Nigella sativa in controlling Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular, and rheumatoid arthritis diseases: Molecular aspects

Phytomedical compounds as promising therapeutic agents for COVID-19 targeting angiotensin-converting enzyme 2: a review

AIMS

The aim of the present review was to highlight natural product investigations in silico and in vitro to find plants and chemicals that inhibit or stimulate angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2).

BACKGROUND

The global reduction of incidents and fatalities attributable to infections with SARS-CoV-2 is one of the most public health problems. In the absence of specific therapy for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), phytocompounds generated from plant extracts may be a promising strategy worth further investigation, motivating researchers to evaluate the safety and anti-SARS-CoV-2 effectiveness of these ingredients.

OBJECTIVE

To review phytochemicals in silico for anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity and to assess their safety and effectiveness in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

The present review was conducted using various scientific databases and studies on anti-SARS-CoV-2 phytochemicals were analyzed and summarized. The results obtained from the in silico screening were subjected to extraction, isolation, and purification. The in vitro studies on anti-SarcoV-2 were also included in this review. In addition, the results of this research were interpreted, analyzed, and documented on the basis of the bibliographic information obtained.

RESULTS

This review discusses recent research on using natural remedies to cure or prevent COVID-19 infection. The literature analysis shows that the various herbal preparations (extracts) and purified compounds can block the replication or entrance of the virus directly to carry out their anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects. It is interesting to note that certain items can prevent SARS-CoV-2 from infecting human cells by blocking the ACE-2 receptor or the serine protease TMPRRS2. Moreover, natural substances have been demonstrated to block proteins involved in the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle, such as papain- or chymotrypsin-like proteases.

CONCLUSION

The natural products may have the potential for use singly or in combination as alternative drugs to treat/prevent COVID-19 infection, including blocking or stimulating ACE-2. In addition, their structures may provide indications for the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.

Network pharmacology and multitarget analysis of Nigella sativa in the management of diabetes and obesity: a computational study

Obesity and diabetes are commonly associated with one another and represent a significant global health issue, with a recent surge in disease incidence. Nigella sativa, also known as black cumin, is believed to possess several health benefits, including anti-diabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-obesity properties. In this study, we aimed to identify the active compounds derived from N. sativa, which can potentially inhibit key protein targets and signaling pathways associated with diabesity treatment. We employed an exhaustive in silico search, which led to the identification of 22 potential compounds. Out of these, only five hits were found to be non-toxic, including Arabic and ascorbic acids, dihydrocodeine, catechin, and kaempferol. Our analysis revealed that these hits were associated with genes such as AKT1, IL6, SRC, and EGFR. Finally, we conducted molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, which identified kaempferol as the best binder for AKT1 in comparison to the reference molecule. Overall, our in silico integrated pipeline provides a useful approach to identify non-toxic phytocompounds as promising drug candidates to treat diabetes and obesity.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

The effect of conjugated linoleic acids on inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition and physical performance: a comprehensive review of putative molecular mechanisms

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) are polyunsaturated fatty acids primarily found in dairy products and ruminant animal products such as beef, lamb, and butter. Supplementation of CLAs has recently become popular among athletes due to the variety of health-promoting effects, including improvements in physical performance. Preclinical and some clinical studies have shown that CLAs can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and favorably modulate body composition and physical performance; however, the results of previously published clinical trials are mixed. Here, we performed a comprehensive review of previously published clinical trials that assessed the role of CLAs in modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, body composition, and select indices of physical performance, emphasizing the molecular mechanisms governing these changes. The findings of our review demonstrate that the effect of supplementation with CLAs on inflammation and oxidative stress is controversial, but this supplement can decrease body fat mass and increase physical performance. Future well-designed randomized clinical trials are warranted to determine the effectiveness of (1) specific doses of CLAs; (2) different dosing durations of CLAs; (3) various CLA isomers, and the exact molecular mechanisms by which CLAs positively influence oxidative stress, inflammation, body composition, and physical performance.

Efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure on NT-pro-BNP in obstructive sleep apnea patients: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) and BNP are well-known markers for the diagnosis and prognostic of heart failure. Until now, it was not clear whether BNP levels are influenced by events occurring within Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

METHODS

A thorough search in PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases up to October 24, 2022, and a meta-analysis aimed to explore further accurate estimates of the effects of BNP on OSAHS after CPAP treatment to assess the strength of the evidence.

RESULTS

The forest plot outcome indicated that CPAP therapy did not change the BNP level in patients with OSAHS, with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of -0.47 (95% CI: -1.67 to 2.62; P = 0.53] based on the random effect model because of high significant heterogeneity (I² = 80%) among the studies. Subgroup analysis also explored the changes in BNP levels in patients with OSAHS. Begg's test (P = 0.835) and Egger's test (P = 0.245) suggested significant negative publication bias.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis suggests that CPAP therapy does not change the BNP level in patients with OSAHS; therefore, it is not accurate to use BNP level as an index to evaluate heart function in patients with OSAHS, but more related research should be conducted.

Multidisciplinary nutritional management improves nutritional and hospitalized outcomes of patients with esophageal cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy: A randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the effects of multidisciplinary whole-course nutrition management on the nutritional status and complications during the course of treatment in patients with esophageal cancer (EC) undergoing chemoradiotherapy.

METHODS

A total of 36 EC patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy were divided into a control group (n = 18) and an intervention group (n = 18). Participants in the control group were given routine nutritional support, whereas those in the intervention group were provided whole-course nutrition management from the nutrition support team. Nutrition-related indicators, that is, serum albumin level (ALB), hemoglobin (Hb), and C reactive protein were assessed before, during, and after treatment in both groups. The incidence of complications (e.g., lymphocytopenia, radiation esophagitis, and myelosuppression), clinical outcomes, length of hospital stay, and hospital costs were also recorded. Differences between the 2 groups were tested using the Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

The ALB and Hb levels of the patients in the control group decreased significantly [ALB: -2.6 (-5.6, 0), P = .01; Hb: -12.0 (-27.0, -2.0), P = .04] and C reactive protein increased [8.9 (2.9, 14.9), P = .02] compared to those before treatment, while the indicators of participants in the intervention group did not change (P > .05). The incidence of grade ≥ II lymphocytopenia was higher in the control group than that in the intervention group (33.3% vs 61.1%, P = .03). Moreover, compared with the control group, the average length of hospital stay decreased by 12 days [47 (40, 50) vs 35 (23, 40), P = .001], and in-patient expenses decreased by 20,504 CNY in the intervention group (P = .004).

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary whole-course nutrition management can maintain the nutritional status of patients with EC undergoing chemoradiotherapy. This may lower the incidence of complications, shorten hospital stays, and reduce in-patient expenses.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of almond effect on C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 in adults

BACKGROUND

The previous articles have shown that the almond might reduce the serum concentration of inflammatory mediators. Therefore, the studies reported in this article aimed to assess the almond effect on serum concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in adults.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

To find the related English-language studies, an electronic search was run in databases including Web of Science, PubMed, SCOPUS, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane library with no time limit (up to August 2022). The effect sizes were calculated based on the mean changes for both intervention and comparison groups. DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was used to determine the summary of overall effects and their heterogeneity. Cochran's Q test and I-squared statistic were used to explore the statistical heterogeneity.

RESULTS

In total, eleven studies were included in this study. The overall estimate indicated that the almond consumption had no significant effect on serum CRP level (weighted mean difference (WMD) = -0.28 mg/l, 95 % confidence interval (CI): - 0.81, 0.25; p = 0.29). Regarding IL-6, almond consumption significantly decreased serum IL-6 level (WMD = -0.1 pg/ml, 95 % CI: -0.15, -0.05; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The overall results support the beneficial effects of almond consumption on serum concentration of IL-6; but even so, our study revealed that the almond consumption non-significantly reduced serum concentration of CRP. We still need more well-designed trials to confirm the beneficial effects of almond.

The effect of DASH diet on glycemic response, meta-inflammation and serum LPS in obese patients with NAFLD: a double-blind controlled randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

As dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) dietary pattern has been shown to be effective in hypertension and obesity, the present study investigated the effects of following DASH diet on glycemic, meta-inflammation, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and liver function in obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

METHODS

In this double-blind controlled randomized clinical trial, 40 obese patients with NAFLD were randomly allocated into either "DASH diet" (n = 20) or calorie-restricted diet as "Control" (n = 20) group for 8 weeks. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, glycemic response, liver enzymes, toll-like reseptor-4 (TLR-4) and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1) and LPS as well as Dixon's DASH diet index were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks.

RESULTS

After 8 weeks, although all obesity indices decreased significantly in both groups, the reduction in all anthropometric measures were significantly greater in DASH vs control group, after adjusting for baseline values and weight change. Fasting glucose level decreased in both group, however, no inter-group significant difference was found at the end of study. Nevertheless, serum levels of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), TLR-4, MCP-1 and LPS as well as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) decreased significantly in DASH group, after adjusting for baseline values and weight change (p < 0.001, p = 0.004, p = 0.027, p = 0.011, and p = 0.008, respectively). The estimated number needed to treats (NNTs) for one and two grade reductions in NAFLD severity following DASH diet were 2.5 and 6.67, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to DASH diet could significantly improve weight, glycemia, inflammation and liver function in obese patients with NAFLD.

Contribution of macro- and micronutrients intake to gastrointestinal cancer mortality in the ONCONUT cohort: Classical vs. modern approaches

The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of macro- and micronutrients intake to mortality in patients with gastrointestinal cancer, comparing the classical statistical approaches with a new generation algorithm. In 1992, the ONCONUT project was started with the aim of evaluating the relationship between diet and cancer development in a Southern Italian elderly population. Patients who died of specific death causes (ICD-10 from 150.0 to 159.9) were included in the study (n = 3,505) and survival analysis was applied. This cohort was used to test the performance of different techniques, namely Cox proportional-hazards model, random survival forest (RSF), Survival Support Vector Machine (SSVM), and C-index, applied to quantify the performance. Lastly, the new prediction mode, denominated Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP), was adopted. RSF had the best performance (0.7653711 and 0.7725246, for macro- and micronutrients, respectively), while SSVM had the worst C-index (0.5667753 and 0.545222). SHAP was helpful to understand the role of single patient features on mortality. Using SHAP together with RSF and classical CPH was most helpful, and shows promise for future clinical applications.

The effects of L-carnitine supplementation on glycemic markers in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis

Background and aims

Hyperglycemia and insulin resistance are concerns today worldwide. Recently, L-carnitine supplementation has been suggested as an effective adjunctive therapy in glycemic control. Therefore, it seems important to investigate its effect on glycemic markers.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane databases were searched in October 2022 for prospective studies on the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on glycemic markers. Inclusion criteria included adult participants and taking oral L-carnitine supplements for at least seven days. The pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) was calculated using a random-effects model.

Results

We included the 41 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (n = 2900) with 44 effect sizes in this study. In the pooled analysis; L-carnitine supplementation had a significant effect on fasting blood glucose (FBG) (mg/dl) [WMD = -3.22 mg/dl; 95% CI, -5.21 to -1.23; p = 0.002; I ² = 88.6%, p < 0.001], hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (%) [WMD = -0.27%; 95% CI, -0.47 to -0.07; p = 0.007; I ² = 90.1%, p < 0.001] and homeostasis model assessment-estimate insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [WMD = -0.73; 95% CI, -1.21 to -0.25; p = 0.003; I ² = 98.2%, p < 0.001] in the intervention compared to the control group. L-carnitine supplementation had a reducing effect on baseline FBG ≥100 mg/dl, trial duration ≥12 weeks, intervention dose ≥2 g/day, participants with overweight and obesity (baseline BMI 25-29.9 and >30 kg/m²), and diabetic patients. Also, L-carnitine significantly affected insulin (pmol/l), HOMA-IR (%), and HbA1c (%) in trial duration ≥12 weeks, intervention dose ≥2 g/day, and participants with obesity (baseline BMI >30 kg/m²). It also had a reducing effect on HOMA-IR in diabetic patients, non-diabetic patients, and just diabetic patients for insulin, and HbA1c. There was a significant nonlinear relationship between the duration of intervention and changes in FBG, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR. In addition, there was a significant nonlinear relationship between dose (≥2 g/day) and changes in insulin, as well as a significant linear relationship between the duration (weeks) (coefficients = -16.45, p = 0.004) of intervention and changes in HbA1C.

Conclusions

L-carnitine could reduce the levels of FBG, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42022358692.

Adverse effects of low serum lipoprotein cholesterol on the immune microenvironment in gastric cancer: a case‒control study

BACKGROUND

Cholesterol is crucial for tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) remodeling. Serum lipoprotein cholesterol is closely associated with gastric cancer (GC) progression, but whether it affects TIME remodeling is unknown.

METHODS

GC patients with differential serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were collected. After balancing the baseline, immunohistochemical staining was performed on serial whole-tissue sections to detect B-cell and T-cell subsets, macrophages, and PD-L1. Features of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) and the extra-TLS zone, including TLS distribution and maturation, immune cell density, and PD-L1 expression, were measured by annotating TLSs or regions of interest (ROIs) in the extra-TLS zone.

RESULTS

A total of 9,192 TLSs and over 300 ROIs from 61 patients were measured. Compared to HDL-normal patients, HDL-low patients had a decreased secondary-TLS fraction or density but an elevated NK-cell density in the extra-TLS zone. Compared to LDL-normal patients, LDL-low patients had a higher ratio of PD-1 + T follicular helper cells to CD20 + B cells in TLSs, a higher ratio of PD-1 + T cells to CD8 + T cells and increased PD-1 + T-cell density in the extra-TLS zone. Different correlations were found in groups with differential HDL or LDL levels. Cell dynamics in the immune response were weaker in patients with low lipoprotein cholesterol. TLS parameters reached their peak earlier than those of the extra-TLS zone along with tumor progression.

CONCLUSION

Low serum lipoprotein cholesterol caused adverse effects on antitumor immunity in GC. Lipid management or immunometabolic drugs deserve more attention.

Assessment of the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism and blood lipid profile: reliable or not?

BACKGROUND

The relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and blood lipid metabolism is controversial. This study is intended to evaluate the relationship between SCH and blood lipid profiles using well defined diagnostic criteria.

METHODS

Data from 11,512 physical examinees in our hospital who had finished two tests with an interval of at least 3 months were analyzed, including 685 cases of SCH as stipulated in this study. In addition to common physical examination indicators, other parameters such as thyroid function indices and blood lipids were measured twice with an interval of at least 3 months. Subjects were diagnosed with SCH only when their levels of TT3, TT4, FT3 and FT4 were normal and TSH levels were increased on both tests, which meant these subjects were in a state of SCH for at least 3 months. The results of blood lipids for the second time were analyzed.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences were found in age, sex, BMI, hemoglobin, total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein (HDL-C), and BFP between the SCH and control groups (P < 0.001). However, there were no statistically significant differences in age, sex, blood pressure, blood lipids, blood glucose or BMI between patients with mild SCH and those with severe SCH (P > 0.05). After balancing the age and sex ratio, no factors were confirmed to be statistically significant independent factors of SCH. None of the parameters showed statistically significant differences between patients with mild SCH and those with severe SCH (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

After defining rigorous criteria for the diagnosis of SCH, no definite association between SCH and TC, LDL-C or HDL-C was confirmed in this study. SCH may have no relationship to the most concerning blood lipid profile.

Evaluation the effects of red yeast rice in combination with statin on lipid profile and inflammatory indices; a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia is a prominent cause of cardiovascular disease as it leads to inflammation and plaque deposition within arteries. Treatment includes lifestyle modifications and lipid-lowering medications. We aimed to assess the therapeutic effects of red yeast rice (RYR) alongside statin therapy.

METHODS

This triple-blind randomized clinical trial involved 92 dyslipidemia patients and was performed in 2019. Standard laboratory tests were used to assess the serum LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels. Subsequently, patients randomly received one daily RYR or placebo tablet for 1 month beside routine single statin therapy. Subsequently, blood tests were repeated and compared against the baseline. Liver function tests were also requested.

RESULTS

Total cholesterol significantly (P = 0.019) decreased in the treatment group (- 10.2 mg/dL) compared with the placebo group (- 1.3 mg/dL). HDL cholesterol decreased by 2.19 mg/dL in the treatment group but increased by 0.53 mg/dL in the treatment group (P = 0.083). LDL cholesterol declined in both placebo (- 5.09) and treatment (- 0.73) groups (P = 0.187). TG increased by about 7 mg/dL in the treatment group but fell by roughly 1 mg/dL in the placebo group (P = 0.386). Hs-CRP increased by 0.28 mg/dL in the treatment group but decreased by 0.09 mg/dL in the placebo group (P = 0.336).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that adding RYR (Lesstat®) to statin medications significantly decreases total cholesterol. However, no significant effect was seen on other lipid profile components or Hs-CRP. Finally, we showed that RYR is safe to add to statins considering liver function (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05095480).

Dietary zinc intake and mortality in patients with intestinal-type gastric cancer: A prospective cohort study in Korea

Purpose

Current evidence regarding the association between zinc intake and gastric cancer (GC)-specific survival in patients with intestinal-type GC is lacking. Therefore, this cohort study investigated the association between zinc intake and GC mortality through follow-up on GC death among patients with intestinal-type GC and whether these effects differ according to the source of zinc intake.

Methods

A total of 185 patients with intestinal-type GC were enrolled from two hospitals between 2002 and 2006. Their survival or death was prospectively followed up until December 31, 2016, through a review of medical records and telephone surveys.

Results

A total of 178 patients were included and analyzed. The median follow-up period was 7.3 years. In the fully adjusted models, the highest tertile of total zinc intake showed a significantly lower GC mortality than the lowest tertile (hazard ratio, 0.22; 95% confidence interval: 0.08–0.64). In addition, the tertile of total zinc intake showed a dose-response association with GC mortality (p=0.015). Analysis of the source of zinc intake revealed that when zinc intake from staples (rice and noodles), animal, and plant food sources were combined, the results were similar to those of total zinc intake and GC mortality.

Conclusion

Zinc intake through various foods may be effective in reducing GC mortality by achieving balance with other nutrients. Our results suggest that zinc improves the survival of patients with intestinal-type GC in Korea.

The Effect of Green Coffee Supplementation on Lipid Profile, Glycemic Indices, Inflammatory Biomarkers and Anthropometric Indices in Iranian Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome. Recent studies examine different strategies to modulate its related complications. Chlorogenic acid, as a bioactive component of green coffee (GC), is known to have great health benefits. The present study aimed to determine the effect of GC on lipid profile, glycemic indices, and inflammatory biomarkers. Forty-four PCOS patients were enrolled in this randomized clinical trial of whom 34 have completed the study protocol. The intervention group (n = 17) received 400 mg of GC supplements, while the placebo group (n = 17) received the same amount of starch for six weeks. Then, glycemic indices, lipid profiles, and inflammatory parameters were measured. After the intervention period, no significant difference was shown in fasting blood sugar, insulin level, Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, Interleukin 6 or 10 between supplementation and placebo groups. However, cholesterol and triglyceride serum levels decreased significantly in the intervention group (p < 0.05). This research confirmed that GC supplements might improve some lipid profiles in women with PCOS. However, more detailed studies with larger sample sizes are required to prove the effectiveness of this supplement.

Yoga, Meditation, Breathing Exercises, and Inflammatory Biomarkers with Possible Implications in COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Introduction

COVID-19, a multisystem disease, has implications for various immunity and infection biomarkers. Yoga (Y), meditation (M), and pranayama (P), and their combinations have shown positive changes on those biomarkers among other than COVID-19 patients and healthy people. So, we aimed to document the evidence of possible implication in a systematic way.

Materials and Methods

We screened 84 full texts, published in the last ten years, from three databases, from which only 44 met the eligibility criteria, and then extracted the data related to demographic characteristics, intervention, results, and strengths and limitations in two MS-Excel grids, and then presented them in tables and figures. Furthermore, we carried out meta-analysis including subgroup and sensitivity analysis using a random effects model of 11 RCTs and reported the mean difference, heterogeneity, and p value with 95% CI and presented them with forest and funnel plots and the tables.

Results

Twenty-five biomarkers of 4023 participants (range, 15-413) from 13 countries, healthy and clinical, from both sexes above 18 years, and from mainly clinical settings, were reported. YMP intervention, in solitary or in different possible combinations with varied durations among clinical and pregnant (range, 960-4800 minutes) and healthy (960-8400 minutes, excluding two studies of 20 minutes only) participants, was reported. It was revealed that 25 biomarkers, nine among the apparently healthy, 14 among the patients, and two among the pregnant, changed favourably (p < 0.05). Furthermore, either in meta- or subgroup-analysis, mean differences of IL-6 (-1.44 pg/ml) (95% CI) (-2.33, -0.55), (p = 0.002, I ²  = 82%), Cortisol (-40.75 pg/ml) (95% CI) (-64.13, -17.38), (p = 0.0006, I ²  = 87%), and TNF-α (-3.40 pg/ml) (95% CI) (-4.83, -1.98), (p < 0.0001, I ²  = 79%) showed statistically significant changes. Nonetheless, considerable heterogeneity and publication bias were observed among the studies.

Conclusion

Although more than two dozens of biomarkers in individual studies showed favourable changes, only IL-6, Cortisol, and TNF-α produced significant combined results, even then with much less certainty. Further meta-analysis of biomarkers of COVID-19 patients is highly recommended. Registration: CRD42021283894.

Nigella sativa supplementation improves cardiometabolic indicators in population with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) from the family Ranunculaceae has medicinal properties. Previous studies have reported promising findings showing that N. sativa may benefit cardiometabolic health; however, current evidence on its cardiometabolic effects on those with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is still unclear. Hence, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of N. sativa on cardiometabolic parameters in population with prediabetes and T2DM.

Methods

PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane library were systematically searched up to June 20, 2022. Meta-analyses using random-effects models were used.

Results

Eleven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the meta-analysis. N. sativa intervention resulted in significant changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), c-reactive protein (CRP), and malondialdehyde (MDA), without overall changes in glucose levels after oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and body mass index (BMI) when compared with the control group. In subgroup analyses, N. sativa supplementation enhanced serum levels of HDL-C in subjects with baseline HDL-C lower than 40 mg/dL. Furthermore, HOMA-IR and BMI values decreased in the N. sativa-supplemented group compared with the control group, when the length of follow-up was more than 8 weeks and the dose was more than 1 g/day for N. sativa supplementation, respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that N. sativa supplementation may effectively improve cardiometabolic profiles in individuals with prediabetes and T2DM.

Black Seed (Nigella sativa): A Favourable Alternative Therapy for Inflammatory and Immune System Disorders

In the recent years, various food additives, medicinal plants, and their bioactive components have been utilized in anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory therapy. Nigella sativa is a key dietary supplement and food additive which has a strong traditional background. It is also one of the most broadly studied seeds in the global pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sector. N. sativa seeds are potential sources of natural metabolite such as phenolic compounds and alkaloids. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory abilities of these seeds, most peculiarly with reference to some inflammatory and immune mediators, are reviewed. N. sativa and its bioactive compounds modulate inflammatory and immunomodulatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) cyclooxygenase (COX), lipoxygenase (LOX), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), interleukins, and immunoglobulin levels. This paper comprehensively describes the biomarkers and signaling pathways underlying the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory potential of N. sativa. This review also explains the scientific basis and the pharmacological properties of core bioactive ingredients of N. sativa responsible for these biological activities which indicates that their bioactive components could be possibly regarded as favorable therapy for disorders linked to inflammation and immune-dysregulation.

Pharmacological Profile of Nigella sativa Seeds in Combating COVID-19 through In-Vitro and Molecular Docking Studies

COVID-19 infection is associated with elevated oxidative stress, systemic hyper-inflammatory responses, endothelial dysfunction, and red blood cell membrane deformability. Nigella sativa extract is widely used in alternative and complementary medicine systems in a large population, due to its highly therapeutic, economic, natural, and safe nature. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of N. sativa extract on oxidative stress, hemolysis, proteolysis, and glycation through in vitro studies, as well as to find out its anti-viral potential against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) using in silico studies. N. sativa seed extract (at 600 µg/mL) displayed 67.33% scavenging activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) test, and 70.28% hydrogen peroxide reducing activity. N. sativa exhibited anti-proteolytic activity by decreasing heat-induced denaturation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and egg albumin by 63.14% and 57.95%, respectively, and exhibited anti-proteinase potential of 66.28% at 600 μg/mL. In addition, heat-induced hemolysis and hypersalinity-induced hemolysis were inhibited by 57.86% and 61.7%, respectively, by the N. sativa seeds. N. sativa also inhibited browning intensity by 56.38%, and percent aggregation index by 51.38%, amyloid structure by 48.28%, and AGE-specific fluorescence by 52.18%, thereby protecting the native structure of BSA from glycation. The binding interactions between bioactive molecules of N. sativa seed with SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein were proven by using in silico molecular docking tools. The functional amino acids involved in the interactions are Asp467, Thr108, Thr114, Ile468, Asn234, Gln155, Glu465, Arg466, Gly232, and Ile233, indicating the inhibiting property of N. sativa on SARS-CoV-2. Finally, we may infer that phytoconstituents of N. sativa seeds have the potential to protect against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. Studies on N. sativa seeds might act as a path to develop a potent alternative therapy against viral infections, especially COVID-19 infection, in the future. However, the limitations linked with the use of natural products are also needed to be considered in this regard.

Association between spicy foods consumption and cardiovascular disease risk factors: Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study

Background

Evidence regarding the association of spicy foods intake with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors was less clear, especially in those with diabetes. We hereby examined the association of spicy foods intake with CVD risk factors in older Chinese.

Methods

Thirty thousand three hundred twenty-five participants (72.34% women) aged 50+ years were recruited in the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study from 2003 to 2008. Information of spicy foods intake and disease history was collected by face-to-face interview. CVD risk factors were measured and treated as continuous variables. Diabetes was defined by a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥7.0 mmol/L and/or self-reported physician-diagnosed diabetes.

Results

Of 30,325 participants, 12.9% consumed spicy foods regularly. After adjusting for multiple confounders, participants who consumed spicy foods of 5–7 days/week, versus none, had higher body mass index (1.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.95 to 1.42 kg/m²), waist circumference (2.80, 95% CI 2.18–3.41 cm), waist-to-hip ratio (0.010, 95% CI 0.006 to 0.015), systolic blood pressure (2.44, 95% CI 0.92 to 3.97 mmHg), diastolic blood pressure (1.94, 95% CI 1.14 to 2.73 mmHg), FPG (0.310, 95% CI 0.188 to 0.432 mmol/L), triglycerides (0.185, 95% CI 0.096 to 0.273 mmol/L), and lower high-`density lipoprotein cholesterol (− 0.040, 95% CI − 0.069 to − 0.012 mmol/L). Similar results were found for the associations of spicy foods strength with CVD risk factors. The results attenuated slightly but not substantially across diabetes groups.

Conclusions

Our study showed that higher frequency and strength of spicy foods intake were associated with unfavorable cardiovascular disease risk profile in older people, and such associations did not vary by diabetes status. Whether the results were causal needs to be determined in further studies.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13697-6.

Clinical Efficacy of Curcumin and Vitamin E on Inflammatory-Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Primary Symptoms of Menopause in Healthy Postmenopausal Women: A Triple-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Aims of the Study. Reducing estrogen levels due to menopause activates oxidative and inflammatory processes, which causes symptoms of menopause, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction. As a suggestion, potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents such as curcumin and vitamin E could be used as an effective alternative treatment due to parsimony, suitable access, and fewer side effects. Therefore, the present study was conducted to find out whether supplementation with curcumin and vitamin E affects inflammatory-oxidative stress biomarkers and primary symptoms of menopause in healthy postmenopausal women. Methods Used to Conduct the Study. The present study is a triple-blind parallel randomized controlled trial. Eighty-four eligible postmenopausal women aged 40 to 60 years old were randomly assigned into three groups using block randomization with an allocation ratio of 1 : 1 : 1. The curcumin group received one capsule containing 500 mg curcumin twice a day, the vitamin E group received one 500 mg capsule of vitamin E twice a day, and the placebo group took two placebo capsules containing 500 mg of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) daily for eight weeks. Demographic and anthropometric characteristics, dietary intake, and early symptoms of menopause were collected at baseline. Serum levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured at baseline and after the intervention. Intervention safety and satisfaction with the intervention were also evaluated. Results of the Study. Eighty-one participants completed the trial and were finally analyzed. There were no statistically significant differences in demographic characteristics and dietary intake of participants (except for vitamin C intake, P=0.023) between the groups at baseline. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) score of total menopause symptoms, depression, anxiety, psychological, vasomotor, and physical domains significantly decreased within all groups (P < 0.05). Between-group analyses indicated that decreasing the mean score of anxiety in the vitamin E group was significantly more than in the placebo group (P=0.026). The mean (SD) serum levels of MDA and hs-CRP significantly decreased only in the curcumin group (P=0.009 and P=0.025, respectively). Serum levels of TAC significantly increased in curcumin and vitamin E groups (P < 0.001 and P=0.006, respectively). Conclusions Drawn from the Study and Clinical Implications. Curcumin could improve the oxidative stress (MDA and TAC) and inflammatory (hs-CRP) biomarkers. Vitamin E may also improve the antioxidant status by increasing the TAC levels. The alleviation of anxiety in the vitamin E group was more than in the placebo group. Clinical Trial Registration. The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (https://irct.ir/IRCT20131009014957N6).

The role of Pycnogenol in the control of inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic diseases: Molecular aspects

The prevalence of chronic diseases has increased significantly with the rising trend of sedentary lifestyles, reduced physical activity, and dietary modifications in recent decades. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hepatic conditions. Therefore, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress may be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of various chronic disorders. Since chronic diseases are not completely curable, various methods have been proposed for their control. Complementary therapies and the use of natural antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds are among these novel approaches. Pycnogenol (PYC) is a natural compound that could control inflammation and oxidative stress. Furthermore, some previous studies have shown that PYC could effectively reduce inflammation through signaling the downstream of insulin receptors, inhibiting the phosphorylation of the serine residues of insulin receptor substrate-1, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indices through the stimulation of antioxidant pathways, increasing free radical scavenging activities, preventing lipid peroxidation, and protecting the erythrocytes in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient individuals, although these effects have not been fully proved. The present study aimed to comprehensively review the evidence concerning the positive physiological and pharmacological properties of PYC, with an emphasis on the therapeutic potential of this natural component for enhancing human health.

Identification of Serum Metabolomics Characteristics in Patients with Stable Angina Pectoris Using UHPLC-QE-MS

Background

Stable angina pectoris (SAP) is one of the main types of coronary heart disease (CHD). To improve treatment outcomes, more effective biomarkers are needed. Currently, studies on the metabolic characteristics of SAP are lacking. Here, we explored the serum metabolomic profile of SAP and identified potential biomarkers and related pathways to assist the clinical diagnosis and treatment of SAP.

Method

Thirty patients with SAP patients and 30 healthy controls (CON) without stenosis were selected for this study. All patients underwent coronary angiography. The metabolites of the two groups' serum samples were investigated using UHPLC-QE-MS. Changes in serum metabolic profile were evaluated using multivariate statistical analysis and pathway analysis.

Result

OPLS-DA analysis identified significant differences in the serum metabolic profiles between patients with SAP and CON. Twenty-five differential metabolites were identified between patients from SAP and CON groups, including choline, creatine, L-arginine, beta-guanidinopropionic acid, isopalmitic acid, xanthine, LysoPC (18 : 1), and LysoPC (20 : 3). Pathway analysis found that these differential metabolites were involved in energy metabolism, oxidative stress, purine metabolism, and other metabolic pathways.

Conclusion

By comparing the serum metabolic profiles of SAP patients with a control group, we identified 25 potential biomarkers that could improve the clinical diagnosis and treatment of SAP.

Monitoring population salt intake using casual urinary sodium: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

Background

We aimed to estimate salt intake among an Iranian population using spot urine-based equations and a dietary-based method.

Methods

Adult men and women (n = 2069) were recruited from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2014–2017). Urinary sodium (Na), potassium (K), and creatinine (Cr) concentrations were measured in the morning spot urine samples. The 24-h urinary Na excretion and predicted salt intake was estimated using five equations, i.e., Kawasaki, Tanaka, Intersalt, Toft, and Whitton. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to obtain dietary intake of salt. The agreement of each urinary- and FFQ-based salt estimation with the overall mean of the methods, considered as the gold standard, was assessed using the Bland–Altman method.

Results

Mean age of the participants was 45.6 ± 14.8 y, and 45.4% were men. Mean (SD) estimated salt intake, derived from the overall mean of the methods, was 9.0 ± 2.2 g/d (10.2 ± 2.1 and 7.9 ± 1.7 g/d in men and women, respectively). Mean bias of the estimations from the overall mean ranged from − 0.2.42 to 2.75 g/d, with the Tanaka equation having the least bias (mean bias = 0.13 ± 1.10, 95% CI − 2.37, 2.30 g/d). Tanaka estimated a mean salt intake of 8.9 g/d (range 2.1 to 18.7 g/d); accordingly, only 5.1% of participants adhered to the recommendation (< 5 g/d salt intake), whereas 26.8% and 2.4% exceeded the recommendation by 2- and threefold.

Conclusion

The Tanaka equation could provide a more accurate mean-population estimated salt intake from casual urinary Na concentration in our population. About 95% of the Iranian population exceeded the current recommendations of salt intake.

Effect of physical activity on prevention of postpartum depression: A dose-response meta-analysis of 186,412 women

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) is considered a favorable preventive intervention for postpartum depression (PPD), but evidence defining a corresponding dose-response relationship is lacking. This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the protective effects of PA on PPD and define a potential dose-response relationship between them.

METHODS

PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Web of Science were searched from 1968 to May 2022. Only randomized control trials (RCTs) and prospective studies were considered, and the PICOS tool was used to identify eligible articles based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Effect-size estimates were unified as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). We calculated the ORs and their 95% CI for studies that did not report them using the Practical Meta-Analysis Effect Size Calculator.

RESULTS

A total of 23 studies were eligible, including 14 RCTs and 9 prospective cohort studies. The overall analysis showed a statistically significant positive association between PA and PPD prevention (adjusted OR = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.61-0.87; P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated that studies conducted in Europe demonstrated a significant correlation between PA and reduced PPD risk (adjusted OR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.76-0.95, P = 0.004). Concerning PA type, sports activity was associated with relieving PPD symptoms (adjusted OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.78 to 1.00, P < 0.001), while work (adjusted OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.37-2.97, P = 0.065) and household activities (adjusted OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 0.89-1.52, P = 0.986) contributed to a greater risk of PPD. Our dose-response analysis revealed a reverse J-shaped trend between ascending PA duration and PPD incidence.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis identified PA as a potential intervention to reduce the risk of PPD. The dose-response analysis revealed that at least 90 min of PA per week could efficiently decrease the risk of PPD.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42022335731.

Effects of curcumin supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ulcerative colitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although previous studies have examined the impact of curcumin supplementation on cytokine levels in patients with autoimmune disorders, we were unable to find a systematic review of the effect of curcumin supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers such as CRP and ESR in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or ulcerative colitis; therefore we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Relevant studies published from inception to December 2020 were systematically searched through the PubMed, SCOPUS, and google scholar databases. We conducted our systematic review and meta-analysis according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. The quality of the papers were assessed by using the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool. Included studies were randomized clinical trials on the effects of supplementation with curcumin or its derivative on inflammatory factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using a random-effects model and reported as the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95 % CI.

RESULTS

In all, six studies met the inclusion criteria for this study. Curcumin supplementation in doses of 250-1500 mg/day over 8-12 weeks was observed to be associated with decreases in CRP and ESR in adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis in comparison with the control group (WMD: -0.42; 95 % CI: -0.59, -0.26, I² = 94.3 %; WMD: -55.96; 95 % CI: -93.74, -18.17, I² = 99.7 %, respectively). Significant findings were also observed based on subgroup analyses by the study sample size, duration, participants' age, curcumin dosage, and type of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Curcumin supplementation was associated with significant reductions in levels of CRP and ESR in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Earlier studies reported curcumin as a safe complementary therapy for several diseases. However, a handful of studies were found on the effect of curcumin on autoimmune diseases despite our comprehensive search. Further studies are therefore warranted in this area.