top of page
Published Science
Click Search to Filter.
Total Entries: 10690
Title:
Deep Nutrition: Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food
Authors:
M.D, Catherine Shanahan
Abstract:
One of the Best Health and Wellness Books of 2017 ― Sports Illustrated A self-published phenomenon examining the habits that kept our ancestors disease-free―now with a prescriptive plan for “The Human Diet” to help us all live long, vital, healthy lives.Physician and biochemist Cate Shanahan, M.D. examined diets around the world known to help people live longer, healthier lives―diets like the Mediterranean, Okinawa, and “Blue Zone”―and identified the four common nutritional habits, developed over millennia, that unfailingly produce strong, healthy, intelligent children, and active, vital elders, generation after generation. These four nutritional strategies―fresh food, fermented and sprouted foods, meat cooked on the bone, and organ meats―form the basis of what Dr. Cate calls “The Human Diet.”Rooted in her experience as an elite athlete who used traditional foods to cure her own debilitating injuries, and combining her research with the latest discoveries in the field of epigenetics, Dr. Cate shows how all calories are not created equal; food is information that directs our cellular growth. Our family history does not determine our destiny: what you eat and how you live can alter your DNA in ways that affect your health and the health of your future children.Deep Nutrition offers a prescriptive plan for how anyone can begin eating The Human Diet to:*Improve mood*Eliminate cravings and the need to snack*Boost fertility and have healthier children*Sharpen cognition and memory*Eliminate allergies and disease*Build stronger bones and joints*Get younger, smoother skinDeep Nutrition cuts through today’s culture of conflicting nutritional ideologies, showing how the habits of our ancestors can help us lead longer, healthier, more vital lives.
Published:
January 2, 2017
Title:
Chapter 4 - Quantitative PCR: Things to Consider
Authors:
Maddocks, Sarah; Jenkins, Rowena
Abstract:
This chapter will introduce the reader to fundamental concepts that require consideration prior to undertaking quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR). It describes different types of Q-PCR as well as different applications. Advice is given regarding the type of Q-PCR machine to use, cDNA conversion, and quantification is reiterated, as well as optimizing efficiency taking into consideration such factors a primer concentration and template titration. This chapter allows readers to plan their first Q-PCR before leading them into chapter five in which the practical considerations are highlighted.
Published:
December 31, 2016
Title:
Evolution Driven by Organismal Behavior
Authors:
Diogo, Rui
Abstract:
This book proposes a new way to think about evolution. The author carefully brings together evidence from diverse fields of science. In the process, he bridges the gaps between many different--and usually seen as conflicting--ideas to present one integrative theory named ONCE, which stands for Organic Nonoptimal Constrained Evolution. The author argues that evolution is mainly driven by the behavioral choices and persistence of organisms themselves, in a process in which Darwinian natural selection is mainly a secondary--but still crucial--evolutionary player. Within ONCE, evolution is therefore generally made of mistakes and mismatches and trial-and-error situations, and is not a process where organisms engage in an incessant, suffocating struggle in which they can't thrive if they are not optimally adapted to their habitats and the external environment. Therefore, this unifying view incorporates a more comprehensive view of the diversity and complexity of life by stressing that organisms are not merely passive evolutionary players under the rule of external factors. This insightful and well-reasoned argument is based on numerous fascinating case studies from a wide range of organisms, including bacteria, plants, insects and diverse examples from the evolution of our own species. The book has an appeal to researchers, students, teachers, and those with an interest in the history and philosophy of science, as well as to the broader public, as it brings life back into biology by emphasizing that organisms, including humans, are the key active players in evolution and thus in the future of life on this wonderful planet.
Published:
December 31, 2016
Title:
Photographic and Descriptive Musculoskeletal Atlas of Bonobos
Authors:
Diogo, Rui; Shearer, Brian; Potau, Josep Maria; Pastor, Juan; De Paz, Félix; Arias-Martorell, Julia; Turcotte, Cassandra; Hammond, Ashley; Vereecke, Evie; Vanhoof, Marie; Nauwelaerts, Sandra; Wood, Bernard
Abstract:
Chimpanzees, including bonobos and common chimpanzees, are our closest living relatives. However, surprisingly, the information about the soft tissues of bonobos is very scarce, making it difficult to discuss and understand human evolution. This book, which is the first photographic and descriptive musculoskeletal atlas of bonobos (Pan paniscus), adopts the same format as the photographic atlases of other apes previously published by the same authors. These books are part of a series of monographs that will set out the comparative and phylogenetic context of the gross anatomy and evolutionary history of the soft tissue morphology of modern humans and their closest relatives. The present atlas, which includes detailed high quality photographs of the musculoskeletal structures from most anatomical regions of the body as well as textual information about the attachments, innervation, function and weight of the respective muscles, is based on dissections of seven bonobos, including adults, adolescents, infants and fetuses, and males and females, and on an extensive review of the literature for comparisons with common chimpanzees. It therefore provides an updated review of the anatomical variations within chimpanzees as well as an extensive list of synonyms used in the literature to designate the structures covered here. Moreover, contrary to the previous photographic atlases of apes, it also provides details on neurovascular structures such as the brachial and lumbrosacral plexuses. The book will therefore be of interest to students, teachers and researchers focusing on primatology, comparative anatomy, functional morphology, zoology, and physical anthropology and to medical students, doctors and researchers who are curious about the origin, evolution, homology and variations of the musculoskeletal and neurovascular structures of modern humans.
Published:
December 31, 2016
Title:
The changing landscape of diabetes prevalence among first-generation Asian immigrants in California from 2003 to 2013
Authors:
Fan, Wenjun; Lee, Debora H.; Billimek, John; Choi, Sarah; Wang, Ping H.
Abstract:
Objective The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing rapidly, particularly in Asia. Asian immigrants in Western countries are a fast-growing population who carry both intrinsic risks due to their genetic background and extrinsic risks associated with Western lifestyles. However, recent trends in diabetes prevalence and associated risk factors among Asian immigrants in the USA are not well understood. Research design and methods We examined adults aged 18 and older from the recent California Health Interview Survey data sets from 2003 to 2013 to determine prevalence of known DM among first-generation Asian immigrants and whites. The impact of various DM risk factors in Asian immigrants relative to whites was analyzed and multivariable regression models were constructed to obtain adjusted DM risk in Asian immigrants versus in whites. Results Across the study span, we identified 2007 first-generation Asian immigrants and 14 668 whites as having known DM or prediabetes mellitus (pre-DM). From 2003 to 2013, the prevalence of DM and pre-DM combined rose from 6.8% to 12.4% in Asian immigrants and 5.5% to 6.9% in whites. Much of the increase could be attributed to pre-DM, which rose from 0.7% to 3.2% in Asian immigrants during the study period. The impacts of age and body mass index on DM risk were consistently greater in Asian immigrants than in whites. Non-DM Asian immigrants were found less likely to engage in physical activity than were non-DM whites. After adjustment of various associated factors, Asian immigrants were more likely than whites to have DM and this relative risk for DM gradually increased across the study period. Conclusions A rising prevalence of known DM and particularly pre-DM among Asian immigrants in California was observed during the previous decade. To reduce the burden of diabetes and its complications, future strategies should consider specific risk factors for this ethnic group, including encouraging physical activity.
Published:
December 31, 2016
Title:
Using the Blogosphere to Promote Disputed Diets: The Swedish Low-Carb High-Fat Movement
Authors:
Holmberg, Christopher
Abstract:
Widely influential low-carb high fat diet (LCHF) promoters have been using social media to marshal support when contesting the nutritional recommendations provided by the National Swedish Food Agency (NFA). Political events led to an increased public awareness of the LCHF diet, which in turn provided the advocates with vital opportunities to contest the established nutritional authorities. This study explored how three of the leading promoters transact their criticisms of nutrition authorities, and how they use social media for this purpose. A longitudinal thematic analysis of the diet promoters’ social media presence demonstrates that they made full use of media convergence to form opinion and attain their goals. The LCHF promoters utilized a rhetorical arsenal based in science popularization to appeal to the public and social media allowed for the spread of anecdotal evidence of individual dieters. Interestingly, social media also facilitated the advocates to network their expertise and to start science initiatives evolving from merely anecdotal methods to conventional approaches.
Published:
December 31, 2016
Title:
Cliff-edge model of obstetric selection in humans
Authors:
Mitteroecker, Philipp; Huttegger, Simon M.; Fischer, Barbara; Pavlicev, Mihaela
Abstract:
The strikingly high incidence of obstructed labor due to the disproportion of fetal size and the mother’s pelvic dimensions has puzzled evolutionary scientists for decades. Here we propose that these high rates are a direct consequence of the distinct characteristics of human obstetric selection. Neonatal size relative to the birth-relevant maternal dimensions is highly variable and positively associated with reproductive success until it reaches a critical value, beyond which natural delivery becomes impossible. As a consequence, the symmetric phenotype distribution cannot match the highly asymmetric, cliff-edged fitness distribution well: The optimal phenotype distribution that maximizes population mean fitness entails a fraction of individuals falling beyond the “fitness edge” (i.e., those with fetopelvic disproportion). Using a simple mathematical model, we show that weak directional selection for a large neonate, a narrow pelvic canal, or both is sufficient to account for the considerable incidence of fetopelvic disproportion. Based on this model, we predict that the regular use of Caesarean sections throughout the last decades has led to an evolutionary increase of fetopelvic disproportion rates by 10 to 20%.
Published:
December 19, 2016
Title:
Musculoskeletal anatomy of the pelvic fin of Polypterus: implications for phylogenetic distribution and homology of pre-and postaxial pelvic appendicular muscles
Authors:
Molnar, Julia; Johnston, Peter; Esteve-Altava, Borja; Diogo, Rui
Abstract:
As a member of the most basal clade of extant ray-finned fishes (actinopterygians) and of one of the most basal clades of osteichthyans (bony fishes + tetrapods), Polypterus can provide insights into the ancestral anatomy of both ray-finned and lobe-finned fishes, including those that gave rise to tetrapods. The pectoral fin of Polypterus has been well described but, surprisingly, neither the bones nor the muscles of the pelvic fin are well known. We stained and dissected the pelvic fin of Polypterus senegalus and Polypterus delhezi to offer a detailed description of its musculoskeletal anatomy. In addition to the previously described adductor and abductor muscles, we found preaxial and postaxial muscles similar to those in the pectoral fin of members of this genus. The presence of pre-and postaxial muscles in both the pectoral and pelvic fins of Polypterus, combined with recent descriptions of similar muscles in the lobe-finned fishes Latimeria and Neoceratodus, suggests that they were present in the most recent common ancestor of bony fishes. These results have crucial implications for the evolution of appendicular muscles in both fish and tetrapods.
Published:
December 15, 2016
Title:
Tristetraprolin disables prostate cancer maintenance by impairing proliferation and metabolic function
Authors:
Berglund, Anders E.; Scott, Kristen E. N.; Li, Weimin; Yang, Chunying; Fernandez, Mario R.; Schaub, Franz X.; Cleveland, John L.; Rounbehler, Robert J.
Abstract:
Tristetraprolin (TTP) is an RNA-binding protein that post-transcriptionally suppresses gene expression by delivering mRNA cargo to processing bodies (P-bodies) where the mRNA is degraded. TTP functions as a tumor suppressor in a mouse model of B cell lymphoma, and in some human malignancies low TTP expression correlates with reduced survival. Here we report important prognostic and functional roles for TTP in human prostate cancer. First, gene expression analysis of prostate tumors revealed low TTP expression correlates with patients having high-risk Gleason scores and increased biochemical recurrence. Second, in prostate cancer cells with low levels of endogenous TTP, inducible TTP expression inhibits their growth and proliferation, as well as their clonogenic growth. Third, TTP functions as a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer, as forced TTP expression markedly impairs the tumorigenic potential of prostate cancer cells in a mouse xenograft model. Finally, pathway analysis of gene expression data suggested metabolism is altered by TTP expression in prostate tumor cells, and metabolic analyses revealed that such processes are impaired by TTP, including mitochondrial respiration. Collectively, these findings suggest that TTP is an important prognostic indicator for prostate cancer, and augmenting TTP function would effectively disable the metabolism and proliferation of aggressive prostate tumors.
Published:
December 12, 2016
Title:
US County-Level Trends in Mortality Rates for Major Causes of Death, 1980-2014
Authors:
Dwyer-Lindgren, Laura; Bertozzi-Villa, Amelia; Stubbs, Rebecca W.; Morozoff, Chloe; Kutz, Michael J.; Huynh, Chantal; Barber, Ryan M.; Shackelford, Katya A.; Mackenbach, Johan P.; Lenthe, Frank J. van; Flaxman, Abraham D.; Naghavi, Mohsen; Mokdad, Ali H.; Murray, Christopher J. L.
Abstract:
Importance
County-level patterns in mortality rates by cause have not been systematically described but are potentially useful for public health officials, clinicians, and researchers seeking to improve health and reduce geographic disparities.
Objectives
To demonstrate the use of a novel method for county-level estimation and to estimate annual mortality rates by US county for 21 mutually exclusive causes of death from 1980 through 2014.
Design, Setting, and Participants
Redistribution methods for garbage codes (implausible or insufficiently specific cause of death codes) and small area estimation methods (statistical methods for estimating rates in small subpopulations) were applied to death registration data from the National Vital Statistics System to estimate annual county-level mortality rates for 21 causes of death. These estimates were raked (scaled along multiple dimensions) to ensure consistency between causes and with existing national-level estimates. Geographic patterns in the age-standardized mortality rates in 2014 and in the change in the age-standardized mortality rates between 1980 and 2014 for the 10 highest-burden causes were determined.
Exposure
County of residence.
Main Outcomes and Measures
Cause-specific age-standardized mortality rates.
Results
A total of 80 412 524 deaths were recorded from January 1, 1980, through December 31, 2014, in the United States. Of these, 19.4 million deaths were assigned garbage codes. Mortality rates were analyzed for 3110 counties or groups of counties. Large between-county disparities were evident for every cause, with the gap in age-standardized mortality rates between counties in the 90th and 10th percentiles varying from 14.0 deaths per 100 000 population (cirrhosis and chronic liver diseases) to 147.0 deaths per 100 000 population (cardiovascular diseases). Geographic regions with elevated mortality rates differed among causes: for example, cardiovascular disease mortality tended to be highest along the southern half of the Mississippi River, while mortality rates from self-harm and interpersonal violence were elevated in southwestern counties, and mortality rates from chronic respiratory disease were highest in counties in eastern Kentucky and western West Virginia. Counties also varied widely in terms of the change in cause-specific mortality rates between 1980 and 2014. For most causes (eg, neoplasms, neurological disorders, and self-harm and interpersonal violence), both increases and decreases in county-level mortality rates were observed.
Conclusions and Relevance
In this analysis of US cause-specific county-level mortality rates from 1980 through 2014, there were large between-county differences for every cause of death, although geographic patterns varied substantially by cause of death. The approach to county-level analyses with small area models used in this study has the potential to provide novel insights into US disease-specific mortality time trends and their differences across geographic regions.
Published:
December 12, 2016
Title:
Time and Circumstances: Cancer Cell Metabolism at Various Stages of Disease Progression
Authors:
Weber, Georg F.
Abstract:
Over the past decade, research into the unique ways, in which cancer cells skew their metabolism, has had a renaissance—for the repeated time over more than 80 years since the discovery of an inherent preference for glycolysis. Importantly, the Warburg effect that arises in primary neoplasms is not the sole prominent metabolic phenomenon. Once the transformed cells are shed from their initial growth and begin the process of metastasis, their energy requirements change and they adapt to the increased demand for adenosine triphosphate, which if not satisfied would lead to anoikis. At that stage, oxidoreductases and the respiratory chain are activated. Furthermore, the intrinsic metabolic characteristics of tumor cells may be influenced by extrinsic factors, comprising metabolite secretions from stromal cells or acidification and nutrient deprivation in the late-stage hypoxic environment. While there is metabolic adjustment in cancer cells throughout the disease history, its phenotypic manifestation changes at various times. This stage selectivity has implications for pharmacotherapy ambitions.
Published:
December 11, 2016
Title:
The effects of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on dermal wound healing and scar formation: a systematic review
Authors:
Van Putte, Lennert; De Schrijver, Sofie; Moortgat, Peter
Abstract:
Our skin is the body’s first line of defense. It is the barrier that protects us from chemical and biological threats such as viruses, bacteria or corrosive liquids. It is the sensor that allows us to detect physical threats like extreme temperatures, pressure and pain. And when these preventative measures fail, the skin has yet another property: the ability to heal., Skin changes visibly with age, most notably with the appearance of wrinkles. However, there is more to ageing than meets the eye; invisible alterations cause the decline of various functions of the skin, such as wound healing and scar formation. An array of non-conclusive research has been done in this field. One theory that has gained traction during the last decade is the Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) theory. The theory states that AGEs play an important role in skin aging, wound healing and the effectiveness of different therapeutic options. Their presence supposedly indicates a diminished ability for wound healing and scar formation., AGEs are proteins to which sugar molecule is bound. The sugar molecule inhibits the original protein from functioning properly. As skin contains many proteins like collagen, the formation of these AGEs could be a viable explanation for the diminished functioning with ageing. In this review, we investigated whether the accumulation of AGEs affects wound healing and scar formation., Normal scar formation results in a thin scar. However, it may happen that scarring results in thick, large, painful and itchy scars. We investigated whether people with a high AGE content in their skin, like diabetics and elderly, have difficulties forming aesthetically pleasing scars. Secondly, we investigated which therapies reduce the AGE content and, if so, whether these therapies can improve wound healing and scarring. This literature study involved research in scientific databases with qualitative analysis of 14 articles after a three-staged selection process with the use of set criteria., We found the different ways in which AGEs affect skin properties and wound healing. Collagen, one of the most important proteins in the skin, is affected by these AGEs. Once a sugar binds to it, the collagen strings becomes thinner and shorter, and the different collagen proteins cross-link with each other in an unstructured way. The result of these alterations is a reduced elasticity, i.e. the skin becomes stiffer. The scar will be thinner and the time for wounds to close is longer. We also found strategies to diminish the AGE content, including dietary AGE restriction and Metformin, a drug used in diabetes., We can conclude that there is proof of AGEs playing an important role in skin ageing, wound healing and the effectiveness of different therapeutic options. However, more research is required to conclude the exact role of AGEs in scar formation and scar therapy.
Published:
December 4, 2016
Title:
A comprehensive review of the role of zinc in normal prostate function and metabolism; and its implications in prostate cancer
Authors:
Costello, Leslie C.; Franklin, Renty B.
Abstract:
The human prostate gland contains extremely high zinc levels; which is due to the specialized zinc-accumulating acinar epithelial of the peripheral zone. These cells evolved for their unique capability to produce and secrete extremely levels of citrate, which is achieved by the high cellular zinc level effects on the cell metabolism. This review highlights the specific functional and metabolic alterations that result from the accumulation of the high zinc levels, especially its effects on mitochondrial citrate metabolism and terminal oxidation. The implications of zinc in the development and progression of prostate cancer are described, which is the most consistent hallmark characteristic of prostate cancer. The requirement for decreased zinc resulting from down regulation of ZIP1 to prevent zinc cytotoxicity in the malignant cells is described as an essential early event in prostate oncogenesis. This provides the basis for the concept that an agent (such as the zinc ionophore, clioquinol) that facilitates zinc uptake and accumulation in ZIP1-deficient prostate tumors cells will markedly inhibit tumor growth. In the current absence of an efficacious chemotherapy for advanced prostate cancer, and for prevention of early development of malignancy; a zinc treatment regimen is a plausible approach that should be pursued.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Are Low-Carbohydrate Diets Safe and Effective?
Authors:
Fields, Heather; Ruddy, Barbara; Wallace, Mark R.; Shah, Amit; Millstine, Denise
Abstract:
The rate of obesity has dramatically increased since the 1970s and is the second leading preventive cause of death in the United States.1 In 2014 alone, the US weight loss market totaled $64 billion, with approximately 20% of adults attempting weight loss through various diets.2 One such diet, the low-carbohydrate diet (LCD), was advocated as early as 1869 in William Banting’s Letter on Corpulence.3 The LCD regained popularity with the 1972 publication of Dr. Atkins’ Diet Revolution: The High Calorie Way to Stay Thin Forever.4 Notably, Atkins did not publish safety or efficacy findings in a peer-reviewed, scientific journal. Since then, many variations of LCDs have been popularized.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Association of Higher Cortical Amyloid Burden With Loneliness in Cognitively Normal Older Adults
Authors:
Donovan, Nancy J.; Okereke, Olivia I.; Vannini, Patrizia; Amariglio, Rebecca E.; Rentz, Dorene M.; Marshall, Gad A.; Johnson, Keith A.; Sperling, Reisa A.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE To determine whether cortical amyloid burden is associated with greater loneliness in cognitively normal older adults. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Cross-sectional analyses using data from the Harvard Aging Brain Study of 79 cognitively normal, community-dwelling participants. A continuous, aggregate measure of cortical amyloid burden, determined by Pittsburgh Compound B–positron emission tomography (PiB-PET), was examined in association with loneliness in linear regression models adjusting for age, sex, apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOEε4), socioeconomic status, depression, anxiety, and social network (without and with the interaction of amyloid and APOEε4). We also quantified the association of high amyloid burden (amyloid-positive group) to loneliness (lonely group) using logistic regression, controlling for the same covariates, with the amyloid-positive group and the lonely group, each composing 32% of the sample (n = 25). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Loneliness, as determined by the 3-item UCLA Loneliness Scale (possible range, 3-12, with higher score indicating greater loneliness). RESULTS The 79 participants included 43 women and 36 men with a mean (SD) age of 76.4 (6.2) years. Mean (SD) cortical amyloid burden via PiB-PET was 1.230 (0.209), and the mean (SD) UCLA-3 loneliness score was 5.3 (1.8). Twenty-two (28%) had positive APOEε4 carrier status, and 25 (32%) were in the amyloid-positive group with cortical PiB distribution volume ratio greater than 1.2. Controlling for age, sex, APOEε4, socioeconomic status, depression, anxiety, and social network, we found that higher amyloid burden was significantly associated with greater loneliness: compared with individuals in the amyloid-negative group, those in the amyloid-positive group were 7.5-fold (95% CI, 1.7-fold to 34.0-fold) more likely to be classified as lonely than nonlonely (β = 3.3, partial r = 0.4, P = .002). Furthermore, the association of high amyloid burden and loneliness was stronger in APOEε4 carriers than in noncarriers. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE We report a novel association of loneliness with cortical amyloid burden in cognitively normal older adults, suggesting that loneliness is a neuropsychiatric symptom relevant to preclinical AD. This work will inform new research into the neural underpinnings and disease mechanisms involved in loneliness and may enhance early detection and intervention research in AD.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Detection of Volatile Metabolites Derived from Garlic (Allium sativum) in Human Urine
Authors:
Scheffler, Laura; Sauermann, Yvonne; Heinlein, Anja; Sharapa, Constanze; Buettner, Andrea
Abstract:
The metabolism and excretion of flavor constituents of garlic, a common plant used in flavoring foods and attributed with several health benefits, in humans is not fully understood. Likewise, the physiologically active principles of garlic have not been fully clarified to date. It is possible that not only the parent compounds present in garlic but also its metabolites are responsible for the specific physiological properties of garlic, including its influence on the characteristic body odor signature of humans after garlic consumption. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate potential garlic-derived metabolites in human urine. To this aim, 14 sets of urine samples were obtained from 12 volunteers, whereby each set comprised one sample that was collected prior to consumption of food-relevant concentrations of garlic, followed by five to eight subsequent samples after garlic consumption that covered a time interval of up to 26 h. The samples were analyzed chemo-analytically using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactometry (GC-MS/O), as well as sensorially by a trained human panel. The analyses revealed three different garlic-derived metabolites in urine, namely allyl methyl sulfide (AMS), allyl methyl sulfoxide (AMSO) and allyl methyl sulfone (AMSO₂), confirming our previous findings on human milk metabolite composition. The excretion rates of these metabolites into urine were strongly time-dependent with distinct inter-individual differences. These findings indicate that the volatile odorant fraction of garlic is heavily biotransformed in humans, opening up a window into substance circulation within the human body with potential wider ramifications in view of physiological effects of this aromatic plant that is appreciated by humans in their daily diet.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Diabetes Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors Among Somali and Latino Immigrants
Authors:
Njeru, Jane W.; Formea, Christine M.; Osman, Ahmed; Goodson, Miriam; Hared, Abdullah; Capetillo, Graciela Porraz; Nigon, Julie A.; Cha, Stephen S.; Weis, Jennifer A.; Hanza, Marcelo M. K.; Patten, Christi A.; Sia, Irene G.; Wieland, Mark L.
Abstract:
Persons from Somalia constitute the largest group of immigrants and refugees from Africa among whom diabetes-related health disparities are well documented. As one of the first steps toward developing a behavioral intervention to address diabetes among Somali immigrants and refugees, we administered a face to face interview-based survey to Somali and Latino adults with diabetes in a single community to assess diabetes knowledge, attitudes and behaviors. Respondents (N = 78) reported several barriers to optimal diabetes management for physical activity and glucose self-monitoring, as well as a high burden of disease and negative perceptions of diabetes. High participant engagement in disease management, self-efficacy, and social support were important assets. Similarities suggest that the shared experiences of immigration and related systemic socioeconomic and linguistic factors play a significant role in the understanding and self-management of diabetes in these populations. Together with previously collected qualitative work, the survey findings will inform development of a behavioral intervention to improve outcomes and reduce diabetes-related health disparities among immigrant and refugee groups to the U.S.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
New dates for earth mounds at Weipa, North Queensland, Australia
Authors:
Brockwell, Sally; Ó Foghlú, Billy; Fenner, Jack N.; Stevenson, Janelle; Proske, Ulrike; Shiner, Justin
Abstract:
This paper reports new radiocarbon determinations for late Holocene occupation in the Weipa region of Far North Queensland, Australia. Earth mounds along the margins of small wetlands and freshwater creeks developed mainly after 2200 years ago, but are concentrated within the past 500 years. Their establishment appears to be associated with changing environmental conditions and a regional increase in the availability of permanent water sources around 2200 and 500 years ago. These results have implications for earth mound chronology and possibly climate change understanding elsewhere in Northern Australia.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Obesity‐induced lymphatic dysfunction is reversible with weight loss
Authors:
Nitti, Matthew D.; Hespe, Geoffrey E.; Kataru, Raghu P.; García Nores, Gabriela D.; Savetsky, Ira L.; Torrisi, Jeremy S.; Gardenier, Jason C.; Dannenberg, Andrew J.; Mehrara, Babak J.
Abstract:
Obesity induces lymphatic leakiness, decreases initial lymphatic vessel density, impairs collecting vessel pumping and decreases transport of macromolecules.Obesity results in perilymphatic inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and accumulation of T cells and macrophages.Deleterious effects of obesity on the lymphatic system correlate with weight gain.Weight loss restores lymphatic function in obese animals and decreases perilymphatic iNOS and inflammatory cell accumulation.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Quality and Energy Evaluation in Meat Cooking
Authors:
Pathare, Pankaj B.; Roskilly, Anthony Paul
Abstract:
Consumer acceptance of meat is strongly influenced by the eating quality. Cooking method has great impact on eating quality of meat, and energy consumption is important parameter to consider while selecting the cooking method. Energy requirement for well-cooked meats varies with cooking method, appliances and consumer behaviour. Energy consumption reduction during meat cooking may have the influence on global energy requirement. This article critically reviewed the effects on quality characteristics of meat and meat products by different cooking methods. The different cooking methods including oven, frying, sous vide and ohmic cooking are discussed in detail, and their effects on meat quality parameters such as colour, tenderness, cooking loss, shrinkage and juiciness are also presented. Highlighting on the role of cooking process on meat quality, energy requirement for cooking were identified.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Risk of Developing Diabetes Among Refugees and Immigrants: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors:
Berkowitz, Seth A.; Fabreau, Gabriel E.; Raghavan, Sridharan; Kentoffio, Katherine; Chang, Yuchiao; He, Wei; Atlas, Steven J.; Percac-Lima, Sanja
Abstract:
To determine the difference in risk of developing diabetes for refugees, immigrants, and American-born participants living in the same communities, and to explore potential mediators of that difference. Retrospective longitudinal cohort from January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2013. Refugees aged ≥18 years were matched in a 1:3 ratio by age, gender, and date of care initiation to (1) Spanish-speaking non-refugee immigrants, and (2) English-speaking controls receiving care in the same community health center. We used proportional hazards regression to estimate the risk of incident diabetes. We tested whether differences in education or baseline obesity mediated diabetes risk using counterfactual mediation analysis. We included 3174 participants. Among refugee participants, the most common countries of origin were Somalia (17.8 %), Iraq (16.7 %) and Bhutan (8.8 %). Diabetes incidence rate was 1.94, 1.91, and 1.22 cases per 100 person-years follow-up for refugees, immigrants, and controls, respectively. In adjusted models, both refugee (HR 2.08 95 % CI 1.32–3.30) and immigrant (HR 1.51 95 % CI 1.01–2.24) statuses were associated with increased diabetes risk compared with controls. Risk between refugees and immigrants did not differ (adjusted HR for refugees 1.37 95 % CI 0.91–2.06). In mediation analyses, educational attainment mediated 36 % (p = 0.007) of the difference in diabetes risk between refugees/immigrants and controls. Baseline obesity did not mediate difference in diabetes risk (proportion mediated 1 %, p = 0.84). Refugees and immigrants had significantly increased risk for diabetes, partially mediated by education. Education-based lifestyle interventions may be a promising strategy to prevent diabetes for these vulnerable patients.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Type 2 Diabetes Self-management Among Spanish-Speaking Hispanic Immigrants
Authors:
Smith-Miller, Cheryl A.; Berry, Diane C.; DeWalt, Darren; Miller, Cass T.
Abstract:
This article describes the quantitative findings of a mixed-methods study that examined the relationship among knowledge, self-efficacy, health promoting behaviors, and type 2 diabetes self-management among recent Spanish-speaking, limited English proficient immigrants to the US. This population is at risk for both a higher incidence of disease and increased barriers to successful disease management compared to the general US population. Distinguishing aspects of this study compared to the available literature are the comprehensive nature of the data collected, the theoretical component, and the analysis and modeling approach. Social cognitive theory provides the framework for the study design and analysis. An innovative community-based recruiting strategy was used, a broad range of physiological measures related to health were observed, and instruments related to knowledge, self-efficacy, and healthy lifestyle behaviors were administered orally in Spanish to 30 participants. A broad range of statistical analysis methods was applied to the data, including a set of three structural equation models. The study results are consistent with the importance of education, health knowledge, and healthy lifestyle practices for type 2 diabetes self-management. With the usual cautions associated with applying structural equation modeling to modest sample sizes, multiple elements of the posited theoretical model were consistent with the data collected. The results of the investigation of this under-studied population indicate that, on average, participants were not effectively managing their disease. The results suggest that clinical interventions focused on improving knowledge, nutrition, and physical activity, reducing stress, and leveraging the importance of interpersonal relations could be effective intervention strategies to improve self-management among this population.
Published:
November 30, 2016
Title:
Fluctuations in metabolite content in the liver of magnesium-deficient rats
Authors:
Shigematsu, Mei; Nakagawa, Ryosuke; Tomonaga, Shozo; Funaba, Masayuki; Matsui, Tohru
Abstract:
Mg deficiency induces various metabolic disturbances including glucose metabolism in the liver. However, no comprehensive information is currently available on the metabolic pathways affected by Mg deficiency. The present study examined metabolite content in the liver of Mg-deficient rats using a metabolomic analysis. In this study, 4-week-old, male Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a control diet or a Mg-deficient diet for 8 weeks. The metabolomic analysis identified 105 metabolites in the liver, and significant differences were observed in the hepatic contents for thirty-three metabolites between the two groups. An analysis by MetaboAnalyst, a web-based metabolome data analysis tool, indicated that the Mg deficiency affected taurine/hypotaurine metabolism, methionine metabolism and glycine/serine/threonine metabolism; taurine, hypotaurine, glycine, serine and threonine contents were increased by Mg deficiency, whereas the amounts of 2-ketobutyric acid (a metabolite produced by the catabolism of cystathionine or threonine) and 5'-methylthioadenosine (a metabolite involved in spermidine synthesis) were decreased. The amount of glucose 6-phosphate, a hub metabolite of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and the pentose phosphate pathway, was significantly decreased in Mg-deficient rats. Mg deficiency also decreased metabolite contents from the citric acid cycle, including citric acid, fumaric acid and malic acid. Aberrant metabolism may be related to the allosteric regulation of enzymes; the mRNA levels of enzymes were generally similar between the two groups. The present study suggests that the Mg deficiency-mediated modulation of hepatic metabolism is as yet uncharacterised.
Published:
November 27, 2016
Title:
Characteristic tetrapod musculoskeletal limb phenotype emerged more than 400 MYA in basal lobe-finned fishes
Authors:
Diogo, Rui; Johnston, Peter; Molnar, Julia; Esteve-Altava, Borja
Abstract:
Previous accounts of the origin of tetrapod limbs have postulated a relatively sudden change, after the split between extant lobe-finned fish and tetrapods, from a very simple fin phenotype with only two muscles to the highly complex tetrapod condition. The evolutionary changes that led to the muscular anatomy of tetrapod limbs have therefore remained relatively unexplored. We performed dissections, histological sections, and MRI scans of the closest living relatives of tetrapods: coelacanths and lungfish. Combined with previous comparative, developmental and paleontological information, our findings suggest that the characteristic tetrapod musculoskeletal limb phenotype was already present in the Silurian last common ancestor of extant sarcopterygians, with the exception of the autopod (hand/foot) structures, which have no clear correspondence with fish structures. Remarkably, the two major steps in this long process – leading to the ancestral fin anatomy of extant sarcopterygians and limb anatomy of extant tetrapods, respectively – occurred at the same nodes as the two major similarity bottlenecks that led to the striking derived myological similarity between the pectoral and pelvic appendages within each taxon. Our identification of probable homologies between appendicular muscles of sarcopterygian fish and tetrapods will allow more detailed reconstructions of muscle anatomy in early tetrapods and their relatives.
Published:
November 24, 2016
Title:
Soy and Health Update: Evaluation of the Clinical and Epidemiologic Literature
Authors:
Messina, Mark
Abstract:
Soyfoods have long been recognized as sources of high-quality protein and healthful fat, but over the past 25 years these foods have been rigorously investigated for their role in chronic disease prevention and treatment. There is evidence, for example, that they reduce risk of coronary heart disease and breast and prostate cancer. In addition, soy alleviates hot flashes and may favorably affect renal function, alleviate depressive symptoms and improve skin health. Much of the focus on soyfoods is because they are uniquely-rich sources of isoflavones. Isoflavones are classified as both phytoestrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators. Despite the many proposed benefits, the presence of isoflavones has led to concerns that soy may exert untoward effects in some individuals. However, these concerns are based primarily on animal studies, whereas the human research supports the safety and benefits of soyfoods. In support of safety is the recent conclusion of the European Food Safety Authority that isoflavones do not adversely affect the breast, thyroid or uterus of postmenopausal women. This review covers each of the major research areas involving soy focusing primarily on the clinical and epidemiologic research. Background information on Asian soy intake, isoflavones, and nutrient content is also provided.
Published:
November 23, 2016
Title:
Soy and Health Update: Evaluation of the Clinical and Epidemiologic Literature
Authors:
Messina, Mark
Abstract:
Soyfoods have long been recognized as sources of high-quality protein and healthful fat, but over the past 25 years these foods have been rigorously investigated for their role in chronic disease prevention and treatment. There is evidence, for example, that they reduce risk of coronary heart disease and breast and prostate cancer. In addition, soy alleviates hot flashes and may favorably affect renal function, alleviate depressive symptoms and improve skin health. Much of the focus on soyfoods is because they are uniquely-rich sources of isoflavones. Isoflavones are classified as both phytoestrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators. Despite the many proposed benefits, the presence of isoflavones has led to concerns that soy may exert untoward effects in some individuals. However, these concerns are based primarily on animal studies, whereas the human research supports the safety and benefits of soyfoods. In support of safety is the recent conclusion of the European Food Safety Authority that isoflavones do not adversely affect the breast, thyroid or uterus of postmenopausal women. This review covers each of the major research areas involving soy focusing primarily on the clinical and epidemiologic research. Background information on Asian soy intake, isoflavones, and nutrient content is also provided.
Published:
November 23, 2016
Title:
Lowering the Bar on the Low-Fat Diet
Authors:
Ludwig, David S.
Abstract:
This Viewpoint by David Ludwig assesses the lessons learned from US nutrition recommendations to limit fat intake and the continuing increase in obesity and diabetes and discusses the challenges inherent in scientific evidence regarding nutrition.
Published:
November 21, 2016
Title:
A Dietary Fiber-Deprived Gut Microbiota Degrades the Colonic Mucus Barrier and Enhances Pathogen Susceptibility
Authors:
Desai, Mahesh S.; Seekatz, Anna M.; Koropatkin, Nicole M.; Kamada, Nobuhiko; Hickey, Christina A.; Wolter, Mathis; Pudlo, Nicholas A.; Kitamoto, Sho; Terrapon, Nicolas; Muller, Arnaud; Young, Vincent B.; Henrissat, Bernard; Wilmes, Paul; Stappenbeck, Thaddeus S.; Núñez, Gabriel; Martens, Eric C.
Abstract:
Published:
November 16, 2016
Title:
Selective sweep on human amylase genes postdates the split with Neanderthals
Authors:
Inchley, Charlotte E.; Larbey, Cynthia D. A.; Shwan, Nzar A. A.; Pagani, Luca; Saag, Lauri; Antão, Tiago; Jacobs, Guy; Hudjashov, Georgi; Metspalu, Ene; Mitt, Mario; Eichstaedt, Christina A.; Malyarchuk, Boris; Derenko, Miroslava; Wee, Joseph; Abdullah, Syafiq; Ricaut, François-Xavier; Mormina, Maru; Mägi, Reedik; Villems, Richard; Metspalu, Mait; Jones, Martin K.; Armour, John A. L.; Kivisild, Toomas
Abstract:
Humans have more copies of amylase genes than other primates. It is still poorly understood, however, when the copy number expansion occurred and whether its spread was enhanced by selection. Here we assess amylase copy numbers in a global sample of 480 high coverage genomes and find that regions flanking the amylase locus show notable depression of genetic diversity both in African and non-African populations. Analysis of genetic variation in these regions supports the model of an early selective sweep in the human lineage after the split of humans from Neanderthals which led to the fixation of multiple copies of AMY1 in place of a single copy. We find evidence of multiple secondary losses of copy number with the highest frequency (52%) of a deletion of AMY2A and associated low copy number of AMY1 in Northeast Siberian populations whose diet has been low in starch content.
Published:
November 16, 2016
Title:
Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Peak Torque Differences between Vegetarian and Omnivore Endurance Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors:
Lynch, Heidi M.; Wharton, Christopher M.; Johnston, Carol S.
Abstract:
In spite of well-documented health benefits of vegetarian diets, less is known regarding the effects of these diets on athletic performance. In this cross-sectional study, we compared elite vegetarian and omnivore adult endurance athletes for maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and strength. Twenty-seven vegetarian (VEG) and 43 omnivore (OMN) athletes were evaluated using VO2 max testing on the treadmill, and strength assessment using a dynamometer to determine peak torque for leg extensions. Dietary data were assessed using detailed seven-day food logs. Although total protein intake was lower among vegetarians in comparison to omnivores, protein intake as a function of body mass did not differ by group (1.2 ± 0.3 and 1.4 ± 0.5 g/kg body mass for VEG and OMN respectively, p = 0.220). VO2 max differed for females by diet group (53.0 ± 6.9 and 47.1 ± 8.6 mL/kg/min for VEG and OMN respectively, p
Published:
November 14, 2016
Title:
Dinosaurs, Chameleons, Humans, and Evo‐Devo Path: Linking Étienne Geoffroy's Teratology, Waddington's Homeorhesis, Alberch's Logic of “Monsters,” and Goldschmidt Hopeful “Monsters”
Authors:
Diogo, Rui; Guinard, Geoffrey; Diaz, Raul
Abstract:
Since the rise of evo-devo (evolutionary developmental biology) in the 1980s, few authors have attempted to combine the increasing knowledge obtained from the study of model organisms and human medicine with data from comparative anatomy and evolutionary biology in order to investigate the links between development, pathology, and macroevolution. Fortunately, this situation is slowly changing, with a renewed interest in evolutionary developmental pathology (evo-devo-path) in the past decades, as evidenced by the idea to publish this special, and very timely, issue on “Developmental Evolution in Biomedical Research.” As all of us have recently been involved, independently, in works related in some way or another with evolution and developmental anomalies, we decided to join our different perspectives and backgrounds in the present contribution for this special issue. Specifically, we provide a brief historical account on the study of the links between evolution, development, and pathologies, followed by a review of the recent work done by each of us, and then by a general discussion on the broader developmental and macroevolutionary implications of our studies and works recently done by other authors. Our primary aims are to highlight the strength of studying developmental anomalies within an evolutionary framework to understand morphological diversity and disease by connecting the recent work done by us and others with the research done and broader ideas proposed by authors such as Étienne Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, Waddington, Goldschmidt, Gould, and Per Alberch, among many others to pave the way for further and much needed work regarding abnormal development and macroevolution.
Published:
November 8, 2016
Title:
Colorectal Carcinogenesis in the A/J Min/+ Mouse Model is Inhibited by Hemin, Independently of Dietary Fat Content and Fecal Lipid Peroxidation Rate
Authors:
Steppeler, Christina; Sødring, Marianne; Paulsen, Jan Erik
Abstract:
Background: Intake of red meat is considered a risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC) development, and heme, the prosthetic group of myoglobin, has been suggested as a potential cause. One of the proposed molecular mechanisms of heme-induced CRC is based on an increase in the rate of lipid peroxidation catalysed by heme.Methods: In the present work, the novel A/J Min/+ mouse model for Apc-driven colorectal cancer was used to investigate the effect of dietary heme (0.5 μmol/g), combined with high (40 energy %) or low (10 energy %) dietary fat levels, on intestinal carcinogenesis. At the end of the dietary intervention period (week 3-11), spontaneously developed lesions in the colon (flat aberrant crypt foci (flat ACF) and tumors) and small intestine (tumors) were scored and thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS), a biomarker for lipid peroxidation was analysed in feces.Results: Dietary hemin significantly reduced colonic carcinogenesis. The inhibitory effect of hemin was not dependent on the dietary fat level, and no association could be established between colonic carcinogenesis and the lipid oxidation rate measured as fecal TBARS. Small intestinal carcinogenesis was not affected by hemin. Fat tended to stimulate intestinal carcinogenesis.Conclusions: Contradicting the hypothesis, dietary hemin did inhibit colonic carcinogenesis in the present study. The results indicate that fecal TBARS concentration is not directly related to intestinal lesions and is therefore not a suitable biomarker for CRC.
Published:
November 1, 2016
Title:
Comparison of carnivore, omnivore, and herbivore mammalian genomes with a new leopard assembly
Authors:
Kim, Soonok; Cho, Yun Sung; Kim, Hak-Min; Chung, Oksung; Kim, Hyunho; Jho, Sungwoong; Seomun, Hong; Kim, Jeongho; Bang, Woo Young; Kim, Changmu; An, Junghwa; Bae, Chang Hwan; Bhak, Youngjune; Jeon, Sungwon; Yoon, Hyejun; Kim, Yumi; Jun, JeHoon; Lee, HyeJin; Cho, Suan; Uphyrkina, Olga; Kostyria, Aleksey; Goodrich, John; Miquelle, Dale; Roelke, Melody; Lewis, John; Yurchenko, Andrey; Bankevich, Anton; Cho, Juok; Lee, Semin; Edwards, Jeremy S.; Weber, Jessica A.; Cook, Jo; Kim, Sangsoo; Lee, Hang; Manica, Andrea; Lee, Ilbeum; O’Brien, Stephen J.; Bhak, Jong; Yeo, Joo-Hong
Abstract:
There are three main dietary groups in mammals: carnivores, omnivores, and herbivores. Currently, there is limited comparative genomics insight into the evolution of dietary specializations in mammals. Due to recent advances in sequencing technologies, we were able to perform in-depth whole genome analyses of representatives of these three dietary groups.
Published:
November 1, 2016
Title:
Adult BMI and Access to Built Environment Resources in a High-Poverty, Urban Geography
Authors:
Tung, Elizabeth L.; Peek, Monica E.; Makelarski, Jennifer A.; Escamilla, Veronica; Lindau, Stacy T.
Abstract:
Introduction The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between BMI and access to built environment resources in a high-poverty, urban geography. Methods Participants (aged ≥35 years) were surveyed between November 2012 and July 2013 to examine access to common health-enabling resources (grocers, outpatient providers, pharmacies, places of worship, and physical activity resources). Survey data were linked to a contemporaneous census of built resources. Associations between BMI and access to resources (potential and realized) were examined using independent t-tests and multiple linear regression. Data analysis was conducted in 2014–2015. Results Median age was 53.8 years (N=267, 62% cooperation rate). Obesity (BMI ≥30) prevalence was 54.9%. BMI was not associated with potential access to resources located nearest to home. Nearly all participants (98.1%) bypassed at least one nearby resource type; half bypassed nearby grocers (realized access >1 mile from home). Bypassing grocers was associated with a higher BMI (p=0.03). Each additional mile traveled from home to a grocer was associated with a 0.9-higher BMI (95% CI=0.4, 1.3). Quality and affordability were common reasons for bypassing resources. Conclusions Despite potential access to grocers in a high-poverty, urban region, half of participants bypassed nearby grocers to access food. Bypassing grocers was associated with a higher BMI.
Published:
October 31, 2016
Title:
High Uric Acid Activates the ROS-AMPK Pathway, Impairs CD68 Expression and Inhibits OxLDL-Induced Foam-Cell Formation in a Human Monocytic Cell Line, THP-1
Authors:
Chaohuan, Luo; Lian, Xueke; Hong, Liangli; Zou, Jingfang; Li, Zhi; Zhu, Yuzhang; Tianliang, Huang; Zhang, Yongneng; Hu, Yaqiu; Yuan, Huier; Wen, Tengfei; Zhuang, Wanling; Cai, Bozhi; Zhang, Xin; Hisatome, Ichiro; Yamamoto, Tetsuya; Huang, Jiexiong; Cheng, Jidong
Abstract:
Background/aims: Hyperuricemia is part of the metabolic-syndrome cluster of abdominal obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Monocytes/macrophages are critical in the development of metabolic syndrome, including gout, obesity and atherosclerosis. However, how high uric acid (HUA) exposure affects monocyte/macrophage function remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism of HUA exposure in monocytes/macrophages and its impact on oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-induced foam-cell formation in a human monocytic cell line, THP-1. Methods: We primed THP-1 cells with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) for differentiation, then exposed cells to HUA and detected the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and analyzed the level of phospho-AMPKα. THP-1 cells were pre-incubated with Compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, or N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), a ROS scavenger, or HUA before PMA, to assess CD68 expression and phospho-AMPKα level. PMA-primed THP-1 cells were pre-treated with oxLDL before Compound C and HUA treatment. Western blot analysis was used to examine the levels of phospho-AMPKα, CD68, ABCG1, ABCA1, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and NF-κB (p65). Flow cytometry was used to assess ROS production and CD68 expression in live cells. Oil-red O staining was used to observe oxLDL uptake in cells. Results: HUA treatment increased ROS production in PMA-primed THP-1 cells; NAC blocked HUA-induced oxidative stress. HUA treatment time-dependently increased phospho-AMPKα level in PMA-primed THP-1 cells. The HUA-induced oxidative stress increased phospho-AMPKα levels, which was blocked by NAC. HUA treatment impaired CD68 expression during cell differentiation by activating the AMPK pathway, which was reversed by Compound C treatment. Finally, HUA treatment inhibited oxLDL uptake in the formation of foam cells in THP-1 cells, which was blocked by Compound C treatment. HUA treatment significantly increased the expression of ABCG1 and reversed the oxLDL-reduced ABCG1 expression but did not affect the expression of ABCA1, NF-κB (p65) or COX-2. Conclusions: HUA exposure activated the ROS-AMPK pathway, impaired CD68 expression, and inhibited oxLDL-induced foam-cell formation in a human monocytic cell line, THP-1.
Published:
October 31, 2016
Title:
High-level adherence to a Mediterranean diet beneficially impacts the gut microbiota and associated metabolome
Authors:
Filippis, Francesca De; Pellegrini, Nicoletta; Vannini, Lucia; Jeffery, Ian B.; Storia, Antonietta La; Laghi, Luca; Serrazanetti, Diana I.; Cagno, Raffaella Di; Ferrocino, Ilario; Lazzi, Camilla; Turroni, Silvia; Cocolin, Luca; Brigidi, Patrizia; Neviani, Erasmo; Gobbetti, Marco; O'Toole, Paul W.; Ercolini, Danilo
Abstract:
Objectives Habitual diet plays a major role in shaping the composition of the gut microbiota, and also determines the repertoire of microbial metabolites that can influence the host. The typical Western diet corresponds to that of an omnivore; however, the Mediterranean diet (MD), common in the Western Mediterranean culture, is to date a nutritionally recommended dietary pattern that includes high-level consumption of cereals, fruit, vegetables and legumes. To investigate the potential benefits of the MD in this cross-sectional survey, we assessed the gut microbiota and metabolome in a cohort of Italian individuals in relation to their habitual diets. Design and results We retrieved daily dietary information and assessed gut microbiota and metabolome in 153 individuals habitually following omnivore, vegetarian or vegan diets. The majority of vegan and vegetarian subjects and 30% of omnivore subjects had a high adherence to the MD. We were able to stratify individuals according to both diet type and adherence to the MD on the basis of their dietary patterns and associated microbiota. We detected significant associations between consumption of vegetable-based diets and increased levels of faecal short-chain fatty acids, Prevotella and some fibre-degrading Firmicutes, whose role in human gut warrants further research. Conversely, we detected higher urinary trimethylamine oxide levels in individuals with lower adherence to the MD. Conclusions High-level consumption of plant foodstuffs consistent with an MD is associated with beneficial microbiome-related metabolomic profiles in subjects ostensibly consuming a Western diet. Trial registration number This study was registered at clinical trials.gov as NCT02118857.
Published:
October 31, 2016
Title:
"A Vegetarian vs. Conventional Hypocaloric Diet: The Effect on Physical Fitness in Response to Aerobic Exercise in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes." A Parallel Randomized Study
Authors:
Veleba, Jiri; Matoulek, Martin; Hill, Martin; Pelikanova, Terezie; Kahleova, Hana
Abstract:
It has been shown that it is possible to modify macronutrient oxidation, physical fitness and resting energy expenditure (REE) by changes in diet composition. Furthermore, mitochondrial oxidation can be significantly increased by a diet with a low glycemic index. The purpose of our trial was to compare the effects of a vegetarian (V) and conventional diet (C) with the same caloric restriction (-500 kcal/day) on physical fitness and REE after 12 weeks of diet plus aerobic exercise in 74 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). An open, parallel, randomized study design was used. All meals were provided for the whole study duration. An individualized exercise program was prescribed to the participants and was conducted under supervision. Physical fitness was measured by spiroergometry and indirect calorimetry was performed at the start and after 12 weeks Repeated-measures ANOVA (Analysis of variance) models with between-subject (group) and within-subject (time) factors and interactions were used for evaluation of the relationships between continuous variables and factors. Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) increased by 12% in vegetarian group (V) (F = 13.1, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.171), whereas no significant change was observed in C (F = 0.7, p = 0.667; group × time F = 9.3, p = 0.004, partial η² = 0.209). Maximal performance (Watt max) increased by 21% in V (F = 8.3, p
Published:
October 25, 2016
Title:
Reduced bone resorption by intake of dietary vitamin D and K from tailor-made Atlantic salmon: A randomized intervention trial
Authors:
Graff, Ingvild Eide; Øyen, Jannike; Kjellevold, Marian; Frøyland, Livar; Gjesdal, Clara Gram; Almås, Bjørg; Rosenlund, Grethe; Lie, Øyvind
Abstract:
Suboptimal vitamin D status is common among humans, and might increase bone resorption with subsequent negative effects on bone health. Fatty fish, including Atlantic salmon, is an important dietary vitamin D source. However, due to a considerable change in fish feed composition, the contribution of vitamin D from salmon fillet has been reduced. The main objective was to investigate if intake of vitamin D3 enriched salmon or vitamin D3 tablets decreased bone biomarkers (urinary N-telopeptides, deoxypyridinoline, serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin) compared to a low vitamin D3 intake. The 122 healthy postmenopausal women included in this 12 weeks intervention trial were randomized into four groups: three salmon groups (150 grams/two times/week) and one tablet group (800 IU vitamin D and 1000 mg calcium/day). The salmon groups also received calcium supplements. The salmon had three different vitamin D3/vitamin K1 combinations: high D3+high K1, low D3+high K1, or high D3+low K1. Increased intake of salmon containing high levels of vitamin D3 (0.35-0.38 mg/kg/fillet) and supplements with the same weekly contribution had a positive influence on bone health as measured by bone biomarkers in postmenopausal women. Consequently, an increased level of vitamin D3 at least to original level in feed for salmonids will contribute to an improved vitamin D3 status and may improve human bone health.
Published:
October 24, 2016
Title:
Nuclear transcription factor Nrf2 suppresses prostate cancer cells growth and migration through upregulating ferroportin
Authors:
Xue, Dong; Zhou, Cuixing; Shi, Yunbo; Lu, Hao; Xu, Renfang; He, Xiaozhou
Abstract:
VTo investigate the effect of nuclear transcription factor Nrf2 on the transcription of Ferroportin (FPN) in prostate cancer cells, and the regulation mechanisms of FPN on cell viability, migration and apoptosis of prostate cancer cells., Empty vectors, pEGFPC1-Nrf2, pEGFPC1-FPN, Si-FPN and Si-Nrf2 were transfected into prostate cancer cell line PC3. The expression of mRNA and protein were measured by real time-PCR (RT-PCR) and western blot. Cell viability, migration, cycle and apoptosis were tested by CCK-8 assay, wound healing and flow cytometry, respectively. The interaction between FPN and Nrf2 was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP) assay., The viability, migration and mitosis of PC3 cells could be repressed by over-expressed FPN, with decreased intracellular ferritin. The CHIP assay demonstrated that Nrf2 is one transcription factor of FPN and promotes its transcription. With the increase of Nrf2 in PC3 cells, the viability, migration ability and concentration of ferritin were suppressed, while the apoptosis rate was increased. The above effects were counteracted by down-regulating FPN., FPN could inhibit the prostate cancer cell viability, migration and mitosis, which is also related to a decrease of intracellular ferritin content. In conclusion, Nrf2 suppresses prostate cancer cells viability, migration, and mitosis through upregulating FPN.
Published:
October 23, 2016
Title:
N-Myc Induces an EZH2-Mediated Transcriptional Program Driving Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer
Authors:
Dardenne, Etienne; Beltran, Himisha; Benelli, Matteo; Gayvert, Kaitlyn; Berger, Adeline; Puca, Loredana; Cyrta, Joanna; Sboner, Andrea; Noorzad, Zohal; MacDonald, Theresa; Cheung, Cynthia; Yuen, Ka Shing; Gao, Dong; Chen, Yu; Eilers, Martin; Mosquera, Juan-Miguel; Robinson, Brian D.; Elemento, Olivier; Rubin, Mark A.; Demichelis, Francesca; Rickman, David S.
Abstract:
Summary The transition from castration-resistant prostate adenocarcinoma (CRPC) to neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) has emerged as an important mechanism of treatment resistance. NEPC is associated with overexpression and gene amplification of MYCN (encoding N-Myc). N-Myc is an established oncogene in several rare pediatric tumors, but its role in prostate cancer progression is not well established. Integrating a genetically engineered mouse model and human prostate cancer transcriptome data, we show that N-Myc overexpression leads to the development of poorly differentiated, invasive prostate cancer that is molecularly similar to human NEPC. This includes an abrogation of androgen receptor signaling and induction of Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 signaling. Altogether, our data establishes N-Myc as an oncogenic driver of NEPC.
Published:
October 9, 2016
Title:
Exposing the exposures responsible for type 2 diabetes and obesity
Authors:
Franks, Paul W.; McCarthy, Mark I.
Abstract:
The rising prevalences of type 2 diabetes and obesity constitute major threats to human health globally. Powerful social and economic factors influence the distribution of these diseases among and within populations. These factors act on a substrate of individual predisposition derived from the composite effects of inherited DNA variation and a range of environmental exposures experienced throughout the life course. Although “Western” lifestyle represents a convenient catch-all culprit for such exposures, effective treatment and prevention will be informed by characterization of the most critical, causal environmental factors. In this Review, we examine how burgeoning understanding of the genetic basis of type 2 diabetes and obesity can highlight nongenetic exposures that drive development of these conditions.
Published:
October 6, 2016
Title:
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids promote amyloid-β clearance from the brain through mediating the function of the glymphatic system
Authors:
Ren, Huixia; Luo, Chuanming; Feng, Yanqing; Yao, Xiaoli; Shi, Zhe; Liang, Fengyin; Kang, Jing X.; Wan, Jian-Bo; Pei, Zhong; Su, Huanxing
Abstract:
Impairment of amyloid-β (Aβ) clearance leads to Aβ accumulation in the brain during the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Strategies that can restore or improve the clearance function hold great promise in delaying or preventing the onset of AD. Here, we show that n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), by use of fat-1 transgenic mice and oral administration of fish oil, significantly promote interstitial Aβ clearance from the brain and resist Aβ injury. Such beneficial effects were abolished in Aqp4-knockout mice, suggesting that the AQP4-dependent glymphatic system is actively involved in the promoting the effects of n-3 PUFAs on the clearance of extracellular Aβ. Imaging on clarified brain tissues clearly displayed that n-3 PUFAs markedly inhibit the activation of astrocytes and protect the AQP4 polarization in the affected brain region after Aβ injection. The results of the present study prove a novel mechanism by which n-3 PUFAs exert protective roles in reducing Aβ accumulation via mediating the glymphatic system function.—Ren, H., Luo, C., Feng, Y., Yao, X., Shi, Z., Liang, F., Kang, J. X., Wan, J.-B., Pei, Z., Su, H. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids promote amyloid-β clearance from the brain through mediating the function of the glymphatic system.
Published:
October 6, 2016
bottom of page