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Title:
14 Chimpanzee Hunting Behavior
Authors:
Newton-Fisher, Nicholas E.
Abstract:
**An updated (2014) version of this chapter is available: "The hunting behaviour and carnivory of wild chimpanzees"**
Published:
2007
Title:
A geometric morphometric analysis of hominin upper first molar shape
Authors:
Gómez-Robles, A.; Martinón-Torres, M.; Bermúdez de Castro, J. M.; Margvelashvili, A.; Bastir, M.; Arsuaga, J. L.; Pérez-Pérez, A.; Estebaranz, F.; Martínez, L. M.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
A low-carbohydrate diet is more effective in reducing body weight than healthy eating in both diabetic and non-diabetic subjects
Authors:
Dyson, P. A.; Beatty, S.; Matthews, D. R.
Abstract:
Background Low-carbohydrate diets are effective for weight reduction in people without diabetes, but there is limited evidence for people with Type 2 diabetes. Aims To assess the impact of a low-carbohydrate diet on body weight, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), ketone and lipid levels in diabetic and non-diabetic subjects. Methods Thirteen Type 2 diabetic subjects (on diet or metformin) and 13 non-diabetic subjects were randomly allocated to either a low-carbohydrate diet (≤ 40 g carbohydrate/day) or a healthy-eating diet following Diabetes UK nutritional recommendations and were seen monthly for 3 months. Subjects (25% male) were (mean ± sd) age 52 ± 9 years, weight 96.3 ± 16.6 kg, body mass index 35.1 kg/m2, HbA1c 6.6 ± 1.1%, total cholesterol 5.1 ± 1.1 mmol/l, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol 1.3 ± 0.4 mmol/l, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol 3.1 ± 0.9 mmol/l, triglycerides (geometric mean) 1.55 (1.10, 2.35) mmol/l and ketones range 0.0–0.2 mmol/l. Results Analysis was by intention to treat with last observation carried forward. Twenty-two of the participants (85%) completed the study. Weight loss was greater (6.9 vs. 2.1 kg, P = 0.003) in the low-carbohydrate group, with no difference in changes in HbA1c, ketone or lipid levels. Conclusions The diet was equally effective in those with and without diabetes.
Published:
2007
Title:
A middle ground? Recent archaeological investigations from the Kaurareg Archipelago, south-western Torres Strait, Queensland
Authors:
Brady, L.; Community, Kaurareg Aboriginal
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
All-cause mortality among Japanese-Brazilians according to nutritional characteristics
Authors:
Massimino, Flavia Cincotto; Gimeno, Suely Godoy Agostinho; Ferreira, Sandra Roberta Gouveia
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to verify the association between nutritional variables and mortality in a Japanese-Brazilian cohort. In 1993, 647 subjects were interviewed with food frequency questionnaires and scheduled for physical procedures (weight, height, blood pressure) and biochemical tests (oral glucose tolerance test). Student's t test was used to compare the mean values of target variables between living and deceased subjects. Mortality rate and hazard ratios were obtained (crude and adjusted) according to the nutritional variables. Overall mortality rates were 21.4 and 11.7/1,000 person-years for males and females, respectively. Smoking, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, hypertension, higher mean age, high blood pressure, high blood glucose, and higher percent weight gain and rate of weight gain were observed in the history of deceased subjects. After adjusting for control variables, an increase was observed in mortality among individuals with lower carbohydrate and cholesterol intake. The results suggest that mortality risk factors like age, chronic diseases, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and inadequate diet must also be acting in the Japanese-Brazilian population.O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a existência de associações entre variáveis nutricionais e a mortalidade em uma coorte de nipo-brasileiros. Em 1993, 647 indivíduos foram entrevistados (questionário de freqüên- cia alimentar), submetidos ao exame físico (peso, altura, pressão arterial) e a exames bioquímicos (teste de tolerância oral à glicose). O teste t de Student foi utilizado para comparar valores médios das variáveis de interesse entre vivos e mortos. Obtiveram-se as taxas de mortalidade e razões entre esses coeficientes (brutas e ajustadas) segundo variáveis nutricionais. Observou-se taxa de mortalidade geral de 21,4 e 11,7/mil pessoas-ano para homens e mulheres, respectivamente. Entre os indivíduos que morreram, encontrou-se maior porcentagem de sujeitos diabéticos, sedentários e hipertensos. Após ajuste às variáveis de controle, observou-se maior mortalidade entre os com menor consumo de glícides e colesterol. Conclui-se que os fatores de risco clássicos para mortalidade, como idade, doenças crônicas, sedentarismo, tabagismo e dieta, devem estar atuantes também na população nipo-brasileira.
Published:
2007
Title:
Alternate day calorie restriction improves clinical findings and reduces markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in overweight adults with moderate asthma
Authors:
Johnson, James B.; Summer, Warren; Cutler, Roy G.; Martin, Bronwen; Hyun, Dong Hoon; Dixit, Vishwa D.; Pearson, Michelle; Nassar, Matthew; Tellejohan, Richard; Maudsley, Stuart; Carlson, Olga; John, Sujit; Laub, Donald R.; Mattson, Mark P.
Abstract:
Asthma is an increasingly common disorder responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality. Although obesity is a risk factor for asthma and weight loss can improve symptoms, many patients do not adhere to low calorie diets and the impact of dietary restriction on the disease process is unknown. A study was designed to determine if overweight asthma patients would adhere to an alternate day calorie restriction (ADCR) dietary regimen, and to establish the effects of the diet on their symptoms, pulmonary function and markers of oxidative stress, and inflammation. Ten subjects with BMI \textgreater 30 were maintained for 8 weeks on a dietary regimen in which they ate ad libitum every other day, while consuming less than 20% of their normal calorie intake on the intervening days. At baseline, and at designated time points during the 8-week study, asthma control, symptoms, and Quality of Life questionnaires (ACQ, ASUI, mini-AQLQ) were assessed and blood was collected for analyses of markers of general health, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) was measured daily on awakening. Pre-and postbronchodilator spirometry was obtained at baseline and 8 weeks. Nine of the subjects adhered to the diet and lost an average of 8% of their initial weight during the study. Their asthma-related symptoms, control, and QOL improved significantly, and PEF increased significantly, within 2 weeks of diet initiation; these changes persisted for the duration of the study. Spirometery was unaffected by ADCR. Levels of serum β-hydroxybutyrate were increased and levels of leptin were decreased on CR days, indicating a shift in energy metabolism toward utilization of fatty acids and confirming compliance with the diet. The improved clinical findings were associated with decreased levels of serum cholesterol and triglycerides, striking reductions in markers of oxidative stress (8-isoprostane, nitrotyrosine, protein carbonyls, and 4-hydroxynonenal adducts), and increased levels of the antioxidant uric acid. Indicators of inflammation, including serum tumor necrosis factor-α and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, were also significantly decreased by ADCR. Compliance with the ADCR diet was high, symptoms and pulmonary function improved, and oxidative stress and inflammation declined in response to the dietary intervention. These findings demonstrate rapid and sustained beneficial effects of ADCR on the underlying disease process in subjects with asthma, suggesting a novel approach for therapeutic intervention in this disorder. © 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Published:
2007
Title:
Americans’ Attitudes Toward Mental Health Treatment Seeking: 1990–2003
Authors:
Mojtabai, Ramin
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Assessment of Patients' Competence to Consent to Treatment
Authors:
Appelbaum, Paul S
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Association of Parkinson's disease with symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in childhood
Authors:
Walitza, S.; Melfsen, S.; Herhaus, G.; Scheuerpflug, P.; Warnke, A.; Müller, T.; Lange, K. W.; Gerlach, M.
Abstract:
Methylphenidate (MPH) is a centrally acting (psycho)stimulant which reversibly blocks the dopamine re-uptake transporter. At present MPH is one of the most frequently prescribed drugs for the symptomatic treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although MPH has been in use for about 50 years, there is no information available concerning the long-term benefits and risks of medication. Based on experiments in rats it has been suggested that MPH treatment may affect the maturation of central dopaminergic systems and may be a risk factor for the development of Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of the present case-control study was to gain information about (1) ADHD-like symptoms that may precede PD motor symptoms, and (2) the exposure to psychostimulants in childhood. We used a German short version of the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS-k, Retz-Junginger et al., 2002) which is a reliable measure for the retrospective diagnosis of childhood ADHD, and another questionnaire including a rating scale for symptoms of ADHD in childhood (Q-ADHD-Child) according to DSM-IV and ICD-10 criteria. A total of 92 patients with PD and 115 control subjects were enrolled in this study. Ninety-six percentage of PD patients (N = 88) completed the two rating scales. The data of these patients and of 88 randomly selected individuals of the controls were included for analysis. In the WURS-k, the PD group showed higher total scores compared to control subjects. In addition, we found increased scores in PD patients regarding the items attention deficit, hyperactivity and anxious and depressive symptoms, but not regarding impulsivity, oppositional behaviour and deficits in social adaptation. The results of the Q-ADHD-Child also showed increased scores in PD patients regarding attention deficit and hyperactivity. However, one cannot conclude that the PD patients enrolled in this study had suffered from childhood ADHD, since the average total WURS-k score of (14.4) was far below the cut-off score of 30 or higher which is considered to identify childhood ADHD. Finally, we found no evidence that PD patients had been exposed to psychostimulants such as MPH and amphetamine.
Published:
2007
Title:
Bad Habits and Liquid Pleasures. Milk and the Alcohol Abstinence Movement in late 19th Century Germany
Authors:
Orland, Barbara
Abstract:
The story of an extensive consumption of sweet, fresh milk is a very young. It is rooted in the evolution of industrialised food systems. Daily fresh milk drinking as a new food habit began in the mid-nineteenth century and is connected to the development of urban living conditions – at first as a necessary nutrition for infants and children, but within a few decades it spread to the populace as a whole. This paper explores the story, when, how and why men were introduced to milk drinking. It is argued that during the German Kaiserreich (1871-1918) the promotion of milk was linked to the “alcohol question”, which was defined as part of the “social question”. Within a complex and scientifically informed program to solve the alcohol problem, milk should serve as a substitute for alcoholic drinks that were banished from factories.
Published:
2007
Title:
Beneficial effects of sauna bathing for heart failure patients
Authors:
Blum, Nava; Blum, Arnon
Abstract:
Gerally, the sauna bathing has been contraindicated for patients with chronic heart failure. However, it has been well tolerated and improved hemodynamics has been shown in patients with chronic heart failure after a single exposure and after a four-week period of sauna bathing (five days per week). Left ventricular ejection fraction increased from 24±7% to 31±9% and left ventricular end-diastolic dimension decreased from 66±6 mm to 62±5 mm after four weeks. In the present review, the mechanisms of action, the clinical data available to date and the possible beneficial effects of sauna bathing for patients with heart failure are discussed, as well as the precautions and the contraindications in this specific group of patients with chronic heart failure. © 2007 Pulsus Group Inc. All rights reserved.
Published:
2007
Title:
Berberass: marine resource specialisation and environmental change in Torres Strait during the past 4000 years
Authors:
Crouch, J.; McNiven, I.J.; David, B.; Rowe, C.; Weisler, M.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Bioactivity of phytochemicals in some lesser-known plants and their effects and potential applications in livestock and aquaculture production systems
Authors:
Makkar, H.P.S.; Francis, G.; Becker, K.
Abstract:
Livestock and aquaculture production is under political and social pressure, especially in the European Union (EU), to decrease pollution and environmental damage arising due to animal agriculture. The EU has banned the use of antibiotics and other chemicals, which have been shown to be effective in promoting growth and reducing environment pollutants because of the risk caused to humans by chemical residues in food and by antibiotic resistance being passed on to human pathogens. As a result of this, scientists have intensified efforts in exploiting plants, plant extracts or natural plant compounds as potential natural alternatives for enhancing the livestock productivity. This paper discusses work on the effects of various phytochemicals and plant secondary metabolites in ruminant and fish species. The focus is on (i) plants such as Ananas comosus (pine apple), Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) and Azadirachta indica (neem) containing anthelmintic compounds and for their use for controlling internal parasites; (ii) plants containing polyphenols and their applications for protecting proteins from degradation in the rumen, increasing efficiency of microbial protein synthesis in rumen and decreasing methane emission; for using as antioxidants, antibacterial and antihelmintic agents; and for changing meat colour and for increasing n-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid in meat; (iii) saponin-rich plants such as quillaja, yucca and Sapindus saponaria for increasing the efficiency of rumen fermentation, decreasing methane emission and enhancing growth; for producing desired nutritional attributes such as lowering of cholesterol in monogastric animals; for increasing growth of fish (common carp and Nile tilapia) and for changing male to female ratio in tilapia; and for use as molluscicidal agents; (iv) Moringa oleifera leaves as a source of plant growth factor(s), antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamin C, and various glucosinolates and their degraded products for possible use as antibacterial, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic and antipest agents; (v) Jatropha curcas toxic variety with high levels of various phytochemicals such as trypsin inhibitor, lectin, phytate and phorbol esters in seeds limiting the use of seed meal in fish and livestock diets; and the use of phorbol esters as bio-pesticidal agent; and (vi) lesser-known legumes such as Entada phaseoloides seeds containing high levels of trypsin inhibitor and saponins, Sesbania aculeate seeds rich in non-starch polysaccharides and Mucuna pruriens var. utilis seeds rich in l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine and their potential as fish feed; Cassia fistula seeds as a source of antioxidants; and the use of Canavalia ensiformis, C. gladiata and C. virosa seeds containing high levels of trypsin inhinitor, lectins and canavanine. The paper also presents some challenges and future areas of work in this field. © 2007 The Animal Consortium.
Published:
2007
Title:
Breast cancer risk and erythrocyte compositions of n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids in Japanese
Authors:
Kuriki, K.; Hirose, K.; Wakai, K.; Matsuo, K.; Ito, H.; Suzuki, T.; Hiraki, A.; Saito, T.; Iwata, H.; Tatematsu, M.; Tajima, K.
Abstract:
Dietary intake of fish rich in n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been proposed to decrease cancer risk. In contrast to results from laboratory studies, however, protective effects for breast cancer have proved equivocal in epidemiological studies. In the present case-control study, we examined associations between breast cancer risk and fatty acid compositions in erythrocyte membranes as biomarkers for those intakes. Dietary information and blood samples were collected from 103 incident breast cancer cases and 309 non-cancer controls (matched by age and season) and erythrocyte fatty acids were measured using accelerated solvent extraction and gas-liquid chromatography. Dietary intake of n-3 HUFAs demonstrated a negative association with risk (the highest to the lowest tertile, odds ratio (OR), 0.51; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.27-0.98; ptrend < 0.05), but there was no association with those of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and meat. Moreover, risk was inversely associated with erythrocyte compositions of EPA (OR, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.14-0.53; ptrend < 0.0001), DHA (OR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.02-0.16; p trend < 0.0001) and n-3 HUFAs (OR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.05-0.24; p trend < 0.0001), and positively with that of SFAs (OR, 12.29; 95% CI, 4.94-30.57; ptrend < 0.0001) and the ratio of SFAs/n-3 HUFAs (OR, 14.65; 95% CI, 5.67-37.82; ptrend < 0.0001). In conclusion, we showed that erythrocyte compositions of specific fatty acids derived from fish intake, as biomarkers, are associated with lower risk of breast cancer, but further studies are needed to investigate mechanisms linked to the etiology. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Published:
2007
Title:
Clinical Pharmacokinetics of Atypical Antipsychotics: A Critical Review of the Relationship Between Plasma Concentrations and Clinical Response
Authors:
Mauri, Massimo C; Volonteri, Lucia S; Colasanti, Alessandro; Fiorentini, Alessio; De Gaspari, Ilaria F; Bareggi, Silvio R
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Coingestion of carbohydrate with protein does not further augment postexercise muscle protein synthesis
Authors:
Kies, Arie K.; Saris, Wim H. M.; Pennings, Bart; Koopman, René; Beelen, Milou; Kuipers, Harm; Stellingwerff, Trent; van Loon, Luc J. C.
Abstract:
The present study was designed to assess the impact of coingestion of various amounts of carbohydrate combined with an ample amount of protein intake on postexercise muscle protein synthesis rates. Ten healthy, fit men (20 +/- 0.3 yr) were randomly assigned to three crossover experiments. After 60 min of resistance exercise, subjects consumed 0.3 g x kg(-1) x h(-1) protein hydrolysate with 0, 0.15, or 0.6 g x kg(-1) x h(-1) carbohydrate during a 6-h recovery period (PRO, PRO + LCHO, and PRO + HCHO, respectively). Primed, continuous infusions with L-[ring-(13)C(6)]phenylalanine, L-[ring-(2)H(2)]tyrosine, and [6,6-(2)H(2)]glucose were applied, and blood and muscle samples were collected to assess whole body protein turnover and glucose kinetics as well as protein fractional synthesis rate (FSR) in the vastus lateralis muscle over 6 h of postexercise recovery. Plasma insulin responses were significantly greater in PRO + HCHO compared with PRO + LCHO and PRO (18.4 +/- 2.9 vs. 3.7 +/- 0.5 and 1.5 +/- 0.2 U.6 h(-1) x l(-1), respectively, P \textless 0.001). Plasma glucose rate of appearance (R(a)) and disappearance (R(d)) increased over time in PRO + HCHO and PRO + LCHO, but not in PRO. Plasma glucose R(a) and R(d) were substantially greater in PRO + HCHO vs. both PRO and PRO + LCHO (P \textless 0.01). Whole body protein breakdown, synthesis, and oxidation rates, as well as whole body protein balance, did not differ between experiments. Mixed muscle protein FSR did not differ between treatments and averaged 0.10 +/- 0.01, 0.10 +/- 0.01, and 0.11 +/- 0.01%/h in the PRO, PRO + LCHO, and PRO + HCHO experiments, respectively. In conclusion, coingestion of carbohydrate during recovery does not further stimulate postexercise muscle protein synthesis when ample protein is ingested.
Published:
2007
Title:
Dental evidence on the hominin dispersals during the Pleistocene
Authors:
Martinón-Torres, M.; Bermúdez de Castro, J. M.; Gómez-Robles, A.; Arsuaga, J. L.; Carbonell, E.; Lordkipanidze, D.; Manzi, G.; Margvelashvili, A.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Diabetes: a cross-cultural interview study of immigrants from Somalia
Authors:
Wallin, Anne-Marie; Löfvander, Monica; Ahlström, Gerd
Abstract:
Aim. To describe how diabetic immigrants from Somalia experience everyday life in Sweden and how they manage diabetes-related problems, with inclusion of a gender perspective. Background. To treat and care for minority populations successfully, healthcare staff in Sweden must thoroughly understand the illness experiences of different ethnic groups. However, no studies have so far been reported that focus on immigrants from Somalia with diabetes. Design. Descriptive, qualitative interview study with 19 diabetic adults born in Somalia and now living in Sweden. Method. Cross-cultural interviews with the aid of an interpreter. The transcribed interviews were subjected to qualitative latent content analysis, resulting in sub-themes and themes. Results. Four themes emerged: experience of distress in everyday life; everyday life continues as before; comprehensibility gives a feeling of control; and being compliant. A major finding was the variation in how the participants managed the fasting month of Ramadan. Several participants fasted and did not see the diabetes as an obstacle, others did see it as an obstacle or indicated that fasting was not compulsory for a sick person. Conclusions. This study provides healthcare staff with information about how a minority group experience and manage diabetes. The results indicate the importance of considering cultural background, as well as religious traditions such as Ramadan, in diabetes care. They also indicate that men and women differ in their reaction to diabetes and that care should be adapted to this. Relevance for clinical practice. It is important to develop evidence-based guidelines for diabetes care in ethnic groups that are fasting during Ramadan to prevent complications and promote relevant self-care. Further, the prescribed dietary advice must be culturally appropriate.
Published:
2007
Title:
Donepezil for the Treatment of Agitation in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors:
Howard, Robert J; Psych, M R C; Juszczak, Edmund; Ballard, Clive G; Psych, M R C; Bentham, Peter; Psych, M R C; Brown, Richard G; Burns, Alistair S; Psych, F R C; Holmes, Clive; Psych, M R C; Jacoby, Robin; Psych, F R C; Johnson, Tony; Lindesay, James; Psych, F R C; O’Brien, John T; Psych, F R C; Wilcock, Gordon; DeCesare, Julia
Abstract:
Background Agitation is a common and distressing symptom in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Cholinesterase inhibitors improve cognitive outcomes in such patients, but the benefits of these drugs for behavioral disturbances are unclear. Methods We randomly assigned 272 patients with Alzheimer’s disease who had clinically significant agitation and no response to a brief psychosocial treatment program to receive 10 mg of donepezil per day (128 patients) or placebo (131 patients) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was a change in the score on the Cohen–Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) (on a scale of 29 to 203, with higher scores indicating more agitation) at 12 weeks. Results There was no significant difference between the effects of donepezil and those of placebo on the basis of the change in CMAI scores from baseline to 12 weeks (estimated mean difference in change [the value for donepezil minus that for placebo], −0.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], −4.35 to 4.22). Twenty-two of 108 patients (20.4%) in the placebo group and 22 of 113 (19.5%) in the donepezil group had a reduction of 30% or greater in the CMAI score (the value for donepezil minus that for placebo, −0.9 percentage point; 95% CI, −11.4 to 9.6). There were also no significant differences between the placebo and donepezil groups in scores for the Neuropsychiatric Inventory, the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Caregiver Distress Scale, or the Clinician’s Global Impression of Change. Conclusions In this 12-week trial, donepezil was not more effective than placebo in treating agitation in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00142324.)
Published:
2007
Title:
Early Pleistocene Homo erectus fossils from Konso, southern Ethiopia
Authors:
Suwa, G.; Asfaw, B.; Haile-Selassie, Y.; White, T.; Katoh, S.; WoldeGabriel, G.; Hart, W. K; Nakaya, H.; Beyene, Y.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Effects of lifestyle changes and metformin on salt sensitivity and nitric oxide metabolism in obese salt-sensitive Hispanics
Authors:
Hoffmann, I. S.; Alfieri, A. B.; Cubeddu, L. X.
Abstract:
Salt sensitivity is associated with obesity, and increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We investigated whether treatment of obesity and its associated metabolic abnormalities corrects salt sensitivity and restores impaired nitric oxide (NO) metabolism characteristic of salt sensitivity. Twenty, otherwise, healthy obese salt-sensitive subjects completed a 12-month program of caloric restriction, aerobic exercise and metformin. Two salt sensitivity tests were performed, that is at baseline and end of program. Lifestyle-metformin treatment decreased weight (9.8+/-0.3 kg), body mass index (3.9+/-0.2 kg/m(2)), waist (11.5+/-0.5 cm), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (8.6+/-0.4 mm Hg), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (5.5+/-0.4 mm Hg), triglyceride (40+/-5 mg/dl), fasting (8.3+/-1 microIU/ml) and post-load (20+/-4 microIU/ml) insulin levels, and salt sensitivity. Going from a high-sodium ( approximately 300 mmol) to a low-sodium diet ( approximately 30 mmol of sodium/day) lowered SBP/DBP by 14.7+/-1.7/7.4+/-0.9 mm Hg at baseline and by 8.6+/-1.9/3.2+/-1.2 mm Hg after treatment (P\textless0.001). More importantly, blood pressure (BP) sensitivity to customary levels of dietary salt ( approximately 150 mmol of sodium/day) was abolished by the lifestyle-metformin treatment. Differences in SBP/DBP between usual and low salt averaged 11+/-1/8+/-1 mm Hg before treatment, and 3+/-1/1+/-0.5 mm Hg after treatment (P\textless0.001). At baseline, NO-metabolite excretion was inhibited during high salt; this impairment was corrected by the lifestyle-metformin treatment. In conclusion, acquired correctable factors play an important role in the pathogenesis of salt sensitivity associated with obesity. Correction of salt sensitivity may account for the BP lowering induced by weight reduction. Restoration of the inability to increase or sustain NO production in response to high salt could account for the correction of salt sensitivity induced by the lifestyle-metformin treatment.
Published:
2007
Title:
Episodic Molecular Evolution of Some Protein Hormones in Primates and Its Implications for Primate Adaptation
Authors:
Yi, S.; Li, W.-H.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Factors Associated with Seven-Year Incidence of Diabetes Complications among Older Mexican Americans
Authors:
Kaushik, Vinod P.; Snih, Soham Al; Ray, Laura A.; Raji, Mukaila A.; Markides, Kyriakos S.; Goodwin, James S.
Abstract:
Background: Diabetes is common in elderly persons and is highly prevalent in Mexican Americans. Little is known about factors associated with the incidence of diabetes complications. Objective: To examine the social, demographic and health factors associated with a 7-year incidence of diabetes complications among older Mexican Americans with diabetes. Methods: A 7-year prospective cohort of 536 non-institutionalized Mexican Americans aged ≧65 years with diabetes residing in the Southwest of USA. Measures included socio-demographic factors, duration of diabetes, diabetes treatment, medical conditions and body mass index. Diabetes complications were assessed by self-reports of any kidney, eye and circulation problems or amputation due to diabetes over a 7-year period. Results: Subjects with disease duration of ≧10 years were found to have an increased incidence of kidney, eye and circulation problems or amputation over a 7-year period. Hazard ratio (HR) for circulation problems was significantly higher in foreign-born subjects with >15 years in the USA. Foreign-born subjects with <15 years in the USA and those with a frequent number of physician visits were at increased risk of kidney complications. Subjects with baseline eye complications had a higher HR for incidence of amputations in the next 7 years. Subjects with baseline circulation complications had a higher incidence of amputations, eye and kidney complications in the next 7 years. Conclusions: Our data suggest that risks of diabetes complications are influenced by different factors. Prolonged diabetes duration, being foreign-born, living in the USA for a longer period, and frequent physician visits were factors associated with diabetes complications. Designing intervention strategies to reduce diabetes complication risks requires an understanding of the differences in demographic and health predictors of such risks.
Published:
2007
Title:
Food and the city in Europe since 1800
Authors:
Atkins, P. J; Lummel, Peter; Oddy, Derek J
Abstract:
This fascinating volume examines the impact that rapid urbanization has had upon diets and food systems throughout Western Europe over the past two centuries. Bringing together studies from across the continent, it stresses the fundamental links between key changes in European social history and food systems, food cultures and food politics.
Published:
2007
Title:
Genetic background influences murine prostate gene expression: implications for cancer phenotypes
Authors:
Bianchi-Frias, Daniella; Pritchard, Colin; Mecham, Brigham H; Coleman, Ilsa M; Nelson, Peter S
Abstract:
Microarray analyses to quantitate transcript levels in the prostates of five inbred mouse strains identified differences in gene expression in benign epithelium that correlated with the differentiation state of adjacent tumors.
Published:
2007
Title:
Genetic defects of the growth-hormone-IGF axis associated with growth hormone insensitivity
Authors:
Woods, Katie
Abstract:
The central feature of growth hormone (GH) insensitivity is deficiency of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in association with elevated GH secretion. This condition is also known as primary IGF deficiency. There are currently four known genetic causes of GH insensitivity/primary IGF deficiency: GH receptor deficiency (also known as Laron syndrome or GH insensitivity syndrome), IGF-1 deficiency, signal transducer and activator of transcription 5b (STAT5b) deficiency and acid labile subunit (ALS) deficiency. Despite sharing the classical biochemical features of GH insensitivity, the phenotype in each of these conditions is quite distinct. This review will discuss each of these causes in turn, highlighting the insights these rare causes of growth failure afford into the functioning of the human GH-IGF-1 axis.
Published:
2007
Title:
Good Calories, Bad Calories: Challenging the Conventional Wisdom on Diet, Weight Control, and Disease
Authors:
Taubes, Gary
Abstract:
"Not another diet book: After seven years of research in every science connected with the impact of nutrition on health, science writer Taubes shows that almost everything we believe about a healthy diet is wrong. We are taught that fat is bad for us, carbohydrates better, and that the key to a healthy weight is eating less and exercising more--yet we see unprecedented epidemics of obesity and diabetes. Taubes argues persuasively that the problem lies in refined carbohydrates, via their dramatic effect on insulin, and that the key to good health is the kind of calories we take in, not the number. He also argues that there is no compelling scientific evidence that saturated fat and cholesterol cause heart disease. Based on the evidence, he concludes that the only healthy way to remain lean is to eat fewer carbohydrates or to change the type of carbohydrates we eat."
Published:
2007
Title:
High Dietary Glycemic Load and Glycemic Index Increase Risk of Cardiovascular Disease Among Middle-Aged Women. A Population-Based Follow-Up Study
Authors:
Beulens, Joline W J; de Bruijne, Leonie M.; Stolk, Ronald P.; Peeters, Petra H M; Bots, Michiel L.; Grobbee, Diederick E.; van der Schouw, Yvonne T.
Abstract:
Objectives: The goal of this work was to assess whether high dietary glycemic load and glycemic index are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Background: The associations of dietary glycemic index and glycemic load with risk of CVD are not well established, particularly in populations consuming modest glycemic load diets. Moreover, risk may differ between lean and overweight subjects. Methods: Associations of glycemic index and glycemic load with incident CVD were examined in a prospective cohort of 15,714 Dutch women age 49 to 70 years without diabetes or CVD. Dietary glycemic index and glycemic load were calculated using the glycemic index, carbohydrate content, and frequency of intake of individual foods. Results: During 9 ± 2 years of follow-up, 556 cases of coronary heart disease (CHD) and 243 cases of cerebrovascular accident (CVA) occurred. Dietary glycemic load (mean = 100; SD = 17) was associated with increased risk of CVD, adjusted for CVD risk factors and dietary variables, with a hazard ratio (HR) for the highest against lowest quartile of 1.47 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04 to 2.09; ptrend = 0.03). Similar results were observed for dietary glycemic index with a corresponding HR of 1.33 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.67; ptrend = 0.02). Glycemic load tended to be associated with both CHD (HR 1.44; 95% CI 0.95 to 2.19; ptrend = 0.14) and CVA (HR 1.55; 95% CI 0.81 to 2.97; ptrend = 0.10), but glycemic index only with CHD (HR 1.44; 95% CI 1.10 to 1.89; ptrend = 0.01). Among overweight women (body mass index \textgreater25 kg/m2), glycemic load was associated with CVD (1.78; 95% CI 1.11 to 2.85; ptrend = 0.04), but not among normal weight women (pinteraction = 0.19). Body mass index did not modify the association of glycemic index with CVD. Conclusions: Among women consuming modest glycemic load diets, high dietary glycemic load and glycemic index increase the risk of CVD, particularly for overweight women. © 2007 American College of Cardiology Foundation.
Published:
2007
Title:
Hunger: a modern history
Authors:
Vernon, James
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Impact of Sleep and Sleep Loss on Glucose Homeostasis and Appetite Regulation
Authors:
Knutson, Kristen L.
Abstract:
Over the past 30 years there has been an increase in the prevalence of obesity and diabetes, both of which can have serious consequences for longevity and quality of life. Sleep durations may have also decreased over this time period. This article reviews laboratory and epidemiologic evidence for an association between sleep loss and impairments in glucose metabolism and appetite regulation, which could increase the risk of diabetes or weight gain. © 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Published:
2007
Title:
Industrial Revolution in America
Authors:
Hillstrom, Kevin; Hillstrom, Laurie Collier
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Insulin's impact on renal sodium transport and blood pressure in health, obesity, and diabetes
Authors:
Tiwari, Swasti; Riazi, Shahla; Ecelbarger, Carolyn A.
Abstract:
Insulin has been shown to have antinatriuretic actions in humans and animal models. Moreover, endogenous hyperinsulinemia and insulin infusion have been correlated to increased blood pressure in some models. In this review, we present the current state of understanding with regard to the regulation of the major renal sodium transporters by insulin in the kidney. Several groups, using primarily cell culture, have demonstrated that insulin can directly increase activity of the epithelial sodium channel, the sodium-phosphate cotransporter, the sodium-hydrogen exchanger type III, and Na-K-ATPase. We and others have demonstrated alterations in the expression at the protein level of many of these same proteins with insulin infusion or in hyperinsulinemic models. We also discuss how this regulation is perturbed in type I and type II diabetes mellitus. Finally, we discuss a potential role for regulation of insulin receptor signaling in the kidney in contributing to sodium balance and blood pressure.
Published:
2007
Title:
Intense sweetness surpasses cocaine reward
Authors:
Lenoir, Magalie; Serre, Fuschia; Cantin, Lauriane; Ahmed, Serge H.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Refined sugars (e.g., sucrose, fructose) were absent in the diet of most people until very recently in human history. Today overconsumption of diets rich in sugars contributes together with other factors to drive the current obesity epidemic. Overconsumption of sugar-dense foods or beverages is initially motivated by the pleasure of sweet taste and is often compared to drug addiction. Though there are many biological commonalities between sweetened diets and drugs of abuse, the addictive potential of the former relative to the latter is currently unknown.$\backslash$n$\backslash$nMETHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Here we report that when rats were allowed to choose mutually-exclusively between water sweetened with saccharin-an intense calorie-free sweetener-and intravenous cocaine-a highly addictive and harmful substance-the large majority of animals (94%) preferred the sweet taste of saccharin. The preference for saccharin was not attributable to its unnatural ability to induce sweetness without calories because the same preference was also observed with sucrose, a natural sugar. Finally, the preference for saccharin was not surmountable by increasing doses of cocaine and was observed despite either cocaine intoxication, sensitization or intake escalation-the latter being a hallmark of drug addiction.$\backslash$n$\backslash$nCONCLUSIONS: Our findings clearly demonstrate that intense sweetness can surpass cocaine reward, even in drug-sensitized and -addicted individuals. We speculate that the addictive potential of intense sweetness results from an inborn hypersensitivity to sweet tastants. In most mammals, including rats and humans, sweet receptors evolved in ancestral environments poor in sugars and are thus not adapted to high concentrations of sweet tastants. The supranormal stimulation of these receptors by sugar-rich diets, such as those now widely available in modern societies, would generate a supranormal reward signal in the brain, with the potential to override self-control mechanisms and thus to lead to addiction.
Published:
2007
Title:
Interleukin-6, C-reactive protein and biochemical parameters during prolonged intermittent fasting
Authors:
Aksungar, Fehime B.; Topkaya, Aynur E.; Akyildiz, Mahmut
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: It is well known that nutritional habits, sleeping patterns and meal frequency have profound effects on maintaining human health. Ramadan is a religious month for Islam, during which Muslims do not eat and drink during the daylight hours. The duration of restricted food and beverage intake is approximately 12 h/day for 1 month, which makes Ramadan a model of prolonged intermittent fasting. METHODS: In order to evaluate the effects of long-lasting modifications of food intake on inflammatory markers and biochemical parameters 40 healthy volunteers of normal weight [20 females aged between 20 and 38 years, 20 males aged between 23 and 39 years, body mass index (BMI) \textless25 kg/m(2)] who fasted during Ramadan and another 28 healthy age- and BMI-matched volunteers (14 males, 14 females) who did not fast participated in the study. Venous blood samples were taken 1 week before Ramadan, during the last week of Ramadan and 3 weeks after Ramadan. Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), homocysteine, vitamin B(12), folate, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were measured. RESULTS: No significant changes were observed in serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL levels. TC/HDL ratio (HDL risk factor) was decreased during and after Ramadan in both genders in the fasting group while there were no changes in the nonfasting group. IL-6 (p \textless 0.001), CRP (p \textless 0.001) and homocysteine (p \textless 0.01) levels were significantly low during Ramadan in the fasting subjects of both genders when compared to basal values (1 week before Ramadan). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that prolonged intermittent fasting in a model like Ramadan has some positive effects on the inflammatory status of the body and on the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as homocysteine, CRP and TC/HDL ratio.
Published:
2007
Title:
Ketone bodies are protective against oxidative stress in neocortical neurons
Authors:
Kim, Do Young; Davis, Laurie M.; Sullivan, Patrick G.; Maalouf, Marwan; Simeone, Timothy A.; Brederode, Johannes van; Rho, Jong M.
Abstract:
Ketone bodies (KB) have been shown to prevent neurodegeneration in models of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, but the mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. One possibility is that KB may exert antioxidant activity. In the current study, we explored the effects of KB on rat neocortical neurons exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or diamide – a thiol oxidant and activator of mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT). We found that: (i) KB completely blocked large inward currents induced by either H2O2 or diamide; (ii) KB significantly decreased the number of propidium iodide-labeled cells in neocortical slices after exposure to H2O2 or diamide; (iii) KB significantly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in dissociated neurons and in isolated neocortical mitochondria; (iv) the electrophysiological effects of KB in neurons exposed to H2O2 or diamide were mimicked by bongkrekic acid and cyclosporin A, known inhibitors of mPT, as well as by catalase and DL – dithiothreitol, known antioxidants; (v) diamide alone did not significantly alter basal ROS levels in neurons, supporting previous studies indicating that diamide-induced neuronal injury may be mediated by mPT opening; and (vi) KB significantly increased the threshold for calcium-induced mPT in isolated mitochondria. Taken together, our data suggest that KB may prevent mPT and oxidative injury in neocortical neurons, most likely by decreasing mitochondrial ROS production.
Published:
2007
Title:
Longevity Among Hunter- Gatherers: A Cross-Cultural Examination
Authors:
Gurven, Michael; Kaplan, Hillard
Abstract:
Post-reproductive longevity is a robust feature of human life and not only a recent phenomenon caused by improvements in sanitation, public health, and medical advances. We argue for an adaptive life span of 68-78 years for modern Homo sapiens based on our analysis of mortality profiles obtained from small-scale hunter-gatherer and horticultural populations from around the world. We compare patterns of survivorship across the life span, rates of senescence, modal ages at adult death, and causes of death. We attempt to reconcile our results with those derived from paleodemographic studies that characterize prehistoric human lives as “nasty, brutish, and short,” and with observations of recent acculturation among contemporary subsistence populations. We integrate information on age-specific dependency and resource production to help explain the adaptive utility of longevity in humans from an evolutionary perspective.
Published:
2007
Title:
Low carbohydrate-high protein diet and mortality in a cohort of Swedish women
Authors:
Lagiou, P.; Sandin, S.; Weiderpass, E.; Lagiou, A.; Mucci, L.; Trichopoulos, D.; Adami, H. O.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: The long-term health consequences of diets used for weight control are not established. We have evaluated the association of the frequently recommended low carbohydrate diets - usually characterized by concomitant increase in protein intake - with long-term mortality. DESIGN: The Women's Lifestyle and Health cohort study initiated in Sweden during 1991-1992, with a 12-year almost complete follow up. SETTING: The Uppsala Health Care Region. SUBJECTS: 42,237 women, 30-49 years old at baseline, volunteers from a random sample, who completed an extensive questionnaire and were traced through linkages to national registries until 2003. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We evaluated the association of mortality with: decreasing carbohydrate intake (in deciles); increasing protein intake (in deciles) and an additive combination of these variables (low carbohydrate-high protein score from 2 to 20), in Cox models controlling for energy intake, saturated fat intake and several nondietary covariates. RESULTS: Decreasing carbohydrate or increasing protein intake by one decile were associated with increase in total mortality by 6% (95% CI: 0-12%) and 2% (95% CI: -1 to 5%), respectively. For cardiovascular mortality, amongst women 40-49 years old at enrolment, the corresponding increases were, respectively, 13% (95% CI: -4 to 32%) and 16% (95% CI: 5-29%), with the additive score being even more predictive. CONCLUSIONS: A diet characterized by low carbohydrate and high protein intake was associated with increased total and particularly cardiovascular mortality amongst women. Vigilance with respect to long-term adherence to such weight control regimes is advisable.
Published:
2007
Title:
Low serum LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of fever, sepsis, and malignancy
Authors:
Shor, Renana; Wainstein, Julio; Oz, David; Boaz, Mona; Matas, Zipora; Fux, Asora; Halabe, Aaron
Abstract:
Lipid lowering therapy of serum LDL cholesterol (LDL) has proved beneficial in reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Lately the recommended target LDL level in very high risk patients was reduced to <70 mg/dl, raising the question of what the price of such a low level will be. To elucidate this concern, we investigated the associations of low serum LDL cholesterol levels (< or = 70 mg/dl) and the incidences of fever, sepsis, and malignancy. Retrospective analysis of 203 patients' charts was carried out. Patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (n = 79) had serum LDL levels 70 mg/dl. The first group demonstrated increased odds of hematological cancer by more than 15-fold (OR 15.7, 95% CI 1.78-138.4, p = 0.01). Each 1 mg/dl increase in LDL was associated with a relative reduction of 2.4% in the odds of hematological cancer (OR 0.976, 95% CI 0.956-0.997, p = 0.026). Low LDL levels also increased the odds of fever and sepsis between the groups (OR 5.3, 95% CI 1.8-15.7, p = 0.02). In summary, low serum LDL cholesterol level was associated with increased risks of hematological cancer, fever, and sepsis.
Published:
2007
Title:
Low-carb diets, fasting and euphoria: Is there a link between ketosis and γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)?
Authors:
Brown, Andrew J.
Abstract:
Anecdotal evidence links the initial phase of fasting or a low-carbohydrate diet with feelings of well-being and mild euphoria. These feelings have often been attributed to ketosis, the production of ketone bodies which can replace glucose as an energy source for the brain. One of these ketone bodies, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), is an isomer of the notorious drug of abuse, GHB (γ-hydroxybutyrate). GHB is also of interest in relation to its potential as a treatment for alcohol and opiate dependence and narcolepsy-associated cataplexy. Here I hypothesize that, the mild euphoria often noted with fasting or low-carbohydrate diets may be due to shared actions of BHB and GHB on the brain. Specifically, I propose that BHB, like GHB, induces mild euphoria by being a weak partial agonist for GABABreceptors. I outline several approaches that would test the hypothesis, including receptor binding studies in cultured cells, perception studies in trained rodents, and psychometric testing and functional magnetic resonance imaging in humans. These and other studies investigating whether BHB and GHB share common effects on brain chemistry and mood are timely and warranted, especially when considering their structural similarities and the popularity of ketogenic diets and GHB as a drug of abuse. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Published:
2007
Title:
Nutrient signalling in the regulation of human muscle protein synthesis
Authors:
Fujita, Satoshi; Dreyer, Hans C.; Drummond, Micah J.; Glynn, Erin L.; Cadenas, Jerson G.; Yoshizawa, Fumiaki; Volpi, Elena; Rasmussen, Blake B.
Abstract:
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) are important nutrient- and energy-sensing and signalling proteins in skeletal muscle. AMPK activation decreases muscle protein synthesis by inhibiting mTOR signalling to regulatory proteins associated with translation initiation and elongation. On the other hand, essential amino acids (leucine in particular) and insulin stimulate mTOR signalling and protein synthesis. We hypothesized that anabolic nutrients would be sensed by both AMPK and mTOR, resulting in an acute and potent stimulation of human skeletal muscle protein synthesis via enhanced translation initiation and elongation. We measured muscle protein synthesis and mTOR-associated upstream and downstream signalling proteins in young male subjects (n = 14) using stable isotopic and immunoblotting techniques. Following a first muscle biopsy, subjects in the 'Nutrition' group ingested a leucine-enriched essential amino acid-carbohydrate mixture (EAC). Subjects in the Control group did not consume nutrients. A second biopsy was obtained 1 h later. Ingestion of EAC significantly increased muscle protein synthesis, modestly reduced AMPK phosphorylation, and increased Akt/PKB (protein kinase B) and mTOR phosphorylation (P \textless 0.05). mTOR signalling to its downstream effectors (S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) and 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) phosphorylation status) was also increased (P \textless 0.05). In addition, eukaryotic elongation factor 2 (eEF2) phosphorylation was significantly reduced (P \textless 0.05). Protein synthesis and cell signalling (phosphorylation status) was unchanged in the control group (P \textgreater 0.05). We conclude that anabolic nutrients alter the phosphorylation status of both AMPK- and mTOR-associated signalling proteins in human muscle, in association with an increase in protein synthesis not only via enhanced translation initiation but also through signalling promoting translation elongation. © 2007 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2007 The Physiological Society.
Published:
2007
Title:
Overall glycemic index and glycemic load of vegan diets in relation to plasma lipoproteins and triacylglycerols
Authors:
Waldmann, Annika; Ströhle, Alexander; Koschizke, Jochen W.; Leitzmann, Claus; Hahn, Andreas
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: To investigate the overall glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and intake of dietary fiber, and to examine the associations between these factors and plasma lipoproteins and triacylglycerols in adult vegans in the German Vegan Study (GVS). METHODS: Cross-sectional study, Germany. Healthy men (n = 67) and women (n = 87), who fulfilled the study criteria (vegan diet for >or=1 year prior to study start; minimum age of 18 years; no pregnancy/childbirth during the last 12 months) and who participated in all study segments. RESULTS: The average dietary GL of the GVS population was 144, and the average GI was 51.4. The adjusted geometric mean total, HDL, and LDL cholesterol concentrations decreased across the increasing quartiles of GL, carbohydrate and dietary fiber intake. The associations between total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and GL density and GI were inconsistent. Also, associations between GI, GL, the intake of carbohydrates, and triacylglycerol concentration were not observed. CONCLUSIONS: Fiber-rich vegan diets are characterized by a low GI and a low to moderate GL. The data do not support the hypothesis that a carbohydrate-rich diet per se is associated with unfavorable effects on triaclyglycerols that would be predicted to increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
Published:
2007
Title:
Overall glycemic index and glycemic load of vegan diets in relation to plasma lipoproteins and triacylglycerols
Authors:
Waldmann, Annika; Ströhle, Alexander; Koschizke, Jochen W.; Leitzmann, Claus; Hahn, Andreas
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: To investigate the overall glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and intake of dietary fiber, and to examine the associations between these factors and plasma lipoproteins and triacylglycerols in adult vegans in the German Vegan Study (GVS). METHODS: Cross-sectional study, Germany. Healthy men (n = 67) and women (n = 87), who fulfilled the study criteria (vegan diet for >or=1 year prior to study start; minimum age of 18 years; no pregnancy/childbirth during the last 12 months) and who participated in all study segments. RESULTS: The average dietary GL of the GVS population was 144, and the average GI was 51.4. The adjusted geometric mean total, HDL, and LDL cholesterol concentrations decreased across the increasing quartiles of GL, carbohydrate and dietary fiber intake. The associations between total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and GL density and GI were inconsistent. Also, associations between GI, GL, the intake of carbohydrates, and triacylglycerol concentration were not observed. CONCLUSIONS: Fiber-rich vegan diets are characterized by a low GI and a low to moderate GL. The data do not support the hypothesis that a carbohydrate-rich diet per se is associated with unfavorable effects on triaclyglycerols that would be predicted to increase the risk of coronary heart disease.
Published:
2007
Title:
Pre-LGM Sahul (Australia-New Guinea) and the archaeology of early modern humans
Authors:
O’Connell, J. F.; Allen, J.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Prevention of coronary heart disease: from the cholesterol hypothesis to [omega]6/ [omega]3 balance
Authors:
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Protein, iron, and meat consumption and risk for rheumatoid arthritis: a prospective cohort study
Authors:
Benito-Garcia, Elizabeth; Feskanich, Diane; Hu, Frank B.; Mandl, Lisa A.; Karlson, Elizabeth W.
Abstract:
A recent prospective study showed that higher consumption of red meat and total protein was associated with increased risk for inflammatory polyarthritis. We therefore prospectively examined the relationship between diet (in particular, protein, iron, and corresponding food sources) and incident rheumatoid arthritis (RA) among 82,063 women in the Nurses' Health Study. From 1980 to 2002, 546 incident cases of RA were confirmed by a connective tissue disease screening questionnaire and medical record review for American College of Rheumatology criteria for RA. Diet was assessed at baseline in 1980 and five additional times during follow up. We conducted Cox proportional hazards analyses to calculate the rate ratio of RA associated with intakes of protein (total, animal, and vegetable) and iron (total, dietary, from supplements, and heme iron) and their primary food sources, adjusting for age, smoking, body mass index, and reproductive factors. The multivariate models revealed no association between RA and any measure of protein or iron intake. In comparisons of highest with lowest quintiles of intake, the rate ratio for total protein was 1.17 (95% confidence interval 0.89-1.54; P for trend = 0.11) and for total iron it was 1.04 (95% confidence interval 0.77-1.41; P for trend = 0.82). Red meat, poultry, and fish were also not associated with RA risk. We were unable to confirm that there is an association between protein or meat and risk for RA in this large female cohort. Iron was also not associated with RA in this cohort.
Published:
2007
Title:
Selective degradation of mitochondria by mitophagy
Authors:
Kim, Insil; Rodriguez-Enriquez, Sara; Lemasters, John J.
Abstract:
Mitochondria are the essential site of aerobic energy production in eukaryotic cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are an inevitable by-product of mitochondrial metabolism and can cause mitochondrial DNA mutations and dysfunction. Mitochondrial damage can also be the consequence of disease processes. Therefore, maintaining a healthy population of mitochondria is essential to the well-being of cells. Autophagic delivery to lysosomes is the major degradative pathway in mitochondrial turnover, and we use the term mitophagy to refer to mitochondrial degradation by autophagy. Although long assumed to be a random process, increasing evidence indicates that mitophagy is a selective process. This review provides an overview of the process of mitophagy, the possible role of the mitochondrial permeability transition in mitophagy and the importance of mitophagy in turnover of dysfunctional mitochondria. © 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Published:
2007
Title:
Serum concentration of biochemical bone turnover markers in vegetarian children
Authors:
Ambroszkiewicz, J.; Klemarczyk, W.; Gajewska, J.; Chełchowska, M.; Laskowska-Klita, T.
Abstract:
PURPOSE: In general, most children on well-planed vegetarian diets can achieve normal growth and development. However, elimination of animal products from the diet decreases the intake of some essential nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, and may influence bone metabolism. This is especially important in childhood and adolescence, when growth and bone turnover are most intensive. The aim of this study was to investigate the serum concentrations of biochemical bone turnover markers in prepubertal vegetarian children. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We examined 50 children on vegetarian and 50 on omnivorous diets aged 2-10 years. Dietary constituents were analyzed using a local nutritional program. Serum bone formation (OC, BALP) and resorption (CTX) markers were determined by specific enzyme immunoassays (ELISA) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D by the chemiluminescence method (CLIA). RESULTS: The average daily energetic value and the percentage of energy from protein, fat and carbohydrates in the diets were similar in both groups of children and were within the recommended range. The vegetarian children showed about a two-fold lower daily intake of calcium and vitamin D than their omnivorous counterparts. The level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in the serum of vegetarian children was also nearly 2-fold lower compared with omnivores. In vegetarians, as compared to non-vegetarians, mean serum concentrations of OC, BALP and CTX were lower by about 20%, 10% and 15%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our preliminary results suggest that an inadequate dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D may impair bone turnover rate in vegetarian children. The parameters of bone metabolism should be monitored in these children in order to prevent bone abnormalities.
Published:
2007
Title:
Siesta in healthy adults and coronary mortality in the general population
Authors:
Naska, Androniki; Oikonomou, Eleni; Trichopoulou, Antonia; Psaltopoulou, Theodora; Trichopoulos, Dimitrios
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Midday napping (siesta) is common in populations with low coronary mortality, but epidemiological studies have generated conflicting results. We have undertaken an analysis based on a sizable cohort with a high frequency of napping and information on potentially confounding variables including reported comorbidity, physical activity, and diet. METHODS: Among participants in a general population cohort (the Greek European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition [EPIC] cohort), 23 681 individuals who at enrollment had no history of coronary heart disease, stroke, or cancer and had complete information on frequency and duration of midday napping, as well as on potentially confounding variables, were followed up for a mean of 6.32 years. Data were modeled through Cox regression, using time to coronary death and treating deaths from other causes as censoring events as outcomes. RESULTS: Among men and women, when controlling for potential confounders and using those not taking siesta as a referent category, those taking a siesta of any frequency or duration had a coronary mortality ratio (MR) of 0.66 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45-0.97). Specifically, those occasionally napping had a 12% lower coronary mortality (MR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.48-1.60), whereas those systematically napping had a 37% lower coronary mortality (MR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.42-0.93). Among men, the inverse association was stronger when the analysis was restricted to those who were currently working at enrollment, whereas among women, a similar analysis was not possible because of the small number of deaths. CONCLUSION: After controlling for potential confounders, siesta in apparently healthy individuals is inversely associated with coronary mortality, and the association was particularly evident among working men.
Published:
2007
Title:
Slaughterhouse: The Shocking Story of Greed, Neglect, and Inhumane Treatment Inside the U.S. Meat Industry
Authors:
Eisnitz, Gail A
Abstract:
Published:
2007
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