Objective: The third most important cause of mortality in children under 5 is loss of fluid and electrolytes during acute diarrhea. Although changes in serum sodium (Na), potassium (K), and chloride (Cl) levels in the course of acute diarrhea are well known, there is a scarcity of knowledge in regards to levels of trace elements. In this study, we aimed to evaluate serum trace element levels in children with acute diarrhea. Materials and methods: The study, in our center, prospectively included 79 patients with acute diarrhea, aged 6 months to 5 years, and 40 age-and sex-matched healthy children. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, routine laboratory tests, and trace element levels of children in both groups were compared. Results: The mean age of the patients was 33.6 +/- 18.4 months and 59.5% (n = 47) were male. There was no difference between the patient group and healthy children in terms of age, sex, and sociodemographic characteristics. The causative agent in the stool was detected in 11.4% of the patients (6.3% rotavirus, 3.8% adenovirus, 1.3% Campylobacter jejuni). Serum pH, HCO3, Cl, copper (Cu), magnesium (Mg), molybdenum (Mo), sodium (Na), and zinc (Zn) levels were lower in patients compared to healthy children (p = 0.008, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, 0.002, 0.008, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Only serum aluminum (Al) and manganese (Mn) levels were higher in patients compared to healthy chil dren (p = 0.028 and p < 0.001). Conclusion: It was observed that the levels of many of the trace elements, which have critical roles in our body, changed during acute diarrhea. Awareness of impaired homeostasis will be important in preventing possible morbidity and mortality.
Objective: Magnesium (Mg) infusion has been used as a therapeutic option for sudden hearing loss for more than 10 years. Nevertheless, data on the actual Mg status of affected patients are lacking. This study investigated serum Mg concentrations in patients presenting with sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Materials and methods: Serum Mg concentrations were measured in all patients hospitalized for sud-den hearing loss at the ENT Department in Nordhausen, Germany. A total of 39 patients (18 female, 21 male; median age 63 years, range 27-88) were included. Serum Mg levels were correlated with calculated hearing loss (in %) and with frequency-specific hearing loss (in dB) at 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 Hz (difference compared to the unaffected ear). Results: Mean serum Mg con-centration was 0.87 +/- 0.05 mmol/L, within the normal reference range. No correlation was observed between serum Mg and over-all hearing loss (in %) or frequency-specific loss. However, a significantly higher rate of total hearing loss (defined as >= 100 dB differ-ence to the normal ear) occurred in patients with Mg levels >= 0.90 mmol/L (p = 0.002, chi(2 )= 10.04). In the >= 0.90 mmol/L group, 10 frequencies showed total hearing loss com-pared with 4 frequencies in patients with Mg < 0.90 mmol/L. Conclusion: Elevated se-rum Mg levels may represent a risk factor for sudden deafness. Further controlled studies are necessary to re-evaluate the therapeutic relevance of Mg supplementation in sudden hearing loss.
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the serum levels of homocysteine, folate, vitamin B12, magnesium, and iron in patients diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease and to evaluate the potential benefit of these parameters in the diagnosis and follow-up of the disease. Materials and methods: A total of 50 patients were included in the study: 25 patients diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease (group I) and 25 completely healthy individuals (group II). Serum homocysteine, vitamin B12, iron, and magnesium levels were assessed. Magnesium and iron levels were measured using colorimetric methods, homocysteine levels using the ELISA method, vitamin B12 and folate levels using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Results: No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of age. Homocysteine levels were statistically significantly higher in group I than in group II. Vitamin B12, folate, iron, and magnesium levels were statistically significantly lower in group I than in group II. Conclusion: Homocysteine, vitamin B12, folate, iron, and magnesium levels can be used as biomarkers in the diagnosis and follow-up of cerebrovascular disease and may also play a role in the pathogenesis of cerebrovascular disease.
Objective: This research aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of zoledronic acid (ZA) combined with elcatonin (ECT) in the treatment of osteoporosis (OP) and their effects on bone metabolism, inflammatory response, and bone mineral density. Materials and methods: A total of 108 OP patients were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 54 each). Group A received ZA plus ECT, while group B was treated with ZA alone. Outcomes assessed before and after treatment included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS), serum inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha, IL-1, IL-6), bone metabolism indicators (P1NP, BALP, beta-CTX, and TRACP), blood calcium and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), and T-scores of lumbar spine (L1-L4) and femoral neck bone mineral density. Clinical efficacy and adverse events were also recorded. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements after treatment; however, group A exhibited greater reductions in ODI, VAS, and inflammatory markers, alongside more favorable changes in bone turnover markers (higher P1NP and BALP, lower beta-CTX and TRACP) and higher levels of blood calcium and serum 25(OH)D. Bone density Tscores at L1-L4 and the femoral neck increased significantly in both groups, with higher gains observed in group A. The total effective rate was higher in group A (94.44%) than in group B (79.63%, p < 0.05), with no significant difference in adverse event rates. Conclusion: Combined therapy with ZA and ECT offers superior benefits over ZA alone in reducing inflammation, enhancing bone metabolism, and improving bone density in patients with osteoporosis, without increasing adverse events.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional characteristics of commercially available plant-based meat substitutes in comparison with conventional meat products, focusing on their poroximate composition, mineral content, and dietary fiber. Materials and methods: A total of 22 plant-based meat products (patties, nuggets, and tuna types) and 24 conventional meat products were analyzed. The proximate composition was examined using nutrition labeling data, while 10 mineral elements were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and dietary fiber was analyzed using the enzymatic-gravimetric method. Results: The energy, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol contents were significantly lower in the plant-based meat substitutes than in the conventional meat products. In contrast, the levels of calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and chromium were significantly higher in the plant-based meat substitutes. The zinc content was significantly lower in the plantbased patties than in the conventional meat patties. The dietary fiber content was significantly greater in all types of plant-based meats compared with their conventional counterparts. Conclusion: These findings highlight the nutritional advantages of plantbased meat substitutes, particularly in terms of mineral and dietary fiber content. However, the lower zinc levels observed in some plant-based products suggest the need for further research on zinc bioavailability and for optimization of mineral balance in plantbased meat substitutes.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, typically diagnosed in childhood and potentially persisting into adulthood. While genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors contribute to ADHD, its precise causes remain unclear. Environmental factors, including prenatal exposure to neurotoxic metals, may increase the risk of developing the disorder. This study aimed to investigate the potential association between lead and cadmium exposure, alongside other environmental risk factors, and ADHD in children from the city of Marrakech, Morocco. The study included 42 children, divided into two groups: 21 children diagnosed with ADHD according to DSM-5 criteria and Conners' scale, and 21 healthy controls with no history of psychiatric or medical conditions. Parents completed questionnaires on environmental risk factors, and hair samples were collected for analysis using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS). Our results revealed significant associations between ADHD and prenatal exposure to environmental pollutants, including proximity to industrial zones, heavy traffic, and maternal exposure to paint and toxic products. Additionally, children with ADHD had significantly higher median levels of lead (2.670 & micro;g/g) and cadmium (0.12 & micro;g/g) in their hair compared to controls. The risk of developing ADHD was 1.46 times higher for lead and 1.33 times higher for cadmium. Sex analysis showed that boys with ADHD had higher levels of these metals than girls, suggesting a potential sex influence on heavy metal accumulation and ADHD development. Our findings support previous research suggesting that heavy metals may contribute to the development of ADHD. Further research is necessary to explore the underlying mechanisms of these associations.
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the leading global causes of death and disability. Its incidence and mortality rates are on the rise, particularly in developing countries. AMI involves a complex interplay of traditional risk factors like atherosclerosis and coronary artery spasms, along with various environmental factors. Trace elements, essential for numerous physiological processes such as redox reactions, immune regulation, and enzyme activity maintenance, can influence AMI risk when their levels are abnormal. They may promote AMI development through mechanisms like inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. Studies indicate a significant link between environmental trace elements (e.g., lead, cadmium, arsenic) and cardiovascular event risk, while essential elements like copper, iron, and zinc also play crucial roles. Despite existing research, evidence remains scattered and mechanisms are not fully understood. This paper reviews recent advances in understanding the relationship between trace elements and AMI, focusing on potential mechanisms and epidemiological links, to provide a theoretical basis for AMI prevention and intervention.
Objective: Few studies have systematically analyzed how mineral content varies among unprocessed, processed, and ultra-processed foods on the basis of the degree of processing. The aim of this study was to assess changes in caloric and mineral content according to food processing levels. Materials and methods: In this study, 107,436 processed foods were classified into processed and ultra-processed categories using data from the Integrated Food Nutrient Database provided by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in Korea. Their calorie, fat, sugar, and sodium content were compared and evaluated. Additionally, processed and ultra-processed products derived from 5 unprocessed foods-tomato, banana, potato, egg, and chicken-were selected and analyzed. The caloric and nutrient content were assessed using the Association of Official Analytical Collaboration (AOAC) standard methods and nutrition labeling data, whereas 14 minerals were measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to evaluate changes associated with processing. Results: Ultra-processed foods contained significantly higher levels of energy, carbohydrates, fat, sugars, and sodium but significantly lower protein content than processed foods. The mean energy, carbohydrate, fat, and sodium content of the five selected food types varied significantly depending on the level of processing, with ultra-processed foods exhibiting significantly higher values than unprocessed or processed foods. The mineral content tended to decrease with the degree of processing, with significant reductions observed in the molybdenum content and magnesium nutrient density. Conclusion: These results suggest that as food undergoes greater processing, its nutritional quality declines, particularly in terms of mineral content.
Acute exacerbations are the main cause of death from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Understanding the importance and incidence dysnatremias and dyskalemias in inpatients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) may contribute to the development of innovative approaches and increased awareness aimed at improving the prognosis COPD patients. The objective in this study was to find out how common hypo-/hypernatremia and hypo-/hyperkalemia were, as well as how they affected patient outcomes in hospitalized patients with an AE-COPD diagnosis. For the patients admission and screening between January 1, 2015 January 1, 2022, patients admitted to University of Health Sciences Dr. Suat Seren Chest Diseases and Surgery Education and Training Hospital inpatient services with the diagnosis of AECOPD were screened. To investigate the ways sodium (Na) and potassium (K) challenges affect patient outcome, data on ICU admission, requirement for mechanical ventilation, length of hospital stay, 60-day re-admission, in-hospital mortality, and long-term mortality were analyzed patients with AECOPD. A total of 810 hospitalized AECOPD patients were included the analysis retrospectively. The mean age was 67.7 with a 85% male dominance with a mean FEV1 37%. Patients with hyponatremia were 1.5 times more likely to die than patients with normal Na levels. Patients with hyperkalemia have a 1.7-fold increased risk of mortality compared to patients with normal K levels. In the multivariate regression analysis of the model created with these parameters, it was revealed that being over 66.5 years of age, having a Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) of 2 and above, having an FEV1 value of less than 1.17 L, male gender, and having hyponatremia and hyperkalemia were the most important risk factors for mortality. This study demonstrated the impact of hyponatremia or hyperkalemia on mortality in AECOPD patients admitted for exacerbation. Therefore, it would seem appropriate to monitor hyponatremic or hyperkalemic AECOPD patients, determine the exact etiology, and, while prospective study is still needed, restore plasma Na and K levels to normal as soon as is practicable
Objective: Heavy metals may cause the autoimmune disease Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) with intrathyroidal lymphocytic infiltration resulting from antibodies against thyroglobulin and/or thyroid peroxidase. This study aimed to investigate whether the blood cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) levels are associated with HT. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective study including 126 non-HT controls and 69 HT patients. The blood samples were solubilized by acidic digestion, and Pb and Cd isotopes were analyzed in these samples using an inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The data obtained from the device were statistically evaluated using SIMCA (soft independent methodology of cluster analysis) software. Results: SIMCA analysis showed that there was a significant difference between the mean blood Cd levels of HT patients compared to that of non-HT patients. However, blood Pb levels were not significantly different in HT patients compared to the control group. Conclusion: We suggest an etiological correlation between blood Cd levels and HT. However, prospective and multicenter studies are needed to support this proposition.
Objective: In modern society, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods has been associated with lower dietary quality. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between intake of ultra-processed foods and nutrient intake, with a focus on minerals, in young adults. Materials and methods: A dietary intake survey using the 24-hour recall method was conducted with 468 Korean adults aged 20-30 years. The study analyzed the intake of ultra-processed foods on the basis of the NOVA food group classification, along with the intake of nutrients and minerals. The association between intake of ultra-processed foods and mineral intake was assessed using an unpaired t-test, which compared groups categorized by the 25% level of ultra-processed food intake relative to total food intake, as well as partial correlation analysis between the intake values. Results: The >= 25% group had higher energy and sodium intakes, whereas the < 25% group had significantly higher potassium and zinc intake. The dietary intake values of fiber, protein, fat, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc were significantly negatively associated with the intake of ultra-processed foods, both before and after adjusting for confounding variables. Conclusion: Daily energy and sodium intake values were greater in those who consumed more ultra-processed foods than in those who consumed less, whereas the daily intake values of fiber and minerals, such as potassium and zinc, were lower. These results suggest an association between increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and lower overall dietary quality.
Objective: Magnesium is an essential element for bone health. Magnesium deficiency can significantly affect the prognosis of total hip arthroplasty (THA) owing to its influence on bone density. Magnesium status is usually determined by measuring total serum magnesium levels; however, the biologically active form is ionized magnesium. This study investigated the incidence of hypomagnesemia based on serum ionized and total magnesium levels. Materials and methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 356 patients who underwent revision THA between January 2012 and June 2023. The incidence of hypomagnesemia was compared according to two definitions: ionized magnesium < 0.45 mmol/L and total magnesium < 0.62 mmol/L. Additionally, we analyzed the correlation between ionized and total magnesium levels, other laboratory parameters (glomerular filtration rate, albumin, 25-hydroxy vitamin D3, and parathyroid hormone levels), and the length of hospital stay. Results: Of the patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty during the study period, 126 were excluded, and the data of the remaining 230 patients were included in the analysis. The incidence of hypomagnesemia based on ionized magnesium levels was 17.4%, whereas no hypomagnesemia was observed when classified according to total magnesium levels (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the ionized and total magnesium levels were not significantly correlated (r = 0.271, p = 0.001). There were no laboratory parameters related to serum magnesium level. Although the difference was not significant, the length of the hospital stay increased as ionized magnesium levels decreased. Conclusion: The incidence of hypomagnesemia was significantly higher when the ionized magnesium level was used than the total magnesium level, with no correlation observed between the ionized and total magnesium levels.
Objective: To prevent osteoporosis, increasing the peak bone mass that is reached in early adulthood is very important. With the high level of consumption of processed foods, there is a growing concern about the imbalance of minerals related to bone health. This study aimed to evaluate dietary mineral intake in young adults and determine its association with bone mineral density (BMD). Materials and methods: A total of 100 adults in their 20 - 30s participated in the study. The dietary intake survey was conducted using a 24-hour recall method, and the calcaneal BMD was measured using ultrasound device. Results: In terms of the BMD T-score, 55.0% of the subjects were normal, 39.0% had osteopenia and 6.0% had osteoporosis, and the proportions of individuals with osteoporosis and osteopenia were significantly greater in women than in men (p < 0.01). Daily energy intake was significantly greater in men than in women (p < 0.01), and the intake of phosphorus (p < 0.05), sodium (p < 0.05), and zinc (p < 0.01) was also significantly greater in men. The average calcium to phosphorus intake ratio was 0.44. The sodium to potassium ratio was 1.86. The zinc to copper ratio was 23.4. BMD was significantly positively associated with the sodium to potassium ratio and significantly negatively associated with the calcium to phosphorus ratio. However, when adjusted for sex, age, BMI, energy intake, and exercise frequency, there were no significant associations between mineral intake, the calcium to phosphorus ratio, or the sodium to potassium ratio and BMD. Conclusion: This study suggests that current dietary intake ratios of calcium to phosphorus and sodium to potassium are more strongly associated with BMD in young adults than is individual mineral intake. Future structured intervention studies are needed to clarify these associations in early adulthood during the period when peak bone mass is reached.
Background/Aim: Ventricular tachycardia (VT) episodes in non-ischemic cardiomyopathy are a very challenging condition. We aimed to reduce implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) shock in this group of patients with oral magnesium (Mg) therapy. Materials and methods: A total of 17 patients who underwent ICD implantation for non-ischemic cardiomyopathy and presented with frequent shocks were included in the study. In addition to standard treatment, Mg therapy was added to these patients and their ICD shock status was evaluated. Result: A significant decrease in the number of ICD shocks before and after treatment was detected, and statistical significance was observed (3.41 (1 - 7) vs. 0.47 (0 - 2) p = 0.001). The other important finding was a significant decrease in anti-tachycardia pace therapy, which was statistically significant (3.76 (1 - 15) vs. 2.71 (0 - 10) p = 0.013). In line with these two positive results, VT was found to decrease. Conclusion: Oral Mg treatment in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy who underwent ICD shock due to VT episodes reduced VT episodes in addition to standard treatment.
Heart rate variability (HRV), defined as variation in the time interval between successive heartbeats, is caused by both competing branches of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) sending synchronously opposing signals to the heart. When the ANS is in balance, the myocardium is constantly prompted to beat slower by the parasympathetic branch (PS) and faster by the sympathetic branch (S). A lowered HRV indicates an increased risk of sudden cardiac death and increased mortality. Although coronary artery disease (CAD) is commonly associated with atherosclerotic plaques, new evidence seems to suggest that many, if not most, patients with chronic CAD have unobstructed epicardial coronary arteries, making the assumption more plausible that further risk factors may also play a predominant role as a cause for CAD, such as: 1. coronary spasms; 2. rhythmic contractions induced in smooth muscle cells (SMC) by vascular pacemakers; 3. reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO); and 4. an arrhythmic "vasomotion" occurring in precapillary arterioles. Several experimental findings performed with isolated coronary vessels taken from various animal species and also from humans as well as clinical observations, have shown that the reactivity of the coronary vessels to acetylcholine (ACh) is generally more pronounced than the corresponding noradrenergic one, pointing thus to a crucial role of the parasympathetic nervous system in triggering coronary spasms. On the other hand, the administration of the parasympathomimetic methacholine in order to diagnose spasms seems to bring evidence for the pivotal role of the parasympathetic nervous system in the etiology of spastic angina. Main aim of this minireview is to show that the endothelium of the coronary vessels permanently produces several vasodilators (i.e., prostaglandin (PG), NO, endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor), whose physiological function is to compensate for and block life- threatening vagal-induced coronary spasms. CAD therapy with NO donors is fundamentally causal, their use seems therefore to be obvious; however, Mg ions as an adjunct might also be of great advantage and should not be underestimated. Reduced production of NO, a gaseous transmitter that is normally processed as signals by the adjacent SMCs, leads to increased coronary tone, shifting thus the balance towards the parasympathetic nervous system. It might therefore be expected that a reduced HRV would result from a pronounced endothelial dysfunction occurring in the coronary blood circulation; this in association with an increased parasympathetic tone would lead to a growing mortality incidence.
Purpose: The aim of this prospective study is to examine whether heavy metal and trace element levels in the hair of patients with breast cancer have prognostic and predictive value. Materials and methods: Patients with stage III breast cancer who presented to Kayseri City Education and Research Hospital Radiation Oncology Polyclinic were included in the study. The relationship between demographic and clinicopathological parameters and 37 trace elements was evaluated. Results: 52 patients were included in the study, and the average age was 40.7 years. 42.3% of the cases were T2 according to the TNM staging system, 51.9% were N2 according to the TNM staging system, 51.9% were stage 3, 61.5% were estrogen receptor (ER) positive, and 63.5% were progesterone receptor (PR) positive. The median overall survival (OS) was 71.3 months, and the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 61.9 months. Expression of HER2 proteins and chemotherapy were factors affecting OS and PFS. In univariate analysis, factors that had a statistically significant effect on OS were expression of HER2 proteins, chemotherapy, and Rb. In univariate analysis, the factors that had a statistically significant effect on OS were expression of Her 2 proteins, chemotherapy, and Rb. in univariate analysis PFS were Her 2 protein expression, chemotherapy, silver (Ag), lead (Pb) and rubidium (Rb). In multivariate analysis, OS was statistically significantly affected by the expression of HER2 proteins (p = 0.017, OR: 0.1; 95%:0.0 - 0.69). PFS was statistically significantly affected by chemotherapy (p = 0.013, OR: 0.1; 95%: 0.0 - 06) and Rb (p = 0.015, OR: 0.0; 95%: 0.0 - 0.2). Conclusion: In our study, the expression of HER2 proteins was seen to be a factor affecting OS. Chemotherapy and Rb were found to be factors affecting PFS.
Objective: Caffeine, sugars, and sodium, the main ingredients in beverages, are thought to be associated with a variety of health problems. The purpose of this study was to assess the caffeine, sugar, and sodium contents of commercial caffeinated beverages. Materials and methods: A total of 372 caffeinated beverages from online and offline stores were examined, and categorized into 6 types: caffeinated coffee, caff & egrave; lattes, decaffeinated coffee, tea, chocolate drinks, and energy drinks. Nutritional information relating to caffeine, sugar, and sodium contents was assessed according to the types of caffeinated beverages. Results: The energy per serving of caffeinated beverages was significantly higher for chocolate drinks, at 414 kcal, and lower for energy drinks, at 92.8 kcal. The chocolate drinks had the highest protein and saturated fat contents, whereas the caff & egrave; lattes had the highest carbohydrate, fat, and cholesterol contents. The average contents of caffeine, sugars, and sodium per serving of the 372 caffeinated beverages were 131 mg, 21.7 g, and 97.1 mg, which were 32.7%, 21.7%, and 4.86% of the reference values, respectively. The caffeine content was highest in caffeinated coffee and caff & egrave; lattes, the sugar content was highest in chocolate drinks, and the sodium content was highest in chocolate drinks, caff & egrave; lattes, and energy drinks. In addition, there was a significant positive correlation between sugar content and sodium content in the caffeinated beverages. Conclusion: The caffeine, sugar, and sodium contents of different types of caffeinated beverages vary significantly. Therefore, consumers should select caffeinated beverages on the basis of not only the caffeine content but also the basis of the contents of nutrients such as sugars and sodium.
Purpose: The aim of this study is to determine the relationship of serum Se, Zn, and Cu levels with response to treatment and survival in patients who received chemoradiation for stage 3B non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Materials and methods: 50 patients who underwent definitive chemoradiation for lung cancer were included in this prospective study. Blood samples were taken from cancer patients before radiotherapy and on the last day of radiotherapy to check trace elements. Cu, Zn, and Se levels in serum were measured using the inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry method. The patients' response to treatment, overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS) were examined. The relationship between these data and trace element levels was investigated. Results: 46 male and 4 female patients were included in this study. The average age was 59.5 years. The most common histology was squamous cell carcinoma. In the evaluation of response to treatment, stable disease was detected in 30% of the patients, and progression was detected in 48% of the patients. OS was 15.1 +/- 1.4 (12.3 - 17.8) months, 2-year survival was 57%, and 3-year survival was 35%. PFS was found to be 9.6 +/- 1.1 (7.4 - 11.8) months, 64% at 2 years, and 36% at 3 years. Nine patients died due to cancer or non- cancer reasons. Local recurrence and/or distant metastasis was detected in 14 cases. There was a difference in serum Se levels measured before and after radiotherapy (p = 0.017). In univariate and multivariate analysis, body mass (p = 0.027, p = 0.005) was found to be the factor that had a statistically significant effect on OS and PFS. It was observed that Se, Zn, and Cu, measured in serum before and after radiotherapy, had no effect on overall survival and PFS. Conclusion: In our study, it was seen that Zn, Se, and Cu levels measured in serum before and after radiotherapy had no relationship with survival or response to treatment.
Objective: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a disease with many challenges that impact nutrition intake. The aim of this pilot study was to assess nutritional problems and deficiencies of micronutrients during AML treatment to gain data for further and larger studies. Materials and methods: A questionnaire asked about food intake and symptomatic problems over 7 days. Blood analyses on selected micronutrients, albumin, and urea were collected at 3 fixed timepoints. A questionnaire was used to assess patient-reported data on nutrition and symptomatic problems during ongoing treatment for a pilot cohort of in-patients at a university hospital. This questionnaire was completed by the patients two times during the treatment (at the beginning of the induction therapy and after readmission for consolidation therapy). Also, blood samples were taken at 3 timepoints (at the beginning, at the end, and after readmission for consolidation therapy) and checked for selected micronutrients (vitamin B12, vitamin D, folic acid, vitamin B6, iron, and calcium) and substances synthesized in the body (albumin and urea). Results: 16 patients participated in the study. The patients ate on average 64% of their ordered menus. The assessment of the ordered menus in dicated that the average of all investigated micronutrients was below the recommended reference levels of the German Nutrition Society. The patients' vitamin B6 levels and the albumin concentration were below the reference range. In contrast, some patients had increased vitamin B12 levels. Conclusion: Diagnosis and treatment of AML have a strong impact on eating habits of patients. Physicians should pay close attention to nutrition status in order to prevent malnutrition. Further studies to verify these data and to assess whether nutrition medicine may prevent malnutrition in this setting are necessary.
In Xuanwei and Fuyuan, located in the southwest of Yunnan province, China, an exceptionally high incidence of lung cancer has been observed. Although numerous factors have been investigated, the association between lung cancer and trace elements lacks sufficient exploration. In this study, 190 plasma samples from local lung cancer patients and a control group were collected. Microwave digestion method was used for sample pretreatment. ICP-MS was used to quantify concentrations of 30 trace elements. This analysis encompassed the distribution levels of different elements in plasma, comparison between the patient and control group, and the identification of key elements and their correlations with lung cancer through multiple regression equation and correlation tests. The plasma trace element concentrations were measured in 96 lung cancer patients and 94 control subjects. The concentration levels provide valuable benchmarks for relevant studies. Statistical analysis was conducted using SAS statistical software for normal distribution, followed by group comparisons via t-tests. The results showed disparities in 13 elements between the lung cancer group and the control group: 7 elements were significantly higher in the lung cancer group, while 6 elements were markedly lower. In the multi-factor analysis, Cu emerged as a potential risk factor for lung cancer, whereas Zn and Se appeared to be protective factors. Multivariate correlation analysis was used to analyze Cu, Zn, and Se. The upper limit of the normal value was set at 1.41, which was the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval of the Cu/Zn ratio in the control group. Notably, 80 lung cancer patients had a Cu/Zn ratio exceeding this threshold, representing 84.2% (80/95) of the cases studied.
