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Title:
Subendothelial lipoprotein retention as the initiating process in atherosclerosis: Update and therapeutic implications
Authors:
Tabas, Ira; Williams, Kevin Jon; Borén, Jan
Abstract:
The key initiating process in atherogenesis is the subendothelial retention of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins. Local biological responses to these retained lipoproteins, including a chronic and maladaptive macrophage- and T-cell-dominated inflammatory response, promote subsequent lesion development. The most effective therapy against atherothrombotic cardiovascular disease to date–low density lipoprotein-lowering drugs–is based on the principle that decreasing circulating apolipoprotein B lipoproteins decreases the probability that they will enter and be retained in the subendothelium. Ongoing improvements in this area include more aggressive lowering of low-density lipoprotein and other atherogenic lipoproteins in the plasma and initiation of low-density lipoprotein-lowering therapy at an earlier age in at-risk individuals. Potential future therapeutic approaches include attempts to block the interaction of apolipoprotein B lipoproteins with the specific subendothelial matrix molecules that mediate retention and to interfere with accessory molecules within the arterial wall that promote retention such as lipoprotein lipase, secretory sphingomyelinase, and secretory phospholipase A2. Although not the primary focus of this review, therapeutic strategies that target the proatherogenic responses to retained lipoproteins and that promote the removal of atherogenic components of retained lipoproteins also hold promise. The finding that certain human populations of individuals who maintain lifelong low plasma levels of apolipoprotein B lipoproteins have an approximately 90% decreased risk of coronary artery disease gives hope that our further understanding of the pathogenesis of this leading killer could lead to its eradication.
Published:
2007
Title:
The A TO Z weight loss study is a flawed attempt to evaluate different nutritional life styles
Authors:
Esselstyn, Caldwell B.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
The archaeology of Australia's tropical rainforests
Authors:
Cosgrove, R.; Field, J.; Ferrier, A.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
The archaeology of Australia's tropical rainforests
Authors:
Cosgrove, R., J. Field, A. Ferrier
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Toward an integral recovery model for drug and alcohol addiction
Authors:
Dupuy, John; Morelli, M.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Vegetable diseases: a colour handbook
Authors:
Koike, Steven T.; Gladders, Peter; Paulus, Albert O.
Abstract:
Published:
2007
Title:
Waon Therapy Improves Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors:
Tei, Chuwa; Shinsato, Takuro; Miyata, Masaaki; Kihara, Takashi; Hamasaki, Shuichi
Abstract:
To the Editor: We developed a form of thermal therapy, namely “Waon therapy” (soothing warm therapy) ([1][1]), which differs from the traditional sauna, and demonstrated that the repeated use of a dry sauna at 60°C improves hemodynamics and ameliorates symptoms and vascular function in patients
Published:
2007
Title:
Earth Mounds in Northern Australia: A Review
Authors:
Brockwell, Sally
Abstract:
Although earth mounds are a common archaeological feature of the northern Australian coastal plains, there has been little systematic investigation of them. This paper aims to redress the balance by reviewing and synthesising investigations into earth mounds in northern Australia. I examine several themes raised in the literature that are relevant to research on earth mounds in relation to a number of case studies from northern Australia. These include location, morphology, origins, chronology and the role of mounds in the wider context of settlement systems. I conclude that earth mounds in northern Australia can be divided into two distinct types, coastal/estuarine and freshwater. Both types proliferated in the late Holocene and represent seasonally occupied sites at the junction of a number of resource zones that may also have had social signifi cance as territorial markers.
Published:
2006-12
Title:
Statistical model for predicting non-heme iron bioavailability from vegetarian meals
Authors:
Chiplonkar, Shashi A.; Agte, Vaishali V.
Abstract:
Availability of non-heme iron has been extensively discussed when meals comprise heme as well as non-heme iron, but seldom so for exclusively vegetarian meals. The present study aimed to develop a statistical model for predicting non-heme iron availability from a composite vegetarian meal. Radioisotopic measurements of in vitro iron dialyzability of 208 out of 274 meals representing vegetarian diets from Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America and the meal contents of iron, zinc, copper, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, riboflavin, thiamin, folic acid, tannic acid, fiber and degraded phytate forms (IP6-IP1) were used for development of the model. A multiple regression model weighted for calorie contents was developed for the percentage iron dialyzability with the possible predictors as meal contents along with plausible interaction terms. The model was validated with in vitro iron dialyzability of 66 meals and in vivo iron absorption in five ileostomized adults. Application of the model was demonstrated using data on the daily dietary intake of 215 young adults whose hemoglobin levels were estimated twice in 3 weeks. Weighted multiple regression model was: ln(% Fe dialyzability)=1.340-0.259xln(IP2 [mg])+0.188xln(IP3 [mg])-0.278xln(IP5 [mg])+0.0912xln(ascorbic acid [mg])+0.06693xln(tannins [mg])+0.09552xln(beta-carotene [microg])+0.137xln(hemicellulose [g]) (P
Published:
2006-12
Title:
Thyrotoxicosis and thyroid storm
Authors:
Nayak, Bindu; Burman, Kenneth
Abstract:
Thyroid storm represents the extreme manifestation of thyrotoxicosis as a true endocrine emergency. Although Grave's disease is the most common underlying disorder in thyroid storm, there is usually a precipitating event or condition that transform the patient into life-threatening thyrotoxicosis. Treatment of thyroid storm involves decreasing new hormone synthesis, inhibiting the release of thyroid hormone, and blocking the peripheral effects of thyroid hormone. This multidrug, therapeutic approach uses thionamides, iodine, beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists, corticosteroids in certain circumstances, and supportive therapy. Certain conditions may warrant the use of alternative therapy with cholestyramine, lithium carbonate, or potassium perchlorate. After the critical illness of thyroid storm subsides, definitive treatment of the underlying thyrotoxicosis can be planned.
Published:
2006-12
Title:
[Vegetarian nutrition: preventive potential and possible risks. Part 2: animal foods and recommendations]
Authors:
Ströhle, Alexander; Waldmann, Annika; Wolters, Maike; Hahn, Andreas
Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: As shown in the first part of this article, consuming high amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts can lower the risk for several chronic diseases. However, the relevance of animal foods consumed within a vegetarian diet is less well-known. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We followed a nutritive and a metabolic-epidemiological approach to obtain dietary recommendations. A MEDLINE-research was performed for all animal food groups relevant with a vegetarian diet (key words: "eggs", "milk", "dietary pattern" "vegetarian diet", "cancer", "cardiovascular disease", "diabetes mellitus", "osteoporosis", "vitamin D", "vitamin B(12)", "iron", "iodine"). All relevant food groups were characterized regarding their nutrient content and rated with respect to the available metabolic-epidemiological evidence. RESULTS: Based on the evidence criteria of the WHO/FAO, colorectal cancer risk reduction by a high intake of milk and milk products is assessed as probable, while a higher risk of prostate and ovarial carcinomas is also probable. The evidence of a risk-increasing effect of eggs relating to cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer and breast cancer is assessed as probable. As the data of prospective cohort studies suggest, a prudent diet pattern characterized high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts is associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes mellitus type 2. In contrast, there is no overall association between prudent diet pattern and risk of breast cancer or colorectal cancer. The critical key nutrients for vegetarians are vitamin D and B12, iodine and iron. CONCLUSION: For the first time evidence based dietary recommendations were provided for persons on a vegetarian diet in the D-A-CH-region.
Published:
2006-12
Title:
A fourth hominin skull from Dmanisi, Georgia
Authors:
Lordkipanidze, David; Vekua, Abesalom; Ferring, Reid; Rightmire, G Philip; Zollikofer, Christoph P E; Ponce de León, Marcia S; Agusti, Jordi; Kiladze, Gocha; Mouskhelishvili, Alexander; Nioradze, Medea; Tappen, Martha
Abstract:
Newly discovered Homo remains, stone artifacts, and animal fossils from Dmanisi, Republic of Georgia, provide a basis for better understanding patterns of hominin evolution and behavior in Eurasia ca. 1.77 million years ago. Here we describe a fourth skull that is nearly complete, lacking all but one of its teeth at the time of death. Both the maxillae and the mandible exhibit extensive bone loss due to resorption. This individual is similar to others from the site but supplies information about variation in brain size and craniofacial anatomy within the Dmanisi paleodeme. Although this assemblage presents numerous primitive characters, the Dmanisi skulls are best accommodated within the species H. erectus. On anatomical grounds, it is argued that the relatively small-brained and lightly built Dmanisi hominins may be ancestral to African and Far Eastern branches of H. erectus showing more derived morphology.
Published:
2006-11
Title:
New marker of colon cancer risk associated with heme intake: 1,4-dihydroxynonane mercapturic acid
Authors:
Pierre, Fabrice; Peiro, Géraldine; Taché, Sylviane; Cross, Amanda J.; Bingham, Sheila A.; Gasc, Nicole; Gottardi, Gaëlle; Corpet, Denis E.; Guéraud, Françoise
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Red meat consumption is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. Animal studies show that heme, found in red meat, promotes preneoplastic lesions in the colon, probably due to the oxidative properties of this compound. End products of lipid peroxidation, such as 4-hydroxynonenal metabolites or 8-iso-prostaglandin-F(2)alpha (8-iso-PGF(2)alpha), could reflect this oxidative process and could be used as biomarkers of colon cancer risk associated with heme intake. METHODS: We measured urinary excretion of 8-iso-PGF(2)alpha and 1,4-dihydroxynonane mercapturic acid (DHN-MA), the major urinary metabolite of 4-hydroxynonenal, in three studies. In a short-term and a carcinogenesis long-term animal study, we fed rats four different diets (control, chicken, beef, and blood sausage as a high heme diet). In a randomized crossover human study, four different diets were fed (a 60 g/d red meat baseline diet, 120 g/d red meat, baseline diet supplemented with heme iron, and baseline diet supplemented with non-heme iron). RESULTS: DHN-MA excretion increased dramatically in rats fed high heme diets, and the excretion paralleled the number of preneoplastic lesions in azoxymethane initiated rats (P < 0.0001). In the human study, the heme supplemented diet resulted in a 2-fold increase in DHN-MA (P < 0.001). Urinary 8-iso-PGF(2)alpha increased moderately in rats fed a high heme diet (P
Published:
2006-11
Title:
A randomised control trial comparing lifestyle groups, individual counselling and written information in the management of weight and health outcomes over 12 months
Authors:
Ash, S.; Reeves, M.; Bauer, J.; Dover, T.; Vivanti, A.; Leong, C.; Sullivan, T. O'Moore; Capra, S.
Abstract:
To investigate the effect of an 8-week group-based cognitive behaviour therapy lifestyle intervention with monthly follow-up to 6 months and further follow up at 12 months on change in weight and other weight-related variables, change in physical activity and change in health and well being compared to individualised dietetic treatment or giving an information booklet only (BO). A randomised controlled trial of two intervention groups, a group-based cognitive behaviour therapy lifestyle intervention, Fat Booters Incorporated – (FBI) and individualised dietetic treatment (IDT) and control group receiving an information booklet only (BO). The intervention groups involved weekly contact for 8 weeks with monthly follow-up to 6 months and further follow-up at 12 months, conducted in real practice setting. A total of 176 adults with body mass index (BMI)>27 kg/m2, mean (±s.d.) age 48±13 years, mean BMI 34±5.5 kg/m2. Weight, percent body fat, waist circumference, physical activity, health status, self-efficacy and satisfaction with life were measured at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. A statistically significant difference between groups was observed for weight change over time (P=0.05). The change in weight (mean±s.e.) for the FBI group was significantly greater than the BO group at 3 and 12 months (−2.8±0.7 compared to −1.0±0.6 kg, P<0.05 and −2.9±0.9 compared to +0.5±0.9 kg, P<0.005, respectively). Change in weight in the IDT group did not differ from the FBI group at any time point. For all groups, waist circumference was significantly less than baseline at all time points (P
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Bariatric surgery in adolescents: an update
Authors:
Xanthakos, Stavra A; Daniels, Stephen R; Inge, Thomas H
Abstract:
Bariatric surgery, although not a cure for obesity, can help selected extremely obese adolescents achieve significant weight loss and improvement of obesity-related comorbidities, in conjunction with continued dietary and behavioral interventions. This article summarizes the current guidelines for selection of adolescent candidates for bariatric surgery and discusses the types of bariatric procedures presently available for this age group. Data on the complications and outcomes of bariatric surgery in this special population are reviewed.
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Dietary intakes of fat and antioxidant vitamins are predictors of subclinical inflammation in overweight Swiss children
Authors:
Aeberli I; Molinari L; Spinas G; Lehmann R; L'Allemand D; Zimmermann MB
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: In obese children, subclinical inflammation is often present and is correlated with the metabolic syndrome. Dietary factors, such as fatty acids and antioxidants, potentially modulate the association between adiposity and subclinical inflammation, but few data are available in children. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine whether dietary fat or antioxidant intakes influence circulating tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin 6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and leptin concentrations in overweight children. DESIGN: In a cross-sectional study of 6-14-y-old normal-weight (n = 33), overweight (n = 19), and obese (n = 27) Swiss children, nutritional intakes were assessed from two 24-h dietary recalls and a 1-d dietary record. Percentage body fat from skinfold thicknesses, waist-hip ratio, and blood pressure were measured. Fasting blood samples were collected for the measurement of insulin, glucose, HDL-cholesterol, triacylglycerol, CRP, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and leptin concentrations. RESULTS: CRP, IL-6, and leptin increased significantly (P < 0.02) with increasing adiposity, independent of age; TNF-alpha did not increase. Total dietary fat and the percentage of energy from fat were significant predictors of CRP concentration, independent of body mass index (P < 0.05). Meat intake was a significant predictor of IL-6 and leptin, independent of body mass index (P < 0.05). Intakes of antioxidant vitamins (vitamins E and C and beta-carotene) were significant predictors of leptin (P
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Dose–response relationship of duloxetine in placebo-controlled clinical trials in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors:
Bech, Per; Kajdasz, Daniel K.; Porsdal, Vibeke
Abstract:
Rationale The optimal dose for achieving the maximum antidepressive effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-noradrenalin reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) remains a controversial issue. The varying sensitivity of scales that measure the severity of depression is one of the many factors affecting the evaluation of the dose–response relationship with antidepressants.
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Metabolic syndrome is associated with greater histologic severity, higher carbohydrate, and lower fat diet in patients with NAFLD
Authors:
Kang, Hellan; Greenson, Joel K.; Omo, Jason T.; Chao, Cewin; Peterman, Debra; Anderson, Lilian; Foess-Wood, Laura; Sherbondy, Mary A.; Conjeevaram, Hari S.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance (IR) is a key component of metabolic syndrome. The aim was to determine the dietary composition, physical activity, and histologic severity between NAFLD patients with and without metabolic syndrome. METHODS: Ninety-one patients with NAFLD completed the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire and the Paffenbarger Physical Activity Questionnaire. IR was assessed by the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index. Metabolic syndrome was defined by the ATP III clinical definition. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) Clinical Network Scoring System was used to determine the histologic severity of NAFLD. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients (34%) had metabolic syndrome. Patients with metabolic syndrome had a higher HOMA index (7.66 vs 4.45, p = 0.04), and consumed more carbohydrates (51%vs 45%, p = 0.03) and less fat (34%vs 40%, p = 0.01) compared with those without metabolic syndrome; total daily calorie, protein consumption, and physical activity were similar between the two groups. Patients with metabolic syndrome had higher scores for steatosis (2.0 +/- 0.8 vs 1.37 +/- 1, p = 0.02), NASH activity (4.13 +/- 1.4 vs 3.13 +/- 1.7, p = 0.004), and global NASH score (5.9 +/- 1.7 vs 4.4 +/- 2.3, p = 0.0006) compared with those without metabolic syndrome. When controlled for other factors including dietary composition and physical activity, the presence of metabolic syndrome was a significant risk factor for global NASH severity in addition to HOMA index and female gender. CONCLUSION: Metabolic syndrome in patients with NAFLD is associated with a diet containing more carbohydrate and less fat and greater histologic severity. The role of a carbohydrate-restricted diet in decreasing the risk for metabolic syndrome and histologic severity should be assessed in patients with NAFLD.
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Precocious puberty
Authors:
Muir, Andrew
Abstract:
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Summary of American Heart Association Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations revision 2006
Authors:
Lichtenstein, Alice H.; Appel, Lawrence J.; Brands, Michael; Carnethon, Mercedes; Daniels, Stephen; Franch, Harold A.; Franklin, Barry; Kris-Etherton, Penny; Harris, William S.; Howard, Barbara; Karanja, Njeri; Lefevre, Michael; Rudel, Lawrence; Sacks, Frank; Van Horn, Linda; Winston, Mary; Wylie-Rosett, Judith
Abstract:
Published:
2006-10
Title:
The effect of meat consumption on body odor attractiveness
Authors:
Havlicek, Jan; Lenochova, Pavlina
Abstract:
Axillary body odor is individually specific and potentially a rich source of information about its producer. Odor individuality partly results from genetic individuality, but the influence of ecological factors such as eating habits are another main source of odor variability. However, we know very little about how particular dietary components shape our body odor. Here we tested the effect of red meat consumption on body odor attractiveness. We used a balanced within-subject experimental design. Seventeen male odor donors were on "meat" or "nonmeat" diet for 2 weeks wearing axillary pads to collect body odor during the final 24 h of the diet. Fresh odor samples were assessed for their pleasantness, attractiveness, masculinity, and intensity by 30 women not using hormonal contraceptives. We repeated the same procedure a month later with the same odor donors, each on the opposite diet than before. Results of repeated measures analysis of variance showed that the odor of donors when on the nonmeat diet was judged as significantly more attractive, more pleasant, and less intense. This suggests that red meat consumption has a negative impact on perceived body odor hedonicity.
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Veganism and osteoporosis: A review of the current literature
Authors:
Smith, Annabelle M
Abstract:
The purpose of this review is to examine the current literature regarding calcium andVitamin D deficiencies in vegan diets and the possible relationship to low bone mineral density and incidence for fracture. Prominent databases were searched for original research publications providing data capable of answering these questions: (i) Do vegans have lower-thanrecommended levels of calcium/Vitamin D? (ii) Do vegans have lower bone mineral density than their non-vegan counterparts? (iii) Are vegans at a greater risk for fractures than non-vegans? The findings gathered consistently support the hypothesis that vegans do have lower bone mineral density than their non-vegan counterparts. However, the evidence regarding calcium,Vitamin D and fracture incidence is inconclusive. More research is needed to definitively answer these questions and to address the effects of such deficiencies on the medical and socioeconomic aspects of life.
Published:
2006-10
Title:
[Vegetarian nutrition: Preventive potential and possible risks. Part 1: Plant foods]
Authors:
Ströhle, Alexander; Waldmann, Annika; Wolters, Maike; Hahn, Andreas
Abstract:
Today vegetarian nutrition is more accepted and widespread in Europe than in former years. For a long time scientific research on vegetarian diets has focused mostly on malnutrition, whereas nowadays research centers increasingly on the preventive potential of plant-based diets. We followed a nutritive and a metabolic-epidemiological approach to obtain dietary recommendations. A MEDLINE research was performed for all plant food groups relevant for a vegetarian diet (key words: all relevant food groups, "vegetarian diet", "chronic disease", "cancer", "cardiovascular disease", "diabetes mellitus", "osteoporosis"). All relevant food groups were characterized regarding their nutrient content and rated with respect to the available metabolic-epidemiological evidence. Based on the evidence criteria of the WHO/FAO, cancer risk reduction by a high intake of vegetables and fruits is assessed as probable or possible, while a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease is convincing and a lowered risk of osteoporosis is probable. The evidence of a risk reducing effect of whole grain relating to colorectal cancer is assessed as possible, whereas it is probable relating to cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus type 2. There is an insufficient risk-reducing effect of legumes like soja relating to epithelial tumours and cardiovascular disease. The evidence of a risk-reducing effect of nuts to cardiovascular disease is assessed as probable, and in relation to cholelithiasis and diabetes mellitus type 2 as possible and insufficient, respectively. In conclusion, high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts can lower the risk for several chronic diseases.
Published:
2006-10
Title:
Adoption of a plant-based diet by patients with recurrent prostate cancer
Authors:
Nguyen, Jacquelyn Y.; Major, Jacqueline M.; Knott, Cynthia J.; Freeman, Karen M.; Downs, Tracy M.; Saxe, Gordon A.
Abstract:
The Western diet has been associated with prostate cancer incidence as well as risk of disease progression after treatment. Conversely, plant-based diets have been associated with decreased risks. A pilot clinical trial of a 6-month dietary change and stress reduction intervention for asymptomatic, hormonally untreated patients experiencing a consistently rising PSA level, the first sign of recurrence of prostate cancer after surgery or radiation therapy, was conducted to investigate the level of intake of plant-based foods and the relationship between intake and the change in the rate of PSA rise. A pre-post design was employed in which each patient served as his own control. In this multifaceted intervention, patients and their spouses were encouraged to adopt and maintain a plant-based diet. The prestudy rate of PSA rise (from the time of posttreatment recurrence to the start of the study) was ascertained by review of patients' medical records. Dietary assessments were performed and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels ascertained at baseline, prior to the start of intervention, and at 3 and 6 months. Changes in numbers of servings of plant-based food groups were calculated and compared with rates of PSA rise over the corresponding time intervals. Median intake of whole grains increased from 1.7 servings/d at baseline to 6.9 and 5.0 servings/d at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Median intake of vegetables increased from 2.8 servings/d at baseline to 5.0 and 4.8 servings/d at 3 and 6 months, respectively. The rate of PSA rise decreased when comparing the prestudy period (0.059) to the period from 0 to 3 months (-0.002, P
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Dietary intake of vitamin B6 and concentration of vitamin B6 in blood samples of German vegans
Authors:
Waldmann, A.; Dörr, B.; Koschizke, J. W.; Leitzmann, C.; Hahn, A.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to evaluate the dietary vitamin B6 intake and determine the vitamin B6 concentration in blood samples of German vegans. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study with 33 examination sites all over Germany. Subjects Ninety-three vegans (50 females) with a mean (+/- standard deviation (SD)) age of 43.7 +/- 15.7 years who took no vitamin supplements. METHODS: Dietary intake was assed using a semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Erythrocyte aspartate aminotransferase activity coefficient (EAST-AC) was calculated as the ratio of stimulated (pyridoxal 5'-phosphate added) to unstimulated activity in blood samples that were provided after an overnight fast. RESULTS: Mean +/- SD vitamin B6 intake was 2.83 +/- 0.98 mg day(-1) and mean +/- SD protein intake was 56.6 +/- 21.7 g day(-1). Of the participants 4% showed vitamin B6 intakes lower than daily recommended intakes for Germany, 16% showed EAST-AC > 1.85, and a further 58% showed EAST-AC of 1.5-1-85. Moderate vegans were affected to a lesser extent than strict vegans. None of the established confounders was a significant predictor of EAST-AC. In logistic regression analyses the contribution of nutriments and cereals to pyridoxine intake was the only predictor of EAST-AC classified as 1.85, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In spite of the high total intake of vitamin B6, an adequate concentration in blood samples could not be realised for a majority of the participants. Due to the health implications of a marginal pyridoxine status, vegans should be encouraged to include foods with a high bioavailability of pyridoxine, such as beans, lentils and bananas, in the daily diet.
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Identification of marker proteins for the adulteration of meat products with soybean proteins by multidimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors:
Leitner, Alexander; Castro-Rubio, Florentina; Marina, Maria Luisa; Lindner, Wolfgang
Abstract:
Soybean proteins are frequently added to processed meat products for economic reasons and to improve their functional properties. Monitoring of the addition of soybean protein to meat products is of high interest due to the existence of regulations forbidding or limiting the amount of soybean proteins that can be added during the processing of meat products. We have used chromatographic prefractionation on the protein level by perfusion liquid chromatography to isolate peaks of interest from extracts of soybean protein isolate (SPI) and of meat products containing SPI. After enzymatic digestion using trypsin, the collected fractions were analyzed by nanoflow liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Several variants and subunits of the major seed proteins, glycinin and beta-conglycinin, were identified in SPI, along with two other proteins. In soybean-protein-containing meat samples, different glycinin A subunits could be identified from the peak discriminating between samples with and without soybean proteins added. Among those, glycinin G4 subunit A4 was consistently found in all samples. Consequently, this protein (subunit) can be used as a target for new analytical techniques in the course of identifying the addition of soybean protein to meat products.
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Neuroprotective and disease-modifying effects of the ketogenic diet
Authors:
Gasior, Maciej; Rogawski, Michael A.; Hartman, Adam L.
Abstract:
The ketogenic diet has been in clinical use for over 80 years, primarily for the symptomatic treatment of epilepsy. A recent clinical study has raised the possibility that exposure to the ketogenic diet may confer long-lasting therapeutic benefits for patients with epilepsy. Moreover, there is evidence from uncontrolled clinical trials and studies in animal models that the ketogenic diet can provide symptomatic and disease-modifying activity in a broad range of neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, and may also be protective in traumatic brain injury and stroke. These observations are supported by studies in animal models and isolated cells that show that ketone bodies, especially beta-hydroxybutyrate, confer neuroprotection against diverse types of cellular injury. This review summarizes the experimental, epidemiological and clinical evidence indicating that the ketogenic diet could have beneficial effects in a broad range of brain disorders characterized by the death of neurons. Although the mechanisms are not yet well defined, it is plausible that neuroprotection results from enhanced neuronal energy reserves, which improve the ability of neurons to resist metabolic challenges, and possibly through other actions including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. As the underlying mechanisms become better understood, it will be possible to develop alternative strategies that produce similar or even improved therapeutic effects without the need for exposure to an unpalatable and unhealthy, high-fat diet.
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Potential attenuation of disease progression in recurrent prostate cancer with plant-based diet and stress reduction
Authors:
Saxe, Gordon A.; Major, Jacqueline M.; Nguyen, Jacquelyn Y.; Freeman, Karen M.; Downs, Tracy M.; Salem, Carol E.
Abstract:
A rising level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), after primary surgery or radiation therapy, is the hallmark of recurrent prostate cancer and is often the earliest sign of extraprostatic spread in patients who are otherwise asymptomatic. While hormonal therapy may slightly extend survival in a minority of patients, it is not curative and produces side effects including hot flashes, decreased libido, and loss of bone mass. Alternatively, dietary modification may offer an important tool for clinical management. Epidemiologic studies have associated the Western diet not only with prostate cancer incidence but also with a greater risk of disease progression after treatment. Conversely, many elements of plant-based diets have been associated with reduced risk of progression. However, dietary modification can be stressful and difficult to implement. We therefore conducted a 6-month pilot clinical trial to investigate whether adoption of a plant-based diet, reinforced by stress management training, could attenuate the rate of further PSA rise. Urologists at the University of California, San Diego, and San Diego Veterans Affairs Medical Centers recruited 14 patients with recurrent prostate cancer. A pre-post design was employed in which each patient served as his own control. Rates of PSA rise were ascertained for each patient for the following periods: from the time of posttreatment recurrence up to the start of the study (prestudy) and from the time immediately preceding the intervention (baseline) to the end of the intervention (0-6 months). There was a significant decrease in the rate of PSA rise from prestudy to 0 to 6 months (P
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Relationship between HbA1c and indices of glucose tolerance derived from a standardized meal test in newly diagnosed treatment naive subjects with Type 2 diabetes
Authors:
Peter, R.; Luzio, S. D.; Dunseath, G.; Pauvaday, V.; Mustafa, N.; Owens, D. R.
Abstract:
AIMS: To determine the relationship between HbA1c and other indices of glycaemic status derived during a standardized meal tolerance test (MTT) in newly diagnosed treatment-naive subjects with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM). METHODS: T2DM subjects (n = 262) consumed a standard MTT in the morning after a 10-h overnight fast. Frequent samples for plasma glucose (PG) were collected over the 4-h test period. The relationship between HbA1c and other glycaemic indices derived from the MTT were explored. The postprandial glucose exposure was calculated as the area under the incremental plasma glucose curve above the fasting level for the test period (AUC1). Excess hyperglycaemia was calculated as the AUC0-4 h above the arbitrary PG concentrations of 6.0 mmol/l (AUC2) and 5.5 mmol/l (AUC3), respectively [upper limit of fasting normoglycaemia according to World Health Organization (WHO) and American Diabetes Association (ADA), respectively]. Fasting hyperglycaemia was also estimated, being the difference between each of the above and the postprandial excursion. The participants were divided into three subgroups according to HbA1c (Group 1, 9.0%) and the relative contribution calculated of the postprandial glucose and fasting hyperglycaemia to the excess hyperglycaemia above the designated international thresholds for fasting plasma glucose. RESULTS: HbA1c was more strongly correlated with the fasting plasma glucose (r = 0.85, P
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Treatment of familial male-limited precocious puberty with bicalutamide and anastrozole
Authors:
Kreher, Nerissa C; Pescovitz, Ora Hirsch; Delameter, Paul; Tiulpakov, Anatoly; Hochberg, Ze'ev
Abstract:
This report describes the use of bicalutamide and anastrozole in two subjects with familial male-limited precocious puberty. Clinical improvements include decreased facial acne and pubic hair. Most importantly, a marked decrease in growth velocity and skeletal advancement has been achieved.
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Weight gain over 5 years in 21,966 meat-eating, fish-eating, vegetarian, and vegan men and women in EPIC-Oxford
Authors:
Rosell, M.; Appleby, P.; Spencer, E.; Key, T.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Cross-sectional studies have shown that vegetarians and vegans are leaner than omnivores. Longitudinal data on weight gain in these groups are sparse. OBJECTIVE: We investigated changes in weight and body mass index (BMI) over a 5-year period in meat-eating, fish-eating, vegetarian, and vegan men and women in the UK. DESIGN: Self-reported anthropometric, dietary and lifestyle data were collected at baseline in 1994-1999 and at follow-up in 2000-2003; the median duration of follow-up was 5.3 years. SUBJECTS: A total of 21,966 men and women participating in Oxford arm of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition aged 20-69 years at baseline. RESULTS: The mean annual weight gain was 389 (SD 884) g in men and 398 (SD 892) g in women. The differences between meat-eaters, fish-eaters, vegetarians and vegans in age-adjusted mean BMI at follow-up were similar to those seen at baseline. Multivariable-adjusted mean weight gain was somewhat smaller in vegans (284 g in men and 303 g in women, P<0.05 for both sexes) and fish-eaters (338 g, women only, P fish-eater --> vegetarian --> vegan showed the smallest mean annual weight gain of 242 (95% CI 133-351) and 301 (95% CI 238-365) g, respectively. CONCLUSION: During 5 years follow-up, the mean annual weight gain in a health-conscious cohort in the UK was approximately 400 g. Small differences in weight gain were observed between meat-eaters, fish-eaters, vegetarians and vegans. Lowest weight gain was seen among those who, during follow-up, had changed to a diet containing fewer animal food.
Published:
2006-09
Title:
Mitochondrial biogenesis in the anticonvulsant mechanism of the ketogenic diet
Authors:
Bough, Kristopher J.; Wetherington, Jonathon; Hassel, Bjørnar; Pare, Jean Francois; Gawryluk, Jeremy W.; Greene, James G.; Shaw, Renee; Smith, Yoland; Geiger, Jonathan D.; Dingledine, Raymond J.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: The full anticonvulsant effect of the ketogenic diet (KD) can require weeks to develop in rats, suggesting that altered gene expression is involved. The KD typically is used in pediatric epilepsies, but is effective also in adolescents and adults. Our goal was to use microarray and complementary technologies in adolescent rats to understand its anticonvulsant effect. METHODS: Microarrays were used to define patterns of gene expression in the hippocampus of rats fed a KD or control diet for 3 weeks. Hippocampi from control- and KD-fed rats were also compared for the number of mitochondrial profiles in electron micrographs, the levels of selected energy metabolites and enzyme activities, and the effect of low glucose on synaptic transmission. RESULTS: Most striking was a coordinated upregulation of all (n = 34) differentially regulated transcripts encoding energy metabolism enzymes and 39 of 42 transcripts encoding mitochondrial proteins, which was accompanied by an increased number of mitochondrial profiles, a higher phosphocreatine/creatine ratio, elevated glutamate levels, and decreased glycogen levels. Consistent with increased energy reserves, synaptic transmission in hippocampal slices from KD-fed animals was resistant to low glucose. INTERPRETATION: These data show that a calorie-restricted KD enhances brain metabolism. We propose an anticonvulsant mechanism of the KD involving mitochondrial biogenesis leading to enhanced alternative energy stores.
Published:
2006-08
Title:
Resurrection of vitamin D deficiency and rickets
Authors:
Holick, Michael F
Abstract:
The epidemic scourge of rickets in the 19th century was caused by vitamin D deficiency due to inadequate sun exposure and resulted in growth retardation, muscle weakness, skeletal deformities, hypocalcemia, tetany, and seizures. The encouragement of sensible sun exposure and the fortification of milk with vitamin D resulted in almost complete eradication of the disease. Vitamin D (where D represents D2 or D3) is biologically inert and metabolized in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], the major circulating form of vitamin D that is used to determine vitamin D status. 25(OH)D is activated in the kidneys to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], which regulates calcium, phosphorus, and bone metabolism. Vitamin D deficiency has again become an epidemic in children, and rickets has become a global health issue. In addition to vitamin D deficiency, calcium deficiency and acquired and inherited disorders of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus metabolism cause rickets. This review summarizes the role of vitamin D in the prevention of rickets and its importance in the overall health and welfare of infants and children.
Published:
2006-08
Title:
State of the art in hair analysis for detection of drug and alcohol abuse
Authors:
Pragst, Fritz; Balikova, Marie A.
Abstract:
Hair differs from other materials used for toxicological analysis because of its unique ability to serve as a long-term storage of foreign substances with respect to the temporal appearance in blood. Over the last 20 years, hair testing has gained increasing attention and recognition for the retrospective investigation of chronic drug abuse as well as intentional or unintentional poisoning. In this paper, we review the physiological basics of hair growth, mechanisms of substance incorporation, analytical methods, result interpretation and practical applications of hair analysis for drugs and other organic substances. Improved chromatographic-mass spectrometric techniques with increased selectivity and sensitivity and new methods of sample preparation have improved detection limits from the ng/mg range to below pg/mg. These technical advances have substantially enhanced the ability to detect numerous drugs and other poisons in hair. For example, it was possible to detect previous administration of a single very low dose in drug-facilitated crimes. In addition to its potential application in large scale workplace drug testing and driving ability examination, hair analysis is also used for detection of gestational drug exposure, cases of criminal liability of drug addicts, diagnosis of chronic intoxication and in postmortem toxicology. Hair has only limited relevance in therapy compliance control. Fatty acid ethyl esters and ethyl glucuronide in hair have proven to be suitable markers for alcohol abuse. Hair analysis for drugs is, however, not a simple routine procedure and needs substantial guidelines throughout the testing process, i.e., from sample collection to results interpretation.
Published:
2006-08
Title:
Variable presentation of precocious puberty associated with the D564G mutation of the LHCGR gene in children with testotoxicosis
Authors:
Jeha, George S; Lowenthal, Elizabeth D; Chan, Wai-Yee; Wu, Shao-Ming; Karaviti, Lefkothea P
Abstract:
We report on a family with familial male-limited precocious puberty (FMPP) due to a D564G mutation of the LHCGR gene. Family members show a varied phenotypic expression from severe precocity unresponsive to therapy with compromise of the predicted final height in some members, to attainment of tall final stature in other members who never received medical treatment. DNA amplification and sequencing of exon 11 of the LHCGR gene was done for the three affected male members and their mother. DNA analysis revealed a D564G mutation in the third cytoplasmic loop of the LHCGR receptor. All three males had precocious puberty with elevated testosterone levels. The index case developed central precocious puberty and evidence of compromised final height while on therapy. In contrast, the untreated older siblings attained a tall final height. This report underscores the possibility that the effects of the mutant luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor on phenotypic expression of FMPP, such as adult final height, are modified by other factors.
Published:
2006-08
Title:
Fatty acid composition of habitual omnivore and vegetarian diets
Authors:
Mann, Neil; Pirotta, Yvonne; O'Connell, Stella; Li, Duo; Kelly, Fiona; Sinclair, Andy
Abstract:
High-fat diets are implicated in the onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, and obesity. Large intakes of saturated and trans FA, together with low levels of PUFA, particularly long-chain (LC) omega-3 (n-3) PUFA, appear to have the greatest impact on the development of CVD. A high n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio is also considered a marker of elevated risk of CVD, though little accurate data on dietary intake is available. A new Australian food composition database that reports FA in foods to two decimal places was used to assess intakes of FA in four habitual dietary groups. Analysis using the database found correlations between the dietary intakes of LC n-3 PUFA and the plasma phospholipid LC n-3 PUFA concentrations of omnivore and vegetarian subjects. High meat-eaters (HME), who consumed large amounts of food generally, had significantly higher LC n-3 PUFA intakes (0.29 g/d) than moderate meat-eaters (MME) (0.14 g/d), whose intakes in turn were significantly higher than those of ovolacto-vegetarians or vegans (both 0.01 g/d). The saturated FA intake of MME subjects (typical of adult male Australians) was not different from ovolacto-vegetarian intakes, whereas n-6:n-3 intake ratios in vegetarians were significantly higher than in omnivores. Thus, accurate dietary and plasma FA analyses suggest that regular moderate consumption of meat and fish maintains a plasma FA profile possibly more conducive to good health.
Published:
2006-07
Title:
Public views of the benefits and barriers to the consumption of a plant-based diet
Authors:
Lea, E. J.; Crawford, D.; Worsley, A.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine consumers' perceived benefits and barriers to the consumption of a plant-based diet. DESIGN: Mail survey that included questions on perceived benefits and barriers to the consumption of a plant-based diet. SETTING: Victoria, Australia. SUBJECTS: Four hundred and fifteen randomly selected Victorian adults. RESULTS: The main perceived barrier to adoption of a plant-based diet was a lack of information about plant-based diets (42% agreement). Sex, age and education differences were present in over a quarter of the barrier items. For example, non-university-educated respondents and older people were less willing to change their current eating pattern than were university educated and younger respondents. The main benefits associated with plant-based diets were health benefits, particularly decreased saturated fat intake (79% agreement), increased fibre intake (76%), and disease prevention (70%). Age, sex and education differences with regard to benefits were apparent, although sex differences were more important than age or education differences. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of respondents perceived there to be health benefits associated with the consumption of a plant-based diet. Compared with the proportion of respondents who agreed that there were particular benefits of eating a plant-based diet, perceived barriers were relatively low. An understanding of the perceived benefits and barriers of consuming a plant-based diet will help formulate strategies that aim to influence beliefs about plant foods, plant food consumption, and, ultimately, public health.
Published:
2006-07
Title:
Regulation of mitochondrial morphology through proteolytic cleavage of OPA1
Authors:
Ishihara, Naotada; Fujita, Yuu; Oka, Toshihiko; Mihara, Katsuyoshi; Kushnareva, Y.; Graber, S.; Kovacs, I.; Lee, WD. D; Waggoner, J.; Cui, J.; White, AD. D; Bossy, B.; Martinou, JC. C; Youle, RJ. J; Lipton, SA. A; Ellisman, MH. H; Perkins, GA. A; Bossy‐Wetzel, E.
Abstract:
The dynamin-like GTPase OPA1, a causal gene product of human dominant optic atrophy, functions in mitochondrial fusion and inner membrane remodeling. It has several splice variants and even a single variant is found as several processed forms, although their functional significance is unknown. In yeast, mitochondrial rhomboid protease regulates mitochondrial function and morphology through proteolytic cleavage of Mgm1, the yeast homolog of OPA1. We demonstrate that OPA1 variants are synthesized with a bipartite-type mitochondrial targeting sequence. During import, the matrix-targeting signal is removed and processed forms (L-isoforms) are anchored to the inner membrane in type I topology. L-isoforms undergo further processing in the matrix to produce S-isoforms. Knockdown of OPA1 induced mitochondrial fragmentation, whose network morphology was recovered by expression of L-isoform but not S-isoform, indicating that only L-isoform is fusion-competent. Dissipation of membrane potential, expression of m-AAA protease paraplegin, or induction of apoptosis stimulated this processing along with the mitochondrial fragmentation. Thus, mammalian mitochondrial function and morphology is regulated through processing of OPA1 in a DeltaPsi-dependent manner.
Published:
2006-07
Title:
Urinary flavonoids and phenolic acids as biomarkers of intake for polyphenol-rich foods
Authors:
Mennen, Louise I.; Sapinho, David; Ito, Hideyuki; Bertrais, Sandrine; Galan, Pilar; Hercberg, Serge; Scalbert, Augustin
Abstract:
Estimation of dietary intake of polyphenols is difficult, due to limited availability of food composition data and bias inherent to dietary assessment methods. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the associations between the intake of polyphenol-rich foods and the urinary excretion of several phenolic compounds and therefore explore whether these phenolic compounds could be used as a biomarker of intake. Fifty-three participants of the SU.VI.MAX study (a randomised primary-prevention trial evaluating the effect of daily antioxidant supplementation on chronic diseases) collected a 24 h urine and a spot urine sample and filled a dietary record during a 2 d period. Thirteen polyphenols and metabolites, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, m-coumaric acid, gallic acid, 4-O-methylgallic acid, quercetin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, hesperetin, naringenin, phloretin, enterolactone and enterodiol, were measured using HPLC-electrospray ionisation-MS-MS. In spot samples apple consumption was positively correlated to phloretin, grapefruit consumption to naringenin, orange to hesperetin, citrus fruit consumption to both naringenin and hesperetin, with r coefficients ranging from 0.31 to 0.57 (P < 0.05). The combination of fruits and/or fruit juices was positively correlated to gallic acid and 4-O-methylgallic acid, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, hesperetin, naringenin and phloretin (r 0.24-0.44, P < 0.05). Coffee consumption was positively correlated to caffeic and chlorogenic acids (r 0.29 and 0.63, P < 0.05 respectively). Black tea and wine consumption were positively correlated with gallic and 4-O-methylgallic acids (r 0.37-0.54, P
Published:
2006-07
Title:
Dietary acid-base balance, bone resorption, and calcium excretion
Authors:
Jajoo, Ramina; Song, Lingyi; Rasmussen, Helen; Harris, Susan S.; Dawson-Hughes, Bess
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: Metabolic studies reveal that acidogenic diets increase bone resorption acutely. This study was conducted to examine associations between diet-induced changes in net acid excretion (NAE) and changes in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), bone resorption, and calcium excretion over a longer period of 60 days. METHODS: Forty healthy older men and women were given 0.75 g/kg of protein as meat, 600 mg of calcium, and 400 IU of vitamin D3 daily and either cereal (acidogenic) or fruit and vegetable (alkalinogenic) foods as substitutes for some of the cereal in their usual diets. Blood and 24-hr urine measurements were made on days 14 (baseline), 44, and 74. RESULTS: In all subjects, change in renal NAE was correlated with changes in serum PTH (r = 0.358, P = 0.023), urinary N-telopeptide (NTX) (r = 0.367, P = 0.020), and urinary calcium excretion (rp = 0.381, P = 0.020, after adjustment for diet group, change in PTH, and change in sodium excretion). CONCLUSIONS: Diet changes that increase renal NAE are associated with increases in serum PTH, bone resorption, and calcium excretion over a 60-day period.
Published:
2006-06
Title:
Dietary patterns are associated with biochemical markers of inflammation and endothelial activation in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors:
Nettleton JA; Steffen LM; Mayer-Davis EJ; Jenny NS; Jiang R; Herrington DM; Jacobs DR Jr.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Dietary patterns may influence cardiovascular disease risk through effects on inflammation and endothelial activation. OBJECTIVE: We examined relations between dietary patterns and markers of inflammation and endothelial activation. DESIGN: At baseline, diet (food-frequency questionnaire) and concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), homocysteine, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), and soluble E selectin were assessed in 5089 nondiabetic participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. RESULTS: Four dietary patterns were derived by using factor analysis. The fats and processed meats pattern (fats, oils, processed meats, fried potatoes, salty snacks, and desserts) was positively associated with CRP (P for trend < 0.001), IL-6 (P for trend < 0.001), and homocysteine (P for trend = 0.002). The beans, tomatoes, and refined grains pattern (beans, tomatoes, refined grains, and high-fat dairy products) was positively related to sICAM-1 (P for trend = 0.007). In contrast, the whole grains and fruit pattern (whole grains, fruit, nuts, and green leafy vegetables) was inversely associated with CRP, IL-6, homocysteine (P for trend
Published:
2006-06
Title:
Long term effects of ketogenic diet in obese subjects with high cholesterol level
Authors:
Dashti, Hussein M.; Al-Zaid, Naji S.; Mathew, Thazhumpal C.; Al-Mousawi, Mahdi; Talib, Hussain; Asfar, Sami K.; Behbahani, Abdulla I.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: Various studies have convincingly shown the beneficial effect of ketogenic diet (in which the daily consumption of carbohydrate is less than 20 grams, regardless of fat, protein and caloric intake) in reducing weight in obese subjects. However, its long term effect on obese subjects with high total cholesterol (as compared to obese subjects with normal cholesterol level is lacking. It is believed that ketogenic diet may have adverse effect on the lipid profile. Therefore, in this study the effect of ketogenic diet in obese subjects with high cholesterol level above 6 mmol/L is compared to those with normocholesterolemia for a period of 56 weeks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 66 healthy obese subjects with body mass index (BMI) greater than 30, having high cholesterol level (Group I; n = 35) and those subjects with normal cholesterol level (Group II; n = 31) were selected. The body weight, body mass index, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, urea, creatinine, glucose and triglycerides were determined before and after the administration of the ketogenic diet. Changes in these parameters were monitored at 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48 and 56 weeks of the treatment. RESULTS: The body weight and body mass index of both groups decreased significantly (P < 0.0001). The level of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and blood glucose level decreased significantly (P < 0.0001), whereas HDL cholesterol increased significantly (P
Published:
2006-06
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