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Title:
Markedly increased intake of refined carbohydrates and sugar is associated with the rise of coronary heart disease and diabetes among the Alaskan Inuit
Authors:
DiNicolantonio, James J.; O’Keefe, James
Abstract:
In a recent issue of the journal, DiNicolantonio published evidence suggesting that an increase in the intake of refined carbohydrates and sugar paralleled the rise in the incidence of atherosclerotic disease in the Greenland Inuit.1 Thus, we sought to ascertain if a similar trend occurred in Alaskan Inuit by reviewing the literature as far back as the 1950s. Because of their relative isolation prior to the 1950s, studying the dietary changes that occurred in the Alaskan Inuit in the following decades can provide great insight into potential factors that may have caused a decline in their health. The Inuit are said to be descendants of the Thule people who originally came to North America 3000 years ago from Asia through Siberia and the Bering Strait.2 The Inuit then travelled from Northwest Alaska towards Canada and Greenland and also south towards inland regions of Alaska. This paper will discuss Alaskan natives in general and Alaskan Inuit in particular. In 1972, Dr Sheldon A Feldman, MD, and colleagues published a study on the Inuit living on Alaska’s North Slope (Point Hope). During the early 1970s, the Eskimos of Point Hope (known as the ‘Tigara’ people) were one of the few Inuit villages that still subsisted on whale and seal meat and blubber. Only two other villages at the time along Alaska’s North Slope continued the traditional hunting of whales using harpoons during the spring months. In the spring and early summer, these North Slope Alaskan Inuit mainly relied on catching and eating seal, walrus and fish. In the summer, the main dietary staple was caribou, and in winter, they would occasionally catch and eat polar bear. The consumption of grains and other carbohydrates was low due to the high cost of their import.2 It has been estimated that the …
Published:
November 1, 2017
Title:
The future perspective: metabolomics in laboratory medicine for inborn errors of metabolism
Authors:
Sandlers, Yana
Abstract:
Metabolomics can be described as a simultaneous and comprehensive analysis of small molecules in a biological sample. Recent technological and bioinformatics advances have facilitated large-scale metabolomic studies in many areas, including inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs). Despite significant improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of some IEMs, it is still challenging to understand how genetic variation affects disease progression and susceptibility. In addition, a search for new more personalized therapies and a growing demand for tools to monitor the long-term metabolic effects of existing therapies set the stage for metabolomics integration in preclinical and clinical studies. While targeted metabolomics approach is a common practice in biochemical genetics laboratories for biochemical diagnosis and monitoring of IEMs, applications of untargeted metabolomics in the clinical laboratories are still in infancy, facing some challenges. It is however, expected in the future to dramatically change the scope and utility of the clinical laboratory playing a significant role in patient management. This review provides an overview of targeted and global, large-scale metabolomic studies applied to investigate various IEMs. We discuss an existing and prospective clinical applications of metabolomics in IEMs for better diagnosis and deep understanding of complex metabolic perturbations associated with the etiology of inherited metabolic disorders.
Published:
November 1, 2017
Title:
Vitamins Associated with Brain Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Alzheimer Disease: Biomarkers, Epidemiological and Experimental Evidence, Plausible Mechanisms, and Knowledge Gaps
Authors:
Fenech, Michael
Abstract:
The key to preventing brain aging, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer disease (AD) via vitamin intake is first to understand molecular mechanisms, then to deduce relevant biomarkers, and subsequently to test the level of evidence for the impact of vitamins in the relevant pathways and their modulation of dementia risk. This narrative review infers information on mechanisms from gene and metabolic defects associated with MCI and AD, and assesses the role of vitamins using recent results from animal and human studies. Current evidence suggests that all known vitamins and some “quasi-vitamins” are involved as cofactors or influence ≥1 of the 6 key sets of pathways or pathologies associated with MCI or AD, relating to 1) 1-carbon metabolism, 2) DNA damage and repair, 3) mitochondrial function and glucose metabolism, 4) lipid and phospholipid metabolism and myelination, 5) neurotransmitter synthesis and synaptogenesis, and 6) amyloidosis and Tau protein phosphorylation. The contemporary level of evidence for each of the vitamins varies considerably, but it is notable that B vitamins are involved as cofactors in all of the core pathways or pathologies and, together with vitamins C and E, are consistently associated with a protective role against dementia. Outcomes from recent studies indicate that the efficacy and safety of supplementation with vitamins to prevent MCI and the early stages of AD will most likely depend on 1) which pathways are defective, 2) which vitamins are deficient and could correct the relevant metabolic defects, and 3) the modulating impact of nutrient-nutrient and nutrient-genotype interaction. More focus on a precision nutrition approach is required to realize the full potential of vitamin therapy in preventing dementia and to avoid causing harm.
Published:
November 1, 2017
Title:
What Calories Do
Authors:
Mackert, Nina
Abstract:
By Nina Mackert In May 2016, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) introduced new labels that will have to be printed on most packaged food products by July 2018. In a presentation at the White Ho…
Published:
November 1, 2017
Title:
Food Labeling: Health Claims; Soy Protein and Coronary Heart Disease
Authors:
Abstract:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, the Agency, or we) is proposing to revoke its regulation authorizing the use of health claims on the relationship between soy protein and coronary heart disease on the label or in the labeling of foods. We are taking this action based on our review of the...
Published:
October 31, 2017
Title:
Biological Implications of Diet-Derived Advanced Glycation End Products on Carcinogenesis
Authors:
Turner, David P.; Findlay, Victoria J.
Abstract:
Published:
October 30, 2017
Title:
Meta-Analysis of the Antidepressant Effects of Acute Sleep Deprivation
Authors:
Boland, Elaine M.; Rao, Hengyi; Dinges, David F.; Smith, Rachel V.; Goel, Namni; Detre, John A.; Basner, Mathias; Sheline, Yvette I.; Thase, Michael E.; Gehrman, Philip R.
Abstract:
Objective: To provide a quantitative meta-analysis of the antidepressant effects of sleep deprivation to complement qualitative reviews addressing response rates. Data Sources: English-language studies from 1974 to 2016 using the keywords sleep deprivation and depression searched through PubMed and PsycINFO databases. Study Selection: A total of 66 independent studies met criteria for inclusion: conducted experimental sleep deprivation, reported the percentage of the sample that responded to sleep deprivation, provided a priori definition of antidepressant response, and did not seamlessly combine sleep deprivation with other therapies (eg, chronotherapeutics, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation). Data Extraction: Data extracted included percentage of responders, type of sample (eg, bipolar, unipolar), type of sleep deprivation (eg, total, partial), demographics, medication use, type of outcome measure used, and definition of response (eg, 30% reduction in depression ratings). Data were analyzed with meta-analysis of proportions and a Poisson mixed-effects regression model. Results: The overall response rate to sleep deprivation was 45% among studies that utilized a randomized control group and 50% among studies that did not. The response to sleep deprivation was not affected significantly by the type of sleep deprivation performed, the nature of the clinical sample, medication status, the definition of response used, or age and gender of the sample. Conclusions: These findings support a significant effect of sleep deprivation and suggest the need for future studies on the phenotypic nature of the antidepressant response to sleep deprivation, on the neurobiological mechanisms of action, and on moderators of the sleep deprivation treatment response in depression. J Clin Psychiatry https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.16r11332 © Copyright 2017 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.
Published:
October 25, 2017
Title:
Tuktu- 8- The Magic Bow (Inuit hunting with bow and arrow)
Authors:
Abstract:
Alaska Extreme Store: https://www.redbubble.com/people/alas... Learn about traditional Inuit culture from this fascinating series. This series documents cultural practices, skills, and values in Nunavut in northern Canada. Each episode focuses on a different topic, and does a good job of celebrating the skills and resourcefulness of the Inuit. The territory of the Inuit (also called Eskimo, Inupiaq, Yupik, and other regional names) cover the northern and western regions of Alaska, northern Canada, and Greenland. The Inuit continue to live in these areas and maintain many cultural traditions while also incorporating some modern technology into their culture as well. Inuit continue to have a deep respect and spiritual connection with the land and its resources. The Tuktu documentary series was produced by the National Film Board of Canada between 1966 and 1968. Director: Laurence Hyde Writer: Laurence Hyde Star: Tommy Tweed License: Public Domain #alaska #alaskaextreme
Published:
October 25, 2017
Title:
The Cookie Crumbles: A Retracted Study Points to a Larger Truth
Authors:
Carroll, Aaron E.
Abstract:
Getting people to eat better is difficult. So is doing research about it, which is why skepticism is important.
Published:
October 23, 2017
Title:
Curcumin: A Review of Its' Effects on Human Health
Authors:
Hewlings, Susan J.; Kalman, Douglas S.
Abstract:
Turmeric, a spice that has long been recognized for its medicinal properties, has received interest from both the medical/scientific world and from culinary enthusiasts, as it is the major source of the polyphenol curcumin. It aids in the management of oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, and hyperlipidemia. It may also help in the management of exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness, thus enhancing recovery and performance in active people. In addition, a relatively low dose of the complex can provide health benefits for people that do not have diagnosed health conditions. Most of these benefits can be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Ingesting curcumin by itself does not lead to the associated health benefits due to its poor bioavailability, which appears to be primarily due to poor absorption, rapid metabolism, and rapid elimination. There are several components that can increase bioavailability. For example, piperine is the major active component of black pepper and, when combined in a complex with curcumin, has been shown to increase bioavailability by 2000%. Curcumin combined with enhancing agents provides multiple health benefits. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of the plethora of research regarding the health benefits of curcumin.
Published:
October 22, 2017
Title:
Western-style diet induces object recognition deficits and alters complexity of dendritic arborization in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex of male rats
Authors:
Sarfert, Kathryn S.; Knabe, Melina L.; Gunawansa, Nicole S.; Blythe, Sarah N.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: Research demonstrates a link between diet-induced obesity and cognitive impairments; however, no studies have utilized the Sholl analysis to assess changes in dendritic arborization as a possible cause of obesity-induced memory deficits. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a Western-style diet (WSD) on memory and dendritic complexity of male Sprague-Dawley rats. METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 18) were fed either a control or WSD. Spatial memory and episodic memory were assessed using the Morris Water Maze and novel object recognition (NOR) tasks, respectively. At termination, brains were removed and prepared with the Golgi-Cox method. Stained neurons in both the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex (EC) were imaged and digitally reconstructed. RESULTS: Results indicated significant differences in percent body fat and TNFα levels between dietary conditions. WSD males also experienced reduced NOR exploration ratios, but no deficits in spatial memory were observed. Analysis of dendritic length and number of branch points revealed no significant differences in either the EC or the hippocampus; however, the Sholl analysis indicated that a WSD increased neuronal complexity in the EC. DISCUSSION: Sholl analysis of the EC suggests a possible diet-induced dysfunction of pruning, which may contribute to reduced performance on the NOR task. Elevated TNFα levels indicate a putative role of inflammation in neuronal remodeling. The results demonstrate the importance of investigating mechanisms underlying obesity-related cognitive impairments.
Published:
October 17, 2017
Title:
Oxygen availability and metabolic reprogramming in cancer
Authors:
Xie, Hong; Simon, M. Celeste
Abstract:
Hypoxia and dysregulated metabolism are defining features of solid tumors. How cancer cells adapt to low O2 has been illuminated by numerous studies, with “reprogrammed” metabolism being one of the most important mechanisms. This metabolic reprogramming not only promotes cancer cell plasticity, but also provides novel insights for treatment strategies. As the most studied O2 “sensor,” hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is regarded as an important regulator of hypoxia-induced transcriptional responses. This minireview will summarize our current understanding of hypoxia-induced changes in cancer cell metabolism, with an initial focus on HIF-mediated effects, and will highlight how these metabolic alterations affect malignant phenotypes.
Published:
October 13, 2017
Title:
TREATMENT OF HIGH-GRADE BRAIN TUMOR USING THE PALEOLITHIC KETOGENIC DIET (PKD): THREE CASES
Authors:
Clemens, Zsofia; Dabóczi, Andrea; Schimmer, Mária; Barsi, Peter; Tóth, Csaba
Abstract:
Introduction: Prognosis for patients with high-grade brain tumor is poor and survival did neither substantially change with advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy and molecular profiling. Ketogenic diets have been suggested as a promising alternative therapy. However, group studies in cancer patients with the classical ketogenic diet so far provided little or no evidence that the classical ketogenic diet is indeed beneficial in terms of prolonging survival. Results: Here we present three cases: one patient with grade 3 brain tumor, (pat #1: anaplastic oligodendroglioma) and two patients with grade 4 brain tumor (pat #2: recurrent glioblastoma; pat #3: new-onset glioblastoma). The three patients were started on the strickest form of the paleolithic ketogenic diet (PKD): the full meat-fat diet. At the time of diet onset all three patients refused chemotherapy and radiotherapy and did neither use any dietary supplements nor standard medications. They all strictly adhered to the diet and were in constant ketosis. Pat #1, who was overweight at diet onset, lost 25 kg on the diet during the first nine months of the diet. During this time tumor size was relatively stable. Later on tumor size gradually increased which was preceded by a gradual increase in food intake without affecting ketosis. Along with this inflammatory parameters increased as well. The patient was advised to decrease food intake and subsequently inflammatory parameters decreased again. In pat #2, in addition to recurrent glioblastoma, past history also included bladder cancer. Despite surgery and radiochemotherapy his brain tumor recurred. Upon recurrence, the patient stopped radiochemotherapy and started the PKD as a stand-alone therapy. Currently, the patient is on the diet for 14 months and is progression-free. Pat #3 had a stable tumor size for the first two months of the diet when he used the diet as a stand-alone therapy. Then, despite being progression-free and having no sympoms at all, the patient decided to have radiotherapy. Although we advised against, he also started taking multiple supplements and began hyperbaric oxigen therapy. From this time on his disease progressed and the patient died at 11 months. Conclusions: The two patients using the PKD as a stand-alone therapy are still alive at 25 and 14 months while the third patient after starting additional therapies experienced progression and died.
Published:
October 12, 2017
Title:
Effect of resistance training set volume on upper body muscle hypertrophy: are more sets really better than less?
Authors:
La Scala Teixeira, Cauê V.; Motoyama, Yuri; de Azevedo, Paulo Henrique Silva Marques; Evangelista, Alexandre Lopes; Steele, James; Bocalini, Danilo Sales
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Resistance training (RT) for upper body muscle hypertrophy (UBMH) typically entails high volumes of sets per muscle group per training session. The majority of RT regimens does not discriminate between upper and lower body muscle groups, while these groups may respond differently to RT set volumes in terms of maximum skeletal muscle mass gain. Recent studies have examined the effect of different set volumes on the extent of UBMH to formulate optimal RT regimens and to make RT programmes more time-efficient. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the effect of the number of RT sets on the extent of UBMH on the basis of recent literature. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The analysis suggests that, statistically, high set volumes (≥3) are not significantly better than low set volumes (
Published:
October 11, 2017
Title:
Reconstructing pectoral appendicular muscle anatomy in fossil fish and tetrapods over the fins-to-limbs transition
Authors:
Molnar, Julia; Diogo, Rui; Hutchinson, John; Pierce, Stephanie
Abstract:
The question of how tetrapod limbs evolved from fins is one of the great puzzles of evolutionary biology. While palaeontologists, developmental biologists, and geneticists have made great strides in explaining the origin and early evolution of limb skeletal structures, that of the muscles remains largely unknown. The main reason is the lack of consensus about appendicular muscle homology between the closest living relatives of early tetrapods: lobe-finned fish and crown tetrapods. In the light of a recent study of these homologies, we reexamined osteological correlates of muscle attachment in the pectoral girdle, humerus, radius, and ulna of early tetrapods and their close relatives. Twenty-nine extinct and six extant sarcopterygians were included in a meta-analysis using information from the literature and from original specimens, when possible. We analysed these osteological correlates using parsimony-based character optimization in order to reconstruct muscle anatomy in ancestral lobe-finned fish, tetrapodomorph fish, stem tetrapods, and crown tetrapods. Our synthesis revealed that many tetrapod shoulder muscles probably were already present in tetrapodomorph fish, while most of the more-distal appendicular muscles either arose later from largely undifferentiated dorsal and ventral muscle masses or did not leave clear correlates of attachment in these taxa. Based on this review and meta-analysis, we postulate a stepwise sequence of specific appendicular muscle acquisitions, splits, and fusions that led from the ancestral sarcopterygian pectoral fin to the ancestral tetrapod forelimb. This sequence largely agrees with previous hypotheses based on palaeontological and comparative work, but it is much more comprehensive in terms of both muscles and taxa. Combined with existing information about the skeletal system, our new synthesis helps to illuminate the genetic, developmental, morphological, functional, and ecological changes that were key components of the fins-to-limbs transition.
Published:
October 11, 2017
Title:
Recruitment, adherence, and retention of endometrial cancer survivors in a behavioural lifestyle programme: the Diet and Exercise in Uterine Cancer Survivors (DEUS) parallel randomised pilot trial
Authors:
Koutoukidis, Dimitrios A.; Beeken, Rebecca J.; Manchanda, Ranjit; Michalopoulou, Moscho; Burnell, Matthew; Knobf, M. Tish; Lanceley, Anne
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: Healthy eating and physical activity may help endometrial cancer survivors (ECS) improve their quality of life. However, most ECS do not meet the relevant guidelines. This pilot trial aimed to test the study feasibility procedures for a definitive trial of a behavioural lifestyle programme. DESIGN AND SETTING: This 24-week parallel two-arm randomised pilot trial took place in two hospitals in London, UK (April 2015-June 2016). PARTICIPANTS: Sixty disease-free ECS within 3 years of diagnosis. INTERVENTIONS: Participants were randomised using minimisation to receive the intervention or care as usual. The 'Shape-Up following cancer treatment' programme used self-monitoring, goal-setting, self-incentives, problem-solving and group social support for 12 hours over 8 weeks to help survivors improve their eating and physical activity. OUTCOME MEASURES: The main outcome measures were recruitment, adherence, and retention rates. Further outcomes included barriers to participation and feedback on programme satisfaction. RESULTS: Of the 296 potentially eligible ECS, 20% (n=60) were randomly allocated to the active intervention (n=29) or control group (n=31). Three participants in each arm were deemed ineligible after randomisation and excluded from analysis. Twenty participants (77%; 95% CI 61% to 93%) adhered to the intervention and provided generally favourable feedback. At 24 weeks, 25/26 (96%; 95% CI 89% to 100%) intervention and 24/28 (86%; 95% CI 73% to 99%) control participants completed their assessment. No intervention-related adverse events were reported. Among eligible survivors who declined study participation (n=83), inconvenience (78%; 95% CI 69% to 87%) was the most common barrier. CONCLUSIONS: The trial was feasible to deliver based on the a priori feasibility criteria. Enhancing recruitment and adherence in a definitive trial will require designs that promote convenience and consider ECS-reported barriers. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT02433080; Pre-results. TRIAL FUNDING: University College London, St. Bartholomew's Hospital Nurses League, and NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre.
Published:
October 8, 2017
Title:
Can a #Ketogenic Diet Help Treat Bipolar Disorder? https://buff.ly/2hhbvlt pic.twitter.com/cYsPgih3QF
Authors:
Healthline
Abstract:
Published:
October 5, 2017
Title:
Fatty fish intake and attention performance in 14-15 year old adolescents: FINS-TEENS - a randomized controlled trial
Authors:
Handeland, Katina; Øyen, Jannike; Skotheim, Siv; Graff, Ingvild E.; Baste, Valborg; Kjellevold, Marian; Frøyland, Livar; Lie, Øyvind; Dahl, Lisbeth; Stormark, Kjell M.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Fatty fish is the dominant dietary source of n-3 LCPUFAs but it also contains other micronutrients considered important for brain development and function. To our knowledge, the effect of fatty fish intake on cognitive function in adolescents has not been investigated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) previously. The aim of the present trial was to investigate whether consumption of fatty fish meals three times per week for 12 weeks could alter attention performance in adolescents compared to similar meals with meat or n-3 LCPUFA supplements. METHODS: In the Fish Intervention Studies-TEENS (FINS-TEENS), adolescents from eight secondary schools (n = 426; age: 14-15y) were individually randomized. Attention performance was assessed with the d2 test of attention. Differences between groups from pre to post intervention were assessed with linear mixed effect models and general estimates equation. The fish group was set as reference. Dietary compliance was recorded for each meal throughout the trial and controlled for in the adjusted analyses. RESULTS: The improvement in processing speed was significantly lower in the meat (-11.8; 95% CI: -23.3, -0.4) and supplement (-13.4; 95% CI: -24.9, -1.8) group compared to the fish group (reference). The supplement group also showed inferior improvement in total performance (-10.4; 95% CI: -20.0, -0.7) compared to the fish group (reference). The results were slightly affected when controlling for dietary compliance. Omission errors decreased in the meat group compared to the fish group (Incidence rate ratio = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.74, 0.98), but the difference disappeared when controlling for dietary compliance. CONCLUSIONS: We observed a small beneficial effect of fatty fish, compared to meat meals and supplements on processing speed. However, these results are difficult to interpret due to low dietary compliance. This study shows that different taste preferences among participants is challenging in intervention trials with food. A prospective cohort design may be a better alternative when studying diet in the future. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT02350322 .
Published:
October 2, 2017
Title:
Omega-6 and omega-3 oxylipins are implicated in soybean oil-induced obesity in mice
Authors:
Deol, Poonamjot; Fahrmann, Johannes; Yang, Jun; Evans, Jane R.; Rizo, Antonia; Grapov, Dmitry; Salemi, Michelle; Wanichthanarak, Kwanjeera; Fiehn, Oliver; Phinney, Brett; Hammock, Bruce D.; Sladek, Frances M.
Abstract:
Soybean oil consumption is increasing worldwide and parallels a rise in obesity. Rich in unsaturated fats, especially linoleic acid, soybean oil is assumed to be healthy, and yet it induces obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, and fatty liver in mice. Here, we show that the genetically modified soybean oil Plenish, which came on the U.S. market in 2014 and is low in linoleic acid, induces less obesity than conventional soybean oil in C57BL/6 male mice. Proteomic analysis of the liver reveals global differences in hepatic proteins when comparing diets rich in the two soybean oils, coconut oil, and a low-fat diet. Metabolomic analysis of the liver and plasma shows a positive correlation between obesity and hepatic C18 oxylipin metabolites of omega-6 (ω6) and omega-3 (ω3) fatty acids (linoleic and α-linolenic acid, respectively) in the cytochrome P450/soluble epoxide hydrolase pathway. While Plenish induced less insulin resistance than conventional soybean oil, it resulted in hepatomegaly and liver dysfunction as did olive oil, which has a similar fatty acid composition. These results implicate a new class of compounds in diet-induced obesity–C18 epoxide and diol oxylipins.
Published:
October 2, 2017
Title:
They Migrate 800 Miles a Year. Now It’s Getting Tougher.
Authors:
Abstract:
The Nenets, reindeer herders in Russia’s Arctic, face modern obstacles in their long journey: climate change and a giant natural gas field.
Published:
October 2, 2017
Title:
Comparative anatomy of zebrafish paired and median fin muscles: Basis for functional, developmental, and macroevolutionary studies
Authors:
Siomava, Natalia; Diogo, Rui
Abstract:
In the last decades, Danio rerio became one of the most used model organisms in various evo-devo studies devoted to the fin skeletal anatomy and fin-limb transition. Surprisingly, there is not even a single paper about the detailed anatomy of the adult muscles of the five fin types of this species. In order to facilitate more integrative developmental, functional, genetic, and evolutionary studies of the appendicular musculoskeletal system of the zebrafish and to provide a basis for further comparisons with other fishes and tetrapods, we describe here the identity, overall configuration, and attachments of appendicular muscles in a way that can be easily understood and implemented by non-anatomist researchers. We show that the muscle pattern of the caudal fin is very different from patterns seen in other fins but is very consistent within teleosts. Our observations support the idea of the developmental and evolutionary distinction of the caudal fin and point out that the musculature of the adult zebrafish pectoral and pelvic fins is in general very similar. Both paired fins have superficial and deep layers of abductors and adductors going to all/most rays plus the dorsal and ventral arrectors going only to the first ray. Nevertheless, we noted three major differences between the pelvic and pectoral fins of adult zebrafishes: (i) the pectoral girdle lacks a retractor muscle, which is present in the pelvic girdle – the retractor ischii; (ii) the protractor of the pelvic girdle is an appendicular/trunk muscle, while that of the pectoral girdle is a branchiomeric muscle; (iii) the first ray of the pectoral fin is moved by an additional arrector-3. The anal and dorsal fins consist of serially repeated units, each of which comprises one half-ray and three appendicular muscles (one erector, depressor, and inclinator) on each side of the body. The outermost rays are attachment points for the longitudinal protractor and retractor. Based on our results, we discuss whether the pectoral appendage might evolutionary be closer to the head than to the pelvic appendage and whether the pelvic appendage might have been derived from the trunk/median fins. We discuss a hypothesis of paired fin origin that is a hybrid of the fin-fold and Gegenbaur’s theories. Lastly, our data indicate that D. rerio is indeed an appropriate model organism for the appendicular musculature of teleosts in particular and actinopterygians as a whole at least in the case of the paired fins.
Published:
September 22, 2017
Title:
Tumor Organoids as a Pre-clinical Cancer Model for Drug Discovery
Authors:
Weeber, Fleur; Ooft, Salo N.; Dijkstra, Krijn K.; Voest, Emile E.
Abstract:
Tumor organoids are 3D cultures of cancer cells that can be derived on an individual patient basis with a high success rate. This creates opportunities to build large biobanks with relevant patient material that can be used to perform drug screens and facilitate drug development. The high take rate will also allow side-by-side comparison to evaluate the translational potential of this model system to the patient. These tumors-in-a-dish can be established for a variety of tumor types including colorectal, pancreas, stomach, prostate, and breast cancers. In this review, we highlight what is currently known about tumor organoid culture, the advantages and challenges of the model system, compare it with other pre-clinical cancer models, and evaluate its value for drug development.
Published:
September 21, 2017
Title:
Dietary Linoleic Acid Intake and Blood Inflammatory Markers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors:
H, Su; R, Liu; M, Chang; J, Huang; X, Wang
Abstract:
Our meta-analysis suggested that increasing dietary LA intake does not have a significant effect on the blood concentrations of inflammatory markers. However, the extent of change in dietary LA intake might affect the effect of LA supplementation on CRP.
Published:
September 20, 2017
Title:
The 1-Week and 8-Month Effects of a Ketogenic Diet or Ketone Salt Supplementation on Multi-Organ Markers of Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Function in Rats
Authors:
Kephart, Wesley C.; Mumford, Petey W.; Mao, Xuansong; Romero, Matthew A.; Hyatt, Hayden W.; Zhang, Yufeng; Mobley, Christopher B.; Quindry, John C.; Young, Kaelin C.; Beck, Darren T.; Martin, Jeffrey S.; McCullough, Danielle J.; D'Agostino, Dominic P.; Lowery, Ryan P.; Wilson, Jacob M.; Kavazis, Andreas N.; Roberts, Michael D.
Abstract:
We determined the short- and long-term effects of a ketogenic diet (KD) or ketone salt (KS) supplementation on multi-organ oxidative stress and mitochondrial markers. For short-term feedings, 4 month-old male rats were provided isocaloric amounts of KD (n = 10), standard chow (SC) (n = 10) or SC + KS (~1.2 g/day, n = 10). For long-term feedings, 4 month-old male rats were provided KD (n = 8), SC (n = 7) or SC + KS (n = 7) for 8 months and rotarod tested every 2 months. Blood, brain (whole cortex), liver and gastrocnemius muscle were harvested from all rats for biochemical analyses. Additionally, mitochondria from the brain, muscle and liver tissue of long-term-fed rats were analyzed for mitochondrial quantity (maximal citrate synthase activity), quality (state 3 and 4 respiration) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays. Liver antioxidant capacity trended higher in short-term KD- and SC + KS-fed versus SC-fed rats, and short-term KD-fed rats exhibited significantly greater serum ketones compared to SC + KS-fed rats indicating that the diet (not KS supplementation) induced ketonemia. In long term-fed rats: (a) serum ketones were significantly greater in KD- versus SC- and SC + KS-fed rats; (b) liver antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase protein was significantly greater in KD- versus SC-fed rats, respectively, while liver protein carbonyls were lowest in KD-fed rats; and (c) gastrocnemius mitochondrial ROS production was significantly greater in KD-fed rats versus other groups, and this paralleled lower mitochondrial glutathione levels. Additionally, the gastrocnemius pyruvate-malate mitochondrial respiratory control ratio was significantly impaired in long-term KD-fed rats, and gastrocnemius mitochondrial quantity was lowest in these animals. Rotarod performance was greatest in KD-fed rats versus all other groups at 2, 4 and 8 months, although there was a significant age-related decline in performance existed in KD-fed rats which was not evident in the other two groups. In conclusion, short- and long-term KD improves select markers of liver oxidative stress compared to SC feeding, although long-term KD feeding may negatively affect skeletal muscle mitochondrial physiology.
Published:
September 15, 2017
Title:
The Gastropolitics of School Lunch
Authors:
Ruis, A. R.
Abstract:
Published:
September 13, 2017
Title:
Neanderthals and Denisovans as biological invaders
Authors:
Hawks, John
Abstract:
Humans stand out among our close primate relatives as effective biological invaders. Our recent history has included range expansions into remote and harsh geographic regions, and invasions by some populations into areas long occupied by others. Historians tend to frame these events as a story of technological and economic progress, while admitting that disease sometimes plays a central part—a triad made memorable by Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies (1). Ancient DNA is revealing a deeper prehistory of human dispersals, however, showing continuity with invasions as understood by biologists, not just historians. Now, in PNAS, Rogers et al. (2) find that not only modern humans but also Neanderthals and Denisovans may share a surprisingly invasive origin. The story of Neanderthal and Denisovan origins has developed rapidly during the past 7 y. Two high-coverage genomes, and more fragmentary genome data from a handful of other individuals, have yielded powerful insights about the diversity of these ancient groups and their legacy of genetic introgression into recent humans (3). These archaic populations share a deep common history, and individual genomes record a history of high inbreeding and low gene flow across their ancient geographic ranges (4, 5). In their new study, Rogers et al. (2) find that the common ancestral population of the Denisovans and Neanderthals underwent a tight bottleneck, immediately after this population diverged from the African ancestors of modern humans. This bottleneck was rapid, maybe only 300 generations, and the Neanderthal and Denisovan populations separated quickly thereafter. This archaic human dispersal, which unfolded more than 600 ka, bears a striking parallel to the much later dispersal of modern humans from Africa into Eurasia after 100 ka. In both cases, the small bottleneck is etched into the genomes of all their descendants, and in both cases, this founder … [↵][1]1Email: jhawks{at}wisc.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Published:
September 12, 2017
Title:
Enhancing CD8+ T cell fatty acid catabolism within a metabolically challenging tumor microenvironment increases the efficacy of melanoma immunotherapy
Authors:
Zhang, Ying; Kurupati, Raj; Liu, Ling; Zhou, Xiang Yang; Zhang, Gao; Hudaihed, Abeer; Filisio, Flavia; Giles-Davis, Wynetta; Xu, Xiaowei; Karakousis, Giorgos C.; Schuchter, Lynn M.; Xu, Wei; Amaravadi, Ravi; Xiao, Min; Sadek, Norah; Krepler, Clemens; Herlyn, Meenhard; Freeman, Gordon J; Rabinowitz, Joshua D; Ertl, Hildegund CJ
Abstract:
How tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes (TILs) adapt to the metabolic constrains within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and to what degree this affects their ability to combat tumor progression remain poorly understood. Using mouse melanoma models, we report that CD8+ TILs enhance PPAR-α signaling and catabolism of fatty acids (FAs) when simultaneously subjected to hypoglycemia and hypoxia. This metabolic switch partially preserves CD8+ TILs’ effector functions although co-inhibitor expression increases during tumor progression regardless of their antigen specificity. Further promoting FA catabolism improves the CD8+ TIL’s ability to slow tumor progression. PD-1 blockade delays tumor growth without changing TIL metabolism or functions. It synergizes with metabolic reprogramming of T cells to achieve superior antitumor efficacy and even complete cures.
Published:
September 11, 2017
Title:
Nativity and citizenship status affect Latinos’ health insurance coverage under the ACA
Authors:
Sanchez, Gabriel R.; Vargas, Edward D.; Juarez, Melina D.; Gomez-Aguinaga, Barbara; Pedraza, Francisco I.
Abstract:
The 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) aimed to increase health insurance access for the over 47 million uninsured people in the U.S.A., among whom ethnoracial minorities had the highest uninsured rates before the ACA. Studies have shown that Latinos have had the greatest improvements in health coverage under the ACA, but many may be at a significant disadvantage, specifically due to their nativity and immigration status, as the ACA explicitly excludes unauthorised immigrants from most of its provisions. Using the 2015 Latino National Health and Immigration Survey, a nationally representative sample of Latinos (n = 1493), we find that variation in health insurance access among Latinos can be traced to immigration status. This study finds no differences among U.S.-born versus foreign-born Latinos in the likelihood of being uninsured in 2015. However, among foreign-born Latinos, unauthorised immigrants are five times more likely than naturalised citizens to be uninsured and less likely to visit a primary care provider or clinic, even after controlling for other factors including language, income and education.
Published:
September 10, 2017
Title:
A Ketogenic Diet Extends Longevity and Healthspan in Adult Mice.
Authors:
Roberts, Megan N.; Wallace, Marita A.; Tomilov, Alexey A.; Zhou, Zeyu; Marcotte, George R.; Tran, Dianna; Perez, Gabriella; Gutierrez-Casado, Elena; Koike, Shinichiro; Knotts, Trina A.; Imai, Denise M.; Griffey, Stephen M.; Kim, Kyoungmi; Hagopian, Kevork; McMackin, Marissa Z.; Haj, Fawaz G.; Baar, Keith; Cortopassi, Gino A.; Ramsey, Jon J.; Lopez-Dominguez, Jose Alberto
Abstract:
Calorie restriction, without malnutrition, has been shown to increase lifespan and is associated with a shift away from glycolysis toward beta-oxidation. The objective of this study was to mimic this metabolic shift using low-carbohydrate diets and to determine the influence of these diets on longevity and healthspan in mice. C57BL/6 mice were assigned to a ketogenic, low-carbohydrate, or control diet at 12 months of age and were either allowed to live their natural lifespan or tested for physiological function after 1 or 14 months of dietary intervention. The ketogenic diet (KD) significantly increased median lifespan and survival compared to controls. In aged mice, only those consuming a KD displayed preservation of physiological function. The KD increased protein acetylation levels and regulated mTORC1 signaling in a tissue-dependent manner. This study demonstrates that a KD extends longevity and healthspan in mice.
Published:
September 5, 2017
Title:
Advanced glycation end-products produced systemically and by macrophages: A common contributor to inflammation and degenerative diseases
Authors:
Byun, Kyunghee; Yoo, YongCheol; Son, Myeongjoo; Lee, Jaesuk; Jeong, Goo-Bo; Park, Young Mok; Salekdeh, Ghasem Hosseini; Lee, Bonghee
Abstract:
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their receptor have been implicated in the progressions of many intractable diseases, such as diabetes and atherosclerosis, and are also critical for pathologic changes in chronic degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and alcoholic brain damage. Recently activated macrophages were found to be a source of AGEs, and the most abundant form of AGEs, AGE-albumin excreted by macrophages has been implicated in these diseases and to act through common pathways. AGEs inhibition has been shown to prevent the pathogenesis of AGEs-related diseases in human, and therapeutic advances have resulted in several agents that prevent their adverse effects. Recently, anti-inflammatory molecules that inhibit AGEs have been shown to be good candidates for ameliorating diabetic complications as well as degenerative diseases. This review was undertaken to present, discuss, and clarify current understanding regarding AGEs formation in association with macrophages, different diseases, therapeutic and diagnostic strategy and links with RAGE inhibition.
Published:
September 1, 2017
Title:
Dehydroepiandrosterone Impacts Working Memory by Shaping Cortico-Hippocampal Structural Covariance during Development
Authors:
Nguyen, Tuong-Vi; Wu, Mia; Lew, Jimin; Albaugh, Matthew; Botteron, Kelly; Hudziak, James; Fonov, Vladimir; Collins, Louis; Campbell, Benjamin; Booij, Linda; Herba, Catherine; Monnier, Patricia; Ducharme, Simon; McCracken, James
Abstract:
Existing studies suggest that dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) may be important for human brain development and cognition. For example, molecular studies have hinted at the critical role of DHEA in enhancing brain plasticity. Studies of human brain development also support the notion that DHEA is involved in preserving cortical plasticity. Further, some, though not all, studies show that DHEA administration may lead to improvements in working memory in adults. Yet these findings remain limited by an incomplete understanding of the specific neuroanatomical mechanisms through which DHEA may impact the CNS during development. Here we examined associations between DHEA, cortico-hippocampal structural covariance, and working memory (216 participants [female=123], age range 6-22 years old, mean age: 13.6 +/-3.6 years, each followed for a maximum of 3 visits over the course of 4 years). In addition to administering performance-based, spatial working memory tests to these children, we also collected ecological, parent ratings of working memory in everyday situations. We found that increasingly higher DHEA levels were associated with a shift toward positive insular-hippocampal and occipito-hippocampal structural covariance. In turn, DHEA-related insular-hippocampal covariance was associated with lower spatial working memory but higher overall working memory as measured by the ecological parent ratings. Taken together with previous research, these results support the hypothesis that DHEA may optimize cortical functions related to general attentional and working memory processes, but impair the development of bottom-up, hippocampal-to-cortical connections, resulting in impaired encoding of spatial cues.
Published:
September 1, 2017
Title:
Livestock: On our plates or eating at our table? A new analysis of the feed/food debate
Authors:
Mottet, Anne; de Haan, Cees; Falcucci, Alessandra; Tempio, Giuseppe; Opio, Carolyn; Gerber, Pierre
Abstract:
Livestock contribute to food security by supplying essential macro- and micro-nutrients, providing manure and draught power, and generating income. But they also consume food edible by humans and graze on pastures that could be used for crop production. Livestock, especially ruminants, are often seen as poor converters of feed into food products. This paper analyses global livestock feed rations and feed conversion ratios, with specific insight on the diversity in production systems and feed materials. Results estimate that livestock consume 6 billion tonnes of feed (dry matter) annually – including one third of global cereal production – of which 86% is made of materials that are currently not eaten by humans. In addition, soybean cakes, which production can be considered as main driver or land-use, represent 4% of the global livestock feed intake. Producing 1kg of boneless meat requires an average of 2.8kg human-edible feed in ruminant systems and 3.2kg in monogastric systems. While livestock is estimated to use 2.5 billion ha of land, modest improvements in feed use efficiency can reduce further expansion.
Published:
September 1, 2017
Title:
Respiratory symptoms among reindeer herders of peninsula Yamal, Far North of Russia
Authors:
Lobanov, Andrei; Andronov, Sergey; Popov, Andrei; Emelyanov, Alexandr
Abstract:
The aim of our study was to assess frequency of respiratory symptoms in reindeer herders, native population of peninsula Yamal. Six hundred reindeer herders (38.3% men) aged 30-54 yrs (mean age 42.2 yr), representing 34.0% of total population, participated in our cross-sectional survey. GARD questionnaire was used to analyze clinical symptoms. Upper airway diseases were excluded by the examination of ENT specialist. Pulmonary function was measured by dry spirometer (SpiroUSB ML 2525 CareFusion, UK) according to ATS/ERS criteria (2005). Response rate to the questionnaire was 97.0%. Eighty six percent of responders had respiratory symptoms. Forty percent of participants were current smokers. Contact with open fire at home had 39% responders and 84% worked at open cold air. Cough, sputum and shortness of breath were found in 25.0% participants. Smokers more often had respiratory symptoms than non-smokers (65% vs 18%, p
Published:
September 1, 2017
Title:
The formation of fire residues associated with hunter-gatherers in humid tropical environments: A geo-ethnoarchaeological perspective
Authors:
Friesem, David E.; Lavi, Noa; Madella, Marco; Boaretto, Elisabetta; Ajithparsad, P.; French, Charles
Abstract:
Tropical forests have been an important human habitat and played a significant role in early human dispersal and evolution. Likewise, the use of fire, besides being one of the exceptional characteristics of humans, serves as a marker for human evolution. While the use of fire by prehistoric hunter-gatherers is relatively well documented in arid and temperate environments, the archaeological evidence in humid tropical environment is to date very limited. We first review the archaeological evidence for hunter-gatherer use of fire in humid tropical environments and suggest that better understanding of formation processes is required. We present a geo-ethnoarchaeological study from South India, involving ethnography, excavations and laboratory-based analyses in order to build a new framework to study fire residues in humid tropical forests associated with hunter-gatherer's use of fire. Ethnographic observations point to a dynamic and ephemeral use of hearths. Hearths location were dictated by the social and ever-changing social dynamics of the site. The hearths deposited small amount of residues which were later swept on a daily basis, re-depositing ash and charcoal in waste areas and leaving only a microscopic signal in the original location. Particular acidic conditions and intensive biological activity within tropical sediments result in the complete dissolution of ash and bones while favouring the preservation of charcoal and phytoliths. Consequently, the identification of fire residues in humid tropical forests and the reconstruction of the human use of fire must involve multi-proxy microscopic analysis to detect its micro-signatures.
Published:
September 1, 2017
Title:
Associations of fats and carbohydrate intake with cardiovascular disease and mortality in 18 countries from five continents (PURE): a prospective cohort study
Authors:
Dehghan, Mahshid; Mente, Andrew; Zhang, Xiaohe; Swaminathan, Sumathi; Li, Wei; Mohan, Viswanathan; Iqbal, Romaina; Kumar, Rajesh; Wentzel-Viljoen, Edelweiss; Rosengren, Annika; Amma, Leela Itty; Avezum, Alvaro; Chifamba, Jephat; Diaz, Rafael; Khatib, Rasha; Lear, Scott; Lopez-Jaramillo, Patricio; Liu, Xiaoyun; Gupta, Rajeev; Mohammadifard, Noushin; Gao, Nan; Oguz, Aytekin; Ramli, Anis Safura; Seron, Pamela; Sun, Yi; Szuba, Andrzej; Tsolekile, Lungiswa; Wielgosz, Andreas; Yusuf, Rita; Yusufali, Afzal Hussein; Teo, Koon K.; Rangarajan, Sumathy; Dagenais, Gilles; Bangdiwala, Shrikant I.; Islam, Shofiqul; Anand, Sonia S.; Yusuf, Salim; Diaz, R.; Orlandini, A.; Linetsky, B.; Toscanelli, S.; Casaccia, G.; Cuneo, JM Maini; Rahman, O.; Yusuf, R.; Azad, A. K.; Rabbani, K. A.; Cherry, H. M.; Mannan, A.; Hassan, I.; Talukdar, A. T.; Tooheen, R. B.; Khan, M. U.; Sintaha, M.; Choudhury, T.; Haque, R.; Parvin, S.; Avezum, A.; Oliveira, G. B.; Marcilio, C. S.; Mattos, A. C.; Teo, K.; Yusuf, S.; Dejesus, J.; Agapay, D.; Tongana, T.; Solano, R.; Kay, I.; Trottier, S.; Rimac, J.; Elsheikh, W.; Heldman, L.; Ramezani, E.; Dagenais, G.; Poirier, P.; Turbide, G.; Auger, D.; Bluts, A. LeBlanc De; Proulx, M. C.; Cayer, M.; Bonneville, N.; Lear, S.; Gasevic, D.; Corber, E.; Jong, V. de; Vukmirovich, I.; Wielgosz, A.; Fodor, G.; Pipe, A.; Shane, A.; Lanas, F.; Seron, P.; Martinez, S.; Valdebenito, A.; Oliveros, M.; Wei, Li; Lisheng, Liu; Chunming, Chen; Xingyu, Wang; Wenhua, Zhao; Hongye, Zhang; Xuan, Jia; Bo, Hu; Yi, Sun; Jian, Bo; Xiuwen, Zhao; Xiaohong, Chang; Tao, Chen; Hui, Chen; Xiaohong, Chang; Qing, Deng; Xiaoru, Cheng; Qing, Deng; Xinye, He; Bo, Hu; Xuan, Jia; Jian, Li; Juan, Li; Xu, Liu; Bing, Ren; Yi, Sun; Wei, Wang; Yang, Wang; Jun, Yang; Yi, Zhai; Hongye, Zhang; Xiuwen, Zhao; Manlu, Zhu; Fanghong, Lu; Jianfang, Wu; Yindong, Li; Yan, Hou; Liangqing, Zhang; Baoxia, Guo; Xiaoyang, Liao; Shiying, Zhang; Rongwen, Bian; Xiuzhen, Tian; Dong, Li; Di, Chen; Jianguo, Wu; Yize, Xiao; Tianlu, Liu; Peng, Zhang; Changlin, Dong; Ning, Li; Xiaolan, Ma; Yuqing, Yang; Rensheng, Lei; Minfan, Fu; Jing, He; Yu, Liu; Xiaojie, Xing; Qiang, Zhou; Lopez-Jaramillo, P.; Lopez, PA Camacho; Garcia, R.; Jurado, L. J. A.; Gómez-Arbeláez, D.; Arguello, J. F.; Dueñas, R.; Silva, S.; Pradilla, L. P.; Ramirez, F.; Molina, D. I.; Cure-Cure, C.; Perez, M.; Hernandez, E.; Arcos, E.; Fernandez, S.; Narvaez, C.; Paez, J.; Sotomayor, A.; Garcia, H.; Sanchez, G.; David, T.; Rico, A.; Mony, P.; Vaz, M.; Bharathi, A. V.; Swaminathan, S.; Kurpad, K. Shankar AV; Jayachitra, K. G.; Kumar, N.; Hospital, H. a. L.; Mohan, V.; Deepa, M.; Parthiban, K.; Anitha, M.; Hemavathy, S.; Rahulashankiruthiyayan, T.; Anitha, D.; Sridevi, K.; Gupta, R.; Panwar, R. B.; Mohan, I.; Rastogi, P.; Rastogi, S.; Bhargava, R.; Kumar, R.; Thakur, J. S.; Patro, B.; Lakshmi, P. V. M.; Mahajan, R.; Chaudary, P.; Kutty, V. Raman; Vijayakumar, K.; Ajayan, K.; Rajasree, G.; Renjini, A. R.; Deepu, A.; Sandhya, B.; Asha, S.; Soumya, H. S.; Kelishadi, R.; Bahonar, A.; Mohammadifard, N.; Heidari, H.; Yusoff, K.; Ismail, T. S. T.; Ng, K. K.; Devi, A.; Nasir, N. M.; Yasin, M. M.; Miskan, M.; Rahman, E. A.; Arsad, M. K. M.; Ariffin, F.; Razak, S. A.; Majid, F. A.; Bakar, N. A.; Yacob, M. Y.; Zainon, N.; Salleh, R.; Ramli, M. K. A.; Halim, N. A.; Norlizan, S. R.; Ghazali, N. M.; Arshad, M. N.; Razali, R.; Ali, S.; Othman, H. R.; Hafar, Cwjcw; Pit, A.; Danuri, N.; Basir, F.; Zahari, S. N. A.; Abdullah, H.; Arippin, M. A.; Zakaria, N. A.; Noorhassim, I.; Hasni, M. J.; Azmi, M. T.; Zaleha, M. I.; Hazdi, K. Y.; Rizam, A. R.; Sazman, W.; Azman, A.; Khatib, R.; Khammash, U.; Khatib, A.; Giacaman, R.; Iqbal, R.; Afridi, A.; Khawaja, R.; Raza, A.; Kazmi, K.; Zatonski, W.; Szuba, A.; Zatonska, K.; Ilow, R.; Ferus, M.; Regulska-Ilow, B.; Rózanska, D.; Wolyniec, M.; Alkamel; Ali, M.; Kruger, M. A.; Voster, H. H.; Schutte, A. E.; Wentzel-Viljoen, E.; Eloff, F. C.; Ridder, H. de; Moss, H.; Potgieter, J.; Roux, A. A.; Watson, M.; Wet, G. de; Olckers, A.; Jerling, J. C.; Pieters, M.; Hoekstra, T.; Puoane, T.; Igumbor, E.; Tsolekile, L.; Sanders, D.; Naidoo, P.; Steyn, N.; Peer, N.; Mayosi, B.; Rayner, B.; Lambert, V.; Levitt, N.; Kolbe-Alexander, T.; Ntyintyane, L.; Hughes, G.; Swart, R.; Fourie, J.; Muzigaba, M.; Xapa, S.; Gobile, N.; Ndayi, K.; Jwili, B.; Ndibaza, K.; Egbujie, B.; Rosengren, A.; Boström, K. Bengtsson; Gustavsson, A.; Andreasson, M.; Snällman, M.; Wirdemann, L.; Oguz, A.; Imeryuz, N.; Altuntas, Y.; Gulec, S.; Temizhan, A.; Karsidag, K.; Calik, K. B. T.; Akalin, A. a. K.; Caklili, O. T.; Keskinler, M. V.; Erbakan, A. N.; Yusufali, A. M.; Almahmeed, W.; Swidan, H.; Darwish, E. A.; Hashemi, A. R. A.; Al-Khaja, N.; Muscat-Baron, J. M.; Ahmed, S. H.; Mamdouh, T. M.; Darwish, W. M.; Abdelmotagali, M. H. S.; Awed, SA Omer; Movahedi, G. A.; Hussain, F.; Shaibani, H. Al; Gharabou, R. I. M.; Youssef, D. F.; Nawati, A. Z. S.; Salah, ZAR Abu; Abdalla, R. F. E.; Shuwaihi, SM Al; Omairi, MA Al; Cadigal, O. D.; Alejandrino, R. S.; Chifamba, J.; Gwaunza, L.; Terera, G.; Mahachi, C.; Murambiwa, P.; Machiweni, T.; Mapanga, R.
Abstract:
Summary
Background
The relationship between macronutrients and cardiovascular disease and mortality is controversial. Most available data are from European and North American populations where nutrition excess is more likely, so their applicability to other populations is unclear.
Methods
The Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study is a large, epidemiological cohort study of individuals aged 35–70 years (enrolled between Jan 1, 2003, and March 31, 2013) in 18 countries with a median follow-up of 7·4 years (IQR 5·3–9·3). Dietary intake of 135 335 individuals was recorded using validated food frequency questionnaires. The primary outcomes were total mortality and major cardiovascular events (fatal cardiovascular disease, non-fatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure). Secondary outcomes were all myocardial infarctions, stroke, cardiovascular disease mortality, and non-cardiovascular disease mortality. Participants were categorised into quintiles of nutrient intake (carbohydrate, fats, and protein) based on percentage of energy provided by nutrients. We assessed the associations between consumption of carbohydrate, total fat, and each type of fat with cardiovascular disease and total mortality. We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) using a multivariable Cox frailty model with random intercepts to account for centre clustering.
Findings
During follow-up, we documented 5796 deaths and 4784 major cardiovascular disease events. Higher carbohydrate intake was associated with an increased risk of total mortality (highest [quintile 5] vs lowest quintile [quintile 1] category, HR 1·28 [95% CI 1·12–1·46], ptrend=0·0001) but not with the risk of cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular disease mortality. Intake of total fat and each type of fat was associated with lower risk of total mortality (quintile 5 vs quintile 1, total fat: HR 0·77 [95% CI 0·67–0·87], ptrend<0·0001; saturated fat, HR 0·86 [0·76–0·99], ptrend=0·0088; monounsaturated fat: HR 0·81 [0·71–0·92], ptrend<0·0001; and polyunsaturated fat: HR 0·80 [0·71–0·89], ptrend<0·0001). Higher saturated fat intake was associated with lower risk of stroke (quintile 5 vs quintile 1, HR 0·79 [95% CI 0·64–0·98], ptrend=0·0498). Total fat and saturated and unsaturated fats were not significantly associated with risk of myocardial infarction or cardiovascular disease mortality.
Interpretation
High carbohydrate intake was associated with higher risk of total mortality, whereas total fat and individual types of fat were related to lower total mortality. Total fat and types of fat were not associated with cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction, or cardiovascular disease mortality, whereas saturated fat had an inverse association with stroke. Global dietary guidelines should be reconsidered in light of these findings.
Funding
Full funding sources listed at the end of the paper (see Acknowledgments).
Published:
August 29, 2017
Title:
Mechanical constraint from growing jaw facilitates mammalian dental diversity
Authors:
Renvoisé, Elodie; Kavanagh, Kathryn D.; Lazzari, Vincent; Häkkinen, Teemu J.; Rice, Ritva; Pantalacci, Sophie; Salazar-Ciudad, Isaac; Jernvall, Jukka
Abstract:
Much of the basic information about individual organ development comes from studies using model species. Whereas conservation of gene regulatory networks across higher taxa supports generalizations made from a limited number of species, generality of mechanistic inferences remains to be tested in tissue culture systems. Here, using mammalian tooth explants cultured in isolation, we investigate self-regulation of patterning by comparing developing molars of the mouse, the model species of mammalian research, and the bank vole. A distinct patterning difference between the vole and the mouse molars is the alternate cusp offset present in the vole. Analyses of both species using 3D reconstructions of developing molars and jaws, computational modeling of cusp patterning, and tooth explants cultured with small braces show that correct cusp offset requires constraints on the lateral expansion of the developing tooth. Vole molars cultured without the braces lose their cusp offset, and mouse molars cultured with the braces develop a cusp offset. Our results suggest that cusp offset, which changes frequently in mammalian evolution, is more dependent on the 3D support of the developing jaw than other aspects of tooth shape. This jaw–tooth integration of a specific aspect of the tooth phenotype indicates that organs may outsource specific aspects of their morphology to be regulated by adjacent body parts or organs. Comparative studies of morphologically different species are needed to infer the principles of organogenesis.
Published:
August 29, 2017
Title:
Association between self-reported vegetarian diet and the irritable bowel syndrome in the French NutriNet cohort
Authors:
Buscail, Camille; Sabate, Jean-Marc; Bouchoucha, Michel; Torres, Marion J.; Allès, Benjamin; Hercberg, Serge; Benamouzig, Robert; Julia, Chantal
Abstract:
Background There is growing interest in using diet counselling in the management of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Among new emerging diets, vegetarian diets (VD) seem to be experiencing an important popularity, partly because of their alleged health benefits. A recent study performed among a rural Indian population showed that predominant VD could be associated with IBS. Objective This cross-sectional study aimed at assessing the association between the VD and IBS, among a large French cohort, the NutriNet-santé study. Methods Subjects participating in the NutriNet-Santé cohort study completed a questionnaire based on Rome III criteria (N = 41,682). Anthropometrics, socio-demographical and lifestyle data, including VD, were collected prior to the completion of Rome III questionnaire via self-administered questionnaires. Association between VD and IBS and its subtypes was investigated through multivariate logistic regression. Results The included subjects were mainly women (78.0%) and the mean age was 49.8±14.3 years. Among these individuals, 2,264 (5.4%) presented an IBS, and 805 (1.9%) reported a VD. Overall, VD was not associated with IBS or subtypes. A stable VD (i.e. self-declared at least three times) was associated with IBS (aOR 2.60 95%CI [1.37–4.91]), IBS mixed (aOR 2.97 95%CI [1.20–7.36]) and IBS diarrhoea (aOR 2.77 95%CI [1.01–7.59]). Conclusions This study suggests that a long term VD could be associated with IBS. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to confirm these results, and investigate the multiple aspects of the vegetarian diet, possibly related to the IBS.
Published:
August 25, 2017
Title:
Meat and Seafood Production & Consumption
Authors:
Ritchie, Hannah; Roser, Max
Abstract:
With more and richer mouths to feed, global demand for meat has seen a rapid rise. How much meat do we produce and consume? What are the consequences of livestock production? See global and country-level data on meat production, consumption and its impacts.
Published:
August 25, 2017
Title:
Omega-6 fatty acids: the alternative hypothesis for diseases of civilization
Authors:
breaknutrition
Abstract:
Linoleic acid (LA) is an Omega 6 fatty acids (n-6 PUFA) fat which is considered essential to human and animal function. To head folks off at the pass, n-6 fats are found in all natural foods, plants and animals, so this isn’t something you need to avoid entirely - it’s not possible, nor necessary.
Published:
August 25, 2017
Title:
Ketamine for Depression, 4: In What Dose, at What Rate, by What Route, for How Long, and at What Frequency?:
Authors:
Andrade, Chittaranjan
Abstract:
Background: Ketamine, administered in subanesthetic doses, is an effective off-label treatment for severe and even treatmentrefractory depression; however, despite dozens of studies across nearly 2 decades of research, there is no definitive guidance on matters related to core practice issues. Methods: This article presents a qualitative review and summary about what is known about ketamine dosing, rate of administration, route of administration, duration of treatment, and frequency of sessions. Results: Ketamine is most commonly administered in the dose of 0.5 mg/kg, but some patients may respond to doses as low as 0.1 mg/kg, and others may require up to 0.75 mg/kg. The ketamine dose is conventionally administered across 40 minutes; however, safety and efficacy have been demonstrated in sessions ranging between 2 and 100 minutes in duration. Bolus administration is safe and effective when the drug is administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously. Whereas the intravenous route is the most commonly employed, safety and efficacy have been described with other routes of administration, as well; these include oral, sublingual, transmucosal, intranasal, intramuscular, and subcutaneous routes. Patients may receive a single session of treatment or a course of treatment during the acute phase, and treatment may rarely be continued for weeks to years to extend and maintain treatment gains in refractory cases. When so extended, the ideal frequency is perhaps best individualized wherein ketamine is dosed a little before the effect of the previous session is expected to wear off. Conclusions: There is likely to be a complex interaction between ketamine dose, session duration, route of administration, frequency of administration, and related practice. Until definitive studies comparing different doses, rates of administration, routes of administration, and other considerations are conducted, firm recommendations are not possible. From the point of view of clinical practicability, subcutaneous, intranasal, and oral ketamine warrant further study. If domiciliary treatment is considered, the risk of abuse must be kept in mind. J Clin Psychiatry 2017;78(7):e852–e857 https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.17f11738 © Copyright 2017 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.
Published:
August 23, 2017
Title:
The reverse Warburg effect is likely to be an Achilles' heel of cancer that can be exploited for cancer therapy
Authors:
Fu, Yaojie; Liu, Shanshan; Yin, Shanghelin; Niu, Weihong; Xiong, Wei; Tan, Ming; Li, Guiyuan; Zhou, Ming
Abstract:
Although survival outcomes of cancer patients have been improved dramatically via conventional chemotherapy and targeted therapy over the last decades, there are still some tough clinical challenges that badly needs to be overcome, such as anticancer drug resistance, inevitable recurrences, cancer progression and metastasis. Simultaneously, accumulated evidence demonstrates that aberrant glucose metabolism termed 'the Warburg effect' in cancer cell is closely associated with malignant phenotypes. In 2009, a novel 'two-compartment metabolic coupling' model, also named 'the reverse Warburg effect', was proposed and attracted lots of attention. Based on this new model, we consider whether this new viewpoint can be exploited for improving the existent anti-cancer therapeutic strategies. Our review focuses on the paradigm shift from 'the Warburg effect' to 'the reverse Warburg effect', the features and molecular mechanisms of 'the reverse Warburg effect', and then we discuss its significance in fundamental researches and clinical practice.
Published:
August 22, 2017
Title:
Treatment of Rectal Cancer with the Paleolithic Ketogenic Diet: A 24-months Follow-up
Authors:
Tóth, Csaba; Clemens, Zsofia
Abstract:
Background: Ketogenic diets have repeatedly been suggested for the treatment of cancer. Yet, only a few case studies have been published that reported long term benefits associated with such diets. Case report: Here we present a case where rectal cancer was treated with an animal fat-meat based diet, which we refer to as the paleolithic ketogenic diet. Upon diet initiation, the patient discontinued three medicines he had been taking because of hypertension and hyperuricemia. The patient initially received 6 weeks of radiation therapy. Thereafter the patient used the diet as a stand-alone therapy for 22.5 months. The patient was not taking any medicines or dietary supplements while on the diet. During the first five month of the diet therapy the patient exhibited excellent adherence which was paralleled by improving laboratory parameters including decreasing tumor marker levels and decreasing tumor size. The patient was in a constant ketosis during the entire follow-up. From the seventh month on, however, his adherence level was fluctuating with periods of worse adherence paralleled with negative changes in laboratory parameters. Although MRI imaging showed that there was no increase in the size of the tumor, 22 months after diagnosis onset the patient reported an alteration in bowel habits and that the bloody stool had returned. Because of the emergence of these symptoms, 24 months after diagnosis onset, rectal surgery was performed. Conclusion: With using the paleolithic ketogenic diet the patient was able to postpone surgery for two years. During the first five months, when the patient was strictly adhering to the diet, the tumor regressed. Thereafter, with incomplete dietary adherence, disease seemed to be stable but symptoms suggested progression for the last few months of the follow-up. Deviations from diet rules, even those not affecting ketosis, resulted in the progression of the disease.
Published:
August 19, 2017
Title:
Changes in Lipids and Inflammatory Markers after Consuming Diets High in Red Meat or Dairy for Four Weeks
Authors:
Turner, Kirsty M.; Keogh, Jennifer B.; Meikle, Peter J.; Clifton, Peter M.
Abstract:
There is a body of evidence linking inflammation, altered lipid metabolism, and insulin resistance. Our previous research found that insulin sensitivity decreased after a four-week diet high in dairy compared to a control diet and to one high in red meat. Our aim was to determine whether a relationship exists between changes in insulin sensitivity and inflammatory biomarkers, or with lipid species. Fasting Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α), Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor II (sTNF-RII), C-reactive protein (CRP), and lipids were measured at the end of each diet. TNF-α and the ratio TNF-α/sTNF-RII were not different between diets and TNF-α, sTNF-RII, or the ratio TNF-α/sTNF-RII showed no association with homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). A number of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylinositol (PI) species differed between dairy and red meat and dairy and control diets, as did many phosphatidylcholine (PC) species and cholesteryl ester (CE) 14:0, CE15:0, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) 14:0, and LPC15:0. None had a significant relationship (p = 0.001 or better) with log homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), although LPC14:0 had the strongest relationship (p = 0.004) and may be the main mediator of the effect of dairy on insulin sensitivity. LPC14:0 and the whole LPC class were correlated with CRP. The correlations between dietary change and the minor plasma phospholipids PI32:1 and PE32:1 are novel and may reflect significant changes in membrane composition. Inflammatory markers were not altered by changes in protein source while the correlation of LPC with CRP confirms a relationship between changes in lipid profile and inflammation.
Published:
August 17, 2017
Title:
Processed red meat contribution to dietary patterns and the associated cardio-metabolic outcomes
Authors:
Lenighan, Yvonne M.; Nugent, Anne P.; Li, Kaifeng F.; Brennan, Lorraine; Walton, Janette; Flynn, Albert; Roche, Helen M.; Mcnulty, Breige A.
Abstract:
Evidence suggests that processed red meat consumption is a risk factor for CVD and type 2 diabetes (T2D). This analysis investigates the association between dietary patterns, their processed red meat contributions, and association with blood biomarkers of CVD and T2D, in 786 Irish adults (18-90 years) using cross-sectional data from a 2011 national food consumption survey. All meat-containing foods consumed were assigned to four food groups (n 502) on the basis of whether they contained red or white meat and whether they were processed or unprocessed. The remaining foods (n 2050) were assigned to twenty-nine food groups. Two-step and k-means cluster analyses were applied to derive dietary patterns. Nutrient intakes, plasma fatty acids and biomarkers of CVD and T2D were assessed. A total of four dietary patterns were derived. In comparison with the pattern with lower contributions from processed red meat, the dietary pattern with greater processed red meat intakes presented a poorer Alternate Healthy Eating Index (21·2 (SD 7·7)), a greater proportion of smokers (29%) and lower plasma EPA (1·34 (SD 0·72) %) and DHA (2·21 (SD 0·84) %) levels (P
Published:
August 14, 2017
Title:
Alexithymia in eating disorders: Systematic review and meta-analyses of studies using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale
Authors:
Westwood, Heather; Kerr-Gaffney, Jess; Stahl, Daniel; Tchanturia, Kate
Abstract:
Objective The aim of this review was to synthesise the literature on the use of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS) in eating disorder populations and Healthy Controls (HCs) and to compare TAS scores in these groups. Method Electronic databases were searched systematically for studies using the TAS and meta-analyses were performed to statistically compare scores on the TAS between individuals with eating disorders and HCs. Results Forty-eight studies using the TAS with both a clinical eating disorder group and HCs were identified. Of these, 44 were included in the meta-analyses, separated into: Anorexia Nervosa; Anorexia Nervosa, Restricting subtype; Anorexia Nervosa, Binge-Purge subtype, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. For all groups, there were significant differences with medium or large effect sizes between the clinical group and HCs, with the clinical group scoring significantly higher on the TAS, indicating greater difficulty with identifying and labelling emotions. Conclusion Across the spectrum of eating disorders, individuals report having difficulties recognising or describing their emotions. Given the self-report design of the TAS, research to develop and evaluate treatments and clinician-administered assessments of alexithymia is warranted.
Published:
August 1, 2017
Title:
Diabetes Knowledge, Management, and Prevention Among Haitian Immigrants in Philadelphia
Authors:
Moise, Rhoda K.; Conserve, Donaldson F.; Elewonibi, Bilikisu; Francis, Lori A.; BeLue, Rhonda
Abstract:
PurposeGuided by the PEN-3 Cultural Model, the purpose of this study is to generate culturally framed insight into diabetes knowledge, management, and prevention among Haitians. Despite the disproportionate distribution of type II diabetes mellitus among US minorities, limited research explores outcomes within racial ethnic groups. It is particularly important to disaggregate the large racial-ethnic groups of black given the population growth among foreign-born blacks, such as Haitians, whose population has more than quadrupled in recent decades.MethodsFocus group interviews were employed to understand diabetes knowledge, management, and prevention in the Haitian immigrant population in Philadelphia. Interviews were conducted in 2 groups: (1) people living with diabetes and (2) an at-risk sample for diabetes (defined as 30 and older with self-reported family history of diabetes). Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim in preparation for content analysis.ResultsOf the 10 participants, who were recruited through a Philadelphia church-based population, ages ranged from 41 to 91, with an average of 65. Content analysis revealed 3 emergent themes across: (1) cultural identity, including person, extended family, and neighborhood; (2) relationships and expectations, including perceptions, enablers, and nurturers; and (3) cultural empowerment, including positive, existential, and negative.ConclusionsResults may inform culturally appropriate diabetes interventions for Haitians. Future research should explore compliance with food recommendations as well as the cultural competency of health care professional?s information delivery.
Published:
August 1, 2017
Title:
Saturated fat does not clog the arteries: coronary heart disease is a chronic inflammatory condition, the risk of which can be effectively reduced from healthy lifestyle interventions
Authors:
Malhotra, Aseem; Redberg, Rita F.; Meier, Pascal
Abstract:
Coronary artery disease pathogenesis and treatment urgently requires a paradigm shift. Despite popular belief among doctors and the public, the conceptual model of dietary saturated fat clogging a pipe is just plain wrong. A landmark systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies showed no association between saturated fat consumption and (1) all-cause mortality, (2) coronary heart disease (CHD), (3) CHD mortality, (4) ischaemic stroke or (5) type 2 diabetes in healthy adults.1 Similarly in the secondary prevention of CHD there is no benefit from reduced fat, including saturated fat, on myocardial infarction, cardiovascular or all-cause mortality.2 It is instructive to note that in an angiographic study of postmenopausal women with CHD, greater intake of saturated fat was associated with less progression of atherosclerosis whereas carbohydrate and polyunsaturated fat intake were associated with greater progression.3 The inflammatory processes that contribute to cholesterol deposition within the artery wall and subsequent plaque formation (atherosclerosis), more closely resembles a ‘pimple’ (figure 1). Most cardiac events occur at sites with
Published:
August 1, 2017
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