Relationship between Plasma Cyclo (His-Pro), a Neuropeptide Common to Processed Protein-rich Food,and C-Peptide/Insulin Molar Ratio in Obese Women

Cyclo (His-Pro) (CHP) is a gut-brain peptide whose plasma levels in humans are increased after glucose ingestion and preferentially altered by oral glucose ingestion compared to intravenous administration in rats, suggesting a role in the enteroinsular response to nutrient ingestion. We were interested in examining levels of CHP in women of differing weights and comparing these levels to various parameters of insulin secretion. Plasma from 26 fasting, nondiabetic women ranging from 21 to 70 years of age and weighing 43 to 114 kg was assayed for CHP. Insulin and C-peptide levels were measured in 17 of the 26. Fasting CHP levels were elevated in obese compared to nonobese women (2075 ± 144 vs. 905 ± 187 pg/ml; p < 0.001) and were related by regression analysis to weight (r = 0.668, p < 0.001) and body mass index (r = 0.636, p = 0.001). The fasting C peptide/insulin molar ratio, which may be used as an estimate of hepatic insulin clearance (HIC), was inversely related to CHP levels (r=-0.568, p=0.017). We conclude CHP levels are increased in obese women and inversely related to their C-peptide/insulin molar ratio. The elevation of CHP in those with a decrease in this estimate of HIC (obese) is interesting as the greater insulin response seen in normal persons after oral glucose compared to intravenous glucose has been postulated to be due to a decrease in HIC by some gut factor. The presence of such a factor in excess in the obese might explain part of their hyperinsulinemia.     

Relationship between plasma cyclo (His-Pro), a neuropeptide common to processed protein-rich food, and C-peptide/insulin molar ratio in obese women

Cyclo (His-Pro) (CHP) is a gut-brain peptide whose plasma levels in humans are increased after glucose ingestion and preferentially altered by oral glucose ingestion compared to intravenous administration in rats, suggesting a role in the enteroinsular response to nutrient ingestion. We were interested in examining levels of CHP in women of differing weights and comparing these levels to various parameters of insulin secretion. Plasma from 26 fasting, nondiabetic women ranging from 21 to 70 years of age and weighing 43 to 114 kg was assayed for CHP. Insulin and C-peptide levels were measured in 17 of the 26. Fasting CHP levels were elevated in obese compared to nonobese women (2075+/-144 vs. 905+/-187 pg/ml; p < 0.001) and were related by regression analysis to weight (r = 0.668, p < 0.001) and body mass index (r = 0.636, p = 0.001). The fasting C peptide/insulin molar ratio, which may be used as an estimate of hepatic insulin clearance (HIC), was inversely related to CHP levels (r = -0.568, p = 0.017). We conclude CHP levels are increased in obese women and inversely related to their C-peptide/insulin molar ratio. The elevation of CHP in those with a decrease in this estimate of HIC (obese) is interesting as the greater insulin response seen in normal persons after oral glucose compared to intravenous glucose has been postulated to be due to a decrease in HIC by some gut factor. The presence of such a factor in excess in the obese might explain part of their hyperinsulinemia.     

Favorable Effect of Short-Term Lifestyle Intervention on Human Paraoxonase-1 Activity and Adipokine Levels in Childhood Obesity

Objective: The prevalence of obesity is increasing in adult and child populations throughout the world. Childhood obesity has a great impact on adult cardiovascular morbidity and mortality; treatment of this pathological state is important given the significant health consequences. We investigated the effect of short-term lifestyle changes on the alteration of human serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activities, leptin, adiponectin, E-selectin, and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) as atherogenic and antiatherogenic factors in obese children. PON1 protects lipoproteins against oxidation by hydrolyzing lipid peroxides in oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL) and therefore may protect against atherosclerosis.

Methods: A total of 23 white obese and overweight children (age, 11.43 ± 1.78 years; 8 girls, 15 boys) participated in a 2-week-long lifestyle camp based on a diet and exercise program. Overweight and obesity were defined according to the national body mass index (BMI) reference tables for age and sex.

Results: After a 2-week-long supervised diet and aerobic exercise program, obese children had significantly lower leptin (55.02 ± 33.42 ng/ml vs 25.37 ± 19.07 ng/ml; p < 0.0001), ADMA (0.68 ± 0.15 μmol/l vs 0.55 ± 0.16 μmol/l; p < 0.01), and E-selectin levels (67.19 ± 30.35 ng/ml vs 46.51 ± 18.40 ng/ml; p < 0.0001), whereas they had significantly higher PON1 paraoxonase activity (110.48 ± 72.92 U/l vs 121.75 ± 93.48 U/l; p < 0.05) besides the antiatherogenic alteration of the lipid profile and significant weight change (70.32 ± 19.51 kg vs 67.01 ± 18.75 kg, p < 0.0001; BMI, 28.95 ± 5.05 kg/m² vs 27.43 ± 4.82 kg/m², p < 0.0001). Adiponectin and PON1 arylesterase activity did not change significantly.

Conclusions: Our investigation suggests that modifications in dietary habits and physical activity induce antiatherogenic changes in childhood obesity. These findings emphasize the major role of primary prevention and nonpharmaceutical treatment of childhood obesity through lifestyle changes based on diet and increased physical activity.     

Increased Plasma Neopterin and hs-CRP Levels in Patients with Endemic Fluorosis

Although fluoride induced inflammatory reactions have been shown in animals and in vitro humans, there are few studies about fluoride induced inflammatory reactions in human beings at clinical setting. We aimed to measure the plasma neopterin, a marker of activation of the monocyte/macrophage system, and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in patients with endemic fluorosis to investigate the possible role of inflammatory processes (monocyte/macrophage activity) in the underlying pathophysiology of fluoride toxicity at clinical level. Plasma neopterin and hs-CRP levels were determined in endemic fluorosis patients and control subjects. Plasma neopterin levels were significantly higher among patients with endemic fluorosis when compared with control group (2.40 ± 0.66 vs. 1.63 ± 0.27 ng/mL respectively; p < 0.001) and plasma hs-CRP levels were also significantly higher among patients with endemic fluorosis when compared with control group (2.41 ± 1.23 vs. 1.93 ± 0.64 mg/L respectively; p < 0.001). Plasma neopterin levels were positively correlated with urine fluoride levels (r = 0.67, p < 0.001) and serum hs-CRP levels were positively correlated with urine fluoride levels (r = 0.36, p < 0.001). We have found that plasma neopterin and hs-CRP levels are increased in patients with endemic fluorosis. We have concluded that inflammation play an important role in the pathophysiology of fluoride toxicity in patients with endemic fluorosis.     

大豆蛋白对高脂饲料喂养大鼠固醇调节元件结合蛋白基因表达的影响

目的探讨大豆蛋白在正常饮食和高脂饮食状态下对大鼠脂代谢相关固醇调节元件结合蛋白(SREBP)基因表达水平的影响。方法 48只清洁级SD大鼠,按体重随机分为4组,分别喂饲含酪蛋白和大豆蛋白的正常饲料和高脂饲料28d后,脱颈椎处死动物,检测激素指标及基因表达水平。结果大豆蛋白组大鼠血清胰岛素水平和胰岛素/胰高血糖素比值显著低于酪蛋白组(P<0.05);大豆蛋白高脂组大鼠血清胰岛素水平显著低于酪蛋白高脂组(P<0.05);大豆蛋白组和大豆蛋白高脂组大鼠肝脏SREBP-1,2基因表达均分别显著低于酪蛋白组和酪蛋白高脂组(P<0.05);大豆蛋白组和大豆蛋白高脂组大鼠肝脏SREBP-1蛋白表达明显低于酪蛋白组和酪蛋白高脂组(P<0.05)。结论大豆蛋白可能通过影响胰岛素进而影响SREBP-1基因表达来调节血脂水平。     

Effects of Supplementation with Beef or Whey Protein Versus Carbohydrate in Master Triathletes

Objective: The present study compares the effect of ingesting hydrolyzed beef protein, whey protein, and carbohydrate on performance, body composition (via plethysmography), muscular thickness, and blood indices of health, including ferritin concentrations, following a 10-week intervention program.Methods: After being randomly assigned to one of the following groups—beef, whey, or carbohydrate—24 master-age (35–60 years old) male triathletes (n = 8 per treatment) ingested 20 g of supplement mixed with plain water once a day (immediately after training or before breakfast). All measurements were performed pre- and postinterventions.Results: Only beef significantly reduced body mass (p = 0.021) along with a trend to preserve or increase thigh muscle mass (34.1 ± 6.1 vs 35.5 ± 7.4 mm). Both whey (38.4 ± 3.8 vs 36.9 ± 2.8 mm) and carbohydrate (36.0 ± 4.8 vs 34.1 ± 4.4 mm) interventions demonstrated a significantly (p < 0.05) decreased vastus medialis thickness Additionally, the beef condition produced a significant (p < 0.05) increase in ferritin concentrations (117 ± 78.3 vs 150.5 ± 82.8 ng/mL). No such changes were observed for the whey (149.1 ± 92.1 vs 138.5 ± 77.7 ng/mL) and carbohydrate (149.0 ± 41.3 vs 150.0 ± 48.1 ng/mL) groups. Furthermore, ferritin changes in the beef group were higher than the modification observed in whey (p < 0.001) and carbohydrate (p = 0.025) groups. No differences were found between whey and carbohydrate conditions (p = 0.223). No further changes were observed.Conclusion: Ingesting a hydrolyzed beef protein beverage after workout or before breakfast (nontraining days) can be effective in preserving thigh muscle mass and in improving iron status in male master-age triathletes.     

The Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Glucose Metabolism,Lipid Profiles,Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Patients With Diabetic Nephropathy: A Randomized,Double-Blind,Placebo-Controlled Trial

Objective: Data on the effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, inflammation, and oxidative stress in subjects with diabetic nephropathy (DN) are scarce. This research was done to determine the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on metabolic status in subjects with DN.

Methods: This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was done in 50 subjects with DN. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups to intake either 100 mg/day CoQ10 supplements (n = 25) or placebo (n = 25) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were obtained at first and after 12-week intervention to quantify metabolic profiles.

Results: After 12 weeks of treatment, compared with the placebo, CoQ10 supplementation resulted in significant decreases in serum insulin levels (?3.4 ± 6.8 vs +0.8 ± 6.4 µIU/mL, p = 0.02), homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (?1.0 ± 2.0 vs +0.2 ± 1.8, p = 0.03), homeostasis model of assessment-estimated B cell function (?12.3 ± 26.3 vs +3.5 ± 23.1, p = 0.02) and HbA1c (?1.1 ± 1.0 vs ?0.1 ± 0.2%, p < 0.001), and a significant improvement in quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (+0.009 ± 0.01 vs ?0.006 ± 0.01, p = 0.01). In addition, CoQ10 supplementation significantly decreased plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) (?0.6 ± 0.5 vs +0.5 ± 1.0 µmol/L, p < 0.001) and advanced glycation end products levels (AGEs) (?316.4 ± 380.9 vs +318.6 ± 732.0 AU, p < 0.001) compared with the placebo. Supplementation with CoQ10had no significant impacts on fasting plasma glucose (FPG), lipid profiles, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) compared with the placebo.

Conclusions: Taken together, our study demonstrated that CoQ10 supplementation for 12 weeks among DN patients had favorable effects on glucose metabolism, MDA, and AGEs levels, but unchanged FPG, lipid profiles, and MMP-2 concentrations.     

Influence of Energy Balance and Glycemic Index on Metabolic Endotoxemia in Healthy Men

Objective: Overfeeding with a high-fat and/or high-carbohydrate (CHO) diet is known to increase plasma concentrations of endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide [LPS]) that may lead to metabolic disturbances like insulin resistance. The impact of CHO quality (i.e., the glycemic index [GI]) independent of fat intake on metabolic endotoxemia remains unclear. In the present study, the effects of changes in energy balance and GI on plasma endotoxin were studied.

Methods: Fifteen healthy young men overconsumed diets containing 65% CHO and 20% fat for 1 week (OF; +50% of energy requirement) followed by 3 weeks of caloric restriction (CR; ?50% of energy requirement) and were then randomized to 2 weeks hypercaloric refeeding (RF, +50% of energy requirement) with either a low- or high-GI (40 vs 74) diet.

Results: During OF, subjects gained 1.9 ± 0.7 kg body weight (+0.6 ± 0.8% fat mass) followed by a weight loss of 6.1 ± 0.8 kg (?2.0 ± 0.6% fat mass) and weight regain of 4.0 ± 0.6 kg (0.9 ± 0.8% fat mass). Fasting insulin and homeostasis model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA_IR) increased with OF and RF and decreased with CR, Matsuda_ISI decreased by 37% after RF (all p < 0.05). Endotoxin significantly increased by 30.8% with OF and by 24.7% with RF (both p < 0.05), whereas CR normalized endotoxin levels. No difference in endotoxin levels was observed between refeeding a hypercaloric high- or low-GI diet. Changes in endotoxin levels with RF were not related to changes in insulin sensitivity.

Conclusion: A hypercaloric diet (OF and RF) increased plasma endotoxin irrespective of GI, whereas a negative energy balance did not reduce endotoxemia. Impaired insulin sensitivity with hypercaloric refeeding on a high-GI diet was not explained by metabolic endotoxemia.     

Plasma homocysteine is adversely associated with glomerular filtration rate in asymptomatic black and white young adults: the Bogalusa heart study

That plasma homocysteine is elevated markedly in renal dysfunction is well recognized. But whether the increased homocysteine is an independent correlate of glomerular filtration rate, a marker of renal function, in asymptomatic younger individuals is not clear. The aim of this study was to determine the association between plasma homocysteine and renal function in a biracial (black–white) community-based cohort of asymptomatic young adults. Plasma homocysteine along with cardiovascular disease risk factor variables were measured in 805 white and 330 black subjects, ages 24–44 years, enrolled in the Bogalusa Heart Study. Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study equation was used to calculate the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from serum creatinine level. Males versus females showed higher homocysteine levels (8.83 ± 3.16 vs. 7.35 ± 2.84 μmol/L, p < 0.0001) and lower eGFR (99.1 ± 17.6 vs. 102.5 ± 21.0 mL/min/1.73 m², p = 0.024). Whites versus blacks had lower eGFR (97.3 ± 18.0 vs. 110.0 ± 20.6 mL/min/1.73 m², p < 0.0001). In a multivariate regression analysis that included age, race, sex, body mass index, blood pressure, lipoprotein variables, insulin resistance index and homocysteine, white race, age and homocysteine, in that order, were independently and negatively associated with eGFR. The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of individuals in the homocysteine quintiles II, III, IV and V vs. I for having the risk of impaired eGFR defined as <10th percentile was 2.28 (0.95–5.50, p = 0.065), 2.97 (1.24–7.12, p = 0.015), 3.32 (1.45–7.60, p = 0.005) and 6.99 (3.06–15.94, p < 0.0001), respectively. Homocysteine is an independent correlate of renal function in asymptomatic black and white young adults.     

Effect of 2 Liquid Nutritional Supplements for Diabetes Patients on Postprandial Glucose,Insulin Secretion,and Insulin Sensitivity in Healthy Individuals

Aim: To compare the effect of 2 liquid nutritional supplements (Enterex Diabetic and Glucerna SR) designed for the patient with diabetes mellitus on postprandial glucose, insulin secretion, and insulin sensitivity in healthy individuals. Patients and Methods: A randomized, double‐blind, crossover clinical trial was carried out in 14 healthy, young (average age 21.7 ± 2.8 years) volunteers. Each individual received a single administration of 232 kcal in 232 mL of Enterex Diabetic or in 237 mL of Glucerna SR. Three days later, the intervention was crossed using the opposite supplement. At the beginning of each administration and later at 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes, glucose and insulin concentrations were measured. Triglyceride concentrations were measured at the beginning and at 120 minutes. Area under the curve of glucose and insulin was calculated. First‐phase and total insulin secretion, as well as insulin sensitivity, were assessed. Results: Glucose concentration at 120 minutes was significantly lower after the administration of Enterex Diabetic in comparison with Glucerna SR (4.3 ± 0.6 vs 4.7 ± 0.4 mmol/L; P = .012). Enterex Diabetic compared with Glucerna SR showed a greater change of the glucose concentration from 0 to 120 minutes (–0.7 ± 0.6 vs –0.0± 0.4 mmol/L; P = .002). Administration of Enterex Diabetic decreased insulin concentrations at 120 minutes (60 ± 18 vs 48 ± 19 pmol/L; P = .013). Administration of Glucerna SR increased triglyceride concentration at 120 minutes (1.0 ± 0.3 vs 1.1 ± 0.4 mmol/L; P = .026). Conclusion: A single administration of Enterex Diabetic in healthy individuals decreased glucose and insulin concentrations at 120 minutes without any modification in triglyceride levels.     

Pistachio Nuts Reduce Triglycerides and Body Weight by Comparison to Refined Carbohydrate Snack in Obese Subjects on a 12-Week Weight Loss Program

Objective: There is a widely held view that, due to high fat content, snacking on nuts will lead to weight gain, ultimately causing unhealthy changes in lipid profiles. This study is designed to study the effects of pistachio snack consumption on body weight and lipid levels in obese participants under real-world conditions.

Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to consume 1 of 2 isocaloric weight reduction diets for 12 weeks, with each providing 500 cal per day less than resting metabolic rate. Each diet included an afternoon snack of either 53 g (240 cal) of salted pistachios (n = 31) or 56 g of salted pretzels (220 cal; n = 28).

Results: Both groups lost weight during the 12-week study (time trend, p < 0.001), but there were significant differences in the changes in body mass index between the pretzel and pistachio groups (pistachio, 30.1 ± 0.4 to 28.8 ± 0.4 vs. pretzel, 30.9 ± 0.4 to 30.3 ± 0.5). At 6 and 12 weeks, triglycerides were significantly lower in the pistachio group compared with the pretzel group (88.04 ± 9.80 mg/dL vs. 144.56 ± 18.86 mg/dL, p = 0.01 at 6 weeks and 88.10 ± 6.78 mg/dL vs. 132.15 ± 16.76 mg/dL, p = 0.02 at 12 weeks), and there was a time trend difference between the 2 groups over the 12 weeks (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences in total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin, or glucose between the 2 groups.

Conclusion: Pistachios can be consumed as a portion-controlled snack for individuals restricting calories to lose weight without concern that pistachios will cause weight gain. By comparison to refined carbohydrate snacks such as pretzels, pistachios may have beneficial effects on triglycerides as well.     

The role of nutritional supplementation with essential amino acids in patients with chronic heart failure

Essential amino acid supplementation (EAS) may counteract hypercatabolic states, such as chronic heart failure (CHF). This pilot study investigated whether EAS could improve quality of life (QoL), cardiac function and exercise tolerance in patients (pts) with stable CHF on optimal medical treatment (OMT). We enrolled 27 pts (21 males) with ejection fraction (EF) <35% and on OMT with no changes within the previous 6 months. EAS, composed of leu (1,250 mg), lys (650 mg), ile (625 mg), val (625 mg), thr (350 mg), cys (150 mg), his (150 mg), phe (100 mg), met (50 mg), t4 (30 mg), trp (20 mg), B1 (0.15 mg) and B6 (0.15 mg) vitamins, was given twice a day for 3 months. At baseline and after 3 months, we evaluated symptoms with NYHA classification, LVD36 questionnaire and QoL scale; cardiac function by echocardiography and exercise tolerance (modified Bruce protocol); pro-BNP, renal function, glucose and troponin. We observed a significant reduction of end-systolic and diastolic volumes (ESV 121.6 ± 63.08 vs. 106.82 ± 50.1 mL, p = 0.018; EDV 169.1 ± 75.3 vs. 150 ± 67.5 mL, p < 0.02), an increase of EF (29.8 ± 5.7 vs. 35.4 ± 5.8%, p < 0.001) and of cardiac output (5.58 ± 1.57 vs. 6.07 ± 1.66 L/min; p = 0.015). We assisted a no significant trend toward reduction in mitral regurgitation (p = 0.3). EAS improved QoL (NYHA p < 0.001; LVD36 14.1 ± 7.2 vs. 12.2 ± 6.9, p = 0.015; QoL scale 62.4 ± 12.5 vs. 74 ± 9.7%, p < 0.001); exercise tolerance (stage 3.24 ± 1.3 vs. 3.57 ± 1.3, p = 0.016; METS 6.6 ± 3.4 vs. 7.1 ± 3.3, p = 0.18; Minutes 8.1 ± 4.29 vs. 8.7 ± 3.94, p = 0.055). No changes in glucose, creatinine, cholesterol, troponin and a no significant trend toward reduction of pro-BNP was observed (1,077.4 ± 530.3 vs. 851.6 ± 315.1 ng/l, p = 0.3). No pts showed adverse effects. After 3 months, EAS significantly improves cardiac function, QoL and exercise tolerance in stable CHF pts.     

Effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) on plasma glucose level,HbA1c and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic patients

Abstract

The present study was aimed to evaluate the effects of Zingiber officinale on some biochemical parameters in type 2 diabetic (DM2) patients. In a randomized double-blind placebo controlled trial, 64 patients with DM2 were assigned to ginger or placebo groups (receiving 2?g/d of each). A 3?d diet record, anthropometric measurements and concentrations of fasting blood glucose (FPG), HbA1c, lipid profile (including total cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein) and also the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) and quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (QUICKI) were determined before and after 2 months of intervention. Ginger supplementation significantly lowered the levels of insulin (11.0?±?2.3 versus 12.1?±?3.3; p?=?0.001), LDL-C (67.8?±?27.2 versus 89.2?±?24.9; p?=?0.04), TG (127.7?±?43.7 versus 128.2?±?37.7; p?=?0.03) and the HOMA index (3.9?±?1.09 versus 4.5?±?1.8; p?=?0.002) and increased the QUICKI index (0.313?±?0.012 versus 0.308?±?0.012; p?=?0.005) in comparison to the control group; while, there were no significant changes in FPG, TC, HDL-C and HbA1c (p?>?0.05). In summary, ginger supplementation improved insulin sensitivity and some fractions of lipid profile in DM2 patients. Therefore it may be considered as a useful remedy to reduce the secondary complications of DM2.     

Association Between Magnesium Status,Dietary Magnesium Intake,and Metabolic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Hypomagnesemia could worsen glycemic control by impairing insulin release and promoting insulin resistance. On the contrary, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may induce and/or exacerbate low serum magnesium levels, and this could, in turn, worsen glycemic control of diabetes.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum magnesium level, dietary magnesium intake, and metabolic control parameters in patients with T2DM.

Methods: The study included 119 patients with T2DM (26 male, 93 female; mean age 54.7?±?8.4 years). Serum magnesium level was measured by spectrophotometric method. Magnesium intake was assessed by food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements were taken. The General Linear Model procedure was applied to determine the relationship of serum magnesium with quantitative variables.

Results: Of the 119 patients, 23.5% of the patients had inadequate magnesium intake (lower than 67% of the recommended daily allowance), and 18.5% had hypomagnesemia. In patients with hypomagnesemia (< 0.75?mmol/l), serum levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), and serum glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were higher compared to patients with normomagnesemia. FPG levels were significantly higher in patients with hypomagnesemia in Model 1 (179.0?±?64.9 vs. 148.7?±?52.0?mg/dl, p?=?0.009) but the significance disappeared in other models. PPG levels were significantly higher in patients with hypomagnesemia in all models (287.9?±?108.4 vs. 226.8?±?89.4?mg/dl, p?=?0.006 for Model 1, p?=?0.027 for Model 2, p?=?0.016 for Model 3). Serum HbA1c levels were significantly higher in patients with hypomagnesemia, and this significance proceeded (8.0?±?1.9% vs. 6.5?±?1.2%, p?=?0.000 for all models). Body fat mass was significantly higher in patients with hypomagnesemia as compared to patients with normomagnesemia in model 3 (35.4?±?9.4?kg, 34.6?±?10.2?kg; p?=?0.034). Dietary magnesium intake was not significantly associated with either metabolic parameters or anthropometric measurements.

Conclusion: Hypomagnesemia in T2DM is directly associated with poor metabolic control. Clinical assessment should, therefore, focus on augmentation of magnesium status and adequate magnesium intake in patients with T2DM.     

Plasma Levels of Conjugated Bile Acids in Newborns After a Short Period of Parenteral Nutrition

Background: Patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) frequently exhibit liver dysfunction. The authors previously reported that plant sterols of lipid emulsions added to the nutritional solution of newborns receiving PN accumulate in plasma and cell membranes and may contribute to the development of cholestasis. Conjugated bile acids (BA) have been shown to be useful markers of cholestasis. Plasma levels of several BA in newborns were quantified after administration of PN for less than 2 weeks. Methods: Plasma samples from 15 healthy control infants (CN), 22 patients who had received PN for 3–15 days (T1), and 9 patients scheduled to receive PN (T0) were analyzed. After a simple extraction procedure, plasma BA were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry using a quantitative isotope dilution method. Results: The concentrations of BA did not differ significantly between controls and patients before PN (CN vs T0), with the exception of glycocholic acid (GCA; 2.30 ± 2.60 µM vs 7.29 ± 5.39 µM, respectively). There was a significant difference in several BA between controls and patients after PN (2.30 ± 2.60 µM vs 7.61 ± 6.46 µM for GCA, respectively; 4.02 ± 3.49 µM vs 11.88 ± 11.05 µM for taurocholic acid [TCA], respectively; and 4.81 ± 3.49 µM vs 13.58 ± 12.22 µM for taurochenodeoxycholic + taurodeoxycholic + tauroursodeoxycholic acids [TCDCA+TDCA+TUDCA], respectively). Conclusions: In newborns receiving PN, a short period of PN is associated with an early increase of some conjugated BA. These results suggest that GCA, TCA, and TCDCA+TDCA+TUDCA levels could be used as early markers of PN‐related cholestasis.     

Using text messages to promote health in African-Americans: #HeartHealthyandCancerFree*

Objectives: African-Americans are vulnerable to both cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to intricately connected risk factors. Use of text messages is an innovative method to provide health information to reduce these risks. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of a text messaging intervention to reduce CVD and cancer risk factors in African-Americans.

Design: We developed an intervention using text messages culturally tailored for African-Americans over age 50 who were at risk (one or more modifiable risk factors) for CVD and/or cancer. Sociodemographic data, biologic measures, cancer screening practices, and general health status were assessed. Group interviews were conducted to assess feasibility and acceptability.

Results: Participants were primarily female (69%), aged 58?±?5 years, who were married (59%) and worked full time (56%). In terms of feasibility and acceptability, themes of encouragement through text messages received and a desire for a longer study period emerged from group interviews with participants. Participants experienced significant decreases in waist circumference (41?±?5 vs 40?±?5, p?=?.002), systolic blood pressure (147?±?25?mmHg vs 138?±?20?mmHg, p?=?.009), diastolic blood pressure (87?±?16?mmHg vs 82?±?10?mmHg, p?=?.02), total cholesterol (194?±?35?mg/dL vs 173?±?32?mg/dL, p?p?=?.015). Five participants had colorectal cancer screening, two had prostate cancer screening, and four had mammograms.

Conclusions: Use of text messages was widely accepted among participants. Significant CVD risk reductions and increased cancer screenings were noted. Future studies should incorporate innovative strategies such as text messaging in promoting health in vulnerable populations.     

Weight Loss Is More Important Than the Diet Type in Improving Adiponectin Levels Among Overweight/Obese Adults

Objective: The study objective was to compare the effect of a standard calorie- and fat-restricted diet (STD-D) and a calorie- and fat-restricted lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet (LOV-D) on total and high-molecular-weight (HMW) adiponectin levels after 6 months of behavioral intervention.

Design: This study is an ancillary study to a randomized clinical trial.

Subjects: Subjects included 143 overweight/obese adults (STD-D = 79; LOV-D = 64).

Intervention: Both groups received the same standard behavioral intervention; the only difference was that LOV-D participants were instructed to eliminate meat, poultry, and fish from their diet.

Measures: Weight, dietary intake with the 3-day food diary, and total and HMW adiponectin levels were measured.

Results: Both groups significantly increased total (STD-D +7.2 ± 17.8%; LOV-D +9.4 ± 21.8%) and HMW adiponectin levels (STD-D +18.5 ± 32.9%; LOV-D +15.8 ± 34.5%; ps < 0.05) with no significant differences between the groups. We found significant associations between weight loss and increases in total (β (SE) = ?.071(.27); p = 0.003) and HMW adiponectin (β (SE) = ?1.37(.47); p = 0.001) levels independent of the diet type. Weight loss at the higher quartile was associated with improvements of adiponectin levels (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Weight loss was associated with increased total and HMW adiponectin levels regardless of the diet type. Enhancing weight loss may be a means to improve adiponectin levels.     

Effect of Hyperalimentation and Insulin‐Treated Hyperglycemia on Tyrosine Levels in Very Preterm Infants Receiving Parenteral Nutrition

Background: Hyperalimentation describes the increase in glucose, amino acids (AAs), and lipid intake designed to overcome postnatal growth failure in preterm infants. Preterm infants are dependent on phenylalanine metabolism to maintain tyrosine levels because of tyrosine concentration limits in parenteral nutrition (PN). We hypothesized that hyperalimentation would increase individual AA levels when compared with the control group but avoid high phenylalanine/tyrosine levels. Aim: To compare the plasma AA profiles on days 8–10 of life in preterm infants receiving a hyperalimentation vs a control regimen. Methods: Infants <29 weeks’ gestation were randomized to receive hyperalimentation (30% more PN macronutrients) or a control regimen. Data were collected to measure macronutrient (including protein) intake and PN intolerance, including hyperglycemia, insulin use, urea, and AA profile. Plasma profiles of 23 individual AA levels were measured on days 8–10 using ion exchange chromatography. Results: One hundred forty‐two infants were randomized with 118 AA profiles obtained on days 8–10. There were no differences in birth weight or gestation between groups. There was an increase (P < .05) in 8 of 23 median individual plasma AA levels when comparing hyperalimentation (n = 57) with controls (n = 61). Only tyrosine levels (median; interquartile range) were lower with hyperalimentation: 27 (15–52) µmol/L vs 43 (24–69) µmol/L (P < .01). Hyperalimentation resulted in more insulin‐treated hyperglycemia. No difference between the groups was apparent in tyrosine levels when substratified for insulin‐treated hyperglycemia. All insulin vs no insulin comparisons showed lower tyrosine levels with insulin treatment (P < .01). Conclusion: Hyperalimentation can result in paradoxically low plasma tyrosine levels associated with an increase in insulin‐treated hyperglycemia.     

Ethanol-induced free radical injury to the hepatocyte glucagon receptor

Plasma membrane receptors are essential in cellular homeostasis. Free radical generation and catalytic iron have been implicated in alcohol-induced liver injury; damage to plasma membrane receptors may be one important mechanisms of injury. The effect of ethanol-induced free radicals on hepatocyte receptor dysfunction was investigated in rodent models of free radical injury due to chronic alcohol administration. Receptors for glucagon and their postreceptor signal transduction pathway (cyclic AMP production [cAMP]) were investigated as sites of free radical injury in isolated perfused livers. Glucagon-stimulated cAMP decreased (15%–80%) over a range of physiological (submaximal) doses of glucagon after 6 weeks of ethanol feeding, while free radical generation (alkane evolution) increased greater than three to fourfold over baseline (ethane; 2.04 ± 0.36 vs. 0.58 ± 0.08 pmole/10⁶ cell/hr, p < 0.01; pentane 3.15 ± 0.30 vs. 0.91 ± 0.16, p < 0.01). Iron loading (125 mg/kg IP) potentiated this inhibition of cAMP production (40%–95%) and further increased alkane production twofold (ethane 4.29 ± 0.78, pentane 5.76 ± 0.71). Scatchard analysis revealed decreased numbers of glucagon receptors paralleling cAMP responses. Free radical damage to hepatocyte cell membrane receptors may be an important mechanism of alcohol-induced liver injury.