Search Results (3,246)

Background/Objectives: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in higher-latitude regions and among older adults, and has been linked to depressive symptoms and cognitive decline, although the neurobiological link remains unclear. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be a key modulator and mediator of vitamin D-related neuroprotection. Methods: Selected databases (2009–2025) were searched for specific studies reporting vitamin D exposure, BDNF, and mood or cognitive outcomes. Risk of bias was appraised with RoB 2, Newcastle–Ottawa Scale or SYRCLE. Results: Thirteen studies were included. High-dose vitamin D improves mood primarily when levels are low. Supplementation of at least 2000 IU/day for 12 weeks reduced BDI scores by 1.7–7.6 points and increased BDNF levels by ~7%. Each 1 ng/mL increase in 25(OH)D levels decreased the likelihood of depressive symptoms, especially when BDNF levels were high. In animal studies vitamin D increases hippocampal BDNF and reverses stress-induced depressive behavioral deficits. Adequate vitamin D intake is associated with improved cognitive performance and a dose-dependent increase in BDNF. Each 10 ng/mL increase in 25(OH)D was associated with a 0.6-point increase in MMSE scores and a 15% increase in serum BDNF. Low vitamin D status in children may predict cognitive decline. Animal studies have shown that supplementation with 500–10,000 IU/kg for at least 3 weeks increased hippocampal BDNF and improved biochemical markers of aging. Conclusions: Vitamin D supplementation may support mood and cognition via BDNF modulation, especially in people with insufficient vitamin D levels (<30 ng/mL), but long-term, adequately powered studies with objective tools are required. Full article

Objective: The association between right ventricular myocardial fiber deformation and nutrition in weightlifters has not been fully characterized. This study analyzed nutritional factors and right ventricle speckle tracking echocardiography parameters in weightlifters before and after bench press exercises. Methods: This interventional study examined the effects of bench press exercises on myocardial function. Nutritional parameters were assessed prior to exercise. Echocardiography with speckle tracking using vector velocity analysis was performed before and immediately after the bench press exercise. This study included a group of non-elite athlete weightlifters and a non-athlete control group to compare right myocardial function. In the athlete group, transthoracic echocardiograms (TTEs) were conducted before and after the exercise to assess changes in systolic and diastolic right heart function. A cohort of 30 weightlifters from 2014 who continued regular training was re-evaluated in 2024, and nutritional data were collected. Data analyses included ANOVA and Student’s T-tests, and correlation coefficients were calculated to explore associations with speckle tracking results. Results: This study involved 211 male weightlifters and a control group of 60 non-athletes. Measured values for the control group and athletes before and after bench press exercise were as follows: right longitudinal global strain (−27.31 ± 1.47, −23.55 ± 2.37, −30.98 ± 2.12); right global longitudinal strain rate (−1.79 ± 0.078, −1.48 ± 0.33, −2.88 ± 0.259 1/s), all p < 0.001; and isovolumic acceleration (2.38 ± 0.22, 3.52 ± 0.15, 6.66 ± 0.88 m/s², p < 0.001). Following exercise, right intraventricular synchrony increased, and longitudinal strain delay decreased (144.88 ± 22.52, 168.92 ± 29.35, 98.27 ± 12.11 ms, p < 0.001). The follow-up group demonstrated a similar response to exercise as the other weightlifters. Right ventricular longitudinal strain showed correlations with protein, vitamin E, and zinc levels (R² = 0.399, p = 0.021; R² = 0.378, p = 0.03; R² = 0.566, p < 0.01), and right ventricular radial velocities correlated with group B vitamins. Conclusions: Weightlifters show less right ventricular deformity before exercise compared to controls, but their strain increases significantly post-exercise. Speckle tracking values might correlate with nutrition. Full article

Three popular cultivated mushroom species (Agaricus bisporus, Lentinula edodes, and Pleurotus ostreatus) were biopreserved through a directed lactic acid fermentation process. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain EK11 obtained from A. bisporus fruiting bodies subjected to spontaneous lactic acid fermentation was used as a starter culture. Regardless of the mushroom species, the pH value on experimental day 7 was ≤3.75, which guarantees the shelf life of fermented products; however, it decreased to 3.51–3.6 during refrigerated storage. The number of lactic acid bacteria in the final products exceeded 7 log colony forming units per mL. The fermentation process significantly reduced the caloric value and the digestible carbohydrate content, regardless of the mushroom species. It also reduced the protein content in the P. ostreatus and L. edodes. The protein in all the analyzed samples was composed of all essential amino acids, with the dominance of glutamic and aspartic acids responsible for the umami flavor. The fermentation process significantly improved the fatty acid profile, increasing the proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the P. ostreatus and L. edodes. The fermented mushrooms contained significantly lower amounts of thiamine and riboflavin than the fresh ones, except for L. edodes, where the vitamin B1 content was unchanged. The starter used did not have the ability to synthesize biogenic amines. The fermented mushrooms achieved organoleptic scores ranging from 6.83 to 8.04 on a 9-point scale. L. plantarum strain EK11 can be regarded as a suitable starter culture for lactic acid fermentation of mushrooms. Full article

This case report presents a unique constellation of symptoms—including dry eye disease, visual and general asthenia, sleep disturbances, and restless legs syndrome—in a patient with a recent history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. While these symptoms have individually been associated with either COVID-19 or long COVID, their concurrent presentation and the simultaneous, positive response across all manifestations to a combined therapeutic regimen have not been previously described in a single case. The patient demonstrated notable improvement in both ocular and systemic symptoms following a six-week treatment with topical tear substitutes and oral administration of melatonin, and a multivitamin supplement including B-complex vitamins, antioxidants, and neuroprotective agents (Colinplus Delta^®, Farmaplus Italia Srl, Via Giovanni Porzio 4, 80143 Napoli, Italy). This response suggests a possible shared pathophysiological mechanism underlying these manifestations, potentially involving post-viral neuroinflammation, immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, or autonomic dysfunction. This case report highlights the need for an increased awareness of the interconnected nature of ocular and neurological symptoms in long COVID and supports further research into non-invasive, multimodal treatment strategies for this emerging clinical spectrum. Full article

Folic acid and its derivatives (e.g., folinic acid) are a group of water-soluble compounds collectively known as vitamin B9. Synthetic folic acid is a component of dietary supplements, medications and other pharmaceuticals and fortified foods. Folinic acid (5-formyltetrahydrofolic acid) is the active metabolite of folic acid. It is used to treat vitamin B9 deficiency and as an adjunct to various combination therapies. Hypersensitivity reactions to folic acid or folinic acid are rare and occur following exposure to synthetic folic acid or its derivatives but not on natural folates. In people allergic to folates, cross-reactions are possible following exposure to folic acid analogues (including antifolates, e.g., methotrexate). The mechanism of hypersensitivity to folic acid and/or folinic acid has not been clearly established. Both IgE-dependent and non-IgE-dependent hypersensitivity reactions are likely. It is possible that folic or folinic acid is either an immunogen or a hapten. Diagnosing hypersensitivity to folic/folinic acid is difficult. There are no validated in vitro or in vivo diagnostic tests. The basophil activation test (BAT) appears to be a promising tool for diagnosing folate allergy. The aims of the manuscript were to review published clinical cases of hypersensitivity reactions to folic or folinic acid, potential mechanisms of these reactions and possible cross-allergies, and current diagnostic possibilities of folate hypersensitivity. Full article

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) associated with hyperlipidemia is a prevalent metabolic disorder, often triggered by high-fat diets (HFDs) in animal models. Amaranthus graecizans L. (AGs), rich in bioactive compounds, offers potential antioxidant and lipid-lowering benefits, making it a candidate for natural liver protection. This study evaluated the protective role of Amaranthus graecizans L. against hyperlipidemia-induced NAFLD in rats. Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats (150 ± 20 g, 10 weeks old) were split into five groups (n = 6 each). A control group received 0.25 mL 0.1% DMSO orally. Four HFD-fed groups included one with only DMSO (0.25 mL) and three supplemented with AG solution (0.25 mL) at 100, 200, or 500 mg/kg body weight. Treatments were given daily via gavage for two months. AGs’ nutritional profile, serum lipids, liver function, and liver histology were analyzed. Results: AGs contain 21.3% protein, 1.1% fat, 15% fiber, moderate vitamins (ascorbic acid, B-complex), and minerals (high potassium, calcium; low magnesium, phosphorus, sodium). AG-treated rats weighed less than the HFD controls. Unlike the control group (normal lipids, liver function, no steatosis), the HFD rats showed severe hyperlipidemia, liver dysfunction, and steatosis with fat changes. The AG groups exhibited dose-dependent improvements in lipids and liver function; the 200 mg/kg group had reduced fatty changes, and the 500 mg/kg group showed minimal hepatocyte fat. Conclusions: Amaranthus graecizans L. reduces hyperlipidemia and NAFLD progression in HFD-fed rats, which suggests its potential as a natural liver-protective agent. Full article

Background/Objectives: Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is linked to increased cardiovascular risk, particularly in individuals with hypertension. This study examined the association between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and vascular inflammation among individuals with hypertension living in rural and peri-urban areas of Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. Methods: A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted among 47 participants (23 rural, 24 peri-urban). Data on dietary intake, smoking, alcohol use, anthropometry, and blood chemistry were collected. Serum intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. Partial correlation analysis was used to examine associations with lifestyle factors, adjusting for relevant covariates. Results: Peri-urban participants had significantly higher levels of ICAM-1 [83.0 vs. 50.1 ng/mL], VCAM-1 [639.3 vs. 376.5 ng/mL], and IL-6 [4.80 vs. 1.02 pg/mL] compared to rural participants. Rural individuals reported higher intakes of antioxidant-related nutrients (selenium, β-carotene, niacin, vitamins A, B6, and C), while peri-urban individuals had higher sugar intake. Sugar intake was positively associated with ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, whereas selenium and vitamin C were inversely associated with both ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, while vitamin B6 was inversely associated with VCAM-1 only. Although rural participants had a higher rate of current smoking (34.8% vs. 4.4%), smoking and alcohol use were not significantly associated with inflammatory markers. Conclusion: Rural dietary patterns may be linked to reduced vascular adhesion molecule levels. Further studies with larger samples are warranted to clarify these associations and guide lifestyle strategies for managing vascular inflammation in PM_2.5-exposed individuals with hypertension. Full article

This study evaluated the effect of vitamin C (L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate) on the physiological condition, biochemical antioxidant activity, immune responses, and gene expression in the reproductive tract, as well as on sperm quantity and quality in male white shrimp Penaeus vannamei broodstock. Four diets containing 42.5% protein, 11.5% lipids, and 23.5% carbohydrates were formulated with L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate as a source of vitamin C at the following concentrations: 0.016 g/kg (Basal), 0.322 g/kg (A), 0.628 g/kg (B), and 0.934 g/kg (C). Shrimp fed diet C exhibited the highest SOD and CAT activity and serum cholesterol levels, but the lowest expression of hemocyanin (Hemo) mRNA transcripts (p ˂ 0.05). Shrimp fed diet A showed the highest Hemo mRNA expression and phenoloxidase (PO) activity, while those fed diet B had the highest serum triglyceride levels (p ˂ 0.05). In contrast, shrimp fed diets A and B exhibited the lowest serum cholesterol levels (p ˂ 0.05). There were no differences in sperm quality between the diets. In relation to sperm quantity, the shrimp fed diet B had the highest sperm cell count (2,750,000 cel/mL), and those fed diet A had the lowest (585,000 cel/mL) (p ˂ 0.05). These results indicate that vitamin C influences the reproductive aspects of male P. vannamei broodstock. A dietary inclusion level of 0.628 g/kg promotes optimal physiological, oxidative stress, and immunological conditions for increased sperm cell production, whereas an excessive level may promote oxidative stress. Full article

Protein-rich foods, such as meats, eggs, nuts, legumes, and dairy foods, can be important sources of micronutrients, especially those micronutrients that tend to be widely under-consumed. The source of dietary protein, animal or plant origin, is therefore a relevant consideration in the transition to healthier and sustainable diets. In this study, 1589 Australian adult diets with higher diet quality and lower environmental impact were isolated from Australian Health Survey data. These diets were primarily differentiated by lower intake of energy-dense/nutrient-poor discretionary foods. These diets were grouped according to the proportion of total protein obtained from animal and plant sources. On average, 55% of protein was from animal sources and 45% was plant derived. As the proportion of animal protein increased, total dietary protein intake also increased, and total energy intake decreased. Diets with between 60 and 80% of protein from animal sources met the greatest number of Estimated Average Requirements (EARs). Furthermore, diets with this ratio of animal protein were closest to benchmarks when assessed as a proportion of EAR met. That said, across all identified “sustainable healthy diets”, calcium, vitamins B6 and A, zinc, and magnesium were at risk of inadequate intake. This evidence suggests that a diet with around 60–80% of total protein coming from animal sources can reduce the risks of inadequate intake of micronutrients in a sustainable diet. Full article

Normal proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells is essential for follicular development. The results of this study showed that ADAMTS1 was primarily localized in the cytoplasm of granulosa cells in sheep ovarian follicles, as revealed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. Knockdown and overexpression experiments of ADAMTS1 in granulosa cells demonstrated that the number of EdU-positive cells significantly decreased in the knockdown group (p < 0.05), while the expression levels of Bax (p < 0.05), Bax/Bcl2 (p < 0.01), and caspase3 (p < 0.05) were significantly upregulated, indicating that knockdown of ADAMTS1 markedly inhibited granulosa cell proliferation. In contrast, overexpression of ADAMTS1 significantly promoted cell proliferation. Transcriptome sequencing revealed that PSAT1 and SLC6A9 were significantly downregulated in the knockdown group and significantly upregulated in the overexpression group, which was confirmed by Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (Q-PCR) (p < 0.05). KEGG enrichment analysis showed that PSAT1 was significantly enriched in the glycine, serine and threonine metabolism and vitamin B6 metabolism pathways. Molecular docking analysis indicated a stable binding interface between ADAMTS1 and PSAT1. Based on these findings, we speculate that ADAMTS1 may regulate amino acid metabolism in ovarian granulosa cells by modulating the expression of SLC6A9, which in turn affects PSAT1 in the glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism and vitamin B6 metabolism pathways, thereby influencing granulosa cell proliferation. Full article

Background/Objectives: To estimate the long-term prevalence of the most common nutrient deficiencies following bariatric surgery. Methods: Consecutive patients who underwent bariatric surgery were followed for 10 years. Anthropometric measurements, laboratory tests, and comorbidities were assessed at baseline and during follow-up visits. Results: A total of 155 patients were included (74.2% women; mean age 43.6 ± 9.3 years; mean body mass index [BMI]: 41.9 kg/m²). Patients underwent either sleeve gastrectomy (SG, n = 112) or gastric bypass (GB, n = 43). Over a median follow-up period of 10 (10–12) years, BMI decreased by 7.4 ± 5.8 kg/m². In the GB group, serum iron levels decreased significantly, whereas in the SG group, a reduction was observed in total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). Serum calcium, phosphorus, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels increased during follow-up. The prevalence of deficiencies in iron (9.0% vs. 18.7%, p < 0.05), folic acid (1.3% vs. 11.6%, p < 0.001), and vitamin B12 (7.1% vs. 17.4%, p < 0.01) increased, while the prevalence of hypocalcemia and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 deficiency decreased. Conclusions: A significant increase in the prevalence of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 deficiencies was observed over a 10-year follow-up after bariatric surgery. SG and GB appear to have different long-term effects on iron metabolism. Full article

The escalating demand for sustainable agriculture calls for innovative strategies that enhance crop resilience while minimizing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. This study evaluated the synergistic effects of a microbial consortium (PYS), organic fertilizer (OF), glycine (Gly), and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) on lettuce under heat stress. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in Bangkok, Thailand, simulating tropical high-temperature conditions. The PYS+OF+Gly treatment significantly improved fresh weight, matching the performance of chemical fertilizer (CF) and indicating a strong growth-promoting synergy. Chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid contents were higher in PYS or PYS+OF treatment, suggesting enhanced photosynthetic efficiency. At 60 days, PYS-based treatments also led to substantial increases in total phenolics and flavonoids, coupled with reduced lipid peroxidation and elevated antioxidant activities (DPPH, APX, CAT, POD, and SOD). However, vitamin C levels remained highest in the CF and OF controls, indicating a potential metabolic shift toward phenylpropanoid rather than ascorbate biosynthesis. Overall, our results demonstrate that combining microbial consortia with organic and biostimulant inputs could enhance growth, stress tolerance, and the nutritional quality of lettuce. This integrated approach presents a promising strategy for climate-resilient crop production and warrants further validation across different crops, environmental settings, and large-scale agricultural systems. Full article

Cobalt, a rare element in the Earth’s crust, is widely used in industries due to its hardness and antioxidant properties. It also plays a vital role in physiological functions, being a key component of vitamin B₁₂. However, excessive cobalt intake can cause health issues. Detecting cobalt ions, especially Co²⁺, in food is crucial due to potential contamination from various sources. Fluorescent probes offer high sensitivity, selectivity, a rapid response, and ease of use, making them ideal for the accurate and efficient recognition of Co²⁺ in complex samples. In this context, a highly selective fluorescent probe, 2,2′-((3-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)-1,2-phenylene) bis(oxy)) bis(N-(quinolin-8-yl) acetamide) (DQBM-B), was synthesized using chloroacetyl chloride, 8-aminoquinoline, 2,3-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, and benzidine as raw materials for the recognition of Co²⁺. Probe DQBM-B can exhibit fluorescence alone in DMF. However, as the concentration of Co²⁺ increased, Photoinduced Electron Transfer (PET) occurred, which quenched the original fluorescence of the probe. Probe DQBM-B shows better selectivity for Co²⁺ than other ions with high sensitivity (detection limit: 3.56 μmol L⁻¹), and the reaction reaches equilibrium within 30 min. Full article

Zoological environments aim to promote natural behaviours and optimal welfare conditions. Over the past decade, research on the use of artificial ultraviolet-B (UV-B) exposure has improved vitamin D₃ levels and reduced incidences of metabolic bone disease in diurnal primates; however, this has not been investigated in nocturnals. Aye-ayes (Daubentonia madagascariensis), nocturnal lemurs often housed indoors in zoos with little to no exposure to natural sunlight, have been reported to have low vitamin D₃ levels. This study aims to investigate the impacts of artificial UV-B as a supplemental healthcare strategy for aye-ayes, examining its influences on vitamin D₃ levels and positional sleeping behaviour. The 25-hydroxy-vitamin D₃ (25OHD₃) blood levels were tested before and after exposure to different levels of artificial UV-B and heat sources. Statistical analysis showed no correlation between UV-B and 25OHD₃ at group parameter levels. However, one individual showed a positive correlation. Sleeping position duration analysis showed a potential basking behaviour with the use of increased ear exposure and other thermoregulatory responses. Despite representing 8.06% of the European captive aye-aye population, these findings highlight the need for further research on vitamin D₃ parameters and responses to UV-B to optimise captive conditions and support the species’ long-term health. Full article

The activation mechanism of the reproductive axis in Kazakh ewes during the non-breeding season was explored by supplementation with glycerol complex (7% glycerol + tyrosine + vitamin B9). The experiment divided 50 ewes into five groups (n = 10). After 90 days of intervention, it was found that significant changes in serum DL-carnitine, N-methyl-lysine and other differential metabolites were observed in the GLY-Tyr-B9 group (p < 0.05, “p < 0.05” means significant difference, “p < 0.01” means “highly significant difference”). The bile acid metabolic pathway was specifically activated (p < 0.01). The group had a 50% estrus rate, ovaries contained 3–5 immature follicles, and HE staining showed intact granulosa cell structure. Serum E2/P4 fluctuated cyclically (p < 0.01), FSH/LH pulse frequency increased (p < 0.01), peak Glu/INS appeared on day 60 (p < 0.05), and LEP was negatively correlated with body fat percentage (p < 0.01). Molecular mechanisms revealed: upregulation of hypothalamic kiss-1/GPR54 expression (p < 0.01) drove GnRH pulses; ovarian CYP11A1/LHR/VEGF synergistically promoted follicular development (p < 0.05); the HSL of subcutaneous fat was significantly increased (p < 0.05), suggesting involvement of lipolytic supply. Glycerol activates the reproductive axis through a dual pathway—L-carnitine-mediated elevation of mitochondrial β-oxidation efficacy synergizes with kisspeptin/GPR54 signalling enhancement to re-establish HPO axis rhythms. This study reveals the central role of metabolic reprogramming in regulating seasonal reproduction in ruminants. Full article