26.02.2010: Strict avoidance oif allergenic foods beyond 4-6 month is being challenged [1]
Shaker and Woodmansee 2009 stresses that 4 to 6% of US children have an allergic reaction to at least one food, being influenced by a combination of genetic influences, characteristics of food antigen processing, and timing of food introduction. The authors point out that early introduction of allergenic foods is being under trial because strict avoidance of allergenic foods beyond 4-6 months may not be effective.
Current management of food allergy is summarized by the authors to depend on accurate diagnosis, appropriate counseling regarding strict allergen avoidance, emergency preparedness, instruction on the use of self-injectable epinephrine, and ongoing surveillance for the possible development of tolerance.

Kim and Sicherer 2010 writes that strict allergen avoidance has been considered to be the best strategy to prevent food allergy. It was found, however, that children with milk and egg allergy tolerate extensively heated forms of these foods, oral exposure can lead to desensitization, and delaying introduction of highly allergenic foods to infants and young children does not prevent the development of food allergy, and may even increase risks. Biomarkers are being identified to select those patients who can profit from an early exposure to allergens. The authors stress that, depending on the specific case, strict avoidance is inevitable. [2]

Egg allergy [3]
Benhamou and colleagues 2009 write that egg allergy in children below the age of three are the most frequent of allergies. Ovomucoid is the major allergen of egg, and egg white proteins allergy may occur without clinical symptoms. The diagnosis of egg allergy comprises IgE tests and standardized food challenges. Treatment of egg allergy includes strict avoidance of eggs and their products, also tolerance induction protocols, in particular with egg proteins with reduced allergenic properties in specific cases, are promising.

Food colour allergy [4]
Patent Blue V, also called Food Blue 5 or Sulphan Blue, is a dark bluish synthetic dye used as a food coloring. As a food additive, it has E number E131. It is not widely used, but can be found in certain jelly sweets. Patent Blue V is banned as a food colour in Australia, USA, and Norway.
In medicine, Patent Blue V is used in lymphangiography as a dye to colour lymph vessels. It is also used in dental disclosing tablets as a stain to show dental plaque on teeth.
It may cause allergic reactions, with symptoms ranging from itching and nettle rash to nausea, hypotension, and in rare cases anaphylactic shock; it is not recommended for children.

The EuroPrevall researche project [5]
EuroPrevall is a multi-disciplinary research project looking at the prevalence cost and basis of food allergy in Europe to estimate the currently unknown prevalence of food allergy and exposure to known or suspected risk factors for food allergy across Europe. A protocol for the sampling strategy, the use of questionnaires, and collection of blood samples for immunological analyses is presented bei Kummeling and colleagues 2009.

Basic information on adverse reactions to foods in groups aged 7-10 years and 20-54 years were collected, together with a questionnaire on potential risks and exposures. Blood sample were taken to allow serological analysis. Subjects reporting adverse reactions to foods and sensitized to the same food(s) were called in for a full clinical evaluation that included a double blind placebo controlled food challenge. The authors hope that data of these studies will improve disease prevention, diagnosis and management.

The EuroPrevall-INCO project for China, India and Russia [6]
To assess global variations in the prevalence of food allergies the EuroPrevall-INCO project has been developed to evaluate the prevalence of food allergies in China, India and Russia using the methodology of the EuroPrevall protocol applied in the EU, and compare the data with different European countries. The authors hope that these Asian data added to Europe findings will improve knowledge about the development of food allergy.

The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children [7]
The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children was conceived to assess the sensitization within a large birth cohort, the associations between sensitization to different allergens and determine whether small groups of allergen may be responsible for atopy, an allergic hypersensitivity affecting parts of the body not in direct contact with the allergen.
Roberts and colleagues performed skin allergy tests at 7 years of age with positive sensitization found with grass pollens (8.5%), house dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus 7.8%, Dermatophagoides farinae 3.6%), cat (4.9%), dog (2.7%), horse (1.4%), rabbit (1.4%), peanut (1.4%) and mixed tree nuts (1.0%). The authors concluded that aeroallergens are the most important ones, and peanuts and tree nuts are most frequent food allergens. Strong associations within and between different allergen classes such as pollens, animals, foods, peanut and tree nuts were noted.

Vegetables and allergies [8]
It was suggested that vitamin E and zinc intake during pregnancy might reduce the risk of wheeze and/or asthma in the offspring. Miyake and colleagues 2010 examining such associations found that higher maternal intake of green and yellow vegetables, citrus fruit, and beta-carotene during pregnancy was significantly associated with a reduced risk of eczema, but not wheeze, and vitamin E consumption during pregnancy reduced the risk of infantile wheeze, but not eczema.
The authors, however, found no protection against wheeze nor eczema generated by higher maternal intake of total vegetables, vegetables other than green and yellow vegetables, total fruit, apples, alpha-carotene, vitamin C, or zinc.

[1] Shaker M, Woodmansee D: An update on food allergy. Curr Opin Pediatr. 2009 Oct;21(5):667-74.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19629009

[2] Kim JS, Sicherer S: Should avoidance of foods be strict in prevention and treatment of food allergy? Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Feb 16.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20164762

[3] Benhamou AH, Caubet JC, Eigenmann PA, Nowak-Węgrzyn A, Marcos CP, Reche M, Urisu A: State of the art and new horizons in the diagnosis and management of egg allergy. Allergy. 2009 Nov 12.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19912153

[4] Wikipedia: Patent Blue V.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patent_blue_V

[5] Kummeling I, Mills EN, Clausen M, Dubakiene R, Pérez CF, Fernández-Rivas M, Knulst AC, Kowalski ML, Lidholm J, Le TM, Metzler C, Mustakov T, Popov T, Potts J, van Ree R, Sakellariou A, Töndury B, Tzannis K, Burney P: The EuroPrevall surveys on the prevalence of food allergies in children and adults: background and study methodology. Allergy. 2009 Oct;64(10):1493-7. Epub 2009 Apr 6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19385958

[6] Wong GW, Mahesh PA, Ogorodova L, Leung TF, Fedorova O, Holla AD, Fernandez-Rivas M, Clare Mills EN, Kummeling I, van Ree R, Yazdanbakhsh M, Burney P: The EuroPrevall-INCO surveys on the prevalence of food allergies in children from China, India and Russia: the study methodology. Allergy. 2009 Nov 4.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19889114

[7] Roberts, G; Peckitt,C; Northstone,K; Strachan, D; Lack, G; Henderson, J; Goldin, J. and the ALSPAC Study Team: Relationship between aeroallergen and food allergen sensitization in childhood. Clinical & Experimental Allergy Volume 35 Issue 7, Pages 933 - 940. Published Online: 6 Jul 2005
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/118705101/abstract

[8] Miyake Y, Sasaki S, Tanaka K, Hirota Y. Consumption of vegetables, fruit, and antioxidants during pregnancy and wheeze and eczema in infants. Allergy 2010 Jan 22. Doi: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2009.02267.x
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20102358

22.02.2010: Gene controlling root-hair cells growth may increase plant yield in nutrient poor soils [1]
Plants interact with the environment releasing chemicals which solubilise nutrients such as iron and phosphate. Root-hair cells are responsible for such plant activities. Long-haired beans, barley and wheat grow better than those with short hairs.
Yi and colleagues 2010 found that Arabidopsis thaliana increase the size of their root hairs when growing in phosphate poor soils. This was due to the expression of the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor called RSL4 gene which regulates the growth of these hairs following
endogenous and environmental signals such as low phospahte availiability or auxin.

Their findings may lead to cultivars which can grow on soils poor in iron and phosphate, such as soils in Australia, the sub-Saharan Africa and China. It also could reduce the need of fertilisers, decreasing the amount of polluting phosphate that runs off into rivers and lakes.

[1] Yi, Keke; Menand, Benoit; Bell, Elizabeth ; Dolan, Liam: A basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor controls cell growth and size in root hairs. Nature Genetics, 2010; DOI: 10.1038/ng.529
http://www.nature.com/ng/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/ng.529.html

16.02.2010: Mycoplasma [1]
Mycoplasma is a genus of bacteria which lack a cell wall. Without a cell wall, they are unaffected by many common antibiotics such as penicillin or other beta-lactam antibiotics that target cell wall synthesis. They can be parasitic or saprotrophic. Several species are pathogenic in humans, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which is an important cause of atypical pneumonia and other respiratory disorders, and Mycoplasma genitalium, which is believed to be involved in pelvic inflammatory diseases.

Mycoplasma contamination is a problem in cell culture
Mycoplasma species are often found in research laboratories as contaminants in cell culture. Mycoplasmal cell culture contamination occurs due to contamination from individuals or contaminated cell culture medium ingredients, such as serum or trypsin. Mycoplasma cells are physically small - less than 1 µm - and cannot be eliminated by sterile filtration.. Mycoplasmas may induce cellular changes, including chromosome aberrations, changes in metabolism and cell growth. Severe Mycoplasma infections may destroy a cell line. Detection techniques include PCR, plating on sensitive agar and staining with a DNA stain including DAPI or Hoechst.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae reduced its genome size by discarding the complete anabolic and metabolic pathways acquiring an obligate parasitic lifestyle.

Mycoplasma detection using PCR method validated according European Pharmacopoeia standards [2]
Zhi and colleagues 2010 report the completion of the validation of a nucleic acid amplification technique (NAT) for use in detection of mycoplasma contaminants in biologics drugs, meeting or exceeding European Pharmacopoeia compliance requirements. This method may replace or supplement the existing culture-based methods with a PCR-based method and will become important for the biopharmaceutical industry.

Mycoplasma detection in fermenters [3]
Asarnow and colleagues 2010 describe a method based on a simple extraction procedure followed by a qualitative "touchdown" (TD) PCR protocol with primers specific to the 16S rRNA gene. The method was developed and validated an assay to monitor rFVIII production fermenters for mycoplasma contamination. The method was validated according to The International Conference on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines, and may replace the culture-based mycoplasma detection.

Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection detection in chicken [4]
Kahya and colleagues 2010 compared a real-time PCR (rPCR) test to serology and culture for the detection of Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection in chicken breeder flocks. Agreements between serology and culture, and serology and rPCR were 83.9% and 90.3%, respectively.
Based on the data of their study the authors advise the use of rPCR and/or culture for confirmation of serology results during screening infection of flocks.

Detection and eradication of mycoplasma in cell lines [5]
Molla Kazemiha and colleagues 2010 assessing the mycoplasma infection status of 200 cell lines using PCR assay with generic-specific universal primers found 20% of the cell lines contaminated with mycoplasma. Contaminating species were M. hyorhinis, M. fermentas, M. arginini, M. orale and A. laidlawii. Cell lines were treated with BM-Cyclin eradicating 100 % of the contamination. Mycoplasma removal agent eliminated 70 % of mycoplasma, and Ciprofloxacin 42%. The authors noted a regrowth after 4 month with 12% of BM-Cyclin treatment, 62.5% of mycoplasma removal agent and 82.5% Ciprofloxacin.

Genotyping of Mycoplasma pneumoniae [6]
Schwartz and colleagues 2009 stress the importance of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, accounting for up to 25% of community-acquired pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumoniae are classified in type 1 and type 2 based on sequence variation within the gene encoding the major adhesion molecule P1. The authors present a real-time PCR assay that can distinguish between the two types using high-resolution melt-curve analysis with reference strains M129 (type 1) and FH (type 2). The authors claim that this assay is rapid, reliable and convenient.

A rapid and sensitive flow cytometric technique quantifying viable mycoplasma [7]
Mohammadpour and colleagues 2010 developed a rapid and sensitive flow cytometric method using a vital fluorescent dye to enumerate viable Mycoplasma agassizii cells. This mycoplasma threatened desert tortoise of the Southwestern United States, causing upper respiratory tract disease .

Detection of living Mycoplasma agassizii was performed using nonfluorescent molecule 5-carboxyfluorescein (5-CF) diacetate acetoxymethyl ester, which penetrates the cell membranes of the mycoplasma, and is converted in the cytoplasm to the fluorescent molecule 5-CF by the action of intracellular esterases. Labelled mycoplasma cells can be counted in less than 1 h. The authors stress the importance of this technique in the field of basic immunological, biochemical and pharmacological studies

[1] Wikipedia: Mycoplasma
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mycoplasma

[2] Zhi Y, Mayhew A, Seng N, Takle GB: Validation of a PCR method for the detection of mycoplasmas according to European Pharmacopoeia section 2.6.7. Biologicals. 2010 Feb 9.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20149967

[3] Asarnow D, Warford A, Fernandez L, Hom J, Sandhu G, Candichoy Z, Luna G, Goldman M, Rarich R. Validation and international regulatory experience for a mycoplasma touchdown PCR assay. Biologicals. 2010 Feb 9.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20149683

[4] Kahya S, Temelli S, Eyigor A, Carli KT: Real-time PCR culture and serology for the diagnosis of Mycoplasma gallisepticum in chicken breeder flocks. Vet Microbiol. 2010 Jan 28.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20149561

[5] Molla Kazemiha V, Shokrgozar MA, Arabestani MR, Shojaei Moghadam M, Azari S, Maleki S, Amanzadeh A, Jeddi Tehrani M, Shokri F: PCR-based detection and eradication of mycoplasmal infections from various mammalian cell lines: a local experience. Cytotechnology. 2010 Feb 6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20135349

[6] Schwartz SB, Thurman KA, Mitchell SL, Wolff BJ, Winchell JM. Genotyping of Mycoplasma pneumoniae isolates using real-time PCR and high-resolution melt analysis. Clin Microbiol Infect. 2009 Aug;15(8):756-62.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19392882

[7] Mohammadpour HA, Tracy CR, Redelman D, Dupre' SA, Hunter KW: Flow cytometric method for quantifying viable Mycoplasma agassizii, an agent of upper respiratory tract disease in the desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii). Lett Appl Microbiol. 2010 Jan 8.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20132436

14.02.2010: Polyphenolic extracts of green tea, chokeberry and honeysuckle fruits reduce digestibility and absorption of nutrients [1]
Polyphenols are compounds present in teas and fruits. They are effective to scavenge free radicals and reduce the risk of a variety of diseases. Frejnagel and Wroblewska assessed the effects of high doses of polyphenol extracts (0,4%) from green tea chokeberry and honeysuckle fruits on nutrient absorption in male Wistar rats. Absorption from the small intestine of nutrients like Zn and Cu was heavily and digestibility slightly decreased. However no harmful outcomes resulted from the consumption of polyphenol-rich extracts,concluded the authors.

[1] Frejnagel S, Wroblewska M: Comparative Effect of Green Tea, Chokeberry and Honeysuckle Polyphenols on Nutrients and Mineral Absorption and Digestibility in Rats. Ann Nutr Metab. 2010 Feb 11;56(3):163-169.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20150725


14.02.2010: Mercury in aquatic systems
Mercury in seafood [1]
Seafood is the most important source of human exposure to mercury which may spread globally when released from environmental stores due to human activities or through natural processes. In form of methylmercury it accumulate in the food chain where fish and marine mammals are the most prominent examples. Balshaw and colleagues 2007 report mercury concentration in marine animal to be one-million times that of the surrounding water body, exceeding 1 microg g(-1). Other seafood, however, have mercury content which ranges from 0.1 to 0.2 microg g(-1), usually below 0.5 microg g(-1). The primary source of human exposure to environmental mercury is through seafood consumption.

Highest concentrations of methylmercury in predator fish from Tapajós compared with other rivers [2]
Kehrig and colleaugues 2008 assessed the mercury assimilation by a predator fish (Cichla spp.) of three Amazon rivers (Negro, Madeira, Tapajós) and two hydroelectric reservoirs (Balbina, Tucuruí). The authors found methylmercury concentrations varying from 0.04 to 1.43microgg(-1) w.w., growing accordingly to the fish body weight. The authors report that methylmercury concentrations was highest in one of the two reservoirs and in Rio Tapajós. The researchers associate this with gold mining and deforestation of these sites.

Mercury concentration higher in predator fish from river Madeira, compared with those of Rio Negro [3]
Dórea and Barbosa 2007 comparing mercury bioaccumulation in fish found that herbivorous fish of the Amazon rivers Madiera and Rio Negro had lower concentrations of mercury compared with predator fish. Mercury concentration of herbivorous fish from both rivers were found not to differ (2 – 182 ngHg/g), despite the difference of the mercury content of these rivers.

Predator fish, at the top of the food chain such as Hoplias malabaricus and Cichla spp presented concentrations of 80 to 747 ngH/g. Predator fish from the river Madeira showed higher mercury concentrations than those of the Rio Negro. The authors stress that the Rio Madeira has been greatly impacted by agriculture, alluvial gold extraction, and a hydroelectric reservoir, whereas the Rio Negro is much less affected by these activities.

Mercury in fish from Alaska [4]
Jewett and Duffy 2007 reviewed data of methylmercury concentrations in fish. It is the most toxic form of mercury. The authors found that most fish had muscle Hg concentrations of < or =1 mg kg(-1) (wet wt.), which is within the USFDA's Action Level and Alaska's guideline for safe concentrations of MeHg in fish. Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) was found to have less than or equal to 0.1 mg kg(-1)) Hg concentrations. Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) has a mercury content less than 0.3 mg kg(-1) Hg. The authors stress, however, that Northern pike (Esox lucius), a predator fish, has the highest Hg values, which often exceedes guidelines for food consumption.

Mercury concentration in fish from Victoria Lake [5]
Campbell and colleagues 2003 found total mercury concentrations in fish of the Victoria Lake usually below permissible World Health Organization (WHO) concentrations. However, Nile perch was found to have up to 200 ng/g concentrations of total mercury, but is not being considered relevant because this fish is rarely caught.

The total mercury concentrations of water were below Canadian drinking water guidelines but were higher then water of Great Lakes. Sediment and soil total mercury concentration are comparable to those in northern latitudes and lower than data of the Amazon basin. It is believed that important total mercury sources of the region are biomass burning and soil erosion, whereas gold mining in Tanzania is of less concern.

The authors recommends regular monitoring and risk assessment in the catchments of Lake Victoria to insure human safety and protect the nature of the Lake .


[1] Balshaw S, Edwards J, Daughtry B, Ross K. Rev Environ Health: Mercury in seafood: mechanisms of accumulation and consequences for consumer health. 2007 Apr-Jun;22(2):91-113.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17894202

[2] Kehrig Hdo A, Howard BM, Malm O. Methylmercury in a predatory fish (Cichla spp.) inhabiting the Brazilian Amazon. Environ Pollut. 2008 Jul;154(1):68-76.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18262700

[3] Dórea JG, Barbosa AC: Anthropogenic impact of mercury accumulation in fish from the Rio Madeira and Rio Negro rivers (Amazonia). Biol Trace Elem Res. 2007 Mar;115(3):243-54.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17625245

[4] Jewett SC, Duffy LK: Mercury in fishes of Alaska, with emphasis on subsistence species. Sci Total Environ. 2007 Nov 15;387(1-3):3-27.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17825359

[5] Campbell L, Dixon DG, Hecky RE: A review of mercury in Lake Victoria, East Africa: implications for human and ecosystem health. J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2003 Jul-Aug;6(4):325-56.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12775518

10.02.2010: Two or more soft drinks per week double pancreatic cancer risk [1]

Sugar-sweetened carbonated beverages and juices have a high glycemic load relative to other foods and beverages. Mark Pereira and colleagues 2010 write two or more soft drinks per week, but not juices, may increase the level of insulin in the body double the pancreatic cancer risk compared with persons which do not drink soft drinks. However limitations of this study are seen in the fact that soft drink consumption is often associated with overweight increase, smoking, red meat intake and reduced exercise and may not be sufficiently considered in this study.

Interestingly South Chinese population differ from European and Western population regarding the effect of nutrition health related issues. Increased BMI is a robust risk factor for type 2 diabetes. This, however is not valid for South Asians which have relatively low BMIs despite a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes. Odegaard and colleagues 2009 found that Singaporean Chinese with lean or normal BMI have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. [2]

[1] Mueller NT, Odegaard A, Anderson K, Yuan JM, Gross M, Koh WP, Pereira MA: Soft Drink and Juice Consumption and Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: The Singapore Chinese Health Study. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention. Doi: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-09-0862
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20142243

[2] Odegaard AO, Koh WP, Vazquez G, Arakawa K, Lee HP, Yu MC, Pereira MA.: BMI and diabetes risk in Singaporean Chinese. Diabetes Care. 2009 Jun;32(6):1104-6.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19324946

09.02.2010: New EU organic logo for the supermarket organic food quality [1]
The European Commission has been under heavy pressure of lobbies by the some agrarian organisations, certifiers and last, but not least, big supermarket chains. Taking organic food into the machinery of food industry promised new brands, new green image an a boost for sales volume. Strategists of their marketing and publicity department were.

A new logo for the EU organic food will be on all packaged organic foods in your supermarket in July 2010.



Remember: If you buy organic food from your supermarket you by packaged food which has grown in large monoculture, with high carbon foot prints. Certifiers also give certificates to food transported by aircraft.

Do not believe on what is behind this logo, it is not the original food grown on small farms embedded in a sound environment. It is not healthier than conventionally grown food, which has to be healthy by stringent food regulations. The food under this logo wrecks the subsistence of small farms

The true meaning of organic principles have mutated to mass production. A definition for an emerging food sector is presented here:

Organic Food	For supermarket products according the Organic Foods Production Act 1990, sold by market corporations, Air transport and high carbon footprint.
Holistic  food	For small farms and special stores selling original foods. Environmental friendly. Only localy produced foods. with low carbon footprint

Organic food is regulated by the Organic Foods Production Act 1990. This act is industry and retailer friendly. It allows monoculture, airfreight, mass production. Organic food has abandoned the principles of the original ideas of a holistic way of life.

Original philosophy of organic food
The original ideas of ORGANIC food was the altruistic way of life to live in harmony with nature and not harm environment and animals. This way of life is still being followed by small original farms which must be protected against to allmighty retailers. The present SURVEY tries to establish a difference between ORGANIC FOOD from the supermarket and the traditional idea of an holistic way of life. This food deserves to be protected bearing a different denomination such as HOLISTIC FOOD.

[1] European Commission: We are very happy to present the winner that the European citizens chose!
http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/organic/logo/index_en.htm


06.02.2010: Mobile phones link to cancer heats up a controversial discussion [1]
Myung and colleagues 2009 investigated the association between mobile phone use and tumor risk using a meta-analysis of 465 articles. They report that the use of cell phones was not significantly associated with the risk for tumors, compared with people who never or rarely used a cell phone. However, mobile phone use of 10 years or longer was associated with a risk of tumors according to 13 studies.  The authors concluded that mobile phone use is linked to increased risk of tumors, stressing, however, the need of more studies on this subject.

Additional research is needed, says the National Cancer Institute [2]
According to the National Cancer Institute the exposure to high levels of RF energy can heat body tissue, but RF energy exposures from cellular telephones are too low to cause significant tissue heating. Studies have not shown any consistent link between cellular telephone use and cancer, but scientists feel that additional research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.

The meta-analisis from Myung and co-authors was criticized for having methodologic flaws and issues and a number of limitations.
Andreas Stang, MD, Andrea Schmidt-Pokrzywniak, PhD, and Oliver Kuss criticized some of the methodology in the meta-analysis, such as the use of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) to assess the quality of published case–control studies, whose the validity is unknown or doubtful. [3]

Rowley (GSM Association in London), and Milligan (Mobile Manufacturers Forum in Brussels deny any influence of the fundings of the industry on the scientific conduct of the INTERPHONE studies. [4]

Samkange-Zeeb and colleagues express their concern about the fact that Myung at al. solely relied on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for assessing the quality of the studies included in the meta-analysis. Samkange-Zeeb ends its letter urging Myung et al and other scientists intending to conduct meta-analyses or systematic literature reviews on mobile phone use and brain tumor risk to follow the suggestion made by Rothmann9 and explore the methodologic differences between studies intensively. [5]

Rejecting critics [6]
Myung and colleagues agree that the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) is not an ideal quality assessment tool for case-control studies because it has not yet been fully validated. However, other checklists, including the National Health Service Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology, and the Downs and Black checklist, have not been fully validated either. They conclude that theNOS is quite comprehensive for case-control studies, and was therefore chosen for the quality assessment by their study.

[1] Myung SK, Ju W, McDonnell DD, Lee YJ, Kazinets G, Cheng CT, Moskowitz JM.: Mobile phone use and risk of tumors: a meta-analysis. J Clin Oncol. 2009 Nov 20;27(33):5565-72. Epub 2009 Oct 13.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19826127

[2] National Cancer Instutute: Cellular Telephone Use and Cancer Risk.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/cellphones

[3] Stang, A.;Schmidt-Pokrzywniak, A.; Kuss, O.: Arbitrary Results of a Meta-Analysis on Cancer Risks Among Mobile Phone Users. January 25, 2010. Journal of Clinical Oncology, Correspondece. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.7443
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.7443v1

[4] Rowley, J.T; Milligan, M J.: Studies of Mobile Phone Use and Brain Tumor Risk Are Independent of Industry Influence. JCO Early Release, published online ahead of print Jan 25 2010
Journal of Clinical Oncology, Correspondence. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.8136
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.8136v1

[5] Samkange-Zeeb F, Schüz J, Schlehofer B, Berg-Beckhoff G, Blettner M.: Comparison of Studies on Mobile Phone Use and Risk of Tumors. J Clin Oncol. 2010 Jan 25. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.9084;
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.9084v1

[6] Myung SK, Ju W, McDonnell DD, Lee YJ, Kazinets G, Cheng CT, Moskowitz JM.: Reply to A. Stang et al, J.T. Rowley et al, and F. Samkange-Zeeb et al. J Clin Oncol. 2010 Jan 25. Doi: 10.1200/JCO.2009.26.8375
http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/reprint/JCO.2009.26.8375v1


06.02.2010: Diet rich in leafy green vegetables, folate and multivitamins may reduce gene methylation of smokers' lung cells [1]
Early detection of lung cancer by monitoring gene promoter hypermethylation events in sputum may lead to an early detection of the disease. Belinsky and colleagues 2010 evaluated the effect of diet and multivitamin on the prevalence of gene promoter methylation in cells of sputum of current and former smokers. The authors studied the promoter methylation of eight genes which are commonly silenced in lung cancer and associated with risk for this disease.

Diet rich in leafy green vegetables, folate and current use of multivitamin was found to provide a significant protection against methylation.

The addition of methyl groups, which are simple four atom molecules, to DNA can affect whether the gene is expressed, i.e., whether the gene's signal to produce a protein is actually sent. Many genes involved in critical cell functions, including cell division, are methylated in lung tumors. Gene methylation is likely to be a major mechanism in lung cancer development and progression, as well as a potential marker for the early detection of lung cancer.

The National Cancer Institute refers to considerable debate regarding the relationship between diet and cancer prevention. Previous studies, such as the Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) Trial, showed an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers who took beta-carotene supplements. In contrast, the current study shows reduced gene methylation with the intake of multivitamin supplements that are rich in phytochemicals, such as vitamin C, carotenoids, lutein, folic acid, and vitamins A and K--the same agents present in leafy greens. Some studies suggest an association between a low folate intake and increased lung cancer risk in current and former smokers. Higher folate intake has been associated with lower methylation of genes in colorectal tumors as well. [2]
Belinski and co-authors recommend that lung cancer prevention interventions be developed that take into consideration the influence of dietary factors on cancer risk.

[1] Stidley CA, Picchi MA, Leng S, Willink R, Crowell R, Flores KG, Kang H, Byers T, Gilliland FD, and Belinsky SA. Multi-Vitamins, Folate, and Green Vegetables Protect Against Gene Promoter Methylation in the Aerodigestive Tract of Smokers. Cancer Res. 2010 Jan 15;70(2):568-74. Epub 2010 Jan 12.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20068159

[2] National Cancer Institute: Diet May Protect Against Gene Changes in Smokers. News, February 12, 2010.
http://www.cancer.gov/newscenter/pressreleases/Dietaryfactorslungcancer

04.02.2010: Patents on breath Cancer genes are unconstitutional and invalid, say two civil organisations [1]
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Public Patent Foundation (PUBPAT) filed a lawsuit charging that patents on two human genes associated with breast and ovarian cancer are unconstitutional and invalid.

The lawsuit was filed against the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, as well as Myriad Genetics and the University of Utah Research Foundation, which hold the patents on the genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2. The lawsuit charges that patents on human genes violate the First Amendment and patent law because genes are "products of nature" and therefore can't be patented.

According to ACLU about 20 percent of our genes are patented. A gene patent holder has the right to prevent anyone from studying, testing or even looking at a gene. As a result, scientific research and genetic testing has been delayed, limited or even shut down due to concerns about gene patents.

The ACLU stresses that mutations along the BRCA genes are responsible for most cases of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. The patents granted to Myriad give the company the exclusive right to perform diagnostic tests on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and to prevent any researcher from even looking at the genes without first getting permission from Myriad.

[1] ACLU and PUBPAT Argue Today That Patents on Breast Cancer Genes Are Unconstitutional and Invalid. American Civil Liberties Union. 02.February 2010.
http://www.aclu.org/free-speech-womens-rights/aclu-and-pubpat-argue-today-patents-breast-cancer-genes-are-unconstitution


04.02.2010: Oregano oil may improve shelf-life of processed meat [1]
Scramlin and colleagues 2010 report that oxidation of the fat content and and the rate of colour change of the meat was significantly reduced by addition of a brine containing 0,5 per cent of oregano oil, during a storage of 11 days. Off-flavours in fresh meat was increased , and more work is needed to use of oregano oil to extend shelf-life of meat products.

The adverse effects of flavour may not be tolerable in fresh meat products at this concentration. The authors recommend to reduce the concentrations of oregano oil which could become a natural antioxidant in a variety of processed products.

[1] Scramlin, S.M.; Newman, M.C.; Cox, R.B.; Sepe, H.A.; Alderton, A.L.; O'Leary, J.; Mikel, W.B.: Effects of Oregano Oil Brine Enhancement on Quality Attributes of Beef Longissimus dorsi and Semimembranosus Muscles from Various Age Animals. Journal of Food Science. Doi: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2009.01459.x
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/123268411/abstract


03.02.2010: Food-borne infections are decreasing in Europe [1]
Campylobacteriosis remained the most frequently reported zoonotic infection in humans across the European Union, with 190.566 cases notified in 2008 (down from 200.507 in 2007). In foodstuffs, Campylobacter, which can cause diarrhoea and fever, was mostly found in raw poultry meat. In live animals, Campylobacter was found in poultry, pigs and cattle. EFSA’s BIOHAZ Panel concludes that the handling, preparation and consumption of broiler meat may directly account for 20 to 30% of human cases of campylobacteriosis in the European Union. Campylobacteriosis is generally contracted through ingestion of bacteria originating from contaminated food or contaminated water. The disease which can lead to diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and fever affects children, young adults and the elderly.

Salmonella, the second most reported zoonotic infection in humans, decreased significantly for the fifth consecutive year, with131,468 cases in 2008 compared to 151.998 in 2007, representing a 13.5% decrease. It remained however the most frequent cause of food borne outbreaks. Salmonella was found most frequently in raw chicken, turkey and pig meat. In animal populations, an important decline of the Salmonella type Enteritidis –the type most frequently affecting humans[1] – was observed in laying hen flocks.

With 1.381 confirmed cases in 2008, Listeria infections showed a decrease of 11% compared to 2007. Although less frequent in humans compared to Campylobacter and Salmonella, Listeria is known to have a high mortality rate, the most affected being vulnerable groups such as the elderly. In foodstuffs, the study found Listeria above the legal safety limit in some ready-to-eat foods, mostly in smoked fish and heat-treated meat products and cheeses.

Q Fever increasing in Germany and The Netherlands [2]
Q fever is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii that affects both animals and humans. It has been reported to be present in a wide range of species, including cattle, sheep and goats, as well as birds and arthropods in many areas in the world.

It was first recognised as a disease transmissible from animals to humans in abattoir workers in 1935 in Australia. In recent years, the number of confirmed cases in humans increased, in particular in Germany and The Netherlands.

Coxiella burnetii does not usually cause clinical diseases in animals, although abortion in goats and sheep has been linked to infection with this bacterium. In humans, Q fever may cause flu-like symptoms, including fever and headache, diarrhea and vomiting. In some cases it can cause pneumonia and hepatitis. Chronic Q fever (characterized by an infection lasting more than 6 months) is uncommon but a much more serious disease with complications such as inflammation of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis).

Most human infections result from the inhalation of dust contaminated with bacteria from the placenta and birth fluids or faeces from infected animals. In some cases the disease can be transmitted by the consumption of contaminated milk or contact with infected animals, especially animals that are giving birth. Other modes of transmission, including tick bites and human to human transmission are extremely rare.

[1] EFSA and ECDC issue 2008 report on zoonoses and food-borne outbreaks in the EU
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/press/news/zoonoses100128.htm

[2] Q fever. EFSA
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/ahawtopics/topic/qfever.htm?


03.02.2010: Thiacloprid in strawberries [1]
Bayer CropScience B.V made an application to modify the existing MRL for the active substance thiacloprid in strawberries, raising the existing MRL in strawberries from 0,5 mg/kg to 1,0 mg/kg.

Residue field trials indicate that a higher EC MRL of 0,7 mg/kg for strawberries would be necessary to accommodate the intended use of thiacloprid.

EFSA concluded that no significant residues are expected provided that thiacloprid is applied according to the intended use. Residues in commodities of animal origin were not assessed in the framework of this application since the crop under consideration is not a livestock feeding item. Therefore the EFSA proposes the EC MRL of 0,7 mg/kg of thiacloprid in strawberries.

[1] Reasoned opinion of EFSA: Modification of the existing MRL for thiacloprid in strawberries. EFSA 02.02.2010.
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/scdocs/doc/1498.pdf


03.02.2010: “Hero Baby” brand baby milk contaminated with Enterobacter sakazakii [1]
KUWAIT: The Kuwait Municipality has ordered the withdrawal of the 'Hero Baby' brand of baby milk formula from co-operative societies. Traces of the potentially fatal 'entro bacter sakazakii' bacteria were found in these products, announced Head of the Imported Food Department, Khalid Al-Zahmoul.

This decision was based on similar moves made by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, which have banned the sale of this product in their markets, reported Al-Watan. Officers from the Municipality were referred to warehouses in order to ensure that the distribution process is halted. This is in addition to taking samples to be tested for traces of bacteria.

[1] Order to withdraw of baby milk. Kuwait Times 03 February 2010.
http://www.kuwaittimes.net/read_news.php?newsid=NzkxMTE0NjY2

02.02.2010: Oats may improve vitamin and minerals nutritional profile of gluten-free diet [1]
Oats may enhance levels of vitamin B1, magnesium, zink and antioxidants of gluten-free diets, according to Kemppainen and colleagues 2010. In this study 100g of kilned and unkilned oats a day were included in the diet of adult celiac patients in remission.

Kilning is a heat and moisture treatment to balance moisture, but mainly to stabilize the groat. Oat groats are high in fat (lipids) and once exposed from their protective hull, enzymatic (lipase) activity begins to break down the fat into free fatty acids, ultimately causing an off flavor or rancidity. Oats will begin to show signs of enzymatic rancidity within 4 days of being dehulled and not stabilized.

The researchers report that kilned oats increased intake of vitamin B1 and magnesium, while the unkilned oats increased intakes of magnesium and zinc.

Oats ay be acceptable for patients with celiac disease and can improve the nutritional quality of the diet. However, concerns of potential contamination of commercial oats with gluten containing cereals.

Oats as antioxidants source  [2]
Lovik and colleagues 2010 write that gluten-free oats help to meet the fibre recommendations of glute-freediets. It also increased billirubin levels, which act as antioxidants.
Low serum bilirubin levels are linked to endothelial dysfunction and increased atherosclerosis. This could significantly improve heart health of coeliac diseased.

[1] Kemppainen TA, Heikkinen MT, Ristikankare MK, Kosma VM, Julkunen RJ.: Nutrient intakes during diets including unkilned and large amounts of oats in celiac disease. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2010 Jan;64(1):62-67. Doi:10.1038/ejcn.2009.113
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19756027

[2} Lovika, Astrid; Gjoenb, ; Morkridc, Lars; Guttormsend, Vigdis; Uelande, Thor ,Lundinaf, Knut E.A.: Oats in a strictly gluten-free diet is associated with decreased gluten intake and increased serum bilirubin. Volume 4, Issue 6, Pages e315-e320 (December 2009). European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism.
http://www.journals.elsevierhealth.com/periodicals/yeclnm/article/PIIS1751499109000791/abstract

02.02.2010: Calcium Plus Vitamin D Supplements May Reduce Fracture Risk [1]
A report of the DIPART (Vitamin D Individual Patient Analysis of Randomized Trials) Group says that Vitamin D plus calcium, but not vitamin D alone in doses of 10 to 20 μg, reduces the risk for fractures and hip fractures. The link between vitamin D plus calcium and a reduced risk for fractures is not affected by age, sex, fracture history, or hormone replacement therapy. A better undestanding of the effect od vitamin D is essential because fragility fractures are a significant source of morbidity and mortality in older persons.

[1] Patient level pooled analysis of 68 500 patients from seven major vitamin D fracture trials in US and Europe. DIPART (Vitamin D Individual Patient Analysis of Randomized Trials) Group. 2010 Jan 12;340:b5463. doi: 10.1136/bmj.b5463.BMJ.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20068257?dopt=Abstract


01.02.2010: Sibutramine linked to heart attack and strokes [1]
The Sibutramine Cardiovascular OUTcomes (SCOUT) Trial
The SCOUT trial has been designed to determine the impact of weight loss with sibutramine on cardiovascular endpoints in a large group of overweight and obese subjects at high risk for cardiovascular disease. Sibutramine is a neurotransmitter inhibitor and belongs to the family of amphetamines. It reduces appetite and cravings hence leading to weight loss. However, it must be supported by a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Results from the SCOUT study indicating cardiovascular events occurred in 11.4% of patients using sibutramine compared to 10% of patients using a placebo. This difference was higher than expected, suggesting that sibutramine was associated with an increased cardiovascular risk in the study population. The study reviewed by FDA indicate that the increased risk for cardiovascular events with sibutramine occurred only in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease.

The use of Sibutramine is authorised in the EU since 1999. New concerns arise after the release of the Sibutramine Cardiovascular OUTcomes (SCOUT) trial. Weight reducing medicines containing Sibutramine are Reductil, Reduxade and Zelium and other tradenames in Europe, and Meridia in the United States. Sibutramine could increase blood pressure and heart rate.

FDA reviewing safety of sibutramine [2]
The FDA is reviewing preliminary data from a recent study suggesting that patients using sibutramine have a higher number of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, resuscitated cardiac arrest, or death) than patients using a placebo.

The additional data from the SCOUT study reviewed by FDA indicate that the increased risk for cardiovascular events with sibutramine occurred only in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease [3].

The European Medicines Agency (EMEA) urges ban on a weight loss pill containing sibutramine, which are sold under the names Reductil, Reduxade and Zelium in Europe and Meridia in the United States over fears that it could increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Acording to EMEA, data of the SCOUT study indicate an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as stroke or heart attack, with medicines containing sibutramine [4].

Abbott will suspend the marketing of Abbott medicines under the brand names Reductil, Merindia, Sibutral, Ectiva and Raductil, containing sibutramine in all EU member Countries, Iceland and Norway. Sibutramine remains available outside the EU. Abbott followed the recommendations of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicine Agency (EMA), after evaluation of data of the SCOUT study [5].

[1] ESH '07: Blood Pressure Effects of Sibutramine in Hypertensive Patients: The SCOUT Trial
Medscape.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/561243_3

[2] Early Communication about an Ongoing Safety Review of Meridia (sibutramine hydrochloride), (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), November 20, 2009
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm191650.htm

[3] Follow-Up to the November 2009 Early Communication about an Ongoing Safety Review of Sibutramine, Marketed as Meridia. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, January 21. 2010.
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm198206.htm

[4] European Medicines Agency recommends suspension of marketing authorisations for sibutramine. Weight-loss medicine associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events to be removed from all markets in the European Union. authorisations for 21 January 2010
http://www.ema.europa.eu/pdfs/human/referral/sibutramine/3940810en.pdf

[5] Abbott to Suspend Marketing of Obesity Medicine Sibutramine in European Union Countries. Abbot News.
https://www.abbott.se/media/pdf/Sibutramine-news-release-01-21-10.pdf


01.02.2010: Sibutramine linked to heart attack and strokes [1]
The SCOUT Trial
Results from the SCOUT study indicating cardiovascular events occurred in 11.4% of patients using sibutramine compared to 10% of patients using a placebo. This difference was higher than expected, suggesting that sibutramine was associated with an increased cardiovascular risk in the study population. The study reviewed by FDA indicate that the increased risk for cardiovascular events with sibutramine occurred only in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease.

The use of Sibutramine is authorised in the EU since 1999. New concerns arise after the release of the Sibutramine Cardiovascular OUTcomes (SCOUT) trial. Weight reducing medicines containing Sibutramine are Reductil, Reduxade and Zelium and other tradenames in Europe, and Meridia in the United States. Sibutramine could increase blood pressure and heart rate.

According to the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) data of the SCOUT trial are so alarming that the Agency urges to impose a ban on a weight loss pill containing sibutramine. The Agency advises doctors not to use sibutramine-containing medicines in patients with coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, arrhythmia and cerebrovascular disease (stroke or transient ischemic attack). [2]

Abbot says that it will comply with the recommendations of the Committee for Medical Products for Human Use (CHMP) and suspend the marketing of abbot medicines containing sibutramine in all European Union member countries, Iceland and Norway. Outside the EU, sibutramine remains available. [3]

Food and Drug Administration said that the drug increased the chances of a heart attack or stroke for people with cardiovascular disease. [4]

[1] ESH '07: Blood Pressure Effects of Sibutramine in Hypertensive Patients: The SCOUT Trial
Medscape.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/561243_3

[2] European Medicines Agency updates on ongoing safety review of sibutramine
Weight-loss medicine assessed over cardiovascular concerns. 18 December 2009.
http://www.ema.europa.eu/pdfs/general/direct/pr/81787609en.pdf

[3] Abbott to Suspend Marketing of Obesity Medicine Sibutramine in European Union Countries. Abbot Park III. January 21, 2010
https://www.abbott.se/media/pdf/Sibutramine-news-release-01-21-10.pdf

[4] Follow-Up to the November 2009 Early Communication about an Ongoing Safety Review of Sibutramine, Marketed as Meridia.         See the FDA Release Here