O uso do cloridrato de piridoxina para induzir estro em cadelas / The use of pyridoxine chloridrate to induce estrus in female dogs

Os agonistas dopaminérgicos são utilizados para induzir estro em cadelas, pois atuam na síntese e liberação de prolactina. Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da piridoxina como indutor de estro em cadelas por agir na neurotransmissão dopaminérgica. Foram selecionadas 40 cadelas em anestro, divididas em quatro grupos experimentais, tratadas com 10mg/kg/dia (G1) e 50mg/kg/dia (G2) de cloridrato de piridoxina, 5µg/kg/dia (G3) de cabergolina e grupo controle/placebo (G4) por até 20 dias. Foram realizadas citologias vaginais a cada 24h para acompanhamento do ciclo estral e análises hormonais (FSH, LH e PRL) no dia zero e 120h do início do tratamento. As cadelas do G3 (100%) manifestaram proestro após 12 dias de tratamento aproximadamente, tempo inferior aos demais grupos (P<0,05). Apenas uma cadela do G1 e uma do G2 ficaram gestantes contra oito fêmeas do G3 e nenhuma do G4 (P<0,05). As concentrações plasmáticas de prolactina foram reduzidas nas fêmeas do G2 e G3 (P<0,05). As demais avaliações hormonais não sofreram influência do tratamento (P>0,05). O cloridrato de piridoxina foi ineficiente para induzir estro em cadelas, mas foi capaz de suprimir a prolactina, de forma semelhante à cabergolina, quando utilizado na dose de 50mg/kg/dia.(AU)

Dopaminergic agonists are used to induce estrus in female dogs as they act in the synthesis and release of prolactin. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of pyridoxine as an inducer of estrus by acting on dopaminergic neurotransmission. A total of 40 female dogs in anestrous were divided into four experimental groups treated with 10mg/kg/day (G1) and 50mg/kg/day (G2) of pyridoxine hydrochloride, 5µg/kg/day (G3) of cabergoline and control group/placebo (G4) for up to 20 days. Vaginal cytologies were performed every 24h for follow-up of the estrous cycle and hormonal analyzes (FSH, LH and PRL) on day zero and 120 hours after the start of treatment. The female dogs from G3 (100%) showed proestrus after 12 days of treatment, less time than the other groups (P< 0.05). Only one female from G1 and one from G2 were pregnant against eight from G3 and none from G4 (P< 0.05). Plasma concentrations of prolactin were reduced by treatment in females from G2 and G3 (P< 0.05). The other hormonal evaluations were not influenced by the treatment (P> 0.05). Pyridoxine chloridrate was inefficient to induce estrus in female dogs but was able to suppress prolactin when used at a dose of 50mg/kg/day.(AU)

‘Testosterone Boosting’ Supplements Composition and Claims Are not Supported by the Academic Literature

Homocisteína y trastornos neurocognitivos. ¿Una luz al final del túnel? / Homocysteine and neurocognitive disorders. A light at the end of the tunnel?

El deterioro cognitivo es uno de los procesos que acompañan al envejecimiento y puede depender de factores nutricionales, genéticos o ambientales. La identificación de factores de riesgo modificables proporciona un enfoque esencial para la prevención de dicho deterioro y de los trastornos neurocognitivos. Uno de los factores de riesgo involucrados es la elevada concentración de homocisteína plasmática, la cual se ha relacionado con hallazgos histopatológicos en demencia senil y enfermedad de Alzheimer. Los diferentes estudios sobre esta asociación revelan inconsistencia o contradicción en los resultados. El propósito de esta revisión es relacionar la posible interacción de tres factores en la instalación y progresión del deterioro neurocognitivo: a) factores de tipo nutricional (homocisteína, ácido fólico y vitamina B12), b) la utilización de pruebas para el diagnóstico de disfunción o deterioro cognitivo como el Mini Examen del Estado Mental, y c) la presencia de variantes genéticas polimórficas de la enzima metilentetrahidrofolato reductasa. Una consecuencia directa de esta triple relación es que el tratamiento con ácido fólico y vitamina B12 logra disminuir las elevadas concentraciones de homocisteína plasmática, asumiendo que una mejoría en los síntomas clínicos de deterioro cognitivo puede retrasar los cambios relacionados con progresión a estados demenciales. La intervención temprana mediante políticas de promoción y prevención de la salud mental puede ser efectiva si se comienza con la administración de ácido fólico y vitamina B12 en los estadios iniciales de la alteración cognitiva, logrando así reducir sus funestas consecuencias. Las políticas de salud pública centradas en la salud mental de ancianos pueden identificar a las personas con disfunción cognitiva inicial a través de la promoción de la salud y medidas preventivas; en esta etapa puede ser posible la administración de vitaminas B para reducir o minimizar la progresión del deterioro cognitivo, que podría conducir a trastornos neurocognitivos como la demencia y la enfermedad de Alzheimer

Cognitive impairment is one of the processes that accompany aging and may depend on nutritional, genetic or environmental factors. The identification of modifiable risk factors provides a crucial approach for the prevention of cognitive decline and neurocognitive disorders. One of the risk factors is the high concentration of plasma homocysteine and it has been associated to histopathological changes in senile dementia and Alzheimer´s disease. Clinical trials about this association has shown inconsistent and contradictory results. The purpose of this review is to describe the possible interaction of three factors related with cognitive impairment: a) nutritional factors (homocysteine, folic acid and vitamin B12), b) the use of mental tests such as the Mini Mental State Examination for the diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction, and c) the presence of polymorphic genetic variants of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase enzyme. A direct consequence of this triple relationship is the treatment with folic acid and vitamin B12, which decrease high concentrations of plasma homocysteine, with a potential for improvement of the clinical symptoms of cognitive decline, and possibly a delay in the progression towards neurocognitive disorder. Public health policies focused on mental health of older adults can identify people with initial cognitive dysfunction through health promotion and preventive measures, where it can be possible to administer B vitamins in order to reduce or minimize the progression of cognitive decline, that could lead to mental disturbances such as neurocognitive disorders

Gender-specific Effect of Micronutrient on Non-erosive Reflux Disease and Erosive Esophagitis

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The effect of dietary micronutrients on non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) and reflux esophagitis is unclear. We aim to evaluate the gender-specific effect of micronutrient on erosive esophagitis and NERD. METHODS: A total of 11 690 participants underwent endoscopy and completed 3-day recordings for dietary intake and questionnaires for reflux symptoms from 2004 to 2008. To evaluate the effect of dietary micronutrients on NERD or erosive esophagitis, adjusted regression analysis with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) was used. In addition, we performed gender-specific analysis. RESULTS: Prevalence of NERD and erosive esophagitis was 6.8% and 11.2% in men and 9.1% and 2.4% in women. In adjusted analysis, high intake of vitamin A (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64–0.96), retinol (OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.59–0.90), vitamin B2 (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.54–0.87), vitamin B6 (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.58–0.96), folic acid (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.62–0.96), calcium (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.53–0.82), and iron (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.53–0.87) had an inverse association with NERD. However, erosive esophagitis has no relationship with micronutrients except vitamin C (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.62–0.98). High dietary intake of calcium reduced the risk of NERD in men and high dietary intake of many micronutrients reduced NERD in women. CONCLUSIONS: While many dietary micronutrients reduced NERD, they had no effect on erosive esophagitis. The effect of micronutrient on NERD was more prominent in women than men.

Consumo de bebidas energizantes en estudiantes universitarios / Consumption of energy drinks in university students

Las bebidas energizantes son productos que se consumen para reducir la sensación de cansancio y favorecer un estado activo, contienen principalmente cafeína, glucosa, glucoronolactona, taurina, guaraná vitaminas B1 (tiamina), vitamina B2 (riboflavina), vitamina B3 (niacina), vitamina B6 (piridoxina). El Objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la frecuencia del consumo de las bebidas energizantes en los estudiantes de la Universidad Mayor Real y Pontificia de San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca y describir los posibles efectos adversos. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo, transversal, cuantitativo realizado en 367 estudiantes universitarios de las áreas de Salud, Económicas - Financieras, Sociales Humanidades, Tecnológicas y Agrarias. Para la recolección de datos se aplicó la encuesta. Entre los resultados se obtuvo que, del total de estudiantes encuestados, 69,21% si han consumido las bebidas energizantes, con una frecuencia de consumo de 2 a 3 veces por mes (39%), principalmente durante los parciales (18.80%) y después de realizar algún deporte (16.89%). Entre las marcas más consumidas de estas bebidas son red bull (30,25%) y power (14,99%).

Energy drinks are products that are consumed to reduce the feeling of tiredness and promote an active state, mainly contain caffeine, glucose, glucoronolactone, taurine, guarana B1 vitamins (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). The objective of this research was to determine the frequency of the consumption of energy drinks in the students of the Universidad Mayor Real and Pontificia de San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca and describe the possible adverse effects. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted on 367 university students in the areas of health, economic - financial, social - humanities, technological and agricultural. The survey was applied to data collection. Among the results it was obtained that, of the total number of students surveyed, 69.21% if they have consumed the energy drinks, with a frequency of consumption of 2 to 3 times per month (39%), mainly during the partial ones (18.80%) and after performing some sport (16.89%). Among the most consumed brands of these drinks are red bull (30.25%) and power (14.99%).

Ácido fólico em excesso: efeitos sobre o metabolismo das vitaminas B2 e B6, o catabolismo do triptofano e a resposta imune / Folic acid excess: effects on vitamin B2 and B6 metabolism, tryptophan catabolism and immune response

Introdução: A suplementação com ácido fólico (AF) é recomendada em algumas condições para evitar a deficiência de folato, como para mulheres no período periconcepcional e durante a gestação. Atualmente, existe uma preocupação quanto ao consumo excessivo de AF pela população pelo uso de suplementos com altas doses dessa vitamina. As vitaminas B6 e B2 agem como cofatores no metabolismo de um carbono, e o uso de altas doses de AF pode influenciar o metabolismo de ambas vitaminas e, consequentemente, interferir em metabolismos importantes das quais elas participam, como a via das quinureninas, e no sistema imune. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da intervenção diária com uma alta dose de AF (5 mg) por 90 dias sobre marcadores do estado das vitaminas do complexo B, e as consequências sobre os metabólitos da via das quinureninas e o sistema imune em adultos saudáveis. Material e Métodos: 64 indivíduos saudáveis foram submetidos à intervenção diária com 5 mg de AF por 90 dias. Coletas de sangue foram realizadas antes (baseline) e após 45 e 90 dias de intervenção. As concentrações séricas de folato e vitamina B12 foram avaliadas por métodos microbiológicos. As concentrações séricas das vitaminas B6 (piridoxal 5'-fosfato (PLP), piridoxal (PL) e ácido 4-piridóxico (PA)), B2 (riboflavina e flavina mononucleotídeo (FMN)), B1 (tiamina e tiamina monofosfato (TMP)) e B3 (ácido nicotínico, nicotinamida e N1-metilnicotinamida), bem como de triptofano, quinurenina e metabólitos, foram avaliadas por LC-MS/MS. A proteína C-reativa ultrassensível (PCRus) foi determinada por imunoturbidimetria, e as concentrações séricas de interleucina (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, interferon gama (IFN-γ) e fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-α) foram avaliadas por ensaio multiplex. A expressão de RNAm de DHFR (dihidrofolato redutase), MTHFR (metilenotetrahidrofolato redutase), IL8, TNFA e IFNG em leucócitos mononucleares (PBMC) foram avaliadas por PCR em tempo real. O número de células T regulatórias (Treg) (CD3+, CD4+, CD25high, FoxP3+, CD127-) foi avaliado após incubação dos PBMC com PMA e ionomicina ou veículo por 18h, por imunofenotipagem. Resultados: Houve um grande aumento das concentrações de folato sérico após 45 e 90 dias de intervenção com AF. Não houve diferença nas concentrações de vitamina B12 antes e após a intervenção. As concentrações séricas de PLP foram semelhantes antes e após a intervenção, entretanto, um aumento de PL sérico foi observado após 45 e 90 dias, e de PA após 45 dias, quando comparado ao baseline. Riboflavina e FMN foram maiores após 45 e 90 dias em relação ao baseline. A tiamina sérica foi menor após 45 dias, e as concentrações de TMP foram maiores após 90 dias quando comparados aos períodos anteriores. Não houve diferença nas concentrações de vitamina B3 antes e após a intervenção. Dentre os metabólitos da via das quinureninas, apenas o ácido antranílico apresentou aumento após 45 e 90 dias, enquanto o ácido picolínico diminuiu após 90 dias. PCRus, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ e TNF-α séricos foram semelhantes no baseline e após a intervenção. Um aumento da expressão de RNAm de DHFR e TNFA foi observado após, respectivamente, 90 dias e 45 e 90 dias de intervenção. Após 90 dias de intervenção com AF, foi observada diminuição do número de células Treg após estímulo com PMA e ionomicina. Conclusão: O uso diário de 5 mg de AF foi associado a alterações nas concentrações séricas de marcadores do estado de vitaminas do complexo B e da via das quinureninas, bem como a diminuição do número de células Treg

Introduction: Folic acid (FA) supplementation is recommended in some conditions to avoid folate deficiency, as women during periconceptional period and pregnancy. Currently, there is a concern about the excessive consumption of FA by population by using supplements with high doses of this vitamin. Vitamins B6 and B2 are cofactors of enzymes of one carbon metabolism and, consequently, may disturb key metabolism in which they participate, as kynurenine pathway, and the immune system. Aim: To assess the effects of a daily intervention with high dose of FA (5 mg) for 90 days on biomarkers of complex B vitamins status and its outcomes in kynurenine pathway metabolites and immune system in healthy adults. Material and Methods: 64 healthy individuals were submitted to a daily intervention with 5 mg of FA for 90 days. Blood samples were collected before (baseline) and after 45 and 90 days of intervention. Serum folate and vitamin B12 were assessed by microbiological assays. Serum vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), pyridoxal (PL) and 4-pyridoxic acid (PA)), vitamin B2 (riboflavin and flavin mononucleotide (FMN)), vitamin B1 (thiamin and thiamin monophosphate)) and vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid, nicotinamide and N1-methylnicotinamide), as well as tryptophan, kynurenine and metabolites, were assessed by LC-MS/MS. C-reactive protein (hs-CPR) was assessed by immunoturbidimetry, and serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were assessed by multiplex assay. Mononuclear leukocytes mRNA expression of DHFR (dihydrofolate reductase), MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase), IL8, TNFA and IFNG were assessed by real time PCR. Regulatory T Cell (Treg) number (CD3+, CD4+, CD25high, FoxP3+, CD127-) was determined after mononuclear leukocytes incubation with PMA and ionomycin or vehicle for 18h, by immunophenotyping. Results: A great increase on serum folate was observed after 45 and 90 days of FA intervention. No differences in serum vitamin B12 were observed before and after intervention. Serum PLP was similar before and after intervention, however, an increase in serum PL was observed after 45 and 90 days, and in PA after 45 days, when compared to baseline. Riboflavin and FMN were increased after 45 and 90 days than in baseline. Serum thiamine was decreased after 45 days than in baseline. Serum TMP was increased after 90 days when compared with previous timepoints. No differences in vitamin B3 were observed after and before FA intervention. Among kynurenine pathway metabolites, anthranilic acid was increased after 45 and 90 days, while picolinic acid was decreased after 90 days. hs-CPR, serum IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α were similar at baseline and after intervention. An increase on mRNA expression of DHFR and TNFA was observed after, respectively, 90 days and 45 and 90 days of intervention. After 90 days of FA intervention, it was observed a decrease on Treg cell number after PMA and ionomycin stimulation. Conclusion: Daily use of 5 mg of FA was associated with changes in serum markers of B-complex vitamins status and kynurenine pathway, as well as decreased number of Treg cells

Pseudotumor cerebral asociado a hipovitaminosis A, B6 y D: A propósito de dos casos / Pseudotumor cerebri associated with hypovitaminosis A, B6 and D: About two cases

La hipertensión endocraneana idiopàtica se asocia infrecuentemente con la hipovitaminosis A y D. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 8 años con visión borrosa de 24 horas y papiledema bilateral. Resonancia magnética nuclear normal. Presión de apertura de líquido cefalorraquídeo: 260 mm^O. Presentó déficit de vitamina A y D, e inició un tratamiento sustitutivo. El segundo caso corresponde a un paciente masculino de 12 años con fiebre y odinofagia de 3 días. Con antecedente de glomerulonefritis y sobrepeso. Presentaba edema bipalpebral y papiledema. Tomografia axial computada de la órbita: aumento de líquido en la vaina de ambos nervios ópticos. Resonancia magnética nuclear: aracnoidocele intraselar. Presión de apertura de líquido cefalorraquídeo: 400 mm^O. Presentó déficit de vitamina D y B6, e inició el tratamiento sustitutivo. La elevación de la presión intracraneal desencadena mecanismos de compensación que, al fallar, pueden comprometer la vida o provocar graves discapacidades neurológicas. Reconocer la causa para un enfoque terapéutico preciso es clave para disminuir la morbimortalidad asociada a esta patología.

Idiopathic endocranial hypertension is infrequently associated with hypovitaminosis A and D. The case of an 8-year-old female with 24-hour blurred vision and bilateral papilledema is presented. Nuclear magnetic resonance was normal. Opening pressure of cerebrospinal fluid: 260 mm^O. She presented vitamin A and D deficiency and started replacement therapy. The second case corresponds to a 12-year-old male with fever and odynophagia of 3 days. History of glomerulonephritis and overweight. He had bipalpebral edema and papilledema. Computed tomography scan of the orbit: increase of fluid in the sheath of both optic nerves. Nuclear magnetic resonance: intrasellar arachnoidocele. Opening pressure of cerebrospinal fluid: 400 mmH2O. He presented vitamin D and B6 deficiency and started replacement treatment. The elevation of intracranial pressure triggers compensation mechanisms that, when they fail, can compromise life or cause serious neurological disabilities. Recognizing the cause for an accurate therapeutic approach is key to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this pathology.

Effects of Nutrition Education and Exercise Program on Obesity Index and Behavioral Modification in Moderate Obese Women / 대한지역사회영양학회지

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate the behavioral modification of obese adults who underwent nutritional and physical activity education. Twenty obese females, aged 20–60 years old, with BMIs (Body Mass Index) >30 or body fat (%) >40 were subjected to this study. METHODS: The physical activity education program consisted of doing exercise in a gymnasium together or home exercise. Dietary attitudes and dietary intakes were assessed using weight control, physical activity, and eating habits. The nutrition-exercise educational period was 12 weeks. RESULTS: After the study period, there was significant improvement in physical activity and eating habits score. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in the dietary intakes of fiber, iron, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and niacin. Blood pressure, blood glucose, and total cholesterol levels showed a tendency to decrease, but there was no significant difference. BMI, fat mass, abdominal circumference, and visceral fat levels were significantly reduced while muscle mass significantly increased. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that behavioral modification by nutrition and physical activity education with feedback has positive effects on dietary intake and anthropometric biomarkers in obese adults. Therefore, lifestyle interventions of this kind could be recommended as a method for obesity management.

Nutrient Composition and Content of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements and Their Appropriateness for Pregnant and Lactating Women in Korea / 대한지역사회영양학회지

OBJECTIVES: Use of dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals is growing in Korean adults, especially in pregnant and lactating women. Vitamin and mineral supplements are available in different composition and in a wide range of contents. The purposes of the study were to examine nutrient composition and content of vitamin and mineral supplements for pregnant and lactating women and assess their appropriateness as dietary supplements. METHODS: Information on the name, manufacturer, nutrient composition, and usage of vitamin and mineral supplements for pregnant and lactating women were obtained from the homepage of the Food Safety Information Portal managed by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, and Korean Index of Medical Specialties. A total of 264 products were identified. RESULTS: Among 264 products, 26.1% were single nutrient products, and 73.9% were multinutrient products. The most commonly included nutrient was iron (70.1%), folic acid (66.3%), vitamin B12 (45.8%), vitamin C (38.6%), and vitamin B6 (38.6%). Although more than 50% of products contained nutrients less than 150% of Recommended Nutrient Intakes or Adequate Intakes for daily use, some products contained inappropriately high amounts of nutrients. When a maximum daily dose of supplements was taken as described on the label, iron in 73 products (39.5%), folic acid in 14 products (8.0%) were likely to be consumed in amounts greater than Tolerable Upper Intake Levels. Most products were assessed as inappropriate for pregnant women due to the possibility of excessive intake of vitamins or minerals when compared with Dietary Reference Intakes. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnant and lactating women need to carefully select dietary supplements containing adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals. Nutritionists should provide guidelines regarding selection of appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements for pregnant and lactating women.

Effects of Nutrition Education and Exercise Program on Obesity Index and Behavioral Modification in Moderate Obese Women / 대한지역사회영양학회지

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate the behavioral modification of obese adults who underwent nutritional and physical activity education. Twenty obese females, aged 20–60 years old, with BMIs (Body Mass Index) >30 or body fat (%) >40 were subjected to this study. METHODS: The physical activity education program consisted of doing exercise in a gymnasium together or home exercise. Dietary attitudes and dietary intakes were assessed using weight control, physical activity, and eating habits. The nutrition-exercise educational period was 12 weeks. RESULTS: After the study period, there was significant improvement in physical activity and eating habits score. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in the dietary intakes of fiber, iron, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and niacin. Blood pressure, blood glucose, and total cholesterol levels showed a tendency to decrease, but there was no significant difference. BMI, fat mass, abdominal circumference, and visceral fat levels were significantly reduced while muscle mass significantly increased. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that behavioral modification by nutrition and physical activity education with feedback has positive effects on dietary intake and anthropometric biomarkers in obese adults. Therefore, lifestyle interventions of this kind could be recommended as a method for obesity management.

Nutrient Composition and Content of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements and Their Appropriateness for Pregnant and Lactating Women in Korea / 대한지역사회영양학회지

OBJECTIVES: Use of dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals is growing in Korean adults, especially in pregnant and lactating women. Vitamin and mineral supplements are available in different composition and in a wide range of contents. The purposes of the study were to examine nutrient composition and content of vitamin and mineral supplements for pregnant and lactating women and assess their appropriateness as dietary supplements. METHODS: Information on the name, manufacturer, nutrient composition, and usage of vitamin and mineral supplements for pregnant and lactating women were obtained from the homepage of the Food Safety Information Portal managed by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, and Korean Index of Medical Specialties. A total of 264 products were identified. RESULTS: Among 264 products, 26.1% were single nutrient products, and 73.9% were multinutrient products. The most commonly included nutrient was iron (70.1%), folic acid (66.3%), vitamin B12 (45.8%), vitamin C (38.6%), and vitamin B6 (38.6%). Although more than 50% of products contained nutrients less than 150% of Recommended Nutrient Intakes or Adequate Intakes for daily use, some products contained inappropriately high amounts of nutrients. When a maximum daily dose of supplements was taken as described on the label, iron in 73 products (39.5%), folic acid in 14 products (8.0%) were likely to be consumed in amounts greater than Tolerable Upper Intake Levels. Most products were assessed as inappropriate for pregnant women due to the possibility of excessive intake of vitamins or minerals when compared with Dietary Reference Intakes. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnant and lactating women need to carefully select dietary supplements containing adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals. Nutritionists should provide guidelines regarding selection of appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements for pregnant and lactating women.

The Levels of Vitamin D, Vitamin D Receptor, Homocysteine and Complex B Vitamin in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

OBJECTIVE: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental syndrome with an increasingly prevalent etiology, yet not fully understood. It has been thought that vitamin D, complex B vitamin levels and homocysteine are associated with environmental factors and are important in ASD. The aim of this study was to examine serum vitamin D, vitamin D receptor (VDR), homocysteine, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folate levels in ASD. METHODS: In this study, serum vitamin D and VDR, homocysteine, vitamins B6, B12 and folate levels were determined in 60 patients with ASD (aged 3 to 12 years) and in 45 age-gender matched healthy controls. In addition, calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase, which are associated with vitamin D metabolism, were measured from serum in both groups. ASD severity was evaluted by the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). RESULTS: Serum vitamin D and VDR were substantially reduced in patients with ASD in comparision to control group. However, homocysteine level was significantly higher and vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folate were also reduced in patients with ASD. Total CARS score showed a positive association with homocysteine and a negative correlation with vitamins D, B6, B12, folate and VDR. CONCLUSION: This comprehensive study, which examines many parameters has shown that low serum levels of vitamins D, B6, B12, folate and VDR as well as high homocysteine are important in the etiopathogenesis of ASD. However, further studies are required to define the precise mechanism(s) of these parameters and their contributions to the etiology and treatment of ASD.

Effects of Korean diet control nutrition education on cardiovascular disease risk factors in patients who underwent cardiovascular disease surgery / 한국영양학회지

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to verify the effects of increases in consuming Korean food in patients who underwent cardiovascular disease (CVD) surgery based on a Korean diet control education program and to investigate the effects of Korean diet control nutrition education on risk factors of CVD, changes in amounts of medication, and nutritional intakes. METHODS: The subjects consisted of 15 patients who have undergone CVD surgery within three years and continuously taken cardiovascular drugs. The Korean traditional diet (KTD) emphasizes intake of vegetables and fermented foods to lower saturated fat and cholesterol intake. We applied a KTD education program that included a modified DASH (The dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diet for cardiovascular disease patients. Korean diet control education was then applied to the patients for 12 weeks to evaluate the risk factors of CVD and the state of nutritional intakes. RESULTS: The Korean diet control compliance score increased significantly (p < 0.001) as Korean diet control education was implemented. Additionally, the obesity indexes, waist circumference (WC) (p = 0.002) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) decreased significantly (p < 0.001) after subjects received the education. Moreover, the glycemic control index, HbA1c, was significantly decreased (p < 0.05) from 7.3 ± 1.0% before the education to 7.0 ± 1.1% after the education. Changes in the amounts of Korean diet intake consisted of significant increases in cooked rice with whole grains, narmuls (vegetables either raw or cooked), kimchi, and traditional fermented foods following the education. Moreover, the nutritional intake after the education showed significant decreases (p < 0.05) in animal protein, animal lipids, and cholesterol. However, the intakes of Na, K, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and folic acid were significantly increased. CONCLUSION: The active encouragement of consuming Korean food and the intervention of implementing diet control education positively affected nutritional intake, the obesity index and glycemic control of patients who have undergone CVD surgery.

Effects of isolated vitamin B6 supplementation on oxidative stress and heart function parameters in experimental hyperhomocysteinemia

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of isolated vitamin B6 (VB6 ) supplementation on experimental hyperhomocysteinemia (Hhe) induced by homocysteine thiolactone (HcyT). Methods: Fifteen male Wistar rats were divided into three groups according to their treatment. Animals received water and food ad libitum and an intragastric probe was used to administer water for 60 days (groups: CB6, HcyT, and HB6 ). On the 30th day of treatment, two groups were supplemented with VB6 in the drinking water (groups: CB6 and HB6 ). After 60 days of treatment, homocysteine (Hcy), cysteine, and hydrogen peroxide concentration, nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) immunocontent, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and GST activities were measured. Results: The HcyT group showed an increase in Hcy concentration (62%) in relation to the CB6 group. Additionally, GST immunocontent was enhanced (51%) in the HB6 group compared to the HcyT group. Also, SOD activity was lower (17%) in the HB6 group compared to the CB6 group, and CAT activity was higher in the HcyT group (53%) compared to the CB6 group. Ejection fraction (EF) was improved in the HB6 group compared to the HcyT group. E/A ratio was enhanced in the HB6 group compared to the CB6 group. Correlations were found between CAT activity with myocardial performance index (MPI) (r = 0.71; P = 0.06) and E/A ratio (r = 0.6; P = 0.01), and between EF and GST activity (r = 0.62; P = 0.02). Conclusions: These findings indicate that isolated VB6 supplementation may lead to the reduction of Hcy concentration and promotes additional benefits to oxidative stress and heart function parameters (AU)

Assessment of Diet Quality by Weight Status and Its Association with Obesity in Children and Adolescents

Numerous studies have investigated quantifying dietary intake according to the weight status of children and adolescents. However, studies on differences in quality among diets remain scarce. This study compared diet quality by weight status and examined correlations between quality of diet and obesity in children and adolescents. Two hundred fourteen children and adolescents aged between 9 and 18 years participated in this study (Normal weight n=104, Obesity n=110). The data related to food intake were investigated by dietary records, Diet Quality Index-International (DQI-I), and Nutrition Quotient (NQ) and then compared with Dietary Reference Intakes for Korean (KDRIs). In DQI-I, moderation factor (control of unhealthy foods) score was 21.7 in the normal weight group and 19.5 in the obesity group. The normal weight group showed a higher score for moderation factor than the obesity group (P<0.001). Compared with KDRIs, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and zinc intakes were insufficient in both groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that DQI-I moderation was negatively associated with obesity (OR=0.77, 95% CI 0.69-0.87) after adjustment for age, gender, income, and total energy intake. Our results suggest that children and adolescents require nutritional education to understand the importance of vitamin and mineral consumption. Especially, education for children and adolescents with obesity needs to emphasize moderation of nutrient intake that can cause diseases with hyper-ingestion such as sodium and high calorie-low nutrition foods.

Evaluation of the Menus of Senior Welfare Centers for Home-bound Elderly

This study examined the characteristics of the foodservice menu items offered at senior welfare centers to provide information on Korean senior menu development. A total of 514 lunch menu items were collected from 27 senior welfare centers in April, July, October and January. The most frequently served staple foods, soups, and side dishes were multi-grain rice, seaweed soup, Bulgogi, Kimchi, and liquid yogurt. The proportions of carbohydrate, protein, and lipids of total energy serving of senior welfare centers were 59.8%: 16.7%: and 22.8%, respectively. The nutrients served at less than 40% of the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) and Adequate Intake (AI) of Dietary Reference Intakes for Koreans (KDRIs) were chloride (1.0%), vitamin D (1.3%), biotin (1.7%), magnessium (4.5%), Iodine (7.5%), pantothenic acid (8.0%), vitamin E (12.5%), vitamin B6 (20.0~21.4%), vitamin K (21.1~24.3%), and water (35.7~39.7%). The nutrients served in excess of the daily intake goal and RNI were iron (98.9~127.1%), sodium (104.9%), and copper (1,100.0%).

Protein and vitamin B6 intake are associated with liver steatosis assessed by transient elastography, especially in obese individuals

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Although the detrimental effects of several dietary components on the promotion of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are well known, no studies have assessed the role of dietary vitamin B6. Moreover, studies on the associations between dietary components or body composition indices and liver steatosis assessed by transient elastography are rare. Our aim was to identify the nutritional factors and anthropometric parameters associated with liver steatosis. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 168 individuals (35% obese) who underwent a liver steatosis assessment by Controlled Attenuation Parameter measurement and nutritional assessment. RESULTS: Tertiles of vitamin B6 intake were positively associated with hepatic steatosis (B=1.89, P=0.026, confidence interval [CI] 0.03-0.80) as well as with triglycerides, glucose, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and body mass index . In obese individuals, after multivariable analysis, the Controlled Attenuation Parameter score was still associated with triglycerides, ALT, and total protein intake (B=0.56, P=0.01, CI 0.10-1.02). Participants in tertile I (low intake) had a lower Controlled Attenuation Parameter than those in tertile III (P=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: We found a positive association between hepatic steatosis or Controlled Attenuation Parameter score and vitamin B6/total protein intake, probably related to the high intake of meat. Vitamin B6 might have a pathogenic role related to the increase of hepatic steatosis.

Effects of Nutrition Education at a Community Health Center on Overweight and Obese Middle-aged Women in Jeonbuk Area-Focused on Personalized Daily Energy Requirement and Food Exchange Units / 대한지역사회영양학회지

OBJECTIVES: This study examined the effects of nutrition education focused on personalized daily energy requirement and food units using Food Exchange System on anthropometric, biochemical characteristics, nutrition knowledge, dietary attitude and nutrient intakes for overweight and obese in a public health center. METHODS: The subjects were 60 overweight/obese women based on BMI (educated 30 vs. noneducated 30, 50~64 years). Educated group was provided individual and/or group lessons (40 min/ lesson/week, 5 week), ‘Introduction: obese & health’, ‘6 nutrients and 6 food groups’, ‘My obesity & daily needed energy’, ‘Meal planning for personalized daily energy and food units using Food Exchange Systems’, and ‘Smart food choices’. After education, we examined the differences in anthropometric/biochemical characteristics, nutrition knowledge, dietary attitude and nutrient intakes between educated group and non-educated group. RESULTS: After nutrition education, in the educated group, there were improvements on anthropometric/biochemical characteristics, nutrition knowledge, dietary attitude and nutrient intakes in the educated group compared to the non-educated group. We observed a decrease in the mean weight, total cholesterol (TC) and the incidence of overweight/obesity and hypercholesterolemia and an increase in the mean lean body mass. The scores of nutrition knowledge, ‘Function of carbohydrate, protein, vitamin, mineral’ and ‘Food Sources of fat, vitamin, mineral’ were increased. The scores of dietary attitudes, ‘Taking a joyful meal, a leisurely meal, a balanced meal, a meal with sufficient vegetables, a meal with diversity, a meal with spicy foods, a meal with overeating’ were increased. The intakes of energy, carbohydrate, fat, protein, vitamin A, thiamin, Zn and cholesterol were decreased. The scores of INQ, protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B6, folate, Ca, P, Fe, Zn were increased. CONCLUSIONS: The nutrition education focused on personalized daily energy requirement and food exchange unit using Food Exchange System for overweight and obese may improve food behavior, dietary intakes and symptoms of overweight and obese, even in a community health center.

Clinical characteristics and prognosis analysis of vitamin B6 responsive infantile spasms / 中华儿科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze clinical characteristics, treatment and prognosis in a cohort of children with vitamin B6 responsive infantile spasms.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>Ten patients were diagnosed as vitamin B6 responsive infantile spasms in Peking University First Hospital between January 2012 and May 2015.The clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment process, video-electroencephalogram, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), epilepsy related genes and prognosis were retrospectively analyzed.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>Of the 10 patients, 5 were male, and 5 were female. Eight of them were normal at birth, and the other 2 patients had intracranial hemorrhage or anoxia.The age of epilepsy onset was from 3.5 to 8.0 months.All patients presented spasms primarily.Interictal electroencephalogram (EEG) showed hypsarrhythmia at seizures onset. MRI showed normal in 8 patients, and subarachnoid hemorrhage or multiple encephalomalacia foci after hemorrhage respectively in the other 2 patients. The results of blood biochemical, cerebrospinal fluid examination and urinary metabolic screening were negative. Epilepsy related genes including ALDH7A1 gene analysis showed wild type in all patients. Two patients were classified as symptomatic and eight might be idiopathic or cryptogenic. The initial dose of vitamin B6 was 10.0 mg/(kg·d). The interval between seizures onset and taking vitamin B6 was 0 to 4.0 months. Seizures disappeared completely within a week after administration of vitamin B6 in 9 patients and in 1.5 months in one patient.Of the 8 patients whose seizures were controlled completely during the follow-up period, 7 patients' EEG recovered within 1.5 to 4.0 months and then continued to be normal. The EEG of the rest of a patient returned to normal, but showed abnormal discharges after stopping taking vitamin B6. Two patients' EEG continued abnormal and seizures recurred due to vitamin B6 withdrawal. At the last follow-up, seizures were controlled in all patients. Drug treatment in one case had stopped. Vitamin B6 was used in 9 patients at a dose of 0.4 to 10.0 mg/(kg·d). Among them, vitamin B6 monotherapy or coadministration with one low dose antiepileptic drug was applied in 6 or 3 patients respectively. The psychomotor development was normal in 5 patients, mild delay in 3 patients, and severe delay in 2 patients with autism behavior. Of the 2 symptomatic patients, one developed normally and the other showed severe delay.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Vitamin B6 might have effects on both idiopathic or cryptogenic and symptomatic patients, especially for the former. High dose vitamin B6 should be first tried in all patients with infantile spasms. Patients who had response to vitamin B6 could be controlled within a short time and might have better outcomes. Seizures were not easy to relapse in those whose seizures were controlled and EEG recovered completely. Vitamin B6 could be gradually reduced during the course and might be withdrawn in the future. The recurrence of seizures was closely related to EEG abnormality.</p>

Structural insights into the regulatory mechanism of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa YfiBNR system

YfiBNR is a recently identified bis-(3'-5')-cyclic dimeric GMP (c-di-GMP) signaling system in opportunistic pathogens. It is a key regulator of biofilm formation, which is correlated with prolonged persistence of infection and antibiotic drug resistance. In response to cell stress, YfiB in the outer membrane can sequester the periplasmic protein YfiR, releasing its inhibition of YfiN on the inner membrane and thus provoking the diguanylate cyclase activity of YfiN to induce c-di-GMP production. However, the detailed regulatory mechanism remains elusive. Here, we report the crystal structures of YfiB alone and of an active mutant YfiB(L43P) complexed with YfiR with 2:2 stoichiometry. Structural analyses revealed that in contrast to the compact conformation of the dimeric YfiB alone, YfiB(L43P) adopts a stretched conformation allowing activated YfiB to penetrate the peptidoglycan (PG) layer and access YfiR. YfiB(L43P) shows a more compact PG-binding pocket and much higher PG binding affinity than wild-type YfiB, suggesting a tight correlation between PG binding and YfiB activation. In addition, our crystallographic analyses revealed that YfiR binds Vitamin B6 (VB6) or L-Trp at a YfiB-binding site and that both VB6 and L-Trp are able to reduce YfiB(L43P)-induced biofilm formation. Based on the structural and biochemical data, we propose an updated regulatory model of the YfiBNR system.