Evaluation of the protective and therapeutic effects of extra virgin olive oil rich in phenol in experimental model of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis by clinical disease score, ınflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress markers

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammation-associated ischemic necrosis of the intestine. To investigate the effects of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and histological changes in NEC-induced newborn rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

24 rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, NEC and NEC + EVOO. NEC induction was performed using hypoxia-hyperoxia, formula feeding, and cold stress. The NEC + EVOO group received 2 ml/kg EVOO with high phenolic content by gavage twice a day for 3 days. 3 cm of bowel including terminal ileum, cecum, and proximal colon was excised.

RESULTS

Weight gain and clinical disease scores were significantly higher in the NEC + EVOO group than in the NEC group (p < 0.001). EVOO treatment caused significant decreases in IL1β, IL6 levels (p = 0.016, p = 0.029 respectively) and EGF, MDA levels (p = 0.032, p = 0.013 respectively) compared to NEC group. Significant decreases were observed in IL6 gene expression in the NEC + EVOO group compared to the NEC group (p = 0.002). In the group NEC + EVOO, the number of Caspase-3 positive cells was found to be significantly reduced (p < 0.001) and histopathological examination revealed minimal changes and significantly lower histopathological scores (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Phenol-rich EVOO prevents intestinal damage caused by NEC by inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis.

Eight weeks of daily cottonseed oil intake attenuates postprandial angiopoietin-like proteins 3 and 4 responses compared to olive oil in adults with hypercholesterolemia: A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial

Angiopoietin-like proteins (ANGPTLs) -3, -4, and -8 are regulators of lipid metabolism and have been shown to respond to changes in dietary fats. It is unknown how ANGPTLs respond to cottonseed oil (CSO) and olive oil (OO) consumption in a population with hypercholesterolemia. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of CSO vs. OO consumption on fasting and postprandial ANGPTL responses in adults with hypercholesterolemia. We hypothesized that CSO would have lower fasting and postprandial ANGPTL responses compared with OO. Forty-two adults with high cholesterol completed a single-blind, randomized trial comparing CSO (n = 21) vs. OO (n = 21) diet enrichment. An 8-week partial outpatient feeding intervention provided ∼60% of the volunteers' total energy expenditure (∼30% of total energy expenditure as CSO or OO). The remaining 40% was not controlled. Fasting blood draws were taken at pre-, mid-, and postintervention visits. Volunteers consumed a high saturated fat meal followed by 5 hours of blood draws pre- and postvisits. Fasting ANGPTL3 had a marginally significant treatment by visit interaction (P = .06) showing an increase from pre- to postintervention in CSO vs. OO (CSO: 385.1 ± 27.7 to 440.3 ± 33.9 ng/mL; OO: 468.2 ± 38.3 to 449.2 ± 49.5 ng/mL). Both postprandial ANGPTL3 (P = .02) and ANGPTL4 (P < .01) had treatment by visit interactions suggesting increases from pre- to postintervention in OO vs. CSO with no differences between groups in ANGPTL8. These data show a worsening (increase) of postprandial ANGPTLs after the OO, but not CSO, intervention. This aligns with previously reported data in which postprandial triglycerides were protected from increases compared with OO. ANGPTLs may mediate protective effects of CSO consumption on lipid control. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04397055).

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil in Alzheimer's Disease: A Comprehensive Review of Cellular, Animal, and Clinical Studies

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by several pathological hallmarks, including the deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, increased oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Current treatment options include monoclonal antibody drugs, acetylcholinesterase, and n-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists. Although those treatments provide some improvements in patients' quality of life, they fail to prevent or cure AD. Current research aims to identify novel targets and tools for AD prevention and modification. In this context, several studies showed the beneficial effect of the Mediterranean diet in the prevention and treatment of AD. One integral component of the Mediterranean diet is olive oil and extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), which is high in phenolic compounds. EVOO and other olive-related phenolic compounds have been shown to reduce the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which EVOO and phenolic compounds exert neuroprotective effects, including modulation of AD pathologies and promotion of cognitive health. Findings indicate that EVOO and its phenolic constituents influence key pathological processes of AD, such as Aβ aggregation, tau phosphorylation, and neuroinflammation, while also enhancing BBB integrity and reducing oxidative stress. The human studies cited reveal a consistent trend where the consumption of olive oil is associated with cognitive benefits and a decreased risk of AD and related dementias. In conclusion, EVOO and its phenolic compounds hold promising potential for the prevention and treatment of AD, representing a significant shift towards more effective strategies against this complex neurodegenerative disorder.

Ozonated Olive Oil Intake Attenuates Hepatic Steatosis in Obese db/db Mice

Chronic inflammation and insulin resistance lead to metabolic syndrome and there is an urgent need to establish effective treatments and prevention methods. Our previous study reported that obese model Zucker (fa/fa) rats fed with ozonated olive oil alleviated fatty liver and liver damage by suppressing inflammatory factors. However, differences among animal species related to the safety and efficacy of ozonated olive oil administration remain unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of oral intake of ozonated olive oil on lipid metabolism in normal mice and mice in the obesity model. C57BL/6J and db/db mice were fed the following AIN-76 diets for four weeks: the mice were either fed a 0.5% olive oil diet (Control diet) or 0.5% ozonated olive oil diet (Oz-Olive diet) in addition to 6.5% corn oil. The results indicated that four weeks of Oz-Olive intake did not adversely affect growth parameters, hepatic lipids or serum parameters in normal C57BL/6J mice. Subsequent treatment of db/db mice with Oz-Olive for four weeks reduced the levels of hepatic triglycerides, serum alkaline phosphatase, and serum insulin. These effects of Oz-Olive administration might be due to suppression of fatty acid synthesis activity and expression of lipogenic genes, as well as suppression of inflammatory gene expression. In conclusion, this study confirmed the safety of Oz-Olive administration in normal mice and its ability to alleviate hepatic steatosis by inhibiting fatty acid synthesis and inflammation in obese mice.

The effectiveness of organic vegetable oils with high biocompatibility in preventing epidural fibrosis: An experimental study

Background and purpose

Epidural fibrosis after all spinal surgeries is an important surgical issue. Various biological and non-biological materials have been tried to inhibit epidural fibrosis, which is deemed to be the most important cause of pain after spinal surgery. Olive oil, nigella sativa oil and soybean oil employed in oral nutrition in clinics involving liquid fatty acids, palmatic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid and palmitoleic acid. The effectiveness of olive oil, nigella sativa oil and soybean oil on epidural fibrosis was researched on for the first time in laminectomy model.

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Methods

Fifty adult male Wistar albino rats weighing between 300 and 400 grams were used in the research. A total of 5 groups were formed: sham (Group I) (n = 10), no application was created; Group II (n = 10) 1 cc saline; Group III (n = 10) 1 cc olive oil; Group IV (n = 10) 1 cc nigella sativa oil; Group V (n = 10); 1 cc soybean oil was applied topically to the epidural region after laminectomy. The total spine of the rats was dissected, histopathological and immuno­chemical measurements were conducted. Neuro-histopathological results were scored semi-quantitatively in terms of vascular modification, neuron degeneration, gliosis and bleeding criteria.

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Results

The lowest level of fibrosis and connective tissue proliferation was observed in the group where nigella sativa oil was used after the operation, followed by the group treated with olive oil and lastly with the group given soybean oil.

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Conclusion

Nigella sativa oil and olive oil are very efficient for lowering the degree of epidural fibrosis and adhesions following laminectomy and can be employed as a simple, inexpensive and highly biocompatible material in clinical practice.

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Mediterranean diet and olive oil, microbiota, and obesity-related cancers. From mechanisms to prevention

Olive oil (OO) is the main source of added fat in the Mediterranean diet (MD). It is a mix of bioactive compounds, including monounsaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, simple phenols, secoiridoids, flavonoids, and terpenoids. There is a growing body of evidence that MD and OO improve obesity-related factors. In addition, obesity has been associated with an increased risk for several cancers: endometrial, oesophageal adenocarcinoma, renal, pancreatic, hepatocellular, gastric cardia, meningioma, multiple myeloma, colorectal, postmenopausal breast, ovarian, gallbladder, and thyroid cancer. However, the epidemiological evidence linking MD and OO with these obesity-related cancers, and their potential mechanisms of action, especially those involving the gut microbiota, are not clearly described or understood. The goals of this review are 1) to update the current epidemiological knowledge on the associations between MD and OO consumption and obesity-related cancers, 2) to identify the gut microbiota mechanisms involved in obesity-related cancers, and 3) to report the effects of MD and OO on these mechanisms.

Effect of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil on Hand Foot Syndrome and hs-CRP in Patients Receiving Capecitabine: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Hand Foot Syndrome (HFS) is a frequent adverse effect observed in patients undergoing capecitabine chemotherapy, often leading to treatment disruptions and dose adjustments. Elevated C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) levels have been associated with the development of HFS. This study aimed to assess the potential of unrefined Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) supplementation in mitigating HFS and hs-CRP elevation among individuals receiving capecitabine chemotherapy.

METHODS

Between November 2022 and May 2023, forty-five eligible participants were enrolled in this randomized trial. Patients with advanced colorectal or breast cancer were randomly allocated into three groups: an intervention group receiving unrefined EVOO supplementation (30 mL per day) alongside capecitabine, a placebo group receiving refined extra light olive oil (ELOO) supplementation (30 mL per day) alongside capecitabine, and a control group receiving capecitabine alone. The masking of both placebo and intervention groups was ensured through identical packaging and instructions, maintaining participant and physician blindness to the assigned treatments. Randomization, achieved via computer-generated sequences, ensured even distribution among the three groups.

RESULTS

HFS incidences were notably lower in the EVOO group (13.3%) compared to the placebo (66.7%) and control (80%) groups. Instances of Grade 2 or more severe HFS were observed in 20% of placebo and 40% of control group patients. No cases of severe HFS were reported in the EVOO group. Moreover, EVOO supplementation led to a significant reduction in hs-CRP levels when contrasted with the placebo and control groups. These findings suggest that EVOO may serve as a preventive measure against HFS and exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in patients undergoing capecitabine chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the potential benefits of incorporating unrefined EVOO into the regimen of patients undergoing capecitabine chemotherapy. EVOO supplementation was associated with lower incidences of HFS and a reduction in hs-CRP levels, indicating its possible role in preventing HFS development and mitigating inflammation.

Protective Effect of Olive Oil Microconstituents in Atherosclerosis: Emphasis on PAF Implicated Atherosclerosis Theory

Atherosclerosis is a progressive vascular multifactorial process. The mechanisms underlining the initiating event of atheromatous plaque formation are inflammation and oxidation. Among the modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, diet and especially the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), has been widely recognized as one of the healthiest dietary patterns. Olive oil (OO), the main source of the fatty components of the MedDiet is superior to the other "Mono-unsaturated fatty acids containing oils" due to the existence of specific microconstituents. In this review, the effects of OO microconstituents in atherosclerosis, based on data from in vitro and in vivo studies with special attention on their inhibitory activity against PAF (Platelet-Activating Factor) actions, are presented and critically discussed. In conclusion, we propose that the anti-atherogenic effect of OO is attributed to the synergistic action of its microconstituents, mainly polar lipids that act as PAF inhibitors, specific polyphenols and α-tocopherol that also exert anti-PAF activity. This beneficial effect, also mediated through anti-PAF action, can occur from microconstituents extracted from olive pomace, a toxic by-product of the OO production process that constitutes a significant ecological problem. Daily intake of moderate amounts of OO consumed in the context of a balanced diet is significant for healthy adults.

Randomized clinical trial on the clinical effects of a toothpaste containing extra virgin olive oil, xylitol, and betaine in gingivitis

To determine the effects on gingival bleeding, dental biofilm, and salivary flow and pH in patients with gingivitis of using toothpaste with extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), xylitol, and betaine in comparison to a placebo or commercial toothpaste. This controlled, double blinded, and multicenter randomized clinical trial included patients with gingivitis randomly assigned to one of three groups: test group (EVOO, xylitol, and betaine toothpaste), control group 1 (placebo toothpaste), or control group 2 (commercial toothpaste). Percentage supragingival biofilm and gingival bleeding were evaluated at baseline (T0), 2 months (T2), and 4 months (T4), measuring non-stimulated salivary flow and salivary pH. Comparisons were performed between and within groups. The final study sample comprised 20 in the test group, 21 in control group 1, and 20 in control group 2. In comparison to control group 1, the test group showed significantly greater decreases in gingival bleeding between T4 and T0 (p = 0.02) and in biofilm between T2 and T0 (p = 0.02) and between T4 and T0 (p = 0.01). In the test group, salivary flow significantly increased between T2 and T0 (p = 0.01), while pH alkalization was significantly greater between T4 and T0 versus control group 2 (p = 0.01) and close-to-significantly greater versus control group 1 (p = 0.06). The toothpaste with EVOO, xylitol, and betaine obtained the best outcomes in patients with gingivitis, who showed reductions in gingival bleeding and supragingival biofilm and an increase in pH at 4 months in comparison to a commercial toothpaste.

The efficacy of honey or olive oil on the severity of oral mucositis and pain compared to placebo (standard care) in children with leukemia receiving intensive chemotherapy: A randomized controlled trial (RCT)

BACKGROUND

Oral mucositis (OM) is a significant complication occurring in approximately 40 to 80% of patients receiving chemotherapy regimens. Although a wide variety of agents have been tested to prevent OM or reduce its severity, none have provided conclusive evidence.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the efficacy of honey or olive oil on the severity and OM pain in children with leukemia and suffering from OM compared to placebo (standard care) and, to assess which of the two interventions is more beneficial.

METHODS

A single blind randomized controlled study (RCT) was used to evaluate the effect of Manuka honey or olive oil, in the treatment of chemotherapy-related OM in 42 children with leukemia. The primary outcome was the severity of mucositis, using the World Health Organization (WHO) scale and the secondary outcome was the pain assessed using the Visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

Children who received the honey had less severe OM (assessed on the (WHO) scale), p = 0.00 and less pain (assessed on the VAS scale), p = 0.00, compared to the control group. Children who received the olive oil had less pain than the control group, p = 0.00), although not lower than the honey group.

CONCLUSION

Manuka honey or olive oil can be used as alternative therapies by nurses to children with leukemia and suffering from OM, especially in low and middle-income countries where more expensive therapies may not be available or economical.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Pediatric nurses may recommend Manuka honey to treat OM in children with leukemia as it is safe and inexpensive compared to other treatment modalities.

The effect of topical olive oil dressing on the healing of grade 1 and 2 diabetic foot ulcers: An assessor-blind randomized controlled trial in type 2 diabetes patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We aimed to compare the effect of topical olive oil dressing plus standard care with standard care alone on the treatment of grade 1 and 2 diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

METHODS

This assessor-blind randomized controlled trial included 60 T2DM patients with DFU referred to the Diabetes Clinic of Shahid Mohammadi Hospital, Bandar Abbas, Iran, from February 21 to August 22, 2017. Patients were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 30) and control (n = 30) groups. The intervention group received standard care, including wound irrigation with normal saline and oral antibiotics plus daily topical olive oil dressing for four weeks, and the control group only received standard care. The wound healing assessment scale (wound degree, color, drainage, and surrounding tissue healing) was recorded weekly and the total wound status was determined at the end of the study.

RESULTS

Treatment with olive oil led to significantly higher scores of ulcer degree, color, drainage, and surrounding tissue healing at weeks one, two, three and four in the olive oil group than in the control group (P < 0.001). Also, the total wound status score was higher in the olive oil group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). The proportions of completely healed, partially healed, and unhealed wounds were 76.6%, 23.3% and 0% in the intervention group, and 0%, 93.3% and 6.7% in the control group, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical olive oil dressing promoted the healing of DFU and it can be recommended as a safe and effective treatment in this regard.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), IRCT20150607022585N4. Registered 05/12/2018. Retrospectively registered, https://www.irct.ir/trial/19460.

[Therapeutic effect of Jingfang Granules on CCl_4-induced liver fibrosis in mice and its mechanism]

To investigate the therapeutic effect of Jingfang Granules on carbon tetrachloride(CCl_4)-induced liver fibrosis in mice and its mechanism. Forty-nine 8-week-old male C57 BL/6 J mice were randomly divided into a blank group, a CCl_4 group, a silybin group(positive control, 100 mg·kg~(-1))+CCl_4, a Jingfang high-dose(16 g·kg~(-1)) group, a Jingfang high-dose(16 g·kg~(-1))+CCl_4 group, a Jingfang medium-dose(8 g·kg~(-1))+CCl_4 group, and a Jingfang low-dose(4 g·kg~(-1))+CCl_4 group, with 7 mice in each group. The mice in the blank group and Jingfang high-dose group were intraperitoneally injected olive oil solution, and mice in other groups were intraperitoneally injected with 10% CCl_4 olive oil solution(5 mL·kg~(-1)) to induce liver fibrosis, twice a week with an interval of 3 d, for 8 weeks. At the same time, except for the blank group and CCl_4 group, which were given deionized water, the mice in other groups were given the corresponding dose of drugs by gavage once daily for 8 weeks with the gavage volume of 10 mL·kg~(-1). All mice were fasted and freely drank for 12 h after the last administration, and then the eyeballs were removed for blood collection. The liver and spleen were collected, and the organ index was calculated. The levels of alanine aminotransferase(ALT), aspartate aminotransferase(AST), total bile acid(TBA), and triglyceride(TG) in the serum of mice were detected by an automated analyzer. Tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin-6(IL-6) and interleukin-1β(IL-1β) levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Kits were used to detect the contents of superoxide dismutase(SOD), malondialdehyde(MDA), and glutathione(GSH) in the liver tissue. Pathological changes in the liver tissue were observed by hematoxylin-eosin(HE), Masson, and Sirius red staining. Western blot was used to detect protein expressions of transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β), α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA) and Smad4 in the liver tissue. The results indicated that Jingfang Granules significantly reduced the organ index, levels of ALT, AST, TBA,TG, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in the serum, and the content of MDA in the liver tissue of mice with CCl_4-induced liver fibrosis. Jingfang Granules also significantly increased the content of SOD and GSH in the liver tissue. Meanwhile, Jingfang Granules down-regulated the protein levels of TGF-β, α-SMA, and Smad4. Furthermore, Jingfang Granules had no significant effect on the liver tissue morphology and the above indexes in the normal mice. In conclusion, Jingfang Granules has obvious therapeutic effect on CCl_4-induced liver fibrosis, and its mechanism may be related to reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, anti-oxidation, and regulating TGF-β/Smad4 signaling pathway.

Effects of Lycopene-enriched, Organic, Extra Virgin Olive Oil on Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Pilot Study

CONTEXT

Epidemiological evidence has shown that lycopene consumption may be effective in both the prevention and treatment of various diseases, particularly prostate cancer. However, the influence of this dietary carotenoid on some of the most basic aspects of human health remains unknown.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of consumption of a lycopene-enriched commercial product of organic, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on prostate health, sleep quality, antioxidant status, and anxiety.

DESIGN

The research team designed a pilot study with two intervention groups.

SETTING

The study took place in the city of Badajoz (Extremadura, Spain).

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were 20 men aged ≥50, some of whom were healthy and some of whom had received a diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

INTERVENTION

Participants were divided into a healthy-men (HM) group (n = 10) and a benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) group (n = 10). Both groups consumed 20 ml of lycopene (0.4 mg/ml) daily in a lycopene-enriched commercial product of organic extra virgin olive oil, at breakfast and/or lunch, for 30 days.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Sleep quality, prostate markers-prostatic specific antigen and protein C reactive-and symptomatology, urine total antioxidant status, and emotional health were assessed at baseline and postintervention.

RESULTS

The level of prostatic specific antigen and symptomatology remarkably improved in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, although the changes wasn't statistically significant, and the total antioxidant status was significantly increased in healthy men (P < .05). Sleep quality in terms of nocturnal activity was significantly improved in both groups (P < .05). No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION

The consumption of a lycopene-enriched, organic, EVOO positively influenced prostate health and other physiological variables. These findings may help to advance the development of new preventive and/or chemotherapeutic strategies based on lycopene.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), a Mediterranean Diet Component, in the Management of Muscle Mass and Function Preservation

Aging results in a progressive decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength and function, a condition known as sarcopenia. This pathological condition is due to multifactorial processes including physical inactivity, inflammation, oxidative stress, hormonal changes, and nutritional intake. Physical therapy remains the standard approach to treat sarcopenia, although some interventions based on dietary supplementation are in clinical development. In this context, thanks to its known anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, there is great interest in using extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) supplementation to promote muscle mass and health in sarcopenic patients. To date, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the pathological changes associated with sarcopenia remain undefined; however, a complete understanding of the signaling pathways that regulate skeletal muscle protein synthesis and their behavior during sarcopenia appears vital for defining how EVOO might attenuate muscle wasting during aging. This review highlights the main molecular players that control skeletal muscle mass, with particular regard to sarcopenia, and discusses, based on the more recent findings, the potential of EVOO in delaying/preventing loss of muscle mass and function, with the aim of stimulating further research to assess dietary supplementation with EVOO as an approach to prevent or delay sarcopenia in aging individuals.

Therapeutic Properties and Use of Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Clinical Nutrition: A Narrative Review and Literature Update

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet (MedD). In this narrative review, we synthesize and illustrate the various characteristics and clinical applications of EVOO and its components—such as oleic acid, hydroxytyrosol, and oleuropein—in the field of clinical nutrition and dietetics. The evidence is split into diet therapy, oleic acid-based enteral nutrition formulations and oral supplementation formulations, oleic acid-based parenteral nutrition, and nutraceutical supplementation of minor components of EVOO. EVOO has diverse beneficial health properties, and current evidence supports the use of whole EVOO in diet therapy and the supplementation of its minor components to improve cardiovascular health, lipoprotein metabolism, and diabetes mellitus in clinical nutrition. Nevertheless, more intervention studies in humans are needed to chisel specific recommendations for its therapeutic use through different formulations in other specific diseases and clinical populations.

Topical Rosmarinus officinalis L. in Systemic Sclerosis-Related Raynaud's Phenomenon: An Open-Label Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

An effective and well tolerated topical treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon is needed. The aim of this pilot study was to determine change in skin temperature and self-reported warmth perception from topical rosemary essential oil in patients with systemic sclerosis and secondary Raynaud's phenomenon.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twelve patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and Raynaud's phenomenon were consecutively enrolled in an open-label pilot study at a university outpatient rheumatology clinic. Each patient received an application of olive oil to both hands as a control and 3 hours later an application of a 10% essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Clinical severity and subjective warmth perception were assessed; skin temperature was measured by infrared thermography.

RESULTS

Skin temperature increased significantly after both olive oil and rosemary oil but differences between oils did not reach significance. Self-reported warmth perception increased after rosemary oil but not after olive oil. No adverse effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

Topical rosemary essential oil increased warmth perception in patients with systemic sclerosis-related Raynaud's phenomenon but did not increase finger skin temperature more than the olive oil control.

Comparative Evaluation of Ozonoid Olive Oil and Calcium Hydroxide as an Indirect Pulp Capping Agent in Primary Mandibular Second Molar: A Randomized Controlled Trial

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiographical success of ozonoid olive oil as an indirect pulp capping (IPC) agent in primary mandibular second molar when compared to calcium hydroxide and to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of ozonoid olive oil on Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A split-mouth randomized controlled trial was conducted on 30 primary mandibular second molars in 15 children of age 5-9 years with deep dentinal carious lesion. Teeth were randomly allocated to two groups of 15 each. After achieving local anesthesia and rubber dam isolation, an IPC procedure was performed using ozonoid olive oil in group I and calcium hydroxide in group II. Teeth were evaluated clinically and radiographically at 6 and 12 months of follow-up for success or failure of IPC. The bacterial counts of S. mutans and Lactobacilli were measured before and after application of ozonoid olive oil for 60 seconds on dentinal tissue in group I and recorded as colony-forming units per mL (CFU/mL).

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences found between the materials used for IPC (p >0.05). About 93.33% and 100% clinical and radiographical success rates were seen in group I and group II, respectively. Statistically significant differences were observed for bacterial reduction after the application of ozonoid olive oil (p <0.05) for both the microorganisms.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that the success of IPC is independent of capping material. Ozonoid olive oil, an antimicrobial agent, can also be used for IPC. The success of the IPC procedure depends on a reduction in the bacterial count and sealing of the tooth with hermetic restoration. More clinical studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up duration are required for understanding the efficacy of this material.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Ozonoid olive oil can be used as an IPC agent in primary molars and also for a bacterial reduction in dentinal caries.

Amygdalin Ameliorates Liver Fibrosis through Inhibiting Activation of TGF-β/Smad Signaling

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of amygdalin on liver fibrosis in a liver fibrosis mouse model, and the underlying mechanisms were partly dissected in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

Thirty-two male mice were randomly divided into 4 groups, including control, model, low- and high-dose amygdalin-treated groups, 8 mice in each group. Except the control group, mice in the other groups were injected intraperitoneally with 10% carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-olive oil solution 3 times a week for 6 weeks to induce liver fibrosis. At the first 3 weeks, amygdalin (1.35 and 2.7 mg/kg body weight) were administered by gavage once a day. Mice in the control group received equal quantities of subcutaneous olive oil and intragastric water from the fourth week. At the end of 6 weeks, liver tissue samples were harvested to detect the content of hydroxyproline (Hyp). Hematoxylin and eosin and Sirius red staining were used to observe the inflammation and fibrosis of liver tissue. The expressions of collagen I (Col-I), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), CD31 and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)/Smad signaling pathway were observed by immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively. The activation models of hepatic stellate cells, JS-1 and LX-2 cells induced by TGF-β1 were used in vitro with or without different concentrations of amygdalin (0.1, 1, 10 µmol/L). LSECs. The effect of different concentrations of amygdalin on the expressions of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) dedifferentiation markers CD31 and CD44 were observed.

RESULTS

High-dose of amygdalin significantly reduced the Hyp content and percentage of collagen positive area, and decreased the mRNA and protein expressions of Col-I, α-SMA, CD31 and p-Smad2/3 in liver tissues of mice compared to the model group (P<0.01). Amygdalin down-regulated the expressions of Col-I and α-SMA in JS-1 and LX-2 cells, and TGFβ R1, TGFβ R2 and p-Smad2/3 in LX-2 cells compared to the model group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Moreover, 1 and 10 µmol/L amygdalin inhibited the mRNA and protein expressions of CD31 in LSECs and increased CD44 expression compared to the model group (P<0.05 or P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Amygdalin can dramatically alleviate liver fibrosis induced by CCl₄ in mice and inhibit TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, consequently suppressing HSCs activation and LSECs dedifferentiation to improve angiogenesis.

Addition of olive oil to diet of rats with mild pre-gestational diabetes impacts offspring β-cell development

Maternal diabetes impairs fetal development and increases the risk of metabolic diseases in the offspring. Previously, we demonstrated that maternal dietary supplementation with 6% of olive oil prevents diabetes-induced embryo and fetal defects, in part, through the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). In this study, we examined the effects of this diet on neonatal and adult pancreatic development in male and female offspring of mothers affected with pre-gestational diabetes. A mild diabetic model was developed by injecting neonatal rats with streptozotocin (90 mg/kg). During pregnancy, these dams were fed a chow diet supplemented or not with 6% olive oil. Offspring pancreata was examined at day 2 and 5 months of age by immunohistochemistry followed by morphometric analysis to determine number of islets, α and β cell clusters and β-cell mass. At 5 months, male offspring of diabetic mothers had reduced β-cell mass that was prevented by maternal supplementation with olive oil. PPARα and PPARγ were localized mainly in α cells and PPARβ/δ in both α and β cells. Although Pparβ/δ and Pparγ RNA expression showed reduction in 5-month-old male offspring of diabetic rats, Pparβ/δ expression returned to control levels after olive-oil supplementation. Interestingly, in vitro exposure to oleic acid (major component of olive oil) and natural PPAR agonists such as LTB4, CPC and 15dPGJ2 also significantly increased expression of all Ppars in αTC1-6 cells. However, only oleic acid and 15dPGJ2 increased insulin and Pdx-1 expression in INS-1E cells suggesting a protective role in β-cells. Olive oil may be considered a dietary supplement to improve islet function in offspring of affected mothers with pre-gestational diabetes.

Effects of Olive Oil on Blood Pressure: Epidemiological, Clinical, and Mechanistic Evidence

The increasing access to antihypertensive medications has improved longevity and quality of life in hypertensive patients. Nevertheless, hypertension still remains a major risk factor for stroke and myocardial infarction, suggesting the need to implement management of pre- and hypertensive patients. In addition to antihypertensive medications, lifestyle changes, including healthier dietary patterns, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and the Mediterranean diet, have been shown to favorably affect blood pressure and are now recommended as integrative tools in hypertension management. An analysis of the effects of nutritional components of the Mediterranean diet(s) on blood pressure has therefore become mandatory. After a literature review of the impact of Mediterranean diet(s) on cardiovascular risk factors, we here analyze the effects of olive oil and its major components on blood pressure in healthy and cardiovascular disease individuals and examine underlying mechanisms of action. Both experimental and human studies agree in showing anti-hypertensive effects of olive oil. We conclude that due to its high oleic acid and antioxidant polyphenol content, the consumption of olive oil may be advised as the optimal fat choice in the management protocols for hypertension in both healthy and cardiovascular disease patients.

Effects of Virgin Olive Oil and Phenol-Enriched Virgin Olive Oils on Lipoprotein Atherogenicity

The atherogenicity of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) may be more significant than LDL cholesterol levels. Clinical trials which have led to increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol have not always seen reductions in cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, genetic variants predisposing individuals to high HDL cholesterol are not associated with a lower risk of suffering a coronary event, and therefore HDL functionality is considered to be the most relevant aspect. Virgin olive oil (VOO) is thought to play a protective role against CVD. This review describes the effects of VOO and phenol-enriched VOOs on lipoprotein atherogenicity and HDL atheroprotective properties. The studies have demonstrated a decrease in LDL atherogenicity and an increase in the HDL-mediated macrophage cholesterol efflux capacity, HDL antioxidant activity, and HDL anti-inflammatory characteristics after various VOO interventions. Moreover, the expression of cholesterol efflux-related genes was enhanced after exposure to phenol-enriched VOOs in both post-prandial and sustained trials. Improvements in HDL antioxidant properties were also observed after VOO and phenol-enriched VOO interventions. Furthermore, some studies have demonstrated improved characteristics of TRL atherogenicity under postprandial conditions after VOO intake. Large-scale, long-term randomized clinical trials, and Mendelian analyses which assess the lipoprotein state and properties, are required to confirm these results.

Healthy Effects of Plant Polyphenols: Molecular Mechanisms

The increasing extension in life expectancy of human beings in developed countries is accompanied by a progressively greater rate of degenerative diseases associated with lifestyle and aging, most of which are still waiting for effective, not merely symptomatic, therapies. Accordingly, at present, the recommendations aimed at reducing the prevalence of these conditions in the population are limited to a safer lifestyle including physical/mental exercise, a reduced caloric intake, and a proper diet in a convivial environment. The claimed health benefits of the Mediterranean and Asian diets have been confirmed in many clinical trials and epidemiological surveys. These diets are characterized by several features, including low meat consumption, the intake of oils instead of fats as lipid sources, moderate amounts of red wine, and significant amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables. In particular, the latter have attracted popular and scientific attention for their content, though in reduced amounts, of a number of molecules increasingly investigated for their healthy properties. Among the latter, plant polyphenols have raised remarkable interest in the scientific community; in fact, several clinical trials have confirmed that many health benefits of the Mediterranean/Asian diets can be traced back to the presence of significant amounts of these molecules, even though, in some cases, contradictory results have been reported, which highlights the need for further investigation. In light of the results of these trials, recent research has sought to provide information on the biochemical, molecular, epigenetic, and cell biology modifications by plant polyphenols in cell, organismal, animal, and human models of cancer, metabolic, and neurodegenerative pathologies, notably Alzheimer's and Parkinson disease. The findings reported in the last decade are starting to help to decipher the complex relations between plant polyphenols and cell homeostatic systems including metabolic and redox equilibrium, proteostasis, and the inflammatory response, establishing an increasingly solid molecular basis for the healthy effects of these molecules. Taken together, the data currently available, though still incomplete, are providing a rationale for the possible use of natural polyphenols, or their molecular scaffolds, as nutraceuticals to contrast aging and to combat many associated pathologies.

Prevention of type 2 diabetes in prediabetic patients by using functional olive oil enriched in oleanolic acid: The PREDIABOLE study, a randomized controlled trial

AIM

To assess whether the regular intake of an oleanolic acid (OA)-enriched olive oil is effective in the prevention of diabetes.

METHODS

In the PREDIABOLE study, prediabetic individuals (impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance) of both sexes (176 patients, aged 30-80 years) were randomized to receive 55 mL/day of OA-enriched olive oil (equivalent dose 30 mg OA/day) [intervention group (IG)] or the same oil not enriched [control group (CG)]. The main outcome was the incidence of new-onset type 2 diabetes in both groups.

RESULTS

Forty-eight new diabetes cases occurred, 31 in the CG and 17 in the IG. The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio was 0.45 (95% CI, 0.24-0.83) for the IG compared with the CG. Intervention-related adverse effects were not reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The intake of OA-enriched olive oil reduces the risk of developing diabetes in prediabetic patients. The results of the PREDIABOLE study promote the use of OA in new functional foods and drugs for the prevention of diabetes in individuals at risk of developing it.

Evaluation of vegetables and fish oils for the attenuation of diabetes complications

The present study was accomplished to examine and compare the effect of specific antioxidant-rich oils on hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, renal function markers and oxidative renal damage in diabetic rats for four weeks. Papaya (P), olive (O), fenugreek (Fe), bitter gourd (B) and fish (Fi) oils were used for this purpose. Streptozotocin (STZ) was injected intraperitoneally in a single dose to induce diabetes. All oils were given orally at a dose of 3g/kg for four weeks in respective group after induction of diabetes. After treatment with oils, blood was collected, and their kidneys were stored. The level of fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C) increased while amylase and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level decreased in the diabetic rats. These changes were augmented by fenugreek, bitter gourd and olive oils treatment. Diabetic rats showed elevated renal function markers in serum, including, serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), which were restrained significantly by fenugreek and bitter gourd oil treatment. Moreover, fenugreek and bitter gourd oils treatment significantly modulated the level of thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS), malonaldehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT) in the kidney of diabetic rats. The histopathological examination also showed the protective effect of these oils. The study suggests that vegetable oils are effective in reducing hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and renal damage related to the side effects of diabetes. Thus they may have therapeutic value for preventing diabetes side effects and may be included in oil diet treatment synergically. Thus, our data suggest that oils as potent antidiabetic agent and beneficial in the control of diabetes-related abnormalities such as hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and renal damage of STZ induced rat model of type 2 diabetes. Our study also supports the suggestion that synergistic possibilities exist concerning the use of these oils in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Administration of the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients as a therapy for preventing the progress to AD

OBJECTIVE

Although Mediterranean diet is connected with longevity and lower rate of many disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), the effect of olive oil, which is the principal component of the Mediterranean diet, on fibrinolytic system related to AD and especially on plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and a2-antiplasmin in aged participants are not yet examined. This study was performed on 108 aged participants allocated into 5 groups: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) (36) patients subjected to 1-year therapy with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), MCI without therapy patients (26), MCI without therapy 1-year later patients (11), AD patients (30) and healthy individuals (16). Hypothesis/Purpose: To examine the effect of EVOO therapy on the fibrinolytic factors PAI-1 and a2-antiplasmin, on hallmarks of AD, tau and Aβ amyloid fragments and on an oxidative stress biomarker, MDA in the serum of MCI patients aiming to be exploited as a future preventive therapy.

RESULTS

Using ELISA method, the levels of both fibrinolytic factors PAI-1 and a2- antiplasmin in the serum of MCI patients were reduced notably in the EVOO treated patients versus the control group and were lower than those of all other groups. For better determination of AD from other pathological conditions the ratio Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 was measured in serum of all participants. The more lessened the ratio is, the more cognitive impairment is observed in patients. The MCI group with one-year EVOO therapy displayed a ratio similar to this of healthy individuals. Moreover, patients with EVOO therapy showed decreased tau protein levels in comparison with all the other groups. The levels of the oxidative stress's biomarker, malondialdehyde (MDA) showed a significant decrease in MCI patients subjected to EVOO therapy revealing the involvement of the beneficial antioxidative properties of EVOO in the progression of AD.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that EVOO therapy may prevent the risk of patients with MCI to progress to AD via decreasing fibrinolytic factors PAI-1 and a2 antiplasmin that reflecting in the diminution of the hallmarks proteins of AD, tau and Aβ amyloid as well and in a biomarker of oxidative stress, MDA.

The Mediterranean Diet as source of bioactive compounds with multi-targeting anti-cancer profile

Many bioactive agents have been extracted from plants or belong to functional foods and have been considered in the treatment of serious and multifactorial diseases, such as cancer. In particular, this review is focused on the anti-cancer properties owned by several natural products typically from the Mediterranean area. In some regions of the South of Italy, a lower cancer incidence has been observed. There is increasing evidence that adherence to a Mediterranean dietary pattern correlates with reduced risk of several cancer types. This could be mainly attributed to the typical lifestyle aspects of the Mediterranean diet, such as high consumption of fruit and vegetables. In this review, the main natural products of the Mediterranean area are discussed, with particular attention on their anti-cancer properties endowed with multi-target profiles.

Efficacy and tolerability of olive oil-based ketogenic diet in children with drug-resistant epilepsy: A single center experience from Turkey

PURPOSE

Ketogenic diet (KD) is an effective non-pharmacological treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy, tolerability and complications of olive oil-based KD in epileptic children.

METHOD

In this single-center, prospective study, patients were followed up at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after KD initiation. Initially, blood ketone levels were measured daily, and as needed thereafter to maintain the levels between 4 and 5 mmol/L. Patient demographics, seizure frequency, serum biochemistry, abdominal ultrasonography and adverse effects were recorded. Efficacy of KD was defined as ≥50% seizure reduction.

RESULTS

A total of 389 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy receiving KD from 2012 to 2016 were included. One hundred patients (25.7%) stopped the diet for different reasons in the first year, and 369, 314, 225 and 160 patients have been receiving KD treatment for 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. At 1, 3, 6 and 12th months, 65.8% (243/369), 74.7% (235/314), 70.6% (159/225) and 83.1% (133/160) of the patients were responders, respectively. None of the children had an increased seizure-frequency. Hyperlipidemia (50.8%), selenium deficiency (26.9%), constipation (26.2%), sleep disturbances (20.0%), nephrolithiasis (3.0%), hyperuricemia (3.0) and hepatic side effects (2.6%) were the most common complications of KD. Previous adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) use due to epileptic encephalopathy and presence of constipation at baseline or during KD treatment were found the predictors of treatment efficacy.

CONCLUSION

KD is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Previous history of ACTH use and constipation during KD treatment are important factors that affect the efficacy of KD treatment.

Comparative Biochemical and Histopathological Studies on the Efficacy of Metformin and Virgin Olive Oil against Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Sprague-Dawley Rats

Treatment of diabetic patients with antioxidant, such as extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), may be beneficial in numerous debilitating complexities. This study was aimed at assessing the protective role of virgin olive oil in reducing hyperglycemia in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats. Thirty-six healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups (6 rats per group) including nondiabetic control (NC), diabetic control (DC), and animals treated with metformin, olive oil, and a combination of olive oil and metformin, respectively. The protective effect of olive oil was evaluated by determining the biochemical parameters (lipid profile, liver, and kidney) and by studying the histopathological alterations in pancreas, liver, and kidney tissues. The results showed a significant increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in diabetic rats. ALP levels remained significantly elevated in the diabetic rats that were treated with metformin and/or olive oil, and the highest level was noted in the group treated with olive oil (568.33 U/L). Contrarily, pretreatment with olive oil significantly decreased ALT (67.64 U/L) and ALP (226.17 U/L) levels. Histopathological data revealed that all the disorganized islets of Langerhans along with the clusters of inflammatory cells were absent in the group pretreated with the combination of virgin olive oil and metformin, which shows that prophylactic administration of this combination reduces the diabetic complications in a much better way. Therefore, pretreatment with olive oil with or without metformin is an encouraging approach for diabetes therapy with immense potential.

The possible ameliorative effect of Olea europaea L. oil against deltamethrin-induced oxidative stress and alterations of serum concentrations of thyroid and reproductive hormones in adult female rats

This study aimed to verify whether Olea europaea L. (olive) oil (OEO) exerted a protective effect against oxidative stress induced by deltamethrin (DM) and alterations of pituitary, thyroid and gonadal hormones in adult female rats. DM (0,00256 g/kg body weight),OEO (0,6 g/kg body weight) and DM with OEO were administered to rats orally for 28 days. Volatile compounds present in olive oil were analysed by GC-MS. Estradiol (E₂), Thyroxine (T4),Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Triiodothyronine (T3), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Progesterone (Pg) were measured in serum using Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA). Lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyls (PCs), reduced glutathione (GSH) levels along with superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were determined in thyroid and ovarian tissues. Sesquiterpenes, (E,E)-α-farnesene (16.45%) and α-copaene (9,86%), were analysed as the main volatile compounds of OEO. The relative weight of ovaries and thyroid and body weight significantly decreased in rats treated with DM. DM caused significant alterations in TSH, T4, FSH, Pg and E₂ levels while T3 and LH concentrations remained unchanged when compared to control. DM also increased significantly LPO and PCs levels. In addition, GSH reserves as well as CAT, GPx, SOD and GST activities were suppressed in DM-received rats. The presence of OEO with DM returned the levels of oxidative stress markers, thyroid and reproductive hormones at the control values. Our results indicate that OEO is a powerful agent able to protect against DM oxidative stress and endocrine changes.

Olive Oil Nutraceuticals in the Prevention and Management of Diabetes: From Molecules to Lifestyle

Lifestyle is the primary prevention of diabetes, especially type-2 diabetes (T2D). Nutritional intake of olive oil (OO), the key Mediterranean diet component has been associated with the prevention and management of many chronic diseases including T2D. Several OO bioactive compounds such as monounsaturated fatty acids, and key biophenols including hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein, have been associated with preventing inflammation and cytokine-induced oxidative damage, glucose lowering, reducing carbohydrate absorption, and increasing insulin sensitivity and related gene expression. However, research into the interaction of OO nutraceuticals with lifestyle components, especially physical activity, is lacking. Promising postprandial effects have been reported when OO or other similar monounsaturated fatty acids were the main dietary fat compared with other diets. Animal studies have shown a potential anabolic effect of oleuropein. Such effects could be further potentiated via exercise, especially strength training, which is an essential exercise prescription for individuals with T2D. There is also an evidence from in vitro, animal, and limited human studies for a dual preventative role of OO biophenols in diabetes and cancer, especially that they share similar risk factors. Putative antioxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms and associated gene expressions resulting from OO biophenols have produced paradoxical results, making suggested inferences from dual prevention T2D and cancer outcomes difficult. Well-designed human interventions and clinical trials are needed to decipher such a potential dual anticancer and antidiabetic effects of OO nutraceuticals. Exercise combined with OO consumption, individually or as part of a healthy diet is likely to induce reciprocal action for T2D prevention outcomes.

n-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation for the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease

BACKGROUND

Dry eye disease is a common chronic condition that is characterized by ocular discomfort and visual disturbances that decrease quality of life. Many clinicians recommend the use of supplements of n-3 fatty acids (often called omega-3 fatty acids) to relieve symptoms.

METHODS

In a multicenter, double-blind clinical trial, we randomly assigned patients with moderate-to-severe dry eye disease to receive a daily oral dose of 3000 mg of fish-derived n-3 eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids (active supplement group) or an olive oil placebo (placebo group). The primary outcome was the mean change from baseline in the score on the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI; scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity), which was based on the mean of scores obtained at 6 and 12 months. Secondary outcomes included mean changes per eye in the conjunctival staining score (ranging from 0 to 6) and the corneal staining score (ranging from 0 to 15), with higher scores indicating more severe damage to the ocular surface, as well as mean changes in the tear break-up time (seconds between a blink and gaps in the tear film) and the result on Schirmer's test (length of wetting of paper strips placed on the lower eyelid), with lower values indicating more severe signs.

RESULTS

A total of 349 patients were assigned to the active supplement group and 186 to the placebo group; the primary analysis included 329 and 170 patients, respectively. The mean change in the OSDI score was not significantly different between the active supplement group and the placebo group (-13.9 points and -12.5 points, respectively; mean difference in change after imputation of missing data, -1.9 points; 95% confidence interval [CI], -5.0 to 1.1; P=0.21). This result was consistent across prespecified subgroups. There were no significant differences between the active supplement group and the placebo group in mean changes from baseline in the conjunctival staining score (mean difference in change, 0.0 points; 95% CI, -0.2 to 0.1), corneal staining score (0.1 point; 95% CI, -0.2 to 0.4), tear break-up time (0.2 seconds; 95% CI, -0.1 to 0.5), and result on Schirmer's test (0.0 mm; 95% CI, -0.8 to 0.9). At 12 months, the rate of adherence to treatment in the active supplement group was 85.2%, according to the level of n-3 fatty acids in red cells. Rates of adverse events were similar in the two trial groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with dry eye disease, those who were randomly assigned to receive supplements containing 3000 mg of n-3 fatty acids for 12 months did not have significantly better outcomes than those who were assigned to receive placebo. (Funded by the National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health; DREAM ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02128763 .).

A Mixed Lipid Emulsion for Prevention of Parenteral Nutrition Associated Cholestasis in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants: A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether a mixed lipid emulsion reduces the incidence of parenteral nutrition associated cholestasis (PNAC) in extremely low birth weight (ELBW, <1000 g) infants.

STUDY DESIGN

This double-blind randomized trial of 230 ELBW infants (June 2012-October 2015) was performed at a single level IV neonatal intensive care unit. Patients received either a mixed lipid emulsion composed of soybean oil, medium chain triglycerides, olive oil, and fish oil-(intervention) or a soybean oil-based lipid emulsion (control) for parenteral nutrition. The primary outcome measure was PNAC (conjugated bilirubin >1.5 mg/dL [25 µmol/L] at 2 consecutive measurements). The study was powered to detect a reduction of PNAC from 25% to 10%.

RESULTS

Reasons for noneligibility of 274 infants screened were refusal to participate (n = 16), death (n = 10), withdrawal of treatment (n = 5), higher order multiples (n = 9), and parents not available for consent (n = 4). Intention to treat analysis was carried out in 223 infants (7 infants excluded after randomization). Parenteral nutrition associated cholestasis was 11 of 110 (10.1%) in the intervention and 18 of 113 (15.9%) in the control group (P = .20). Multivariable analyses showed no statistically significant difference in the intention to treat (aOR 0.428, 95% CI 0.155-1.187; P = .10) or per protocol population (aOR 0.457, 95% CI 0.155-1.347; P = .16). There was no statistically significant effect on any other neonatal morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of parenteral nutrition associated cholestasis was not significantly reduced using a mixed lipid emulsion in ELBW infants.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.govNCT01585935.

Extraction Method and Analysis of Cannabinoids in Cannabis Olive Oil Preparations

Recently, an increasing number of pharmacists had to supply medicinal products based on Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabaceae), prescribed by physicians to individual patients. Cannabis olive oil preparation is the first choice as a concentrated extract of cannabinoids, even though standardized operative conditions for obtaining it are still not available. In this work, the impact of temperature and extraction time on the concentration of active principles was studied to harmonize the different compounding methods, optimize the extraction process, and reduce the variability among preparations. Moreover, starting from the cannabis inflorescence, the effect of temperature on tetrahydrocannabinolic acid decarboxylation was evaluated. For the analysis, a GC/MS method, as suggested by the Italian Ministry of Health, and a GC/flame ionization detection method were developed, validated, and compared.

Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Plant Polyphenols

Beneficial effects of natural plant polyphenols on the human body have been evaluated in a number of scientific research projects. Bioactive polyphenols are natural compounds of various chemical structures. Their sources are mostly fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, roots, bark, leaves of different plants, herbs, whole grain products, processed foods (dark chocolate), as well as tea, coffee, and red wine. Polyphenols are believed to reduce morbidity and/or slow down the development of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases as well as cancer. Biological activity of polyphenols is strongly related to their antioxidant properties. They tend to reduce the pool of reactive oxygen species as well as to neutralize potentially carcinogenic metabolites. A broad spectrum of health-promoting properties of plant polyphenols comprises antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-atherogenic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-mutagenic effects. Scientific studies present the ability of polyphenols to modulate the human immune system by affecting the proliferation of white blood cells, and also the production of cytokines or other factors that participate in the immunological defense. The aim of the review is to focus on polyphenols of olive oil in context of their biological activities.

Protective Effect of Argan and Olive Oils against LPS-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Mice Livers

Sepsis causes severe dysregulation of organ functions, via the development of oxidative stress and inflammation. These pathophysiological mechanisms are mimicked in mice injected with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Here, protective properties of argan oil against LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation are explored in the murine model. Mice received standard chow, supplemented with argan oil (AO) or olive oil (OO) for 25 days, before septic shock was provoked with a single intraperitoneal injection of LPS, 16 hours prior to animal sacrifice. In addition to a rise in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, injected LPS also caused hepatotoxicity, accompanied by hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia and hyperuremia. These LPS-associated toxic effects were blunted by AO pretreatment, as corroborated by normal plasma parameters and cell stress markers (glutathione: GSH) and antioxidant enzymology (catalase, CAT; superoxide dismutase, SOD and glutathione peroxidase, GPx). Hematoxylin–eosin staining revealed that AO can protect against acute liver injury, maintaining a normal status, which is pointed out by absent or reduced LPS-induced hepatic damage markers (i.e., alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST)). Our work also indicated that AO displayed anti-inflammatory activity, due to down-regulations of genes encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) and in up-regulations of the expression of anti-inflammatory genes encoding Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and Interleukin-10 (IL-10). OO provided animals with similar, though less extensive, protective changes. Collectively our work adds compelling evidence to the protective mechanisms of AO against LPS-induced liver injury and hence therapeutic potentialities, in regard to the management of human sepsis. Activations of IL-4/Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (IL-4/PPARs) signaling and, under LPS, an anti-inflammatory IL-10/Liver X Receptor (IL-10/LXR) route, obviously indicated the high potency and plasticity of the anti-inflammatory properties of argan oil.

Interventions for cutaneous molluscum contagiosum

BACKGROUND

Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection that is caused by a pox virus and occurs mainly in children. The infection usually resolves within months in people without immune deficiency, but treatment may be preferred for social and cosmetic reasons or to avoid spreading the infection. A clear evidence base supporting the various treatments is lacking.This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2006, and updated previously in 2009.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of specific treatments and management strategies, including waiting for natural resolution, for cutaneous, non-genital molluscum contagiosum in people without immune deficiency.

SEARCH METHODS

We updated our searches of the following databases to July 2016: the Cochrane Skin Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and LILACS. We searched six trial registers and checked the reference lists of included studies and review articles for further references to relevant randomised controlled trials. We contacted pharmaceutical companies and experts in the field to identify further relevant randomised controlled trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials of any treatment of molluscum contagiosum in people without immune deficiency. We excluded trials on sexually transmitted molluscum contagiosum and in people with immune deficiency (including those with HIV infection).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies, assessed methodological quality, and extracted data from selected studies. We obtained missing data from study authors where possible.

MAIN RESULTS

We found 11 new studies for this update, resulting in 22 included studies with a total of 1650 participants. The studies examined the effects of topical (20 studies) and systemic interventions (2 studies).Among the new included studies were the full trial reports of three large unpublished studies, brought to our attention by an expert in the field. They all provided moderate-quality evidence for a lack of effect of 5% imiquimod compared to vehicle (placebo) on short-term clinical cure (4 studies, 850 participants, 12 weeks after start of treatment, risk ratio (RR) 1.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.92 to 1.93), medium-term clinical cure (2 studies, 702 participants, 18 weeks after start of treatment, RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.14), and long-term clinical cure (2 studies, 702 participants, 28 weeks after start of treatment, RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.17). We found similar but more certain results for short-term improvement (4 studies, 850 participants, 12 weeks after start of treatment, RR 1.14, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.47; high-quality evidence). For the outcome 'any adverse effect', we found high-quality evidence for little or no difference between topical 5% imiquimod and vehicle (3 studies, 827 participants, RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.07), but application site reactions were more frequent in the groups treated with imiquimod (moderate-quality evidence): any application site reaction (3 studies, 827 participants, RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.77, the number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) was 11); severe application site reaction (3 studies, 827 participants, RR 4.33, 95% CI 1.16 to 16.19, NNTH over 40).For the following 11 comparisons, there was limited evidence to show which treatment was superior in achieving short-term clinical cure (low-quality evidence): 5% imiquimod less effective than cryospray (1 study, 74 participants, RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.78) and 10% potassium hydroxide (2 studies, 67 participants, RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.93); 10% Australian lemon myrtle oil more effective than olive oil (1 study, 31 participants, RR 17.88, 95% CI 1.13 to 282.72); 10% benzoyl peroxide cream more effective than 0.05% tretinoin (1 study, 30 participants, RR 2.20, 95% CI 1.01 to 4.79); 5% sodium nitrite co-applied with 5% salicylic acid more effective than 5% salicylic acid alone (1 study, 30 participants, RR 3.50, 95% CI 1.23 to 9.92); and iodine plus tea tree oil more effective than tea tree oil (1 study, 37 participants, RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.57) or iodine alone (1 study, 37 participants, RR 0.07, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.50). Although there is some uncertainty, 10% potassium hydroxide appears to be more effective than saline (1 study, 20 participants, RR 3.50, 95% CI 0.95 to 12.90); homeopathic calcarea carbonica appears to be more effective than placebo (1 study, 20 participants, RR 5.57, 95% CI 0.93 to 33.54); 2.5% appears to be less effective than 5% solution of potassium hydroxide (1 study, 25 participants, RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.12 to 1.01); and 10% povidone iodine solution plus 50% salicylic acid plaster appears to be more effective than salicylic acid plaster alone (1 study, 30 participants, RR 1.43, 95% CI 0.95 to 2.16).We found no statistically significant differences for other comparisons (most of which addressed two different topical treatments). We found no randomised controlled trial evidence for expressing lesions or topical hydrogen peroxide.Study limitations included no blinding, many dropouts, and no intention-to-treat analysis. Except for the severe application site reactions of imiquimod, none of the evaluated treatments described above were associated with serious adverse effects (low-quality evidence). Among the most common adverse events were pain during application, erythema, and itching. Included studies of the following comparisons did not report adverse effects: calcarea carbonica versus placebo, 10% povidone iodine plus 50% salicylic acid plaster versus salicylic acid plaster, and 10% benzoyl peroxide versus 0.05% tretinoin.We were unable to judge the risk of bias in most studies due to insufficient information, especially regarding concealment of allocation and possible selective reporting. We considered five studies to be at low risk of bias.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

No single intervention has been shown to be convincingly effective in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum. We found moderate-quality evidence that topical 5% imiquimod was no more effective than vehicle in terms of clinical cure, but led to more application site reactions, and high-quality evidence that there was no difference between the treatments in terms of short-term improvement. However, high-quality evidence showed a similar number of general side effects in both groups. As the evidence found did not favour any one treatment, the natural resolution of molluscum contagiosum remains a strong method for dealing with the condition.

Randomized Controlled Trial of a MUFA or Fiber-Rich Diet on Hepatic Fat in Prediabetes

CONTEXT

Increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and prediabetes worldwide is attributed in part to an unhealthy diet.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether 12 weeks of high monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) or fiber-rich weight-maintenance diet lowers hepatic fat and improves glucose tolerance in people with prediabetes.

DESIGN

Subjects underwent a [6, 6-2H2]-labeled 75-g oral glucose tolerance test to estimate hepatic insulin sensitivity and liver fat fraction (LFF) using magnetic resonance spectroscopy before and after intervention.

SETTING

Mayo Clinic Clinical Research Trials Unit.

PARTICIPANTS

43 subjects with prediabetes.

INTERVENTION

Subjects were randomized into three isocaloric weight-maintaining diets containing MUFA (olive oil), extra fiber, and standard US food (control-habitual diet).

OUTCOME MEASURES

LFF, glucose tolerance, and indices of insulin action and secretion.

RESULTS

Body weight was maintained constant in all groups during the intervention. Glucose and hormonal concentrations were similar in all groups before, and unchanged after, 12 weeks of intervention. LFF was significantly lower after intervention in the MUFA group (P < 0.0003) but remained unchanged in the fiber (P = 0.25) and control groups (P = 0.45). After 12 weeks, LFF was significantly lower in the MUFA than in the control group (P = 0.01), but fiber and control groups did not differ (P = 0.41). Indices of insulin action and secretion were not significantly different between the MUFA and control groups after intervention (P ≥ 0.11), but within-group comparison showed higher hepatic (P = 0.01) and total insulin sensitivity (P < 0.04) with MUFA.

CONCLUSIONS

Twelve weeks of a MUFA diet decreases hepatic fat and improves both hepatic and total insulin sensitivity.

Olive oil bioactives protect pigs against experimentally-induced chronic inflammation independently of alterations in gut microbiota

Subclinical chronic inflammation (SCI) is associated with impaired animal growth. Previous work has demonstrated that olive-derived plant bioactives exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that could possibly counteract the growth-depressing effects of SCI. To test this hypothesis and define the underlying mechanism, we conducted a 30-day study in which piglets fed an olive-oil bioactive extract (OBE) and their control counterparts (C+) were injected repeatedly during the last 10 days of the study with increasing doses of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to induce SCI. A third group of piglets remained untreated throughout the study and served as a negative control (C-). In C+ pigs, SCI increased the circulating concentration of interleukin 1 beta (p < 0.001) and decreased feed ingestion (p < 0.05) and weight gain (p < 0.05). These responses were not observed in OBE animals. Although intestinal inflammation and colonic microbial ecology was not altered by treatments, OBE enhanced ileal mRNA abundance of tight and adherens junctional proteins (p < 0.05) and plasma recovery of mannitol (p < 0.05) compared with C+ and C-. In line with these findings, OBE improved transepithelial electrical resistance (p < 0.01) in TNF-α-challenged Caco-2/TC-7 cells, and repressed the production of inflammatory cytokines (p < 0.05) in LPS-stimulated macrophages. In summary, this work demonstrates that OBE attenuates the suppressing effect of SCI on animal growth through a mechanism that appears to involve improvements in intestinal integrity unrelated to alterations in gut microbial ecology and function.

Comparison Of Lipid Lowering Effect Of Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Atorvastatin In Dyslipidaemia In Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is fruit oil with rich source of monounsaturated fats and powerful antioxidants. It acts as hypolipidemic agent and significant decrease of plasma lipids level was observed with EVOO use. Atorvastatin is hypolipidemic drug commonly used for treatment of hyperlipidaemia. The purpose of this study was to determine & compare the lipid lowering effect of EVOO with atorvastatin in type 2 diabetic dyslipidaemia which is leading cause of microvascular diseases.

METHODS

This randomised controlled trial was conducted on 60 already diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus with dyslipidaemia. All sixty subjects were divided randomly into 2 groups. Atorvastatin 40 mg was given to Group One and two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil orally per day was given to Group Two. Blood was collected for estimation of plasma lipids level at base line, 4th week, and 6th weeks in two groups and was compared statistically.

RESULTS

The present study demonstrated 20-40% lipid lowering effect of atorvastatin on plasma lipids level with 9-16% increase in HDL while extra virgin olive oil showed 14-25% reduction in plasma lipids with 8-12% increase in HDL-cholesterol level.

CONCLUSIONS

This study concludes that both atorvastatin and extra virgin olive oil are effective in reducing plasma lipids level in type 2 diabetic dyslipidaemia with more prominent effect of atorvastatin than EVOO.

Phytochemical composition and in vitro anti-tumour activities of selected tomato varieties

BACKGROUND

Previous studies indicated that tomato is a rich source of phytochemicals that act on different tumours. In this research, the phytochemical composition of selected tomato varieties was assessed by GLC and UHPLC/HPLC-MS, as well as their anti-tumour activities on HT-29 colorectal cancer cells.

RESULTS

Significant differences were found among tomato varieties; lycopene was high in Racimo, phenolics in Pera, sterols in Cherry, and linoleic acid predominated in all varieties. The MTT and LDH assays showed significant time- and concentration-dependent inhibitory/cytotoxic effects of all tomato varieties on HT-29 cells. Furthermore, the joint addition of tomato carotenoids and olive oil to HT-29 cell cultures induced inhibitory effects significantly higher than those obtained from each of them acting separately, while no actions were exercised in CCD-18 normal cells.

CONCLUSION

Tomato fruits constitute a healthy source of phytochemicals, although differences exist among varieties. In vitro, all of them inhibit colorectal cancer cell proliferation with Racimo variety at the top, and exercising a selective action on cancer cells by considering the lack of effects on CCD-18 cells. Furthermore, synergy was observed between olive oil and tomato carotenoids in inhibiting HT-29 cancer cell proliferation; conversely, phenolics showed no significant effects and hindered carotenoids actions. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Reduced inattention and hyperactivity and improved cognition after marine oil extract (PCSO-524®) supplementation in children and adolescents with clinical and subclinical symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated the effects of a marine oil extract (PCSO-524®) on inattention, hyperactivity, mood and cognition in children and adolescents. PCSO-524® is a standardised lipid extract of the New Zealand green-lipped mussel and is an inflammatory modulator that inhibits the 5'-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase pathways and decreases concentrations of the pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid (AA).

METHODS

PCSO-524® or a matched placebo was administered for 14 weeks to 144 participants (123 males/21 females; mean age 8.7 years) with high hyperactivity and inattention in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The primary outcome was the Conners Parent Rating Scale assessing parental reports of behavioural problems. Secondary outcomes assessed changes in cognition and mood.

RESULTS

The results of the present study did not support the hypothesis that PCSO-524® improves parental reports of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity in children ages 6 to 14 years over placebo. Repeated measures ANOVA on post hoc subsample analysis indicated significant improvements in hyperactivity (p = 0.04), attention (p = 0.02), learning (p = 0.05) and probability of ADHD (p = 0.04) with a medium to large average effect size (d = 0.65) in those children who did not meet criteria for combined hyperactivity and inattention. Furthermore, significant improvements in the PCSO-524® group were indicated in a whole sample repeated measures ANCOVA on recognition memory between baseline and week 8 over placebo (p = 0.02, d = 0.56); this difference was not sustained at week 14.

CONCLUSIONS

The results presented indicate that PCSO-524® may be beneficial in reducing levels of hyperactivity and inattention in a population of children with clinical and subclinical symptoms of ADHD.

Protective effects of seabuckthorn pulp and seed oils against radiation-induced acute intestinal injury

Radiation-induced gastrointestinal syndrome, including nausea, diarrhea and dehydration, contributes to morbidity and mortality after medical or industrial radiation exposure. No safe and effective radiation countermeasure has been approved for clinical therapy. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of seabuckthorn pulp and seed oils against radiation-induced acute intestinal injury. C57/BL6 mice were orally administered seabuckthorn pulp oil, seed oil and control olive oil once per day for 7 days before exposure to total-body X-ray irradiation of 7.5 Gy. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were used for the measurement of apoptotic cells and proteins, inflammation factors and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases. Seabuckthorn oil pretreatment increased the post-radiation survival rate and reduced the damage area of the small intestine villi. Both the pulp and seed oil treatment significantly decreased the apoptotic cell numbers and cleaved caspase 3 expression. Seabuckthorn oil downregulated the mRNA level of inflammatory factors, including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-8. Both the pulp and seed oils elevated the level of phosphorylated extracellular-signal-regulated kinase and reduced the levels of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38. Palmitoleic acid (PLA) and alpha linolenic acid (ALA) are the predominant components of pulp oil and seed oil, respectively. Pretreatment with PLA and ALA increased the post-radiation survival time. In conclusion, seabuckthorn pulp and seed oils protect against mouse intestinal injury from high-dose radiation by reducing cell apoptosis and inflammation. ALA and PLA are promising natural radiation countermeasure candidates.

The Effects of Ozonated Olive Oil and Clotrimazole Cream for Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Context • Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the most common infection of the vulvovagina, which manifests with itching, a burning sensation, and leucorrhea. Some infections have been reported to be tolerant to conventional treatments, especially in immunosuppressed patients. New studies have suggested that ozone, which is the allotropic form of oxygen, may have antifungal effects. Objective • The study intended to compare the effects of ozononated olive oil and clotrimazole in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Design • Patients were randomly assigned either to an ozone group or to a clotrimazole group in a randomized, controlled trial. Setting • The study took place in the Department of Gynecology of the School of Medicine at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Mashhad, Iran. Participants • Participants were 100 female patients who had been referred to the women's gynecology clinic at the Omolbanin and Ghaem Hospitals and who had confirmed vulvovaginal candidiasis. Intervention • Patients in the ozone group were treated with ozonated olive oil or those in the clotrimazole group were treated with clotrimazole for 7 d. Outcome Measures • Patients were evaluated through an interview and a paraclinical examination at baseline and postintervention. The study measured changes in itching, burning, and leucorrhea using a questionnaire that patients completed at the end of the study and determined the presence of an infection with vaginal candidiasis through a culture both before acceptance into the study and after the treatments, if accepted. Results • Ozone and clotrimazole both reduced symptoms significantly and led to a negative culture for vaginal candidiasis (P < .05). No significant differences existed between the 2 groups in their effects on the symptom of itching and leucorrhea and on the results of the culture (P > .05). However, clotrimazole decreased the burning sensation significantly more than did ozone (P < .05). Conclusions • Considering the potential efficacy of ozonated olive oil in the improvement of the clinical and paraclinical aspects of treatment of patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis, the research team suggests that the treatment can be an effective topical treatment for those patients.

[Treatment of interdigital foot Erythrasma with ozonated olive oil]

BACKGROUND

Erythrasma is caused by Corinebacterium minutissimum producing a porphyrin that with Wood's light emits a coral-red fluorescence. It is the most common bacterial infection of the feet. Ozonated olive oil decreases the cytoplasm and damages bacterial proteins and lipids. Treatment is with oral erythromycin and there is no consensus regarding the topical therapy of choice. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of ozonated olive oil in a pilot trial for Erythrasma.

METHODS

Experimental, open, observational, descriptive, longitudinal clinical trial at the section of Mycology, of the General Hospital "Dr. Manuel Gea González".

PATIENTS

10 individuals with interdigital feet Erythrasma.

INTERVENTION

ozonated olive oil every 12 hours for 10 days was given.

RESULTS

All patients had disappearance of coral-red fluorescence, erythema, fissures, pruritus, and maceration; two patients persisted with scaling. A cure was obtained in 100 % of patients, similar to oral erythromycin response.

CONCLUSIONS

Ozonated olive oil is a good topical treatment option for interdigital Erythrasma avoiding oral medications. Larger studies are required.

Two Healthy Diets Modulate Gut Microbial Community Improving Insulin Sensitivity in a Human Obese Population

CONTEXT

Gut microbiota, which acts collectively as a fully integrated organ in the host metabolism, can be shaped by long-term dietary interventions after a specific diet.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to study the changes in microbiota after 1 year's consumption of a Mediterranean diet (Med diet) or a low-fat, high-complex carbohydrate diet (LFHCC diet) in an obese population.

DESIGN

Participants were randomized to receive the Med diet (35% fat, 22% monounsaturated) and the LFHCC diet (28% fat, 12% monounsaturated).

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

The study was conducted in 20 obese patients (men) within the Coronary Diet Intervention With Olive Oil and Cardiovascular Prevention (CORDIOPREV) study, an ongoing prospective, randomized, opened, controlled trial in patients with coronary heart disease.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

We evaluated the bacterial composition and its relationship with the whole fecal and plasma metabolome.

RESULTS

The LFHCC diet increased the Prevotella and decreased the Roseburia genera, whereas the Med diet decreased the Prevotella and increased the Roseburia and Oscillospira genera (P = .028, .002, and .016, respectively). The abundance of Parabacteroides distasonis (P = .025) and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (P = .020) increased after long-term consumption of the Med diet and the LFHCC diet, respectively. The changes in the abundance of 7 of 572 metabolites found in feces, including mainly amino acid, peptide, and sphingolipid metabolism, could be linked to the changes in the gut microbiota.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that long-term consumption of the Med and LFHCC diets exerts a protective effect on the development of type 2 diabetes by different specific changes in the gut microbiota, increasing the abundance of the Roseburia genus and F. prausnitzii, respectively.

Individually modifiable risk factors to ameliorate cognitive aging: a systematic review and meta-analysis

A number of health and lifestyle factors are thought to contribute to cognitive decline associated with age but cannot be easily modified by the individual patient. We identified 12 individually modifiable interventions that can be implemented during midlife or later with the potential to ameliorate cognitive aging. For ten of these, we used PubMed databases for a systematic review of long-duration (at least 6 months), randomized, controlled trials in midlife and older adults without dementia or mild cognitive impairment with objective measures of neuropsychological performance. Using network meta-analysis, we performed a quantitative synthesis for global cognition (primary outcome) and episodic memory (secondary outcome). Of 1038 publications identified by our search strategy, 24 eligible trials were included in the network meta-analysis. Results suggested that the Mediterranean diet supplemented by olive oil and tai chi exercise may improve global cognition, and the Mediterranean diet plus olive oil and soy isoflavone supplements may improve memory. Effect sizes were no more than small (standardized mean differences 0.11-0.22). Cognitive training may have cognitive benefit as well. Most individually modifiable risk factors have not yet been adequately studied. We conclude that some interventions that can be self-initiated by healthy midlife and older adults may ameliorate cognitive aging.

Olive oil and its phenolic compounds (hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol) ameliorated TCDD-induced heptotoxicity in rats via inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis

CONTEXT

Naturally occurring polyphenols including olive oil (OO) and its constituents hydroxytyrosol (HT) and tyrosol (TY), consumed in the Mediterranean diet, have shown to treat various ailments due to their remarkable antioxidant properties.

OBJECTIVE

The present study investigates the hepatoprotective effects of OO and its phenolic compounds HT and TY against TCDD-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

TCDD was administered at a dose of 100 ng/kg p.o. for 20 d. Administration of OO (10 ml/kg; oral), HT (0.5 mg/kg; oral), and TY (30 mg/kg; i.p) was started 5 d prior to TCDD administration, and continued for 25 d with or without TCDD administration. At the end of the experiment (25 d), blood was taken for biochemical analyses and liver for the measurement of macromolecular damages, antioxidant status, expressions of CYP1A1, and apoptotic factors.

RESULTS

TCDD administration resulted in significant (p < 0.05) increase in the level of hepatic stress markers ALT (101.6 ± 3.07 IU/l), AST (295.0 ± 3.0 IU/l), and ALP (266.66 ± 3.7 IU/l). Also, biochemical analyses of liver reported elevation in nitrite and protein carbonyl content and depletion of NQO1 and HO. However, OO, HT, and TY restored the antioxidant status. Protein expressions by Western Blot technique showed an increase in the level of CYP1A1 and Bax and a decreased level of Bcl-2 on TCDD treatment, and vice versa on OO, HT, and TY treatment.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our work concludes that dietary supplementation of OO, HT, and TY could serve as a potential preventive drug for TCDD-induced hepatotoxicity.

Topical olive oil is not inferior to hyperoxygenated fatty aids to prevent pressure ulcers in high-risk immobilised patients in home care. Results of a multicentre randomised triple-blind controlled non-inferiority trial

Pressure ulcers represent a major current health problem and produce an important economic impact on the healthcare system. Most of studies to prevent pressure ulcers have been carried out in hospital contexts, with respect to the use of hyperoxygenated fatty acids and to date, no studies have specifically examined the use of olive oil-based substances.

METHODS AND DESIGN

Main objective: To assess the effectiveness of the use of olive oil, comparing it with hyperoxygenated fatty acids, for immobilised home-care patients at risk of suffering pressure ulcers. Design: Non-inferiority, triple-blind, parallel, multicentre, randomised clinical trial. Scope: Population attending Primary Healthcare Centres in Andalusia (Spain). Sample: 831 immobilised patients at risk of suffering pressure ulcers.

RESULTS

The follow-up period was 16 weeks. Groups were similar after randomization. In the per protocol analysis, none of the body areas evaluated presented risk differences for pressure ulcers incidence that exceeded the 10% delta value established. Sacrum: Olive Oil 8 (2.55%) vs HOFA 8 (3.08%), ARR 0.53 (-2.2 to 3.26) Right heel: Olive Oil 4 (1.27%) vs HOFA 5 (1.92)%, ARR0.65 (-1.43 to 2.73). Left heel: Olive Oil 3 (0.96%) vs HOFA 3 (1.15%), ARR0.2 (-1.49 to 1.88). Right trochanter: Olive Oil 0 (0%) vs HOFA 4 (1.54%), ARR1.54 (0.04 to 3.03). Left trochanter: Olive Oil 1 (0.32%) vs HOFA 1 (0.38%), ARR0.07 (-0.91 to 1.04). In the intention to treat analysis the lower limit of the established confidence interval was never exceeded.

DISCUSSION

The results obtained confirmed that the use of topical extra-virgin olive oil to prevent PU in the home environment, for immobilised patients at high risk, is not inferior to the use of HOFA. Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanism by which olive oil achieves this outcome.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01595347.