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Purpose: To determine the association between systemic vitamin D (VD) and immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels with severity and ocular surface inflammatory profile in patients with epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC). Methods: 210 eyes of 105 patients who were clinically diagnosed with EKC were included in the study. The levels of serum VD and serum IgE were measured. Schirmer's strip-based tear fluid (TF) was used to determine levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, TNFa, MMP9, sICAM1, and VEGF-A in a subset of patients. Results: Levels of VD were significantly (P < 0.05) lower and levels of IgE were significantly higher in patients with severe forms of conjunctivitis compared to those with nonsevere forms. Majority of the patients with severe forms of the disease exhibited VD deficiency and/or abnormally high IgE. A negative correlation (r = -0.682; P < 0.0001) was observed between VD and IgE levels. TF levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, and sICAM1 were significantly higher in eyes with severe forms of conjunctivitis compared to those with nonsevere forms and controls. These factors showed a positive correlation (P < 0.05) with IgE levels and a negative correlation (P < 0.05) with VD levels. Conclusion: Patients with severe forms of EKC exhibited VD deficiency and higher levels of IgE. Increased TF inflammatory factors demonstrated a disease causal relationship with VD and IgE. Hence, restoring the altered levels of VD and IgE to normal range would be pivotal in the prevention and management of severe conjunctivitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To study the levels of vitamin D serum levels in children with vernal keratoconjuctivits (VKC) and comparing vitamin D levels in after giving vitamin D supplements between intervention and control group. Methods: The study was conducted in population between 1 to 12 years in tertiary care hospital in North India. Amongst children with VKC, full ocular examination along with Boninis clinical grading of VKC and serum vitamin D levels were assessed. Whole study group was randomly divided into two groups. Intervention group had received vitamin D powder while control group kept under observation. Results: A total of 88 children received vitamin D supplementation and 39 kept in control group. Conclusion: Our study suggests that children in intervention group showed improvement in serum vitamin D levels with the clinical improvement in VKC grading too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescent girls and young women of childbearing age are the main populations affected by endocrinopathy known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It is especially important to take into account whether clinical and biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism are present in female patients. In maintaining metabolic homeostasis, leptin is crucial. According to research, vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the pathophysiology of PCOS by contributing to insulin resistance, inflammation, dyslipidaemia, and obesity, which are all conditions linked to the syndrome. In this study, leptin and vitamin D3 levels will be measured in order to determine how each relates to the aetiology of PCOS. Materials and Methods: Hundred young women were allocated into two groups, 50 women with PCOS (diagnosed on the basis of revised Rotterdam criteria for PCOS), taken as a study group, and 50 healthy women with no PCOS as control group. Blood samples were collected and tested for hormonal parameters. Results: Between the two groups, there were no appreciable variations in demographic traits. Study groups were found to have considerably higher serum leptin levels than control groups. The study group's vitamin D3 levels were found to be lower than those of the control group. Conclusion: Patients with PCOS are a special population with distinctive hormonal profiles that differ from typical profiles in healthy populations. Comparing PCOS to healthy individuals, leptin levels were higher while vitamin D3 levels were lower. It is necessary to conduct more extensive research on the involvement of leptin and vitamin D3 in the aetiology of PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Evidence suggests a beneficial effect of sun exposure on type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). However, little is known about the characteristics of sun exposure among DM patients or individuals at risk of developing DM. The aim of this study was to analyze the sun exposure behaviors of individuals diagnosed with DM and those susceptible to developing DM within a semi-urban community in North India. Materials and Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in northern India with 494 participants aged 25-60, with or without DM. The participants' sun exposure characteristics were assessed through a sunlight exposure questionnaire, and total sun exposure in a day was computed using the veritable sun exposure (VSE) index. Fasting blood sugar, anthropometric measurements, and demographic details were also collected. Results: The study had 56.5% female participants, and 9.1% of the participants had DM. The VSE of the study participants ranged from 0.01 to 0.81, with a mean of 0.15 (±0.14) and a median of 0.10, indicating that more than half of the study samples had less than 10% h/day of sunlight exposure. The use of sunscreen, gender, and disease status all influenced VSE. Our data suggest that the characteristics of sun exposure among Indians significantly deviate from standard recommendations. Conclusion: Our results propose a need for evidence-based guidelines and policies that promote awareness about sun exposure among DM patients as well as those at risk of developing DM. Nevertheless, these findings need to be validated through large-scale observational studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a common illness with long-term effects on mother and child. Nutrition is a crucial factor in mental health, but research findings on its connection to PPD are inconsistent. This review aims to explore the correlation between PPD and dietary patterns. Materials and Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of several databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, ISI and ISI/Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, and Iranian databases such as Magiran, Scientific Information Database (SID), and IRANDOC from 2003 to 2020. Our search was based on the keywords "postpartum depression" and "nutrition, vitamin D, Folic acid, iron, zinc, and vitamins." We applied the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) checklist to select articles based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Of the 100 articles identified, only 24 articles met our criteria and were selected for further analysis. Results: Research suggests that low levels of vitamin D, iron, folate, and carbohydrates, and an unhealthy diet lacking in vegetables are potential causes of PPD. However, the impact of zinc, omega-3 essential fatty acids, and other nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamin E, and vitamin C on PPD is unclear due to conflicting information. Additionally, limited research has been conducted on the association between group B vitamins and PPD. Conclusions: In conclusion, we can lower the risk of PPD by providing dietary guidance and working with healthcare providers. It is important to pay attention to our diet and make sure we are consuming enough vitamins and nutrients to support our mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prolonged labor is associated with various maternal and neonatal complications. This study aims to investigate the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels and pain intensity and duration of labor stages in primiparous women. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Iran from November 2021 to January 2022 and comprised primiparous women who were in active labor after a term pregnancy (37-42 weeks). Five milliliter of blood was taken from each subject and centrifuged for the measurement of vitamin D level using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HLPC) method was used to measure 25-OH vitamin D. In addition, through history, examination, and investigations, the subjects were evaluated according to the pain intensity and duration of the first (active phase) and second stages of labor. Results: The results of the Pearson correlation test indicated a significant relationship between vitamin D and active phase duration (r = 0.64, p = 0.012), second stage duration (r = 0.73, p = 0.001), pain intensity of the active phase (r = 0.61, p = 0.022), and pain intensity of the second stage (r = 0.65, p = 0.026). According to the analysis of variance table, based on vitamin D, there were statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the active phase duration, second stage duration, pain intensity of the active phase, and that of the second stage of labor (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Low levels of vitamin D may influence the progress of labor and increase the rate of prolonged labor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Health-care systems are facing a brand new difficulty as a result of post-COVID-19 syndrome. The relationship between long COVID and vitamin d.(25OHD levels was not extensively studied. Also, to our knowledge, no study evaluated vit d.(25OHD) levels and their relation to long COVID in the long-term period [3–6 months) after COVID infection. This study aims to evaluate vit d.(25OHD) levels post-COVID-19 infection and its relation to persistent symptoms in long-term COVID. Patients and methods A cross-sectional, single-center study involving 84 patients who were recruited during the period from December 2021 to May 2022, during the previous 6 months after the COVID-19 sickness. Complete history, clinical examination, and laboratory analysis [C-reactive protein, D-dimer, total leukocyte count, lymphocyte count. Serum vit d.(25OHD), and HRCT chest were performed. Results Of the patients, 44% had insufficient levels [20–30ng/dL), 36% had deficient vitamin D levels [<20ng/dL), and only 19% reported normal levels. In the examined groups, there was no association between vitamin d.(25OHD) levels and postCOVID-19 symptoms. Conclusion The study population had a high rate of vit d.(25OHD) insufficiency; however, no association was found between vit d.(25OHD) level and post-COVID-19 symptoms. The relation between long COVID-19 pathophysiology and the immune system is more complicated. More research is required to determine whether vit d.(25OHD) may have a part in long-term COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Lichen planus is a chronic mucocutaneous disease that may affect the skin or any other mucosal surface. Although the etiology is largely unknown, role of stress in initiation or aggravation of the disease is a well-known fact. Apart from respiratory distress, COVID-19 has also been found to be associated with triggering autoimmune reactions such as oral lichen planus (OLP). Apart from its direct ill effect on health, the confusing nature, and the unknown course of COVID-19, the psychological stress of the lockdown and quarantine tremendously increased the stress levels. All this could be a trigger for the onset or exacerbation of existing OLP lesions. Objective: The primary outcome is to understand the likely association between OLP and COVID-19. The secondary outcome is to understand the role of COVID-19 in the pathogenesis of OLP if it is present. Materials and Methods: It was a unicentric cross-sectional study conducted on 57 patients suffering from OLP who had reported to the dental outpatient department of our tertiary health care center from September 2021 to April 2022. The clinical sign and symptoms associated with the OLP was recorded. A detailed history of COVID-19 exposure, vaccination status, and history of hospitalization were recorded. Results: The mean age of study participants was found to be 36.8 years the male:female ratio was found to be 1:2. Out of 57 patients, 45 patients had given a positive history of COVID-19 exposure. Conclusion: Apart from the immune dysregulation, the tremendous increase in stress levels due to COVID-19 has impacted everyone's life very badly. The sudden increase in cases of OLP in post-COVID patients may be attributable to a combination of factors such as low Vitamin D levels COVID-19 and other comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type 2 diabetes leads to many microvascular complications, including diabetic nephropathy, also referred to as diabetic kidney disease. Vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes and nephropathy. The functions of vitamin D are mediated through vitamin D receptor (VDR). Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VDR gene, namely, TaqI (rs731236), ApaI (rs7975232), and BsmI (rs1544410), have been widely studied in association with diabetes and nephropathy. The objective of this study was to investigate the association of these VDR gene SNPs with nephropathy in the South Indian population. Additionally, the effect of VDR gene variants on vitamin D levels was also investigated. Subjects and Methods: Two hundred forty-eight individuals with type 2 diabetes without nephropathy (T2DM) and 399 individuals with type 2 diabetes with nephropathy (T2DN) were genotyped for this study. Genotyping of TaqI was performed using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. BsmI and ApaI were genotyped using MassArray. Anthropometric and biochemical data were collected for all participants. Vitamin D levels were measured in a subset of 47 T2DM and 74 T2DN individuals. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 21.0 (IBM Corporation, Armonk, NY). Results: The genotype and minor allele frequencies of TaqI, BsmI, and ApaI were not significantly different between T2DM and T2DN groups. However, vitamin D levels were significantly reduced in T2DN (15.5 ± 1.16ng/ml) compared to T2DM (20.5 ± 2.11ng/ml, P = 0.027). No significant differences were found in the vitamin D levels when the T2DM and T2DN groups were stratified based on TaqI, BsmI, and ApaI genotypes. Conclusion: This study did not find a significant association of VDR SNPs (TaqI, BsmI, and ApaI) with T2DN. However, the study suggested a protective role of vitamin D levels in T2DN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Congenital ichthyoses are a rare Mendelian group of disorders affecting the integument with a heterogeneous clinical presentation amongst which scaling is a constant feature. There is scanty epidemiologic data regarding the clinical profile and histologic patterns of inherited ichthyosis from resource-poor countries. Aims and Objectives: The study was aimed at assessing the clinic-epidemiologic characteristics associated with the different forms of non-syndromic congenital ichthyosis. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of ichthyosis patients that presented between July 2016 and Jun 2020. Details including demographic profile, clinical characteristics along with any relevant investigations done were included. Results: During the study period of 4 years, 107 patients with congenital non-syndromic ichthyosis were seen. The most frequent diagnosis was of common ichthyoses, followed by autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis, epidermolytic ichthyosis and erythrokeratoderma, in decreasing order. Conclusion: Important clinical findings like erythema and the type of scales as well as histological differences including an absent or reduced granular layer in ichthyosis vulgaris can help differentiate among the clinical phenotypes of inherited non-syndromic ichthyosis especially in resource-poor settings. Also, there is a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and hence a need for screening for the same in all patients of congenital ichthyosis including the milder phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Vitamin D levels and Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) such as myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and angina. Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study were collected as part of the Neyshabur Longitudinal Study on Ageing (NeLSA) between 2016 and 2018. The effect of Vitamin D on CVDs was analyzed in conjunction with socioeconomic and medical history variables. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Chi-square test and logistic regression in the R. Results: Vitamin D levels were evaluated in 3414 participants (1527 men and 1889 women), with over two-thirds of participants showing insufficiency or deficiency of Vitamin D. Among them, 362 participants had self-reported diagnosed CADs. The study did not find a significant association between serum 25OH Vitamin D levels and the risk of CADs. Adjusted logistic regression revealed that male gender was a risk factor for MI (OR=4.7; 95% CI: 3.125-6), stroke (OR=1.75; 95% CI: 1.08-2.85), and angina (OR=1.6; 95% CI: 1.03-2.7). Additionally, having one or more medical conditions other than hypertension and diabetes was associated with angina (OR=7.14; 95% CI: 3.7-14.7), MI (OR=5; 95% CI: 2.97-8.3), and stroke (OR=2.7; 95% CI: 1.2-4.7). Participants aged over 70 years were more likely to experience angina (OR=2.43; 95% CI: 1.36-4.5) and stroke (OR=2.5; 95% CI: 1.35-4.5). Conclusions: The study revealed a high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency. While the protective role of Vitamin D against CADs was not supported in this study, it does not discount the potential benefits of Vitamin D supplementation for overall health in older individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between serum vitamin D, total IgE levels and chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Methods: We collected data from 101 patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (experimental group) and 115 healthy normal subjects (control group) in the same period of physical examination. Results: The results showed that the number of deficient and absolute deficient 25-hydroxyvitamin D in the experimental group was significantly lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed that the activity score of CSU patients was negatively correlated with serum vitamin D (r = -0.2278, P = 0.0220) and positively correlated with IgE (r = 0.2078, P = 0.0380). It was observed that serum vitamin D in CSU patients was negatively correlated with their activity (r = -0.2278, P = 0.0220) and positively correlated with age (r = 0.2675, P = 0.0069). The Point-biserial correlation analysis revealed that gender was positively correlated with serum vitamin D (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.286, P = 0.004) and UAS score (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.273, P = 0.006). Ordinal logistic regression analysis showed that only serum vitamin D was correlated to activity scores (P = 0.008). In addition to activity scores, age ( P = 0.005) and gender (P = 0.04) were correlated to serum vitamin D. Conclusion: The activity score of CSU patients was negatively correlated with serum vitamin D and positively correlated with IgE. Serum vitamin D in CSU patients was negatively correlated with activity score and disease duration and positively correlated with age and gender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a common endocrine condition but rare in the pediatric and adolescent populations. The presentations can be unique, accounting for significant morbidity in the case of untimely detection. Aim: To study surgically treated pediatric PHPT retrospectively. Methods: Surgically treated children of PHPT up to 20 years of age between 2010 to 2022 were analyzed. All of them were operated on by an endocrine surgeon and team. Results: There was a total of 712 parathyroidectomies over 12 years, out of which there were 52 children (7.3%) had PHPT at less than 20 years of age. This group included 32 male children. The mean age was 16.1 years, including 7 cases of neonatal severe HPT. Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 was confirmed in 12 children. Presentations were more severe like bone pain (35.13%), renal stones (27.02%), incidental asymptomatic detection (18.9%), failure to thrive (10.8%), and pancreatitis (8.1%) as compared to adults. Mean serum calcium was 12.9 mg/dl (highest-14.1, N-8.8-10.8 mg/dl), mean parathormone levels were 386.91 pg/ml (N-10-65) and vitamin D levels ranged from 2.9-22.8 ng/ml. Localization was done with ultrasound and 99mTc- SESTAMIBI scans. Mean serum calcium levels in NSPHPT were 28.6 mg/dl (N-8.8-10.8 mg/dl). There were a total of 45 cases (6.32%) of PHPT less than 20 years of age, excluding the cases of NSPHPT. All children underwent parathyroidectomy, with 14 cases having an additional thymectomy, 2 cases with thyroidectomy, and a single case of hemithyroidectomy. The cure rate was 97.3%, while one baby with NSPHPT had persistent disease (postop PTH-110 pg/ml). The uniglandular disease was seen in 54.05% and the rest had a multiglandular disease. Adults accounted for 559/660 cases with 80% uniglandular disease. All cases had a postoperative histopathological confirmation with an average follow-up of 1 year. Conclusion: Childhood PHPT has a few features same as the adult population. Symptomatic presentations like adults, though pancreatitis and fatigue were more commonly seen as compared to bone pain. Calcium, phosphorus, and parathormone levels were comparable. Uniglandular involvement was seen just like the adult population. There are a few others that make them a distinct subtype like their symptoms of bone pain and being more common among boys. One-fourth of them had MEN1. Fewer cases in this age group make them unique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is not only complications or the damaged appearance of the target organ of patients with essential arterial hypertension (EAH), but at the same time, it is also a prognostic factor. Aim: The aim is to evaluate the echocardiographic (Echo-CG) changes in patients with EAH depending on genes AGT (rs4762), GNB3 (rs5443), and some humoral markers. Methods: A total of 100 EAH patients were recruited for this study. AGT (rs4762) and GNB3 (rs5443) genotyping were performed by Real-Time PCR. All recruited individuals were tested for serum levels of ionized calcium, parathyroid hormone, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. LVH was assessed using Echo-CG. Results: T-allele of the AGT (rs4762) and GNB3 (rs5443) genes are associated with myocardial structure changes in hypertensive patients: thicker relative wall thickness (RWT), interventricular septum in diastole and higher left ventricular (LV) mass index (LVMI) in women for GNB3 (rs5443) gene. Hypovitaminosis D in EAH patients is accompanied by LV remodeling: larger left atrium size, LV mass (LVM), and LVMI in women, with lower ejection fraction. Hypocalcemia links to the smaller wall thickness of hypertrophied LV myocardium in EAH individuals than in the case of its normal concentration, as well as a lower LVMI and better LV contractile function, which confirms the hypothesis of active involvement of calcium in the process of myocardial remodeling and hypertrophy. Conclusion: The polymorphic variants of the AGT (521 C>T) and GNB3 (825 C>T) genes are associated with myocardial structure changes in EAH patients. Hypovitaminosis D in hypertensive individuals is accompanied by LVM and LVMI increase but reliably only in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Complete dentures (CDs) are fabricated to rehabilitate the edentulous. Severe residual ridge resorption (RRR) compromises CD functionality, adversely affecting function, appearance, systemic health, and quality of life. Settings and Design: The purpose of this study was to assess the benefit, if any, of calcium and Vitamin D supplementation on the rate of RRR. Retarding RRR would improve treatment prognosis and make CD fabrication less demanding. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal, parallel, open-label randomized study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics of the institute. One hundred and fifty edentulous subjects underwent bone mineral density (BMD) assessment followed by CD fabrication to measure RR height and width with computerized tomographic (CT) scans. Subjects were randomized to oral supplementation group – S, given combined Vitamin D and calcium daily, and nonsupplementation group – NS. Subjects from both the groups were followed up with repeat BMD test and CT scan after 12 months. Mean BMD, RR height and width, and RRR values were collected, analyzed, and compared for the two groups using STATA 17. Statistical Analysis Used and Results: Baseline mean T‑score, RR height, and RR width were − 1.84, 22.30 mm, and 4.25 mm, respectively, for the sample. In both Groups S and NS, a statistically significant decrease in mandibular RR height (P = 0.000 for both) and width (P = 0.027 and 0.003, respectively) was observed at 1-year follow-up. There was a statistically insignificant difference between Groups S and NS for mean BMD, T-score, RR height and width, and RRR at both baseline and 12-month follow-up. One-year RRR rate for Group S (1.30 mm) was insignificantly lesser than for group NS (1.33 mm). Conclusion: Short-term oral calcium and Vitamin D supplementation was ineffective in reducing RRR and improving BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder with bone mineral density (BMD) as a common clinical manifestation of SCD. With a prevalence of 2.6%, Saudi Arabia is among the highest incidence of SCD worldwide. The purpose of this research was to examine how SCD evolves and how it affects bone density in Saudi patients from an Eastern Province tertiary hospital. METHODS: This was an observational prospective study conducted in the tertiary care hospital among 119 SCD patients. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A-severe SCD patients requiring hospital care ≥3/year; and Group B included patients with a smooth course of SCD who did not require frequent hospitalization (˂3 hospitalizations per year), with a milder course of the disease. Analysis was based on the frequency of hospitalizations with pain crises and measuring BMD. RESULTS: Of 119 patients, 73.1% had low bone density. Compared to the femur (47.9%), the spine (62.2%) had a higher prevalence of low bone density. The prevalence of low BMD did not significantly differ between the two groups (64.8 vs. 79.9%, P = 0.081). Patients with more frequent hospital visits had significantly higher Mg concentrations (2.30 vs. 0.84, P = 0.001), higher gamma‑glutamyl transferase (59.44 vs. 39.49, P = 0.030), and significantly lower 25‑hydroxy Vitamin D (34.82 vs. 49.48, P = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with SCD had a generally higher prevalence of low BMD. Further research is needed to answer the proposed debate about the accuracy of DXA scanning in patients with SCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-segmental vitiligo (NSV) is an autoimmune disorder due to the destruction of melanocytes, where cytokines like interleukin 17 (IL-17) and biomolecules like vitamin D play a theoretical role in pathogenesis. Previous studies in this regard yielded inconsistent results. This study aimed to compare the serum levels of IL-17 and vitamin D between NSV patients and healthy controls and to know the association of these biomarkers with disease activity and extent. This was a case-control study including adult patients with NSV and age and gender-matched healthy controls. Cases and controls with conditions likely to alter the serum levels of IL-17 and vitamin D were excluded. Serum levels of IL-17 were estimated by ELISA and vitamin D levels by chemiluminescence assay. 42 adult patients of NSV and 42 age and sex-matched healthy controls were recruited over a period of eighteen months. The mean value of serum vitamin D levels in the control group was 19.053 ± 5.340 ng/ml, whereas in the case group, it was 17.336 ± 6.931 ng/ml (P > 0.05). The mean value of serum IL-17 levels in the control group was 199.824 ± 51.244 pg/ml and 213.566 ± 69.018 pg/ml in the case group (P > 0.05). These molecules did not show any association with the disease activity and extent. In contrast to the previous studies, we could not establish the role of IL-17 in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Furthermore, we could not find any association between vitamin D and vitiligo in our study, even though there is an inconsistent association between the two in the available literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes is a major burden globally, more commonly so in developing countries, as its complications are detected relatively late due to underdeveloped healthcare systems. These complications, when detected, are more or less irreversible, thereby leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Among these, complications related to bones (mainly osteoporosis) start fairly early (even in the prediabetes stage) but are less emphasized, nonetheless are major contributors to morbidity in diabetics due to increased fracture risk. One of the novel bone markers recently discovered is sclerostin, which helps in the assessment of the effect of hyperglycemia on bone homeostasis. Bone mineral density (BMD) by DXA scan is a good tool to assess the status of bone health but requires modern expensive radiological equipment. In this study, we wanted to see the correlation of serum levels of sclerostin to BMD so that by a simple serum investigation, early detection of poor bone quality in treatment-naive prediabetics can be done. Objective: The aim of the study was to measure serum levels of sclerostin in prediabetics, compare them with normoglycemic controls, and find the correlation of serum levels of sclerostin with BMD. Methods: 50 prediabetic patients and 50 age, sex, blood pressure, and BMI-matched controls were recruited in the study. In both the groups, serum levels of fasting blood glucose and postprandial glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), Vitamin D, fasting insulin, and serum sclerostin levels were measured in both groups using ELISA. The obtained values were compared between the two groups. Bone mineral density is measured by DXA scan in cases and a correlation between BMD and serum levels of sclerostin was observed. Results: Serum sclerostin was significantly higher in the cases [18.22 (19.42) ng/ml ] compared to the control group [11.08 (4.73) ng/ml] with a P value of 0.013. The mean of BMD in prediabetes is 1.06 g/cm2, T score is − 1.02, and Z score is − 0.59. There was a significant negative correlation between serum sclerostin levels and BMD in prediabetes (r = −0.404, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Serum levels of sclerostin are increased in prediabetes and correlate well with low BMD in prediabetes, and can therefore be used for early recognition of osteoporosis and fractures in diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent literature suggests that vitamin D signaling has a protective effect against breast cancer risk. Thus, the aim of the present study was to find the association of vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms with breast cancer risk. Materials and Methods: Fok1, Bsm1, Apa1, and Taq1 polymorphisms were performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method, and Poly A polymorphism was carried out using PCR-SSCP in 140 breast cancer patients and 155 controls. Results: Odds ratio was significantly higher in both homozygous variant genotypes (LL) of Poly A polymorphism of VDR (odds ratio [OR] = 5.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19-23.31, P = 0.02) and heterozygous variant genotypes (SL) of Poly A polymorphism of VDR (OR = 3.89, 95% CI = 1.10-13.7, P = 0.03). Fok1, Bsm1, Apa1, and Taq1 polymorphisms of VDR gene were not significantly associated with breast cancer risk. Conclusion: Poly A polymorphism at the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of VDR gene was significantly associated with breast cancer risk in West Indian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary care physicians are crucial in identifying SARS-CoV-2 infection and transferring suspected cases since they are on the front lines of health care. Micronutrients are used as an adjunctive treatment for viral respiratory infections. Because there is currently no effective antiviral therapy for COVID-19, micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin D may be important for the survival of critically ill patients. Objective: To establish and emphasize a relationship between iron, zinc, and vitamin D to COVID-19. Materials and Methods: PubMed database was used for articles selection. All relevant articles to our review with the topics regarding the use of iron, zinc and vitamin D in COVID-19 patients. We excluded other articles, which are not related to this field and did not match inclusion criteria. The data extracted according to specific form and double reviewed by the group members. Results: The search of the mentioned database returned a total of 3614 studies that were included for title screening. 2910 of them were included for abstract screening, which lead to the exclusion of 1064 articles. The remaining 1846 publications full texts were reviewed. The full-text revision led to the exclusion of 1812 studies, and 34 were enrolled for final data extraction. Conclusion: This study raised the idea of employing zinc, iron, and vitamin D as ingredients to either protect SARS-CoV-2 patients or to speed up recovery, decrease symptoms severity and decrease mortality rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effect of a single-dose, oral vitamin D supplementation (soft gel capsule of 200,000 IU) in subjects with painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) in Pakistan. Design: Randomized control trial. Materials and Methods: This randomized control trial was conducted at the Baqai Institute of Diabetology and Endocrinology (BIDE), Pakistan from November 2021 to August 2022. Subjects with diabetes without any signs of vitamin D deficiency were included. Baseline details were obtained by a predesigned questionnaire. Douleur neuropathy 4 (DN4) score was used for diagnosing PDN. Biochemical tests include serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (OH)D and HbA1c for screening at baseline and at 3 months follow-up were analyzed. Subjects were categorized into two: a control group and an intervention group. The intervention group was given a single soft gel vitamin D capsule (200,000 IU) after screening by expert paramedical staff. Based on baseline serum vitamin D levels, the intervention group was further categorized into insufficient vs. deficient groups, and the control group was categorized into insufficient vs. sufficient. Results: Of 159 participants, 19.5% vs. 44.7% subjects were with insufficient vs. deficient vitamin D levels in the intervention group, and 10.7% vs. 25.1% were with insufficient vs. sufficient vitamin D levels in the control group, respectively. Though the findings are insignificant, DN4 score at follow-up in intervention groups and control groups was reduced compared to the baseline DN4 score. Furthermore, we observed a reduction in post-HbA1c levels in both the intervention groups (insufficient vs. deficient) and the control-sufficient group. Conclusion: Treatment with vitamin D supplementation in people with PDN helps to improve vitamin D levels, DN4 score, and HbA1c levels, though doseresponse is yet to be compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is a cardinal pathophysiological mechanism for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Vitamin D has been proposed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of T2DM. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between serum levels of vitamin D and IR among persons with T2DM in a tertiary health facility in Southern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The study was a comparative cross-sectional study conducted at the medical outpatient clinic of a hospital in Nigeria. Participants included 120 patients with T2DM and 60 healthy controls. Levels of serum vitamin D, fasting insulin, and fasting plasma glucose were determined. IR was determined using the homeostasis model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR). Data obtained were analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 22. Results: The mean serum vitamin D of the subjects with T2DM was significantly lower than the controls (35.84 ± 11.65 ng/mL vs. 44.71 ± 20.12 ng/mL; P < 0.001). The median HOMA-IR of the T2DM subjects was significantly higher than that of controls (2.26 [2.57] vs. 1.59 [1.53]; P = 0.002). The mean serum vitamin D was significantly higher among T2DM participants with HOMA-IR of less than 2 compared with participants who had HOMA-IR of greater than or equal to 2 (39.80 ± 13.22 ng/mL vs. 33.91 ± 9.75 ng/mL; P < 0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between serum vitamin D and HOMA-IR among patients with T2DM (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The finding of this study could signify that vitamin D levels may be used as a surrogate marker of IR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective of the current research was to evaluate the role of vitamin D in the management of oral lichen planus. Materials and Method: Based on their vitamin D levels, 90 individuals with oral lichen planus were equally divided into three groups. Deficient subjects received oral vitamin D supplementation. Result: The majority of improvements were observed in patients who were taking vitamin D supplements. It was discovered that the data comparison was statistically considerable. Conclusion: It was determined that vitamin D was crucial for the management of oral lichen planus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To ascertain whether a link exists between vitamin D insufficiency and early childhood caries or not. Method: From the out patient department (OPD) of the Pedodontics Department at Vyas Dental College, a random sample of 40 kids between the ages of 8 months and 5 years old was chosen. Each kid had blood drawn to check their serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels. All of the data was collated and given the necessary statistical analysis. Result: The case group's mean serum 25(OH) vitamin D level was 10.19 ng/mL (with a standard deviation of 3.46), while the control group's was 20.84 ng/mL (2.54 SD). Conclusion: A significant modifiable risk factor for childhood dental caries is a vitamin D deficiency. Therefore, cavities in teeth can be avoided by giving youngsters vitamin D supplements and avoiding vitamin D insufficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The impact that vitamin D (vit D) has on a variety of medical conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular, oncological, and central nervous system disorders has been a topic of interest for many years now. It is well-known that vit D deficiency is substantially more common in epileptics than in healthy subjects. The current research was piloted to analyse the vit D levels of the blood in newborns with seizures, as well as mothers' vit D status included subjects. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional examination was piloted at a tertiary care center, which had a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The subjects were neonates and their mothers. The levels of vit D were measured in term and late preterm newborns who had been brought to the NICU with convulsions. Term or late preterm infants who were healthy and hospitalized in the same hospital's postnatal unit as their mothers served as the controls for the study. Demographics, as well as the vit D levels of both the neonate and the mother, were estimated and compared and evaluated for any significance, keeping significance at less than 0.05. Results: Of the 72 neonates included, they were similarly distributed between the epileptic (37) and healthy subjects. (40) The mothersy subjects.cluded, they were sim D levels averaged 15.11 ded, they were similarly distributed b D levels of their newborns were 13.26 ± 5.12 ng/mL (P = 0.77). There was no significant variance between the healthy and epileptic neonates (P = 0.212). Conclusion: The current studyficant variance between the healthy and epileptic neonates (eptic with convulsions. Termserum vit D levels and epileptic activity in neonates. Nevertheless, the levels of the vitamin were < 20 ng/mL among all the neonates. Interventions to improve the vit D levels have to be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The association between altered serum Vitamin D levels and schizophrenia has been an area that has evoked a recent fervor. The neurohumoral and neuro immunomodulatory functions of Vitamin D might have a role to play in understanding the causation of the disease and thus appear promising in the diagnostic and therapeutic frontiers of the disease. Aims and Objectives: We aimed to estimate and compare serum Vitamin D levels in drug-free cases of schizophrenia and in healthy control groups. The comparison was also made among the subgroups of positive and negative schizophrenia. Materials and Methods: The study, a hospital-based cross-sectional comparative study was carried out in the Department of Psychiatry, in a hospital in Assam over a period of 1 year. Fifty drug-free subjects of schizophrenia (Group A) diagnosed and confirmed according to International Classification of Diseases 10 were selected by consecutive sampling and 50 age and sex frequency-matched subjects (Group B) were selected from the healthy population. The cases (Group A) were divided into positive and negative groups (Group A1 and A2) based on the composite scoring of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. After approval from the institutional ethics committee and obtaining written informed consent, Vitamin D levels were assessed in both groups of cases and controls and comparison was made. Results: After statistical analysis, it was seen that males were more in proportion and mostly in the age group of 20-39 years. The median Vitamin D level among the cases was 12.45 ng/mL and that among controls was 20.03 ng/mL which was statistically significant (P value .00932). Among the positive and negative schizophrenia subgroup, there was no statistically significant difference in Vitamin D levels at means of 16.54 ng/mL and 16.25 ng/Ml, respectively. The variation in Vitamin D levels in schizophrenics and the healthy population is thus discernible. Conclusion: It can be said that serum Vitamin D levels were significantly low in people with schizophrenia compared to the general population. Furthermore, it is seen that mean Vitamin D status is similar in both the groups of positive and negative schizophrenia negating the possibility of alteration of Vitamin D levels depending on the differences in symptomatology or in pathophysiology of the two groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that poses significant individual, social, financial and healthcare burdens. Physicians and researchers have recommended 25-hydroxy vitamin D supplementation, in combination with prescribed medication, as a potential means of reducing asthma severity. This systematic review focuses on the association between 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels and lung function in both children and adults with asthma. We identified published work by searching MEDLINE via PubMed, using regular search terms related to 25-hydroxy vitamin D and asthma. Fourteen studies were screened out of 643 eligible citations from MEDLINE research that involved 65 children and 951 adults. A strong positive association was observed in four studies, whereas five showed a moderate association, and two had no correlation. The majority of studies found a negative correlation between 25-hydroxy vitamin D deficiency and mild, uncontrolled and partly controlled asthma. 25-hydroxy vitamin D 25 OH values were below 20 ng/ml in the majority of studies, and those with uncontrolled severe asthma showed the lowest values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the vitamin D status among the Bhutanese population visiting the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu, Bhutan. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective descriptive study involving the extraction of data from a hospital database. Records of Bhutanese patients who had taken vitamin D tests in the last two years (2020–2021) were included in the study. Result: A total of 1175 individuals took the vitamin D test during the study period, and the age ranged between 1 day and 94 years. Over 60% of the participants were females. The study found that over 83% of our study population had serum vitamin D levels lower than the normal range/deficient. Around 18% of the participants had severe deficiency. Conclusion: The study found that most participants, including children, had vitamin D deficiency, and the finding was homogenous across gender and age groups. Further studies are required to validate these findings and identify the factors associated with vitamin D deficiency in the population for targeted public health interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Telogen effluvium (TE) is the most common hair loss. Vitamin D is related to hair and skin diseases due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. Objective: To investigate Vitamin D serum level role in TE pathogenesis. Patients and Methods: Forty females with TE were collected and twenty age- and sex-matched healthy individuals as controls. Serum 25(OH) Vitamin D level was estimated prior and 3 months after oral Vitamin D. Results: The mean serum 25(OH) Vitamin D levels were significantly lower in TE patients than controls (13.31 ± 5.8 ng/ml vs. 33.61 ± 8.16 ng/ml) respectively, P < 0.001. The mean serum 25(OH) Vitamin D levels before treatment in acute TE was 12.31 ± 6.88 ng/ml, compared to 10.6 ± 3.9 ng/ml in chronic TE without a significant difference, (P = 0.544). The mean serum 25(OH) Vitamin D levels in TE group after 3 months oral Vitamin D therapy were 38.4 ± 15.22 ng/ml with significant increase compared to pretreatment level, (P < 0.001). However, without a significant difference between acute TE (45.4 ± 9.22 ng/ml) and chronic TE (42.1 ± 10.6 ng/ml), (P = 0.711). Conclusion: Oral Vitamin D has a promising effect in TE treatment, but the results need to be verified on a larger scale with evidence-based recommendation regarding the exact dose and treatment duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone metabolism is a key factor for successful osseointegration, and low vitamin D levels may negatively impact the process of osseointegration after implant placement. The study was aimed at evaluating the relation of vitamin D levels with dental implant osseointegration and subsequently the success or failure of the implant. The focused questions were—What is the effect of vitamin D levels on successful dental implant osseointegration and what is the effect of vitamin D supplementation on successful implant osseointegration? A search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar using the terms "vitamin D," "cholecalciferol," "1,25(OH) D," "dental implant," "osseointegration," and "bone implant contact" for a period of 10 years from 2011 to 2020. Clinical trials, cross-sectional studies, case series, and case reports were included. A total of ten studies were included after the screening process. Five of these studies evaluated the effect of vitamin D supplementation on osseointegration, whereas five only evaluated the effect of vitamin D deficiency on dental implant osseointegration. Only five of these studies reported dental implant failure varying from 7% to 13% in vitamin D deficient/insufficient groups. Positive relationship exists between serum vitamin D levels and dental implant osseointegration; however, few studies failed to report any relation. More prospective clinical research studies as well as randomized controlled trials are needed to show a significant correlation between decreased serum levels of vitamin D and increased risk of dental implant failure in perspective of vitamin D supplementation which can promote the osseointegration of dental implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition of the periodontium that is instigated by microbial biofilms developed on the teeth. The purpose of the study was to ascertain the vitamin D status of gingivitis and periodontitis patients while maintaining a healthy group as the control using simple low-cost chairside pre-coated with 25-OH Vitamin D antigen rapid test kits. Materials and Methods: From outpatients visiting the college's periodontics clinics, a total of 101 patients were screened. The study sample includes 38 patients in the periodontitis group, 32 in the gingivitis group, and 31 in the healthy group. A middle-digit needle was used to collect blood samples, which were put into a test cassette with membrane that had been coated with 25-OH Vitamin D antigen on the test line area of the strip. Vitamin D Quick Test (Natejah) Semi-quantitatively detects 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 (OH) D) in human finger-stick complete blood at a cutoff convergence of 30 ± 4 ng/mL. Vitamin D blood levels below 80 nmol/L are considered to have deficient vitamin 25(OH)D levels. Clinical parameters between healthy, gingivitis, and different stages of periodontitis subjects were compared using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's multiple comparison. Fisher's exact test was done to compare vitamin D levels in the three groups. Results: Fisher's exact test revealed that there was a statistically significant increase in the number of subjects with stages 4 and stage 3 periodontitis who lacked vitamin D levels (less than 80 nmol/L). Whereas least deficient in Vit D were noticed among Healthy and Gingivitis subjects. When compared to healthy individuals, gingivitis, and various stages of periodontitis had significantly higher mean PI values in a Tukey's multiple comparison. Vitamin D deficiency was found to be 27.5% in subjects with gingivitis and 71.5% in subjects with periodontitis. Conclusion: Periodontitis is associated with vitamin D deficiency, in contrast to gingivitis and healthy subjects. The severity of periodontitis was likewise linked to the amount of vitamin D in the individual's blood. When compared to expensive, time-consuming, and laborious laboratory methods, the findings of this study suggest that a simple inexpensive chairside pre-coated with 25-OH Vitamin D antigen rapid test kits can be considered a viable alternative for determining vitamin D levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was conducted to find the association between tuberculosis and vitamin D levels and assess severe vitamin D deficiency (VDD) as a risk factor for developing tuberculosis at high‑altitude regions. Methods: This cross‑sectional study was carried out at a tertiary care hospital situated at an average altitude of 5,412 feet above sea level. Newly diagnosed active cases of tuberculosis (Group A) and unmatched healthy individuals (Group B) were recruited in the study. Serum samples were analyzed for Vitamin 25(OH) D levels and correlated between the groups. Results: The study included 54 newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients (Group A) (47 pulmonary and 7 extrapulmonary tuberculosis) and 87 healthy controls (Group B). Of the total 141 participants, 69 (49%) had severe VDD and 44 (31%) had VDD. The mean (SD) vitamin D level was significantly lower in patients having tuberculosis (12.6 ± 7 ng/mL) as compared to Group B (15.9 ± 7 ng/mL). The risk of tuberculosis infection was 2.13 times higher among those who had VDD (odds ratio = 2.13) (P‑0.106), whereas those with severe VDD were at 3.2 times higher risk of developing tuberculosis (crude odds ratio = 3.2) (P = 0.001) and severe VDD independently contributed to being diagnosed with tuberculosis (adjusted odds ratio = 3.1) (P = 0.002). Conclusions: Vitamin D levels are significantly low in tuberculosis patients and severe VDD independently contributes to developing tuberculosis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study compares the efficacy of four immunotherapeutic agents, measles mumps and rubella (MMR), purified protein derivative (PPD), Candida extract, and vitamin D3, in the treatment of multiple cutaneous warts. Aim and Objectives: To observe the clinical responses and safety of different intralesional immunotherapeutic agents and compare their efficacy. Materials and Methods: Hundred patients with multiple (>5) cutaneous warts were enrolled in the study and randomized into four groups: Group A: MMR, Group B: PPD, Group C: Candida extract, and Group D: Vitamin D. Target wart was selected, and the intralesional injections were given at three weekly intervals for a maximum of three doses. Response was observed in target and distant warts three months after the last injection. Results: Intralesional vitamin D3 had the highest efficacy, while MMR had the lowest efficacy in clearance of target wart. Intralesional Candida extract had the highest efficacy, while vitamin D3 had the lowest efficacy in clearance of distant warts. Intralesional Candida extract was the most effective treatment for both local and distant warts. Side effects were minimal and transitory in nature. Conclusion: Intralesional immunotherapy is a safe, affordable, and efficacious treatment for warts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the association between endogenous hormones and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 798 postmenopausal women aged 47-85 years. Data were collected on age, age at menopause, years since menopause, smoking status, body mass index, adiposity, BMD, physical activity, and Vitamin D supplementation. Measured hormonal parameters were: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, Δ4-androstenedione, cortisol, insulin-like growth factor-1, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and parathormone (PTH) levels. BMD was measured at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A directed acyclic graph was used to select potential confounding variables. Results: Multivariable analysis showed significant associations between cortisol and femoral neck BMD (β: -0.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.03--0.00), and PTH with femoral neck BMD (β: -0.01, 95% CI: -0.02--0.01) and total hip BMD (β: -0.01, 95% CI: -0.01--0.00). Hormonal factors more likely associated with a higher risk of low BMD (osteopenia or osteoporosis) were FSH (odds ratio [OR]: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01-1.03) and PTH (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01-1.04). Conclusions: Higher cortisol and PTH levels were inversely associated with BMD. Postmenopausal women with higher FSH or PTH levels were likely to have low BMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the difference in mean serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D level between migraineurs and nonmigraineurs, the association between hypovitaminosis D and migraine, and the effects of oral vitamin D supplementation on migraine-related symptoms as compared to placebo. Methods: Relevant databases were searched for observational studies and randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) which evaluated the difference in mean serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D level between migraineurs and nonmigraineurs; the association between hypovitaminosis D and migraine; and the effects of vitamin D supplementation on migraine-frequency, duration, and severity. Pooled mean difference and odds ratio were calculated (random-effects model, RevMan version 5.3). Results: Ten observational studies and two RCTs were included. The serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D level in the migraineurs was significantly lower than that in the nonmigraineurs [mean difference -4.44 ng/mL (95% CI: -6.11, -2.77)] (low-GRADE evidence). Hypovitaminosis D was found to be significantly associated with migraine [OR: 1.95 (95% CI: 1.07, 3.58)] (low-GRADE evidence). As compared to placebo, oral vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced the monthly migraine-frequency [mean difference: -2.20 (95% CI: -3.04, -1.36)], although it did not reduce the migraine-duration [mean difference: -16.00 hours per month (95% CI: -42.77, 10.76)] and migraine-severity score [standardized mean difference: -0.23 (95% CI: -0.79, 0.32)] (moderate-GRADE evidence). Conclusion: Serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D level was significantly lower in the migraineurs than that in the nonmigraineurs, and hypovitaminosis D was significantly associated with migraine. Oral vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced migraine-frequency, but not its duration and severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is accumulating evidence that Vitamin D deficiency contributes to the occurrence of stroke, including ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. However, the relationship between Vitamin D levels and the risk of hemorrhage stroke was less conclusive. Aim: This prospective study is aimed for relationship between Vitamin D status and specific nonlobar hemorrhagic stroke in a Taiwanese cohort. Methods: A prospective study of 44 adult patients (32 males and 12 females; 27 aged <65 years and 17 ≥65 years) with acute nonlobar spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) was undertaken for 24 months (December 2017–November 2019) in a general reference teaching hospital. The serum 25‑hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) level was examined within 1 day of the stroke. The associations between Vitamin D status, age, low‑density lipoprotein levels, and hemorrhagic stroke were analyzed using the Chi‑squared test for comparisons. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: The mean serum concentration of (25(OH) D) was 20.30 ng/ml. There were 14 patients with Vitamin D insufficiency (<30 ng/ml), and 23 with Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/ml). There was no age dependence to the Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in patients with acute nonlobar sICH. We also found no significant correlation between Vitamin D deficiency and low‑density lipoprotein concentration. Conclusion: A particularly high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency was found in Taiwanese patients with specific hemorrhagic stroke, acute nonlobar sICH, and this was independent of age or serum low‑density lipoprotein levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify and analyze the clinical and ocular surface risk factors influencing the progression of keratoconus (KC) using an artificial intelligence (AI) model. Methods: This was a prospective analysis in which 450 KC patients were included. We used the random forest (RF) classifier model from our previous study (which evaluated longitudinal changes in tomographic parameters to predict "progression" and "no progression") to classify these patients. Clinical and ocular surface risk factors were determined through a questionnaire, which included presence of eye rubbing, duration of indoor activity, usage of lubricants and immunomodulator topical medications, duration of computer use, hormonal disturbances, use of hand sanitizers, immunoglobulin E (IgE), and vitamins D and B12 from blood investigations. An AI model was then built to assess whether these risk factors were linked to the future progression versus no progression of KC. The area under the curve (AUC) and other metrics were evaluated. Results: The tomographic AI model classified 322 eyes as progression and 128 eyes as no progression. Also, 76% of the cases that were classified as progression (from tomographic changes) were correctly predicted as progression and 67% of cases that were classified as no progression were predicted as no progression based on clinical risk factors at the first visit. IgE had the highest information gain, followed by presence of systemic allergies, vitamin D, and eye rubbing. The clinical risk factors AI model achieved an AUC of 0.812. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the importance of using AI for risk stratification and profiling of patients based on clinical risk factors, which could impact the progression in KC eyes and help manage them better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D deficiency is a global concern that needs significant attention. This observational study reports the impact of Vitamin D supplementation on general body aches, frequency of infection, and energy levels among Indian adults. Methods: This study included 508 adults aged 19--89 years old from low socioeconomic backgrounds who were given Vitamin D supplements for 4 months. The severity of musculoskeletal symptoms, frequency of infection or its symptoms, and perceived energy levels of the participants before and after the exposure were measured using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed descriptively for the frequencies, and a Chi-square and Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to analyze the impact of Vitamin D on the variables studied. Results: The majority of the participants were female (82.3%) and were never exposed to Vitamin D supplementation earlier (84%). Nearly 65% of the participants were either homemakers, students, unemployed, or retired. Vitamin D supplementation was significantly associated with the reduction in back pain (P < 0.001), fatigue and body pain (P < 0.001), knee pain (P < 0.001), and pain in the hands and legs (P < 0.001). Vitamin D also significantly reduced the frequency of infection and/or its symptoms (P < 0.001) and improved physical work capacity (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation for urban low socioeconomic groups may be beneficial as it can reduce the pain, frequency of infection and improve general well-being. The limitations of this study, such as the lack of a nonexposed group and data on the Vitamin D status of the participants, warrant consideration in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D plays a vital role in skin diseases, and vitamin D supplementation seems to warrant protection against occurrence and exacerbation of several dermatological conditions. This review covers the immunopathological and therapeutic role of vitamin D, with a comprehensive illustration in some diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the high prevalence of Vitamin-D insufficiency and high susceptibility to dry eye disease (DED) in postmenopausal women (PMW), correlation between DED and Vitamin D has not been explored in PMW in any Indian study. Aims and Objectives: To explore the correlation between serum Vitamin D levels in PMW with and without DED, in a hospital-based population in rural Haryana. Materials and Methods: Subjective (ocular surface disease index [OSDI] questionnaire) and objective clinical tests were undertaken for DED diagnosis. 25(OH) Vitamin D was measured in serum using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; insufficient (10--30 ng/ml) and deficient (<10 ng/ml). Descriptive statistics were analyzed by mean ± standard deviation for continuous and frequencies for the categorical variables; Student's t-test used to find out mean difference in Vitamin D levels; P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: One hundred and forty PMW (60.1 ± 5.32 years) were included; Group-A (Controls; no DED; n: 70); Group-B (Cases; DED diagnosed by OSDI scores; n: 70); Subgroup-B1 (clinical tests negative; n: 30) and B2 (clinical tests positive; n: 40). There was no statistically significant difference in OSDI scores between B1 and B2. Significantly lower mean Vitamin D levels were found in cases (14.36 ± 4.08 ng/ml) as compared to controls (19.19 ± 6.4 ng/ml) (P = 0.001) and in B2 (13.15 ± 3.51 ng/ml) as compared to B1 (15.57 ± 4.66 ng/ml) (P = 0.01). Conclusion: There were significantly low levels of Vitamin-D in clinically established DED. Evaluating Vitamin D levels as a part of the dry eye workup in PMW is recommended. OSDI scores were not aligned with the clinical test scores; questionnaire-based tests alone may not be sufficient for diagnosing DED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hematological inflammatory indices are currently suggested to assess systemic inflammation. This study aims to investigate a vitamin D supplementation effect on hematological indices of inflammation in rats. Method: Forty-eight middle-aged male rats were allocated into a normal diet (ND) group (10% fat) and a high-fat diet (HFD) group (60% fat). The animals were fed for 26 weeks. After this period, each group was randomly divided into three subgroups, each of 8 rats: Group (1): animals were fed the ND and HFD containing 1 IU/g vitamin D for 4 months, group (2): animals were fed the ND and HFD containing 6 IU/g vitamin D for 4 months and group (3): animals were euthanized to evaluate the HFD effect. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, white blood cell count (WBCs), platelet count, platelet crit (PCT), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) were measured. Results: The HFD, significantly increased body weight, PCT, PDW, PLR, NLR, and MLR and significantly reduced serum vitamin D levels compared to the ND (P < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in food intake, MPV, PDW, and NLR after vitamin D supplementation in the ND-fed group (P < 0.05). A significant reduction in platelet count, PCT, and MLR was observed after vitamin D supplementation in HFD-fed rats (P < 0.05). Conclusions: In our study, some hemogram-derived inflammatory indices were higher in the HFD-fed group, and vitamin D supplementation lowering effects on some hematological indices were seen in both ND and HFD groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that has widespread role in human physiology, not only in the maintenance of calcium homeostasis but also in immunomodulation, cellular differentiation, and proliferation. The immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D are well known and are applicable to the ocular surface immune cells and structural cells. The role of vitamin D in ocular surface conditions such as dry eye disease (DED), keratoconus (KC), and post‑surgical outcomes has received widespread and well‑deserved attention. Vitamin D supplementation is shown to improve DED clinically as well as in experimental models. The anti‑inflammatory properties may be crucial in the treatment of ocular surface conditions such as DED and KC. Vitamin D plays a multifaceted role in corneal wound healing with its anti‑inflammatory and extracellular matrix remodeling properties. In this review, we discuss how to approach patients with DED and those undergoing refractive surgery with the available basic and clinical knowledge on the role of vitamin D in these conditions. We aim to highlight the importance of clinically harnessing vitamin D‑mediated natural immuno‑inflammatory modulation in combination with currently available standard of care strategies to reduce the morbidity and disease duration associated with ocular surface diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a polygenic and multifactorial endocrinopathy. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is found to be interlinked with insulin resistance (IR), dyslipidemia, and obesity in PCOS. Aims: To find out the correlation of VDD with IR and dyslipidemia in PCOS population of West Bengal (WB). Settings and Design: The study was conducted in and around Kolkata, WB with PCOS patients and their age-matched controls. Materials and Methods: Nutritional status, vitamin D profile, obesity indices, and IR index of both PCOS and control groups were studied. Statistical Analysis Used: The statistical analysis was performed to estimate the difference and correlation of quantitative variables by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 20, IBM). Results: Dietary fat and carbohydrate intake was significantly higher in PCOS individuals relative to recommended dietary allowance (RDA) and the control group. Deficiency of serum 25-OH vitamin D (VDD) is evident in both the control and PCOS groups. However, the prevalence of IR among PCOS patients is significantly higher (64%) than in control (4%), and it is significantly correlated with VDD (P < 0.01). homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance is found to be a comorbidity of dyslipidemia in PCOS patients. Conclusions: VDD, IR, and obesity potentially aggravate the phenotypic manifestations of PCOS. VDD in the control individuals of young age might be an alarming forecast for the development of PCOS in future life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Genitourinary syndrome occurs due to a decrease in ovarian hormones; this can have a significant negative impact on women's interpersonal relationships and sexual function. The present study aimed at comparing the therapeutic effect of conjugated estrogens vaginal cream and a combined vaginal cream of vitamins D and E in the treatment of genitourinary syndrome in postmenopausal women. Methods: This study was conducted as a double-blind randomized clinical trial (RCT). As many as 64 postmenopausal women suffering from genitourinary syndrome were randomly divided into study and control groups. The study group was treated with a combined vaginal cream of vitamins D and E, and the control group was treated with conjugated estrogens vaginal creams for 12 weeks. The patients were visited at the beginning of being admitted, the fourth week, the 12th week, and four weeks after the treatment and their information was recorded by checklists and a sexual function questionnaire. The data were finally analyzed by SPSS-25 at a significant level of 0.05. Result: At four visits, libido, orgasm, and frequency of sexual intercourses, as well as vaginal symptoms such as burning, itching, dryness, and dyspareunia were improved in both groups (P <.05). However, there was no difference between the two groups in terms of the frequency of severity of these symptoms during the four visits (P >.05). Investigating the female sexual function index showed that using vitamin D and E vaginal creams, like the use of conjugated estrogens vaginal creams, improves sexual function in women (P <.01). Conclusion: According to the results, it can be concluded that the combined vaginal cream of vitamins D and E is a suitable alternative to vaginal estrogens in relieving the symptoms of genitourinary syndrome in postmenopausal women, especially those who are unable to use hormone therapy or have little compatibility with this therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer is most common in Pakistani women at young age compared to West where it is most common after 60 years of age. Variations in genes controlling vitamin D activity would play a role in determining the risk of breast cancer in women at early age. Purpose: To determine the association of vitamin D receptors (VDR) gene polymorphisms (FokI) with breast cancer risk in Pakistani women. Methods: FokI polymorphisms were studied through the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique on blood samples of 300 breast cancer and 300 healthy women. Results: This study found that circulating level of 25(OH)D3 was significantly lower among breast cancer patients as well as healthy subjects. Patients with large tumor size had significantly lower vitamin D levels. VDR FokI genotypes were significantly distributed (P = 0.00001) in Pakistani women with newly diagnosed breast cancer. A significant association between different FokI genotypes and circulating levels of 25(OH)D3 was found. Patients with FF genotype was significantly (P < 0.0001) associated with higher risk of breast cancer (OR 8.9, 95% CI 0.17-0.45) compared to Ff and ff genotype. Conclusion: VDR gene FokI polymorphism was associated with plasma vitamin D level and significant differences found in mean serum vitamin D levels between genotype groups of FokI. The study concluded that FokI might be one of the contributors to increase relative risk of breast cancer in Pakistani women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aging is identified as a risk factor for vitamin D deficiency (VDD) therefore this investigation was designed to determine the prevalence of VDD and its determinants in a sample of older adults. Methods: The data of this study were obtained from the baseline wave of the Longitudinal Aging Study (LAS). Demographic, past medical history, medication history, and smoking behavior were collected using an interview approach. The physical activity and nutritional status of the participants were assessed using a standard questionnaire. Anthropometric indices were measured according to a standard protocol then body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Serum vitamin D and calcium levels were measured by autoanalyzers. Univariate and multiple logistic regression models were applied to detect the associated factors with VDD. Results: Mean age of the participants was 71.82 (SD = 7.63) years. A total of 1319 people participated in our study, and 51.16% (n = 688) were female. A total of 8.42% (n = 111) of the participants had VDD and 17.06% of them (n = 225) had insufficient vitamin D levels. In the multivariable logistic regression model, the age group of 70-79 years in comparison with the age group of 60-69 years had a 43% less chance of VDD. Furthermore, being overweight (OR = 0.36, P = 0.01) and obese (OR = 0.35, P = 0.02), and taking vitamin D supplements (OR = 0.31, P = 0.04) were significantly associated with VDD. Conclusions: Our results showed that 25% of older adults had vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency. In addition, some modifiable lifestyle factors were associated with VDD. Given that, old age is considered a risk factor for VDD. Therefore, detection and improvement of VDD may be a preventive measure in at-risk subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the relation between serum Vitamin D (Vit‑D) levels and the success rate of cardioversion for atrial fibrillation (AF). To examine the association between Vit‑D level and successful cardioversion. This study also describes the general characteristics of patients with successful cardioversion. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, patients with AF who were treated using electrical cardioversion at King Abdulaziz Cardiovascular Center (KACC) between 2010 and 2021 were included. The information on demographic and clinical characteristics as well as outcome variables was collected. Results: Of 100 patients who were admitted to KACC during the study period, 63% were females and 9% were diagnosed with Vit‑D deficiency. Furthermore, 66% of patients had successful cardioversion. Moreover, no significant difference in Vit‑D deficiency was observed between patients who had successful cardioversion and those with unsuccessful outcomes (P = 0.485). Conclusions: There is no association between serum Vit‑D levels and the success rate of cardioversion in patients with AF. However, further studies are needed for more conclusive evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accumulated studies have shown that low expression of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] was significantly associated with the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the exact causality is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether levels of 25(OH)D are associated with risk of NAFLD, using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR). Methods: Data from a recent large vitamin D genome-wide association study (GWAS) on 417,580 Europeans were utilized, and the largest published histology-based NAFLD GWAS study (1,483 cases and 17,781 healthy controls) for genetic variants predicted to cause NAFLD were searched. All genetic datasets for the MR analyses were obtained using publicly available summary statistics based on individuals of European ancestry from the MR-Base and NHGRI-EBI GWAS Catalog database. Inverse-variance weighted (IVW) MR approach was used to estimate causal effects in the main analysis, complemented by 4 additional methods to control for pleiotropy. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to verify whether heterogeneity and pleiotropy can bias the MR results. Results: The MR analysis did not provide strong evidence for the causal association of circulating 25(OH)D with NAFLD by IVW method (OR = 0.746, 95%CI 0.517–1.078; P = 0.119). The results were consistent using four other MR methods. Sensitivity analysis using all different analytical approaches yielded similar results. There was no evidence for pleiotropy (MR-Egger intercept: −0.0003758, P = 0.970). The replication process also showed consistent results using IVW method (P = 0.710). Conclusion: This study indicates that serum 25(OH)D levels did not possess an obvious effect on the risk of NAFLD. The associations in previous studies may be due to residual confounding or reverse causation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin D deficiency with a resurgence of rickets and tetany is increasingly being reported in young infants from temperate regions, African Americans, and also from India. The data on Vitamin D status of healthy term breastfed Indian infants and mothers are scant. In fact, the correlation between Vitamin D deficiency and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is inaccurate in many studies. Aim and Objective: The aim and objective of this study are to determine whether serum Vitamin D levels are correlated with serum levels of ALP or not and to study the point, at which ALP surge occurs in Vitamin D deficiency. Materials and Methods: Ninety-six participants at birth were enrolled and followed up till 9 months of age. Serum 25 (OH) D along with ALP was estimated in cord blood at birth and 14 ± 1 weeks of life. Seventy-seven participants were followed up at 9 months for estimation of serum 25 (OH) D, parathyroid hormone, ALP, calcium, and phosphorus. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25 (OH) D <15 ng/mL as per the United States Institute of Medicine guidelines. Results: At 9 months out of 96 samples, 16 had mild insufficient (≥15--20 ng/mL) (20.8%), 42 had moderate deficient (<15 ng/mL) (54.5%), and 0 had severe deficient (<5 ng/mL) Vitamin D deficiencies. Serum alkaline phosphate were found to be normal in all the three groups of patients and the receiver operating characteristic curve demonstrated that low Vitamin D level is predicted by a high ALP cutoff of ALP is 190.90 IU/L with reasonable sensitivity and specificity. The correlation coefficient of ALP and serum Vitamin D3 levels was r = 0.501 (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Serum Vitamin D3 levels correlated well with increased serum ALP levels but the level, at which the ALP surge occurs was on the lower side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Head-and-neck cancer patients are at a greater risk of suffering, yet little is known about the factors contributing to psychosocial and physical adjustments. Objective: The present study examined the association of cognitive attribute such as illness perception and self-blame with psychosocial adjustment and positive health changes (PHCs), with type D personality as a moderating variable. Methods: A survey of 66 eligible patients (34 males and 32 females with mean = 51.68 and standard deviation [SD] = 15.26) was recruited from 2 different hospitals in Assam, India. The purposive sampling technique was used to select the patients from early Stages I and II. The selected participants were divided into two groups: patients below 45 years and above 45 years. The participants were assessed by using the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Self-blame Questionnaire, Type D Personality Questionnaire, Psychosocial Adjustment to Illness Scale, and PHC Questionnaire. Results: The result of the study indicated patients experiencing overall poorer psychosocial adjustment (mean = 55.17 and SD = 14.26). In addition, self-blame, illness perception, and type D personality were found to significantly relating to psychosocial and physical adjustments (P < 0.05). While assessing the moderating effect, negative affectivity (NA) was found to moderate the relationship between illness perception and physical health changes (ß = 1.09, P < 0.001). The finding suggested that illness perception and NA had a statistically significant effect on outcome (ß = 0.14, P < 0.001; ß = 1.08, P < 0.001). Furthermore, gender differences and age-wise differences were revealed regarding adjustment among the patients. Conclusion: Therefore, encouraging positive beliefs and thoughts among the cancer survivors, with interventions to manage negative emotions at a very initial stage, would promote them to have a healthier future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]