Nutrition
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Little is known about the interactions between hyperhomocysteinemia and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in individuals at risk for atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to assess the burden of atherosclerosis in patients with MetS and hyperhomocysteinemia. ⋯ Patients with MetS and smoking or hyperhomocysteinemia are at particularly high cardiovascular risk. Targeted atherosclerosis prevention should include identification and treatment of MetS, smoking, and hyperhomocysteinemia (including that due to unrecognized metabolic vitamin B12 deficiency).
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Serum zinc negatively reacts to inflammation yet to our knowledge only a few studies have attempted to adjust it for inflammation. The aim of this study, based on the data of Malawi Micronutrient Survey, was to correct zinc concentration for inflammation in preschool children (n = 1081) and women of reproductive age (n = 799) and to evaluate the effects of the adjustment on the prevalence of zinc deficiency (ZD). ⋯ The study observed statistically significant negative correlations between serum zinc concentration and inflammation markers (AGP and CRP). However, correction of serum zinc for inflammation using multiple options including exclusion, internal correction factor, and regression adjustment resulted in very marginal changes in the prevalence of ZD. Although inflammation adjustment may enable more precise estimation of ZD, it only resulted in modest changes in the actual prevalence of ZD in Malawi.
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Phase angle (PhA), by bioelectrical impedance analysis, has been used in patients with several diseases; however, its prognostic value in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) and hepatobiliary-pancreatic (HBP) cancer is unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of PhA on postoperative short- outcomes and long-term survival in these patients. ⋯ PhA is a useful short-term and long-term postoperative prognostic marker for patients with GI and HBP cancers.
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The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been related to reduced overall mortality and improved disease outcome. The aim of this study was to estimate the effects of the MedDiet on hospital length of stay (LOS), financial cost, and mortality (from hospitalization up to 24 mo afterward) in hospitalized patients >65 y of age. ⋯ Adoption of the MedDiet decreases duration of admission and long-term mortality in hospitalized patients >65 y of age, with parallel reduction of relevant financial costs.
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We investigated the nutritional status and clinical outcomes of patients with cancer based on their energy intake after nutritional recommendations. ⋯ Patients with cancer who comply with a moderate energy intake recommendation (50%-79%) within at least 28 d may limit body weight decrease and improve nutritional status and clinical outcomes.