Serum Vitamin D3 Levels Research Articles

Sex Differences under Vitamin D Supplementation in an Animal Model of Progressive Multiple Sclerosis.

A central role for vitamin D (VD) in immune modulation has recently been recognized linking VD insufficiency to autoimmune disorders that commonly exhibit sex-associated differences. Similar to other autoimmune diseases, there is a higher incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in women, but a poorer prognosis in men, often characterized by a more rapid progression. Although sex hormones are most likely involved, this phenomenon is still poorly understood. Oxidative stress, modulated by VD serum levels as well as sex hormones, may act as a contributing factor to demyelination and axonal damage in both MS and the corresponding preclinical models. In this study, we analyzed sex-associated differences and VD effects utilizing an animal model that recapitulates histopathological features of the progressive MS phase (PMS). In contrast to relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), PMS has been poorly investigated in this context. Male (n = 50) and female (n = 46) Dark Agouti rats received either VD (400 IU per week; VD+) or standard rodent food without extra VD (VD-) from weaning onwards. Myelination, microglial activation, apoptotic cell death and neuronal viability were assessed using immunohistochemical markers in brain tissue. Additionally, we also used two different histological markers against oxidized lipids along with colorimetric methods to measure protective polyphenols (PP) and total antioxidative capacity (TAC) in serum. Neurofilament light chain serum levels (sNfL) were analyzed using single-molecule array (SIMOA) analysis. We found significant differences between female and male animals. Female rats exhibited a better TAC and higher amounts of PP. Additionally, females showed higher myelin preservation, lower microglial activation and better neuronal survival while showing more apoptotic cells than male rats. We even found a delay in reaching the peak of the disease in females. Overall, both sexes benefitted from VD supplementation, represented by significantly less cortical, neuroaxonal and oxidative damage. Unexpectedly, male rats had an even higher overall benefit, most likely due to differences in oxidative capacity and defense systems.

Effects of Isotretinoin on Serum Vitamin-D Levels among Severe Acne Vulgaris patients

Background: Medical issue that causes inflammation of skin resulting in psychological and social distress is acne vulgaris. Vitamin D plays a critical role in its pathology due to its immune-modulatory effects. Aim: To evaluate the effects of isotretinoin on vitamin D levels among severe acne vulgaris patients. Study design: This was quasi experimental trial. Methodology: This experiment at the Lahore General Hospital involved 100 participants with severe acne vulgaris. Iso-tretinoin in a dose of 0.75 mg/kg was given daily for 4 months. Serum Serum vitamin-D levels were considered at two points: before and after treatment. The data was entered and analyzed in SPSS 25. A paired sample t-test was used to compare the mean Vitamin-D levels before and after treatment in acne vulgaris patients. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age of the patients was 28.5±6.2 years. There was significant difference in mean Vitamin D serum levels before and after treatment in acne vulgaris patients. Practical Implication: Acne vulgaris is a major problem in modern era. This investigation will highlight the role of oral iso-tretinoin on vitamin D levels among severe acne local patients. Due to lack of local literature, this study will add information to existing literature. Conclusion: It was concluded that isotretinoin treatment increased 25 OH vitamin D levels in patients suffering from severe AV. Although acne vulgaris impacts negatively to vitamin-D levels. Keywords: Acne Vulgaris, Isotretinoin, Effectiveness and Treatment Outcomes.

Relationship between vitamin B12, iron, folic acid, homocystein and vitamin D3 serum levels in orofacial sicca and/or Sjögren's syndrome in a Hungarian patient population

Bevezetés: A D3-, a B12-vitamin, a folsav és a vas hiánya önmagában is okozhat orofacialis sicca tüneteket: szem- és szájszárazságot, glossitist, szájégést, amellett a nyálkahártya atrophiáját, gyulladását, illetve mindezeket súlyosbíthatja. Kevés az ismeret azonban a fenti laboratóriumi paramétereknek, valamint a homociszteinnek a szintjeiről szájszárazságban szenvedők, valamint a könnymirigyek és a nyálmirigyek autoimmun gyulladásával járó Sjögren-szindróma esetében. Autoimmun betegségekben a D3-vitamin szintje alacsonyabb az egészségesekénél, és szisztémás lupus erythematosusban, valamint rheumatoid arthritisben ez összefügg a betegség aktivitásával. A siccatünetekhez társuló nyelőcső- és gyomornyálkahártya-elváltozások pedig egyéb általános tüneteket okozhatnak, befolyásolhatják az étkezést és a tápanyagok felszívódását. Célkitűzés: A szerzők célja volt meghatározni, hogy a hazai, szájszárazságban és/vagy Sjögren-szindrómában szenvedők esetében kimutatható-e különbség a D3-, a B12-vitamin-, a folsav-, a homocisztein-, valamint a vasanyagcsere-értékek szérumszintjében az egészséges kontrollok értékeihez képest. Módszer: A szubjektív siccatüneteket (xerostomia, xerophthalmia) meghatározó kérdőíves felmérés, valamint a hyposalivatiót igazoló sialometria, majd a Sjögren-szindróma irányában történő kivizsgálás (az ACR–EULAR diagnosztikus kritériumrendszer alapján) után a résztvevők 4 csoportot alkottak, ezek: 1. egészséges kontrollok, 2. xerostomia-, 3. hyposalivatio-, 4. Sjögren-szindrómás csoport. Eredmények: A kapott eredmények alapján a hazai Sjögren-szindrómásoknál a D3-vitamin és a vas szérumszintje, a csak hyposalivatióban szenvedők esetében pedig a vas szintje jelentősen csökkent volt (D3-vitamin: 1. csoport: 36,24 ± 20,14 ng/ml, 2. csoport: 47,85 ± 26,84 ng/ml, 3. csoport: 42,04 ± 21,03 ng/ml, 4. csoport: 26,96 ± 7,53 ng/ml, p<0,05; vas: 1. csoport: 16,9 ± 5,10 mmol/l, 2. csoport: 13,6 ± 4,35 mmol/l, 3. csoport: 17,1 ± 9,76 mmol/l, 4. csoport: 13,0 ± 6,64 mmol/l, p<0,05). A B12-vitamin, a transzferrin és transzferrinszaturáció, valamint a folsav és a homocisztein szintje nem mutatott szignifikáns eltérést a szájszárazságban és/vagy Sjögren-szindrómában szenvedők esetében az egészséges kontrollokhoz képest. Megbeszélés és következtetés: Míg a D3-vitamin csökkent szérumszintje az autoimmun gyulladással, addig a vasé inkább a tápcsatorna-nyálkahártya állapotával, azaz a felszívódás zavarával és/vagy a táplálkozási séma változásával lehet összefüggésben, hiszen az első esetben nem, míg a második esetben összefüggés volt kimutatható a csökkent szérumérték és a nyáltermelés csökkenése között is. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(4): 147–154.

Low Serum Vitamin D3 Levels among Premenopausal Women with Uterine Fibroids: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors in women of reproductive age, with an incidence ranging from 5.4% to 77%, leading to significant morbidity and affecting quality of life. Earlier studies suggested that uterine fibroids are more likely to develop in those women with low levels of serum vitamin D. Subsequently, the objective of the current study was to investigate the association of serum vitamin D3 levels in premenopausal women with uterine fibroids. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Indira IVF Hospital and Fertility Clinics located in India. The study was conducted from April 2022 to November 2022. In this study, a total of 160 women [80 cases and 80 controls] were enrolled. Women diagnosed with at least one uterine fibroid measuring 2 cm in size through a transvaginal scan were considered as cases, in comparison to healthy controls. Results: The mean serum vitamin D3 levels for the case and control groups were 10.85 ± 3.34 ng/ml and 19.64 ± 5.50 ng/ml, respectively. Serum vitamin D3 was significantly lower (P < 0.001) in women with uterine fibroids compared to healthy controls. Additionally, a significant association was observed between serum vitamin D3 levels and the number of fibroids in the case group (P < 0.001). This indicates that as the level of serum vitamin D3 decreases, the number of fibroids increases gradually. Conclusion: Our study suggests that women with uterine fibroids tend to have low serum vitamin D3 concentrations. Therefore, serum vitamin D3 concentration needs to be considered along with other risk factors in the treatment of uterine fibroids..

Relationship Between the Level of Vitamin D3 Deficiency and Successful Osseointegration: A Prospective Clinical Study.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of vitamin D3 levels on bone density, primary dental implant stability, and successful osseointegration. Materials and Methods: Clinical and radiological examination with a standardized cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) machine and laboratory investigation for serum levels of vitamin D3 were performed for all patients. Only patients in need of single or multiple straightforward dental implant surgery in either jaw with no history of systemic disease or condition that may interfere with bone healing were included in this study to receive the dental implant by the same oral and maxillofacial surgeon, which re-opened 4 months later to assess the osseointegration and to complete the prosthetic part. Results: One hundred twenty-eight dental implants were inserted into 108 patients. Most of the patients in the study had insufficient vitamin D3 levels. The prognosis of dental implants regarding successful osseointegration 4 months after implant placement had a weak positive association with the insertion torque and bone mineral density and a statistically significant positive correlation with the serum vitamin D3 level. Conclusion: Preoperatively, it is advisable to request the serum vitamin D3 level of the patients along with the standard clinical and radiological examination. Severe vitamin D3 deficiency could be associated with early dental implant failure despite the favorable bone density and primary dental implant stability achieved. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: TCTR20200304001.

Effect of low and high doses of vitamin D3 therapy on vitamin D3, antithyroid antibody and thyroid hormone levels in thyroid autoimmunity

Aims: Vitamin D3 deficiency is more common in autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD). Vitamin D3 supplementation in AITD is not questioned, but the required doses have been offered differently in several reports. This study attempts to provide a clinical answer as to what doses of vitamin D3 may be effective in AITD. Methods: Ninety-seven patients were included in the study: 44 with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT), 26 with Graves ’disease (GD) and 27 controls. Serum vitamin D3, thyroid hormone and autoantibody levels against thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and TSH receptor were measured before and after treatment. Biochemical data were measured by a fully automated competitive chemiluminescence assay and presented as geometric mean(95% confidence interval). Results: Baseline vitamin D3 deficiency was detected in 22 out of 44 HT, 13 out of 26 GD and 19 out of 27 controls, and improved after vitamin D3 therapy. Vitamin D3 therapy significantly increased serum vitamin D3 levels in all patient groups [46.07(16.55-128.29) vs. 71.05(40.61-124.3) nmol/l, p<0.0001 for HT, 44.27(8.98-218.25) vs. 64.22(38.85-106.16) nmol/l, p<0.0207 for GD, and 39(15.57-97.73) vs. 59.32(27.27-129.03) nmol/l, p<0.0003 for controls]. The increass in vitamin D3 levels was found after low-dose vitamin D3 therapy (<7000 NE/week) in HT (p<0.0001) and controls (p<0.0002), but not in GD. The success of vitamin D3 therapy was dependent on high doses of vitamin D3 (>7000 NE/week) in GD, but levels were lower in Graves’ ophthalmopathy (p<0.0302). Anti-TPO antibody and TSH levels were decreased by low doses of vitamin D3 in HT, but FT4 and FT3 decreased, and TSH levels increased only by high doses in GD. Conclusion: The efficacy of vitamin D3 therapy was demonstrated in all patient groups. The greatest improvement in vitamin D3 status was seen in HT. A dose-dependency of vitamin D3 therapy was rather related to the improvement in GD.

Correlation between serum Vitamin D3 Level and Disease Severity in the Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

correlation between serum Vitamin D3 Level and Disease Severity in the Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Effects of vitamin D supplementation (oily form) in patients with thalassemia

Background. Thalassemia is congenital disease case by mutation effect to synthesis of beta globin chain of hemoglobin result in combination of metabolic and endocrine disorder. Bone disease is a not rare complication in thalassemia due to malabsorption of calcium, the secondary chronic renal disorder with low vitamin D (VD), as well as many endocrine risk factors. Aim. Evaluation of vitamin D treatment (oily form) in patients with thalassemia. Method. Post Marketing Surveillance (PMS) in 26 patients with Thalassemia in Ibn Al-Atheer Hospital. All patient take vitamin D oral vial oily form with dose 50000 IU, this PMS continued in 4 weeks, every week the patient take one vial. The Parameter for the level of VD. Result. The total number of patients was 26; mean age was 13.5 years, between 3-41 years, with 53.8% were males and 46.2% were females. mean serum level of vitamin D was statically significantly very lower in thalassemia patients than in than normal level; (89%) of cases had deficient VD (≤ 20 ng/ml), (7%) of cases had insufficient vitamin D (21–29 ng/ml), and (4%) of cases had deficient VD optimal vitamin D (more than 30 ng/ml), our study showed that 4 weeks of VD supplementation significantly increased the serum level of VD. Conclusion. VD (Oily based oral vial) “High D” significantly raise the VD level in serum in majority of thalassemia patients, the result was sustained regardless of age, gender and existence of other comorbidities.

The roles of serum vitamin D and tobacco smoke exposure in insomnia: a cross-sectional study of adults in the United States.

Tobacco smoke exposure and vitamin D (VD) status were both associated with insomnia. However, the combined effect of smoking and VD on insomnia has not been discussed. This study aimed to explore the role of VD in the association between tobacco smoke exposure and insomnia. Data on adults were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) database in 2005-2008 for this cross-sectional study. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the associations between serum cotinine, serum VD, and insomnia. A surface diagram was drawn to reflect the effect of VD on the association between serum cotinine and insomnia. In addition, the potential regulating effect of VD in subgroups of smoking status was also performed. The evaluation index was odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Among the eligible participants, 1,766 had insomnia. After adjusting for covariates, we found that elevated serum cotinine levels were associated with higher odds of insomnia [OR = 1.55, 95% CI: (1.22, 1.97)]. However, the relationship between serum VD level and insomnia was not significant (P = 0.553). Higher serum cotinine levels were also associated with higher odds of insomnia [OR = 1.52, 95% CI: (1.17, 1.98)] when serum VD level was <75 nmol/L; however, this relationship became non-significant when serum VD concentration was elevated (P = 0.088). Additionally, the potential regulating effect of VD was also found in adults who were not smoking. VD may play a potential regulative role in the association between tobacco smoke exposure and insomnia. Further studies are needed to clarify the causal relationships between VD, tobacco smoke exposure, and insomnia.

Vitamin D levels in the pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic periods in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease.

Vitamin D (VD) deficiency is common in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) because of multiple factors. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, it increased because of medicine shortage and no enough medical service for patients with non-COVID-19 diseases. To analyze the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic-related lockdown on the serum levels and status of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-[OH]D) in children with CKD. This retrospective study included patients (6-18 years old) who were diagnosed with CKD stage 2-5 and routinely measured for serum VD levels between May 2019 and December 2022. Serum 25-(OH)D levels were measured before, during, and after the pandemic (2019, 2020-2021, and 2022, respectively). The daily dose of cholecalciferol supplementation and the readjustment (if required) were recorded. This study included 171 patients (median age: 12 years). Before the pandemic, the median serum VD level was 25.0 ng/mL (19.3% VD deficiency). Then, VD supplementation was adjusted to 400-1,200 UI daily in 98.8% (n = 169) of patients. During the pandemic, the median VD level decreased to 22.5 ng/mL (43.3% VD deficiency). Hence, the supplementation was readjusted, and after the pandemic, the level was 28.7 ng/mL (18.7% VD deficiency), indicating a statistically significant increase in serum VD levels from the prepandemic period (p = 0.007). Decreased serum VD levels and increased VD deficiency frequency were observed in patients with CKD during the COVID-19 but improved after readjustment of supplementation.

UVB-emitting LEDs for reptile lighting: Identifying the risks of nonsolar UV spectra.

UVB lamps are used to provide reptiles housed indoors with the UV radiation necessary to synthesize vitamin D3 in their skin. Since 2019, UVB-LED lamps have been on sale for use in reptile husbandry. We performed spectral analysis and mapped the UV irradiance for 18 of these lamps. The positive benefits of UVB-LED lamps over traditional products include greater energy efficiency, freedom from mercury and easy installation without external ballasts. However, the spectra of all the UVB-LED lamps tested had little similarity to the solar UV spectrum. Some lamps emitted short-wavelength, non-terrestrial, radiation known to cause acute photo-kerato-conjunctivitis; we report one case. All lamps were lacking significant output in the range 315-335 nm, essential for natural self-regulation of cutaneous vitamin D3 synthesis, preventing overproduction. We describe a possible risk of serious hypervitaminosis D based on our spectral analysis. We call for long-term animal studies to assess this risk, in which the reptiles under these lamps are exposed to species-appropriate UV index levels according to their Ferguson Zone allocation and serum levels of vitamin D3 and 25(OH)D3 monitored. Spectral modifications of the lamps to make the spectrum more like sunlight may be an essential way of mitigating this risk.

Assessment of the Relation Between Asthma Severity and Serum Vitamin D Levels: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Vitamin D3's importance for bone health in children and its potential role beyond musculocutaneous health is an ongoing area of research. This study assesses vitamin D3 deficiency prevalence in asthmatic children and its correlation with asthma cases and healthy controls. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Punjab, India among children between 5 and 15 years of age. Fifty children diagnosed with "bronchial asthma" who were under follow-up in the asthma clinic in outpatient and inpatient patients were enrolled as cases. Age-matched 50 healthy controls who presented for routine check-ups were enrolled in the control group. Demographic details were noted and clinical examination was done in all the cases. 25-(OH) vitamin D levels were estimated and compared in all cases and controls. The study also analyzed the relationship between 25-(OH) vitamin D levels with asthma control and severity. Results The study showed that serum vitamin D3 level was significantly decreased in asthmatic children (24.62 ± 14.95 ng/ml) as compared with the healthy control group (32.08 ± 12.22 ng/ml).Also, serum vitamin D3 level was significantly decreased in children with uncontrolled asthma (12.06 ± 4.68 ng/ml) as compared to children with well-controlled asthma (44.82 ± 10.48 ng/ml). Conclusion The findings showed that low serum levels were observed more in asthmatic children as compared to healthy children. A correlation was also found between vitamin D3 levels and asthma severity, its control, and the number of acute exacerbations in the last year.

The Efficacy of Vitamin D Supplement in the Expression and Protein Levels of Endometrial Decidualization Factors in Women with Recurrent Implantation Failure.

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a challenging situation for infertility specialists, and its treatment is introduced as a difficult case in the field of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Vitamin D (VD) is one of the supplements that have been suggested to improve the implantation process. In the present study, the effect of VD on the expression and protein levels of VD receptor (VDR), progesterone receptor (PR), prolactin (PRL), insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), and homeobox protein A10 (HOXA10) in the endometrial cells of unknown RIF women with and without VD deficiency were assessed by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Twelve women with unknown RIF and VD deficiency (≤ 20 ng/ml) and twelve women with unknown RIF without VD deficiency (≥ 30 ng/ml) from 2021 to 2022 were identified. Endometrial specimens were collected in the mid-luteal stage before treatment or pregnancy. In the group with VD deficiency, oral medication of VD 50,000 units was prescribed for 2 to 3 months and their serum levels of VD were re-measured, then an endometrial biopsy at the same stage of the menstrual cycle was performed. The expression and protein levels of VDR, PR, PRL, IGFBP1, and HOXA10 in RIF patients with VD deficiency were lower than the RIF patients without VD deficiency (P value < 0.05). Our findings suggest that VD can play a key role in the pregnancy process, especially during embryo implantation and decidualization of the endometrial cells.IRCT registration number: IRCT20220528055006N1, Registration date: 2022-10-15, Registration timing: retrospective.

Evaluating the association of vitamin D3, parathyroid hormone, and C-reactive protein serum levels in patients with an acute psychotic episode: a cross-sectional study in tertiary centre in Iran

BackgroundThe high impact of vitamin D on brain development and its relationship with inflammatory markers in the clinical course of psychiatric disorders have compelled researchers to investigate the potential association between vitamin D levels, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and the incidence of mental disorders. In the present study, we aimed to compare the serum levels of vitamin D and its related markers, including calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH), along with CRP, in 3 groups of patients with acute psychotic episodes, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and methamphetamine-induced psychosis, with a standard control group of the Iranian population.MethodsThis descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at a psychiatric hospital in Tehran, Iran, and involved a total of 185 subjects. The subjects included four groups: acute phase of schizophrenia (n = 49), acute manic episodes of bipolar disorder (n = 43), methamphetamine-induced psychotic disorder (n = 46), and control group (n = 47). Among 138 patients in acute psychotic episodes, 33 patients were in their first episode of psychosis, while 105 patients were in acute exacerbation of their chronic psychotic disorders. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) was measured by an expert attending psychiatrist for all patients. Then, serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, parathormone, vitamin D, and CRP were assessed in all study groups.ResultsAmong our 185 study subjects, it was observed that individuals with higher education levels and those who were married had a lower prevalence of mental disorders. In all patient groups, the serum levels of CRP were significantly higher, and PTH levels were significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.001). The serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D were not statistically significantly different between the patient and control groups of the study. In chronic psychotic patients, CRP levels were significantly higher (p < 0.031), and vitamin D levels were significantly lower (p < 0.044) compared to first-episode psychotic patients.ConclusionThis study suggests that CRP levels are significantly higher and PHT level is significantly lower in acute psychotic patients. Moreover, vitamin D levels were significantly lower in chronic psychotic patients compared to first-episode psychotic patients.

Clinical significance of vit D and AMH and its correlation with polycystic ovarian parameters in obese and non-obese Egyptian women

Women of reproductive age are frequently affected by the heterogeneous endocrine-metabolic conditions recognized as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Moreover, FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone), steroidogenesis, and LH (Luteinizing Hormone) are suppressed by the anti-Mullerian hormone, a good indicator of ovarian reserve, that is generated from granulosa cells. In the past ten years, vitamin D (VD) has attracted and maintained great interest in human health and biomedical research, particularly those about female reproductive-metabolic problems. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the correlation of VD and AMH with PCOS parameters in Egyptian women. Assessments were done on 35 control women and 45 PCOS sufferers. Utilizing the updated Rotterdam criteria, PCOS was identified. After recording anthropometric data, fasting serum levels of VD, follistatin (FST), insulin, FSH, LH, total testosterone (TT), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), as well as fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and the free androgen index (FAI) were measured in both groups. Compared to the control group, the PCOS group had a greater prevalence of hypovitaminosis D but serum levels of follistatin, LH, TT, AMH, insulin, and FPG, were considerably higher. Besides, there was a substantial inverse relationship between VD and the levels of follistatin, FPG, LH, TT, and AMH and a positive correlation with FSH in PCOS women's blood. This study revealed that hypovitaminosis D, elevated AMH, and FST may be regarded as alarming risk factors for PCOS in Egyptian women.

Species identification, antifungal susceptibility patterns, and vitamin D3 level in women with vaginal candidiasis: a case–control study in Iran

ABSTRACT Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a fungal infection that is a global issue of women’s health due to its association with morbidity, infertility, and economic costs. This study aimed to compare the vitamin D3 levels between women with VVC to healthy controls and determine the species distribution and susceptibility pattern of isolates. Species identification was performed using sequencing of the ITS-rDNA regions and amplification of the HWP1 gene. Antifungal susceptibility testing was determined by the disk diffusion method. Moreover, serum vitamin D3 levels were measured using a commercial ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kit. Our results indicated that vitamin D3 level in women with VVC was lower than those of healthy women (p-value < .001). Candida albicans complex (62.8 percent) was the most common species, and most species were susceptible to fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and nystatin. In conclusion, our study revealed a potential link between vitamin D3 deficiency and VVC in women. Although our findings showed significantly lower vitamin D3 levels in women with VVC, further research is needed to establish a definitive causative relationship between vitamin D3 deficiency and VVC. Nonetheless, our study highlights the potential importance of maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D3 and the need for further exploration in this area.

Incidence of Vitamin D Deficiency and Its Association With Microalbuminuria in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Background Vitamin D (VD) deficiency is common in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). VD deficiency and its associated factors are understudied in Pakistan. This study aimed to estimate the incidence of VD deficiency and its association with microalbuminuria in patients with T2DM. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on 110 patients diagnosed with T2DM aged between 30 and 65 years in the outpatientdepartment clinic of diabetes in Benazir Bhutto Hospital, Rawalpindi, for around eight months from November 2022 to June 2023. Non-probability sampling technique and established inclusion and exclusion criteria were used for patient recruitment. Ethical approval and informed consent were also waived before data collection. Data collection was done by an interview-based and self-designed questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out via descriptive statistics along with chi-square, independent-samples t-test, and Pearson correlation in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.). Results The means of the study population for age, serum VD, and UACR (urine spot for albumin-to-creatinine ratio) were 48.50±15.67 years, 28.16±15.34 ng/mL, and 29.69± 87.22 µg/mg, respectively. The incidences of VD deficiency and microalbuminuria in the study population were 43.64% and 28.20%, respectively. VD deficiency was significantly associated with age group (p=0.002), gender (p=0.008), and albuminuria status (p=0.004). The comparison of means of UACR between the VD deficiency group and the non-VD deficiency group was also significant (0.001).VD deficiency was higher among older age groups, female gender, and patients with microalbuminuria. A significant negative correlation between serum VD level and UACR (microalbuminuria) (p=0.002) was present. Conclusion VD deficiency incidence was notably high in the study population. Older age, female gender, and microalbuminuria were found to elevate the VD deficiency to a crucial level. Serum VD deficiency and microalbuminuria were significantly and negatively correlated. Therefore, VD level should be monitored intermittently in T2DM, so that we could prevent the progression of T2DM timely.

Association of serum vitamin-D level with renal function in a rural population of Bangladesh

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is an emerging global health problem. Recent studies have indicated that the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency even in tropical countries is as high as that observed in Western populations. Vitamin D deficiency has high impact on renal disorders which are leading causes of death in humans.&#x0D; Methods: This was a cross sectional analytical study. According to inclusion criteria of the study total 259 participants were recruited from a rural area, Baidyerbazar union of Narayanganj district. After taking history and clinical examination, relevant investigations were done. Serum 25(OH)D was measured using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) technology (DiaSorin Inc, Stillwater, MN). Renal functions of the study population were assessed by e-GFR (calculated by CKD-EPI equation), urinary ACR and urine microscopy.&#x0D; Results: In this study out of 259 study subjects on vitamin-D status 6.2%, 33.6% and 60.2% had vitamin-D sufficiency, insufficiency and deficiency respectively. Among participated female (133) 78.2% had vitamin-D deficiency and among participated male (126) 41.3% had vitamin-D deficiency. Among vitamin-D sufficiency, insufficiency and deficiency group the mean eGFR was 102.94, 104.87 and 109.33 ml/min/1.73 m2 respectively. The mean uACR level was 6.97, 22.89 and 37.29 mg/gm respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: The findings of the study suggest that 93.8% of study population had either vitamin-D insufficiency or deficiency. Vitamin-D deficiency was more prevalent in females than males. Serum 25- hydroxyvitamin D level was negatively associated with urinary ACR level.&#x0D; Mugda Med Coll J. 2022; 5(2): 82-87

Efficacy of Combined Photobiomodulation Therapy with Supplements versus Supplements alone in Restoring Thyroid Gland Homeostasis in Hashimoto Thyroiditis: A Clinical Feasibility Parallel Trial with 6-Months Follow-Up.

Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) is a thyroid-specific autoimmune disorder, triggering hypothyroidism in a population with an adequate dietary intake. Despite the current conventional treatment focuses on the permanent replacement of levothyroxine (LT4) deficiency, it appears that thyroid autoimmunity remains the cause of persistent symptoms in patients with HT, even when they achieve to be euthyroid from a biochemical standpoint. Photobiomodulation (PBM) showed to be an effective therapy in the management of autoimmune diseases, but with limited evidence. Hence, our study was conducted to appraise the efficacy of PBM therapy with supplements in restoring thyroid gland homeostasis in patients with HT compared with supplements alone. Seventy-four female subjects aged between 20 and 50 years old were recruited and divided equally into two groups: PBM and supplements group (group 1); and supplements alone group (group 2). The PBM dosimetry and treatment protocols were as follows: wavelength, 820 nm; power output, 200 mW; continuous emission mode; irradiating time, 20 s per point; fluence, 32 J/cm2 per point; treatment frequency, twice a week (excluding weekends); and treatment duration, three consecutive weeks. Whereas, the supplements protocol for both groups was the same, as follows: subjects with a serum level of vitamin D3 <40 ng/dL, who received replacement according to their serum levels, and all the subjects had a daily intake of 100 µg of oral selenium. The biochemical (FT3, FT4, antiTPO and antiTG) and anthropometric measurements were evaluated. Our findings showed significant improvement in group 1 parameters (PBM+ supplements) compared with group 2 (supplements only) in terms of weight loss and reduction in the following parameters: BMI, hip and waist circumference, waist/hip ratio, TSH, antiTPO, antiTG and treatment dose of LT4 (p < 0.05). Our results, for the first time, demonstrated an efficacy of PBM delivered at a lower fluence with supplements in restoring thyroid function, anthropometric parameters and lifestyle factors in patients with HT. Hence, extensive studies with a longer follow-up period are warranted.

The Effect of Vitamin D3 Intervention on the Association Among Vitamin D3, Adiponectin, and Body Mass Index in Pregnant Women With Gestational Diabetes.

Vitamin D3 (VD3) deficiency is a strong predictor of gestational diabetes. Therefore, VD3 supplementation during the antenatal period could prevent the development of gestational diabetes via its effects on insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, body mass index (BMI), and adiponectin production. To observe the effect of VD3 supplementation on adiponectin and BMI and to explore the effect of VD3 supplementation on the association among VD3, adiponectin, and BMI in pregnant women with gestational diabetes. A randomized control trial was performed after receiving consent at Postgraduate Medical Institute, Lahore. Subjects at 20-26 weeks of gestation with gestational diabetes and with a deficiency/insufficiency of VD3 were included. The study excluded those who were smokers, had multiple pregnancies, or had other gestational complications. Subjects were categorized into interventional (VD3 supplementation) and control groups. The institutional ethical committee approved the study. Serum samples were used for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay estimation of VD3 and adiponectin levels. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 21.0, Armonk, NY) software was used to analyze data. Student t-tests were applied to compare quantitative variables, and Chi-square tests were utilized to compare qualitative variables. Pearson's correlation and linear regressions were performed to explore the association. At a 95% confidence interval, a p-value of ≤0.05 was taken as significant. With an increase in serum VD3 levels, a decrease in serum adiponectin level was observed in pregnant women with gestational diabetes (interventional group: r = -0.088, p = 0.74); however, after the intervention of VD3 supplementation in the same subjects, an increase in serum adiponectin level was noted with an increase in VD3 (interventional group: r = 0.273, p = 0.28). A significant direct relationship was found between BMI and adiponectin in the same study population (interventional group: r = 0.7, p = 0.001). Interestingly, after the intervention, BMI tends to be less likely to increase adiponectin levels (interventional group: r = 0.09, p = 0.73). Moreover, an inverse association was exhibited between BMI and VD3 levels in all the study groups before intervention (controlgroup: r = -0.07, p = 0.78; interventional group: r = -0.035, p = 0.89) and after intervention (interventional group: r = -0.12, p = 0.65), except in the control group after the intervention span, where BMI mildly raises the VD3 levels (r = -0.12, p = 0.65). BMI increases with an increase in serum adiponectin levels in gestational diabetic women, but after VD3 supplementation, BMI was less likely to influence adiponectin. Also, with an increase in BMI, a decrease in the VD3 in all study groups was observed except in the control group after VD3 supplementation.