greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--Stanford Team Finds Evidence COVID-19 Mortality Rate Is As Low as .2% (17 Times Lower Than WHO's Est

Stanford Team Finds Evidence COVID-19 Mortality Rate Is As Low as .2% (17 Times Lower Than WHO's Estimate)

A recent article published in the Wall Street Journal titled , “ New Data Suggest the Coronavirus Isn ’ t as Deadly as We Thought , ” confirms what I , and many who have been questioning the mainstream narrative on COVID have been saying since the lockdowns began : fatality statistics have been dramatically over-inflated due to the vast submerged iceberg of asymptomatic or mild cases that were never accounted for within the official statistics used as justification to shut down the entire country .
Ironically , even Dr. Fauci himself raised these concerns in his recent NEJM editorial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that fatality rates may be 10x lower than official projections .
Add to this the fact that the US Gov .
Health Statistics Agency and WHO explicitly do not require objective validation of COVID-19 deaths , i.e .
no virus testing is required , only “ suspicion ” that a person ’ s death was caused by coronavirus to be labeled as such on a death certificate , and you have a perfect storm of unsubstantiated hysteria , which for those who have been paying close attention , has played perfectly into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and New World Order global governance agenda .
The WSJ report opens up as follows : However , the WSJ article goes on to explain how a preliminary study introduced by a team of Stanford researchers titled , “ COVID-19 Antibody Seroprevalence in Santa Clara County , California , “ found that approximately 50 to 85 times more people have been infected by COVID-19 than official testing statistics have revealed , based on a recent sampling of blood antibodies for the virus in a cohort of 3,330 people living in Santa Clara County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two ways to interpret this data .
First , given that testing kits for COVID-19 antibodies may not be accurate enough to distinguish the so-called Wuhan coronavirus 2019 ( COVID-19 ) from naturally occurring background coronavirus strains , of which there are several dozen known to circulate regularly within human communities , the test may have been picking up the natural virome of the population , creating what are known as “ false positives.
” Another possibility is that somehow this Wuhan virus did , in fact , spread throughout the Santa Clara @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surreptitiously , but that the virus is actually no worse than any other coronavirus , which causes the common cold , or expresses itself asymptomatically in healthy individuals who are naturally immune to experiencing morbidity or mortality from it .
If ture , this would indicate the catastrophizing of the medical community and media has not basis in science .
Either way , the dominant narrative that exposure equates to a near death experience , requiring immediate quarantine and/or forced medication or future mandatory vaccination when it becomes available , is decimated .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ most of the country ’ s population , and the majority of the developed world , would not be justified given the widespread prevalence and relative harmlessness of the virus revealed in this study .
“ That may sound scary , but it ’ s great news .
It suggests that the large majority of people who contract Covid-19 recover without ever knowing they were infected , and that the U.S. infection fatality rate may be more than an order of magnitude lower than authorities had assumed .
Based on this seroprevalence data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clara County the true infection fatality rate is somewhere in the range of 0.12 % to 0.2 % —far closer to seasonal influenza than to the original , case-based estimates.
” If , in fact , this new study is correct , the justification for shutting down most of the social and economic activity in the United States is hereby completely refuted .
Clearly , the “ science is not settled.
” And given the profound , adverse socioeconomic , and psychobiological impacts associated with assuming the worst as concerns COVID-19 , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assert our right to maintain Constitutionally protected liberties , open back up our schools , churches , parks , and enable people to return to the jobs and livelihoods .
If this resonates with you , take action today by contacting your mayor and governor at the Stand for Health Freedom advocacy portal : ACT NOW : Ask your mayor and your governor to reopen your town , city and state !
For those looking for a deeper dive , take a look at the new platform Questioning COVID , where clinicians , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world interrogate the mainstream narrative around the pandemic : https : //www.QuestioningCovid.com

Visit our Re-post guidelines This article is copyrighted by GreenMedInfo LLC, 2020
A recent article published in the Wall Street Journal titled, “New Data Suggest the Coronavirus Isn’t as Deadly as We Thought,” confirms what I, and many who have been questioning the mainstream narrative on COVID have been saying since the lockdowns began: fatality statistics have been dramatically over-inflated due to the vast submerged iceberg of asymptomatic or mild cases that were never accounted for within the official statistics used as justification to shut down the entire country.
Ironically, even Dr. Fauci himself raised these concerns in his recent NEJM editorial on the topic, where he estimates that fatality rates may be 10x lower than official projections. Add to this the fact that the US Gov. Health Statistics Agency and WHO explicitly do not require objective validation of COVID-19 deaths, i.e., no virus testing is required, only “suspicion” that a person’s death was caused by coronavirus to be labeled as such on a death certificate, and you have a perfect storm of unsubstantiated hysteria, which for those who have been paying close attention, has played perfectly into the hands of the emerging medical police state and New World Order global governance agenda.
The WSJ report opens up as follows:
“The Covid-19 shutdowns have been based on the premise that the disease would kill more than two million Americans absent drastic actions to slow its spread. That model assumed case fatality rates—the share of infected people who die from the disease—of 1% to 3%. The World Health Organization’s estimated case-fatality rate was 3.4%.”
However, the WSJ article goes on to explain how a preliminary study introduced by a team of Stanford researchers titled, “COVID-19 Antibody Seroprevalence in Santa Clara County, California,“ found that approximately 50 to 85 times more people have been infected by COVID-19 than official testing statistics have revealed, based on a recent sampling of blood antibodies for the virus in a cohort of 3,330 people living in Santa Clara County, California.
Click to view the entire study.https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.04.17.20053157v1
There are at least two ways to interpret this data. First, given that testing kits for COVID-19 antibodies may not be accurate enough to distinguish the so-called Wuhan coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) from naturally occurring background coronavirus strains, of which there are several dozen known to circulate regularly within human communities, the test may have been picking up the natural virome of the population, creating what are known as “false positives.” Another possibility is that somehow this Wuhan virus did, in fact, spread throughout the Santa Clara county at an extremely rapid rate, surreptitiously, but that the virus is actually no worse than any other coronavirus, which causes the common cold, or expresses itself asymptomatically in healthy individuals who are naturally immune to experiencing morbidity or mortality from it. If true, this would indicate the catastrophizing of the medical community and media has no basis in science.
Either way, the dominant narrative that exposure equates to a near death experience, requiring immediate quarantine and/or forced medication or future mandatory vaccination when it becomes available, is decimated. At the least, the lockdown of most of the country’s population, and the majority of the developed world, would not be justified given the widespread prevalence and relative harmlessness of the virus revealed in this study.
The WSJ report offers this interpretation:
“That may sound scary, but it’s great news. It suggests that the large majority of people who contract Covid-19 recover without ever knowing they were infected, and that the U.S. infection fatality rate may be more than an order of magnitude lower than authorities had assumed. Based on this seroprevalence data, the authors estimate that in Santa Clara County the true infection fatality rate is somewhere in the range of 0.12% to 0.2%—far closer to seasonal influenza than to the original, case-based estimates.”
If, in fact, this new study is correct, the justification for shutting down most of the social and economic activity in the United States is hereby completely refuted. Clearly, the “science is not settled.” And given the profound, adverse socioeconomic, and psychobiological impacts associated with assuming the worst as concerns COVID-19, it is time to take a stand and assert our right to maintain Constitutionally protected liberties, open back up our schools, churches, parks, and enable people to return to the jobs and livelihoods. If this resonates with you, take action today by contacting your mayor and governor at the Stand for Health Freedom advocacy portal:
For those looking for a deeper dive, take a look at the new platform Questioning COVID, where clinicians, researchers, and health experts from around the world interrogate the mainstream narrative around the pandemic: https://www.QuestioningCovid.com
Learn more about the manipulation of COVID-19 death statistics by watching James Corbett's video on the topic:


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--A review of the pharmacological action of astragalus polysaccharide.

( ) is a type of traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of clinical application .
It is used in the improvement and treatment of various diseases as medicine and food to invigorate the spleen and replenish qi .
The main components ofare Astragalus polysaccharide ( APS ) , flavonoids compounds , saponins compounds , alkaloids , etc .
APS is the most important natural active component in , and possesses multiple pharmacological properties .
At present , APS possess the huge potential to develop a drug improving or treating different diseases .
In this review , we reveal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on APS as much as possible and the study on content of APS and its chemical composition including different monosaccharides .
More importantly , this paper summarize pharmacological actions on immune regulation , such as enhancing the immune organ index , promoting the proliferation of immune cells , stimulating the release of cytokines , and affecting the secretion of immunoglobulin and conduction of immune signals ; anti-aging ; anti-tumor by enhancing immunity , inducing apoptosis of tumor cells and inhibiting the proliferation and transfer of tumor cells ; antiviral effects ; regulation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mellitus , type II diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications ; lipid-lowering ; anti-fibrosis ; antimicrobial activities and anti-radiation .
It provided theoretical basis for the further research such as its structure and mechanism of action , and clinical application of APS .

() is a type of traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of clinical application. It is used in the improvement and treatment of various diseases as medicine and food to invigorate the spleen and replenish qi. The main components ofare Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), flavonoids compounds, saponins compounds, alkaloids, etc. APS is the most important natural active component in, and possesses multiple pharmacological properties. At present, APS possess the huge potential to develop a drug improving or treating different diseases. In this review, we reveal the potential approaches of pre-treating and preparation on APS as much as possible and the study on content of APS and its chemical composition including different monosaccharides. More importantly, this paper summarize pharmacological actions on immune regulation, such as enhancing the immune organ index, promoting the proliferation of immune cells, stimulating the release of cytokines, and affecting the secretion of immunoglobulin and conduction of immune signals; anti-aging; anti-tumor by enhancing immunity, inducing apoptosis of tumor cells and inhibiting the proliferation and transfer of tumor cells; antiviral effects; regulation of blood glucose such as type I diabetes mellitus, type II diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications; lipid-lowering; anti-fibrosis; antimicrobial activities and anti-radiation. It provided theoretical basis for the further research such as its structure and mechanism of action, and clinical application of APS.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-21--Garlic supplementation for 8 weeks resulted in significant improvements in oxidative stress in women

Garlic supplementation for 8 weeks resulted in significant improvements in oxidative stress in women with rheumatoid arthritis.

AIM : Rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) , is a prevalent immune-inflammatory disease , which is associated with disabling pain .
Oxidative stress might play a role in RA pathogenesis and outcomes .
According to the antioxidant properties of garlic , the current study was performed to evaluate the garlic supplement effects on some serum levels of oxidative stress biomarkers , and quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis .
METHODS : Seventy women with RA participated in this randomized , double-blind , placebo-controlled , parallel-design trial .
The patients were randomly divided into two groups , receiving two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ placebo daily for 8 weeks .
Serum levels of total antioxidant capacity ( TAC ) and malondialdehyde ( MDA ) and quality of life were determined at baseline and end of week 8 .
A health assessment questionnaire ( HAQ ) was used to evaluate the quality of life related to health .
RESULTS : Of 70 patients enrolled in the trial , 62 subjects were included in the final analysis .
At the end of the study , there was a significant increase in serum levels of TAC in the garlic group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 26.58 ± 77.30 nmol of Trolox equivalent/ml vs 16.11 ± 0.92 nmol of Trolox equivalent/mL ; P = .026 ) .
In addition , MDA levels were significantly decreased in the intervention group compared with the control group ( -0.82 ± 1.99 nmol/mL vs 0.36 ± 2.57 nmol/mL ; P = .032 ) .
Pain after activity and HAQ scores decreased in the garlic group compared with the placebo ( -11.96 ± 13.43 mm vs -0.06 ± 13.41 mm ; P CONCLUSIONS : The findings suggest that garlic supplementation for 8 weeks resulted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HAQ in women with RA .

AIM: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), is a prevalent immune-inflammatory disease, which is associated with disabling pain. Oxidative stress might play a role in RA pathogenesis and outcomes. According to the antioxidant properties of garlic, the current study was performed to evaluate the garlic supplement effects on some serum levels of oxidative stress biomarkers, and quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
METHODS: Seventy women with RA participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-design trial. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, receiving two tablets of either 500 mg garlic or placebo daily for 8 weeks. Serum levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and quality of life were determined at baseline and end of week 8. A health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) was used to evaluate the quality of life related to health.
RESULTS: Of 70 patients enrolled in the trial, 62 subjects were included in the final analysis. At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in serum levels of TAC in the garlic group as compared with the placebo group (26.58 ± 77.30 nmol of Trolox equivalent/ml vs 16.11 ± 0.92 nmol of Trolox equivalent/mL; P = .026). In addition, MDA levels were significantly decreased in the intervention group compared with the control group (-0.82 ± 1.99 nmol/mL vs 0.36 ± 2.57 nmol/mL; P = .032). Pain after activity and HAQ scores decreased in the garlic group compared with the placebo (-11.96 ± 13.43 mm vs -0.06 ± 13.41 mm; P < .001, 0.17 ± 20 vs 0.05 ± 0.15; P < .001, respectively).
CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that garlic supplementation for 8 weeks resulted in significant improvements in oxidative stress, HAQ in women with RA.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-21--Vitamin D deficiency increases severity of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy.

PURPOSE : Approximately 25 % of patients receiving weekly paclitaxel for breast cancer require treatment disruptions to avoid severe , irreversible peripheral neuropathy ( PN ) .
Vitamin insufficiencies are PN risk factors in many diseases , but their relevance to chemotherapy-induced PN is unknown .
METHODS : We investigated whether baseline insufficiency of vitamin D , vitamin B12 , folate , or homocysteine increased PN in patients with breast cancer receiving weekly paclitaxel in a retrospective analysis of a prospective observational study .
Patient-reported PN was collected at baseline and during treatment on the Quality of Life Questionnaire Chemotherapy-Induced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primary analysis tested associations between vitamin deficiency and the maximum increase from baseline in the CIPN20 sensory subscale ( ΔCIPN8 ) .
Secondary analyses tested for association with PN-induced treatment disruptions and adjusted associations for treatment and clinical variables .
RESULTS : 25-hydroxy-vitamin D was the only nutrient with sufficient deficiency ( CONCLUSION : Pre-treatment vitamin D deficiency was associated with PN in women receiving weekly paclitaxel for breast cancer .
Vitamin D deficiency may be an easily detected PN risk factor that could be resolved prior to treatment to prevent PN , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outcomes .

PURPOSE: Approximately 25% of patients receiving weekly paclitaxel for breast cancer require treatment disruptions to avoid severe, irreversible peripheral neuropathy (PN). Vitamin insufficiencies are PN risk factors in many diseases, but their relevance to chemotherapy-induced PN is unknown.
METHODS: We investigated whether baseline insufficiency of vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, or homocysteine increased PN in patients with breast cancer receiving weekly paclitaxel in a retrospective analysis of a prospective observational study. Patient-reported PN was collected at baseline and during treatment on the Quality of Life Questionnaire Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN20). The primary analysis tested associations between vitamin deficiency and the maximum increase from baseline in the CIPN20 sensory subscale (ΔCIPN8). Secondary analyses tested for association with PN-induced treatment disruptions and adjusted associations for treatment and clinical variables.
RESULTS: 25-hydroxy-vitamin D was the only nutrient with sufficient deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) for analysis (15/37 = 41%). Vitamin D-deficient patients had a greater mean PN increase than non-deficient patients (ΔCIPN8 ± SD, 36 ± 23 vs. 16 ± 16, p = 0.003) and a non-significant, approximately threefold increase in risk of treatment disruption (OR 2.98,95% CI [0.72, 12.34], p = 0.16). In multivariable models adjusted for clinical and treatment variables, baseline vitamin D level was inversely associated with PN (β = - 0.04, p = 0.02).
CONCLUSION: Pre-treatment vitamin D deficiency was associated with PN in women receiving weekly paclitaxel for breast cancer. Vitamin D deficiency may be an easily detected PN risk factor that could be resolved prior to treatment to prevent PN, avoid treatment disruptions, and improve treatment outcomes.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-21--Maternal vitamin B12 deficiency in rats alters DNA methylation in metabolically important genes in t

Maternal vitamin B12 deficiency in rats alters DNA methylation in metabolically important genes in their offspring.

Vitamin Bdeficiency is a critical problem worldwide and peri-conceptional deficiency of this vitamin is associated with the risk of complex cardio-metabolic diseases .
Nutritional perturbations during these stages of development may lead to changes in the fetal epigenome .
Using Wistar rat model system , we have earlier shown that low maternal Blevels are associated with low birth weight , adiposity , insulin resistance , and increased triglyceride levels in the offspring , which might predispose them to the risk of cardio-metabolic diseases in adulthood .
In this study , we have investigated the effects of maternal Bdeficiency on genome-wide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the effect of rehabilitation of mothers with Bat conception .
We have performed methylated DNA immunoprecipitation sequencing of liver from pups in four groups of Wistar rats : Control ( C ) , B-restricted ( BR ) , B-rehabilitated at conception ( BRC ) , and B-rehabilitated at parturition ( BRP ) .
We have analyzed differentially methylated signatures between the three groups as compared to controls .
We have identified a total of 214 hypermethylated and 142 hypomethylated regions in the 10 kb upstream region of transcription start site in pups of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ genes involved in fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial transport/metabolism .
Brehabilitation at conception and parturition is responsible for reversal of methylation status of many of these regions to control levels suggesting a causal association with metabolic phenotypes .
Thus , maternal Brestriction alters DNA methylation of genes involved in important metabolic processes and influences the offspring phenotype , which is reversed by Brehabilitation of mothers at conception .

Vitamin Bdeficiency is a critical problem worldwide and peri-conceptional deficiency of this vitamin is associated with the risk of complex cardio-metabolic diseases. Nutritional perturbations during these stages of development may lead to changes in the fetal epigenome. Using Wistar rat model system, we have earlier shown that low maternal Blevels are associated with low birth weight, adiposity, insulin resistance, and increased triglyceride levels in the offspring, which might predispose them to the risk of cardio-metabolic diseases in adulthood. In this study, we have investigated the effects of maternal Bdeficiency on genome-wide DNA methylation profile of the offspring and the effect of rehabilitation of mothers with Bat conception. We have performed methylated DNA immunoprecipitation sequencing of liver from pups in four groups of Wistar rats: Control (C), B-restricted (BR), B-rehabilitated at conception (BRC), and B-rehabilitated at parturition (BRP). We have analyzed differentially methylated signatures between the three groups as compared to controls. We have identified a total of 214 hypermethylated and 142 hypomethylated regions in the 10 kb upstream region of transcription start site in pups of B-deficient mothers, which are enriched in genes involved in fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial transport/metabolism. Brehabilitation at conception and parturition is responsible for reversal of methylation status of many of these regions to control levels suggesting a causal association with metabolic phenotypes. Thus, maternal Brestriction alters DNA methylation of genes involved in important metabolic processes and influences the offspring phenotype, which is reversed by Brehabilitation of mothers at conception.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-21--The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency is considerable among diabetic patients on metformin therap

Objectives : This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency amongst diabetic patients on metformin therapy .
@ @ @ @ @ was conducted at general clinics at the University Health Center and diabetes outpatient clinics at @ @ @ @ @ Muscat , Oman , between January and December 2017 .
All Omani adults who were @ @ @ @ @ mellitus and took metformin were invited to participate in the study .
The variables included @ @ @ @ @ , gender , duration of diabetes , dose and duration of metformin therapy , haemoglobin @ @ @ @ @ Results : A total of 248 subjects were included ( response rate = 95.4 % @ @ @ @ @ 10.5 % ) were vitamin B12 deficient and 53 ( 21.4 % ) were borderline @ @ @ @ @ dose of metformin was highest among vitamin B12 deficient group ( 1,981± 222 mg ; @ @ @ @ @ : The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency is considerable among diabetic patients on metformin therapy @ @ @ @ @ to confirm the need for routine screening and monitoring .

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency amongst diabetic patients on metformin therapy.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at general clinics at the University Health Center and diabetes outpatient clinics at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman, between January and December 2017. All Omani adults who were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and took metformin were invited to participate in the study. The variables included in this study were age, gender, duration of diabetes, dose and duration of metformin therapy, haemoglobin and glycosylated haemoglobin level.
Results: A total of 248 subjects were included (response rate = 95.4%) of which 26 (10.5%) were vitamin B12 deficient and 53 (21.4%) were borderline deficient. The mean daily dose of metformin was highest among vitamin B12 deficient group (1,981± 222 mg;= 0.004).
Conclusion: The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency is considerable among diabetic patients on metformin therapy. Further research is needed to confirm the need for routine screening and monitoring.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--Higher vitamin B12 level at Parkinson's disease diagnosis is associated with lower risk of future de

Higher vitamin B12 level at Parkinson's disease diagnosis is associated with lower risk of future dementia.

INTRODUCTION : To determine whether vitamin B12 level at Parkinson 's disease ( PD ) diagnosis predicts time to develop @ @ @ @ @ utilized a population-based cohort of Parkinsonism patients to examine the relationship between serum vitamin B12 @ @ @ @ @ diagnosis and dementia risk .
Receiver operating curves were calculated for vitamin B12 cutoffs maximizing @ @ @ @ @ who developed dementia .
Time from Parkinsonism diagnosis to dementia , death , or censoring @ @ @ @ @ and Cox-proportional hazard models .
RESULTS : PD patients who did not develop dementia had @ @ @ @ @ B12 at PD diagnosis ( 648.5 ng/L vs 452 ng/L , p CONCLUSION : Higher @ @ @ @ @ at PD diagnosis correlate with lower risk of future dementia .
The role of vitamin @ @ @ @ @ dementia among PD patients deserves further evaluation .

INTRODUCTION: To determine whether vitamin B12 level at Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosis predicts time to develop dementia.
METHODS: We utilized a population-based cohort of Parkinsonism patients to examine the relationship between serum vitamin B12 at the time of PD diagnosis and dementia risk. Receiver operating curves were calculated for vitamin B12 cutoffs maximizing sensitivity and specificity for determining who developed dementia. Time from Parkinsonism diagnosis to dementia, death, or censoring was calculated utilizing Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox-proportional hazard models.
RESULTS: PD patients who did not develop dementia had higher baseline levels of vitamin B12 at PD diagnosis (648.5 ng/L vs 452 ng/L, p < 0.05) than those who developed dementia. Dementia risk was significantly lower in the 3rd tertile compared with 2nd tertile and trended towards significance compared to the 1st tertile. Each 100 unit increase in vitamin B12 level had a hazard ratio of 0.31 (95% CI 0.44-0.95) for future dementia (p < 0.05). Vitamin B12 cutoff of<587 ng/L was 87% sensitive and 70% specific (AUC 0.79, 95% CI 0.60-0.98) distinguishing patients with dementia. PD patients with vitamin B12 levels<587 ng/L were 5.4 times more likely to develop dementia, with 50% having dementia within 5 years of PD diagnosis compared with 11% in those with a vitamin B12 level of ≥587 ng/L (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSION: Higher levels of serum vitamin B12 at PD diagnosis correlate with lower risk of future dementia. The role of vitamin B12 in the development of dementia among PD patients deserves further evaluation.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--Low vitamin B12 levels: An underestimated cause Of minimal cognitive impairment and dementia.

Background Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to impaired cognition and memory along with a sensation of tingling and numbness , an outcome of poor myelination .
Elevated methylmalonic acid and serum homocysteine levels are markers of Vitamin B12 deficiency .
Elevated homocysteine levels are also often associated with Alzheimer 's disease and stroke .
We conducted this study to determine the effect of vitamin B12 replacement therapy on vitamin B12-deficient patients with noted cognitive impairment .
Methods We conducted a cross-sectional , multicenter study of patients with minimal cognitive impairment ( MCI ) to assess for Vitamin B12 and homocysteine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deficient in vitamin B12 underwent replacement therapy and were assessed again after three months via the Mini-Mental State Examination ( MMSE ) and a review of symptoms .
Results A total of 202 patients were included in the study .
Of those , 171 ( 84 % ) patients reported marked symptomatic improvement after vitamin B12 replacement while MMSE scores improved in 158 ( 78 % ) patients .
Of the remaining 44 patients who reported no symptomatic improvement , MMSE scores improved in 26 while 18 patients showed no MMSE score improvements @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cognition , and replacement therapy may be an option to improve patient cognition outcomes .
Further studies are needed to confirm and refine the observed associations over a larger scale and to determine whether these findings will translate to a reduction in cognitive decline .

Background Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to impaired cognition and memory along with a sensation of tingling and numbness, an outcome of poor myelination. Elevated methylmalonic acid and serum homocysteine levels are markers of Vitamin B12 deficiency. Elevated homocysteine levels are also often associated with Alzheimer's disease and stroke. We conducted this study to determine the effect of vitamin B12 replacement therapy on vitamin B12-deficient patients with noted cognitive impairment. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional, multicenter study of patients with minimal cognitive impairment (MCI) to assess for Vitamin B12 and homocysteine levels. All patients found to be deficient in vitamin B12 underwent replacement therapy and were assessed again after three months via the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and a review of symptoms. Results A total of 202 patients were included in the study. Of those, 171 (84%) patients reported marked symptomatic improvement after vitamin B12 replacement while MMSE scores improved in 158 (78%) patients. Of the remaining 44 patients who reported no symptomatic improvement, MMSE scores improved in 26 while 18 patients showed no MMSE score improvements. Conclusions Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to cognition, and replacement therapy may be an option to improve patient cognition outcomes. Further studies are needed to confirm and refine the observed associations over a larger scale and to determine whether these findings will translate to a reduction in cognitive decline.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--Vitamin B12 regulates glial migration and synapse formation through isoform-specific control of PTP-

Vitamin B12 regulates glial migration and synapse formation through isoform-specific control of PTP-3/LAR PRTP expression.

Vitamin B12 is known to play critical roles during the development and aging of the brain , and vitamin B12 @ @ @ @ @ neurodevelopmental and degenerative disorders .
However , the underlying molecular mechanisms of how vitamin B12 @ @ @ @ @ of the nervous system are still unclear .
Here , we report that vitamin B12 @ @ @ @ @ synapse formation through control of isoform-specific expression of PTP-3/LAR PRTP ( leukocyte-common antigen-related receptor-type tyrosine-protein @ @ @ @ @ the uptake of diet-supplied vitamin B12 in the intestine to be critical for the expression @ @ @ @ @ PTP-3 ( PTP-3A ) in neuronal and glial cells .
The expression of PTP-3A cell @ @ @ @ @ synapse formation through interaction with an extracellular matrix protein NID-1/nidogen 1 .
Together , our @ @ @ @ @ of PTP-3/ LAR PRTP expression is a key molecular mechanism that mediates vitamin-B12-dependent neuronal and @ @ @

Vitamin B12 is known to play critical roles during the development and aging of the brain, and vitamin B12 deficiency has been linked to neurodevelopmental and degenerative disorders. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of how vitamin B12 affects the development and maintenance of the nervous system are still unclear. Here, we report that vitamin B12 can regulate glial migration and synapse formation through control of isoform-specific expression of PTP-3/LAR PRTP (leukocyte-common antigen-related receptor-type tyrosine-protein phosphatase). We found the uptake of diet-supplied vitamin B12 in the intestine to be critical for the expression of a long isoform of PTP-3 (PTP-3A) in neuronal and glial cells. The expression of PTP-3A cell autonomously regulates glial migration and synapse formation through interaction with an extracellular matrix protein NID-1/nidogen 1. Together, our findings demonstrate that isoform-specific regulation of PTP-3/ LAR PRTP expression is a key molecular mechanism that mediates vitamin-B12-dependent neuronal and glial development.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--Vitamin B12 is neuroprotective in experimental pneumococcal meningitis.

BACKGROUND : Bacterial meningitis ( BM ) causes apoptotic damage to the hippocampus and homocysteine ( Hcy ) accumulation to @ @ @ @ @ fluid of children .
The Hcy pathway controls bioavailability of methyl , and its homeostasis @ @ @ @ @ B , a cofactor of the methionine synthase enzyme .
Herein , the neuroprotective potential @ @ @ @ @ action of vitamin Badjuvant therapy were assessed in an infant rat model of BM .
@ @ @ @ @ were intracysternally infected with Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 3 , or saline , treated with Bor @ @ @ @ @ h after infection , their hippocampi were analyzed for apoptosis in the dentate gyrus , @ @ @ @ @ global DNA methylation , transcription , and proximal promoter methylation of candidate genes .
Differences @ @ @ @ @ 2-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni post hoctest .
Correlations were tested with Spearman 's test @ @ @ @ @ likely to play a central role in hippocampal damage in the infant rat model of @ @ @ @ @ anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective action through methyl-dependent epigenetic mechanisms .

BACKGROUND: Bacterial meningitis (BM) causes apoptotic damage to the hippocampus and homocysteine (Hcy) accumulation to neurotoxic levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of children. The Hcy pathway controls bioavailability of methyl, and its homeostasis can be modulated by vitamin B, a cofactor of the methionine synthase enzyme. Herein, the neuroprotective potential and the underlying mode of action of vitamin Badjuvant therapy were assessed in an infant rat model of BM.
METHODS: Eleven-day old rats were intracysternally infected with Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 3, or saline, treated with Bor placebo, and, 24 h after infection, their hippocampi were analyzed for apoptosis in the dentate gyrus, sulfur amino acids content, global DNA methylation, transcription, and proximal promoter methylation of candidate genes. Differences between groups were compared using 2-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni post hoctest. Correlations were tested with Spearman's test.
RESULTS: Battenuated BM-induced hippocampal apoptosis in a Hcy-dependent manner (r = 0.80, P < 0.05). BM caused global DNA hypomethylation; however, Brestored this parameter. Accordingly, Bincreased the methylation capacity of hippocampal cells from infected animals, as inferred from the ratio S-adenosylmethionine (SAM):S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) in infected animals. BM upregulated selected pro-inflammatory genes, and this effect was counteracted by B, which also increased methylation of CpGs at the promoter of Ccl3 of infected animals.
CONCLUSION: Hcy is likely to play a central role in hippocampal damage in the infant rat model of BM, and Bshows an anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective action through methyl-dependent epigenetic mechanisms.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--The results of this study indicated that intervention with vitamin B12 in pregnancy reduces possibil

The results of this study indicated that intervention with vitamin B12 in pregnancy reduces possibilities of the onset of anemia.

Vitamin B12 plays an important role in cell division and is of vital importance during pregnancy .
Iron and B12 deficiency increase the risk of neonatal morbidity and the outcome of the overall pregnancy .
The aim of our study was to analyze whether the use of vitamin B12 , with standard supplements of folic acid and iron among nonanemic pregnant women , will result in improvements of hemogram parameters in terms of hematological and biochemical markers .
Study participants were 200 healthy pregnant women , randomized into an intervention group and a control group , recruited from gynecological primary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In addition to standard supplementation ( 350 mg/day ferrous iron , 5 mg folic acid ) , participants in the intervention group were given 5 g of vitamin B12 each morning for 100 days .
Both biochemical and hematological measurings were conducted in two intervals : 8th-10th week of gestation and then again in the 34th-36th week of gestation .
Participants in the control group were given only standard-of-care iron and folic acid supplementation .
Significantly lower values of haptoglobin postintervention , compared with baseline , were found only in the intervention group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ postintervention were found only in the control group .
For parameter hematocrit , we found decreased values postintervention , compared with baseline , in both intervention and control group ; however , this decrease was within the reference range for the control group , whereas it was above the reference range for the intervention group .
The results of this study indicated that intervention with vitamin B12 in pregnancy reduces possibilities of the onset of anemia , but within reference range .

Vitamin B12 plays an important role in cell division and is of vital importance during pregnancy. Iron and B12 deficiency increase the risk of neonatal morbidity and the outcome of the overall pregnancy. The aim of our study was to analyze whether the use of vitamin B12, with standard supplements of folic acid and iron among nonanemic pregnant women, will result in improvements of hemogram parameters in terms of hematological and biochemical markers. Study participants were 200 healthy pregnant women, randomized into an intervention group and a control group, recruited from gynecological primary care practices in Split, Croatia. In addition to standard supplementation (350 mg/day ferrous iron, 5 mg folic acid), participants in the intervention group were given 5 g of vitamin B12 each morning for 100 days. Both biochemical and hematological measurings were conducted in two intervals: 8th-10th week of gestation and then again in the 34th-36th week of gestation. Participants in the control group were given only standard-of-care iron and folic acid supplementation. Significantly lower values of haptoglobin postintervention, compared with baseline, were found only in the intervention group; for erythrocytes, significantly lower values postintervention were found only in the control group. For parameter hematocrit, we found decreased values postintervention, compared with baseline, in both intervention and control group; however, this decrease was within the reference range for the control group, whereas it was above the reference range for the intervention group. The results of this study indicated that intervention with vitamin B12 in pregnancy reduces possibilities of the onset of anemia, but within reference range.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--The results of the study show that vitamin B12 deficiency or insufficiency and elevated homocysteine

BACKGROUND : Depression is a heterogeneous disorder and is thought to develop as a result of complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors .
One-carbon metabolism that includes vitamin B12 , folic acid , and homocysteine has been investigated in psychiatric disorders like depression .
In recent years , vitamin D has also been considered to contribute to psychiatric disorders .
In this study , serum levels of folate , vitamin B12 , and homocysteine related to one-carbon metabolism and vitamin D were investigated in children and adolescents with depression and to assess possible roles in depression pathogenesis .
METHODS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adolescents with depression ( 69 female , 20 male ; mean age ± SD = 15.08 ± 1.46 ) and 43 control subjects ( 31 female , 12 male ; mean age ± SD = 14.41 ± 2.32 ) without any DSM-5 diagnosis .
Each subject completed a sociodemographic form , Childhood Depression Inventory , State-Trait Anxiety Inventory 1-2 and measured serum folate , vitamin B12 , homocysteine , and 25-OH vitamin D levels .
RESULTS : There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of folate levels ( p = @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels were clearly low ( p values for both levels were CONCLUSIONS : The results of the study show that vitamin B12 deficiency or insufficiency and elevated homocysteine may contribute to the etiopathogenesis of depression .
Additionally , it was shown that lower vitamin D levels may be associated with depression .

BACKGROUND: Depression is a heterogeneous disorder and is thought to develop as a result of complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. One-carbon metabolism that includes vitamin B12, folic acid, and homocysteine has been investigated in psychiatric disorders like depression. In recent years, vitamin D has also been considered to contribute to psychiatric disorders. In this study, serum levels of folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine related to one-carbon metabolism and vitamin D were investigated in children and adolescents with depression and to assess possible roles in depression pathogenesis.
METHODS: The study included 89 children and adolescents with depression (69 female, 20 male; mean age ± SD = 15.08 ± 1.46) and 43 control subjects (31 female, 12 male; mean age ± SD = 14.41 ± 2.32) without any DSM-5 diagnosis. Each subject completed a sociodemographic form, Childhood Depression Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory 1-2 and measured serum folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine, and 25-OH vitamin D levels.
RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of folate levels (p = .052). In the patient group, the vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels were clearly low (p values for both levels were<.001), while homocysteine levels were found to be remarkably high (p < .001). In addition, there was a negative correlation between depression severity and vitamin B12 and vitamin D, while a positive correlation was found with homocysteine.
CONCLUSIONS: The results of the study show that vitamin B12 deficiency or insufficiency and elevated homocysteine may contribute to the etiopathogenesis of depression. Additionally, it was shown that lower vitamin D levels may be associated with depression.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-20--Anti-obesity effects of a mixed extract containing Platycodon grandiflorum, Apium graveolens and gre

Anti-obesity effects of a mixed extract containing Platycodon grandiflorum, Apium graveolens and green tea.

The anti-obesity effect of a combination of extracts made of ( PGE ) , ( AGE ) and green tea @ @ @ @ @ investigated in a high-fat diet-induced obese C57BL/6N mouse model .
Body weight , epididymal adipose @ @ @ @ @ , adipocytes size and serum lipid profile , insulin , leptin and glucose levels were @ @ @ @ @ steatosis , injury and oxidative burden were evaluated in the present study .
The current @ @ @ @ @ , AGE , and GTE ( PAG ) mixture were most effective in preventing obesity @ @ @ @ @ with the single extracts used alone .
This was evidenced by the PAG 's prevention @ @ @ @ @ of adipocyte size , beneficial effects in serum lipid profile , levels of insulin , @ @ @ @ @ the prevention of liver injury by reducing fat accumulation in the liver , decreased GOT @ @ @ @ @ upregulation of liver antioxidant enzymes .
These results suggested that PAG may provide insights into @ @ @ @ @ in the prevention of obesity .

The anti-obesity effect of a combination of extracts made of(PGE),(AGE) and green tea (GTE) extracts was investigated in a high-fat diet-induced obese C57BL/6N mouse model. Body weight, epididymal adipose tissue weight, liver weight, adipocytes size and serum lipid profile, insulin, leptin and glucose levels were investigated. Additionally, hepatic steatosis, injury and oxidative burden were evaluated in the present study. The current study demonstrated that the PGE, AGE, and GTE (PAG) mixture were most effective in preventing obesity and its associated complications compared with the single extracts used alone. This was evidenced by the PAG's prevention of weight gain, reduction of adipocyte size, beneficial effects in serum lipid profile, levels of insulin, leptin and glucose, and the prevention of liver injury by reducing fat accumulation in the liver, decreased GOT and GPT enzymes and the upregulation of liver antioxidant enzymes. These results suggested that PAG may provide insights into functional food ingredients for use in the prevention of obesity.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-21--Exploring vitamin D signalling within skin cancer

Sunlight exposure of the skin is associated with both risks and benefits .
On one hand , sunlight ultraviolet ( UV ) radiation can cause skin cancer through signature DNA mutations .
On the other hand , it can be absorbed in the skin by 7-dehydrocholesterol to instigate endogenous synthesis of vitamin D to regulate anticancer effects .
Thus , protecting one 's skin from sunlight to avoid skin cancer may lead to impaired vitamin D levels arguing for sensible sun exposure practices .
To limit cancer , vitamin D metabolites can promote uncharacterized and diverse sets of events such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apoptosis of malignant cells , and suppression of immune surveillance , proliferation and angiogenesis .
Recent findings also suggest that part of the anticancer effects of vitamin D within squamous cell carcinoma-a type of skin cancer most directly linked to sun exposure-involves the DDIT4-mTOR catabolic signalling pathway to enhance cell autophagy .
As mTOR activity and cellular metabolism are modulated as part of the DNA damage response , insights into the means by which mTOR can be controlled by vitamin D to suppress cancer is of molecular and clinical importance .
Overall , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of vitamin D through sunlight exposure and supplementation are beneficial for human health in the face of cancer .

Sunlight exposure of the skin is associated with both risks and benefits. On one hand, sunlight ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause skin cancer through signature DNA mutations. On the other hand, it can be absorbed in the skin by 7-dehydrocholesterol to instigate endogenous synthesis of vitamin D to regulate anticancer effects. Thus, protecting one's skin from sunlight to avoid skin cancer may lead to impaired vitamin D levels arguing for sensible sun exposure practices. To limit cancer, vitamin D metabolites can promote uncharacterized and diverse sets of events such as repair responses to DNA damage, apoptosis of malignant cells, and suppression of immune surveillance, proliferation and angiogenesis. Recent findings also suggest that part of the anticancer effects of vitamin D within squamous cell carcinoma-a type of skin cancer most directly linked to sun exposure-involves the DDIT4-mTOR catabolic signalling pathway to enhance cell autophagy. As mTOR activity and cellular metabolism are modulated as part of the DNA damage response, insights into the means by which mTOR can be controlled by vitamin D to suppress cancer is of molecular and clinical importance. Overall, the research so far suggests that presence of vitamin D through sunlight exposure and supplementation are beneficial for human health in the face of cancer.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-21--Targeted 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration measurements and vitamin D3 supplementation can have impo

Targeted 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration measurements and vitamin D3 supplementation can have important patient and public health benefits.

Over the past two decades , many studies reported the benefits of higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D [ 25 ( OH ) D ] concentrations for nonskeletal effects .
Researchers found significant benefits in reducing risk of acute respiratory tract infections , many types of cancer , type 2 diabetes mellitus , premature death , and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes .
In addition , 25 ( OH ) D concentrations are low for various reasons in several categories of people , including the obese , those with dark skin living at higher latitudes , the elderly , and those who do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meat , or vitamin D fortified milk .
Measuring 25 ( OH ) D concentrations is one way to both increase the awareness of vitamin D 's importance in maintaining good health and to encourage vitamin D supplementation or increased solar ultraviolet-B exposure to sustain well-being throughout life by reducing disease incidence .
Although 20 ng/ml seems adequate to reduce risk of skeletal problems and acute respiratory tract infections , concentrations above 30 ng/ml have been associated with reduced risk of cancer , type 2 diabetes mellitus , and adverse pregnancy and birth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 25 ( OH ) D concentrationscould reduce disease incidence and make treatment expenditures more cost-effective .

Over the past two decades, many studies reported the benefits of higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations for nonskeletal effects. Researchers found significant benefits in reducing risk of acute respiratory tract infections, many types of cancer, type 2 diabetes mellitus, premature death, and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. In addition, 25(OH)D concentrations are low for various reasons in several categories of people, including the obese, those with dark skin living at higher latitudes, the elderly, and those who do not eat much eggs, fish, meat, or vitamin D fortified milk. Measuring 25(OH)D concentrations is one way to both increase the awareness of vitamin D's importance in maintaining good health and to encourage vitamin D supplementation or increased solar ultraviolet-B exposure to sustain well-being throughout life by reducing disease incidence. Although 20 ng/ml seems adequate to reduce risk of skeletal problems and acute respiratory tract infections, concentrations above 30 ng/ml have been associated with reduced risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. Thus, judicious testing of 25(OH)D concentrationscould reduce disease incidence and make treatment expenditures more cost-effective.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-21--Regulation of immune response by S-1-propenylcysteine through autophagy-mediated protein degradation

Regulation of immune response by S-1-propenylcysteine through autophagy-mediated protein degradation.

Autophagy is a key event in cellular recycling processes due to its involvement in the intracellular degradation of proteins .
It has been demonstrated that-1-propenylcysteine ( S1PC ) , a characteristic sulfur compound in aged garlic extract , induces the activation of autophagy .
S1PC degrades the adaptor protein myeloid differentiation response protein 88 ( MyD88 ) of downstream of Toll-like receptor ( TLR ) by activating autophagyand .
The degradation of MyD88 inhibits the TLR signaling pathway , including the phosphorylation of interleukin 1 receptor associated kinase 4 ( IRAK4 ) and nuclear factor ( NF ) -κB p65 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of interleukin ( IL ) -6 productionand C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 ( ) mRNA expression .
S1PC also increases the level of intestinal immunoglobulin A ( IgA ) and the number of IgA-producing cells in Peyer 's patches .
In addition , S1PC triggers the mRNA expression of X-box binding protein 1 ( ) , an inducer of IgA-producing cell differentiation via the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase ( ERK ) 1/2 and the degradation of paired box protein 5 ( Pax5 ) , a suppressor ofmRNA expression .
The present review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of autophagy by S1PC modulates the immune response .

Autophagy is a key event in cellular recycling processes due to its involvement in the intracellular degradation of proteins. It has been demonstrated that-1-propenylcysteine (S1PC), a characteristic sulfur compound in aged garlic extract, induces the activation of autophagy. S1PC degrades the adaptor protein myeloid differentiation response protein 88 (MyD88) of downstream of Toll-like receptor (TLR) by activating autophagyand. The degradation of MyD88 inhibits the TLR signaling pathway, including the phosphorylation of interleukin 1 receptor associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65, and eventually leads to the inhibition of interleukin (IL)-6 productionand C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 () mRNA expression. S1PC also increases the level of intestinal immunoglobulin A (IgA) and the number of IgA-producing cells in Peyer's patches. In addition, S1PC triggers the mRNA expression of X-box binding protein 1 (), an inducer of IgA-producing cell differentiation via the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and the degradation of paired box protein 5 (Pax5), a suppressor ofmRNA expression. The present review summarizes the mechanisms through which the activation of autophagy by S1PC modulates the immune response.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--The findings suggest that vitamin D might be important for preventing death due to some cancers, res

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with higher all-cause mortality , but associations with specific causes of death are unclear .
We investigated the association between circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D ( 25 ( OH ) D ) concentration and cause-specific mortality using a case-cohort study within the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study ( MCCS ) .
Eligibility for the case-cohort study was restricted to participants with baseline dried blood spot samples and no pre-baseline diagnosis of cancer .
These analyses included participants who died ( n = 2307 ) during a mean follow-up of 14 years and a sex-stratified random sample of eligible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ = 2923 ) .
Concentration of 25 ( OH ) D was measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry .
Cox regression , with Barlow weights and robust standard errors to account for the case-cohort design , was used to estimate hazard ratios ( HRs ) and 95 % confidence intervals ( CIs ) for cause-specific mortality in relation to 25 ( OH ) D concentration with adjustment for confounders .
Circulating 25 ( OH ) D concentration was inversely associated with risk of death due to cancer ( HR per 25 nmol/L increment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , particularly colorectal cancer ( HR = 0.75 , 95 % CI 0.57-0.99 ) .
Higher 25 ( OH ) D concentrations were also associated with a lower risk of death due to diseases of the respiratory system ( HR = 0.62 , 95 % CI 0.43-0.88 ) , particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( HR = 0.53 , 95 % CI 0.30-0.94 ) , and diseases of the digestive system ( HR = 0.44 , 95 % CI 0.26-0.76 ) .
Estimates for diabetes mortality ( HR = 0.64 , 95 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mortality ( HR = 0.90 , 95 % CI 0.76-1.07 ) lacked precision .
The findings suggest that vitamin D might be important for preventing death due to some cancers , respiratory diseases , and digestive diseases .

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with higher all-cause mortality, but associations with specific causes of death are unclear. We investigated the association between circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration and cause-specific mortality using a case-cohort study within the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study (MCCS). Eligibility for the case-cohort study was restricted to participants with baseline dried blood spot samples and no pre-baseline diagnosis of cancer. These analyses included participants who died (n = 2307) during a mean follow-up of 14 years and a sex-stratified random sample of eligible cohort participants ('subcohort', n = 2923). Concentration of 25(OH)D was measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Cox regression, with Barlow weights and robust standard errors to account for the case-cohort design, was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) for cause-specific mortality in relation to 25(OH)D concentration with adjustment for confounders. Circulating 25(OH)D concentration was inversely associated with risk of death due to cancer (HR per 25 nmol/L increment = 0.88, 95 % CI 0.78-0.99), particularly colorectal cancer (HR = 0.75, 95 % CI 0.57-0.99). Higher 25(OH)D concentrations were also associated with a lower risk of death due to diseases of the respiratory system (HR = 0.62, 95 % CI 0.43-0.88), particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR = 0.53, 95 % CI 0.30-0.94), and diseases of the digestive system (HR = 0.44, 95 % CI 0.26-0.76). Estimates for diabetes mortality (HR = 0.64, 95 % CI 0.33-1.26) and cardiovascular disease mortality (HR = 0.90, 95 % CI 0.76-1.07) lacked precision. The findings suggest that vitamin D might be important for preventing death due to some cancers, respiratory diseases, and digestive diseases.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Linoleic acid appears to play a role as a comedolytic agent in acne-prone patients.

A major pathogenic factor of acne is the disturbed keratinization of the follicular infundibulum .
It has been hypothesized that @ @ @ @ @ acid in the sebum could be responsible , in part , for this .
The @ @ @ @ @ was objectively to evaluate the effects of topically applied linoleic acid on the size of @ @ @ @ @ acne .
The design was a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized cross-over study .
Evaluations were performed @ @ @ @ @ cyanoacrylate follicular biopsies .
There was a significant effect of topically applied linoleic acid on @ @ @ @ @ and microcomedones , an almost 25 % reduction in their overall size being achieved over @ @ @ @ @ In contrast , no change was found at placebo-treated sites .
It is concluded that @ @ @ @ @ a role as a comedolytic agent in acne-prone patients .

A major pathogenic factor of acne is the disturbed keratinization of the follicular infundibulum. It has been hypothesized that a relative decrease in linoleic acid in the sebum could be responsible, in part, for this. The aim of the present study was objectively to evaluate the effects of topically applied linoleic acid on the size of microcomedones in patients with mild acne. The design was a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized cross-over study. Evaluations were performed by digital image analysis of cyanoacrylate follicular biopsies. There was a significant effect of topically applied linoleic acid on the size of follicular casts and microcomedones, an almost 25% reduction in their overall size being achieved over a 1-month treatment period. In contrast, no change was found at placebo-treated sites. It is concluded that topical linoleic acid might play a role as a comedolytic agent in acne-prone patients.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Aromatherapy can improve the sleep quality of cancer patients.

One of the problems of cancer patients is sleep disorder .
Given the absence of studies on comparing the effect @ @ @ @ @ and peppermint on the sleep quality of the cancer patients , this study was performed @ @ @ @ @ inhalation aromatherapy with lavender and peppermint essential oils on the sleep quality of cancer patients @ @ @ @ @ 120 patients were randomly allocated to three groups of lavender , peppermint , and control @ @ @ @ @ three drops of the essential oil for 7 days .
In the control group , @ @ @ @ @ instead .
Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory ( PSQI ) was used .
Before the intervention @ @ @ @ @ observed between the mean PSQI scores of three groups , while the difference was statistically @ @ @ @ @ The mean PSQI scores were lower in lavender and peppermint groups than in the control @ @ @ @ @ the sleep quality of cancer patients .
To confirm the findings , more studies should @ @ @

One of the problems of cancer patients is sleep disorder. Given the absence of studies on comparing the effect of inhalation aromatherapy with lavender and peppermint on the sleep quality of the cancer patients, this study was performed to compare the effect of inhalation aromatherapy with lavender and peppermint essential oils on the sleep quality of cancer patients. For this purpose, 120 patients were randomly allocated to three groups of lavender, peppermint, and control. The intervention groups received three drops of the essential oil for 7 days. In the control group, aromatic distilled water was used instead. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory (PSQI) was used. Before the intervention, no significant difference was observed between the mean PSQI scores of three groups, while the difference was statistically significant after the intervention. The mean PSQI scores were lower in lavender and peppermint groups than in the control group. Aromatherapy can improve the sleep quality of cancer patients. To confirm the findings, more studies should be done.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Lavender exerts a hypolipidemic effect in animals.

BACKGROUND : Hyperlipidemia is a prevalent disorder and a main component of the metabolic syndrome resulting from various factors .
The aerial parts and flowers of Lavandula officinalis possesses antioxidant activity , therefore , in this study ; the effects of L. officinalis extract were investigated on serum lipid levels of mice .
METHODS : Experimental mature female BALB/c mice were treated with 100 , 300 or 500mg/kg/day of lavender aqueous extract or distilled water for 15 days via intraperitoneally injections .
At the end of 15th day , the serum biochemical parameters include cholesterol , triglyceride , HDL and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cell function test were determined .
RESULTS : The aqueous extract of lavender significantly decreased serum cholesterol and LDL levels .
Serum cholesterol level was lower in the 300 and 500mg/kg/day experimental groups when compared with the control group .
In liver histology evaluation , fat accumulation was not observed in the experimental group , which treated with high-fat foods and receiving high doses of extract .
CONCLUSION : L. officinalis extract exerts a hypolipidemic effect in studied groups , however , further phytochemical and biological tests are suggested to determine the active @ @ @ @ @ @ @

BACKGROUND: Hyperlipidemia is a prevalent disorder and a main component of the metabolic syndrome resulting from various factors. The aerial parts and flowers of Lavandula officinalis possesses antioxidant activity, therefore, in this study; the effects of L. officinalis extract were investigated on serum lipid levels of mice.
METHODS: Experimental mature female BALB/c mice were treated with 100, 300 or 500mg/kg/day of lavender aqueous extract or distilled water for 15 days via intraperitoneally injections. At the end of 15th day, the serum biochemical parameters include cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL and LDL levels as well as the liver cell function test were determined.
RESULTS: The aqueous extract of lavender significantly decreased serum cholesterol and LDL levels. Serum cholesterol level was lower in the 300 and 500mg/kg/day experimental groups when compared with the control group. In liver histology evaluation, fat accumulation was not observed in the experimental group, which treated with high-fat foods and receiving high doses of extract.
CONCLUSION: L. officinalis extract exerts a hypolipidemic effect in studied groups, however, further phytochemical and biological tests are suggested to determine the active chemical constituent responsible for these activities.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Vitamin D effects on lung immunity and respiratory diseases.

Our understanding of vitamin D metabolism and biological effects has grown exponentially in recent years and it has become clear @ @ @ @ @ immunomodulatory effects .
The active vitamin D generating enzyme , 1α-hydroxylase , is expressed by @ @ @ @ @ macrophages , dendritic cells , and lymphocytes indicating that active vitamin D can be produced @ @ @ @ @ Vitamin D generated in tissues is responsible for many of the immunomodulatory actions of vitamin @ @ @ @ @ within the lungs include increased secretion of the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin , decreased chemokine production @ @ @ @ @ activation , and alteration of T-cell activation .
These cellular effects are important for host @ @ @ @ @ development of allergic lung diseases like asthma .
Epidemiological studies do suggest that vitamin D @ @ @ @ @ tract infections and mycobacterial infections and that vitamin D may play a role in the @ @ @ @ @ .
Randomized , placebo-controlled trials are lacking but ongoing .

Our understanding of vitamin D metabolism and biological effects has grown exponentially in recent years and it has become clear that vitamin D has extensive immunomodulatory effects. The active vitamin D generating enzyme, 1α-hydroxylase, is expressed by the airway epithelium, alveolar macrophages, dendritic cells, and lymphocytes indicating that active vitamin D can be produced locally within the lungs. Vitamin D generated in tissues is responsible for many of the immunomodulatory actions of vitamin D. The effects ofvitamin D within the lungs include increased secretion of the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin, decreased chemokine production, inhibition of dendritic cell activation, and alteration of T-cell activation. These cellular effects are important for host responses against infection and the development of allergic lung diseases like asthma. Epidemiological studies do suggest that vitamin D deficiency predisposes to viral respiratory tract infections and mycobacterial infections and that vitamin D may play a role in the development and treatment of asthma. Randomized, placebo-controlled trials are lacking but ongoing.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--A pro-inflammatory diet increases the likelihood of obesity and overweight in adolescent boys.

Background : Obesity and Overweight at an early age can contribute with many chronic diseases such as cancers , diabetes and cardiovascular diseases .
Diet-related inflammation is one of the most important underlying mechanisms that may has a key role in obesity and overweight .
This paper aimed to compare the dietary inflammatory index ( DII ) in normal weight and overweight adolescent boys .
Methods : A total of 535 adolescent boys ( 214 cases were overweight and obese and 321 controls with normal weight ) participated in this study from two schools in Tehran , Iran .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measured using a Bio-Impedance Analyzer ( BIA ) scale .
A validated semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire ( FFQ ) was used to assess dietary inflammatory index .
Results : Results obtained from modeling DIIas a continuous variable identified a positive association between DIIand obesity ( OR = 1.08 , CI 1.01-1.16 ) .
After multivariable adjustment , subjects with DII > 0.02 had at 1.5 times higher odds of obesity and overweight compared to subjects with DII ≤ 0.02 ( OR = 1.52 ; CI 1.04-2.22 ) .
Conclusion : Our study indicated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obesity and overweight during adolescence .
Therefore , advising adolescent to consume diet with lower DIIwith more fruits and vegetables , rich sources of fiber , flavonoids , zinc , magnesium and selenium and avoiding the consumption of saturated fatty acids ( SFA ) , trans-fatty acids , and cholesterol may support a healthy weight .

Background: Obesity and Overweight at an early age can contribute with many chronic diseases such as cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Diet-related inflammation is one of the most important underlying mechanisms that may has a key role in obesity and overweight. This paper aimed to compare the dietary inflammatory index (DII) in normal weight and overweight adolescent boys.
Methods: A total of 535 adolescent boys (214 cases were overweight and obese and 321 controls with normal weight) participated in this study from two schools in Tehran, Iran. The student's weight and body composition were measured using a Bio-Impedance Analyzer (BIA) scale. A validated semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess dietary inflammatory index.
Results: Results obtained from modeling DIIas a continuous variable identified a positive association between DIIand obesity (OR = 1.08, CI 1.01-1.16). After multivariable adjustment, subjects with DII > 0.02 had at 1.5 times higher odds of obesity and overweight compared to subjects with DII ≤ 0.02 (OR = 1.52; CI 1.04-2.22).
Conclusion: Our study indicated the importance of dietary-induced inflammation in the obesity and overweight during adolescence. Therefore, advising adolescent to consume diet with lower DIIwith more fruits and vegetables, rich sources of fiber, flavonoids, zinc, magnesium and selenium and avoiding the consumption of saturated fatty acids (SFA), trans-fatty acids, and cholesterol may support a healthy weight.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Structural characterization and immunomodulatory activity of an exopolysaccharide produced by Lactob

Structural characterization and immunomodulatory activity of an exopolysaccharide produced by Lactobacillus helveticus LZ-R-5.

Exopolysaccharide ( R-5-EPS ) was isolated from the fermented milk of Lactobacillus helveticus LZ-R-5 and purified by DEAE-52 cellulose anion-exchange @ @ @ @ @ the structure was conducted .
Results showed that R-5-EPS was a heteropolysaccharide containing linear repeating @ @ @ @ @ 1→3 ) -β-D-Glcp- ( 1→3 ) -β-D-Glcp- ( 1→3 ) -β-D-Glcp- ( 1→3 ) -β-D-Glcp- @ @ @ @ @ Mw of 5.41 × 10Da .
Furthermore , at a cellular level , R-5-EPS showed @ @ @ @ @ strong effect on increasing proliferation of RAW264.7 macrophages and enhancing phagocytosis , acid phosphatase activity @ @ @ @ @ cytokines production in macrophages .
These results suggest that R-5-EPS have a potent immunostimulatory activity @ @ @ @ @ a potential immunomodulatory agent .

Exopolysaccharide (R-5-EPS) was isolated from the fermented milk of Lactobacillus helveticus LZ-R-5 and purified by DEAE-52 cellulose anion-exchange column, and characterization of the structure was conducted. Results showed that R-5-EPS was a heteropolysaccharide containing linear repeating units of→6)-β-D-Galp-(1→3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→ with an average Mw of 5.41 × 10Da. Furthermore, at a cellular level, R-5-EPS showed immunostimulatory activity due to its strong effect on increasing proliferation of RAW264.7 macrophages and enhancing phagocytosis, acid phosphatase activity, nitric oxide production and cytokines production in macrophages. These results suggest that R-5-EPS have a potent immunostimulatory activity and may be explored as a potential immunomodulatory agent.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--A regular seafood-rich dietary pattern could significantly reduce obesity-related cardiovascular ris

A regular seafood-rich dietary pattern could significantly reduce obesity-related cardiovascular risk factors.

BACKGROUND : Childhood hypertension ( CH ) is related to the dietary intake and diversity of children .
The study aimed to assess the critical role of dietary diversity , and seafood long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ( LC n-3 PUFAs ) in reducing CH among the Iranian community .
METHODS : A cross-sectional two-phase study with 7-12-year-old Iranian students was designed .
In the initial phase , the socio-demographic characteristics , and blood pressure status ( normal , pre-hypertension , and hypertension ) based on systolic ( SBP ) and diastolic ( DBP ) blood pressure data were assessed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used to generate the dietary diversity score ( DDS , count of consumed food groups ) and dietary variety score ( DVS , the cumulative number of daily consumed food items ) .
In the second phase , the association between CH reduction and changes in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D ( 25OHD ) , total cholesterol ( TC ) , high-density lipoprotein ( HDL ) , low-density lipoprotein ( LDL ) , and triglycerides ( TG ) levels of schoolchildren intervened by a seafood diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids were assessed using the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hypertension prevalence rates were 7.8 and 9.15 % , respectively .
CH was significantly associated with age , gender , and DDS .
A significant inverse association was found between the high intake of seafood and CH ( P = 0.032 ) .
The gas-chromatography analysis showed the high presence of α-linolenic ( ALA , 6.72 % ) , eicosapentaenoic ( EPA , 7.62 % ) , docosapentaenoic ( DPA , 5.88 % ) , and docosahexaenoic ( DHA , 18.52 % ) acids in the seafood-based diet ( p CONCLUSIONS : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the different CH status .
A regular seafood-rich dietary pattern due to the high LC n-3 PUFAs contents could significantly reduce the obesity-related cardiovascular risk factors .

BACKGROUND: Childhood hypertension (CH) is related to the dietary intake and diversity of children. The study aimed to assess the critical role of dietary diversity, and seafood long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFAs) in reducing CH among the Iranian community.
METHODS: A cross-sectional two-phase study with 7-12-year-old Iranian students was designed. In the initial phase, the socio-demographic characteristics, and blood pressure status (normal, pre-hypertension, and hypertension) based on systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure data were assessed. The 24-h dietary recall questionnaire was used to generate the dietary diversity score (DDS, count of consumed food groups) and dietary variety score (DVS, the cumulative number of daily consumed food items). In the second phase, the association between CH reduction and changes in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides (TG) levels of schoolchildren intervened by a seafood diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids were assessed using the regression analyses.
RESULTS: The pre-hypertension and hypertension prevalence rates were 7.8 and 9.15%, respectively. CH was significantly associated with age, gender, and DDS. A significant inverse association was found between the high intake of seafood and CH (P = 0.032). The gas-chromatography analysis showed the high presence of α-linolenic (ALA, 6.72%), eicosapentaenoic (EPA, 7.62%), docosapentaenoic (DPA, 5.88%), and docosahexaenoic (DHA, 18.52%) acids in the seafood-based diet (p < 0.05). The low blood pressure levels with regular consumption of this healthy-functional diet were significantly associated with a reduction in BMI, LDL, TC, and TG, and a remarkable increase in 25OHD and HDL levels. The multiple linear regression showed that the SBP was highly associated withthe TC (p < 0.001; β = 0.464).
CONCLUSIONS: The age and DDS were efficient predictors for the different CH status. A regular seafood-rich dietary pattern due to the high LC n-3 PUFAs contents could significantly reduce the obesity-related cardiovascular risk factors.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--This study suggests vitamin D and B vitamins may be necessary for reshaping the gut microbiota in ov

This study suggests vitamin D and B vitamins may be necessary for reshaping the gut microbiota in overweight individuals.

Growing evidence indicates that vitamin B ( VB ) and vitamin D ( VD ) are associated with the development @ @ @ @ @ of supplemental dietary VB and VD on the gut microbiota of obese individuals are still @ @ @ @ @ present study , 997 normoweight ( NW ) and 773 overweight ( OW ) samples @ @ @ @ @ Gut Project .
The microbialα-diversity was not affected by VB , VD or VB combined @ @ @ @ @ supplementation in the normoweight population or the overweigh population .
VD significantly modulated 20 gut @ @ @ @ @ .
Moreover , VBD supplementation significantly affected 3 phyla and 3 families and 22 pathways @ @ @ @ @ .
In summary , our results highlight that VD and VBD might be necessary for @ @ @ @ @ NW and OW , respectively .

Growing evidence indicates that vitamin B (VB) and vitamin D (VD) are associated with the development of obesity. The effects of supplemental dietary VB and VD on the gut microbiota of obese individuals are still largely unknown. In the present study, 997 normoweight (NW) and 773 overweight (OW) samples were screened from the American Gut Project. The microbialα-diversity was not affected by VB, VD or VB combined with VD (VBD) supplementation in the normoweight population or the overweigh population. VD significantly modulated 20 gut microbial metabolic pathways in NW. Moreover, VBD supplementation significantly affected 3 phyla and 3 families and 22 pathways in the OW gut microbiota. In summary, our results highlight that VD and VBD might be necessary for reshaping the gut microbiota in NW and OW, respectively.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Serum vitamin D levels are correlated with metabolic risk factors in women with PCOS.

Polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ) is a common endocrine disorder in women at reproductive age , which is characterized by obesity , hyperandrogenemia , and insulin resistance ( IR ) .
This study aimed to investigate the vitamin D status , and analyze the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and metabolic risk factors in PCOS women in Shaanxi China.A cross-sectional study included 169 women diagnosed with PCOS and 114 control women without PCOS .
The serum 25 ( OH ) D and metabolic markers were measured .
Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25 ( OH ) D @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primary outcome was the difference in vitamin D status between the PCOS and control groups , the secondary outcomes were correlations between serum 25 ( OH ) D concentration and metabolic risk factors in women with PCOS.The serum 25 ( OH ) D concentration was significantly lower in women with PCOS than in controls ( < 0.05 ) , and the prevalence rates of 25 ( OH ) D deficiency and insufficiency were significantly higher in women with PCOS than in controls ( < 0.05 ) .
The serum 25 ( OH ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ women with obesity or IR than in women without obesity or IR ( < 0.05 ) , and the prevalence of 25 ( OH ) D deficiency in PCOS women with obesity or IR was significantly higher than in women without obesity or IR ( < 0.05 ) .
Serum 25 ( OH ) D concentration was significantly negatively correlated with body mass index ( BMI ) , waist-to-hip ratio ( WHR ) , fasting insulin , homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance ( HOMA-IR ) , total cholesterol , low-density lipoprotein cholesterol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protein ( hs-CRP ) ( < 0.05 ) .
In comparison , serum 25 ( OH ) D concentration was significantly positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( HDL-C ) ( < 0.05 ) .
Increased BMI and WHR , high levels of fasting insulin , HOMA-IR , total cholesterol , LDL-C and hs-CRP were regarded as risk factors , but high level of HDL-C was considered to be protective factor of vitamin D deficiency in PCOS women.Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in PCOS women in Shaanxi China , especially in those with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( OH ) D level was correlated with metabolic risk factors in PCOS women .
Multi-center randomized controlled trials with large sample sizes are needed to probe the metabolic effect of vitamin D supplementation in PCOS women .

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women at reproductive age, which is characterized by obesity, hyperandrogenemia, and insulin resistance (IR). This study aimed to investigate the vitamin D status, and analyze the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and metabolic risk factors in PCOS women in Shaanxi China.A cross-sectional study included 169 women diagnosed with PCOS and 114 control women without PCOS. The serum 25(OH)D and metabolic markers were measured. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25(OH)D concentration less than 20 ng/mL. The primary outcome was the difference in vitamin D status between the PCOS and control groups, the secondary outcomes were correlations between serum 25(OH)D concentration and metabolic risk factors in women with PCOS.The serum 25(OH)D concentration was significantly lower in women with PCOS than in controls (<0.05), and the prevalence rates of 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency were significantly higher in women with PCOS than in controls (<0.05). The serum 25(OH)D concentration was significantly lower in PCOS women with obesity or IR than in women without obesity or IR (<0.05), and the prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency in PCOS women with obesity or IR was significantly higher than in women without obesity or IR (<0.05). Serum 25(OH)D concentration was significantly negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (<0.05). In comparison, serum 25(OH)D concentration was significantly positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (<0.05). Increased BMI and WHR, high levels of fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, LDL-C and hs-CRP were regarded as risk factors, but high level of HDL-C was considered to be protective factor of vitamin D deficiency in PCOS women.Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in PCOS women in Shaanxi China, especially in those with obesity and IR. The serum 25(OH)D level was correlated with metabolic risk factors in PCOS women. Multi-center randomized controlled trials with large sample sizes are needed to probe the metabolic effect of vitamin D supplementation in PCOS women.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Vitamin D deficiency is associated with obesity irrespective of age, latitude, cut-offs to define vi

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with obesity irrespective of age, latitude, cut-offs to define vitamin D deficiency.

Over the past decade , there have been an increasing number of studies on the association between vitamin D deficiency and anthropometric state .
However , we did not identify any meta-analyses of the relationship between obesity and vitamin D deficiency in different age groups .
Thus , we evaluated the association between obesity and vitamin D deficiency .
We searched for observational studies published up to April 2014 in PubMed/Medline , Web of Science and Scopus databases .
We performed a meta-analysis in accordance with the random-effects model to obtain the summary measurement ( prevalence ratio , PR ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 met the inclusion criteria .
The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 35 % higher in obese subjects compared to the eutrophic group ( PR : 1.35 ; 95 % CI : 1.21-1.50 ) and 24 % higher than in the overweight group ( PR : 1.24 ; 95 % CI : 1.14-1.34 ) .
These results indicate that the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was more elevated in obese subjects .
The vitamin D deficiency was associated with obesity irrespective of age , latitude , cut-offs to define vitamin D deficiency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ study location .

Over the past decade, there have been an increasing number of studies on the association between vitamin D deficiency and anthropometric state. However, we did not identify any meta-analyses of the relationship between obesity and vitamin D deficiency in different age groups. Thus, we evaluated the association between obesity and vitamin D deficiency. We searched for observational studies published up to April 2014 in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science and Scopus databases. We performed a meta-analysis in accordance with the random-effects model to obtain the summary measurement (prevalence ratio, PR). Among the 29,882 articles identified, 23 met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 35% higher in obese subjects compared to the eutrophic group (PR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.21-1.50) and 24% higher than in the overweight group (PR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.14-1.34). These results indicate that the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was more elevated in obese subjects. The vitamin D deficiency was associated with obesity irrespective of age, latitude, cut-offs to define vitamin D deficiency and the Human Development Index of the study location.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Ozone exposure causes damage to cutaneous lipids, an effect which can be attenuated by vitamin E app

Ozone exposure causes damage to cutaneous lipids, an effect which can be attenuated by vitamin E application.

To evaluate ozone damage to hairless mouse skin , two parameters of oxidative damage , vitamin E depletion and malondialdehyde @ @ @ @ @ were measured in vitamin E-enriched and in control skin from mice exposed to ozone ( @ @ @ @ @ 5 % vitamin E solution ( tocotrienol-rich fraction , TRF ) in polyethylene glycol ( @ @ @ @ @ 2 sites on the back of hairless mice , PEG to 2 sites .
After @ @ @ @ @ were washed , one of each pair of sites covered and the mice exposed ozone @ @ @ @ @ ( compared with covered sites ) increased epidermal MDA in PEG-treated sites , while vitamin @ @ @ @ @ contrast , ozone exposure significantly depleted vitamin E in TRF-treated sites , while significant MDA @ @ @ @ @ is the first demonstration that ozone exposure causes damage to cutaneous lipids , an effect @ @ @ @ @ vitamin E application .

To evaluate ozone damage to hairless mouse skin, two parameters of oxidative damage, vitamin E depletion and malondialdehyde (MDA) production, were measured in vitamin E-enriched and in control skin from mice exposed to ozone (10 ppm). A 5% vitamin E solution (tocotrienol-rich fraction, TRF) in polyethylene glycol (PEG) was applied to 2 sites on the back of hairless mice, PEG to 2 sites. After 2 h, the sites were washed, one of each pair of sites covered and the mice exposed ozone for 2 h. Ozone exposure (compared with covered sites) increased epidermal MDA in PEG-treated sites, while vitamin E was unchanged. In contrast, ozone exposure significantly depleted vitamin E in TRF-treated sites, while significant MDA accumulation was prevented. This is the first demonstration that ozone exposure causes damage to cutaneous lipids, an effect which can be attenuated by vitamin E application.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Topical alpha-tocotrienol inhibits lipid peroxidation induced by benzoyl peroxide.

Benzoyl peroxide ( BPO ) is a commonly used drug in the treatment of acne vulgaris , but it induces unwanted side effects related to stratum corneum ( SC ) function .
Since it has been recently shown to oxidize SC antioxidants , it was hypothesized that antioxidant supplementation may mitigate the BPO-induced SC changes .
To test this , 11 subjects were selected to be topically supplemented with alpha-tocotrienol ( 5 % w/vol ) for 7 d on defined regions of the upper back , while the contralateral region was used for vehicle-only controls .
Starting on day 8 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with BPO ( 10 % ) for 7 d ; the alpha-tocotrienol supplementation was continued throughout the study .
A single dose of BPO depleted 93.2 % of the total vitamin E. While continuing the BPO exposure for 7 d further depleted vitamin E in both vehicle-only and alpha-tocotrienol-treated sites , significantly more vitamin E remained in the alpha-tocotrienol-treated areas .
Seven BPO applications increased lipid peroxidation .
Alpha-tocotrienol supplementation significantly mitigated the BPO-induced lipid peroxidation .
The transepidermal water loss was increased 1.9-fold by seven BPO applications , while there was no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The data suggest that alpha-tocotrienol supplementation counteracts the lipid peroxidation but not the barrier perturbation in the SC induced by 10 % BPO .

Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is a commonly used drug in the treatment of acne vulgaris, but it induces unwanted side effects related to stratum corneum (SC) function. Since it has been recently shown to oxidize SC antioxidants, it was hypothesized that antioxidant supplementation may mitigate the BPO-induced SC changes. To test this, 11 subjects were selected to be topically supplemented with alpha-tocotrienol (5% w/vol) for 7 d on defined regions of the upper back, while the contralateral region was used for vehicle-only controls. Starting on day 8, all test sites were also treated with BPO (10%) for 7 d; the alpha-tocotrienol supplementation was continued throughout the study. A single dose of BPO depleted 93.2% of the total vitamin E. While continuing the BPO exposure for 7 d further depleted vitamin E in both vehicle-only and alpha-tocotrienol-treated sites, significantly more vitamin E remained in the alpha-tocotrienol-treated areas. Seven BPO applications increased lipid peroxidation. Alpha-tocotrienol supplementation significantly mitigated the BPO-induced lipid peroxidation. The transepidermal water loss was increased 1.9-fold by seven BPO applications, while there was no difference between alpha-tocotrienol treatment and controls. The data suggest that alpha-tocotrienol supplementation counteracts the lipid peroxidation but not the barrier perturbation in the SC induced by 10% BPO.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--This paper describes a tocotrienol nano emulsion with enhanced effectiveness against skin carcinomas

This paper describes a tocotrienol nano emulsion with enhanced effectiveness against skin carcinomas.

The potent anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic actions of tocotrienols ( T3 ) against cancer , but not normal tissues , have been hampered by their limited systemic bioavailabilty .
Recent expansive development of diverse nanoemulsion ( NE ) vehicles emphasized their vast potential to improve the effective dosing of different clinical and experimental drugs of lipophilic nature , such as T3 .
The emphasis of the present work is to develop a pharmaceutically scalable , low-energy nano-emulsification approach for optimized incorporation of T3-rich palm oil ( Tocomin® ) , possessing anticancer activity as a potential cutaneous delivery platform for adjunctive therapy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents .
Different Tocomin®-NEs , obtained with different homogenization strategies , were screened based on physicochemical uniformity ( droplet size , charge and polydispersity ) and subjected to stress physical stability testing , along with chemical content analysis ( ≥90 % Tocomin® - incorporation efficiency ) .
Adopted hybrid nano-emulsification of Tocomin® , correlated with highest preservation of DPPH-radical scavenging capacity of active T3 in prototype formulation , Tocomin®-NE , which effectively permeated diffusion cell membranes 4-folds higher than propyleneglycol ( PG ) -admixed Tocomin® control .
Against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carcinoma , Tocomin®-hybrid NE demonstrated significantlystronger cytotoxic profiles ( p ≤ 0.01 ) , visible in both concentration- and time- dependent manners , with at least 5-folds lower IC50 values , compared to those estimated for the closest Tocomin®-control .
The proposed hybrid nano-emulsified formulation of Tocomin® provides simple and stable delivery platform , for effective topical application against keratinocyte tumors .

The potent anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic actions of tocotrienols (T3) against cancer, but not normal tissues, have been hampered by their limited systemic bioavailabilty. Recent expansive development of diverse nanoemulsion (NE) vehicles emphasized their vast potential to improve the effective dosing of different clinical and experimental drugs of lipophilic nature, such as T3. The emphasis of the present work is to develop a pharmaceutically scalable, low-energy nano-emulsification approach for optimized incorporation of T3-rich palm oil (Tocomin®), possessing anticancer activity as a potential cutaneous delivery platform for adjunctive therapy of skin carcinomas, either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. Different Tocomin®-NEs, obtained with different homogenization strategies, were screened based on physicochemical uniformity (droplet size, charge and polydispersity) and subjected to stress physical stability testing, along with chemical content analysis (≥90% Tocomin® - incorporation efficiency). Adopted hybrid nano-emulsification of Tocomin®, correlated with highest preservation of DPPH-radical scavenging capacity of active T3 in prototype formulation, Tocomin®-NE, which effectively permeated diffusion cell membranes 4-folds higher than propyleneglycol (PG)-admixed Tocomin® control. Against two different cell models of human cutaneous carcinoma, Tocomin®-hybrid NE demonstrated significantlystronger cytotoxic profiles (p ≤ 0.01), visible in both concentration- and time- dependent manners, with at least 5-folds lower IC50 values, compared to those estimated for the closest Tocomin®-control. The proposed hybrid nano-emulsified formulation of Tocomin® provides simple and stable delivery platform, for effective topical application against keratinocyte tumors.


greenmedinfo--2020-04-22--Reduction of oxidative-nitrosative stress underlies anticataract effect of topically applied tocotri

Reduction of oxidative-nitrosative stress underlies anticataract effect of topically applied tocotrienol in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Cataract , a leading cause of blindness , is of special concern in diabetics as it occurs at earlier onset .
Polyol accumulation and increased oxidative-nitrosative stress in cataractogenesis are associated with NFκB activation , iNOS expression , ATP depletion , loss of ATPase functions , calpain activation and proteolysis of soluble to insoluble proteins .
Tocotrienol was previously shown to reduce lens oxidative stress and inhibit cataractogenesis in galactose-fed rats .
In current study , we investigated anticataract effects of topical tocotrienol and possible mechanisms involved in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats .
Diabetes was induced in Sprague Dawley rats by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were treated with vehicle ( DV ) or tocotrienol ( DT ) .
A third group consists of normal , non-diabetic rats were treated with vehicle ( NV ) .
All treatments were given topically , bilaterally , twice daily for 8 weeks with weekly slit lamp monitoring .
Subsequently , rats were euthanized and lenses were subjected to estimation of polyol accumulation , oxidative-nitrosative stress , NFκB activation , iNOS expression , ATP levels , ATPase activities , calpain activity and total protein levels .
Cataract progression was delayed from the fifth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cataract stages compared to DV group ( p < 0.01 ) despite persistent hyperglycemia .
Reduced cataractogenesis in DT group was accompanied with lower aldose reductase activity and sorbitol level compared to DV group ( p < 0.01 ) .
DT group also showed reduced NFκB activation , lower iNOS expression and reduced oxidative-nitrosative stress compared to DV group .
Lenticular ATP and ATPase and calpain 2 activities in DT group were restored to normal .
Consequently , soluble to insoluble protein ratio in DT group was higher compared to DV ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , preventive effect of topical tocotrienol on development of cataract in STZ-induced diabetic rats could be attributed to reduced lens aldose reductase activity , polyol levels and oxidative-nitrosative stress .
These effects of tocotrienol invlove reduced NFκB activation , lower iNOS expression , restoration of ATP level , ATPase activities , calpain activity and lens protein levels .

Cataract, a leading cause of blindness, is of special concern in diabetics as it occurs at earlier onset. Polyol accumulation and increased oxidative-nitrosative stress in cataractogenesis are associated with NFκB activation, iNOS expression, ATP depletion, loss of ATPase functions, calpain activation and proteolysis of soluble to insoluble proteins. Tocotrienol was previously shown to reduce lens oxidative stress and inhibit cataractogenesis in galactose-fed rats. In current study, we investigated anticataract effects of topical tocotrienol and possible mechanisms involved in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in Sprague Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Diabetic rats were treated with vehicle (DV) or tocotrienol (DT). A third group consists of normal, non-diabetic rats were treated with vehicle (NV). All treatments were given topically, bilaterally, twice daily for 8 weeks with weekly slit lamp monitoring. Subsequently, rats were euthanized and lenses were subjected to estimation of polyol accumulation, oxidative-nitrosative stress, NFκB activation, iNOS expression, ATP levels, ATPase activities, calpain activity and total protein levels. Cataract progression was delayed from the fifth week onwards in DT with lower mean of cataract stages compared to DV group (p<0.01) despite persistent hyperglycemia. Reduced cataractogenesis in DT group was accompanied with lower aldose reductase activity and sorbitol level compared to DV group (p<0.01). DT group also showed reduced NFκB activation, lower iNOS expression and reduced oxidative-nitrosative stress compared to DV group. Lenticular ATP and ATPase and calpain 2 activities in DT group were restored to normal. Consequently, soluble to insoluble protein ratio in DT group was higher compared to DV (p<0.05). In conclusion, preventive effect of topical tocotrienol on development of cataract in STZ-induced diabetic rats could be attributed to reduced lens aldose reductase activity, polyol levels and oxidative-nitrosative stress. These effects of tocotrienol invlove reduced NFκB activation, lower iNOS expression, restoration of ATP level, ATPase activities, calpain activity and lens protein levels.