Dietary Vitamin Research Articles

Effects of dietary immunostimulants on the growth and non-specific immune responses of hybrid sturgeons (Huso huso♀ × Acipenser ruthenus♂)

Herein, we investigated the effects of immunostimulants on the growth, immune responses, and post-infection survival of hybrid sturgeons (Huso huso♀ × Acipenser ruthenus♂). Therefore, we examined the effects of dietary supplementation of β-glucan, vitamin C, and Radix Bupleuri (Chaihu) extract (RBE) at various concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% incorporated through feed) on the growth rate and non-specific immune responses of hybrid sturgeon. When supplemented individually, these immunostimulants significantly reduced the feed conversion ratio while promoting weight gain, with the vitamin C-administered groups showing the most pronounced differences. Further, we observed that dietary β-glucan, vitamin C, and RBE, when fed at 0.4 and 0.6% concentrations, significantly enhanced the rates of superoxide anion production and phagocytosis by head kidney leukocytes. Moreover, vitamin C and RBE supplementation at 0.4 and 0.6% and β-glucan supplementation at 0.6% concentration significantly increased the serum lysozyme activity. Further, vitamin C and β-glucan supplementation at 0.6% and RBE supplementation at 0.4 and 0.6% concentrations showed the highest survival rates after Aeromonas hydrophila infection. In conclusion, our findings highlight that the dietary supplementation of β-glucan, vitamin C, or RBE in appropriate concentrations can significantly enhance superoxide anion production and phagocytic activity of leukocytes, serum lysozyme activity, and the survival of hybrid sturgeons after A. hydrophila infection. Our results suggest that incorporating immunostimulants such as Chinese medicinal herbs at optimal levels can effectively boost the growth, immunity, and disease resistance of hybrid sturgeons in aquaculture. These results provide valuable insights for future studies on the inclusion of immunostimulants in aquaculture feed.

The role of vitamin D in multiple sclerosis and its mechanisms of action

Introduction and Purpose: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a prevalent autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, particularly in young people. Characterized by neurodegenerative and demyelinating processes, MS is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Research indicates that sufficient levels of vitamin D can reduce the risk of developing MS. Studies show that higher sun exposure and dietary vitamin D intake are associated with a lower incidence of MS. Moreover, vitamin D supplementation may benefit those already diagnosed by alleviating symptoms and improving their quality of life. This review explores the potential benefits of vitamin D and its neuroprotective mechanisms in MS. State of Knowledge: MS research and treatments have focused on immunomodulation, with less emphasis on neuroprotection, including the role of vitamin D. It is well-established that vitamin D has anti-inflammatory effects on the immune system in MS. It influences the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells and oligodendrocytes, enhances neurotrophin expression, reduces reactive astrogliosis, decreases oxidative stress, and stabilizes the blood-brain barrier. Research suggests that adequate vitamin D levels and supplementation might improve MS outcomes. Conclusion: New diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to address the complex nature of MS, which includes inflammation, neuronal death, demyelination, and oxidative stress. Promoting vitamin D sufficiency and supplementation, alongside developing new neuroprotective agents, remains a valuable approach in combating MS. Understanding the mechanisms of MS and the effects of vitamin D could lead to better management strategies and enhanced quality of life for patients.

Relationship between dietary oxidative balance score, anthropometric measurements and socioeconomic factors in women at low risk of cardiovascular disease

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the dietary oxidative balance score (OBS), an indicator of oxidative stress, anthropometric measures and socioeconomic factors in women at low risk of cardiovascular disease. MethodsThe participants’ 3-day dietary intake, demographic information, anthropometric measurements and blood pressure values were recorded, and the Framingham Risk Score (FRS) and OBS values were determined. Oxidative balance score consists of prooxidant and antioxidant scores. Prooxidant scores were calculated from red meat consumption, total iron and polyunsaturated fatty acid intake, alcohol and cigarette consumption parameters, while antioxidant scores were calculated by assessing cruciferous consumption, dietary total vitamin C, vitamin E, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein+zeaxanthin and selenium intake. ResultsA total of 145 women were included in the study. Education level was associated with anthropometric measurements, income status with antioxidant and prooxidant scores, and exercise status with OBS (p<0.05). Weight, waist, hip, BMI, waist/hip, and waist/height ratio were significantly lower in subjects with low prooxidant score (p<0.05); there was no significant relationship between age, systolic, diastolic, FRS (p>0.05). ConclusionThe study, conducted in healthy women, showed that dietary oxidative balance scoring is promising in preventing the development of CVD and reducing the burden of disease, and that prospective cohort studies should be conducted in this area.

Dietary vitamin B3 supplementation induces the antitumor immunity against liver cancer via biased GPR109A signaling in myeloid cell

The impact of dietary nutrients on tumor immunity remains an area of ongoing investigation, particularly regarding the specific role of vitamins and their mechanism. Here, we demonstrate that vitamin B3 (VB3) induces antitumor immunity against liver cancer through biased GPR109A axis in myeloid cell. Nutritional epidemiology studies suggest that higher VB3 intake reduces liver cancer risk. VB3 supplementation demonstrates antitumor efficacy in multiple mouse models through alleviating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) mediated by tumor-infiltrating myeloid cell, thereby augmenting effectiveness of immunotherapy or targeted therapy in a CD8+ Tcell-dependent manner. Mechanically, the TME induces aberrant GPR109A/nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activation in myeloid cell to shape the immunosuppressive TME. In contrast, VB3 activates β-Arrestin-mediated GPR109A degradation and NF-κB inhibition to suppress the immunosuppressive polarization of myeloid cell, thereby activating the cytotoxic function of CD8+ Tcell. Overall, these results expand the understanding of how vitamins regulate the TME, suggesting that dietary VB3 supplementation is an adjunctive treatment for liver cancer.

Association Between Vitamin D Insufficiency and Impaired Bone Density Among Adolescents With Perinatally Acquired HIV Infection.

Stunting and pubertal delay are common among children growing up with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and are associated with bone and muscle impairments. We investigated factors associated with bone density and muscle function in adolescents living with HIV (ALWH). The VITALITY trial (PACTR202009897660297) investigated whether vitamin D and calcium supplementation improves musculoskeletal health among ALWH. A total of 842 ALWH aged 11-19 years, established on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for ≥6 months, were enrolled from HIV clinics in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Clinical history and examination were undertaken, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25[OH]D3) was measured. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measured total-body-less-head bone mineral density adjusted for height (TBLH-BMDHT), and lumbar spine bone mineral apparent density (LS-BMAD) z scores. The association between a priori-defined covariates and musculoskeletal outcomes were investigated using baseline enrollment data and multivariable logistic regression. TBLH-BMDHT z scores were impaired (mean, -1.42 for male and -0.63 female participants), as were LS-BMAD z scores (mean -1.15 for male and -0.47 for female participants). In bivariate analysis, early pubertal stage, less physical activity, and older age at ART initiation were associated with lower TBLH-BMDHT z scores. Younger age, early pubertal stage, and low socioeconomic status were associated with lower LS-BMAD z scores. Grip-strength-for-height and jump-power-for-height z scores were associated with lower TBLH-BMDHT and LS-BMAD z scores. Low dietary vitamin D and calcium were associated with lower adjusted TBLH-BMDHT z scores. Lower 25(OH)D3 was associated with lower adjusted TBLH-BMDHT and LS-BMAD z scores. Deficits in bone density are common in ALWH. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation and promotion of exercise may improve musculoskeletal health among perinatally infected ALWH.

Body Composition, Nutrition and Hydration Profile of Paralympic Athletes

Paralympic athletes are separated from healthy athletes by having various diseases/disabilities and using auxiliary equipment. This study was planned to compare paralympic athletes' hydration, body composition, and nutritional status. For this purpose, a comparison of branches, sex, and nutritional habits on training day and non-training day were examined by 66 professional athletes from the Turkish Physically Disabled Sports Federation included in the research. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, nutritional habits, and physical activity data of individuals were collected. Dietary, physical activity, and water balance scale records were determined to evaluate the nutritional, physical activity, and hydration status of these athletes, respectively. Food consumption data were analyzed with the Nutrition Information System (BeBis) in detail; energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, water, vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium, and iron were examined. Measuring mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) is a good indicator of skeletal muscle protein mass. While women’s MUAC was 28.9±3.8 cm and men’s MUAC was 30.7±7.0 cm, respectively. When the reference values recommended for healthy athletes are met, it has been observed that protein, carbohydrate, iron, and calcium didn’t meet the recommendations. Carbohydrate, dietary vitamin D, calcium and magnesium values were found to be higher on the training day than on the non-training day (p0.05). The hydration status of the athletes was found to be inadequate in all conditions of gender, branch and the presence or absence of training.

Sarcopenic Obesity: The Underlying Molecular Pathophysiology and Prospect Therapies

BACKGROUND: Age contributes to body composition alteration, rises a common disorder in elderly known as sarcopenic obesity (SO), which is characterized by the combination of obesity (excess fat mass) and sarcopenia (reduced skeletal muscle mass) clinical form and function.CONTENT: The primary cause of SO is insulin resistance. Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) dysfunction results in impaired fatty acids oxidation. Decreased muscle mass results in lower mitochondria number and volume. Both will increase oxidative stress. Together with altered myokines in SO, oxidative stress was promoted and lead to higher M1 macrophages and failure in autophagy. The pro-inflammatory condition and dysbiosis links SO to a variety of cardiometabolic conditions, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The mortality, comorbidities, cardiometabolic diseases, and disability or impairment of SO is higher compare to obesity or sarcopenia alone. Some treatments have been developed for SO including adequate dietary intake, vitamin D and antioxidant supplementation, and exercises.SUMMARY: SO is more prevalent among the elderly and has a significant negative impact on their quality of life. Therefore, maintaining muscle mass and strength as well as preventing obesity should be the key goals of initiatives to support healthy aging.KEYWORDS: aging, body composition, obesity, sarcopenia, skeletal muscle, metabolic syndrome

Using Household Fruit and Vegetable Waste in Recipes to Reduce Kitchen Food Waste and their Nutritional and Functional Values

The formation of food waste brings numerous issues such as inefficient use of nutrients, social injustice, and economic and ecological losses. The aim of this study is to reduce fruit and vegetable waste, which are among the most common kitchen wastes, with new recipes, and to explore the advantages they provide to human health. The study developed 20 different recipes using parts typically considered waste in the kitchen, like stems, stalks, and peels from 11 fruits and 9 vegetables, and calculated their nutritional values using the BEBIS program (Nutrition Information System). Additionally, the functional properties of the fruit and vegetable waste used in the study were examined in light of scientific literature. Results showed that parts of fruits and vegetables considered as waste might have valuable nutritional properties, such as being a good source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Among the recipes created with fruit waste, the chocolate balls with pomegranate peel powder had the highest energy value (4255.3 kcal), the sweet chicken with orange flavor had the highest protein content (122.1 g), and the watermelon dessert had the highest fiber content (25.3 g). Among the recipes made with vegetable waste, the puff pastry with leek leaves had the highest energy value (2740 kcal), and the savory cake with cauliflower and potatoes contained the most protein (222.2 g) and fiber (184.1 g). Using parts like stems, peels, and leaves considered food waste in recipes also imparts functional properties to the recipes. The food waste used in this study possesses properties in the literature such as anti-cancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, prevention of neurological disorders, and anti-obesity, anti-diabetes, and anti-aging effects.

Investigation into the curative potential of dietary vitamin c supplementation on atrazine toxicity: behaviour and growth performance of &lt;i&gt;Clarias gariepinus&lt;/i&gt; Juveniles (Burchell, 1822)

Investigation into the curative potential of dietary vitamin c supplementation on atrazine toxicity: behaviour and growth performance of &lt;i&gt;Clarias gariepinus&lt;/i&gt; Juveniles (Burchell, 1822)

Plant-based traditional foods of Mogoditshane, Mmopane and Metsimotlhabe villages, Botswana: nutritional and bioactive compounds potential, processing, values, and challenges

Documentation of resources used in the indigenous diets are important for preservation of cultural heritage, biodiversity conservation, sustainability, and food systems resilience. In view of this, edible plants list, processing, values, and challenges associated to indigenous foods/dishes, and beverages of Mogoditshane, Mmopane and Metsimotlhabe villages, Botswana were investigated through face-to-face interview and focus group discussion (FGD). Fifty-four (54) wild edible plants, most available after rains were documented. Fruits, roots, tubers, nuts, and leaves of wild edible plants are used in different forms some as diet recipes, snacks, herbal tea, substrates, and as an inoculum source for fermented products. For some, medicinal value was reported. Among the domesticated crops, beans, maize, sorghum, watermelon, cooking melons, sweet reed, ditloo, letlhodi, makgomane, groundnuts, morogo and millets were mentioned. Among indigenous beverages, bojalwa ja setswana (traditional sorghum beer) and khadi were widely mentioned. To some products, food safety and taboos challenge indicated. Because of high temperature and low rainfall, availability of some edible plants was indicated scarce. To some products mould spoilage from inadequately dried products, presence of insects/pests and soil impurities were challenging. Some beans and cereal grains were taking long time to cook leading to consumption of energy. In Mogoditshane village, because of conurbation to Gaborone city, limited land for farming, crop production was low resulting into life-style changes toward western culture diets. Reluctance to collect wild foods from bush was challenging for young generation. Most indigenous diets consumed are low in sugar and fat, but are wholesome like (whole grains, with dietary fibers, vitamins, and minerals) with high potential for diet diversifications. Even though, most indigenous foods/beverages are still consumed, there are worries that young generation has limited knowledge and skills to process. The communities have indicated that unlike old days relying on indigenous foods, these days they buy imported processed foods and beverages from supermarkets.

Heterologous Expression of Sunflower HaHPT and HaTMT Genes Enhances Rice-Grain Vitamin E Content.

Insufficient dietary vitamin intake can lead to severe health conditions in humans. Improving the vitamin E (VE) content of food crops such as rice through breeding is an economical and effective means to alleviate this problem. In this study, Homogentisate phytyltransferase (HPT) and γ-tocopherol methyltransferase (γ-TMT), two genes derived from sunflower (Helianthus annuus L., a high VE species), were introduced into an elite rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivar "Ningjing 7" for biofortification. We verified the successful expression of the two genes in multiple transformation events. High-performance liquid chromatography revealed that transgenic plants expressing either HaHPT alone or HaHPT and HaTMT accumulate more VE compared with the wild type. We also revealed that the level of α-tocopherol, the form of VE with the highest biological activity, had increased to 2.33 times in transgenic HaTMT plants compared with the wild type. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the expression levels of some chlorophyll synthesis pathway genes related to VE precursor synthesis significantly increased during grain filling in transgenic rice grains. No difference in agronomic traits was observed between the transgenic plants and their wild type except for a slightly reduced plant height associated with the transgenic plants. These data demonstrate that the heterologous expression of HaHPT gene is effective in increasing the total VE content, while HaTMT plays an important role in the relative abundance of α-tocopherol in rice grains. This study demonstrates a promising strategy for breeding rice with elevated VE content via metabolic engineering.

Association Between Vitamin Intake and Colorectal Cancer: Evidence from NHANES Data.

This study aims to investigate the associations between vitamins and colorectal cancer (CRC) based on a national sample of US adults. A total of 6200 samples were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to explore the relationship between vitamins (specifically, A, C, and D) and CRC. Logistic regression models were employed to assess the associations between dietary vitamin intake and CRC. Our findings indicate a negative association between vitamin C intake and CRC. However, the associations of vitamin A and vitamin D with CRC were not statistically significant. For vitamin C, compared to the first tertile, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were 0.91 (0.76-0.97) for the second tertile and 0.81 (0.64-0.95) for the third tertile (P < 0.01). Conversely, for vitamin A, compared to the first tertile, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were 1.02 (0.82-1.22) for the second tertile and 1.04 (0.75-1.25) for the third tertile (P < 0.01). For vitamin D, compared to the first tertile, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were 0.96 (0.84-1.06) for the second tertile and 1.01 (0.83-1.15) for the third tertile (P < 0.01). Additionally, the negative association between vitamin C and CRC was more pronounced among females (0.76, 0.67-0.92), individuals aged 60 and above (0.75, 0.69-0.95), and those with a BMI > 30 (0.78, 0.67-0.93). Our findings suggest that higher vitamin C intake is associated with a reduced prevalence of CRC. However, further large-scale prospective cohort studies are warranted to validate our results.

Evaluation of the clinical, biochemical, and molecular spectrum of Cobalamin C (CblC) defect in 33 patients from Pakistan

Background: Cobalamin C is the most common inborn error of intracellular cobalamin metabolism caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in the MMACHC gene, leading to impaired conversion of dietary vitamin B12 into its two metabolically active forms, methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Biochemical hallmarks are elevated plasma total homocysteine (HCYs) and low methionine accompanied by methylmalonic aciduria. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, biochemical, and molecular analysis of Pakistani patients with CblC defect. Methods: Medical charts, urine organic acid (UOA) chromatograms, plasma amino acid levels, plasma tHcy and MMACHC gene results of patients presenting at the Biochemical Genetics Clinic, AKUH from 2013–2021 were reviewed. Details were collected on a pre-structured questionnaire. SPSS 22 was used for data analysis. Results: CblC was found in 33 cases (Male:Female 19:14). The median age of symptoms onset and diagnosis were 300 (IQR:135–1800) and 1380 (IQR: 240–2730) days. The most common clinical features were cognitive impairment (n = 29), seizures (n = 23), motor developmental delay (n = 20), hypotonia (n = 17), and sparse/hypopigmented scalp hair (n = 16). The MMACHC gene sequencing revealed homozygous pathogenic variant c.394C > T, (p.Arg132*) in 32 patients, whereas c.609G > A, (p.TRP203*) in one patient whose ancestors had settled in Pakistan from China decades ago. The median age of treatment initiation was 1530 (IQR: 240–2790). The median pre-treatment HCYs levels were 134 (IQR:87.2–155.5) compared to post-treatment levels of 33.3 (IQR: 27.3–44.95) umol/L. Conclusions: Thirty-three cases of CblC defect from a single center underscores a significant number of the disorder within Pakistan. Late diagnosis emphasizes the need for increased clinical awareness and adequate diagnostic facilities.

Association between dietary vitamin E intake and constipation: NHANES 2005-2010.

This investigation aimed to analyze the association between dietary vitamin E intake and constipation prevalence among United States adults. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), this cross-sectional study assessed vitamin E intake through 24-h dietary recall and defined constipation based on the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). Logistic regression models were employed to evaluate the relationship between vitamin E intake and constipation, with results presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Stratified analyses were conducted based on covariates such as age, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were generated to explore the potential linear or non-linear association. Individuals experiencing constipation exhibited lower vitamin E intake compared to those without constipation. Weighted multivariate logistic regression models demonstrated a negative correlation between vitamin E intake and constipation risk, even after adjusting for potential confounding variables. Further RCS analysis revealed a statistically significant non-linear inverse relationship between vitamin E intake and constipation risk (p-value for non-linearity = 0.0473). Our findings suggest an independent inverse association between vitamin E intake and constipation prevalence in United States adults. Prospective research is needed to validate these observations.

Dietary vitamin B6 supplementation alleviates heat stress-induced intestinal barrier impairment by regulating the gut microbiota and metabolites in broilers

Heat stress (HS) brings great challenges to the poultry industry. Vitamin B6 (VB6) is an essential micro-nutrient for animals to maintain normal physiological functions and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to explore the effect of VB6 on alleviating HS-induced intestinal barrier impairment in broilers. A total of 250 broilers (609.76 ± 0.34 g) were randomly allocated to 5 groups with 5 replicate cages of 10 birds each. The broilers in thermoneutral (TN) group were raised in thermoneutral conditions (23 ± 1°C) and fed with a basal diet. The birds in other four groups were housed under cycle high temperature (34 ± 1°C for 8 h/d) from d 21 to 35 and fed with the basal diet (HS group) or basal diet supplemented with 6, 12, or 24 mg/kg VB6 (HB-6, HB-12, HB-24 groups). The results showed that HS reduced the growth performance, increased ileum inflammatory cytokines levels, and impaired the gut barrier function (P < 0.05). Compared to the HS group, final body weight, average daily gain, and average daily feed intake, and the feed conversion ratio were improved by VB6 supplementation. The diamine oxidase, interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-18, IL-10, and interferon-γ levels were reduced by VB6 supplementation (P < 0.05). Moreover, VB6 supplementation linearly or quadratically enhanced villus height and villus height-to-crypt depth ratio of duodenum and jejunum, and decreased crypt depth of duodenum and ileum. The mRNA expression of Occlaudin, ZO1, Mucin2, Mucin4, E-cadhein, and β-catenin were increased by VB6 treatment (P < 0.05). Furthermore, dietary VB6 altered the diversity and community of gut microbiota (P < 0.05). A total of 83 differential metabolites associated with the amelioration of VB6 were identified, which were primarily enriched in glycerophospholipid metabolism, caffeine metabolism, and glutathione metabolism pathway. Collectively, VB6 may improve the growth performance and intestinal barrier function of heat-stressed broilers by regulating the ileal microbiota and metabolic homeostasis.

Vitamin C as a functional enhancer in the non-specific immune defense, antioxidant capacity and resistance to low-temperature stress of juvenile mud crab, Scylla paramamosain

This experiment was conducted to explore the effects of dietary vitamin C supplementation on non-specific immune defense, antioxidant capacity and resistance to low-temperature stress of juvenile mud crab (Scylla paramamosain). Mud crabs with an initial weight of 14.67 ± 0.13 g were randomly divided into 6 treatments and fed diets with 0.86 (control), 44.79, 98.45, 133.94, 186.36 and 364.28 mg/kg vitamin C, respectively. The experiment consisted of 6 treatments, each treatment was designed with 4 replicates and each replicate was stocked with 8 crabs. After 42 days of feeding experiment, 2 crabs were randomly selected from each replicate, and a total of 8 crabs in each treatment were carried out 72 h low-temperature challenge experiment. The results showed that crabs fed diets with 186.36 and 364.28 mg/kg vitamin C significantly improved the activities of alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and acid phosphatase (ACP) in hemolymph and hepatopancreas (P < 0.05). Crabs fed diet with 133.94 mg/kg vitamin C significantly decreased the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) and the activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in hemolymph (P < 0.05). Diet with 133.94 mg/kg vitamin C was improved the activity of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and the concentration of albumin (ALB) in hemolymph. Crabs fed diet with 133.94 mg/kg vitamin C showed lower concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in hemolymph and hepatopancreas than those fed the other diets. Meanwhile, crabs fed diet with 98.45 mg/kg vitamin C showed higher activity of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) in hemolymph, and crabs fed diet with 133.94 mg/kg vitamin C showed higher activity of T-SOD in hepatopancreas. Crabs fed diet with 186.36 mg/kg vitamin C significantly decreased the concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) in hepatopancreas (P < 0.05). In normal temperature, crabs fed diets with 133.94 mg/kg vitamin C significantly up-regulated the expression levels of gpx (glutathione peroxidase) and trx (thioredoxin) in hepatopancreas compared with the control treatment (P < 0.05). The highest expression levels of relish, il16 (interleukin 16), caspase 2 (caspase 2), p38 mapk (p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases) and bax (bcl-2 associated x protein) in hepatopancreas were found at crabs fed control diet (P < 0.05). Moreover, crabs fed diet with 133.94 mg/kg vitamin C showed higher expression levels of alf-3 (anti-lipopolysaccharide factor 3) and bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) in hepatopancreas than those fed the other diets (P < 0.05). Under low-temperature stress, crabs fed diet with 133.94 mg/kg vitamin C significantly improved the expression levels of hsp90 (heat shock protein 90), cat (catalase), gpx, prx (thioredoxin peroxidase) and trx in hepatopancreas (P < 0.05). In addition, dietary with 133.94 vitamin C significantly up-regulated the expression levels of alf-3 and bcl-2 (P < 0.05). Based on two slope broken-line regression analysis of activity of PPO against the dietary vitamin C level, the optimal dietary vitamin C requirement was estimated to be 144.81 mg/kg for juvenile mud crab. In conclusion, dietary 133.94–144.81 mg/kg vitamin C significantly improved the non-specific immune defense, antioxidant capacity and resistance to low-temperature stress of juvenile mud crab.

Effects of vitamin D status on cutaneous wound healing through modulation of EMT and ECM

To investigate the effects of vitamin D status on cutaneous wound healing, C57BL/6J mice were fed diets with different vitamin D levels or injected intraperitoneally with 1α,25(OH)2D3. Dorsal skin wounds were created and wound edge tissues were collected on days 4, 7, 11, and 14 postwounding. The proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells treated with shVDR or 1α,25(OH)2D3 were assessed. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) decreased wound closure and might delay inflammatory response, shown by slower inflammatory cell infiltration, decreased IL6 and TNF expression in early phase followed by an increase later. VDD might postpone epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), initially characterized by higher epithelial markers and lower mesenchymal markers, followed by opposite appearance later. Dietary vitamin D supplementation and 1α,25(OH)2D3 intervention tended to accelerate EMT. Regarding extracellular matrix (ECM), VDD appeared to reduce collagen deposition on day 4 and downregulated fibronectin, COL3A1, and MMP9 expression early, followed by an increase later, together with an initial increase and subsequent decrease in Timp1 mRNA expression. Dietary vitamin D intervention promoted fibronectin and MMP9 expression on day 4 and then downregulated their expression on day 14. TGFb1/SMAD2/3 signaling seemed to be downregulated by VDD and upregulated by 1α,25(OH)2D3. In vitro, partial inhibition of VDR by shVDR tended to inhibit HaCaT cell proliferation and migration, EMT, and TGFb1/SMAD2/3 signaling, whereas 1α,25(OH)2D3 appeared to generate opposite effects. In conclusion, VDD hindered cutaneous wound healing, potentially due to impaired inflammatory response, delayed EMT, decreased ECM, and inhibited TGFb1/SMAD2/3 pathway. Vitamin D and 1α,25(OH)2D3 tended to enhance EMT and ECM.

The Influence of Arabinoxylan of Different Molar Masses on the Properties of Rye Bread Baked by the Postponed Baking Method.

Rye grain is a good source of dietary fiber, phenolic compounds, vitamins, and mineral compounds. To prevent the staling process of bread, semi-finished bakery products are subjected to cooling or freezing, and this process is called the postponed baking method. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of rye arabinoxylans differing in molar mass on the properties of rye bread baked using the postponed baking method. The breads were baked from rye flour types 720 and 1150, without and with a 1% share of unmodified or cross-linked rye arabinoxylans (AXs). The molar mass of the unmodified AXs was 432,160 g/mol, while that of the AXs after cross-linking was 1,158,980 g/mol. The results of this study show that the 1% share of AXs significantly increased the water addition to both types of rye flour and dough yield, and this increase was proportional to the molar mass of the AXs used. It is shown that a 1% share of both AX preparations positively increased the volume and crumb moisture of bread baked by the postponed baking method. Cross-linked AXs proved to be particularly effective in increasing the volume and bread crumb moisture. Both AX preparations had a positive effect on reducing the bread crumb hardness of rye breads baked by the postponed baking method.

Associations between dietary antioxidant vitamins and risk of glioma: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Epidemiological studies investigating the potential associations between antioxidant vitamins intake and risk of glioma have yielded inconsistent results. To address this, we carried out a systematic review and updated meta-analysis to explore the relationship between dietary antioxidant vitamins intake and risk of glioma. We comprehensively searched electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wan fang Data from their inception to March 2024. We employed fixed-effects or random-effects models to estimate the pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations between dietary antioxidant vitamins intake and risk of glioma. Publication bias was assessed through the visual inspection of the funnel plots and quantified by the Begg's and Egger's tests. Heterogeneity across studies was assessed using the Cochran's Q test and I-square (I2). Additionally, subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity and evaluate the robustness of the results. Overall, a total of 15 articles involving 3,608 glioma cases and 771,930 participants were included in the final analysis. The pooled analyses revealed that the highest intake of vitamin C significantly reduced the risk of glioma (RR = 0.78; 95%CI: 0.63-0.96; P = 0.022), compared to the lowest intake. However, no significant associations were observed between vitamin A and vitamin E intake and the risk of glioma (P>0.05). Subgroup analyses revealed the inverse association between vitamin C intake and risk of glioma in the population-based case-control studies (RR = 0.82; 95%CI: 0.68-1.00, P = 0.049) and study quality <7(RR = 0.52, 95%CI: 0.29-0.92, P = 0.025). Our findings show that higher intake of vitamin C is strongly associated with a reduced risk of glioma, although a dose-response relationship was not evident. Future large-scale prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Dietary interventions in autism: a critical appraisal and commentary on the findings of a systematic review

An estimated 1% of the global population is believed to be autistic. Clinical focus is often on interventions that target social functioning, sensory processing and communication. Dietary interventions are often explored as a means of targeting these core symptoms. However, research findings are often inconclusive due to small sample sizes. This commentary article critically examines a meta-analysis focused on dietary interventions, including omega-3, vitamins and other supplements, in the management of autism. It evaluates the studies' findings and contextualises its implications for clinical nursing practice.