Plasma Levels Of Vitamin Research Articles

Levels of plasma 25-hydroxy vitamin D and risk of developing type 2 diabetes in a large Danish primary health care population.

Plasma levels of Vitamin D (25(OH)D) have been suggested as a predictor for developing type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate if a measurement of plasma 25(OH)D could predict the development of type 2 diabetes in a cohort of 222,311 individuals from primary healthcare in Denmark. The CopD-study database containing data from the Copenhagen General Practitioners Laboratory on blood tests conducted from April 2004 to January 2012 was used for identification of the study population. Incident type 2 diabetes was then defined as having at least two redeemed prescriptions of antidiabetics or at least two hospital contacts due to type 2 diabetes or one redeemed prescription and one hospital contact regarding type 2 diabetes. A total of 222,311 individuals were included in the study, of whom 7652 (3.4%) developed type 2 diabetes during the follow-up period of minimum one year. Individuals who developed type 2 diabetes had a significantly lower median 25(OH)D level than persons in the non-diabetes group. The hazard ratio for development of type 2 diabetes increased by 15% per 10nmol/L decrease in 25(OH)D level. In this study of 222,311 persons from primary health care in Denmark, we found a clear inverse relationship between 25(OH)D and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Further studies should be conducted to clarify the mechanisms behind the relationship between 25(OH)D and type 2 diabetes and the effect of oral vitamin D supplementation on the development of type 2 diabetes.

Fat-soluble vitamins as biomarkers of nutritional status and their relation with complications in polytrauma patients.

This exploratory observational prospective study aimed to evaluate fat-soluble vitamin plasma levels during hospital admission and its relation with the development of malnutrition and complications in polytrauma patients, considering the protocolized multivitamin supplementation during intensive care unit (ICU) admission. In 49 well-nourished polytrauma (injury severity score ≥ 16) patients admitted to the ICU of two level-1 trauma centers, vitamin A, D, and E levels were assessed weekly during hospital stay. All patients received multivitamin supplementation during ICU stay. Linear mixed-effect models were used to assess a trend in vitamin levels over time during hospital stay. Mixed-effects logistic regression analysis was performed to relate vitamin concentrations with malnutrition, defined as a subjective global assessment score ≤5, and complications. Vitamin A levels increased 0.17 µmol/L per week (95% confidence interval 0.12-0.22, p < 0.001), vitamin D levels increased 1.49 nmol/L per week (95% confidence interval 0.64-2.33, p < 0.01), vitamin E levels increased 1.17 µmol/L per week (95% confidence interval 0.61-1.73, p < 0.001) during hospital stay (29 ± 17 days). Vitamin levels were not related to malnutrition or complications during hospital stay. Vitamin A, D, and E levels increased due to supplementation during hospital admission. Plasma levels of vitamins A, D, and E do not seem to be useful as biomarkers for the nutritional status of polytrauma patients during hospital stay. No correlation with complications could be demonstrated.

Correction of plasma fat-soluble vitamin levels by blood lipids in elderly patients with coronary heart disease

This study aims to investigate the correlation between plasma fat-soluble vitamin levels and blood lipid in elderly patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). A total of 120 participants were enrolled, including 60 CHD patients and 60 controls without CHD. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to quantify plasma levels of vitamins A, D3, E, and K. Data analysis was conducted using the statistical analysis system module of MetaboAnalyst 5.0. The CHD group showed significantly higher levels of plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) but not high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) compared to controls. The CHD group exhibited significantly higher plasma levels of VA and VE, positively correlating with TC, TG, and LDL-C. After adjusted by TG levels, the CHD group had significantly lower plasma levels of VA and VE, negatively correlating with TC, TG, and LDL-C. The CHD group also had significantly lower concentrations of VD3, independent of TG modification, compared to controls. VD3 negatively correlated with TC, TG, and LDL-C. Elderly individuals with CHD display abnormal blood lipid metabolism, and fat-soluble vitamins adjusted by TG levels can more accurately and timely response to implicit fat-soluble vitamins deficiency in CHD patients.

Abstract 2198: Poverty, food insecurity, and nutritional inflammatory mediators of allostatic load

Abstract Background: Though widely recognized in cancer pathogenesis, inflammatory pathways of allostatic load remain vaguely understood. A partial explanation may be found within the realm of food insecurity and micronutrient inadequacies, defined as nutrient intake less than the estimated average requirement. Many micronutrient deficiencies contribute to pro-inflammatory and immunocompromised milieus. Inadequacies, however, which may present without overt symptoms, are not currently well studied. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between known inflammation-associated nutritional biomarkers of micronutrients and biomarker variables of allostatic load. Methods: Using NHANES 2017/2018 surveys, adults &amp;gt; 18 years without renal or hepatic disorders, pregnancy, alcohol, or supplement use were included. Plasma levels of vitamins A, B9, C, D, E, calcium (Ca), ferritin (Fe), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and sodium (Na) were grouped into deficiency, inadequate and adequate groups based on clinically recognized standards. Micronutrient prevalence was assessed and variables of allostatic load [blood pressure, glucose, albumin, creatinine, red cell distribution width (RDW), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol and triglycerides] were analyzed for mean differences among micronutrient groups, food security and poverty. Results: From 3,317 unique participants, inadequacy prevalence percentages were quantified as: vitamins A (0.4%), B9 (12.2%), C (58.3%), D (39.6%), E (21.0%), P (11.4%), K (3.4%), Na (24.2%), Ca (59.5%), and Fe (37.4%) [p &amp;lt; 0.001]. Statistically significant differences were identified in age [C, D, E, Ca, Fe, P, Na (p &amp;lt; 0.004)], race/ethnicity [B9, C, D (p &amp;lt; 0.006)], gender [C, E, Ca, Fe, P, K, Na (p &amp;lt; 0.018)], poverty [A, B9, C, D, E, Fe, K (p &amp;lt; 0.025)], and food security [B9, C, D, E, P (p &amp;lt; 0.032)]. Associations to allostatic load were discovered in: albumin [A, C, D, Ca, Fe, P, Na (p &amp;lt; 0.025)], glucose [C, E, Fe, P, Na (p &amp;lt; 0.009)], HDL [C, D, E, Fe, P, K (p&amp;lt;0.045)], LDL [E, Ca, Fe, Na (p&amp;lt;0.028)], creatinine [C, D, Ca, Fe (p&amp;lt;0.001)], triglycerides [B9, D, E, Fe (p&amp;lt;0.033)], cholesterol [C, D, E, Ca, Fe, Na (p&amp;lt;0.006)], B/P [C, E, Fe, P, Na (p &amp;lt; 0.035)], and RDW [C, D, Ca, Fe (p &amp;lt; 0.001)]. Poverty was significantly associated with all variables of allostatic load (F = 2.85, p = 0.002). Food security was significantly correlated with albumin (p &amp;lt; 0.001), glucose (p = 0.005) and HDL (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusion: Allostatic load, poverty, and food security were significantly associated with subclinical micronutrient statuses, which may not present with signs of deficiency and are not currently well assessed. Similarly, poverty was significantly associated with all variables of allostatic load, though food security was only identified to be associated with albumin, glucose, and HDL, suggesting that food security may not be currently adequately defined for surveillance. Citation Format: Jennifer M. Crook, Eunkyung Lee, Opeyemi Bolajoko, Rui Xie. Poverty, food insecurity, and nutritional inflammatory mediators of allostatic load [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2198.

Silent Infections are not So Silent: The Emerging Role of Combined Infections, Inflammation, and Vitamin Levels in OCD.

Recent evidence highlights that different agents may trigger immune-mediated processes involved in the pathophysiology of different neuropsychiatric conditions. Given the limited information on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the present study aimed at assessing current/past infections and plasma levels of vitamin D, vitamin B12, folic acid, homocysteine and common peripheral inflammatory markers in a group of OCD outpatients. The sample included 217 adult outpatients with an OCD diagnosis according to the DSM-5 criteria. The Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) was used to assess the clinical phenotype and symptom severity. Laboratory blood tests measured levels of vitamin D, vitamin B12, folic acid, homocysteine, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), blood count and antibodies titers for cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein Barr virus (EBV), Toxoplasma gondii and antistreptolysin titer. Sixty-one patients had a previous EBV infection, 46 were seropositive for CMV IgG, 24 showed positive antistreptolysin titer, 14 were seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii IgG, and four for CMV IgM. More than a half of patients showed vitamin D insufficiency. Compared to seronegative patients, patients with a past EBV infection displayed significantly higher scores on the Y-BOCS total score and compulsion subscale, and other symptoms. Vitamin D was negatively correlated with both the Y-BOCS total score and the subscales scores. Folic acid was negatively correlated with the Y-BOCS total and obsessions subscale score. The findings of our study show an association between Epstein-Barr infection and hypovitaminosis D and the overall severity and specific symptom patterns of OCD. The laboratory measures used in this study are useful, cheap and easy parameters that should be routinely assessed in patients with OCD. Further studies are needed to clarify their role in OCD pathophysiology and outcomes, as well as the potential therapeutic impact of vitamins and antibiotics/immunomodulatory agents in OCD and other psychiatric conditions.

Vitamin E and risk of first stroke in general hypertensive patients: a nested case–control study

Background: Epidemiological studies on the association between levels of plasma vitamin E and first stroke risk are inconclusive. Methods: A nested, case–control study was conducted utilizing data on 115,337 hypertensive patients from the H-type Hypertension and Stroke Prevention and Control Project. The current analysis comprised 2193 cases of first stroke and 2193 controls matched for age, sex, and study site. Results: The mean plasma concentration of vitamin E was 12.37 (3.61) μg/mL. The smoothing curve showed a linear correlation between plasma vitamin E levels and the risk of the first stroke. Hypertensive patients with plasma vitamin E levels ≥14.1 μg/mL (Q4) had an increased risk of first stroke (adjusted odds ratios [OR]: 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01, 1.37) compared with those with plasma vitamin E &lt; 14.1 μg/mL (Q1–Q3). Sub-group analysis revealed that the relationship between plasma vitamin E (≥14.1.1 vs. P interaction = 0.035). Conclusions: This study suggests that higher levels of plasma vitamin E are associated with an elevated risk of first stroke among Chinese hypertensive patients.

Vitamin E and Supplements Offer Eye Neuroprotection – Myth or Reality?

Background: Several studies suggested that nutrition might have an effect on eye health. Although exposure to nutrients is ubiquitous, on the other hand without it, we generally cannot survive and an exposure too high or too low causes health problems. Vitamins are a good example and the ubiquitous exposure to vitamins has led to many epidemiological studies for many diseases, including glaucoma.&#x0D; Abstract: Leading causes of vision loss include several eye conditions such as cataract and glaucoma. The role of nutritional supplementation to prevent the progression of ocular disease is of great interest to health care professionals. It is recognized that the crystalline lens and retina suffer oxidative damage and the most protective agents are anti-oxidant vitamins A, C and E. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), found that supplementation with vitamins C and E, reduced the risk of developing various ocular diseases. The RDA for vitamin E is 15 mg/day α-tocopherol for both women and men. Vitamin E exists naturally in nuts and seeds, in addition to dark leafy vegetables. In a recent study reported lower plasma levels of vitamin E in POAG subjects.&#x0D; Conclusion: In conclusion, exposure to nutrients although is ubiquitous, without it, in general we cannot survive. Conflicting evidence is presented for vitamins A and E in prevention of ocular disease. A number of epidemiological studies showed an increased risk of nuclear or cortical cataract in people with low blood levels of vitamin E. Furthermore, a number of studies suggested that nutrition might have an effect on the intraocular pressure (IOP) or glaucoma, arbitrated by oxidative stress.

Congenital hypovitaminosis A in dairy cattle

AbstractHypovitaminosis A negatively impacts the health of ruminants feeding on low‐fresh forage diets for long periods of time. Although this disease is characterised by different clinical presentations, its congenital form is underreported. Here, we describe an outbreak of vitamin A deficiency that affected 30% of calves born in a dairy heifer herd. At birth, the affected animals showed weakness, ataxia, mydriasis, bluish coloration of the tapetum lacidum and blindness as the main clinical signs. The gross pathological findings at postmortem examination revealed cerebellar herniation, flattened gyri and narrowed sulci of the cerebral cortex in an affected calf. Histopathology showed squamous metaplasia of the efferent ducts in the parotid gland and hyperkeratosis of the ruminal mucosa. In addition, the plasma levels of vitamin A in the heifers and calves were below the reference values. These results confirmed the first reported case of congenital hypovitaminosis A in cattle in Argentina.

Effects of long-term consumption of two plant-based dietary supplements on cardiovascular health and low-grade inflammation in middle-aged and elderly people: study protocol for a randomised, controlled trial

BackgroundAgeing is a process characterised by chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress which could lead to increased prevalence of both physical and mental age-related chronic conditions. A healthy balanced diet, rich in fruit and vegetables as well as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n3 PUFA), could reduce oxidative stress and improve markers of low-grade inflammation. Nonetheless, considering that a large part of the population struggles to meet current guidelines on fruit and vegetable and n3 PUFA recommendations, fruit and vegetable concentrate supplements and mixed omega fatty acid supplements could be an effective strategy to bridge the gap between actual and recommended intakes.MethodsIn this randomised, controlled, open-labelled, parallel-grouped clinical trial, 112 participants will be allocated to one of four arms (n = 28 on each arm): an encapsulated juice powder concentrate, a plant-based omega fatty acid supplement, both or a control group. We aim to investigate whether long-term separate or combined ingestion of the two can affect biomarkers of cardiovascular health, low-grade inflammation and indicators of ageing, including cognitive function, in middle-aged and elderly people. We will additionally explore the effect of the different supplementations on plasma levels of vitamins, carotenoids and fatty acids. Intervention will last 2 years and participants will be assessed at baseline and at follow-up visits at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months.DiscussionThis study will provide evidence whether long-term, plant-based dietary supplementation can support cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory processes, immunity and nutritional status in ageing.Trial registration This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04763291) on February 21, 2021.

Effect of vitamin supplementation on polycystic ovary syndrome and key pathways implicated in its development: A Mendelian randomization study.

Many epidemiologic investigations have explored the relationship between viatmins and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the effectiveness of vitamin, vitamin-like nutrient, or mineral supplementation in reducing the risk of PCOS remains a subject of debate. To investigate the impact of plasma levels of vitamins A, B12, D, E, and K on PCOS and key pathways implicated in its development, namely, insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, through Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with vitamin levels were selected from genome-wide association studies. The primary analysis was performed using the random-effects inverse-variance-weighted approach. Complementary analyses were conducted using the weighted median, MR-Egger, MR-robust adjusted profile score, and MR-PRESSO approaches. The results provided suggestive evidence of a decreased risk of PCOS with genetically predicted higher levels of vitamin E (odds ratio [OR] = 0.118; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.071-0.226; P < 0.001) and vitamin B12 (OR = 0.753, 95%CI: 0.568-0.998, P = 0.048). An association was observed between vitamin E levels and insulin resistance (OR = 0.977, 95%CI: 0.976-0.978, P < 0.001). Additionally, genetically predicted higher concentrations of vitamins E, D, and A were suggested to be associated with a decreased risk of hyperlipidemia. Increased vitamins K and B12 levels were linked to a lower obesity risk (OR = 0.917, 95%CI: 0.848-0.992, P = 0.031). The findings of this MR study suggest a causal relationship between increased vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12 levels and a reduced risk of PCOS or primary pathways implicated in its development.

Association between serum level of vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D) and plasma level of vitamin D receptor with bacteriological index in leprosy patients.

Macrophages respond against Mycobacterium leprae infection through interacting with vitamin D and vitamin D receptor (VDR). There has been no study analyzing the association between vitamin D and VDR with bacteriological index (BI) in leprosy patients in Indonesia. To analyze the serum level of 25- hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and plasma level of VDR as well as their association with BI in leprosy patients in Indonesia. This is a cross-sectional study. Serum level of 25(OH)D was assessed with in vitro chemiluminescent immunoassay. Plasma level of VDR was assessed with enzyme linked immunosorbent assay method. Median serum level of 25(OH)D was 12.68 ng/mL. There was no correlation between serum level of 25(OH)D and BI (r=0.033; p=0.869). Median plasma level of VDR was 1.36 ng/mL. There was no correlation between plasma level of VDR and BI (r=- 0.063; p=0.749) and no significant association between BI and serum level of 25(OH) and plasma level of VDR (R2=0.055). There was no association between serum level of 25(OH)D and plasma level of VDR with BI in leprosy patients.

Effect of vitamin C upon Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) treated Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Patients: A randomized controlled clinical trial in Bangladesh

Objective: To assess the efficacy of vitamin C as an adjunct to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) intreating OCD patients. Design: Single-blind randomized controlled trial. Study eligibility: Randomly selected 96 OCD patients diagnosed by the psychiatric consultants following the DSM-5criteria of both sexes aged 18 years and above were initially enrolled; finally, 83completed the study. The study wasconducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from March 2018 toFebruary 2019. Interventions: After obtaining written informed consent, participants were randomly divided into group A (controlgroup) and group B (intervention group). A baseline recording of the body's endogenous antioxidant markers (plasmavitamin C and erythrocyte glutathione levels), oxidative stress marker (plasma malondialdehyde), and Yale-Brownscore of OCD by Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale(Y-BOCS) were measured in both groups. The control group(n=40) received oral SSRIs daily for eight weeks, while the intervention group (n=56) received the SSRIs plus oralvitamin C (500 mg twelve hourly) daily for the same duration. The biochemical parameters and the Y-BOCS score ofOCD of both groups were obtained after eight weeks, and the result was analyzed and compared.Main outcome measures: The outcomes were levels of plasma vitamin C, erythrocyte (RBC) glutathione and plasmamalondialdehyde, and the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS). Result: Baseline recordings suggest significantly (p&lt;0.05) lower levels of plasma vitamin C and RBC glutathioneconcentrations and non-significant (p&gt;0.05) higher levels of plasma MDA concentrations in both groups. After eightweeks of intervention with vitamin C plus SSRIs, plasma vitamin C and RBC glutathione levels were significantly(p&lt;0.001) increased more in the intervention group compared to the control group (97.26% vs 44.44% and 57% vs44.16%, respectively). On the other hand, plasma MDA concentrations and the mean Y-BOCS score were reduced morein the intervention group compared to their counterpart (48.15% vs 37.74% and 29.69% vs 21.74%; p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The result showed that vitamin C adjunct to SSRIs in OCD patients had significantly improved vitamin Cand RBC glutathione concentrations, while the plasma MDA level and the Y-BOCS score were decreased in theintervention group. Treatment with vitamin C leads to a more significant improvement in OCD symptoms.Trial registration: Registered with Clinical Trials. Gov (NCT03754647). Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2023; 11 (1): 24-30

Alteration of Blood Oxidative Stress Status in Patients with Thoracic Aortic Dissection: A Pilot Study.

Thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) is a life-threatening condition which usually occurs on an aneurysmal aortic wall. Although increasing data have shown that inflammation and oxidative stress play an important role in the patho-physiology of dissection, systemic oxidative stress status (OSS) has not been clearly determined in patients suffering from TAD. A cohort of 115 patients presenting type A or B TAD were admitted to our center from 2013 to 2017. Out of this cohort, 46 patients were included in a study on dissected aorta (LIege study on DIssected Aorta: LIDIA). In 18 out of the 46 patients, systemic OSS parameters were evaluated after TAD diagnosis by determination of eight different antioxidants, four trace elements, two markers of oxidative lipid damage and two inflammatory markers. The 18 TAD patients included 10 men and 8 women (median age: 62 years; interquartile range: 55-68) diagnosed with type A (N = 8) or B (N = 10) TAD. Low plasma levels of vitamin C, β-carotene, γ-tocopherol, thiol proteins, paraoxonase and selenium were observed in these 18 patients. By contrast, the concentration of copper and total hydroperoxides, copper/zinc ratio, as well as inflammatory markers, were higher than the reference intervals. No difference was observed in oxidative stress biomarker concentrations between type A and B TAD patients. This pilot study, limited to 18 TAD patients, revealed a heightened systemic OSS, determined at 15.5 days (median) after the initial diagnosis, in those TAD patients without complications (malperfusion syndrome and aneurysm formation). Larger studies on biological fluids are needed to better characterize the oxidative stress and interpret its consequence in TAD disease.

Prognostic role of plasma vitamin D and its association with disease characteristics in germ cell tumours.

Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy among young men. Vitamin D has pluripotent effects on cancer pathogenesis and plays a role in the metastatic cascade. The aim of this study is to analyze plasma vitamin D in association with clinico-pathological findings and prognosis in patients with germ-cell tumors (GCTs). This study included 120 newly diagnosed and/or relapsed GCT patients treated from April 2013 to July 2020, for whom plasma was available in the biobank. Blood samples were drawn the 1st chemotherapy cycle as well as before the 2nd cycle. Plasma vitamin D was measured using ELISA and correlated with disease characteristics and the outcome. For survival analysis, the cohort was dichotomized into "low" and "high" based on median vitamin D. There was no significant difference in vitamin D plasma levels between healthy donors and GCT patients (p = 0.71). Vitamin D level was not associated with disease characteristics except for brain metastases, where patients with brain metastases had a vitamin D level that was 32% lower compared to patients without brain metastases, p = 0.03. Vitamin D was also associated with response to chemotherapy, with an approximately 32% lower value in patients with an unfavorable response compared to a favorable response, p = 0.02. Moreover, low plasma levels of vitamin D were significantly associated with disease recurrence and inferior progression-free survival (PFS), but not with overall survival (OS) (HR = 3.02, 95% CI 1.36-6.71, p = 0.01 for PFS and HR = 2.06, 95% CI 0.84-5.06, p = 0.14 for OS, respectively). Our study suggests the prognostic value of pretreatment vitamin D concentrations in GCT patients. Low plasma vitamin D was associated with an unfavorable response to therapy and disease recurrence. However, it remains to be determined whether the biology of the disease confirms a causative role for low vitamin D and whether its supplementation affects the outcome.

Childhood Obesity and Plasma Micronutrient Deficit of Chilean Children between 4 and 14 Years Old.

To analyze the nutritional status and plasma levels of vitamins and minerals in a cohort of Chilean children between 4 and 14 years old from three cities in Chile (Santiago, Antofagasta, and Concepcion). This is a descriptive analysis of micronutrient levels in Chilean children as it relates to obesity and food consumption. This study included 1235 children from schools in Santiago (central area), Antofagasta (northern area), and Concepcion (southern area) in Chile. Plasma levels of micronutrients revealed deficiencies in children from all these cities. Copper (26.4%) and calcium (33.0%) deficiencies were found in the children from Antofagasta, whereas iron (26.7%) and zinc (20.8%) deficiencies were found in the children from Concepcion and Santiago, respectively. The percentage of children with vitamin D deficiencies was exceptionally high in all cities (over 78%). The analysis of micronutrients and nutritional status revealed that vitamin D deficiencies were significantly higher (p = 0.02) in overweight children, particularly in Antofagasta. In the analysis of the nutritional status of children and their food consumption habits, the proportion of overweight and obesity was significantly higher (p = 0.001) in children that skipped breakfast compared to children that did not. Finally, children from low socioeconomic levels were significantly more overweight and obese compared to children from high socioeconomic levels (p < 0.05). this is the first study to describe plasma levels of micronutrients in Chilean children and adolescents. High percentages of obesity, overweight, and vitamin D deficiency were detected in children. These results are of significant relevance to future public health policies in Chile.

Subclinical Vitamin C Plasma Levels Associated with Increased Risk of CAD Diagnosis via Inflammation: Results from the NHANES 2003-2006 Surveys.

Vitamin C remains an important, yet frequently unassessed, component of a healthy immune system though it may prove useful in alleviating the chronic inflammatory processes underlying chronic diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent research identified a sizeable proportion of the United States population with insufficient vitamin C plasma levels and significant associations to both acute and chronic inflammation. This cross-sectional study used the 2003-2006 NHANES surveys data to extrapolate associations between plasma vitamin C levels (deficiency, hypovitaminosis, inadequate, adequate, and saturating) and CAD through inflammation (C-reactive protein and red cell distribution width). Increased reports of CAD diagnosis were identified in participants with vitamin C deficiency (OR: 2.31, CI: 1.49-3.58) and inadequate plasma levels (OR: 1.39, CI: 1.03-1.87). No significant correlation was identified between any other plasma vitamin C quintiles and CAD. When inflammation was controlled, previous associations in the deficient level of plasma vitamin C were no longer significant in association with CAD and participants with inadequate plasma vitamin C showed a reduced association to CAD diagnoses (OR: 0.33, CI: 0.13-0.86). Most chronic inflammation and vitamin C plasma statuses do not demonstrate specific signs or symptoms until the deficient level of vitamin C and/or disease. Thus, increased surveillance of both, and healthy nutritional habits remain crucial modifiable risk factors for disease prevention.

Sodium dehydroacetate-induced disorder of coagulation function in broiler chickens and the protective effect afforded by vitamin K

Sodium dehydroacetate (S-DHA) is used widely as a preservative in several products, including poultry feed. The anticoagulation effect of 200 mg/kg S-DHA in rats has been reported to accompany a reduction in hepatic expression of vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1 (VKORC1). Poultry and mammals have different physiology and coagulation systems, and species differences in VKORC1 expression have been found. The effect of S-DHA on blood clotting of poultry has not been studies deeply. S-DHA was given to yellow-plumage broilers (YBs) as single and multiple administrations. Vitamin K3 (VK3) was injected into YBs 2 wk after S-DHA administration. Then, the prothrombin time (PT), partial activated prothrombin time (APTT), plasma levels of vitamin K (VK), factor IX (FIX), and S-DHA, and hepatic expression of VKORC1 were obtained. Chicken hepatocellular carcinoma (LMH) cells were also exposed to S-DHA, and the cell activity, VK level, and FIX level were measured. S-DHA prolonged the PT or APTT significantly, decreased levels of VK and FIX in blood, and inhibited hepatic expression of VKORC1. The maximum changes were 1.15-fold in the PT, 1.42-fold in the APTT, 0.8-fold in the VK level, 0.7-fold in the FIX level, and 0.35-fold in VKORC1 expression compared with controls. The cell activity, VK level, FIX level, and VKORC1/VKORC1L1 expression of LMH cells were reduced significantly at S-DHA doses of 2.0 to 10.0 mM. Prolongation of the PT/APTT and lower levels of VK/FIX in YBs or the lower cell activity and VK/FIX levels in LMH cells induced by S-DHA therapy were resisted significantly by VK3 treatment. We demonstrated that S-DHA could induce a disorder in coagulation function in YBs or in LMH cells via reduction of VKORC1/VKORC1L1 expression, and that VK could resist this anticoagulation effect.

Vitamin D and inflammatory cytokines association in mild cognitive impaired subjects

BackgroundMild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a prodromal stage of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The association of low Vitamin D and chronic inflammation in the onset of cognitive decline in the elderly population has been established but the variable population-based study is still lacking. MethodologyThe present study aims to investigate the level of plasma Vitamin D, pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, cognitive performance, and white matter changes in the elderly population in the North-Eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, India. Results70 participants with (Mean age- 75.14 ± 1.24, Male/Female- 50/20) with an Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of (24.82 ± 1.82) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test (MOCA) score (21.83 ± 1.75), were cognitive decline, against the 70 healthy controls (Mean Age-73.18 ± 1.43; Male/Female- 50/20) with MMSE score (28.1 ± 1.5) and MOCA (28.5 ± 1.65), White matter variable Fractional Anisotropy (FA) and Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) values in MCI subject was found significantly altered in Right temporal lobe, Corpus Callosum (Right) and Hippocampus body (Right), Hippocampus body (left), Hippocampus head (Right) and Hippocampus head (Left)as compared with healthy controls. The level of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, was significantly high in MCI subjects as compared with controls. Further lower Vitamin D level in plasma was detected in MCI as compared with healthy controls. ConclusionThe result from the present study depicts that chronic inflammation and lower Vitamin D level influences neurodegeneration and decline in cognitive performance in the elderly population. These variables can be used as biomarkers for early identification of AD and interventional strategies can be designed for prevention at the prodromal stage of AD.

The Effect of Bariatric Surgery on the Relation Between Retinol-Binding Protein 4 (RBP4) and Vitamin D Plasma Levels in Male Obese Population.

Objectives Obesity is viewed as a risk factor for several life-threatening diseases. Bariatric surgeries are regarded as a safe and effective way of treating morbid obesity and are associated with alterations in molecules such as Vitamin D and retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4). The aim of this study was to examine an association between Vitamin D and RBP4 in healthy obese individuals undergoing gastric sleeve surgery. Methods In this observational retrospective cohort study, we used clinical and biochemical profiles of morbidly obese healthy male subjects (BMI > 38.3) who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. RBP4 levels were evaluated by ELISA before and 6-12 months after surgery. Data were analysed using SPSS 23 statistical software. Results RBP4/Vitamin D ratio was reduced significantly after surgery (p < 0.001), however, there was no correlation between Vitamin D and RBP4 (p = 0.353). BMI was reduced significantly after surgery (p < 0.001) but was not correlated with RBP4 or Vitamin D levels before and after surgery (p > 0.05). A significant increase in the levels of calcium post-surgery was observed (p< 0.001). Conclusions In conclusion, plasma levels of Vitamin D were not correlated with RBP4 before or after laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery.

Ameliorative effects of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol levels on broiler chickens challenged with infectious bronchitis coronavirus: A novel approach

This study aimed to see how 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 [25(OH)D] supplementation affected the performance, immunity, and vitamin D status of broilers, with and without infectious bronchitis virus challenge. Day-old chicks (n = 1000) were divided into four dietary treatments. All experimental treatments were containing 5000 IU of D3 and supplemented with 0, 100, 300, or 500 g/tonne of Bio D® containing 0, 13.94, 41.82 or 69.70 mg 25(OH)D, respectively. In unchallenged birds, the inclusion of 25(OH)D significantly improved survival rates and EPEF values, and no significant difference in LBW, BWG, FC, or FCR was observed. In infectious bronchitis virus (IBV)-challenged birds, the 25(OH)D treatment showed less deterioration in BWG, and FC compared with the control, especially 25(OH)D500 group. The lowest mortality was observed in the 25(OH)D500 group. The health status of chicks fed diets supplemented with 25(OH)D post-challenge had significantly better CD4, CD8, and immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM) levels, H/L ratio, total leucocytic count (TLC) in peripheral blood and IBV titers, cytokine (including interleukin (IL) 10) and (IFN)-γ expression, and reduced IBV shedding. After IBV challenge, all 25(OH)D groups recorded higher levels of plasma vitamin D than the control. Furthermore, 25(OH)D groups showed significantly higher antibody titers than the control group. In general, dietary supplementation with different levels of 25(OH)D had a positive effect on inflammatory reaction and stimulated the systemic innate immune responses of chickens during IBV challenge. In turn, recovery in the challenged birds with 25(OH)D rapidly occurred compared with that in the control group.