Vitamin D3 Levels Research Articles

Serum Vitamin D3 level in spontaneous abortion cases in comparison to ongoing viable pregnancies: A case–control study in a tertiary medical college

Background: The immunoregulatory functions of Vitamin D3 play a vital role in the maintenance of normal pregnancy. Several studies have reported the association of low serum Vitamin D3 levels with spontaneous abortion. Aims and Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine the association between serum Vitamin D3 level and spontaneous abortion cases in a tertiary medical college. Materials and Methods: The case–control study was conducted at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical College, Kolkata. The study population included 50 women with spontaneous abortion (cases) and 50 women with viable pregnancy beyond 20 weeks of gestation (controls). The cases and controls were matched with respect to age, socioeconomic status, and laboratory parameters. Investigations performed for both groups were ultrasonography for confirmation of abortion and viable pregnancy, serum Vitamin D3, and other biochemical markers. Data were compared between cases and controls using the Chi-square test and unpaired “t” test along with the calculation of odds ratios (OR). Results: About 24% of cases and 10% of controls belonged to Vitamin D3 deficient category. The difference was statistically significant (P=0.009, d.f.=2) (OR: 2.84, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.92–8.80). Bleeding PV was present in 50% of cases and 4% of controls (P=0.0001, d.f.=1) (OR: 24.00, 95% CI: 5.25–109.65). Abdominal pain was complained by 46% of cases and 10% of controls (P=0.0001, d.f.=1) (OR: 7.67, 95% CI: 2.61–22.54). Conclusion: Vitamin D3 deficiency was present more in spontaneous abortion cases in comparison to viable pregnancies. Routine daily supplementation of vitamin D3 during the first trimester of pregnancy should be incorporated into the ongoing national program. Training of health workers to educate pregnant women and their family members regarding the importance of vitamin D3 is the need of the hour.

Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies after surgery for esophageal and gastric cancer: A metanalysis

Background&AimsPatients receiving oncological esophagectomy or gastrectomy are known to be at high risk for vitamin and micronutrient deficiency before, during and after surgery. However, there are no clear guidelines for these cancer patients regarding postoperative vitamin supplementation. MethodsWe conducted a metanalysis consisting of 10 studies regarding vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies after oncological gastric or esophageal resection. 5 databases were searched. ResultsData was sufficient regarding Vitamins B12 and 25-OH D3 as well as calcium. We were able to show deficiencies in 25-OH Vitamin D3 levels (p <0.001) and lower levels of Vitamin B12 and calcium (bit p<0.001) when compared to the healthy population. ConclusionsPatients from these groups are at risk for vitamin deficiencies. A guideline on postoperative supplementation is needed.

Effect of vitamin D on pregnancy in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: retrospective and prospective studies

Research question: Does vitamin D (VD) affect the pregnancy of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients receiving ovulation-induction therapy?Design: The retrospective study included 200 patients with PCOS and 200 healthy women, and the prospective study included 160 patients with PCOS. Serum levels of 25-(OH) D3, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), progesterone (P), estradiol (E), testosterone (T), and fasting insulin (FINS) were measured, and the LH/FSH ratio and BMI (body mass index) were calculated.Result(s): For the retrospective study, PCOS patients had lower levels of 25-(OH) D3 than healthy women (P<0.001). Pregnant PCOS patients had higher levels of 25-(OH) D3 than non-pregnant PCOS patients (P<0.01), and the pregnancy rate was lower in the VD-deficient group than in the VD non-deficient group (P<0.05). In the prospective study, compared with the placebo (PB) supplementation, VD supplementation significantly increased serum levels of 25-(OH) D3 (P<0.001) and reduced the LH/FSH ratio (P<0.05), LH level (P<0.01), and T level (P<0.05). After the intervention, it was found that the LH/FSH ratio, and LH, T levels significantly decreased in both groups compared to the pre-intervention (P<0.001). After ovulation-induction, the pregnancy rate in patients in the VD group was found to be higher than that in the PB group (P<0.05).Conclusion(s): VD deficiency is common in PCOS patients, and VD-deficient PCOS patients often have lower pregnancy rates after ovulation-induction. VD supplementation can improve pregnancy rates and mitigate basic hormone disorders. Therefore, monitoring VD supplementation and checking VD levels before and during intervention are essential for PCOS patients.

A study of safety and efficacy of vitamin D3 supplementation in pregnancy

Background: Vitamin D is a lipid-soluble prohormone that is vital for the maintenance of bone and muscle health. Vitamin D deficiency is an unrecognized epidemic, common in all age groups and is associated with preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, early labour and pregnancy loss. Methods: Our study was conducted in Batra hospital and medical research centre, New Delhi from October 2018 to May2019. 126 women were taken, of those seen before 20 weeks of pregnancy who received vitamin D3 supplementation comprised of study group and control group were those who came directly for delivery and without vitamin D3 level done. The outcomes measured were vitamin D3 level at 20 weeks, at delivery, in cord blood and clinical outcomes like pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm delivery. Results: Gestational hypertension was seen in 4 (6.3%) of subjects while in control group it was seen in 11 (17.5%), Gestational diabetes was seen in 3 (4.8%) women while it was observed in 10 (15.9%) women of control group. Premature rupture of membranes was seen in 2 (3.2%) women in study group and 8 (12.7%) women of control group. Vitamin D level at the time of delivery in study group was significantly higher than control group (56.84±15.78 versus 18.12±8.97ng/ml). Conclusions: Preterm labor, low birth weight and preeclampsia were uncommon in the subjects and the administered vitamin D3 dose had no adverse effects but more research with larger sample size is strongly urged to assess the safety and effect of vitamin D3 supplementation.

Vitamin D3 deficiency and smell regions in adolescents: an MRI evaluation

Abstract OBJECTIVES. We investigated the effect of vitamin D3 deficiency on peripheral and central odor centres by using cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIAL AND METHODS. In this retrospective study, cranial MRI images of 23 adolescents with vitamin D3 deficiency and 18 adolescents with normal vitamin D3 levels (≥ 20 ng/ml) were evaluated. Blood tests for vitamin D3, B12, hemoglobin and calcium levels were also taken from the database of our hospital. Peripheral odor centers, olfactory bulb (OB) volume and olfactory sulcus (OS) depth, and also central odor centers, insular gyrus and corpus amygdala area were measured on cranial MRI. RESULTS. The insular gyrus and corpus amygdala area were not different between the study group with vitamin D3 deficiency and the control group (p&gt;0.05). There was no difference between OB volume of the study and control groups (p&gt;0.05). Although the right insular area was lower in girls than males (p&lt;0.05), there was no correlation between OB volume and gender (p&gt;0.05). Higher hemoglobin levels were related to higher OB volume on the right side (p&lt;0.05). CONCLUSION. In the group with vitamin D3 deficiency, olfactory bulb volume of the left side was asymmetrically larger than the one on the right side. Therefore, the measurements of vitamin D3 should be performed in adolescents, and the patients with the vitamin D3 levels of &lt; 20 ng/ml should be supplemented with medical treatment and reinforcing vitamin D synthesis by the exposure of sunlight more.

Tremendous Fidelity of Vitamin D3 in Age-related Neurological Disorders.

Vitamin D3 (VD) is a secosteroid hormone and shows a pleiotropic effect in brain-related disorders where it regulates redox imbalance, inflammation, apoptosis, energy production, and growth factor synthesis. Vitamin D3's active metabolic form, 1,25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3 or calcitriol), is a known regulator of several genes involved in neuroplasticity, neuroprotection, neurotropism, and neuroinflammation. Multiple studies suggest that VD deficiency can be proposed as a risk factor for the development of several age-related neurological disorders. The evidence for low serum levels of 25-hydroxy Vitamin D3 (25(OH)D3 or calcidiol), the major circulating form of VD, is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), dementia, and cognitive impairment. Despite decades of evidence on low VD association with neurological disorders, the precise molecular mechanism behind its beneficial effect remains controversial. Here, we will be delving into the neurobiological importance of VD and discuss its benefits in different neuropsychiatric disorders. The focus will be on AD, PD, and HD as they share some common clinical, pathological, and epidemiological features. The central focus will be on the different attributes of VD in the aspect of its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-cholinesterase activity, and psychotropic effect in different neurodegenerative diseases.

Vitamin D deficiency and oral candidiasis in patients with HIV infection: A case‒control study.

Oral candidiasis is a common opportunistic infection in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In addition, most of these patients suffer from vitamin D deficiency. This study aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D levels and oral candidiasis in patients with HIV infection. This case‒control study was conducted on HIV-infected patients. Cases were patients with oral candidiasis diagnosed based on physical examinations. Controls were age- and sex-matched individuals without oral candidiasis. The levels of 25-OH vitamin D and other laboratory markers (CD4 count and viral load) were compared between the case and control groups. A total of 104 cases and 102 controls were included in the study. The cases had significantly lower 25-OH vitamin D3 levels (MD = 33.86 ng/mL, 95% CI= (31.85, 35.87), P < 0.001) and CD4 counts (MD = 267.48 cells/mm3, 95% CI= (189.55, 345.41), P < 0.001) than the controls. In addition, viral load was significantly higher in cases than in controls (MD = 7.03 × 105 copies/mL, 95% CI= (4.46 × 105, 9.61 × 105), P < 0.001). The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that educational status (OR = 0.032, 95% CI= (0.002, 0.100), P < 0.001), current HAART (OR = 0.005, 95% CI= (0.001, 0.014), P < 0.001), history of oral candidiasis (OR = 20.114, 95% CI= (18.135, 21.957), P < 0.001), CD4 count (OR = 0.004, 95% CI= (0.001, 0.006), P < 0.001), viral load (OR = 12.181, 95% CI= (1.108, 133.392), P < 0.001), and vitamin D level (OR = 0.011, 95% CI= (0.008, 0.015), P < 0.001) were significantly associated with the risk of developing oral candidiasis. Based on the findings, most patients with HIV infection suffer from vitamin D deficiency, especially those with oral candidiasis. Hypovitaminosis D was significantly associated with an increased risk of oral candidiasis. Thus, vitamin D supplementation may assist HIV-positive patients in improving their oral health and preventing oral candidiasis.

The interaction between lipid and vitamin D3 impacts lipid metabolism and innate immunity in Chinese mitten crabs Eriocheir sinensis

As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D3 relies on fat to perform its biological function, affecting lipid metabolism and innate immunity. This study used different percentages of lipid and vitamin D3 diets to evaluate the synergistic effects on the growth, lipid metabolism and immunity of juvenile Eriocheir sinensis (5.83 ± 0.01 g) for 56 days, including low lipid (LL, 1.5%) and normal lipid (NL, 7.5%) and three levels of vitamin D3: low (LVD, 0 IU/kg), medium (MVD, 9000 IU/kg) and high (HVD, 27,000, IU/kg). The synergistic effect of lipid and vitamin D3 was not significant on growth but significant on ash content, total protein, hepatopancreas lipid content, hemolymph 1α,25-hydroxy vitamin D3 [1α,25(OH)2D3] content, hepatopancreas lipolysis and synthesis genes. Crabs fed normal lipid (7.5%) and medium vitamin D3 (9000 IU/kg) had the highest hepatopancreas index, hemolymph 1α,25(OH)2D3 content, antibacterial ability, immune-related genes and hepatopancreatic lipid synthesis genes expression, but down-regulated the lipolysis genes expression. In contrast, crabs fed diets with low lipid percentage (1.5%) had low growth performance, hemolymph 1α,25(OH)2D3, mRNA levels of lipid synthesis genes, antibacterial ability and immune-related gene expression. At the 1.5% lipid level, excessive or insufficient vitamin D3 supplementation led to the obstruction of ash and protein deposition, reduced growth and molting, aggravated the reduction in antioxidant capacity, hindered antimicrobial peptide gene expression and reduced innate immunity, and resulted in abnormal lipid accumulation and the risk of oxidative stress. This study suggests that diets' lipid and vitamin D3 percentage can enhance antioxidant capacity, lipid metabolism and innate immunity in E. sinensis. A low lipid diet can cause growth retardation, reduce antioxidant capacity and innate immunity, and enhance lipid metabolism disorder.

The Potential Use of Vitamin D3 and Phytochemicals for Their Anti-Ageing Effects.

Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D3 is synthesised in skin cells in the body. Vitamin D3 has been known as a bone-related hormone. Recently, however, it has been considered as an immune vitamin. Vitamin D3 deficiency influences the onset of a variety of diseases. Vitamin D3 regulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) through binding to vitamin D receptors (VDRs) in immune cells. Since blood levels of vitamin D3 (25-OH-D3) were low in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, there has been growing interest in the importance of vitamin D3 to maintaining a healthy condition. On the other hand, phytochemicals are compounds derived from plants with over 7000 varieties and have various biological activities. They mainly have health-promoting effects and are classified as terpenoids, carotenoids, flavonoids, etc. Flavonoids are known as the anti-inflammatory compounds that control TNF-α production. Chronic inflammation is induced by the continuous production of TNF-α and is the fundamental cause of diseases like obesity, dyslipidaemia, diabetes, heart and brain diseases, autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. In addition, the ageing process is induced by chronic inflammation. This review explains the cooperative effects of vitamin D3 and phytochemicals in the suppression of inflammatory responses, how it balances the natural immune response, and its link to anti-ageing effects. In addition, vitamin D3 and phytochemicals synergistically contribute to anti-ageing by working with ageing-related genes. Furthermore, prevention of ageing processes induced by the chronic inflammation requires the maintenance of healthy gut microbiota, which is related to daily dietary habits. In this regard, supplementation of vitamin D3 and phytochemicals plays an important role. Recently, the association of the prevention of the non-disease condition called "ME-BYO" with the maintenance of a healthy condition has been an attractive regimen, and the anti-ageing effect discussed here is important for a healthy and long life.

The association between vitamin-D deficiency and fecal incontinence.

Vitamin-D is essential for musculoskeletal health. We aimed to determine whether patients with fecal incontinence (FI): (1) are more likely to have vitamin-D deficiency and, (2) have higher rates of comorbid medical conditions. We examined 18- to 90-year-old subjects who had 25-hydroxy vitamin-D levels, and no vitamin-D supplementation within 3 months of testing, in a large, single-institutional electronic health records dataset, between 2017 and 2022. Cox proportional hazards survival analysis was used to assess association of vitamin-D deficiency on FI. Of 100,111 unique individuals tested for serum 25-hydroxy vitamin-D, 1205 (1.2%) had an established diagnosis of FI. Most patients with FI were female (75.9% vs. 68.7%, p = 0.0255), Caucasian (66.3% vs. 52%, p = 0.0001), and older (64.2 vs. 53.8, p < 0.0001). Smoking (6.56% vs. 2.64%, p = 0.0001) and GI comorbidities, including constipation (44.9% vs. 9.17%, p = 0.0001), irritable bowel syndrome (20.91% vs. 3.72%, p = 0.0001), and diarrhea (28.55% vs. 5.2%, p = 0.0001) were more common among FI patients. Charlson Comorbidity Index score was significantly higher in patients with FI (5.5 vs. 2.7, p < 0.0001). Significantly higher proportions of patients with FI had vitamin-D deficiency (7.14% vs. 4.45%, p < 0.0001). Moreover, after propensity-score matching, rate of new FI diagnosis was higher in patients with vitamin-D deficiency; HR 1.9 (95% CI [1.14-3.15]), p = 0.0131. Patients with FI had higher rates of vitamin-D deficiency along with increased overall morbidity. Future research is needed to determine whether increased rate of FI in patients with vitamin-D deficiency is related to frailty associated with increased medical morbidities.

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

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

THE RELATIONSHIP OF VITAMIN D TOPOLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS) TEENAGERS AT KOTO TANGAH PADANG DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL IN 2022

PCOS is characterized by increased ovarian and adrenal androgen secretion,hyperandrogenic symptoms such as hirsutism, acne and/or alopecia, menstrual irregularities,and polycystic ovaries. The prevalence of PCOS in 2016 was 6−21% of reproductive ageworldwide. PCOS is the most common female endocrine disorder with a prevalence of around4-6% in women of reproductive age in Indonesia. Vitamin D deficiency can increase PCOSsymptoms. The research design was cross-sectional. The study was conducted at SMA N 7,SMA N 8 and SMA N 13 Padang in Koto Tangah District in May-August 2022. The researchsample was high school students who experienced menstrual cycle disorders and were willingto agree to informed consent for the study with a sample size of 59 respondents. Vitamin Dlevels were examined using the 25-Hydroxyvitamin D ELISA Kit. Data were analyzed by chi-square test. The results showed that 86.4% of respondents experienced vitamin D deficiency.Statistically there was a relationship between PCOS in adolescents accompanied byhyperandrogens and vitamin D levels, there was a relationship between PCOS in adolescentsaccompanied by obesity and vitamin D levels, there was no relationship between PCOS inadolescents accompanied by acanthosis nigrican and vitamin D levels, and there was norelationship between PCOS in adolescents accompanied by hyperandrogens, obesity andacanthosis nigrican with vitamin D levels in SMA Koto Tangah District Padang in 2022. Theconclusion of this study is that there is a relationship between PCOS in adolescentsaccompanied by hyperandrogens and vitamin D levels and there is a relationship betweenPCOS in adolescents accompanied by obesity and vitamin D levels. .

Correlation Between a Deficiency of D3 Levels and the Development of Allergic Rhinitis.

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/b&gt; Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common disorder characterized by sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion and lacrimation, which negatively affects the quality of life to a large extent. The study aimed to find a link between the effect of vitamin D3 levels on Immunoglobulin (IgE) levels in patients with allergic AR. &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; This study included 30 patients with AR, with ages ranging from 18 to 35, of both sexes. For vitamin D levels, &lt;u&gt;>&lt;/u&gt;30 ng/mL is considered sufficient and &lt;u&gt;<&lt;/u&gt;20 ng/mL is a deficiency. The second group includes 30 people with adequate levels of vitamin D3 as a control group. All results were analyzed statistically by ANOVA, in addition to using the regression coefficient test to test the extent of the effect of D3 on the development of allergic rhinitis at a significant level of p&lt;u&gt;<&lt;/u&gt;0.05 using the SPSS program 24. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The results showed a significant decrease in the levels of vitamin D3 in the serum of the AR patients compared with the control group and a substantial increase in the levels of IgE in the serum of the AR patients compared with the control group at a significant level of p&lt;u&gt;<&lt;/u&gt;0.05. Additionally, the results showed in the regression coefficient an inverse and significant effect of vitamin D3 concentration on serum IgE levels, which is significant in terms of the p-value, which appeared equal to 0.010. By observing the value of the R&lt;sup&gt;2&lt;/sup&gt; coefficient of determination, it is clear that a change in the concentration of vitamin D3 causes 58% of the changes in IgE levels. &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; Through linear regression correlation, an inverse linear relationship emerged linking low vitamin D3 levels to increased IgE levels with an effect rate of 58%.

Vitamin D as a predictor of severe course of inflammatory bowel diseases in children

Background. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) develop in childhood more often, last throughout life, and their frequency is rapidly increasing in industrialized countries. Most researchers identify vitamin D (VD) as a key regulator of gastrointestinal homeostasis, an innate immune response and a biomarker for the activity and severity of IBD. The purpose was to determine the frequency of vitamin D deficiency and its relationship with the course of inflammatory bowel diseases in children. Materials and methods. The study included 36 patients: 13 with IBD (main group) and 23 children of the comparison group with irritable bowel syndrome and functional abdominal pain. The average age of children was 13.09 ± 2.28 years, with a median of 14.5 years; 63.6 % were boys. Patients with IBD were evaluated for clinical disease manifestations, disease localization (Paris Classification) and disease activity (PCDAI/PUCAI). Irritable bowel syndrome and functional abdominal pain were diagnosed based on the Rome IV Criteria. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was assessed by the electrochemiluminescence method (Elecsys Vitamin D total, Cobas). Results. Severe IBD prevailed among the examined children (61.5 %). There was no significant difference in overall body weight and height between the groups, which may be due to the short duration of IBD. However, children with IBD showed a tendency to lower physical development indicators. Significant differences in hemoglobin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, number of platelets, fecal calprotectin were observed among the studied groups (p &lt; 0.05). The concentration of VD in the blood of the examined children ranged from 39.9 to 10.8 ng/ml, with an average of 21.8 ± 5.8 ng/ml. In 76.9 % of patients with IBD, blood concentration of VD reduced, while only 21.7 % children in the comparison group had its level below the norm. Children with IBD were characterized by significantly lower levels of VD in the blood (average of 16.7 ng/ml). Lower levels of VD were associated with female sex, Chron’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), as well as disease duration of more than 3 years and disease severity. There was an inverse correlation between VD and the degree of IBD activity (CD: r = –0.33; p = 0.01; UC: r = –0.38; p = 0.01) and the severity of the course (CD: r = –0.35; p = 0.01; UC: r = –0.36; p = 0.01), the levels of C-reactive protein (CD: r = –0.39; p = 0.01; UC: r = –0.37; p = 0.01) and fecal calprotectin (CD: r = –0.42; p = 0.01; UC: r = –0.46; p = 0.01). Conclusions. In most children (76.9 %) with inflammatory bowel diseases, the concentration of VD in the blood is significantly lower than in those with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Lower vitamin D levels were associated with female sex, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis, as well as disease duration of more than 3 years, activity level, and severity, supporting the role of vitamin D as a possible predictor of severity of these diseases in childhood.

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

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

Associations of Gut and Circulating Microbiota with Circulating Vitamin D3, Type I Interferon, and Systemic Inflammation in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Patients.

To analyze the associations of the gut and circulating microbiota with circulating vitamin D3 (VD3), type I interferon (IFNI), systemic inflammation, and clinical profiles in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) patients. A total of 36 CSU patients with VD3 insufficiency (VDI; serum 25(OH)VD3 <30 ng/mL) and 36 sex-, age-, and body mass index-matched CSU patients with non-VDI were enrolled. Fecal and serum bacteria were identified through 16S rRNA sequencing, and serum 25(OH)VD3 and inflammation biomarkers were assessed using ELISA kits. IFNI response was determined by measuring the stimulatory activity of serum on IFNI-stimulated response element in HEK293 cells in vitro with luciferase assays. Higher urticarial activity score over 7 days (UAS7), higher frequency of levocetirizine resistance, and more severe proinflammation but weaker IFNI response were observed in VDI than non-VDI patients (all P<0.05). IFNI response was strongly positively associated with serum 25(OH)VD3 level in both groups (P<0.001). Compared to non-VDI patients, abundance of the fecal genera Prevotella 9, Escherichia-Shigella, and Klebsiella was significantly increased, while Bacteroides, Faecalibacterium, and Agathobacter were remarkably reduced in VDI patients (all P<0.05). Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia (40.95%), Acinetobacter (3.05%), and Aquabacterium (2.37%) were the top three bacteria in sera from VDI patients. Both serum 25(OH)VD3 level and IFNI response were positively associated with fecal Bacteroides in the two groups (P<0.05). In non-VDI patients, there were moderately positive associations between IFNI response and fecal Lachnoclostridium, unclassified_f__Lachnospiraceae, and Phascolarctobacterium and between serum 25(OH)VD3 level and fecal Lachnoclostridium (all P<0.01). Circulating microbiota in VDI patients was closely related only to proinflammation and UAS7 (both P<0.05). Changes in gut but not circulating microbiota composition are associated with serum 25(OH)VD3 insufficiency and impaired IFNI homeostasis, which points to greater disease severity (UAS7) and systemic proinflammation in CSU patients.

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

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

Vitamin D levels in postmenopausal women and their relationship with diabetes mellitus

Background: Vitamin D (VD) plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism and bone growth and has emerging roles beyond the skeleton. Deficiency is linked to various health issues, especially in postmenopausal women. The burden of T2DM in India, particularly among women, emphasizes the need for exploring the VD-diabetes connection. Aim and Objective: To investigate VD levels in postmenopausal women with T2DM compared to premenopausal women, assessing the association between VD deficiency and glycemic control. Materials and Methods: A case–control study was conducted in Chennai, India, involving pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women with T2DM. Ethical clearance was obtained, and participants were recruited with informed consent. Fifty pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women, each with T2DM, were included. Exclusions involved individuals taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, anticonvulsants, and those afflicted with osteoporosis, renal disease, asthma, and hypertension. Blood samples were collected for glucose and VD level assessments, employing standard methodologies. Results: Pre-menopausal women exhibited significantly higher VD levels compared to their post-menopausal counterparts. Blood sugar levels did not significantly differ based on menopausal status. Conclusion: This study contributes valuable insights into the complex interplay between VD, menopausal status, and glycemic control in women with T2DM. The high prevalence of VD deficiency and its association with suboptimal glycemic control emphasize the need for further research. Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing targeted interventions for postmenopausal women with diabetes.

Elevated level of prenatal testosterone and vitamin D3 deficiency during pregnancy, in the presence of prenatal maternal stress, and their association with the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-like symptoms in toddlers.

To investigate the hypothesis that the presence of prenatal maternal stress, increased level of prenatal testosterone, and low level of vitamin D3 in pregnancy is associated with the development of ADHD-like symptoms in toddlers (< 2 years old). The study group comprised 53 pregnant women and 53 infants of these pregnancies. The population cohort of 53 pregnant women were recruited at their 35th to 37th week of pregnancy and investigated prospectively. The participants were selected through targeted selection. Maternal experience of stressful life events was assessed by stress standardised questionnaires, prenatal testosterone was determined in the mothers' saliva by using the immune enzymatic (ELISA) method, and maternal plasma D vitamin was measured using the ECLIA method, during pregnancy. When the age of the offspring was 6 months and then less than 2 years, the mothers completed the child behaviour and temperament checklist. A small but statistically significant association was found between the common symptom complex of ADHD and the level of testosterone and vitamin D3, in the presence of prenatal maternal stress. Multiple regression analysis showed that maternal stressful events during pregnancy significantly predicted ADHD behaviours in offspring. The study supported the hypothesis that prenatal maternal stress, increased level of prenatal testosterone, and low level of vitamin D3 during pregnancy increases the risk of development of ADHD-like symptoms in toddlers (< 2 years old). Also, the obtained results support the hypothesis that the influence of prenatal factors causes ADHD-like symptoms in offspring through a programming effect.

Vitamin D3 deficiency and coronavirus-related health problems

Introduction: In addition to boosting calcium absorption in the small intestine and preserving sufficient levels of calcium and phosphate in the serum to support proper bone mineralization, Vitamin D3 fortifies the immune system. Vitamin D3 deficiency can occur when regular intakes are gradually below recommended levels and when people get little sunshine exposure. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using a case series study approach. A structured checklist was utilized on 107 individuals who had recovered from corona disease to identify the causes behind the unfavorable health effects they continue to experience. In addition, the patients underwent extensive laboratory blood testing in a specialized laboratory and received follow-up care for a period of 6 months. The results were analyzed using the Chi-square test and the Paired t-test using the SPSS software. Results: Despite the finding that 84.1% of the study group had Vitamin D3 levels below the normal range, their physical health conditions had considerably improved as a result of the treatment they received. Conclusion: The study found that patients with coronavirus infection had a high prevalence of Vitamin D3 deficiency. After 6 months, this percentage dropped considerably, raising the possibility that the coronavirus may have contributed to the drop in plasma Vitamin D3 levels. To find out how long-lasting COVID-19 symptoms are related to Vitamin D3 deficiency, more research is required. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Medical knowledge, Patient care and procedural skills.