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Background: Abnormalities in biochemical parameters and changes in eating habits are considered complications of obesity. Oleoylethanolamide (OEA), an endocannabinoid-like compound, has been shown to have protective effects on many metabolic disorders. Given this evidence, the present study aimed to assess the effects of OEA on lipid profile parameters, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and dietary habits in healthy obese people. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, which was carried out in 2016 in Tabriz, Iran, 60 obese people were enrolled in the study based on inclusion criteria. The intervention group consumed 125 mg of OEA capsules, and the placebo group received the same amount of starch twice for 8 weeks. Blood samples (5 mL) were taken at baseline and the end of the study in a fasting state. Serum concentrations of FBS, triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and total cholesterol (TC) were measured by enzymatic methods using commercial kits. The low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration was obtained using the Friede-Wald formula. To assess dietary habits, a food frequency questionnaire (147 items) was used at baseline and the end of the study. A value less than < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. Results: The TG concentration decreased significantly in the intervention group (mean (SD): 166.29 (70.01) mg/dL to 142.22 (48.05) mg/dL, p = 0.047). Changes in the placebo group were not significant (p > 0.05). After adjusting for baseline values and demographic characteristics, the difference in TG between groups remained significant (p = 0.044). Changes in other biochemical parameters were not significant. There was no significant difference between or within groups in terms of food groups. Conclusion: OEA, as a complementary agent, plays a protective role in TG regulation. However, future studies with longer durations are needed to explore the impact of OEA on regulating dietary habits and to identify the mechanisms related to metabolic abnormalities in obese people. Trial Registration: The study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) center as IRCT201607132017N30 with URL. www.IRCT.IR in date 03/10/2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Any abnormal change in thyroid hormone levels leads to thyroid disorders, including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter, and so on. Recent studies have reported an increasing prevalence and incidence of thyroid disorders worldwide. This study aims to determine the hypothyroid prevalence, incidence, and risk factors related to this disorder. Methods: Data from a comprehensive prospective cohort study, collected from a population of 10,000 Yazd (Iran) individuals over a period of 6 years (2015-2021) was analyzed. Physicians diagnosed hypothyroidism and reported it. Data processing and preparation were performed using SQL18 and Excel, while STATA17 and SPSS22 software were employed for data analysis. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and Chi-square tests were conducted at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The prevalence of hypothyroidism was found to be 93/1000, and the incidence was 15/1000 of the population, respectively. Women had five folds more chance of hypothyroidism (adjusted OR=5.31, 95% CI=3.06-9.19 vs. unadjusted OR=6.28, 95% CI=3.90-10.12), and they usually developed it between the ages of 30 and 39. Eating less (iodized) salt also increased the risk of hypothyroidism (unadjusted OR=1.47, 95% CI=1.02-2.11). Iron supplementation (unadjusted OR=2.09, 95% CI=1.26-3.48) was identified as one of the significant risk factors. Based on our findings in the unadjusted model, tooth brushing once or twice a day increases the chance of hypothyroidism (OR=1.89, P=0.008, and OR=2.12, P=0.016, respectively). Tobacco smoking (unadjusted OR=0.29, 95% CI=0.107-0.786) was also among the factors that need further investigation. Conclusion: The increasing trend of hypothyroidism is concerning in our population. The high prevalence, particularly among women of childbearing age, is notable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite extensive research, the effects of L-carnitine supplementation in treating obesity are still unclear and equivocal. L-carnitine transports fatty acids into mitochondria for oxidation and is marketed as a weight loss supplement. The purpose of the present research is to investigate the efficacy of L-carnitine during concurrent training on the functional capacities and body composition in obese men. Methods Thirty nonactive, obese males (age = 37.2 ± 1.5 years; body mass index = 33.8 ± 2.5 kg/m 2) participated in this research. The participants were randomly divided into three groups: experimental group 1 (EXP1)—concurrent training with L-carnitine supplementation; experimental group 2 (EXP2)—L-carnitine supplementation without training; and control group—without training or L-carnitine supplementation. Concurrent training was performed for 8 weeks, three sessions per week, with a training intensity ranging from 60 to 75% of the maximum heart rate reserve and one-repetition maximum. Both experimental groups were supplemented with 35 mg L-carnitine supplement per kilogram body weight. Various functional and body composition variables were collected at three time points (pre-test, mid-test, and post-test). Results A number of variables were significantly improved in EXP1 after 4 and 8 weeks (systolic blood pressure, maximal oxygen consumption, weight, body mass index, and one-repetition maximum) and only after 8-weeks (diastolic blood pressure, resting heart rate, percentage of body fat, and fat-free mass). No significant changes were observed for EXP2 and the control group. Conclusion L-carnitine supplementation, in conjunction with concurrent training, emerges as a highly effective approach for enhancing body composition and boosting functional capacities in obese adult men. Therefore, it is recommended that overweight male individuals integrate concurrent training into their regimen while taking L-carnitine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review was carried out to integrate all the data published in the electronic databases (Scopus, etc.) over the past two decades about the distribution, phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, and pharmacology of Astragalus L. Although Astragalus is one of the largest genera of flowering plants in Iran, limited phytochemical screening of this genus has been reported. Cycloartane triterpene glycosides, labdane diterpenoids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides are the major identified compounds. Pharmacological studies revealed significant properties such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, etc. Moreover, ethnopharmacological studies of Astragalus sp. showed that this genus is used for gastrointestinal, fractures, joint pains, and skin problems in different localities of Iran. Tragacanth gum, as the main product of some Astragalus sp. with economic value, shows proper biological activities and uses as an emulsifier in food industries. This review might be helpful for researchers to find new chemical entities responsible for its claimed traditional uses and food supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and primary dysmenorrhea (PD) are gynecological conditions that are associated with psychological and mood disorders. This study assessed the effects of curcumin, a natural polyphenol, on depression, anxiety, stress and quality of life (QL) in woman with PMS and PD. Materials & Methods: The study was undertaken in 128 women who were randomised to treatment with either curcumin (n=64) or placebo (n=64) groups. Each subject received one capsules (500 mg of curcuminoids plus 5 mg piperine, or a placebo, plus 5 mg piperine) daily, for 3 successive menstrual cycles. Psychological status and QL were assessed using Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) and the Short Form-12 (SF-12) questionnaires respectively. Results: Overall scores as well as the mental health domain of the SF-12 improved significantly after curcumin supplementation (P<0.05). In addition, curcumin decreased significantly (P<0.05) all of the DASS-21 domains (depression, anxiety and stress). Significant differences were also found between the two groups for the DASS-21 domains, SF-12 mental health (total) and overall scores (P<0.05). Conclusion: Curcuminoids may be useful as a natural, widely accessible therapeutic option for the management of the psychological impact of PMS and PD, and improve the QL of women with these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present prospective cohort study aimed to determine whether dietary antioxidants were associated with incident type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Another objective was to find out whether such associations could be modified by the BMI status. A total of 2188 Tehranian adults aged 21–84 years, free of T2DM with the validated FFQ, was entered in the study. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for confounders were used to assess the association between dietary antioxidants and incident T2DM in total population, as well as in subjects with various BMI statuses. During 8·9 (8·1–9·6) years of follow-up, dietary vitamin E significantly decreased the incident T2DM, after adjustment for confounders. However, other dietary antioxidants were not shown to be significantly associated with incident T2DM. The interaction between dietary vitamin E, Mg and BMI status was found to influence the risk of T2DM (P for interaction < 0·05). After stratification of subjects based on BMI status, it was found that vitamin E and Mg decreased the risk of T2DM only among normal-weight individual. Also, an inverse association was found among dietary vitamin C, dietary Zn and the risk of T2DM in individuals with normal weight but not in overweight and obese individuals; however, the interaction test tended to be significant for these dietary variables. Dietary antioxidants including vitamin E, vitamin C, Zn and Mg when accompanied by healthy weight, may bring benefits to the prevention of T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of thiamine (vitamin B1) on general health and infertility treatment outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Materials and Methods: The study is a triple-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial performed on 64 infertile women with PCOS referred to Sarem Hospital in Tehran, Iran. The primary outcomes of the study were general health and infertility treatment outcomes. Eligible women were randomly assigned to the vitamin B1 group (n=32, vitamin B1 tablet at a dose of 300 mg/day for 4 weeks) or the placebo group (n=32, placebo tablet daily for 4 weeks). A general health questionnaire was completed before and after the intervention by both groups, and treatment success was evaluated at the end of the study. Data were analyzed using SPSS software ver.16 P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of participants in the vitamin B1 (VB1) group was 30.4 ± 3.27 years and in the placebo (Pl) group was 29.1 ± 2.66 years with the mean duration of marriage 12.7 ± 3.01 and 13.2 ± 2.97 years respectively. Our results showed that there were significant differences between the two groups in overall score (P<0.001) and scores for all domains of the general health questionnaire including somatic symptoms (P<0.001), anxiety and insomnia (P<0.001), social dysfunction (P=0.028), and severe depression (P<0.001) after the intervention. Four weeks consumption of vitamin B1 also resulted in higher numbers of positive pregnancy tests (P=0.006), although the number of fetuses was not significantly different between the two groups after the intervention. Conclusion: The results of the current study support a possible favourable effect of vitamin B1 on improving general health, infertility treatment outcome, and retrieved follicle count without changing the number of fetuses in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (registration number: IRCT201510266917N3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere syndrome (BVVLS) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder of childhood. According to the previous reports, it has various primary signs and symptoms. Because of the simple treatment with riboflavin supplementation, it is important to have suspicious to this disease and begin treatment even before genetic test confirm. We report a five-year-old girl with BVVLS that manifest with hearing problems, first. There was obvious improvement in her disease clinical signs with riboflavin supplementation treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Poultry meat is considered a perishable product due to its carbohydrates, protein, lipid and water content. The aim of this study was to improve the carcass characteristics, the chemical and organoleptic quality of Japanese quail meat using Iranian native chicory water extract. Materials and Methods: Ninety Japanese quails were divided into 3 treatment groups including Control: basic diet, F1: basic diet + chicory extract (1%), and F2: basic diet + chicory extract (2%). Results: Supplementation of diet with chicory water extract improved the whole body, breast, and thigh weight along with an increase in the nutritional value (fat, protein, mineral content (the total ash), vitamin B12, and carotenoids) of breast meat of Japanese quails. In addition to achieve good water holding capacity (WHC) and minimum drip loss and cooking loss in treated samples, the breast meat earned high acceptability score by panelists because of its better odor, color (L*, a*, and b*), and texture (firmness). The higher total phenolic contents in F1 and F2, reduced TBARS value of breast meat that shows chicory extract improves the oxidative stability without exerting any negative effect on chickens' growth performance. Conclusions: The results indicated that supplementation of diet with chicory water extract improved the nutritional value, oxidative stability, and sensory acceptability of Japanese quail breast meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Type 2 diabetes, as the most common metabolic disease, is a chronic and progressive disorder that causes permanent complications and increases cardiovascular diseases, brain vessels, peripheral vessels, and mortality in affected people. This study, therefore, aimed to investigate the effect of eight weeks of interval training and caffeine supplementation on glycemic indices in men with type 2 diabetes. Methods. The current research was a semi-experimental study. As a pilot research, 50 people were selected trough an available and targeted manner, among men with type 2 diabetes (with a history of more than one year) referring to Salamat and Sheikh Al-Rais Specialist clinics, Tabriz, Iran In the period of 2020-2021. 32 people met the inclusion criteria and entered into the study. Participants in the study were simple randomly divided into four homogenous groups of 8 including; Placebo, caffeine, exercise and exercise + caffeine were divided. Drug interventions and intermittent exercises were performed for 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected during two stages (pre-test and post-test) to measure serum levels of glucose, insulin, HbA1c and HOMA-IR index. The data were analyzed using repeated analysis of variance, Bonferroni post hoc and independent t tests at a significance level of 0.05. Results. The results showed that the levels of the glucose, insulin, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR in the three intervention groups significantly decreased compared to those in the placebo group (P=0.001). Furthermore, the results of post hoc test showed that the combined group of interval training + caffeine, compared to the caffeine group, had double effects on the changes in studied indices (P=0.001). Conclusion. A combination of interval training and caffeine supplementation may have been adopted as an effective method to improve and treat symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We conducted a randomized placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of Spirulina (SP) supplementation on disease activity, health-related quality of life, antioxidant status, and serum pentraxin 3 (PTX-3) levels in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Methods: Eighty patients with UC were randomly assigned to consume either 1 g/day (two 500 mg capsules/day) of SP (n = 40) or control (n = 40) for 8 weeks. Dietary intakes, physical activity, disease activity, health-related quality of life, antioxidant status, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and serum PTX-3 levels were assessed and compared between groups at baseline and post-intervention. Results: Seventy-three patients (91.3%) completed the trial. We observed increases in serum total antioxidant capacity levels in the SP supplementation group compared to the control group after 8 weeks of intervention (p ≤ 0.001). A within-group comparison indicated a trend towards a higher health-related quality of life score after 8 weeks of taking two different supplements, SP (p < 0.001) and PL (p = 0.012), respectively. However, there were no significant changes in participant's disease activity score in response to SP administration (p > 0.05). Similarly, changes in ESR and PTX-3 levels were comparable between groups post-intervention (p > 0.05). Conclusions: SP improved antioxidant capacity status and health-related quality of life in patients with UC. Our findings suggest that SP supplementation may be effective as an adjuvant treatment for managing patients with UC. Larger trials with longer interventions periods are required to confirm our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) have positive anabolic effects on muscle mass. Some bodybuilders use high doses of AAS to build more muscle mass and strength. This study was conducted to measure the extent of AAS use among Iranian male bodybuilders and associated risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 588 male bodybuilders from July to August 2020 in Isfahan. Isfahan city was divided into 15 clusters according to Isfahan municipal districts. In each cluster, three clubs were randomly selected. A self-administered questionnaire including demographic information and AAS usage data was completed by a consecutive sample of bodybuilders. Results: One hundred and seventy-one (29.1%) participants were current users and 32 (7.7%) planned to use AAS in the future. AAS users had higher incomes, longer gym memberships, and more weekly sessions. They significantly used more supplements and other substances including growth hormone, caffeine, insulin, and glucocorticoid. The most prevalent AAS was testosterone enanthate. Income, length, and frequency of workouts could predict AAS use. Conclusion: Increasing AAS consumption seems to become a public health concern that suggests the need to develop some new policies and programs which would educate and inform bodybuilders and coaches about the adverse effects of AAS use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) represents a diverse set of disorders that affect the skin and mucous membranes. Ensuring proper nutrition for children and adolescents with Epidermolysis Bullosa is a vital aspect of their treatment plan. The objective of this study is to demonstrate how nutritional intervention in a specialized nutrition clinic can enhance their well-being. Methods: This longitudinal study was conducted over a 3-year period at Akbar Children Hospital, a tertiary facility affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Iran. The study included all patients diagnosed with EB based on clinical symptoms and genetic studies. Results: In the present study, the median (25-75 IQR) age of the participants was 81.0 (36.0-156.0) months, and 19% of the participants were girls. The median (25-75 IQR) weight was 17.5 (10.8-24.5) kg, and the mean ± SD of height was 109.9 ± 31.1 cm. Among all types of malnutrition, there was only a significant association between gastrointestinal complications and BMI-for-age z-score (OR: 0.08, P-value=0.039) in the crude model. After adjustment, there was no significant association between gastrointestinal complications and malnutrition. The mean values of weight at the baseline, the first, and the second appointment of the study were 21.3, 21.2, and 24.8 kg, respectively. Moreover, the mean height at the baseline, the first, and the second appointment of the study were 109.4, 121.0, and 123.4 cm, respectively. Conclusion: Regular clinic visits and tailored nutritional interventions positively impact EB patients, emphasizing the importance of managing anemia and deficiencies for their well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Selenium (Se) supplementation may help reduce inflammation and disease activity in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. We investigated the therapeutic effects of Se administration in cases with mild-to-moderate active UC. Methods: A multicenter, double-blind, randomized clinical trial (RCT) was conducted on 100 cases with active mild-to-moderate UC. The patients were randomly allocated to be given an oral selenomethionine capsule (200 mcg/day, n = 50) or a placebo capsule (n = 50) for 10 weeks. The primary outcome was defined as disease activity via the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI), and secondary outcomes were measured at the end of the study. Results: After 10 weeks, the SCCAI score's mean was reduced in the Se group (P < 0.001). At the end of the intervention, clinical improvement (decline of 3 ≥ score from baseline score) was observed in 19 patients (38%) of the Se group and 3 patients (6%) of the placebo group. The patients with clinical remission (defined as SCCAI ≤ 2) were assigned in the Se group (P = 0.014). The Se group's quality of life and Se serum levels were enhanced at the end of the study (P < 0/001). In the Se group, the mean concentration of interleukin-17 decreased (P < 0/001). However, the levels of interleukin-10 showed no considerable change between the two groups in the 10th week (P = 0.23). Conclusion: Se supplementation as add-on therapy with medical management induced remission and improved the quality of life in patients with active mild-to-moderate UC. Trial registration number and date of registration: IRCT20091114002709N51; 2020-04-13. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation of Iranian commercial multi-strain probiotic (IMSP) or different levels of Pediococcus acidilactici (PA), isolated from Iranian camel milk, on some biological parameters in male Ross broilers. A total of 240 1-d-old chicks were divided into four groups as follows: (1) Control-Unsupplemented, (2) supplemented with MSP, (3)106 CFU PA g−1diet, (4)108 CFU PA g−1diet (4). Groups 2 and 3 exhibited a higher total growth rate and feed conversion ratio, compared to the control and group 4 (p <.05). Group 3 showed a larger villus length/crypt-depth compared to the control (p <.05). Groups 2 and 4 displayed lower and larger count of jejunal Gram (−) bacteria and Lactobacillus spp. compared to the control, respectively (p <.05). The control group showed the lowest levels of total serum protein (p <.05). Group 3 had lower blood triglycerides compared to the control and group 2 (p <.05). These results indicated that the IMSP and 106 CFU PA g−1diet can improve growth and FCR and can be used in the poultry industry of Iran. Supplementation diet with native multi-strain probiotic is useful. Pediococcus acidilactici isolated from Iranian camel milk can improve broilers performance and reduce blood triglycerides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the anti-viral effects of Spirulina platensis (Sp), this study investigated the impact of Sp on impaired blood biomarkers of patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) with COVID-19. Therefore, 104 patients (aged 48–66; 61.5% male) were randomly assigned to the Sp (daily consumption of 5 g) or placebo group for 2 weeks. Linear regression analysis was employed to assess the differences in blood test results between the control and intervention groups among patients with COVID-19. Our results showed significant differences in certain hematological tests, including a higher level of hematocrit (HCT) and a lower platelet count (PLT) in the intervention group (p < 0.05). The percentage of lymphocytes (Lym%) in serology testing was significantly different between the control and intervention groups (p = 0.03). In terms of biochemical test analyses, Sp supplementation was associated with reduced levels of both blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (p = 0.01). Furthermore, on day 14, the intervention group displayed significantly higher medians of serum protein, albumin, and zinc compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, patients supplemented with Sp had a lower BUN–albumin ratio (BAR) (p = 0.01). No immunological and hormonal differences were observed between groups following 2 weeks. Our analysis indicates that Sp supplementation may be effective in regulating some blood test abnormalities associated with COVID-19. This study was registered at ISRCTN as IRCT20200720048139N1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Growing evidence has shown that hypovitaminosis D is a risk factor for developing schizophrenia and comorbid conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of vitamin D supplementation on serum levels of vitamin D, metabolic factors related to insulin resistance (IR) and the severity of the disorder in patients with schizophrenia. Methods: Forty-eight chronic male patients with schizophrenia with vitamin D deficiency (≤20 ng/mL= (≤50 nmol/l) were selected and randomly assigned to vitamin D treatment and placebo groups. Subjects were supplemented for 8 weeks with vitamin D (2000 IU/day) or placebo. Results: Within-group comparison revealed that the vitamin D group had a significant reduction in waist circumference, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale – total score (PANSS-TS), and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) levels (P =.022, P = <.001 and P =.013, respectively). On the other hand, the placebo group showed a significant increase in the level of fasting serum insulin and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) (P =.003 and P =.003). The between-group comparison showed a significant difference in terms of PANSS-TS, GSK-3β, fasting serum insulin (FSI), and HOMA-IR (P =.022, P =.048, P =.013 and P =.014 respectively). Conclusions: Among vitamin D deficient patients with schizophrenia, vitamin D supplementation may affect GSK-3 β, an important biomarker in schizophrenia and insulin resistance. In addition, vitamin D supplementation in such patients may reduce the disorder's symptom severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of addiction is increasing in the world. Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) can be associated with severe stress and mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Vitamins and minerals are commonly found in multivitamins seem to improve mood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of multivitamins on anxiety and depression in patients undergoing MMT in a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Methods: The study was designed as a double-blind, randomized controlled trial and involved 70 male MMT patients over the age of 18. Participants were randomized to one of two groups, either those receiving multivitamins or those receiving a placebo for 12 weeks. The multivitamin capsule included vitamin E, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C, biotin, folic acid, and zinc. Anxiety and depression were measured using standard questionnaires, before and after the intervention. Results: The between-group comparison (i.e., intervention vs. placebo) indicated there was no significant difference in anxiety scores; however, there was a significant between-group difference in depression scores, favoring the intervention group. Conclusions: Multivitamin supplementation improved depression but did not have a significant impact on anxiety in patients undergoing MMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sanctions are a type of forfeit aimed at forcing the subject to obey the desired political will. Since sanctions affect various components of the economic sectors. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of sanctions on food intake of households living in Khorasan Razavi province, Iran. Methods: To investigate the effect of sanctions on food intake of households living in Khorasan Razavi province, the survey data of the National Statistics Center of Iran (NSCI) on cost and income was used. 2129 households (number of households in 2017: 702, 2018: 726 and 2019: 701) were studied. In the N4 program, macronutrients and micronutrients were calculated. The studied variables were analyzed based on four income categories. In the SPSS software, quantitative variables of 2017 to 2019 were reviewed by ANOVA test and variables in pairs of the same period were reviewed by post hoc Tukey test. Results: The analysis showed that by intensifying sanctions, the cost of food has increased more than the average of income, and prices of all food groups spesifically healthy food groups have increased. The diet quality index has decreased significantly. The lower-income classes had the most insufficient dietary intake of micronutrients and the gap between dietary intake of different income classes increased during the study. Conclusion: Sanctions have affected the dietary intake due to the rise in the price of food expenditure and as a result people tend to consume cheaper and lower quality food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Today, the consumption of nutritional supplements is increasing dramatically in the world. Objective This study aims to survey the knowledge and attitudes of people in Rasht, Iran, towards nutritional supplements and determine their consumption rate. Methods This descriptive-analytical study with a cross-sectional design was conducted over 6 months on 1220 people referred to pharmacies in Rasht city. They completed a self-report questionnaire surveying demographic data, knowledge, and attitude towards nutritional supplements. Results The majority of people had poor knowledge (mean score: 5.14±2.36 out of 9). The knowledge scores were significantly different in terms of educational level, occupation, use/non-use of supplements, number of used supplements, and the reason for taking drug supplements, such that people with a master’s degree or higher, healthcare providers, and supplement users had higher scores. The attitude score was 16.14±4.64 (out of 40), and 76.33% had a negative attitude towards nutritional supplements. The knowledge score had a significant negative relationship with the attitude score. Conclusion Given the poor knowledge of people in Rasht city and their negative attitude towards nutritional supplements, it is recommended to develop public education programs to improve their knowledge of nutritional supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A proper diet plan is one of the necessary conditions for maintaining the children's health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of consumption of pasteurized cow's milk fortified with albumin protein in primary-school children, in Yasuj, Iran. Materials and Methods: In this double-blind randomized clinical trial with 12 weeks of duration, 60 children aged 7-13 years, mild to moderate underweight (-1≥ weight-for-age z-score ≥-3), were randomly assigned to control and albumin groups. The albumin group and the control group received 200 cc of milk with 10 g of albumin powder and 200 cc of milk with 10 g of cornstarch powder, respectively. At the beginning and end of the study, food intake and anthropometric indices were measured. Results: After 12 weeks of intervention, none of the anthropometric indices (weight, weight-for-age z-score, body mass index (BMI), BMI-for-age z-score, and waist circumference) showed significant changes as compared to baseline in the control group, but weight-for-age z-score and BMI-for-age z-score showed significant increase as compared to baseline in the albumin group (before: -2.25 ± 0.40, after: -1.98 ± 0.35, P = 0.001 and before: -3.48 ± 0.86, after: -3.06 ± 0.71, P = 0.009, respectively). The comparison of the mean changes between the two groups showed significant difference regarding weight-for-age z-score (control group: -1.70 ± 0.31 in comparison with albumin group: -1.98 ± 0.35, P = 0.002), BMI (control group: 12.08 ± 1.96 in comparison with albumin group: 12.13 ± 1.49, P = 0.03), and BMI-for-age z-score (control group: -3.11 ± 0.91 in comparison with albumin group: -3.06 ± 0.71, P = 0.02). Conclusion: The consumption of albumin powder with milk can improve weight-for-age z-score and BMI-for-age z-score indices in children with mild-to-moderate underweight. Larger controlled interventional studies with longer duration are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a prevalent problem in worldwide healthcare related to several system disorders. Food fortification as a solution is associated with several challenges including insufficient coverage of the entire population, required degree of fortification, the vehicles used for fortification and potential toxicity. This study aimed to determine the optimal amount of vitamin D for fortification without surpassing the upper intake level (UL) of intake at the 95th percentile of the Iranian population and compare two methods of food fortification. Methods: This study is aimed to develop a model of two different fortifying approaches related to an available dataset called MASHAD cohort study. The dataset comprised demographic and nutritional data of 9704 Iranian individuals living in the Greater Mashhad region. The first approach was a computational method necessary to implement a range of eight foods and calculate the optimal approach. In the second case, we used the European formula method called ILSI. Results: To find the appropriate value for fortification, we calculated the consumption of 400 IU and 1000 IU supplements of vitamin D. Three micrograms per 100 g in each food was the optimal output. We also used Flynn and Rasmussen's formula on our data. Using these methods, we found that 2.1 micrograms per 100 kcal provides the best result. Hence, using the two different approaches, the results appear to be consistent and promising. Conclusion: One interesting finding was that supplement consumption did not greatly affect the impact of fortification. This observation may support the hypothesis to determine the amount of fortification, and we can ignore the study population's supplement consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Middle molecules, including some cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α, parathyroid hormone, etc., are types of uremic toxins having roles in the development of inflammation in hemodialysis patients. Different studies evaluating effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on different inflammation markers in hemodialysis patients have controversial results. Moreover, no study determined the effect of CoQ10 on plasma concentration of IL-6, the most powerful predictor of poor outcomes and mortality, in hemodialysis patients. Therefore, a study was designed to examine the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on IL-6, TNF-α, and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) in chronic hemodialysis patients. Methods: In this single-blind randomized controlled trial, patients undergoing hemodialysis were randomly assigned to CoQ10 (100 mg/day) or control group. The duration of the study was 12 weeks. The plasma concentrations of IL-6, as the primary outcome, and TNF-α and iPTH, as the secondary outcomes, were measured at baseline and week 12. Results: Of 73 enrolled patients, 68 completed the study. At the end of the study, there were no significant differences in the concentrations of IL-6 (p=0.570), TNF-α (p=0.301), and iPTH (p=0.642) between the two groups. The standardized mean difference (CoQ10 vs. control) was -0.13 (95% CI -0.60; 0.35) for IL-6, -0.25 (95% CI -0.73; 0.22) for TNF-α, and 0.11 (95% CI -0.36; 0.59) for iPTH. Conclusion: This study showed a trivial effect of CoQ10 supplementation on the concentrations of IL-6 and iPTH and a small effect on the level of TNF-α in hemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of the vitamin D supplementation program in Iranian adolescents reducing adolescent depressive Symptoms. Methods: In the current cost-effectiveness analysis, the viewpoint of Iran's Ministry of Health was selected. The target population was 1,519,762 Iranian high school students (733,657 girls and 786,105 boys). The total costs of the vitamin D supplementations program were based on the reports of the Nutrition Improvement Office of Iran's Ministry of Health and were adjusted to 2018. The variable of Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) was considered a suitable variable for estimating the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation. We chose one year as the time horizon. A decision tree model was constructed in TreeAge Pro. The results of the cost-effectiveness analysis were reported in term of the Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ICER). Results: The results of our study showed that the estimated cost per QALY gained of the vitamin D supplementation program is equal to 1528.6676 $, which indicates that vitamin D supplementation in adolescents(11-18Y) is a cost-effective and a dominant strategy in preventing depression through the cost-saving and QALYs increment compared to the no intervention. Sensitivity analysis showed that the possible variations in vitamin D supplement costs could not alter the results, and vitamin D supplementation may be a predominant and cost-effective strategy to prevent adulthood depression with a 100% probability. Conclusion: The national program of vitamin D supplementation among Iranian adolescents was a cost-efficient strategy reducing adolescent depressive Symptoms through the cost-saving and QALYs increment compared to the no intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Aging is a process of deterioration over time. On the other hand, the prevalence of heart diseases has increased with the increase in life expectancy. Important genes that play a role in the aging process are related to telomerase activity, which plays an important role in heart health. are considered a strong stimulant for the telomere system. Also, coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble vitamin, which improves cardiovascular function. The general purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of six weeks of aerobic training along with Q10 supplementation on TRF1 and TRF2 gene expression. Heart tissue was from aged male Wistar rats. Methods: The current study was a developmental study and its method was an experimental one. The statistical population of the current study was 17 old Wistar male mice aged 88 to 96 weeks with an average weight of 404 grams from Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Company. This research was conducted in the physiology laboratory of Shahid Rajaei Tarbiat University. All mice had the same environmental conditions in terms of air temperature (25±2) degrees Celsius, relative humidity (55±5) and day-night cycle (12-12 hours) of light and darkness. The samples were randomly divided into 5 groups including 3 groups of three (exercise sham-supplement sham-control) and two groups of four (aerobic exercise-aerobic exercise and supplement). Laboratory animals were used and approved by the research ethics committee of the Research Institute of Physical Education and Sports Sciences (Ethics ID: IR.SSRC.REC.1401.051) and conducted in the laboratory of the Faculty of Sports Sciences of Tarbiat University, Shahid Rajaei. This study was conducted with a post-test design for measuring TRF1 and TRF2 and a pre-test-post-test design for measuring Vpeak and lee index. The independent variables of the research included aerobic exercise and Q10 supplement, and the dependent variables included TRF1 gene and TRF2 gene. At the beginning of the study, the animals were familiarized with the environment and trained on a treadmill for two weeks. Finally, after the last familiarization session and after 48 hours of rest, Vpeak [the maximum amount of VO2 (oxygen consumption) during an exercise test is increasing in which all VO2max criteria are not fulfilled (11) and the Lee index of all subjects were measured. The incremental test started with a speed of 5 m/min and a speed equivalent to 5 m/min was added every three minutes. The time to reach fatigue was determined by the mice's inability to run on the treadmill. Based on the maximum speed obtained, the training protocol was designed for six weeks and five sessions per week for the training groups, and then the training protocols were started (1, 2). Vpeak is measured every two weeks to determine training intensity (14). The program of moderate intensity aerobic training (MICT) is as follows: in the first week, it was performed with an intensity of 65% of Vpeak for 15 minutes, and in the sixth week, it reached an intensity of 70% of Vpeak in 30 minutes: the subjects before starting the protocol with an intensity of -40 50% of Vpeak was heated for 5 minutes and cooled down after completing the protocol. The sham group was given sesame oil by gavage to give stress. The aerobic exercisesupplement group was given 20 mg of fat-soluble Q10 supplement per kilogram of body weight combined with 0.5 cc of sesame oil by gavage for 42 days. The bodyweight was given to the aerobic exercise group. The supplement was prepared from its manufacturing company called Nano Kimia Salamat (15, 16). 48 hours after the end of the protocols and the last training session, Vpeak and Lee's index were measured, and also the height and weight of the mice were measured every week. Nasoanal length[cm]] ×1000 was used. 48 hours after the last training session, the samples were anesthetized with a combination of xylazine 5 to 10 mg/kg and ketamine 50 to 100 mg/kg. Then the heart tissue was extracted and washed with PBS and transferred to a negative 80 centigrade freezer and then transferred to the laboratory for tissue analysis using standard kits for gene expression by PCR method (2, 3, 17). Specialized laboratory processes were performed to measure the expression level of TRF1 and TRF2 genes and to measure telomere length using Real time-PCR method. Quantitative real time-PCR was used to measure the gene expression levels using special primers. Amplification of TRF2 and TRF1 genes as well as GAPDH reference gene was done to measure gene expression by real time PCR based on the standard method. To measure the decrease or increase in the expression of TRF1 and TRF2 genes, its expression was compared with the expression of internal control genes. For this purpose, F and R primers and cDNA were added to the master mix and the final volume was prepared for Real time PCR reaction. The primers used were prepared from Cinagen company, made in Iran. (18, 19) Then the real time PCR process was performed using the QIAGEN machine and each reaction was performed in duplicate. After the reaction, the raw data was extracted and the amount was calculated. Expression of genes was done using method 2-ΔΔCt. (20) After collecting the raw data, the Shapiro-Wilk test was used to check the normality of the data distribution. Then, in order to statistically analyze the data and compare between the groups two-way ANOVA test was used, and because the groups were unequal, the Scheffe test was used. Correlated T-test was used to check the changes of stabilizing variables. All statistical calculations were done using SPSS26 software at a significant level of P≤0.05. Excel2013 software was used to draw graphs. Results: Based on the obtained results, there was a significant difference between the groups after six weeks of aerobic training along with Q10 supplementation on TRF1 and TRF2 gene expression. (P≤0.05) Conclusion: In general, the present study showed that aerobic exercise along with Q10 supplementation increases the expression of TRF1 and TRF2 genes in heart tissue. Therefore, according to the above result, it is possible to cautiously recommend aerobic exercise along with Q10 supplementation for the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic elicited the general population to use various dietary supplements (DSs) and nutraceuticals as a protective means against the disease. The present study aimed to evaluate changes and certain determinants of DS intake during the COVID-19 lockdown among Iranian households. Methods: This nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted from April 4 to April 25, 2020, during which Iran was in lockdown. To collect data, a web-based electronic self-administered questionnaire was created. The data were compared among provinces based on their food security situations. Results: A total of 21,290 households were included in the analyses. Approximately 27% of the households were using DSs after the epidemic. The most common DSs used were vitamin D (42%) and vitamin C (20%), followed by multi-vitamin (16%), zinc (9%), omega-3 (6%), vitamin A (4%), and probiotics (3%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that DS intake was directly associated with the household income but inversely with household size and the food security status of the provinces. DS intake was positively associated with the presence of high-risk persons in the households, the education of the households' head, and the presence of a person with a history of COVID-19 within the household. Conclusions: During epidemic lockdown, DS use was remarkably increased among the Iranian households. Apart from the debatable usefulness of DSs against COVID-19, the inverse association of DS use with a household's income and provincial food security well indicates inequity in accessibility to DS. Actions to improve the nutritional status of the under-privileged populations including targeted supplementation are strongly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being diagnosed with cancer and chemotherapy impose distressing symptoms on patients' Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL). This study evaluated ginseng efficacy on improving multiple aspects of HRQOL in breast cancer patients. Forty women with non-metastatic early breast cancer were enrolled in the study. Participants received ginseng (1 g/day) or placebo with standard chemotherapy. HRQOL was evaluated via in-person interviews at baseline, two weeks after the second and last chemotherapy cycles. The FACT-B, a 37-item questionnaire composed of five subscales including physical well-being (PWB), social well-being (SWB), emotional well-being (EWB), functional well-being (FWB), and Breast Cancer Subscale (BCS) was employed to assess HRQOL. A considerable decreasing trend in the mean scores of all subscales, as well as the total score, was observed in the placebo group; nevertheless, the ginseng group experienced a slight decrease in the PWB subscale and a constant or even increasing trend in other subscales and total score. The differences in the mean change of scores during the study period were statistically significant in all domains between the two groups (all p-values < 0.001). Regular ginseng supplementation may provide beneficial effects on enhancing different aspects of HRQOL including PWB, SWB, EWB, FWB, and BCS in breast cancer patients. This study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT, IRCT20141227020441N7) in Jan 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Identification the optimal management intervention of sarcopenia is a concern of health systems. We aimed to analyze the cost-effectiveness of sarcopenia management strategies in Iran. Methods: We constructed a lifetime Markov model based on natural history. The strategies comparedincluded exercise training, nutritional supplements, whole body vibration (WBV), and various exercise interventions and nutritional supplement combinations. A total of 7 strategies was evaluated in addition to the non-intervention strategy. Parameter values were extracted from primary data and the literature, and the costs and Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were calculated for each strategy. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis, including the expected value of perfect information (EVPI), was also performed to determine the robustness of the model. Analyses were performed using the 2020 version of TreeAge Pro software. Results: All seven strategies increased lifetime effectiveness (QALYs). The protein and Vitamin D3 (P + D) strategy had the highest effectiveness values among all strategies. After removing the dominated strategies, the estimated ICER for the P + D compared to Vitamin D3 alone (D) strategy was calculated as $131,229. Considering the cost-effectiveness threshold ($25,249), base-case results indicated that the D strategy was the most cost-effective strategy in this evaluation. Sensitivity analysis of model parameters also demonstrated the robustness of results. Also, EVPI was estimated at $273. Conclusions: Study results, as the first economic evaluation of sarcopenia management interventions, showed that despite the higher effectiveness of D + P, the D strategy was the most cost-effective. Completing clinical evidence of various intervention options can lead to more accurate results in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Probiotics increase the defense power of immune system and accelerate the wound healing process by anti-inflammatory mechanisms at the wound site. The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of Lactobacillus casei oral supplementation on episiotomy wound healing among primiparous women. Methods: This triple-blind randomized clinical trial was performed on 74 primiparous women delivered in Alzahra Hospital, Tabriz, Iran. Participants with mediolateral episiotomy (incision length equal to and less than 5 cm) were randomly assigned to the probiotic and placebo groups. The probiotic group received Lactobacillus casei 431 with 1.5 * 109 colony-forming unit /capsule once a day from the day after birth to 14 days. Wound healing as a primary outcome was measured by Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation and pain as a secondary outcome by the Visual Analogue Scale before discharge, 5 ± 1 and 15 ± 1 days after birth. The data were analyzed using independent t-test and repeated measures one way analysis of variance. Results: The mean (standard deviation: SD) score of wound healing in the probiotic group altered from 4.91(1.86) before discharge to 1.55 (0.99) during 5 ± 1 days after birth and reached to 0.95 (0.27) during 15 ± 1 days after birth. Further, the mean (SD) score of wound healing in the placebo group altered from 4.62 (1.99) before discharge to 2.80 (1.20) during 5 ± 1 days after birth and reached to 1.45(0.71) during 15 ± 1 days after birth (adjusted mean difference: -0.50, confidence interval 95%: -0.96 to -0.05, P = 0.03). Conclusion: Lactobacillus casei oral supplementation is effective in healing episiotomy wounds. It is suggested to evaluate the effect of topical use of Lactobacillus casei on episiotomy repair and pain in further studies. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20170506033834N7. Date of registration: 11/08/2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in low- and middle-income countries, likely due to changing lifestyle habits, including diet. We found that a higher total choline intake was associated with an elevated risk of CRC, as well as glycerophosphocholine (GPC) and sphingomyelin (SM). Conversely, betaine intake was associated with a decreased risk of CRC. Consequently, it is possible to focus on the intake of betaine sources and manage the use of animal products as references for SM or other choline types with risks of CRC. Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing in low- and middle-income countries, likely due to changing lifestyle habits, including diet. We aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary betaine, choline, and choline-containing compounds and CRC risk. Methods: We analyzed data from a case–control study, including 865 CRC cases and 3206 controls from Iran. Detailed information was collected by trained interviewers using validated questionnaires. The intake of free choline, phosphocholine (Pcho), glycerophosphocholine (GPC), phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho), and sphingomyelin (SM), as well as of betaine was estimated from food frequency questionnaires and categorized into quartiles. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of CRC for choline and betaine quartiles were calculated using multivariate logistic regression by adjusting for potential confounders. Results: We observed excess risk of CRC in the highest versus lowest intake of total choline (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.13, 1.33), GPC (OR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.00, 1.27), and SM (OR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.01, 1.28). The intake of betaine exerted an inverse association with CRC risk (OR = 0.91, 95% CI 0.83, 0.99). There was no association between free choline, Pcho, PtdCho, and CRC. Analyses stratified by gender showed an elevated OR of CRC in men for SM intake OR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.03, 1.40) and a significantly decreased CRC risk in women for betaine intake (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.73, 0.97). Conclusion: Dietary modifications leading to an increase in betaine sources and managing the use of animal products as references for SM or other choline types might contribute to decreasing the risk of CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The inflammation accelerates the progression of bipolar disorder. Supplementation of anti-inflammatory supplements in adjuvant with medications may alleviate disorder signs. This study aimed to investigate the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on the serum concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines and depression status in patients with bipolar disorder. Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial study was conducted in Zahedan city in 2021. Patients with bipolar disorder (n = 60) were grouped into two groups: omega-3 fatty acid supplement group (n = 30, 15 men and 15 women) and placebo one using a permuted block stratified randomization. The patients in the omega-3 group received 2 g of omega-3 fatty acids daily for 2 months while patients in the placebo group received 2 g soft gels daily in the same form. Depression score and the serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were assessed before and after the study. Results: Depression score and the serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, and hs-CRP were decreased after intervention in the omega-3 fatty acid group also compared with the placebo group (P < 0.001). The results also show a positive correlation between the serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, and hs-CRP with depression scores (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Prescription of omega-3 fatty acids can decrease inflammatory parameters and help to decrease depression in patients with bipolar disorder. This supplement can be used along with medications for decreasing the inflammatory markers in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Maternal anemia is associated to premature birth and fetal disorders. The aim of this study was to estimate prevalence of maternal anemia and identify its underlying causes in pregnant women. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical cross-sectional survey, 301 Iranian pregnant women aged 15-42 y of 5-40 gestational weeks referred to comprehensive health centers in Abadan, Iran, were selected. First, anthropometric indices were measured. Then, obstetric, sociodemographic characteristics and disease history were collected using selfdesigned questionnaires. Laboratory data documented in the electronic health records were used to assess maternal anemia. Dietary intake was assessed using 168-item qualitative food frequency questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, independent Ttest, Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to analyse data using IBM SPSS statistics software. Results: Rate of the maternal anemia was 20.3%; of which, 75, 23.4 and 1.6% were mild, moderate and severe anemia, respectively. History of anemia before pregnancy enhanced the risk of maternal anemia (OR=6.048, 95% CI: 2.00-18.27, p=0.001). Moreover, 6-10 times weekly iron supplementation during pregnancy protected women from anemia, compared to 1-5 times weekly iron supplementation (OR=2.799, 95% CI: 1.438-5.450, p=0.002). Anemic women had less frequent intakes of bell peppers, dates and pomegranates than non-anemic women. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of obstetric and nutritional factors as well as positive roles of healthy dietary patterns and appropriate uses of iron supplements in controlling anemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Previous studies have shown that Rheum ribes (R. ribes) could be effective in controlling the blood glucose levels. This study was conducted to determine the effects of R. ribes supplementation on glycemic indices and apolipoproteins in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: In the present randomized double-blind controlled trial, 60 type 2 diabetic patients aged 30–60 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 20–30 kg/m2 and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 6–8% were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 450 mg of aqueous R. ribes extract (AG), 450 mg of ethanolic R. ribes extract (EG), or placebo (PG) three times daily for 6 weeks. At the baseline and at the end of the study, blood glucose levels, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the homeostatic model assessment of β-cell dysfunction (HOMA-B), as well as apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) were measured. Results: There was a significant decrease in the serum levels of insulin in AG and EG groups (P = 0.003 and P = 0.001, respectively), HOMA-IR (P = 0.01 and P = 0.001, respectively), HOMA-B (P = 0.002 and P = 0.001, respectively), ApoB (P = 0.006 and P = 0.03, respectively), ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (P = 0.016 and P = 0.04, respectively). However, a significant increase in ApoA1 (P = 0.08 and P = 0.05, respectively) with no significant changes in blood glucose, at the end of study compared to beginning values, were observed. None of the variables showed a significant change in PG. At the end of the study; while there were significant differences in insulin (P = 0.04), HOMA-IR (P = 0.03), HOMA-B (P = 0.01), ApoB (P = 0.02), and ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (P = 0.03) among the groups but ApoA1 had no significant change. Conclusion: Consumption of R. ribes intake could have beneficial effects on insulin resistance and apolipoproteins in type 2 diabetic patients. (Registered at en.irct.ir, identification number: IRCT201410142709N31). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Due to the negative effects of cancer, various methods such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are used to treat cancer and are used as primary methods in the treatment of colorectal cancer. However, the success rate of this treatment is not enough and the death rate due to it increases every year, and a series of necessary strategies are needed to control this deadly disease (5). In general, the main characteristic of cancer cells is uncontrollable cell proliferation and resistance to programmed death, so an agent that causes apoptosis in cancer cells can be known as an anticancer substance (8). Among various cases, probiotics control the digestive enzymes of animals and humans, inhibit cancer agents in the body and in laboratory conditions, and also play an important role in suppressing compounds and tumors caused by cancer in laboratory animals (9, 10). HT29 is not only used to study the biology of human colon cancers, but is of particular interest in studies focused on digestion and accessibility due to its ability to express the characteristics of colon cells (11). HUVEC are human umbilical vein endothelial cells used to study endothelial cell function and pathology (eg, angiogenesis). Primary isolated HUVECs are probably the most popular used in research, as human umbilical vessels are more readily available than other blood vessel types (8). Today, due to the increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal cancer, this issue is considered as an important global health challenge, and in the past few decades, it has been shown that the imbalance in the intestinal microbiota is related to the rate of various chronic disorders, including cancer. Oral administration of different strains of probiotics can prevent the occurrence of cancer or reduce the incidence of inflammation after surgery (12). Therefore, the researcher is trying to answer the question whether probiotic properties and toxic effects of Lactobacillus cell extract isolated from dairy products of Gilan province have an effect on HT-29 cancer cell line and normal HUVEC cell or not. Methods: In order to carry out this research, lactobacilli were first isolated from dairy samples, then morphological, biochemical, genetic and phylogenetic identification was performed on them. Using sequencing and then analyzing the determined sequences on the NCBI site, Lactobacillus fermentum species (L. Fermentum) was detected with 88.61% homology and its phylogenetic tree was drawn and registered as Limosilactobacillus fermentum GL strain. The isolated lactobacillus extract was affected on the HT-29 cancer cell line and normal HUVEC cells, and the survival of the cells under the effect of lactobacillus was determined using the MTT test (3-(4,5 dimethylthiazol-2- yl)-2, 5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) was investigated. Finally, considering that all the tests were performed in triplicate, Minitab ver16 software and GraphPad Prism ver9 software were used to determine the mean (One-Way Unstacked ANOVA) and standard deviation, respectively (p < 0.05). Results: The results showed that the bacteria were gram positive, catalase negative, oxidase negative, negative movement, no growth at 15°C and growth at 37°C and 45°C. Also, molecular analysis showed the amplification of S rRNA16 gene in two of the 4 samples. Further, the blast results showed that the desired sequence of one of the samples with 61.88% similarity belongs to Lactobacillus fermentum. Then, the phylogenetic tree resulting from the analysis of S rRNA 16 sequence was performed by NCBI genome database and MEGA 7 software, and its relationship with other bacteria is shown. Finally, gene registration was done from the sequence obtained in the NCBI database and the desired bacterium was named Limosilactobacillus fermentum GL. Also, the results of cell viability were evaluated using the MTT colorimetric method. Based on the results, cytoplasmic extract in concentrations of 0.5, 0.75 mg/ml did not significantly change the cell viability of HT-29 cells, and concentrations of 1, 1.5, 2 mg/ml increased cell viability by 4.87±50%, respectively, decreased 8.61±40%, 5.80±25%. The IC50 value of cytoplasmic extract for HT-29 cells was 1.43 mg/ml. Also, the results of the cytotoxicity study showed that the concentrations used of the cytoplasmic extract had no inhibitory effect on the normal HUVEC cell line for 24 hours (P<0.05). Conclusion: Despite recent advances in cancer treatment strategies, cancers are one of the most important causes of death worldwide. Although some anticancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy have been used with varying degrees of success in many types of cancer patients, these treatments are expensive and have harmful side effects including cardiotoxicity, diarrhea, intestinal strictures, and Inability to effectively absorb nutrients. Probiotics have been suggested as supplements to increase the effectiveness of anti-cancer treatments (24). The results showed that the concentrations of 1, 1.5 and 2 mg/ml of lactobacillus extract can reduce the cell viability by 50±4.87, 40±8.61 and 25±5.80% respectively during 24 hours. . Based on the MTT test, a concentration of 1 mg/ml of the cytoplasmic extract inhibited 50% of HT29 cells and had no toxic effect on normal HUVEC cells. In a study after 24-hour treatment of HT29 cells with 109 CFU/mL of Lactobacillus casei ATCC 393, cell survival decreased by 78% (13). Probably, in the future, these species or their metabolites can be used as food supplements or additives with anti-cancer activity, and for the production of such products, the selection of Lactobacillus strain is of high value (4). As shown in the results, the cell extract of Limosilactobacillus fermentum GL had important effects on growth inhibition in HT-29 cells by suppressing cell proliferation. However, the exact underlying mechanisms of the effects of probiotics on cancer cells have not been fully defined (4). It should be noted that the bacteria used in this study (Limosilactobacillus fermentum GL) were isolated from traditional dairy samples of Gilan and their anti-proliferative and anti-cancer effects were investigated for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increased sperm DNA damage is known as one of the causes of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) which can be due to increased levels of oxidative stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of alphalipoic acid (ALA) on sperm parameters and sperm functions in couples with a history of RPL. Materials and Methods: In this post hoc analysis in clinical trial study, a total of 37 couples with RPL (n=12 and n=25 for placebo and ALA groups, respectively) were considered. Men were treated with ALA (600 mg/day) or placebo for 80 days. Semen samples were acquired from the participants before initiation and after completion of the medication course and assessed regarding conventional sperm parameters, chromatin damage/integrity, intracellular oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and seminal antioxidant characteristics. Individuals were further followed up for twelve months for pregnancy occurrence and outcomes. Finally, after excluding patients with no history of RPL, the data was analyzed. Results: No significant differences were observed between the baseline measures of the aforementioned parameters except for seminal volume. After the intervention, the mean sperm DNA damage, protamine deficiency, and persisted histones were significantly lower in the ALA group than in placebo receivers (P<0.05). A decrease in the mean of seminal total antioxidant capacity (P=0.03), malondialdehyde (P=0.02), and sperm DNA damage (P=0.004) as well as an increase in sperm total motility (P=0.04) after treatment with ALA was noticed. In addition, the mean of protamine deficiency and persisted histones were declined post-ALA therapy (P=0.003 and 0.002, respectively). The percentage of spontaneous pregnancy in the ALA group (4 of 25 cases; 16%) was higher than in the placebo group (1 of 12, 8.3%). Conclusion: ALA-therapy attenuates sperm DNA damage and lipid peroxidation while enhancing sperm total motility and chromatin compaction in the male partner of couples with PRL (registration number: IRCT20190406043177N1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evolving evidence indicates the role of vitamin D deficiency in the progression of IBD and its impact on the severity of the disease, but it remains unclear whether vitamin D deficiency causes IBD or vice versa. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the serum levels of vitamin D and its effects on the severity of disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in the Imam Khomeini Hospital complex. A questionnaire containing demographic information, records on the use of supplements and medications, disease complications, and criteria for determining the severity of the disease based on the Mayo score and Crohn's Disease Activity Index (CDAI) and 25 hydroxy vitamin D levels was completed and evaluated. Results: Of the 101 participants, 21 were with Crohn's disease and 80 had ulcerative colitis. The mean age of Crohn's patients was 33.80±9.5 years and ulcerative colitis was 38.43±10.2 years. Among patients with ulcerative colitis, 37 (46.8%) had a mayo score less than 3 and 42 (53.2%) were 3 and more. Mean vitamin D in the mayo score less than 3 was 32.14 and the mayo score 3 and more was 23.99. Of the Crohn's patients, 12 (57.1%) were in the recovery phase and 9 (52.9%) were in a non-recovery phase. The mean of vitamin D in the recovery phase was 29.10 and in the others was 27.04 Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between the level of vitamin D supplementation, the final value of CDAI, and the identification of the patients with the Mayo score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare the effect of Vitamin D and Vitamin E supplementations, alone, and in combination, on reducing the intensity and duration of dysmenorrhea in women who were referred to the Kowsar gynecological clinics of Shahid Motahari Hospital of Urmia University of Medical Sciences. Materials and Methods: A double-blinded clinical trial was conducted on 112 women with dysmenorrhea who were randomly allocated into the four study groups. Finally, 100 women complete the study and received capsules containing a placebo (n = 25), 1000 IU of Vitamin D (n = 25), 400 mg of Vitamin E (n = 25), and 1000 IU of Vitamin D + 400 mg of Vitamin E (n = 25) every 24 h for 2 consecutive months at the beginning of the menstrual period. The pain intensity and duration among groups were compared before and after the intervention. Results: The mean menstrual pain duration in all three experimental groups (Vitamin E, Vitamin D, and the combination of them) was lower than the placebo group (all P < 0.05), and the mean pain intensity scores in all three experimental groups were significantly lower than the placebo group (all P < 0.05). The results (means) for all of the drugs administered at the end of the 2nd month were better than the 1st month (all P < 0.01). Conclusions: Vitamin E and Vitamin D, as well as their combination, are recommended as an effective and safe treatment for the management of the complications of dysmenorrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotics have been suggested as an effective adjuvant treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to their modulating effect on the gut microbiota, which may affect the gut-brain axis. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effects of two different single-strain probiotics on cognition, physical activity, and anxiety in subjects with mild and moderate AD. Eligible patients (n = 90) with AD were randomly assigned to either of two interventions [Lactobacillus rhamnosus HA-114 (1015 CFU) or Bifidobacterium longum R0175 (1015 CFU)] or placebo group, receiving probiotic supplement twice daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcome of the study was cognitive function measured by using the two tests, namely, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the categorical verbal fluency test (CFT). Secondary outcomes included a performance in Activities of Daily Living (ADL), the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scale, and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale. Linear mixed-effect models were used to investigate the independent effects of probiotics on clinical outcomes. After 12 weeks, MMSE significantly improved cognition (PInteraction < 0.0001), with post hoc comparisons identifying significantly more improvement in the B. longum intervention group (differences: 4.86, 95% CI: 3.91--5.81; P < 0.0001) compared with both the placebo and L. rhamnosus intervention groups (differences: 4.06, 95% CI: 3.11--5.01; P < 0.0001). There was no significant difference between the two intervention groups (differences: 0.8, 95% CI: 1.74 to 0.14; P = 0.09). In conclusion, this trial demonstrated that 12-week probiotic supplementation compared with placebo had beneficial effects on the cognition status of patients with AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes is one of the most common metabolic disorders during pregnancy. Some studies have reported the effect of vitamin D deficiency on the incidence of this disorder. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of vitamin D supplementation on fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, fasting blood insulin (FBI) levels and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) (primary outcomes) and symptoms of depression, musculoskeletal pain, frequency of gestational diabetes and the frequency of abortion (secondary outcomes). Methods: In this triple-blind randomized controlled trial, 88 pregnant women at 8–10 weeks of pregnancy who had the vitamin D of less than 30 ng/ml were randomly assigned to the vitamin D group (n = 44) and control group (n = 44) using block randomization. The vitamin D group received 4,000 units of vitamin D tablets daily and the control group received placebo tablets for 18 weeks. Independent t-test, Mann-Whitney U and ANCOVA tests were used to analyze the data. Results: After the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of FBG (P = 0.850), FBI (P = 0.353), HOMA-IR (P = 0.632), mean score of depressive symptoms (P = 0.505), frequency of gestational diabetes (P = 0.187) and frequency of abortion (P = 1.000) and there was only a difference in terms of serum vitamin D level (P = 0.016) and musculoskeletal pain including knee pain (P = 0.025), ankle pain (P < 0.001) and leg pain (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Vitamin D could improve the musculoskeletal pain in pregnant women but couldn't decrease FBG, FBI, HOMA-IR, depression symptoms score, incidence of GDM and abortion. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20120718010324N59. Date of registration: 4/11/2020. URL: https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/50973/view; Date of first registration: 21/11/2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tissue dysfunction might be the result of reactions between free radicals and cell membranes. The purpose of this study was the evaluation of cell vulnerability and assessment of the effect of intense intermittent exercise and curcumin supplementation on apoptotic and antiapoptotic factors in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: For the study, 60 adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided to 5 groups (n = 8) of saline, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), high intensity interval training (HIIT) + oxygenated Water, Curcumin Supplement + Oxygenated Water, and HIIT + Curcumin Supplement + Oxygenated Water. Rats were treated with H2O2 in the amount of 1 mmol/kg of body weight three times a week on even days and curcumin, 150 m g/kg of body weight, daily. Treadmill running program was performed for 8 weeks. Real-time PCR was applied to assess Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) genes expression. Data were analyzed by using the Two-way ANOVA. Results: The induction of oxidative stress by H2O2 increased expression of Bax, and decreased expression of Bcl-2 in hippocampus of rats (P = 0.0001). HIIT and curcumin supplementation decreased expression of Bax, and increased expression of Bcl-2, Also, decreased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (P = 0.0001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Despite several national surveys in the country, there has been no food and nutrition surveillance (FNS) system by far to integrate and analyze data obtained from different related sources for root finding of nutrition problems and help decision-making at the national level. Materials and Methods: FNS conceptual framework was developed encompassing from food production through health and nutrition outcome. The scientific committee selected the needed indicators using SMART method, as recommended by WHO. To obtain the pre-defined indicators, two sets of data sources must be used, including routine data from health service providers and national surveys. These data sources were fully evaluated to determine the data gaps. To obtain those data that are not available through secondary data sources, repeated small-scale surveys will be conducted. Each year, 6 provinces are enrolled so that in a 5 year period, all provinces will be covered by FNS. In the sixth year, the first year provinces wi ll be evaluated again. In each province, multistage cluster random proportional to size (PPS) sampling will be done. The data obtained from each participant will include: demographic, physical activity, dietary intake, anthropometric, biochemical and food security (household). Finally, primary and secondary data will be integrated to obtain a comprehensive picture of the food and nutrition status of the community. Conclusions: The current article may be used by nutrition and health researchers and policy-makers especially those in Eastern Mediterranean region as an FNS template that can be customized according to the local needs and priorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myo-inositol, a glial marker which plays a critical role in some brain regions, can supposedly affect sleep processes. The purpose of randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the impact of myo-inositol supplementation on sleep quality of pregnant women. The study enrolled 60 women with low risk singleton pregnancies, with a gestational age of at least 14 weeks, in Iran. The participants were block randomized to receive myo-inositol supplementation powder containing 2000 mg of myo-inositol and 200 μg of folic acid or placebo (400 μg of folic acid) for 10 weeks from the gestational age of 14–24. Sleep quality was measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The primary outcome was the change in sleep quality from the first trimester to the second trimester (24–28 weeks). The ANCOVA with adjusted covariate variables in the first trimester was conducted to estimate the sleep quality between the two groups. The results of ANCOVA boot strapped showed that the mean difference of the total sleep quality score between the two groups was −1.537; 95% CI: −3.050 to −0.024, p =.047) in the second trimester at immediately post-intervention. Also, there were significant differences between the two groups in terms of subjective sleep quality (MD: −0.427; 95% CI: −0.725 to −0.128, p =.006, sleep duration (MD: −0.670; 95% CI: −1.240 to −0.101; p =.022) and habitual sleep efficiency (MD: −0.561; 95% CI: −1.038 to −0.085, p =.022). The research confirmed that myo-inositol supplementation can improve global sleep quality, subjective sleep quality, and sleep duration during pregnancy. Therefore, these findings applied to minimize the rate of poor sleep quality in pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a pervasive disease of the current century that usually affects the adult population, especially people with diabetes and hypertension. According to the recent studies, inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction are determining risk factors in the pathogenesis of CKD. Melatonin as a strong antioxidant is produced in various tissues including the kidneys. The present clinical trial aims to examine the efficacy of melatonin supplementation on metabolic parameters, oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers in diabetic patients with CKD., Methods: This is a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study that will be investigated the impacts of melatonin supplementation in diabetic patients with CKD. Laboratory findings will be applied to diagnose diabetic CKD. Forty-eight eligible diabetic subjects with CKD will be selected and randomly assigned to receive 5 mg melatonin tablets or identical placebo twice daily for 10 weeks. Participants will be asked to remain on their usual diet and physical activity. The primary outcome of this study is changes in oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers. The secondary outcomes include changes in lipid profile, renal function indicators, fasting blood sugar and serum insulin, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), serum phosphorous concentration, sleep quality, body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC). Statistical analysis will be conducted using the SPSS software (version 25)., Discussion: We hypothesize that melatonin administration may be useful for treating diabetic CKD by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, regulating lipid metabolism, and increasing insulin sensitivity through different mechanisms. The current trial will exhibit the effects of melatonin, whether negative or positive, on diabetic CKD status., Ethical Aspects: The current trial received approval from Medical Ethics Committee of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IR.TUMS.SHARIATI.REC.1402.072)., Trial Registration: This study had been registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials., Registration Number: IRCT20170202032367N9 on 11 August 2023. https://www.irct.ir/trial/70709 ., Competing Interests: Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate The current trial received approval from Medical Ethics Committee of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IR.TUMS.SHARIATI.REC.1402.072).Written informed consent will be obtained from participants before participation in the research project. Consent for publication Not applicable-no identifying images or other personal or clinical details of participants are presented here or will be presented in reports of the trial results. The participant information materials and informed consent form are available from the corresponding author on request. Competing interests The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs), or strokes, are major global health concerns associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and gastrointestinal complications. This study aimed to explore the impact of postbiotic supplementation in CVA patients, specifically in terms of oxidative stress, inflammation, and clinical outcomes, as an alternative to probiotics with potential advantages. Method A prospective, single-center, randomized, controlled trial was conducted with 120 CVA patients in Iran. These patients were admitted to the ICU to assess the severity of their strokes. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either postbiotic supplementation (n = 60) or a placebo (n = 60). Various biomarkers related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Data on demographic characteristics, nosocomial infections, and laboratory measurements were collected. Gut microbiota analysis was also performed on fecal samples. Results After the 7-day intervention, postbiotic supplementation resulted in significant improvements in inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, and a reduced incidence of pneumonia compared with those in the control group, with the postbiotic group demonstrating notable decreases in the serum IL-1β levels (-1.79; 95% CI: = -2.9 to -0.64, p = 0.002 ), MDA levels (-30.5; 95% CI: -54.8 to -6.1, p = 0.015), Hs-CRP levels (-0.67; 95% CI:-1.1 to -0.26 mg/dl, p = 0.001) and TAC levels (62.5; 95%CI: 34.1 to 90.9, p < 0.001) compared with those in the placebo group. However, no significant differences in other clinical outcomes, including the NIHSS score, NUTRIC score, and APACHE II score, or the gut microbiota profile, were observed between the two groups. Conclusion Postbiotic supplementation improved the levels of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress markers and reduced the risk of pneumonia in CVA patients. Trial registration This trial is registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (registration code IRCT20180712040438N7), Registration date 06122022., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Migraine is a severe neurological disorder that is recognized as one of the most common debilitating diseases worldwide. Although the exact cause of migraine is not known, research suggests that inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and insufficient nutrients may contribute to its development. Studies indicate that nutrition-based approaches are safer and more cost-effective strategies for managing migraine symptoms compared to medication. In this regard, the impact of nutrition, as a complementary medicine, is largely attributed to that of certain nutrients on inflammation and mitochondrial function. It is hypothesized that alpha-linolenic acid and L-carnitine, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may be synergically beneficial for migraine patients. Therefore, this study will be conducted to assess the efficacy of alpha-linolenic acid and L-carnitine co-supplementation in patients with migraine., Methods: This is a parallel, randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, in which 80 women aged 20 to 50 years with migraine will be assigned to receive either intervention group (n = 40) receiving both 1000 mg/day flaxseed oil and 500 mg/day L-carnitine simultaneously for 12 weeks, or control group (n = 40) receiving both 1000 mg/day paraffin oil and 500 mg/day maltodextrin as the placebos for the same duration. The primary outcomes include changes in clinical symptoms of migraine, including frequency, severity, and duration of attacks, serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Secondary outcomes include mental health, sleep quality, and quality of life (QOL)., Discussion: In this study, we aim to investigate the potential benefits of combining alpha-linolenic acid and L-carnitine as a treatment option for migraine sufferers. Migraine, characterized by recurrent severe headaches, affects a significant portion of the population and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. By studying alternative therapies such as alpha-linolenic acid and L-carnitine, researchers hope to expand the range of treatment options available and potentially provide relief to migraine sufferers., Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials ( www.irct.ir ) (ID: IRCT20121216011763N57). Registration date: 29 March 2023., Trial Status: The protocol is version 1.0 dated December 30, 2023. Recruitment began on July 10, 2023, and is expected to be completed by January 22, 2024., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Taste disorders in patients suffering from COVID-19 were popular. Some people even after recovery report residual effects of loss of smell and taste. This study aimed to investigate the taste Perception of Iranian Medical Sciences students during the COVID-19 pandemic., Methods: The case-control study evaluated 50 Medical Sciences students with a history of COVID-19 infection, as confirmed by the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCOV) CFX96™ Real-Time PCR Detection System. The other participants consisted of 50 volunteer students with COVID-19 negative. The taste perception was measured with 4 different concentrations of the basic tastes. The stimuli were applied to the protruded tongue. Subjects were asked to identify the researcher when they felt the taste. Data are expressed as frequency distribution and analyzed with the Chi-Square test (P < 0.05)., Results: In this survey, 54% of participants were male and 46% were female, the mean age of participants was 22.96 ± 5 years. The results showed a significant difference in the sweet and bitter taste perception score according to the history of dietary supplement use. The bitter taste perception score declared a considerable difference since COVID-19 infection. There was no significant difference between the taste perception in the two studied groups for all 4 basic tastes according to gender, COVID-19 infection status, history of taste and smell disorders, and the elapsed time since COVID-19 infection., Conclusion: Our findings could provide important insights into taste perception. The history of dietary supplementation may influence how sweetness and saltiness are perceived. There was a noticeable difference in bitter taste perception depending on the time that had elapsed since the most recent COVID-19 infection., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

This study was designed to investigate the effect of vitamin D and/or synbiotics on the response to treatment, cytokines profile and hormonal biomarkers in breast cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy. A total of 76 patients were recruited and completed the course of the intervention between 2019 and 2021 in Kerman, Iran. breast cancer patients were randomly enrolled in this study. Patients divided into four groups to receive one of the following regimens: placebo, vitamin D, synbiotics and a combination of vitamin D and synbiotics. clinicopathologic parameters, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory biomarkers and hormonal levels were measured at the baseline and four months after intervention. The study results found no clear link between the interventions and achieving pathological complete response (pCR), and a similar trend was observed in Ki-67 index examination. After neoadjuvant therapy, TNF-α concentrations decreased, with vitamin D supplementation moderating this decline. Vitamin D supplemented groups showed a significant increase in serum IL-6 levels. While IL-10 levels decreased in the placebo group, all intervention groups were protected from this decline. Moreover, there was a notable increase in the anti-inflammatory index, particularly in the group receiving both vitamin D and synbiotic supplementation, suggesting potential synergistic anti-inflammatory effects from their combined administration. The outcomes suggest a potential anti-inflammatory function of this combination. Consequently, more extensive studies with prolonged follow-up periods and substantial sample sizes are warranted to thoroughly evaluate their potential benefits for breast cancer patients., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Rationale: Probiotics have beneficial effects on the nervous system by modulating the gut-brain axis. Additionally, vitamin D supplementation presents a potential way for ameliorating neuropsychological disorders, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency., Objectives: The current clinical trial aimed to investigate the role of co-administered supplementation of probiotics and Vitamin D on the different inflammatory aspects of patients with Parkinson's disease., Methods: Forty-six patients with PD were recruited From the Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Tehran, Iran. These patients were randomly allocated to one of the two treatment groups: Group A, who received probiotic/vitamin D supplements (n = 23), and Group B who received placebo capsules (n = 23) for 12 weeks. As primary outcomes, Interferon-Gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum were evaluated at the baseline and the end of the trial. Moreover, Additional questionnaire-based factors including gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) were evaluated., Results: Our findings demonstrated that the consumption of probiotic/vitamin D supplements leads to a significant decrease in IL-1β, INF-γ, IL-6, and MDA levels, while showing a significant increase in IL-10 and TAC levels compared to the placebo group (P < 0.05). Additionally, it leads to a significant decrease in the disease severity, anxiety, and gastrointestinal problems in PD patients in comparison to the placebo group (P < 0.05)., Conclusions: Given the acknowledged role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease on one hand, and the recognized anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects associated with probiotics and vitamin D on the other hand, the concurrent administration of probiotics and vitamin D supplements emerges as a promising and potentially effective treatment option for individuals with PD., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background and Aim: Food and sports supplements are used by athletes all over the world, and correct and optimal consumption improves performance and prevents sports injuries. In this regard, creatine and ginseng supplements can be effective on physiological indicators and sports performance. Therefore, considering that no research has been done on the use of these supplements on blood indicators on fencers. The present study compares the effect of creatine and ginseng supplements on blood ammonia, HDL, LDL and homocysteine indices of the male players of the Iranian Epe fencing team. Martials and Methods: In the present study, 14 male players of the Epe national fencing team were divided into two creatine supplement groups (7 people) and ginseng supplement group (7 people). Subjects in two groups performed their normal exercises with the team during the research, and on the day before the measurement, after a specific activity in a sitting position, blood was taken from the arm vein of the subjects by a specialist. The statistical significance difference was determined at the level of P ≥ 0.05 and ANCOVA test was used to determine the differences between groups and the data was analyzed by SPSS software with version 25. Ethical Considerations: This article is approved by the Ethics Committee of Islamic Azad University, Shahrood Branch. Findings: The results showed that after six weeks, there is a significant difference between the creatine and ginseng groups in the blood indices of ammonia, LDL, HDL and homocysteine (P ≥ 0.05). so that the average of creatine supplement group in ammonia, LDL, HDL and homocysteine index in terms of mg/dL respectively (2.56±0.83, 1.16±0.33, 7.45±0.48, 8.89±0.18) and Gensing group (2.05±0.29, 1.46±0.78, 8.11±0.27, 7.63±0.45). Conclusions: The results showed that there is a significant difference in the average of blood ammonia, HDL, LDL and hemocytin between the creatine supplement group and the ginseng supplement group. Therefore, the role of ginseng supplement in reducing blood ammonia and homocysteine and in increasing HDL was more than that of creatine supplement, and the role of creatine supplement in reducing LDL was more than that of ginseng supplement. So it can be concluded that the role of ginseng supplement in the changes of blood ammonia, homocysteine and HDL is more than the role of creatine supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most of previous studies have investigated the association of specific food or nutrient with risk of breast cancer (BC) rather than overall diet and there is lack of evidence regarding dietary pattern in BC development. This study aims to examine the association between dietary patterns and risk of BC among Iranian women. Methods: This case–control study was carried out on 453 BC women and 496 healthy controls. A reliable and valid FFQ was used to evaluate usual dietary intake. Factor analysis was also applied to address the most major dietary patterns which were known as the healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns. Results: Those in the highest quartile of healthy dietary pattern had lower risk of BC (P = 0.001). However, being in the highest quartile of unhealthy pattern was associated with 2.04-fold increase of BC risk (P = 0.004) compared to the lowest quartile. In premenopausal women, risk of BC in upper quartile of healthy pattern was lower than the lowest quartile (OR = 0.47; CI = 0.26 – 0.83, P = 0.004). More adherence to the unhealthy dietary pattern was associated with higher risk of BC (OR = 2.85; 95% CI = 1.57- 5.17, P < 0.0001). No significant association was observed between the healthy or unhealthy dietary patterns among postmenopausal women. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the healthy dietary pattern could be considered as a protective factor in terms of BC in women and particularly among premenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]