Nutritional advice

Objectives:
Medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs) may affect circulating lipids and lipoproteins differently than long-chain saturated fatty acids (LCSFAs), but the results from human intervention trials have been equivocal. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Have medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs) and long-chain saturated fatty acids (LCSFAs) differential impacts on blood lipids and lipoproteins in humans?

Study design:
This review article included 11 crossover and 1 parallel trial with a total of 299 participants [weighted mean ± SD age: 38 ± 3 y; weighted mean ± SD body mass index (kg/m²): 24 ± 2]

There was no evidence of statistical heterogeneity for HDL cholesterol, apoA-I and triglyceride concentrations. However, significant heterogeneity was observed for the total cholesterol [I2 = 49%] and LDL cholesterol analysis [I2 = 58%].

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found diets enriched with medium-chain saturated fatty acids led to significantly higher HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) concentrations than diets enriched with long-chain saturated fatty acids [MD = 0.11 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.07 to 0.15 mmol/L] with no effect on triglyceride, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and total cholesterol concentrations.

The investigators found consumption of diets rich in medium-chain saturated fatty acids significantly increased apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) concentrations compared with diets rich in long-chain saturated fatty acids [MD = 0.08 g/L, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.14 g/L].  

The investigators concluded diets enriched with medium-chain saturated fatty acids lead to higher HDL cholesterol concentrations and apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) concentrations than diets enriched with long-chain saturated fatty acids. However, further investigations are warranted to elucidate the mechanism by which the lipid profile is altered.

Original title:
Differential effects of medium- and long-chain saturated fatty acids on blood lipid profile: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Panth N, Abbott KA, […], Garg ML.

Link:
https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article-abstract/108/4/675/5100313?redirectedFrom=fulltext

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on cholesterol, fat and cardiovascular disease right here.

Medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs) have approximately 6 to 12 carbon atoms in the chain. Coconut oil, palm kernel oil and coconut milk are by far the foods with the highest amounts of medium-chain saturated fatty acids.

Apolipoprotein AI (apo AI) is the major apoprotein of HDL and its serum concentration also correlates inversely with the risk for coronary heart disease (CHD).

 

Objectives:
Dietary salt reduction in the general population lowers blood pressure and cardiovascular risk. Despite being widely recommended, there is limited evidence as to whether this is applicable to individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving dialysis. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Study design:
This review article included 4 RCTs (91 participants), of which 3 were crossover trials and 1 was a parallel study.
Participants were 18 years and over; a reduction in salt intake of at least 1 g/day over 1 week and no concomitant interventions during the study.
The primary outcome was change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found dietary salt reduction was associated with an 8.4 mmHg [95% CI = 4.8-12.0, Ι2 = 0%] reduction in systolic blood pressure and a 4.4 mmHg [95% CI = 2.2-6.6, Ι2 = 0%] reduction in diastolic blood pressure.

The investigators concluded that a reduction in salt intake of at least 1 g/day over 1 week reduces blood pressure among individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving dialysis.

Original title:
The effect of dietary salt on blood pressure in individuals receiving chronic dialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials by Cole NI, Swift PA, […], Suckling RJ.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30413764

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on lowering blood pressure, salt intake and chronic disease right here.
 

Objectives:
Does Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination increase multiple sclerosis risk?

Study design:
This review article included 7 articles.
Funnel plot showed the presence of publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found no statistically significant association was observed for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination and multiple sclerosis risk [pooled OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.96-1.49 and for pooled adjusted OR = 0.965, 95% CI = 0.886-1.051].

The investigators found meta regression showed that year of publication was negatively [β: -0.019, p 0.001] and NOS score and publishing in Europe are positively associated with OR value.

The investigators concluded Hepatitis B vaccination may not be associated with an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis. May not be associated because there was publication bias.

Original title:
HBV vaccine and risk of developing multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Sestili C, Grazina I and La Torre G.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30260264

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and vaccination right here.

Objectives:
Several B vitamins are essential in the one-carbon metabolism pathway, which is central to DNA methylation, synthesis and repair. Moreover, an imbalance in this pathway has been linked to certain types of cancers. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between dietary vitamin intake and risk of esophageal cancer (EC)?

Study design:
This review article included 24 patient-control studies and 2 cohort studies with a total of 510,954 participants and 6,404 esophageal cancer cases, which included 1,919 esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) patients, 2,010 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients and 2,475 esophageal cancer (EC) patients.

The quality scores of all studies ranged from 6 to 8, with a median score of 7.

There was no significant publication bias in the final analysis with respect to vitamin B2 [p = 0.244], vitamin B6 [p = 0.068], folate [p = 0.054] or vitamin B12 [p = 0.093].

A sensitivity analysis revealed that no individual study affected the pooled effect size.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest level versus the lowest level of dietary folate intake, a significantly reduced risk of 38% [pooled OR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.56-0.68, I2 = 40.2%] for esophageal cancer.
Subgroup analysis revealed that this inverse correlation (reduced risk) was present in the US [OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.51-0.67], Europe [OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.40-0.65] and Australia [OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.58-0.95], but not in Asia [OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.59-1.01].

The investigators found in dose-response analysis that each 100 μg/day increase in dietary folate intake significantly reduced the risk of esophageal cancer by 12% [OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.86-0.91].
Significant means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found for the highest level versus the lowest level of dietary vitamin B6 intake, a significantly reduced risk of 41% [pooled OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.52-0.66, I2 = 46.8%] for esophageal cancer.
This inverse relationship remained significant in subgroup analyses for esophageal adenocarcinoma [OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.49-0.68] and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma [OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.33-0.67].

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, a significantly reduced risk of 18% [OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.76-0.88] for esophageal cancer for 2.0 mg/day of dietary vitamin B6 intake.

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, a significantly reduced risk of 33% [OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.59-0.75] for esophageal cancer for 2.5 mg/day of dietary vitamin B6 intake.

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, a significantly reduced risk of 45% [OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.44-0.67] for esophageal cancer for 3.0 mg/day of dietary vitamin B6 intake.

The investigators found in dose-response analysis that each 1 mg/day increase in dietary B6 increase significantly reduced the risk of esophageal cancer by 16% [OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.80-0.89].

The investigators found for the highest level versus the lowest level of dietary vitamin B12 intake, a significantly increased risk of 30% [pooled OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.05-1.62, I2 = 73.5%] for esophageal cancer.
A subgroup analysis based on geographic location revealed similar results in the US [OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.03-1.53] and Europe [OR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.16-5.53], but not in Australia [OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.73-1.19].
A subgroup analysis based on histological type revealed that this correlation was present among patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma [OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.02-2.11], but not among patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma [OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.63-1.61].

The investigators found in dose-response analysis that each 1 μg/day increase in dietary B12 intake significantly increased the risk of esophageal cancer by 2% [OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.00-1.03].

The investigators concluded that both dietary vitamin B6 intake (at least 1 mg/day) and dietary folate intake (at least 100 μg/day) are inversely correlated with esophageal cancer risk, whereas dietary vitamin B12 intake (at least 1 μg/day) increases esophageal cancer risk.

Original title:
Intake of Dietary One-Carbon Metabolism-Related B Vitamins and the Risk of Esophageal Cancer: A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis by Qiang Y, Li Q, […], Wang F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073467/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on folate, vitamin B6 and B12 and cancer right here.

Objectives:
Modifiable factors that reduce the burden of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), particularly plant-derived biomarkers, have been a recent focus of rising interest. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do dietary carotenoids reduce risk of metabolic syndrome?  

Study design:
This review article included 11 cross-sectional studies.
Publication bias was absent and harvest plots indicated consistency upon replication for β-carotene and total carotenoid exposures.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found dietary total carotenoids intake significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 44% [pooled OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.56-0.78, 1 SD ∼ 0.82 µmol/L, n = 5 studies]. This reduced risk was the strongest for β-carotene, followed by α-carotene and β-crypotoxanthin.

The investigators found no association between retinol (vitamin A from animal products) and risk of metabolic syndrome [pooled OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.88-1.13, 1 SD ∼ 2.14 µmol/L, n = 6 studies].

The investigators concluded that carotenoids, particularly β-carotene, followed by α-carotene and β-crypotoxanthin may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome. May reduce because this review article only included cross-sectional studies and no cohort studies.

Original title:
Carotenoids, vitamin A, and their association with the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Beydoun MA, Chen X, [...], Canas JA.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30202882

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on carotenoids consumption, vitamin A and overweight right here.

Objectives:
Evidence of an adverse influence of soil transmitted helminth (STH) infections on cognitive function and educational loss is equivocal. Prior meta-analyses have focused on randomized controlled trials only and have not sufficiently explored the potential for disparate influence of STH infection by cognitive domain. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Have soil transmitted helminth (STH) infections adverse influence on cognitive function and educational loss in children?

Study design:
This review article included 36 studies of 12,920 children (5-20y) that evaluated STH associated differences in psychometrically evaluated cognitive tests, educational attainment or school attendance. Of these, 5,932 children were evaluated in the context of STH treatment (with or without randomization) and 6,978 were evaluated as part of observational study.

Heterogeneity of the pooled effects in all 6 domains was high [p 0.01, I2 = 66-99%]. Application of outlier treatment reduced heterogeneity in learning domain [p = 0.12, I2 = 33%] and strengthened STH-related associations in all domains but intelligence [SMD = -0.20, p = 0.09].

Results varied by study design and ROB.

Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) include infections with roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) and hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the overall analysis showed that STH-infected/non-treated children performed significantly worse than uninfected/dewormed children in the 3 of the 6 domains including: memory [SMD = -0.31, p = 0.01], learning [SMD = -0.44, p 0.0001] and intelligence [SMD = -0.27, p = 0.03].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis among observational study designs, STH infection/non-treatment was significantly and consistently associated with deficits in memory, learning, reaction time and intelligence [SMD ranging from -0.42 to -0.23, p 0.01-0.05].

However, the investigators found in subgroup analysis among experimental intervention studies, there was no association between STH treatment and educational loss/performance in tests of memory, reaction time and innate intelligence [SMD ranging from = -0.27 to 0.17, p = 0.18-0.69].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis among studies classified as low risk of bias, STH infection/non-treatment was associated with significant deficits in memory, learning and school attendance [SMD ranging from -0.39 to -0.55, p 0.0001-0.03].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis among Schistosoma infection co-prevalent settings, associations were generally stronger and statistically robust for STH-related deficits in learning, memory and reaction time tests [SMD ranging from -0.36 to -0.55, p = 0.003-0.02].

The investigators concluded there is evidence of superior performance in 5 of 6 educational and cognitive domains assessed for STH uninfected/dewormed versus STH infected/not-dewormed school-aged children from helminth endemic regions. Cautious interpretation is warranted due to high ROB in some of the primary literature and high between study variability in most domains. Notwithstanding, this synthesis provides empirical support for a cognitive and educational benefit of deworming. The benefit of deworming will be enhanced by strategically employing, integrated interventions. Thus, multi-pronged inter-sectoral strategies that holistically address the environmental and structural roots of child cognitive impairment and educational loss in the developing world may be needed to fully realize the benefit of mass deworming programs.

Original title:
Soil-transmitted helminth infection, loss of education and cognitive impairment in school-aged children: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Pabalan N, Singian E, […], Ezeamama AE.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5766095/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis and deworming right here.

Objectives:
Low birth weight infant (LBWIs) are prone to mental and behavioural problems. As an important constituent of the brain and retina, long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential for foetal infant mental and visual development. The effect of lactation supplemented with long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) on the improvement of intelligence in low birth weight children requires further validation. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Do long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA or PUFA) supplements improve intelligence in low birth weight children?

Study design:
This review article included 10 studies with a total of 1,793 individuals, of which 908 cases in the intervention group (group with LCPUFA supplements) and 885 controls (group without LCPUFA supplements).

The mean birth weights in 8 studies were less than 1500g and those in 2 studies were more than 1500g. None of the included studies had infants with birth weight less than 750g.

LCPUFA supplements were DHA+AA, DHA+EPA+DPA or DHA+AA+EPA.

There was no evidence of publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher mental development index (MDI) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = 0.07, 95% CI = -0.05 to 0.19, I2 = 23.8%, p = 0.222].
Subgroup analysis showed that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation groups did not have significantly higher mental development index scores than the control groups.

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher psychomotor development index (PDI) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = -0.01, 95% CI = -0.23 to 0.21, I2 = 60.5%, p = 0.906].
Subgroup analysis showed that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation groups did not have significantly higher psychomotor development index scores than the control groups.

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher full scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = 0.00, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.14, I2 = 0.00%, p = 0.991].

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher verbal intelligence quotient (VIQ) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.12, I2 = 42.2%, p = 0.844].

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher performance intelligence quotient (PIQ) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = -0.01, 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.13, I2 = 0.00, p = 0.877].

The investigators concluded that long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA or PUFA) supplements do not improve intelligence in low birth weight children. Therefore, whether long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplements are beneficial for LBWIs has not been shown conclusively.

Original title:
The effect of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on intelligence in low birth weight infant during lactation: A meta-analysis by Song Y, Liu Y, […], Li D.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5892917/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and pregnancy right here.

 

Objectives:
The associations of various dietary or circulating antioxidants with the risk of all-cause mortality in the general population have not been established yet. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do dietary or circulating antioxidants reduced risk of all-cause mortality in the general population?

Study design:
This review article included 41 prospective observational studies with a total of 507,251 participants and 73,965 cases of all-cause mortality.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating total carotenes concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 40% [RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.46 to 0.74] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating vitamin C concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 39% [RR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.53 to 0.69] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating selenium concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 38% [RR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.45 to 0.79] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating β-carotene concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 37% [RR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.57 to 0.70] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating α-carotene concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 32% [RR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.58 to 0.78] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating total carotenoids concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 32% [RR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.56 to 0.80] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating lycopene concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 25% [RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.54 to 0.97] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating α-tocopherol concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 16% [RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.91] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of total carotenoids a significantly reduced risk of 24% [RR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.85] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of total antioxidants a significantly reduced risk of 23% [RR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.81] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of selenium a significantly reduced risk of 21% [RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.85] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of α-carotene a significantly reduced risk of 21% [RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.63 to 0.94] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of β-carotene a significantly reduced risk of 18% [RR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.86] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of vitamin C a significantly reduced risk of 12% [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.83 to 0.94] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of total carotenes a significantly reduced risk of 11% [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.81 to 0.97] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category a nonsignificant inverse association between dietary zinc, zeaxanthin, lutein and vitamin E and all-cause mortality risk.

The investigators found in nonlinear dose-response meta-analyses a linear inverse association in the analyses of dietary β-carotene and total antioxidant capacity, as well as in the analyses of circulating α-carotene, β-carotene, selenium, vitamin C and total carotenoids.

The investigators found the association appeared to be U-shaped in the analyses of serum lycopene and dietary vitamin C.

The investigators concluded that a diet with high antioxidant properties reduces the risk of all-cause mortality. These findings confirm current recommendations that promote higher intake of antioxidant-rich foods such as fruit and vegetables.

Original title:
Dietary Antioxidants, Circulating Antioxidant Concentrations, Total Antioxidant Capacity, and Risk of All-Cause Mortality: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Observational Studies by Jayedi A, Rashidy-Pour A, […], Shab-Bidar S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30239557

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis/cohort studies, nutrients, antioxidants and elderly right here.

Objectives:
Low carbohydrate diets, which restrict carbohydrate in favour of increased protein or fat intake, or both, are a popular weight-loss strategy. However, the long-term effect of carbohydrate restriction on mortality is controversial and could depend on whether dietary carbohydrate is replaced by plant-based or animal-based fat and protein. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between carbohydrate diet and all-cause mortality?

Study design:
This review article included 8 cohort studies with a total of 432,179 participants, of which 40,181 deaths.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in the meta-analysis of 8 cohort studies, low carbohydrate consumption (40 En%) significantly increased all-cause mortality risk with 20% [pooled HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.09-1.32].

The investigators found in the meta-analysis of 8 cohort studies, high carbohydrate consumption (>70 En%) significantly increased all-cause mortality risk with 23% [pooled HR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.11-1.36].

The investigators found, however, results varied by the source of macronutrients: all-cause mortality increased when carbohydrates were exchanged for animal-derived fat or protein [HR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.08-1.29] and all-cause mortality decreased when the substitutions were plant-based [HR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.78-0.87].

The investigators found a U-shaped relationship between carbohydrate intake and all-cause mortality, with minimum risk observed with 50-55% of energy from carbohydrate.

The investigators concluded that both high (>70 En%) and low percentages of carbohydrate diets (40 En%) are associated with increased all-cause mortality, with minimal risk observed at 50-55 En% carbohydrate intake. Low carbohydrate dietary patterns favouring animal-derived protein and fat sources, from sources such as lamb, beef, pork and chicken, are associated with higher all-cause mortality, whereas those that favoured plant-derived protein and fat intake, from sources such as vegetables, nuts, peanut butter and whole-grain breads, are associated with lower all-cause mortality, suggesting that the source of food notably modifies the association between carbohydrate intake and all-cause mortality.

Original title:
Dietary carbohydrate intake and mortality: a prospective cohort study and meta-analysis by Seidelmann SB, Claggett B, […], Solomon SD.

Link:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(18)30135-X/fulltext

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis/cohort studies, carbohydrates and elderly right here.

The most easy way to follow a diet with 50-55 En% carbohydrates is to choose only meals/products with 50-55 En% carbohydrates.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with 50-55 En% carbohydrates is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should contain on average 50-55 En% carbohydrates. Check here which products contain 50-55 En% carbohydrates.
 

Objectives:
High prevalence of anemia attributable to intestinal parasite infection occurs among children in developing countries. As a result mass treatment of all children with anti-helminthic drugs particularly in school setting is being implemented. There are few studies conducted to assess impact of deworming on anemia prevalence among school children with inconclusive finding. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does deworming decrease prevalence of anemia among school children?

Study design:
This review article included 5 cross-sectional studies and 3 RCTs, which enrolled a total of 1,005,239 school children.

Each study enrolled at least 144 school children with in the program and assessed the level of hemoglobin or status of anaemia among dewormed and non-dewormed children. Children were received at least one or more round of deworming 6 months apart and followed for at least a year and the studies were published during the period 1998-2015.  

The funnel plot showed no evidence of publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, the overall change in the hemoglobin level after deworming was 1.6 [95% CI = 1.01-2.25] gram/deciliter. There was no difference between the random effect model and the fixed effect model.

The investigators found the prevalence of anemia was markedly changed after the program, particularly in the studies which implemented deworming with hygiene program, co-administration of iron and retinol (vitamin A).

The investigators concluded school based deworming program decreases prevalence of anemia and will contribute to reduction of iron deficiency anemia in the community. Therefore, the program should be expanded in all areas and integrated with other child care programs.

Original title:
The Effect of Deworming School Children on Anemia Prevalence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Girum T and Wasie A.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6110060/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on iron, vitamin A, food fortification/malnutrition and deworming right here.

Objectives:
The association between coffee consumption and the circulating level of adiponectin and leptin has been evaluated in several epidemiological studies with conflicting results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there an association between coffee consumption and the circulating level of adiponectin and leptin in humans?

Study design:
This review article included 12 cross-sectional studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared the highest versus the lowest coffee intake category, coffee consumption was associated with a higher circulating adiponectin level [SMD = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.06 to 0.17, p 0.001].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis when compared the highest versus the lowest coffee intake category, coffee consumption was associated with a higher circulating adiponectin level in women [SMD = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.20, p = 0.01], but not in men [SMD = 0.03, 95% CI = -0.08 to 0.14, p = 0.59].

The investigators found when compared the highest versus the lowest coffee intake category, coffee consumption was associated with a lower circulating leptin level [SMD = -0.19, 95% CI = -0.28 to -0.10, p 0.001].

The investigators concluded that coffee consumption is associated with a higher circulating level of adiponectin in women and a lower circulating level of leptin. However, more well-designed prospective cohort studies and randomised controlled trials are needed to further elaborate the concerned issues.

Original title:
Associations of coffee consumption with circulating level of adiponectin and leptin. A meta-analysis of observational studies by Zhang Y and Zhang DZ.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29513118

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

Adiponectin is a unique adipokine, which is specifically and abundantly expressed in adipose tissues and improves insulin resistance. Having insulin resistance may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Objectives:
The emergence of vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis has become an ongoing burden of poliomyelitis. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

The objective of this review article is to compare the immunogenicity of sequential inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) and oral poliovirus vaccines (OPV) versus inactivated poliovirus vaccine alone in healthy infants.

Study design:
This review article included 6 articles.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the results showed that seroconversion rates against all 3 serotype polioviruses were non-inferior and geometric mean antibody titers (GMTs) were superior in sequential schedules compared with IPV-only schedule. Thus, the sequential vaccination schedules could induce a stronger immunogenicity.

The investigators concluded to decrease vaccine-associated and vaccine-derived poliomyelitis, it is a reasonable option to select sequential schedules during this special transition from oral poliovirus vaccines to inactivated poliovirus vaccine-only immunization schedule, which coincides with the current WHO recommendations.

Original title:
Immunogenicity of sequential inactivated and oral poliovirus vaccines (OPV) versus inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) alone in healthy infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Tang G, Yin W, […], Jiang X.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29985751

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and vaccination right here.

Objectives:
Many studies were conducted to explore the relationship between dietary protein intake and risk of prostate cancer, obtaining inconsistent results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does dietary protein intake increase risk of prostate cancer?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 8 cohort studies, 5 case-control studies and 1 RCT, comprising 13,483 prostate cancer cases among 286,245 participants.

Begg’s funnel plots and Egger’s test [p = 0.296] indicated that no publication bias was found in overall analysis.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in the overall analysis there was no association with prostate cancer risk when comparing the highest protein intake with the lowest protein intake [summary RR = 0.993, 95% CI = 0.930-1.061, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.656].
The sensitivity analysis showed that there is no single study that had potential effects on the overall result while removing a study at a time.

The investigators found in the stratified analysis by protein type, the association was non-significant on prostate cancer risk in both animal protein intake [RR = 1.001, 95% CI = 0.917-1.092] and vegetable protein intake [RR = 0.986, 95% CI = 0.904-1.076].
Non-significant because RR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.917 to 1.092. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found there was also no significant association in cohort studies [RR = 1.080, 95% CI = 0.964-1.209] and in case-control studies [RR = 0.960, 95% CI = 0.874-1.055].

The investigators found there was no association with prostate cancer localized-stage disease risk when comparing the highest protein intake with the lowest protein intake [summary RR = 1.263, 95% CI = 0.953-1.674].

The investigators found there was no association with prostate cancer advanced-stage disease risk when comparing the highest protein intake with the lowest protein intake [summary RR = 0.973, 95% CI = 0.745-1.272].

The investigators concluded that there is no effect on prostate cancer with high-protein intake. Since some limitations exited in this review article, future studies are wanted to confirm the result.

Original title:
Association between dietary protein intake and prostate cancer risk: evidence from a meta-analysis by Ye M, Yan T and Jing D.

Link:
https://wjso.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12957-018-1452-0

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on protein and cancer right here.

Objectives:
Is there a relationship between different types of potato consumption and risk of all-cause mortality, coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, type 2 diabetes (T2D), colorectal cancer (CRC) and hypertension?

Study design:
This review article included 28 reports.

The quality of evidence was rated mostly low (moderate quality of evidence for the risk-associations of French-fries).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found per one daily/serving (150 g/day) increase of total potato consumption did not associate with:
-all-cause mortality [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.69-1.12];
-coronary heart disease [RR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.96-1.09];
-stroke [RR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.93-1.03] and;
-colorectal cancer [RR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.92-1.20].

The investigators found consumption of one daily/serving (150 g/day) of boiled/baked/mashed-potatoes was also not associated with risk of hypertension [RR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.96-1.21].
No association because RR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.96 to 1.21. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found consumption of one daily/serving (150 g/day) of boiled/baked/mashed-potatoes significantly increased risk of type 2 diabetes with 8% [RR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.01-1.18].
Significantly because RR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 1.01 to 1.18. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found for each 150 g/day increase in French-fries consumption a significantly increased risk of type 2 diabetes with 66% [RR =1.66, 95% CI = 1.43-1.94].

The investigators found for each 150 g/day increase in French-fries consumption a significantly increased risk of hypertension with 37% [RR =1.37, 95% CI = 1.15-1.63].
Significantly means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators concluded that 150 g/day increase in French-fries consumption is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and an increased risk of hypertension.

Original title:
Potatoes and risk of chronic disease: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis by Schwingshackl L, Schwedhelm C, […], Boeing H.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29987352

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer and hypertension right here.
 

Objectives:
There has been accumulating evidence that several micronutrients may play a protective role in the risk of solid cancers. However, their role in hematological malignancies remains to be elucidated. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between vitamin intake and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 12 cohort studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found null associations regarding
-supplemented vitamin A [pooled RR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.80-1.07];
-supplemented vitamin C [pooled RR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.90-1.12];
-total vitamin D [pooled RR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.91-1.20];
-supplemented vitamin E [pooled RR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.88-1.10] and;
-dietary lycopene intake [pooled RR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.86-1.16] and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The investigators found no summary estimates were provided for other hematological malignancies due to the limited number of studies.

The investigators concluded there is no association between vitamin A, C, D, E and lycopene and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Original title:
Micronutrient Intake and Risk of Hematological Malignancies in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Cohort Studies by Psaltopoulou T, Ntanasis-Stathopoulos I, […], Sergentanis TN.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30288994

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on vitamin A, C, D, E and lycopene right here.

Objectives:
Valuating the effect of kangaroo mother care (KMC) on breastfeeding success shows conflicting results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does kangaroo mother care increase breastfeeding?  

Study design:
This review article included 20 RCTs with 1,432 neonates in the kangaroo mother care (KMC) group and 1,410 neonates in the conventional care (CNC) group (control group).

Majority of studies had high risk of bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found breastfeeding success rate was higher in the kangaroo mother care group within different time slots. However, this difference was not statistically significant [RR = 1.11, 95 CI = 0.93-1.34 and RR =1.13, 95% CI = 0.92-1.34 based on the time slot and birth weight, respectively].

The investigators found the between-groups difference in the mean scores of Infant Breast-Feeding Assessment Tool (IBFAT) was statistically significant [p 0.05].

The investigators found breastfeeding was initiated very sooner in the kangaroo mother care group, suggesting a statistically significant between-groups difference [-0.72, 95% CI = -0.92 to -0.53, p 0.05].

The investigators concluded there is a superiority of kangaroo mother care over conventional care in terms of breastfeeding success. Assessing the complications and costs of kangaroo mother care implementation recommended.

Original title:
Effect of Kangaroo Mother Care on successful breastfeeding: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis of randomised controlled trials by Ghojazadeh M, Hajebrahimi S, […], Azami-Aghdash S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30251612

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and breastfeeding right here.

Objectives:
Is there a relationship between step count and changes in blood pressure (BP) in healthy adults?

Study design:
This review article included 14 trials involving healthy adults and an intervention in the form of brisk walking with a pedometer.

Net changes in blood pressure and step count in each trial were calculated and pooled. In addition, the pooled net changes of two categories (trials that achieved walking 10,000 steps a day and those that did not) were compared.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that pooled net changes in blood pressure improved significantly [systolic blood pressure = -3.1 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure = -1.6 mmHg].

The investigators found, however, when the trials were categorized depending on whether they achieved walking 10,000 steps a day, the pooled net change in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure did not differ significantly between both groups of subjects.

The investigators found the meta-regression analyses indicated that net change in systolic blood pressure was significantly associated with an increased step count (e.g., systolic blood pressure is expected to decrease approximately 4 mmHg if increased step count by 2000 steps a day).
However, net change in systolic blood pressure was not associated with the step count in an intervention group following the intervention.

The investigators concluded that there is no evidence that walking 10,000 steps a day lowers the blood pressure to any marked degree in healthy adults. In order to reduce systolic blood pressure by walking with a pedometer, one should be mindful of increasing one's step count to 20,000 steps per day.

Original title:
The required step count for a reduction in blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Igarashi Y, Akazawa N and Maeda S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30127487

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on review article/RCTs, lowering blood pressure, sport nutrition right here.

Objectives:
There were inconsistent results with respect to the correlation between consumption of wine and the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does consumption of wine increase colorectal cancer risk?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 8 case-control studies and 9 cohort studies, involving 12,110 colorectal cancer cases.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that wine drinking was not associated with any greater risk for colorectal cancer [SRR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.89-1.10, p-heterogeneity 0.001] compared with nondrinkers.

The investigators found subgroup analyses (to get more information) indicated that null associations were observed in men and women for colon and rectal cancer.

The investigators found subgroup analyses showed neither light to moderate [2 drinks/day: SRR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.80-1.08, I2 = 69.2%] nor heavy [≥2 drinks/day: SRR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.86-1.16, I2 = 39.9%] consumption of wine was associated statistically with colorectal cancer risk.

The investigators concluded that wine consumption is not associated with the risk of colorectal cancer. Furthermore, null associations are found in men and women for colon and rectal cancer.

Original title:
Wine consumption and colorectal cancer risk: a meta-analysis of observational studies by Xu W, Fan H, [...], Ge Z.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30247171

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on review article/significant/heterogeneity, colorectal cancer and wine consumption right here.

Objectives:
Does dietary carrot intake reduce breast cancer risk?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 10 articles involving 13,747 cases (women with breast cancer).

A significant heterogeneity was observed among studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest dietary carrot intake a significantly reduced risk of 21% for breast cancer [OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.68 to 0.90]. Omission of any single study (=sensitivity analysis) had little effect on the combined risk estimate.

The investigators found in the subgroup analyses separated by study design, the inverse associations were more pronounced in the case-control studies than in the cohort studies, while the associations did not significantly differ by geographical region, study quality, exposure assessment.

The investigators concluded that high intake of dietary carrot reduces breast cancer risk.

Original title:
Association between dietary carrot intake and breast cancer: A meta-analysis by Chen H, Shao F, […], Miao Q.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30212943

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on review article/significant/heterogeneity, breast cancer and carrot consumption right here.

Objectives:
What is the incidence of bacterial meningitis among children aged 1-59 months in South Asia, focusing on vaccine-preventable aetiologies?  

Study design:
This review article included 48 articles cumulatively reporting 20,707 cases of bacterial meningitis from 1987 to 2013.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analyses showed mean annual incidence of bacterial meningitis was 105 [95% CI = 53-173, I2 > 78%, p  0.0001] cases per 100,000 children.

The investigators found on average, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) accounted for 13% [95% CI = 8-19%] of cases, pneumococcus for 10% [95% CI = 6-15%] and meningococcus for 1% [95% CI = 0-2%].
Among studies reporting only confirmed cases, these three bacteria caused a median of 78% cases [IQR = 50-87%].

The investigators found Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) meningitis incidence declined by 72-83% at sentinel hospitals in Pakistan and Bangladesh, respectively, within two years of implementing nationwide vaccination.

The investigators found on average, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 10 (PCV10) covered 49% [95% CI = 39-58%], 13-valent pneumococcal protein-conjugate vaccine (PCV13) covered 51% [95% CI = 40-61%] and 3-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) covered 74% [95% CI = 67-80%] of pneumococcal meningitis serotypes.

The investigators found lower PCV10 and PCV13 serotype coverage in Bangladesh was associated with higher prevalence of serotype 2, compared to India and Pakistan.

The investigators concluded South Asia has relatively high incidence of bacterial meningitis among children aged 1-59 months, with vaccine-preventable bacteria causing a substantial proportion. These estimates are likely underestimates due to multiple epidemiological and microbiological factors. Further research on vaccine impact and distribution of pneumococcal serotypes will inform vaccine policymaking and implementation.

Original title:
Incidence and aetiology of bacterial meningitis among children aged 1-59 months in South Asia: systematic review and meta-analysis by Ali M, Chang BA1, […], Morris SK.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30145101

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and vaccination right here.

Objectives:
Several studies have been published about the effect of garlic on lipid profile and blood glucose in diabetic patients. Which, the results mostly contradict with each other. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does garlic improve lipid profile and blood glucose in diabetic patients?

Study design:
This review article included 33 articles with a total of 1,273 individuals, with a mean of 39 samples per study.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the concentration of serum total cholesterol significantly decreased wih 16.87 mg/dL [95% CI = -21.01 to -12.73, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) significantly decreased with 9.65 mg/dL [95% CI = -15.07 to -4.23, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum triglycerides significantly decreased with 12.44 mg/dL [95% CI = -18.19 to -6.69, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) significantly increased with 3.19 mg/dL [95% CI = 1.85 to 4.53, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum fasting blood sugar significantly decreased with 10.90 mg/dL [95% CI = -16.40 to -5.40, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum HbA1c significantly decreased with 0.60 mg/dL [95% CI = -0.98 to -0.22, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators concluded that garlic improves lipid profile as well as glucose parameters and can be therapeutically effective in patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Original title:
The effect of garlic on lipid profile and glucose parameters in diabetic patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Shabani E, Sayemiri K and Mohammadpour M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30049636

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes, cholesterol, meta-analyses/heterogeneity and garlic right here.

 

Objectives:
Meta-analyses on the effect of vitamin D intake on status in children are lacking, especially those focused on vitamin D-fortified foods. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

What is the effect of vitamin D interventions (fortified foods, supplements, bolus injections) on vitamin D status in children 2-18 y of age?

Study design:
This review article included 26 RCTs (5,403 children) with interventions (n = 9 fortified foods, n = 15 supplements, n = 2 bolus injections) from 100-4,000 IU vitamin D/d over 4 wk to 2 y.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D weighted mean difference for all 26 trials [WMD = 23.5 nmol/L, 95% CI = 20.7 to 26.3 nmol/L, I2 = 99.9%] resulted in a mean increase of 1.0 nmol/L [95% CI = 0.3 to 1.7 nmol/]) for each increase of 100 IU vitamin D/d [per 1 µg/d: 0.4 nmol/L, 95% CI = 0.1 to 0.7 nmol/L].

The investigators found the response per 100 IU vitamin D/d was greater in trials with a mean baseline serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D 30 nmol/L, with the use of fortified foods and with baseline (=at the beginning of the study) vitamin D intakes 100 IU/d.

The investigators concluded the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D response to vitamin D intake differs on the basis of baseline status, intakes and delivery mode, but not age, sex or latitude in children 2-18 y of age.

Original title:
Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation, Food Fortification, or Bolus Injection on Vitamin D Status in Children Aged 2-18 Years: A Meta-Analysis by Brett NR, Gharibeh N and Weiler HA.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30032221

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and vitamin D right here.

It is not possible to get 100 IU vitamin D through food items. It is only possible through supplementation.

Objectives:
What are the effects of ginger intake on weight loss, glycemic control and lipid profiles among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects?

Study design:
This review article included 14 RCTs with in total of 473 subjects.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that supplementation with ginger significantly decreased among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects:
-body weight (BW) [SMD -0.66, 95% CI = -1.31 to -0.01, p = 0.04];
-waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) [SMD = -0.49, 95% CI = -0.82 to -0.17, p = 0.003];
-hip ratio (HR) [SMD = -0.42, 95% CI = -0.77 to -0.08, p = 0.01];
-fasting glucose [SMD = -0.68, 95% CI = -1.23 to -0.05, p = 0.03] and;
-insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) [SMD= -1.67, 95% CI = -2.86 to -0.48, p = 0.006].

The investigators found that supplementation with ginger significantly increased HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels [SMD = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.70, p = 0.009] among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects.

The investigators found, however, that supplementation with ginger had no detrimental effect on:
-body mass index (BMI) [SMD = -0.65, 95% CI = -1.36 to 0.06, p = 0.074];
-insulin [SMD = -0.54, 95% CI = -1.43 to 0.35, p = 0.23];
-triglycerides [SMD = -0.27, 95% CI = -0.71 to 0.18, p = 0.24];
-total cholesterol [SMD = -0.20, 95% CI = -0.58 to 0.18, p = 0.30] and;
-LDL-cholesterol [SMD = -0.13, 95% CI = -0.51 to 0.24, p = 0.48].

The investigators concluded that ginger intake reduces body weight, waist-to-hip ratio, hip ratio, fasting glucose and insulin resistance index and increases HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol), but has no affect on insulin, BMI, triglycerides, total- and LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels among overweight and obese subjects.

Original title:
The effects of ginger intake on weight loss and metabolic profiles among overweight and obese subjects: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Maharlouei N, Tabrizi R, […], Asemi Z.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29393665

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

Persons with overweight are advised to choose products/meals with maximum 30 En% fat, maximum 7 En% saturated fat, maximum 0.2 grams salt per 100 kcal and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal. Check here which products/meals are suitable for persons with overweight.
 

Objectives:
Oxidative stress has been found to be implicated in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there an association between selenium level in the brain and Alzheimer’s disease? 

Study design:
This review article included 14 studies with 40 observations on selenium concentrations in Alzheimer’s disease and control brains (persons without Alzheimer’s disease).

The effect size as standardized mean difference (SMD) was generated using review manager 5.3.

The funnel plot with Egger's [p = 0.88] and Begg's tests [p = 0.24] detected no significant publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found random-effects meta-analysis indicated a decrease [SMD = - 0.42] in brain tissue selenium levels in patients with Alzheimer’s disease as compared to non-Alzheimer’s disease controls.
The results of sensitivity analysis indicated that no single study/observation had significantly influenced the overall outcome.

The investigators found the subgroup meta-analysis demonstrated that the selenium levels were decreased in the temporal, hippocampal and cortex regions of the brains in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
The results of sensitivity analysis indicated that no single study/observation had significantly influenced the overall outcome.

The investigators concluded there is consolidated evidence for a significant decrease of selenium status in Alzheimer’s disease brains compared to controls (persons without Alzheimer’s disease). In line with the evidence supporting selenium's antioxidant role and the involvement of oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s disease development, these findings support new therapeutic strategies aimed at brain tissue selenium homeostasis in Alzheimer’s disease.

Original title:
Brain Selenium in Alzheimer's Disease (BRAIN SEAD Study): a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Varikasuvu SR, Prasad VS, [...], Manne M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30171594

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on selenium and Alzheimer’s disease right here.
 

Objectives:
Is hepatitis B vaccination in adults causally associated with autoimmune diseases?

Study design:
This review article included 14 controlled studies with documented incidence of autoimmune diseases occurring after hepatitis B vaccinations in adults from January 1990 to March 2017.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found overall no association between hepatitis B vaccination and the onset of autoimmune diseases [overall odds ratio = 1.06, 95% CI = 0.93-1.21, with non-significant heterogeneity].

Only one study showed a significant excess risk between hepatitis B immunisation and autoimmune disease.

The investigators concluded despite multiple case reports, there is no reliable scientific evidence of autoimmune diseases being caused by hepatitis B vaccinations.

Original title:
Autoimmune diseases after hepatitis B immunization in adults: Literature review and meta-analysis, with reference to 'autoimmune/autoinflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants' (ASIA) by Elwood JM and Ameratunga R.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30100071

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition right here.