Nutrition and health

Objectives:
Whether N-acetylcysteine (NAC) therapy can promote the improvement of clinical symptoms and lung function in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) has not been verified by large-scale randomized controlled trials, only a few small sample studies. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does n-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplementation improve clinical symptoms and lung function in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD)?

Study design:
This review article included 12 retrospective analyses and 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 1,605 patients.
The 15 included studies were small sample studies, with sample sizes ranging from 72 to 146.

9 studies had a Jadad score of 3-5 points and 6 studies had a Jadad score of 1-2 points.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the meta-analysis results of 10 studies (525 cases in the n-acetylcysteine group and 524 cases in the control group) showed that the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) of the n-acetylcysteine group was markedly higher than that of the control group; the mean difference was 30.63 [95% CI = 25.48 to 35.78, I2 = 92%] and the difference was statistically significant [z = 11.65 and p 0.0001].

The investigators found the meta-analysis results of 6 studies (347 cases in the n-acetylcysteine group and 350 cases in the control group) showed that forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) of the n-acetylcysteine group was markedly higher than that of the control group; the mean difference was 30.42 [95% CI = 24.00 to 36.85, I2 = 93%] and the difference was statistically significant [z = 9.28 and p 0.0001].

The investigators found the meta-analysis results of 6 studies (323 cases in the n-acetylcysteine group and 322 cases in the control group) showed that the glutathione sulfur transferase (GSH-ST) activity of the n-acetylcysteine group was notably greater than that of the control group; the mean difference was 3.10 [95% CI = 1.38 to 4.82, I2 = 91%] and the difference was statistically significant [z = 3.63, p = 0.0004].

The investigators found the meta-analysis results of 4 studies (224 cases in the n-acetylcysteine group and 227 cases in the control group) showed that the ability of the n-acetylcysteine group to inhibit hydroxyl free radicals was higher than that of the control group; the mean difference was 77.52 [95% CI = 61.01 to 94.03, I2 = 44%] and the difference was statistically significant [z = 9.20 and p 0.0001]. 

The investigators found the meta-analysis results of 4 studies (224 cases in the n-acetylcysteine group and 227 cases in the control group) showed that the superoxide anion radical resistance ability of the n-acetylcysteine group was greater than the ability of the control group; the mean difference was 47.75 [95% CI = 36.26 to 59.25, I2 = 35%] and the difference was statistically significant [z = 8.14 and p 0.0001]. 

The investigators concluded n-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplementation could promote the symptom improvement rate of patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD), improve lung function in FEV1 and FEV1/FVC and enhance the body’s antioxidant capacity. Could because the sample size of the literature included in this review article was small. The sample size should be expanded in future randomized controlled trials to verify these findings. All in all, the results of this review article can provide a reliable theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of AECOPD, so that patients can benefit from NAC treatment.

Original title:
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine in the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by Jiang C, Zou J, [...], Yang Y.

Link:
https://apm.amegroups.com/article/view/72787/html

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant, COPD and n-acetylcysteine.

An acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a sudden worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptoms including shortness of breath, quantity and color of phlegm that typically lasts for several days.
 

Objectives:
Zinc in one of the most abundant trace minerals in human body which is involved in numerous biological pathways and has variety of roles in the nervous system. It has been assumed that zinc exerts its role in nervous system through increasing brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does zinc supplementation increase brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels?

Study design:
This review article included 5 studies with 238 participants. These studies enrolled subjects with premenstrual syndrome, diabetic retinopathy, major depression disorder, overweight/obese and obese with mild to moderate depressive disorders.

Funnel plot did not suggest publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found zinc supplementation failed to increase blood brain derived neurotrophic factor concentrations with effect size of 0.30 [95% CI = -0.08 to 0.67, p = 0.119].

The investigators concluded zinc supplementation does not increase brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. However, the small number of included articles and significant heterogeneity between them can increase the risk of a false negative result; therefore, the results should be interpreted with caution.

Original title:
The effect of zinc supplementation on brain derived neurotrophic factor: A meta-analysis by Jafari F, Mohammadi H and Amani R.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33831797/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and zinc.

Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays an important role in neuronal survival and growth, serves as a neurotransmitter modulator and participates in neuronal plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory.
Decreased levels of BDNF are associated with neurodegenerative diseases with neuronal loss, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis and Huntington's disease.
 

Objectives:
Does vitamin C supplementation improve triglyceride and cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Study design:
This review article included 15 studies with 872 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, findings from 15 studies indicated that vitamin C supplementation significantly decreased triglyceride (TG) levels [WMD= -16.48 mg/dL, 95% CI = -31.89 to -1.08, p 0.001] and total cholesterol (TC) levels [WMD = -13.00 mg/dL, 95% CI = -23.10 to -2.91, p 0.001] in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The investigators found, however, vitamin C supplementation failed to improve LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels. 

The investigators found the meta-regression analysis suggested that lipid profile improvement was affected by duration of vitamin C treatment.

The investigators found dose-response analysis showed that vitamin C supplementation changed LDL cholesterol significantly based on vitamin C dose.

The investigators concluded that vitamin C supplementation improves lipid profile via decreases in triglyceride and total cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It appears that vitamin C supplementation is more beneficial to lipid profile in long-term vs. short term interventions.

Original title:
Does vitamin C supplementation exert profitable effects on serum lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes? A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis by Namkhah Z, Ashtary-Larky D, […], Asbaghi O.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33984490/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on vitamine C, cholesterol and diabetes right here.

Objectives:
Do patients with knee osteoarthritis benefit from vitamin D supplementation?

Study design:
This review article included 6 articles with a total of 1,599 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, the results of the meta-analysis showed that vitamin D supplementation statistically significantly improved WOMAC score [SMD = -0.67, 95% CI = -1.23 to -0.12) in patients with knee osteoarthritis, including WOMAC pain score [SMD = -0.32, 95% CI = -0.63 to -0.02], function score [SMD = -0.34, 95% CI = -0.60 to -0.08] and stiffness score [SMD = -0.13, 95% CI = -0.26 to -0.01].

The investigators found, in subgroup analysis, vitamin D supplementation less than 2000 IU (50 mcg) was statistically significant for the reduction of stiffness score [SMD = -0.22, 95% CI = -0.40 to -0.04].

The investigators found vitamin D supplements significantly reduced synovial fluid volume progression in patients with knee osteoarthritis [SMD = -0.20, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.02].

The investigators concluded vitamin D supplements improve WOMAC pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Original title:
Does vitamin D improve symptomatic and structural outcomes in knee osteoarthritis? A systematic review and meta-analysis by Zhao ZX, He Y, […], Chen J.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33783714/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and vitamin D.

The WOMAC is a validated patient-administered questionnaire that assesses 3 components: pain, stiffness and function, with the score range of 0-20 for pain, 0-8 for stiffness and 0-68 for physical function.
 

Objectives:
Do critically ill patients benefit of thiamine (vitamin B1) supplementation?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs and 10 cohort studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in the analysis of RCTs, that thiamine supplementation showed a significantly 42% lower odds of developing ICU delirium [OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.34 to 0.98].

The investigators found a reduction in mortaliy was observed on performing fixed effect model analysis. However, a level of statistical significance could not be reached on performing randon effect model analysis [OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.59 to 1.04].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis of 13 studies in patients with sepsis, there was no difference in mortality between the 2 groups [OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.63 to 1.09].

The investigators concluded thiamine (vitamin B1) supplementation in critically ill patients shows a reduction in the incidence of ICU delirium among RCTs. However, there is no significant benefit in terms of overall mortality and mortality in patients with sepsis. Further, large scale randomized prospective studies are warranted to investigate the role of thiamine supplementation in critically ill patients.

Original title:
Effect of thiamine supplementation in critically ill patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Sedhai YR, Shrestha DB, […], Kashiouris MG.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34118501/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on vitamin B1 right here.

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) delirium is a nonspecific, potentially preventable and often reversible disorder of impaired cognition, which results from various causes in ICU patients. The term “delirium”is derived from the Latin word “delirare” which literally means “to go out of the furrow” or figuratively “crazy or deranged”.
 

Objectives:
The efficacy of soy diet for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease remains controversial. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does soy supplementation have positive effects on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?

Study design:
This review article included 5 RCTs.
All of 5 RCTs have a relatively small sample size (n 100).

Jadad scores of the 5 included studies vary from 3 to 5 and all 5 studies were considered to be high-quality ones according to quality assessment.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, overall, compared with control group for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, soy supplementation is associated with significantly reduced HOMA-IR [SMD = -0.42, 95% CI = -0.76 to -0.08, p = 0.01], increased insulin [SMD = -0.64, 95% CI = -0.98 to -0.30, p = 0.0002] and decreased malondialdehyde [SMD = -0.43, 95% CI = -0.74 to -0.13, p = 0.005].

The investigators found, however, compared with control group for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, soy supplementation demonstrated no substantial impact on body mass index [SMD = 0.17, 95% CI = -0.20 to 0.53, p = 0.37), alanine aminotransferase [SMD = -0.01, 95% CI = -0.61 to 0.60, p = 0.98), aspartate-aminotransferase [SMD = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.47 to 0.49, p = 0.97], total cholesterol [SMD = 0.05, 95% CI = -0.25 to 0.35, p = 0.73] or low density lipoprotein cholesterol (bad cholesterol) [SMD = 0, 95% CI = -0.30 to 0.30, p = 0.99].

The investigators concluded that soy supplementation improves insulin resistance for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Original title:
Soy diet for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Xiong P and Zhu YF.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8183754/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and soy.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an umbrella term for a range of liver conditions affecting people who drink little to no alcohol. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a disorder, caused by a build-up of fat in the liver.
 

Objectives:
Is hypertension a risk factor in adults with cerebral palsy?

Study design:
This review article included data from 11 international cohort studies representing 444 adults with cerebral palsy [median (IQR) age of the sample was 29.0 (23.0-38.0), 51% men, 89% spastic type, Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-V].

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found overall mean systolic blood pressure was 124.9 mmHg [95% CI = 121.7 to 128.1] and overall mean diastolic blood pressure was 79.9 mmHg [95% CI = 77.2 to 82.5].

The investigators found overall prevalence of hypertension was 28.7% [95% CI = 18.8 to 39.8%].

The investigators found subgroup analysis indicated higher blood pressure levels or higher prevalence of hypertension in adults with cerebral palsy above 40 years of age, men, those with spastic cerebral palsy or those who lived in Africa.

The investigators concluded that the findings in this review article underscore the importance of clinical screening for blood pressure in individuals with cerebral palsy beginning in young adulthood.

Original title:
Blood pressure in adults with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data by Noten S, van den Berg-Emons RJG, [...], Van Der Slot WMA.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34102658/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on lowering blood pressure and cardiovascular disease right here.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. Cerebral palsy is the most common motor disability in children.
 

Objectives:
Does spirulina supplementation improve glycemic related markers (like, fasting blood glucose, post prandial blood sugar and HbA1c levels) and lipid profile (like, triglyceride and cholesterol levels) among type 2 diabetes patients?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs (9 arms).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, spirulina supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels [-17.88 mg/dL, 95% CI = -26.99 to -8.78, I2 = 25%] among type 2 diabetes patients.

The investigators found, spirulina supplementation significantly reduced triglyceride levels [-30.99 mg/dL, 95% CI = -45.20 to -16.77, I2 = 50%] among type 2 diabetes patients.

The investigators found, spirulina supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol levels [-18.47 mg/dL, 95% CI = -33.54 to -3.39, I2 = 73%] among type 2 diabetes patients.

The investigators found, spirulina supplementation significantly reduced LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels [-20.04 mg/dL, 95% CI = -34.06 to -6.02, I2 = 75%] among type 2 diabetes patients.

The investigators found, spirulina supplementation significantly reduced VLDL cholesterol levels [-6.96 mg/dL, 95% CI = -9.71 to -4.22, I2 = 33%] among type 2 diabetes patients.

The investigators found, spirulina supplementation significantly increased HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels among type 2 diabetes patients.

The investigators found no significant effect on HbA1C or post prandial blood sugar among type 2 diabetes patients following spirulina supplementation.

The investigators concluded that spirulina supplementation has beneficial effects on fasting blood glucose and blood lipid profiles among type 2 diabetes patients.

Original title:
The effect of spirulina on type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Hatami E, Ghalishourani SS, […], Mansour-Ghanaei F.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34178867/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on lowering cholesterol levels and diabetes right here.

Objectives:
Catechins are a part of the chemical family of flavonoids, a naturally occurring antioxidant, and a secondary metabolite in certain plants. Green tea catechins are well recognized for their essential anti-inflammatory, photo-protective, antioxidant and chemo-preventive functions. Ultraviolet radiation is a principal cause of damage to the skin. Studies observed that regular intake of green tea catechins increased the minimal dose of radiation required to induce erythema. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the impact of oral supplementation with green tea catechins on ultraviolet radiation-induced skin inflammation in human subjects. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is green tea catechin supplementation associated with protection against UV-induced damage due to erythema inflammation in humans?

Study design:
This review article included 6 randomized controlled studies with a total of 100 healthy volunteers. The intervention duration of administrated green tea catechins orally varied from 6 to 12 weeks.

All studies included in this systematic review and meta-analysis measured the erythema index using solar simulator techniques, wherein the blue-light (mimicking sunlight) solar simulator was used to irradiate the skin and skin color was evaluated by chromameter before and 24 h after irradiation at baseline and post-supplementation of green tea catechins.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analysis results confirmed oral supplementation of green tea catechins was highly effective at low-intensity ultraviolet radiation-induced erythema response [MED range = 1.25 to 1.30] compared to placebo, showing a significant pooling difference in erythema index [SMD = -0.35, 95% CI = -0.57 to -0.13, p = 0.002, I2 = 4%, p = 0.40] in the random-effects model.

The investigators concluded that regular green tea catechin supplementation (as low as 540 mg of green tea catechins per day) is associated with protection against UV-induced damage due to erythema inflammation in humans, wherein green tea catechin metabolites are bioavailable at the dermis and epidermis levels of the skin and thus increase the minimal dose of radiation (MED) required to induce erythema. This in turn suggests that green tea catechins can strengthen the skin’s tolerance to ultraviolet radiation-induced skin damage from radiation through the prevention of the ultraviolet radiation-induced perturbation of epidermal barrier functions.

Original title:
Green Tea Catechin Association with Ultraviolet Radiation-Induced Erythema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Kapoor MP, Sugita M, [...], Okubo T.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8233826/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and green tea.

Sunburn, also called UV-induced or solar erythema, is characterized by painful blistering and sometimes second degree burn.

Objectives:
Does grapes/grape products supplementation improve glycemic indices (like HOMA-IR, Hb1Ac and fasting insulin level) in adults or in other words, does eating grapes or grape products causally improve glycemic indices in adults?

Study design:
This review article included 29 RCTs with a total of 1,297 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, overall, the grapes/grape products supplementation significantly reduced homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [WMD = -0.54, 95% CI = -0.91 to -0.17, p = 0.004] in adults.   
Significantly because the calculated p-value of = 0.004 was less than the p-value of 0.05.

The investigators found, however, the grapes/grape products supplementation did not affect fasting insulin levels [WMD = -0.90 μIU/mL, 95% CI = -1.04 to 2.84, p = 0.362] and hemoglobin A1c (Hb1Ac) percentage [WMD = 0.00%, 95% CI = -0.10 to 0.11, p = 0.916] in the main analyses.
Did not affect because the calculated p-value of 0.916 was larger than the p-value of 0.05.

The investigators concluded that the grapes/grape products supplementation reduces homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in adults. Further, large-scale RCTs with longer duration are required to confirm these results.

Original title:
The effect of grapes/grape products on glycemic response: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Moodi V, Abedi S, […], Miraghajani M.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33893683/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fruit and diabetes right here.

Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) is a method for assessing β-cell function and insulin resistance (IR) from basal (fasting) glucose and insulin or C-peptide concentrations. HOMA-IR is an indicator of insulin resistance in diabetic patients. The higher the value, the more resistant you are to insulin. Diabetic patients often have a high HOMA-IR value.

Objectives:
Which disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs improve knee and hip osteoarthritis among adults?

Study design:
This review article included 28 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 11,890 patients.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found glucosamine supplements significantly improved both structure [minimum joint width or cartilage volume: network results: SMD = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.04 to 0.28] and symptoms [pain = -0.15, 95% CI = -0.25 to -0.05 and function = -0.17, 95% CI = -0.28 to -0.07] of knee and hip osteoarthritis among adults.

The investigators found chondroitin supplements significantly improved both structure [minimum joint width or cartilage volume: network results: SMD = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.32] and symptoms [pain = -0.06, 95% CI = -0.15 to -0.03 and function = -0.15, 95% CI = -0.26 to -0.03] of knee and hip osteoarthritis among adults.

The investigators found strontium supplements significantly improved structure [minimum joint width or cartilage volume: SMD = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.20 to 0.38] of knee and hip osteoarthritis among adults.

The investigators found vitamin D supplements significantly improved symptoms [pain = -0.15, 95% CI = -0.27 to -0.03 and function = -0.18, 95% CI = -0.31 to -0.06] of knee and hip osteoarthritis among adults.  

The investigators found, although doxycycline also demonstrated a favorable efficacy ranking, its safety profile was poor [withdrawal: network relative risk = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.03 to 2.75].

The investigators concluded glucosamine and chondroitin supplements yield statistically significant but clinically questionable long-term benefit on structure and symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis among adults, though both have favorable safety profiles.
Strontium supplements improve structure and vitamin D supplements improve symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis among adults. Although doxycycline has a favorable efficacy ranking, its safety profile is poor.
None of the 12 classes of drugs appears to have long-term clinically significant benefit.

Original title:
The Efficacy and Safety of Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drugs for Knee and Hip Osteoarthritis-a Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis by Yang W, Sun C, […], Zhuo Q.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33846938/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on glucosamine and chondroitin, vitamin D right here.

Objectives:
Patients with kidney failure often present with reduced cardiovascular functional reserve and exercise tolerance. Previous studies on cardiorespiratory fitness examined with cardiopulmonary-exercise-testing (CPET) in kidney-transplant-recipients (KTR) had variable results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does cardiovascular functional reserve improve after kidney-transplantation?

Study design:
This review article included 8 studies with 461 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found kidney-transplant-recipients had significantly higher oxygen consumption at peak/max exercise (VO2 peak/VO2 max) compared to patients with kidney failure [SMD = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.31 to 1.10, I2 = 70%, p = 0.002]. 

The investigators found, in subgroup analyses, similar differences were evident among 7 studies comparing kidney-transplant-recipients and hemodialysis patients [SMD = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.16 to 1.12, I2 = 65%, p = 0.009] and 2 studies comparing kidney-transplant-recipients with peritoneal dialysis subjects [SMD = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.19 to 2.09, I2 = 50%, p = 0.16]. 

The investigators found across 4 studies with relevant data, oxygen consumption during peak/max exercise showed significant improvement after kidney-transplantation compared to pre-transplantation values [WMD = 2.43, 95% CI = 0.01 to 4.85, I2 = 68%, p = 0.02].

The investigators concluded kidney-transplant-recipients exhibit higher cardiovascular functional reserve during cardiopulmonary-exercise-testing compared to patients with kidney failure. Cardiovascular reserve is also improved after kidney-transplantation in relation to pre-surgery levels.

Original title:
Cardiorespiratory fitness in kidney transplant recipients compared to patients with kidney failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Theodorakopoulou MP, Boutou AK, […], Sarafidis P.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34170572/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and kidney disease.

Cardiac reserve or cardiovascular reserve refers to the difference between the rate at which the heart pumps blood and its maximum capacity for pumping blood at any given time. A measurement of the cardiovascular reserve may be a health indicator for some medical conditions, like patients with kidney failure.

Objectives:
Does supplementation of thiamine (vitamin B1) combined vitamin C reduce mortality in patients with sepsis or septic shock?

Study design:
This review article included 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a total of 868 patients.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found there was no statistical difference between the thiamine combined vitamin C intervention group and the control group for in-hospital mortality [OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.79 to 1.56, p = 0.55].
No statistical because OR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.79 to 1.56. OR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found significant improvements of sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score during the first 72 h after enrollment and duration of vasopressor use for the thiamine combined vitamin C intervention group.
However, no other significant associations were found.

The investigators concluded despite widespread enthusiasm for thiamine (vitamin B1) combined with vitamin C for sepsis and septic shock, this meta-analysis only shows an association with reduced sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score and time of vasopressor use. There is no association with in-hospital mortality in patients with sepsis or septic shock.

Original title:
Thiamine combined with vitamin C in sepsis or septic shock: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Ge Z, Huang J, [...], Li Y.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33709993/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant, vitamin B1 and vitamin C.

Vasopressors are a group of medicines that contract (tighten) blood vessels and raise blood pressure.
 

Objectives:
The literature showed that grape products containing polyphenols (GPCP) had anti-oxidant activity. However, the effects of GPCP on different biomarkers of oxidative stress are still controversial. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does supplementation of grape products containing polyphenols improve status of oxidative stress (like TAC, ORAC and SOD)?

Study design:
This review article included 17 eligible RCTs with a total of 633 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found supplementation of grape products containing polyphenols significantly increase total antioxidant capacity (TAC) [WMD = 1.524 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.83 to 2.21].

The investigators found supplementation of grape products containing polyphenols significantly enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) [WMD = 0.450 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.23 to 0.66], total antioxidant capacity (TAC) [WMD = 2.829 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.13 to 5.52] and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) [WMD = 0.524 μmol/L, 95% CI = 0.42 to 0.62] among healthy participants. 

The investigators found in subgroup analyses, that higher grape products containing polyphenols doses significantly increased SOD [WMD = 0.539 U/mgHb, 95% CI = 0.24 to 0.82] and ORAC [WMD = 0.377 μmol/L, 95% CI = 0.08 to 0.67], whereas longer intervention periods significantly enhanced ORAC [WMD = 0.543 μmol/L, 95% CI = 0.43 to 0.64].

The investigators concluded that supplementation of grape products containing polyphenols partly improves status of oxidative stress, but further well-designed trials are required to confirm these results.

Original title:
The effect of grape products containing polyphenols on oxidative stress: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials by Sarkhosh-Khorasani S, Sangsefidi ZS, […], Hosseinzadeh M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7971097/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant, grape and oxidative stress.

Polyphenols are divived into 2 general classes, one is flavonoids and other is phenolic acids. Flavonoids are divided into flavones, flavononse, flavonols, flavanols, isoflavones, while phenolic acids are generally classified into hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids.

Objectives:
Does vitamin B supplementation have positive effects on patients with mouth ulcers?

Study design:
This review article included 16 RCTs with 1,534 patients (767 in the treatment group and 767 in the control group).
Patients who did not receive treatment were taken as controls, while those who were treated with vitamin B alone or vitamin B combined with pantothenic acid were included in the treatment group.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, in comparison with the control group, the effective rate was higher [OR = 5.24, 95% CI = 3.72 to 7.37, p 0.001] while the recurrence rate was lower [OR = 0.194, 95% CI = 0.128 to 0.295, p 0.001] in the treatment group.
Sensitivity analysis revealed that the results did not change significantly after pooling, suggesting that the result was stable and less likely to be affected by heterogeneit

The investigators found, additionally, both the ulcer healing time [SMD = -2.15, 95% CI = -2.80 to -1.50, p 0.001] and treatment time [SMD = -2.31, 95% CI = -2.67 to -1.96, p 0.001] in the treatment group were shorter than those of the control group.  
Additionally, the low sensitivity was also supported by the above results and indicated the robustness of the above results.

The investigators concluded that vitamin B supplementation (both vitamin B alone or vitamin B combined with pantothenic acid) enables a higher effective rate and lower recurrence rate, accelerates ulcer healing and shortens the course of treatment. Collectively, vitamin B has a high clinical value in treating patients with mouth ulcers.

Original title:
Clinical efficacy of vitamin B in the treatment of mouth ulcer: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Shi J, Wang L, [...], Zhi D.

Link:
https://apm.amegroups.com/article/view/72221/html

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and vitamin B.

Objectives:
L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that is thought to be helpful for treating renal anemia in hemodialysis patients. However, the mechanism remains to be fully elucidated. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does L-carnitine supplementation/therapy have positive effects on renal anemia in hemodialysis patients?

Study design:
This review article included 18 RCTs with 1,090 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found L-carnitine supplementation significantly increased plasma free L-carnitine levels [MD = 140.53, 95% CI = 102.22 to 178.85, p 0.00001]. 

The investigators found L-carnitine supplementation significantly decreased the erythropoietin responsiveness index (ERI) [MD = -2.72, 95% CI = -3.20 to -2.24, p 0.00001] and the required erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) doses [MD = -1.70, 95% CI = -2.04 to -1.36, p 0.00001].

The investigators found, however, the use of L-carnitine was not associated with a higher hemoglobin level [MD = 0.18, 95% CI = -0.20 to 0.55, p = 0.35] and hematocrit level [MD = 1.07, 95% CI = -0.73 to 2.87, p = 0.24].

The investigators found, in subgroup analyses, the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on renal anemia in patients on hemodialysis were independent of the treatment duration and intervention routes. 

The investigators concluded that L-carnitine supplementation/therapy increases plasma L-carnitine concentrations, improves the response to erythropoiesis-stimulating agent, decreases the required erythropoiesis-stimulating agent doses in patients receiving hemodialysis and maintains hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. L-carnitine supplementation should be supported in hemodialysis patients. However, the relationship between L-carnitine treatment and long-term outcomes is still unclear. Further high-quality RCTs are needed to verify these findings.

Original title:
Effect of L-carnitine supplementation on renal anemia in patients on hemodialysis: a meta-analysis by Zhu Y, Xue C, […], Deng J.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33713287/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies on review article/significant, L-carnitine and chronic kidney disease.

Erythropoietin responsiveness index (ERI) is defined as average weekly erythropoietin (EPO) dose per kg body weight (wt) per average hemoglobin (Hgb), over a 3-month period (ERI = (EPO/wt)/Hgb).

Epoetin alfa and darbepoetin alfa are erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), approved for the treatment of anemia (low red blood cells) resulting from chronic kidney disease.
 

Objectives:
Does chromium supplementation improve lipid profile (serum levels of triglyceride and cholesterol) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)?

Study design:
This review article included  24 RCTs (with 28 effect sizes).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that chromium supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in serum levels of triglyceride (TG) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [MD = -6.54 mg/dL, 95 % CI = -13.08 to -0.00, p = 0.050].
Significant means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found that chromium supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in serum levels of total cholesterol (TC) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [WMD = -7.77 mg/dL, 95 % CI = -11.35 to -4.18, p 0.001].

The investigators found that chromium supplementation significantly increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL cholesterol or good cholesterol) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [WMD = 2.23 mg/dL, 95 % CI = 0.07 to 4.40, p = 0.043] level.

The investigators found, however, chromium supplementation did not have significant effects on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol or bad cholesterol) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [WMD = -8.54 mg/dL, 95 % CI = -19.58 to 2.49, p = 0.129] level.

The investigators concluded that chromium supplementation decreases serum levels of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) and increases HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It should be noted that the lipid-lowering properties of chromium supplementation are small and may not reach clinical importance.

Original title:
Effects of chromium supplementation on lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Asbaghi O, Naeini F, […], Naeini AA.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33813266/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on chromium, cholesterol and diabetes right here.

Objectives:
Does coenzyme Q10 supplementation improve oxidative stress variables?

Study design:
This review article included 17 RCTs with 972 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the pooled analysis of primary studies showed that coenzyme Q10 supplementation increased serum total antioxidant capacity [SMD = 0.62 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.18 to 1.05, I2 = 76.1%, p ˂ 0.001] and superoxide dismutase [SMD = 0.40 U/mg, 95% CI = 0.12 to 0.67, I2 = 9.6%, p ˂ 0.345] levels and decreased malondialdehyde [SMD = -1.02 mmol/L, 95% CI = -1.60 to -0.44, I2 = 88.2%, p ˂ 0.001] level significantly compared to the placebo group.

The investigators found, however, the effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on nitric oxide [SMD = 1.01 µmol/L, 95% CI = -1.53 to 3.54, I2 = 97.8%, p ˂ 0.001] and glutathione peroxidase [SMD -0.01 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.86 to 0.84, I2 = 88.6%, p ˂ 0.001] was not significant.

The investigators concluded that coenzyme Q10 supplementation improves antioxidant defense status against reactive oxygen species.

Original title:
Diabetes, Age, and Duration of Supplementation Subgroup Analysis for the Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Hajiluian G, Heshmati J, […], Shidfar F.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33866314/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and coenzyme Q10.

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the reactive oxygen species and antioxidant system.
Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide and glutathione peroxidase are biomarkers of oxidative stress.

Objectives:
Does L-arginine supplementation improve biomarkers (fasting blood sugar, insulin, HbA1c and HOMA-IR values) of glycemic control in adults?

Study design:
This review article included 12 randomised clinical trials (RCTs).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found L-arginine supplementation had no significant effect on serum fasting blood sugar (FBS) [weighted mean difference (WMD) = -3.38 mg/dL, 95% CI = -6.79 to 0.04, p = 0.53], serum insulin [WMD = -0.12 Hedges' g, 95% CI = -0.33 to 0.09, p = 0.27], glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) [WMD = -0.04%, 95% CI = -0.25 to 0.17, p = 0.71] and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [WMD = -0.48, 95% CI = -1.15 to 0.19, p = 0.15].
No significant because the calculated p-value of 0.15 was larger than the p-value of 0.05.

The investigators concluded although several animal studies have proposed that L-arginine supplementation might improve blood glucose control, the present review article could not confirm this benefit in humans.

Original title:
Effects of L-arginine supplementation on biomarkers of glycemic control: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials by Karimi E, Hatami E, […], Askari G.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33426939/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on L-arginine and diabetes right here.

Arginine is classified as a semiessential or conditionally essential amino acid, depending on the developmental stage and health status of the individual, that helps the body build protein. L-arginine is also found in most protein-rich foods, including fish, red meat, poultry, soy, whole grains, beans and dairy products.
 

Objectives:
Does garlic supplementation reduce adiponectin and leptin serum levels?

Study design:
This review article included 5 RCTs.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that garlic supplementation did not significantly affect adiponectin [Hedges's = 0.20, 95% CI = -0.06 to 0.47, p = 0.12] and leptin [Hedges's = 0.08, 95% CI = -0.26 to 0.41, p = 0.65] concentrations in comparison with placebo.

The investigators found, however, in the subgroup analysis, significantly increased serum adiponectin level was seen following garlic supplementation in trials with a mean age of participants ˂30 years [Hedges's = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.87, p = 0.04], the doses ˂1.5 g/day [Hedges's = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.71, p = 0.04] and trials with duration ≥8 weeks [Hedges's = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.08 to 0.89, p = 0.02].

The investigators concluded that ˂1.5 g/day garlic supplementation during ≥8 weeks reduces adiponectin level among participants ˂30 years.

Original title:
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials on the effects of garlic supplementation on serum adiponectin and leptin levels by Shekarchizadeh-Esfahani P, Hassani B, […], Soraya N.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33792129/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and garlic.

Adiponectin is a fat-derived hormone that appears to play a crucial role in protecting against insulin resistance/diabetes and atherosclerosis (atherosclerosis is the dominant cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD)). Decreased adiponectin levels are thought to play a central role in the development of obesity, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in humans.

Objectives:
Previous meta-analyses, with some methodological controversies, have assessed the relation between nut consumption and type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk and pointed to contradictory results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does nut consumption reduce risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 5 prospective cohort studies and 3 cross-sectional studies.
The certainty of the evidence using NutriGrade was very low for all the exposures.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analyses of cross-sectional studies and prospective cohort studies, comparing the highest with the lowest categories, revealed a nonsignificant association between total nut consumption and type 2 diabetes.
Nonsignificant means that there is no association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found meta-analyses of prospective cohort studies showed that peanut butter consumption significantly reduced type 2 diabetes incidence with 13% [RR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.98, I2 = 50.6%, p = 0.16], whereas no association was observed between peanuts or tree nuts and type 2 diabetes.

The investigators found there was no evidence of a linear dose-response or nonlinear dose-response gradient for total nut and peanut consumption in prospective cohort studies.

The investigators concluded peanut butter consumption may reduce type 2 diabetes incidence. May reduce because the certainty of the evidence using NutriGrade was very low.

Original title:
Nut consumption and type 2 diabetes risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies by Becerra-Tomás N, Paz-Graniel I, […], Salas-Salvadó J.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33471083/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on nut consumption and diabetes right here.
 

Objectives:
Migraine is a common disease worldwide and migraine prevention is primarily currently based on pharmaceuticals. The mechanism of vitamin B2 may positively contribute to migraine. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does vitamin B2 supplementation decrease migraine?

Study design:
This review article included 8 randomized controlled trials and 1 controlled clinical trial with 673 subjects.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found 400 mg/day vitamin B2 supplementation for 3 months significantly decreased migraine days [p = 0.005, I2 = 89%], duration [p = 0.003, I2 = 0], frequency [p = 0.001, I2 = 65%] and pain score [p = 0.015, I2 = 84%].

The investigators concluded that 400 mg/day vitamin B2 supplementation for 3 months has significant effect on days, duration, frequency and pain score of migraine attacks.

Original title:
Effect of Vitamin B2 supplementation on migraine prophylaxis: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Chen YS, Lee HF, […], Hu FW.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33779525/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and vitamin B2.

Objectives:
What are the blood concentrations of zinc, iron, manganese, magnesium, selenium and copper of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Study design:
This review article included 32 studies with 1,567 MS patients and 1,328 controls (people without MS).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found pooled results using random-effects model indicated that the levels of zinc [WMD = -7.83 mcg/dL, 95% CI = -12.78 to -2.87, z = 3.09, p = 0.002] and iron [WMD = -13.66 mcg/dL, 95% CI = -23.13 to -4.19, z = 2.83, p = 0.005] were significantly lower in MS patients than in controls.

The investigators found, however, the levels of manganese [WMD = 0.03 mcg/dL, 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.04, z = 2.89, p = 0.004] were significantly higher in MS patients.

The investigators found no significant differences in the levels of magnesium, selenium and copper between both groups.

The investigators concluded that the circulating levels of zinc and iron are significantly lower in MS patients and that manganese level is significantly higher than those in the control group (people without MS).

Original title:
Blood Trace Element Status in Multiple Sclerosis: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis by Nirooei E, Kashani SMA, […], Akbari H.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33611740/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant, zinc, iron and manganese.

Objectives:
Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is common in patients with diseases that are in turn associated with deficiency of the B-vitamins, and vitamin treatment has shown mixed results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a low vitamin B level increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy?

Study design:
This review article included 46 observational studies and 7 interventional studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the presence of peripheral neuropathy was significantly associated with lowered B12 levels [1.51, 95% CI = 1.23 to 1.84, n = 34, I2 = 43.3%, p = 0.003].

The investigators found the presence of peripheral neuropathy was significantly associated with elevated methylmalonic acid levels [2.53, 95% CI = 1.39 to 4.60, n = 9, I2 = 63.8%, p = 0.005].

The investigators found the presence of peripheral neuropathy was significantly associated with elevated homocysteine levels [3.48, 95% CI = 2.01 to 6.04, n = 15, I2 = 70.6%, p 0.001].

The investigators found treatment with vitamin B1 was associated with a significant improvement in symptoms of peripheral neuropathy [5.34, 95% CI = 1.87 to 15.19, n = 3, I2 = 64.6%, p = 0.059].

The investigators found B12 treatment (vs. the comparators) showed a non-significant association with symptom improvement [1.36, 95% CI = 0.66 to 2.79, n = 4, I2 = 28.9%].

The investigators found analysis of 7 trials combined showed a non-significant higher odds ratio for improvement under treatment with the B-vitamins [2.58, 95% CI = 0.98 to 6.79, I2 = 80.0%, p 0.001].

The investigators concluded peripheral neuropathy is associated with lowered plasma vitamin B12 and elevated methylmalonic acid and homocysteine levels. Well-designed studies, especially in non-diabetes peripheral neuropathy, are needed.

Original title:
Association between neuropathy and B-vitamins: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Stein J, Geisel J and Obeid R.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33619867/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant, vitamin B1 y B12 and chronic diseases.

Peripheral neuropathy refers to the conditions that result when nerves that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord from and to the rest of the body are damaged or diseased.

Increased methylmalonic acid levels are a sensitive indicator of mild vitamin B12 deficiency.
 

Objectives:
Resistant starch type 2 (RS2) has been documented to regulate gut microbiota and to improve the clinical outcomes of several diseases. However, whether RS2 may benefit patients with end-stage renal disease under maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) remains unknown. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do patients with end-stage renal disease under maintenance hemodialysis benefit from resistant starch type 2 supplementation?

Study design:
This review article included 5 RCTs with 179 patients under maintenance hemodialysis.

Resistant starch type 2 was used for 4 weeks to 2 months.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found a significant decrease of blood urea nitrogen [WMD = -6.91, 95% CI = -11.87 to -1.95, I2 = 0%, p = 0.006], serum creatinine [WMD = -1.11, 95% CI = -2.18 to -0.05, I2 = 44%, p = 0.04] and interleukin (IL)-6 in blood [SMD = -1.08, 95% CI = -1.64 to -0.53, I2 = 35%, p = 0.0001] was revealed in the resistant starch type 2 group.

The investigators found analyses of blood levels of uric acid, p-cresyl sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, high sensitive C-reaction protein, albumin and phosphorus yielded no significant difference.

The investigators concluded that resistant starch type 2 improves the residual renal function of patients under maintenance hemodialysis and mitigate a proinflammatory response. Nevertheless, results should be cautiously interpreted, because of the limited sample size and different treatment dosages. Large and pragmatic multicenter trials are thus necessary to corroborate the beneficial effects of resistant starch type 2 supplementation on end-stage renal disease.

Original title:
Benefits of resistant starch type 2 for patients with end-stage renal disease under maintenance hemodialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Jia L, Dong X, […], Zhang HL.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7797550/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about review article/significant and renal disease.

Resistant starch (RS) is starch, including its degradation products, that escapes from digestion in the small intestine of healthy individuals, but rather turned into short-chain fatty acids (such as acetate, butyrate and propionate) by intestinal bacteria in the colon (large intestine). Short chain fatty acids can be absorbed into the body from the colon or stay put and be used by colonic bacteria for energy.

Different types of resistant starch are RS1, RS2 and RS3. 

Resistant starch is present in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans/legumes.

Resistant starch type 2 (resistant granules) is intrinsically resistant to digestion and contains high amounts of amylose. Resistant starch type 2 is found in fruits, potatoes, hi-maize RS products, corn and some legumes.

The more “raw” or “uncooked” a food is, the more resistant starch it tends to have, since heat results in gelatinization of starch - making it more accessible to digestion. Type 3 starch is the exception to this rule.

All starches are composed of 2 types of polysaccharides: amylose and amylopectin.

Amylopectin is highly branched, leaving more surface area available for digestion in the small intestine. Amylopectin is broken down quickly, which means it produces a larger rise in blood sugar (glucose) and subsequently, a large rise in insulin.

Amylose is a straight chain, which limits the amount of surface area exposed for digestion. Amylose predominates in resistant starch. Foods high in amylose are digested more slowly. They’re less likely to spike blood glucose or insulin.

Since resistant starch is incompletely digested, we only extract about 2 calories of energy per gram (versus about 4 calories per gram from other starches).