The impact of air pollutants, UV exposure and geographic location on vitamin D deficiency

Positive Association of Urinary Dimethylarsinic Acid (DMAV) with Serum 25(OH)D in Adults Living in an Area of Water-Borne Arsenicosis in Shanxi, China

Limited studies have demonstrated that inorganic arsenic exposure is positively associated with serum vitamin D levels, although the correlation between urinary arsenic species and serum vitamin D has not been investigated in areas of water-borne arsenicosis. A cross-sectional study of 762 participants was conducted in Wenshui Country, Shanxi Province, a water-borne arsenicosis area. The results showed a positive relationship between urinary arsenic species (inorganic arsenic (iAs), methylarsonic acid (MMAV), dimethylarsinic acid (DMAV) and serum 25(OH)D. Log-binomial regression analysis indicated a 0.4% increase in the risk of vitamin D excess for every 1-unit increment in the Box-Cox transformed urinary DMAV after adjustment for covariates. After stratifying populations by inorganic arsenic methylation metabolic capacity, serum 25(OH)D levels in the populations with iAs% above the median and primary methylation index (PMI) below the median increased by 0.064 ng/mL (95% CI: 0.032 to 0.096) for every one-unit increase in the Box-Cox transformed total arsenic (tAs) levels. Serum 25(OH)D levels increased by 0.592 ng/mL (95% CI: 0.041 to 1.143) for every one-unit rise in the Box-Cox transformed iAs levels in people with skin hyperkeratosis. Overall, our findings support a positive relationship between urinary arsenic species and serum 25(OH)D. It was recommended that those residing in regions with water-borne arsenicosis should take moderate vitamin D supplements to avoid vitamin D poisoning.

Impact of air pollution on postoperative outcomes following organ transplantation: Evidence from clinical investigations

INTRODUCTION

Air pollution is a worldwide problem affecting human health via various body systems, resulting in numerous significant adverse events. Air pollutants, including particulate matter < or = 2.5 microns (PM2.5), particulate matter < or = 10 microns (PM10), ozone (O3 ), nitrogen dioxide (NO2 ), and traffic-related air pollution (TRAP), have demonstrated the negative effects on human health (e.g., increased cerebrovascular, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases, malignancy, and mortality). Organ transplant patients, who are taking immunosuppressive agents, are especially vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollutants. The evidence from clinical investigation has shown that exposure to air pollution after organ transplantation is associated with organ rejection, cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, infection-related mortality, and vitamin D deficiency.

OBJECTIVES AND METHOD

This review aims to summarize and discuss the association of exposure to air pollutants and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and outcomes after transplantation. Controversial findings are also included and discussed.

CONCLUSION

All of the findings suggest that air pollution results in a hazardous environment, which not only impacts human health worldwide but also affects post-transplant outcomes.

Preoperative vitamin D supplementation is a cost-effective intervention in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

BACKGROUND

This study investigates the potential role of preoperative 25(OH)D supplementation as a cost-effective strategy to decrease revision rotator cuff repair (RCR) rates and lower the total health care burden from patients undergoing primary arthroscopic RCR. Previous literature has emphasized the importance of vitamin D on bone health maintenance, soft tissue healing, and outcomes in RCR. Inadequate preoperative vitamin D levels may increase revision RCR rates following primary arthroscopic RCR. Although 25(OH)D deficiency is common in RCR patients, serum screening is not routinely performed.

METHODS

A cost-estimation model was developed to determine the cost-effectiveness of both preoperative selective and nonselective 25(OH)D supplementation in RCR patients in order to reduce revision RCR rates. Prevalence and surgical cost data were obtained from published literature through systematic reviews. Cost of serum 25(OH)D assay and supplementation were obtained from public-use data. Mean and lower and upper bounds of 1-year cost savings were calculated for both the selective and nonselective supplementation scenarios.

RESULTS

Preoperative 25(OH)D screening and subsequent selective 25(OH)D supplementation was calculated to result in a mean cost savings of $6,099,341 (range: -$2,993,000 to $15,191,683) per 250,000 primary arthroscopic RCR cases. Nonselective 25(OH)D supplementation of all arthroscopic RCR patients was calculated to result in a mean cost savings of $11,584,742 (range: $2,492,401-$20,677,085) per 250,000 primary arthroscopic RCR cases. Univariate adjustment projects that selective supplementation is a cost-effective strategy in clinical contexts where the cost of revision RCR exceeds $14,824.69 and prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency exceeds 6.67%. Additionally, nonselective supplementation is a cost-effective strategy in clinical scenarios where revision RCR cost is ≥$4216.06 and prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency is ≥1.93%.

CONCLUSIONS

This cost-predictive model promotes the role of preoperative 25(OH)D supplementation as a cost-effective mechanism to reduce revision RCR rates and lower the overall health care burden from arthroscopic RCR. Nonselective supplementation appears to be more cost-effective than selective supplementation, likely due to the lower cost of 25(OH)D supplementation compared to serum assays.

Exposure to Multiple Air Pollutants and the Risk of Fractures: A Large Prospective Population-Based Study

Atmospheric chemistry studies suggest air pollution impedes ultraviolet B photons and thus reduces cutaneous vitamin D3 synthesis. Biological evidence shows that inhaled pollutants disrupt circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) metabolism and ultimately impact bone health. The hypothesis is that higher air pollution concentrations are associated with a higher risk of fractures, mediated by lower circulating 25(OH)D. The study included participants of the UK Biobank who were free of fracture history at enrollment (2006 to 2010) and analyzed their environmental exposure data (2007 to 2010). Air pollution measurements included the annual averages of air particulate matter (PM2.5 , PM2.5-10 , and PM10 ), nitrogen oxides (NO2 and NOx ), and a composite air pollution score. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the associations of the individual pollutants and the score with fracture risks. Mediation analyses were conducted to assess the underlying role of serum 25(OH)D in such associations. Among 446,395 participants with a median of 8-year follow-up, 12,288 incident fractures were documented. Participants living in places with the highest quintile of air pollution score had a 15.3% increased risk of fractures (hazard ratio [95%CI]: 1.15[1.09,1.22]) compared to those in the lowest, and 5.49% of this association was mediated through serum 25(OH)D (pmediation  < 0.05). Pollutant-specific hazard of top-to-bottom quintiles was 16% for PM2.5 , 4% for PM2.5-10 , 5% for PM10 , 20% for NO2 , and 17% for NOx , with a 4% to 6% mediation effect of serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The associations of the air pollution score with fracture risks were weaker among female participants, those who drank less alcohol, and consumed more fresh fruit than their counterparts (pinteraction  < 0.05). © 2023 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Vitamin D deficiency prevention policies in Iran: a retrospective policy analysis

Aim

Iran has a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) than the global level. This study aimed to assess VDD prevention policies in Iran through a policy analysis of agenda setting using the multiple streams framework (MSF).

Methods

Using Kingdon's MSF model, this qualitative analytical study performed a policy analysis on vitamin D-related policies in Iran. The policy documents were reviewed, and in-depth interviews were conducted with stakeholders (n = 27) using the framework analysis method. To categorize data and extract the related themes, MAXQDA version 10 was used.

Results

According to Kingdon's MSF theory, the problem stream included the high prevalence of VDD among Iranian infants (23.3%), adolescents (76%), and adults (59.1%). The policy stream was identified to focus on preventing programs for non-communicable diseases in the health sector. The political stream indicated that national and international support could provide a political climate for this issue.

Conclusion

According to our results, a window of opportunity for policymaking on VDD prevention has opened. However, there are some challenges related to the implementation of these policies. These include the dominance of a treatment-based view rather than a prevention-based approach in the health sector, economic problems, and restricted access to health services due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To strengthen and implement VDD prevention policies, the stakeholders need support from high-level policymakers.

Impacts and mechanisms of PM2.5 on bone

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease, which is characterized by a decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone microstructure, resulting in increased bone fragility and a higher risk of fracture. The main pathological process of osteoporosis is the dynamic imbalance between bone absorption and bone formation, which can be caused by various factors such as air pollution. Particulate matter (PM)_2.5 refers to the fine particles in the atmosphere, which are small in volume and large in specific surface area. These particles are prone to carrying toxic substances and have negative effects on several extrapulmonary organs, including bones. In this review, we present relevant data from studies, which show that PM_2.5 is associated with abnormal bone turnover and osteoporosis. PM_2.5 may cause or aggravate bone loss by stimulating an inflammatory response, inducing oxidative damage, reducing estrogen efficiency by competitive binding to estrogen receptors, or endocrine disorder mediated by binding with aromatic hydrocarbon receptors, and affecting the synthesis of vitamin D to reduce calcium absorption. The cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in these processes are also summarized in this review.

Environmental Air Pollutants Affecting Skin Functions with Systemic Implications

The increase in air pollution worldwide represents an environmental risk factor that has global implications for the health of humans worldwide. The skin of billions of people is exposed to a mixture of harmful air pollutants, which can affect its physiology and are responsible for cutaneous damage. Some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are photoreactive and could be activated by ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Therefore, such UVR exposure would enhance their deleterious effects on the skin. Air pollution also affects vitamin D synthesis by reducing UVB radiation, which is essential for the production of vitamin D3, tachysterol, and lumisterol derivatives. Ambient air pollutants, photopollution, blue-light pollution, and cigarette smoke compromise cutaneous structural integrity, can interact with human skin microbiota, and trigger or exacerbate a range of skin diseases through various mechanisms. Generally, air pollution elicits an oxidative stress response on the skin that can activate the inflammatory responses. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) can act as a sensor for small molecules such as air pollutants and plays a crucial role in responses to (photo)pollution. On the other hand, targeting AhR/Nrf2 is emerging as a novel treatment option for air pollutants that induce or exacerbate inflammatory skin diseases. Therefore, AhR with downstream regulatory pathways would represent a crucial signaling system regulating the skin phenotype in a Yin and Yang fashion defined by the chemical nature of the activating factor and the cellular and tissue context.

Endocrine Health and Health Care Disparities in the Pediatric and Sexual and Gender Minority Populations: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement

Endocrine care of pediatric and adult patients continues to be plagued by health and health care disparities that are perpetuated by the basic structures of our health systems and research modalities, as well as policies that impact access to care and social determinants of health. This scientific statement expands the Society's 2012 statement by focusing on endocrine disease disparities in the pediatric population and sexual and gender minority populations. These include pediatric and adult lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA) persons. The writing group focused on highly prevalent conditions-growth disorders, puberty, metabolic bone disease, type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D) diabetes mellitus, prediabetes, and obesity. Several important findings emerged. Compared with females and non-White children, non-Hispanic White males are more likely to come to medical attention for short stature. Racially and ethnically diverse populations and males are underrepresented in studies of pubertal development and attainment of peak bone mass, with current norms based on European populations. Like adults, racial and ethnic minority youth suffer a higher burden of disease from obesity, T1D and T2D, and have less access to diabetes treatment technologies and bariatric surgery. LGBTQIA youth and adults also face discrimination and multiple barriers to endocrine care due to pathologizing sexual orientation and gender identity, lack of culturally competent care providers, and policies. Multilevel interventions to address these disparities are required. Inclusion of racial, ethnic, and LGBTQIA populations in longitudinal life course studies is needed to assess growth, puberty, and attainment of peak bone mass. Growth and development charts may need to be adapted to non-European populations. In addition, extension of these studies will be required to understand the clinical and physiologic consequences of interventions to address abnormal development in these populations. Health policies should be recrafted to remove barriers in care for children with obesity and/or diabetes and for LGBTQIA children and adults to facilitate comprehensive access to care, therapeutics, and technological advances. Public health interventions encompassing collection of accurate demographic and social needs data, including the intersection of social determinants of health with health outcomes, and enactment of population health level interventions will be essential tools.

The Role of Vitamin D in Health and Disease: A Narrative Review on the Mechanisms Linking Vitamin D with Disease and the Effects of Supplementation

Vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency (VDD) is a very prevalent condition in the general population. Vitamin D is necessary for optimal bone mineralization, but apart from the bone effects, preclinical and observational studies have suggested that vitamin D may have pleiotropic actions, whereas VDD has been linked to several diseases and higher all-cause mortality. Thus, supplementing vitamin D has been considered a safe and inexpensive approach to generate better health outcomes-and especially so in frail populations. Whereas it is generally accepted that prescribing of vitamin D in VDD subjects has demonstrable health benefits, most randomized clinical trials, although with design constraints, assessing the effects of vitamin D supplementation on a variety of diseases have failed to demonstrate any positive effects of vitamin D supplementation. In this narrative review, we first describe mechanisms through which vitamin D may exert an important role in the pathophysiology of the discussed disorder, and then provide studies that have addressed the impact of VDD and of vitamin D supplementation on each disorder, focusing especially on randomized clinical trials and meta-analyses. Despite there already being vast literature on the pleiotropic actions of vitamin D, future research approaches that consider and circumvent the inherent difficulties in studying the effects of vitamin D supplementation on health outcomes are needed to assess the potential beneficial effects of vitamin D. The evaluation of the whole vitamin D endocrine system, rather than only of 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels before and after treatment, use of adequate and physiologic vitamin D dosing, grouping based on the achieved vitamin D levels rather than the amount of vitamin D supplementation subjects may receive, and sufficiently long follow-up are some of the aspects that need to be carefully considered in future studies.

Trends in incidence rates of childhood type 1 diabetes mellitus: A retrospective study in Isfahan province, Iran

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

We aimed to determine the incidence trend of childhood type 1 diabetes mellitus in Isfahan province over a period of 12 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, children aged <20 years at the time of type 1 diabetes mellitus diagnosis, from March 2007 to March 2019, were included. The crude and adjusted incidence rate of type 1 diabetes mellitus is calculated as the number of cases per 100,000 person-years by the period. The cumulative, age- and sex-specific incidence rates were also calculated. Age-specific incidence rates were calculated for age and sex groups.

RESULTS

A total of 1,954 (983 boys and 971 girls) cases of type 1 diabetes mellitus were identified. The mean age at diagnosis in all studied populations was 9.89 (standard deviation 4.76). There were no significant differences between the proportion of boys and girls in different years (P = 0.12) and different age groups (P = 0.19). The average annual percent change of incidence rate for the total population, for girls and boys, was 6.9%, 6.7% and 6.3% respectively. The type 1 diabetes mellitus incidence rate had a significant trend to be increased from 2007 to 2019 (P < 0.001, t = 3.6).

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that currently our region is considered a region with a high incidence rate of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Although we have had fluctuations in the incidence rate over the 12 years, the overall trend is increasing.

Cellular mechanisms linking to outdoor and indoor air pollution damage during pregnancy

Pregnancies are a critical window period for environmental influences over the mother and the offspring. There is a growing body of evidence associating indoor and outdoor air pollution exposure to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Particulate matter (PM) could trigger oxi-inflammation and could also reach the placenta leading to placental damage with fetal consequences. The combination of strategies such as risk assessment, advise about risks of environmental exposures to pregnant women, together with nutritional strategies and digital solutions to monitor air quality can be effective in mitigating the effects of air pollution during pregnancy.

Effects of vitamin D on associations between air pollution and mental health outcomes in Korean adults: Results from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES)

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that low individual vitamin D levels enhance adverse effects associated with air pollution on mental health conditions. The aim of this study was to identify associations between ambient air pollution exposure, mental health, and serum vitamin D status in the general population of South Korea.

METHODS

We included national representative data for 29,373 adults in the final analysis. We measured serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations to assess vitamin D status for each participant. We assessed mental health factors (i.e., perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation), and analyzed associations between these factors and individuals' annual average exposures to air pollutants, including particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm (PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide (CO).

RESULTS

Using an adjusted model, we found PM₁₀ affected mental health outcomes, such as perceived stress (odds ratio [OR] = 1.04; 95 % confidence interval [CI] = 1.00-1.09), depression symptoms (OR = 1.12; 95 % CI = 1.06-1.18), and suicidal ideation (OR = 1.11; 95 % CI = 1.05-1.17). Effects of the pollutants NO₂ and CO were significant only in the group with perceived stress and depressive symptoms. PM₁₀ and NO₂ exposures were significantly associated with increased odds of adverse mental health in participants with vitamin D deficiency.

LIMITATIONS

Since the cross-sectional design of KNHANES data, it is not possible to evaluate the causal relationship between air pollution exposure, vitamin D status and mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

This study results suggest that associations between ambient air pollution and mental health outcomes were stronger in participants with vitamin D deficiency.

Assessing the effects of ultraviolet radiation, residential greenness and air pollution on vitamin D levels: A longitudinal cohort study in China

Vitamin D metabolism is essential in aging and can be affected by multiple environmental factors. However, most studies conducted single exposure analyses. We aim to assess the individual and combined effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, residential greenness, fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), and ozone (O₃) on vitamin D levels in a national cohort study of older adults in China. We used the 2012 and 2014 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey data, and measured the environmental exposure in the same year. We interpolated the UV radiation from monitoring stations, measured residential greenness through satellite-derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), modeled PM_2.5 with satellite data, and estimated O₃ using machine learning. We dichotomized serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D), the primary circulating form of vitamin D, into non-deficiency (≥50 nmol/L) and deficiency (<50 nmol/L) categories. We used the generalized estimating equation for analysis, adjusted for sociodemographic information, lifestyle, physical condition, and season of blood draw, and calculated joint odds ratios based on the Cumulative Risk Index. We also explored the interaction between interested exposures, modification of participants' characteristics, and potential mediation. We included 1,336 participants, with a mean age of 83 at baseline. In single exposure models, the odds ratios of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) for per interquartile range increase in UV radiation, NDVI, PM_2.5, and O₃ and decrease were 0.39 (95 % CI:0.33,0.46), 0.90 (0.81,1.00), 1.65 (1.53,1.78), 1.67 (1.46,1.92), respectively. UV radiation mediated nearly 48 % and 78 % of the relationship between VDD and PM_2.5 and O₃, respectively. The association between UV radiation and VDD was stronger in females than men (OR: 2.25 vs 1.22). UV radiation, residential greenness can protect against VDD, while, PM_2.5 and O₃ increase the risk of VDD. UV radiation partly mediated the association between air pollution and VDD.

Are persistent aircraft trails a threat to the environment and health?

According to most scientific studies, media and governments, the white trails that can be seen behind aircraft in flight, corresponding to condensation mixed with engine particulate emissions, only persist under specific atmospheric conditions. They are called condensation trails, and cirrus contrails when they remain for hours to reach several kilometers wide. The fact that they have gradually filled the skies over the last twenty years would be due to the increase in air traffic. However, other official documents link these persistent trails to a weather modification technology called solar geoengineering by stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI). These sprays would be mainly composed of metallic particles (Al, Ba, Sr, Fe, nanoparticles) and sulfur, which would considerably increase air, soil and water pollution. Many of the current environmental and health problems are consistent with those described in the literature on solar geoengineering by SAI if this method was employed. For example, metal particles used are well known environmental contaminants, ozone layer depletion, cardiorespiratory diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, sunburn. The observations (whiter skies, less solar power) also correspond to the same risks as those described in the solar geoengineering works. Patents show that this weather modification technology has been known and mastered for a long time. In addition, some scientific papers as well as policy documents suggest that solar geoengineering by SAI has been used for many years. The amount of official information presented in this review is intended to open new ways of investigation, free of conflicts of interest, about the growing global pollution of persistent aircraft trails and their possible links with solar geoengineering by SAI.

Effect of PM2.5 exposure on Vitamin D status among pregnant women: A distributed lag analysis

BACKGROUND

Serum vitamin D levels are associated with exposure to air pollution, however, the lagged effect of exposure to air pollution remains unknown in pregnant women.

METHODS

Pregnant women who delivered at a maternity center in Shanghai, China, from 2015 to 2019 were included in the present study. The concentration of particulate matter 2.5 (PM_2.5) before 25-Hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] detection was estimated using the satellite-based grid models. The distributed lag non-linear models were performed to examine the lagged association between weekly-specific PM_2.5 exposure and vitamin D deficiency (VDD) or serum 25(OH)D levels.

RESULTS

Among the 58,025 pregnant women included in the study (mean age at conception, 30.77 ± 3.75 years; mean prepregnancy BMI, 21.09 ± 2.55 kg/m²), 61.32% were diagnosed with VDD. Weekly-specific PM_2.5 exposure at weeks 1-10 before the detection of 25(OH)D was significantly associated with an increased incidence of VDD (p < 0.05). For every 10 μg/m³ increase in PM_2.5 exposure, the serum 25(OH)D level decreased by 1.346 nmol/L (95%CI: 1.183-1.508 nmol/L). The association between average PM_2.5 exposure and VDD at 1-10 weeks was more significant in weather conditions with low mean sunshine hours (OR: 1.246, 95%CI: 1.221-1.271).

CONCLUSION

Our study provided suggestive evidence that PM_2.5 exposure at 1-10 weeks before the 25(OH)D detection may decrease the circulating 25(OH)D levels in pregnant women and increase VDD risk in pregnant women. More attention should be paid to the long-term impact of PM_2.5, in particular, during weather conditions with a relatively short duration of sunshine.

Outdoor PM2.5 concentration and rate of change in COVID-19 infection in provincial capital cities in China

This study investigates thoroughly whether acute exposure to outdoor PM2.5 concentration, P, modifies the rate of change in the daily number of COVID-19 infections (R) across 18 high infection provincial capitals in China, including Wuhan. A best-fit multiple linear regression model was constructed to model the relationship between P and R, from 1 January to 20 March 2020, after accounting for meteorology, net move-in mobility (NM), time trend (T), co-morbidity (CM), and the time-lag effects. Regression analysis shows that P (β = 0.4309, p < 0.001) is the most significant determinant of R. In addition, T (β = -0.3870, p < 0.001), absolute humidity (AH) (β = 0.2476, p = 0.002), P × AH (β = -0.2237, p < 0.001), and NM (β = 0.1383, p = 0.003) are more significant determinants of R, as compared to GDP per capita (β = 0.1115, p = 0.015) and CM (Asthma) (β = 0.1273, p = 0.005). A matching technique was adopted to demonstrate a possible causal relationship between P and R across 18 provincial capital cities. A 10 µg/m3 increase in P gives a 1.5% increase in R (p < 0.001). Interaction analysis also reveals that P × AH and R are negatively correlated (β = -0.2237, p < 0.001). Given that P exacerbates R, we recommend the installation of air purifiers and improved air ventilation to reduce the effect of P on R. Given the increasing observation that COVID-19 is airborne, measures that reduce P, plus mandatory masking that reduces the risks of COVID-19 associated with viral-particulate transmission, are strongly recommended. Our study is distinguished by the focus on the rate of change instead of the individual cases of COVID-19 when modelling the statistical relationship between R and P in China; causal instead of correlation analysis via the matching analysis, while taking into account the key confounders, and the individual plus the interaction effects of P and AH on R.

Vitamin D Deficiency and Associated Risk Factors in Muslim Housewives of Quetta, Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Vitamin D (Vit-D) plays a central role in calcium homeostasis and maintains skeletal integrity. Housewives in Quetta, Pakistan are at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency (VDD). They spend a greater part of their day in cleaning, washing, cooking, managing daily groceries, and other household chores. Thus, little time is left for self-care and outdoor activities. They wear hijab and have very little exposure to sunlight. In addition, their diet is deficient in Vit-D-rich food items, rendering them at high risk of VDD. Fear of getting tanned, melasma, and preference for a fair complexion further limit their sun exposure. This study evaluates the prevalence of VDD in housewives and determines its various risk factors to recommend screening guidelines for VDD. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed between November 2020 and April 2021 and recruited housewives aged >18 from the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in Quetta. Informed consent was obtained from all participants. VDD was defined as a serum 25(OH)-D level <20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L). Sociodemographic variables and information about the dietary habits, perception, attitudes towards sunlight, and daily duration of sunlight exposure were collected. Mean and standard deviation (SD) were calculated for continuous variables and counts, and proportions were calculated for categorical variables like education, age. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the risk factors and associations of VDD. Data were analyzed by SAS/STAT software (version 9.4). Results Among 151 housewives, 58.9% of housewives had VDD. VDD group had a higher proportion of females aged 18-30 years and a lower proportion of graduates. The reported use of Vit-D supplements was much lower in the VDD group compared with the non-deficient group, 38.2% versus 71.0 %, P-value <0.001. History of fragility fractures was reported by 10.1% of housewives in the VDD group compared to 4.8% in the non-deficient group, P-value: 0.03. Around 77.5% of housewives in the VDD group spent 15 minutes or less outdoors versus 51.6% in the non-deficient group; 55.1% of housewives in the VDD group reported that they never consumed milk versus 17.7 % in the non-deficient group, P-value <0.00001. In the univariate logistic regression model, housewives with an 11-12th grade of education had 4.80-fold higher odds of VDD compared to those who had undergraduate or graduate degrees (OR: 4.80, 95 % CI: 1.07-21.45). Housewives who never consumed milk had 9.72-fold (95 % CI: 3.69-25.58) higher odds of VDD compared to those who consumed milk on daily basis. Odds of VDD were 3.61-fold (95% CI: 1.06-12.31) higher in those who never consumed fish as compared to those who ate fish at least 1-2 days/week. In multivariate logistic regression, age group 18-30 (OR: 17.07, 95% CI: 1.18-246.86), and never consuming milk (OR: 7.33, 95 % CI: 1.99-26.89) were independently associated with VDD. Conclusion VDD is highly prevalent (58.9%) in housewives of Quetta. It is the need of time to increase awareness regarding the health benefits, sources, and deficiency symptoms of Vit-D. Our study revealed VDD in housewives irrespective of education and income. Dietary supplementations were greater predictors of VDD. Daily sun exposure should be encouraged, and food items should be fortified with Vit-D. Recommendations for Vitamin D screening would be a good step, especially in Muslim housewives.

Incidence of osteoporosis and ambient air pollution in South Korea: a population-based retrospective cohort study

Background

This study investigated the associations between exposure to ambient air pollutants and the incidence of osteoporosis using the Korean National Insurance Service–National Sample Cohort.

Methods

This nationwide, population-based, retrospective cohort study included 237,149 adults aged ≥40 years that did not have a diagnosis of osteoporosis at baseline between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2015. Osteoporosis was defined as claim codes and prescriptions of bisphosphonates or selective estrogen receptor modulators at least twice annually. After matching values for PM₁₀, NO₂, CO, and SO₂ during the 2002–2015 time period and PM_2.5 in 2015 with residential areas, the incidence of osteoporosis was analyzed using a Cox proportional hazards regression model according to the quartile of average yearly concentrations of pollutants.

Results

Overall 22.2% of the study subjects, 52,601 (male: 5.6%, female: 37.6%) adults in total, were newly diagnosed with osteoporosis and treated. Exposure to PM₁₀ was positively associated with incidence of osteoporosis (Q4: 1798 per 100,000 person-years vs. Q1: 1655 per 100,000 person-years). The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of Q4 in PM₁₀ was 1.034 (1.009–1.062). The effect of PM₁₀ on osteoporosis incidence was distinct in females (adjusted sub-HR: 1.065, 95% CI: 1.003–1.129), subjects aged < 65 years (adjusted sub-HR: 1.040, 95% CI: 1.010–1.072), and for residents in areas with low urbanization (adjusted sub-HR: 1.052, 95% CI: 1.019–1.087). However, there was no increase in osteoporosis based on exposure to NO₂, CO, SO₂, or PM_2.5.

Conclusions

Long-term exposure to PM₁₀ was associated with newly diagnosed osteoporosis in Korean adults aged ≥40 years. This finding can aid in policy-making that is directed to control air pollution as a risk factor for bone health.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-11866-7.

Vitamin D-independent benefits of safe sunlight exposure

This review examines the beneficial effects of ultraviolet radiation on systemic autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis and type I diabetes, where the epidemiological evidence for the vitamin D-independent effects of sunlight is most apparent. Ultraviolet radiation, in addition to its role in the synthesis of vitamin D, stimulates anti-inflammatory pathways, alters the composition of dendritic cells, T cells, and T regulatory cells, and induces nitric oxide synthase and heme oxygenase metabolic pathways, which may directly or indirectly mitigate disease progression and susceptibility. Recent work has also explored how the immune-modulating functions of ultraviolet radiation affect type II diabetes, cancer, and the current global pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. These diseases are particularly important amidst global changes in lifestyle that result in unhealthy eating, increased sedentary habits, and alcohol and tobacco consumption. Compelling epidemiological data shows increased ultraviolet radiation associated with reduced rates of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer, breast cancer, non-Hodgkins lymphoma, and ultraviolet radiation exposure correlated with susceptibility and mortality rates of COVID-19. Therefore, understanding the effects of ultraviolet radiation on both vitamin D-dependent and -independent pathways is necessary to understand how they influence the course of many human diseases.

PM2.5 exposure and maternal glucose metabolism in early pregnancy: Associations and potential mediation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has become a new global epidemic with a rapidly increasing prevalence. Previous studies have suggested that air pollution is associated with GDM risk, but the results are inconsistent, and mechanistic studies are limited. Based on a hospital-based cohort, a total of 6374 participants were included in this study. Individual daily PM2.5 exposure at a 1-km resolution was predicted using a full-spatiotemporal-coverage model. The results of multiple linear regression showed that glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was significantly associated with PM2.5 both in the 1-month preconception and in the first trimester of pregnancy. Additionally, HbA1c decreased 0.437% (95% CI: -0.629, -0.244) as the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) increased by one interquartile range (IQR) (9.2 ng/ml). An IQR increase in PM2.5 exposure was also negatively associated with serum 25(OH)D (estimated change% and 95% CI: -7.249 (-9.054, -5.408) in the 1-month preconception and - 13.069 (-15.111, -10.979) in the first trimester of pregnancy). Mediation analysis showed that serum 25(OH)D status mediated the association between HbA1c and PM2.5 exposure both in the preconception and in the first trimester (mediated percent: 2.00% and 4.05% (Sobel p＜0.001), respectively). The result suggested a vicious cycle among PM2.5 exposure, lower serum VD status and a higher HbA1c. More studies are warranted since the protective effect of 25(OH)D against glucose disorders associated with air pollution in this study was limited.

Differences in the Concentration of Vitamin D Metabolites in Plasma Due to the Low-Carbohydrate-High-Fat Diet and the Eastern European Diet-A Pilot Study

Vitamin D deficiency is a global problem with many health consequences, and it is currently recommended to supplement vitamin D. Change of diet should also be considered to ensure adequate vitamin D in the human body. The aim of this study was to assess the concentration of vitamin D metabolites in two different groups: one group on the low-carbohydrate-high-fat (LCHF) diet and the other group on the Eastern European (EE) diet. In the first stage, 817 participants declaring traditional EE diet or LCHF diet were investigated. Nutrition (self-reported 3-day estimated food record) and basic anthropometric parameters were assessed. After extra screening, 67 participants on the EE diet and 41 on the LCHF diet were qualified for the second stage. Plasma 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D₃) and (25(OH)D₂) concentration was measured by the validated HPLC—MS/MS method. Plasma 25(OH)D₃ concentration was significantly higher in the group on the LCHF diet (34.9 ± 15.9 ng/mL) than in the group on the EE diet (22.6 ± 12.1 ng/mL). No statistical differences were observed in plasma 25(OH)D₂ concentration between the study groups (p > 0.05). Women had a higher plasma 25(OH)D₂ concentration than men regardless of diet type. The LCHF diet had a positive influence on plasma vitamin D concentration. However, long-term use of the LCHF diet remains contentious due to the high risk of cardiovascular disease. This study confirmed that the type of diet influences the concentration of vitamin D metabolites in the plasma.

Multiple sclerosis incidence rate in southern Iran: a Bayesian epidemiological study

Background

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) remains to be a public health challenge, due to its unknown biological mechanisms and clinical impacts on young people. The prevalence of this disease in Iran is reported to be 5.30 to 74.28 per 100,000-person. Because of high prevalence of this disease in Fars province, the purpose of this study was to assess the spatial pattern of MS incidence rate by modeling both the associations s of spatial dependence between neighboring regions and risk factors in a Bayesian Poisson model, which can lead to the improvement of health resource allocation decisions.

Method

Data from 5468 patients diagnosed with MS were collected, according to the McDonald’s criteria. New cases of MS were reported by the MS Society of Fars province from 1991 until 2016. The association between the percentage of people with low vitamin D intake, smoking, abnormal BMI and alcohol consumption in addition to spatial structure in a Bayesian spatio-temporal hierarchical model were used to determine the relative risk and trend of MS incidence rate in 29 counties of Fars province.

Results

County-level crude incidence rates ranged from 0.22 to 11.31 cases per 100,000-person population. The highest relative risk was estimated at 1.80 in the county of Shiraz, the capital of Fars province, while the lowest relative risk was estimated at 0.11 in Zarindasht county in southern of Fars. The percentages of vitamin D supplementation intake and smoking were significantly associated with the incidence rate of MS. The results showed that 1% increase in vitamin D supplementation intake is associated with 2% decrease in the risk of MS and 1% increase in smoking is associated with 16% increase in the risk of MS.

Conclusion

Bayesian spatio-temporal analysis of MS incidence rate revealed that the trend in the south and south east of Fars province is less steep than the mean trend of this disease. The lower incidence rate was associated with a higher percentage of vitamin D supplementation intake and a lower percentage of smoking. Previous studies have also shown that smoking and low vitamin D, among all covariates or risk factors, might be associated with high incidence of MS.

Ambient Air Pollutions Are Associated with Vitamin D Status

Evidence on the effect of ambient air pollution on vitamin D is limited. This study aimed to examine the association of air pollution exposure with serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) using UK Biobank health datasets. A total of 448,337 subjects were included in this analysis. Land Use Regression was applied to assess individual exposures to particulate matter with diameters ≤2.5 µm (PM_2.5), ≤10 µm (PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and nitrogen oxides (NO_x). Linear regression models evaluated the associations between air pollutants and serum vitamin D levels after adjustment of a series of confounders. All analyzed air pollutants were negatively associated with serum vitamin 25OHD levels. After adjusting for potential confounders, a 10 μg/m³ increase in concentrations of PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NO_x, and NO₂ was associated with −9.11 (95%CI: −13.25 to −4.97), −2.47 (95%CI: −4.51 to −0.43), −0.56 (95%CI: −0.82 to −0.30), and −1.64 (95%CI: −2.17 to −1.10) nmol/L decrease in serum vitamin 25OHD levels, respectively. Interaction analyses suggested that the effects of air pollution were more pronounced in females. In conclusion, long-term exposures to ambient PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NO_x, and NO₂ were associated with vitamin D status in a large UK cohort.

Algae as an attractive source for cosmetics to counter environmental stress

In recent times, a considerable amount of evidence has come to light regarding the effect that air pollution has on skin conditions. The human skin is the chief protection we have against environmental harm, whether biological, chemical, or physical. The stress from these environmental factors, along with internal influences, can be a cause of skin aging and enlarged pores, thinner skin, skin laxity, wrinkles, fine lines, dryness, and a more fragile dermal layer. This knowledge has led to greater demand for skin cosmetics and a requirement for natural raw ingredients with a high degree of safety and efficiency in combating skin complications. Recent developments in green technology have made the employment of naturally occurring bioactive compounds more popular, and novel extraction methods have ensured that the use of these compounds has greater compatibility with sustainable development principles. Thus, there is a demand for investigations into efficient non-harmful naturally occurring raw ingredients; compounds derived from algae could be beneficial in this area. Algae, both macroalgae and microalgae, consists of waterborne photosynthetic organisms that are potentially valuable as they have a range of bioactive compounds in their composition. Several beneficial metabolites can be obtained from algae, such as antioxidants, carotenoids, mycosporine-like amino acids (MAA), pigments, polysaccharides, and scytonemin. Various algae strains are now widely employed in skincare products for various purposes, such as a moisturizer, anti-wrinkle agent, texture-enhancing agents, or sunscreen. This research considers the environmental stresses on human skin and how they may be mitigated using cosmetics created using algae; special attention will be paid to external factors, both generally and specifically (amongst them light exposure and pollutants).

Meteorological Condition and Air Pollution Exposure Associated with Vitamin D Deficiency: A Cross-Sectional Population-Based Study in China

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the status of Vitamin D deficiency and the effect of environmental factors on Vitamin D levels so as to provide theoretical support for public health promotion in this region.

Methods

A total of 22,387 subjects who underwent a physical examination at the center in the West China Hospital, Sichuan University, between April, 2018 and May, 2020 were enrolled in this study. Their data on gender, age, inspection date, serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH) D), parathyroid hormone (PTH), and total calcium were retrospectively reviewed. Next, the percentage of Vitamin D status was compared in different sex and age groups, and the fluctuation of Vitamin D level was described in relation to the change of environment. Finally, the univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to explore the risk and protective factors of Vitamin D deficiency.

Results

The proportion of Vitamin D deficiency in this area was 42.17%, and it was significantly higher among women and young people. The fluctuation trend of 25-(OH) D levels are consistent with temperature and solar radiation, and opposite to air quality, in the whole year. There was a positive relationship between 25-(OH) D levels with temperature and solar radiation; however, parathyroid hormone, female and AQI were negatively correlated with Vitamin D levels.

Conclusion

Vitamin D deficiency is common in subtropic areas, such as Sichuan Basin, which is related to solar radiation and air pollution.

The impact of airborne pollution and exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation on skin: mechanistic and physiological insight

For several decades air pollution has been recognized to hit drastically the skin of human body. Air pollutants predominantly accountable for aging, oxidative damage, and inflammatory allergic reactions led to psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, and skin cancer owing to the impaired functions of DNA, proteins, and lipid biomolecules. Elevated air pollution and its detrimental effects along with variations in physiological parameters of the skin are verily the scaffold for anti-pollution assertions and could be recognized as markers. The present article encompasses the salient features of air pollution and UV radiations besides dreadful effects on human skin physiological parameters and some anti-pollution approaches.

Vitamin D and Stroke: Effects on Incidence, Severity, and Outcome and the Potential Benefits of Supplementation

Vitamin D serum level has been positively associated with improved cardiovascular health, especially with reduction of stroke risk. This systemic review summarizes and synthesizes findings from studies relevant to the relationship between vitamin D and stroke risk, severity, and outcome; potential mechanisms explaining such a relationship; and outcomes from vitamin D supplementation. The literature shows that vitamin D deficiency is a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke, with sun exposure, sex, age, race, diabetes, and genetics playing a role as well. Stroke severity and short- and long-term outcomes also worsen with vitamin D deficiency. The neuroprotective mechanisms by which vitamin D operates to mitigate stroke onset and outcomes have yet to be fully studied, but researchers have proposed several pathways, including promotion of certain neuroprotective growth factors, reduction of arterial pressure through vasodilation, and inhibition of reactive oxygen species. There is some evidence that vitamin D supplementation could lower stroke risk and improve recovery, though outcomes can also be negligible or negative. Although results are mixed and the limitations of vitamin D supplementation merit some caution, vitamin D overall plays a significant role in stroke health. Future research should further develop understanding of the neuroprotective mechanisms of vitamin D and study how supplementation could be administered effectively in stroke treatment.

Influence of the Mediterranean Diet on 25- Hydroxyvitamin D Levels in Adults

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is a dietary pattern effective in terms of prevention of obesity-related diseases, and represents the gold standard in preventive medicine, due to the synergistic action of many nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, excess body weight significantly increases the risk of hypovitaminosis D, a well-recognized common feature of individuals with obesity. It is well-known that there is a clear gender difference in the adherence to the MD. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between adherence to the MD and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels in adults, according to gender. Study population consisted of 617 participants; 296 were males and 321 were females, matched by age and body mass index (BMI). A validated 14-item questionnaire PREDIMED (Prevención con dieta Mediterránea) was used for the assessment of adherence to the MD. The 25OHD levels were determined by a direct competitive chemiluminescence immunoassay. Females have a higher PREDIMED score than males (7.4 ± 2.8 vs. 6.7 ± 3.1 score, p = 0.001), and according to PREDIMED categories, a greater percentage of males had low adherence to the MD compared to their female counterparts (40.2% vs. 37.1%; χ² = 8.94, p = 0.003). The 25OHD levels were higher in males than in females (18.3 ± 7.3 vs. 16.8 ± 7.8 ng/mL, p = 0.01), and a higher percentage of males had sufficient 25OHD levels (>30 ng/mL) than their female counterparts (10.5% vs. 3.4%, χ² = 10.96, p < 0.001). Stratifying the sample population according to 25OHD categories, BMI decreased and PREDIMED score increased significantly along with the increased 25OHD levels, in both males and females, respectively (p < 0.001). Looking at the bivariate correlations, PREDIMED score was positively correlated with 25OHD levels after adjusting for age and BMI, in both males (r = 0.21, p < 0.001) and females (r = 0.30, p < 0.001). At the bivariate proportional odds ratio (OR) model, 25OHD levels presented the highest OR values in the category low adherence vs. high adherence to the MD, in both genders (OR 1.21 and OR 1.31, in males and females, respectively). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the cut-off values of PREDIMED scores predictive of 25OHD levels: PREDIMED score >5 in males (p < 0.001) and >7 in females (p < 0.001) could serve as thresholds for 25OHD levels above the median. The results of our study highlighted a novel positive association between adherence to the MD and 25OHD levels in both genders. Although 25OHD levels were higher in males than females, 69.7% were deficient. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that high adherence to the MD is associated with low BMI and high 25OHD levels in both genders, probably through the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects that are synergistically exerted by either MD or vitamin D on body weight.

Evidence that Vitamin D Supplementation Could Reduce Risk of Influenza and COVID-19 Infections and Deaths

The world is in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health measures that can reduce the risk of infection and death in addition to quarantines are desperately needed. This article reviews the roles of vitamin D in reducing the risk of respiratory tract infections, knowledge about the epidemiology of influenza and COVID-19, and how vitamin D supplementation might be a useful measure to reduce risk. Through several mechanisms, vitamin D can reduce risk of infections. Those mechanisms include inducing cathelicidins and defensins that can lower viral replication rates and reducing concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines that produce the inflammation that injures the lining of the lungs, leading to pneumonia, as well as increasing concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Several observational studies and clinical trials reported that vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of influenza, whereas others did not. Evidence supporting the role of vitamin D in reducing risk of COVID-19 includes that the outbreak occurred in winter, a time when 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations are lowest; that the number of cases in the Southern Hemisphere near the end of summer are low; that vitamin D deficiency has been found to contribute to acute respiratory distress syndrome; and that case-fatality rates increase with age and with chronic disease comorbidity, both of which are associated with lower 25(OH)D concentration. To reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended that people at risk of influenza and/or COVID-19 consider taking 10,000 IU/d of vitamin D₃ for a few weeks to rapidly raise 25(OH)D concentrations, followed by 5000 IU/d. The goal should be to raise 25(OH)D concentrations above 40-60 ng/mL (100-150 nmol/L). For treatment of people who become infected with COVID-19, higher vitamin D₃ doses might be useful. Randomized controlled trials and large population studies should be conducted to evaluate these recommendations.

Evidence that Vitamin D Supplementation Could Reduce Risk of Influenza and COVID-19 Infections and Deaths

The world is in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health measures that can reduce the risk of infection and death in addition to quarantines are desperately needed. This article reviews the roles of vitamin D in reducing the risk of respiratory tract infections, knowledge about the epidemiology of influenza and COVID-19, and how vitamin D supplementation might be a useful measure to reduce risk. Through several mechanisms, vitamin D can reduce risk of infections. Those mechanisms include inducing cathelicidins and defensins that can lower viral replication rates and reducing concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines that produce the inflammation that injures the lining of the lungs, leading to pneumonia, as well as increasing concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Several observational studies and clinical trials reported that vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of influenza, whereas others did not. Evidence supporting the role of vitamin D in reducing risk of COVID-19 includes that the outbreak occurred in winter, a time when 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations are lowest; that the number of cases in the Southern Hemisphere near the end of summer are low; that vitamin D deficiency has been found to contribute to acute respiratory distress syndrome; and that case-fatality rates increase with age and with chronic disease comorbidity, both of which are associated with lower 25(OH)D concentration. To reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended that people at risk of influenza and/or COVID-19 consider taking 10,000 IU/d of vitamin D₃ for a few weeks to rapidly raise 25(OH)D concentrations, followed by 5000 IU/d. The goal should be to raise 25(OH)D concentrations above 40-60 ng/mL (100-150 nmol/L). For treatment of people who become infected with COVID-19, higher vitamin D₃ doses might be useful. Randomized controlled trials and large population studies should be conducted to evaluate these recommendations.

Identification and analysis of 35 genes associated with vitamin D deficiency: A systematic review to identify genetic variants

Vitamin D deficiency is a public health concern associated with, but not limited to, skeletal anomalies, chronic diseases, immune conditions, and cancer, among others. Hypovitaminosis D is mainly associated with environmental and lifestyle factors that affect sunlight exposure. However, genetic factors also influence 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) serum concentration. Although there is available information of genes with clear biological relevance or markers identified by Genome-Wide Association Studies, an overall view and screening tool to identify known genetic causes of altered serum levels of 25(OH)D is lacking. Moreover, there are no studies including the total genetic evidence associated with abnormal serum concentration of 25(OH)D. Therefore, we conducted a de-novo systematic literature review to propose a set of genes comprehensive of all genetic variants reported to be associated with deficiency of vitamin D. Abstracts retrieved from PubMed search were organized by gene and curated one-by-one using the PubTerm web tool. The genes identified were classified according to the type of genetic evidence associated with serum 25(OH)D levels and were also compared with the few commonly screened genes related to vitamin D status. This strategy allowed the identification of 35 genes associated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations, 27 (75%) of which are not commercially available and are not, therefore, analyzed in clinical practice for genetic counseling, nor are they sufficiently studied for research purposes. Functional analysis of the genes identified confirmed their role in vitamin D pathways and diseases. Thus, the list of genes is an important source to understand the genetic determinants of 25(OH)D levels. To further support our findings, we provide a map of the reported functional variants and SNPs not included in ClinVar, minor allelic frequencies, SNP effect sizes, associated diseases, and an integrated overview of the biological role of the genes. In conclusion, we identified a comprehensive candidate list of genes associated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations, most of which are not commercially available, but would prove of importance in clinical practice in screening for patients that should respond to supplementation because of alterations in absorption, patients that would have little benefit because alterations in the downstream metabolism of vitamin D, and to study non-responsiveness to supplementation with vitamin D.

Involvement of Vitamin D in Chronic Infections of the Waldeyer`s Ring in the School Aged Child

Chronic infections of the Waldeyer`s lymphatic ring constitute a frequent pathology in school age, one of the pathogenic mechanisms involving low levels of vitamin D. In this study, we analyzed integrated the clinico-epidemiological aspects, the risk factors and the serum level of vitamin D for 51 school aged children who presented chronic inflammation in various levels of the Waldeyer`s ring. Most inflammations were present in females patients (80.4%), from the urban areas (66.6%), being localized in palatine tonsils (64.7%), in patients with deficient prophylaxis of hypovitaminosis D (68.6%) and low serum levels of vitamin D (72.5%). The results highlight the importance of maintaining a normal status of vitamin D, especially in recurrent infectious context.

Solar radiation, air pollution, and bronchiolitis hospitalizations in Chile: An ecological study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate trends and geographic distribution of infant bronchiolitis hospitalizations in Chile, a country with large variation in solar radiation (SR) and high rates of urban air pollution.

METHODS

We performed a nationwide ecological study of bronchiolitis hospitalizations from 2001 to 2014. We investigated the associations of regional SR (a proxy of vitamin D status) and regional fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air pollution with bronchiolitis hospitalizations. We also evaluated the role of sociodemographic factors, including regional poverty, education, indigenous population, and rurality rates.

RESULTS

During the study period, 119 479 infants were hospitalized for bronchiolitis in Chile; 59% were boys. The mean bronchiolitis hospitalization rate increased from 29 to 41 per 1000 infants per year (P = .02). There was an inverse correlation between regional SR and incidence of hospital admissions for bronchiolitis (r = -0.52, P = .049), accounting for 27% of these hospitalizations. There was also a significant direct correlation between regional ambient PM2.5 and bronchiolitis hospitalizations (R = 0.68, P = .006), accounting for 42% of the variation in admission rate. High firewood and/or coal residential use for heating, high regional poverty, lower years of education, and high rurality rates were also significantly correlated with bronchiolitis hospitalization rates. None of the environmental or sociodemographic factors evaluated were correlated with regional case fatality rates or length of stay at the hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

This ecological study revealed significant associations between regional SR, air pollution, and sociodemographic factors with infant bronchiolitis hospitalizations in Chile, suggesting that these factors play a major role in the incidence and severity of respiratory infections in early childhood.

Obesity associated with coal ash inhalation triggers systemic inflammation and oxidative damage in the hippocampus of rats

People with large amounts of adipose tissue are more vulnerable and more likely to develop diseases where oxidative stress and inflammation play a pivotal role, than persons with a healthy weight. Atmospheric contamination is a reality to which a large part of the worldwide population is exposed. Half of today's global electrical energy is derived from coal. Each organism, in its complexity, responds in different ways to dietary compounds and air pollution. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of obesity and coal ash inhalation within the parameters of oxidative damage and inflammation in different regions of the brain of rats. A diet containing high-fat concentration was administered chronically to rats, along with exposure to coal ash, simulating the contamination that occurs daily throughout human life. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy was performed to identify the particles present in coal ash samples. Our results demonstrated that obese rats exposed to coal ash inhalation were more affected by oxidative damage with subsequent systemic inflammation in the hippocampus. Since there is an inflammatory predisposition caused by obesity, the inhalation of nanoparticles increases the levels of free radicals, resulting in systemic inflammation and oxidative damage, which can lead to chronic neurodegeneration.

Particulate Air Pollution Exposure and Plasma Vitamin D Levels in Pregnant Women: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

CONTEXT

No studies have assessed the association between air pollution exposure and vitamin D status in pregnant women.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between particulate air pollution exposure and circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin [25(OH)D] levels in pregnant women.

DESIGN

A longitudinal cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 3285 pregnant women were recruited at a maternal and child health hospital.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Serum 25(OH)D levels.

RESULTS

We observed trimester-specific associations between particulate air pollution exposure and circulating 25(OH)D levels. The associations were most pronounced for the periods of the third trimester and the entire pregnancy. A 10 μg/m3 increase in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm (PM10) exposure during the entire pregnancy was associated with a 4.62% (95% CI, -6.31% to -2.93%) and 5.06% (95% CI, -6.50% to -3.62%) decrease in 25(OH)D levels, respectively. Particulate air pollution exposure was also associated with elevated odds of maternal vitamin D deficiency. A 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 and PM10 exposure during the entire pregnancy was associated with a 45% (OR = 1.45, 95% CI, 1.29 to 1.63) and 48% (OR = 1.48, 95% CI, 1.33 to 1.64) increase in the odds of maternal vitamin D deficiency. Mediation analysis estimated that decreased solar UV-B radiation mediated 69.5% and 66.4% of the inverse association between PM2.5 and PM10 exposure and circulating 25(OH)D levels.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that prenatal exposure to particulate air pollution may play an independent role in maternal vitamin D deficiency. The role of air pollution should be incorporated into future guidelines for the prevention of maternal vitamin D deficiency.

Environmental Stressors on Skin Aging. Mechanistic Insights

The skin is the main barrier that protects us against environmental stressors (physical, chemical, and biological). These stressors, combined with internal factors, are responsible for cutaneous aging. Furthermore, they negatively affect the skin and increase the risk of cutaneous diseases, particularly skin cancer. This review addresses the impact of environmental stressors on skin aging, especially those related to general and specific external factors (lifestyle, occupation, pollutants, and light exposure). More specifically, we have evaluated ambient air pollution, household air pollutants from non-combustion sources, and exposure to light (ultraviolet radiation and blue and red light). We approach the molecular pathways involved in skin aging and pathology as a result of exposure to these external environmental stressors. Finally, we reflect on how components of environmental stress can interact with ultraviolet radiation to cause cell damage and the critical importance of knowing the mechanisms to develop new therapies to maintain the skin without damage in old age and to repair its diseases.

Vitamins in diet of patients with metabolic syndrome

Aim - analysis of data on the role of vitamin and carotenoid deficiency in the development of metabolic syndrome (MS), the consumption of individual vitamins and vitamin supplements, as well as estimation of the effectiveness of the use of vitamins in patients with MS. A review of the existing literature has been carried out in the databases of RINC, CyberLeninka, Google Scholar, Pubmed. The lack of vitamins is a risk factor for MS and its components. The diet of people with MS is characterized by excessive caloric content and at the same time contains an inadequate amount of most vitamins. The most frequent in patients with MS is the deficiency (blood level) of vitamin D, E, B vitamins, carotenoids. Among patients with MS, individuals with a reduced concentration of vitamins in the blood plasma are often found. In turn, among those with a deficiency of vitamins, MS is more often found. Low concentrations of 25(OH)D in the serum are associated with an increased risk of MS. An inverse association between the concentration of the hormonal form of vitamin 1.25(OH)2D3 in the serum and the development of MC has been found. In patients with MS, the α-tocopherol concentration associated with lipids is lower than in healthy individuals, and γ-tocopherol, on the contrary, is higher. Taking high doses of one of the vitamin E homologues shifts the balance between tocopherols in the blood plasma. Sufficient supply of the body with all vitamins involved in the formation of metabolically active forms of vitamins (D, B6, PP) is a necessary condition for the exercise of these biological functions by these vitamins. The lack of vitamins is a risk factor for MS and its components. Enrichment of the diet of patients with MS should be considered as a necessary favorable background for its treatment. Since the body has functional connections between vitamins, it is advisable to use not individual vitamins, but their complexes.

Are serum leptin levels predicted by lipoproteins, vitamin D and body composition?

BACKGROUND

Both obesity and vitamin D deficiency are important health issues in Pakistan. The connection between body composition, Vitamin D and leptin in young adults is important to be studied as body composition may affect bone health and therefore the possibility of osteoporosis in later life. Few studies have attempted to investigate the effect of body composition and leptin with vitamin D in adolescence.

AIM

To investigate the association of serum leptin with body composition, lipids and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) in adults.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 167 apparently healthy adults. Demographics were recorded, bioelectrical impedance analysis was performed and clinical history noted. Serum leptin was measured using DIA source kit on ELISA and total 25OHD was measured on ADVIA-Centaur; Siemens. Total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein cholesterol were quantified using Enzymatic Endpoint Method and Cholesterol Oxidase-Phenol Aminophenazone method respectively. Biochemical analysis was done in the Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi Pakistan.

RESULTS

Median age of the group (n = 167) was 20 years (IQR 27-20); 55.7% were females. Majority (89.2%, n = 149) of the study group was 25OHD deficient, 6% (n = 10) had insufficient serum 25OHD levels and 4.8% (n = 8) had sufficient D levels. Females, had higher median leptin levels [2.71 (IQR 4.76-1.66 ng/mL)] compared to their counterparts [1.3 (3.60-0.54 ng/mL), P < 0.01]. Multiple regression analysis suggested that basal metabolic rate, muscle mass, body fat percent, bone mass and serum 25OHD were the most contributing factors to serum leptin levels. Bone mass and serum 25OHD in fact bore a negative correlation with leptin.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that basal metabolic rate, muscle mass, body fat percent, bone mass and serum 25OHD have an impact on serum leptin. Being a cross sectional study causal relationship between leptin and other variables could not be determined.

Air pollution, environmental chemicals, and smoking may trigger vitamin D deficiency: Evidence and potential mechanisms

Beyond vitamin D (VD) effect on bone homeostasis, numerous physiological functions in human health have been described for this versatile prohormone. In 2016, 95% of the world's population lived in areas where annual mean ambient particulate matter (<2.5 μm) levels exceeded the World Health Organization guideline value (Shaddick et al., 2018). On the other hand, industries disperse thousands of chemicals continually into the environment. Further, considerable fraction of populations are exposed to tobacco smoke. All of these may disrupt biochemical pathways and cause detrimental consequences, such as VD deficiency (VDD). In spite of the remarkable number of studies conducted on the role of some of the above mentioned exposures on VDD, the literature suffers from two main shortcomings: (1) an overview of the impacts of environmental exposures on the levels of main VD metabolites, and (2) credible engaged mechanisms in VDD because of those exposures. To summarize explanations for these unclear topics, we conducted the present review, using relevant keywords in the PubMed database, to investigate the adverse effects of exposure to air pollution, some environmental chemicals, and smoking on the VD metabolism, and incorporate relevant potential pathways disrupting VD endocrine system (VDES) leading to VDD. Air pollution may lead to the reduction of VD cutaneous production either directly by blocking ultraviolet B photons or indirectly by decreasing outdoor activity. Heavy metals may reduce VD serum levels by increasing renal tubular dysfunction, as well as downregulating the transcription of cytochrome P450 mixed-function oxidases (CYPs). Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may inhibit the activity and expression of CYPs, and indirectly cause VDD through weight gain and dysregulation of thyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone, and calcium homeostasis. Smoking through several pathways decreases serum 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels, VD intake from diet, and the cutaneous production of VD through skin aging. In summary, disturbance in the cutaneous production of cholecalciferol, decreased intestinal intake of VD, the modulation of genes involved in VD homeostasis, and decreased local production of calcitriol in target tissues are the most likely mechanisms that involve in decreasing the serum VD levels.

Vitamin D status in Thai dermatologists and working-age Thai population

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency among Thai dermatologists compared with the general working-age population in Bangkok. A cross-sectional study was conducted in healthy Thai physicians who had at least 1 years' experience in dermatology practise and a subsample of the general Thai population from the Fourth National Health Survey. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), a combination of 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3, levels in both groups were measured using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The majority of dermatologists were of Fitzpatrick skin type III (n = 61, 61.3%) or IV (n = 32, 33.3%). The mean serum 25(OH)D and 25(OH)D3 levels were 18.9 and 18.2 ng/mL, respectively, whereas the corresponding levels in the general population were 26.5 and 25.8 ng/mL. None of the dermatologist had serum 25(OH)D sufficiency (>30 ng/mL), 38 (38.78%) had vitamin D insufficiency (20-30 ng/mL) and 60 (61.22%) had vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL). The frequency of vitamin D deficiency in dermatologists was significantly higher than in the general population (61.2% vs 19.2%, P < 0.001). Ninety percent of dermatologists used sunscreen daily and spent time mostly indoors. Dermatologists used physical sun-protection more than half of the time when outdoors, for example, a book or paper as a sunshade (70.3%), an umbrella (48.4%), a long-sleeved shirt (20.4%) or a hat (9.7%). In conclusion, dermatologists showed a remarkably high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency which may be due to inadequate exposure to sunlight, regular use of sunscreen and practicing various sun-protection activities.

Health Risks of Hypovitaminosis D: A Review of New Molecular Insights

Hypovitaminosis D has become a pandemic, being observed in all ethnicities and age groups worldwide. Environmental factors, such as increased air pollution and reduced ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation, as well as lifestyle factors, i.e., decreased outdoor activities and/or poor intake of vitamin D-rich food, are likely involved in the etiology of a dramatic reduction of vitamin D circulating levels. The insufficiency/deficiency of vitamin D has long been known for its association with osteoporosis and rickets. However, in the last few decades it has become a serious public health concern since it has been shown to be independently associated with various chronic pathological conditions such as cancer, coronary heart disease, neurological diseases, type II diabetes, autoimmune diseases, depression, with various inflammatory disorders, and with increased risk for all-cause mortality in the general population. Prevention strategies for these disorders have recently involved supplementation with either vitamin D2 or vitamin D3 or their analogs at required daily doses and tolerable upper-limit levels. This review will focus on the emerging evidence about non-classical biological functions of vitamin D in various disorders.