ABSTRACT
Finding new tolerable methods in weight loss has largely been an issue of interest for specialists. Present study compared a novel method of calorie shifting diet [CSD] with classic calorie restriction [CR] on weight loss in overweight and obese subjects. Seventy-four subjects [body mass index >/= 25; 37] were randomized to 4 weeks control diet, 6 weeks CSD or CR diets, and 4 weeks follow-up period. CSD consisted of three phases each lasts for 2 weeks, 11 days calorie restriction which included four meals every day, and 4 h fasting between meals follow with 3 days self-selecting diet. CR subjects receive determined low calorie diet. Anthropometric and metabolic measures were assessed at different time points in the study. Four weeks after treatment, significant weight, and fat loss started [6.02 and 5.15 kg] and continued for 1 month of follow-up [5.24 and 4.3 kg], which was correlated to the restricted energy intake [P < 0.05]. During three CSD phases, resting metabolic rate tended to remain unchanged. The decrease in plasma glucose, total cholesterol, and triacylglycerol were greater among subjects on the CSD diet [P < 0.05]. Feeling of hunger decreased and satisfaction increased among those on the CSD diet after 4 weeks [P < 0.05]. The CSD diet was associated with a greater improvement in some anthropometric measures, Adherence was better among CSD subjects. Longer and larger studies are required to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of CSD diet
ABSTRACT
One important limitation of random pattern skin flap in plastic surgery is the necrosis of distant parts of the flap resulting from ischemia. This effect cause unwanted increase in the costs and hospitalization. Previously, large number of factors has been evaluated to decrease the flap necrosis. In present study we used two drugs. Main reason was their mechanism of action that seems to be similar to preconditioning pathways. Fifty-six male rats were divided into four groups. In two groups 5% minoxidil or 5% azelaic acid were applied topically to the flap area before flap elevation. In some rats of minoxidil treated group, a non selective ATP sensitive potassium channel [KATP] blocker, glibenclamide [0.3mg/kg] was injected i.p. to evaluate the role of this channel in action. In azelaic acid treated rats, some were selected for evaluation of the role of nitric oxide and therefore L-NAME [20 mg/kg], a non-selective iNOS inhibitor, was administered. Seven days after operation, the extent of flap necrosis was calculated. Topical minoxidil or azelaic acid significantly recused necrotic area of skin flap to 42% [P<0.05] and 34% [P<0.01], respectively. Combination of minoxidil and azelaic acid was the most effictive intervantion on reducing of necrotic area to 26%. Glibenclamide abolished protective effect of minoxidil [P<0.001] and L-NAME inhibited the effect of azelaic acid on skin flap survival [P<0.05]. Both L-NAME and glibenclamide completely inhibited the effect of combination topical therapy. Present study suggested the role of KATP channels on minoxidil pathway and NO on L-NAME pathway of preserving skin flap survival. It seems that there is an overlap between the two pathways; however precise mechanism remained to be determined