Intra-allantoic injection of calcium promotes hatching of chick embryos grown in shell-less culture.

The hatch rate of chick embryos cultured outside of the eggshell with 350 mg calcium l-lactate hydrate (CaL) and 3.5 mL water is fourfold greater in cultures in which the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) surrounds the egg contents by incubation day 17.5 (E17.5) an event which occurs in ovo by E13. It was first investigated whether decreasing the volume of water added with 350 mg CaL would promote CAM expansion due to the smaller volume to enclose. When 350 mg CaL was present, the CAM did not surround the egg contents by E13. By E17.5, the CAM surrounded the egg contents in 53%-74% of cultures; however, CAM expansion was not significantly different when 0, 1, 2, or 3.5 mL water was present. The hatch rate with 2 or 3.5 mL water was greater than 50% but was not improved with less water. Second, it was investigated whether CaL or water inhibits CAM expansion. In the absence of CaL, the CAM surrounded the egg contents in up to two-thirds of cultures by E13, whether 2 mL water was present or not. Thus CaL, but not water, inhibits expansion of the CAM by E13, even though CaL promotes hatching. Finally, it was investigated whether injection of aqueous CaL into the allantoic fluid, in conjunction with not adding CaL to culture hammocks, would promote CAM expansion. Allantoic injection of CaL starting at E13 did not promote CAM expansion at E17.5 but resulted in hatch rates of approximately 30%. Allantoic injection is a novel route for supplementation of calcium in cultured chick embryos.

Pyrolysis of High-Ash Natural Microalgae from Water Blooms: Effects of Acid Pretreatment.

Natural microalgae (NA, cyanobacteria) collected from Taihu Lake (Jiangsu, China) were used for biofuel production through pyrolysis. The microalgae were de-ashed via pretreatment with deionized water and hydrochloric acid, and the samples obtained were noted as 0 M, 0.1 M, 1 M, 2 M, 4 M, 6 M, 8 M, respectively, according to the concentration of hydrochloric acid used in the pretreatment. Pyrolysis experiments were carried out at 500 °C for 2 h. The products were examined by various techniques to identify the influence of the ash on the pyrolysis behavior. The results showed that the ash inhibited the thermal transformation of microalgae. The 2 mol/L hydrochloric acid performed the best in removing ash and the liquid yield increased from 34.4% (NA) to 40.5% (2 M). Metal-oxides (mainly CaO, MgO, Al2O3) in ash promoted the reaction of hexadecanoic acid and NH3 to produce more hexadecanamide, which was further dehydrated to hexadecanenitrile. After acid pretreatment, significant improvement in the selectivity of hexadecanoic acid was observed, ranging from 22.4% (NA) to 58.8% (4 M). The hydrocarbon compounds in the liquid product increased from 12.90% (NA) to 26.67% (2 M). Furthermore, the acid pretreatment enhanced the content of C9-C16 compounds and the HHV values of bio-oil. For natural microalgae, the de-ashing pretreatment before pyrolysis was essential for improving the biocrude yield and quality, as well as the biomass conversion efficiency.

Calcium supplementation and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women: a study in South Brazil / Suplementação de cálcio e doença cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa: um estudo no Sul do Brasil

Objective: To evaluate the link between calcium supplementa- tion and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women (aged 55 years or older). Methods: A standardized questionnaire was employed to collect data about calcium supplements, eart di- sease, and demographic of women attended at Primary Care in the South Region of Brazil. Generalized linear regression models were performed to evaluate the association and adjust for poten- tial confounders. Results: Overall, 1,057 women completed the questionnaire. Information about calcium supplementation was present in 1,035 questionnaires. The mean ± standard deviation of the age of participants was 67.2±7.6 years. The frequency of calcium supplementation was 18.6%. There was no association between heart failure, stroke, and ischemic heart disease and cal- cium supplementation (prevalence ratio; 95% confidence interval of 0.3; -0.9-0.4, -0.2; -0.8-0.4 and -0.5; -1.0-0.02, respectively. Con- clusions: Our study did not find an association of higher risk of cardiovascular disease in women using calcium supplementation at Primary Care in South Brazil.

Objetivo: Avaliar a ligação entre a suplementação de cálcio e doença cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa (com 55 anos ou mais). Métodos: Um questionário padronizado foi em- pregado para coletar dados sobre suplementos de cálcio, doenças cardíacas e demográficos de mulheres que frequentavam a Aten- ção Primária na Região Sul do Brasil. Modelos de regressão linear generalizada foram realizados para avaliar a associação e ajustar os potenciais fatores de confusão. Resultados: No total, 1.057 mulheres responderam ao questionário. As informações sobre su- plementação de cálcio estavam presentes em 1.035 questionários. A média ± desvio-padrão da idade dos participantes foi de 67,2 ± 7,6 anos. A frequência de suplementação de cálcio foi de 18,6%. Não houve associação entre insuficiência cardíaca, acidente vas- cular cerebral e doença cardíaca isquêmica e suplementação de cálcio (razão de prevalência; intervalo de confiança de 95% de -0,3; -0,9-0,4, -0,2; -0,8-0,4 e -0,5; -1,0-0,02, respectivamente). Con- clusão: Nosso estudo não encontrou associação de maior risco de doença cardiovascular em mulheres em uso de suplementação de cálcio na Atenção Primária no Sul do Brasil.

Investigating the health disparities in the association between lifestyle behaviors and the risk of head and neck cancer.

Many studies have reported a positive association between lower socioeconomic status (SES) and higher head and neck cancer (HNC) risk. Fewer studies have examined the impact of SES on the association between alcohol or cigarette use and HNC risk. The current case-control study (1104 HNC cases and 1363 controls) investigated the influence of education, a SES indicator, on the association between HNC and the use of alcohol, cigarettes, or betel quids in Taiwan, a country with universal health care. Our results showed a larger increase in HNC risk associated with alcohol among those with lower educational level (odds ratio [OR] = 2.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.53-2.80) than those with higher educational level (OR = 1.38; 95% CI, 1.04-1.85) (heterogeneity-P = .03). Educational level had an influence on the association between alcohol use and HNC risk among those with genetic susceptibility (ALDH2-deficient) to the carcinogenic effect of alcohol. The association between cigarette or betel quid use and HNC risk was similar between the high and low educational groups. National policies and social interventions have led to the decline in the prevalence of cigarette and betel quid users in Taiwan. In contrast, due to the lack of adequate alcohol control policies, alcohol consumption in Taiwan has continued to rise. A higher impact of alcohol on HNC risk among lower SES individuals even with universal health care could be the result of insufficient alcohol control policies in Taiwan.

Effect of calcium and vitamin D supplementation with and without collagen peptides on bone turnover in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

OBJECTIVES: Collagen peptides (CPs) seem to exert beneficial effects on bone and may have a role as a treatment option. In the present randomized prospective study, we aimed to examine the efficacy, as expressed by changes in P1NP and CTX, and the tolerability of 3-month supplementation of calcium, vitamin D with or without bioactive CPs in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. METHODS: Fifty-one female, postmenopausal women with osteopenia were allocated to two groups: Group A received a sachet containing 5 g CPs, 3.6 g calcium lactate (equivalent to 500 mg of elemental calcium) and 400 IU vitamin D3 and group B received a chewable tablet containing 1.25 g calcium carbonate (equivalent to 500 mg of elemental calcium) and 400 IU vitamin D3 daily. RESULTS: In group A, the P1NP levels significantly decreased by 13.1% (p<0.001) and CTX levels decreased by 11.4% (p=0.058) within 3 months of supplementation. In group B, P1NP and CTX did not change. Group A presented better compliance in comparison to group B and no adverse events contrary to group B. CONCLUSIONS: These findings may reflect the reduction of the increased bone turnover in postmenopausal women with the use of calcium, vitamin D and CPs supplements. The addition of CPs in a calcium and vitamin D supplement may enhance its already known positive effect on bone metabolism. Clinical Trial ID: NCT03999775.

Systemic lime sulfur toxicosis secondary to dermal exposure in two cats.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a case series of systemic lime sulfur toxicosis secondary to topical administration in 2 cats. CASE SUMMARY: Two cats from the same household that were being previously treated for Microsporum canis were presented following topical administration of an incorrectly diluted lime sulfur dip. A 30% solution was used rather than the recommended 3% solution, resulting in a 10-fold concentration overdose. The cats presented to the emergency service 1 hour after dermal application of the lime sulfur product at home. The first cat, a 2-year-old female, intact Cornish Rex, had severe hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia. Chemical burns were also present on the ventrum and paws. Clinicopathological data revealed profound acid-base disturbances, hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and azotemia. After aggressive fluid resuscitation, electrolyte supplementation, and treatment, the patient was stabilized and discharged after 5 days of hospitalization; full recovery was later reported. The second littermate, also a 2-year-old female, intact Cornish Rex, presented the following day with similar clinical signs, physical examination findings, and clinicopathological findings. After supportive care and 2 days of hospitalization, the patient was also discharged and reported to fully recover. NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: This case series is the first to report systemic toxicosis secondary to dermal exposure of lime sulfur. As lime sulfur is commonly used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of ectoparasites, veterinary professionals should be aware of the significant signs of poisoning that can be seen as a result of iatrogenic dosing errors by pet owners or veterinary professionals.

Home Fortification of Rice With Lime: A Novel Potential Way to Reduce Calcium Deficiency in Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND: In order to improve calcium status, fortified rice should have acceptable organoleptic properties of that food. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to assess whether home fortification of rice with slaked lime can increase calcium content of rice and whether this fortified rice is well tolerated in a nutritionally at-risk population. METHODS: This experimental study measured the calcium content of rice cooked with different concentration of lime and assessed the acceptability of fortified rice among 400 women and children. Each participant received fortified rice with one of five concentrations of lime (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 or 10 gm per 500 gm of rice), with or without additional foods (lentil soup or fried green papaya). All participants were asked to score the organoleptic qualities on a hedonic scale. RESULTS: Analysis showed that rice calcium content increased in a dose- response manner with increased lime during cooking (76.03, 205.58, 427.55, 614.29 and 811.23 mg/kg for given lime concentrations). Acceptability of the meal was greater when additional foods were served with rice at all lime concentrations. In both groups, the 7.5M arm reported highest overall acceptability (children, 6.25; women 6.10). This study found significant association between overall acceptability (different concentrations of lime mixed rice; with/without additional foods) and between groups (women vs. children) (p value = < 0.001) where-as no association was found within groups. CONCLUSIONS: Lime-fortified rice can be feasible considering the calcium uptake of rice and organoleptic character. Further research on bioavailability can establish a solid foundation that will support design of an effective intervention to reduce calcium deficiency in this population.

Conventional Treatment of Hypoparathyroidism.

The treatment of hypoparathyroidism depends on the severity of hypocalcemia, how rapidly the hypocalcemia developed, and the symptomatology. Chronic hypoparathyroidism is usually treated with oral supplementations, including calcium, calcitriol, or other active vitamin D analogs, and at times, thiazide diuretics. Although the standard therapy can adequately control patients with this disease, sometimes very high doses are required to maintain serum calcium levels in the normal range, with poor compliance and risk of long-term complications.

Risk of Ischemic Stroke Associated With Calcium Supplements With or Without Vitamin D: A Nested Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: There is controversy surrounding the risk of ischemic stroke associated with the use of calcium supplements either in monotherapy or in combination with vitamin D. METHODS AND RESULTS: A nested case-control study was performed with patients aged 40 to 89 years old, among whom a total of 2690 patients had a first episode of nonfatal ischemic stroke and for which 19 538 controls were randomly selected from the source population and frequency-matched with cases for age, sex, and calendar year. Logistic regression provided the odds ratios while adjusting for confounding factors. A sensitivity analysis was performed by restricting to patients who were new users of calcium supplements as either monotherapy or with vitamin D. Calcium supplementation with vitamin D was not associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke (odds ratio 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.67-1.08) in the population as a whole or under any of the conditions examined (dose, duration, background cardiovascular risk, sex, or age). Calcium supplement monotherapy was not associated with an increased risk in the population as a whole (odds ratio 1.18; 95% confidence interval, 0.86-1.61), although a significant increased risk at high doses (≥1000 mg/day: odds ratio 2.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-3.49; <1000 mg: odds ratio 0.76; 95% confidence interval, 0.45-1.26) compared with nonuse was observed. The sensitivity analysis did not affect the inferences, with similar results observed among new users as to the overall study population. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that calcium supplements given as monotherapy at high doses may increase the risk of ischemic stroke, whereas their combination with vitamin D seems to offset this hazard.

Effect of Using Different Vehicles on the Physicochemical, Antimicrobial, and Biological Properties of White Mineral Trioxide Aggregate.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluated the physicochemical, antimicrobial, and biological properties of white mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) mixed with aqueous and propylene glycol extracts of Arctium lappa L. and Casearia sylvestris Sw. METHODS: The setting-time test was performed according to American Society for Testing and Materials 266/2008 and flowability by American National Standards Institute/American Dental Association 57/2012 standard specifications. The following parameters were assessed: volumetric change by micro-computed tomography; pH level and calcium ion release measured after 3 hours and 1, 3, 7, and 15 days; antimicrobial effect by the dentin decontamination method with intratubular Enterococcus faecalis viability, verified by using confocal laser scanning microscopy; and biocompatibility by histologic-morphometric analyses of inflammatory infiltrate at subcutaneous implant sites after 15, 30, and 60 days. In addition, rat alveolar tissues with implants were processed to measure tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-10 cytokines by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: The plant extracts associated with MTA significantly increased the final setting time; however, they did not influence volumetric change (P > .05) and maintained medium alkalinity and calcium ion release. Propylene glycol extracts showed higher flowability. Casearia sylvestris increased the cementing effect against E. faecalis after 24-hour and 168-hour periods. Histologic evaluation of inflammatory infiltrate showed no significant differences between plant extracts groups and the distilled water group for all periods. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-10 expression was similar among groups (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Casearia sylvestris extracts increased the antimicrobial effect of MTA and did not influence biocompatibility but changed some physicochemical properties.

Chronic lactate supplementation does not improve blood buffering capacity and repeated high-intensity exercise.

Since there is conflicting data on the buffering and ergogenic properties of calcium lactate (CL), we investigated the effect of chronic CL supplementation on blood pH, bicarbonate, and high-intensity intermittent exercise performance. Sodium bicarbonate (SB) was used as a positive control. Eighteen athletes participated in this double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover, fully counterbalanced study. All participants underwent three different treatments: placebo (PL), CL, and SB. The dose was identical in all conditions: 500 mg/kg BM divided into four daily individual doses of 125 mg/kg BM, for five consecutive days, followed by a 2-7-day washout period. On the fifth day of supplementation, individuals undertook four 30-s Wingate bouts for upper body with 3-min recovery between bouts. Total mechanical work (TMW) for the overall protocol and for the initial (1st+2nd) and final (3rd+4th) bouts was determined at each session. Blood pH, bicarbonate, and lactate levels were determined at rest, immediately and 5 min after exercise. CL supplementation did not affect performance (P > 0.05 for the overall TMW as well for initial and final bouts), nor did it affect blood bicarbonate and pH prior to exercise. SB supplementation improved performance by 2.9% for overall TMW (P = 0.02) and 5.9% in the 3rd+4th bouts (P = 0001). Compared to the control session, SB also promoted higher increases in blood bicarbonate than CL and PL (+0.03 ± 0.04 vs +0.009 ± 0.02 and +0.01 ± 0.03, respectively). CL supplementation was not capable of enhancing high-intensity intermittent performance or changing extracellular buffering capacity challenging the notion that this dietary supplement is an effective buffering agent.

Bisphosphonates, vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and osteonecrosis of the jaw. Could there be a missing link?

BACKGROUND: It is estimated that over 190 million bisphosphonates have been prescribed worldwide. But this drug can produce adverse effects, of which osteonecrosis of the jaw and severe hypocalcemia are the most serious. It is evident that bisphosphonate administration affects multiple and diverse biochemical mediators related to bone metabolism. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This review of literature investigates four basic parameters in patients treated with bisphosphonates - parathyroid hormone (PTH), bisphosphonates, vitamin D, calcium, and jaw osteonecrosis - which are fundamental for assessing bone metabolism and so the efficacy and correct use of the drug. The imbalances generated by vitamin D and calcium deficiencies, together with their multiple systemic repercussions, have been widely researched but the outcomes of these imbalances in relation to bisphosphonate administration are not well known, and some research has indicated that they may be associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). RESULTS: The present review set out to explain the functioning of bone metabolism, the importance of different chemical mediators, the imbalances produced by incorrect use of this drug, in order to forewarn against the possible relation of these parameters with ONJ, whose physiopathology remains unknown. CONCLUSIONS: Medical and dental clinics should keep detailed anamneses of the use of vitamin D and calcium supplements, as it is of vital importance to maintain their correct levels in blood, given that these are related to ONJ as well as other adverse effects; this procedure is also necessary in order to ensure the correct use of the drug

No disponible

Rearing conditions affected responses of weaned pigs to organic acids showing a positive effect on digestibility, microflora and immunity.

Three experiments were conducted to assess the response of weaned pigs to organic acid SF3, which contains 34% calcium formate, 16% calcium lactate, 7% citric acid and 13% medium chain fatty acids. Dietary treatments had no effect on growth performance of piglets (21-day weaning) fed the commercial prestart diet for 1 week before receiving the experimental diets supplemented with SF3 at 0, 3 or 5 g/kg diet (Exp. 1), whereas diarrhea frequency averaged across a week was decreased by SF3 supplementation (5 g/kg diet) in piglets fed the experimental diets immediately after weaning (Exp. 2). In Exp. 3, piglets (28-day weaning) were fed the control (containing pure colistin sulfate and enramycin, respectively, at 20 mg/kg diet) for 1 week and then were fed the control or SF3-supplemented (5 g/kg diet) diet for 2 weeks. The SF3-fed piglets had greater apparent ileal digestibility of calcium and dry matter, while also demonstrating greater overall gross energy, up-regulated jejunal expression of sodium-glucose cotransporter-1 and transforming growth factor-ß, down-regulated jejunal expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, higher ileal Lactobacillus, with lower total bacteria content, lower plasma TNF-α but higher IgG levels than the control-fed piglets. Collectively, SF3 consumption improved diarrhea resistance of weaned pigs by improving nutrient digestibility, piglet immunity and intestinal bacteria profile. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

Lactate calcium salt affects the viability of colorectal cancer cells via betaine homeostasis.

AIMS: Betaine plays an important role in cellular homeostasis. However, the physiological roles of betaine-γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporter (BGT-1) are still being disputed in cancer. In this study, we tried to find the possibility of the antitumor effect on colorectal cancer (CRC) cell via lactate calcium salt (CaLa)-induced BGT-1 downregulation. MAIN METHODS: The CRC cell viability and clonogenic assay was performed using different doses of BGT-1 inhibitor. The expression level of BGT-1 was measured following the treatment of 2.5mM CaLa. Betaine was treated to confirm the resistance of the antitumor activity by CaLa. Tumor growth was also measured using a xenograft animal model. KEY FINDINGS: Long-term exposure of 2.5mM CaLa clearly decreased the expression of BGT-1 in the CRC cells. As a result of the downregulation of BGT-1 expression, the clonogenic ability of CRC cells was also decreased in the 2.5mM CaLa-treated group. Reversely, the number of colonies and cell viability was increased by combination treatment with betaine and 2.5mM CaLa, as compared with a single treatment of 2.5mM CaLa. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited in the xenograft model depending on BGT-1 downregulation by 2.5mM CaLa treatment. SIGNIFICANCE: These results support the idea that long-lasting calcium supplementation via CaLa contributes to disruption of betaine homeostasis in the CRC cells and is hypothesized to reduce the risk of CRC. In addition, it indicates the possibility of CaLa being a potential incorporating agent with existing therapeutics against CRC.

Feed intake, growth, and body and carcass attributes of feedlot steers supplemented with two levels of calcium nitrate or urea.

Nitrate supplementation has been shown to be effective in reducing enteric methane emission from ruminants, but there have been few large-scale studies assessing the effects of level of nitrate supplementation on feed intake, animal growth, or carcass and meat quality attributes of beef cattle. A feedlot study was conducted to assess the effects of supplementing 0.25 or 0.45% NPN in dietary DM as either urea (Ur) or calcium nitrate (CaN) on DMI, ADG, G:F, and carcass attributes of feedlot steers ( = 383). The levels of NPN inclusion were selected as those at which nitrate has previously achieved measurable mitigation of enteric methane. The higher level of NPN inclusion reduced ADG as did replacement of Ur with CaN ( < 0.01). A combined analysis of DMI for 139 steers with individual animal intake data and pen-average intakes for 244 bunk-fed steers showed a significant interaction between NPN source and level ( = 0.02) with steers on the high-CaN diet eating less than those on the other 3 diets ( < 0.001). Neither level nor NPN source significantly affected cattle G:F. There was a tendency ( = 0.05) for nitrate-supplemented cattle to have a slower rate of eating (g DMI/min) than Ur-supplemented cattle. When adjusted for BW, neither NPN source nor inclusion level affected cross-sectional area of the LM or fatness measured on the live animal. Similarly, there were no significant main effects of treatments on dressing percentage or fat depth or muscling attributes of the carcass after adjustment for HCW ( > 0.05). Analysis of composited meat samples showed no detectable nitrates or nitrosamines in raw or cooked meat, and the level of nitrate detected in meat from nitrate-supplemented cattle was no higher than for Ur-fed cattle ( > 0.05). We conclude that increasing NPN inclusion from 0.25 to 0.45% NPN in dietary DM and replacing Ur with CaN decreased ADG in feedlot cattle without improving G:F.

Nutritional Strategies to Modulate Intracellular and Extracellular Buffering Capacity During High-Intensity Exercise.

Intramuscular acidosis is a contributing factor to fatigue during high-intensity exercise. Many nutritional strategies aiming to increase intra- and extracellular buffering capacity have been investigated. Among these, supplementation of beta-alanine (~3-6.4 g/day for 4 weeks or longer), the rate-limiting factor to the intramuscular synthesis of carnosine (i.e. an intracellular buffer), has been shown to result in positive effects on exercise performance in which acidosis is a contributing factor to fatigue. Furthermore, sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate and sodium/calcium lactate supplementation have been employed in an attempt to increase the extracellular buffering capacity. Although all attempts have increased blood bicarbonate concentrations, evidence indicates that sodium bicarbonate (0.3 g/kg body mass) is the most effective in improving high-intensity exercise performance. The evidence supporting the ergogenic effects of sodium citrate and lactate remain weak. These nutritional strategies are not without side effects, as gastrointestinal distress is often associated with the effective doses of sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate and calcium lactate. Similarly, paresthesia (i.e. tingling sensation of the skin) is currently the only known side effect associated with beta-alanine supplementation, and it is caused by the acute elevation in plasma beta-alanine concentration after a single dose of beta-alanine. Finally, the co-supplementation of beta-alanine and sodium bicarbonate may result in additive ergogenic gains during high-intensity exercise, although studies are required to investigate this combination in a wide range of sports.

Predicting postoperative total calcium requirements after parathyroidectomy in secondary hyperparathyroidism.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To prevent hypocalcemia after parathyroidectomy (PTX), parenteral calcium is required in addition to oral calcitriol and calcium. After switching to oral calcium, patients can be discharged from the hospital. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of PTX performed at a single Korean center and to investigate the associated laboratory factors used to analyze the total amount of postoperative calcium required. METHODS: We enrolled 91 hemodialysis patients undergoing PTX from November 2003 to December 2011. We collected clinical and laboratory data preoperatively, 12 and 48 hours postoperatively, at discharge, and 3 and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: In total, 59 patients underwent PTX with autotransplantation (AT), 6 underwent total PTX without AT, 11 underwent subtotal PTX, and 15 underwent limited PTX. Total PTX without AT showed the lowest recurrence rate. At all postoperative time points, the mean levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) decreased significantly, compared with preoperative levels; however, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) increased significantly from 48 hours postoperatively to discharge (p < 0.001). On multiple linear regression analysis, the total amount of injected calcium during hospitalization showed a significant correlation with preoperative ALP (p < 0.001), preoperative iPTH (p = 0.037), and Δphosphorus at 48 hours (p < 0.001). We developed an equation for estimating the total calcium requirement after PTX. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative ALP, preoperative iPTH, and Δphosphorus at 48 hours may be significant factors in estimating the postoperative calcium requirement. The formula for postoperative calcium requirement after PTX may help to predict the duration of postoperative hospitalization.

Additive methane-mitigating effect between linseed oil and nitrate fed to cattle.

The objective of this study was to test the effect of linseed oil and nitrate fed alone or in combination on methane (CH4) emissions and diet digestibility in cows. The experiment was conducted as a 2 × 2 factorial design using 4 multiparous nonlactating Holstein cows (initial BW 656 ± 31 kg). Each experimental period lasted 5 wk, with measures performed in the final 3 wk (wk 3 to 5). Diets given on a DM basis were 1) control (CON; 50% natural grassland hay and 50% concentrate), 2) CON with 4% linseed oil (LIN), 3) CON with 3% calcium nitrate (NIT), and 4) CON with 4% linseed oil plus 3% calcium nitrate (LIN+NIT). Diets were offered twice daily and were formulated to deliver similar amounts (DM basis) of CP (12.2%), starch (25.5%), and NDF (39.5%). Feed offer was restricted to 90% of voluntary intake (12.4 kg DMI/d). Total tract digestibility and N balance were determined from total feces and urine collected separately for 6 d during wk 4. Daily CH4 emissions were quantified using open chambers for 4 d during wk 5. Rumen fermentation and microbial parameters were analyzed from samples taken before and 3 h after the morning feeding. Rumen concentrations of dissolved hydrogen (H2) were measured continuously up to 6 h after feeding using a H2 sensor. Compared with the CON diet linseed oil and nitrate decreased (P < 0.01) CH4 emissions (g/kg DMI) by 17 and 22%, respectively, when fed alone and by 32% when combined. The LIN diet reduced CH4 production throughout the day, increased (P = 0.02) propionate proportion, and decreased (P = 0.03) ruminal protozoa concentration compared with CON diet. The NIT diet strongly reduced CH4 production 3 h after feeding, with a simultaneous increase in rumen dissolved H2 concentration, suggesting that nitrate does not act only as an electron acceptor. As a combined effect, linseed plus nitrate also increased H2 concentrations in the rumen. Diets had no effect (P > 0.05) on total tract digestibility of nutrients, except linseed oil, which tended to reduce (P < 0.10) fiber digestibility. Nitrogen balance (% of N intake) was positive for all diets but retention was less (P = 0.03) with linseed oil. This study demonstrates an additive effect between nitrate and linseed oil for reducing methanogenesis in cows without altering diet digestibility.

Dietary interventions for mineral and bone disorder in people with chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) is a systemic dysfunction of mineral and bone metabolism in people with CKD. Recent research shows that phosphate retention plays a significant role in the development of CKD-MBD. Compared with drug therapies, dietary interventions may be simple, inexpensive and feasible for phosphate retention. However, there is little evidence to support these interventions. OBJECTIVES: Our objective was to assess the benefits and harms of any dietary intervention for preventing and treating CKD-MBD. SEARCH METHODS: We searched Cochrane Kidney and Transplant's Specialised Register to 27 August 2015 through contact with the Trials' Search Co-ordinator using search terms relevant to this review. We also searched the Chinese Biomedicine Database (CBM) (1976 to August 2015), China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database (CNKI) (1979 to August 2015), and VIP (1989 to August 2015). SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs looking at dietary interventions for prevention or treatment of CKD-MBD were eligible for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors independently assessed the eligibility, methodological quality, and extracted data. Continuous outcomes (serum calcium level, serum phosphorus level, calcium × phosphate product, parathyroid hormone (PTH), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) and alkaline phosphatase) were expressed as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Dichotomous outcomes (mortality) were expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI. We used a random-effects model to meta-analyse studies. MAIN RESULTS: Nine studies were included in this review which analysed 634 participants. Study duration ranged from 4 to 24 weeks. The interventions included calcium-enriched bread, low phosphorus intake, low protein intake, very low protein intake, post haemodialysis supplements and hypolipaemic diet. Only one study reported death; none of the included studies reported cardiovascular events or fractures. There was insufficient reporting of design and methodological aspects among the included studies to enable robust assessment of risk of bias.There was limited and low-quality evidence to indicate that calcium-enriched bread increased serum calcium (1 study, 53 participants: MD -0.16 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.31), decreased serum phosphorus (53 participants: MD -0.41 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.31) and decreased the calcium × phosphate product (53 participants: MD -0.62 mmol²/L², 95% CI -0.77 to -0.47).Very low protein intake was not superior to conventional low protein intake in terms of effect on serum phosphorus (2 studies, 41 participants: MD -0.12 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.50 to 0.25), serum calcium (MD 0.00 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.17 to 0.17), or alkaline phosphatase (MD -22.00 U/L, 95% CI -78.25 to 34.25). PTH was significantly lower in the very low protein intake group (2 studies, 41 participants: MD -69.64 pmol/L, 95% CI -139.83 to 0.54).One study reported no significant difference in the number of deaths between low phosphorus intake and normal diet (279 participants: RR 0.18, 95% CI 0.01 to 3.82). Low phosphorus intake decreased serum phosphorus (2 studies, 359 participants: MD -0.18 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.29 to -0.07; I(2) = 0%).One study reported post-haemodialysis supplements did not increase serum phosphorus compared to normal diet (40 participants: MD 0.12 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.24 to 0.49).One study reported low phosphorus intake plus lanthanum carbonate significantly decreased FGF-23 (19 participants: MD -333.80 RU/mL, 95% CI -526.60 to -141.00), but did not decrease serum phosphorus (19 participants: MD -0.10 mg/dL, 95% CI -0.38 to 0.58) or PTH (19 participants: MD 31.60 pg/mL, 95% CI -29.82 to 93.02). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There was limited low quality evidence to indicate that dietary interventions (calcium-enriched bread or low phosphorus/protein intake) may positively affect CKD-MBD by increasing serum calcium, decreasing serum phosphorus, the calcium × phosphate product and FGF-23. Large and well-designed RCTs are needed to evaluate the effects of various interventions for people with CKD-MBD.

The effects of injectable calcium silicate-based composites with the Chinese herb on an osteogenic accelerator in vitro.

We aimed to investigate the physicochemical and biological effects of calcium silicate (CS)-based cements together with the Chinese medicine Xu Duan (XD) after seeding with human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs). Here, we fabricated CS-based substrates with different ratios of XD (0%, 5% and 10%) as bioactive and biodegradable biocomposites, subsequent to examining their respective effectiveness for bone repair. The setting time, the injectability, the mechanical properties measured by diametral tensile strength (DTS), the in vitro degradation determined by changes in the weight loss of the composites, the characteristic formation of bone-like apatite, and cell growth as well as osteogenesis protein and bone mineralization were comprehensively evaluated before and after immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF), respectively. At the end of testing, with regard to physicochemical effects, the CS-based substrate mixed with the 10% XD group showed significantly sound mechanical properties, an applicable setting time and injectability and the formation of a dense bone-like apatite layer. In terms of biological effects, the CS-based substrate with the 10% XD group showed a significant development of osteogenic activities with sound cell proliferation and higher alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, as well as indicating osteogenic differentiation, greater osteocalcin (OC) protein secretion and clearly calcified tissue mineralization. The present drug-release strategy with CS-based cements may pave the way for future alternative bone repair therapy.