Ethnic,geographic, and seasonal differences of vitamin D status among adults in south-west China

BackgroundThere are limited data on vitamin D status of Sichuan province, and no investigation has been carried out on the correlations of 25(OH)D and BTMs between healthy Hans and Tibetans of Sichuan province. This study aimed to examine 25(OH)D levels around Sichuan province and to assess differences by ethnicity, age, gender, sunlight exposure, geographic location, and seasons.MethodsBlood samples from 2317 healthy adults aged of 18 to 75 years and of Han and Tibetan ethnicities were collected in six regions and during four seasons. Serum 25(OH)D₂ and 25(OH)D₃ levels were measured by LC‐MS/MS method. Serum total P1NP and β‐CTX were measured by immunoassay.ResultsParticipants aged 18‐40 years showed significantly lower 25(OH)D levels than participants aged 41‐75 years old (P < .0001). The median serum 25(OH)D level for males was significantly higher than that of females (P < .0001). Serum 25(OH)D levels among four seasons and different districts varied significantly (P < .0001). In addition, the 25(OH)D level of Tibetans was significantly lower than that of Hans, while the serum total P1NP and β‐CTX levels of Tibetans were significantly higher than those of Hans (P < .0001).ConclusionAdult population was more common to have vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency among Tibetans, females, north regions and in spring and winter.     

The clinical significance of vitamin D levels and vitamin D receptor mRNA expression in colorectal neoplasms

Background/AimThis study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of changes in vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and vitamin D receptor (VDR) mRNA expression in colorectal adenoma development.MethodsPlasma concentrations of 25(OH)D and mRNA expression of VDR in tissues were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real‐time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), respectively. In addition, the concentration of plasma 25(OH)D and levels of VDR mRNA in tissues were compared among healthy individuals and adenoma and adenocarcinoma patients.ResultsVitamin D receptor expression in colorectal adenocarcinoma tissues was significantly lower than that in para‐cancerous tissues that were >5 cm away from malignant tumor sites (p < 0.01). The level of VDR expression in normal colorectal tissues from healthy individuals was significantly higher than that in colorectal adenomas (p < 0.01) and colorectal adenocarcinomas (p < 0.01); however, the VDR expression was not significantly different between colorectal adenomas and colorectal adenocarcinomas (p = 0.106). The concentration of 25(OH)D in healthy individuals was significantly higher than that in patients with colorectal adenomas (p < 0.01) and colorectal adenocarcinomas (p < 0.01); however, the concentration of 25(OH)D was not significantly different between colorectal adenomas and colorectal adenocarcinomas (p = 0.489). A low concentration of 25(OH)D was considered a risk factor for colorectal adenoma and colorectal adenocarcinoma, with odds ratios of 4.875 and 2.925, respectively.ConclusionsThe 25(OH)D levels and VDR mRNA expression might be associated with the development of colorectal adenoma and its progression to adenocarcinoma.     

Comparative analysis of the association between various serum vitamin D biomarkers and sarcopenia

BackgroundVitamin D status is associated with muscle strength and maintenance of muscle fibers. However, which serum vitamin D biomarker better reflects sarcopenia remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between various serum vitamin D biomarkers (total 25‐hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D], bioavailable 25(OH)D, 24,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D [24,25(OH)₂D], and vitamin D metabolite ratio [VMR]) and sarcopenia.MethodsThe data for 83 hip fracture patients were finally included in the analysis. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asia Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) criteria. Measurements of 24,25(OH)₂D and 25(OH)D were made using solid‐phase extraction (SPE) and subsequent liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) concentration was measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The VMR was calculated by dividing serum 24,25(OH)₂D by serum 25(OH)D and then multiplying by 100. Based on total 25(OH)D, VDBP, and albumin concentrations, bioavailable 25(OH)D concentrations were calculated using the equations from the other previous studies.ResultsBioavailable 25(OH)D levels were significantly (p = 0.030) decreased in the sarcopenia group compared with the non‐sarcopenia group. Results of ROC analysis for the diagnosis of sarcopenia using serum level of bioavailable of 25(OH)D revealed that the cutoff point for bioavailable 25(OH)D was 1.70 ng/ml (AUC = 0.649, p < 0.001). In the group with a bioavailable 25(OH)D less than 1.70 ng/ml, the incidence of sarcopenia increased by 3.3 times (odds ratio: 3.33, p = 0.013).ConclusionWe demonstrated that bioavailable 25(OH)D was associated with sarcopenia among the various serum vitamin D biomarkers. Bioavailable vitamin D might be helpful for assessing the risk of sarcopenia.     

Relationship Between Vitamin D Level and Mortality in Adults With Psoriasis: A Retrospective Cohort Study of NHANES Data

PurposeStudies have shown an increased risk for mortality in patients with psoriasis. Furthermore, research has demonstrated an inverse relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) level and all-cause mortality. This study investigated the association between 25(OH)D level and all-cause mortality in US adults with psoriasis.MethodsData from NHANES (1999–2014 and mortality data through December 31, 2015) were analyzed. Quartiles of 25(OH)D level were created based on 25(OH)D levels among patients. Cox proportional hazards models were used for estimating hazard ratios (95% CI) for all-cause mortality.FindingsA total of 82,091 participants were enrolled in the NHANES study from 1999 to 2014. Overall, 610 patients with psoriasis were identified in NHANES. The mean (SD) duration of follow-up was 5.61 (3.38) years (3427.92 person-years). The hazard ratio for mortality in the fully adjusted model was 0.12 (95% CI, 0.02–0.60; P_trend = 0.01) in patients with a high 25(OH)D concentration compared to those with 25(OH)D deficiency.ImplicationsThe 25(OH)D concentration was significantly inversely associated with all-cause mortality among these patients with psoriasis. Studies have shown an increased risk for mortality in patients with psoriasis compared to the general population. Vitamin D is not regularly metabolized in patients with psoriasis due to their skin abnormality. Vitamin D supplementation has been associated with a reduced mortality in patients with psoriasis. In practice, attention to vitamin D level is crucial, as is the use of vitamin D supplementation, for improving the health of these patients.     

Serum vitamin D levels correlate to coronary artery disease severity: a retrospective chart analysis

Background: The pro-atherosclerotic nature of vitamin D deficiency has been shown to increase cardiovascular events. We further emphasized and evaluated the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) with varying levels of vitamin D in relation to age, gender, ethnicity and baseline confounders.

Methods: A retrospective, single-center study of 9,399 patients admitted between 2005 and 2014 for chest pain who underwent coronary angiography. Patients without a vitamin D level, measured as 25-dihydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) were excluded from our study. 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency were defined by having serum concentration levels of less than 20 ng/ml and 20 to 29.9 ng/ml, respectively, while normal levels were defined as greater than or equal to 30 ng/ml. We assessed levels of 25(OH)D and extent of coronary disease with coronary angiography as obstructive CAD (left main stenosis of ≥50% or any stenosis of ≥70%), non-obstructive CAD (≥1 stenosis ≥20% but no stenosis ≥70%) and normal coronaries (no stenosis >20%).

Results: Among 9,399 patients, 1,311 qualified, of which 308 patients (23%) had normal 25(OH)D levels, 552 patients (42%) had 25(OH)D deficiency and 451 patients (35%) had 25(OH)D insufficiency. In an analysis of the extent of coronary disease, we identified 20% of patients having normal coronaries, 55% having obstructive CAD and 25% having non-obstructive CAD. Baseline clinical risk factors and co-morbidities did not differ between the groups.

Patients with normal 25(OH)D levels were found to have normal coronaries compared to patients with 25(OH)D deficiency or insufficiency (OR: 7, 95% CI: 5.2 – 9.5, p < 0.0001). Comparing patients with normal 25(OH)D levels, patients with 25(OH)D deficiency or insufficiency (<29 ng/ml), 62% were found to have obstructive CAD (n = 624, OR: 2.9, 95% CI: 2.3-3.7, p < 0.0001) and 25% had non-obstructive CAD (n = 249, OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1-2, p = 0.02).

Conclusion: Normal coronaries and CAD were shown to correlate with normal and low levels of 25(OH)D, respectively. There is an inverse relationship between the percentage of coronary artery occlusion and serum 25(OH)D concentrations. Vitamin D may provide benefits in risk stratification of patients with CAD and serve as a possible risk factor.     

昆明地区儿童血清 25羟基维生素 D水平检测及维生素 D营养状态分析

目的　了解昆明地区儿童血清 25羟基维生素 D [25（OH）D]水平及维生素 D营养状态,为儿童合理补充维生素 D提供科学依据。方法　选取昆明市第一人民医院 2016年 11月 ~2019年 10月体检儿童 0～ 14岁 600例为研究对象,采用液相色谱串联质谱（ LC-MS/MS）法检测血清 25（OH）D水平,分析不同性别、年龄及季节儿童血清 25（OH）D水平及营养状态。结果　600例 0～ 14岁儿童血清 25（OH）D水平为 27.44±8.82 ng/ml。血清 25（OH）D缺乏率为 19.33%（116/600）,不足率为 47.67%（286/600）,充足率为 33.00%（198/600）。女童的缺乏率（ 24.83%）高于男童（ 14.33%）,儿童血清 25（OH）D的缺乏、不足和充足率在不同性别间差异有统计学意义（ χ2=11.784,P<0.01）。6～ 14岁儿童血清 25（OH）D缺乏率高于 0～ 1岁、1～ 3岁和３～６岁儿童（ 46.81% vs 5.88%,5.86%和 19.53%）,血清 25（OH）D的缺乏、不足和充足率在不同年龄段上差异有统计学意义（ χ2=188.515,P<0.01）。夏、冬季的儿童血清 25（OH）D缺乏率高于春、秋季（ 22.00%,27.50% vs 12.80%,11.43%）,不同季节血清 25（OH）D的缺乏、不足和充足率差异有统计学意义（ χ2=14.492,P<0.05）。结论　昆明地区 0～ 14岁儿童血清 25（OH）D营养状况欠佳,应加强维生素 D健康宣传工作,提高儿童血清 25（OH）D的监测,特别关注 3～ 14岁阶段儿童维生素 D的补充。     

A Scoping Review of Vitamin D for Nonskeletal Health: A Framework for Evidence-based Clinical Practice

BackgroundLow serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels are prevalent worldwide. Although the benefits of vitamin D supplementation have focused on skeletal disorders (eg, rickets, osteomalacia, osteoporosis), emerging evidence for nonskeletal health merits further discussion.PurposeThe purpose of this review was to critically examine the vitamin D supplementation literature pertaining to nonskeletal health to help guide clinicians.MethodsA scoping review that included observational studies and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) was performed. Evidence from meta-analyses and individual RCTs are discussed, and controversies and future directions are considered.Findings25(OH)D deficiency is a ubiquitous condition associated with multiple nonskeletal diseases, including cardiometabolic (heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease), immune (HIV/AIDS and cancer), lung (from traditional chronic disorders to coronavirus disease 2019), and gut diseases. Vitamin D deficiency also affects health across the life span (children, pregnant, and elderly), mental illness, and reproduction in both men and women. In contrast, vitamin D supplementation does not necessarily improve major medical outcomes, even when low 25(OH)D levels are treated. Screening for 25(OH)D status remains an important practice, primarily for high-risk patients (eg, elderly, women with osteoporosis, people with low exposure to sunlight). It is reasonable to supplement with vitamin D to treat 25(OH)D deficiency, such that if beneficial nonskeletal health occurs, this may be considered as a coadjutant instead of the central tenet of the disease. Furthermore, optimizing dosing regimens is an important clinical consideration.ImplicationsAlthough 25(OH)D deficiency is prevalent in nonskeletal diseases, there is no uniform evidence that vitamin D supplementation improves major medical outcomes, even when low 25(OH)D levels are corrected. Findings from RCTs warrant caution due to possible selection bias. Overall, vitamin D supplementation must be guided by circulating levels as a reasonable medical practice to correct 25(OH)D deficiency.     

Associations of serum amyloid A and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D with diabetic nephropathy: A cross‐sectional study

BackgroundThe present study investigated the relationships between serum amyloid A (SAA), 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)VD) and diabetic nephropathy (DN) to provide evidence for the prevention and management of DN.MethodsA total of 182 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were enrolled in this study. The levels of SAA, 25(OH)VD, and other conventional indicators were measured and analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was applied for the combined measurement of SAA and 25(OH)VD, and risk factors for DN were evaluated using binary logistic regression analysis.ResultsThe levels of SAA in T2DM patients were significantly higher than those in healthy subjects, and the level significantly increased with the progression of DN (p < 0.05). In contrast, the level of 25(OH)VD in T2DM patients was significantly lower than that in healthy subjects, and the level significantly decreased with the progression of DN (p < 0.05). The combined measurement of SAA and 25(OH)VD distinguished DN patients from T2DM patients better than the measurement of SAA or 25(OH)VD alone. SAA was an independent risk factor for DN, and 25(OH)VD was an independent protective factor for DN.ConclusionSAA and 25(OH)VD might be used as potential markers to identify patients at increased risk of developing DN.     

A high prevalence of prediabetes and vitamin D deficiency are more closely associated in women: results of a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveMany studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. However, few studies have shown independent associations between vitamin D deficiency and the metabolic characteristics of prediabetes. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum vitamin D concentration and metabolic risk factors in adults with prediabetes.MethodsWe enrolled 161 patients aged 25 to 75 years in a cross-sectional study and collected clinical and biochemical data, including 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) status and fasting glucose concentration. Vitamin D status was defined as follows: deficiency (25[OH]D <49.9 ng/mL), insufficiency (49.9 to 74.9 nmol/L) or sufficiency (>74.9 nmol/L). Prediabetes was defined using fasting plasma glucose concentrations of 5.55 to 6.49 mmol/L.ResultsThe prevalences of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were 49.7% and 24.8%, respectively. Participants with vitamin D deficiency had a higher prevalence of prediabetes than those without (53.8% vs. 32.1%), and there was a significant relationship between female sex and vitamin D status (odds ratio: 1.382; 95% confidence interval: 0.335–5.693).ConclusionVitamin D deficiency is more closely associated with a high prevalence of prediabetes in women than in men. Further studies are needed to elucidate the explanation for this association.     

Prevalence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency in the acute inpatient rehabilitation population and its effect on function

Pellicane AJ, Wysocki NM, Mallinson TR, Schnitzer TJ. Prevalence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency in the acute inpatient rehabilitation population and its effect on function.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) insufficiency and deficiency in the acute inpatient rehabilitation setting, identify risk factors associated with low serum 25(OH)D levels, and assess whether hypovitaminosis D affects the function of rehabilitation patients.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Academic acute rehabilitation facility.

Participants

Patients (N=101) admitted for acute inpatient rehabilitation between September 2008 and December 2008.

Interventions

Serum 25(OH)D levels drawn within 24 hours of admission.

Main Outcome Measures

25(OH)D level, total/motor/cognitive FIM efficiency.

Results

Considering patients not receiving 25(OH)D supplementation at the time of admission, 23.0% were 25(OH)D sufficient, 68.9% were insufficient, and 8.1% were deficient. Patients receiving 25(OH)D supplementation at the time of admission had significantly higher 25(OH)D levels than patients not receiving 25(OH)D supplementation (33.4±12.8 vs 23.7±11.4ng/mL; P=.001). A total of 72.2% of patients with any fracture and 80.0% of patients with fracture due to fall were not receiving supplementation at the time of admission; 72.2% of patients with any fracture and 73.3% of patients with fracture due to fall were 25(OH)D insufficient. Unadjusted total FIM efficiency scores were statistically significantly different by 25(OH)D status (2.96±1.42 vs 2.29±1.41ng/mL; P=.039). However, 25(OH)D level was not a significant predictor of total FIM efficiency score after controlling for demographic and clinical factors.

Conclusions

Of acute rehabilitation patients, 77% are 25(OH)D insufficient or deficient at admission. 25(OH)D supplementation is associated with a greater 25(OH)D level in these patients; however, almost half those supplemented had 25(OH)D levels less than the reference range. Most inpatients with fracture due to fall were transferred to acute inpatient rehabilitation without 25(OH)D supplementation despite clear guidelines indicating its use in this situation.     

The effect of intramuscular megadose of vitamin D injections on E-selectin,CRP and biochemical parameters in vitamin D-deficient patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized controlled trial

Background and aimsInflammatory processes has been shown to be associated with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in which vitamin D supplementation might exert beneficial outcomes. We examined the effects of vitamin D supplement on inflammatory and cell adhesion molecule in patients with T2DM.MethodsThis study consisted of 50 patients with T2DM who had vitamin D deficiency. Participants were randomized into two groups of 25 in which the intervention group received two intramuscular injections of a 200000-IU vitamin D supplement, one at week 0 and another at week 4. The concentrations of fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profiles, liver enzymes, E-selectin, C-reactive protein (CRP), calcium, phosphorus, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and anthropometric indices were obtained before and after 8 weeks.ResultsVitamin D resulted in significant reductions in CRP(P = 0.01) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels(P = 0.03) and significant increases in 25(OH)D concentrations(P = 0.01) in the intervention group compared with the control. Within-group comparisons showed that FBG decreased significantly in the intervention group(P = 0.04). No significant changes were observed regarding within- and between-group comparisons of the other markers.ConclusionVitamin D had beneficial effects on the levels of CRP, serum 25(OH)D and GGT among vitamin D deficient patients with T2DM. (http://www.irct.ir: IRCT2017100336539N1).     

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Level Could Predict the Risk for Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis

♦ Background:

As an immune system regulator, vitamin D is commonly deficient among patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD), which may contribute to their impaired immune function and increased risk for PD-related peritonitis. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether vitamin D deficiency could predict the risk of peritonitis in a prospective cohort of patients on PD.

♦ Methods:

We collected 346 prevalent and incident PD patients from 2 hospitals. Baseline demographic data and clinical characteristics were recorded. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) was measured at baseline and prior to peritonitis. The mean doses of oral active vitamin D used during the study period were also recorded. The outcome was the occurrence of peritonitis.

♦ Results:

The mean age of patients and duration of PD were 58.95 ± 13.67 years and 28.45 (15.04 – 53.37) months, respectively. Baseline 25(OH)D level was 16.15 (12.13 – 21.16) nmol/L, which was closely associated with diabetic status, longer PD duration, malnutrition, and inflammation. Baseline serum 25(OH)D predicted the occurrence of peritonitis independently of active vitamin D supplementation with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90 – 0.98) after adjusting for recognized confounders (age, gender, dialysis duration, diabetes, albumin, residual renal function, and history of peritonitis). Compared to the low tertile, middle and high 25(OH)D level tertiles were associated with a decreased risk for peritonitis with HRs of 0.54 (95% CI 0.31 – 0.94) and 0.39 (95% CI 0.20 – 0.75), respectively.

♦ Conclusions:

Vitamin D deficiency evaluated by serum 25(OH)D rather than active vitamin D supplementation is closely associated with a higher risk of peritonitis.     

Vitamin D status and its association with season,hospital and sepsis mortality in critical illness

Introduction

Vitamin D plays a key role in immune function. Deficiency may aggravate the incidence and outcome of infectious complications in critically ill patients. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and the correlation between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) and hospital mortality, sepsis mortality and blood culture positivity.

Methods

In a single-center retrospective observational study at a tertiary care center in Graz, Austria, 655 surgical and nonsurgical critically ill patients with available 25(OH) D levels hospitalized between September 2008 and May 2010 were included. Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, gender, severity of illness, renal function and inflammatory status was performed. Vitamin D levels were categorized by month-specific tertiles (high, intermediate, low) to reflect seasonal variation of serum 25(OH) D levels.

Results

Overall, the majority of patients were vitamin D deficient (<20 ng/ml; 60.2%) or insufficient (≥20 and <30 ng/dl; 26.3%), with normal 25(OH) D levels (>30 ng/ml) present in only 13.6%. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and mean 25(OH) D levels was significantly different in winter compared to summer months (P <0.001). Hospital mortality was 20.6% (135 of 655 patients). Adjusted hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients in the low (hazard ratio (HR) 2.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31 to 3.22) and intermediate (HR 1.92, 95% CI 1.21 to 3.06) compared to the high tertile. Sepsis was identified as cause of death in 20 of 135 deceased patients (14.8%). There was no significant association between 25(OH) D and C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocyte count or procalcitonin levels. In a subgroup analysis (n = 244), blood culture positivity rates did not differ between tertiles (23.1% versus 28.2% versus 17.1%, P = 0.361).

Conclusions

Low 25(OH) D status is significantly associated with mortality in the critically ill. Intervention studies are needed to investigate the effect of vitamin D substitution on mortality and sepsis rates in this population.     

动态监测极早产儿血25(OH)D水平及其对肺部疾病的影响

目的 动态监测极早产儿维生素D水平并探讨其对极早产儿肺部疾病的影响。方法 选取2019年6月-2020年12月期间于青岛大学附属医院新生儿重症监护室(neonatal intensive care unite,NICU)住院、并经得家长知情同意的胎龄<32周的极早产儿共126例,于生后24 h、1月、2月(或出院时)检测血清25-(OH)D水平。根据生后血清25-(OH)D水平,将极早产儿分为3组,维生素D缺乏组(n=71),25(OH)D<12 ng/ml;维生素D不足组(n=46),25(OH)D 12～<20ng/ml;维生素D充足组(n=9),25(OH)D>20～≤100 ng/ml。所有早产儿在喂养耐受后给予维生素AD(其中维生素D 500 IU,维生素A 1500 IU)每日1粒,及维生素D3 400 IU;收集早产儿一般临床资料,比较各组间呼吸窘迫综合征(respiratory distress syndrome,RDS)、呼吸机使用时间、住院时间、早期肺高压、动脉导管未闭(patent ductus arteriosus, PDA)、支气管肺发...     

Relationship between Vitamin D levels and pain and disease activity in patients with newly diagnosed axial spondyloarthritis

ObjectivesTo explore the relationship between Vitamin D levels and pain and disease activity in patients with newly diagnosed axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).MethodsA convenience sample of 131 newly diagnosed axSpA patients and 60 healthy controls was recruited from July 2016 to December 2018. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] was measured to assess vitamin D levels. Disease activity was assessed by objective indicators [Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI)], patient-reported questionnaires [the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI)]. Pain intensity and interference were also assessed.ResultsVitamin D insufficiency [serum 25(OH) D levels<50 nmol/L]was found in 46 (35.1%) and 25 (43.3%) of the axSpA patients and the healthy controls, respectively. Female patients had higher risk (OR:4.928; 95% CI: 1.921–12.642) for vitamin D insufficiency than male patients. Vitamin D was positively correlated with CRP, ESR level, the BASFI, and the BASMI. Logistic regression showed that vitamin D levels were not associated with pain, or disease activity in the newly diagnosed axSpA patients. Gender was the only predictive variable for vitamin D levels.ConclusionsVitamin D insufficiency was prevalent in both newly diagnosed axSpA patients and healthy controls. There was no association between vitamin D and pain and disease activity in the newly diagnosed axSpA patients. Monitoring vitamin D levels is important and early intervention for vitamin D insufficiency is needed, especially in female patients.     

Measured free 25-hydroxyvitamin D in healthy children and relationship to total 25-hydroxyvitamin D,calculated free 25-hydroxyvitamin D and vitamin D binding protein

Backgroundvitamin D deficiency in children is still a global health problem. Measuring free 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations could provide a better estimate of the vitamin D status than total 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels.ObjectiveTo assess the relationship between measured free vitamin D (m-f25(OH)D) and calculated free 25(OH)D (c-f25(OH)D), total 25(OH)D, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) and other markers of phosphocalcic metabolism.To establish serum m-f25(OH)D concentrations corresponding to a total 25(OH)D > 50 nmol/L which is accepted as vitamin D-sufficiency status in children.DesignProspective cohort study.SettingJanuary and February 2017 in a Mediterranean population.Patientshealthy children.Measurementsm-f25(OH)D and vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) by ELISA. Free 25(OH)D was calculated using the formula described by Bikle.Resultsm-f25(OH)D directly correlated with total 25(OH)D (r:0.804,p < .001), serum calcium (r:0.26,p:0.035), and c-f25(OH)D (r:0.553,p:0.016); and inversely with iPTH (r:-0.374, p:0.002), alkaline phosphatase (r:-0.28, p:0.026), and age (r:-0.289, p:0.018). Total 25(OH)D correlated with the same parameters as m-f25(OH)D except for serum calcium. However, c-f25(OH)D correlated only with total 25(OH)D and VDBP, both included in the calculation formula.Multiple regression analysis showed that m-f25(OH)D variations were independently explained by calcium (β:0.156, p:0.026) and total 25(OH)D (β:0.043, p < .001).The optimal m-f25(OH)D cut-off for discriminating between insufficient and sufficient total 25(OH)D was >9.8 pmol/L (Area Under Curve (AUC): 0.897 (95% confidence interval (CI): (0.798–0.958); p < .001; sensitivity:72.7% (95%CI: 49.8–89.3); specificity: 95.5% (95%CI: 84.5–99.4)).ConclusionsDirectly measured free vitamin D correlated better with markers of phosphocalcic metabolism than total 25(OH)D and c-f25(OH)D in a population of healthy children.     

Prevalence of 25(OH) Vitamin D Insufficiency and Deficiency in Pediatric Patients on Chronic Dialysis

♦ Background: 25(OH) Vitamin D [25(OH)D] is the major circulating form of vitamin D and the parameter used to reflect vitamin D status. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are likely to have low levels of 25(OH)D, and recent observations have linked suboptimal vitamin D status with adverse cardiovascular outcomes, inflammation, insulin resistance, and the rate of progression of renal insufficiency. Little is known about the magnitude of vitamin D deficiency in pediatric patients with stage 5 CKD on chronic dialysis.♦ Objectives: The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to assess the prevalence of abnormal vitamin D status in children on chronic dialysis.♦ Methods: Serum 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were evaluated in 59 pediatric patients on chronic dialysis. Weekly renal Kt/V and creatinine clearance (CCr) were evaluated as parameters reflecting residual renal function. In these patients, serum 25(OH)D concentrations less than 10 ng/mL were considered deficiency and concentrations of 10 - 30 ng/mL were considered insufficiency.♦ Results: Of the 59 pediatric patients (mean age: 14.4 ± 5.1 years), 51 (86.4%) were on peritoneal dialysis (PD), and 8 (13.6%) were on hemodialysis. Vitamin D deficiency was found in 32.2% of the patients (n = 19), and vitamin D insufficiency, in 50.8% (n = 30). Patients with serum 25(OH)D concentrations less than 30 ng/mL were older than those with normal 25(OH)D concentrations (15.4 ± 4.5 years vs 9.2 ± 5.1 years, p = 0.000). Patients with 25(OH) D concentrations less than 30 ng/mL had higher PTH levels than did those with normal 25(OH)D concentrations (349.5 ± 318.3 pg/mL vs 142.5 ± 116.9 pg/mL, p = 0.001). In the univariate analysis, there was no correlation between serum 25(OH)D and serum 1,25(OH)2D (r = 0.242, p = 0.064), calcium (r = 0.108, p = 0.415), phosphorus (r = -0.050, p = 0.706), or body mass index (r = -0.046, p = 0.729). In PD patients, serum 25(OH)D was positively correlated with weekly renal Kt/V (r = 0.385, p = 0.005) and CCr (r = 0.443, p = 0.001). In addition, serum 25(OH)D and serum albumin were positively correlated (r = 0.297, p = 0.035) in the PD patients.♦ Conclusions: The present study found a high prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency in children on chronic dialysis. Serum 25(OH)D was associated with residual renal function in children on PD. Further studies to evaluate the consequences of vitamin D deficiency and the impact of therapeutic interventions are needed in pediatric CKD patients.Key words: Chronic kidney disease, 25(OH) vitamin D deficiency, chronic dialysis, residual renal functionVitamin D plays a central role in skeletal development and has a protective effect against hypertension, cardiovascular morbidity, diabetes mellitus, and cancer (1,2). Vitamin D is sourced from the diet or synthesized in the skin by ultraviolet B sunlight, metabolized in the liver to 25(OH) vitamin D [25(OH)D (calcidiol)], and then in the kidney to the biologically active 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D form [1,25(OH)2D (calcitriol)] under the control of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 23 (3,4). In a dual effect, FGF23 reduces circulating 1,25(OH)2D by suppressing production of Cyp27b1 and stimulating Cyp24 catabolism of 1,25(OH)2D (5). Although 1,25(OH)2D is considered the biologically active form of vitamin D, 25(OH)D is the major circulating form, which is used as the parameter reflecting vitamin D status (4-6). It is known that 25(OH)D activates the vitamin D receptor and circulates in human plasma at approximately 1000 times the concentration of 1,25(OH)2D (7). In addition, because many tissues—including colon, prostate, skin, macrophages, and parathyroid—are recognized to express 1-α-hydroxylase, normal concentrations of 25(OH)D are important for local synthesis of 1,25(OH)2D in those tissues (8,9).Vitamin D inadequacy results from reduced sun exposure and dietary deficiency, and it is believed to be an epidemic of worldwide proportions in all age groups (10). Currently, for children, severe vitamin D deficiency is defined as a serum 25(OH)D concentration of 5 ng/mL or less, which is associated with an increased risk of rickets and myopathy (11). It has been recommended that a serum 25(OH)D concentration of 15 ng/mL or less be considered a state of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D insufficiency is usually defined as a 25(OH)D concentration of 15 - 20 ng/mL, which is associated with osteomalacia (11-13). Although a serum concentration of 25(OH)D greater than 20 ng/mL is considered indicative of vitamin D sufficiency in children, adult data indicate that a level of 32 ng/mL is desirable (11).Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including dialysis patients, are likely to have low levels of 25(OH) D (14-21). The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency in pediatric CKD patients before dialysis ranges from 60% to 82.1% (15,17). The prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency is known to be higher in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) than in those on hemodialysis (HD) because vitamin D binding protein is lost in peritoneal effluent (20,21). Other studies have shown that the prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency or insufficiency at the time of renal transplant in adults is 88% (22). In CKD patients, a serum 25(OH)D concentration of less than 30 ng/mL is usually used as the definition of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency (14-17). In the present study, a serum 25(OH)D concentration of less than 10 ng/mL was considered to represent deficiency and a concentration of 10 - 30 ng/mL was considered to represent insufficiency.Low levels of serum 25(OH)D, the substrate for the active hormone 1,25(OH)₂D, may exacerbate secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with early CKD (16). Recent observations have linked a suboptimal 25(OH) D status to adverse cardiovascular outcomes and also to the rate of progression of renal insufficiency in CKD (14,23,24). Nonrenal synthesis of 1,25(OH)₂D has been described, suggesting that supplementation with cholecalciferol or ergocalciferol in addition to 1,25(OH)₂D may have beneficial effects in CKD patients (15,21). The Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) guidelines recommend measuring serum 25(OH)D in children with CKD stages 2 - 5 and 5D once annually and supplementing with ergocalciferol or cholecalciferol if serum 25(OH)D is less than 30 ng/mL (25).Most previous studies of vitamin D status in patients on dialysis were performed in adults, and few reports have looked at serum 25(OH)D in pediatric patients on dialysis. In the present study, we evaluated the prevalence and severity of abnormal vitamin D status in children on chronic dialysis, and the relationship between serum 25(OH)D and other parameters of mineral metabolism, nutrition, and residual renal function (RRF).     

Vitamin D deficiency is Associated with Increased Risk of Delirium and Mortality among Critically Ill,Elderly Covid-19 Patients

Background and aimData on the associations of vitamin D levels with severe outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among critically ill elderly patients are not conclusive and also no information is available about some outcomes such as delirium. Therefore, the current study was done to assess these associations in critically ill elderly COVID-19 patients.MethodsIn total, 310 critically ill COVID-19 patients, aged ≥ 65 years, were included in the current single center prospective study. All patients were hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU). We collected data on demographic characteristics, laboratory parameters, blood pressure, comorbidities, medications, and types of mechanical ventilation at baseline (the first day of ICU admission). Patients were categorized based on serum 25(OH)D3 levels at the baseline [normal levels (>30 ng/mL), insufficiency (20–30 ng/mL), deficiency (<20 ng/mL)]. Data on delirium incidence, mortality, invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) requirement during treatment, length of ICU and hospital admission, and re-hospitalization were recorded until 45 days after the baseline.ResultsVitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were prevalent among 12 % and 37 % of study participants, respectively. In terms of baseline differences, patients with vitamin D deficiency were more likely to be older, have organ failure, take propofol, need IMV, and were less likely to need face mask compared to patients with normal levels of vitamin D. A significant positive association was found between vitamin D deficiency and risk of delirium. After controlling for potential confounders, patients with vitamin D deficiency had a 54 % higher risk of delirium compared to those with vitamin D sufficiency (HR: 1.54, 95 % CI: 1.02–2.33). Such a positive association was also seen for 45-day COVID-19 mortality (HR: 3.95, 95 % CI: 1.80–8.67). Also, each 10 ng/mL increase in vitamin D levels was associated with a 45 % and 26 % lower risk of 45-day mortality (HR: 0.55, 95 % CI: 0.40–0.74) and ICU mortality due to COVID-19 (HR: 0.74, 95 % CI: 0.60–0.92), respectively. In terms of other COVID-19 outcomes including IMV requirement during treatment, prolonged hospitalization, and re-hospitalization, we found no significant association in relation to serum 25(OH)D3 levels either in crude or fully adjusted models.ConclusionVitamin D deficiency was associated with an increased risk of delirium and mortality among critically ill elderly COVID-19 patients.     

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Subsequent Cancer Incidence and Mortality: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study

ObjectiveTo determine the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) values and subsequent cancer incidence and mortality.Patients and MethodsWe identified all adult patients living in Olmsted County, Minnesota, between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2011, who had at least 1 25(OH)D measurement and no prior diagnosis of cancer. Cancer outcomes were retrieved starting 30 days after 25(OH)D measurement and until patients’ final clinical visit as an Olmsted County resident; December 31, 2014; or death. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to analyze data.ResultsA total of 8700 individuals had a 25(OH)D measurement and no history of cancer, with a mean ± SD 25(OH)D value of 29.7±12.8 ng/mL (to convert to nmol/L, multiply by 2.496). The mean ± SD age was 51.5±16.4 years, and most were women (78.1%; n=6796) and White (85.7%; n=7460). A total of 761 individuals developed cancer (skin cancer, n=360; nonskin cancer, n=401) during a median follow-up of 4.6 (interquartile range, 3.4-6.1) years. Compared with participants with 25(OH)D values of 20 to 50 ng/mL (reference group), those with 25(OH)D values less than 12 ng/mL had a greater nonskin cancer incidence (hazard ratio [HR], 1.56; 95% CI, 1.03 to 2.36; P=.04) after adjustment. There was no association between 25(OH)D values and total cancer or skin cancer incidence. Compared with individuals from the reference group, 25(OH)D levels less than 12 ng/mL (HR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.01 to 5.48; P=.047) and 12 to 19 ng/mL (HR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.05 to 4.22; P=.04) were associated with increased cancer mortality.ConclusionLow 25(OH)D levels were associated with increased risk for incident nonskin cancer and cancer-related mortality.     

Application of computer tomography-based 3D reconstruction technique in hernia repair surgery

BACKGROUNDHernia is a common condition requiring abdominal surgery. The current standard treatment for hernia is tension-free repair using meshes. Globally, more than 200 new types of meshes are licensed each year. However, their clinical applications are associated with a series of complications, such as recurrence (10% - 24%) and infection (0.5% - 9.0%). In contrast, 3D-printed meshes have significantly reduced the postoperative complications in patients. They have also shortened operating time and minimized the loss of mesh materials. In this study, we used the myopectineal orifice (MPO) data obtained from preoperative computer tomography (CT)-based 3D reconstruction for the production of 3D-printed biologic meshes.AIMTo investigate the application of multislice spiral CT-based 3D reconstruction technique in 3D-printed biologic mesh for hernia repair surgery.METHODSWe retrospectively analyzed 60 patients who underwent laparoscopic tension-free repair for inguinal hernia in the Department of General Surgery of the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from September 2019 to December 2019. This study included 30 males and 30 females, with a mean age of 40 ± 5.6 years. Data on the MPO were obtained from preoperative CT-based 3D reconstruction as well as from real-world intraoperative measurements for all patients. Anatomic points were set for the purpose of measurement based on the definition of MPO: A: The pubic tubercle; B: Intersection of the horizontal line extending from the summit of the inferior edge of the internal oblique and transversus abdominis and the outer edge of the rectus abdominis, C: Intersection of the horizontal line extending from the summit of the inferior edge of the internal oblique and transversus abdominis and the inguinal ligament, D: Intersection of the iliopsoas muscle and the inguinal ligament, and E: Intersection of the iliopsoas muscle and the superior pubic ramus. The distance between the points was measured. All preoperative and intraoperative data were analyzed using the t test. Differences with P < 0.05 were considered significant in comparative analysis.RESULTSThe distance between points AB, AC, BC, DE, and AE based on preoperative and intraoperative data was 7.576 ± 0.212 cm vs 7.573 ± 0.266 cm, 7.627 ± 0.212 cm vs 7.627 ± 0.212 cm, 7.677 ± 0.229 cm vs 7.567 ± 0.786 cm, 7.589 ± 0.204 cm vs 7.512 ± 0.21 cm, and 7.617 ± 0.231 cm vs 7.582 ± 0.189 cm, respectively. All differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05).CONCLUSIONThe use of multislice spiral CT-based 3D reconstruction technique before hernia repair surgery allows accurate measurement of data and relationships of different anatomic sites in the MPO region. This technique can provide precise data for the production of 3D-printed biologic meshes.