Supplementation Strategies Research Articles

Nutrition interventions for spine-related pain: A scoping review.

Multiple studies have been published regarding various nutritional supplements or interventions to improve chronic pain. However, many of these studies emphasized widespread pain and were not specific to the spine. Therefore, the primary objective of this scoping review was to evaluate available evidence related to nutritional supplementation or dietary strategies for spine-related pain. A comprehensive literature search was performed on October 11, 2022, and updated on May 2, 2024. Databases included: MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science. Results were limited to those published within the past 10 years, to English-language articles, and excluded animal studies. Of the 2,081 screened articles, 29 were included in the final review. Of these, 26 focused on the low back, one on the neck, and two referred to generalized "back" pain. The largest number of studies were found on vitamins D and B, specifically for low back pain. However, there were conflicting findings for both vitamins; therefore, further research is necessary before these can be confidently recommended to patients suffering from low back pain. Furthermore, this scoping review identified a lack of consistency in study design, population or sample size, and outcome measures among currently published studies with a primary focus on nutritional supplementation or dietary strategies for spine-related pain.

Production strategies for controlling greenhouse gas emissions in grass-fed beef production systems

Looking at pasture-based beef cattle production systems, there needs to be more pasture management and low zootechnical indexes, which culminate in low productivity and environmental impact. In this sense, cattle farming has been labeled as harmful to the environment due to the emission of gases that can contribute to the excessive increase in the greenhouse effect. These gases are methane, nitrous oxide, and carbon dioxide, which come from ruminal fermentation, manure fermentation, and biomass management. The objective was to simulate eight scenarios: the first occurred in areas of degradation and desertification of pastures induced by livestock farming, the second occurred with the recovery of degraded pasture areas, the third occurred with the improvement of pasture management, the fourth occurred with the implementation of integrated production systems, the fifth occurred with the improvement in diet quality, the sixth occurred with the association of supplementation strategies for grazing cattle with fattening in confinement, the seventh occurred with the reduction in the feeding cycle production of beef cattle and the eighth occurred with the intensification of land use. It is concluded that the adoption of more intensive production systems proves to be more efficient, both productively and environmentally, by reducing the emission of greenhouse gases and improving zootechnical indices, guaranteeing the supply of animal protein in the face of growing demand globally.

Nutrition Modulation of Cardiotoxicity in Breast Cancer: A Scoping Review.

Advancements in breast cancer therapeutics, such as anthracyclines, are improving cancer survival rates but can have side effects that limit their use. Cardiotoxicity, defined as damage to the heart caused by cancer therapeutics, is characterised by a significant reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and symptoms of cardiac dysfunction. Multiple oral supplements exist with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have the potential to lower cardiotoxicity risk and ameliorate the complications associated with left ventricular dysfunction. In this review, we evaluate the current status of using nutritional interventions to modulate cardiotoxicity. We used specific keywords to search for articles that met our predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria to review the evidence and provide insights for future research. Seven studies were identified as eligible for this review: six focused on oral supplementation strategies in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and one focused on nutritional counselling and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in breast cancer survivors' post-treatment. There was a significantly attenuated reduction in LVEF in five studies that monitored cardiometabolic health, and there were significant improvements in blood serum levels of cardiac biomarkers across all studies. Current evidence suggests that appropriate nutritional interventions, alongside chemotherapy, can modulate the risk of cardiotoxic side effects. This highlights the potential of oral antioxidant supplementation and Mediterranean diet counselling to decrease tertiary cancer therapy costs associated with cardiovascular complications.

Effect of Beta-Alanine Supplementation on Maximal Intensity Exercise in Trained Young Male Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Beta-alanine is a nonessential amino acid that is commonly used to improve exercise performance. It could influence the buffering of hydrogen ions produced during intense exercise and delay fatigue, providing a substrate for increased synthesis of intramuscular carnosine. This systematic review evaluates the effects of beta-alanine supplementation on maximal intensity exercise in trained, young, male individuals. Six databases were searched on August 10, 2023, to identify randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trials investigating the effect of chronic beta-alanine supplementation in trained male individuals with an age range of 18-40years. Studies evaluating exercise performance through maximal or supramaximal intensity efforts falling within the 0.5-10min duration were included. A total of 18 individual studies were analyzed, employing 18 exercise test protocols and 15 outcome measures in 331 participants. A significant (p = .01) result was observed with an overall effect size of 0.39 (95% confidence interval [CI] [0.09, 0.69]), in favor of beta-alanine supplementation versus placebo. Results indicate significant effects at 4weeks of supplementation, effect size 0.34 (95% CI [0.02, 0.67], p = .04); 4-10min of maximal effort, effect size 0.55 (95% CI [0.07, 1.04], p = .03); and a high beta-alanine dosage of 5.6-6.4g per day, effect size 0.35 (95% CI [0.09, 0.62], p = .009). The results provide insights into which exercise modality will benefit the most, and which dosage protocols and durations stand to provide the greatest ergogenic effects. This may be used to inform further research, and professional or recreational training design, and optimization of supplementation strategies.

Molecular modifications to mitigate oxidative stress and improve red blood cell storability.

The development of red blood cell (RBC) storage lesion during hypothermic storage has long posed challenges for blood transfusion efficacy. These alterations are primarily driven by oxidative stress, concern both structural and biochemical aspects of RBCs, and affect their interactions with the recipient's tissues post-transfusion. Efforts to counteract these effects focus on improving the antioxidant capacity within stored RBCs, reducing oxygen exposure, and scavenging harmful molecules that accumulate during storage. Various supplements, such as ascorbic acid, N-acetylcysteine, polyphenolic compounds, and specific metabolites have shown the potential to improve RBC quality by reducing oxidative lesions and lysis phenomena, and enhancing antioxidant, energy, or proteostasis networks. Accordingly, anaerobic storage has emerged as a promising strategy, demonstrating improved RBC storability and recovery in both animal models and preliminary human studies. Finally, targeted scavenging of harmful storage-related phenotypes and molecules, like removal signals, oxidized proteins, and extracellular hemoglobin, while not so studied, also has the potential to benefit both the unit and the patient in need. Omics technologies have aided a lot in these endeavors by revealing biomarkers of superior storability and, thus, potential novel supplementation strategies. Nonetheless, while the so far examined storage modifications show significant promise, there are not many post-transfusion studies (either in vitro, in animal models, or humans) to evaluate RBC efficacy in the transfusion setting. Looking ahead, the future of blood storage and transfusion will likely depend on the optimization of these interventions to extend the shelf-life and quality of stored RBCs, as well as their therapeutic outcome.

Temperature and Precipitation Synergistically Affect Yield, Harvesting Time and Post-Processing Quality of Tropical Macadamia Nuts

In response to climate change challenges and to ensure stable macadamia nut production, this study analyzed empirical data on macadamia nut yield, climate factors, harvesting time, and post-processing quality from 2020 to 2022. Key findings include: (1) During the flowering to fruit growth stage, 2020 had the highest average temperature, followed by 2021, and then 2022. Conversely, 2022 had the highest precipitation, followed by 2021, and then 2020. (2) Lower temperatures and higher precipitation during the flowering to fruit growth stage contributed to a significant increase in macadamia nut yield, which indirectly extended the harvesting time. In 2022, the average yield of the eight macadamia growers was 8.04 t ha−1, significantly higher than the yields of 6.60 t ha−1 and 6.16 t ha−1 in 2021 and 2020, respectively. Furthermore, the average harvesting time for the eight macadamia growers in 2022 was 8.88 days longer than that in 2021, and 12.50 days longer than that in 2020. (3) Temperature and precipitation had a significant impact on the post-processing quality of macadamia nuts. Lower temperature and higher precipitation during the flowering to fruit growth stage significantly increased the proportion of first-grade fruit, as well as the incidence of mildewed and insect-infested fruits. In conclusion, although a lower temperature and higher precipitation can improve macadamia nut yield, they also lead to delayed harvesting and decreased post-processing quality. Given the observed yield sensitivity to temperature and precipitation, targeted water supplementation strategies during peak heat periods emerge as vital. This approach should be integrated with broader climate resilience planning, including the timing of pest control and disease management, to safeguard macadamia nut production against the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change.

A study to explore the role of a low threshold, fitness focussed physical rehabilitation intervention with protein supplementation to target physical function and frailty in people with problematic substance use and homelessness: protocol for a single-arm pre-post intervention study.

Background People who are homeless are more likely to experience poor mental health and addiction as well as suffering from non-communicable diseases. There is evidence of frailty and accelerated physical ageing among people experiencing homelessness. Appropriate physical rehabilitation and nutritional supplementation strategies can stabilise or reverse frailty and general physical decline, but it is not known how this type of intervention would work in practice in this population. Aim To evaluate the feasibility and pre-post intervention impact of a low threshold physical rehabilitation intervention with protein supplementation to target physical functioning and frailty in people with problematic substance use who are experiencing homelessness. Methods The intervention will consist of a 12-week low threshold rehabilitation programme with protein supplementation. Participants will be service users of the Ballyfermot Advance Project, a day services centre for people with addiction issues and experiencing homelessness. Primary outcomes will be feasibility including numbers recruited, retention of participants and adherence to the exercise intervention and protein supplement. Any adverse events will be recorded. Secondary outcomes will be strength and muscular mass, physical performance and lower extremity physical function, pain, frailty and nutritional status. Discussion An immediate impact may be simply a distraction from difficult circumstances and potentially an improvement of physical health of participants, which can be a conduit for the emergence of other positive behaviours and recovery. Longer term, this study will generate preliminary data on which to inform the design of a definitive randomised controlled trial of physical rehabilitation and protein supplementation, if indicated. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval was granted by the Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee in TCD. Study findings will be disseminated through publication into an international peer-reviewed journal and presented at national and international conferences.

Post-Transplant Vitamin D Deficiency in Lung Transplant Recipients: Impact on Outcomes and Prognosis.

Despite the recognized clinical significance of vitamin D deficiency in other solid organ transplant recipients, its specific relevance in lung transplantation remains to be fully understood. In this study, we performed a retrospective observational study on the impact of vitamin D deficiency on clinical outcomes and prognosis in 125 lung transplant recipients (LTRs) from October 2014 to March 2020 at a university hospital in Seoul, South Korea. Among 125 LTRs, 51 patients (40.8%) were vitamin D deficient. LTRs in the vitamin D-deficient group exhibited a higher incidence of post-transplant pneumonia and overall mortality than those with normal vitamin D levels during the follow-up period. This trend persisted when subjects were stratified into vitamin D tertiles. Furthermore, post-transplant vitamin D levels and C-reactive protein (CRP) significantly impacted pneumonia incidence and survival outcomes. Prognosis also varied based on cumulative vitamin D supplementation after transplantation, with patients receiving higher cumulative supplementation demonstrating improved prognosis. Our findings underscore the importance of assessing and maintaining optimal vitamin D levels post-transplantation, suggesting a potential avenue for improving outcomes in lung transplant recipients, especially in mitigating infection risk and enhancing long-term survival. Further research into optimal vitamin D levels and supplementation strategies in this population is warranted.

High performance rotary triboelectric nanogenerator based on wool charge supplementation strategy with low wear

High performance rotary triboelectric nanogenerator based on wool charge supplementation strategy with low wear

Folates, bacteria and ageing: insights from the model organism C. elegans in the study of nutrition and ageing.

The relationship between nutrition and ageing is complex. The metabolism and synthesis of micronutrients within the gut microbiome can influence human health but is challenging to study. Furthermore, studying ageing in humans is time-consuming and difficult to control for environmental factors. Studies in model organisms can guide research efforts in this area. This review describes how the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans can be used to study how bacteria and diet influence ageing and inform follow-on studies in humans. It is known that certain bacteria accelerate ageing in C. elegans. This age-accelerating effect is prevented by inhibiting folate synthesis within the bacteria, and we propose that in the human microbiome, certain bacteria also accelerate ageing in a way that can be modulated by interfering with bacterial folate synthesis. Bacterial-derived folates do not promote ageing themselves; rather, ageing is accelerated by bacteria in some way, either through secondary metabolites or other bacterial activity, which is dependent on bacterial folate synthesis. In humans, it may be possible to inhibit bacterial folate synthesis in the human gut while maintaining healthy folate status in the body via food and supplementation. The supplement form of folic acid has a common breakdown product that can be used by bacteria to increase folate synthesis. Thus, supplementation with folic acid may not be good for health in certain circumstances such as in older people or those with an excess of proteobacteria in their microbiome. For these groups, alternative supplement strategies may be a safer way to ensure adequate folate levels.

Risk of Postoperative Hypermagnesemia in Cardiopulmonary Bypass Assisted Cardiovascular Surgery.

Magnesium administration is a common practice in cardiovascular surgeries utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). However, concerns persist regarding the risk of hypermagnesemia, particularly in patients with kidney dysfunction. This study aims to determine the incidence of postoperative hypermagnesemia in CPB-assisted cardiovascular surgeries and identify the associated risk factors. This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at a tertiary medical center. Data from adult patients undergoing open-heart surgery utilizing CPB between 2018 and 2020 were analyzed. Sociodemographic, perioperative, and clinical variables were collected from electronic medical records. Logistic regression was utilized to identify independent risk factors for hypermagnesemia. Of 278 patients analyzed, 53.2% developed postoperative hypermagnesemia (Mg ≥2.5 mg/dL). Mild hypermagnesemia (Mg 2.5-3.9 mg/dL) was most common, with no significant impact on clinical outcomes observed. Patients with hypermagnesemia were older, with higher comorbidity burdens and lower baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Cardioplegic solutions with higher magnesium content and lower baseline eGFR were independently associated with hypermagnesemia (OR 64.3; 95% CI 12.9-501.1 and OR 1.3; 95% CI, 1.1-1.5 respectively). Notably, ultrafiltration on CPB was associated with low risk of hypermagnesemia (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.1-1.0, P value 0.048). This study highlights the importance of mindful magnesium supplementation strategies in those with advanced kidney disease. Future large-scale prospective multicenter studies should validate these findings and explore the extended effects of hypermagnesemia on clinical outcomes in patients with advanced CKD undergoing CPB surgeries.

Effect of supplementation strategies for ewes during gestation

Effect of supplementation strategies for ewes during gestation

Maternal Dietary Deficiencies in Folic Acid and Choline Change Metabolites Levels in Offspring after Ischemic Stroke.

Background/objectives: Ischemic stroke is a major health concern, and nutrition is a modifiable risk factor that can influence recovery outcomes. This study investigated the impact of maternal dietary deficiencies in folic acid (FADD) or choline (ChDD) on the metabolite profiles of offspring after ischemic stroke. Methods: A total of 32 mice (17 males and 15 females) were used to analyze sex-specific differences in response to these deficiencies. Results: At 1-week post-stroke, female offspring from the FADD group showed the greatest number of altered metabolites, including pathways involved in cholesterol metabolism and neuroprotection. At 4 weeks post-stroke, both FADD and ChDD groups exhibited significant disruptions in metabolites linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurotransmission. Conclusions: These alterations were more pronounced in females compared to males, suggesting sex-dependent responses to maternal dietary deficiencies. The practical implications of these findings suggest that ensuring adequate maternal nutrition during pregnancy may be crucial for reducing stroke susceptibility and improving post-stroke recovery in offspring. Nutritional supplementation strategies targeting folic acid and choline intake could potentially mitigate the long-term adverse effects on metabolic pathways and promote better neurological outcomes. Future research should explore these dietary interventions in clinical settings to develop comprehensive guidelines for maternal nutrition and stroke prevention.

Profiling oxidative stress markers and cardiovascular complications in chronic kidney disease patients supplemented with vitamin E

IntroductionCardiovascular diseases are common complications in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Oxidative stress associated with renal and metabolic dysfunctions is one of the cardiovascular complications (CVC) in haemodialysis patients. The aim of the present study is to analyse the oxidative stress markers in CDK patients supplemented with antioxidants and vitamin E, with monitoring of CVC.Material and methodsThis was a cross-sectional study conducted on 99 subjects. CKD patients received oral supplementation of vitamin E (300 mg/day) for 2 years. Oxidative stress markers, nitric oxide (NO); myeloperoxidase (MPO); oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDLox); malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione were measured before and after the vitamin treatment.ResultsNO (62.62 ±2.80 µmol/l), LDLox (10.55 ±4.62 µmol/l), MDA (6.11 ±2.83 µmol/l) and MPO (53.35 ±3.82 UI/ml) were overconcentrated, while glutathione (62.09 ±4.15 UI/ml) was less concentrated in CKD patients with cardiovascular complications, compared to those without cardiovascular complications (67.08 ±1.90 µmol/l, 31.18 ±5.25 µmol/l, 16 ±6.47 µmol/l, 57.00 ±7.24 UI/ml, 43.09 ±3.33 UI/ml, respectively). After 2 years of vitamin E treatment, the overall cardiovascular complications were not significantly decreased.ConclusionsThese results showed that oral complementation with vitamin E did not affect the occurrence of cardiovascular complications associated with CKD. These findings may pave the way for future innovative strategies for antioxidant supplementation in CKD patients.

Magnesium Matters: A Comprehensive Review of Its Vital Role in Health and Diseases.

Magnesium (Mg), an essential mineral abundantly present within the human body, is intricately involved in a multitude of biochemical processes vital for maintaining health and overall well-being. This review aims to delve into the multifaceted impact of Mg on human health, exploring its physiological functions, dietary sources, and potential health implications of deficiency or insufficiency. Mg plays a pivotal role in various physiological processes, including energy metabolism, muscle contraction, protein synthesis, and DNA synthesis. It acts as a cofactor for more than 300 enzymatic reactions, facilitating the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) for energy production. Moreover, Mg is essential for the proper functioning of ion channels, particularly calcium channels, influencing nerve transmission and muscle relaxation. Mg is naturally found in a wide array of foods, with green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes being particularly rich sources. Additionally, certain fortified foods and dietary supplements provide supplemental Mg intake. Deficiency or insufficiency of mg can have profound implications for health. Inadequate mg levels have been associated with increased risks of various chronic diseases, including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, mg deficiency may manifest as symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, tremors, and irregular heartbeat. Numerous studies have elucidated the relationship between mg intake and the risk of developing chronic diseases. For instance, epidemiological evidence suggests that higher mg intake is associated with a reduced risk of hypertension, possibly due to its vasodilatory effects and influence on blood pressure regulation mechanisms. Similarly, mg has been implicated in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes, with mg deficiency contributing to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. Furthermore, adequate mg intake is crucial for maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis, as mg plays a vital role in bone mineralization and bone health. Understanding the importance of mg in human physiology underscores the significance of ensuring adequate mg intake through diet or supplementation. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in educating individuals about the importance of incorporating mg-rich foods into their diets and considering mg supplementation when necessary, particularly for individuals at risk of deficiency or those with chronic diseases. Mg is an indispensable mineral with far-reaching implications for human health. Its involvement in various physiological processes underscores its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being. Ensuring adequate mg intake is essential for preventing deficiency-related health complications and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Further research is warranted to elucidate the optimal strategies for mg supplementation and its potential therapeutic applications in disease prevention and management.

Optimizing the Preoperative Preparation of Sarcopenic Older People: The Role of Prehabilitation and Nutritional Supplementation before Knee Arthroplasty.

Age-related loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass is linked to adverse postoperative outcomes in older individuals with sarcopenia. Half of patients suffer from severe associated osteoarthritis requiring orthopedic interventions. Mitigating the onset and progression of sarcopenia before surgery is essential to improve the prognosis and reduce surgical complications. The aim of this research was to innovatively explore whether the preoperative period could be the appropriate timeframe to empower surgical resilience, through prehabilitation and dietary supplementation, in older sarcopenic patients undergoing knee arthroplasty. The current literature concerning the effectiveness of prehabilitation and dietary supplementation before knee arthroplasty in sarcopenic older individuals was reviewed, following the SANRA criteria, between December 2023 and February 2024. The study inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) prehabilitation and/or dietary supplementation interventions; (2) human participants aged 65 years and older; (3) relevant outcome reporting (functional status, postoperative complications, and patient-reported outcomes); and (4) articles written in English The extracted information included study characteristics, demographics, intervention details, outcomes, and the main findings. Merged prehabilitation and dietary supplementation strategies extrapolated from the current literature and involving strength, resistance, balance, and flexibility training, as well as essential amino acids, iron, vitamin D, adenosine triphosphate, and glucosamine sulphate supplementation, could improve the functional capacity, ability to withstand the upcoming surgical stressors, and postoperative outcomes in older people undergoing knee arthroplasty. Addressing complex links between knee osteoarthritis and sarcopenia in older individuals undergoing knee arthroplasty requires a multidimensional approach. Prehabilitation emerges as a crucial preliminary step, allowing the optimization of surgical outcomes. Nutraceutical integration, included in a comprehensive care plan, could have a synergic effect in achieving prehabilitation goals. Those interventions are essential for surgical resilience, in terms of muscle function preservation, recovery acceleration, and overall quality of life enhancement. Intensive collaboration among specialists could advance knowledge and the sharable consensus concerning the critical and evolutive field of perioperative care.

Sex-Based Effects of Branched-Chain Amino Acids on Strength Training Performance and Body Composition.

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are widely studied for their effects on muscle recovery and performance. This study examined the effects of BCAA supplementation on anthropometric data, physical performance, delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and fatigue in recreational weightlifters. The trial involved 100 participants (50 men and 50 women), randomized into BCAA and placebo groups. Subjects in the BCAA group took five daily capsules of 500 mg L-leucine, 250 mg L-isoleucine, and 250 mg L-valine for six months. A two-way ANOVA was used to analyze the main and interaction effects of sex and treatment. Notable findings include significant improvements in muscle recovery, as indicated by reduced DOMS, particularly in women who showed a decrement of 18.1 ± 9.4 mm compared to 0.8 ± 1.2 mm in the placebo group of a horizontal 100 mm line. Fatigue perception was also significantly lower in the BCAA group, with women reporting a greater decrease (2.6 ± 1.5 scores) compared to the placebo group (0.6 ± 0.7 scores). Strength gains were prominent, especially in men, with a 10% increase in bench press maximum observed in the BCAA group. The interaction between sex and treatment was significant, suggesting sex-specific responses to BCAA supplementation. These results underscore the effectiveness of BCAA supplementation in enhancing muscle recovery, reducing fatigue, and improving strength. This study also highlights sex-specific responses, with women benefiting more in terms of DOMS and fatigue reduction, while men experienced greater strength gains, suggesting a need for tailored supplementation strategies.

The Microbiota and Microbiome in COVID-19 in Adults and Children and Potential Therapeutic Interventions: A Review

The work presented is a comprehensive review of the role of the human microbiota in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. A diverse microbial community heavily colonizes the human body called the microbiota, with the gut microbiota being the most diverse. The composition of the microbiota varies in different parts of the body and changes with age, diet, and other environmental factors. Emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiota plays a critical role in modulating the host immune response and may influence the severity of COVID-19. Patients with COVID-19 have significant alterations in their gut and respiratory microbiota, characterized by a depletion of beneficial commensal bacteria and an enrichment of opportunistic pathogens. These changes in microbiota composition are associated with elevated inflammatory markers, a dysregulated immune response, and more severe disease outcomes. In addition, changes in the gut microbiota can affect lung and brain function, influencing the severity of COVID-19 cases and neurological symptoms, as well as long-term neurological complications associated with the disease. Due to the importance of the microbiota in COVID-19, several therapeutic approaches targeting the microbiota have been proposed to improve outcomes in this disease, including fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotic and prebiotic supplementation, postbiotic or microbiota-derived metabolite supplementation, dietary interventions, and lifestyle strategies. Overall, the review highlights the critical role of the human microbiota in the pathogenesis and progression of COVID-19 and the potential of microbiota-targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes. HIGHLIGHTS COVID-19 causes gut microbiota dysbiosis, associated with elevated inflammatory markers, a dysregulated immune response, and more severe disease outcomes. Gut microbiota dysbiosis due to COVID-19 affects lung and brain function, which is associated with the severity of COVID-19 cases. Gut microbiota is crucial in COVID-19, so several strategies have been developed to regulate it in COVID-19 cases, such as fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, and prebiotics, among others. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Clinical characteristics and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in children with febrile seizures in China

The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in children with febrile seizures (FS) in Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China, and in particular its association with gender and age. This should inform possible strategies for supplementation with vitamin D, and hence for prevention of FS in the local pediatric population. The Febrile seizures group consisted of 747 children hospitalized with FS at the Southwest Medical University Affiliated Hospital from January 2020 to January 2024. The healthy control group was comprised of 750 children aged from 0 to 8 years who underwent health checkups during this period. The serum 25(OH)D level was analyzed in relation to gender and age to explore its association with FS. The median serum vitamin D level in the FS group (28.8 ng/mL; IQR 21.64, 33.64) was significantly lower than in the healthy control group (37.51 ng/mL; IQR 31.05, 37.51). The incidence of vitamin D deficiency in the FS group was 10.8%, which was significantly higher than in the healthy control group (P < 0.05). In addition, the serum vitamin D level in children with FS varied in different age groups, with significantly lower levels observed in older children (P < 0.05). ROC curve analysis revealed that a serum vitamin D level of 35.28 ng/mL showed 60.0% sensitivity and 84.7% specificity for predicting FS (P < 0.05). In this study cohort, the serum vitamin D level in children with FS was at the lower limit of the physiological range, and significantly lower than in healthy children. Furthermore, this level decreased with age in children with FS. Regular supplementation with vitamin D for 6 months after birth and outdoor sun exposure for more than 2 h per day can improve the serum vitamin D level in children with FS.

Using an Isolated Working Rat Heart Model to Test Donor Heart Preservation Strategies.

Optimization of donor heart preservation solutions has played a key role in reducing ischemia-reperfusion injury in donor hearts during organ retrieval, transportation, and transplantation. Previous work from our laboratory showed that the addition of glyceryl trinitrate and erythropoietin to donor heart preservation solutions could significantly improve cardiac functional recovery after prolonged cold storage and in donation after circulatory death hearts. This supplementation protocol has been implemented in clinical use in transplant units around Australia, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. Here, we outline a protocol for testing supplementation strategies using an ex vivo isolated working rat heart (IWRH) perfusion circuit. Using this methodology, supplementation strategies can be tested in the context of prolonged cold static storage, donation after brain death, and donation after circulatory death donor heart preservation. Cardiac functional recovery, measured by aortic flow, coronary flow, cardiac output, pulse pressure, and heart rate, can be used to determine whether a particular preservation strategy can minimize ischemia-reperfusion injury of the donor heart.