Amino acids regulating skeletal muscle metabolism: mechanisms of action, physical training dosage recommendations and adverse effects.

Maintaining skeletal muscle mass is important for improving muscle strength and function. Hence, maximizing lean body mass (LBM) is the primary goal for both elite athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The use of amino acids as dietary supplements is widespread among athletes and physically active individuals. Extensive literature analysis reveals that branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), creatine, glutamine and ß-alanine may be beneficial in regulating skeletal muscle metabolism, enhancing LBM and mitigating exercise-induced muscle damage. This review details the mechanisms of these amino acids, offering insights into their efficacy as supplements. Recommended dosage and potential side effects are then outlined to aid athletes in making informed choices and safeguard their health. Lastly, limitations within the current literature are addressed, highlighting opportunities for future research.

Selenoprotein P increases upon selenium and coenzyme Q10 supplementation and is associated with telomere length, quality of life and reduced inflammation and mortality.

BACKGROUND: Selenoprotein P (SELENOP) transports selenium to extrahepatic tissues and is a biomarker of selenium status. Low soil selenium leads to low dietary selenium intake. A consequence is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. OBJECTIVE: To investigate clinical aspects associated with SELENOP deficiency, including biomarkers of inflammation, quality of life, and mortality within 12 years, and the effect of dietary selenium and coenzyme Q10 supplementation on SELENOP. METHODS: SELENOP was determined at inclusion and after four years of supplementation in 403 elderly community-living participants low in selenium receiving selenium yeast (200 µg/day) and coenzyme Q10 (200 mg/day), or placebo. Pre-intervention, the average serum selenium level was 67 µg/L. T-tests, repeated measures of variance, Cox proportional regressions analyses, Kaplan-Meier graphs and ANCOVA analyses were applied. Associations with biomarkers of inflammation, telomere length, quality of life and mortality were investigated. Benchmark modelling was used to determine the serum selenium concentration at which the saturation levels of SELENOP and GPx3 was achieved. Comparison with GPx3 and serum selenium to identify increased mortality risk was performed, and the effect of supplementation on SELENOP levels were evaluated. RESULTS: Inverse associations were observed between the level of SELENOP at inclusion and biomarkers for inflammation. At follow-up, shorter telomere lengths were seen in those with low levels of SELENOP at inclusion, whereas high levels of SELENOP were associated with better quality of life and decreased mortality. SELENOP had increased prognostic power compared to GPx3 and selenium. Saturation of SELENOP was achieved at a serum selenium level of 146 µg/L, and for GPx3 at 99 µg/L. Supplementation induced higher levels of SELENOP. CONCLUSION: Significant associations between SELENOP and inflammation, length of telomeres, quality of life, and mortality were observed. Thus, selenium supplementation improved SELENOP expression, thereby facilitating systemic selenium bioavailability and resulting in the observed positive health effects.

Anaemia at mid-pregnancy is associated with prehypertension in late pregnancy among urban women.

Background: Antenatal iron deficiency and anaemia are associated with gestational hypertension and diabetes mellitus, but so are elevated iron stores and haemoglobin. In South Africa, pregnant women receive routine iron supplementation regardless of iron status. Aim: This study aimed to assess associations of antenatal iron status and anaemia with blood pressure in pregnant women in urban South Africa. Secondary to this, associations with heart rate, fasting glucose and glucose tolerance were also investigated. Setting: Johannesburg, South Africa. Methods: A total of 250 pregnant women, aged 27 (24-32) years, were recruited using consecutive sampling. The authors measured biomarkers of iron status and anaemia at < 18 and ± 22 weeks', blood pressure and heart rate at ± 36 weeks', and fasting glucose and glucose tolerance between 24 and 28 weeks' gestation. Associations were determined using multivariable regression models adjusted for confounders. Results: The odds of prehypertension in late pregnancy among women with anaemia at ± 22 weeks' gestation were three times higher than among women without anaemia (odds ratio [OR]: 3.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22, 7.42). Participants with anaemia at ± 22 weeks' gestation had 2.15 times higher odds of having elevated mean arterial pressure than women without anaemia (OR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.01, 4.60). Conclusion: Anaemia at mid-pregnancy could be a predictor of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. The cause of antenatal anaemia may need further investigation apart from iron deficiency. The effective management of anaemia in pregnant women living in urban South Africa remains a challenge. Contribution: This study provides evidence about the health impact of pregnant women regarding antenatal supplementation practices in South Africa.

Effects of acute beetroot juice intake on performance, maximal oxygen uptake, and ventilatory efficiency in well-trained master rowers: a randomized, double-blinded crossover study.

BACKGROUND: Beetroot juice (BRJ) intake has been considered a practical nutritional strategy among well-trained athletes. This study aimed to assess the effects of BRJ intake on performance, cardiorespiratory and metabolic variables during a simulated 2000-meter rowing ergometer test in well-trained master rowers. METHOD: Ten well-trained male master rowers (30-48 years) participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design for 3 weeks. In the first week, a researcher explained all the experimental procedures to the participants. In the next two weeks, the participants were tested in 2 rowing ergometer sessions, separated from each other by a 7-day washout period. In both strictly identical sessions, the participants randomly drank BRJ or placebo (PL) 3 hours before the start of the tests. Subsequently, the participants carried out the 2000-meter rowing ergometer tests. Oxygen saturation and blood lactate measurements were performed before starting (pretest) and at the end of the test (posttest). Performance parameters and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded during the rowing ergometer test. RESULTS: An improvement in time trial performance was observed, with a mean difference of 4 seconds (90% confidence limits ± 3.10; p ≤ 0.05) compared to PL. Relative and absolute maximaloxygenuptakeV˙O2max increased (mean difference of 2.10 mL·kg-1·min-1, 90% confidence limits ± 1.80; mean difference of 0.16 L·min-1 90% confidence limits ± 0.11, respectively; p ≤ 0.05) compared to PL. No ergogenic effect was observed on ventilatory efficiency and blood lactate concentrations after BRJ intake. CONCLUSION: Acute BRJ intake may improve time trial performance as well as V˙O2max in well-trained master rowers. However, BRJ does not appear to improve ventilatory efficiency.

Does a broad-spectrum cannabidiol supplement improve performance in a 10-min cycle ergometer performance-test?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid which has been proposed to possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Given the potential for perceptions of pain to limit exercise performance, the aim of the present study was to investigate if 3 weeks of daily CBD supplementation (150 mg day-1) improved performance in a 10-min performance-trial on a cycle ergometer. In a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study, 22 healthy participants (n = 11 male and n = 11 female) completed two 10-min performance trials on a WattBike cycle ergometer interspersed with a 3-week supplementation period. Supplementation involved either 150 mg day-1 oral CBD or 150 mg day-1 of a visually identical placebo (PLA). During trials, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE [6-20]), heart rate (HR) and blood lactate (BLa) were collected every 2 min. Mean power (W) was also taken throughout the exercise at each time point. All data were analyzed using two-way ANOVAs. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) between CBD or PLA groups for mean power (W) during the 10-min performance trial. There were also no significant differences (P > 0.05) in any of the physiological or perceptual parameters (HR, BLa and RPE) between conditions. Three weeks supplementation of a broad-spectrum CBD supplement did not improve performance via any change in RPE during a 10-min time trial on a cycle ergometer, and as such, this evidence does not support the claim that broad-spectrum CBD supplements could be performance-enhancing in this exercise modality.

Expansion of the phenotypic spectrum of KARS1-related disorders to include arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and summary of experiences with lysine supplementation.

There are currently multiple disorders of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases described, including KARS1-related disorder resulting from dysfunctional lysyl-tRNA synthetases. In this report, we describe four novel KARS1 variants in three affected individuals, two of whom displayed arthrogryposis-like phenotypes, suggestive of phenotypic expansion. We also highlight subjective clinical improvement in one subject following lysine supplementation in conjunction with a protein-fortified diet, suggesting its potential as a novel treatment modality for KARS1-related disorders. This report offers additional insight into the etiology and management of KARS1-related disorders and expands our ability to provide guidance to affected individuals and their families.

Zinc as a Possible Critical Element to Prevent Harmful Effects of COVID-19 on Testicular Function: a Narrative Review.

Research into innovative non-pharmacological therapeutic routes via the utilization of natural elements like zinc (Zn) has been motivated by the discovery of new severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV2) variants and the ineffectiveness of certain vaccination treatments during COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, research on SARS-COV-2's viral cellular entry and infection mechanism has shown that it may seriously harm reproductive system cells and impair testicular function in young men and adolescents, which may lead to male infertility over time. In this context, we conducted a narrative review to give an overview of the data pertaining to Zn's critical role in testicular tissue, the therapeutic use of such micronutrients to enhance male fertility, as well as in the potential mitigation of COVID-19, with the ultimate goal of elucidating the hypothesis of the potential use of Zn supplements to prevent the possible harmful effects of SARS-COV2 infection on testis physiological function, and subsequently, on male fertility.

A Brief Overview of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cobalamin (B12) Deficiency.

BACKGROUND: An increasing number of adult individuals are at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, either from reduced nutritional intake or impaired gastrointestinal B12 absorption. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to review the current best practices for the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with vitamin B12 deficiency. METHODS: A narrative literature review of the diagnosis and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency. RESULTS: Prevention and early treatment of B12 deficiency is essential to avoid irreversible neurological consequences. Diagnosis is often difficult due to diverse symptoms, marked differences in diagnostic assays' performance and the unreliability of second-line biomarkers, including holo-transcobalamin, methylmalonic acid and total homocysteine. Reduced dietary intake of B12 requires oral supplementation. In B12 malabsorption, oral supplementation is likely insufficient, and parenteral (i.e. intramuscular) supplementation is preferred. There is no consensus on the optimal long-term management of B12 deficiency with intramuscular therapy. According to the British National Formulary guidelines, many individuals with B12 deficiency due to malabsorption can be managed with 1000 µg intramuscular hydroxocobalamin once every two months after the initial loading. Long-term B12 supplementation is effective and safe, but responses to treatment may vary considerably. Clinical and patient experience strongly suggests that up to 50% of individuals require individualized injection regimens with more frequent administration, ranging from daily or twice weekly to every 2-4 weeks, to remain symptom-free and maintain a normal quality of life. 'Titration' of injection frequency based on measuring biomarkers such as serum B12 or MMA should not be practiced. There is currently no evidence to support that oral/sublingual supplementation can safely and effectively replace injections. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the interindividual differences in symptomatology and treatment of people with B12 deficiency. Treatment follows an individualized approach, based on the cause of the deficiency, and tailored to help someone to become and remain symptom-free.

Plain language titleDiagnosis and Treatment of Vitamin B12 DeficiencyPlain language summaryThe number of people who are at risk of developing a deficiency of vitamin B12 is steadily increasing. B12 deficiency can develop when people consume too few B12-containing foods of animal origin, or when they develop a form of B12 malabsorption. B12 deficiency can lead to serious complications so prevention and early treatment are essential. Diagnosing B12 deficiency can be challenging: the symptoms vary from patient to patient, and the methods used to measure B12 in the blood, or certain biomarkers associated with B12 metabolism, such as holo-transcobalamin, methylmalonic acid, and total homocysteine are unreliable. When people do not consume enough B12-containing foods, supplementation with B12 tablets is needed. In the case of B12 malabsorption, intramuscular injections of B12 are mandatory. The usual treatment with B12 is starting with injections of 1000 µg hydroxocobalamin twice weekly or on every other day for a period of up to 5 weeks or longer, until all symptoms have disappeared, and thereafter, the frequency of injections is gradually reduced. There is, however, a large group of people who require more frequent administration to become and remain symptom-free: this may range from daily or twice weekly to every 2 to 4 weeks.

Effects of dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acid-rich linseed on the reproductive performance of ewes in subtropical climates.

The present study evaluated the effects of omega-3 (ω-3) fatty acid-rich linseed supplementation on the reproductive performance, endocrine profile, and biochemical profile of ewes reared in subtropical climates. Forty-eight acyclic and clinically healthy Marwari sheep, aged 1.5-2.5 years with no parity, were divided into four groups (n = n = 12 in each). Ewes in the control group (group I) were fed only a basal feed, whereas ewes in the treatment groups II, III, and IV were fed the basal diet along with 10%, 15%, and 20% linseed, respectively, daily on a dry matter basis. The experiment was conducted during the typical breeding season (October-November) of the sheep. The estrus induction rate was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in all treatment groups than in the control group. The estrus induction interval was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in group III. The conception rate in group I was significantly lower (p < 0.05). In addition, ewes in the control group had a significantly lower (p < 0.05) lambing rate than all treatment groups. Serum progesterone concentrations differed significantly (p < 0.05) between the control and the treatment groups on days 15, 30, 45, and 60 of supplementation. On treatment days 15 and 30, the serum estrogen concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in all treatment groups compared to that in group I. In all treatment groups, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) decreased significantly (p < 0.05), whereas polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) increased significantly (p < 0.05) from day 15 onward. In conclusion, by providing 15% dietary linseed supplementation to ewes, their reproductive performance can be improved in subtropical climates. Future studies are recommended to further elucidate the role of linseed supplementation in sheep reproduction in subtropical climates.

Exploring the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in acne patients: A prospective intervention study.

BACKGROUND: Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 FA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential nutrients known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which involve reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, eicosanoids, and insulin-like growth factor-1. This suggests their potential to alleviate acne severity, especially when deficits are present. AIMS: To elevate EPA/DHA levels in acne patients through dietary intervention and supplementation, observing subsequent clinical effects. METHODS: Over 16 weeks, 60 patients without prescription medication (n = 23 acne comedonica [AC], n = 37 acne papulopustulosa [AP]) adhered to a Mediterranean diet, incorporating oral algae-derived ω-3 FA supplementation (600 mg DHA/300 mg EPA week 1-8, 800 mg DHA/400 mg EPA week 8-16). At four visits (V1-V4), blood EPA/DHA levels were tracked using the HS-omega 3 index® (EPA/DHA (%) of total identified fatty acids in erythrocytes; target 8%-11%, deficit <8%, severe deficit <4%), alongside clinical assessments and standardized questionnaires. RESULTS: At baseline, 98.3% of patients had an EPA/DHA deficit, with the mean HS-omega 3 index® rising from 4.9% at V1 to 8.3% at V4 (p < 0.001). AC showed significantly higher indices than AP at V4 (p = 0.035). Objective improvements in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions were observed (p < 0.001). While self-reported appearance worsened in four patients, overall quality of life improved (p < 0.001), particularly in AP. Dietary triggers were more clearly defined than beneficial foods. Intake of cow's milk and dairy products reduced (p < 0.001). Compliance was good; no adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION: Many acne patients have a ω-3 FA deficit. The HS-omega 3 index® can be increased by a Mediterranean diet and oral supplementation with algae-derived ω-3 FA. Acne severity improved significantly in patients with target ω-3 FA levels.

Polar Lipids Supplementation Enhances Basal Excitatory Synaptic Transmission in Primary Cortical Neuron.

SCOPE: Polar lipids, such as gangliosides and phospholipids, are fundamental structural components that play critical roles in the development and maturation of neurons in the brain. Recent evidence has demonstrated that dietary intakes of polar lipids in early life are associated with improved cognitive outcomes during infancy and adolescence. However, the specific mechanisms through which these lipids impact cognition remain unclear. METHODS AND RESULTS: This study examines the direct physiological impact of polar lipid supplementation, in the form of buttermilk powder, on primary cortical neuron growth and maturation. The changes are measured with postsynaptic current response recordings, immunohistochemical examination of functional synapse localization and numbers, and the biochemical quantification of receptors responsible for neuronal synaptic neurotransmission. Chronic exposure to polar lipids increases primary mouse cortical neuron basal excitatory synapse response strength attributed to enhanced dendritic complexity and an altered expression of the excitatory α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor subunit 2 (GluR2). CONCLUSION: The present finding suggests that dietary polar lipids improve human cognition through an enhancement of neuronal maturation and/or function.

Heparosan biosynthesis in recombinant Bacillus megaterium: Influence of N-acetylglucosamine supplementation and kinetic modeling.

Heparosan, an unsulfated polysaccharide, plays a pivotal role as a primary precursor in the biosynthesis of heparin-an influential anticoagulant with diverse therapeutic applications. To enhance heparosan production, the utilization of metabolic engineering in nonpathogenic microbial strains is emerging as a secure and promising strategy. In the investigation of heparosan production by recombinant Bacillus megaterium, a kinetic modeling approach was employed to explore the impact of initial substrate concentration and the supplementation of precursor sugars. The adapted logistic model was utilized to thoroughly analyze three vital parameters: the B. megaterium growth dynamics, sucrose utilization, and heparosan formation. It was noted that at an initial sucrose concentration of 30 g L-1 (S1), it caused an inhibitory effect on both cell growth and substrate utilization. Intriguingly, the inclusion of N-acetylglucosamine (S2) resulted in a significant 1.6-fold enhancement in heparosan concentration. In addressing the complexities of the dual substrate system involving S1 and S2, a multi-substrate kinetic models, specifically the double Andrew's model was employed. This approach not only delved into the intricacies of dual substrate kinetics but also effectively described the relationships among the primary state variables. Consequently, these models not only provide a nuanced understanding of the system's behavior but also serve as a roadmap for optimizing the design and management of the heparosan production method.

Effects of dietary selenium deficiency and supplementation on liver in grazing sheep: insights from transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis.

Background: Mineral elements play a crucial role in supporting the life activities and physiological functions of animals. However, numerous studies have revealed that in some geographical areas and certain grazing situations, grazing livestock frequently suffers from mineral element deficiencies due to the loss of mineral elements from grassland forages, such as selenium (Se). To shed fresh light on this issue, this study aims to investigate the impact of dietary Se deficiency and supplementation on the liver of grazing sheep in these challenging conditions. Method: This study involved 28 grazing Mongolian Wu Ranke sheep with an average body weight of about 32.20 ± 0.37 kg, which were divided into the Se treatment group and the control group. The Se treatment group was fed with the low-Se diet for 60 days and then continued to be fed with the high-Se diet for 41 days. The liver concentration of minerals, transcriptomic analysis, and untargeted metabolomic analysis were conducted to assess the impact of Se deficiency and supplementation on the liver of grazing sheep. Results: Dietary Se deficiency and supplementation significantly reduced and elevated liver concentration of Se, respectively (p < 0.05). Gene functional enrichment analysis suggested that dietary Se deficiency might impair protein synthesis efficiency, while Se supplementation was found to enhance liver protein synthesis in grazing sheep. AGAP1, ERN1, MAL2, NFIC, and RERG were identified as critical genes through the weighted gene correlation network analysis, the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and the receiver operating characteristic curve validation that could potentially serve as biomarkers. Metabolomics analysis revealed that dietary Se deficiency significantly reduced the abundance of metabolites such as 5-hydroxytryptamine, while dietary Se supplementation significantly elevated the abundance of metabolites such as 5-hydroxytryptophan (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Integrative analysis of the transcriptome and metabolome revealed that dietary Se deficiency led to reduced hepatic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity, whereas Se supplementation increased the hepatic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity in grazing Wu Ranke sheep. These findings provide new insights into the effects of dietary Se deficiency and supplementation on the liver of grazing sheep, potentially leading to improved overall health and well-being of grazing livestock.

Molecular characteristics of fowl adenovirus strains detected in broiler chickens on diets without immunostimulant supplements.

Introduction: Outbreaks of fowl adenovirus (FAdV) infection in chicken flocks in Poland threaten birds' health and lives and are rising in frequency. The risk of these infections in immunocompromised poultry flocks with developed clinical symptoms was analysed through virus detection in broiler chicks and correlation of cases with the birds' immune strength. Material and Methods: Samples were analysed from four broiler farms with chicks from the same hatchery in Silesia, Poland where feeding regimes were different. A normal diet was provided to birds on the control farm; a normal diet and probiotic, prebiotic, vitamin and microelement supplementation was supplied on another farm; a normal diet and antibiotics on the third; and a normal diet and both forms of supplementation were given on the fourth farm. Amplification of the virus DNA in a PCR with hexon gene L1 loop hypervariable region 1-4 primers determined the molecular characteristics of isolates of adenovirus strains obtained from necropsy tissue samples. The amplicon sequences were analysed, the pair-wise distances were determined, the maximum likelihood estimate for the gamma parameter for site rates was produced, Tajima's D neutrality test was run and the relative synonymous codon usage and transition/transversion bias were calculated. Results: Two species and two serotypes of fowl adenovirus - MW353018-FAdV-1/A-L-liver and MW353019-FAdV-5/B-I-intestine - were isolated in three-week-old broiler chicks on the control farm. Conclusion: Supplementation of broiler chicken flocks with probiotics, prebiotics, vitamins and microelements may have a significant beneficial effect on immunity and can prevent virus infection. The studies provided new information on the molecular characteristics of adenovirus strains isolated from chicks with a low level of immunity.

Donor knowledge and perceptions regarding donation-induced iron depletion and iron supplementation as a blood service policy.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Regular whole blood donations are associated with an increased risk of iron deficiency. Iron supplementation is an effective strategy to prevent donation-induced iron deficiency. However, research on donor perceptions towards such a policy is limited. Therefore, we aim to evaluate donors' knowledge on donation-induced iron depletion and their perceptions regarding iron supplementation as a blood service policy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three thousand Dutch whole blood donors were invited to complete a survey assessing their knowledge of donation-induced iron depletion and attitudes and perceptions towards iron supplementation as a policy. Linear regression modelling was used to evaluate associations between explanatory variables and perceptions. RESULTS: In total, 1093 (77.1%) donors were included in the analysis. Donors had poor knowledge of current iron management policies, but a better understanding of iron metabolism and supplementation. Iron supplementation as a policy was perceived mainly positive by donors, and the majority were willing to use iron supplements if provided. Iron supplementation was not perceived as invasive or negatively affecting donors' motivation to continue donating. Additional iron monitoring, information and donor physician involvement were regarded as important conditions for implementation. Male sex, trust in the blood service, prior experience with iron supplements and openness towards dietary supplements were strongly positively associated with willingness to use iron supplementation. CONCLUSION: Donors' knowledge regarding donation-induced iron depletion is limited, but not associated with their perceptions regarding iron supplementation. Donors do not consider iron supplementation as invasive, deterring or demotivating, and a majority are willing to take supplements if offered.

Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D Supplementation on Metabolic Syndrome Variables in Postmenopausal Women: A Comprehensive Review.

Metabolic syndrome poses a significant health concern, particularly among postmenopausal women who are vulnerable to its adverse effects. Emerging evidence suggests a potential role of vitamin D in mitigating metabolic syndrome risk factors, prompting interest in its supplementation as a therapeutic intervention. This comprehensive review examines the impact of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic syndrome variables in postmenopausal women. Through a systematic synthesis of existing literature, we assess the evidence supporting the beneficial effects of vitamin D on insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and inflammation markers in this population. While findings suggest potential benefits, uncertainties remain regarding optimal dosage and duration of supplementation. Implications for clinical practice underscore the importance of assessing vitamin D status and considering supplementation as part of a comprehensive approach to metabolic health management. Furthermore, public health initiatives promoting adequate vitamin D intake may help mitigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and associated complications. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, establish optimal supplementation protocols, and explore potential interactions with other nutrients or medications. Long-term randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the sustained effects of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic health outcomes in postmenopausal women.

Exploring effects of organic selenium supplementation on pork loin: Se content, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and metabolomic profiling during storage.

This research was conducted to study the effects of organic selenium (Se) supplements at different levels on pork loin quality during storage. Fifteen pork loins were procured randomly from three groups, Con (fed basal diet), Se15 (fed 0.15 ppm organic Se along with 0.10 ppm inorganic Se), and Se45 (fed 0.45 ppm organic Se along with 0.10 ppm inorganic Se). Each sample was analyzed for Se contents, antioxidant properties (glutathione peroxidase [GPx] activity, 2,2'-azinobis-[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] [ABTS] and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl [DPPH] radical scavenging activities, 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), physicochemical properties (water holding capacity, pH, color), and metabolomic analysis during 14-day storage period. Se45-supplemented group showed significantly higher Se contents and GPx activity than the other groups throughout the storage period. However, other antioxidant properties were not significantly affected by Se supplementation. Selenium supplementation did not have an adverse impact on physicochemical properties. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-based metabolomic analysis indicated that the selenium supply conditions were insufficient to induce metabolic change. These results suggest that organic Se (0.15 and 0.45 ppm) can accumulate high Se content in pork loins without compromising quality.

Vitamin D in blood serum and chronic pancreatitis.

Patients with chronic pancreatitis are at risk of developing malabsorption and malnutrition. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is accompanied by decreased serum micronutrient levels and low vitamin D levels are a frequent finding in up to 60-80% of patients. The aim of our prospective study was to investigate vitamin D in the blood serum of subjects with chronic pancreatitis with the possibility of influencing the reduced vitamin D levels with supplementation therapy. MATERIAL AND METHODOLOGY: Fifty patients with chronic pancreatitis and 20 subjects in the control group without gastrointestinal tract diseases, including pancreatic disease, were examined. The vitamin D level in blood serum was determined. The results were evaluated according to the age distribution of subjects with pancreatic disease and according to gender. Patients with low vitamin D levels were treated for 24 weeks with a dose of 1.500.000 IU of vitamin D3 per day, and then blood serum vitamin D levels were determined. RESULTS: In people with chronic pancreatitis, vitamin D levels were statistically significantly reduced compared to the control group. There was no statistically significant relationship of vitamin D with gender and age. Supplementation with vitamin D3 achieved an adjustment of vitamin D level to the level of the control group. CONCLUSION: Blood serum vitamin D levels are significantly reduced in people with chronic pancreatitis. Its correction by oral vitamin D supplementation was effective. Whether this adjustment of levels will be effective also in terms of e.g. beneficial effect on fibrogenesis will require further representative studies, because the limitation of the interpretation of the results of our study is the smaller number of subjects with chronic pancreatitis (Tab. 4, Ref. 29).

Investigating factors influencing decision-making around use of breastmilk substitutes by health care professionals: a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Breastfeeding is recognized as the gold standard of infant feeding and nutrition. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of infants for the first 6 months of life. A variety of factors may impact breastfeeding practices in-hospital which may continue after hospital discharge, such as the use of breastmilk substitutes (BMS). The Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI), which aims to promote and support breastfeeding practices, established a target rate of 75% for EBF from birth to hospital discharge. Currently, this target is not being met at The Ottawa Hospital (TOH), indicating there is room for improvement in EBF rates. The purpose of this study is to explore health care professionals (HCP) decision-making around use of BMS and identify factors that drive the use of BMS with and without medical indications. METHODS: In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with HCPs within TOH from January to June 2022. All participants had experience in maternity or postpartum care and were probed on factors influencing use of BMS at this institution. Interview transcripts were coded using an inductive approach. RESULTS: A total of 18 HCPs were interviewed including physicians, midwives, lactation consultants, and registered nurses. Multilevel barriers influencing the use of BMS were categorized into patient, HCP, and institution-level factors. Subthemes that emerged ranged from parental preferences, training differences amongst HCPs, to budget and staffing issues. Over half of HCPs were prepared to answer questions on EBF and were familiar with the BFI. Although most were supportive of this institution receiving BFI designation, a few providers raised concerns of its impact on parents who would like to supplement. CONCLUSIONS: Several modifiable factors influencing decision-making for use of BMS were identified. These findings will be used to inform unit leads, help identify effective strategies to address modifiable barriers, and develop tailored breastfeeding supports to improve EBF rates.

Vitamin D3 Supplementation and Aquatic Exercise Combination as a Safe- Efficient Therapeutic Strategy to Ameliorate Interleukin-6 and 10, and Social Interaction in Children with Autism.

Objectives: Increasing evidence demonstrated that there are altered levels of both pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and pointed out that immune dysfunction may also relate to social deficits. This study aimed to investigate the effect of aquatic exercise combined with vitamin D supplementation on social interaction and two related cytokines (Interleukin-6 and Interleukin-10) in children with ASD. Materials & Methods: Forty boys with ASD (mean age: 10.90; age range: 6-14 years) were randomly assigned to the three interventions (groups 1, 2, and 3) and one control group (each 10 participants). Participants in the group 1 and 3 received a 10-week aquatic exercise program. Subjects in groups 2 and 3 took orally 50,000 IU of vitamin D3/week. This study evaluated the serum levels of IL-6 and IL-10, as well as the participants' social interaction at baseline and post-intervention. Results: Compared to the control group, all three interventions improved social skills scores (p< 0.001). Surprisingly, the combination strategy could significantly reduce IL-6 and increase IL-10 serum levels in children with ASD. Conclusion: Aqua-based exercise programs combined with vitamin D supplementation are recommended to benefit children with ASD and improve social and communication dysfunction.