Ca Supplementation Research Articles

P0955 Calcium supplementation, but not the Mediterranean diet, significantly reduced bone resorption metabolite in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): A randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Reduced bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis and osteopenia, are prevalent comorbidities in IBD. Reduced BMD first line treatment is calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Mediterranean diet (MED) pattern has been associated with lower risk of reduced BMD in the general population. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of MED and vitamin D supplementation versus the standard of care on bone turn-over metabolites in patients with quiescent IBD diagnosed with reduced BMD. Methods Patients with IBD in clinical remission, age 20-50 years diagnosed with reduced BMD defined as DXA scan T score <-1were randomized for a 12-week, dietitian-led intervention to either MED (including calcium rich foods) or Calcium supplementation. Vitamin D supplementation was mandatory in both groups. Bone turn-over metabolites including bone resorption metabolite (CTX) and bone formation metabolite (P1NP) were used to assess bone dynamics within 12 weeks of treatment and vitamin D levels at baselined and after 12 weeks. Adherence to MED pattern was assed via validated MED score. Results Out of 72 patients approached, 38 (52.8%) consented to perform screening DXA and 17 (44.8%) were diagnosed with reduced BMD. Finally, 15 patients were recruited to the RCT- 7(46.6%) male 8 (53.4%) female, median age: 34 (IQR 29-40) years, median years since IBD diagnosis: 8 (IQR 7-16) years. Patients were randomized to MED (8) or Ca (7) groups. MED score increased in the MED group: median of 2.5 (IQR 2-3.75) points, but not the Ca group 0 (IQR 0-1) points (p=0.002). After 12 weeks of intervention Ca group demonstrated a reduction of 12.5% (IQR -126-12.2) in bone resorption metabolite, CTX. In the MED group an increase of bone resorption metabolite, CTX, by 18.2% (IQR -2.5-32) was observed. CTX dynamic significantly differed between groups (p=0.04) (fig 1). Bone formation metabolite, P1NP, decreased in both groups- in Ca group by 5.7 % (IQR -19.1- 9.5) and in MED group 10.2% (IQR -14-1.4). P1NP dynamic was comparable between groups. Vitamin D levels increased after 12 weeks in both Ca group and MED group (23.9 % vs 14.8%) the increase was comparable (p=0.536) Conclusion In this short-term intervention, we found that Ca supplementation significantly improved bone resorption in patients with IBD and reduced BMD, while MED (including calcium rich foods) alone was insufficient. Patients with IBD and reduced BMD should be encouraged to adhere to Ca supplementation for the long run to prevent long term metabolic bone complications.

Transition cow health and management in pasture-based dairy herds: A farmers' survey.

Seasonal-calving pasture-based systems characterize Irish dairy production. During the dry period, cows are housed and offered predominantly grass silage, providing unique transition cow management opportunities. This study aimed to describe transition period disease incidence and management strategies reported by farmers, and to evaluate their associations with herd size and calving pattern to inform and guide research activities and national advisory. An online survey distributed amongst 3,899 Teagasc Technical Dairy Advisory clients yielded 525 responses suitable for analysis. Results are presented for all respondents, by herd size and by the two most common calving systems (spring- [84.3%; 439/521] and split-calving [12.9%; 67/521]). Disease incidence was reportedly highest in cows within their first 3 weeks postpartum (58%; 299/519), in cows calving at the end of the calving season (48%; 245/510) and in multiparous cows (52%; 266/513). Respondents reported treating >3% of their herd for milk fever (23%; 120/521) and retained placenta (13%; 68/518), and <1% of their herd for grass tetany (82.6%; 419/507) and ketosis (72.7%; 368/506). Regarding management, dry cow body condition monitoring (73%; 365/497), dry cow mineral supplementation (61%; 304/497), and Ca supplementation at calving (61%; 314/487) were most commonly reported. Other milk fever prevention strategies supported by research in other production systems were not commonly reported (low K [20%; 101/497] and negative dietary cation-anion difference diet [6%; 31/497]). The odds of reporting keeping records of antibiotic treatment for milk fever were higher (OR = 3.20) for farmers from small compared to large herds. In conclusion, responses to our survey suggest that milk fever is a transition cow health concern in Irish dairy farms. Efforts should be devoted to enhance farmers' uptake of existing research-supported prophylactic strategies for milk fever and to optimize commonly reported management strategies in the Irish dairy production context.

Comparing oral versus intravenous Ca administration on alleviating markers of production, metabolism, and inflammation during an intravenous lipopolysaccharide challenge in mid-lactation dairy cows

Animals, including dairy cows develop hypocalcemia during infection. Prior independent research suggests supplementing oral Ca, but not i.v. Ca, improves multiple health metrics after immune activation. Therefore, study objectives were to directly compare the effects of administering an oral Ca bolus vs. i.v. Ca on mineral and energetic metabolism variables and inflammatory parameters following an i.v. lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Mid-lactation cows (124 ± 43 DIM) were assigned to 1 of 4 treatments: 1) saline control (CON; 4 mL saline; n = 4), 2) LPS control (CON-LPS; 0.375 µg/kg BW; n = 6), 3) LPS with oral Ca bolus (OCa-LPS; 0.375 µg/kg BW and a 192 g bolus of Bovikalc containing 43 g Ca [71% CaCl2 and 29% CaSO4] supplemented at -0.5 and 6 h relative to LPS administration; n = 8), and 4) LPS with i.v. Ca (IVCa-LPS; 0.375 µg/kg BW and 500 mL Ca-gluconate, 23% [VetOne; Boise, ID]) supplemented at -0.5 and 6 h relative to LPS infusion; n = 8). During period (P) 1 (4 d), baseline data were obtained. At the initiation of P2 (5 d), LPS and Ca supplements were administered. As anticipated, CON-LPS became hypocalcemic, but OCa-LPS and IVCa-LPS had increased ionized Ca (iCa) compared with CON-LPS cows (1.11 and 1.28 vs. 0.95 ± 0.02 mmol/L, respectively). Rectal temperature increased after LPS and was additionally elevated in IVCa-LPS from 3 to 4 h (38.9 and 39.8 ± 0.1°C in CON-LPS and IVCa-LPS, respectively). Administering LPS decreased DMI and milk yield relative to CON. Circulating glucose was decreased in OCa-LPS compared with CON-LPS and IVCa-LPS during the initial hyperglycemic phase at 1 h (75.1 vs. 94.9 and 95.7 ± 3.4 mg/dL, respectively, but all LPS infused cows regardless of treatment had similar glucose concentrations thereafter, which were decreased relative to baseline during the first 12 h. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) increased after LPS but this was attenuated in OCa-LPS compared with CON-LPS and IVCa-LPS cows (8.7 vs. 10.0 and 10.4 ± 0.3 mg/dL). Glucagon increased in OCa-LPS and IVCa-LPS compared with CON-LPS cows (459 and 472 vs. 335 ± 28 pg/mL, respectively), and insulin markedly increased over time regardless of LPS treatment. LPS substantially increased serum amyloid A, LPS-binding protein, and haptoglobin in all treatments, but OCa-LPS tended to have increased LBP concentrations relative to IVCa-LPS (10.7 vs. 8.6 ± 0.7 µg/mL, respectively). Several cytokines increased after LPS administration, but most temporal cytokine profiles did not differ by treatment. In summary, LPS administration intensely activated the immune system and both Ca delivery routes successfully ameliorated the hypocalcemia. The i.v. and oral Ca treatments had differential effects on multiple metabolism variables and appeared to mildly influence production responses to LPS.

Factors Promoting Lipopolysaccharide Uptake by Synthetic Lipid Droplets.

Lipoproteins are essential in removing lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from blood during bacterial inflammation. The physicochemical properties of lipoproteins and environmental factors can impact LPS uptake. In this work, synthetic lipid droplets containing triglycerides, cholesterols, and phospholipids, were prepared to mimic lipoproteins. The physicochemical properties of these lipid droplets, such as charges, sizes, and lipid compositions, were altered to understand the underlying factors affecting LPS uptake. The amphiphilic LPS could spontaneously adsorb on the surface of lipid droplets without lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP); however, the presence of LBP can increase LPS uptake. The positively charged lipid droplets also enhance the uptake of negatively charged LPS. Most interestingly, the LPS uptake highly depends on the concentrations of Ca2+ near the physiological conditions, but the impact of Mg2+ ions was not significant. The increase of Ca2+ ions can improve LPS uptake by lipid droplets; this result suggested that Ca2+ may play an essential role in LPS clearance. Since septic shock patients typically suffer from hypocalcemia and low levels of lipoproteins, the supplementation of Ca2+ ions along with synthetic lipoproteins may be a potential treatment for severe sepsis.

7070 Nephrolithiasis and Hypercalciuria in Adults with Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Abstract Disclosure: V.R. Simões: None. M. Daly: None. M.G. Rocha-Braz: None. R.M. Martin: None. B. Ferraz-de-Souza: None. Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heterogeneous bone fragility disorder. Extra-skeletal manifestations have been well documented in children with OI, including renal complications, but studies in adults lack. Here we investigate the prevalence of nephrolithiasis and hypercalciuria in adults with OI.After informed consent, adult patients with OI attending a tertiary clinic were included in this prospective study. Disease severity score, mobility score, BMD, and molecular diagnosis, if available, were registered. Evaluation of nephrolithiasis comprised history, dietary record, and medication and supplement use. Imaging was performed in all patients with renal US and/or CT, and laboratory investigations encompassed serum (Ca, P, ALP, 25OHD, PTH, CTX, P1NP) and 24-h urine (Ca, P, citrate, oxalate, sodium, uric acid) analyses. IBM SPSS v20 was used for statistical analysis.In total, 94 adults (57 F, 37 M) with OI were evaluated, with ages ranging from 21-76 yr (50% between 20-29). Molecular diagnosis was available for 61 subjects, 79% of whom had collagen defects. Most subjects had moderate to severe OI (70%) and 48% required walking support/aid or did not walk. Excessive total (diet + supplement) daily calcium intake was identified in only 6%. Renal CT and US were available for 50 subjects (53%), CT only for 11 (12%) and US only for 33 (35%). Nephrolithiasis was identified in 26 subjects (28%). Of those, 13 (14%) had symptoms. A trend towards a higher occurrence of nephrolithiasis in subjects with moderate/severe OI was identified (p=0.059), and, reassuringly, no association with calcium intake or use of supplements was seen. ROC curve analysis revealed that 24-h U Ca &amp;gt;144.25 mg and 24-h U citrate &amp;lt;235 mg were significantly associated with nephrolithiasis (p=0.024 &amp; p=0.048). Logistic regression identified a 5.6x increased likelihood of nephrolithiasis for 24-h U oxalate &amp;gt;19 mg (p=0.047). Nephrolithiasis was identified in 28% female and 27% male subjects. Because nephrolithiasis is usually more common in males, analyses were repeated according to sex. In female subjects, nephrolithiasis was significantly associated with OI severity (p=0.01) and with higher mean OI severity scores (p=0.001). Strikingly, hypercalciuria (defined as 24-h U Ca &amp;gt;200 mg) was identified in 36% of the cohort. Significant but weak positive correlations between 24-h U Ca and mobility score (r=0.214, p=0.041) and 24-h U Na (r=0.426, p=0.001) were found, as were negative correlations with CTX (r=-0.257, p=0.015) and P1NP (r=-0.251, p=0.018). In conclusion, high prevalence of nephrolithiasis and hypercalciuria were identified in adults with OI. While Ca supplementation did not seem to be associated with risk for nephrolithiasis in this population with mostly adequate total daily intake levels, OI severity, low U citrate and high U oxalate levels seemed to increase risk, prompting attention in the care of adults with OI. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Sunflower seed and peanut peptide calcium-complex promote bone mass accumulation in growing female KM mice fed a low calcium diet by improving calcium bioavailability and bone type I collagen synthesis

Previous studies have indicated that Sunflower Seed Peptide (SSP)-Ca and peanut peptide (PP)-Ca improve Ca bioavailability and enhance bone mineral density in low-Ca diet-fed male mice. However, the mechanisms of SSP-Ca and PP-Ca act in bone metabolism, and whether their effect is affected by sex remain unclear. In this study, 5 week-old female KM mice were fed a low-Ca diet and gavaged with different doses of SSP-Ca, PP-Ca, or CaCO3 for 5 weeks. SSP-Ca and PP-Ca supplementation ameliorated femur binding toughness, BMD and microarchitecture. SSP-Ca and PP-Ca intake increased the bone type I collagen levels and Co1la1 mRNA expression. SSP-Ca and PP-Ca intake also significantly increased the serum P1NP levels. In conclusion, SSP-Ca and PP-Ca promote bone mass accumulation in growing female mice fed with a low-Ca diet by improving Ca bioavailability and bone type I collagen synthesis. The study provided novel insights for Ca supplementation in adolescence.

A Comprehensive Review of the Health Benefits of Calcium and its Bioavailability from Different Leafy Vegetables

Calcium (Ca) is a beneficial mineral for maintaining different physiological activities and is involved in preventing several diseases in human beings. Regular dietary Ca intake is therefore essential. However, the quantity required varies with different age groups. Various leafy vegetables act as a good source of Ca but some natural or physiological factors like phytate and vitamin D may influence Ca absorption from the Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT) thereby affecting the bioavailability of Ca. Methods like boiling and fermentation can be used to increase the bioavailability of Ca. Understanding Ca bioavailability from leafy vegetables can therefore be helpful for a proper recommendation of dietary Ca supplementation.

Calcium isotope composition in serum and urine for the assessment of bone mineral balance (BMB) – The Osteolabs post-market follow-up study

To further explore the clinical applicability of the calcium (Ca) isotope marker (CIM), we determined the 44Ca/42Ca isotope ratio in blood serum and urine. This ratio is expressed in the conventional δ-notation (as defined in the text below) specifically as CIM-serum for serum and as CIM-urine for urine. Our study tested the hypothesis that CIM values can differentiate between positive and negative bone mineral balance (BMB) across a diverse clinical population considering variables such as age, gender, and diet. The threshold values (CIM-serum: −0.85 ± 0.06 ‰ and CIM-urine: 0.23 ± 0.06 ‰) established in the OsteoGeo study (NCT02967978, Eisenhauer et al., 2019) were evaluated in 2320 participants as part of a surveillance study referred to as Osteolabs study. The earlier study revealed women with osteoporosis had an average CIM-serum value of −0.91 ± 0.21 ‰ (N = 24) and a CIM-urine value of 0.18 ± 0.33 ‰ (N = 71) that are significantly below the threshold values (p = 0.02 for urine, one-sided Wilcoxon rank test, p < 0.001 for serum, one-sided Student's t-test). Diseases affecting BMB such as osteoporosis, acute and chronic kidney disease (CKD), hyperthyroidism, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and myeloma were associated with significantly lower average CIM values, falling below the equilibrium thresholds and indicating negative BMB. In contrast, patients receiving osteoprotective treatments such as denosumab, Romosozumab, bisphosphonates, or hormone replacement therapy for certain diseases, had CIM values above the equilibrium thresholds indicating a positive BMB. Additionally, Ca supplements taken by some of the patients ((N = 22 (serum), N = 49 (urine), median dose: 500 mg) showed a Ca isotope composition approximately 1 ‰ higher than that from a normal diet. Consequently, their CIM values need to be adjusted to account for the amount and duration of supplementation to be comparable to those with a normal diet. Participants taking vitamin D (237 women; 58 men) showed no significant difference from the average values of the study group. Counterintuitively, the possible impact of malnutrition on individual BMB was most pronounced in vegans, who exhibited the highest average CIM-urine values compared to patients on a normal diet (p < 0.001, N = 17). The results of this study were consistent with the registered OsteoGeo study (NCT02967978) and other earlier published Ca isotope-based studies on BMB. We confirm that the CIM threshold values determined in the OsteoGeo study are generally valid for this much larger and diverse surveillance study group covering a diverse population encompassing various medical conditions and therapies.

Effect of Vitamin C, D3, Ca Supplements and Olive Paste Enriched with Mountain Tea on Health Biomarkers in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis: A Prospective Interventional Study

Low dietary intake of calcium, vitamin D, vitamin C and magnesium has been associated with increased risk of osteoporosis. The purpose of the study was to evaluate changes in several bone health indicators and metabolic biomarkers in postmenopausal women with high osteopenia or osteoporosis, followed by a nutritional intervention program. In total, 115 apparently healthy postmenopausal women (52 ± 8 years old) were randomized into four groups: group I (n = 40) received daily 1000 mg vitamin C, 100 mcg vitamin D3, 500 mg calcium(Ca) and 300 mg magnesium (Mg); group II (n = 42) received daily 100 mcg vitamin D3, 500 mg Ca and 300 mg Mg; group III (n = 18) received daily 5 mg bisphosphonates, 100 mcg vitamin D3, 500 mg Ca and 300 mg Mg; and group IV (n = 15) received daily about 364 mg polyphenols via an innovative functional food (50 g olive paste enriched with mountain tea extract) along with 100 mcg vitamin D3, 500 mg Ca and 300 mg Mg. Groups I–III received supplementation for a year whereas group IV received supplementation for 5 months. Changes in bone health indicators and metabolic biomarkers were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the study. Anthropometric indices and whole-body bone mineral density (BMD) were also evaluated at the beginning and at the end of the intervention period. The results revealed improved elevated levels of 25(OH)D3 in groups II, III and IV (+3.71% and +1.45% and +5.62%, respectively). Significant positive changes were recorded for whole-body BMD in all four study groups. Significant beneficial changes for total cholesterol were observed in group IV (−2.07%, p &lt; 0.05) and positive changes in group I for HDL biomarkers (+61.62%, p &lt; 0.05). Additional larger-scale clinical trials and intervention studies are considered essential to fully investigate and elucidate associations between dietary components and biochemical indices of bone health.

Growth Responses of Holcus lanatus L. (Velvet Grass) in Soils Contaminated with Cesium or Strontium

Radiocesium (r-Cs) and radiostrontium (r-Sr) released from nuclear accidents (e.g., Chornobyl, Fukushima) and routine operations (reactors, reprocessing) pose environmental and health concerns. Their primary pathway to humans is through plant uptake and subsequent bioaccumulation within the food chain. While soil amendments with potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) are known to mitigate r-Cs and r-Sr uptake, respectively, the impact on plant growth remains unclear. This study investigates the effects of Cs and Sr on the growth of Holcus lanatus L. seedlings under hydroponic and soil conditions with varying Cs and Sr concentrations. Stable isotopes of Cs and Sr served as non-radioactive analogs. Seedling growth was assessed across a range of Cs and Sr concentrations (≤1 and ≥4 mg L−1). The impact of the addition of K and Ca on Cs/Sr uptake in amended soils was also evaluated. Additionally, this study examined how Cs and Sr amendments affected the influx rates of other nutrients in H. lanatus. Higher Cs and Sr concentrations (≥4 mg L−1) significantly inhibited seedling growth, while lower concentrations had no effect. Notably, H. lanatus exhibited moderate Cs tolerance and strong Sr tolerance. Furthermore, K and Ca supplementation in Cs/Sr-amended soils demonstrably reduced plant uptake of these elements. This study also observed alterations in the uptake rates of other nutrients within H. lanatus due to Cs/Sr addition. This study suggests that H. lanatus exhibits moderate tolerance to Cs and Sr contamination, potentially making it suitable for revegetation efforts in contaminated grasslands. Additionally, K and Ca amendments show promise as a strategy to mitigate plant uptake of these radioisotopes further. These findings contribute to the development of safer revitalization strategies for areas impacted by nuclear accidents.

Effect of Pickling Methods on the Quality and Flavor of Umeboshi

Umeboshi is made by pickling plums in salt. The quality of umeboshi varies depending on the pickling method and additives used. In the present study, we compared the quality of plums pickled in salt, brine, and Ca-supplemented brine. Quality determinants of the pickled plums included hardness, moisture content, pH, Brix value, fruit color, and malic acid, citric acid, and salt concentrations. We also performed a microbiological evaluation of the umeboshi. Additionally, using a questionnaire, we surveyed consumer preferences for umeboshi pickled using different additives. Salt-pickled umeboshi had a high pH and low citric acid content, resulting in a mild flavor, whereas umeboshi pickled in brine had a high malic acid content. After soaking in various salts, the acidity of pickled plums increased. Moreover, umeboshi pickled in Ca-supplemented brine exhibited high L-and a-values. Our results suggest that malic acid contributes to the flavor and appeal of umeboshi and that Ca supplementation in the brine results in bright-colored umeboshi.

Modulation of Performance, Plasma Constituents, Small Intestinal Morphology, and Cecum Microbiota in Growing Geese by Dietary Citric Acid Supplementation.

To investigate the efficiency and optimum inclusion level of CA in growing geese diets on performance, plasma constituents, and intestinal health, 240 healthy female geese at the age of 28d were randomly allotted six treatment diets incorporated with 0, 0.8, 1.6, 2.4, 3.2, and 4% CA. Each treatment group consisted of five replicates and eight birds per replicate. The findings demonstrated that 3.2% CA supplementation resulted in improved growth performance (ADG, ADFI, and FBW) (p = 0.001), and geese who received CA also showed lower body fat contents (p < 0.05) than the control group. Moreover, geese from the 2.4% and 3.2% CA group had the highest plasma glutathione peroxidase and insulin-like growth factor 1 levels compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). A microbial diversity analysis of the cecum conducted by 16S rDNA sequencing revealed that 3.2% CA supplementation showed a significantly higher abundance of beneficial bacteria (Muribaculaceae, CHKCI001, Erysipelotricha-ceae_UCG_003, and UCG_009) (p < 0.05) and a lower abundance of harmful bacteria (Atopobiaceae, Streptococcus, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Alistipes) (p < 0.10). Collectively, our results revealed that dietary supplementation with 3.2% CA had several benefits on the performance and physiological health of growing geese by promoting nutrients metabolism, improving antioxidant capacity, and modulating cecum microbiota.

Preparation, characterization, and property evaluation of Hericium erinaceus peptide-calcium chelate.

Recently, owing to the good calcium bioavailability, peptide-calcium chelates made of various foods have been emerging. Hericium erinaceus, an edible fungus, is rich in proteins with a high proportion of calcium-binding amino acids. Thus, mushrooms serve as a good source to prepare peptide-calcium chelates. Herein, the conditions for hydrolyzing Hericium erinaceus peptides (HP) with a good calcium-binding rate (CBR) were investigated, followed by the optimization of HP-calcium chelate (HP-Ca) preparation. Furthermore, the structure of the new chelates was characterized along with the evaluation of gastrointestinal stability and calcium absorption. Papain and a hydrolysis time of 2 h were selected for preparing Hericium erinaceus peptides, and the conditions (pH 8.5, temperature 55°C, time 40 min, and mass ratio of peptide/CaCl2 4:1) were optimal to prepare HP-Ca. Under this condition, the chelates contained 6.79 ± 0.13% of calcium. The morphology and energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS) analysis showed that HP-Ca was loose and porous, with an obvious calcium element signal. The ultraviolet-visible (UV) absorption and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis indicated that calcium possibly chelates to HP via interaction with free -COO- from acidic amino acids and C = O from amide. HP-Ca displayed good stability against stimulated gastrointestinal digestion. Moreover, HP-Ca significantly improved the calcium absorption by Caco-2 epithelial cells. Thus, HP-Ca is a promising Ca supplement with high calcium bioavailability.

Development of a tool to calculate the probability of hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy: a prospective study.

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of the percentage of decrease in serum PTH level in the first 8h after total thyroidectomy (TT) to predict hypocalcemia requiring Ca supplementation and develop a tool to predict it. 97 patients who underwent TT with measurement of preoperative parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were prospectively evaluated 1 and 8h after TT; postoperative magnesium (Mg2PO) and phosphorus levels were evaluated on the 2nd day after surgery. The percentage of decrease in PTH level 1h (%dPTH1h) and 8h (%dPTH8h) postoperatively and predictors of hypocalcemia requiring Ca supplementation were evaluated and an equation was developed to predict this outcome. %dPTH1h (p = 0.002), %dPTH8h (p = 0.001) and (Mg2PO) (p < 0.01) were isolated predictors of postoperative hypocalcemia requiring Ca supplementation. The data obtained led to the development of two tools to predict this complication. The percentage of decrease in PTH level 1h and 8h postoperatively and the magnesium level on the 2nd day after surgery were predictors of more severe hypocalcemia, and an auxiliary tool for predicting this complication was developed.

Effect of calcium and magnesium on starch synthesis in maize kernels and its physiological driving mechanism.

The content of kernel starch (STC), which is a fundamental indicator of the nutritional value of maize, is directly correlated with the grain's taste and aroma. Both calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) are critical nutrients that play a significant role in the growth and development of maize, as well as in the synthesis of STC. To determine the physiological driving mechanisms of Ca and Mg effects on the accumulation of STC synthesis in maize kernels and the characteristics of their effects on endogenous hormones and enzymes of STC synthesis in maize leaves, our study applied foliar Ca and Mg fertilizers at various levels to maize prior to pollination. (1) The levels of Ca, Mg, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellin (GA), and zeatin riboside (ZR) in maize leaves increased and then decreased after the supplementation of Ca and Mg. They peaked on the 32nd day after pollination. In contrast, the levels of abscisic acid (ABA) initially decreased and then increased. Ca and Mg had a negative correlation with ABA and a positive correlation with IAA, GA, and ZR. (2) As the levels of Ca and Mg increased, correspondingly rose the activities of enzymes responsible for STC synthesis and the content of STC and its components. Principally influencing the synthesis of STC were ABA, IAA, uridine diphosphate-glucose pyrophosphorylase (UDPG), granule-bound starch synthase (GBSS), and soluble starch synthase (SSS). (3) "IAA-UDPG or GBSS-STC" was the predominant physiological regulation pathway of Ca on kernel STC, whereas "IAA-GBSS-STC" was the dominant physiological regulation pathway of Mg on kernel STC. The regulatory impact of STC by UDPG and GBSS was positive, as were the effects of IAA on UDPG and GBSS. In conclusion, the accumulation of kernel starch was significantly enhanced by Ca and Mg supplementation via the modulation of endogenous hormone levels and key enzyme activities. This research identifies a viable approach to improve the nutritional composition of maize.

Effect of dietary calcium and vitamin D supplements on plasma bone turnover biomarkers, bone mineralization, bone strength, and lameness score in gilts.

This study investigated the impact of calcium (Ca) and vitamin D supplements on bone metabolism, bone measurement, lameness, and selection rate in gilts fed 5 dietary treatments. Two Ca levels (6.85/6.42 [adequate; ACa] or 8.99/8.56 [high; HCa] g/kg) were combined with either 856 IU/kg vitamin D3 (Danish feeding standards; adequate; AD3) or 50 μg/kg 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (high; HHyD) to create ACaAD3, HCaAD3, ACaHHyD, and HCaHHyD diets. The values 6.85/6.42 and 8.99/8.56g/kg correspond to adequate and high Ca supply for gilts weighing 32 to 100 and 100 to 180kg body weight (BW), respectively. The fifth diet was a combination of HCa and 2,000 IU/kg vitamin D3 (high; HD3) to create HCaHD3. Two hundred gilts were phase fed the dietary treatments from 32 to 100 and 100 to 180kg BW until they were slaughtered, either at 100 or 180kg BW. The gilts were weighed fortnightly, and plasma and urine samples were collected at 100 and 180kg BW. At slaughter, the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal bones were collected for bone parameters measurements. Lameness and selection rate were assessed within the last 7 d at 100 and 180kg BW. Dietary treatments did not affect gilts' growth performance and plasma concentration of Ca, but the urinary concentration of Ca was greater in HCa-supplemented gilts at both 100 (P = 0.003) and 180 (P = 0.05) kg BW. Plasma concentration of vitamin D3 (P < 0.001) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (P < 0.001) showed dose-dependent responses at both 100 and 180kg BW. Bone-specific alkaline phosphatase was greater (P = 0.02) in the plasma sample collected at 180kg BW in gilts fed the HCaHD3 diet and tended to be greater in gilts fed the ACaAD3 diet (P = 0.06). The bone ash content (P = 0.02) was greater in gilts fed the HCaAD3 diet and slaughtered at 100kg BW compared with gilts fed the ACaAD3 and ACaHHyD diets. However, bone weight, length, thickness, dry matter, and mineral content did not differ among the dietary treatments at both 100 and 180kg BW (P > 0.05). Neither lameness nor selection rate was affected by the dietary treatments. The average daily gain of gilts weighing 32 to 100 and 100 to 180kg BW showed a positive correlation with bone strength (r = 0.37; P < 0.001) and bone ash content (r = 0.24; P = 0.02), respectively. In conclusion, higher Ca and vitamin D3 supplementation slightly increased bone ash content but had no effect on the lameness or selection rate of the gilts compared to those fed according to the Danish nutrient standards.

Procyanidin B1 and p-coumaric acid from whole highland barley ameliorated HFD-induced impaired glucose tolerance via small intestinal barrier and hepatic glucose metabolism.

Highland barley is a natural source for the development of phenolic compounds that exhibit potential in preventing type 2 diabetes, which is important for the agricultural and industrial utilization of highland barley. However, very few studies have focused on their effect on small intestinal absorption and barrier dysfunction, as well as the direct target for the modulation of hepatic glucose metabolism. In this study, procyanidin B1 (PB) and p-coumaric acid (CA) isolated from highland barley supplementation in impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) mice significantly increased lactase-phlorizin hydrolase (LPH), sulfotransferase 1A1 (SULT1A1), UDP glucuronosyltransferase 1A (UGT1A) families and sodium-dependent glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1) expression in the small intestine of IGT mice, indicating beneficial effects on polyphenol deglycosylation and transportation. Supplementation with PB and CA also exhibited attenuation of small intestinal barrier dysfunction by improving the mucus layer and tight junctions, which was closely related to the transportation of phenolic compounds. In addition, PB and CA supplementation were explored directly to bind to the insulin receptor and activate the insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1)/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, thereby modulating hepatic glucose metabolism and ameliorating hyperglycemic in IGT mice. These results offer crucial insights into the potential development of PB and CA as non-food nutraceuticals, as well as the extensive utilization of highland barley as an industrial crop.

An examination of the impact of unmelted, melted, and deconstructed cheese on lipid metabolism: a 6-week randomised trial.

Background: Evidence suggests cheese has a favourable or neutral effect on cardiometabolic health, compared to butter. To date, studies have only considered the cheese matrix in its unmelted form, while the effect of melted cheese remains unknown. Objective: To test the effect of 6-week daily consumption of ∼40 g dairy fat, eaten in either as unmelted cheese, melted cheese, or in a fully deconstructed form, on markers of metabolic health in overweight adults aged ≥50 years of age. Design: A 6-week randomised parallel intervention, where 162 participants (43.3% male) received ∼40 g of dairy fat per day, in 1 of 3 treatments: (A) 120 g full-fat Irish grass-fed cheddar cheese, eaten in unmelted form (n 58); (B) 120 g full-fat Irish grass-fed cheddar cheese eaten in melted form (n 53); or (C) the equivalent components; butter (49 g), calcium caseinate powder (30 g), and Ca supplement (CaCO3; 500 mg) (n 51). Results: There was no difference in weight, fasting glucose, or insulin between the groups post-intervention. Melted cheese, compared to unmelted cheese, increased total cholesterol (0.23 ± 0.79 mmol L-1vs. 0.02 ± 0.67 mmol L-1, P = 0.008) and triglyceride concentrations (0.17 ± 0.39 mmol L-1vs. 0.00 ± 0.42 mmol L-1, P = 0.016). Melted cheese increased total cholesterol concentrations by 0.20 ± 0.15 mmol L-1 and triglyceride concentrations by 0.17 ± 0.08 mmol L-1 compared to unmelted cheese. No significant differences were observed between the cheese forms for change in HDL, LDL or VLDL cholesterol. Conclusion: Compared to unmelted cheese, melted cheese was found to increase total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in middle-aged, overweight adults with no effect on weight or glycaemic control.

Estratégia de fertilização calcinada nas características fsiológicas e produtividade de manga

ABSTRACT Calcium (Ca) is a nutrient responsible for maintaining plant quality and fruit yield. The production of new Ca sources, such as micronized (CaM) and complexed Ca (CaC), and their supplementation provide a better yield in mango cultivation. This study aimed to evaluate the efect of Ca sources (micronized and complexed with Ascophyllum nodosum) and application methods on mango cultivation, in semi-arid Brazil. The experimental design was randomized blocks, in a 6 × 6 factorial scheme. The Ca supplementation strategies (control; 1 L ha−1 of CaM; 2 L ha−1 of CaM; 2 L ha−1 of CaC with A. nodosum extract; 2 L ha−1 of CaC with A. nodosum extract + application of 2.5 L ha−1 via CaC fertigation; and 2.5 L ha−1 via CaC fertigation) were evaluated on six dates regarding nutritional aspects. For biochemical and production aspects, the six supplementation strategies with Ca were evaluated. The Ca concentration in leaves and fruits signifcantly afected the interaction among the factors. The fertilization strategy with 2.5 L ha−1 of complexed calcium via fertigation was fundamental to provide increases in the nitrogen and Ca concentration of the fruits from 65 days after full fowering, and had positive efects on fruiting and production of mangoes cv. Kent.

Calcium - a scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023.

The aim of this scoping review was to conduct evidence-based documentations between calcium (Ca) intake and health outcomes for updating dietary reference values (DRVs) and food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) in the sixth edition of Nordic Nutrient Recommendations (NNR2023). The systematic literature search was limited to reviews on human data published between 2011 and June 2021. Systematic reviews (SRs) and original publications of relevance for this scoping review were included. A common practice of designing studies on health outcomes related to Ca supplement intake is to examine combined Ca and vitamin D, and therefore, a combination of Ca with vitamin D (CaD) was included in this review. In total, 27 studies addressing the association between dietary or supplemental Ca on bone health, bone mineral density (BMD), pregnancy-related outcomes, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), cancers, obesity, and mortality were reviewed. SRs showed that both dietary and supplemental Ca intakes were positively associated with BMD, but evidence did not support the benefit in fracture prevention. Current evidence did not support that Ca or CaD supplementation increases risk of coronary heart disease or all-cause mortality in older adults, but that Ca may be beneficial for hypertension, especially in young people. Increasing Ca intake may be beneficial during pregnancy, especially for those at high risk of pre-eclampsia due to ethnicity, age, high BMI, and those with low baseline Ca intake. The associations between high Ca intake and cancers were varied, with strong evidence that high consumption of dairy products is protective against colorectal cancer and limited-suggestive evidence that dairy products and diets high in Ca might also be protective against breast cancer. Moreover, there is limited-suggestive evidence that dairy products and diets high in Ca increase the risk of prostate cancer. Based on current evidence, Ca intake is beneficial or neutral in relation to most of the outcomes evaluated in this review. Data from the Nordic countries show that average Ca intake is around the same as previously recommended by NNR. However, the average Ca intake in the Baltic countries is below the recommendations.