Use Of Supplements Research Articles

Patterns of Dietary Supplement Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland: Focus on Vitamin D and Magnesium.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant attention to the role of dietary supplements, particularly Vitamin D, in enhancing immunity and possibly mitigating the severity of the disease. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of nutritional health in preventing severe outcomes from infections. Objective: This study aimed to assess consumption patterns of dietary supplements, with a focus on Vitamin D, among the Polish population during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify the demographic factors influencing these patterns. Methods: An anonymous survey was conducted in March 2021 among 926 pharmacy patients in Poland. The study analyzed the use of dietary supplements such as vitamin D, magnesium, and others in relation to variables like age, gender, and education level. Statistical analyses were performed using the Pearson chi-square test. Results: The study revealed that 77.1% of the respondents reported using dietary supplements, with Vitamin D being the most frequently mentioned, used by 64.6% of participants. Magnesium was also widely used, with a higher overall prevalence of 67.3%, making it the most commonly consumed supplement. The use of supplements was significantly higher among women and individuals with higher education. Younger age groups, particularly those aged 18-30, were more likely to use supplements. Conclusions: The use of supplements was significantly higher among women, individuals with higher education, and those aged 18-30. However, the findings also indicate a growing awareness and increased use across the general population. This trend reflects increased public awareness of the potential health benefits of these supplements in boosting immunity. However, the study also highlights the need for public education on the risks of over-supplementation and the importance of appropriate dosages.

"Enhancing polyamine enrichment from wheat germs: A study utilizing response surface methodology and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry"

Wheat germ is one of the richest natural sources of polyamines, especially spermidine. Cell proliferation property of polyamines has given them inductive effects in the reduction of a variety of chronic diseases and fertility enhancement. Preparing a polyamine-rich extract powder from wheat germ for use in supplements is the aim of the present study. For the first time, the effects of three independent variables of clean-up replicate (A), extraction time (B), and solid-to-liquid ratio (C) on the response of total spermidine content (Y) were investigated using a central composite design optimizing polyamine enrichment. The optimal extraction conditions were 7 h, 3 clean-up replicates, and 1:4 solid to liquid ratio. This is the first production report of spermidine-enriched powder for encapsulation purposes. To obtain an acceptable rheological property, the polyamine-enriched extract was spray dried together with a selected group of excipients, among which glucose was evidenced as the best choice based on encapsulation properties.

Abstract B052: Exploring supplement utilization patterns among African American prostate and breast cancer survivors

Abstract Introduction: The American Cancer Society (ACS) defines dietary supplements as “vitamins and minerals, herbs and other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and more.” ACS advises against supplement use for cancer prevention, with no suggestions for survivors. Regardless, 64-81% of cancer survivors and 14-32% of recently diagnosed cancer patients in the U.S. will begin taking supplements to improve health outcomes. Despite this prevalence, few studies have examined supplement use in African American cancer survivors, and studies that have been done include small samples. This project examines supplement use across two genders and two cancer types within a population group historically underrepresented in research. Given the dearth of research to date, this project adds novel findings to the literature and informs future research.Objectives: This study describes supplement use in African American breast and prostate cancer survivors engaged in lifestyle intervention trials, identifies potential correlates of supplement use; and compares supplement use between the two populations. Methods: Men Moving Forward (MMF) is an ongoing lifestyle intervention study for African American prostate cancer survivors. Moving Forward (MF) is a completed lifestyle intervention study that included African American breast cancer survivors. Both studies examine the efficacy of a community-based intervention that promotes adherence to the American Cancer Society Nutrition and Physical Activity Guidelines. At baseline, study participants completed interviews that included a measure of supplement use including type, dose, frequency, and reason for use. Supplements were then categorized by type (e.g., Vitamin D, Vitamin B12) and descriptive analyses were conducted to examine most common types of supplements used, potential correlates of use, and to compare the two cancer survivor groups. Results: 114 men currently enrolled in the MMF study, and 223 women enrolled in MF completed the supplement use measure. Average ages of participants are 66.2 years (SD=7.5) for MMF and 57.5 years (SD=10.1) for MF. Supplement use was common, with 64.0% of MMF participants and 65.9% of MF participants using at least one supplement at baseline. Mean number of supplements was 1.62 (SD=1.9) for MMF and 1.76 (SD=2.0) for MF. The most used supplements were the same across survivor groups: Vitamin D (37.7% MMF, 38.1% MF), Multivitamins (27.2% MMF, 32.7% MF) and Omega-3 Fatty Acids (8.8% MMF, 19.3% MF). Age, education, and income will be explored as predictors of usage. Conclusions: Supplement use was prevalent among both survivor groups, consistent with national data for adult cancer survivors who report supplement use. However, our sample had higher usage rates compared to Non-Hispanic Black US adults without cancer (39.3% of men, 56.2% of women) from the 2023 National Health Statistics Report. Understanding supplement use in cancer survivors can identify potential risks and benefits of use, enhance patient-provider communication, and improve the quality-of-care patients receive. Citation Format: Carlene Kranjac, Estefania Alonso, Margaret Tovar, Sandra Contreras, Iwalola Awoyinka, Patricia Sheean, Melinda Stolley. Exploring supplement utilization patterns among African American prostate and breast cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B052.

Vitamin D Intoxication in Children: A Case Report

Vitamin D is a crucial hormone in phosphocalcium homeostasis. Although vitamin D intoxication is rare, its complications can be dramatic, affecting both the short-term vital prognosis and long-term renal function. We report here a case of hypercalcemia due to vitamin D intoxication, with the aim of analyzing the factors that contribute to vitamin D intoxication, assessing the consequences of this intoxication on the child's health, and proposing recommendations for appropriate management. The patient was a 6-year-old child with a history of common nutritional rickets for which he had been receiving vitamin D supplementation. The patient was admitted to the pediatric emergency department of Children's Hospital in Rabat for incoercible vomiting and acute dehydration. Biological assessment showed severe hypercalcemia at 150mg/l, hypercalciuria at 192 mg /24 hours. The serum level of 25(OH) vitamin D was greater than 154 ng/ml. The diagnosis retained was as hypercalcemia due to vitamin D intoxication, confirmed by an in-depth interview with the parents, who found a over administration of the recommended dose. The evolution was marked by chronic kidney disease due to nephrocalcinosis (creatinine clearance according to the SCHWARTZ formula 17 ml/min). Heterogeneity of the expression forms of vitamin D dosages and intake regimens leads to confusion and increases the risk of misuse, as in the case of our patient, where a misreading of the medical prescription led to the intentional ingestion of toxic doses, hence the need for close and adequate medical supervision and awareness of vitamin D supplement use among healthcare professionals and parents.

The impact of plant cryoextract on productivity and factors of innate immunity of pond fish against the background of stress in the experiment

The search for effective and environmentally friendly means to increase the productivity and natural resistance of animals, especially in aquaculture, remains an urgent socio-economic task. This article presents the results of the study of the effect of the cryobiological supplement ‘Immunolife-Fish’, based on medicinal plants, on the weight gain of juvenile common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and indicators of innate immunity of two-year-old common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) under the influence of thermal stress factor in aquarium conditions. It was found that the weight gain of juvenile carp treated with the cryobiological supplement ‘Immunolife-Fish’ was higher than that of the control group at all stages of the study. The increase was most pronounced during the first 42 days of feeding. A significant increase in the number of leukocytes was found in the blood of fish (common carp and silver carp) exposed to a heat stressor compared to control values. In fish that received a supplement of the herbal preparation during stress, this indicator only tended to increase. The effect of the stressor in fish of both species is manifested by a significant increase in the leukocyte content, a decrease in the indicators characterizing the functional state of cellular immunity — phagocytic activity and number of phagocytes, as well as a tendency to decrease the phagocytic index of neutrophils in the blood. The use of the cryobiological supplement ‘Immunolife-Fish’ in fish exposed to stress not only prevented the decrease in the phagocytic activity of neutrophils but also contributed to a slight increase in their activity in comparison with the control. A significant decrease in the activity of lysozyme and the level of circulating immune complexes, as well as an increase in the content of seromucoids, was found in the blood serum of common and silver carp under the influence of the stress factor. The use of the drug against the background of stress leveled the negative changes in the above indicators characterizing the state of the humoral link of innate immunity. In addition, a mild immune stimulating effect of the cryobiological supplement on fish of both species, which were kept in optimal conditions, was noted. The research is aimed at the development and testing of organic, environmentally friendly anti-stress and immunostimulant agents in commercial fish farming

Strategies for minimizing muscle loss during use of incretin-mimetic drugs for treatment of obesity.

The rapid and widespread clinical adoption of highly effective incretin-mimetic drugs (IMDs), particularly semaglutide and tirzepatide, for the treatment of obesity has outpaced the updating of clinical practice guidelines. Consequently, many patients may be at risk for adverse effects and uncertain long-term outcomes related to the use of these drugs. Of emerging concern is the loss of skeletal muscle mass and function that can accompany rapid substantial weight reduction; such losses can lead to reduced functional and metabolic health, weight cycling, compromised quality of life, and other adverse outcomes. Available evidence suggests that clinical trial participants receiving IMDs for the treatment of obesity lost 10% or more of their muscle mass during the 68- to 72-week interventions, approximately equivalent to 20 years of age-related muscle loss. The ability to maintain muscle mass during caloric restriction-induced weight reduction is influenced by two key factors: nutrition and physical exercise. Nutrition therapy should ensure adequate intake and absorption of high-quality protein and micronutrients, which may require the use of oral nutritional supplements. Additionally, concurrent physical activity, especially resistance training, has been shown to effectively minimize loss of muscle mass and function during weight reduction therapy. All patients receiving IMDs for obesity should participate in comprehensive treatment programs emphasizing adequate protein and micronutrient intakes, as well as resistance training, to preserve muscle mass and function, maximize the benefit of IMD therapy, and minimize potential risks.

Determination of objective taste perception among Iranian medical sciences students during COVID‑19 pandemic in Yazd, Eastern Iran: a case-control pilot study

BackgroundTaste disorders in patients suffering from COVID-19 were popular. Some people even after recovery report residual effects of loss of smell and taste. This study aimed to investigate the taste Perception of Iranian Medical Sciences students during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsThe case-control study evaluated 50 Medical Sciences students with a history of COVID-19 infection, as confirmed by the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCOV) CFX96™ Real-Time PCR Detection System. The other participants consisted of 50 volunteer students with COVID-19 negative. The taste perception was measured with 4 different concentrations of the basic tastes. The stimuli were applied to the protruded tongue. Subjects were asked to identify the researcher when they felt the taste. Data are expressed as frequency distribution and analyzed with the Chi-Square test (P < 0.05).ResultsIn this survey, 54% of participants were male and 46% were female, the mean age of participants was 22.96 ± 5 years. The results showed a significant difference in the sweet and bitter taste perception score according to the history of dietary supplement use. The bitter taste perception score declared a considerable difference since COVID-19 infection. There was no significant difference between the taste perception in the two studied groups for all 4 basic tastes according to gender, COVID-19 infection status, history of taste and smell disorders, and the elapsed time since COVID-19 infection.ConclusionOur findings could provide important insights into taste perception. The history of dietary supplementation may influence how sweetness and saltiness are perceived. There was a noticeable difference in bitter taste perception depending on the time that had elapsed since the most recent COVID-19 infection.

Analysis of the gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in people living with HIV.

The gut microbiome has a pivotal function in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, the associated alterations in the gut microbiome-host interaction are unknown. Herein, we aimed to investigate the gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in people living with HIV (PLWH). We collected stool samples from 70 PLWH and 34 healthy controls (HCs) and carried out 16S rRNA gene sequencing and analyzed the metabolites using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Bacteroidota were the most abundant phyla in both groups. Among genera, the level of Escherichia-Shigella was upregulated significantly in the PLWH group, whereas in the HC group, Bacteroides spp. were upregulated. Prediction of microbial function indicated significant reductions in alanine, aspartate, glutamate, and histidine metabolism. Furthermore, a comparison of the fecal metabolites between the HC and PLWH groups identified 38 differentially abundant metabolites in four differentially enriched human metabolic pathways. According to Spearman correlation analysis, there are close relationships between four differentially abundant microbiota members and five differentially abundant fecal metabolites, which might influence particular human metabolic pathways. Our findings provide a basis for further experimental investigation of the contribution of the gut microbiota and its associated metabolites to HIV/AIDS, providing a novel perspective for the further study of HIV/AIDS.IMPORTANCEGrowing evidence demonstrates that the gut microbiota is associated with HIV. This study investigated changes in the gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in PLWH. We identified 38 differentially abundant metabolites in four differentially enriched human metabolic pathways. Moreover, close relationships were noted between the four differentially abundant microbiota members and five differentially abundant fecal metabolites, which might influence particular human metabolic pathways. Thus, to benefit PLWH, potential pathobionts could be reduced (e.g., g_Enterococcus); probiotics could be increased (e.g., g_Faecalibacterium and g_Agathobacter); or certain metabolites (e.g., N-acetyl-L-phenylalanine and trehalose) could be reduced by changes in diet or the use of nutritional supplements. Our results provide insights into the interaction between the gut microbiota and the host, identifying possible targets that might be beneficial for PLWH.

Association of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics or yogurt supplement with prevalence and all-cause mortality of depression: NHANES 2005–2016

BackgroundA growing body of studies revealed that enteric dysbacteriosis could result in depression via the “gut–microbiota–brain axis” (GMBA). Whether probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics supplements could lessen the risk of depression is a topic attracting attention. This research was conducted to evaluate the relationship between probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, or yogurt supplements and depression with large cross-sectional data. MethodsAll data in our research was sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2005–2016). Probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and yogurt supplements were identified using Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and Dietary Supplement Use 30-Day (DSQ). We employed the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for evaluating depression. Logistic regression and the Kaplan-Meier curve were performed to examine the correlation between the supplements and depression, as well as mortality. ResultsA total of 17,745 adult participants were selected. The participants who supplemented probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, or yogurt products in the last 30 days showed a significantly lower depression rate compared with those who didn't. Specifically, the supplements could alleviate depressive symptoms including sad, anhedonia, sleep problems, fatigue, appetite changes, and psychomotor changes. This association was more prominent in specific populations such as the population aged 40–60 years, male, whites. The supplements also show more significant effects on increasing survival rates in patients with mild depression. LimitationCross-sectional analysis reveals correlative but not causative association. ConclusionBased on the analysis of NHANES data, our research highlights the positive effect the supplements have on preventing depression, relieving depressive symptoms and increasing survival rates. This effect varied across populations.

Folic acid allergy and the role of the basophil activation test

Background: Despite the large use of folic acid supplements, there are very few cases of reported allergy. Clinical case: A 38-year-old woman, experienced palmoplantar pruritus, generalized urticaria, angioedema and conjunctival hyperemia, 30 minutes after the intake of a 5mg folic acid tablet. She was taken to the Emergency Department and on discharge was referred to the Allergy and Clinical Immunology Department, where the patient underwent a diagnostic workup. The Skin Prick Test (SPT) was positive for the 5mg/mL concentration and the Basophil Activation Test (BAT) was considered positive for both dilutions, from an initial solution concentration of 5mg/ml: 1/100 dil (CD63=9.03%; SI=10.1) and 1/160 dil (CD63=7.46%; SI=8.4). Discussion/ Conclusion: We report a patient with an immediate reaction to folic acid with positive SPT and BAT, which favors an IgE-mediated allergy. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing the use of a BAT in the diagnostic workup of folic acid allergy.

Use of over-the-counter supplements, sleep aids and analgesic medicines in rheumatology: results of a cross-sectional survey

Abstract Objectives Pain, fatigue and sleep disturbances are common symptoms in patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) that may prompt the use of over-the-counter (OTC) supplements, sleep aids and analgesics as self-management strategies. This study evaluated the prevalence of OTC supplements, sleep aids and pain relievers and the financial burden associated with their use in rheumatology. Methods A web-based survey developed with patients was administered in rheumatology clinics in an English hospital. Participants shared demographic information and detailed their use of OTC supplements, sleep aids and pain relief in the past week. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models to identify influencing factors. Results A total of 876 people consented to participate in the survey. More than half of patients (54.5%) reported daily supplement intake, typically spending £10/month (interquartile range 5–20), ranging up to £200/month. The most commonly administered supplements were vitamin D, multivitamins, vitamin C, vitamin B/B complex and omega-3/-6 supplements, with multiple overlaps. Prescription, OTC or non-prescription pain relief use was reported by 82% of respondents, with sleep aids being used by 13%. Of the 327 patients who took NSAIDs, 165 (50.4%) also reported taking OTC supplements, while among the 131 patients using opioids (20.5%), 66 (50.3%) reported supplement use, some of which have documented interactions. Conclusion The use of OTC supplements, pain relief and sleep aids is common in patients with RMDs. Healthcare professionals should be encouraged to proactively ask about these during consultations, especially from a drug safety perspective, but also to provide timely, reliable advice about such strategies that may be sought by patients.

Cohort profile: The Camden Study - a pregnancy cohort study of pregnancy complications and birth outcomes in Camden, New Jersey, USA.

Pregnancy is a unique stage of the life course characterized by trade-offs between the nutritional, immune, and metabolic needs of the mother and fetus. The Camden Study was originally initiated to examine nutritional status, growth, and birth outcomes in adolescent pregnancies and expanded to study dietary and molecular predictors of pregnancy complications and birth outcomes in young women. From 1985-2006, 4765 pregnant participants aged 12 years and older were recruited from Camden, NJ, one of the poorest cities in the U.S. The cohort reflects a population under-represented in perinatal cohort studies (45% Hispanic, 38% non-Hispanic Black, 17% White participants; 98% using Medicaid in pregnancy). Study visits, including questionnaires, dietary assessments, and biospecimen collection, occurred in early and late pregnancy as well as at delivery. Medical records were abstracted, and a subset of mothers and infants participated in a six-week postpartum visit. Over the last five decades, the Camden Study has provided data toward the publication of numerous peer-reviewed papers. Results show that adolescent linear growth in pregnancy is associated with smaller birth size, possibly due to impaired hemodynamics. In the context of preterm birth and other perinatal outcomes, analyses of nutritional data have demonstrated the importance of micronutrients (e.g., folate, iron, zinc), as well as glucose/insulin dynamics and prenatal supplement use. More recent analyses have begun to unpack the biochemical pathways in pregnancy that may be shaped by race as an indicator for systemic racism. The Camden Study data and biorepositories are well-positioned to support future research aimed at better understanding perinatal health in under-represented women and infants. Linkages to subsequent health and administrative records and the potential for recontacting participants over 18-39 years after initial participation may provide key insights into the trajectories of maternal and child health across the life course.

Exploring American Elderberry Compounds for Antioxidant, Antiviral, and Antibacterial Properties Through High-Throughput Screening Assays Combined with Untargeted Metabolomics.

American elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis) is a rapidly emerging new perennial crop for Missouri, recognized for its high level of bioactive compounds with significant health benefits, including antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. A high-throughput screening assay combined with untargeted metabolomics analysis was utilized on American elderberry juice from 21 genotypes to explore and characterize these bioactive compounds. Our metabolomics study has identified 32 putative bioactive compounds in the American Elderberry juices. An array of high-throughput screening bioassays was conducted to evaluate 1) total antioxidant capacity, 2) activation of antioxidant response elements (ARE), 3) antiviral activity, and 4) antibacterial activity of the putatively identified compounds. Our results revealed that 14 of the 32 American elderberry compounds exhibited strong antioxidant activity. Four compounds (isorhamnetin 3-O-glucoside, kaempferol, quercetin, and naringenin) activated ARE activity and were found to be non-cytotoxic to cells. Notably, six of the 32 compounds demonstrated significant antiviral activity in an in vitro TZM-bl assay against two strains of HIV-1 virus, CXCR4-dependent NL4-3 virus and CCR5-dependent BaL virus. Luteolin showed the most potent anti-HIV activity against the NL4-3 virus (IC50 = 1.49 μM), followed by isorhamnetin (IC50 = 1.67 μM). The most potent anti-HIV compound against the BaL virus was myricetin (IC50 = 1.14 μM), followed by luteolin (IC50 = 4.38 μM). Additionally, six compounds were found to have antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria S. aureus, with cyanidin 3-O-rutinoside having the most potent antibacterial activity in vitro (IC50 = 2.9 μM), followed by cyanidin 3-O-glucoside (IC50 = 3.7 μM). These findings support and validate the potential health benefits of compounds found in American elderberry juices and highlight their potential for use in dietary supplements as well as innovative applications in health and medicine.

The effect of vitamin D supplementation on markers of insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a systematic review.

Insulin resistance (IR) is a common pathology in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) involved in increased rates of cardiometabolic disease such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Low serum vitamin D is often associated with insulin resistance but there is no consensus on whether vitamin D supplementation can ameliorate markers of IR in PCOS. We assessed evidence on the effects of vitamin D supplementation (≥ 1000 IU/day), without the use of additional supplements or other pharmacological treatments known to affect IR, on markers of IR and glycemic control in women with PCOS. A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Medline and Web of Science databases from January 2000 up to November 2023. Randomized controlled trials that assessed the effects of vitamin D supplementation in women with PCOS, on fasting glucose, fasting insulin, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) or homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were included. 9 studies were identified. Study populations ranged from 28 to 180 participants, with mean ages ranging from 22 to 30 years. Daily vitamin D doses ranged from 1714-12,000 IU. Of the included studies, 3 reported statistically significant reductions in fasting glucose, 2 reported reductions in fasting insulin, 2 reported reductions in HOMA-IR, none reported reductions in HbA1c and 5 reported no differences in any of the relevant outcomes. In conclusion, in RCTs of vitamin D supplementation in women with PCOS, the majority of studies do not report statistically significant improvements in fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HbA1c or HOMA-IR. However, as a minority of studies report some statistically significant results, further investigation may be warranted. PROSPERO ID: CRD42023486144.

255 Awardee Talk: Nutritional management to optimize cow-calf production in Southeast

Abstract Nearly one-half of beef cows in the United States are located in southern states where cow-calf operations predominate. Grazing management in cow-calf systems can be affected by environmental and seasonal conditions, often leading to nutrient deficiency, particularly during late gestation of beef females. Maternal nutrition during the last trimester of gestation can influence offspring development and health, and can be explored to optimize maternal and progeny performance. The objective of this presentation is to share nutritional and management strategies for pregnant beef cows and their long-term effects on offspring growth and physiology. Study 1 investigated the effects of timing of maternal protein supplementation during all last trimester of gestation (LATE84), only the first 42 d of last trimester of gestation (LATE42), or no prepartum supplementation (NOSUP) on offspring pre- and post-weaning performance. At weaning, LATE84 calves were the heaviest, followed by LATE42, and NOSUP (P ≤ 0.05). Steer serum parainfluenza-3 titers were greater (P = 0.03) for LATE42 vs. NOSUP and tended to be greater for LATE84 (P = 0.10) vs. NOSUP steers. Marbling and the proportion of steers grading choice were greater (P ≤ 0.04) for LATE42 vs. NOSUP, and intermediate for LATE84. Study 2 evaluated the effects of frequency of maternal protein supplementation on offspring pre-weaning growth. Cows received the same weekly amount of supplement (7 kg·cow⁻¹·wk⁻¹) but with different frequencies: once a week (1X), three times per week (3X), every day (7X), or no prepartum supplementation (NOSUP) during the last 80 d of gestation. At weaning, calves born from 7X cows were the heaviest (P ≤ 0.05), followed by 3X and 1X, which did not differ between them (P = 0.54), and NOSUP calves were the lightest (P ≤ 0.05). Study 3 evaluated the use of monensin supplementation during the last 77 d of gestation and its impacts on offspring performance. Treatments consisted of no prepartum supplementation (NOSUP), supplementation of dried distillers grains at 1 kg·cow⁻¹·d⁻¹ added with 0 (SUP) or 200 mg/d of monensin (SUPMO). At weaning, SUPMO calves were the heaviest (P ≤ 0.05), SUP intermediate, and NOSUP were the lightest. Experiment 4 consisted of pregnant heifers receiving the supplementation of 1 kg/d of soybean hulls dry matter added (BAC) or not (CON) with a Bacillus-based DFM mixture during late gestation (d 0 to 139) and early lactation (d 139 to 242). Post-weaning body weight gain and indicators of humoral immune response post-vaccination were greater for BAC vs. CON calves (P ≤ 0.05). Therefore, changing the time and frequency of supplementation, and the use of additives and probiotics during late gestation of beef females are effective alternatives to improve offspring pre- and post-weaning growth and immune response.

Increased enteral lipid supplementation is not associated with weight gain in extremely preterm infants with sufficient energy intakes.

Practices for fortifying human milk vary among neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). It is unclear whether enteral energy intake above 140 kcal/kg/day with increased fat supplementation leads to greater weight gain in breastmilk-fed extremely preterm (EPT) infants. Anthropometric and nutritional data were collected from clinical records for Swedish EPT infants born between gestational weeks 26 + 0 and 27 + 6. Included infants were treated at NICU A (n = 17) or NICU B (n = 39). The primary outcome was change in standard deviation (SD) scores (ΔSDS) for weight between postmenstrual weeks 29 + 0 and 34 + 0. At birth, the mean gestational age was 26.9 (±0.45 SD) weeks and the mean birthweight was 969 (±107 SD) g. Between postmenstrual weeks 29 + 0 and 33 + 6, the energy intake was significantly higher at NICU B: mean (SD) 149 (±14.9) versus 132 (±11.2) kcal/kg/day, p ≤ 0.001. This was driven by a higher fat intake at NICU B: mean (SD) 7.97 (±1.05) versus 6.20 (±0.92) g/kg/day, p ≤ 0.001, which in turn was explained by more liberal use of lipid supplements at NICU B. No significant differences were found in ΔSDS for weight, length or head circumference between the two NICUs. Despite considerable differences in energy intake due to the use of enteral lipid supplements, our study showed no differences in ΔSDS for weight, length or head circumference. This may be due to limited fat absorption in infants already receiving adequate energy and fat, and poor absorption of fat from human donor milk.

Fluoxetine attenuates the anxiolytic effects of the probiotic VSL#3 in a stress-vulnerable genetic line of aves in the chick social-separation stress test, a dual screening assay

Anxiety disorders represent one of the most common and debilitating illnesses worldwide. However, the development of novel therapeutics for anxiety disorders has lagged compared to other mental illnesses. A growing body of research suggests the gut microbiota plays a role in the etiopathology of anxiety disorders and may, therefore, serve as a novel target for their treatment through the use of probiotics. The use of dietary supplements like probiotics is increasing and their interaction with pharmacotherapies is not well understood. Utilizing the chick social-separation stress test, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate the commercially-available multi-strain probiotic found in VSL#3 for potential anxiolytic-like and/or antidepressant-like effects in the stress-vulnerable Black Australorp genetic line. A secondary aim was to evaluate the interaction between probiotics and the SSRI fluoxetine. Animals were treated with either saline, probiotics, fluoxetine, or probiotics + fluoxetine for 8 days prior to exposure to a 90-min isolation stressor that produces both a panic-like (i.e., anxiety-like) state followed by a state of behavioral despair (i.e., depression-like). The 8-day probiotic regimen produced anxiolytic-like effects but did not attenuate behavioral despair. Fluoxetine failed to significantly alter behavior in either of the two phases. Moreover, the combination of fluoxetine with probiotics attenuated the anxiolytic-like effects of probiotics. The fluoxetine + probiotics combination had no effect on behavioral despair. The results of the current study align with other preclinical studies and some clinical trials suggesting probiotics may offer beneficial effects on anxiety. Investigations examining the anxiolytic-like mechanism of probiotics are needed before any conclusions can be made. Additionally, as the use of probiotics becomes more popular, research on the interactions between probiotic-microbiota and psychotropic medications is necessary.

Assessment of Supplementation with Different Biomolecules in the Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19.

Consequences of the disease produced by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have led to an urgent search for preventive and therapeutic strategies. Besides drug treatments, proposals have been made for supplementation with biomolecules possessing immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties. The objective of this study was to review published evidence on the clinical usefulness of supplementation with vitamin D, antioxidant vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin C), melatonin, lactoferrin and natural products found in food (curcumin, luteolin, ginger, allicin, magnesium and zinc) as supplements in SARS-CoV-2 infection. In general, supplementation of conventional treatments with these biomolecules has been found to improve the clinical symptoms and severity of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), with some indications of a preventive effect. In conclusion, these compounds may assist in preventing and/or improving the symptoms of COVID-19. Nevertheless, only limited evidence is available, and findings have been inconsistent. Further investigations are needed to verify the therapeutic potential of these supplements.

Posting Holistic Health and Fitness Reels on Social Media Platforms to Improve Soldier Health in the Brigade.

As of 2020 Holistic health and fitness (H2F) teams have been embedded into brigades to engage Soldiers in Preventative Mental, Physical, Nutritional, Spiritual, and Sleep Readiness services. This represents a change in Army culture from a focus on testing to one of wellness because of increasing sleep concerns, mental health concerns, and injury rates. Soldier awareness of H2F services, where to find them, how to use them, and command endorsement of H2F professional's services has been limited and not well studied. Most soldiers fall into the Generations Y and Z categories, and this population tends to access information primarily from social media sources. Social media platforms therefore represent potentially effective ways to reach these individuals to increase their awareness of H2F services. This quality improvement project used therapist produced brief interactive videos covering the topics of sleep hygiene and consequences of sleep supplement use and sleep deprivation, mental readiness, and journaling as a form of mindfulness. Video reels were posted to one brigade H2F's social media (Facebook and Instagram) platforms to improve Soldier awareness and engagement in wellness activities in these areas. Data were tracked before and after the initiation of the reel series via Facebook and Instagram MetaBusiness Suite, and via utilization tracking for H2F occupational therapy group and 1:1 visits. Data tracked before and after the initiation of the video series revealed an 898.2% increase in Facebook access, including reel reach, and increases in 1:1 and group sleep and mental readiness visits to the H2F occupational therapist. The use of social media to facilitate soldier awareness and use of H2F mental and sleep readiness services is a viable option for H2F units seeking to enhance their reach in these areas. The project created very little demand on the local therapist's time or to brigade resources and may help increase Soldier accessing of H2F resources online and directly.

Protocol for the LIFEH project: a prospective observational study to explore lifestyle among people living with HIV experiencing weight gain, looking beyond antiretroviral therapy

IntroductionWeight gain, together with the onset of overweight and obesity, is a relevant emerging health issue among people living with HIV (PLWH). A large body of literature recognises this issue...