The relationship between microRNAs and COVID-19 complications.

Over the past three years, since the onset of COVID-19, several scientific studies have concentrated on understanding susceptibility to the virus, the progression of the illness, and possible long-term complexity. COVID-19 is broadly recognized with effects on multiple systems in the body, and various factors related to society, medicine, and genetics/epigenetics may contribute to the intensity and results of the disease. Additionally, a SARS-CoV-2 infection can activate pathological activities and expedite the emergence of existing health issues into clinical problems. Forming easily accessible, distinctive, and permeable biomarkers is essential for categorizing patients, preventing the disease, predicting its course, and tailoring treatments for COVID-19 individually. One promising candidate for such biomarkers is microRNAs, which could serve various purposes in understanding diverse forms of COVID-19, including susceptibility, intensity, disease progression, outcomes, and potential therapeutic options. This review provides an overview of the most significant findings related to the involvement of microRNAs in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Furthermore, it explores the function of microRNAs in a broad span of effects that may arise from accompanying or underlying health status. It underscores the value of comprehending how diverse conditions, such as neurological disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity, interact with COVID-19.

Huanglian-Jiedu decoction promotes adipose thermogenesis in obese mice by suppressing the expression of HDAC3.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Huanglian Jiedu Decoction (HLJDD) is an ancient formula of traditional Chinese medicine that is commonly utilized in a range of disorders, and it has been shown to have pharmacological effects on glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the specific mechanism of HLJDD for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders remains to be further investigated. AIM OF THE STUDY: It has been thought that encouraging adipose thermogenesis to raise the body's energy expenditure is a useful tactic for improving metabolic abnormalities and losing weight. In this study, we investigated the ability and underlying mechanisms of HLJDD to regulate fat cell thermogenesis to improve energy expenditure in obesity. METHODS: The obese mouse model was established on a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. All mice were divided into NC, HFD, HFD with HLJDD of a low dose (2.25 g/kg/d), and HFD with HLJDD of a high dose (4.5 g/kg/d) groups and kept for 4 weeks. In vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of 5% and 10% HLJDD-containing serum on differentiated 3T3-L1 cells and HDAC3-knocking-down 3T3-L1 cells. RESULTS: The results showed that HLJDD treatment significantly improved glucose and insulin tolerance and decreased the adipocyte radius of WATs, as well as increased energy consumption in obese mice. Besides, HLJDD treatment dramatically increased the levels of thermogenic genes UCP-1 and PGC-1α while suppressing HDAC3 levels in WATs and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Importantly, the effects of HLJDD on PGC-1α and UCP-1 were blocked in HDAC3 knockdown adipocytes. CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, these results suggest that HLJDD enhanced adipose thermogenesis and improved energy expenditure by inhibiting HDAC3, thereby increasing UCP-1 and PGC-1α expression. These findings amplified the mechanisms of HLJDD and its potential to treat obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Riesgo cardiovascular, dislipemias e indicación de estatinas en una población de obesos mórbidos

Introducción: La obesidad se relaciona con un riesgo cardiovascular (RCV) elevado. Esto nos obliga a tomar conductas terapéuticas y prevencionistas. El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar el riesgo cardiovascular en una población de obesos mórbidos y valorar la correcta indicación de estatinas. Metodología: Estudio transversal, descriptivo, observacional, con la población obesos mórbidos del Programa de Obesidad y Cirugía Bariátrica (POCB) del Hospital Maciel, desde noviembre del 2014 a marzo del 2020. El RCV se valoró con la calculadora de la organización panamericana de la salud. La indicación de estatinas se consideró según RCV o diagnóstico de dislipemia. Resultados: Se analizaron 478 pacientes, el 84.3% fueron mujeres, la mediana para la edad fue de 44 años, y para el IMC 50 kg/m2. Se calculó un RCV bajo para el 57% de los pacientes; y alto o muy alto para un 37%. La prevalencia de las dislipemias fue 84,3%, a predominio de hipercolesterolemia (33,7%) y dislipemia aterogénica (19,5%). El 60.6% (290) de los pacientes presenta indicación de tratamiento con estatinas, solo el 38.9%. (113) las recibe. El 38.1% (43) alcanzan los objetivos terapéuticos. Conclusiones : La obesidad presenta múltiples comorbilidades que aumentan el RCV, aun así se encuentra subestimada por las calculadoras de riesgo. Queda en evidencia un infratratamiento farmacológico de estos pacientes, no logrando los objetivos terapéuticos propuestos.

Introduction: Obesity is related to a high cardiovascular risk (CVR). This forces us to take therapeutic and preventive behaviors. The objective of this work is to evaluate cardiovascular risk in a morbidly obese population and assess the correct indication of statins. Methodology: Cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study, with the morbidly obese population of the Obesity and Bariatric Surgery Program (POCB) of the Maciel Hospital, from November 2014 to March 2020. CVR was assessed with the calculator of the Pan-American health organization. The indication for statins was considered according to CVR or diagnosis of dyslipidemia. Results: 478 patients were analyzed, 84.3% were women, the median age was 44 years, and the BMI was 50 kg/m2. A low CVR was calculated for 57% of patients; and high or very high for 37%. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 84.3%, with a predominance of hypercholesterolemia (33.7%) and atherogenic dyslipidemia (19.5%). 60.6% (290) of patients have an indication for treatment with statins, only 38.9%. (113) receives them. 38.1% (43) achieved therapeutic objectives. Conclusions: Obesity presents multiple comorbidities that increase CVR, yet it is underestimated by risk calculators. Pharmacological undertreatment of these patients is evident, not achieving the proposed therapeutic objectives.

Introdução : A obesidade está relacionada a um alto risco cardiovascular (RCV). Isso nos obriga a adotar comportamentos terapêuticos e preventivos. O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar o risco cardiovascular em uma população com obesidade mórbida e avaliar a correta indicação de estatinas. Metodologia: Estudo transversal, descritivo, observacional, com a população com obesidade mórbida do Programa de Obesidade e Cirurgia Bariátrica (POCB) do Hospital Maciel, no período de novembro de 2014 a março de 2020. O RCV foi avaliado com a calculadora da organização pan-americana de saúde. A indicação de estatinas foi considerada de acordo com RCV ou diagnóstico de dislipidemia. Resultados: Foram analisados ​​478 pacientes, 84,3% eram mulheres, a mediana de idade foi de 44 anos e o IMC foi de 50 kg/m2. Um RCV baixo foi calculado para 57% dos pacientes; e alto ou muito alto para 37%. A prevalência de dislipidemia foi de 84,3%, com predomínio de hipercolesterolemia (33,7%) e dislipidemia aterogênica (19,5%). 60,6% (290) dos pacientes têm indicação de tratamento com estatinas, apenas 38,9%. (113) os recebe. 38,1% (43) alcançaram objetivos terapêuticos. Conclusões: A obesidade apresenta múltiplas comorbidades que aumentam o RCV, mas é subestimada pelas calculadoras de risco. É evidente o subtratamento farmacológico destes pacientes, não atingindo os objetivos terapêuticos propostos.

Associations between maternal diet, family eating habits and preschool children's dietary patterns: insights from the UPBEAT trial.

BACKGROUND: Dietary behaviours in early life often track across the life course, influencing the development of adverse health outcomes such as obesity and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to explore the between dietary patterns (DP) in preschool children and maternal DP and family eating habits. METHODS: We conducted a secondary analysis of 488 mother-child pairs from the UK pregnancy Better Eating and Activity Trial (UPBEAT) at 3-year follow-up. Previously published DP from mothers and children (derived from food-frequency questionnaires and exploratory factor analysis) were used. Mothers' DP were "Fruits-Vegetables", "African-Caribbean", "Processed and Snacks", and children's DP were "Prudent", "Processed-Snacking", and "African-Caribbean". Family meal environments were evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Linear regression models revealed that child's prudent pattern was positively associated with maternal Fruits-Vegetables (B = 0.18 (0.08, 0.27)), Snacks patterns (B = 0.10 (0.01, 0.18)), and eating the same foods during meals (B = 0.25 (0.07, 0.43)). Child's Processed-Snacking pattern was directly associated with maternal Processed (B = 0.22 (0.13, 0.30)) and Snacks (B = 0.27 (0.18, 0.36)) patterns, receiving food as reward (B = 0.22 (0.04, 0.39)) and watching TV during meals (B = 0.27 (0.09, 0.45)). Finally, the child African-Caribbean pattern was directly associated with that from the mother (B = 0.41 (0.33, 0.50)) and watching TV during meals (B = 0.15 (0.09, 0.30)), and inversely associated with maternal processed (B=-0.09 (-0.17, -0.02)) and snacking (B=-0.08 (-0.15, -0.04)) patterns. CONCLUSIONS: Unhealthy dietary patterns in childhood are directly linked to similar maternal patterns and family meal behaviours, such as television viewing and food rewards. These findings highlight targetable behaviours for public health interventions.

Short-term gut microbiota's shift after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y vs one anastomosis gastric bypass: results of a multicenter randomized control trial.

BACKGROUND: Roux-en-Y (RYGB) and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) represent two of the most used bariatric/metabolic surgery (BMS) procedures. Gut microbiota (GM) shift after bypass surgeries, currently understated, may be a possible key driver for the short- and long-term outcomes. METHODS: Prospective, multicenter study enrolling patients with severe obesity, randomized between OAGB or RYGB. Fecal and blood samples were collected, pre- (T0) and 24 months postoperatively (T1). GM was determined by V3-V4 16S rRNA regions sequencing and home-made bioinformatic pipeline based on Qiime2 plugin and R packages. OBJECTS: To compare OAGB vs RYGB microbiota profile at T1 and its impact on metabolic and nutritional status. RESULTS: 54 patients completed the study, 27 for each procedure. An overall significant variation was detected in anthropometric and serum nutritional parameters at T1, with a significant, similar decrease in overall microbial alpha and beta diversity observed in both groups. An increase in relative abundances of Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria and a reduction of Bacteroidetes, no significant changes in Firmicutes and Verrucomicrobia, with an increase of the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio were observed. CONCLUSIONS: BMS promotes a dramatic change in GM composition. This is the first multicenter, RCT evaluating the impact of OAGB vs Roux-en-Y bypass on GM profile. The bypass technique per se did not impact differently on GM or other examined metabolic parameters. The emergence of slightly different GM profile postoperatively may be related to clinical conditions or may influence medium or long-term outcomes and as such GM profile may represent a biomarker for bariatric surgery's outcomes.

Reevaluating the fraction of cancer attributable to excess weight: overcoming the hidden impact of prediagnostic weight loss.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the magnitude of the potential underestimation of the proportion of cancer cases attributable to excess weight, known as population attributable fraction (PAF), due to potential bias from prediagnostic weight loss already present at baseline of cohort studies and to overcome it as much as possible. METHODS: Data from the UK Biobank cohort participants aged 40-69 without prior cancer diagnosis were analyzed. We assessed the magnitude of associations of excess weight with the incidence of obesity-related cancers combined, and separately for gastrointestinal (GI) and other cancers. Using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, hazard ratios (HR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI), and PAFs for excess weight at baseline were estimated for various periods of time after weight measurements. FINDINGS: Of 458,660 participants, 20,218 individuals developed obesity-related cancers during a median 11.0-year follow-up, comprising 8,460 GI, and 11,765 non-GI cancers. PAFs were much higher for cancers occurring more than four years after recruitment than for cancers occurring within the initial four years: 17.7% versus 7.2%, 21.4% versus 11.7% for GI, non-GI and all obesity-related cancers combined, respectively. With respect to total cancer (including cancers with no established relationship with excess weight), PAFs were estimated as 5.1% and 8.8% for the 0-4 and 4-14-year periods of follow-up. CONCLUSION: The proportion of cancers attributable to excess weight is likely substantially larger than previously estimated based on cohort studies with short follow-up time or no or only limited exclusion of the early years of follow-up from the analyses.

Obesity, Pocrescophobia and Oral Health.

Oral health plays a crucial role in obesity management. Scientific evidence suggests an association between obesity and oral diseases, including periodontal disease, dental caries, tooth erosion, xerostomia, and dentinal hypersensitivity. Maintaining optimal oral health is essential for obese patients, as compromised dentition or oral discomfort can influence dietary habits. However, managing oral health in obese individuals can be challenging due to anatomical limitations and lifestyle choices. Profound knowledge of obesity and its manifestations, the oral health professionals need to raise awareness and provide patients with comprehensive care. Pocrescophobia also known as obesophobia, is an intense fear of gaining weight. It affects both adoloscent women and men, manifesting as an irrational dread associated with weight gain. Like other phobias, obesophobia falls under the umbrella of anxiety disrders, leading to exaggerated anxiety when discussing or thinking about weight gain. Individuals with this fear may go to extreme lengths to avoid weight gain, which can increase the risk of developing eating disorders. Stress can lead to bruxism, wears away the occlusal surfaces and incisal edges, resulting in flat, shorter teeth. Smooth V-shaped cavities arise when lateral stresses surpass physiological limitations, resulting in gum recession and tooth discomfort. Canker sores, xerostomia, and lichen planus have all been linked to stress. By addressing both obesophobia and obesity as well as oral health, patients' overall well-being and quality of life can be improved.

Epidemiology of overweight in under-five children in India: insights from National Family Health Survey.

Childhood overweight is not only an immediate health concern due to its implications but also significantly increases the risk of persistent obesity and consequently CVD in the future, posing a serious threat to public health. The objective of this study was to examine the trends and associated factors of childhood overweight in India, using nationally representative data from three rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS). For the primary analysis, we used data from 199 375 children aged 0-59 months from fifth round of the NFHS (NFHS-5). Overweight was defined as BMI-for-age Z (BMI Z) score > +2 sd above the WHO growth standards median. We compared the prevalence estimates of childhood overweight with third round of the third round of NFHS and fourth round of the NFHS. Potential risk factors were identified through multiple logistic regression analyses. The prevalence of overweight increased from 1·9 % in third round of NFHS to 4·0 % in NFHS-5, a trend seen across most states and union territories, with the Northeast region showing the highest prevalence. The BMI Z-score distributions from the latest two surveys indicated that the increase in overweight was substantially larger than the decrease in underweight. The consistent upward trend in the prevalence across different demographic groups raises important public health concerns. While undernutrition rates have remained relatively stable, there has been a noticeable rise in the incidence of overweight during the same time frame. The increasing trend of overweight among children in India calls for immediate action.

Comparison of Attachment Styles of Individuals with Opioid Use Disorder and Individuals with Obesity. / Opioid Kullanim Bozuklugu Olan Bireyler ile Obezitesi Olan Bireylerin Baglanma Biçimlerinin Karsilastirilmasi.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to identify the attachment style displayed by obese individuals and to compare it with the attachment style of individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder (OUD) and a healthy control group. METHOD: A total of 201 participants were included in the study, consisting of 66 individuals diagnosed with obesity, 62 diagnosed with OUD and 73 healthy controls. Sociodemographic Data Form and Adult Attachment Style Scale were administered to all participants, the Addiction Profile Index (API) was administered to participants diagnosed with OUD and the Yale Food Addiction Scale was administered to those diagnosed with obesity. RESULTS: The results of the study revealed that the attachment styles of individuals diagnosed with obesity showed a similar distribution to those diagnosed with OUD, and the distribution of attachment styles in both groups was found to be different from that of the healthy control group. The mean scores for ambivalent/anxious attachment style and secure attachment style were found to be similar for the obesity group and the OUD group, while the OUD group had significantly higher avoidant attachment score. The avoidant attachment style score of OUD group increase as the severity of dependency increases. Additionally, 42.4% of the group was found to be food addicted, and in this group, the mean scores for ambivalent/ anxious attachment style were found to be significantly higher. CONCLUSION: In the study, significant similarities were obtained in terms of attachment styles among participants diagnosed with obesity and OUD. The differentiation of these similarities from the control group has increased the strength of the study.

Association between postterm birth and adverse growth outcomes in children aged 3-6 years: A national retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Gestational age significantly influences children's growth and development. Yet, the effect of postterm birth (gestation beyond 42 weeks) on children's growth outcomes remains underexplored. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the impact of postterm birth on adverse growth outcomes in children using a nationally representative sample from China. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in China from 1 April 2018, to 31 December 2019. The final analysis included 141,002 children aged 3-6 years from 551 cities. Postterm birth was defined as children with postterm birth at a gestational age of 42 weeks or more. Obesity, overweight and thinness were assessed using body mass index-for-age (BMI-for-age) z-scores, based on the World Health Organization (WHO) Child Growth Standards. Generalised additive models were employed to investigate the non-linear relationship between maternal gestational age and BMI-for-age z scores. Poisson regression models and subgroup analyses with forest plots were performed to examine the associations between postterm birth and the risks of obesity, overweight and thinness in children. RESULTS: We included 141,002 mother-child pairs, of whom 7314 (5.2%) children were classified as postterm births. There exists a non-linear relationship between gestational age and BMI-for-age z scores. Children born postterm exhibited a 46% increased risk of obesity, a 27% increased risk of combined overweight/obesity and a 13% increased risk of thinness. Similar associations were observed in most cases when further sensitivity and subgroup analysis were conducted. CONCLUSIONS: Postterm birth was associated with elevated risks of obesity, overweight and thinness in children aged 3-6 years, independent of sex. These findings underscore the importance of further research across diverse populations to understand the implications of postterm births on child health outcomes.

Actein ameliorates diet-induced obesity through the activation of AMPK-mediated white fat browning.

BACKGROUND: Targeting white adipose tissue (WAT) browning to increase systemic energy expenditure is a promising therapeutic strategy to combat obesity. Actein from Actaea cimicifuga L. has recently been reported to ameliorate high fat-induced hepatic steatosis. However, the effect of actein on diet-induced obesity merits more and further investigation. PURPOSE: We aimed to examine the anti-obesity potential of actein and unravel its actions on WAT browning. METHODS: The effect of actein on diet-induced obesity was evaluated using a high-fat diet model in C57BL/6 mice. Systemic energy expenditure of mice was measured with a combined indirect calorimetry system. Quantitative real-time PCR analyses were performed to investigate the mRNA levels of genes involved in thermogenesis, browning, and lipolysis. The protein levels were assessed by Western blot. Moreover, WAT explants and a transwell co-culture system consisting of SVFs and adipocytes were constructed to study the mechanisms of actein on promoting WAT browning and lipolysis. RESULTS: At a dosage of 5 mg/kg/d, actein not only protected mice against diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance, but also reversed pre-established obesity and glucose intolerance in mice. Meanwhile, actein facilitated systemic energy expenditure by activating WAT lipolysis and browning. Further, mechanistic studies revealed that actein indirectly induced epididymal adipocyte lipolysis and directly promoted a white-to-beige conversion of subcutaneous adipocytes by activating the AMPK signaling. CONCLUSION: Actein ameliorated diet-induced obesity and was discovered as a natural lead compound directly targeting white-to-beige conversion of subcutaneous adipocytes, suggesting the potential of developing new therapies for obesity and associated metabolic disorders.

Hidradenitis suppurativa and its association with obesity, smoking, and diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Our meta-analysis aimed to quantify the association between Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and several risk factors including obesity, smoking, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and cumulative index to nursing and allied health literature for articles reporting either the odds ratio (OR) or the numbers of HS cases associated with obesity, smoking, or T2DM, and including HS negative controls. Risk of bias was assessed against the risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions tool. Data synthesis was done using the random effects model with heterogeneity being evaluated with I2 statistic. Twenty-three studies with a total of 29 562 087 patients (average age of 36.6 years) were included. Ten studies relied on country-level data, while six studies collected their data from HS clinics. The analysis showed a significant association between HS and female sex (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.89-2.90, I2 = 98.6%), DM (OR 2.78, 95% CI 2.23-3.47, I2 = 98.9%), obesity (OR 2.48, 95% CI 1.64-3.74, I2 = 99.9%), and smoking (OR 3.10 95% CI 2.60-3.69, I2 = 97.1%). Our meta-analysis highlights HS links to sex, DM, obesity, and smoking, with emphasis on holistic management approach. Further research is needed on molecular mechanisms and additional risk factors for improved patient care.

Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge total saponins lower lipid via modulating MAOA activity to enhance defense mechanisms in mice and C. elegans.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Within Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge (AAB), the pivotal bioactive constituents are identified as Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge total saponins (ABS). In traditional pharmacology, ABS has exhibited notable anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and cardioprotective properties. Despite these observed effects, the specific protective mechanisms of ABS against metabolic diseases and improving the endocrine system remain largely uncharted. AIM TO STUDY: This work intends to shed light on the effects and intrinsic mechanisms of ABS on metabolic diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The characterization of ABS components was achieved through High-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (HPLC/MS). To evaluate ABS's anti-inflammatory efficacy, mouse macrophages underwent analysis using the Griess method. Induced differentiation of mouse fibroblasts was assessed through Oil Red O staining. In an obesity model with C57BL/6 N mice, ABS administration prompted measurements of glucose and insulin tolerance. Western blot analysis quantified lipolysis and anti-inflammatory protein expression. Nile red staining gauged body fat content in C. elegans post-ABS treatment. The mechanism of ABS action was elucidated through mRNA sequencing, further validated using RNA interference technology, and nematode mutants. RESULTS: ABS showcased the ability to diminish Nitric Oxide (NO) production in inflammatory macrophages and shrink adipocyte lipid droplets. In mice experiments, ABS was effective in alleviating fat accumulation and affecting serum lipid metabolism in diabetic mice. It enhanced oral glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance while increasing lipolysis-associated protein expression. ABS notably reduced fat content in C. elegans. Mechanistically, ABS downregulated NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) expression while enhancing UGT, ilys-2, and ilys-3. Lipolysis emerged as a pivotal pathway for ABS in the therapeutic intervention of metabolic diseases. CONCLUSIONS: Our investigation has revealed that ABS exert a role in combating metabolic diseases by enhancing the body's defense mechanisms. ABS activate the NLRP3-neurotransmitter-visceral adipose pathway in mice, thereby bolstering resistance and diminishing fat accumulation. In C. elegans, ABS downregulated the expression of MAOA, bolstered resistance, and augmented glucuronidase activity, consequently leading to a reduction in fat content.

A review of metabolic and microbial influences on women with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting reproductive-aged women worldwide. Characterized by irregular menstruation, signs of hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovaries via ultrasound ovarian dysfunction. AREA COVERED: The review delves into the intricate pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the syndrome. Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, IR, obesity, and hyperandrogenism contribute to anovulation and follicular dysfunction which is associated with gut dysbiosis, bile metabolites, and an unhealthy diet. Metabolomics and genomics analyses offer insights into the metabolism of bile acids (BAs) and gut microbiota dysbiosis in PCOS. BAs, crucial for metabolic regulation, are influenced by microbes, impacting hormonal balance. Disruptions in gut microbiota contribute to hormonal dysregulation. Interconnected pathways involving BAs and gut microbiota are pivotal in PCOS. Therapeutic implications include a healthy diet, exercise, and interventions targeting gut microbiota modulation and BAs metabolite to alleviate PCOS symptoms and improve metabolic health. CONCLUSION: PCOS requires a multifaceted, multidisciplinary approach for effective management, including lifestyle changes, medications, and emerging therapies. Tailored strategies considering individual needs and personalized treatment plans are crucial for successful PCOS management. Despite existing knowledge, comprehensive investigations are needed to bridge research gaps and discern the interconnected pathways linking the development of PCOS and the gut-bile axis which are interconnected with metabolic disorders and the development of PCOS. Gut microbiota and hormonal regulation offer promising avenues for innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at addressing the root causes of PCOS and improving patient outcomes.

Epigallocatechin gallate enhances sympathetic heart rate variability and decreases blood pressure in obese subjects: a randomized control trial.

This study aimed to investigate effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on blood pressure (BP) and autonomic nervous system, indicated by 5-min heart rate variability (HRV) measurement in obese subjects, and determine correlations of BP with metabolic factors. In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, obese subjects (n = 30) were randomly allocated to receive 150 mg EGCG (n = 15) or placebo (n = 15) twice a day without dietary restrictions. After 8-week EGCG treatment, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) significantly decreased, while the low-frequency (LF) to high-frequency power (HF) ratio (LF/HF ratio) significantly increased (P < 0.05 all), indicating a shift toward sympathetic dominance, either directly or indirectly after BP lowering. SBP had positive correlations with obesity parameters, leptin, insulin, and insulin resistance but had a negative correlation with insulin sensitivity. DBP was positively correlated with age and HF in normalized unit, but negatively correlated with height and LF in ms2. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was negatively correlated with SBP, DBP, and MAP reflecting its protective effect against elevated BP. In conclusion, the 8-week EGCG treatment decreased BP and increased the LF/HF ratio, reflecting increased sympathetic activity, either a direct EGCG effect or an indirect compensatory response following BP reduction.

Adipocyte derived exosomes promote cell invasion and challenge paclitaxel efficacy in ovarian cancer.

BACKGROUND: Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the deadliest gynaecological cancer with high mortality rates driven by the common development of resistance to chemotherapy. EOC frequently invades the omentum, an adipocyte-rich organ of the peritoneum and omental adipocytes have been implicated in promoting disease progression, metastasis and chemoresistance. The signalling mechanisms underpinning EOC omentum tropism have yet to be elucidated. METHODS: Three-dimensional co-culture models were used to explore adipocyte-EOC interactions. The impact of adipocytes on EOC proliferation, response to therapy and invasive capacity was assessed. Primary adipocytes and omental tissue were isolated from patients with ovarian malignancies and benign ovarian neoplasms. Exosomes were isolated from omentum tissue conditioned media and the effect of omentum-derived exosomes on EOC evaluated. Exosomal microRNA (miRNA) sequencing was used to identify miRNAs abundant in omental exosomes and EOC cells were transfected with highly abundant miRNAs miR-21, let-7b, miR-16 and miR-92a. RESULTS: We demonstrate the capacity of adipocytes to induce an invasive phenotype in EOC populations through driving epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Exosomes secreted by omental tissue of ovarian cancer patients, as well as patients without malignancies, induced proliferation, upregulated EMT markers and reduced response to paclitaxel therapy in EOC cell lines and HGSOC patient samples. Analysis of the omentum-derived exosomes from cancer patients revealed highly abundant miRNAs that included miR-21, let-7b, miR-16 and miR-92a that promoted cancer cell proliferation and protection from chemotherapy when transfected in ovarian cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS: These observations highlight the capacity of omental adipocytes to generate a pro-tumorigenic and chemoprotective microenvironment in ovarian cancer and other adipose-related malignancies.

Low-methoxy-pectin and chlorogenic acid synergistically promote lipolysis and ß-oxidation by regulating AMPK signaling pathway in obese mice.

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) displays various biological activities in preventing high-calorie diet-induced metabolic complications. The absorption efficiency of CGA in the stomach and small intestine is relatively low, with approximately 70 % of CGA being metabolized by colonic microorganisms before it enters the bloodstream. In this study, we successfully developed CGA-LMP (Low-methoxy-pectin) conjugates to improve the absorption rate of CGA. C57BL/6J mice were fed high-fat diets (HFD) supplemented with CGA, LMP, or CGA-LMP conjugates for a duration of eight weeks. The results demonstrated that the CGA, LMP, or CGA-LMP conjugates prevented HFD-induced hyperlipidemia, inflammation, liver steatosis, and adipocyte hypertrophy in obese mice. Notably, the CGA-LMP conjugates demonstrated superior efficacy in alleviating obesity compared to CGA or LMP alone. Further studies revealed that the primary mechanism of weight loss was the activation of the AMPK signaling pathway, which facilitates lipolysis and lipid ß-oxidation. These findings highlight that the enhanced the anti-obesity effectiveness of CGA-LMP conjugates, expanding their potential applications in the field of functional nutrition and foods.

Impairment of health-related quality of life among people with type 2 diabetes and advanced liver fibrosis.

People with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) show a high prevalence of steatotic liver disease (SLD), and especially metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), with liver fibrosis. Their health-related quality of life (HRQL) is affected by multiple in part overlapping factors and aggravated by metabolic and liver-related comorbidities, including liver fibrosis stage. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect size of advanced fibrosis (AF) on the HRQL in people with T2DM. A total of 149 individuals with T2DM treated at a primary care provider within the German disease management program (DMP) were included in the final analysis. Vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) was used to non-invasively detect steatosis and AF. The EQ-5D-3L questionnaire was used to assess the HRQL. Uni- and multivariable linear regression models were used to identify independent predictors of impaired HRQL. The majority was male (63.1%), and the median age was 67 years (IQR 59; 71). In the entire cohort, the prevalence of MASLD and AF was 70.7% and 19.5%, respectively. People with T2DM and AF had an overall lower HRQL in comparison to those without AF (p < 0.001). Obesity (ß: - 0.247; 95% CI - 0.419, - 0.077) and AF (ß: - 0.222; 95% CI - 0.383, - 0.051) remained independent predictors of a poor HRQL. In turn, T2DM-related comorbidities were not predictive of an impaired HRQL. Obesity and AF negatively affect the HRQL in patients with SLD and T2DM in primary care. Awareness of liver health and specific interventions may improve patient-reported and liver-related outcomes in people with T2DM.

Association of serum calcium and metabolically healthy obese in US adults: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: The relationship between serum calcium and occurrence of MHO (metabolically healthy obesity) and MUNO (metabolically unhealthy non-obesity) remains unclear, and distinguishing these two phenotypes is difficult within primary healthcare units. This study explores that relationship. METHODS: This survey included 28590 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2018. Obesity phenotypes were categorized based on BMI and presence or absence of metabolic syndrome components. Weighted multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between serum calcium levels and the obesity phenotype. Restricted cubic spline analysis characterized dose-response relationships, and stratified analyses explored these relationships across sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of MHO and MUNO were 2.6% and 46.6%, respectively. After adjusting for covariates, serum calcium exhibited a negative association with MHO [OR (95%): 0.49 (0.36,0.67), p < 0.001], while exhibiting a positive association with MUNO [OR (95%): 1.48 (1.26,1.84), p < 0.001]. Additionally, we found a non-linear association between serum calcium levels and the incidences of MHO and MUNO. Stratified analyses demonstrated a strong negative correlation between serum calcium levels and MHO occurrence across various subgroups. There was no significant interaction between calcium and stratified variables except sex; the association between calcium and the occurrence of MHO was remarkable in female patients. Meanwhile, the predictive ability of serum calcium level for the occurrence of MUNO among all patients was consistent across various subgroups. There was a significant interaction between calcium level and stratified variables based on age, sex, race, and smoking status; the association was remarkable in older (≥ 40 years old), white, none or less smoking, and female patients. CONCLUSIONS: A significant correlation was identified between serum calcium levels and MHO or MUNO. The findings suggest that serum calcium levels may serve as an indicator for more accurate assessment and diagnosis of MUNO and MHO, especially among individuals with abdominal obesity.

Serum calcium levels exhibited an inverse relationship with metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) and a positive relationship with metabolically unhealthy non-obese (MUNO).A nonlinear association exists between serum calcium levels and the incidence of both MHO and MUNO.Serum calcium has the potential to enhance evaluation and screening for MUNO or MHO in the general US adult population.