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Tuesday, November 22, 2011

New Rx of H. Pylori

Dr. Basu added that the cost of LOAD therapy was similar to that of standard 14-day triple drug regimens.

"Considering the compelling data available, LOAD should be considered primary therapy for H. Pylori infection," he said.

Amplify’d from www.medscape.com
nitazoxanide

New Four-Drug Regimen Quells H. Pylori in Open-Label Study

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) Nov 15 - A novel regimen using 3 antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) is highly active against Helicobacter pylori in treatment-naive patients, researchers report in a paper online October 11 in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.

This quadruple drug regimen comprised levofloxacin, omeprazole, nitazoxanide, and doxycycline (LOAD). This regimen has a "very high eradication rate" and "virtually negligible" side effects, lead author Dr. P. Patrick Basu told Reuters Health by email.

Dr. Basu, of Columbia University in New York, and colleagues note that resistance to standard treatment regimens has led to PPI, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin triple-therapy cure rates consistently falling below 80%. Other regimens such as those containing metronidazole have also been used, but resistance to that agent has reportedly been as high as 66%.

Newer treatment regimens aimed at eradicating the organism more effectively are increasing in popularity, the researchers say. They conducted an open-label study of the LOAD regimen in 270 patients with H. pylori gastritis or peptic ulcer disease.

Patients were randomized to receive LOAD for seven or 10 days, or be treated with lansoprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin (LAC) therapy for 10 days. Eradication was confirmed by stool antigen testing at least four weeks after cessation of therapy.

Intention-to-treat analysis showed that eradication was higher with LOAD, both with the shorter (90.0%) and longer (88.9%) regimens, than with LAC (73.3%, p<0.05). Adverse events such as headache, nausea, and bloating did not differ between groups.

"A large, randomized controlled clinical trial is warranted to confirm the therapeutic superiority of this regimen," the researchers note.

Dr. Basu added that the cost of LOAD therapy was similar to that of standard 14-day triple drug regimens.

"Considering the compelling data available, LOAD should be considered primary therapy for H. Pylori infection," he said.

SOURCE: http://bit.ly/sDMUNL

Am J Gastroenterol 2011.

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Posted by DrR at 6:34 PM 0 comments

MGB Significantly Better than Band

MGB better treatment of blood pressure, blood sugar and better weight loss.

Amplify’d from www.springerlink.com
Table 1 Characteristics of the 520 severely obese patients before and 6 months after bariatric surgery




































































































 

Before

After

LAGB (n = 149)

LMGB (n = 371)


p value

LAGB (n = 149)

LMGB (n = 371)


p value

Age (mean ± SD)

31.9 ± 9.2

30. 7 ± 8.3

0.23

–

–

–

Male/female

66/83

105/266

<0.01

–

–


  

Systolic blood pressure (mmHg)

136.5 ± 20.5

134.0 ± 17.6

0.18

143.8 ± 25.8

129.2 ± 19.9

<0.01

Diastolic blood pressure (mmHg)

86.6 ± 13.4

86.0 ± 12.9

0.65

87.3 ± 24.2

75.8 ± 13.2

<0.01

HbA1c (%)

7.2 ± 1.1

7.0 ± 1.0

0.10

6.6 ± 0.6

6.1 ± 0.6

0.10

Hemoglobin (g/dl)

14.3 ± 1.7

14.0 ± 1.6

0.27

14.9 ± 1.6

14.8 ± 1.8

0.49

Blood glucose (mg/dl)

149.7 ± 65.5

149.5 ± 44.9

0.51

119.5 ± 16.1

113.5 ± 9.4

0.06

BMI (kg/m2)

41.9 ± 6.3

42.0 ± 6.2

0.87

35.1 ± 6.5

31.3 ± 4.8

0.01
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Sunday, November 20, 2011

Treatment of DPN (diabetic peripheral neuropathy) with Carnitine support its use

The results from 2 published clinical trials involving 1679 subjects were included. Subjects who received at least 2 g daily of Carnitine showed decreases in pain scores.



One study showed improvements in electrophysiologic factors such as nerve conduction velocities, while the other did not. Patients who had neuropathic pain reported reductions in pain using a visual analog scale. Nerve regeneration was documented in one trial. The supplement was well tolerated.



Data on treatment of DPN (diabetic peripheral neuropathy) with Carnitine support its use. It should be recommended to patients early in the disease process to provide maximal benefit.

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Ann Pharmacother. 2008 Nov;42(11):1686-91. Epub 2008 Oct 21.

Role of acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Source

Department of Clinical and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA. jevans@ulm.edu

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the role of acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

DATA SOURCES:

A MEDLINE search (1966-April 2008) of the English-language literature was performed using the search terms carnitine, diabetes, nerve, and neuropathy. Studies identified were then cross-referenced for their citations.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

The search was limited to clinical trials, meta-analyses, and reviews addressing the use of ALC for the treatment of DPN. Studies that included other disease states that could cause peripheral neuropathy were excluded. Two large clinical studies that used ALC for the treatment of DPN were identified. No case studies were identified.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

The results from 2 published clinical trials involving 1679 subjects were included. Subjects who received at least 2 g daily of ALC showed decreases in pain scores. One study showed improvements in electrophysiologic factors such as nerve conduction velocities, while the other did not. Patients who had neuropathic pain reported reductions in pain using a visual analog scale. Nerve regeneration was documented in one trial. The supplement was well tolerated. A proprietary form of ALC was used in both studies.

CONCLUSIONS:

Data on treatment of DPN with ALC support its use. It should be recommended to patients early in the disease process to provide maximal benefit. Further studies should be conducted to determine the effectiveness of ALC in the treatment and prevention of the worsening symptoms of DPN.

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Posted by DrR at 2:05 PM 0 comments

Gastroprotective effect of L-carnitine on indomethacin-induced gastric mucosal injury

Numerous studies have shown that use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is associated with various gastric mucosal lesions,



L-carnitine, protects the biological membranes against lipid peroxidation. It has recently been shown that L-carnitine has a gastroprotective effect on gastric mucosa.



RESULTS:

The intragastric administration of indomethacin induced hyperemia and hemorrhagic erosions in the rat stomachs. L-carnitine significantly prevented gastric ulcerogenesis induced by indomethacin and decreased the ulcer index macroscopically and histopathologically.



CONCLUSION:

L-carnitine decreases indomethacin-induced gastric mucosal injury and this gastroprotective effect may be attributed to its well-known antioxidant effect.

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Folia Med (Plovdiv). 2006;48(3-4):86-9.

Gastroprotective effect of L-carnitine on indomethacin-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats: a preliminary study.

Source

Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University Edirne, Turkey.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Numerous studies have shown that use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is associated with various gastric mucosal lesions, collectively referred to as NSAID gastropathy, but the detailed mechanism is still not properly understood. L-carnitine, a vitamin-like substance, is a naturally occurring enzymatic antioxidant with a potent free oxygen radical quencher and scavenger capacity; it protects the biological membranes against lipid peroxidation. It has recently been shown that L-carnitine has a gastroprotective effect on gastric mucosa. To our knowledge, the role of L-carnitine on NSAIDs-induced gastric mucosal injury is undefined.

AIM:

The aim of the present study was to determine the gastroprotective effect of L-carnitine on indomethacin-induced gastric mucosal lesions in the rat stomachs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

In our study, gastric mucosal injury was induced by the intragastric administration of indomethacin (30 mg/kg). L-carnitine (10, 50, 100 mg/kg) was given to rats by gavage 30 min before the indomethacin administration. The animals were killed 3 h after administration of indomethacin. The stomach of each animal was removed. Mucosal damage was evaluated with macroscopic study and histopathologically.

RESULTS:

The intragastric administration of indomethacin induced hyperemia and hemorrhagic erosions in the rat stomachs. L-carnitine significantly prevented gastric ulcerogenesis induced by indomethacin and decreased the ulcer index macroscopically and histopathologically.

CONCLUSION:

L-carnitine decreases indomethacin-induced gastric mucosal injury and this gastroprotective effect may be attributed to its well-known antioxidant effect.

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Posted by DrR at 1:59 PM 0 comments

L-Carnitine Protects the lining of the Stomach from Ulcer

L-Carnitine Protects the lining of the Stomach from Ulcer



The intragastric administration of ethanol induced hyperemia and hemorrhagic erosions in the rat stomachs. L-carnitine significantly prevented gastric ulcerogenesis induced by ethanol and decreased the ulcer index. Plasma and gastric lipid peroxidation that was increased significantly by ethanol was decreased after treatment with L-carnitine. Ethanol treatment decreased significantly the gastric glutathione levels, and pretreatment with L-carnitine increased them significantly. Based on these data, the beneficial effects of L-carnitine on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury may be attributed to its antiperoxidative effects.

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Pharmacol Rep. 2005 Jul-Aug;57(4):481-8.

L-carnitine inhibits ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats.

Source

Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22 030, Edirne, Turkey. dikmendokmeci@hotmail.com

Abstract

L-carnitine is a quaternary amine that is essential for the normal oxidation of long-chain fatty acids by mitochondria. It is known that L-carnitine and its derivatives prevent the formation of reactive oxygen species, scavenge free radicals and protect cells from peroxidative stress. Oxygen-derived free radicals and lipid peroxidation products play a critical role in the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of L-carnitine on lipid peroxidation induced by ethanol in the rat stomach. In our study, gastric mucosal injury was induced by the intragastric administration of 1 ml of absolute ethanol. Test compounds were given to rats by gavage 30 min before the ethanol administration. The animals were killed 60 min after the administration of ethanol. The stomach of each animal was removed. Mucosal damage was evaluated by macroscopic examination, histological analysis and by measurement of lipid peroxidation and glutathione activity. The intragastric administration of ethanol induced hyperemia and hemorrhagic erosions in the rat stomachs. L-carnitine significantly prevented gastric ulcerogenesis induced by ethanol and decreased the ulcer index. Plasma and gastric lipid peroxidation that was increased significantly by ethanol was decreased after treatment with L-carnitine. Ethanol treatment decreased significantly the gastric glutathione levels, and pretreatment with L-carnitine increased them significantly. Based on these data, the beneficial effects of L-carnitine on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury may be attributed to its antiperoxidative effects.

Read more at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
 
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Posted by DrR at 1:54 PM 0 comments

L-Carnitine Protects the lining of the Stomach from Ulcer

The intragastric administration of ethanol induced hyperemia and hemorrhagic erosions in the rat stomachs. L-carnitine significantly prevented gastric ulcerogenesis induced by ethanol and decreased the ulcer index. Plasma and gastric lipid peroxidation that was increased significantly by ethanol was decreased after treatment with L-carnitine. Ethanol treatment decreased significantly the gastric glutathione levels, and pretreatment with L-carnitine increased them significantly. Based on these data, the beneficial effects of L-carnitine on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury may be attributed to its antiperoxidative effects.

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Pharmacol Rep. 2005 Jul-Aug;57(4):481-8.

L-carnitine inhibits ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats.

Source

Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, 22 030, Edirne, Turkey. dikmendokmeci@hotmail.com

Abstract

L-carnitine is a quaternary amine that is essential for the normal oxidation of long-chain fatty acids by mitochondria. It is known that L-carnitine and its derivatives prevent the formation of reactive oxygen species, scavenge free radicals and protect cells from peroxidative stress. Oxygen-derived free radicals and lipid peroxidation products play a critical role in the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of L-carnitine on lipid peroxidation induced by ethanol in the rat stomach. In our study, gastric mucosal injury was induced by the intragastric administration of 1 ml of absolute ethanol. Test compounds were given to rats by gavage 30 min before the ethanol administration. The animals were killed 60 min after the administration of ethanol. The stomach of each animal was removed. Mucosal damage was evaluated by macroscopic examination, histological analysis and by measurement of lipid peroxidation and glutathione activity. The intragastric administration of ethanol induced hyperemia and hemorrhagic erosions in the rat stomachs. L-carnitine significantly prevented gastric ulcerogenesis induced by ethanol and decreased the ulcer index. Plasma and gastric lipid peroxidation that was increased significantly by ethanol was decreased after treatment with L-carnitine. Ethanol treatment decreased significantly the gastric glutathione levels, and pretreatment with L-carnitine increased them significantly. Based on these data, the beneficial effects of L-carnitine on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury may be attributed to its antiperoxidative effects.

Read more at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
 
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Posted by DrR at 1:31 PM 0 comments

Statin Drug Protects Against Ulcers

Statin Drug Protects Against Ulcers



Gastroprotective effect of simvastatin against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer



Simvastatin significantly increased the gastric mucosal total nitrite and prostaglandin E(2) levels. Additionally, simvastatin attenuated the elevations in gastric mucosal superoxide dismutase observed with indomethacin. The gastroprotective effect afforded by simvastatin was significantly augmented by coadministration with L-arginine (a nitric oxide precursor) and inhibited by coadministration with L-NAME (a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor). Results confirm a gastroprotective effect for simvastatin

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Eur J Pharmacol. 2009 Apr 1;607(1-3):188-93. Epub 2009 Feb 13.

Gastroprotective effect of simvastatin against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats: role of nitric oxide and prostaglandins.

Source

Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, 6111, Egypt. ghhh70@yahoo.com

Abstract

This study investigated the possible mechanisms underlying the gastroprotective effect of simvastatin against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Rats were randomly assigned to vehicle-, simvastatin-, simvastatin+L-arginine- and simvastatin+N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-pretreated groups for two weeks. Pyloric ligation was performed for the collection of gastric juice, and gastric ulceration was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of indomethacin (30 mg/kg). Gastric juice parameters (total acid output, pepsin activity and mucin concentration) were determined. The stomachs tissues were used for determination of gastric mucosal lipid peroxides, superoxide dismutase, catalase, total nitrites and prostaglandin E(2) levels. Pretreatment with simvastatin (10 mg/kg, orally, for 2 weeks) caused significant reduction in gastric mucosal lesions and lipid peroxides associated with a significant increase in gastric juice mucin concentration. Simvastatin significantly increased the gastric mucosal total nitrite and prostaglandin E(2) levels. Additionally, simvastatin attenuated the elevations in gastric mucosal superoxide dismutase observed with indomethacin. The gastroprotective effect afforded by simvastatin was significantly augmented by coadministration with L-arginine (a nitric oxide precursor) and inhibited by coadministration with L-NAME (a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor). Results confirm a gastroprotective effect for simvastatin, and indicate that the anti-ulcer effect of simvastatin is mediated by scavenging free radicals, increasing nitric oxide and prostaglandin E(2) levels, and increasing gastric juice mucin production. We conclude that simvastatin represents a more suitable antihyperlipidemic therapy for patients who are at risk of gastric ulcers that were induced by the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

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Friday, November 18, 2011

Marginal Ulcer After RNY Bypass 4 - 8%

Marginal Ulcer After RNY Bypass 4-8.0%



"With the rising number of Roux en-Y gastric bypasses performed around the world, general surgeons should expect to face an equally rising number of early- and late-term complications.



Marginal or anastomotic ulcers constitute the majority of these cases, representing as many as 52 percent of postoperative complications.[13]



Marginal ulceration is a challenging problem, which can cause significant of morbidity in the postoperative bariatric patient. In addition, while prevention is key, it is often difficult to achieve."

Amplify’d from www.springerlink.com

Clinical Research


Comparison of Hand-Sewn, Linear-Stapled, and Circular-Stapled Gastrojejunostomy in Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Frank P. Bendewald, Jennifer N. Choi, Lorie S. Blythe, Don J. Selzer, John H. Ditslear and Samer G. Mattar























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Abstract



Background  

There is no consensus on the ideal gastrojejunostomy anastomosis (GJA) technique in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
(LRYGB). We reviewed our experience with three GJA techniques (hand-sewn (HSA), linear-stapled (LSA), and 25-mm circular-stapled
(CSA)) to determine which anastomosis technique is associated with the lowest early (60-day) anastomotic complication rates.




Methods  

From November 2004 through December 2009, 882 consecutive patients underwent LRYGB using three GJA techniques: HSA, LSA, and
CSA. All patients had a minimum of 2 months follow-up. Records were reviewed for postoperative gastrojejunostomy leak, stricture,
and marginal ulcer, and these early complications were classified according to anastomosis technique. Multivariate analysis
was performed to determine associations between complications and anastomosis technique.




Results  

Preoperative demographics, length of hospital stay, and postoperative follow-up did not differ between the three groups. The
majority of patients underwent LSA (n = 514, 61.6%) followed by HSA (n = 180, 21.6%) and CSA (n = 140, 16.8%). Using multivariate analysis, there were no statistically significant differences in the rates of leak (LSA
1.0%, HSA 1.1%, CSA 0.0%, p = 0.480), stricture (LSA 6.0%, HSA 6.1%, CSA 4.3%, p = 0.657), or marginal ulcer (LSA 8.0%, HSA 7.7%, CSA 3.6%, p = 0.180).




Conclusions  

The three techniques can be used safely with a low complication rate. Our data do not identify a superior anastomosis technique.
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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Here Comes the MGB!! MGB Makes up 1/6 of All Weight Loss Surgery in Asia

Here Comes the MGB!!



Study shows that MGB Now Makes up 1/6 of All Weight Loss Surgery in Asia!



For combined years 2005-2009, the four most commonly performed procedures were laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB, 35.9%), laparoscopic standard Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB, 24.3%), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG, 19.5%), and laparoscopic mini gastric bypass (15.4%).

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Obes Surg. 2011 Oct 28. [Epub ahead of print]

Bariatric Surgery in Asia in the Last 5 Years (2005-2009).

Source

Department of Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgical Centre, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road, 119074, Singapore, Singapore.

Abstract

Obesity is a major public health concern around the world, including Asia. Bariatric surgery has grown in popularity to combat this rising trend. An e-mail questionnaire survey was sent to all the representative Asia-Pacific Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Society (APMBSS) members of 12 leading Asian countries to provide bariatric surgery data for the last 5 years (2005-2009). The data provided by representative members were discussed at the 6th International APMBSS Congress held at Singapore between 21st and 23rd October 2010. Eleven nations except China responded. Between 2005 and 2009, a total of 6,598 bariatric procedures were performed on 2,445 men and 4,153 women with a mean age of 35.5 years (range, 18-69years) and mean BMI of 44.27 kg/m(2) (range, 31.4-73 kg/m(2)) by 155 practicing surgeons. Almost all of the operations were performed laparoscopically (99.8%). For combined years 2005-2009, the four most commonly performed procedures were laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB, 35.9%), laparoscopic standard Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB, 24.3%), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG, 19.5%), and laparoscopic mini gastric bypass (15.4%). Comparing the 5-year trend from 2004 to 2009, the absolute numbers of bariatric surgery procedures in Asia increased from 381 to 2,091, an increase of 5.5 times. LSG increased from 1% to 24.8% and LRYGB from 12% to 27.7%, a relative increase of 24.8 and 2.3 times, whereas LAGB and mini gastric bypass decreased from 44.6% to 35.6% and 41.7% to 6.7%, respectively. The absolute growth rate of bariatric surgery in Asia over the last 5 years was 449%.

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Saturday, November 12, 2011

Beneficial effect of creatine supplementation in knee osteoarthritis

Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Aug;43(8):1538-43.

Beneficial effect of creatine supplementation in knee osteoarthritis

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011 Aug;43(8):1538-43.

Beneficial effect of creatine supplementation in knee osteoarthritis.

Source

School of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology-University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of creatine (CR) supplementation combined with strengthening exercises in knee osteoarthritis (OA).

METHODS:

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed. Postmenopausal women with knee OA were allocated to receive either CR (20 g·d(-1) for 1 wk and 5 g·d(-1) thereafter) or placebo (PL) and were enrolled in a lower limb resistance training program. They were assessed at baseline (PRE) and after 12 wk (POST). The primary outcome was the physical function as measured by the timed-stands test. Secondary outcomes included lean mass, quality of life, pain, stiffness, and muscle strength.

RESULTS:

Physical function was significantly improved only in the CR group (P = 0.006). In addition, a significant between-group difference was observed (CR: PRE = 15.7 ± 1.4, POST = 18.1 ± 1.8; PL: PRE = 15.0 ± 1.8, POST = 15.2 ± 1.2; P = 0.004). The CR group also presented improvements in physical function and stiffness subscales as evaluated by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (P = 0.005 and P = 0.024, respectively), whereas the PL group did not show any significant changes in these parameters (P > 0.05). In addition, only the CR group presented a significant improvement in lower limb lean mass (P = 0.04) as well as in quality of life (P = 0.01). Both CR and PL groups demonstrated significant reductions in pain (P < 0.05). Similarly, a main effect for time revealed an increase in leg-press one-repetition maximum (P = 0.005) with no significant differences between groups (P = 0.81).

CONCLUSIONS:

CR supplementation improves physical function, lower limb lean mass, and quality of life in postmenopausal women with knee OA undergoing strengthening exercises.

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Composition of trabecular bone tissue may be positively influenced by Creatine supplementation

Composition of trabecular bone tissue may be positively influenced by Creatine supplementation

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Lasers Med Sci. 2011 Aug 12. [Epub ahead of print]

Influence of creatine supplementation on bone quality in the ovariectomized rat model: an FT-Raman spectroscopy study.

Source

Grupo de Estudos e Pesquisa em Ciências da Saúde, Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Sul de Minas Gerais, Muzambinho, MG, Brazil, tatosouza2004@yahoo.com.br.

Abstract

The influence of creatine (Cr) supplementation on cortical and trabecular bone from ovariectomized rats was studied using FT-Raman spectroscopy. The intensity of organic-phase Raman bands was compared to mineral phase ones. Twenty-one female Wistar rats aged 3 months were divided into three groups (n = 7 per group): ovariectomized (OVX), ovariectomized treated with creatine (CRE) and sham-operated (SHAM) groups. Creatine supplementation (300 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) was provided for 8 weeks, starting 12 weeks after ovariectomy. FT-Raman spectroscopy was performed on the right medial femoral mid-shaft (cortical bone) and third lumbar vertebral body (trabecular bone). The integrated intensities of mineral phase (phosphate and carbonate bands at 959 and 1,071 cm(-1), respectively) and organic phase (amide I band at 1,665 cm(-1)) Raman bands were analyzed. The mineral-to-matrix (phosphate/amide I), carbonate-to-phosphate, and carbonate-to-amide I ratios were analyzed to assess bone quality. The phosphate content on trabecular bone was higher in the CRE group than the OVX group (p < 0.05). No significant changes in mineral or organic phases on cortical bone were observed. A radiographic assessment of bone density was encouraging as the same findings were showed by Raman intensity of phosphate from cortical (r ( 2 ) = 0.8037) and trabecular bones (r (2) = 0.915). Severe ovariectomy-induced bone loss was confirmed by FT-Raman spectroscopy. The results suggest that the chemical composition of trabecular bone tissue may be positively influenced by Cr supplementation after ovariectomy.

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Creatine supplementation has the ability to function in a manner similar to antidepressant

Recent work shows that creatine supplementation has the ability to function in a manner similar to antidepressant drugs and can offset negative consequences of stress.

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Mol Neurobiol. 2011 Oct;44(2):136-41. Epub 2011 Mar 12.

A potential role for creatine in drug abuse?

Source

Department of Psychology, Tufts University, 490 Boston Ave, Medford, MA 02155, USA. Kristen.danci@tufts.edu

Abstract

Supplemental creatine has been promoted for its positive health effects and is best known for its use by athletes to increase muscle mass. In addition to its role in physical performance, creatine supplementation has protective effects on the brain in models of neuronal damage and also alters mood state and cognitive performance. Creatine is found in high protein foods, such as fish or meat, and is also produced endogenously from the biosynthesis of arginine, glycine, and methionine. Changes in brain creatine levels, as measured using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, are seen in individuals exposed to drugs of abuse and depressed individuals. These changes in brain creatine indicate that energy metabolism differs in these populations relative to healthy individuals. Recent work shows that creatine supplementation has the ability to function in a manner similar to antidepressant drugs and can offset negative consequences of stress. These observations are important in relation to addictive behaviors as addiction is influenced by psychological factors such as psychosocial stress and depression. The significance of altered brain levels of creatine in drug-exposed individuals and the role of creatine supplementation in models of drug abuse have yet to be explored and represent gaps in the current understanding of brain energetics and addiction.

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Posted by DrR at 3:45 PM 0 comments

Creatine supplementation prevents the accumulation of fat in the livers of rats fed a high-fat diet.

J Nutr. 2011 Oct;141(10):1799-804. Epub 2011 Aug 31.

Creatine supplementation prevents the accumulation of fat in the livers of rats fed a high-fat diet.

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J Nutr. 2011 Oct;141(10):1799-804. Epub 2011 Aug 31.

Creatine supplementation prevents the accumulation of fat in the livers of rats fed a high-fat diet.

Source

Department of Biochemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada.

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of creatine supplementation on liver fat accumulation induced by a high-fat diet in rats. Rats were fed 1 of 3 different diets for 3 wk: a control liquid diet (C), a high-fat liquid diet (HF), or a high-fat liquid diet supplemented with creatine (HFC). The C and HF diets contained, respectively, 35 and 71% of energy derived from fat. Creatine supplementation involved the addition of 1% (wt:v) of creatine monohydrate to the liquid diet. The HF diet increased total liver fat concentration, liver TG, and liver TBARS and decreased the hepatic S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) concentration. Creatine supplementation normalized all of these perturbations. Creatine supplementation significantly decreased the renal activity of l-arginine:glycine amidinotransferase and plasma guanidinoacetate and prevented the decrease in hepatic SAM concentration in rats fed the HF diet. However, there was no change in either the phosphatidylcholine:phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) ratio or PE N-methyltransferase activity. The HF diet decreased mRNA for PPARα as well as 2 of its targets, carnitine palmitoyltransferase and long-chain acylCoA dehydrogenase. Creatine supplementation normalized these mRNA levels. In conclusion, creatine supplementation prevented the fatty liver induced by feeding rats a HF diet, probably by normalization of the expression of key genes of β-oxidation.

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Posted by DrR at 3:36 PM 0 comments

Study provides evidence of the neuroprotective capacity of creatine in the hypoxic perinatal brain

Study provides evidence of the neuroprotective capacity of creatine in the hypoxic perinatal brain

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Neuroscience. 2011 Oct 27;194:372-9. Epub 2011 Jun 1.

A maternal diet supplemented with creatine from mid-pregnancy protects the newborn spiny mouse brain from birth hypoxia.

Source

Ritchie Centre for Baby Health Research, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.

Abstract

The creatine-phosphocreatine shuttle is essential for the maintenance of cellular ATP, particularly under hypoxic conditions when respiration may become anaerobic. Using a model of intrapartum hypoxia in the precocial spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus), the present study assessed the potential for maternal creatine supplementation during pregnancy to protect the developing brain from the effects of birth hypoxia. On day 38 of gestation (term is 39 days), the pregnant uterus was isolated and placed in a saline bath for 7.5 min, inducing global hypoxia. The pups were then removed, resuscitated, and cross-fostered to a nursing dam. Control offspring were delivered by caesarean section and recovered immediately after release from the uterus. At 24 h after birth hypoxia, the brains of offspring from dams fed a normal diet showed significant increases in lipid peroxidation as measured by the amount of malondialdehyde. In the cortical subplate, thalamus and piriform cortex there were significant increases in cellular expression of the pro-apoptotic protein BAX, cytoplasmic cytochrome c and caspase-3. When pregnant dams were fed the creatine supplemented diet, the increase in malondialdehyde, BAX, cytochrome c and caspase 3 were almost completely prevented, such that they were not different from control (caesarean-delivered) neonates. This study provides evidence that the neuroprotective capacity of creatine in the hypoxic perinatal brain involves abrogation of lipid peroxidation and apoptosis, possibly through the maintenance of mitochondrial function. Further investigation into these mechanisms of protection, and the long-term development and behavioural outcomes of such neonates is warranted.

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Posted by DrR at 3:32 PM 0 comments

Creatine supplementation and resistance training can increase muscular strength

Creatine supplementation and resistance training can increase muscular strength

Amplify’d from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2011 Oct 27;8(1):17. [Epub ahead of print]

Strength and hypertrophy responses to constant and decreasing rest intervals in trained men using creatine supplementation.

Abstract

ABSTRACT:

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of the current study was to compare strength and hypertrophy responses to resistance training programs that instituted constant rest intervals (CI) and decreasing rest intervals (DI) between sets over the course of eight weeks by trained men who supplemented with creatine monohydrate (CR).

METHODS:

Twenty-two recreationally trained men were randomly assigned to a CI group (n = 11; 22.3 +/- 1 years; 77.7 +/- 5.4 kg; 180 +/- 2.2 cm) or a DI group (n = 11; 22 +/- 2.5 years; 75.8 +/- 4.9 kg; 178.8+/- 3.4 cm). Subjects in both groups supplemented with CR; the only difference between groups was the rest interval instituted between sets; the CI group used 2 minutes rest intervals between sets and exercises for the entire 8-weeks of training, while the DI group started with a 2 minute rest interval the first two weeks; after which the rest interval between sets was decreased 15 seconds per week (i.e. 2 minutes decreasing to 30 seconds between sets). Pre- and post-intervention maximal strength for the free weight back squat and bench press exercises and isokinetic peak torque were assessed for the knee extensors and flexors. Additionally, muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) of the right thigh and upper arm was measured using magnetic resonance imaging.

RESULTS:

Both groups demonstrated significant increases in back squat and bench press maximal strength, knee extensor and flexor isokinetic peak torque, and upper arm and right thigh CSA from pre- to post-training (p [less than or equal to] 0.0001); however, there were no significant differences between groups for any of these variables. The total volume for the bench press and back squat were significantly greater for CI group versus the DI group.

CONCLUSIONS:

We report that the combination of CR supplementation and resistance training can increase muscular strength, isokinetic peak torque, and muscle CSA, irrespective of the rest interval length between sets. Because the volume of training was greater for the CI group versus the DI group, yet strength gains were similar, the creatine supplementation appeared to bolster adaptations for the DI group, even in the presence of significantly less volume. However, further research is needed with the inclusion of a control group not receiving supplementation combined and resistance training with decreasing rest intervals to further elucidate such hypotheses.

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