate was assessed. Results: Propolis plus melatonin reduced serum interleukin 6 (p = 0.001) and CRP levels (p 0.001). The average survival after 28 days of follow-up in the propolis, propolis+melatonin, melatonin and control groups were 24.08, 25.69, 22.05 and 19.42 days respectively, although this was not statistically significant (p=0.07).Conclusion and relevance: Supplementation with propolis+melatonin may help to improve clinical outcomes by reducing inflammation and was probably associated with an increase in the calorie intake, leading to an increase in the survival rate in SIRS patients, although more studies are necessary to prove these effects. Trial registration: IRCT20181025041460N1.