D3 Levels Research Articles

Grain yield and interspecific competition in an oat-common vetch intercropping system at varying sowing density.

Oat (Avena nuda L.) and common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) intercropping in the northern regions of China has resulted in substantial production capabilities. However, there is currently a dearth of comprehensive research on whether this intercropping system can enhance productivity through increased sowing densities and underlying interspecies interaction mechanisms. A two-year field experiment was conducted in 2022 and 2023 to investigate the yield, biological efficiency, economic efficiency, and competition indicators of oats and common vetch in a high-density intercropping system. Two cropping patterns (monocropping and intercropping) and five sowing densities (D1: 4.5×106 plants ha-1; D2:5.4×106 plants ha-1; D3:6.3×106 plants ha-1; D4: 7.2×106 plants ha-1; and D5: 8.1×106 plants ha-1) were arranged in a randomized block design. At the same sowing density, the intercropped oats exhibited greater grain yield than the monocultures. Increasing the oat sowing density significantly enhanced oat yield, with the D3 level in intercropping showing the highest yield increase, ranging from 30.98% to 31.85%, compared with the monoculture. The common vetch intercropping grain yield was maximized in the D2 treatment. The land equivalent ratio was maximized at the D2 level in both years and was significantly higher than D1, with the land equivalent coefficient, system productivity index, and percentage yield difference suggesting that increasing oat sowing densities improved the productivity of the intercropping system, with the best performance observed at the D2 level. For both years, the proportionate actual yield loss of oat was the highest at the D3 level; significantly surpassing D1, proportionate actual yield loss of common vetch and actual yield loss were the highest at level D2, both significantly surpassing D1. These indicates that appropriate densification contributes to the realization of the advantages of intercropping. With an increased oat sowing density, the economic benefits of the intercropping system were maximized at the D2 and D3 levels. Regarding intercropping competition, oat was the dominant crop under different sowing densities (Aggressivity for oat (AO)>0, relative crowding coefficient for oat (KO)>1, competition ratio for oat (CRO)>1), whereas common vetch was the inferior crop. Compared with the D1 level, the D2 level harmonized the aggressivity, competitive ratio, and relative crowding coefficients of oat and common vetch, significantly increasing crowding coefficient for common vetch (KV) and competition ratio for common vetch by 19.76% to 21.94% and 4.80% to 7.51%, respectively, while reducing KO and CRO. This result suggests that in the intercropping of common vetch and oat in alpine regions, rational densification can harmonize interspecific competition and thus improve the biological efficiency and economic benefits of intercropping systems.

Cellular responses to silencing of PDIA3 (protein disulphide-isomerase A3): Effects on proliferation, migration, and genes in control of active vitamin D

The active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, is known to act via VDR (vitamin D receptor), affecting several physiological processes. In addition, PDIA3 (protein disulphide-isomerase A3) has been associated with some of the functions of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. In the present study we used siRNA-mediated silencing of PDIA3 in osteosarcoma and prostate carcinoma cell lines to examine the role(s) of PDIA3 for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-dependent responses. PDIA3 silencing affected VDR target genes and significantly altered the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-dependent induction of CYP24A1, essential for elimination of excess 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Also, PDIA3 silencing significantly altered migration and proliferation in prostate PC3 cells, independently of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 increased thermostability of PDIA3 in cellular thermal shift assay, supporting functional interaction between PDIA3 and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-dependent pathways. In summary, our data link PDIA3 to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-mediated signalling, underline and extend its role in proliferation and reveal a novel function in maintenance of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 levels.

EFFECT OF ORAL VITAMIN D3 ON THYMIC INDEX IN MALNOURISHED CHILDREN

Objectives: To compare the thymic Index, vitamin D3 level, and T cell receptor excision circle (TREC) of healthy and malnourished infants. To evaluate the effect of oral vitamin D3 supplementation on the Thymic Index and TREC in malnourished children. Material and Methods: This quasi-experimental study (non-equivalent control group design) included 44 infants within the age range of 2 to 6 months. The cases were 22 malnourished infants, and 22 were healthy infants (controls) based on WHO Z scores classification (weight for length). Weight, age, thymic Index (TI), Vitamin D levels, and TRECs were recorded for cases and controls(pre-test). The cases were given Vitamin D supplementation for 8 weeks. The weight for length (z-score), thymic Index (TI), vitamin D levels, and TRECs were checked in these malnourished children on follow-up (post-test). Thymic Index (TI) was checked by ultrasonography (length multiplied by breadth). ELISA was performed to check Vitamin D levels and RT-PCR was done to compare TRECs. Results: The malnourished infants had a mean thymic index of 8.015 ±3.2192 as compared to controls of 11.667 ±3.2730. Post Vit D supplementation TI increased (8.459 ±3.2191) in cases. Weight, length, and Z scores were found to be directly related to TI values. Pre and Post supplementation TI were strongly correlated to each other (r= 0.985, p= <0.001). The thymic index increased significantly (p= 0.001) after intervention. There was a statistically non-significant rise in TRECS (809 vs 4242) (p= 0.075) after vitamin D supplementation. The Pearson Correlation showed no significant correlation of TRECS to any of the variables including the Thymic index. Conclusion: TI (thymic size) and vitamin D levels increase with vitamin D supplementation in malnourished children. However, Vitamin D supplementation has no significant effect on TRECS. Keywords: Malnourished, Vitamin D3, T cell receptor excision circles, Thymic Index, TRECs.

The association between body mass index, diagnostic markers and disease activity score with progression of rheumatoid arthritis in a sample of Iraqi patients

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a widespread, chronic, systemically inflammatory disease which, if improperly treated, can cause deformed joints and functional disability. For best disease management, greater chances of recovery, and the avoidance of irreversible clinical and radiographic damage, RA must be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate body mass index utilizing DAS and levels of diagnostic tests in rheumatoid arthritis patients.Materials and methods: 120 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (60 newly diagnosed untreated patients and 60 others under treatment) were collected from Al-Yarmouk Hospital in Baghdad and 60 control individuals. Body mass index (BMI) was measured by equation and diagnostic tests, then vitamin D3 with the COPAS 111 device. Results: The prevalence of the disease in females was 91%, while males were 9%. Diagnostic tests recorded clear significance (p < 0.05) differences between patients and healthy persons, and it increased with the severity of the disease. Additionally, patients' levels of vitamin D3 reduced significantly when compared to controls, and there was a significant disparity between patients and healthy participants' sugar levels, and the BMI correlated with disease activity.Conclusions: The current study concluded that there is a relationship between weight gain and disease severity, that diagnostic tests increased in patients, and that vitamin D3 can be used as a diagnostic marker for rheumatoid arthritis. Keywords: Body mass index (BMI),disease activity score DAS-28, diagnostic marker.

Serum Vitamin D3 level in spontaneous abortion cases in comparison to ongoing viable pregnancies: A case–control study in a tertiary medical college

Background: The immunoregulatory functions of Vitamin D3 play a vital role in the maintenance of normal pregnancy. Several studies have reported the association of low serum Vitamin D3 levels with spontaneous abortion. Aims and Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine the association between serum Vitamin D3 level and spontaneous abortion cases in a tertiary medical college. Materials and Methods: The case–control study was conducted at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical College, Kolkata. The study population included 50 women with spontaneous abortion (cases) and 50 women with viable pregnancy beyond 20 weeks of gestation (controls). The cases and controls were matched with respect to age, socioeconomic status, and laboratory parameters. Investigations performed for both groups were ultrasonography for confirmation of abortion and viable pregnancy, serum Vitamin D3, and other biochemical markers. Data were compared between cases and controls using the Chi-square test and unpaired “t” test along with the calculation of odds ratios (OR). Results: About 24% of cases and 10% of controls belonged to Vitamin D3 deficient category. The difference was statistically significant (P=0.009, d.f.=2) (OR: 2.84, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.92–8.80). Bleeding PV was present in 50% of cases and 4% of controls (P=0.0001, d.f.=1) (OR: 24.00, 95% CI: 5.25–109.65). Abdominal pain was complained by 46% of cases and 10% of controls (P=0.0001, d.f.=1) (OR: 7.67, 95% CI: 2.61–22.54). Conclusion: Vitamin D3 deficiency was present more in spontaneous abortion cases in comparison to viable pregnancies. Routine daily supplementation of vitamin D3 during the first trimester of pregnancy should be incorporated into the ongoing national program. Training of health workers to educate pregnant women and their family members regarding the importance of vitamin D3 is the need of the hour.

A study to assess the relationship between vitamin D3 levels and the risk of acute exacerbation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the top three causes of mortality worldwide. Vitamin D deficiency in COPD has been associated with poor lung function and decreased muscle power, which further increases the risk of exacerbations. The role of vitamin D in preventing acute exacerbations of COPD has conflicting results in the literature. Hence, we planned this study to assess the relationship between vitamin D3 levels and the risk of acute exacerbations among COPD patients in a tertiary care center in north India. This was a prospective randomized control trial that was performed on 100 consecutive stable COPD patients attending the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Solan, India. The patients with subnormal vitamin D3 levels (i.e., less than 30 ng/mL) were divided into the intervention and control groups. Baseline demographic profiles, lung function, COPD assessment test (CAT) score, modified Medical Research Council grade and chest radiology were performed and repeated after 12 months in all these patients. All these parameters were recorded and compared with the baseline values obtained at the beginning of the study. Out of 100 subjects, 96 had vitamin D deficiency, of which 48 were assigned to the intervention group and 48 to the control group. Among the 100 subjects, 74 (74%) were males and 26 (26%) were females, with a mean age of 66.9±9.4 years. The mean vitamin D level was 14.71±6.69 in these 96 patients. The vitamin D level improved after 3 months of supplementation to the mean level of 45.56±16.18 in the intervention group. Vitamin D supplementation was positively correlated with a decrease in the rate of acute exacerbations in the intervention group in terms of reduction in mean CAT score (4.17 in intervention and 1.43 in non-interventional group, p<0.001), number of acute exacerbations (1.7 in intervention and -1.05 in non-interventional group, p<0.001), and number of emergency visits (p=0.0121) during the 9-month period after attainment of a normal vitamin D level. Vitamin D supplementation plays a key role in COPD patients with D3 hypovitaminosis in decreasing COPD acute exacerbations, improving the CAT score, and reducing the number of emergency visits.

A Short-Term Zinc-Deficient Diet Maintains Serum Calcium Concentrations through Ca Absorption-Related Gene Expression in Rats.

We investigated the effects of short-term dietary zinc deficiency on zinc and calcium metabolism. Four-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into two pair-fed groups for a 1-wk treatment: zinc-deficient group (ZD, 1 ppm); control group (PF, 30 ppm). The mRNA expression of zinc transporters, such as Slc39a (Zip) 4, Zip5, Zip10, and Slc30a (ZnT) 1, in various tissues (liver, kidney, and duodenum) quickly responded to dietary zinc deficiency. Although there was no significant difference in serum calcium concentrations between the PF and ZD groups, serum 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25(OH)2D3) was higher in the ZD group than in the PF group. Moreover, short-term zinc deficiency significantly increased mRNA expression of transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel subfamily vanilloid (V) member 6, S100 calcium binding protein G (S100g), and ATPase plasma membrane Ca2+ transporting 1 (Atp2b1) in the duodenum. Furthermore, short-term zinc deficiency increased vitamin D receptor (VDR) and cytochrome P450 family 24 subfamily A member 1 (Cyp24a1) mRNA expression in the kidney. These findings suggested that short-term zinc deficiency maintains serum calcium concentrations through Ca absorption-related gene expression in the duodenum, and that short-term zinc deficiency induced the expression of Cyp24a1 in kidney in response to an increase in the serum 1,25(OH)2D3 level.

Probing Non-Covalent Interactions through Molecular Balances: A REG-IQA Study.

The interaction energies of two series of molecular balances (1-X with X = H, Me, OMe, NMe2 and 2-Y with Y = H, CN, NO2, OMe, NMe2) designed to probe carbonyl…carbonyl interactions were analysed at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p)-D3 level of theory using the energy partitioning method of Interacting Quantum Atoms/Fragments (IQA/IQF). The partitioned energies are analysed by the Relative Energy Gradient (REG) method, which calculates the correlation between these energies and the total energy of a system, thereby explaining the role atoms have in the energetic behaviour of the total system. The traditional "back-of-the-envelope" open and closed conformations of molecular balances do not correspond to those of the lowest energy. Hence, more care needs to be taken when considering which geometries to use for comparison with the experiment. The REG-IQA method shows that the 1-H and 1-OMe balances behave differently to the 1-Me and 1-NMe2 balances because the latter show more prominent electrostatics between carbonyl groups and undergoes a larger dihedral rotation due to the bulkiness of the functional groups. For the 2-Y balance, REG-IQA shows the same behaviour across the series as the 1-H and 1-OMe balances. From an atomistic point of view, the formation of the closed conformer is favoured by polarisation and charge-transfer effects on the amide bond across all balances and is counterbalanced by a de-pyramidalisation of the amide nitrogen. Moreover, focusing on the oxygen of the amide carbonyl and the α-carbon of the remaining carbonyl group, electrostatics have a major role in the formation of the closed conformer, which goes against the well-known n-π* interaction orbital overlap concept. However, REG-IQF shows that exchange-correlation energies overtake electrostatics for all the 2-Y balances when working with fragments around the carbonyl groups, while they act on par with electrostatics for the 1-OMe and 1-NMe2. REG-IQF also shows that exchange-correlation energies in the 2-Y balance are correlated to the inductive electron-donating and -withdrawing trends on aromatic groups. We demonstrate that methods such as REG-IQA/IQF can help with the fine-tuning of molecular balances prior to the experiment and that the energies that govern the probed interactions are highly dependent on the atoms and functional groups involved.

Universal Vapor‐Phase Synthesis of Large‐Scale Ultrathin Perovskites with Superior Stability for Photodetectors and Image Sensors

AbstractUltrathin halide perovskites have drawn tremendous attention in nano‐/micro‐optoelectronic devices due to their fascinating performance and capability for chip integration. Unfortunately, it is highly challenging to obtain large‐scale and chronically stable ultrathin halide perovskites for practical application. Herein, the universal low‐temperature vapor‐phase synthesis of ultrathin perovskite family materials with thickness down to 2D level and lateral size up to 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm is reported by developing a self‐limiting chemical vapor deposition strategy. The perovskite products are found to exhibit superior stability over 180 days under an air environment. The resultant photodetectors demonstrate charming optoelectronic properties such as superior responsivity (3.7 × 103 A W−1), ultrafast response time (&lt;10 µs), and outstanding low‐level light image sensing capability. This universal perovskite synthesis strategy offers great potential for practical applications of halide perovskites in future nano‐/micro‐optoelectronic devices.

Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies after surgery for esophageal and gastric cancer: A metanalysis

Background&AimsPatients receiving oncological esophagectomy or gastrectomy are known to be at high risk for vitamin and micronutrient deficiency before, during and after surgery. However, there are no clear guidelines for these cancer patients regarding postoperative vitamin supplementation. MethodsWe conducted a metanalysis consisting of 10 studies regarding vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies after oncological gastric or esophageal resection. 5 databases were searched. ResultsData was sufficient regarding Vitamins B12 and 25-OH D3 as well as calcium. We were able to show deficiencies in 25-OH Vitamin D3 levels (p <0.001) and lower levels of Vitamin B12 and calcium (bit p<0.001) when compared to the healthy population. ConclusionsPatients from these groups are at risk for vitamin deficiencies. A guideline on postoperative supplementation is needed.

A study of safety and efficacy of vitamin D3 supplementation in pregnancy

Background: Vitamin D is a lipid-soluble prohormone that is vital for the maintenance of bone and muscle health. Vitamin D deficiency is an unrecognized epidemic, common in all age groups and is associated with preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, early labour and pregnancy loss. Methods: Our study was conducted in Batra hospital and medical research centre, New Delhi from October 2018 to May2019. 126 women were taken, of those seen before 20 weeks of pregnancy who received vitamin D3 supplementation comprised of study group and control group were those who came directly for delivery and without vitamin D3 level done. The outcomes measured were vitamin D3 level at 20 weeks, at delivery, in cord blood and clinical outcomes like pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm delivery. Results: Gestational hypertension was seen in 4 (6.3%) of subjects while in control group it was seen in 11 (17.5%), Gestational diabetes was seen in 3 (4.8%) women while it was observed in 10 (15.9%) women of control group. Premature rupture of membranes was seen in 2 (3.2%) women in study group and 8 (12.7%) women of control group. Vitamin D level at the time of delivery in study group was significantly higher than control group (56.84±15.78 versus 18.12±8.97ng/ml). Conclusions: Preterm labor, low birth weight and preeclampsia were uncommon in the subjects and the administered vitamin D3 dose had no adverse effects but more research with larger sample size is strongly urged to assess the safety and effect of vitamin D3 supplementation.

Vitamin D3 deficiency and smell regions in adolescents: an MRI evaluation

Abstract OBJECTIVES. We investigated the effect of vitamin D3 deficiency on peripheral and central odor centres by using cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIAL AND METHODS. In this retrospective study, cranial MRI images of 23 adolescents with vitamin D3 deficiency and 18 adolescents with normal vitamin D3 levels (≥ 20 ng/ml) were evaluated. Blood tests for vitamin D3, B12, hemoglobin and calcium levels were also taken from the database of our hospital. Peripheral odor centers, olfactory bulb (OB) volume and olfactory sulcus (OS) depth, and also central odor centers, insular gyrus and corpus amygdala area were measured on cranial MRI. RESULTS. The insular gyrus and corpus amygdala area were not different between the study group with vitamin D3 deficiency and the control group (p&gt;0.05). There was no difference between OB volume of the study and control groups (p&gt;0.05). Although the right insular area was lower in girls than males (p&lt;0.05), there was no correlation between OB volume and gender (p&gt;0.05). Higher hemoglobin levels were related to higher OB volume on the right side (p&lt;0.05). CONCLUSION. In the group with vitamin D3 deficiency, olfactory bulb volume of the left side was asymmetrically larger than the one on the right side. Therefore, the measurements of vitamin D3 should be performed in adolescents, and the patients with the vitamin D3 levels of &lt; 20 ng/ml should be supplemented with medical treatment and reinforcing vitamin D synthesis by the exposure of sunlight more.

Dietary calcifediol reduces mesenteric adiposity to the benefit of carcass growth independently of circulating vitamin D hormone in juvenile Atlantic salmon

Dietary vitamin D is required by cultivated fish for optimal growth, feed utilisation and bone health. The in vivo conversion of cholecalciferol (D3) to active vitamin D hormone (1,25-OH-D3) may be impaired in farm-raised fish fed modern feed formulations. Requiring fewer metabolic steps for its conversion, the use of dietary calcifediol (25-OH-D3) may mitigate against deficits in vitamin D metabolism.A 90-day experimental feeding trial was undertaken in juvenile (23 g) Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) to test the efficacy of 25-OH-D3 added to a standard diet containing recommended levels of D3 (5640 IU). Test diets contained 100, 200 or 400 μg/kg added 25-OH-D3 against a no additive control diet. Effects on zootechnical performance, indices of adiposity, bone mineralisation, and circulating vitamin D metabolites were tested.Dietary 25-OH-D3 significantly reduced feed conversion ratio (FCR) and resulted in numerical increases in growth performance. 25-OH-D3 also significantly reduced mesenteric adiposity with concurrent increases in carcass weight. Levels of calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, zinc and manganese were not modulated in the vertebrae of fish receiving 25-OH-D3. Circulating 25-OH-D3 remained below detection limits and 1,25-OH-D3 was not significantly modulated by the dietary manipulations.The significant reduction of mesenteric adiposity to the benefit of carcass weight shows that dietary 25-OH-D3 improves the utilisation of lipids. The vitamin D requirement for bone mineralisation was met by the basal diet. Segmented regression estimates a dietary 25-OH-D3 supplementation of 143 to 180 μg/kg for improved feed conversion and reduced mesenteric adiposity. The lack of correlation between circulating vitamin D hormone and mesenteric adiposity indicates that lipid metabolism is regulated by localised tissue activation of vitamin D, rather than the endocrine functions of circulating 1,25-OH-D3.

Tremendous Fidelity of Vitamin D3 in Age-related Neurological Disorders.

Vitamin D3 (VD) is a secosteroid hormone and shows a pleiotropic effect in brain-related disorders where it regulates redox imbalance, inflammation, apoptosis, energy production, and growth factor synthesis. Vitamin D3's active metabolic form, 1,25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3 or calcitriol), is a known regulator of several genes involved in neuroplasticity, neuroprotection, neurotropism, and neuroinflammation. Multiple studies suggest that VD deficiency can be proposed as a risk factor for the development of several age-related neurological disorders. The evidence for low serum levels of 25-hydroxy Vitamin D3 (25(OH)D3 or calcidiol), the major circulating form of VD, is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), dementia, and cognitive impairment. Despite decades of evidence on low VD association with neurological disorders, the precise molecular mechanism behind its beneficial effect remains controversial. Here, we will be delving into the neurobiological importance of VD and discuss its benefits in different neuropsychiatric disorders. The focus will be on AD, PD, and HD as they share some common clinical, pathological, and epidemiological features. The central focus will be on the different attributes of VD in the aspect of its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-cholinesterase activity, and psychotropic effect in different neurodegenerative diseases.

Vitamin D deficiency and oral candidiasis in patients with HIV infection: A case‒control study.

Oral candidiasis is a common opportunistic infection in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In addition, most of these patients suffer from vitamin D deficiency. This study aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D levels and oral candidiasis in patients with HIV infection. This case‒control study was conducted on HIV-infected patients. Cases were patients with oral candidiasis diagnosed based on physical examinations. Controls were age- and sex-matched individuals without oral candidiasis. The levels of 25-OH vitamin D and other laboratory markers (CD4 count and viral load) were compared between the case and control groups. A total of 104 cases and 102 controls were included in the study. The cases had significantly lower 25-OH vitamin D3 levels (MD = 33.86 ng/mL, 95% CI= (31.85, 35.87), P < 0.001) and CD4 counts (MD = 267.48 cells/mm3, 95% CI= (189.55, 345.41), P < 0.001) than the controls. In addition, viral load was significantly higher in cases than in controls (MD = 7.03 × 105 copies/mL, 95% CI= (4.46 × 105, 9.61 × 105), P < 0.001). The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that educational status (OR = 0.032, 95% CI= (0.002, 0.100), P < 0.001), current HAART (OR = 0.005, 95% CI= (0.001, 0.014), P < 0.001), history of oral candidiasis (OR = 20.114, 95% CI= (18.135, 21.957), P < 0.001), CD4 count (OR = 0.004, 95% CI= (0.001, 0.006), P < 0.001), viral load (OR = 12.181, 95% CI= (1.108, 133.392), P < 0.001), and vitamin D level (OR = 0.011, 95% CI= (0.008, 0.015), P < 0.001) were significantly associated with the risk of developing oral candidiasis. Based on the findings, most patients with HIV infection suffer from vitamin D deficiency, especially those with oral candidiasis. Hypovitaminosis D was significantly associated with an increased risk of oral candidiasis. Thus, vitamin D supplementation may assist HIV-positive patients in improving their oral health and preventing oral candidiasis.

The interaction between lipid and vitamin D3 impacts lipid metabolism and innate immunity in Chinese mitten crabs Eriocheir sinensis

As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D3 relies on fat to perform its biological function, affecting lipid metabolism and innate immunity. This study used different percentages of lipid and vitamin D3 diets to evaluate the synergistic effects on the growth, lipid metabolism and immunity of juvenile Eriocheir sinensis (5.83 ± 0.01 g) for 56 days, including low lipid (LL, 1.5%) and normal lipid (NL, 7.5%) and three levels of vitamin D3: low (LVD, 0 IU/kg), medium (MVD, 9000 IU/kg) and high (HVD, 27,000, IU/kg). The synergistic effect of lipid and vitamin D3 was not significant on growth but significant on ash content, total protein, hepatopancreas lipid content, hemolymph 1α,25-hydroxy vitamin D3 [1α,25(OH)2D3] content, hepatopancreas lipolysis and synthesis genes. Crabs fed normal lipid (7.5%) and medium vitamin D3 (9000 IU/kg) had the highest hepatopancreas index, hemolymph 1α,25(OH)2D3 content, antibacterial ability, immune-related genes and hepatopancreatic lipid synthesis genes expression, but down-regulated the lipolysis genes expression. In contrast, crabs fed diets with low lipid percentage (1.5%) had low growth performance, hemolymph 1α,25(OH)2D3, mRNA levels of lipid synthesis genes, antibacterial ability and immune-related gene expression. At the 1.5% lipid level, excessive or insufficient vitamin D3 supplementation led to the obstruction of ash and protein deposition, reduced growth and molting, aggravated the reduction in antioxidant capacity, hindered antimicrobial peptide gene expression and reduced innate immunity, and resulted in abnormal lipid accumulation and the risk of oxidative stress. This study suggests that diets' lipid and vitamin D3 percentage can enhance antioxidant capacity, lipid metabolism and innate immunity in E. sinensis. A low lipid diet can cause growth retardation, reduce antioxidant capacity and innate immunity, and enhance lipid metabolism disorder.

Vitamin D, selenium, and antidiabetic drugs in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Diabetes and thyroiditis are closely related. They occur in combination and cause significant damage to the body. There is no clear treatment for type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). While single symptomatic drug treatment of the two diseases is less effective, combined drug treatment may improve efficacy. To investigate the effect of a combination of vitamin D, selenium, and hypo-glycemic agents in T2DM with HT. This retrospective study included 150 patients with T2DM and HT treated at The Central Hospital of Shaoyang from March 2020 to February 2023. Fifty patients were assigned to the control group, test group A, and test group B according to different treatment methods. The control group received low-iodine diet guidance and hypoglycemic drug treatment. Test group A received the control treatment plus vitamin D treatment. Test group B received the group A treatment plus selenium. Blood levels of markers of thyroid function [free T3 (FT3), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4 (FT4)], autoantibodies [thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAB) and thyroid globulin antibody (TGAB)], blood lipid index [low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG)], blood glucose index [fasting blood glucose (FBG), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)] were measured pre-treatment and 3 and 6 months after treatment. The relationships between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25 (OH) D3] level and each of these indices were analyzed. The levels of 25 (OH) D3, FT3, FT4, and LDL-C increased in the order of the control group, test group A, and test group B (all P < 0.05). The TPOAB, TGAB, TC, TG, FBG, HbA1c, and TSH levels increased in the order of test groups B, A, and the control group (all P < 0.05). All the above indices were compared after 3 and 6 months of treatment. Pre-treatment, there was no divergence in serum 25 (OH) D3 level, thyroid function-related indexes, autoantibodies level, blood glucose, and blood lipid index between the control group, test groups A and B (all P > 0.05). The 25 (OH) D3 levels in test groups A and B were negatively correlated with FT4 and TGAB (all P < 0.05). The combination drug treatment for T2DM with HT significantly improved thyroid function, autoantibody, and blood glucose and lipid levels.

The Potential Use of Vitamin D3 and Phytochemicals for Their Anti-Ageing Effects.

Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D3 is synthesised in skin cells in the body. Vitamin D3 has been known as a bone-related hormone. Recently, however, it has been considered as an immune vitamin. Vitamin D3 deficiency influences the onset of a variety of diseases. Vitamin D3 regulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) through binding to vitamin D receptors (VDRs) in immune cells. Since blood levels of vitamin D3 (25-OH-D3) were low in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, there has been growing interest in the importance of vitamin D3 to maintaining a healthy condition. On the other hand, phytochemicals are compounds derived from plants with over 7000 varieties and have various biological activities. They mainly have health-promoting effects and are classified as terpenoids, carotenoids, flavonoids, etc. Flavonoids are known as the anti-inflammatory compounds that control TNF-α production. Chronic inflammation is induced by the continuous production of TNF-α and is the fundamental cause of diseases like obesity, dyslipidaemia, diabetes, heart and brain diseases, autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. In addition, the ageing process is induced by chronic inflammation. This review explains the cooperative effects of vitamin D3 and phytochemicals in the suppression of inflammatory responses, how it balances the natural immune response, and its link to anti-ageing effects. In addition, vitamin D3 and phytochemicals synergistically contribute to anti-ageing by working with ageing-related genes. Furthermore, prevention of ageing processes induced by the chronic inflammation requires the maintenance of healthy gut microbiota, which is related to daily dietary habits. In this regard, supplementation of vitamin D3 and phytochemicals plays an important role. Recently, the association of the prevention of the non-disease condition called "ME-BYO" with the maintenance of a healthy condition has been an attractive regimen, and the anti-ageing effect discussed here is important for a healthy and long life.

The Efficacy and Safety of High-Dose Cholecalciferol Therapy in Hemodialysis Patients.

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are highly prevalent in CKD, affecting over 80% of hemodialysis (HD) patients and requiring therapeutic intervention. Nephrological societies suggest the administration of cholecalciferol according to the guidelines for the general population. The aim of the observational study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the therapy with a high dose of cholecalciferol in HD patients with 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency to reach the target serum 25(OH)D level > 30 ng/mL. A total of 22 patients (16 M), with an average age of 72.5 ± 13.03 years and 25(OH)D concentration of 13.05 (9.00-17.90) ng/mL, were administered cholecalciferol at a therapeutic dose of 70,000 IU/week (20,000 IU + 20,000 IU + 30,000 IU, immediately after each dialysis session). All patients achieved the target value > 30 ng/mL, with a mean time of 2.86 ± 1.87 weeks. In the first week, the target level of 25(OH)D (100%) was reached by 2 patients (9.09%), in the second week by 15 patients (68.18%), in the fourth week by 18 patients (81.18%), and in the ninth week by all 22 patients (100%). A significant increase in 1,25(OH)2D levels was observed during the study. However, only 2 patients (9.09%) achieved a concentration of 1,25(OH)2D above 25 ng/mL-the lower limit of the reference range. The intact PTH concentrations remained unchanged during the observation period. No episodes of hypercalcemia were detected, and one new episode of hyperphosphatemia was observed. In conclusion, our study showed that the administration of a high-therapeutic dose of cholecalciferol allowed for a quick, effective, and safe leveling of 25(OH)D concentration in HD patients.

Vitamin D Levels as a Marker of Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

The SARS-CoV-2 virus may cause severe infection, which is associated with diverse clinical manifestations. Vitamin D has immunomodulating properties and may enhance the body's defense system against invading pathogenic organisms. The aim was to assess 25(OH)D3 levels in patients hospitalized for severe infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus and explore the relationship between 25(OH)D3 and outcomes. In a group of 88 patients hospitalized for severe infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus and a control group matched for age and sex, the levels of 25(OH)D3 were analyzed. Levels of 25(OH)D3 were 17.36 ± 8.80 ng/mL (mean ± SD) compared with 24.34 ± 10.34 ng/mL in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and the control group, respectively, p < 0.001 (Student's t-test). 25(OH)D3 levels were significantly related to outcomes, i.e., survival as opposed to non-survival, as more patients with 25(OH)D3 deficiency (0-10 ng/mL) and insufficiency (10-20 ng/mL) had a fatal outcome as compared with those with vitamin D sufficiency (p < 0.001, chi-square test, p < 0.001, Fisher's exact test). Levels of 25(OH)D3 were inversely related to C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, d-dimer, and fibrinogen levels (p < 0.001, linear regression analysis, beta coefficient of variation, -0.176, -0.160, -0.178, and -0.158, respectively). Vitamin D deficiency observed in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection was related to disease outcomes.