Reduction In Vitamin Research Articles

Association of Low Vitamin D Status With Adiponectin and Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients.

Adiponectin and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) have important roles in metabolic regulation and insulin sensitivity. Vitamin D is linked to metabolic dysregulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress in chronic type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The present study aimed to assessthe relationship of vitamin D levels with adiponectin and FGF-21 in newly diagnosed T2DM. A descriptive study was conducted on 47 patients with newly diagnosed T2DM recruited based on the American Diabetes Association criteria. Fasting plasma glucose and insulin were measured, and the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance was calculated. The serum levels of metabolic regulators such as vitamin D, adiponectin, and FGF-21; inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein; and oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant status were measured. The mean serum vitamin D concentration was 17.49±7.10 ng/ml, and all patients had low vitamin D levels (<30 ng/ml). Vitamin D was positively correlated with adiponectin (r=0.331, p=0.023), and it was negatively correlated with FGF-21 (r=-0.356, p=0.014), IL-6 (r=-0.411, p=0.004), and MDA (r=-0.515, p<0.001). There was a reduction in vitamin D concentration in all subjects. Vitamin D showed a positive association with adiponectin and a negative association with FGF-21 and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Vitamin D deficiency might increase the risk of progression of T2DM in these subjects.

Detrimental effects of glyphosate on muscle metabolism in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)

Glyphosate, a commonly used herbicide, has been associated with environmental pollution and potential health risks to aquatic organisms. This study investigated the effects of glyphosate on the muscle metabolism of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) following exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations. Over a 14-day exposure period to varying glyphosate levels, significant disruptions were observed in antioxidant capacity and muscle health. These disruptions were evidenced by reductions in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and decreases in activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) and catalase (CAT). Furthermore, exposure to glyphosate resulted in a reduction of vitamin E content and an elevation of hormonal levels, suggesting the potential for endocrine disruption. Metabolomics analysis identified 605 distinct metabolites, with notable alterations in amino acid, carbohydrate, and nucleotide metabolism pathways. Specifically, arginine and glutathione metabolisms were severely impacted, with decreases in key amino acids such as glycine and glutathione at higher glyphosate concentrations. Nucleotide metabolism, particularly purine synthesis, was also significantly affected, with reduced levels of deoxyguanosine and other purine-related compounds. The study further investigated the origins of these differential metabolites using the MetOrigin platform, suggesting a potential involvement of the intestinal microbiota in the metabolic response to glyphosate. These findings highlight the multifaceted adverse effects of glyphosate on fish muscle, including oxidative stress and metabolic dysregulation, which may contribute to diminished muscle quality and health risks for aquatic organisms.

The Relationship between Vitamin D and TyG Index in Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among an Indian Tribal Community: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is thought to increase the likelihood of insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes onset. The objective of this study was to examine the association between the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index and vitamin D levels in individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the tribal community of India. Methods: This study included 270 participants, consisting of 90 individuals with prediabetes, 90 individuals with T2DM, and 90 control patients. Anthropometric and biochemical characteristics were evaluated in all participants. 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were measured using a chemiluminescent immunoassay. The TyG index was computed as Ln [fasting triglycerides (mg/dL) × fasting glucose (mg/dL)]/2. Spearman correlation analysis and linear regression analysis were performed to assess the relationship between the TyG index and 25(OH)D levels in people diagnosed with prediabetes and T2DM. The optimum cut-off value of the TyG index for detecting vitamin D deficiency was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: We observed a significant reduction in vitamin D levels in individuals with prediabetes and T2DM compared to those in the control group. However, the TyG index was significantly greater in individuals with prediabetes and T2DM than in controls. Statistical analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the TyG index and 25(OH)D in both prediabetes and T2DM. Conclusions: The TyG index demonstrated a negative association with vitamin D levels and was identified as an independent predictor of vitamin D deficiency in individuals with prediabetes and T2DM.

Exploring the Relationship between Vitamin D Levels and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Comprehensive Meta-analysis and Systematic Review

Background: A growing body of research has implicated lower levels of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of neurological and psychiatric disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The main of this study was to investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and OCD. Methodology: This meta-analysis follows the PRISMA guidelines and utilizes PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Lens databases without temporal constraints. Six pertinent studies were selected to ensure methodological consistency and robustness in our analysis. Data were pooled using a Random-Effects Model to estimate the standard mean difference (SMD) for evaluation of the strength of association analyses. Result: Our analysis revealed a noteworthy reduction in vitamin D levels among individuals with OCD compared to controls (SMD = -0.603, 95% CI = -0.8001 to -0.4053, p &lt; 0.001, I2 = 50.86%; Q statistic p = 0.093). Conclusion: These findings underscore the significant impact of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of OCD, suggesting its potential role in both the prevention and treatment of this psychiatric disorder. However, despite the compelling evidence presented, further studies are warranted to refine our understanding and draw more precise conclusions regarding the intricate interplay between vitamin D levels and OCD. Bangladesh J Medicine 2024; 35: 156-166

Evaluation the Ingredients and Influence of Thermal Treatment on Physicochemical Properties and Bioactive Compounds of Evernia prunastri from Algeria

Background: Lichen is a symbiotic organism with unique structure composed of a fungal partner and an algal partner. It has been utilized in folk foods and medicines. The objective of the present study was to analyze the ingredients and the impact of heating on various physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics of a 500 g sample of lichen Evernia prunastri from Jijel, Algeria collected in May 2021. Methods: The nutritional value of the lichen was determined by studying various parameters. The metal contents were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The effect of heating (70 and 100 °C) on the physicochemical parameters, and bioactive compounds of aqueous extracts obtained by maceration in distilled water was studied. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Results: A high percentage of carbohydrates (64.00%) were observed in the lichen material. Pectin, fats, and crude proteins levels were low. High ash content (10.85%) was obtained with the presence of metal elements. Preliminary phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids with 51.13 mg Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE)/100 g and 17.87 mg Quercetin Equivalent (QE)/100 g of lichen, respectively. The lichen sample subjected to 70 °C demonstrated an increase in the parameters examined, with the exception of proteins and vitamin C. Conversely, the lichen sample treated at 100 °C exhibited a reduction in vitamin C, protein, and bioactive compound content, as well as an increase in sugar content. Titratable acidity and pH parameters were unaffected. Conclusion: The appreciable quantities of carbohydrates, crude fibers, and other compounds in this lichen suggest a potential use for these active ingredients in the preparation of functional food. Heating to 70 °C produces a preparation enriched in bioactive substances and sugars. However, heating to 100 °C, exposes the various tissues to degradation, potentially leading to a decrease in nutrients

Vitamin D add on the standard treatment for myasthenia gravis symptoms following total gastrectomy: a case report

BackgroundMyasthenia gravis (MG) is a long-term autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction, causing muscle weakness and fatigue as its primary clinical features. Vitamin D is crucial for both the autoimmune response and skeletal muscle function.Case presentationHere, we presented a case report documenting the substantial improvement in symptoms experienced by a patient who underwent subtotal gastrectomy for gastric cancer following high-dose Vitamin D supplementation. The patient developed generalized MG two months after the surgery and did not respond adequately to pyridostigmine therapy, experiencing a progressive deterioration of the condition. A significant reduction in vitamin D concentration was observed following subtotal gastrectomy. In response, high-dose vitamin D supplementation was administered to the patient. Within one week of treatment, swallowing symptoms improved, enabling the consumption of a small amount of liquid food. By the second week, substantial swallowing and neck function improvements were evident. After one month, the patient regained the ability to straighten the neck while walking and consumed a regular diet despite persistent difficulties chewing hard food.ConclusionsThis case underscores the therapeutic potential of vitamin D in alleviating MG symptoms, particularly in individuals with compromised vitamin D levels following gastrectomy. The observed improvements present a new perspective on the possible involvement of vitamin D supplementation in the management of postoperative MG cases.

Antioxidant vitamins in Benin bronze casters and their environmental cohorts: A preliminary nutritional assessment

The process of bronze casting often leads to prolonged exposure to air pollutants, heavy metals, and potentially hazardous working conditions. Understanding the levels of antioxidant vitamins among the Benin bronze casters is vital because their exposure to environmental pollutants and potential occupational hazards may increase their oxidative stress levels. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the levels of antioxidant vitamins; A, C, and E in Benin bronze casters. A total of ninety (90) consenting participants were recruited for this study; They included foundry workers (bronze casters), randomly selected individuals around the foundry site (environmental), and healthy unexposed individuals (control). Vitamins A, C, and E levels were determined using pectrophotometry. Data obtained was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software. The findings revealed that vitamin A levels were significantly lower in bronze casters (36.06±9.15) when compared to environmental (58.57±41.05) and control groups (62.61±51.12) (p&lt;0.05). Vitamin C levels were significantly lower in bronze casters (0.53±0.14) when compared to the environmental group (1.02±0.53) and the control group (1.55±0.37) (p&lt;0.05). Also, there was a significant reduction in vitamin C levels in the environmental group when compared to the control group (p&lt;0.05). Vitamin E levels were significantly lower in bronze casters (5.14±1.92) and environmental (6.28±3.32) groups when compared to the control group (11.49±3.75) (p&lt;0.05). There was a strong positive correlation between vitamin A and vitamin C (r=-0.589, p=0.001). Vitamin C showed a strong positive correlation with vitamin E levels (r=0.562, p=0.001). In conclusion, the lower vitamin levels suggest an increased vulnerability to oxidative stress, which occupational hazards and environmental factors, such as exposure to metal toxins and pollutants may exacerbate.

Noni (Morinda citrifolia) leaf extract incorporated methylcellulose active films: A sustainable strategy for browning inhibition in apple slice packaging

Methylcellulose, a prominent polysaccharide prevalent in the food sector, was considered to fabricate the active films with glutaraldehyde as a crosslinker and Noni (Morinda citrifolia) Leaf Extract (NLE) as an active agent. FTIR analysis confirms the intermolecular -OH bonding, and SEM micrograms demonstrate methylcellulose active films' homogeneous, dense morphologic appearance. Due to the crosslinking effect of glutaraldehyde and noni leaf extract, tensile strength (41.83 ± 0.134 MPa) and crystallinity (62.91 %) of methylcellulose films were improved. Methylcellulose active films suppress water and moisture uptake at various relative humidities. The inhibition capability against foodborne pathogens and the excellent antioxidant activity [DPPH (93.191 ± 1.384 %) and ABTS (90.523 ± 1.412 %)] of NLE incorporation suggested that food packed in methylcellulose active films were effective against pathogenic and oxidative attacks. During preservation, to ensure the apple slices' nutritional values, they are covered with physiochemically enhanced methylcellulose active films for up to 120 h. The minimum reduction in vitamin C, reducing sugar content, percentage weight loss, pH, and total phenolic content of apple slices preserved in MGN active films at room temperature suggests it is an affordable and efficient replacement to traditional single-use plastic packaging in the cut fruit industry.

TRANSDERMAL APPLICATION OF VITAMIN D AND ITS EFFECTS ON PSORIASIS

Psoriasis represents a disorder of skin hypoproliferation, where vitamin D is frequently utilized in its treatment. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation stimulates the synthesis of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) in the epidermis. This compound undergoes further conversion into active metabolites, specifically 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and 1,25-hydroxycholecalciferol, which play crucial roles in skin health. However, in conditions like psoriasis, disruptions in skin functioning impede the cutaneous production of vitamin D, initiating a detrimental cycle. This disruption leads to a gradual reduction in vitamin D levels throughout the body, consequently destabilizing skin homeostasis. Topical application of vitamin D enables a substantial reduction in psoriasis on target areas of the body such as the scalp, joints, hands and lumbar region. The research records reductions of 100%, 80%, and 50% in the mentioned regions.

The Oxidative Status and Na+/K+-ATPase Activity in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Case Control Study.

Oxidative stress is involved in pathogenesis of some psychiatric disorders. To examine the role of oxidative stress in the etiopathogenesis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), we aimed to determine oxidative stress indices, including malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum and red blood cells (RBC) membrane, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), serum glutathione (GSH) levels, serum antioxidant vitamins (A and E), and Na+/K+-ATPase activity, in patients with the mentioned disorder vs. healthy controls. 39 OCD patients diagnosed based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) and 39 volunteer healthy subjects were included in this study. MDA levels in serum and RBC membrane were measured using fluorometric method. Serum TAC level, serum GSH level, and Na+/K+-ATPase activity were also measured using spectrophotometric methods. Serum levels of vitamins were calculated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). There was a significantly higher MDA level in serum (p < 0.0001) and RBC membrane (p = 0.002) of OCD patients compared with those in controls. A significant reduction in vitamin A (p = 0.001) and vitamin E (p = 0.024) levels was found in OCD patients vs. controls. There was significantly lower activity of erythrocyte membrane Na+/K+-ATPase in RBC membrane of OCD patients vs. controls (p < 0.0001). Our findings indicate significantly higher levels MDA in both serum and RBC membrane, lower levels of serum vitamins A and E, and lower activity of membrane Na+/K+-ATPase in OCD patients compared to controls. These suggest an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant factors in OCD patients that might play a fundamental role in the etiopathogenesis of OCD.

IBC-Oxford University2023_BJSOral_2Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Status shift 1 year after Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y vs One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass. Results of a Multi-centre Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract Introduction The comparison of effectiveness between R-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB/MGB) remains unclear, as well as the changes in gut microbiota (GM). Materials: prospective, cohort, multi-centre study enrolling 96 patients with severe obesity, applying inclusion criteria, randomised between OAGB/MGB or RYGB. Faecal and blood samples were collected, pre- (T0) and 12 months postoperatively (T1). GM was determined by V3-V4 16S rRNA regions sequencing and home-made bioinformatic pipeline based on Qiime2 plugin and R packages. A standardised meal test was performed at T0 and T1 with 250 ml of liquid meal Oxepa (Abbott, Japan). Aim To evaluate and compare OAGB/MGB vs RYGB microbiota profile shift postoperatively and its impact on metabolic and nutritional status. Results 54 patients completed the study, 27 for each procedure (females 61%). No significant differences were found at T0 for anthropometric and nutritional parameters, while a statistically significant anthropometrics’ reduction was registered at T1, with a significant improvement of glucose and lipid profile, and significant reduction in vitamins and iron. Postoperatively fasting glucose, lipid profile, vitamins and minerals were not significantly different between the 2 procedures. Fasting GLP-1 was higher at T1, but postprandial values showed a lower peak both 60' and 120' after ingestion of the mixed meal., with no significant difference between the 2 groups. Examining the GM’s alpha and beta diversity, Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio increased postoperatively, mainly dependent on Bacteroidetes decreasing. Relative abundances evaluation highlighted those main differences between the identified clusters (group A 29 subjects, group B 14 subjects and group C 10 subjects) were dependent on variation in Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. A different trend was detected at Phylum level between T0 and T1 of each cluster. Bacteroides and Streptococcus genera appeared mainly changed between the three groups (both showing p&amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusions The emergence of slightly different GM profile postoperatively may be related to clinical condition or may play a key role in the long-term outcome and may represent a biomarker to follow bariatric surgery’s outcomes. No difference between the two bypass techniques were found in GM profile or other examined metabolic parameters one year postoperatively.

Frequencies of VKORC1-1639G>A and rs397509427 in Patients on Warfarin and Healthy Syrian Subjects.

Vitamin K epoxide reductase complex subunit 1 (VKORC1) gene encodes a key enzyme with multiple cellular activities, namely, the reduction of vitamin K to its active form. VKORC1-1639G>A (rs9923231) is a common single nucleotide polymorphism with a crucial impact on warfarin dosing and possibly other physiological functions. This study aimed at investigating the frequencies of VKORC1-1639G>A alleles and genotypes in Syrian healthy subjects and patients on warfarin for different indications. A total of 138 individuals were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Genomic DNA was extracted from both patients on warfarin and healthy subjects, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) specific amplicons were genotyped via standard sequencing which also allowed the detection of rs397509427. Comparisons of -1639G>A frequency with other populations were drawn. Of 94 patients on warfarin, 53 (56.38%) were with idiopathic venous thromboembolism (VTE). Despite comparable frequencies of the -1639A allele (47% and 50%), the AA and GA genotypes were at disparate frequencies of 93.2% versus 79.8% in the healthy subjects (n = 44) versus patients on warfarin, respectively. Carriers of the GG genotype were at a four-fold increased risk of VTE in comparison with those of the AA and GA genotypes (odds ratio (OR) = 4, 95% CI = 1.105 - 13.6, P = 0.0469). All study subjects were wild-type for the rs397509427 variant. Our results prove a high -1639A prevalence in Syrian healthy subjects and patients on warfarin at frequencies comparable to other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern populations. The A allele carriers are at a lower VTE risk, whereas a global prevalence gradient of the G allele is suggested to be associated with VTE risk.

Esterification effect on the recovery of vitamin E from palm oil refining residues by molecular distillation

AbstractWaste edible oils are an alternative source of high‐value natural compounds. Vitamin E can be recovered from palm oil refining residues by molecular distillation. However, the presence of other lipophilic molecules compromises the selective separation of vitamin E. Esterification of the free fatty acids can enhance the selective separation of vitamin E by molecular distillation, but the conditions for carrying out the reaction need to be investigated to simultaneously ensure the conversion of free fatty acids and the reduction of vitamin E losses. Thus, this study investigated the effect of the esterification of the industrial waste on the recovery of vitamin E by molecular distillation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and analysis for fats and oils preconized by the American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS) were used in the characterization of the industrial waste. Determination of the best condition to carry out the reaction was obtained by a central composite rotational design (CCRD) using the response surface methodology (RSM) and the desirability profile. The results showed that the best condition for the esterification was at 64°C, 213 min, 2 wt.% sulphuric acid, and a 10/1 methanol/free fatty acids molar ratio. This reaction condition achieved 97.9% conversion of free fatty acids and less than 3% of vitamin E loss. The esterification promoted concentration of vitamin E in the residue stream (145.4%) and reduction in the distillate stream (87.8%). Therefore, the obtained results presented a suitable route to obtaining vitamin E concentrate and adding value to an industrial residue.

A New Ready-to-Eat Product Based on Enzymatically Peeled 'Hernandina' Clementine Segments and Citrus Syrup.

Ready-to-eat fresh fruit have an increasing presence in international markets due to their convenience and health benefits. However, these products are highly perishable and efficient technologies to increase their shelf life are needed. In the present research, different citrus fruit species and cultivars from organic farming were assessed to obtain enzymatically peeled citrus segments. The best results in terms of segment quality were observed for 'Hernandina' clementine, which was chosen to make a new ready-to-eat product based on peeled citrus segments that were packaged in glass jars with a light syrup made of citrus juice and organic sugar cane. Different citrus juice mixtures were assayed and the most appreciated syrup, based on the sensory scores given by panellists, was that containing 50-50 (v/v) of 'Fino' lemon and 'Hernandina' clementine juices. In addition, different pasteurization treatments were assessed for their effects on conserving the safety, nutritional quality and sensory properties of the product during cold storage. The results show that pasteurization treatment at 50 °C for 45 min was sufficient to prevent microbial contamination with mesophilic and psychrophilic aerobic bacteria or yeast and mould and to maintain sensory properties until five weeks of storage at 4 °C. In addition, only a 10% reduction in vitamin C concentrations was observed in fresh-segments or syrup until the end of the storage period, showing that a high bioactive compound content and health benefits were conserved in the new ready-to-eat product after pasteurization and prolonged cold storage.

The role of vitamin D in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with pulmonary hypertension.

Hypoxia pulmonary hypertension (PH) belongs to the third major category in PH classification. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common cause of hypoxia PH. Low serum vitamin D concentration is considered to be a possible risk factor for chronic lung disease; epidemiological studies have found that vitamin D deficiency increases pulmonary artery pressure. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the role of vitamin D levels in COPD and chronic hypoxic PH. This retrospective study selected three groups of people as research subjects, including: Group N: normal control group (people without any chronic lung disease or PH); Group C: patients with COPD, but without PH; Group C + PH: patients with COPD and PH. Vitamin D levels and pulmonary artery pressure were observed in the three groups. Vitamin D levels of the three groups showed statistical differences in every pairwise comparison; the vitamin D level of Group C (20.27 ng/mL) was lower than Group N (23.48 ng/mL), Group C + PH was the lowest (14.92 ng/mL). The levels of vitamin D in the three groups in this study were generally low. Vitamin D is negatively correlated with pulmonary artery systolic blood pressure. Low vitamin D levels may have a certain relationship with the occurrence and development of COPD. Further reductions in vitamin D levels may influence the development of PH in COPD.

Vitamin E ameliorates oral mucositis in gamma-irradiated rats (an in vivo study)

BackgroundRadiation therapy is the primary treatment for neck and head cancer patients; however, it causes the development of oral mucositis accompanied by tissue structure destruction and functional alteration. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different doses of vitamin E as a treatment for radiationinduced oral mucositis in rat model.Methods35 male albino rats were randomly divided into five groups: control, untreated radiation mucositis (single dose of 20 Gy), treated radiation mucositis; radiation (single dose of 20 Gy) then vitamin E at doses of 300, 360 and 500 mg/Kg for seven days started 24 h after irradiation. Body weight and food intake were evaluated for each rat. The mucositis score was assessed every day. Rats were sacrificed once at the end of the experiment, and tongue specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, anti P53 and anti Ki67 antibodies.ResultsResults indicated more food intake and less weight reduction in vitamin E treated groups and the contrary for gamma-irradiated group. Additionally, vitamin E delayed the onset and decreased the severity and duration of mucositis. It also restored the histological structure of lingual tongue papillae. Vitamin E treated groups showed a significant higher Ki67 and lower P53 expression as compared to untreated radiation group. The overall improvement increased as vitamin E dose increased. Finally, the amelioration can be attributed to the decreased apoptosis and increased proliferation of cells.ConclusionsVitamin E especially at dose of 500 mg/Kg could be an effective treatment for radiation-induced oral mucositis.

Fortification of Staple Foods for Household Use with Vitamin D: An Overview of Systematic Reviews.

Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health concern with significant implications for bone health and chronic disease prevention. Our aim was to summarize the evidence from Cochrane and other systematic reviews evaluating the benefits or harms of vitamin D fortification of staple foods for household use. In April 2023, we systematically searched Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Epistemonikos and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for systematic reviews investigating the effects of vitamin D fortification of food in general populations of any age. We used Cochrane methodology and assessed the methodological quality of included studies using AMSTAR (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews). We assessed the degree of overlap among reviews. All outcomes included in systematic reviews were assessed. The protocol is registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42023420991). We included 27 systematic reviews out of 5028 records for analysis. Overall, 11 out of 12 systematic reviews calculating pooled estimates reported a significant increase in serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The mean change in serum 25(OH)D concentrations per additional 100 units of vitamin D ranged from 0.7 to 10.8 nmol/L. Fortification of food with vitamin D showed a reduction in the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency based on high-certainty evidence. Parathormone (PTH) levels were described to decrease, bone mineral density to increase, while the effects on other bone turnover markers were inconsistent. Fortification did not significantly impact most anthropometric parameters, but it seemed to positively influence lipid profiles. In summary, fortification of food with vitamin D results in a reduction of vitamin D deficiency and might increase serum 25(OH)D concentrations, to varying extents depending on the fortified vehicle and population characteristics. Additionally, fortification may have a positive impact on bone turnover and lipid metabolism but may only have a limited effect on anthropometric parameters.

Ultrasonic pre-treatment to enhance drying of potentially probiotic guava (Psidium guajava): Impact on drying kinetics, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG viability, and functional quality

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ultrasound (US) on the drying acceleration of potentially probiotic guava, including its impact on drying kinetics, probiotic (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG) viability, and functional quality of the product during drying. To perform US pre-treatments, one group of samples were first pre-treated by US (38 W/L, 25 kHz) for 15 and 30 min and then immersed in the probiotic solution for 15 or 30 min, and another group of samples were submerged in the probiotic solution simultaneously applying US (US-assisted) for 15 and 30 min. After pre-treatments, the samples were convectively dried at 60 °C. Based on the results, all US pre-treatments improved the drying rate (up to 59%) and reduced the drying time (up to 31%) to reach 25% moisture compared to non-sonicated samples. The reduction in drying time (from ∼6 h to ∼4 h for US pre-treated samples) was crucial for maintaining the probiotic viability in the dehydrated guavas. These samples showed counts of 6.15 to 7.00 CFU∙g−1 after 4 h, while the control samples reached counts of 4.17 to 4.45 CFU∙g−1 after 6 h. US pre-treatment did not affect the color parameters of the samples before drying (p > 0.05). The functional compounds were reduced during drying (p < 0.05), however, all US pre-treated samples had lower reductions in vitamin C content (up to 20%), phenolic compounds (up to 41%) and antioxidant capacity (up to 47%) compared to control samples (up to 52%, 81% and 61%, respectively). Therefore, US pre-treatment (highlighting the US-assisted probiotic incorporation for 30 min) reduced the drying time for guava slices and minimized the thermal impact on probiotic viability and functional compounds, being a strategy to produce potentially probiotic dehydrated guava.

Relationship between serum levels of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus in infants with vitamin D deficiency

Background. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and the serum levels of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Methods. In this descriptive sectional study, infants who were admitted to the neonatal and NICU of Tehran Children's Medical Center Hospital with any diagnosis during 2018-2020 with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency were included in the study. Serum levels of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, and their relationship with vitamin D deficiency were recorded and investigated. Results. Among 400 included infants, 197 neonates (49.3%) had vitamin D deficiency and 203 (50.7%) had vitamin D insufficiency. The average serum level of vitamin D in studied infants was 11.477±3.55 ng/ml. There was no statistically significant relationship between the serum level of vitamin D in newborns and the serum levels of magnesium and phosphorus (P value = 0.118 and P value = 0.511), but there was a statistically significant relationship between the serum level of vitamin D and the serum level of calcium (P=0.0001). There was no statistically significant relationship between the level of serum vitamin D in newborns with the age and the gestational age of the newborn (P = 0.132 and P = 0.651). Still, a direct and significant statistical relationship was observed with the newborn's weight (P = 0.049). The average length of hospitalization in the examined infants was 16.39 ± 16.36 days. Pearson’s correlation coefficient indicated the presence of an inverse and significant correlation between the level of serum vitamin D in infants and the duration of hospitalization (P=0.036). In such a way with the reduction of vitamin D serum level, the time of hospitalization increased. Conclusion. This study showed a statistically significant relationship between low vitamin D serum levels with calcium serum levels. Practical Implications. In infants with low weight or hypocalcemia, there is a possibility of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D check is recommended to start treatment earlier and decrease the duration of hospitalization and other complications.

Retinoic Acid Receptor β Loss in Hepatocytes Increases Steatosis and Elevates the Integrated Stress Response in Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease.

In alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), hepatic reductions in vitamin A and perturbations in vitamin A metabolism are common. However, the roles that the vitamin A receptors, termed retinoic acid receptors (RARs), may have in preventing the pathophysiology of ALD remains unclear. Our prior data indicate that a RARβ agonist limits the pathology of alcohol-related liver disease. Thus, we generated liver-specific AlbCre-RARβ knockout (BKO) mice and compared them to wild type (WT) mice in an early ALD model. Both strains showed similar blood ethanol concentrations and ETOH-metabolizing enzymes. However, the livers of pair-fed-BKO and ETOH-BKO mice developed higher levels of steatosis and triglycerides than pair-fed-WT and ETOH-WT mice. The increased hepatic steatosis observed in the pair-fed-BKO and ETOH-BKO mice was associated with higher lipid synthesis/trafficking transcripts and lower beta-oxidation transcripts. ETOH-BKO mice also exhibited a higher integrated stress response (ISR) signature, including higher transcript and protein levels of ATF4 and its target, 4-EBP1. In human hepatocytes (HepG2) that lack RARβ (RARβ-KO), ETOH treatments resulted in greater reactive oxygen species compared to their parental cells. Notably, even without ETOH, ATF4 and 4-EBP1 protein levels were higher in the RARβ-KO cells than in their parental cells. These 4-EBP1 increases were greatly attenuated in cultured ATF4-deficient and RARβ/ATF4-deficient HepG2, suggesting that RARβ is a crucial negative regulator of 4-EBP1 through ATF4 in cultured hepatocytes. Here, we identify RARβ as a negative regulator of lipid metabolism and cellular stress in ALD.