Nutrition
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Both iron deficiency and excess are relatively common health concerns. Maintaining the body's levels of iron within precise boundaries is critical for cell functions. However, the difference between iron deficiency and overload is often a question of a scant few milligrams of iron. ⋯ Sustained ISCU protein levels enhanced by mTORC1 can inhibit iron-responsive element and iron-regulatory protein binding activities. In this study, hepcidin gene and protein expression in the livers of tristetraprolin knockout mice were dramatically reduced. Here, we highlight and summarize the current understanding of how mTOR pathways serve to modulate iron metabolism and homeostasis as the third iron-regulatory system.
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Case Reports
Refractory hypoglycemia and subsequent cardiogenic shock in starvation and refeeding: report of three cases.
Although starvation is associated with high in-hospital mortality, its related cardiac complications are not sufficiently understood. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical course and pathogenesis of cardiac complications in malnourished patients. ⋯ Repetitive severe hypoglycemia without known background causes should be viewed as an important sign. Once this occurs, the administration of a much higher caloric input than usual accompanied by intensive monitoring will be required to maintain appropriate glucose levels. The early identification of such patients seems to be essential to reduce the high risk for cardiac complications during starvation and refeeding.
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Low protein diets (LPDs) are milestones in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Concerns over compliance and safety limit their use. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and main results of a multiple-choice approach to LPDs, adapted to patient preferences. ⋯ The choice of diet is strictly linked to patient characteristics, thus supporting a multiple-choice offer. Once corrected for baseline data, both LPDs led to similar results, suggesting at least survival equivalence with dialysis, at lesser cost.
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Review Meta Analysis
Serum 25(OH)D response to vitamin D3 supplementation: a meta-regression analysis.
The aim of this study was to review factors that influence serum 25(OH)D when patients are given vitamin D supplements. ⋯ This meta regression indicates that a higher increase in serum levels of 25(OH)D in adults is found with a dose of ≥800 IU/d, after at least 6 to 12 mo, and even when baseline 25(OH)D is low and in adults >80 y.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Reduction of blood lipid parameters by a 12-wk supplementation of aged black garlic: a randomized controlled trial.
The cholesterol-lowering effects of garlic as part of a healthy diet remain controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate whether supplementation with aged black garlic (ABG) could improve blood lipid profiles in patients with mild hypercholesterolemia. ⋯ ABG supplementation reduced atherogenic markers and thus may have a cardioprotective effect beyond the gold standard medication in patients with mild hypercholesterolemia.