Risk of Gluten Cross-Contamination Due to Food Handling Practices: A Mini-Review.

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disease triggered by the ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals, affecting 1.4% of the world population. CD induces an inflammatory reaction that compromises small intestine villi, leading to nutrient malabsorption, and gastro and extraintestinal manifestations. Although other treatment approaches are being studied, adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only effective intervention to date. Despite this, about 50% of patients experience persistent inflammation, often associated with unintentional gluten ingestion through contaminated food. There are regulations for labeling gluten-free foods which specify a limit of 20 mg/kg (20 ppm). The risks of gluten cross-contamination above that level are present throughout the whole food production chain, emphasizing the need for caution. This review explores studies that tested different procedures regarding the shared production of gluten-containing and gluten-free food, including the use of shared equipment and utensils. A literature review covering PubMed, Scielo, Web of Science, VHL and Scopus identified five relevant studies. The results indicate that shared environments and equipment may not significantly increase gluten cross-contamination if appropriate protocols are followed. Simultaneous cooking of gluten-containing and gluten-free pizzas in shared ovens has demonstrated a low risk of contamination. In general, shared kitchen utensils and equipment (spoon, ladle, colander, knife, fryer, toaster) in controlled experiments did not lead to significant contamination of samples. On the other hand, cooking gluten-free and gluten-containing pasta in shared water resulted in gluten levels above the established limit of 20 ppm. However, rinsing the pasta under running water for a few seconds was enough to reduce the gluten content of the samples to less than 20 ppm.

Seasonal and sex-related variation in vitamin D status and its association with other biochemical markers in young individuals: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: While several studies have investigated the association between vitamin D deficiency and biochemical parameters, the results are still inconsistent and mostly overlook seasonal variations. This study explored the relationships between 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations, biochemical markers, and seasonal variation among young males and females. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 203 individuals aged 18-24 years of both sexes residing in Brasilia, Brazil (latitude: 15°S). Sociodemographic variables, season of blood collection, and serum levels of 25(OH)D, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), glucose, insulin, hs-CRP, parathyroid hormone, ionized calcium, and alkaline phosphatase were included. Descriptive statistics and differences among groups, correlations, and linear regression tests were performed. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 21.17±1.7 years, and the mean serum 25(OH)D level was 25.76±7.0 ng/mL. Of the participants, 50.7% had vitamin D insufficiency (20 to 29.9 ng/mL), and 23.2% were vitamin D deficient (≤20 ng/mL). Vitamin D deficiency was higher in the spring (53.2%) and among females (29.5%). In young men with vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency (≤29.9 ng/mL) (n = 49), 25(OH)D levels were inversely correlated with HOMA-ß (r = -0.234, p = 0.032) and triglyceride (r = -0.415, p = 0.003) levels. However, there were no significant correlations between 25(OH)D concentrations and biochemical markers among women with insufficient and deficient vitamin D levels. CONCLUSION: This study found a high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency among young individuals living in Brasília, Brazil, particularly women and during the spring season. Our findings suggest that lower 25(OH)D levels (≤29.9 ng/mL) may be associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in young men studied. However, further studies with larger representative samples are needed to explore the mechanisms underlying the association between vitamin D and biochemical parameters.

Urgent-Start Peritoneal Dialysis: Brazilian Experience.

INTRODUCTION: Unplanned peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an important option for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients requiring kidney replacement therapy urgently as it offers the convenience of home-based therapy. The objective of this study was to assess the Brazilian urgent-start PD program in three different dialysis centers where there is shortage of hemodialysis (HD) beds. METHODS: This prospective, multicentric cohort study included incident patients with stage 5 CKD and no permanent vascular access established who started urgent PD between July 2014 and July 2020 in three different hospitals. Urgent-start PD was defined as initiation of treatment up to 72 h after catheter placement. Patients were followed up from catheter insertion and assessed according to mechanical and infectious complications related to PD, patients, and technique survival. RESULTS: Over 6 years, 370 patients were included in all three study centers. Mean patient age was 57.8 ± 16.32 years. Diabetic kidney disease was the main underlying condition (35.1%) and uremia was the main cause for dialysis indication (81.1%). Concerning complications related to PD, 24.3% had mechanical complications, 27.3% had peritonitis, 28.01% had technique failure, and 17.8% died. On logistic regression, hospitalization (p = 0.003) and exit site infection (p = 0.002) were identified as predictors of peritonitis, while mechanical complications (p = 0.004) and peritonitis (p < 0.001) were identified as predictors of technique failure and switching to HD. Age (p < 0.001), hospitalization (p = 0.012), and bacteremia (p = 0.021) were observed to predict death. The number of patients on PD increased at least 140% in all three participating centers. CONCLUSION: PD is a feasible option for patients starting dialysis in an unplanned manner and may be a useful tool for reducing shortage of HD beds.

Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in South America: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: Vitamin D deficiency is considered a global public health issue, even in low-latitude countries where there is abundant sunlight radiation. Nevertheless, the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency in the South American continent has not been well characterized. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review was to estimate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (25-hydroxy-calciferol < 20 ng/mL) in South American populations. DATA SOURCES: Seven electronic databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde, SciELO, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched systematically for observational studies published before July 1, 2021, and reporting vitamin D status of healthy adults in South America. DATA EXTRACTION: Data were extracted using a standardized form. Risk of bias was assessed by the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Instrument for Studies Reporting Prevalence. All steps were conducted independently by two authors. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. Stratified meta-analysis and meta-regression were conducted (R software). DATA ANALYSIS: Of 9460 articles identified, 96 studies with a total of 227 758 participants were included. The overall prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 34.76% (79 studies; 95%CI, 29.68-40.21; I2 = 99%). There were significant differences in prevalence rates related to age, sex, country, latitude, season, and year of publication. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is unexpectedly elevated in South American populations. Public health strategies should include efforts to prevent, detect, and treat vitamin D deficiency. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number CRD42020169439.

Determinant factors of bone health after long-term of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate bone health and the potential influencing factors of bone metabolism disorders in adults ≥5 y after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, patients who were ≥5 y post-RYGB were invited. Bone health considered as bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) in this study was assessed by dual x-ray absorptiometry. We also assessed 25-hydroxy-vitamin D concentrations, individual ultraviolet B radiation levels, serum ionized calcium, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid, anthropometric, and body composition. RESULTS: The study evaluated 104 adults (90% women; 49.6 ± 9.1 y old; postoperative period 8.7 ± 2.2 y). Lumbar and femoral BMC and BMD were positively correlated to body mass index (BMI), appendicular lean mass (ALM), and negatively to %excess of weight loss (EWL). Femoral BMD was negatively correlated to age, and both femoral BMD and BMC were positively correlated to weekly exposed body part score. Sex, age, BMI, ALM, and weekly exposed body part score explained 35% and 54% of the total variance of femoral BMD and BMC, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The present findings suggested that older age, lower BMI, higher %EWL, lower ALM, and lower weekly body part exposure score are important determinants in lowering BMD and BMC parameters in long-term post-bariatric surgery individuals, rather than serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D and parathyroid.

Vitamin D and musculoskeletal health: outstanding aspects to be considered in the light of current evidence.

Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption and bone mineralisation, promotes maintenance of muscle function, and is crucial for musculoskeletal health. Low vitamin D status triggers secondary hyperparathyroidism, increases bone loss, and leads to muscle weakness. The primary physiologic function of vitamin D and its metabolites is maintaining calcium homeostasis for metabolic functioning, signal transduction, and neuromuscular activity. A considerable amount of human evidence supports the well-recognised contribution of adequate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations for bone homeostasis maintenance and prevention and treatment strategies for osteoporosis when combined with adequate calcium intake. This paper aimed to review the literature published, mainly in the last 20 years, on the effect of vitamin D and its supplementation for musculoskeletal health in order to identify the aspects that remain unclear or controversial and therefore require further investigation and debate. There is a clear need for consistent data to establish realistic and meaningful recommendations of vitamin D status that consider different population groups and locations. Moreover, there is still a lack of consensus on thresholds for vitamin D deficiency and optimal status as well as toxicity, optimal intake of vitamin D, vitamin D supplement alone as a strategy to prevent fractures and falls, recommended sun exposure at different latitudes and for different skin pigmentations, and the extra skeletal effects of vitamin D.

Frequency of Vitamin D Deficiency and Associated Factors in Long-term Bariatric Surgery Patients: a Cross-sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin D deficiency is a common consequence of bariatric surgery (BS). However, few studies have evaluated influential factors and to date there are no studies investigating individual ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation levels in BS patients. This study aimed to evaluate vitamin D deficiency and its associated factors, including UVB radiation, in Roux-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients. METHODS: This study included 104 adults (90.4% female) at least 5 years after RYGB. Patients underwent surgery in private hospitals (Private; n = 47) or in two public hospitals, one with ongoing outpatient care (Active; n = 17), and the other with discontinued service for BS (Discontinued; n = 40). 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were analyzed by chemiluminescence, individual UVB radiation levels by dosimeter badges. Vitamin D intake, anthropometric, skin phototype, sociodemographic and lifestyle patterns were also assessed. RESULTS: Mean age was 49.6 ± 9.1 years and post-operative period 8.7 ± 2.2 years. The prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency was 25.0% and 51.9% respectively. 25(OH)D concentration differed among the hospitals (private = 26.2 ± 8.5; active = 28.7 ± 11.4; discontinued = 23.5 ± 6.5 ng/mL; p = 0.038). A total of 26.2% of the variance observed in 25(OH)D concentrations was explained by daily UVB radiation levels (ß = 0.224; p = 0.032) and vitamin D intake (ß = 0.431; p < 0.001), controlling for age and BMI. CONCLUSION: A quarter of the evaluated patients presented vitamin D deficiency, which was associated with the discontinuation of the health care, higher BMI, lower vitamin D intake, and lower individual UVB radiation levels.

Association between vitamin D status and lifestyle factors in Brazilian women: Implications of Sun Exposure Levels, Diet, and Health.

Background: Vitamin D deficiency has been documented to be prevalent, even in low latitude regions; and this may be related to sun exposure behaviors. The aim of the current study was to assess the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and lifestyle-related factors in a sample of Brazilian women living at latitude 21º 8' S. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken in 101 women aged 35 years or older in July 2019 to assess the association between 25(OH)D concentration and level of exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and physical activity levels. Age, body mass index (BMI), and postmenopausal status were investigated. Findings: According to the slope coefficient for individual daily UVR levels, the concentration of 25(OH)D increased by 5 nmol / L for each extra Standard Erythema Dose of UVR, regardless of age and BMI (p < 0·001). Postmenopausal women had a significantly higher mean concentration of 25(OH)D (p = 0·01), higher UVR exposure (p = 0·01) and lower BMI (p = 0·005) compared with younger women, independent of other confounders including smoking, alcohol, occupation and physical activity. Interpretation: Although postmenopausal women from Brazil had higher mean concentrations of 25(OH)D than younger women, more studies are necessary to understand how sun exposure and lifestyle variables interfere with these levels. These findings have important public health implications since they suggest that vitamin D deficiency in older age is not inevitable. Funding: This study was funded by an award received by Universities Global Partnership Network - UGPN. KVSS and SLO receive scholarship from CAPES, Brazilian Ministry of Education. HR receives a productivity grant from CNPq.

Comparação entre os Efeitos da Ingestão de Sal do Himalaia e de Sal Comum sobre os Valores de Sódio Urinário e Pressão Arterial em Indivíduos Hipertensos / Comparison between the Effects of Hymalaian Salt and Common Salt Intake on Urinary Sodium and Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Individuals

Resumo Fundamento O sal do Himalaia (SH) tornou-se uma alternativa popular para o sal de mesa (SM) devido às suas alegações de benefícios à saúde, principalmente para indivíduos com hipertensão arterial. Porém, apesar do aumento do consumo de SH, ainda faltam evidências clínicas que sustentem a recomendação de seu consumo por profissionais de saúde. Objetivo Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar o impacto da ingestão de SH e SM sobre a pressão arterial sistólica (PAS), pressão arterial diastólica (PAD) e concentração de sódio urinário em indivíduos com PA. Métodos Este estudo recrutou 17 pacientes do sexo feminino com hipertensão arterial que comiam fora de casa no máximo uma vez por semana. Os participantes foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos, para receber e consumir SH ou SM. Antes e depois de cada intervenção, os participantes tiveram sua pressão arterial medida e urina coletada para análise mineral. Um valor de p <0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas antes e depois da intervenção SH para PAD (70 mmHg vs. 68,5 mmHg; p = 0,977), PAS (118,5 mmHg vs. 117,5 mmHg; p = 0,932) e concentração urinária de sódio (151 mEq / 24h vs. 159 mEq / 24; p = 0,875). Além disso, a análise entre os grupos não mostrou diferenças significativas após a intervenção em relação a PAS (117 mmHg vs 119 mmHg; p = 0,908), PAD (68,5 mmHg vs 71 mmHg; p = 0,645) ou concentração urinária de sódio (159 mEq / 24h vs 155 mEq / 24h; p = 0,734). Conclusão Este estudo sugere que não há diferenças significativas no impacto do consumo de SH em relação ao SM na PA e concentração urinária de sódio em indivíduos com hipertensão arterial.

Abstract Background The Himalayan salt (HS) has become a popular alternative for the traditional table salt (TS) due to its health benefit claims, particularly for individuals with arterial hypertension. However, despite the increase in HS consumption, there is still a lack of clinical evidence to support a recommendation for its consumption by health professionals. Objective This cross-over study aimed to compare the impact of HS and TS intake on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and urinary sodium concentration in individuals with arterial hypertension. Methods This study recruited 17 female patients with arterial hypertension who ate out no more than once a week. Participants were randomized into two groups, to receive and consume either HS or TS. Before and after each intervention, participants had their blood pressure measured and urine collected for mineral analysis. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results There were no statistically significant differences before and after the HS intervention for DBP (70mmHg vs. 68.5mmHg; p=0.977), SBP (118.5 mmHg vs. 117.5 mmHg; p= 0.932) and sodium urinary concentration (151 mEq/24h vs. 159 mEq/24; p=0.875). Moreover, the between-group analysis showed no significant differences after the intervention regarding SBP (117mmHg vs 119 mmHg; p=0.908), DBP (68.5 mmHg vs. 71mmHg; p= 0,645) or sodium urinary concentration (159 mEq/24h vs. 155 mEq/24h; p=0.734). Conclusion This study suggests that there are no significant differences on the impact of HS consumption compared to TS on blood pressure and sodium urinary concentration in individuals with arterial hypertension.

Comparison between the Effects of Hymalaian Salt and Common Salt Intake on Urinary Sodium and Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Individuals. / Comparação entre os Efeitos da Ingestão de Sal do Himalaia e de Sal Comum sobre os Valores de Sódio Urinário e Pressão Arterial em Indivíduos Hipertensos.

BACKGROUND: The Himalayan salt (HS) has become a popular alternative for the traditional table salt (TS) due to its health benefit claims, particularly for individuals with arterial hypertension. However, despite the increase in HS consumption, there is still a lack of clinical evidence to support a recommendation for its consumption by health professionals. OBJECTIVE: This cross-over study aimed to compare the impact of HS and TS intake on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and urinary sodium concentration in individuals with arterial hypertension. METHODS: This study recruited 17 female patients with arterial hypertension who ate out no more than once a week. Participants were randomized into two groups, to receive and consume either HS or TS. Before and after each intervention, participants had their blood pressure measured and urine collected for mineral analysis. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences before and after the HS intervention for DBP (70mmHg vs. 68.5mmHg; p=0.977), SBP (118.5 mmHg vs. 117.5 mmHg; p= 0.932) and sodium urinary concentration (151 mEq/24h vs. 159 mEq/24; p=0.875). Moreover, the between-group analysis showed no significant differences after the intervention regarding SBP (117mmHg vs 119 mmHg; p=0.908), DBP (68.5 mmHg vs. 71mmHg; p= 0,645) or sodium urinary concentration (159 mEq/24h vs. 155 mEq/24h; p=0.734). CONCLUSION: This study suggests that there are no significant differences on the impact of HS consumption compared to TS on blood pressure and sodium urinary concentration in individuals with arterial hypertension.

FUNDAMENTO: O sal do Himalaia (SH) tornou-se uma alternativa popular para o sal de mesa (SM) devido às suas alegações de benefícios à saúde, principalmente para indivíduos com hipertensão arterial. Porém, apesar do aumento do consumo de SH, ainda faltam evidências clínicas que sustentem a recomendação de seu consumo por profissionais de saúde. OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar o impacto da ingestão de SH e SM sobre a pressão arterial sistólica (PAS), pressão arterial diastólica (PAD) e concentração de sódio urinário em indivíduos com PA. MÉTODOS: Este estudo recrutou 17 pacientes do sexo feminino com hipertensão arterial que comiam fora de casa no máximo uma vez por semana. Os participantes foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos, para receber e consumir SH ou SM. Antes e depois de cada intervenção, os participantes tiveram sua pressão arterial medida e urina coletada para análise mineral. Um valor de p <0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas antes e depois da intervenção SH para PAD (70 mmHg vs. 68,5 mmHg; p = 0,977), PAS (118,5 mmHg vs. 117,5 mmHg; p = 0,932) e concentração urinária de sódio (151 mEq / 24h vs. 159 mEq / 24; p = 0,875). Além disso, a análise entre os grupos não mostrou diferenças significativas após a intervenção em relação a PAS (117 mmHg vs 119 mmHg; p = 0,908), PAD (68,5 mmHg vs 71 mmHg; p = 0,645) ou concentração urinária de sódio (159 mEq / 24h vs 155 mEq / 24h; p = 0,734). CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo sugere que não há diferenças significativas no impacto do consumo de SH em relação ao SM na PA e concentração urinária de sódio em indivíduos com hipertensão arterial.

Unplanned vs. planned peritoneal dialysis as initial therapy for dialysis patients in chronic kidney replacement therapy.

AIM: To compare infectious and mechanical complications, technique failure and mortality of a planned PD vs. an unplanned PD program. DESIGN: It was a prospective observational study that included chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients who started PD according to medical recommendation: group1-planned and group 2-unplanned PD. METHODS: This study evaluated patients who started planned and unplanned PD programs in a teaching hospital from July 2014 to December 2017. RESULTS: A total of 58 patients were included in the planned PD group and 113 in the unplanned PD group. There was difference between the two groups in leak and hospital admissions, that were more frequent in the unplanned PD group. Periods free from exite site infection, peritonitis and mechanical complications were longer in the planned group. Cox regression analysis identified age and the lowest albumin value as factors associated with mechanical complications; peritonitis indicated the presence of ESI and mechanical complications; the change to HD was associated with a younger age, mechanical complications, diabetes mellitus (DM) and peritonitis. The factors associated with death were age and lower values of albumin. After 48 months, the growth of the PD program was 252%. CONCLUSION: The technique survival and patient mortality in unplanned PD was similar to planned PD, while the period marked by the absence of complications related to PD was longer in the planned PD group. In the Cox regression, unplanned PD was not identified as risk factor for death, transition to HD or complications related to therapy, while age and lower albumin values were predictors of negative outcomes. IMPACT: Unplanned PD is not risk factor for death and complications related to PD and can be an option to unplanned HD.

Dietary inflammatory index and its relationship with gut microbiota in individuals with intestinal constipation: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether there is an association between the inflammatory potential of the diet, measured by the dietary inflammatory index (DII®), and the composition of intestinal microbiota in adults with functional constipation (FC). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 68 adults with FC. Energy-adjusted DII (E-DII) was calculated from data obtained from food surveys, serum inflammation markers were measured and the composition of the intestinal microbiota was evaluated using the 16S rRNA gene sequencing method. Participants were assigned into two groups: anti-inflammatory diet (AD: E-DII < 0) and pro-inflammatory diet (PD: E-DII ≥ 0). Associations of E-DII scores with microbial diversity and composition were examined using differences between the E-DII groups and linear and hierarchical regression. RESULTS: E- DII was inversely correlated with relative abundance of Hungatella spp. and Bacteroides fragilis and positively correlated with Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Bacteroides caccae (p < 0.05). B. fragilis was positively correlated with IL-10. The AD group had higher relative abundances for the genus Blautia and Hungatella, lower abundances of Bacteroides thetaiotamicron and Bacteroides spp. (p < 0.05), as well as higher frequency of evacuation (p = 0.02) and lower use of laxatives (p = 0.05). The AD group showed a reduction in the abundance of Desulfovibrio spp. and Butyrivibrio, Butyrivibrio crossotus, Bacteroides clarus, Bacteroides coprophilus and Bacteroides intestinalis (all p < 0.05). The greater abundance of Bacteroides clarus increased the individual's chance of performing a manual evacuation maneuver. CONCLUSION: Therefore, the results of this study demonstrated that the inflammatory potential of the diet is associated with the gut microbiota in individuals with FC.

Global Perspective of the Vitamin D Status of African-Caribbean Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Vitamin D deficiency remains a global public health issue, particularly in minority ethnic groups. This review investigates the vitamin D status (as measured by 25(OH)D and dietary intake) of the African-Caribbean population globally. SUBJECTS/METHODS: A systematic review was conducted by searching key databases (PUBMED, Web of Science, Scopus) from inception until October 2019. Search terms included 'Vitamin D status' and 'African-Caribbean'. A random effects and fixed effects meta-analysis was performed by combining means and standard error of the mean. RESULT: The search yielded 19 papers that included n = 5670 African-Caribbean participants from six countries. A meta-analysis found this population to have sufficient (>50 nmol/L) 25(OH)D levels at 67.8 nmol/L, 95% CI (57.9, 7.6) but poor dietary intake of vitamin D at only 3.0 µg/day, 95% CI (1.67,4.31). For those living at low latitudes 'insufficient' (as defined by study authors) 25(OH)D levels were found only in participants with type 2 diabetes and in those undergoing haemodialysis. Suboptimal dietary vitamin D intake (according to the UK recommended nutrient intake of 10 µg/day) was reported in all studies at high latitudes. Studies at lower latitudes, with lower recommended dietary intakes (Caribbean recommended dietary intake: 2.5 µg/day) found 'sufficient' intake in two out of three studies. CONCLUSIONS: 25(OH)D sufficiency was found in African-Caribbean populations at lower latitudes. However, at higher latitudes, 25(OH)D deficiency and low dietary vitamin D intake was prevalent.

Effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis supplementation on gastrointestinal symptoms: systematic review with meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: The effects of probiotics on gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms have been increasingly investigated, particularly that of Bifidobacterium animalis. Clinical trials so far have shown differing evidence regarding these effects in healthy adults. OBJECTIVE: To synthesize the published evidence on the effects of B. animalis subspecies lactis on GI symptoms (GIS) in healthy adults. DATA SOURCE: A search of the Medline, Embase, Lilacs, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Google Scholar databases was conducted for reports on randomized controlled trials published up to October 2021. DATA EXTRACTION: Population characteristics and data on colonic transit time (CTT), stool consistency, defecation frequency, abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, volunteer compliance, and adverse events were extracted. A random-effects model was used to estimate the effect of probiotic treatment on these variables. DATA SYNTHESIS: In total, 1551 studies were identified, of which 14 were included in the qualitative synthesis and 13 in the meta-analysis. Overall, probiotic supplementation increased defecation frequency (standardized mean difference [SMD], 0.26; 95%CI, 0.13-0.39). Subgroup analysis revealed a decrease in CTT (SMD, -0.34; 95%CI, -0.62 to -0.07) in short-term treatment (≤14 d) and an improvement in stool consistency (SMD, 0.76; 95%CI, 0.44-1.08) in individuals without GIS. No improvement in abdominal pain and bloating was found. CONCLUSIONS: B. animalis subspecies lactis supplementation may increase defecation frequency and, in short-term treatment, may reduce CTT in healthy adults and improve stool consistency in individuals without GIS. More high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to develop a clinical protocol for the use of this strain to improve these symptoms. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020154060.

Vitamin D Supplementation and Sunlight Exposure on Serum Vitamin D Concentrations in 2 Parallel, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin D concentrations are a function of sunlight exposure and dietary intake. However, current dietary vitamin D recommendations do not consider differences in country-specific sunlight availability or spontaneous individual exposure. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the effects of vitamin D supplementation and sunlight exposure on vitamin D concentrations in Brazilian women living in high compared with low latitudes. METHODS: In 2 parallel, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trials, Brazilian women living in England (51°N) composed "without ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure" groups and those living in Brazil (16°S) composed the "with UVB exposure" groups (mean age, 31.39 ± 8.7 years). Participants received 15 µg cholecalciferol or placebo daily for 12 weeks during wintertime. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations, the primary outcome, were assessed by HPLC-MS/MS, vitamin D intakes were assessed by 4-day diet diaries, and sunlight exposure was assessed by UVB dosimeters. The effects of supplementation and UVB exposure were tested by the intention to treat with a linear mixed model. RESULTS: The 25(OH)D concentrations increased in both supplemented groups [from 75.1 ± 22.0 to 84.8 ± 21.0 nmol/L (P = 0.004) in the group with UVB exposure; from 38.1 ± 15.9 to 55.1 ± 12.2 nmol/L (P < 0.001) in the group without UVB exposure], with no significant changes in either placebo group. Concentrations in both supplemented groups were higher than those in the placebo group without UVB exposure (P = 0.0002 in the group with UVB exposure; P = 0.0035 in the group without UVB exposure). Postintervention 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly affected by serum 25(OH)D concentrations at baseline (P < 0.0001) and by intervention (placebo or supplement; P > 0.0001), with a large effect size (Cohen's D = 0.768), but were not affected by UVB exposure (with or without; P = 0.1386), nor by the interaction between the intervention (placebo or supplement) and UVB exposure (with or without; P = 0.9845). CONCLUSIONS: Moderate supplementation of 15 ug/d cholecalciferol, in accordance with current recommendations, supports an adequate vitamin D status in adult women, irrespective of latitude, and might concomitantly prevent an increase in parathyroid hormone. The Interaction Between Vitamin D Supplementation and Sunlight Exposure in Women Living in Opposite Latitudes (D-SOL) study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03318029.

Urgent-start dialysis: Comparison of complications and outcomes between peritoneal dialysis and haemodialysis.

BACKGROUND: Few studies have evaluated the viability and outcomes between peritoneal dialysis (PD) and haemodialysis (HD) in urgent-start renal replacement therapy (RRT). This study aimed to compare infectious and mechanical complications related to urgent-start PD and HD. Secondary outcomes were to identify risk factors for complications and mortality related to urgent-start dialysis. METHODS: A quasi-experimental study with incident patients receiving PD and HD in a Brazilian university hospital, between July 2014 and December 2017. Subjects included individuals with final-stage chronic kidney disease who required immediate RRT, that is, HD through central venous catheter or PD in which the catheter was implanted by a nephrologist and utilized for 72 h, without previous training. Patients with PD were subjected, initially, to high-volume PD for metabolic compensation. After hospital discharge, they remained in intermittent PD in the dialysis unit until training was completed. Mechanical and infectious complications were compared, as well as the recovery of renal function and survival. RESULTS: In total, 93 patients were included in PD and 91 in HD. PD and HD groups were similar regarding age (58 ± 17 vs. 60 ± 15 years; p = 0.49), frequency of diabetes mellitus (37.6% vs. 50.5%; p = 0.10), other comorbidities (74.1% vs. 71.4%; p = 0.67) and biochemical parameters at the beginning of RRT, that is, creatinine (9.1 ± 4.1 vs. 8.0 ± 2.8; p = 0.09), serum albumin (3.1 ± 0.6 vs. 3.3 ± 0.6; p = 0.06) and haemoglobin (9.5 ± 1.8 vs. 9.8 ± 2.0; p = 0.44). After a minimum follow-up period of 180 days and a maximum follow-up period of 2 years, there was no difference regarding mechanical complications (24.7% vs. 37.4%; p = 0.06) or bacteraemia (15.0% vs. 24.0%; p = 0.11); however, there was a difference regarding infection of the exit site (25.8% vs. 39.5%; p = 0.04) and diuresis maintenance [700 (0-1500) vs. 0 (0-500); p < 0.001], with better results in the PD group. There was better phosphorus control at 180 days in the PD group (62.4% vs. 41.8%; p = 0.008), with a lower requirement for phosphate binder usage (28% vs. 55%; p < 0.001), erythropoietin (18.3% vs. 49.5%; p < 0.001) and anti-hypertensives (11.8% vs. 30.8%; p = 0.003). Time to death was similar between groups. In the multivariate analysis, PD was a predictor of renal function recovery [odds ratio: 3.95 (1.01-15.4)]. CONCLUSION: PD is a viable and safe alternative to HD in a scenario of urgent-start RRT with complication rates and outcomes similar to those of HD, highlighting the results regarding renal function recovery.

Exploring the Impact of Individual UVB Radiation Levels on Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D in Women Living in High Versus Low Latitudes: A Cross-Sectional Analysis from the D-SOL Study.

Vitamin D can be synthesized in the skin via sunlight exposure as well as ingested through diet. Vitamin D deficiency is currently a major global public health issue, with increasing prevalence in both low and high latitude locations. This cross-sectional analysis aimed to compare the intensity of individual Ultraviolet B radiation levels between women of the same ethnicity living in England and Brazil, respectively; and to investigate the association with circulating 25(OH)D concentrations. We analysed data from 135 Brazilian women (England, n = 56, 51° N; Brazil, n = 79, 16° S) recruited for the D-SOL study (Interaction between Vitamin D Supplementation and Sunlight Exposure in Women Living in Opposite Latitudes). Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were analysed by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), individual UVB radiation via UVB dosimeter badges and dietary intake via 4-day diet diaries. Anthropometric, skin phototype, sociodemographic and lifestyle patterns were also assessed. Mean serum 25(OH)D concentration of England residents was significantly lower than Brazil residents. Daily individual UVB radiation level showed a strong significant positive correlation with serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The required UVB radiation to achieve 75 nmol/L was 2.2 SED and 38.8% of the total variance in 25(OH)D concentrations was explained uniquely by daily individual UVB radiation, after controlling for the influence of age and body mass index. Thus, these results highlight the strong positive association between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and individual UVB radiation and the influence of different individual characteristics and behaviours. Collectively, these factors contribute to meaningful, country-specific, public health strategies and policies for the efficient prevention and treatment of vitamin D inadequacy.

Effect of multispecies probiotic on gut microbiota composition in individuals with intestinal constipation: A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a multispecies probiotic on gut microbiota composition and constipation symptoms. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 35 individuals with constipation for 30 days. The individuals were randomized into two groups: the control capsule (CC) and the probiotic capsule (PC) groups. Constipation symptoms were evaluated by the ROME IV criteria and by evacuation diaries. Fecal microbiota was analyzed by 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. RESULTS: The majority of participants were women (85.7%). There was a significant reduction in the percent of participants who had incomplete defecation (P = 0.034), blockage sensation (P = 0.025), and rarely present liquid stools without the aid of laxatives (P = 0.046) only within the PC group (but no significant difference between groups). There was a significant increase in the relative abundance percentage of Blautia faecis and Ruminococcus torques in the CC group (P = 0.003 and P = 0.011, respectively), although there was no significant change in the PC group (P = 0.794 and P = 0.958, respectively), with a significant difference between groups (P = 0.029 and P 0.013, respectively), suggesting that probiotic treatment prevented the increase of percent relative abundance of these two species. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that multispecies probiotics in capsule form may modulate gut microbiota by reducing the bacteria that are commonly increased in patients with constipation, contributing to the balance of microbiota and, consequently, to the well-being of the individual. Future studies with larger numbers of patients are required.

Does Vitamin D play a role in the management of Covid-19 in Brazil?

The study discusses the possible role of adequate vitamin D status in plasma or serum for preventing acute respiratory infections during the Covid-19 pandemic. Our arguments respond to an article, published in Italy, that describes the high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in older Italian women and raises the possible preventive and therapeutic role of optimal vitamin D levels. Based on literature review, we highlight the findings regarding the protective role of vitamin D for infectious diseases of the respiratory system. However, randomized controlled trials are currently lacking. Adequate vitamin D status is obtained from sun exposure and foods rich in vitamin D. Studies in Brazil have shown that hypovitaminosis D is quite common in spite of high insolation. Authors recommend ecological, epidemiological and randomized controlled trials studies to verify this hypothesis.

Suppression of Parathyroid Hormone as a Proxy for Optimal Vitamin D Status: Further Analysis of Two Parallel Studies in Opposite Latitudes.

Optimal vitamin D status has commonly been defined as the level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) at which parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations would be maximally suppressed, represented by an observed minimum plateau. Previous findings indicate a large variation in this plateau, with values ranging from <30 nmol/L up to 100 nmol/L. This disparity in values might be explained by differences in study design and methodology, ethnicity, age, gender and latitude. This study aimed to investigate the concentration of 25(OH)D at which PTH concentrations were suppressed in Brazilian women living in opposite latitudes (high vs. low: i.e., UK and Brazil), during wintertime. Using data from the D-SOL study (Interaction between Vitamin D Supplementation and Sunlight Exposure in Women Living in Opposite Latitudes), the association between 25(OH)D status and PTH levels were examined in 135 Brazilian women (56 living in England and 79 living in Brazil, aged 20-59 years old). Mean PTH concentrations for Brazilian women with vitamin D deficiency (<25 nmol/L) were significantly higher compared to those with vitamin D insufficiency (25-49.9 nmol/L) (p < 0.01), vitamin D adequacy (50-74.9 nmol/L) (p < 0.01) and those with optimal vitamin D status (>75 nmol/L) (p < 0.001). Regression modelling was used to investigate the relationship between serum 25(OH)D and PTH for the sample as a whole and for each group separately. A cubic model was statistically significant for the total sample (p < 0.001), whereas a linear model presented the best fit for Brazilian women living in England (p = 0.04) and there were no statistically significant models fitted for Brazilian women living in Brazil. The cubic model suggests that 25(OH)D concentrations above 70-80 nmol/L are optimal to suppress the parathyroid gland in Brazilian women. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between 25(OH)D and PTH in populations living in a low latitude location and are of great relevance for discussions regarding the estimation of optimal cut-offs for vitamin D levels in the Brazilian population as well as for other low latitude locations.