Calcitriol modulate post-ischemic TLR signaling pathway in ischemic stroke patients.

Background: Neuroinflammation is a significant contributor to post-ischemic neuronal death after stroke, and Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs) are one of the essential mediators in many inflammatory pathways. TLRs activate the nuclear factor kappa β (NF-kβ), which promotes the expression of various pro-inflammatory genes such as interleukin (IL-1β) and IL-6. 1,25(OH)2D3, also known as calcitriol, is an active form of vitamin D3 that acts as a neurosteroid compound with anti-inflammatory properties.

The association of flavored milk consumption with milk and energy intake, and obesity: A systematic review.

Taxes on sugary drinks are being implemented to prevent chronic diseases. Sugar-sweetened milk has been exempt from such policies because of its nutritional value. This systematic review sought to examine whether flavored milk consumption was associated with milk and energy intake, and obesity among children.

Factors associated with attendance to scheduled outpatient endoscopy.

Background: Non-attendance of 42% has been reported for outpatient colonoscopy among persons with low socioeconomic status (SES) in an open access system in the USA.

Objectives: To evaluate attendance to outpatient endoscopy among populations with low SES after inperson consultations with endoscopists prior to scheduling.

Methods: Retrospectively, we reviewed the endoscopy schedule from September 2009 to August 2010 in an inner city teaching hospital in Washington, DC.