Here we explore the physico-chemical properties of a peptide amphiphile obtained by chemical conjugation of the collagen-stimulating peptide KTTKS with 10,12-pentacosadiynoic acid which photopolymerizes as a stable and extended polydiacetylene. We investigate the self-assembly of this new polymer and rationalize its peculiar behavior in terms of a thermal conformational transition. Surprisingly...

INTRODUCTION Increased blood homocysteine levels are a known cardiovascular risk factor. Epileptic patients on long-term treatment with antiepileptic drugs may present higher homocysteine levels and, consequently, a potential increase in cardiovascular risk. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted an observational case-control study to compare plasma levels of homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin ...

Background: Vitamin B12 and folate defi ciency can cause anemia which may lead growth and development impairments. This study was aimed to determine serum folate levels among infants aged 6–8 months and the relation to infants’ nutritional indicators and maternal knowledge-attitude-practice about infant feeding. Methods: A cross–sectional design was implemented in infants aged 6–8 months and th...

The most common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency in older people is malabsorption of food-bound vitamin B12. Thus, it is suggested that the recommended daily allowance of 2.4 microg/d be met primarily with crystalline vitamin B12, which is believed to be well absorbed in individuals who have food-bound malabsorption. There is concern that high intakes of folic acid from fortified food and dietar...

BACKGROUND Supplementation with high doses of oral cobalamin is as effective as cobalamin administered by intramuscular injection to correct plasma markers of vitamin B(12) deficiency, but the effects of lower oral doses of cobalamin on such markers are uncertain. METHODS We conducted a randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, dose-finding trial to determine the lowest oral dose of cyanocoba...

INTRODUCTION Vitamin B(12) deficiency is widespread. Among the population groups at risk are older people, vegetarians, pregnant women, and patients with renal or intestinal diseases. The neurological symptoms of vitamin B(12) deficiency are unspecific and can be irreversible. Early detection is therefore important, using the most sensitive and specific markers available. METHODS Selective li...

BACKGROUND Lack of cobalamin may lead to neurologic disorders, which have been reported in strict vegetarians. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate whether cognitive functioning is affected in adolescents (aged 10-16 y) with marginal cobalamin status as a result of being fed a macrobiotic diet up to an average age of 6 y. DESIGN Data on dietary intake, psychological test...