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Title:
The roles and values of wild foods in agricultural systems
Authors:
Bharucha, Zareen; Pretty, Jules
Abstract:
Almost every ecosystem has been amended so that plants and animals can be used as food, fibre, fodder, medicines, traps and weapons. Historically, wild plants and animals were sole dietary components for hunter–gatherer and forager cultures. Today, they remain key to many agricultural communities. The mean use of wild foods by agricultural and forager communities in 22 countries of Asia and Africa (36 studies) is 90–100 species per location. Aggregate country estimates can reach 300–800 species (e.g. India, Ethiopia, Kenya). The mean use of wild species is 120 per community for indigenous communities in both industrialized and developing countries. Many of these wild foods are actively managed, suggesting there is a false dichotomy around ideas of the agricultural and the wild: hunter–gatherers and foragers farm and manage their environments, and cultivators use many wild plants and animals. Yet, provision of and access to these sources of food may be declining as natural habitats come under increasing pressure from development, conservation-exclusions and agricultural expansion. Despite their value, wild foods are excluded from official statistics on economic values of natural resources. It is clear that wild plants and animals continue to form a significant proportion of the global food basket, and while a variety of social and ecological drivers are acting to reduce wild food use, their importance may be set to grow as pressures on agricultural productivity increase.
Published:
September 26, 2010
Title:
Supplementation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, magnesium and zinc in children seeking medical advice for attention-deficit/hyperactivity problems - an observational cohort study
Authors:
Huss, Michael; Völp, Andreas; Stauss-Grabo, Manuela
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential nutrients for humans. They are structural and functional components of cell membranes and pre-stages of the hormonally and immunologically active eicosanoids. Recent discoveries have shown that the long-chained omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) also play an important role in the central nervous system. They are essential for normal brain functioning including attention and other neuropsychological skills. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In our large observational study we monitored 810 children from 5 to 12 years of age referred for medical help and recommended for consuming polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in combination with zinc and magnesium by a physician over a period of at least 3 months. The food supplement ESPRICO® (further on referred to as the food supplement) is developed on the basis of current nutritional science and containing a combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as magnesium and zinc. Study objective was to evaluate the nutritional effects of the PUFA-zinc-magnesium combination on symptoms of attention deficit, impulsivity, and hyperactivity as well as on emotional problems and sleep related parameters. Assessment was performed by internationally standardised evaluation scales, i.e. SNAP-IV and SDQ. Tolerance (adverse events) and acceptance (compliance) of the dietary therapy were documented. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of consumption of a combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as magnesium and zinc most subjects showed a considerable reduction in symptoms of attention deficit and hyperactivity/impulsivity assessed by SNAP-IV. Further, the assessment by SDQ revealed fewer emotional problems at the end of the study period compared to baseline and also sleeping disorders. Mainly problems to fall asleep, decreased during the 12 week nutritional therapy. Regarding safety, no serious adverse events occurred. A total of 16 adverse events with a possible causal relationship to the study medication were reported by 14 children (1.7%) and only 5.2% of the children discontinued the study due to acceptance problems. Continuation of consumption of the food supplement was recommended by the paediatricians for 61.1% of the children. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest a beneficial effect of a combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as magnesium and zinc consumption on attentional, behavioural, and emotional problems of children and adolescents. Thus, considering the behavioural benefit in combination with the low risk due to a good safety profile, the dietary supplementation with PUFA in combination with zinc and magnesium can be recommended.
Published:
September 23, 2010
Title:
Breakthrough: Elizabeth Hughes, the Discovery of Insulin, and the Making of a Medical Miracle
Authors:
Cooper, Thea; Ainsberg, Arthur
Abstract:
It is 1919 and Elizabeth Hughes, the eleven-year-old daughter of America's most-distinguished jurist and politician, Charles Evans Hughes, has been diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. It is essentially a death sentence. The only accepted form of treatment – starvation – whittles her down to forty-five pounds skin and bones. Miles away, Canadian researchers Frederick Banting and Charles Best manage to identify and purify insulin from animal pancreases – a miracle soon marred by scientific jealousy, intense business competition and fistfights. In a race against time and a ravaging disease, Elizabeth becomes one of the first diabetics to receive insulin injections – all while its discoverers and a little known pharmaceutical company struggle to make it available to the rest of the world. Relive the heartwarming true story of the discovery of insulin as it's never been told before. Written with authentic detail and suspense, and featuring walk-ons by William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson, and Eli Lilly himself, among many others.
Published:
September 13, 2010
Title:
Effectiveness of pharmaceutical therapy of ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) in adults - health technology assessment
Authors:
Benkert, Diana; Krause, Klaus-Henning; Wasem, Jürgen; Aidelsburger, Pamela
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder. Symptoms include hyperactivity, lack of attentiveness, and frivolousness. This disorder always begins in childhood, but can remain through adulthood. ADHD affects all areas of life and limits the quality of life due to its symptoms and the high rate of associated disorders that can develop. An established form of therapy is using stimulant medications, most commonly, containing Methylphenidate as the active ingredient. However, in Germany this ingredient is not approved for adults suffering from ADHD. Therefore, many adults cannot obtain appropriate medication to treat this disorder. OBJECTIVE: The following report (Health Technology Assessment [HTA]) examines the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the medical treatment of ADHD in adults as well as the ethical, social and legal aspects thereof. METHODS: In August 2009, a systematic literature search is performed in all relevant scientific databases. The selected citations fulfill predetermined inclusion criteria. The data in the publications is then systematically extracted, reviewed and assessed. A manual search of citations is conducted as well. RESULTS: NINETEEN STUDIES FULFILL THE INCLUSION CRITERIA: nine randomised controlled studies (RCT), five meta-analyses, three economic studies and two studies relevant to the legal aspects of the HTA. All RCT reveal that adult patients who receive medication containing a stimulant (Methylphenidate and Amphetamine) and Atomoxetine, see a reduction of ADHD symptoms compared to the placebo-treated patients. The drug response rate among the control group ranges from 7 to 42%; in the treatment group from 17 to 59.6%. The meta-analyses confirm the findings of the RCT. In light of the control group, it can be ascertained that there are higher annual costs (both direct and indirect) for patients with ADHD. The average annual medical expenses for an adult with ADHD were 1,262 $ in 1998 and 1,673 $ in 2001 (the converted and inflation-adjusted rate for 2009: between 1,270 and 1,619 Euro). The use of stimulants use may impair the patient's ability to drive, travel or do sports. No relevant studies can be identified concerning the ethical, social and/or legal aspects of stimulant medication for ADHD patients. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Medical treatment, particularly including Methylphenidate and Atomoxetine, proves to have a positive effect. In order to attain an optimal drug response, dosing must be determined on an individual basis. There is a need of high-quality studies that directly compare various agents - an aspect which is relevant to medical effectiveness of a therapy. No definite statement can be made about the cost-effectiveness of the medical treatment of ADHD in adults. More health economic studies are therefore required. Apart from the unquestionable mental indication, it is already recommended by health economic reasons to establish the conditions for an adequate treatment with these medicaments also for adults.
Published:
September 6, 2010
Title:
P43 Dietary salt intake in Irish adults
Authors:
Browne, G; Loughrey, M; Harrington, J; Lutomski, J; Fitzgerald, T; Perry, I
Abstract:
Objectives To estimate dietary salt intakes in the Irish population, including variation by age, sex, and measures of obesity. Design Two cross-sectional studies. Settings and Participants (i) A nationally representative household sample of 10 364 adults, 62% response rate (SLAN study), (ii) samples of adults aged from 18–81 years (N=599) recruited from the general population, a worksite screening exercise and third level students (Safefood study). Intervention In both studies, participants underwent physical measurements including height, weight, and waist circumference and in both studies energy intake, macronutrients and dietary sources of salt were estimated by means of a standard Food Frequency Questionnaire. In the SLAN study, random urine samples were obtained from 1207 men and women aged 45 years and older. In the Safefood study, participants provided one 24-h urine collection. Completeness of urine samples were validated using a biomarker, para-amino benzoic acid (PABA). Main Outcome Measures Estimates of salt intake in Irish adults by age, gender, and levels of obesity and the proportion of total salt intake associated with major food groups. Results Using SLAN study, random urine samples corrected for urine volume the estimates (mean (SD), median) for salt intake per day in adults aged over 45 years were as follows: men, 10.3 g (5.0), 9.7 g and women, 7.4 g (4.2), 7.1 g. Estimated dietary salt intake (mean (SD), median) based on PABA validated 24 h urine collections was 9.3 g/day (4.1), 8.5 g/day with higher intakes in men: 10.4 g/day (4.3), 9.7 g/day than in women: 7.4 g/day (2.7), 7.1 g/day. 86% of men (95% CI 82% to 90%) and 67% of women (95% CI 60% to 74%) consume more than 6 g salt per day (current tolerable upper limit). Significant variation in salt intake with age was not detected in the PABA validated samples. Dietary salt intake was significantly associated with general and central obesity in both men and women in analyses adjusted for calorie intake. The food groups contributing most to salt intake were cereals, breads, meat, fish and poultry products, which together account for over 50% of salt intakes. Conclusions Dietary salt intakes in Irish adults remain high, with the majority of the population exceeding the current tolerable upper limit of 6 g per day. At the group level, estimates of salt intake based on random urine samples are similar to those derived from validated 24-h urine collections.
Published:
September 1, 2010
Title:
Body Mass Index and Risk of Stroke and Myocardial Infarction in a Relatively Lean Population
Authors:
Yatsuya Hiroshi; Toyoshima Hideaki; Yamagishi Kazumasa; Tamakoshi Koji; Taguri Masataka; Harada Akiko; Ohashi Yasuo; Kita Yoshikuni; Naito Yoshihiko; Yamada Michiko; Tanabe Naohito; Iso Hiroyasu; Ueshima Hirotsugu; null null
Abstract:
Background–The association of overweight/obesity with the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, especially stroke, has not been comprehensively examined in relatively lean populations in which stroke is more prevalent than coronary heart disease.Methods and Results–Pooled individual data from 16 Japanese cohorts comprising 45 235 participants ages 40 to 89 years without previous history of cardiovascular disease were studied. During follow-up, 1113 incident strokes and 190 myocardial infarctions were identified. At baseline, mean ages of men and women were 55.4 and 56.5 years and mean body mass indices (BMI) were 23.0 and 23.4 kg/m2, respectively. Compared with those with BMI
Published:
August 31, 2010
Title:
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to Steroid 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors:
Speiser, Phyllis W; Azziz, Ricardo; Baskin, Laurence S; Ghizzoni, Lucia; Hensle, Terry W; Merke, Deborah P; Meyer-Bahlburg, Heino F. L; Miller, Walter L; Montori, Victor M; Oberfield, Sharon E; Ritzen, Martin; White, Perrin C
Abstract:
Objective: We developed clinical practice guidelines for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Participants: The Task Force included a chair, selected by The Endocrine Society Clinical Guidelines Subcommittee (CGS), ten additional clinicians experienced in treating CAH, a methodologist, and a medical writer. Additional experts were also consulted. The authors received no corporate funding or remuneration. Consensus Process: Consensus was guided by systematic reviews of evidence and discussions. The guidelines were reviewed and approved sequentially by The Endocrine Society’s CGS and Clinical Affairs Core Committee, members responding to a web posting, and The Endocrine Society Council. At each stage, the Task Force incorporated changes in response to written comments. Conclusions: We recommend universal newborn screening for severe steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency followed by confirmatory tests. We recommend that prenatal treatment of CAH continue to be regarded as experimental. The diagnosis rests on clinical and hormonal data; genotyping is reserved for equivocal cases and genetic counseling. Glucocorticoid dosage should be minimized to avoid iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome. Mineralocorticoids and, in infants, supplemental sodium are recommended in classic CAH patients. We recommend against the routine use of experimental therapies to promote growth and delay puberty; we suggest patients avoid adrenalectomy. Surgical guidelines emphasize early single-stage genital repair for severely virilized girls, performed by experienced surgeons. Clinicians should consider patients’ quality of life, consulting mental health professionals as appropriate. At the transition to adulthood, we recommend monitoring for potential complications of CAH. Finally, we recommend judicious use of medication during pregnancy and in symptomatic patients with nonclassic CAH.
Published:
August 31, 2010
Title:
Lipedema with multiple lipomas
Authors:
Pascucci, Anabella; Lynch, Peter J.
Abstract:
Author(s): Pascucci, Anabella; Lynch, Peter J
Published:
August 31, 2010
Title:
Pinnacle Point Cave 13B (Western Cape Province, South Africa) in context: The Cape Floral kingdom, shellfish, and modern human origins
Authors:
Marean, Curtis W.
Abstract:
Genetic and anatomical evidence suggests that Homo sapiens arose in Africa between 200 and 100ka, and recent evidence suggests that complex cognition may have appeared between ∼164 and 75ka. This evidence directs our focus to Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 6, when from 195–123ka the world was in a fluctuating but predominantly glacial stage, when much of Africa was cooler and drier, and when dated archaeological sites are rare. Previously we have shown that humans had expanded their diet to include marine resources by ∼164ka (±12ka) at Pinnacle Point Cave 13B (PP13B) on the south coast of South Africa, perhaps as a response to these harsh environmental conditions. The associated material culture documents an early use and modification of pigment, likely for symbolic behavior, as well as the production of bladelet stone tool technology, and there is now intriguing evidence for heat treatment of lithics. PP13B also includes a later sequence of MIS 5 occupations that document an adaptation that increasingly focuses on coastal resources. A model is developed that suggests that the combined richness of the Cape Floral Region on the south coast of Africa, with its high diversity and density of geophyte plants and the rich coastal ecosystems of the associated Agulhas Current, combined to provide a stable set of carbohydrate and protein resources for early modern humans along the southern coast of South Africa during this crucial but environmentally harsh phase in the evolution of modern humans. Humans structured their mobility around the use of coastal resources and geophyte abundance and focused their occupation at the intersection of the geophyte rich Cape flora and coastline. The evidence for human occupation relative to the distance to the coastline over time at PP13B is consistent with this model.
Published:
August 31, 2010
Title:
Making Soldiers Fit to Fight, without the Situps
Authors:
Dao, James
Abstract:
Published:
August 29, 2010
Title:
Evolutionary Adaptations to Dietary Changes
Authors:
Luca, F.; Perry, G.H.; Di Rienzo, A.
Abstract:
Through cultural innovation and changes in habitat and ecology, there have been a number of major dietary shifts in human evolution, including meat eating, cooking, and those associated with plant and animal domestication. The identification of signatures of adaptations to such dietary changes in the genome of extant primates (including humans) may shed light not only on the evolutionary history of our species, but also on the mechanisms that underlie common metabolic diseases in modern human populations. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the major dietary shifts that occurred during hominin evolution, and we discuss the methods and approaches used to identify signals of natural selection in patterns of sequence variation. We then review the results of studies aimed at detecting the genetic loci that played a major role in dietary adaptations and conclude by outlining the potential of future studies in this area.
Published:
August 20, 2010
Title:
A ketone ester diet increases brain malonyl-CoA and Uncoupling proteins 4 and 5 while decreasing food intake in the normal Wistar Rat
Authors:
Kashiwaya, Yoshihiro; Pawlosky, Robert; Markis, William; King, M. Todd; Bergman, Christian; Srivastava, Shireesh; Murray, Andrew; Clarke, Kieran; Veech, Richard L.
Abstract:
Three groups of male Wistar rats were pair fed NIH-31 diets for 14 days to which were added 30% of calories as corn starch, palm oil, or R-3-hydroxybutyrate-R-1,3-butanediol monoester (3HB-BD ester). On the 14th day, animal brains were removed by freeze-blowing, and brain metabolites measured. Animals fed the ketone ester diet had elevated mean blood ketone bodies of 3.5 mm and lowered plasma glucose, insulin, and leptin. Despite the decreased plasma leptin, feeding the ketone ester diet ad lib decreased voluntary food intake 2-fold for 6 days while brain malonyl-CoA was increased by about 25% in ketone-fed group but not in the palm oil fed group. Unlike the acute effects of ketone body metabolism in the perfused working heart, there was no increased reduction in brain free mitochondrial [NAD(+)]/[NADH] ratio nor in the free energy of ATP hydrolysis, which was compatible with the observed 1.5-fold increase in brain uncoupling proteins 4 and 5. Feeding ketone ester or palm oil supplemented diets decreased brain L-glutamate by 15-20% and GABA by about 34% supporting the view that fatty acids as well as ketone bodies can be metabolized by the brain.
Published:
August 19, 2010
Title:
Phenethyl isothiocyanate inhibits oxidative phosphorylation to trigger reactive oxygen species-mediated death of human prostate cancer cells
Authors:
Xiao, Dong; Powolny, Anna A.; Moura, Michelle B.; Kelley, Eric E.; Bommareddy, Ajay; Kim, Su-Hyeong; Hahm, Eun-Ryeong; Normolle, Daniel; Van Houten, Bennett; Singh, Shivendra V.
Abstract:
Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), a constituent of edible cruciferous vegetables such as watercress, not only affords significant protection against chemically induced cancer in experimental rodents but also inhibits growth of human cancer cells by causing apoptotic and autophagic cell death. However, the underlying mechanism of PEITC-induced cell death is not fully understood. Using LNCaP and PC-3 human prostate cancer cells as a model, we demonstrate that the PEITC-induced cell death is initiated by production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting from inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Exposure of LNCaP and PC-3 cells to pharmacologic concentrations of PEITC resulted in ROS production, which correlated with inhibition of complex III activity, suppression of OXPHOS, and ATP depletion. These effects were not observed in a representative normal human prostate epithelial cell line (PrEC). The ROS production by PEITC treatment was not influenced by cyclosporin A. The Rho-0 variants of LNCaP and PC-3 cells were more resistant to PEITC-mediated ROS generation, apoptotic DNA fragmentation, and collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential compared with respective wild-type cells. The PEITC treatment resulted in activation of Bax in wild-type LNCaP and PC-3 cells, but not in their respective Rho-0 variants. Furthermore, RNA interference of Bax and Bak conferred significant protection against PEITC-induced apoptosis. The Rho-0 variants of LNCaP and PC-3 cells also resisted PEITC-mediated autophagy. In conclusion, the present study provides novel insight into the molecular circuitry of PEITC-induced cell death involving ROS production due to inhibition of complex III and OXPHOS.
Published:
August 19, 2010
Title:
Comparison of different sources and degrees of hydrolysis of dietary protein: effect on plasma amino acids, dipeptides, and insulin responses in human subjects
Authors:
Morifuji, Masashi; Ishizaka, Mihoko; Baba, Seigo; Fukuda, Kumiko; Matsumoto, Hitoshi; Koga, Jinichiro; Kanegae, Minoru; Higuchi, Mitsuru
Abstract:
The effect of protein fractionation on the bioavailability of amino acids and peptides and insulin response and whether the protein source influences these effects in humans are poorly understood. This study compared the effects of different sources and degrees of hydrolysis of dietary protein, independent of carbohydrate, on plasma amino acid and dipeptide levels and insulin responses in humans. Ten subjects were enrolled in the study, with five subjects participating in trials on either soy or whey protein and their hydrolysates. Protein hydrolysates were absorbed more rapidly as plasma amino acids compared to nonhydrolyzed protein. Whey protein also caused more rapid increases in indispensable amino acid and branched-chain amino acid concentrations than soy protein. In addition, protein hydrolysates caused significant increases in Val-Leu and Ile-Leu concentrations compared to nonhydrolyzed protein. Whey protein hydrolysates also induced significantly greater stimulation of insulin release than the other proteins. Taken together, these results demonstrate whey protein hydrolysates cause significantly greater increases in the plasma concentrations of amino acids, dipeptides, and insulin.
Published:
August 10, 2010
Title:
The Role of Soy in Vegetarian Diets
Authors:
Messina, Mark; Messina, Virginia
Abstract:
Soyfoods have long been prized among vegetarians for both their high protein content and versatility. Soybeans differ markedly in macronutrient content from other legumes, being much higher in fat and protein, and lower in carbohydrate. In recent years however, soyfoods and specific soybean constituents, especially isoflavones, have been the subject of an impressive amount of research. Nearly 2,000 soy-related papers are published annually. This research has focused primarily on the benefits that soyfoods may provide independent of their nutrient content. There is particular interest in the role that soyfoods have in reducing risk of heart disease, osteoporosis and certain forms of cancer. However, the estrogen-like effects of isoflavones observed in animal studies have also raised concerns about potential harmful effects of soyfood consumption. This review addresses questions related to soy and chronic disease risk, provides recommendations for optimal intakes, and discusses potential contraindications. As reviewed, the evidence indicates that, with the exception of those individuals allergic to soy protein, soyfoods can play a beneficial role in the diets of vegetarians. Concerns about adverse effects are not supported by the clinical or epidemiologic literature. Based on the soy intake associated with health benefits in the epidemiologic studies and the benefits noted in clinical trials, optimal adult soy intake would appear to be between two and four servings per day.
Published:
August 5, 2010
Title:
Weight and metabolic outcomes after 2 years on a low-carbohydrate versus low-fat diet: a randomized trial
Authors:
Foster, Gary D.; Wyatt, Holly R.; Hill, James O.; Makris, Angela P.; Rosenbaum, Diane L.; Brill, Carrie; Stein, Richard I.; Mohammed, B. Selma; Miller, Bernard; Rader, Daniel J.; Zemel, Babette; Wadden, Thomas A.; Tenhave, Thomas; Newcomb, Craig W.; Klein, Samuel
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Previous studies comparing low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets have not included a comprehensive behavioral treatment, resulting in suboptimal weight loss. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of 2-year treatment with a low-carbohydrate or low-fat diet, each of which was combined with a comprehensive lifestyle modification program. DESIGN: Randomized parallel-group trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT00143936) SETTING: 3 academic medical centers. PATIENTS: 307 participants with a mean age of 45.5 years (SD, 9.7 years) and mean body mass index of 36.1 kg/m(2) (SD, 3.5 kg/m(2)). INTERVENTION: A low-carbohydrate diet, which consisted of limited carbohydrate intake (20 g/d for 3 months) in the form of low-glycemic index vegetables with unrestricted consumption of fat and protein. After 3 months, participants in the low-carbohydrate diet group increased their carbohydrate intake (5 g/d per wk) until a stable and desired weight was achieved. A low-fat diet consisted of limited energy intake (1200 to 1800 kcal/d;
Published:
August 2, 2010
Title:
Weight and metabolic outcomes after 2 years on a low-carbohydrate versus low-fat diet: a randomized trial
Authors:
Foster, Gary D.; Wyatt, Holly R.; Hill, James O.; Makris, Angela P.; Rosenbaum, Diane L.; Brill, Carrie; Stein, Richard I.; Mohammed, B. Selma; Miller, Bernard; Rader, Daniel J.; Zemel, Babette; Wadden, Thomas A.; Tenhave, Thomas; Newcomb, Craig W.; Klein, Samuel
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Previous studies comparing low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets have not included a comprehensive behavioral treatment, resulting in suboptimal weight loss. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of 2-year treatment with a low-carbohydrate or low-fat diet, each of which was combined with a comprehensive lifestyle modification program. DESIGN: Randomized parallel-group trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT00143936) SETTING: 3 academic medical centers. PATIENTS: 307 participants with a mean age of 45.5 years (SD, 9.7 years) and mean body mass index of 36.1 kg/m(2) (SD, 3.5 kg/m(2)). INTERVENTION: A low-carbohydrate diet, which consisted of limited carbohydrate intake (20 g/d for 3 months) in the form of low-glycemic index vegetables with unrestricted consumption of fat and protein. After 3 months, participants in the low-carbohydrate diet group increased their carbohydrate intake (5 g/d per wk) until a stable and desired weight was achieved. A low-fat diet consisted of limited energy intake (1200 to 1800 kcal/d;
Published:
August 2, 2010
Title:
Further decrease in glycated hemoglobin following ingestion of a LoBAG30 diet for 10 weeks compared to 5 weeks in people with untreated type 2 diabetes
Authors:
Gannon, Mary C.; Hoover, Heidi; Nuttall, Frank Q.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: We previously determined that a weight-maintenance, non-ketogenic diet containing 30% carbohydrate (CHO), 30% protein, 40% fat, (30:30:40) (LoBAG30) decreased glycated hemoglobin (%tGHb) from 10.8 to 9.1% over a 5 week period in subjects with untreated type 2 diabetes. Both the fasting glucose and postprandial glucose area were decreased. Our objective in the present 10-week study was to determine: 1) whether the above results could be maintained, or even improved (suggesting a metabolic adaptation) and 2) whether the subjects would accept the diet for this longer time period. In addition, protein balance, and a number of other blood and urine constituents were quantified at 5 and at 10 weeks on the LoBAG30 diet to address metabolic adaptation. METHODS: Eight men with untreated type 2 diabetes were studied over a 10-week period. Blood was drawn and urine was collected over a 24 hour period at the beginning of the study with subjects ingesting a standard diet of 55% CHO, 15% protein, 30% fat, and at the end of 5 and 10 weeks following ingestion of a LoBAG30 diet. RESULTS: Body weight was stable. Fasting glucose decreased by 19% at week 5 and 28% at week 10; 24-h total glucose area decreased by 27% at week 5 and 35% at week 10 compared to baseline. Insulin did not change. Mean %tGHb decreased by 13% at week 5, 25% at week 10, and was still decreasing linearly, indicating that a metabolic adaptation occurred. Serum NEFA, AAN, uric acid, urea, albumin, prealbumin, TSH, Total T3, free T4, B12, folate, homocysteine, creatinine, growth hormone and renin did not differ between weeks 5 and 10. IGF-1 increased modestly. Urinary glucose decreased; urinary pH and calcium were similar. CONCLUSIONS: A LoBAG30 diet resulted in continued improvement in glycemic control. This improvement occurred without significant weight loss, with unchanged insulin and glucagon profiles, and without deterioration in serum lipids, blood pressure or kidney function. Extending the duration of time on a LoBAG30 diet from 5 to 10 weeks had little or no further effect on the hormones and metabolites measured, i.e. a metabolic equilibrium was established.
Published:
July 28, 2010
Title:
Evolutionary Adaptations to Dietary Changes
Authors:
Luca, F.; Perry, G.h.; Di Rienzo, A.
Abstract:
Through cultural innovation and changes in habitat and ecology, there have been a number of major dietary shifts in human evolution, including meat eating, cooking, and those associated with plant and animal domestication. The identification of signatures of adaptations to such dietary changes in the genome of extant primates (including humans) may shed light not only on the evolutionary history of our species, but also on the mechanisms that underlie common metabolic diseases in modern human populations. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the major dietary shifts that occurred during hominin evolution, and we discuss the methods and approaches used to identify signals of natural selection in patterns of sequence variation. We then review the results of studies aimed at detecting the genetic loci that played a major role in dietary adaptations and conclude by outlining the potential of future studies in this area.
Published:
June 30, 2010
Title:
Association of elevated blood pressure and impaired vasorelaxation in experimental Sprague-Dawley rats fed with heated vegetable oil
Authors:
Leong, Xin-Fang; Mustafa, Mohd Rais; Das, Srijit; Jaarin, Kamsiah
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Poor control of blood pressure leads to hypertension which is a major risk factor for development of cardiovascular disease. The present study aimed to explore possible mechanisms of elevation in blood pressure following consumption of heated vegetable oil. METHODS: Forty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into six groups: Group I (control)--normal rat chow, Group II--fresh soy oil, Group III--soy oil heated once, Group IV--soy oil heated twice, Group V--soy oil heated five times, Group VI--soy oil heated ten times. Blood pressure was measured at the baseline level and at a monthly interval for six months. Plasma nitric oxide, heme oxygenase and angiotensin-converting enzyme levels were measured prior to treatment, at month-three and month-six later. At the end of treatment, the rats were sacrificed and thoracic aortas were taken for measurement of vascular reactivity. RESULTS: Blood pressure increased significantly (p
Published:
June 22, 2010
Title:
Body fat and dairy product intake in lactase persistent and non-persistent children and adolescents
Authors:
Almon, Ricardo; Patterson, Emma; Nilsson, Torbjörn K.; Engfeldt, Peter; Sjöström, Michael
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Lactase non-persistent (LNP) individuals may be lactose intolerant and therefore on a more restricted diet concerning milk and milk products compared to lactase persistent (LP) individuals. This may have an impact on body fat mass. OBJECTIVE: This study examines if LP and LNP children and adolescents, defined by genotyping for the LCT-13910 C > T polymorphism, differ from each other with regard to milk and milk product intake, and measures of body fat mass. DESIGN: Children (n=298, mean age 9.6 years) and adolescents (n=386, mean age 15.6 years), belonging to the Swedish part of the European Youth Heart Study, were genotyped for the LCT-13910 C > T polymorphism. Dietary intakes of reduced and full-fat dairy varieties were determined. RESULTS: LNP (CC genotype) subjects consumed less milk, soured milk and yoghurt compared to LP (CT/TT genotype) subjects (p
Published:
June 15, 2010
Title:
Early hominin diet included diverse terrestrial and aquatic animals 1.95 Ma in East Turkana, Kenya
Authors:
Braun, David R.; Harris, John W. K.; Levin, Naomi E.; McCoy, Jack T.; Herries, Andy I. R.; Bamford, Marion K.; Bishop, Laura C.; Richmond, Brian G.; Kibunjia, Mzalendo
Abstract:
The manufacture of stone tools and their use to access animal tissues by Pliocene hominins marks the origin of a key adaptation in human evolutionary history. Here we report an in situ archaeological assemblage from the Koobi Fora Formation in northern Kenya that provides a unique combination of faunal remains, some with direct evidence of butchery, and Oldowan artifacts, which are well dated to 1.95 Ma. This site provides the oldest in situ evidence that hominins, predating Homo erectus, enjoyed access to carcasses of terrestrial and aquatic animals that they butchered in a well-watered habitat. It also provides the earliest definitive evidence of the incorporation into the hominin diet of various aquatic animals including turtles, crocodiles, and fish, which are rich sources of specific nutrients needed in human brain growth. The evidence here shows that these critical brain-growth compounds were part of the diets of hominins before the appearance of Homo ergaster/erectus and could have played an important role in the evolution of larger brains in the early history of our lineage.
Published:
May 31, 2010
Title:
Vegetarian diets are associated with healthy mood states: a cross-sectional study in seventh day adventist adults
Authors:
Beezhold, Bonnie L.; Johnston, Carol S.; Daigle, Deanna R.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: The physical health status of vegetarians has been extensively reported, but there is limited research regarding the mental health status of vegetarians, particularly with regard to mood. Vegetarian diets exclude fish, the major dietary source of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), critical regulators of brain cell structure and function. Omnivorous diets low in EPA and DHA are linked to impaired mood states in observational and experimental studies. METHODS: We examined associations between mood state and polyunsaturated fatty acid intake as a result of adherence to a vegetarian or omnivorous diet in a cross-sectional study of 138 healthy Seventh Day Adventist men and women residing in the Southwest. Participants completed a quantitative food frequency questionnaire, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), and Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaires. RESULTS: Vegetarians (VEG:n = 60) reported significantly less negative emotion than omnivores (OMN:n = 78) as measured by both mean total DASS and POMS scores (8.32 +/- 0.88 vs 17.51 +/- 1.88, p = .000 and 0.10 +/- 1.99 vs 15.33 +/- 3.10, p = .007, respectively). VEG reported significantly lower mean intakes of EPA (p < .001), DHA (p < .001), as well as the omega-6 fatty acid, arachidonic acid (AA; p < .001), and reported higher mean intakes of shorter-chain alpha-linolenic acid (p < .001) and linoleic acid (p < .001) than OMN. Mean total DASS and POMS scores were positively related to mean intakes of EPA (p < 0.05), DHA (p < 0.05), and AA (p < 0.05), and inversely related to intakes of ALA (p < 0.05), and LA (p
Published:
May 31, 2010
Title:
Lifestyle-related disease in Crohn's disease: relapse prevention by a semi-vegetarian diet
Authors:
Chiba, Mitsuro; Abe, Toru; Tsuda, Hidehiko; Sugawara, Takeshi; Tsuda, Satoko; Tozawa, Haruhiko; Fujiwara, Katsuhiko; Imai, Hideo
Abstract:
AIM: To investigate whether semi-vegetarian diet (SVD) has a preventive effect against relapse of Crohn's disease (CD) in patients who have achieved remission, who are a high-risk group for relapse. METHODS: A prospective, single center, 2-year clinical trial was conducted. Twenty-two adult CD patients who achieved clinical remission either medically (n = 17) or surgically (n = 5) and consumed an SVD during hospitalization were advised to continue with an SVD and avoid known high-risk foods for inflammatory bowel disease. The primary endpoint was clinical relapse defined as the appearance of active symptoms of CD. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to calculate the cumulative proportion of patients who had a relapse. A 2-year analysis of relapse rates of patients who followed an SVD and those who did not (an omnivorous diet group) was undertaken. RESULTS: SVD was continued by 16 patients (compliance 73%). Remission was maintained in 15 of 16 patients (94%) in the SVD group vs two of six (33%) in the omnivorous group. Remission rate with SVD was 100% at 1 year and 92% at 2 years. SVD showed significant prevention in the time to relapse compared to that in the omnivorous group (P = 0.0003, log rank test). The concentration of C-reactive protein was normal at the final visit in more than half of the patients in remission who were taking an SVD, who maintained remission during the study (9/15; 60%), who terminated follow-up (8/12; 67%), and who completed 2 years follow-up (7/10; 70%). There was no untoward effect of SVD. CONCLUSION: SVD was highly effective in preventing relapse in CD.
Published:
May 27, 2010
Title:
Paleopathology and the Origin of Agriculture in the Levant
Authors:
Pinhasi, Ron; Pinhasi, Ron; הרשקוביץ, ישראל
Abstract:
Paleopathology and the Origin of Agriculture in the Levant
Published:
May 26, 2010
Title:
Use of aromatase inhibitors in children and adolescents: what's new?
Authors:
Diaz-Thomas, Alicia; Shulman, Dorothy
Abstract:
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Aromatase inhibitors have been reported to increase height prediction in boys with short stature, and in boys and girls with gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty. The following review discusses data published since 2008 regarding the safety and efficacy of aromatase inhibitors in pediatric patients. RECENT FINDINGS: Third-generation aromatase inhibitors in combination with antiandrogens appear effective in preventing bone age advancement and virilization in boys with familial male-limited precocious puberty (FMPP). Letrozole, but not anastrozole, decreased bleeding episodes and bone age advancement in girls with McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS), despite ovarian enlargement. Letrozole-treated boys with idiopathic short stature (ISS) had no loss of bone density but were noted to have more vertebral abnormalities than a placebo group. Two years of letrozole therapy did not increase predicted adult height in pre and peripubertal boys with ISS when re-assessed 4 years after the treatment period. SUMMARY: Aromatase inhibitors together with an antiandrogen appear to be a very promising treatment for FMPP. Further longer-term studies with letrozole are needed in MAS. The prevalence of vertebral deformities should be evaluated prospectively in patients treated with aromatase inhibitors. Adult height data are still lacking in pediatric patients treated with aromatase inhibitors. Two years of therapy in pre and peripubertal short boys does not appear to increase adult height. Hemogram, lipids, and bone density should be periodically assessed in treated patients. Further controlled studies are needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy of aromatase inhibitors in pediatric patients.
Published:
May 18, 2010
Title:
Ketogenic diet slows down mitochondrial myopathy progression in mice
Authors:
Ahola-Erkkilä, Sofia; Carroll, Christopher J.; Peltola-Mjösund, Katja; Tulkki, Valtteri; Mattila, Ismo; Seppänen-Laakso, Tuulikki; Orešič, Matej; Tyynismaa, Henna; Suomalainen, Anu
Abstract:
Abstract. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a major cause of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular diseases of adult age and of multisystem disorders of childhood. Ho
Published:
May 14, 2010
Title:
Colloquium paper: human adaptations to diet, subsistence, and ecoregion are due to subtle shifts in allele frequency
Authors:
Hancock, Angela M.; Witonsky, David B.; Ehler, Edvard; Alkorta-Aranburu, Gorka; Beall, Cynthia; Gebremedhin, Amha; Sukernik, Rem; Utermann, Gerd; Pritchard, Jonathan; Coop, Graham; Di Rienzo, Anna
Abstract:
Human populations use a variety of subsistence strategies to exploit an exceptionally broad range of ecoregions and dietary components. These aspects of human environments have changed dramatically during human evolution, giving rise to new selective pressures. To understand the genetic basis of human adaptations, we combine population genetics data with ecological information to detect variants that increased in frequency in response to new selective pressures. Our approach detects SNPs that show concordant differences in allele frequencies across populations with respect to specific aspects of the environment. Genic and especially nonsynonymous SNPs are overrepresented among those most strongly correlated with environmental variables. This provides genome-wide evidence for selection due to changes in ecoregion, diet, and subsistence. We find particularly strong signals associated with polar ecoregions, with foraging, and with a diet rich in roots and tubers. Interestingly, several of the strongest signals overlap with those implicated in energy metabolism phenotypes from genome-wide association studies, including SNPs influencing glucose levels and susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, several pathways, including those of starch and sucrose metabolism, are enriched for strong signals of adaptations to a diet rich in roots and tubers, whereas signals associated with polar ecoregions are overrepresented in genes associated with energy metabolism pathways.
Published:
May 10, 2010
Title:
Human adaptations to diet, subsistence, and ecoregion are due to subtle shifts in allele frequency
Authors:
Hancock, Angela M.; Witonsky, David B.; Ehler, Edvard; Alkorta-Aranburu, Gorka; Beall, Cynthia; Gebremedhin, Amha; Sukernik, Rem; Utermann, Gerd; Pritchard, Jonathan; Coop, Graham; Rienzo, Anna Di
Abstract:
Human populations use a variety of subsistence strategies to exploit an exceptionally broad range of ecoregions and dietary components. These aspects of human environments have changed dramatically during human evolution, giving rise to new selective pressures. To understand the genetic basis of human adaptations, we combine population genetics data with ecological information to detect variants that increased in frequency in response to new selective pressures. Our approach detects SNPs that show concordant differences in allele frequencies across populations with respect to specific aspects of the environment. Genic and especially nonsynonymous SNPs are overrepresented among those most strongly correlated with environmental variables. This provides genome-wide evidence for selection due to changes in ecoregion, diet, and subsistence. We find particularly strong signals associated with polar ecoregions, with foraging, and with a diet rich in roots and tubers. Interestingly, several of the strongest signals overlap with those implicated in energy metabolism phenotypes from genome-wide association studies, including SNPs influencing glucose levels and susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, several pathways, including those of starch and sucrose metabolism, are enriched for strong signals of adaptations to a diet rich in roots and tubers, whereas signals associated with polar ecoregions are overrepresented in genes associated with energy metabolism pathways.
Published:
May 10, 2010
Title:
LINKING OXIDATIVE STRESS TO INFLAMMATION: TOLL-LIKE RECEPTORS
Authors:
Gill, Roop; Tsung, Allan; Billiar, Timothy R.
Abstract:
Injury caused by oxidative stress occurs in many clinical scenarios involving ischemia and reperfusion such as organ transplantation, hemorrhagic shock (HS), myocardial infarction and cerebral vascular accidents. Activation of the immune system as a result of disturbances in the redox state of cells appears to contribute to tissue and organ damage in these conditions. The link between oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways is poorly understood. Recently, Toll like receptors (TLRs) have been shown to mediate the inflammatory response seen in experimental ischemia and reperfusion (I/R). The TLR family of receptors involved in alerting the innate immune system of danger appears to be activated by damage associated molecular pattern molecules (DAMPs) that are released during condition of oxidative stress. In this review, we will examine the role of TLRs in various experimental models of oxidative stress such as HS and I/R. We will also report on potential DAMPs that may interact with TLRs in mediating injury. Finally, potential mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species from NADPH oxidase can signal the commencement of inflammatory pathways through TLRs will be explored.
Published:
April 30, 2010
Title:
Metabolic management of glioblastoma multiforme using standard therapy together with a restricted ketogenic diet: Case Report
Authors:
Zuccoli, Giulio; Marcello, Norina; Pisanello, Anna; Servadei, Franco; Vaccaro, Salvatore; Mukherjee, Purna; Seyfried, Thomas N.
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Management of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) has been difficult using standard therapy (radiation with temozolomide chemotherapy). The ketogenic diet is used commonly to treat refractory epilepsy in children and, when administered in restricted amounts, can also target energy metabolism in brain tumors. We report the case of a 65-year-old woman who presented with progressive memory loss, chronic headaches, nausea, and a right hemisphere multi-centric tumor seen with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Following incomplete surgical resection, the patient was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme expressing hypermethylation of the MGMT gene promoter. METHODS: Prior to initiation of the standard therapy, the patient conducted water-only therapeutic fasting and a restricted 4:1 (fat: carbohydrate + protein) ketogenic diet that delivered about 600 kcal/day. The patient also received the restricted ketogenic diet concomitantly during the standard treatment period. The diet was supplemented with vitamins and minerals. Steroid medication (dexamethasone) was removed during the course of the treatment. The patient was followed using MRI and positron emission tomography with fluoro-deoxy-glucose (FDG-PET). RESULTS: After two months treatment, the patient's body weight was reduced by about 20% and no discernable brain tumor tissue was detected using either FDG-PET or MRI imaging. Biomarker changes showed reduced levels of blood glucose and elevated levels of urinary ketones. MRI evidence of tumor recurrence was found 10 weeks after suspension of strict diet therapy. CONCLUSION: This is the first report of confirmed GBM treated with standard therapy together with a restricted ketogenic diet. As rapid regression of GBM is rare in older patients following incomplete surgical resection and standard therapy alone, the response observed in this case could result in part from the action of the calorie restricted ketogenic diet. Further studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of restricted ketogenic diets, administered alone or together with standard treatment, as a therapy for GBM and possibly other malignant brain tumors.
Published:
April 21, 2010
Title:
Tackling the wider social determinants of health and health inequalities: evidence from systematic reviews
Authors:
Bambra, C.; Gibson, M.; Sowden, A.; Wright, K.; Whitehead, M.; Petticrew, M.
Abstract:
Background There is increasing pressure to tackle the wider social determinants of health through the implementation of appropriate interventions. However, turning these demands for better evidence about interventions around the social determinants of health into action requires identifying what we already know and highlighting areas for further development. Methods Systematic review methodology was used to identify systematic reviews (from 2000 to 2007, developed countries only) that described the health effects of any intervention based on the wider social determinants of health: water and sanitation, agriculture and food, access to health and social care services, unemployment and welfare, working conditions, housing and living environment, education, and transport. Results Thirty systematic reviews were identified. Generally, the effects of interventions on health inequalities were unclear. However, there is suggestive systematic review evidence that certain categories of intervention may impact positively on inequalities or on the health of specific disadvantaged groups, particularly interventions in the fields of housing and the work environment. Conclusion Intervention studies that address inequalities in health are a priority area for future public health research.
Published:
March 31, 2010
Title:
Intracellular Toll-like Receptors
Authors:
Blasius, Amanda L.; Beutler, Bruce
Abstract:
Foreign nucleic acids, the signature of invading viruses and certain bacteria, are sensed intracellularly. The nucleic acid-specific Toll-like receptors (TLRs) detect and signal within endolysosomal compartments, triggering the induction of cytokines essential for the innate immune response. These cytokines include proinflammatory molecules produced mainly by macrophages and conventional dendritic cells, as well as type I interferons, which are produced in great quantities by plasmacytoid dendritic cells. The cellular and molecular pathways by which nucleic acids and TLRs meet within the endosome assure host protection yet also place the host at risk for the development of autoimmunity. Here, we review the latest findings on the intracellular TLRs, with special emphasis on ligand uptake, receptor trafficking, signaling, and regulation.
Published:
March 25, 2010
Title:
Obesity and thyroid function
Authors:
Reinehr, Thomas
Abstract:
A moderate elevation of thyrotropin (TSH) concentrations, which is associated with triiodothyronine (T3) values in or slightly above the upper normal range, is frequently found in obese humans. These alterations seem rather a consequence than a cause of obesity since weight loss leads to a normalization of elevated thyroid hormone levels. Elevated thyroid hormone concentrations increase the resting energy expenditure (REE). The underlying pathways are not fully understood. As a consequence of the increased REE, the availability of accumulated energy for conversion into fat is diminished. In conclusion, the alterations of thyroid hormones in obesity suggest an adaptation process. Since rapid weight loss is associated with a decrease of TSH and T3, the resulting decrease in REE may contribute towards the difficulties maintaining weight loss. Leptin seems to be a promising link between obesity and alterations of thyroid hormones since leptin concentrations influence TSH release.
Published:
March 24, 2010
Title:
Effects on coronary heart disease of increasing polyunsaturated fat in place of saturated fat: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors:
Mozaffarian, Dariush; Micha, Renata; Wallace, Sarah
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Reduced saturated fat (SFA) consumption is recommended to reduce coronary heart disease (CHD), but there is an absence of strong supporting evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of clinical CHD events and few guidelines focus on any specific replacement nutrient. Additionally, some public health groups recommend lowering or limiting polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) consumption, a major potential replacement for SFA. METHODS AND FINDINGS: We systematically investigated and quantified the effects of increased PUFA consumption, as a replacement for SFA, on CHD endpoints in RCTs. RCTs were identified by systematic searches of multiple online databases through June 2009, grey literature sources, hand-searching related articles and citations, and direct contacts with experts to identify potentially unpublished trials. Studies were included if they randomized participants to increased PUFA for at least 1 year without major concomitant interventions, had an appropriate control group, and reported incidence of CHD (myocardial infarction and/or cardiac death). Inclusions/exclusions were adjudicated and data were extracted independently and in duplicate by two investigators and included population characteristics, control and intervention diets, follow-up duration, types of events, risk ratios, and SEs. Pooled effects were calculated using inverse-variance-weighted random effects meta-analysis. From 346 identified abstracts, eight trials met inclusion criteria, totaling 13,614 participants with 1,042 CHD events. Average weighted PUFA consumption was 14.9% energy (range 8.0%-20.7%) in intervention groups versus 5.0% energy (range 4.0%-6.4%) in controls. The overall pooled risk reduction was 19% (RR = 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70-0.95, p = 0.008), corresponding to 10% reduced CHD risk (RR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.83-0.97) for each 5% energy of increased PUFA, without evidence for statistical heterogeneity (Q-statistic p = 0.13; I(2) = 37%). Meta-regression identified study duration as an independent determinant of risk reduction (p = 0.017), with studies of longer duration showing greater benefits. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide evidence that consuming PUFA in place of SFA reduces CHD events in RCTs. This suggests that rather than trying to lower PUFA consumption, a shift toward greater population PUFA consumption in place of SFA would significantly reduce rates of CHD. Please see later in the article for the Editors' Summary.
Published:
March 22, 2010
Title:
Targeting Cancer Cell Metabolism: The Combination of Metformin and 2-Deoxyglucose Induces p53-Dependent Apoptosis in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors:
Sahra, Issam Ben; Laurent, Kathiane; Giuliano, Sandy; Larbret, Frédéric; Ponzio, Gilles; Gounon, Pierre; Marchand-Brustel, Yannick Le; Giorgetti-Peraldi, Sophie; Cormont, Mireille; Bertolotto, Corine; Deckert, Marcel; Auberger, Patrick; Tanti, Jean-François; Bost, Frédéric
Abstract:
Targeting cancer cell metabolism is a new promising strategy to fight cancer. Metformin, a widely used antidiabetic agent, exerts antitumoral and antiproliferative action. In this study, the addition of metformin to 2-deoxyglucose (2DG) inhibited mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis in prostate cancer cells leading to a severe depletion in ATP. The combination of the two drugs was much more harmful for cancer cells than the treatment with metformin or 2DG alone, leading to 96% inhibition of cell viability in LNCaP prostate cancer cells. In contrast, a moderate effect on cell viability was observed in normal prostate epithelial cells. At the cellular level, the combination of metformin and 2DG induced p53-dependent apoptosis via the energy sensor pathway AMP kinase, and the reexpression of a functional p53 in p53-deficient prostate cancer cells restored caspase-3 activity. In addition to apoptosis, the combination of metformin and 2DG arrested prostate cancer cells in G2-M. This G2-M arrest was independent of p53 and correlated with a stronger decrease in cell viability than obtained with either drug. Finally, metformin inhibited 2DG-induced autophagy, decreased beclin 1 expression, and triggered a switch from a survival process to cell death. Our study reinforces the growing interest of metabolic perturbators in cancer therapy and highlights the potential use of the combination of metformin and 2DG as an anticancerous treatment. Cancer Res; 70(6); 2465–75
Published:
March 14, 2010
Title:
A review of fatty acid profiles and antioxidant content in grass-fed and grain-fed beef
Authors:
Daley, Cynthia A.; Abbott, Amber; Doyle, Patrick S.; Nader, Glenn A.; Larson, Stephanie
Abstract:
Growing consumer interest in grass-fed beef products has raised a number of questions with regard to the perceived differences in nutritional quality between grass-fed and grain-fed cattle. Research spanning three decades suggests that grass-based diets can significantly improve the fatty acid (FA) composition and antioxidant content of beef, albeit with variable impacts on overall palatability. Grass-based diets have been shown to enhance total conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) (C18:2) isomers, trans vaccenic acid (TVA) (C18:1 t11), a precursor to CLA, and omega-3 (n-3) FAs on a g/g fat basis. While the overall concentration of total SFAs is not different between feeding regimens, grass-finished beef tends toward a higher proportion of cholesterol neutral stearic FA (C18:0), and less cholesterol-elevating SFAs such as myristic (C14:0) and palmitic (C16:0) FAs. Several studies suggest that grass-based diets elevate precursors for Vitamin A and E, as well as cancer fighting antioxidants such as glutathione (GT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity as compared to grain-fed contemporaries. Fat conscious consumers will also prefer the overall lower fat content of a grass-fed beef product. However, consumers should be aware that the differences in FA content will also give grass-fed beef a distinct grass flavor and unique cooking qualities that should be considered when making the transition from grain-fed beef. In addition, the fat from grass-finished beef may have a yellowish appearance from the elevated carotenoid content (precursor to Vitamin A). It is also noted that grain-fed beef consumers may achieve similar intakes of both n-3 and CLA through the consumption of higher fat grain-fed portions.
Published:
March 9, 2010
Title:
The Alzheimer's Disease-Associated Amyloid β-Protein Is an Antimicrobial Peptide
Authors:
Soscia, Stephanie J.; Kirby, James E.; Washicosky, Kevin J.; Tucker, Stephanie M.; Ingelsson, Martin; Hyman, Bradley; Burton, Mark A.; Goldstein, Lee E.; Duong, Scott; Tanzi, Rudolph E.; Moir, Robert D.
Abstract:
Published:
March 2, 2010
Title:
Resistance training in overweight women on a ketogenic diet conserved lean body mass while reducing body fat
Authors:
Jabekk, Pal T.; Moe, Ingvild A.; Meen, Helge D.; Tomten, Sissel E.; Høstmark, Arne T.
Abstract:
The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of 10 weeks resistance training in combination with either a regular diet (Ex) or a low carbohydrate, ketogenic diet (Lc+Ex) in overweight women on body weight and body composition.
Published:
March 1, 2010
Title:
Meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies evaluating the association of saturated fat with cardiovascular disease
Authors:
Siri-Tarino, Patty W.; Sun, Qi; Hu, Frank B.; Krauss, Ronald M.
Abstract:
ABSTRACT. Background: A reduction in dietary saturated fat has generally been thought to improve cardiovascular health.Objective: The objective of this meta-an
Published:
February 28, 2010
Title:
Meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies evaluating the association of saturated fat with cardiovascular disease
Authors:
Siri-Tarino, Patty W.; Sun, Qi; Hu, Frank B.; Krauss, Ronald M.
Abstract:
ABSTRACT. Background: A reduction in dietary saturated fat has generally been thought to improve cardiovascular health.Objective: The objective of this meta-an
Published:
February 28, 2010
Title:
Saturated fat, carbohydrate, and cardiovascular disease
Authors:
Siri-Tarino, Patty W.; Sun, Qi; Hu, Frank B.; Krauss, Ronald M.
Abstract:
ABSTRACT. A focus of dietary recommendations for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention and treatment has been a reduction in saturated fat intake, primarily
Published:
February 28, 2010
Title:
The Relation of Alimentation and Diseases
Authors:
Salisbury, James Henry
Abstract:
This is a reproduction of a book published before 1923. This book may have occasional imperfections such as missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. that were either part of the original artifact, or were introduced by the scanning process. We believe this work is culturally important, and despite the imperfections, have elected to bring it back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide. We appreciate your understanding of the imperfections in the preservation process, and hope you enjoy this valuable book.
Published:
February 25, 2010
Title:
Genome sequencing and analysis of the model grass Brachypodium distachyon
Authors:
, John; OConnor; Vogel, John P.; Garvin, David F.; Mockler, Todd C.; Schmutz, Jeremy; Rokhsar, Dan; Bevan, Michael W.; Barry, Kerrie; Lucas, Susan; Harmon Smith, Miranda; Lail, Kathleen; Tice, Hope; Schmutz-Leader, Jeremy; Grimwood, Jane; McKenzie, Neil; Huo, Naxin; Gu, Yong Q.; Lazo, Gerard R.; Anderson, Olin D.; Vogel-Leader, John P.; You, Frank M.; Luo, Ming-Cheng; Dvorak, Jan; Wright, Jonathan; Febrer, Melanie; Idziak, Dominika; Hasterok, Robert; Lindquist, Erika; Wang, Mei; Fox, Samuel E.; Priest, Henry D.; Filichkin, Sergei A.; Givan, Scott A.; Bryant, Douglas W.; Chang, Jeff H.; Mockler-Leader, Todd C.; Wu, Haiyan; Wu, Wei; Hsia, An-Ping; Schnable, Patrick S.; Kalyanaraman, Anantharaman; Barbazuk, Brad; Michael, Todd P.; Hazen, Samuel P.; Bragg, Jennifer N.; Laudencia Chingcuanco, Debbie; Weng, Yiqun; Haberer, Georg; Spannagl, Manuel; Mayer-Leader, Klaus; Rattei, Thomas; Mitros, Therese; Lee, Sang-Jik; Rose, Jocelyn K. C.; Mueller, Lukas A.; York, Thomas L.; Wicker-Leader, Thomas; Buchmann, Jan P.; Tanskanen, Jaakko; Schulman-Leader, Alan H.; Gundlach, Heidrun; Costa de Oliveira, Antonio; da C. Maia, Luciano; Belknap, William; Jiang, Ning; Lai, Jinsheng; Zhu, Liucun; Ma, Jianxin; Sun, Cheng; Pritham, Ellen; Salse-Leader, Jerome; Murat, Florent; Abrouk, Michael; Mayer, Klaus; Bruggmann, Remy; Messing, Joachim; Fahlgren, Noah; Sullivan, Christopher M.; Carrington, James C.; Chapman, Elisabeth J.; May, Greg D.; Zhai, Jixian; Ganssmann, Matthias; Guna Ranjan Gurazada, Sai; German, Marcelo; Meyers, Blake C.; Green-Leader, Pamela J.; Tyler, Ludmila; Wu, Jiajie; Thomson, James; Chen, Shan; Scheller, Henrik V.; Harholt, Jesper; Ulvskov, Peter; Kimbrel, Jeffrey A.; Bartley, Laura E.; Cao, Peijian; Jung, Ki-Hong; Sharma, Manoj K.; Vega Sanchez, Miguel; Ronald, Pamela; Dardick, Christopher D.; De Bodt, Stefanie; Verelst, Wim; Inzé, Dirk; Heese, Maren; Schnittger, Arp; Yang, Xiaohan; Kalluri, Udaya C.; Tuskan, Gerald A.; Hua, Zhihua; Vierstra, Richard D.; Cui, Y. U.; Ouyang, Shuhong; Sun, Qixin; Liu, Zhiyong; Yilmaz, Alper; Grotewold, Erich; Sibout, Richard; Hematy, Kian; Mouille, Gregory; Höfte, Herman; Pelloux, Jérome; Oconnor, Devin; Schnable, James; Rowe, Scott; Harmon, Frank; Cass, Cynthia L.; Sedbrook, John C.; Byrne, Mary E.; Walsh, Sean; Higgins, Janet; Li, Pinghua; Brutnell, Thomas; Unver, Turgay; Budak, Hikmet; Belcram, Harry; Charles, Mathieu; Chalhoub, Boulos; Baxter, Ivan
Abstract:
Published:
February 10, 2010
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