Morinda citrifolia L. (Noni) dietary supplementation ameliorates fluoride toxicity in the freshwater fish, Cyprinus carpio L

Fluoride is the organic and inorganic compound of the element fluorine, has detrimental effect to all animals including fish at higher concentration. Ground water with elevated concentration of fluoride is a major global problem including India. On the other hand, Morinda citrifolia (also called ‘Noni’ in Polynesia) is a medicinal plant, has antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory properties. The ameliorating effect of M. citrifolia fruit extract dietary supplementation against fluoride induced toxicity on the growth performance, haematological parameters, and fluoride accumulation in the muscular tissue was investigated in the freshwater fish, Cyprinus carpio L. for 35 days in triplicate. One hundred and twenty acclimated C. carpio fingerlings were randomly allocated into five experimental groups (Groups I, II, III, IV and V) each with 24 fish divided into three replicates (eight fish/replicate). Group I (Control) and II (Toxic control or negative control) were provided with basal/control diet, whereas groups III, IV, and V were provided with 0.25% (2.5 g/kg), 0.50% (5.0 g/kg) and 0.75% (7.5 g/kg) M. citrifolia fruit extract supplemented diet respectively. All groups except for group I were exposed to 10% of the LC50 of fluoride. Selected growth and haematological parameters were estimated. The fluoride content in the muscular tissue of fish was also estimated following SPADNS method. Results revealed that exposure of sublethal concentration of fluoride significantly (P <0.05) reduced the growth performance and haematological parameters in Gr. II (toxic control) compared to the Gr. I (control). However, M. citrifolia dietary supplementation significantly (P <0.05) improved fluoride induced alteration of growth performance and haematological parameters of fish in the groups III, IV and V compared to Gr. II. Morinda citrifolia fruit extract dietary supplementation also significantly (P <0.05) decreased the accumulation fluoride in the muscular tissue of fish in groups III, IV and V compared to the Gr. II (toxic control). In conclusion, M. citrifolia dietary supplementation ameliorates the fluoride toxicity by preventing the accumulation of fluoride in the muscular tissue of the fish. The M. citrifolia dietary supplementation at 0.25% showed the best response, hence it is considered as the optimum dose.

Dietary supplement intakes among adults living in Kota Kinabalu during the COVID-19 pandemic: A crosssectional study

@#Introduction: During the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the public may seek a non-pharmacological approach, such as dietary supplements, to prevent or manage COVID-19. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the use of dietary supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic among adults in Kota Kinabalu. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 213 adults living in Kota Kinabalu through convenient sampling from October 2021 to March 2022. A validated questionnaire was used to evaluate their perception on the use of dietary supplements, and the types of dietary supplements consumed before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: One-hundred sixty-one (75.6%) adults reported that they were told to consume dietary supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily from close family members (64.0%) and social media (58.4%). One-hundred and thirty-two (62%) adults were consuming dietary supplements and 46 (34.8%) of them only started taking them during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reasons for taking dietary supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic included enhancing the immune system (83.6%) and for prevention of COVID-19 infection (64.4%). The most common dietary supplements consumed during the COVID-19 pandemic were vitamin C (90.2%), followed by multi-vitamin and mineral (32.6%), and fish oil (25.8%). After adjusting for age, sex, education level, and income level, KadazanDusun adults were most likely to consume dietary supplements (adjusted odds ratio = 2.369, 95% CI: 1.070 - 5.248, p=0.034). Conclusion: There was an increase in the number of adults consuming dietary supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic, which was likely driven by information sharing via family members and social media.

The Prevalence of Online Natural Health Products Purchase: A Systematic Review

@#Aim and design: This systematic review aimed to estimate the prevalence of online natural health products (NHPs) purchases among consumers. Data Sources: Four databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Sciences) were searched for articles published up to July 1, 2021. Review Method: Studies included were those reporting the prevalence of online NHPs purchases, those excluded were case reports, commentaries, letters, editorials, review articles, theses and non-English studies. The risk of bias of selected studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s checklist, and the pooled prevalence of online NHPs purchases was generated using the random-effect model. Results: A total of 30 studies were included in the meta-analysis, representing a total of 40,535 respondents. The pooled prevalence of online NHPs purchases was estimated at 7.60% (95% CI: 5.49, 10.01). Prevalence was higher in studies conducted in recent years, among physically active populations and when sports nutrition was included within the scope of NHPs. More than half of the selected studies have a moderate risk of bias, and considerable heterogeneity was observed across the selected studies. Conclusion and Impact: Online purchases of NHPs are not common among consumers, but they have become more common in recent years. A wide range of NHPs were investigated across studies, which may have contributed to the considerable heterogeneity reported in this review. It is suggested that future studies investigating online NHPs purchases consider reporting individual prevalence statistics specific to each NHP type, to facilitate meaningful comparisons between studies.

Clinical Efficacy of Pancreatin Minimicrospheres Supplementation in Patients with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) : Real-world Evidence

Background : Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), characterized by reduced secretion or activity of pancreatic enzymes, causes improper absorption of food, excessive fat excretion in the stool, and malnourishment. Methods : In this observational, real-world evidence study, patients with one or more of the following condition were enrolled: abdominal pain, acidity, diarrhea, nausea, or dyspepsia (as per ROME III criteria). Patients had either been diagnosed with gallstones, hypertriglyceridemia, alcohol consumption or undergone abdominal surgery. Patients were prescribed capsule EnzigestTM10000 (pancreatin minimicrospheres) for one month.The severity and frequency of various gastric symptoms was measured at day 0 and day 30. Results : 540 patients were enrolled with a mean age of 51.6 years. Enzigest significantly reduced the severity of functional dyspepsia by 88.67% (p<0.001) as per Rome III Criteria. There is significant improvement in frequency of symptoms (83.80%), abdominal pain severit(81.58%), epigastric pain (83.09%), nausea (84.35%) and vomiting by 89.62% (all P<0.001). The overall improvement in symptoms was significant (p<0.001). Enzigest was well tolerated.Conclusion : Enzigest improved abdominal pain, dyspepsia, and acidity in patients with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to alcohol consumption, gallstones, hypertriglyceridemia, diuretic (Furosemide or Thiazide) or abdominal surgery. Enzigest containing pancreatin minimicrospheres can be an easy therapeutic option to counteract EPI.

Suplemento alimentar de vitamina C: fiscalização durante o período de adequação à nova legislação / Vitamin C dietary supplement: inspection during adequacy period of new legislation

Os suplementos à base de vitamina C são amplamente consumidos pela população, evidenciando a importância da fiscalização desses produtos. Em julho de 2018, a ANVISA (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária) publicou as novas regulamentações sobre suplementos alimentares, estabelecendo-se o prazo de 60 meses para as empresas se adequarem a essas normas. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo determinar os teores de vitamina C, comparar os valores analisados com os declarados na informação nutricional e avaliar os dizeres de rotulagem em produtos à base dessa vitamina. Os teores de vitamina C foram determinados por titulação potencio métrica e as análises de rotulagem foram realizadas com base nas legislações da ANVISA em doze amostras de suplementos colhidos pelas Vigilâncias Sanitárias do Estado de São Paulo. Os teores de vitamina C avaliados estavam de acordo com os declarados na informação nutricional do rótulo, com exceção de uma amostra que apresentou teor abaixo do valor declarado. Em relação aos dizeres de rotulagem, sete amostras (58%) apresentaram um ou mais itens em desacordo com a legislação, mostrando a necessidade de monitoramento constante desse tipo de produto. O trabalho representa um estudo preliminar de avaliação dos suplementos no período de adequação às novas regulamentações (AU).

Vitamin C-based supplements are widely consumed by the population, highlighting the importance of monitoring these products. In July 2018, the ANVISA (National Health Surveillance Agency) published new regulations for dietary supplements,setting a 60 months deadline for companies to comply with these standards.The objective of the present work was to evaluate the contents of vitamin C, and compare the analyzed/real values with those reported on the nutrition facts label, and to evaluate the labeling of vitamin supplements. Vitamin C contents were determined by potentiometric titration, and labeling analysis were performed based on ANVISA legislation in twelve samples of supplements collected by the Sanitary Surveillance of the State of São Paulo.The contents of vitamin C were in accordance with those declared in the nutritional information on the label, with the exception of one sample that presented content below the declared value. Regarding the labeling analysis, seven samples (58%) presented one or more items in disagreement with the legislation, showing the need for constant monitoring of this type of product.The work represents a preliminary study to evaluate the supplements in the adequacy period of new regulations (AU).

Consumo de suplementos dietarios en niños escolares de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Un estudio piloto / Dietary supplements consumption in school children from Bucaramanga, Colombia. A pilot study

Resumen Introducción: La obesidad infantil es un problema global de salud pública. Una de las causas subyacentes de este evento complejo y multicausal se relaciona con la alta ingesta de energía. El uso inadecuado de suplementos dietarios podría superar los requerimientos de energía y nutrientes y generar una ganancia excesiva de peso corporal en los niños. Objetivo: Describir el tipo, cantidad y frecuencia de consumo de suplementos dietarios ingeridos por niños y niñas durante la edad preescolar, y evaluar la correlación entre este consumo y la composición corporal de los mismos en la edad escolar. Metodología: Estudio de corte transversal analítico. Estudio piloto realizado en niños en edad escolar de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Variables dependientes: porcentaje de grasa corporal y masa músculo esquelética. Principal variable independiente: consumo de suplementos dietarios. La correlación entre variables fue evaluada usando el coeficiente de correlación de Spearman (rho). Resultados: La prevalencia del consumo de suplementos dietarios en algún momento, antes de los cinco años, fue de 51,11% (IC 95%, 0,35 a 0,66). Las formas de presentación usadas con mayor frecuencia fueron en polvo, granulado y líquido. Los tipos de suplementos utilizados correspondieron a fórmulas poliméricas (40,91%), seguidos por aceite de hígado de bacalao (36,36%). A mayor consumo de suplementos dietarios, se observó mayor porcentaje de grasa corporal (rho = 0,346) y menores valores de masa muscular esquelética (rho = -0,286). Sin embargo, estas correlaciones no fueron estadísticamente significativas (p = 0,114 y p = 0,286, respectivamente). Conclusión: Este estudio encontró una correlación débil y positiva entre el consumo de suplementos dietarios en la primera infancia y el porcentaje de grasa corporal y una correlación débil y negativa con la masa músculo esquelética; sin embargo, no hubo significancia estadística. Es necesario continuar investigando acerca de potenciales efectos no deseados del consumo inadecuado de suplementos durante la primera infancia.

Abstract Introduction: Childhood obesity is a global public health problem. One of the underlying causes of this complex and multicausal event is related to high energy intake. Inappropriate use of dietary supplements could exceed energy and nutrient requirements resulting in excessive body weight gain in children. Objective: To describe the type, quantity and frequency of consumption of dietary supplements ingested by boys and girls during preschool age and to evaluate the correlation between this consumption and their body composition at school age. Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study. Pilot study, carried out in school children from Bucaramanga, Colombia. Dependent variables: body fat percentage and skeletal muscle mass. Main independent variable: consumption of dietary supplements. The correlation between variables was evaluated using Spearman's correlation coefficient (rho). Results: The prevalence of consumption of dietary supplements at some point before the age of five was 51.11% (95% CI, 0.35 to 0.66). The most frequently used forms of presentation were powder, granules and liquid. The types of supplements used corresponded to polymeric formulas (40.91%), followed by cod liver oil (36.36%). A higher consumption of dietary supplements showed a higher percentage of body fat (rho=0.346) and lower values of skeletal muscle mass (rho= -0.286). However, these correlations were not statistically significant (p=0.114 and p=0.286, respectively). Conclusion: This study found a weak positive correlation between dietary supplement use in early childhood and body fat percentage and a weak negative correlation with skeletal muscle mass; however, there was no statistical significance. Further research is needed on the potential undesirable effects of inappropriate supplement use in early childhood.

Protective Roles of Shilajit in Modulating Resistin, Adiponectin, and Cytokines in Rats with Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the effect of Shilajit, a medicine of Ayurveda, on the serum changes in cytokines and adipokines caused by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).@*METHODS@#After establishing fatty liver models by feeding a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks, 35 Wistar male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, including control (standard diet), Veh (HFD + vehicle), high-dose Shilajit [H-Sh, HFD + 250 mg/(kg·d) Shilajit], low-dose Shilajit [L-Sh, HFD + 150 mg/(kg·d) Shilajit], and pioglitazone [HFD + 10 mg/(kg·d) pioglitazone] groups, 7 rats in each group. After 2-week of gavage administration, serum levels of glucose, insulin, interleukin 1beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), adiponectin, and resistin were measured, and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated.@*RESULTS@#After NAFLD induction, the serum level of IL-10 significantly increased and serum IL-1β, TNF-α levels significantly decreased by injection of both doses of Shilajit and pioglitazone (P<0.05). Increases in serum glucose level and homeostasis model of HOMA-IR were reduced by L-Sh and H-Sh treatment in NAFLD rats (P<0.05). Both doses of Shilajit increased adiponectin and decreased serum resistin levels (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The probable protective role of Shilajit in NAFLD model rats may be via modulating the serum levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10, adipokine and resistin, and reducing of HOMA-IR.

Effectiveness of chia (Salvia hispanica L.) as an adjuvant therapy for Type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis / The Health Sciences Journal

INTRODUCTION@#Salba-chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is a popular functional food containing high levels of protein, total dietary fiber, and is an excellent source of α-linolenic acid. Chia seeds significantly decreases weight, suppresses appetite, and has a potential benefit in the management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of chia seeds as an adjuvant treatment for T2DM.@*METHODS@#Randomized controlled trials from 1990 onwards involving Type 2 diabetic patients given chia seed were included. PubMed, Cochrane, ClinicalKey, Google Scholar, and Hinari were searched systematically using MeSH terms “chia”, “Salvia hispanica”, “dietary supplement”, and “diabetes”. The quality of trials was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Data on the study design, blinding status, characteristics of participants, medications taken by participants, chia seed intervention, comparator, duration of intake, and interval of assessment were extracted. The percent change of outcome from baseline was compared between the chia and control groups.@*RESULTS@#Four randomized trials with a total of 213 diabetic patients were enrolled in the treatment group using ground salba-chia or the control group using bran. The supplementation of chia resulted in a statistically significant decrease in fasting glucose (-2.90 mmol/L; 95% CI, -3.08, -2.72; p < 0.001), waist circumference (-2.49 cm; 95% CI -2.81, -2.17; p < 0.001), total cholesterol (-2.72 mmol/L; 95% CI -3.68, -1.74; p < 0.001), HDL (-3.69 mmol/L; 95% CI -3.95, -3.42; p < 0.001), LDL (-3.22 mmol/L; 95% CI -4.08, -2.36; p < 0.001); and an increase adiponectin levels (6.50 mg/L; 95% CI 6.25, 6.25; p < 0.001).@*CONCLUSION@#Intake of chia seeds resulted in a statistically significant decrease in fasting blood glucose, waist circumference, total cholesterol levels, HDL and LDL cholesterol levels, and increased adiponectin. Chia seeds are generally safer and have lesser side effects compared to the placebo. Chia is effective as adjunctive treatment for Type 2 diabetic patients.

Iron and Zinc Determination in Dietary Supplements by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry

Abstract Recent studies have demonstrated that 30% of the world's population suffers of anemia, half of the cases are related to iron deficiency, and the most common treatment is the use of iron supplementation. In this framework, the iron and zinc determination from different dietary supplements was performed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Concerning the dissolution of supplements, direct acid dissolution, wet digestion, and microwave digestion (MW) techniques were used for sample preparation. The iron and zinc recovery results demonstrated that the MW technique was the most appropriate for all of the supplements with the highest metal recovery yields. Moreover, the method validation parameters referred to a linear range for iron of 0.1-4 mg L-1 with a regression coefficient (R2) of 0.9998 ± 0.002, while for zinc it was 0.01-1 mg L-1 (R2 = 0.9997 ± 0.003). The limit of detection and quantification values were calculated as 0.03 and 0.09 mg L-1 for iron and 0.01 and 0.02 mg L-1 for zinc, respectively. The accuracy of the method was evaluated from the % recovery yield for iron and zinc, which, respectively, resulted in an oscillate of 99.2% to 102%, and 99.4% to 100.4% for the dietary investigated supplements. The precision of the method was determined by intra-day and inter-day precision with a relative standard deviation that was <2.0%

Post-market technical evaluation of dietary supplements based on domestic and foreign experiences / 上海预防医学

The paper is to explore how to carry out post-market technical evaluation of dietary supplements in China by referring to the experiences at home and abroad. Experiences of major countries and regions in the post-market evaluation of similar products of dietary supplements and China’s experience in drugs were systematically reviewed. Combined with the actual situation of the health food industry in China， suggestions were put forward for the post-market technical evaluation of health foods in China. There are many useful experiences worth learning from， such as the mandatory reporting responsibility of enterprises in the United States， a special scientific committee which provides long-term technical support in the European Union， post-market monitoring by enterprises in Australia， the establishment of relevant monitoring systems in Taiwan， the relatively mature regulatory system， evaluation system and management system in the field of drugs and medical devices， and the establishment of adverse reaction monitoring bases in the field of cosmetics， the responsibility of post-mark adverse reaction monitoring of food for special medical purposes by medical institutions， and the post-market management in various fields giving priority to safety. In combination with the current situation of China’s health food industry， five specific suggestions， such as promoting the construction of laws and regulations， are put forward.

Nutritional status of iodine in pregnant and non-pregnant adolescents assisted at the Family Health Strategy in Vespasiano, MG / Estado nutricional de iodo em adolescentes gestantes e não gestantes assistidas na ESF em Vespasiano, MG

Abstract Objectives: to evaluate the nutritional status of iodine in pregnant adolescents, taking into account the increase in the demand for iodine during pregnancy and the absence of iodization strategies for this population. Methods: cross-sectional study conducted with 62 pregnant and 71 non-pregnant adolescents assisted in primary care. The nutritional status of iodine was determined by urinary samples. The iodine concentration in the consumed culinary salt was also evaluated. For the comparative analyses of categorical variables, the Chi-square test was used and for the continuous variables, the Kruskal-Wallis test, considering a 95% confidence interval (CI) and significance level of 5%. Results: the mean iodine concentration in household salt was 25.1 mg/kg (CI95%= 11.1-67.5 mg/kg), with higher mean content in culinary salt in the group of pregnant women (p<0.028). Regarding the nutritional status of iodine, 71% of pregnant adolescents were deficient and 29% iodine-sufficient, with significant difference when compared to 38% of deficiency and 62% of sufficiency in the control group (p<0.001). Conclusions: there was an iodic deficiency among pregnant adolescents, even in the face of higher concentrations of iode in household salt, exposing a paradox between higher consumption and lower sufficiency in this group. Thus, it is suggested to consider iodine supplementation during pregnancy, seeking to minimize the effects of this deficiency on maternal and child health.

Resumo Objetivos: avaliar o estado nutricional de iodo em adolescentes gestantes, levando-se em consideração o aumento na demanda de iodo na gestação e a ausência de estratégias de iodização para essa população. Métodos: estudo transversal realizado com 62 adolescentes gestantes e 71 não gestantes assistidas na atenção primária. O estado nutricional de iodo foi determinado pela concentração de iodo em amostras urinárias. O teor de iodo no sal culinário também foi avaliado. Para as análises comparativas das variáveis categóricas utilizou-se o teste de qui-quadrado e para as variáveis contínuas o teste Kruskal-Wallis, considerando intervalo de confiança (IC) de 95% e nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: a média da concentração de iodo no sal domiciliar foi de 25,1 mg/kg (IC95%= 11,1-67,5 mg/kg), com maior teor médio no sal culinário de gestantes (p<0,028). Em relação ao estado nutricional de iodo, 71% das adolescentes gestantes mostraram-se deficientes e 29% iodo-suficientes, com diferença significativa quando comparadas aos 38% de deficiência e 62% de suficiência no grupo controle (p<0,001). Conclusões: observou-se deficiência iódica entre adolescentes gestantes, mesmo diante de maiores concentrações de iodo no sal domiciliar, expondo um paradoxo entre maior consumo e menor suficiência neste grupo. Assim, sugere-se considerar a suplementação de iodo na gestação, buscando-se minimizar os efeitos desta carência sobre a saúde maternoinfantil.

Dietary supplement use in elementary school children: a Japanese web-based survey

BACKGROUND@#A variety of dietary supplements are commercially available. However, the efficacy and safety of dietary supplement use in children are not well established. Understanding dietary supplement use is important for developing public health policy regarding dietary supplements. This study aimed to investigate the types of dietary supplements used and characteristics of dietary supplement users among Japanese elementary school children.@*METHOD@#We conducted a cross-sectional web-based questionnaire study. Dietary supplement use, socio-demographics, and health-related behaviors were assessed through mother-reported questionnaire. Types of dietary supplements were identified based on ingredient using product barcodes and brand names. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the socio-demographics and health-related behaviors associated with supplement use.@*RESULTS@#Among 4933 children, 333 (6.8%) were identified as dietary supplement users. The most common supplement was amino acids or protein (1.4%), followed by n-3 fatty acids or fish oil (1.0%), probiotics (1.0%), multivitamins (0.9%), multivitamin-minerals (0.8%), and botanicals (0.8%). Overall, any dietary supplement use was significantly associated with the highest frequency of sports participation (odds ratio [OR], 2.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.65-4.02), highest household income (OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.13-3.10), highest maternal educational level (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.31-2.52), and male sex (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.09-1.75). The highest frequency of sports participation was significantly associated with higher odds of use of amino acids or protein (OR, 6.06; 95% CI, 1.78-20.6) and multivitamins (OR, 3.56; 95% CI, 1.11-11.5), compared to the lowest frequency of sports participation.@*CONCLUSION@#This study showed that Japanese children primarily use non-vitamin, non-mineral supplements. Non-vitamin, non-mineral supplements should thus be included in future studies aimed at monitoring dietary supplement use. We also found that dietary supplement use in children was associated with sports participation. Guidelines for dietary supplement use for children, in particular sport participants, are needed.

Exogenous phosphatidic acid reduces acetaminophen-induced liver injury in mice by activating hepatic interleukin-6 signaling through inter-organ crosstalk

We previously demonstrated that endogenous phosphatidic acid (PA) promotes liver regeneration after acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity. Here, we hypothesized that exogenous PA is also beneficial. To test that, we treated mice with a toxic APAP dose at 0 h, followed by PA or vehicle (Veh) post-treatment. We then collected blood and liver at 6, 24, and 52 h. Post-treatment with PA 2 h after APAP protected against liver injury at 6 h, and the combination of PA and

Calcium supplementation and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women: a study in South Brazil / Suplementação de cálcio e doença cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa: um estudo no Sul do Brasil

Objective: To evaluate the link between calcium supplementa- tion and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women (aged 55 years or older). Methods: A standardized questionnaire was employed to collect data about calcium supplements, eart di- sease, and demographic of women attended at Primary Care in the South Region of Brazil. Generalized linear regression models were performed to evaluate the association and adjust for poten- tial confounders. Results: Overall, 1,057 women completed the questionnaire. Information about calcium supplementation was present in 1,035 questionnaires. The mean ± standard deviation of the age of participants was 67.2±7.6 years. The frequency of calcium supplementation was 18.6%. There was no association between heart failure, stroke, and ischemic heart disease and cal- cium supplementation (prevalence ratio; 95% confidence interval of 0.3; -0.9-0.4, -0.2; -0.8-0.4 and -0.5; -1.0-0.02, respectively. Con- clusions: Our study did not find an association of higher risk of cardiovascular disease in women using calcium supplementation at Primary Care in South Brazil.

Objetivo: Avaliar a ligação entre a suplementação de cálcio e doença cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa (com 55 anos ou mais). Métodos: Um questionário padronizado foi em- pregado para coletar dados sobre suplementos de cálcio, doenças cardíacas e demográficos de mulheres que frequentavam a Aten- ção Primária na Região Sul do Brasil. Modelos de regressão linear generalizada foram realizados para avaliar a associação e ajustar os potenciais fatores de confusão. Resultados: No total, 1.057 mulheres responderam ao questionário. As informações sobre su- plementação de cálcio estavam presentes em 1.035 questionários. A média ± desvio-padrão da idade dos participantes foi de 67,2 ± 7,6 anos. A frequência de suplementação de cálcio foi de 18,6%. Não houve associação entre insuficiência cardíaca, acidente vas- cular cerebral e doença cardíaca isquêmica e suplementação de cálcio (razão de prevalência; intervalo de confiança de 95% de -0,3; -0,9-0,4, -0,2; -0,8-0,4 e -0,5; -1,0-0,02, respectivamente). Con- clusão: Nosso estudo não encontrou associação de maior risco de doença cardiovascular em mulheres em uso de suplementação de cálcio na Atenção Primária no Sul do Brasil.

El modelo de ovario artificial como prueba celular para evaluar la seguridad de los extractos de Spirulina maxima y Kéfir: un estudio preliminar / The model of artificial ovary as a cellular test to evaluate the safety of Spirulina máxima and Kefir extracts: a preliminary study

RESUMEN S. maxima y Kefir son conocidos y utilizados por sus propiedades antioxidantes e inmunoestimulantes. El objetivo en este estudio fue evaluar los extractos naturales de estos dos agentes con la técnica de manipulación de ovocitos incluidos en folículos preantrales (MFP), porque la técnica puede reemplazar el uso de animales de laboratorio y también podría armonizar las leyes que intentan reducir y mejorar el uso de animales para el estudio de nuevos fármacos y para integrar a las buenas prácticas de laboratorio. Los extractos naturales estudiados fueron obtenidos a partir de S. maxima y Kéfir, las dos sustancias son conocidas en el mercado por su actividad antioxidante e inmunoestimulante. Los dos extractos fueron evaluados en suspensiones de 10, 50, 100 and 200 µg.mL-1. Los resultados muestran que Spirulina produjo disminución en la sobrevivencia, el desarrollo y el diámetro folicular. Mientras que Kéfir no mostró influencias positivas o negativas sobre el crecimiento y desarrollo de los folículos preantrales, sólo la concentración de 200 µg.mL-1 disminuyó la sobrevivencia folicular. La técnica MFP demostró encajar en la política de las 3R (reemplazo, reducción y refinamiento) y permitió evaluar la citotoxicidad mostrando que la técnica puede ser usada como una prueba de seguridad en extractos naturales.

SUMMARY S. maxima and Kéfir are known and used for their antioxidant and immunostimulant properties. This study aimed to evaluate the natural extracts of these two agents with the technique of manipulation of oocytes included in preantral follicles (MFP), because the technique can replace the use of laboratory animals and could also harmonize the laws that try to reduce and improve the use of animals for the study of new drugs and to integrate good laboratory practices. The natural extracts studied were obtained from S. maxima and Kefir, both substances are known in the market for their antioxidant and immunostimulating activity. Both were evaluated in suspensions of 10, 50, 100 and 200 µg.mL-1. The results show that Spirulina produced a decrease in survival, development, and follicular diameter. While Kefir did not show positive or negative influences on the growth and development of preantral follicles, only the concentration of 200 µg.mL-1 decreased follicular survival. The MFP technique proved to fit into the 3R policy (replacement, reduction, and refinement) and allowed to evaluate cytotoxicity, showing that the technique can be used as a safety test in natural extracts.

Análise do impacto econômico da falta de suplementação multivitamínica em mulheres em idade reprodutiva e suas consequências em recém-nascidos / Analysis of the economic impact of lack of vitamin supplementation on women at childbearing age and the repercussions on the newborns

Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto econômico da falta de suplementação multivitamínica de mulheres no período reprodutivo e suas consequências em recém-nascidos, por meio da estimativa do número de casos e dos custos implicados no tratamento de complicações decorrentes da falta de suplementação, sob a perspectiva do sistema público de saúde. Métodos: A população foi definida a partir do número de gestantes e nascidos vivos no Brasil, ajustado para o ano de 2019, e de pessoas que utilizam exclusivamente o SUS, considerando um crescimento linear. Por meio de revisão de literatura, os riscos de desenvolvimento de defeitos do fechamento do tubo neural, pré-eclâmpsia e anemia foram determinados. Para a estimativa dos custos diretos médicos, realizou-se um microcusteio com base na utilização de recursos determinados por condutas médicas estabelecidas e opiniões de especialistas. A ocorrência de eventos e os respectivos custos foram calculados multiplicando o número de indivíduos pelo risco de desenvolvimento das complicações e os custos individuais pela quantidade de eventos. Resultados: O custo total da falta de suplementação vitamínica foi estimado em 2,47 bilhões de reais. A falta de suplementação vitamínica seria capaz de gerar a ocorrência anual de 5.352, 796.283, 298.801 e até 345.628 casos de defeitos do fechamento do tubo neural, anemia, parto prematuro e pré-eclâmpsia, respectivamente. Conclusões: A ausência de suplementação vitamínica pode gerar um custo anual de até 2,47 bilhões de reais para o sistema público de saúde brasileiro, com ocorrência de pelo menos 796 mil casos de complicações decorrentes por ano

Objective: To evaluate the economic impact of the absence of vitamin supplementation in women at childbearing age and the consequences in the newborns by estimating the number of cases and costs involved in the treatment in perspective of the Brazilian public health system. Methods: The number of pregnant and live births in Brazil was considered, adjusted for 2019 considering a linear growth. Through literature review, the risk of development of neural tube defects, pre-eclampsia and anemia was determined. For the estimation of direct medical costs, a micro costing was performed based on the use of resources determined by established medical conduct and expert opinions. Events occurrence and their costs were calculated by multiplying the number of individuals by the risk of developing complications and individual costs by the number of events. Results: Total cost of vitamin supplementation absence in this group was estimated at 2.47 billion Brazilian real (BRL). The absence of vitamin supplementation would be able to generate annually 5,352, 796,283, 298,801, and up to 345,628 cases of neural tube closure defects, anemia, preterm delivery and preeclampsia, respectively. Conclusions: The lack of vitamin supplementation can generate an annual cost of 2,47 billion BRL for the Brazilian public health system with at least 796,000 cases of complications arising per year

The Effectiveness and Functional Properties of the Plant-Based Dietary Supplement in Complex Respiratory System Diseases Therapy

The clinical trial aimed to study the effectiveness of a dietary supplement for respiratory system diseasestherapy. Children underwent treatment during both acute and convalescent stages, and in addition to theirprimary treatment received the plant-based dietary supplement. The new plant-based dietary supplement withingredients possessing synergetic properties was developed to supplement the normal diet and help correctmetabolism disorders in the case of respiratory diseases. The ingredients for the new dietary supplementinclude echinacea purpurea, Vitamin C, rutin, zinc, and selenium. The consistent manufacturing process used toproduce the new dietary supplement ensures that the contents are protected against adverse conditions, with thecontents delivered and released at controlled rates and under specific conditions. The study of the effectivenessand the functional properties of the plant-based dietary supplement was undertaken. Children aged from 1 to 3and treated for respiratory diseases were given ½ capsule twice a day, children aged from 3 to 7 took 1 capsuletwice a day and children aged from 7 to 14 took 1 capsule three times a day as a supplement in addition to theirprimary medical treatment. At the same time, the children from the control group underwent only primarymedical treatment. The clinical trial lasted from 10 to 14 days. During the clinical trial, regular laboratory testsand chest X-rays were carried out, and such symptoms of acute respiratory illnesses like nasal congestion,hyperaemia, sore throat, cough, wheeze as well as their duration were carefully studied. The consumption of theplant-based dietary supplement resulted in faster symptoms easing and helped relieve cough, wheeze, and nasalcongestion. The data received indicates the boost to the immune response, strengthening of the immune systemas a result of taking the plant-based dietary supplement. The plant-based dietary supplement is noted to be safeand it does not cause any adverse effects. The directions for use are developed. The mandatory StateRegistration is completed and the supplement is produced in the scientific research-to-production facilities ofthe Art-Life Scientific Production Association (Tomsk city).

Identification of the dietary supplement capsaicin as an inhibitor of Lassa virus entry

The limited treatment options for the increasing occurrence of Lassa hemorrhagic fever in West Africa poses an urgent need for the discovery and development of novel therapeutics. Dietary supplements, especially natural products that are edible and safe for human use, are a good source of drug discovery with potential for uncovering novel applications. In this study, we tested 40 natural products of dietary supplements and identified capsaicin, a common dietary supplement abundant in chili peppers, as an inhibitor of Lassa virus (LASV) entry with EC of 6.9-10.0 μmol/L using an HIV based pseudovirus platform. Capsaicin inhibits the entry of five LASV strains but not against the Old World arenavirus lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), showing a preferential activity against LASV. Capsaicin inhibits LASV entry by blocking the pH dependent viral fusion through affecting the stable signal peptide (SSP)-GP2 transmembrane (GP2) region of the LASV surface glycoprotein. Mutational study revealed the key residues Ala25, Val431, Phe434 and Val435 in SSP-GP2 region in capsaicin's antiviral effect. This study for the first time reveals a direct acting antiviral effect of capsaicin against the hemorrhagic fever causing LASV, providing detailed interaction hot spots in the unique SSP-GP2 interface of LASV glycoprotein that is crucial in fusion inhibition, and offering a new strategy in discovering and developing antivirals from natural products that are safe for human use.

Survey on the perception of health professionals on the use of intradialytic oral nutrition in patients under hemodialysis

Abstract Background Intradialytic oral nutrition (ION) has been shown to improve many clinical outcomes, including lowering mortality, in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Despite the benefits, ION is underused in many countries. Objective The objective of our study was to determine the perception of health-care professionals (HCP) in our environment of the use of ION in patients undergoing HD. Methods Survey applied to HCP in Mexico who worked or had worked in an HD unit in their locality. Results From 272 HCP who answered the survey, 74.3% believed that the use of ION has at least one beneficial effect; of these, the most frequently mentioned were an improvement in quality of life (QoL) (54.7%) followed by an improvement in serum albumin (37.9%) and muscle anabolism (31.6%). However, 49% consider that its use involves some risks. Of the respondents, 22% reported that their HD units allowed patients to consume food or supplements during HD sessions; the main reason given to forbid the introduction of food or supplements was the clinic’s policy (41%). Conclusions The personnel surveyed heterogeneous opinions regarding ION, but most believe that it may improve the QoL or the nutritional status of the patients. Nevertheless, the use of ION is uncommon in our country as it is against the internal regulations of most HD units.