Dietary Supplements Research Articles

The Impact of Dietary Interventions on the Pharmacokinetics of Antifungal Drugs: A Systematic Review with Meta-analyses.

Managing food-drug interactions may help to optimize the efficacy and safety of antifungal therapy. This systematic review followedPreferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to evaluate how food, beverages, antacids, and mineral supplements influence the pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters or pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) indices of 14 orally administered antifungal drugs. We considered all studies evaluating the effects of food, beverages, antacids, and mineral supplements on PK parameters and PK/PD indices of oral antifungal drugs for inclusion. We excluded in vitro, in silico, animal studies, reviews, and alcohol-related investigations. Searches were conducted in Medline (via PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane Library from database inception to June 2024. We evaluated the risk of bias using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) tool for before-after studies and the Cochrane tool for parallel and cross-over trials. We performed meta-analyses when two or more studies with comparable designs were available; otherwise, results were summarized qualitatively. The review included 73 studies from 68 reports. Only studies investigating the effect of dietary interactions on PK parameters were found. Meta-analyses were conducted for seven antifungal drugs, while qualitative synthesis covered the remaining drugs. Open-label, cross-over studies accounted for 58% of trials, aligning with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommendations. A high risk of bias appeared in 33% of studies, while only 7% showed low risk. Among 11 antifungals with food-effect data, seven (64%) exhibited clinically important interactions. High positive food effects (area under the concentration-timecurve (AUC) orpeak serum concentration (Cmax) increased by >45%) were seen for griseofulvin, itraconazole capsules and tablets (except rice-based meals), and posaconazole immediate-release tablets and suspension. A moderate positive impact of high-fat meals (AUC or Cmax increased in the range of 35-45%) occurred for ibrexafungerp and oteseconazole. A high negative food effect was observed on the absorption of voriconazole and itraconazole oral suspension or super bioavailable (SUBA) capsules (AUC or Cmax decreased by >40%). Antacids strongly reduced itraconazole and ketoconazole absorption, while nutritional supplements improved posaconazole bioavailability. Acidic beverages such as Coca Cola substantially enhanced the absorption of itraconazole, ketoconazole, and posaconazole, whereas orange juice significantly reduced itraconazole bioavailability. Interactions were influenced by such factors as drug physicochemical properties, type of dietary intervention, drug formulation, and patient characteristics. Although the review largely filled the existing gaps in recommendations, we judged the overall quality of evidence as low owing to outdated studies, methodological inconsistencies, and uneven data availability. Further research involving PK/PD indices is needed to link the postprandial changes in the bioavailability of antifungal drugs with their clinical efficacy. The protocol of the systematic review was registered in March 2024 in the Open Science Framework (OSF) Registries ( https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/HAVK9 ).

Effect of PUFAs-ω3 and ω6 on oxidative stress of sheep erythrocytes

BackgroundIn recent years, the use of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ω3 and ω6, as food supplements in livestock has increased due to their beneficial properties related to their antioxidant activity. It has been demonstrated however that a high intake of these substances has prooxidant and cell-damaging effects, especially if their circulating concentrations are unbalanced. Starting from these premises, and taking advantage of previous findings, the present study aimed at defining the optimal circulating concentrations and PUFAs ω3/ω6 ratio, to ensure the antioxidant/oxidant balance in sheep RBCs.ResultsAll tested concentrations (25–300 µg/mL in PBS) of PUFAs-ω3 after 4 h of treatment on sheep RBCs, showed antioxidant properties with a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS) versus the control group (CTRL) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, ω6 showed an antioxidant effect at low concentrations (25–200 g/mL) but a pro-oxidant effect at the highest concentrations (250 and 300 µg/mL) with a significant increase in ROS production (123.6 ± 2.1 and 131.4 ± 6.5% sloope RFU of CTRL respectively p < 0,001), malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.01), and haemolysis (p < 0.01) versus CTRL group (1.1 ± 0.1%), and, also with a decrease of Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) (p < 0,05). The ratio ω3/ω6 of 1:10 (25/250 µg/mL) and 1:4 (25/100 µg/mL) showed an intracellular ROS level like the CTRL group whereas, the ratio 1:2 (100/200 µg/mL) resulted in a significant decrease in ROS production (62.71 ± 2.31% slope RFU of CTRL, p < 0.001) and MDA (p < 0.001), with an increase in TEAC (p < 0.05), and a decrease haemolysis versus the control group (p < 0,01).ConclusionsOur results showed that a beneficial effect on the oxidative state of sheep RBCs was obtained with in vitro administration of low concentrations of ω6 and with all tested concentrations of ω3. The addition of ω6 at high concentrations leads to an imbalance in the PUFA ω3/ω6 ratio, compromising the oxidative state and viability of the RBCs. The maximum antioxidative effect was found at ω3/ω6 ratio 1:2).

Preventing a Public Health Issue by Quantification of Illegally Added Sexual Enhancers in Natural Dietary Supplements

The lack of regulation for "natural" dietary supplements raises public health concerns as they may contain undisclosed active ingredients, without proper labelling. Natural libido boosters, marketed as dietary supplements for male sexual function improvement, have been linked to serious side effects, prompting health authorities to issue warnings. Liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) methods are commonly used to detect non-regulated substances in these supplements. In the present work, an LC-MS/MS method was validated to verify that it provides robust and reliable results, with enough sensitivity (LOD ≤ 10 µg·kg-1 and LOQ ≤ 45 µg·kg-1), precision (RSD ≤ 15%), and accuracy (80–120% recovery). Then, the concentration of sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, yohimbine and desmethyl carbodenafil was evaluated in several dietary supplements commercially available in Spain. 17 samples were analyzed, and 4 presented contaminations of sildenafil, yohimbine or tadalafil. The outstanding results lead to a robust analytical method that can be used to detect and prevent fraud, ensure food security and prevent public health issues.

Sportuotojų maisto papildų poreikiai kūno kompozicijai koreguoti

The article aims to determine which dietary supplements athletes choose to correct body composition. The study analyzes the motivation and supplement choices of athletes who visit dietary supplement stores to improve body composition. The study draws attention to the significant influence of social media networks and peers on supplement use, indicating the need for evidence-based information campaigns promoting science-based choices among athletes.

Development of Highly Sensitive and Specific and Genetically Encoded Biosensors for Calcifediol and Calcitriol Detection.

1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (calcifediol) are essential steroid metabolites that serve as key indicators of vitamin D3 status in the human body. However, conventional detection methods, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), are costly, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, limiting their accessibility for routine analysis. Here, we engineered genetically encoded biosensors by leveraging the human vitamin D receptor (VDR) and retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRA) to enable precise detection of calcitriol and calcifediol in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The biosensors were designed as two-component modules by fusing the VDR ligand-binding domain to the S. cerevisiae GAL4 DNA-binding domain and RXRA to the VP16 activation domain, facilitating ligand-dependent transcriptional activation. To enhance sensitivity, we increased the copy number of the reporter module and incorporated a transcriptional amplifier, improving the half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) to 23.3 nM for calcitriol and 219.8 nM for calcifediol. Furthermore, biosensor specificity for calcitriol was optimized by screening VDR mutations using a URA3-mediated dual-selection system, yielding the VDRCT mutant, which exhibited no response to 10 μM calcifediol. The biosensors demonstrated high accuracy in measuring calcifediol in dietary supplements and calcitriol in pharmaceutical formulations, showing strong concordance with HPLC results. These findings suggest that the proposed biosensors may provide a cost-effective, rapid, and reliable alternative for food safety inspection and clinical diagnostics.

Chromatographic Detection and Determination of Cyproheptadine and Dexamethasone as Adulterants in Weight Gain Supplements.

The increasing popularity of herbal medicines and dietary supplements has raised concern about potential adulteration with pharmaceutical drugs. To detect and determine cyproheptadine (CYP) and dexamethasone (DEX) as adulterants in weight gain herbal supplements found in the Iraqi market. Nine herbal supplements marketed as natural weight gainers were purchased from local pharmacies and were screened using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for qualitative and quantitative detection of CYP and DEX. CYP was detected in seven of the nine products at levels of 2.65-8.6 mg per dosage unit. DEX was detected in all test solutions at levels of 6.2-18.75 mg per dosage unit. A large proportion of herbal weight gain supplements were found to contain undeclared pharmaceuticals with severe health implications. The findings call for the immediate institution of tighter regulatory control and regular quality control tests in the name of consumer safety. Herbals and supplements for weight gain are increasingly popular but may be adulterated with pharmaceutical drugs which impose serious health risks for consumers. Urgent need for regulatory enforcement and routine quality checks are recommended.

Assessment of growth status and nutritional management of prematurely born infants after hospital discharge: A position paper of the ESPGHAN Nutrition Committee.

The aim of the manuscript is to provide evidence-based or expert consensus-based recommendations for growth assessment and nutritional management of preterm-born infants during the post-discharge period. The search was conducted in Pubmed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews using the MESH terms: infant, preterm infant, low birth weight, infant food, nutritional status, nutrients, breast feeding, infant formula, human milk, dietary supplements, vitamins, iron, vitamin D, minerals, energy intake, weaning, and baby led. Overall, 402 papers were identified and screened, from which 101 publications were included in the present position paper. In the absence of evidence, recommendations reflect the authors' combined expert opinion. Final consensus was obtained through multiple e-mail exchanges and meetings with the Committee of Nutrition of the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. Continuous growth monitoring through measurements of weight, length, and HC post-discharge is recommended to identify growth faltering (GF) or undernutrition. To prevent disproportionate growth, weight-for-length z-scores should be included in the assessment when term equivalent age is reached. Infants discharged with a significant drop in weight and length, exceeding a -2 standard deviation loss, require tailored nutritional support to address long-term growth challenges and to support recovery to normal growth rates. Breastfeeding is highly recommended for all infants when feasible. Infants needing to catch up in growth should be given supplements, such as HMF For those fed with formula, an adequate protein: energy ratio, minerals, and trace elements should be supplied to facilitate catch-up growth. The start of solid foods should coincide with the infant's neurological developmental milestones, rather than adhering strictly to a set age. Vitamin D and iron supplementation (with regular ferritin monitoring) is recommended through at least 12 months CA. For preterm infants, close monitoring of growth after discharge and nutritional assessment is essential to identify those at high risk for GF or undernutrition and to provide individualized nutritional support when needed. These patients should either be referred to a specialized center for pediatric nutritional care or, alternatively, their general pediatrician should receive appropriate training on the subject.

Promotive Effect of Ginger Rhizome Extract Supplement on In Vitro Rooting of Persian Violet Shoot Tip Culture

Ginger is recognized for its economic value, which is derived from its rhizome that is often utilized as a spice and a herb. In plant tissue culture, various natural supplements are often added into culture media. Ginger rhizome extract has not been added to plant tissue culture media before, although it is anticipated to have plant hormones needed by plant tissue culture. This study was aimed to investigate if the indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) contents in the extracts from young and old ginger rhizomes might be related to their effects on Persian violet shoot tips cultured on media supplemented with the extracts. Spectrophotometric analysis revealed distinct IAA concentrations of 97.04 and 95.57 µg/mL in the extracts from young and old ginger rhizomes, respectively. Basal MS medium was then supplemented with these extracts at concentrations of 0, 5, 10, and 20 mL L-1 for culturing Persian violet shoot tips over 4 weeks. Remarkably, the medium supplemented with 5 mL L-1 of old ginger rhizome extract was the most effective in inducing root formation from Persian violet shoot tips under in vitro conditions, resulting in an average of 29 roots formed per shoot tip explant. In this treatment, the average root length was 6.7 cm, and maximum shoot height (3.6 cm) was also promoted. Therefore, the extract of old ginger rhizome distinctly stimulated both root and shoot development of Persian violet in vitro. This investigation supports the use of ginger rhizome extract (containing auxin) in plant tissue culture, particularly for enhancing propagation and development of Persian violet.

Estrogen regulates duodenal calcium absorption and improves postmenopausal osteoporosis by the effect of ERβ on PMCA1b

Dietary calcium supplements can prevent osteoporosis, and our previous investigation demonstrated a notable increase in duodenal calcium absorption due to the impact of estrogen. The decrease of estrogen level in postmenopausal women is significantly associated with an increased incidence of osteoporosis. In this study, we further investigated the role of estrogen regulating duodenal calcium absorption in osteoporosis and elucidated its underlying molecular mechanism. We recruited ten young women in the prefollicular stage and ten menopausal women for the study. Furthermore, we performed trials on mice, as well as human duodenal epithelial cells and SCBN cells. The measurement of calcium absorption in the duodenum of mice was conducted through single-pass perfusion in vivo. We used a calcium imaging system to evaluate calcium absorption in SCBN cells. The bone mineral density was measured using small animal computed tomography and a bone densitometer. Furthermore, The expression levels of calcium transport proteins, namely plasma membrane calcium pump (PMCA1b) and transient receptor potential cation channel (TRPV6), were evaluated using western blot analysis. Compared to young women, postmenopausal women exhibited significant reductions in estrogen levels, bone mineral density, and the expression of PMCA1b and TRPV6 in duodenal mucosal tissues (P < 0.05). A positive correlation was also observed between estrogen levels, the expression of PMCA1b and TRPV6, and bone mineral density (P < 0.05). The estrogen levels, the expression of PMCA1b and TRPV6 in the duodenal mucosa, calcium absorptions, and bone mineral density were observed to be decreased in ovariectomized mice based on in vivo animal experiments (P < 0.05). However, estrogen upplementation can enhance duodenal calcium absorptions and ameliorate osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice, with its primary mechanism of action being the regulation of PMCA1b expression and function (P < 0.05). The findings from SCBN cells further confirm that estrogen enhances duodenal calcium absorption through the effect of ERβ on PMCA1b. Estrogen enhances the expression and functionality of PMCA1b in duodenal mucosal cells via ERβ, promoting duodenal calcium absorption and ameliorating postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Does Food Habits and Malnutrition Affect Health Perception Among Diabetic Patients? A Mediation and Moderation Analysis

Background: The prevalence of diabetes among young individuals has reached concerning levels, posing significant public health risks and exacerbating the economic burden on healthcare systems. The health outcomes of individuals with diabetes are heavily influenced by malnutrition and unhealthy dietary habits, which not only hamper effective blood glucose management but also negatively affect overall health perceptions. Introduction: This study analyzes the factors influencing malnutrition, food habits, and health perceptions among diabetic patients. Methods: A well-structured questionnaire was designed to collect data. A cross-sectional survey of 503 diabetic patients across various regions in India was conducted. Additionally, structural equation modeling, as well as mediation and moderation analyses, were performed. Results: The study findings revealed that dietary knowledge, dietitian-led interventions, and economic factors significantly influenced malnutrition and health outcomes. Conversely, nutritional quality did not emerge as a significant predictor. Discussions: The study will help pharmaceutical companies, governments, and healthcare practitioners in marketing dietary supplements, design focused dietary programs, and develop health education campaigns to improve diabetes patients’ quality of life. The findings illuminated the critical roles of dietary knowledge, dietitian-led interventions, economic factors, and lifestyle modifications in managing malnutrition and enhancing health outcomes. Conclusions: The study demonstrated significant mediation and moderation effects, emphasizing the complex interplay between food habits and malnutrition on health perceptions. However, nutritional quality was not a significant predictor, and the research underscored the necessity of holistic, personalized interventions. This will also help medical marketers in devising their marketing strategies.

Vitamin D Toxicity and Clinical Consequences of Hypervitaminosis

Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that enters the human body with certain animal products, fortified foods, dietary supplements, and is also synthesized endogenously under the influence of solar radiation. It plays a critical role in regulating calcium-phosphorus metabolism and maintaining bone health, preventing the development of rickets and osteopenia. In recent years, there has been a growing body of evidence regarding its involvement in numerous metabolic processes and potential link to the risk of autoimmune diseases, cancer, cardiovascular disease, depression, dementia and infectious diseases. However, despite the widespread use and availability of vitamin D, including in the form of over-the-counter supplements, there is a risk of developing hypervitaminosis D, which, although rare, can have serious clinical consequences. Vitamin D toxicity is usually caused by excessive intake of high doses of the vitamin (intentional or accidental), prescription errors, or lack of proper monitoring of vitamin D levels during treatment of certain diseases (e.g., osteoporosis, renal osteodystrophy, malabsorption). Clinical manifestations of hypervitaminosis D are caused by hypercalcemia and can range from nonspecific symptoms (weakness, fatigue, anorexia, bone pain) to more serious neurological (confusion, apathy, ataxia), gastrointestinal (nausea, vomiting, constipation, pancreatitis), renal (polyuria, polydipsia, nephrolithiasis) and cardiac (arrhythmias) disorders. Treatment is mainly supportive and aimed at lowering calcium levels by discontinuing vitamin D and calcium intake, rehydration, and in severe cases, calcitonin, bisphosphonates, sometimes glucocorticoids, or hemodialysis.

Nutrition knowledge, supplementation practices and access to nutrition supports of collegiate student athletes in Ireland

PurposeTo provide a comprehensive assessment of nutrition knowledge, supplementation practices and access to nutrition supports in third-level/university student athletes in Ireland.MethodsNutrition knowledge was assessed using the Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (ANSKQ), with additional questions on nutrition information sources, access to nutritional supports and supplement use.Results138 student athletes completed the online questionnaire. Participants had a mean (± SD) Total Nutrition Knowledge (TNK) score of 51.6 ± 13.7%, classed as “average”. Scores were higher in the General Nutrition Knowledge (GNK) (61.4 ± 15.4%) sub-section, while Sports Nutrition Knowledge (SNK) scores (47.2 ± 15.5%) were considered “poor”. Athletes that studied nutrition/dietetics at university level had higher GNK (69.9 ± 12.3% vs. 60.3 ± 15.5%), SNK (61.5 ± 13.7% vs. 45.3 ± 14.8%) and TNK (64.1 ± 11.8% vs. 50.0 ± 13.1%) scores than other students (all p < 0.05). Athletes with prior nutrition education/training also had significantly better TNK, GNK and SNK scores than those with no previous education/training (p < 0.001). Dietary supplements were used by 62.4% of participants, 64.0% of whom used 3 or more supplements. The most popular supplements were protein (77.9%), vitamin D (47.7%) and multivitamins (47.7%). Only 49.3% of participants had previous access to nutrition supports, but 80.4% of participants wanted more support.ConclusionsStudent athletes demonstrated inadequate levels of nutrition knowledge, particularly in the areas of sports nutrition, coupled with a high prevalence of nutritional supplement use. Athletes with higher education levels and prior nutrition education/training demonstrated greater nutrition knowledge, although a high desire for more nutrition supports was reported by the athletes in this cohort.

From the gut to the brain, mechanisms and clinical applications of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the treatment of anxiety and insomnia

Anxiety and insomnia are prevalent global mood disorders, and affect approximately 4 and 10 out of every 100 individuals, respectively. Common abnormal brain activity and altered neural circuitries are detected in patients with anxiety disorders and insomnia, suggesting overlapping pathogenesis in these two disorders. Promisingly, GABA from dietary supplements and GABA produced by gut microbiota have shown significant treatment effects in anxiety and insomnia. This review summarizes neurological mechanisms causing anxiety and insomnia, reveals cellular pathways transferring GABA from the gut to the brain, and delivers the therapeutic potential of gut derived GABA for anxiety and insomnia. Moreover, this review proposes emerging therapeutic strategies utilizing engineered GABA-producing bacteria to target anxiety and insomnia, and highlights the potential of live biotherapeutics as novel interventions for mood disorders.

The Effect of Poppy Oil on Egg Production and Calcium Metabolism in Japanese Quail

Consumers tend to favor natural dietary supplements to improve their health. However, vendors rarely cite scientific evidence to justify these claims. In the case of poppy oil, it is often mentioned as having a positive effect on Ca metabolism-related disorders, but no proof has been provided. Therefore, the aim of our trial was to test the possible effect of poppy oil on calcium metabolism using Japanese quail layers as a model animal. A total of 120 four-week-old quail were divided into three dietary treatments (four cages per treatment, with ten birds in each cage): a control group (using sunflower oil as the energy source in the diet), 0.5%, and 1% poppy oil supplementation (replacing sunflower oil). Egg production, eggshell thickness, eggshell strength, and egg yolk color were investigated. Ca retention was determined using the acid-insoluble ash method. At the end of the experiment, two birds per cage were sacrificed, and uterus and jejunum samples were collected for gene expression analyses. Poppy oil supplementation improved egg production in terms of intensity, egg weight, and eggmass production. The thickness and eggshell strength decreased when 1% poppy oil was fed to the animals, while Ca retention improved. Poppy oil supplementation increased the expression of Ca transporter genes (CALB1, SLC8A1, and SLC26A9) in the uterus and ITPR1 in the jejunum. Our results indicate a possible effect of poppy oil on Ca metabolism. Further studies are needed to identify the active compound and to understand the mode of action.

A Review on Chemo Sensors and Fluorosensors for Manganese.

Manganese is a trace essential element in human body. Manganese can not be produced in body so the daily intake of manganese sources like shellfish, oysters, brown rice, black tea, Oat meal, black pepper, spinach and other dietary supplements of manganese are important. Manganese sensors are very rare and therefore it is very much important to discuss about all the sensors synthesized for manganese still date.

Morus alba L. Cell Cultures as Sources of Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Stilbenoids for Food Supplement Development

Morus alba L. (Moraceae), white mulberry, is an ancient, well-known source of several compounds with potent biological activities and beneficial effects on human health. In this study, the juices of three stabilised undifferentiated cell lines, calli maintained in light and dark conditions, and suspensions maintained in dark condition of M. alba were investigated for their phytochemical content and biological activity. The results highlighted the main presence of oxyresveratrol and resveratrol-backbone glucosides, together with benzofuran derivatives. Oxyresveratrol triglucoside was found for the first time in M. alba in vitro cultures, where it represents the main compound, accounting for almost 90 µg/mL in all the juices. The total stilbenoid content resulted significantly higher in calli juices during the logarithmic phase of the growth cycle, and cell suspension juice exhibited the statistically highest total content (313.21 µg/mL of juice). Only cell suspension juice showed ROS reduction in Caco-2 cells, whereas all the juices reduced IL-1β and TNF-α levels in Caco-2 cells stimulated with LPS. These results lay the groundwork for the future exploitation of M. alba dedifferentiated cultures as sustainable resources of stilbenoid compounds to be used in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

Enhanced Biosynthesis of 6'-Sialyllactose in Escherichia coli via Systematic Metabolic Engineering.

6'-Sialyllactose (6'-SL), a sialylated oligosaccharide belonging to human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), finds extensive applications in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and particularly in infant nutrition and dietary supplements. In this study, Escherichia coli K12 MG1655 was subjected to metabolic engineering to enhance 6'-SL biosynthesis. Initial pathway optimization involved the deletion of competing metabolic pathway genes (nanATEK, nagAB, and lacZ). Following overexpression of NmCSS and Pd2,6ST, an initial titer of 0.98 g/L was achieved. Subsequent combinatorial expression of heterologous enzymes from diverse microbial sources increased the yield to 1.26 g/L. Through systematic optimization of promoter strength and ribosome binding site (RBS) elements, the 6'-SL titer was further elevated to 2.41 g/L. Implementation of structure-guided mutagenesis on both key enzymes resulted in a significant yield improvement to 4.27 g/L. Final engineering strategies included overexpression of rate-limiting enzymes in the CTP biosynthesis pathway. The engineered strain demonstrated a production capacity of 4.92 g/L in shake-flask cultures. We transferred the strain to a 5-L fermenter and achieved a final 6'-SL production of 12.82 g/L after 76 h of cultivation, demonstrating a 13-fold enhancement compared to the initial shake-flask culture.

From Chemical Composition to Antiproliferative Effects Through In Vitro Studies: Honey, an Ancient and Modern Hot Topic Remedy

Honey is a natural product which has been used throughout time as a food, spice, and medicine. Its therapeutic use has its origins in direct empirical observations of various beneficial actions in terms of its anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing effects, to which an antiproliferative effect is added. In the context of malignant transformation, reductions in chronic inflammation, antioxidant action, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis activation contribute to this antiproliferative effect, achievements attributed mainly to the polyphenols in its composition. A multitude of in vitro studies performed on malignant cell cultures try to elucidate the real mechanism(s) that can scientifically explain this action. In addition, its use as an adjuvant in association with cytostatic therapy demonstrates a promising effect in enhancing its cytotoxic effect, but also in reducing some adverse effects. Highlighting these actions allows for further perspectives to be opened regarding the use of honey for therapeutic and also prophylactic purposes, as a food supplement. Future studies will support the identification of real antiproliferative effects in patients with malignant tumors in terms of actions on the human body as a whole, moving from cell cultures to complex implications.

Status of vitamin D deficiency among adult population presented to primary health care: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Introduction: Vitamin D insufficiency is on the increase globally, becoming a significant public health concern even in nations with abundant access to sunshine and food. Although Oman enjoys extended periods of sunshine, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has lately increased. The study aims to assess the levels of vitamin D in the adult Omani citizen population who sought primary healthcare in Oman. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study in Muscat, Oman, between January and December 2015, involving 250 primary health care users aged 18 years or older who had a 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) test result available. Deficit, insufficiency, and sufficiency of vitamin D were determined by their respective 25(OH)D levels: less than 50 nmol/L, between 50 and 74 nmol/L, and more than 75 nmol/L (30 ng/mL), respectively. Data were reported as numbers, percentages, and mean ± standard deviation. We applied a logistic regression model to the variables. Results: The study included 250 patients. Of the total, 95% were female (n = 238), whereas male patients comprised just 12 (5%). In terms of vitamin D levels, 227 patients were deficient (91%), 21 (8%) patients were insufficient, and only 2 (1%) patients had normal vitamin D levels. The main reasons for testing vitamin D levels were muscle ache: 71 patients (28%); screening: 67 patients (27%); bone ache: 53 patients (21%); and joint pain: 35 patients (14%). The majority of patients were tested in the following months: January (15%), February (13%), and March (14%). The research demonstrated a correlation between vitamin D levels and solar exposure, with the patients receiving sun exposure on a weekly basis (p = 0.000034). Conclusions: The most common clinical presentations of vitamin D deficiency were bone pain and muscle pain, and there was substantial correlation between vitamin D levels and sun exposure groups. Low vitamin D levels are common among seemingly healthy Omani females residing in Muscat. Public awareness, supplementation, and fortification of food with vitamin D are warranted.

A Review and Update: The Impact of Diet and Supplements on Atopic Dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition thought to be impacted by several risk factors, from genetics to lifestyle. Diet is a lifestyle factor that is of great interest for patients and providers. While there are several diet-related studies that have aimed to understand which dietary patterns and triggers are associated with AD, there exists some conflicting evidence that makes dietary recommendations and decisions difficult and can put patients at risk of inadequate nutrition. A review of dietary patterns and supplements revealed that the most consistent and beneficial dietary patterns associated with improvements in AD were supplementation with probiotics and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and reductions in sodium intake. Data for other diets and supplements like antioxidants and various vitamins were more inconclusive, supporting the need for more high-quality dietary research. Dietary changes have the potential to positively impact the management of AD and should be made in conjunction with a provider to ensure nutritional needs are met.