Ambar Sarovar Portico Gandhidham is a very posh and a sophisticated business hotel. Sarovar portico gandhidham gives you outstanding amenities and facilities for the travellers beyond their expectations. Hotel Sarovar Portico is situated near the railway station. The Hotel Ambar Sarovar Portico Gandhidham is 9km from Kandla Port and 6 km from Kandla SEZ. The Hotel is among the famous 4 Star Hotels in Gandhidham and Best Hotels in Kutch .
Gandhidham Ambar Sarovar Portico Hotel has 58 spacious rooms and suites which welcome the tourist with a warmest hospitality and lavish amenities. The staff is friendly and give the best facility to the tourist. Luxury Hotels in Kutch , Hotel Ambar Gandhidham has a multi-cuisine restaurant which gives the finest flavours in the world and is handpicked by the best chefs to offer an exclusive cooking experience in this multi-cuisine restaurant. The hotel rooms are classified as Superior Rooms, Suites. The rooms of this Hotel are fully furnished. The interiors of Hotel Sarovar Portico are beautiful and comfortable.
The 330 sq. ft. Superior Room is built up with all the modern conveniences like tea/coffee maker, bedside lamp, direct dialing & laundry service, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, hair dryer, in-room safe, luggage space, mini bar, temp control, wireless internet and a writing desk. The bathrooms are fitted with glass shower compartments. There are 2 Suites with around 662 square feet.Best Hotels in Kutch, Gandhidham Ambar Sarovar Portico Hotel rooms are designed in a very elegant way. In the living room there can be comfortably seats 5 people and it can used as a meeting room. The stylish bathroom consists of a bath tub along with a glass shower partition. Many amenities are as offered in the Superior Rooms.
Ambar Sarovar Portico Gandhidham serves world class cuisines specially picked by the chefs. Hotel Ambar Gandhidham is a multi-cuisine restaurant. There is 24 Hours room dining facility provided to the Tourist .For the lovely & an enjoyable menu in their rooms. The chefs are trained and experienced.
Gandhidham Ambar Sarovar Portico Hotel has a full variety of Conference Hall & banquets facilities for the corporate events. The hall is equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment, picture screens, overhead video & slide-projectors and advanced audio and microphone systems. The Conference Hall is a perfect grouping of stylishness class. The banquets re used for different events like grand wedding, a corporate event or a simple meeting. There are menus for the coffee breaks & meals can be prepared as per the guest's choice and their preferred taste. The hotel sarovar portico has 3 spacious and well-furnished banquet halls in the lower lobby. The banquet hall can accommodate nearly 600 persons.


The Evergreen State of Washington. Match.com is the Worlds Largest Online Dating, Relationships, Singles and Personals Service in Washington. Create a profile on Match.com today and find that special someone in Husum,Washington to add that spark to your life. Make it personal! Don't forget to upload your personal photo to your free, Husum personals ad today.


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Pomachromis exilis är en fiskart som först beskrevs av Allen och Emery, 1973.  Pomachromis exilis ingår i släktet Pomachromis och familjen Pomacentridae. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of Life.

Källor

Externa länkar

Abborrartade fiskar
exilis

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Motivational Speaker Speakers
The best motivational speakers are storytellers, people who have navigated extraordinary circumstances and emerged with the power to share their hard-won life's lessons with others to awe and inspire. Drawing on their own stories of overcoming adversity, fascinating experiences and accomplishing extraordinary feats, our speakers' keynotes spur audiences to greater achievement.
In today's challenging and dynamic world, everyone can use a motivational boost now and then. Organizations of all sizes and scopes benefit from our speakers' shared wisdom, humor, and profoundly expressed desire to be more, to do better. Some of our top motivational speakers include Vernice "Flygirld" Armour, Jim "The Rookie" Morris, Rick Pitino, Robert Swan, and Robyn Benincasa.
Whether you seek to rouse your group from discouragement or disengagement, or simply uplift their spirits, our compelling and captivating speakers will move audiences to laughter and to tears – taking them on an unforgettable journey.
Pauline Nguyen
TRAVELS FROM Australia
Described by Huffington Post as, "The most grounded spiritual entrepreneur on the planet", recognized as an original 'Rare Bird' – Australia's top 50 Influential Female Entrepreneurs and included in Blackwell and Hobday's global recognition of… Full Profile
The most recognized action sports figure in the world, Tony Hawk was just nine-years old when his brother changed his life by giving him a blue fiberglass Bahne skateboard. By 14 he'd turned pro, and… Full Profile
The seven-time consecutive winner of the Tour de France after surviving Stage 3 testicular cancer and the face of Livestrong, Lance Armstrong is also known for his dramatic fall from grace for using performance enhancing… Full Profile
David Goggins
TRAVELS FROM Tennessee, USA
There is no one quite like Chief Petty Officer David Goggins. The Navy SEAL, one of an elite group of military men regularly sent on some of the toughest missions in the world, needed more of… Full Profile
Zion Clark
Zion Clark was born September 29th 1997 in Columbus, Ohio. with a rare birth defect called Caudal Regression Syndrome which caused him to be born without legs. Given up for adoption at birth with a… Full Profile
Chaunte Lowe
TRAVELS FROM Florida, USA
Chaunte' Lowe's life is the story of determination perseverance and strength. Not only is Lowe a mother of 3, a wife and a finance professional; but she is also a professional athlete, an American Record… Full Profile
Troy Aikman
Troy Aikman has distinguished himself as one of America best quarterbacks. Selected the number one overall NFL draft pick in 1989, he is one of only three players to lead a team to three Super Bowl… Full Profile
Former monk Jay Shetty is a New York Times best-selling author, life & purpose coach, host of the #1 Health & Wellness podcast On Purpose, and co-founder of Sama Tea. Jay has a myriad of accolades under his… Full Profile
Johnny Quinn
Olympic bobsledder Johnny Quinn is a highly sought-after speaker for businesses and organizations of all sizes. Johnny has been featured on: ABC, BBC, CBS, CNN, ESPN, FOX, NBC, TIME, USA Today and The Wall Street Journal. Known for his… Full Profile
David Snow
FEE CATEGORY * $5,000 to $10,000
TRAVELS FROM Utah, USA
From the heights of the Seven Summits to the peaks of business success, David Snows' global experiences as a mountaineering guide and entrepreneur have helped him master the skills of effective leadership, teamwork, communication and… Full Profile
Chad Williams
Chad Williams draws from his experience in the military to provide a Navy SEAL's perspective on issues related to effective leadership, resilience, teamwork, overcoming adversity and motivation. He is a frequent guest on Fox News Channel,… Full Profile
Shaun Tomson
Shaun Tomson started, managed and sold two multi-million dollar clothing brands – Instinct in the 80's and Solitude (co-founded with his wife Carla) in the 90's. He is the author of the best-selling books "Surfer's… Full Profile
TRAVELS FROM Ohio, USA
James Clear is a writer and speaker focused on habits, decision making, and continuous improvement. He is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, Atomic Habits. The book has sold over 5 million… Full Profile
Vishen Lakhiani
TRAVELS FROM Malaysia
Vishen Lakhiani is one of today's most influential minds in the fields of personal growth and human consciousness. He is the founder and CEO of Mindvalley, the world's leading online personal growth education company, and… Full Profile
Jessica Buchanan
TRAVELS FROM Washington, USA
In the summer of 2006, Jessica Buchanan followed her dream and left for Africa. She traveled through areas of South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda, volunteering in different capacities, and then was fortunate enough to secure a student teaching… Full Profile
Danette May
Danette May is America's leading healthy lifestyle expert, #1 best-selling author of The Rise and 7 health and fitness books and programs, co-founder and CCO of Mindful Health, LLC (#48 on the Inc. 5000 List),… Full Profile
Gail Tolstoi-Miller
TRAVELS FROM New Jersey, USA
Inspirational. Motivational. And 100%, totally real. CEO Gail Tolstoi-Miller is a Jersey girl turned award-winning career coach, staffing & business strategist, national speaker, and author. Whether she's advising executives on their broken hiring processes or… Full Profile
Matthew Zachary
Matthew Zachary is a 26-year brain cancer survivor and one of the most respected, influential, and visionary voices in healthcare. An award-winning concert pianist and film composer, he is the "Podfather" of healthcare broadcasting, amassing… Full Profile
Nina Sossamon-Pogue
TRAVELS FROM South Carolina, USA
Nina Sossamon-Pogue is sought after speaker and author on Resilience, Adversity and Achievement. A former member the USA Gymnastics team, Nina became an award-winning journalist and television news anchor, then left TV for Tech and… Full Profile
TRAVELS FROM Missouri, USA
In 1987, John O'Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given less than… Full Profile
Jon Kedrowski
Jon Kedrowski has a Ph.D. in Environmental Geography, Weather and Climate. Dr. Kedrowski is a professional mountain guide and ski mountaineer. He grew up in Vail, Colorado. Dr. Kedrowski has been to the top… Full Profile
Minda Dentler
Minda is the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship Minda's life is one of inspiration, courage and determination; she will have you on your feet ready to face your personal Ironman… Full Profile
Gabrielle Jordan
TRAVELS FROM Maryland, USA
Gabrielle Jordan is the owner of Jewelz of Jordan, a luxury jewelry business, which she started at the age of 9. Gabrielle's passion for business did not stop there. She is the co-founder of the… Full Profile
Alex Honnold
TRAVELS FROM Nevada, USA
Perhaps the most famous rock climber in the world, Alex has amazed and inspired audiences with stories of his ropeless, free solo climbs. The pinnacle of his career (and maybe the sport of climbing) was… Full Profile
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


A new play from Phoenix NZYP and Jay Junior Williams. A story of courage and unspoken truth tackling the tough youth issues of bullying, self-identity and self-worth.
This powerful contemporary ugly duckling story, grown out of West Auckland, layered with Maori and Pacific urban influences and performed by a talented cast of young actors, dancers and musicians, is a poetic and operatic drama of transcendence.
Date and time: Friday 13 December, 8pm. One show only!
Tickets: $20 Bookings advised. Limited EFTPOS & cash door sales available. Tickets on sale from Corban Estate Arts Centre (Pay and pick-up only). Cash bar available.
For bookings please contact us on Ph. 838 4455 or email info@ceac.org.nz. Ask about our group concessions.


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Exploring the Local Episcopal Church
Tune in to diocesan happenings on the following website address: www.ang-md.org.
The Episcopal Church in America
Visit the website for our national church to review issues and recent events and to learn more about the Episcopal Church.
www.episcopalchurch.org.
Emergency Response to National and International Disasters-
Episcopal Relief and Development
The Episcopal Relief and Development provides help to people in need in the U. S. and all over the world. They respond to emergencies by sending relief after natural and man-made disasters. ERD funding is used to help with temporary shelter, food, clothing, clean water, medical supplies, and other necessities after a crisis. When disaster strikes, you can help - by sending a donation to the ERD.
Click on the following: web site to make a donation and find out how funds are used.
Episcopal Retreat and Conference Facility-
The Bishop Claggett Center
The Bishop Claggett Center is the retreat, conference and camp facility for the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland. Situated on a 277 acre working farm in beautiful Frederick County, Maryland, Claggett is in continuous operation throughout the year, hosting retreats and conferences for spiritual growth, education and recreation. Claggett also conducts an extensive program of summer camps and conferences for youth and developmentally disabled adults. Claggett offers a tranquil setting where groups come together for team building and renewal in an atmosphere of Christian hospitality. For a list of upcoming programs, click on: www.claggettcenter.org.
Episcopal Schools in Maryland-
St. Martin's in-the-Field Episcopal School, Severna Park MD, Preschool - Grade 8
www.stmartinsdayschool.org
St. John's Parish Day School, Ellicott City MD, Preschool - Grade 5
www.stjohnspds.org
St. Anne's School of Annapolis, Annapolis MD, Preschool -Grade 8
www.st.annesschool.org
St. James' Academy, Monkton MD, K- Grade 8
www.saintjamesacademy.org
St. Paul's Episcopal School, Brooklandville MD,
Co-Ed K-Grade 4/ All Boys Grades 5-12
www.stpaulsschool.org
St. Paul's School for Girls, Brooklandville MD, All Girls Grades 5-12
www.spsfg.org
St. Timothy's School, Stevenson MD, All Girls Grades 9-12
www.stt.org
About Us | Sacraments | Mission & Ministry | Calendar | Newsletter | News & Links | Announcements
Home | Contact Us | Directions
�2001 St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 1110 St. Stephen's Church Road, Crownsville, MD 21032 - All rights reserved.
Questions, comments or problems with our site? Please email the webmaster


KANSAS CITY, Mo. – British Columbia collects its third-straight No. 1 ranking in the NAIA Men's Cross Country Coaches' Top 25 Poll following the conclusion of all men's cross country conference championship meets, the national office announced Sunday.
The Thunderbirds captured 16 first place votes and 557 total points to earn the program's seventh No. 1 ranking.
British Columbia took first in the Association of Independent Institutions conference championship meet on November 5.
After dropping out of the Top 25 in the previous poll, Aquinas (Mich.) rejoins the poll at No. 22 this week.
Southern Oregon holds the record for the most No. 1 rankings with 34 all time.
Southern Oregon also holds the record for the longest active streak of being in the Top 25 with 90 straight appearances, dating back to 2008.
Each conference is given one rater for every four schools in the league.The Top 25 is determined by a points system based on how each voter ranks the best teams.
A team receives 25 points for each first-place vote, 24 for second-place and so on through the list.The highest and lowest ranking for each team (a non-rating is considered a low rating) is removed and the team's ranking will be recalculated with an additional point added to each team for every ballot (including discounted ballots) that the teams appear on.
For the complete Top 25 calendar, click here.


Tenute di Badia is a Family-runned Farm Holiday House & Winery, located in the Province of Lucca, deep into the hearth of Tuscany- ITALY.
Owned by Romani Family since 1980, the Farm is 180 hectars wide, cultivating Wheat, Sunflower, Soy, Barley, and of course Olive Trees and Grapevines.
In 1999, the Old Abbey and the Farmer's House were restored, and Tenute di Badia started offering hospitality to Tourists from all over the world.


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Q: Jekyll regeneration doesn't work inside Vagrant Running the otherwise working command:
jekyll serve --watch

inside Vagrant is not leading to regeneration of the files unless I restart the jekyll server. I am editing on Windows. Is this a problem with Jekyll running inside Vagrant or is there some configuration that I need to do to make this work? I even tried using foreman with the following Procfile configuration but with the same result
web: jekyll serve --watch

A: My guess, based on nothing more than my own experience of this issue is that you are running your jekyll site in the /vagrant folder which vagrant maps/syncs back to the host os.
These mapped or synchronised folders are using some kind of crazy filesystem driver (basically a type of network share) and the file watch features don't work on them.
This SO question shows the same symptom.
(You will see what I mean of you run your jekyll site outside `/vagrant' like in the home folder. Make a change (using nano) and you will see the Regeneration triggering)

A: What provider are you using? I was able to get it to work on Windows 8 using Virtual Box as a provider and Ubuntu 12.04 as a guest OS. I had to use version 1.2.1 and not the latest version however.
When I use the latest Jekyll version (1.4.2), watch does not work as expected (it doesn't notice the file change and does not rebuild). It does work when I edit them on the guest OS though (it does notice the file change and will rebuild).
Version 1.2.1 works regardless of where the files are edited from (Guest OS or Host OS).
To revert back to version 1.2.1 I ran the following commands:
gem uninstall jekyll
gem install jekyll -v 1.2.1

Note: The jekyll site is running from the vagrant directory

A: It's implemented in the latest pre release (jekyll 2.0.0.alpha.3 by the time of writing).
You should use --force_polling option to get benefit of it.
Try running the jekyll server like this:
jekyll serve --watch --force_polling

A: In vagrant, just add --force_polling, then jekyll will watch almost all files except "_config.yml"
jekyll serve --force_polling
When you change the other files except for "_config.yml", you will see the regeneration.
But if you are changing "_config.yml" it will not trigger the regeneration.
Are you excepting the regeneration when you are changing "_config.yml"?

A: My guess (without knowing the details) is that you need to be running headless, as in:
jekyll serve -w --detach
as mentioned in the jekyll documentation.  If it's not that, then describe the issue in more detail, as I asked about in the comment.  Also, are you using any type of provisioner in Vagrant, e.g. shell, chef, ansible, etc.?

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Home Lane Brothers Photographs Unknown street, Atlanta?, Georgia, 1930s.
Unknown street, Atlanta?, Georgia, 1930s.
Title Unknown street, Atlanta ?, Georgia, 1930s.
Citation LBstrip045c, Lane Brothers Commercial Photographers Photographic Collection, 1920-1976. Special Collections and Archives, Georgia State University Library.


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Always on Top of Our Game!
Great Food - Great Friends
Great Family Golf Facility
Ladies' Section
Couples' Section
Tournament Section
Hole-in-One Section
After PGA win, let Thomas-Spieth rivalry begin
A month ago Justin Thomas swigged beer from the Claret Jug won at the British Open by his good friend, Jordan Spieth. On Sunday, by winning the PGA Championship, Thomas joined Spieth as the youngest winners of a major currently on Tour, both of them just 24 years old.
And just maybe a rivalry for the ages has been born, one that could go a long way toward filling the void left by Tiger Woods' disappearance from golf.
With his three majors already, Spieth is the golden boy of his sport, a young superstar with charisma and a knack for winning that gives him a notable Q rating among even casual fans.
But in the golf world Thomas has long been touted as a can't-miss talent on about the same level as Spieth. A couple of months ago he introduced himself on the national stage, shooting a 63 at the U.S. Open, and on Sunday he showed a Spieth-like ability to handle major-championship pressure, playing a brilliant back nine to pull away and win by two strokes.
And this was on an extremely difficult set-up at Quail Hollow in North Carolina, a golf course that yielded a winning score of eight-under par and caused implosions by several players at the top of the leaderboard -- especially the final three holes, a killer stretch known as the Green Mile.
Most notably, another young star, Hideki Matsuyama, who perhaps was feeling the pressure of trying to become the first Japanese golfer to win a major, fell apart with three bogeys on the back nine on Sunday after taking the lead on the 10th hole.
Thomas, meanwhile, made some clutch putts, especially late in the round. On No. 16 he holed a six-footer to maintain a one-shot lead and on the 221-yard Par-3 17th hole, he hit a seven-iron to 15 feet and drained the birdie -- only the fourth made on the hole all day.
It added up to a flawless performance -- until the 18th hole, when Thomas played it safe with a three-shot lead and made bogey to seal the victory.
And just as he had waited to congratulate his friend at the British Open, there was Spieth -- and Ricky Fowler too -- on Sunday as Thomas came off the green to give him a hug and shout, "That's awesome."
Surely it's just the start of something big between the two.
As must-see as Tiger was at the height of his powers, the one thing missing during his dominance was a true rival to push him and give us more theater for many of his 14 wins in majors.
Phil Mickelson was the obvious choice, but for years he couldn't ever get past Tiger to win majors, and though he finally got over the hump to win five, Tiger was rarely a factor in those championships.
Of course, there clearly won't be any of the old Tiger-Phil tension between Spieth and Thomas. They've been close friends for year and obviously pull for one another, as we've seen.
But that won't make a great rivalry any less captivating.
As it is, Thomas is threatening to steal some of the spotlight from Spieth. He has now won four tournaments in this PGA Tour season to two for his buddy, and with a major now under his belt he's the favorite for Player of the Year.
In addition, though Spieth was never really a factor at Quail Hollow, finishing in a tie for 28th place, Thomas did win the tournament that could have given his friend the career grand slam.
All of which adds some drama to the Tour's end-of-season playoffs and set the stage for the majors next year.
You never know in golf, though. In recent years the likes of Rory McIlroy, Jason Day, and Dustin Johnson all looked ready at times to become a worthy successor to Tiger as a truly dominant player, only to lose the magic touch at majors.
For that matter, there are so many good, young players in the sport these days that it's a solid bet nobody will ever be the next Tiger.
Spieth is surely still No. 1 on the list of candidates, with his three majors and his exquisite putting touch, but now Thomas is officially on his friend's tail.
Here's hoping they give us plenty of back-nine drama in majors for the next 20 years or so.
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Seasons Greetings
info@highviewgolf.ca
Highview Golf Course
60 Golf Course Line
Powassan, ON
P0H 1Z0
Highview Golf © 2016 by Highview Golf Course.
Proudly created with Synergy Golf Solutions. A Golf Course Marketing Company.


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Incident 34/13 Mid-Cliff Rescue
The Irish Coast Guard Cliff Rescue Unit based at Howth Harbour were tasked to a 999/112 call for at 2140hrs Friday evening. Having tried to climb up from the beach, the person had become stranded, unable to move up or down, mid-cliff at Whitewater Brook. 15 members of the cliff unit were on-scene within 10 minutes of the call, and a 50m mid-cliff rescue completed quickly. The casualty was recovered to the cliff-top and had no injuries, no further assistance required. RTB.
We would like to remind the public to call 112 or 999 and ask for Coast Guard when they even think somebody may be in danger on the cliffs, coast, beaches, or at sea.
See Video:


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Pirates inch closer to playoffs
Oct. 18 scouting report vs. Proviso West
by James Kay October 15, 2019
Latrell Boyle and a teammate compete against the Addison Trail Blazers on Sept. 13. Coming back from a halftime deficit, the Proviso East Pirates took home their second victory of the season. They are now 5-2. | Photo by Jill Wagner
For the first time in over a decade, Proviso East's football team is in contention to make the playoffs. After only winning five games since 2010, the Pirates have matched that win total this season with a 5-2 record. They have scored the second-most points (212 points trailing only Willowbrook High School by 2 points) while allowing the third-fewest points (159) in the West Suburban Gold Conference.
Proviso East is looking to join Willowbrook as the second team in the conference to clinch a playoff berth. They play Proviso West (0-7) on Oct. 18 in a must-win game to keep their postseason hopes alive. Here is the scouting report on the Panthers heading into Friday:
Breaking through the offensive line
During Lyons Township's homecoming game against Proviso West, the Panthers only attempted two passes over 20 yards. That's because the offensive line couldn't stop the Lions from finding holes up front and quarterback Max Uribe didn't have time to deliver passes in a clean pocket. The Panther O-line's proclivity for holding penalties also did them in against LTHS.
However, against OPRF, the Panthers line gave Uribe more time to navigate the field and West put up 26 points against the Huskies.
If the Pirates are able to penetrate the pocket, the game is theirs to win. But if the Panthers' playmakers are able to get any daylight in the open field, this game could be closer than West's record would suggest.
Stopping Brandon Smith at all costs
Panthers running back Brandon Smith has a lethal combination of size and speed that leaves defenders trailing behind when he gets room to show off his abilities. Against OPRF, Smith ran for 129 yards on the ground while finding the endzone twice. OPRF's head coach John Hoerster had this to say about Smith after the game on Oct. 4.
"[Smith] was probably the best player on the field tonight," said Hoerster. "He is a phenomenal football player, and when you play against guys like that, you have to be in the right spot. He took advantage of us not being in the right spots. He is a very impressive athlete."
The problem that Smith and the Panthers deal with is that teams stack the line when they face West. Since the Panthers don't have a strong passing game, the Pirates have the advantage of being able to put all their attention toward keeping Smith from breaking off big gains.
Even when Smith smashes the teeth of the defense, the Panthers haven't been able to produce enough offensively. In seven games this year, they are averaging 8.8 points per game, and have been held under 14 points in five of those games. On the other side of the ball, they surrender just over 46 points per game.
The Pirates have averaged 29 points a game this season while surrendering 22 points a game to opponents. Before last game's 8-point effort, the Pirates averaged 32 points per game in their first six games.
The numbers suggest that Proviso East is set up to win this game but nothing can be taken for granted. According to Max Preps website, the Pirates are 2-13 lifetime against the Panthers. This has been a season of turnaround for Proviso East, and beating their rival who has beaten them in the past would continue that march toward redemption.
One reply on "Pirates inch closer to playoffs"


Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park, a 40-acre park in Ormond Beach that stretches from the Halifax River to the Atlantic Ocean, is loaded with sports-related amenities: baseball, basketball, canoe/kayak launch, football/soccer field, nature trails and boardwalks, racquetball, shuffleboard, and tennis facilities. Picnic area and restrooms. Open daily sunrise to sunset.


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The Irresistibles: 12 Lyrical, Luscious Reads
By Robert Bolaño
912 pages; Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Chilean novelist and poet Roberto Bolaño died in 2003, at only 50, cutting short a career that swept over the literary world like a tidal wave. His final novel, 2666 (Farrar, Straus and Giroux), published posthumously, takes on the real-life subject of hundreds of women who have been found killed over the last 15 years in the desert outside Ciudad Juárez on the Mexican-American border, one of the most disturbing series of crimes in Latin American history. Holding a reviewer's copy of 2666 in public was like brandishing the newest Harry Potter at the playground three months before the on-sale date. Half a dozen eager strangers who'd heard about the book spoke to me while I was reading it. Bolaño has particularly captured the imaginations of younger readers because his work is rather like a video game or a set of nested webpages, stories within stories with many apparent authors, and little sense of predetermined purpose. This five-part novel jumps from subject to subject, asking you to intuit the relevance of each to each: an obscure German novelist, a sad Mexican professor, reporters on the Juárez murders, policemen, and more. Bolaño recognizes that we live in a cacophony of a million public voices—his work evokes American pulp, Gabriel García Márquez, and Mexican surrealist Juan Rulfo, a fluid range of styles held together in a structural grip all Bolaño's own. Every scene is powerful and realistic; yet the overall effect is hallucinatory and dreamlike. What he captures so artfully is how a world headed toward chaos, exploitation, and violence can still be home to souls guided by gentleness and truth. The book is long and intense, but it is also the work of an extraordinary artist facing certain ultimate realities, and so will repay every moment of attention you can give it. — Vince Passaro
From the July 2009 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine
Your Favorite Women Writers
Oprah Talks to Cheryl Strayed About Walking Her Way to Peace and Forgiveness
Oprah's Book Club FAQ
Oprah Talks to Love Warrior Author Glennon Doyle Melton
Oprah Talks to The Underground Railroad Author Colson Whitehead
The Most Compelling Lines from New Books
The Day I Almost Blew Up My Book Club


The famed Italian design house Pininfarina arrives at the Geneva Motor Show in style with the new HK GT. While technically a two-door coupe, the gargantuan gullwing doors provide ample access to the rear seats for sedan-like ease of access. Pininfarina created the shapely vehicle for China's Hybrid Kinetic Group.
The HK GT has a striking look. LED headlights and vertical arrays of lights dominate the front end, and there's even more illumination at the corners of the front fascia. There's no concern that anyone wouldn't see this car coming down the road. The profile is likely the model's best angle because the long hood gives way to a flowing roof line and rounded rear. Muscular hips and broad tail lights accentuate the GT's width at the rear.
The model's cabin cossets occupants in high-tech comfort. In addition to increasingly common items like a digital instrument panel, Pininfarina incorporates even more digital screens by giving the front passenger a display to play with, too. Two wraparound seats with quilted upholstery give folks in the back a luxurious place to take a journey.
The HK GT would use a four electric motors with a total output of 1,073 horsepower (800 kilowatts), and there would be 38-kilowatt-hour battery. Pininfarina claims that this powertrain would allow for a top speed of 218 miles per hour (350 kilometers per hour) and acceleration to 62 mph (100 kph) in just 2.7 seconds. Three range-extenders would be potentially available: a turbine, hydrogen fuel cell, or combustion engine.
Pininfarina imagines the HK GT as a vehicle that a person could use at the track, just as easily as it would be for a long ride. When the driver switches into Race mode, the interior lighting turns from blue to red, and the instrument display switches to only show essential info. The screen on the center console would show telemetry and allow for tweaking the suspension settings.
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Am Fam Physician. 2010 Jan 15;81(2):103-104.
According to some lawmakers, accountable care organizations (ACOs) are important in improving health care while saving costs, but the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and other organizations are taking a critical look at the model. A new policy brief from the Urban Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation defines an ACO as a local health care organization and a related set of health care professionals who are held accountable for the cost and quality of care delivered to a defined population, with the goal of delivering coordinated and efficient care. ACOs that achieve quality and cost targets would receive a financial bonus, but they could incur penalties for failing to achieve those targets. Robert Berenson, MD, an Urban Institute fellow and coauthor of the brief, said ACOs are still evolving and will take at least five to 10 years to develop, but could be a fundamental solution to health care cost and quality problems. The AAFP Board of Directors recently adopted principles that would help make primary care and the patient-centered medical home (PCMH) part of the foundation of ACOs. The principles also include recommendations concerning health information technology systems, payment structures, nationally accepted clinical performance measures, and incentives for encouraging patient engagement in health and wellness activities. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/practice-management/20091215acopolicybrief.html or https://www.aafp.org/news-now/practice-management/20091216aco-principles.html.
Sanofi Pasteur Inc. recalled about 800,000 doses of its novel influenza A (H1N1) vaccine in December 2009, after four lots of single-dose pediatric vaccine in 0.25-mL prefilled syringes failed stability testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said the four lots of vaccine met specifications at the time of their release and shipment to distribution centers, but had decreased potency with subsequent testing. Potency of the recalled lots fell only slightly below the specified range; therefore, there is no need to revaccinate children who have received a dose from those four lots, and there are no safety concerns associated with the recalled vaccine. The recall does not include Sanofi Pasteur's H1N1 vaccine shipped in multidose vials or single-dose 0.5-mL prefilled syringes. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/health-of-the-public/20091215h1n1pediatric-recall.html.
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) released guidelines on perioperative cardiovascular evaluation and care for noncardiac surgery two years ago. However, the organizations released a focused update in November 2009, prompted by results of a study in which fixed, higher doses of the beta blocker metoprolol were initiated in more than 8,000 patients on the day of noncardiac surgery. That study confirmed a reduction in cardiac events, including cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrest, with perioperative beta-blocker therapy. However, the benefit was offset by an increased risk of stroke and total mortality. Evidence suggests that when possible and where indicated, beta blockers should be started days to weeks before elective surgery. Furthermore, the dose should be titrated to achieve adequate heart rate control and increase the likelihood that the patient will benefit from the medication while minimizing the risks of hypotension and bradycardia. The ACC and AHA advise that beta blockers are reasonable to consider in patients at high risk of cardiac complications because of abnormal stress test results or known coronary artery disease who undergo vascular surgery; and in high-risk patients undergoing intermediate-risk surgery or who have multiple risk factors for complications. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/clinical-care-research/20091215betablockers.html.
During a December 9, 2009, White House press conference, President Obama announced the release of $515 million in capital improvement funds for 85 community health centers (CHCs) nationwide, and another $88 million in funds to help CHC networks adopt electronic health records and other health information technology systems. The funds were awarded through a competitive grant process. Overall, CHCs should be able to provide care to more than 500,000 additional patients in under-served areas with the newly released funds. Obama also announced the creation of a PCMH demonstration project for Medicare beneficiaries who go to CHCs. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/government-medicine/20091216chcs-pcmh-funds.html.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and various pharmaceutical manufacturers recently issued notifications about a number of products, including the anticonvulsant valproate (Depacon) and related drugs; the weight-loss drug sibutramine (Meridia); products containing the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac, including the topical gel Voltaren; and the protease inhibitor fosamprenavir (Lexiva). The FDA reminded physicians about the increased risk of neural tube defects and other major birth defects in infants exposed to valproate and related products, such as valproic acid (Depakene), in utero. The FDA is reviewing preliminary data from a study that suggests patients using sibutramine have a higher number of cardiovascular events than patients using a placebo, and said that preliminary study findings reinforce the importance of avoiding its use in patients with a history of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, or stroke. Manufacturers of diclofenac revised prescribing information, adding new precautions about the potential for elevation in liver function tests, and said that severe hepatic reactions have been reported, with some cases resulting in liver transplantation or death. The FDA and pharmaceutical manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline notified physicians of a potential association between fosamprenavir and myocardial infarction and hypercholesterolemia in adults with human immunodeficiency virus. Physicians are encouraged to report adverse reactions associated with any of these products to the FDA's MedWatch program. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/clinical-care-research/20091211fda-notices.html.
A nationwide shortage of erythromycin 0.5% ophthalmic ointment appears to be nearing its end, but hospitals and others are being asked to limit their orders to quantities that meet their immediate needs. The FDA said that production has increased and is expected to increase again after the first quarter of 2010, allowing customers to build inventory. The AAFP, American Academy of Pediatrics, and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommend the use of prophylactic ocular topical medication in all newborns to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum, or neonatal conjunctivitis. This prophylaxis is required by law in most states. In 2009, the CDC updated its recommendations to physicians for prophylaxis against ophthalmia neonatorum, in response to the shortage, including advice on alternative products. One of those products, gentamicin 0.3% ophthalmic ointment, was later linked to adverse events. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/clinical-care-research/20091215ointment-shortage-ends.html.
In a prepared statement, the AAFP voiced its strong opposition to a Senate amendment to the health care reform bill, H.R. 3590. The amendment would postpone for one year a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services rule that eliminates Medicare payment for consultation codes and redistributes the savings to office visits and selected other evaluation and management services. The elimination of the Medicare consulting fees would result in a 6 percent increase in the work relative value units for office visits in 2010 and would serve as part of a projected overall increase of 4 percent in Medicare-allowed charges for family physicians contained in the 2010 Medicare rule. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/government-medicine/20091216specter-amndmt.html.
A recent report shows that from 1975 to 2000, colorectal cancer rates fell 22 percent in the United States, and deaths attributed to the disease fell 26 percent, because of increased screening, changes in risk factors, and improved treatment. According to the annual report on cancer from the National Cancer Institute, the CDC, the American Cancer Society, and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries, Americans could see a 36 percent decline in colorectal cancer mortality if current trends persist, and with accelerated cancer control efforts, colorectal cancer mortality could be cut in half by 2020. The prediction is based on potential reductions in risk factors, such as smoking, obesity, and red meat consumption, and also includes factors that could decrease risks, including exercise and supplement use. Although overall rates are declining, researchers expressed concern about increasing incidence rates among men and women younger than 50 years. Overall, rates of new diagnoses and deaths of all cancers fell significantly from 2000 to 2006 for men and women and for most racial and ethnic populations. For more information, visit https://www.aafp.org/news-now/health-of-the-public/20091215colorectalcancer.html or http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/123206036/PDFSTART.


text:
Ševet Cedek (: שבת צדק) je městská čtvrť v centrální části Jeruzaléma v Izraeli.

Geografie
Je součástí širšího zastavěného distriktu zvaného Lev ha-ir (Střed města), který zaujímá centrální oblast Západního Jeruzaléma. Leží v nadmořské výšce okolo 800 metrů, přes 2 kilometry západně od Starého Města. Její plocha je vymezena ulicemi Ben Cvi, Šazar, Agrippas a Nisim Behar. Na jihovýchodě sousedí se čtvrtí Zichron Josef a dalšími menšími obytnými soubory v rámci čtvrtě Nachla'ot. Na východě odtud se rozkládá čtvrť Machane Jehuda. Populace čtvrti je židovská.

Dějiny
Výstavba Ševet Cedek probíhala již koncem 19. století. Jde o jedno z mnoha židovských předměstí, která koncem 19. století vyrůstala v rámci hnutí Útěk z hradeb na předměstí Jeruzaléma. V roce 1897 zde stálo již 209 domů a šlo o největší takové předměstí.

První domy tu vyrostly v letech 1890–1892. Pozemky pro tyto účely zakoupili sefardští Židé z Jeruzaléma. Obyvateli se stali jemenitští Židé a židovští imigranti z Persie, kteří do té doby pobývali v provizorních příbytcích ve čtvrti Jemin Moše, odkud byli kvůli chystané nové výstavbě vystěhováni. I nová zástavba, která zde pro ně vyrostla, měla provizorní charakter. Zpočátku šlo o domy zbudované z dřevěných beden a plechů, s pískovou podlahou, bez sociálního zařízení. Ve 20. letech 20. století čtvrť osídlili Židé z Iráku. Od 70. let 20. století byla většina zástavby v Ševet Cedek zbořena nebo rekonstruována. Stěhují se sem mladé páry. V oblasti podél ulice Rechov Agrippas se soustřeďují gastronomické služby.

Odkazy

Reference

Související články
 Útěk z hradeb

Jeruzalémské čtvrti


text:
Just about every diet plan recommends drinking a lot of water – usually eight 8-oz. glasses a day – to reduce appetite and help burn calories. But a nutrition professor at the University of Alabama could find no scientific evidence that drinking a lot of water leads to weight loss. She acknowledges that people need to drink plenty of fluids during the day, but they can come from many sources: diet soda, green tea, juice, powdered beverages mixed with water and, yes, plain water. Caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea also count, and they do hydrate. For weight loss, Beth Kitchin suggests long-term, science-based weight management programs like EatRight (by UA-Birmingham) or Volumetrics.
Beth Kitchin, "Debunking water myths: Weight loss, calorie burn and more", News release, University of Alabama, Birmingham, March 12, 2014, © University of Alabama, Birmingham
Older Men Who Eat More Animal Protein Experience Less Mental, Physical Decline
Life expectancy has increased steadily around the globe, but older people often lead lives plagued by mental and physical decline. Researchers in Japan report that one way to combat functional decline may be through greater consumption of animal protein. With aging, the ability to absorb and process protein deteriorates. In their seven-year study, the researchers analyzed questionnaire data from 1,007 people whose average age was 67 years. Tests determined higher-level functional abilities Men who consumed the most animal protein were 39 percent less likely to experience functional decline than those who ate the least animal protein. The association was not seen in women, nor were any benefits derived from eating plant protein in either sex.
Eri Imai et al., "Animal Protein Intake Is Associated with Higher-Level Functional Capacity in Elderly Adults: The Ohasama Study", Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, March 11, 2014, © Imai et al.
Other Men's Health
Bread, Cereals Contribute Heavily To Elevated Salt Consumption Among British Children
A British study finds that children in London eat way too much salt, and they get it from some surprising sources. Researchers analyzed urine samples from 340 children aged five to 17. Five and six year olds ate 3.75 grams of salt a day, while teenagers between 13 and 17 ate 7.55 grams a day. Thirty-six percent of the sodium the children ate came from breads and cereals; meat products provided 19 percent and dairy products accounted for 11 percent. The American Heart Association recommends adults and children consume no more than 3.75 grams a day (about a teaspoon). Salt starts increasing the risk of high blood pressure in children starting at age one.
N. M. Marrero et al., "Salt Intake of Children and Adolescents in South London: Consumption Levels and Dietary Sources. ", Hypertension, March 10, 2014, © American Heart Association, Inc.
Unless You're Over 65, Eating A Lot Of Protein Increases Risk Of Cancer, Mortality
Two recent studies from the U.S. and Australia, one in mice and one in humans, found evidence that diets high in protein can actually be harmful over the long run. Protein-rich diets do have their benefits: they contribute to weight loss and to normalization of blood sugar levels. But the study in mice, which tested various ratios of protein to carbohydrates, found that animals that ate higher ratios of protein were leaner, but shorter-lived. The 18-year clinical study in 6,381 adults found that people aged 50 to 65 whose diet included high levels of animal protein were at much greater risk of cancer death and overall mortality. However, people over 65 who ate more animal protein survived longer.
Kevin Helliker, "The Risk of High-Protein Diets", The Wall Street Journal, March 10, 2014, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
Most Raw Chicken Delivered To Hospitals Is Tainted
March 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST
A multinational team of scientists reports that robust safety measures by hospital kitchen staff usually prevent the spread of food pathogens like antibiotic resistant E. coli bacteria, despite its extremely high occurrence in chicken delivered to hospital kitchens. They cautioned that household kitchens, where food safety precautions are less rigidly applied, can be a major focal point of foodborne disease. As much as 80 percent of the raw chicken used in hospital kitchens to prepare meals for patients and staff is contaminated with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), which produces E.coli. Careful preparation of the chicken eliminates most of the bacteria, but the arrival of the tainted chicken is a major concern.
Andrew J. Stewardson et al., " Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase–Producing Enterobacteriaceae in Hospital Food: A Risk Assessment. ", Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, March 07, 2014, © The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America
Risk Of Cancer Death Among Older Adults Is About The Same For Protein-Eaters And Smokers
A U.S. study that tracked the dietary patterns of more than 6,000 Americans over 50 for 20 years found that eating an animal-protein-rich diet during middle age puts people at four times the risk of dying or cancer than eating a low-protein diet. That puts protein eating in the same risk category as smoking, the researchers said. Moreover, middle-aged people who eat a lot of animal protein – including meat, milk and cheese – are also more likely in general to die an early death. Protein eaters were 74 percent more likely to die of any cause within the study period than their low protein counterparts. They were also several times more likely to die of diabetes, the study found. The researchers concluded that what's good for a person earlier in life may be damaging at a later stage.
Morgan E. Levine et al., "Low Protein Intake Is Associated with a Major Reduction in IGF-1, Cancer, and Overall Mortality in the 65 and Younger but Not Older Population. ", Cell Metabolism, March 06, 2014, © Elsevier Inc.
Low Levels Of Omega-3 In Children May Result In Poor Sleep, Learning Problems
New U.K. research adds to the growing evidence of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Scientists found that high levels of omega-3 DHA fatty acids in algae and seafood are also linked to improved sleep. The study involved 362 healthy seven- to nine-year olds who were all struggling readers. About 40 percent of the kids were reported – via parental questionnaires – to have regular sleep disturbances. For the study, these children were monitored nightly with wrist sensors. Those who received daily omega-3 supplements slept nearly an hour longer than those taking a placebo, and had seven fewer waking episodes per night. "Alarmingly low levels" of omega-3s in the blood of children could be related to poor sleep and, in turn, behavior and learning and learning problems, the researchers concluded.
Paul Montgomery et al. , "Fatty acids and sleep in UK children: Subjective and pilot objective sleep results from the DOLAB study – a randomized controlled trial. ", Journal of Sleep Research, March 06, 2014, © Montgomery et al.
Lab Studies Associating Cancer With Eating Red Meat May Be Flawed
Recent studies associating the consumption of red and processed meat with a higher risk of colon cancer should be taken with a grain of salt, according to a paper published by 23 scientists. Much of the data were collected from studies in which animals ate large amounts of red meat without a balance of vegetables, fiber, milk or other sources of calcium. These other foods, cooperating with the bacteria that live in the gut, may actually protect the gut from cancer. Meat contains nutritionally beneficial compounds that are not carcinogenic, the researchers concluded, but when consumed in very high amounts may result in an imbalanced diet and thereby increase the risk of developing [colorectal cancer]."
Marije Oostindjer et al., "The role of red and processed meat in colorectal cancer development: A review, based on findings from a workshop.", Meat Science, March 06, 2014, © Oostindjer et al.
Waste Product From Beer Brewing Process Prevents Cavities
Hops leaves discarded during the brewing of beer contain healthful antioxidants that may be used to prevent cavities and gum disease, a Japanese study finds. Extracts from hops leaves (called bracts) stopped the bacteria responsible for harmful dental conditions from sticking to surfaces and prevented the release of some bacterial toxins. The researchers used a laboratory technique called chromatography to find three new polyphenol compounds, one already-known compound identified for the first time in plants, 20 compounds found for the first time in hops, and many healthful proanthocyanidins.
Yoshihisa Tanaka et al., "Comprehensive Separation and Structural Analyses of Polyphenols and Related Compounds from Bracts of Hops (Humulus lupulusL.)", Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, March 05, 2014, © American Chemical Society
Refined Carbs – Not Saturated Fats – Are To Blame For Higher Obesity, Diabetes Rates
An American researcher who analyzed study data from the last 60 years says saturated fats are not to blame for the steady rise of obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Instead, he says, look to refined carbohydrates because diets low in saturated fats do not prevent heart disease, contrary to flawed research from the 1950s. Dr. James DiNicolantonio advises those who have experienced a heart attack to not replace saturated fats with refined carbs or omega 6 fatty acids like those found in processed corn or safflower oils. Instead, the best diet for heart health is one rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and low in refined carbohydrates, sugars and processed foods. He urges "a public health campaign", like the anti-saturated fat campaign, that admits "we got it wrong," he says.
J. J. DiNicolantonio, "The cardiometabolic consequences of replacing saturated fats with carbohydrates or -6 polyunsaturated fats: Do the dietary guidelines have it wrong? ", Open Heart, March 04, 2014, © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd & British Cardiovascular Society
Hyperactive Children Should Be More Active To Avoid Obesity In Adolescence
An eight-year study in Finland that followed children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has found a significantly higher risk of obesity among ADHD kids by age 16. Children with ADHD were more sedentary as teenagers. The study followed 7,000 Finnish children, about nine percent of whom were diagnosed with ADHD. Oddly enough, given that the disorder has to do with "hyperactivity", a key factor in the onset of obesity among ADHD teenagers was their lack of activity. "We think encouraging children with ADHD to be more physically active could improve their behavior problems as well as help them stay a healthy weight," the researchers concluded.
Natasha Khalife et al., "Childhood Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms Are Risk Factors for Obesity and Physical Inactivity in Adolescence. ", Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, March 04, 2014, © American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Diet Rich In Omega-3s From Fish Linked To Lower Incidence Of Coronary Artery Disease
Sticking to a Japanese-style diet that includes lots of fish would help American men reduce the risk of heart disease, according to a multinational study led by U.S. scientists. They followed 300 American and Japanese men for five years, noting their consumption of omega-3-rich oily fish and monitoring factors like cigarette smoking, cholesterol levels, alcohol consumption, diabetes rates and blood pressure. After adjusting for those factors, the U.S. men had three times the incidence of coronary artery calcification as the Japanese men. Significantly, the levels of marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids in the blood were more than 100 percent higher in the Japanese than in the white men.
A. Sekikawa et al., " Long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and incidence rate of coronary artery calcification in Japanese men in Japan and white men in the USA: population based prospective cohort study. ", Heart, March 04, 2014, © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd & British Cardiovascular Society
Healthy Diet During Pregnancy Reduces Risk Of Premature Birth
Mothers-to-be can reduce the risk of a premature or preterm birth by making sure they eat a "prudent" diet of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and water, and even a "traditional" diet of boiled potatoes, fish and cooked vegetables, a British study finds. The researchers examined data from a Norwegian study of preterm births among 66,000 women between 2002 and 2008. They said their findings do not establish a causality between poor diet and premature births: the "Western" dietary pattern, for example, was not independently associated with preterm delivery. The data do show a link between maternal dietary habits and the health of the unborn child.
Linda Englund-Ögge et al., "Maternal dietary patterns and preterm delivery: results from large prospective cohort study", BMJ, March 04, 2014, © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
Study Shows Potential Effectiveness Of Cork Tree Bark Extract In Treating Prostate Cancer
A species of cork tree found in eastern Asian countries and long used in Chinese herbal medicines may play a significant role in the treatment of both pancreatic and prostate cancer, U.S. researchers report. In the study it was found that an extract (Nexrutine) of the Amur cork tree bark blocks cancer tumor development pathways (proteins) that are similar in the pancreas and the prostate. The extract inhibits the scarring (fibrosis) around the tumors that thwart the entry of anti-cancer drugs, hindering effective treatment. Nexrutine has already been shown to be both safe and effective in a clinical trial involving 24 prostate cancer patients.
J. Gong et al., "Combined Targeting of STAT3/NF- B/COX-2/EP4 for Effective Management of Pancreatic Cancer", Clinical Cancer Research, March 03, 2014, © American Association for Cancer Research
Debate Rages In Diet Industry Over "Cleansing" Products And Regimens
Physicians and nutritionists argue that the human body's digestive system is already very efficient at removing harmful substances. But others – who are making millions of dollars selling detoxifying diets, diet books, supplements, juices, etc. – disagree, saying the liver, kidneys and colon are simply overwhelmed by the environmental toxins they have to deal with. And that's the great debate in the $60 billion U.S. diet industry. Still, most gastroenterologists – acknowledging the confusion caused by the "jumble of science, pseudoscience and hype" of the cleansing industry – advise against the supplements, laxatives, enemas and irrigation devices sold to unclog the colon. For one thing, their use can lead ironically to constipation. Instead, eat more fruits and vegetables to keep the digestive system functioning normally.
Melinda Beck, "The Debate Over Juice Cleanses and Toxin Removal", The Wall Street Journal, March 03, 2014, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
Eating Fatty Fish Boosts The "Good" Cholesterol That Reduces Risk Of Cardiovascular Diseases
Earlier studies have shown that high density lipoprotein (HDL or "good" cholesterol), especially large HDL particles, efficiently clean extra cholesterol off artery walls, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. A new study from Finland shows that diet can play a major role in the process. Participants who consumed at least three or four meals of salmon, rainbow trout or herring a week had more of these large HDL particles in their bloodstream than less frequent fish eaters. The researchers used advanced state-of-the-art metabolomics in the study that enabled a detailed analysis of lipoprotein particles.
Maria Lankinen et al., "Effects of Whole Grain, Fish and Bilberries on Serum Metabolic Profile and Lipid Transfer Protein Activities", PLoS ONE, March 03, 2014, © Lankinen et al.
Progression Of ALS Slowed By Special Diet
A 12-center clinical trial involving patients with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease) demonstrated that a high-carbohydrate, high-caloric diet can delay progression of the disease. A fatal neurodegenerative disorder that destroys the ability to control muscles, ALS leads to respiratory failure and death within three years of diagnosis. For the U.S. study, three groups of patients were fed different diets. After four months, patients given the high-carbohydrate/high-calorie diet experienced fewer adverse events (23 vs. 42), and significantly fewer serious adverse events (0 vs. 9, including deaths from respiratory failure) than the control group.
Anne-Marie Wills et al., "Hypercaloric enteral nutrition in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 trial", The Lancet, February 27, 2014, © Elsevier Ltd
Protein-Activating Molecule Extends Lifespan In Lab Animals
U.S. research in mice has discovered a molecule that activates a single protein, delaying the onset of metabolic diseases associated with aging and improving general health. For the study, researchers supplemented the regular diet of mice with 100 mg/kg of the molecule SIRT 1720 – which activates the protein SIRT 1 – beginning at six months and for the remainder of their lives. SRT1720 not only lengthened the lifespan of the mice by an average of 8.8 percent, it reduced body weight and body fat percentage, and improved muscle function and motor coordination.
Sarah J. Mitchell et al., "The SIRT1 Activator SRT1720 Extends Lifespan and Improves Health of Mice Fed a Standard Diet", Cell Reports, February 27, 2014, © Mitchell et al.
People In Mid-Life Who Say They Are In Poor Condition Are More At Risk For Dementia
A 30-year Finnish study involving 3,559 adults has found that a negative response to a single question about physical fitness in mid-life correlates to an increased incidence of dementia. Researchers noted that adults who reported that they were in poor physical condition in their fifties were four times more likely to get dementia during the next thirty years than those who said they were physically fit. The association between poor self-rated physical fitness and dementia was most prominent among people who did not have a strong genetic susceptibility for dementia. People with chronic diseases also had a strong association between poor self-rated physical fitness and dementia.
Jenni Kulmala et al., "Association between mid- to late life physical fitness and dementia: evidence from the CAIDE study", Journal of Internal Medicine, February 26, 2014, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Fructose Should Not Be Blamed For The Obesity Epidemic - Study
Physicians, nutritionists and researchers continue to argue about whether consuming excess fructose plays a major role in the onset of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes. Now a meta-analysis by Canadian researchers of data from 13 clinical trials involving 260 healthy participants shows that fructose in and of itself is not to blame for the increase in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The researchers could find no evidence that there is something unique about the fructose molecule, or the way it is metabolized, that would cause the obesity epidemic. Overall intake of excess calories, not the source of the calories, is the real culprit.
S Chiu et al., "Effect of fructose on markers of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled feeding trials", European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, February 26, 2014, © Chiu et al.
With Support From Nurses, The Elderly Can Improve Health And Wellbeing Through Exercise
A 12-center clinical trial involving patients with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease) demonstrated that a high-carbohydrate, high-caloric diet can delay progression of the disease. A fatal neurodegenerative disorder that destroys the ability to control muscles, ALS leads to respiratory failure and death within three years of diagnosis. For the study, three groups of patients were fed different diets. After four months, patients given the high-carbohydrate/high-calorie diet experienced fewer adverse events (23 vs. 42), and significantly fewer serious adverse events (0 vs. 9, including deaths from respiratory failure) than the control group.
Ricky Wallace et al., "Effects of a 12-week community exercise program on older people", Nursing Older People, February 24, 2014, © RCN Publishing Company Limited
Study To Determine If Higher Doses Of Vitamin D Improve The Mood Of Diabetic Women
Chicago nursing researchers have launched a four-year clinical study to determine whether vitamin D supplements will improve the moods of type 2 diabetic women between the ages of 21 and 75. The researchers hope to show that a higher dose of vitamin D is an easy and cost-effective way to improve mood, which in turn would make the women more likely to eat properly, take their medication, get enough exercise and better manage their disease overall. Women with low levels of vitamin D who receive weekly doses of 50,000 IUs of vitamin D3 are expected to have better a mood than those who receive weekly doses of 5,000 IUs.
"Study to determine if vitamin D supplements will improve mood in women with type 2 diabetes", News release, Loyola University Health System, February 24, 2014, © Loyola University Health System
Several Factors – Not Just Willpower – Account For Lapses When Dieting
A small, week-long study among dieters has found that late night cravings, alcohol use and friends contribute significantly to a drop in willpower and self-control. For the study, 80 people who were dieting were given mobile phones to use as an electronic diary. Researchers found that participants gave in to food temptations just over 50 percent of the time, and were especially vulnerable at night. They were more likely to give in to alcoholic temptations than to eat a sugary snack or to overindulge. And they were often influenced by the presence of others, regardless of whether a dietary temptation was unexpected or whether the dieter went looking for something to eat.
Heather C. McKee et al., "An Ecological Momentary Assessment of Lapse Occurrences in Dieters. ", Annals of Behavioral Medicine, February 24, 2014, © Springer
Vigorous Activity At Work Can Be Fatal
Workplaces where employees are involved in vigorous physical activity should prepare for the possibility of heart attacks and strokes on the job and should screen for high-risk workers carefully, a U.S. study finds. Researchers gathered data on on-duty deaths of firefighters that had been forwarded to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention between 1998 to 2012 There were 199 fatal cardiovascular events while firefighters – average age 49 – were on duty, including 167 were heart attacks, 12 from irregular heartbeat, three from stroke, and the rest from other cardiovascular causes. A total of 148 of the events occurred after vigorous activity lasting an average of 33 minutes.
Amna Zarar, "Heart attacks, stroke at work often follow vigorous physical activity, study finds", News release, presentation at the upcoming American Academy of Neurology annual meeting, February 24, 2014, © American Academy of Neurology
Selenium And Vitamin E Prove A Dangerous Combination For Men
Data derived from a seven-year, multicenter, 35,000-men clinical trial show that selenium and vitamin E not only do not protect against prostate cancer, they actually increase the risk. At the start of the trial in 2001, U.S. researchers measured the concentration of selenium in participants to see whether selenium supplements would benefit men with low levels. They instead found that taking selenium increased the risk of high-grade cancer by 91 percent among men with high selenium status at baseline. In addition, taking vitamin E increased cancer risk in men with low selenium at the beginning by 63 percent and increased the risk of high-grade cancer by 111 percent.
Alan R. Kristal et al., "Baseline Selenium Status and Effects of Selenium and Vitamin E Supplementation on Prostate Cancer Risk", Journal of the National Cancer Institute, February 21, 2014, © Kristal et al.
Shortness Of Breath After Light Physical Activity Is A Warning Sign Of Imminent Danger
A 28-year Finnish study of twins finds that a sensation of breathlessness – known as dyspnea – during light daily activities can be an indicator of a higher risk of death. It is definitely is an indicator of exercise intolerance and low fitness. In the study, twins with persistent dyspnea (first noticed in 1975 and 1981) and dyspnea developers (dyspnea noticed in 1981) had an increased risk of death compared to individuals without dyspnea symptoms. Easy shortness of breath also indicated an increased risk of death among individuals considered healthy at the 1981 baseline.
K. Waller et al., "Dyspnea and All-Cause Mortality: 28-Year Follow-up Study among Adult Twins. ", Medicine & Science In Sports & Exercise, February 20, 2014, © American College of Sports Medicine
Multivitamin Supplements Reduce Risk Of Cataracts In Older Men
Scientists have suspected for awhile that there's a link between multivitamin supplements and healthy eyes, but there was no reliable scientific data to support the theory. Now researchers at Harvard report results from a randomized, double-blind study from 1997 to 2011 of 14,641 U.S. male doctors age 50 and older, half of whom took a common daily multivitamin, plus vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene supplements. Half took a placebo. In the placebo group there were 945 cases of cataract, but only 872 cases in the multivitamin group, a nine percent decrease in risk. The risk was 13 percent for nuclear cataract, the most common variety of cataract associated with the aging process.
William G. Christen et al., "Effects of Multivitamin Supplement on Cataract and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in a Randomized Trial of Male Physicians", Ophthalmology, February 20, 2014, © American Academy of Ophthalmology
Teens Exchange Water For Sugary Sodas In Successful Test Project
A 30-day test program that encouraged high schoolers in the Appalachian foothills of Ohio to drink fewer sugary drinks and more water has succeeded, according to the program's developer. Dubbed "Sodabriety", the program was presented as a challenge to teens in the region, where the average number of sugared drinks was 2.5 servings a day over an average of four days a week. The teens – who had no idea about the high calorie content of sugared beverages – were particularly fond of oversized drinks. But during the program, which was monitored by teens themselves, rather than teachers or other adults, the average daily number of sugary drinks dropped to 1.3, and the number of days dropped to two a week. Water consumption increased nearly 30 percent.
Laureen H. Smith et al., "Piloting "Sodabriety": A School-Based Intervention to Impact Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption in Rural Appalachian High Schools", Journal of School Health, February 20, 2014, © American School Health Association
Women Who Maintain A Healthy Weight Increase Their Chance Of Survival To Old Age
U.S. researchers who looked at data on body mass index, disease, disability and mortality from nearly 37,000 post-menopausal women (aged 66 to 81 years) found that obese, overweight and underweight women had the least chance of living to age 85. Women with a healthy body weight had a much better chance of reaching that age. The researchers also found that overweight and obese women had higher risks of developing chronic diseases and mobility disabilities that required the use of a cane, walker or wheelchair. In fact, they noted, "disability risks were striking" among overweight and obese women. The main conclusion: "The heavier you are, the worse your chances of healthy survival."
Eileen Rillamas-Sun et al., "Obesity and Late-Age Survival Without Major Disease or Disability in Older Women", JAMA Internal Medicine, February 19, 2014, © American Medical Association
Menstruation & Menopause
Obese Patients Who Feel Judged Negatively By Physicians Have A Harder Time Losing Weight
The perception by obese patients that their primary care physician had passed judgment on their size led to less effective weight loss efforts, a Johns Hopkins University study has found. The study involved a national Internet-based survey of 600 obese adults who regularly saw their primary care doctors. Asked if their doctor ever judged them because of their weight, 21 percent believed they had. Ninety-six percent of those who felt judged said they tried to lose weight, compared to 84 percent who did not. Fourteen percent of those who felt judged lost 10 percent or more of their body weight, though 20 percent of those who did not feel judged lost a similar amount.
Kimberly A. Gudzune et al., "Perceived judgment about weight can negatively influence weight loss: A cross-sectional study of overweight and obese patients", Preventive Medicine, February 18, 2014, © Elsevier Inc.
Risk Of Disability Soars For Elderly Who Are Sedentary
A U.S. study finds that every hour after 12 hours that an elderly person spends sitting doubles the risk of becoming disabled, no matter how much time is spent exercising. The study focused on 2,286 adults aged 60 and older, comparing those in similar health with the same amount of moderate vigorous activity (e.g., walking briskly). Being sedentary turned out to be almost as strong a risk factor for disability as lack of moderate vigorous activity. More than 56 million Americans are considered disabled because they have limited ability to do basic activities such as eating, dressing or bathing oneself. Overall, hospitalization of disabled persons accounts for 25 percent of the national cost of health care.
Dorothy Dunlop et al., "Sedentary Time in U.S. Older Adults Associated With Disability in Activities of Daily Living Independent of Physical Activity", Journal of Physical Activity and Health, February 19, 2014, © Human Kinetics, Inc.
COPD Patients Can Reduce The Likelihood Of Respiratory Attacks By Low-Intensity Exercise
People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) could reduce the time spent in the hospital with severe respiratory attacks if they would start walking every day, a Spanish study has found. COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema and is characterized by breathing difficulties resulting from long-term lung damage, often from smoking. For the study, researchers monitored the exercise levels of 543 COPD patients. They found that those who maintained moderate or high levels of exercise over time – including low intensity activities such as walking two to four miles a day – reduced the likelihood of being hospitalized by severe symptoms.
Cristóbal Esteban et al., " Influence of changes in physical activity on frequency of hospitalization in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease", Respirology, February 18, 2014, © Esteban et al.
Magnesium Added To Drinking Water Could Reduce Incidence Of Hip Fractures
A study conducted in Norway found that drinking water containing high levels of magnesium correlated with a lower incidence of hip fractures in both men and women. The same correlation was not found in water high in calcium. Given these findings, the researchers suggested that, in Norway at least, water utility companies should use dolomite with, or instead of, the lime (calcium carbonate) that is added to reduce water acidity. Dolomite contains both magnesium and calcium, while lime contains only calcium. A major public health problem in Norway, hip fractures affect 9,000 people a year.
Cecilie Dahl et al., "Nationwide data on municipal drinking water and hip fracture: Could calcium and magnesium be protective? ", Bone, February 18, 2014, © American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
New Whole Food Nutraceutical Drink Promises To Fortify Body's Stem Cells
FTN Believe has introduced a nutraceutical whole food drink in the U.K. that promises to support stem cells in the body and enhance the natural ability to repair and renew cells. FTN contains five whole food ingredients – green tea extract, wild blueberry extract, vitamin D, organic blue-green micro-algae with protein, and organic fruit juice – in addition to vitamins, amino acids and other nutrients. The drink contains no artificial chemicals or stimulants, and is available in citrus and super berry flavors.
"New Wholefood Drink Launches In The UK", Food & Drink Innovation Network, February 18, 2014, © Food & Drink Innovation Network
Infants Who Don't Respond To Body Signals Of "Fullness" May Be On Track For Adult Obesity
A British study that compared same-age, same-sex babies in the same family revealed that a hearty appetite, and unresponsiveness to satiety signals, in infancy may be a portent of future obesity. The researchers analyzed data – measures of satiety responsiveness and food responsiveness – from non-identical, same-sex twins born in the U.K. in 2007. Infant twins who were more food responsive or less satiety responsive grew faster than their co-twins. The researchers advised parents to be alert for these tendencies because this behavior could put a growing child at risk of gaining weight too fast, putting on an unhealthy amount of weight, and being obese as an adult.
Clare H. Llewellyn et al., "Satiety Mechanisms in Genetic Risk of Obesity", JAMA Pediatrics, February 17, 2014, © American Medical Association
Vitamin D3 Helps Reduces Symptoms Of Hives When Combined With Allergy Meds
The chronic allergic skin condition known as hives – characterized by red, itchy welts and swelling that can last for months – has no cure and few treatment options. But U.S. researchers report that after just one week of supplemental treatment with low and high levels of vitamin D3 and other drugs, the severity of patients' symptoms decreased by a third. For the study, 38 participants took three allergy medicines every day for 12 weeks. Half of the group took 600 IUs of D3, the other half took 4,000 IUs. At the end of the study, the group taking the higher dose of D3 had a further 40 percent reduction in symptom severity.
Andy Rorie et al., "Beneficial role for supplemental vitamin D3 treatment in chronic urticaria: a randomized study", Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, February 17, 2014, © American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Deadly Form Of Stroke Is Linked To Deficiency In Vitamin C
A French study of 65 stroke victims found that, compared to healthy people, forty-one percent had normal levels of vitamin C in their blood and the rest – 59 percent – had either depleted or deficient levels. The researchers said vitamin C deficiency should be considered a risk factor for the severe, often deadly, type of stroke known as hemorrhagic, where a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. Other risk factors included overweight, high blood pressure and drinking alcohol. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables: oranges, papaya, peppers, broccoli, strawberries, etc.
Stéphane Vannier, "Can citrus ward off your risk of stroke?", Presentation, American Academy of Neurology's upcoming annual meeting, February 14, 2014, © American Academy of Neurology
Lifestyle Changes, Plus Ongoing Help From Physicians, Improves Health Of Menopausal Women
A pilot project involving 83 menopausal women found that five consultative doctor visits over six months, combined with health risk assessment, exercise, and other factors, helped the women fight obesity and reduce hot flashes. At the end of the U.S. project, the participants, aged 35 to 55, better understood their health risks and set and achieved health goals. They trimmed their waistlines by an average of 1.5 inches and lowered their diastolic blood pressure by two points; hot flashes and other menopause symptoms – energy, libido, mood, vaginal dryness, etc. – had all improved significantly. All of the visits to their healthcare provider were reimbursed by insurance.
Diana L. Bitner et al., "Clinical intervention to reduce central obesity and menopausal symptoms in women aged 35 to 55 years", Menopause, February 13, 2014, © The North American Menopause Society
Healthful Habits Acquired Early In Adulthood Pay Big Dividends Later In Life
A study that followed 495 German men and women over 18 years concluded that acquiring healthful habits early in adulthood is a major determinant of how healthy one is later in life. The researchers randomly selected the group, average age of 45, beginning in 1992. They were then monitored every five years until 2002, then finally in 2010. The analysis of the data collected over these intervals revealed that stress management strategies, as well as nutrition and physical exercise habits, influenced physical fitness and health in 1992. And those initial nutrition and physical exercise habits affected the fitness of participants over the following 18 years.
Lena Lämmle et al., "Does initial behavior predict our physical fitness and health 18 years later? ", Psychology of Sport and Exercise, February 12, 2014, © Elsevier Ltd.
Technology-Based Study Finds That Sedentary Lifestyle Is A Key Factor In Obesity
A U.S. study using accelerometry-based technology to validate a protocol for calculating energy expenditure found that obese Americans on average spend less than a minute a day on vigorous exercise, and 15 hours sleeping and sitting. The technology could prove to be an effective way to supplant the use of questionnaire data for estimating lifestyle factors, like exercise and diet, in research. The study of 1,272 men and 1,325 women found that obese particpants were significantly less physically active and spent more time in sedentary behaviors than their normal weight counterparts.
Archer et al., "Validation of a Novel Protocol for Calculating Estimated Energy Requirements and Average Daily Physical Activity Ratio for the US Population: 2005-2006", Mayo Clinic Proceedings, February 12, 2014, © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
Oregano Compound Proves Potentially Useful In Destroying Norovirus
A compound found in oregano oil has been found effective in breaking down the norovirus responsible for a condition known as "winter vomiting disease" that affected more than 600 people on a recent cruise. Norovirus, a common cause of foodborne illnesses, is a serious problem in nursing homes, hospitals, cruise ships and schools. In the U.S. study, conducted using the mouse version of norovirus, carvacrol acted directly on the virus's tough surrounding layer of proteins, causing it to break down. The researchers said that allows another antimicrobial to enter the internal part of the virus and kill it. The suggested that carvacrol could someday be used as a food sanitizer or a surface sanitizer with other antimicrobials.
D.H. Gilling et al., "Antiviral efficacy and mechanisms of action of oregano essential oil and its primary component carvacrol against murine norovirus", Journal of Applied Microbiology, February 11, 2014, © The Society for Applied Microbiology
Overweight People Have Lower Levels Of A Key Molecule Linked To Brain Health
The molecule N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) in the hippocampus is associated with brain health. The hippocampus is involved in memory, learning, appetite control and emotions. In this study, U.S. researchers using magnetic resonance spectroscopy were able to visualize the NAA molecule in the hippocampus, finding that overweight participants had lower levels in their brains than normal weight participants, an effect independent of age, sex or psychiatric diagnoses. The researchers acknowledged further research is needed because they didn't whether "low NAA is a consequence of being overweight, causes being overweight, or is a combination of both".
Jeremy D. Coplan et al., "Reduced hippocampal N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) as a biomarker for overweight", NeuroImage: Clinical, February 11, 2014, © Coplan et al.
Tired Consumers Are More Likely To Choose Healthful, Or Safety-Related, Products
A study by Dutch and American researchers finds that physical exhaustion can lead to better health care decision making. Five experiments were conducted during which consumers were tested in ways that would determine how they use what is called "self-protective motivation" when avoiding danger. They were also asked their preference regarding products that emphasize safety. In one example, participants were surveyed before or after working out. Then as a reward they were offered a choice of two gifts. Those who were tired from working out were much more likely to pick sun block than moisturizing lotion. The conclusion: "Consumers value products that emphasize safety features more when they are feeling depleted."
Monika Lisjak et al., "The Bright Side of Impulse: Depletion Heightens Self - Protective Behavior in the Face of Danger", Journal of Consumer Research, February 11, 2014, © Lisjak et al.
Even Moderate Weight Loss Can Improve, Even Cure, Sleep Apnea
A study conducted in Finland finds evidence that a modest weight reduction – five percent – can lead to significant improvements in – even curing of – obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and metabolism in overweight patients. The researchers also found that the positive changes can be sustained even four years after the end of an active intervention. OSA – a chronic, progressive disease – is tightly linked with metabolic abnormalities, particularly type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Henri Tuomilehto et al., "The impact of weight reduction in the prevention of the progression of obstructive sleep apnea: an explanatory analysis of a 5-year observational follow-up trial", Sleep Medicine, February 11, 2014, © Elsevier Inc.
Vitamin C Shots Kill Ovarian Cancer Cells, Reduce Toxic Effects Of Chemotherapy
A therapy that combines vitamin C injections with conventional chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel) stopped ovarian cancer in Petri dish cells, animals and humans, U.S. researchers report. In addition, the therapy reduced chemotherapy- associated toxicity in patients. The researchers said intravenous, but not oral, vitamin C kills some cancer cells without harming normal tissues. The clinical trial involved 27 patients with newly diagnosed stage 3 or stage 4 ovarian cancer. All received conventional chemotherapy, and some received high-dose intravenous vitamin C. Patients were monitored for five years. Patients who received vitamin C experienced reduced cancer as well as fewer toxic effects from chemotherapy drugs.
Y. Ma et al., "High-Dose Parenteral Ascorbate Enhanced Chemosensitivity of Ovarian Cancer and Reduced Toxicity of Chemotherapy", Science Translational Medicine, February 10, 2014, © American Association for the Advancement of Science
Exercise Linked To Healthier Eyes, Better Vision
February 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST
A U.S. study in mice demonstrated that treadmill training preserved photoreceptor cells in the animals' retinas after exposure to damaging bright light. The findings, if applicable to humans, suggest that moderate aerobic exercise may slow the progression of retinal degenerative diseases, like age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in the elderly. The exercised mice lost only half the photoreceptor cells that the control group lost. In addition, the retinal cells of exercised mice were more responsive to light and had higher levels of a growth- and health-promoting protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
Eric C. Lawson et al., "Exercise Protects Retinal Function and Structure from Light-Induced Retinal Degeneration", The Journal of Neuroscience, February 07, 2014, © Society for Neuroscience
Study Data Spotlight Link Between Fast-Food Consumption And Obesity Epidemic
A bulletin published by the World Health Organization reports a link between the obesity epidemic and the increase in fast food consumption in developed countries over the last decade. U.S. researchers suggested that national governments could retard or even reverse the obesity problem by regulating fast food consumption. The authors analyzed data on the number of fast food transactions per capita from 1999 to 2008 in 25 high-income countries, finding that each 1-unit increase in the average number of annual fast food transactions per capita was associated with an increase of 0.0329 in BMI over the study period. "Unless governments take steps to regulate their economies, the invisible hand of the market will continue to promote obesity worldwide with disastrous consequences," the researchers concluded.
Roberto De Vogli et al., "Tighter economic regulation needed to reverse obesity epidemic", Bulletin of the World Health Organization, February 06, 2014, © World Health Organization
Monkeys Fed Omega-3-Rich Diet Have Highly Developed Neural Networks
Oregon researchers who used functional brain imaging in live, older rhesus macaque monkeys show that animals whose diet was rich in omega-3 fatty acids had highly connected and well-organized neural networks compared to those whose diet lacked omega-3s. The imaging data show how similar the brain networks in monkeys and humans are, but "only in the context of a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids". The next step is to see if monkeys with deficits in certain neural networks have behavioral patterns similar to those in humans with neurological conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism.
D. S. Grayson et al., "Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acids Modulate Large-Scale Systems Organization in the Rhesus Macaque Brain", Journal of Neuroscience, February 06, 2014, © Grayson et al.
Novel Dietary Supplement Improves Brain Processing Speed In Older Adults
Scientists in Florida have concocted a dietary supplement rich in antioxidants and other natural components that boosts the speed of information processing in the brains of older adults. The supplement (NT-020) contains extracts of blueberries and green tea combined, as well as vitamin D3 and amino acids like carnosine. The mixture was tested in a two-month clinical trial involving 105 healthy adults aged 65 to 85. Test results at the end of study show modest improvements in two measures of cognitive processing speed for those taking the supplement compared to those taking a placebo. Processing speed – in areas like memory and verbal ability – is most often affected early in cognitive aging.
Brent Small et al., "Nutraceutical Intervention Improves Older Adults' Cognitive Functioning", Rejuvenation Research, February 06, 2014, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
Mediterranean Diet Reduces Heart Disease Risk Better Than Low-Fat Diet
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts and fish – basically the Mediterranean diet – is a better way to reduce cardiovascular risk than by lowering fat intake, according to a review of studies on the subject. Clinical trials conducted over the last fifty years usually compared low fat, low saturated fat, low dietary cholesterol and high polyunsaturated fat eating to conventional meals. Though those diets did reduce cholesterol levels, they did not reduce fatal heart attacks or other coronary heart disease deaths. In their survey of studies, the U.S. researchers found that Mediterranean-style diets prevent heart disease, even though they may not lower total serum or LDL cholesterol.
James E. Dalen et al., "Diets to Prevent Coronary Heart Disease 1957- 2013: What Have We Learned? ", The American Journal of Medicine, February 06, 2014, © Elsevier Inc.
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Controlling the rising cost of health care benefit plans has become a major business issue. In the last 20 years, health care spending has risen at about twice the average rate of inflation. As a result, all types of businesses look for ways to improve management and effectiveness of their benefit programs. Of special concern are rising health care costs for retirees and dependents. To better understand how to control these costs, managers need to examine employee relations and cost control issues as well as financing and accounting implications.
Outside factors have hindered many employers' attempts to hold health care cost increases to a reasonable level. Some have become so concerned that they have considered cutting benefits or eliminating them altogether. However, such drastic steps are usually not taken because they are inconsistent with the company's employee relations objectives, or are unrealistic in light of collective bargaining agreements or other business pressures. The situation challenges managers to develop cost-effective programs.
For many, unfunded retiree health obligations cause increasing concern. Health care costs have increased dramatically and Medicare has absorbed less of this increasing burden. As the baby boom generation ages, the magnitude of retiree health care benefits issues will grow significantly. The FASB's new statement will require companies to calculate the future costs of retiree health benefits and record the expense in financial statements. The proposed mechanics for this requirement are both complex and and contentious. This statement adds to existing concerns about rising health care costs and provides an additional impetus to look more closely at retiree health programs.
Evaluating these plans has much in common with evaluating other health plans and retiree benehts as a whole. Many of the recommended actions are similar to evaluating these latter programs.
By studying the recommended actions, managers can focus on issues that will directly affect them while improving their understanding of related financial and accounting issues. Of course, the general action plan must be tailored to meet a company's specific needs and circumstances. While this article specifically focuses on retiree health benefits, similar action should be considered with respect to current health cate benefit programs for active employees.
The first step is to establish objectives for the program.
Retiree health benefits are one component of a benefits package. Managers should first address the company's overall human resource needs, considering steps that should be taken to remain competitive in an increasingly tight labor market. Managers should consider recruitment, retention, and training issues as well as the policy on early retirement.
Once these key human resource issues have been addressed, managers should evaluate the total compensation and benefits package -- including retiree health care benefits -- weighing cost and budget constraints against benefits that must be offered to attract and retain high-quality employees.
As part of this evaluation, managers should evaluate the demographics of the current work force and project the work force needed each year in both the near and long term. These projections should anticipate significant changes in factors affecting the work force, including anticipated changes in product mix, manufacturing technology, site selection, and human obsolescence. The projections may also show a need to change historic patterns in early/late retirement.
Publication information: Article title: Analyzing the Health Benefits Promise. Contributors: Launer, Lee E. - Author, Bald, Barbara S. - Author, Akresh, Murray S. - Author. Magazine title: The CPA Journal. Volume: 61. Issue: 1 Publication date: January 1991. Page number: 18+. © New York State Society of CPAs. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All Rights Reserved.


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