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Background & Objectives: The relationship of Vitamin-D (VD) with Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) is recognized. This study was conducted to determine whether VD is a predictor of fertility and investigate its relationship with female reproductive hormones and markers of ovarian reserve in female population of Karachi. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed from July 2020 to June 2022 at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) with recruitment of 135 fertile and infertile subjects. VD, AMH, FSH and LH levels were estimated by 'Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent assay (ELISA)'. By applying binary logistic regression, variables with p-value < 0.25 in univariate analysis were used for multivariate regression model and adjusted odds ratios were computed. In multivariate analysis, significance was p-value ≤ 0.05. Results: VD deficiency was observed in all infertile female subjects. In univariate regression analysis, FSH, LH, LH/ FSH ratio and VD levels turned out to be significant. The Multivariate analysis represented that for every one ng/mL increase in VD level, the odds of fertility were expected to be 50.154 times higher with p-value < 0.001. The positive correlation of VD with FSH was significant. Conclusion: VD deficiency was prevalent in all infertile female subjects. VD levels were strong predictor of fertility in the study population. The significant association of VD with FSH explained the indirect effect of VD on follicular development and ovarian functions however no relationship of VD with ovarian reserve was exhibited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Maternal vitamin-D and omega-3 fatty acid (DHA) deficiencies during pregnancy have previously been associated with offspring neurodevelopmental traits. However, observational study designs cannot distinguish causal effects from confounding. Methods First, we conducted Mendelian randomisation (MR) using genetic instruments for vitamin-D and DHA identified in independent genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Outcomes were (1) GWAS for traits related to autism and ADHD, generated in the Norwegian mother, father, and child cohort study (MoBa) from 3 to 8 years, (2) autism and ADHD diagnoses. Second, we used mother–father–child trio-MR in MoBa (1) to test causal effects through maternal nutrient levels, (2) to test effects of child nutrient levels, and (3) as a paternal negative control. Results Associations between higher maternal vitamin-D levels on lower ADHD related traits at age 5 did not remain after controlling for familial genetic predisposition using trio-MR. Furthermore, we did not find evidence for causal maternal effects of vitamin-D/DHA levels on other offspring traits or diagnoses. In the reverse direction, there was evidence for a causal effect of autism genetic predisposition on lower vitamin-D levels and of ADHD genetic predisposition on lower DHA levels. Conclusions Triangulating across study designs, we did not find evidence for maternal effects. We add to a growing body of evidence that suggests that previous observational associations are likely biased by genetic confounding. Consequently, maternal supplementation is unlikely to influence these offspring neurodevelopmental traits. Notably, genetic predisposition to ADHD and autism was associated with lower DHA and vitamin-D levels respectively, suggesting previous associations might have been due to reverse causation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the clinical value of Vitamin-D combined with budesonide/formoterol (BF) and theophylline sodium glycinate (TSG) sustained-release tablets in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: Medical records of 114 patients with CODP, treated in Wenzhou Geriatric Hospital from October 2020 to February 2023, were retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 59 received treatment with Vitamin-D combined with BF and TSG sustained-release tablets (Group-A), and 55 patients received treatment with BF combined with TSG sustainedrelease tablets (Group-B). Lung function indicators, blood gas status, inflammatory factors, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels before and after the treatment in both groups were collected. Results: After the treatment, lung function indicators, blood gas status, inflammatory factors, FeNO, and 25 (OH) D levels in both groups were significantly improved compared to pretreatment levels, and were significantly better in the Group-A compared to Group-B (P<0.05). Conclusions: The combination of Vitamin-D, BF, and TSG sustained-release tablets can effectively regulate the blood gas status of patients with COPD, improve lung function, regulate FeNO and 25 (OH) D, and effectively downregulate the levels of inflammatory factors, thus reducing the degree of inflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous tumors found in the pelvic region, are prevalent among women of reproductive age. The incidence of uterine fibroids varies between 5.4% and 77%. These tumors develop within the muscular walls of the uterus in women who have not yet reached menopause. Symptomless or causing abnormal bleeding, pelvic pressure symptoms, infertility, and growth or regress throughout life, leiomyomas are more common in people of African descent, those who have never given birth, those who are overweight, and those with a positive family history of fibroids. Millions of women suffer with leiomyoma, and it is one of the most common reasons for hysterectomy. Aim of the Work: to determine whether or not vitamin D supplementation reduces the size of uterine fibroids in patients who are deficient in the nutrient. Patients and Methods: This RCT was a single-blind randomized study at tertiary care hospital at Beni-Suef university hospital from January 2022 till June 2022 and performed on a total of 100 women in childbearing period diagnosed with uterine fibroid who had vitamin-D deficiency. Results: As regards the fibroid size after Vitamin D supplementation for 6 months, according to the findings of this study, there is no statistically significant distinction in fibroid size amongst Vitamin D group and control group over the first three months whereas, fibroid size was substantially less in the Vitamin D group. At the fourth, fifth month and sixth months. Consequently, the size of the tumor decreased significantly over the six months in the group of Vitamin D supplementation with no significant improvement in the size of the fibroid over the 6 months in the control group. Conclusion: According to the results of the current research, vitamin D supplementation is an effective, low-risk method of preventing leiomyoma growth and stabilizing fibroids, therefore avoiding the onset of more serious and symptomatic disorders. Vitamin D supplementation seems to prevent fibroid growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the role of Vitamin-D and calcium supplementation on preoperative weight reduction in obese women before laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. Methods: This double-blind clinical trial was conducted at the affiliated health centers of King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia from January 2021 to December 2021. It included forty-five obese women aged 24-56 years, with body mass index (BMI) of 34.0-48.0kg/m². They were randomly allocated into two groups; the Group-A (N=22) included obese women who received supplementation of 5000IU cholecalciferol (Vitamin-D3), and 1000mg calcium daily for 12 months, while the Group-B (N=23) received no treatment. Measurement of change in weight and BMI and comparison of their pre-operative weight reduction, laparoscopic operative time, and length of hospital stay was done. Results: There were no differences in patients' biographic data between the two groups. During the study, Vitamin-D level in the patients increased and there was a significant positive association with weight loss. In group-A, the mean weight loss was 11.8±3.5 kg. At the end of first year, their BMI decreased from 36.1±1.6kg/m² at baseline to 29.7±2.6 kg/m², whereas in-group-B, the mean weight loss was 6.8±3.1 kg and their BMI decreased from 36.9±2.69kg/m² at baseline to 32.7±0.93kg/m². The operation time and the length of hospital stay were shorter in group-A (107 vs.128. min) and (3 vs. 5 days) respectively as compared to Group-B. Conclusion: Vitamin-D and calcium supplementation contributes to a remarkable weight reduction of preoperative obese female patients, which in turn is associated with significantly better outcome of laparoscopic repair of ventral hernia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ahmad A Obaid,1 Abdulrahman Mujalli,1 Wesam F Farrash,1 Rami Hatem Tayeb,2 Rashad Jameel Bougeis,2 Alaa Adel Aljehani,2 Bandar Ali Alshehri,3 Sulafa Ezzat Sharaf,4 Saud Fahad Alqurashi4 1Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia; 2Laboratory Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; 3Laboratory Department, Dar Alzahrawi Medical, Product Specialist Diagnostic, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; 4Laboratory Department, King Faisal Hospital, Makkah, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Ahmad A Obaid, Email aaobaid@uqu.edu.saAim: Vitamin D deficiency is linked with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and the occurrence of complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. None of the studies have focused on the association between vitamin D levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy (DN) in the Makkah region, Saudi Arabia. Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship of vitamin D with kidney disease in patients with T2DM in the Makkah region, of Saudi Arabia.Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at different hospitals in the Makkah region on T2DM patients from 2021 to 2022. In total, 328 patients with confirmed diabetes were enrolled in this study. T2DM patients over the aged> 18 to 92 years were included in the study. General laboratory characteristics of the study population were measured, including fasting blood sugar, HbA1C (Glycated hemoglobin), vitamin D, kidney function (BUN-Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine), and lipid profiles (cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-Low density lipoprotein, and HDL-High density lipoprotein).Results: 46.6% (n=153) of participants had normal serum vitamin D levels. Insufficient and deficient serum vitamin D level were observed in 43.9% (n=144) and 9.5% (n=31) of participants, respectively. Of the participants, 25.9% (n=85) had good glycemic control (< 7.0%). Moderate and poor glycemic control were observed in 39.9% (n=131) and 34.1% (n=112) of the participants, respectively. A significant negative correlation (p< 0.5) was found between vitamin D levels and kidney function test results (blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels). An inverse relationship was observed between HbA1c levels and vitamin D deficiency.Conclusion: Nephropathy is more likely to develop in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and vitamin D deficiency.Keywords: prevalence, diabetes, type-2 diabetes mellitus, T2DM, vitamin-D, nephropathy

Research on vitamin D status in Indian children has been confined to studies conducted on small samples from certain regions and using non-standard techniques to quantify 25(OH)D3. Vitamin D insufficiency was observed in this multicenter research that used a standardized technique to evaluate 25(OH)D3 concentrations from dried blood spots (DBS) in children and adolescents from 5 to 18 years old in India. This school-based cross-sectional observational research used a multi-stage stratified random sampling technique. We picked a city and its surrounding hamlet from six states in India, which span a lot of ground. Data was gathered on demographics, anthropometry, body composition, food intakes, and DBS samples. Liquid chromatography with tandem-mass spectrometry was used to evaluate 25(OH)D3 in DBS. A total of 2450 youngsters had their vitamin D level checked, with a subset (n = 672) having extra data obtained for the purpose of evaluating predictors. In the study, 36.8% of participants had adequate vitamin-D levels (> 50 nmol/L), with greater concentrations seen in rural respondents and boys (p < 0.05). The mean vitamin-D concentration was 45.8 ± 23.9 nmol/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for exacerbation of obstructive airway disease, a hallmark of which is mucus dehydration and plugging. Calcitriol (the active form of vitamin D) deficiency in cultured human airway epithelia resulted in increased SCNN1G and ATP1B1 mRNAs encoding subunits of ENaC and the Na-K pump compared with supplemented epithelia. These drive the absorption of airway surface liquid. Consistently, calcitriol-deficient epithelia absorbed liquid faster than supplemented epithelia. Calcitriol deficiency also increased amiloride-sensitive Isc and Gt without altering Na-K pump activity, indicating the changes in amiloride-sensitivity arose from ENaC. ENaC activity can be regulated by trafficking, proteases, and channel abundance. We found the effect was likely not induced by changes to endocytosis of ENaC given that calcitriol did not affect the half-lives of amiloride-sensitive Isc and Gt. Furthermore, trypsin nominally increased Isc produced by epithelia ± calcitriol, suggesting calcitriol did not affect proteolytic activation of ENaC. Consistent with mRNA and functional data, calcitriol deficiency resulted in increased γENaC protein. These data indicate that the vitamin D receptor response controls ENaC function and subsequent liquid absorption, providing insight into the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and respiratory disease.NEW & NOTEWORTHY It is unknown why calcitriol (active vitamin D) deficiency worsens pulmonary disease outcomes. Results from mRNA, immunoblot, Ussing chamber, and absorption experiments indicate that calcitriol deficiency increases ENaC activity in human airway epithelia, decreasing apical hydration. Given that epithelial hydration is required for mucociliary transport and airway innate immune function, the increased ENaC activity observed in calcitriol-deficient epithelia may contribute to respiratory pathology observed in vitamin D deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the changes of serum-related indexes at different time points, so as to identify the critical time of converting from simple premature thelarche (PT) to idiopathic central precocious puberty (ICPP). Methods: This is a retrospective study. The subjects of the study were 50 girls with PT who were admitted to the Children's Hospital of Hebei Province from January 2019 to September 2020. The enrolled 50 children were divided into the conversion group(n=12) and the non-conversion group(n=38) according to whether PT was converted into ICPP during follow-up. Furthermore, the levels of serum-related indexes and uterine and ovarian volumes were compared after the diagnosis of PT. Results: The IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels of children in the conversion group began to change significantly from six months after the diagnosis, with statistically significant differences when compared with the levels of children at the initial diagnosis, three months and those of the non-conversion group at the same time points (p<0.05). The levels of vitamin-D, DHEA and leptin began to change significantly at nine months after the diagnosis (p<0.05). Besides, uterine and ovarian volumes in the conversion group began to increase significantly six months after the diagnosis, with statistically significant differences when compared with those in the non-conversion group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Findings in our study suggest that regular monitoring of vitamin-D, IGF-1, IGFBP-3, DHEA and leptin levels, and uterine and ovarian volumes can predict the conversion from PT to ICPP at an early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the viability of utilizing preoperative serum vitamin D levels as a predictor of postoperative transient hypocalcemia in patients who were undergoing total thyroidectomy in our population. Study Design: Prospective Observational study. Setting: Shifa International Hospital Islamabad, Pakistan. Period: 1st July 2020 to 30th June 2022. Material & Methods: All the data was collected prospectively. Patients are divided into two groups depending on the pre- operative vitamin D levels. The preoperative vitamin D levels are checked on the day of admission before the surgery. After the surgery, their post-operative serum calcium levels are checked at 6 hours, 24 hours and 48 hours. Intact PTH levels are also checked after the surgery and correlation of transient hypocalcemia with intact PTH levels is also checked. Results: Our results strongly predict that serum Vitamin D levels and intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels are diagnostic indicators of transient hypocalcemia in post thyroidectomy patients. Conclusion: Our study shows: Pre-operative vitamin D is an early indicator of hypocalcemia in post-thyroidectomy patients. Serum intact parathyroid hormone levels is an early indicator of hypocalcemia in post-thyroidectomy patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with type 1 diabetes have a high prevalence of upper extremity impairments (UEIs), such as frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, and trigger finger. The UEIs are strongly associated with activity limitations and impaired quality of life. The etiology of the UEI is not clear. Vitamin D deficiency has been considered to play a role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes and in the development of macro- and microvascular complications in diabetes. Aim: To characterize vitamin D status in a large population of patients with type 1 diabetes, if vitamin D deficiency is associated with metabolic factors and possible association with UEI. Material and methods: Patients who diagnosed before 35 years of age, whose diabetes duration >20 years, and who are not older than 65 years were invited to participate in this cross-sectional case-control, multicenter study. Controls matched for age and sex were obtained from the national population registry. Fasting blood samples were collected and stored at −80°C until analyzed regarding 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D3) by a liquid chromatographic-mass spectrometric method (LC-MS/MS). Results: Vitamin D levels varied with season as expected in the northern hemisphere. The association between 25(OH)D3 and clinical variables was analyzed in a univariate general linear model, which indicated no difference in 25(OH)D3 in men with and without diabetes but higher values in women with diabetes. About 30% of both patients and controls had vitamin D deficiency (≤50 nmol/L). Analyzed by binary logistic regression UEIs was not associated with 25(OH)D3 levels. In both patients and controls, 25(OH)D3 was correlated to apolipoprotein A1 (r = 0.153; 0.220, P < 0.001). Conclusion: In patients with type 1 diabetes and a duration of 20 years or more, vitamin D level is not lower than in nondiabetic controls and is not associated with UEIs.

Background: Lung cancer has been major cause of cancer related death and day by day Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases are increasing globally. Present study explored the link between SLC30A10 mRNA expression with vitamin-D level among the NSCLC patients. Methods: Present study included newly diagnosed 100 NSCLC patients and 100 healthy controls. Quantitative real time PCR was performed to check the SLC30A10 mRNA expression after cDNA synthesis from extracted total RNA from serum sample. Vitamin-D level was also analyzed in all the NSCLC patients by electrochemiluminscence based immunoassay method. Results: Present research work observed decreased SLC30A10 mRNA expression (0.16 fold) among the NSCLC patients, decreased SLC30A10 mRNA expression was linked with advanced stage (0.15 fold, P < 00001) of disease and distant organ metastases (0.11 fold, P < 00001) compared to its contrast. Decreased level of vitamin-D was also observed with advanced stage (17.98 ng/ml, P < 00001) of disease and distant organ metastases (16.23 ng/ml, P < 00001) compared to its contrast. Positive correlation was observed between SLC30A10 mRNA expression with vitamin-D level among the NSCLC patients suggesting decrease or increase in SLC30A10 mRNA expression mau decreases or increase the vitamin-D level. NSCLC patients with vitamin-D deficiency had 0.14 reduced SCL30A10 mRNA expression while insufficient (P = 0.06) and sufficient (P = 0.03) showed comparatively high SCL30A10 mRNA expression. Conclusion: Study concluded that down regulation of SLC30A10 mRNA and vitamin-D deficiency may involve in advancement of disease and distant organ metastases. It was also suggested that the decrease of increase in SLC30A10 expression may cause the decrease of increase in vitamin-D level among the NSCLC patients may be involved in disease severity and worseness of NSCLC disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Active metabolite of vitamin D has neuro-immunomodulatory and neuroprotective properties. However, there is still a debate about the potential association between low serum levels of hydroxy-vitamin D and increased risk for dementia. Objectives: To determine an association between hypovitaminosis D and dementia for different 25-hydroxyvitamin-D (25(OH)D) serum level cutoffs. Methods: Patients were identified utilizing the database of Clalit Health Services (CHS), the largest healthcare provider in Israel. For each subject, all available values of 25(OH)D during the study period, which lasted from 2002 to 2019, were obtained. Rates of dementia were compared across different cutoffs of 25(OH)D levels. Results: Cohort included 4278 patients, of whom 2454 (57%) were women. The mean age at the beginning of follow-up was 53 (±17). During the 17-year study period, a total of 133 patients (3%) were diagnosed with dementia. In a fully adjusted multivariate analysis, the risk for dementia was almost 2-fold higher in patients with an average of vitamin D insufficiency (<75 nmol/l) measurements (OR = 1.8, 95% C.I. = 1.0-3.2) compared to reference values (≥75 nmol/l). Patients with vitamin D deficiency (<50 nmol/l) demonstrated higher rates of dementia (OR = 2.6, 95% C.I. = 1.4-4.8). In our cohort, patients were diagnosed with dementia at a younger age in the deficiency (77 vs. 81 P -value = 0.05) and the insufficiency groups (77 vs. 81 P -value = 0.05) compared to the reference values (≥75 nmol/l). Conclusion: Insufficient levels of vitamin D are associated with dementia. Dementia is diagnosed at a younger age in patients with insufficient and deficient vitamin D levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Growing pain (GP) is the most common form of nonspecific, recurrent leg pain in children. Some studies have found an association of vitamin-D with the severity of GP and observed remarkable pain improvement after vitamin D supplementation. Objectives: To assess the severity of GP and serum level of vitamin D in children and to determine the association between them. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Paediatrics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Seventy children between 6-12 years were included in the study from March 2020 to August 2021. Children who fulfilled the Evans criteria of GP were enrolled and severity of GP was assessed by Wong-Baker Facies Scale in this study. Serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin-D [25(OH)D] levels were measured and subsequently their association with the severity of growing pain were determined. Results: In this study, 97.14% of growing pain patients had hypovitaminosis D and among them majority (87.14%) were vitamin D deficient. Moderate intensity of pain was found in 51.4% of children followed by severe (30%) and mild (18.6%) intensity of pain. Severity of pain was significantly associated with lower serum levels of vitamin D. Conclusion: It may be concluded that most of the children with GP had hypovitaminosis D and severity of pain significantly increased with the decrement of serum vitamin D level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: The objective of this study was to compare the effect of dietary vitamin D3 and 25-OH-D3 metabolite on performance, intestinal integrity, and vitamin-D status of broilers administered a 2X-dose coccidiosis vaccine. Broiler chicks were placed in floor pens for 21-day-trial-period. Experimental dietary treatments were formulated with a mineral-vitamin-premix devoid of D3 and supplemented with dietary 25-OH-D3 and/or vitamin-D3 from a commercially available source. The dietary treatments consisted of (Control) 2,750 IU/kg vitamin-D supplemented by D3, 2,750 IU/kg vitamin-D supplemented by a 25-OH-D3, 2,750 IU/kg vitamin-D supplemented 50:50 by D3 and 25-OH-D3, lastly 1,375 IU/kg vitamin D by 25-OH-D3. Birds were randomly assigned to vaccinated or not-vaccinated groups resulting in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized block design. Twenty-five-male Cobb500 broilers were placed per replicate with 6 pen replicates per treatment. Feed consumption (FC), body weights (BWs), and feed conversion (FCR) were calculated at d 7, 14, and 21. Serum concentration of 25-OH-D3, tibia breaking strength (TBS), and lesion scores were measured on d 10, and 21. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) in BW, FCR, and TBS between 25-OH-D3 dietary treatments and Control. Cumulative FCR was improved (P < 0.05) in one or more 25-OH-D3 treatments compared to Control. TBS at d 10 and 21 was greater (P < 0.05) between one or more 25-OH-D3 treatments compared to Control. Overall, the results indicate dietary 25-OH-D3 metabolite positively impacts TBS, 25-OH-D3 in serum, and performance. Dietary supplementation of 25-OH-D3 can provide an improved safety margin under a coccidiosis vaccine challenge than birds fed D3 alone.

Objective: Genetic polymorphisms in genes involved in growth process and Vitamin-D metabolism form a significant etiology behind growth hormone deficiency and short stature. The aim of this study was to explore for known and unknown genes and variants related to growth hormone and short stature in a family based study using whole exome sequencing (WES). Method: This family-based study included a family with members diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency, short stature and Vitamin-D deficiency (four boys affected and four boys non-affected). The participants were recruited from King Abdulaziz University Hospital (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia) and referred to King Fahad Centre for Medical Research (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia from April 2022 to June 2022. The consanguineous parents and one of the affected boys (aged 16 years old) underwent WES. Results: Several variants in RNPC3, ACAN, GC, VDR and LRP2 were identified in index cases but not in controls. Novel frameshift and splice region variants in RNPC3 (c.358dupA, p.Arg120fs) were detected. Other missense variants were also observed including variants in ACAN (c.2591C>T, c.2789G>T, c.2815T>A, c.4207A>G, c.4523A>C and c.7119C>G), GC (rs4588 and rs7041) and LRP2 (rs2075252 and rs1991517). A start loss variant in VDR (rs2228570) with high impact was also observed. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a potential association of these variants with growth hormone deficiency and short stature. In this study, novel pathogenic variants in RNPC3 were revealed as well as other variants in ACAN and in genes related to Vitamin-D metabolism (GC, VDR and LRP2) that some or all might be associated with growth hormone deficiency. Further large-scale studies are required to address the association of these variants with growth hormone deficiency and its subsequent short stature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The nephrotic syndrome is one of the best known clinical presentations of adult or pediatric nephropathy. Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by the association of heavy proteinuria with pedal edema, hypoalbuminemia, and hypercholesterolemia. Aims: To compare and correlate bone mineral density with biochemical parameters like serum calcium, phosphorus, vitamin-D, alkaline phosphatase, albumin and parathyroid hormone, in adults with nephrotic syndrome. Methodology: The study was Cross sectional observational study. The conducted in adult patients with nephrotic syndrome above 18 years of age with no primary bone pathology or metastatic disease. Biochemical parameters were assessed and correlated with bone mineral density by DXA scan of lumbar spine and neck of femur. Fifty patients of command hospital Kolkata (EC) were selected and compared with equal number of age and sex matched controls. All patients were selected from a period of 01 Jan 18 to 31 May 19. All underwent detailed clinical examination and investigations were done at the time of recruitment. Results: DXA scan results in cases of nephrotic syndrome show significantly low BMD for both lumbar spine and neck of femur with mean Z-scores less than -1.0 (P<0.001). Lumbar spine (L1-L4): Low BMD was found in 88 percent cases and 32 percent of controls (P < 0.001). Neck of femur: Low BMD was found in 44 percent cases and 10 percent controls (P<0.001). Cases with normal BMD had statistically significant lower levels of blood urea with mean 23 ± 4.53 mg/dl. Cases with osteopenia and osteoporosis had higher levels of blood urea with mean 54.13 ± 32.4 mg/dl and 66.85 ± 29.64 mg/dl respectively. Cases with normal BMD had higher levels of serum calcium with mean 7.67 ± 1.01 mg/dl. Cases with osteopenia and osteoporosis had serum calcium with mean 7.22 ± 0.88mg/dl and 7.26 ± 0.68 mg/dl respectively. However this comparison did not reach any statistical significance. Conclusion: Adults with nephrotic syndrome are at risk for low bone mineral density. These patients should undergo regular evaluations for mineral bone diseases and appropriate therapeutic interventions should be planned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alanoud Aladel,1 Fahmida Khatoon,2 Mohammad Idreesh Khan,3 Azzah Alsheweir,1 Malak Ghazi Almutairi,4 Sami Owaidh Almutairi,4 Faisal Khalid Almutairi,5 Kudaibergen Osmonaliev,6 Mirza Masroor Ali Beg6,7 1Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 2Biochemistry Department, College of Medicine, University of Ha’il, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia; 3Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Health Sciences in Ar Rass, Qassim University, Ar Rass, 51921, Saudi Arabia; 4Department of Clinical Nutrition, Almethnab General Hospital, Qassim Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Al Mithnab, Saudi Arabia; 5Laboratory Department, Armed Forces Hospital in Qassim, Medical Services, Ministry of Defense Qassim Buraydah Al-Rass, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia; 6Faculty of Medicine, Alatoo International University, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; 7Centre for Promotion of Medical Research, Bishkek, KyrgyzstanCorrespondence: Mirza Masroor Ali Beg, Email mirzamasroor1986@gmail.comObjective: Growing epidemics of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity have become a serious health concern. Since miRNAs and vitamin levels affect the development and progression of numerous pathogenic diseases, including diabetes, the present study aimed to evaluate miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 expression and vitamin-D status among obese and non-obese T2DM patients.Methods: The study included 100 clinically confirmed newly diagnosed obese and non-obese T2DM cases and 100 healthy subjects. Total RNA was extracted from collected blood samples and 100 ng of RNA was used for cDNA synthesis, then TaqMan assay was performed to evaluate the miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 relative expression.Results: T2DM cases with hypertension (4.08 fold, p=0.01; 5.36 fold, p=0.009), fatigue (5.07 fold, p=0.04; 5.32 fold, p=0.03) and blurred vision (5.15 fold, p=0.01) showed higher miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 relative expression compared with their counterparts, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 expression and decreased vitamin-D status in T2DM had significant association with impaired blood glucose fasting (p=0.001) and HDL level (p< 0.0001). Obese T2DM cases showed higher miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 expression compared with their counterparts. Vitamin-D deficient T2DM cases had higher miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 expression (5.69 fold, 5.91 fold) compared with insufficient (4.27 fold, p=0.03; 4.61 fold, p=0.03) and sufficient (4.08 fold, p=0.002; 4.29 fold, p=0.003). ROC curve for miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 between obese T2DM vs non-obese T2DM cases, at best possible cutoff value of 4.39 fold, 4.0 fold showed increased miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 expression, the sensitivity and specificity were 85%, 88% and 61%, 53% respectively (AUC=0.83, p< 0.0001; AUC=0.81, p< 0.0001).Conclusion: Higher miRNA-143 and miRNA-145 expression could be a predictive indicator for obese T2DM cases, decreased status of vitamin-D was also significantly associated with impaired fasting blood sugar and HDL level, therefore it is important to evaluate the vitamin-D status among T2DM cases for better clinical outcome during the intervention.Keywords: type 2 diabetes, obesity, vitamin-D, miRNA, expression, prognostic marker

Background: Bronchial asthma is a prevalent health problem. Asthma is characterized by chronic airway inflammation that is thought to have both genetic and environmental roots. Low vitamin D levels have been suspected for a long time as a possible cause of asthma. Lack of vitamin D has been connected to the rising incidence of asthma seen in recent decades. Objective: Assessment of vitamin D in children with bronchial asthma and its relation to severity of the disease. Methods: Vitamin D and bronchial asthma were searched for on Science Direct, Google Scholar, and PubMed. The authors also reviewed the relevant literature, however only the most recent or comprehensive study from April 2004 to August 2021 was included. There are no translation resources available, thus non-English documents are out. Unpublished articles, oral presentations, conference abstracts, and dissertations were not included because they were not considered to be part of major scientific projects. Conclusion: Whether or not vitamin D is associated with asthma and allergies is still up for debate. A higher risk of vitamin D deficiency has been associated with asthma, according to certain studies, Vitamin D supplements may increase allergy risk, according to several studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alanoud Aladel,1,&ast; Amit K Verma,2,&ast; Sadaf Dabeer,3 Irfan Ahmad,4 Mohammad Y Alshahrani,4 Mohammad S AboHassan,4 Mohammad Idreesh Khan,5,&ast; Malak Ghazi Almutairi,6 Mirza Masroor Ali Beg7,8 1Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India; 3Division of Endocrinology Metabolism, and Lipids, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; 4Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia; 5Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Health Sciences in Arras, Qassim University, Buraidah, Saudi Arabia; 6Department of Nutrition, Almethnab General Hospital, Qassim Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Al Mithnab, Saudi Arabia; 7Faculty of Medicine, Alatoo International University, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; 8Centre for Promotion of Medical Research, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Mirza Masroor Ali Beg, Email mirzamasroor1986@gmail.comBackground: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has risen to become the world’s most serious public health problem in recent years, and the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the onset and progression of T2DM, as well as special attention to vitamins, has gotten a lot of attention recently.Methods: The aim of the study was to analyze lncRNA LINC01173 expression along with assessment of vitamin-D and B12 among the T2DM cases. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to analyze the expression of lncRNA LINC01173. Vitamin-D and B12 were analyzed by chemiluminescence-based assay.Results: The present study observed that the T2DM cases had 6.67-fold increased lncRNA LINC01173 expression compared to healthy controls. Expression of lncRNA LINC01173 was found to be associated with hypertension (p=0.03), wound healing (p=0.04), and blurred vision (p< 0.0001). It was observed that the T2DM cases with vitamin-D deficiency had a significant association with fasting glucose level (p=0.01) and HbA1C level (p=0.01) among the T2DM cases. The association of lncRNA LINC01173 with vitamin-D was analyzed and it was observed that the vitamin-D deficient cases had higher lncRNA LINC01173 expression compared to insufficient T2DM cases (p=0.01) and sufficient T2DM cases (p=0.0006). It was also observed that the T2DM cases with smoking had a 8.33-fold lncRNA LINC01173 expression while non-smokers had a 5.43-fold lncRNA LINC01173 expression (p< 0.0001).Conclusion: The study concluded that the increased lncRNA LINC01173 expression was observed to be linked with alteration in vitamin-D level and smoking habit. Altered expression of lncRNA LINC01173 expression was linked with fasting glucose and HbA1C alteration. Collectively, lncRNA LINC01173 expression, vitamin-D alteration, as well as smoking habit may cause the disease severity and increase the pathogenesis of disease.Keywords: long noncoding RNA, vitamin-D, vitamin-B12, diabetes

Background: Patients with type 1 diabetes have a high prevalence of upper extremity impairments (UEIs), such as frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, and trigger finger. The UEIs are strongly associated with activity limitations and impaired quality of life. The etiology of the UEI is not clear. Vitamin D deficiency has been considered to play a role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes and in the development of macroand microvascular complications in diabetes. Aim: To characterize vitamin D status in a large population of patients with type 1 diabetes, if vitamin D deficiency is associated with metabolic factors and possible association with UEI. Material and methods: Patients who diagnosed before 35 years of age, whose diabetes duration >20 years, and who are not older than 65 years were invited to participate in this cross-sectional case-control, multicenter study. Controls matched for age and sex were obtained from the national population registry. Fasting blood samples were collected and stored at -80°C until analyzed regarding 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D3) by a liquid chromatographic-mass spectrometric method (LC-MS/MS). Results: Vitamin D levels varied with season as expected in the northern hemisphere. The association between 25(OH)D3 and clinical variables was analyzed in a univariate general linear model, which indicated no difference in 25(OH)D3 in men with and without diabetes but higher values in women with diabetes. About 30% of both patients and controls had vitamin D deficiency (≤50 nmol/L). Analyzed by binary logistic regression UEIs was not associated with 25(OH)D3 levels. In both patients and controls, 25(OH)D3 was correlated to apolipoprotein A1 (r = 0.153; 0.220, P < 0.001). Conclusion: In patients with type 1 diabetes and a duration of 20 years or more, vitamin D level is not lower than in nondiabetic controls and is not associated with UEIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: SARS-COV-2 is also known as coronavirus causes an infectious disease has caused a global concern due to its pandemic nature. In India, nearly 36 million cases and 5.1 lakh deaths have been recorded so far. Laboratory biomarkers play an important role in improving the clinical situational awareness by predicting risk stratification and by discriminating between severe and non-severe cases. There is no sufficient information available regarding the role of C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), Vitamin D, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the prognosis of COVID-19 patients in Southern part of India. Aims and Objectives: We aim to retrospectively analyze CRP, LDH, Vitamin D, and IL-6 in COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: The observational and retrospective study was carried out from the case records of 103 patients from November 2021 to February 2022 in which CRP, LDH, Vitamin D, IL-6, COVID-19 Reporting and Data System (CO-RADS), and CT sore were analyzed during admission and follow-up period in the hospital. Mean, mean difference, standard deviation, standard error difference, and P value were calculated. P

Background: Vitamin-D is one important steroid hormone in the body, which is obtained from direct sunlight and food or supplements. Objective: The current study aimed to evaluate the relationship between Vitamin-D levels and semen parameters among infertile men in Najaf Governorate. Patients and method: The study included sixty infertile men who presented to the Infertility Unit, Saad Medical City during the period from January 2020 to September 2020. The results were compared with the results of thirty healthy men as a control group. The level of Vitamin-D in the blood was detected using a French-origin Fujifilm machine, semen analysis, and sperm counting by using a Microcell counting chamber. Sperm morphology was evaluated by the Diff-Quick kit. Results: The results demonstrated that infertile men had average age of 34 ± 0.50 years and their mean body mass index (BMI) was 60.60 ± 5.06 kg/m². The results showed that the level of vitamin-D in the body recorded a significant decrease (P-value < 0.0001) in infertile men (12.55 ± 0.02) as compared to fertile men (43.16 ± 0.005). Conclusion: This study proved the positive relationship between the level of Vitamin-D and the levels of semen parameters, which can insure for the possibility of relying on the level of Vitamin-D in determining the cause of male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the association between low Vitamin-D status and risk of pre-eclampsia and preterm birth in women using low-dose Aspirin in the tertiary care setting. Study Design: Prospective comparative study. Place and Duration of Study: Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan from Sep 2018 to Sep 2019. Methodology: A total of 383 pregnant women were divided into three Groups. Pregnant women were included based on the criteria; if one of the five high-risk factors or more than one moderate risk factors were met. High-risk factors were; 1) Type-1 or 2 diabetes mellitus, 2) chronic hypertension, 3) hypertensive disease in previous pregnancy, 4) autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematous or antiphospholipid syndrome, 5) chronic kidney disease. Results: There were 127 pregnant women in Group-1 with Vitamin-D deficiency. In Group-2, there were pregnant women with Vitamin-D insufficiency; in Group-3, there were 18 pregnant women with Vitamin-D sufficiency. The mean Vitamin-D level in Group-1 was 22.40±1.50 nmol/L, the mean Vitamin-D level in Group-2 was 32.82±9.80nmol/L and in Group-3 mean Vitamin-D level was 76.63±8.00 nmol/L. Early onset pre-eclampsia, chronic hypertension with superimposed pre-eclampsia,gestational diabetes, spontaneous-vaginal delivery and delivery at term were found to statistically significant among the Groups (p

Edible mushrooms are in high demand due to their flavor and nutritional benefits. Mushrooms are a rich source of carbohydrates, with high fibre content and modest protein content containing the majority of the amino acids, and vitamins. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different pretreatment drying methods on the nutritional quality of dried mushrooms (Button and Oyster mushroom) and also to estimate the Vitamin D2 content. The experiment was carried out based on the three pretreatment techniques: SD, HD and UV + HD. Significant differences in proximate composition were observed between the fresh and dried mushroom samples. The average mean value of crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash, and carbohydrates of dried mushroom samples were 33.9, 19, 5.7, 10.8 and 98.1% respectively and found to be statistically significant too. Sundried oyster mushrooms had their vitamin D2 level increased by two folds in comparison with sundried button mushrooms. Finally, the intake of these mushrooms should be encouraged as a complement to impoverished people's main foods. As a result, addressing nutritional issues in children, pregnant women, and immune-compromised individuals is a necessity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The impact of vitamin D on COVID-19 infection has been much discussed recently. Our aim was to evaluate the association between baseline serum 25(OH)D with severity of COVID-19. Method This was an prospective study, where 174 COVID- 19 in-patients of an academic hospital in an urban setting were enrolled from Aug, 2020 to Oct, 2020. After detailed clinical history taking and examination, patients were divided into mild, moderate, severe and critical categories. Vitamin D level was measured. Relation between level of vitamin D and disease severity was determined. Result Mean age of the study population was 52.01 years. 13% mild, 22.99% moderate, 26.44% severe and 3.45% were critical cases. 76% of the patients had vitamin D deficiency. No statistical significance between the level of vitamin D and disease severity was seen (p= 0.430). Conclusion Our study revealed there is no correlation between vitamin D deficiency and severity of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study was carried out to investigate of the relationships between life satisfaction, optimism and happiness on blood lipid and Vitamin-D levels in people aged 55 and over. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 283 individuals over the age of 55. The survey consisted of two main parts. In the first part, there are 19 questions about the socio-demographic characteristics of the patients, their chronic disease status, alcohol and smoking habits, physical activity and sunbathing duration. In the second part, Life Satisfaction Scale, Life Orientation Test and Subjective Happiness Scale were used. The lipid parameters and Vitamin D levels were investigated as dependent variables. Socio-demographic characteristics of individuals, physical activity status, and average scores of scales were investigated as independent variables. Results: The results indicated that, LDL level was significantly and reverse associated with subjective happiness level. There was no significant relationship between other lipid parameters and subjective happiness level. It was determined that there was a significant and linear relationship between vitamin D level and life satisfaction and subjective happiness levels. Conclusion: Understanding the psychological characteristics and the factors affecting their psychology of individuals aged 55 and over may play a key role for a healthy population, prevention of cardiovascular diseases and low vitamin D deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Heart Failure is a leading cause of mortality worldwide including India. Most cross sectional studies have demonstrated heart failure is associated with deficiency of essential micronutrients including Vitamin D which may play a important role in pathogenesis of ventricular remodelling in heart failure. Aim: Our study performed aimed to determine the effect of supplementation in patients of Heart Failure presenting with Vitamin D deficiency to our institute on severity of Heart Failure. Design and Method: 97 patients of Heart failure coming to our institute were given conventional therapies for Heart Failure along with Vitamin supplementation based on serum Vitamin D levels and followed up for 3 months. Results: Patient of Heart failure having Vitamin D deficiency had significant reduction in cardiac biomarkers (NT-pro BNP levels), improvement in Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and more favourable reverse remodelling determined by Left ventricular end diastolic and systolic diameter (LVEDD & LVESD) though quality of life determined by WHODAS 2.0 score did not changed following 12 weeks supplementation of High Dose Vitamin D. Conclusion: Recognising and treatment of Vitamin D deficiency may determine long term prognosis in patients of Heart Failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the evaluation of bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) by ultrasonic bone mineral density measurement combined with Vitamin-D deficiency and its influencing factors. Methods: A total of 100 patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) admitted to our hospital from January 2017 to December 2020 were selected as the GDM group, and another 100 pregnant volunteers who underwent physical examination in our hospital were selected as the healthy control group. The levels of triacylglycerol (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting insulin (FINS), C-peptide, procollagen, parathyroid hormone (PTH), serum calcium, 25-hydroxyvitamin-D3 (25-OH-D) and ultrasonic BMD Z-score were determined and compared between the two groups. Moreover, the effects of different levels of 25-OH-D on the above indexes were compared, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. Results: Compared with the healthy reference group, the levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, PTH, HbA1c, FINS and C-peptide of GDM group were significantly increased (P < 0.05), while BMD Z-score and 25-OH-D levels were significantly decreased. In the GDM group, the lower the 25-OH-D levels, the higher the FPG, HbA1c and FINS levels and the lower the serum calcium level and BMD Z-score, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that 25-OH-D was an independent risk factor affecting BMD in patients with GDM (P<0.05). Conclusions: Patients with GDM have lower BMD and 25-hydroxyVitamin-D3 levels. Measurement of BMD and 25-hydroxyVitamin-D3 levels can help assess the progression of GDM. BMD has a close bearing on Vitamin-D deficiency in patients with GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To perform a correlation analysis of serum 25-hydroxy Vitamin-D[25-OH-D], bone turnover markers (BTMs), and bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during mid- and late pregnancy and state the significance of these factors for guiding clinical prevention and control of GDM. Methods: This study involved 100 pregnant women with singleton pregnancies who visited our obstetrics and gynecology department, Baoding First Central Hospital, during January 2019 and December 2020. All participants had received more than five prenatal checkups and were assigned to a GDM group and a normal group according to the presence of GDM during the mid-pregnancy period. Serum 25-OH-D, BMD, and bone turnover markers (BTMs) were measured to analyze the differences between the two groups and observe possible correlations among these factors. Results: According to the examination results, GDM occurred in 31 (31%) participants, and the rest 69 (69%) were free of GDM during mid-pregnancy. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in basic clinical data and the serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglyceride (TG) (p>0.05), whereas the fasting blood glucose (FBG) level in the GDM group was significantly higher than in the normal group (p<0.05). The serum 25-OH-D and BMD levels in the GDM group were lower than in the normal group, whereas the bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), osteocalcin (OC), procollagen type I propeptide (PINP), and beta-isomerized C-terminal telopeptide (β-CTx) levels in the GDM group were significantly higher than in the normal group, with the differences showing statistical significance (p<0.05, respectively). The results of Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed that serum 25-OH-D was positively correlated with BMD (r =0.183, P <0.05) and negatively correlated with such BTMs as BALP, OC, PINP, and β-CTx (r = -0.255, -0.369, -0.204, -0.610; p<0.05). Conclusion: During mid and late pregnancy, GDM patients are prone to Vitamin-D deficiency, which has an adverse effect on bone turnover, BMD, and even the health of the mother and the development of the fetus. Therefore, routine screening for Vitamin-D deficiency is recommended throughout pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prodrug Olmesartan Medoxomil (OM) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) and a vitamin D Receptor (VDR) agonist. Reducing the inflammation and improving the immune system OM prevents organ damage. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) can raise serum and tissue levels of the membrane-bound form of monocarboxypeptidase angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Increased ACE2 activity causes the balance in the RAAS to shift towards the positive ACE2-Ang-(1-7). Therefore It can be useful with anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic and anti-oxidative stress signals in the treatment of immune system diseases. OM is also known to have adverse effects, such as celiac-like enteropathy which was accepted by the FDA. The mechanism of OM's intestinal injury is thought to be the excessive consumption of the enzymes POX1 and carboxymethylenebutenolidase, which are also responsible for the the digestion of gliadin during the hydrolysis of the drug. Cell-mediated immune response and genetic predisposition are the other factors. Our histopathological findings of olmesartan-induced celiac-like enteropathy in rat intestines were increased mononuclear cell infiltration and villous atrophy. In this study these various action mechanisms of OM and its possible immun system booster effects were discussed. The findings of our rat intestines after exposure to OM-Suspension supported and correlated clinical findings of OM. In conclusion, by making extensive evaluations, OM can be a promising immunomodulator agent in immune system diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past few years, the prosthodontic educational and research focus evolved beyond traditional therapeutic approaches. This progress resulted from three major initiatives. First, materials research has simplified impression-making protocol and denture relining technique. Second, improved understanding of the role and particularly the limitations of mechanical analogs for the masticatory system (i.e., articulators). The third initiative, and the major research and educational catalyst, has been the technique of osseointegration, which has had a profound impact on research and education in virtually all our clinical endeavors. As a result, the consequences of an aging edentulous environment or a terminal dentition have been more successfully addressed than ever before and many clinicians even began to forecast the demise of the complete denture technique. Thankfully though, the initial euphoria resulting from the availability of implant-supported solutions has now ablated, and a more realistic assessment has emerged. In this article, emphasis more on correlation of senile osteoporosis and role of Vitamin D in relation to the success of oral implantology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: H-pylori is a major public health problem that leads to a plethora of gastrointestinal problems. Treatment of Helicobacter Pylori has been found to reduce the burden of chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers. The role of Vitamin-D in the eradication of H-pylori has been investigated in numerous observational and experimental studies. We conducted this systematic review to review and synthesize the findings on the role of Vitamin-D in eradicating H-pylori infection from the human body. Methods: This review systematically synthesizes the evidence from published research studies conducted between 2010 and 2022. The review was conducted by using an updated PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) checklist. An electronic systematic literature search was carried out using PubMed and CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature). The primary outcome was the eradication of H-pylori from the stomach of the human body. Whereas the primary exposure or intervention serum vitamin-D levels. Results: Ten articles were incorporated into the review. The findings from all studies revealed a positive role of serum vitamin-D in the eradication of H-pylori infection. Levels of Vit-D were inversely associated with H-pylori infection (P<0.001). The rate of eradication was 70 to 77.5% among study participants. Mean levels of Vitamin-D were significantly higher in the successful treatment group than in the failure group (P<0.0001). Conclusion: The current review findings demonstrated a positive role of serum vitamin-D levels in the eradication of H-pylori infection with consistent findings across the studies. Future studies are recommended to conduct randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy of vitamin-D supplementation in the eradication of H-pylori and various mechanisms by which vitamin D plays such an important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Since the birth of Christ, in these 2019 years, the man on earth has never experienced a survival challenge from any acellular protist compared to SARS-CoV-2. No specific drugs yet been approved. The host immunity is the only alternative to prevent and or reduce the infection and mortality rate as well. Here, a novel mechanism of melanin mediated host immunity is proposed having potent biotechnological prospects in health care management of COVID-19. Vitamin D is known to enhance the rate of melanin synthesis; and this may concurrently regulate the expression of furin expression. In silico analyses have revealed that the intermediates of melanin are capable of binding strongly with the active site of furin protease. On the other hand, furin expression is negatively regulated via 1-α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), that belongs to vitamin-D pathway and controls cellular calcium levels. Here, we have envisaged the availability of biological melanin and elucidated the bio-medical potential. Thus, we propose a possible synergistic application of melanin and the enzyme CYP27B1 (regulates vitamin D biosynthesis) as a novel strategy to prevent viral entry through the inactivation of furin protease and aid in boosting our immunity at the cellular and humoral levels.

Background: Acute Otitis media (AOM) and its recurrence is a prevalent health problem among pre-school children. Different strategies to prevent recurrent have been established with questionable efficacy. Vitamin D is suspected as a possible preventable risk factor. Aim of the work:To evaluate the effect of vitamin-D supplementation on recurrence rate of acute otitis media among Pre-school children. Patients and Methods:60 pre-school children with a recurrent episode of acute otitis media [by history and otoscopic examination] were included. After diagnosis, all children received standard treatment and after recovery, serum levels of vitamin-D were estimated; those with reduced vitamin D had been included, then divided into: Study group (30 children, received oral vitamin-D supplementation for 4 months; and Control group (30 children; received placebo). New attacks of AOM had been document during the regular visits for the six months. Vitamin D had been re-estimated after 6 months. Results: Both groups were comparable regarding studied variables at the start. Upper respiratory tract infection and ear discharge significantly decreased; vitamin D significantly increased among study group at 6 months. Recurrent AOM after 6 months, had been significantly reduced among study vs control group (1.43±0.62 vs 3.46±0.62 respectively). Also, vitamin-D significantly increased at the end in study vs control group (21.76±5.95 vs 14.53±4.73 ng/ml respectively). The mean percentage of increase of vitamin-D in study group was 135.98% compared to 33.91%. In control group. Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation to children with a history of rAOM plays a significant role in reduction of attack frequency.

Objective: To determine the association of Vitamin-D insufficiency during pregnancy with maternal & perinatal morbidity and mortality. Study Design: Prospective cohort study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, PNS Shifa Karachi, from Dec 2017 to Dec 2018. Methodology: A total of 585 pregnant females who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were booked at or before 20 weeks of gestation. Serum vitamin–D3 levels [25(OH)D], Doppler studies and serial measurements of blood pressures were done and the patients were observed for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), low birth weight (LBW), development of pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) and outcomes of pregnancy like still birth and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions. Results: A total of 585 patients were enrolled in the study out of which 394 (67.4%) were found to be vitamin–D deficient. Sixty seven babies (11.5%) had IUGR [31=vitamin-D deficient mothers, 36=non-deficient mothers] (RR=0.660). Increased Doppler indices were seen in 108 (18.5%) of the babies [87=Vitamin-D deficient mothers, 21=non-deficient mothers] (RR=1.25). A total of 128 babies (22%) were low birth weight (LBW) [93=vitamin D deficient mothers, 35=non-deficient mothers] (RR=1.103). Two (0.34%) still births were seen in vitamin-D deficient patients (RR=1.48). 14% babies required neonatal intensive care [53=vitamin-D deficient mothers, 28=non-deficient mothers] (RR=0.967). Eighty three (14.2%) cases of maternal hypertension [54=vitamin-D deficient mothers, 29=non-deficient mothers] (RR=0.961). Conclusion: Increased doppler indices, low birth weight and still birth had statistically significant association with vitamin D deficiency.

Background: Deficiency of vitamin-D (Vit-D) was associated with poor survival outcome in several studies across different tumour types. The present study aims to assess the prevalence and prognostic value of Vit-D deficiency among breast cancer patients in a single institution in Saudi Arabia. Methods: In this retrospective study, we screened patients who presented with non-metastatic breast cancer to King Abdullah Medical City, Saudi Arabia from June 2011 to December 2015. We checked baseline Vit-D level before starting systemic therapy in addition to other clinicopathological factors. Low Vit-D was defined as Vit-D level less than 30 ng /ml. The relations of Vit-D level (taking the median as the cutoff) with clinicopathological factors were assessed using Chi-Square test. Differences in survival outcome were compared using log rank test. Results: We screened 340 patients with non-metastatic breast cancer. Baseline Vit-D levels were available for 189 patients. The median age was 50 years (range: 26- 86 years). Noteworthy, 169 (89.4%) of patients had Vit-D level

Background: Bronchial asthma Affecting 1-18% of children in different countries, it widely distributed chronic respiratory disease. vitamin-D increase calcium absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, determines bone health and regulates neuromuscular function. In addition, vitamin-D is a potent immune system regulator, and it has a potential role in various allergic diseases. Aim of the work: To estimate the association between asthma and Vitamin-D in pediatrics. Patients and methods: The present work is a case control study included 150 (100 asthmatic children and 50 healthy control) children aged between 5 and 12 years. Serum 25- hydroxy vitamin-D levels were evaluated and compared between two groups. Association between vitamin-D and pulmonary function was studied in asthmatic children. Results: Cases had significantly lower values of FEV1%, FEV1/FVC ratio and vitamin-D levels when compared to controls (53.20±6.27, 68.64±4.42, 24.44±20.92 vs 126.44±10.15, 107.20±5.05 and 84.25±41.79 successively). In addition, vitamin-D was positively and significantly correlated with pulmonary function tests (FEV1% and FEV1/FVC ratio). Conclusion: Children with bronchial asthma suffered from marked reduction of vitamin-D which correlated with asthma severity.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) significantly impacts children's neurological development, behaviour, and overall well-being, affecting academic performance and social interactions. This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of dietary interventions (DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, Vitamin D3 supplementation, magnesium, and impact of artificial food colors and marine oils) and supplements alongside standard pharmacotherapy in managing ADHD symptoms. Adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, we extensively searched various databases for studies published from 2016 to 2022. Out of an initial pool of 7873 records, 14 randomized controlled trials met our inclusion criteria following rigorous screening. Our findings suggest that gluten-free diets may alleviate ADHD symptoms despite negative celiac serology, highlighting the role of non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Moreover, vitamin and mineral supplements like vitamin D and magnesium showed varying degrees of effectiveness in improving behavioural and emotional symptoms. Innovative treatments, such as combining saffron with methylphenidate and using marine oil extracts, also demonstrated potential in enhancing behaviours associated with ADHD. The review underscores the importance of dietary approaches, such as the DASH diet and specific exclusions (e.g., a few foods diet and an oligoantigenic diet), in managing symptoms by addressing nutritional factors. Studies on probiotics and interventions targeting gut microbiota composition yielded mixed results, necessitating further exploration. Limitations include study diversity and short-term outcome assessments, cautioning against broad generalizations. Integrating personalized dietary assessments and interventions into ADHD treatment strategies could optimize therapeutic outcomes and potentially reduce reliance on pharmacotherapy alone. In summary, this systematic review highlights the potential benefits of dietary modifications and supplements in managing ADHD symptoms. Future research should prioritize long-term efficacy, interactions with conventional medications, and personalized dietary approaches to refine ADHD treatment strategies., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Abhishek et al.)

Diabetes, a metabolic disease associated with an increased health care burden and mortality, is currently on the rise. Both upregulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and decreased levels of vitamin D (VD) and l-cysteine (LC) have been associated with diabetes. The overactivation of mTOR leads to insulin desensitization and metabolic dysfunction including uncontrolled hyperglycemia. This review summarizes various studies that have shown an inhibitory effect of VD or LC on mTOR activity. Findings from preclinical studies suggest that optimizing the VD and LC status in patients with diabetes can result in mTOR suppression, which has the potential to protect these individuals from microvascular and macrovascular complications while enhancing the regulation of their blood glucose. Given this information, finding ways to suppress mTOR signaling and also increasing VD and LC status is a possible therapeutic approach that might aid patients with diabetes. Future clinical trials are needed to investigate whether VD and LC co-supplementation can successfully downregulate mTOR and can be used as adjuvant therapy in patients with diabetes.

Background: Maternal vitamin-D and omega-3 fatty acid (DHA) deficiencies during pregnancy have previously been associated with offspring neurodevelopmental traits. However, observational study designs cannot distinguish causal effects from confounding., Methods: First, we conducted Mendelian randomisation (MR) using genetic instruments for vitamin-D and DHA identified in independent genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Outcomes were (1) GWAS for traits related to autism and ADHD, generated in the Norwegian mother, father, and child cohort study (MoBa) from 3 to 8 years, (2) autism and ADHD diagnoses. Second, we used mother-father-child trio-MR in MoBa (1) to test causal effects through maternal nutrient levels, (2) to test effects of child nutrient levels, and (3) as a paternal negative control., Results: Associations between higher maternal vitamin-D levels on lower ADHD related traits at age 5 did not remain after controlling for familial genetic predisposition using trio-MR. Furthermore, we did not find evidence for causal maternal effects of vitamin-D/DHA levels on other offspring traits or diagnoses. In the reverse direction, there was evidence for a causal effect of autism genetic predisposition on lower vitamin-D levels and of ADHD genetic predisposition on lower DHA levels., Conclusions: Triangulating across study designs, we did not find evidence for maternal effects. We add to a growing body of evidence that suggests that previous observational associations are likely biased by genetic confounding. Consequently, maternal supplementation is unlikely to influence these offspring neurodevelopmental traits. Notably, genetic predisposition to ADHD and autism was associated with lower DHA and vitamin-D levels respectively, suggesting previous associations might have been due to reverse causation.

Background Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disorder that results in the destruction of pancreatic beta cells, causing a shortage of insulin secretion. The development of T1D is influenced by both genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as vitamin D. This vitamin is known for its ability to regulate the immune system and has been associated with a decreased risk of T1D. However, the specific ways in which vitamin D affects immune regulation and the preservation of beta cells in T1D are not yet fully understood. Gaining a better understanding of these interactions is essential for identifying potential targets for preventing and treating T1D. Methods The analysis focused on two Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets, namely, GSE55098 and GSE50012, to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Enrichr (Ma'ayan Laboratory, New York, NY) was used to perform enrichment analysis for the Gene Ontology (GO) biological process and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. The Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes 12.0 (STRING) database was used to generate a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. The Cytoscape 3.10.1 (Cytoscape Team, San Diego, CA) was used to analyze the PPI network and discover the hub genes. Results The DEGs in both datasets were identified using the GEO2R tool, with a particular focus on genes exhibiting contrasting regulations. Enrichment analysis unveiled the participation of these oppositely regulated DEGs in processes relevant to the immune system. Cytoscape analysis of the PPI network revealed five hub genes, MNDA, LILRB2, FPR2, HCK, and FCGR2A, suggesting their potential role in the pathogenesis of T1D and the response to vitamin D. Conclusion The study elucidates the complex interaction between vitamin D metabolism and immune regulation in T1D. The identified hub genes provide important knowledge on the molecular pathways that underlie T1D and have the potential to be targeted for therapeutic intervention. This research underscores the importance of vitamin D in the immune system's modulation and its impact on T1D development., Competing Interests: Human subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve human participants or tissue. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Hussein et al.)

Background : Pregnancy is a critical period where optimal maternal and fetal health depends on adequate nutritional status. Deficiencies in essential vitamins, such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folate, can result in adverse health outcomes. Objective : This study aims to assess the serum levels of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folate in early pregnancy. Methodology : This cross-sectional research was conducted at Kurdistan Private Hospital in Duhok, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, from September 2022 to October 2023. The study included 150 pregnant women, with ages ranging from 18 to 45 years. Serum levels of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folate were measured using the Automatic Clinical Chemistry Analyzer COBAS e 411 (Roche Diagnostics, Basel, Switzerland). Results : The mean age of the participants was 29 years (standard deviation [SD] = 6.2 years), with ages ranging from 18 to 45 years. The average serum human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) level was 4,292 mIU/mL (SD = 3,947 mIU/mL), with a range of 98 to 10,000 mIU/mL. The mean serum levels were 17.8 ng/mL (SD = 11.6) for vitamin D, 367 pg/mL (SD = 245) for vitamin B12, and 11.5 ng/mL (SD = 4.6) for folate. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was significant, with 92 participants (61.3%) having levels below 20 ng/mL, 39 participants (26%) having insufficient levels ranging from 20 to 29 ng/mL, and only 19 participants (12.7%) having sufficient levels between 30 and 100 ng/mL. No cases of vitamin D toxicity (>150 ng/mL) were observed. Regarding vitamin B12, 32 participants (21.3%) had deficient levels (<200 pg/mL), while 118 participants (78.7%) had normal levels. Folate analysis revealed that 3 participants (2%) had moderate deficiency (2-3 ng/mL), 14 participants (9.3%) had mild deficiency (3-6 ng/mL), and there were no cases of severe folate deficiency (<2 ng/mL). Pearson correlation analysis showed weak correlations between the study variables, with the strongest being a weak negative correlation between age and serum folate levels (-0.18). Conclusions : The study found a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among the pregnant women included in the study, while the levels of folate and vitamin B12 were comparable to worldwide estimates. These findings focus attention on the importance of monitoring and addressing nutritional deficiencies at the beginning and throughout pregnancy. They also underline the need for preventive health interventions to correct these deficiencies and achieve the best outcomes for both maternal and fetal health., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Duhok Medical College, University of Duhok/Kurdistan Regional Government, Iraq issued approval 1312F. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mustafa et al.)

Objective: To explore the clinical value of Vitamin-D combined with budesonide/formoterol (BF) and theophylline sodium glycinate (TSG) sustained-release tablets in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)., Methods: Medical records of 114 patients with CODP, treated in Wenzhou Geriatric Hospital from October 2020 to February 2023, were retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 59 received treatment with Vitamin-D combined with BF and TSG sustained-release tablets (Group-A), and 55 patients received treatment with BF combined with TSG sustained-release tablets (Group-B). Lung function indicators, blood gas status, inflammatory factors, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels before and after the treatment in both groups were collected., Results: After the treatment, lung function indicators, blood gas status, inflammatory factors, FeNO, and 25 (OH) D levels in both groups were significantly improved compared to pretreatment levels, and were significantly better in the Group-A compared to Group-B (P<0.05)., Conclusions: The combination of Vitamin-D, BF, and TSG sustained-release tablets can effectively regulate the blood gas status of patients with COPD, improve lung function, regulate FeNO and 25 (OH) D, and effectively downregulate the levels of inflammatory factors, thus reducing the degree of inflammatory response., (Copyright: © Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences.)

The transformation or dissemination of knowledge and awareness about vitamin D and its benefits in the community at large appears to be lacking. The present review is an attempt to summarize the awareness and knowledge regarding vitamin D among Indian population. A review was carried out to summarize the awareness and knowledge regarding vitamin D among Indian population. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar from inception till March 2021 to identify all relevant articles. A total of 4 cross-sectional studies conducted among the Indian population having a sample size from 113 to 599, who studied the knowledge, awareness and attitude regarding vitamin D were included in the present review. The present review indicates the need for conducting educational awareness programme via using platform of E-media for the dissemination of education among Indian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the Calcium (Ca) and Phosphate (Ph) homeostasis and their association with plasma 25(OH)2 vitamin D3 (VitD3) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in patients with recurrent nephrolithiasis. Methods: A cross-sectional, involved 100 confirmed patients with renal stone (RS). Their serum levels of Ca, PTH, Ph, and VitD3 had assessed. Biochemical analysis of renal calculi and crystals had been investigated also. The summary measures had described as mean+/–SD for continuous variables and frequencies/percentage for nominal variables. The mean serum Ca, Ph, PTH, and VitD3 were (8.01 ± 2.2 mg/dl, 2.9 ± 1.2 mg/dl, 56.7 ± 24.7 pg/dl, and 7.03 ± 4.2 pg/ml), respectively. Results: Almost all patients (97%) had a positive history of previous RS with a predominant family history in most instances (82%). There was a positive non-significant correlation between VitD3 with serum Ph and Ca. Whereas an inverse non-significant correlation between PTH with serum Ca and VitD3 had observed. Urinary crystals analysis revealed that uric acid represented 53% of the total crystals, followed by Ca-oxalate. Stone analyses revealed that around 3/4th of the cases had Ca-oxalate stone, followed by Ca-oxalate with uric acid, then Ca-phosphate, and the least type was mixed stone types. Conclusion: There was a positive non-significant correlation between VitD3 with serum Ph and Ca. There was an inverse non-significant correlation between PTH with serum Ca and VitD3. Serum Ca, and Ph were non-significant predictors of renal stones and/or urinary crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]