Fatty Acid Content of Retail Cow's Milk in the Northeastern United States-What's in It for the Consumer?

The fatty acid (FA) composition and content of whole milk (3.25% fat) from organic, omega-3 (n-3) FA fortified, and conventional retail brands available in the northeastern U.S. were assessed monthly via gas chromatography. Among the retail labels, organic milk stood out as it contained a distinct and more healthful FA profile, consistently comprising a higher content of unique bioactive FAs (short-chain FAs, odd- and branched-chain FAs, vaccenic acid, and conjugated linoleic acids) per serving, particularly during the warm season. The total content of saturated FAs did not differ by retail label. While organic and n-3 fortified milk contained a similar content of total n-3 FAs, the proportion of individual n-3 FAs differed significantly (organic milk: 18:3 n-3; n-3 fortified milk: 20:6 n-3) as a result of the production system and process, respectively. Overall, per serving, the FA profile of organic milk may provide added nutritional and health benefits.

The effect of an integrated care approach for heart failure on general practice.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have investigated specific strategies for heart failure management. None has involved collaboration between primary and secondary care. Potential gains for patients may result from collaborative strategies. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of an integrated management approach for patients with heart failure on general practice. METHODS: The study design was a cluster randomized controlled trial of integrated primary/ secondary care compared with usual care for heart failure patients. The study took place at Auckland Hospital, New Zealand and involved 197 patients admitted with an episode of heart failure. Patients were randomized to management group or control group (who received "usual" care). Management group patients received early clinical review, education sessions, a personal diary for medications and weight, and regular clinical follow-up alternating between GP and hospital clinic. Follow-up was for 12 months. RESULTS: Patients visited GPs frequently (median 14 visits, range 0-40), with no statistical difference between the two groups. Heart failure was the most common reason for consulting the GP. There was no relationship between GP consultations and patients' attendance at the study clinic, or hospital admissions. Management group GPs and patients expressed a high level of satisfaction. CONCLUSION: GP consultation rates were not affected by the programme. Further research will determine if general practice based programmes result in further gains.