Oral supplementation with resveratrol improves hormonal profile and increases expression of genes associated with thermogenesis in oophorectomy mice.

Menopause causes important bodily and metabolic changes, which favor the increased occurrence of cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Resveratrol exerts proven effects on body metabolism, improving glucose and lipid homeostasis and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in various organs and tissues. Accordingly, this study evaluates the effects of resveratrol supplementation on the expression of markers associated with thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue, and on the body, metabolic and hormonal parameters of female mice submitted to bilateral oophorectomy. Eighteen female mice were randomized into three groups: G1: control (CONTROL), G2: oophorectomy (OOF), and G3: oophorectomy + resveratrol (OOF+RSV); the animals were kept under treatment for twelve weeks, being fed a standard diet and treated with resveratrol via gavage. Body, biochemical, hormonal, and histological parameters were measured; in addition to the expression of markers associated with thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. The results showed that animals supplemented with resveratrol showed reduced body weight and visceral adiposity, in addition to glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels; decreased serum FSH levels and increased estrogen levels were observed compared to the OOF group and mRNA expression of PRDM16, UCP1, and SIRT3 in brown adipose tissue. The findings of this study suggest the important role of resveratrol in terms of improving body, metabolic, and hormonal parameters, as well as modulating markers associated with thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue of female mice submitted to oophorectomy.

Apelin and Visfatin Expression in Placental Tissue in Women With Preeclampsia and Overweight/Obesity.

BACKGROUND: Preeclampsia (PE) is a multifunctional and multisystem disorder. Several factors favor the development of PE, including obesity. Cytokines are also expressed in the placenta, predisposing to local alterations that favor the development of distinct pathological processes, including PE. This study aimed to evaluate the apelin and visfatin mRNA expression in the placental tissue of women with preeclampsia and overweight/obesity and correlates with maternal and fetal variables. METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study was performed with 60 pregnant women and their newborns. Clinical, anthropometric, and laboratory variables were collected. Placental tissue samples were obtained, and the apelin and visfatin mRNA expression levels were assessed by qRT-PCR. RESULTS: The main findings evidenced lower levels of apelin expression in overweight/obese women, accompanied by a negative correlation with BMI and pre-pregnancy weight; a higher expression of apelin was also observed in women with late PE and no personal history of PE. For visfatin levels, higher expression levels were observed in women with late PE and term delivery. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between visfatin levels and fetal anthropometric parameters, such as weight, length, and head circumference. CONCLUSION: Apelin levels were less expressed in overweight/obese women. Apelin and visfatin levels were correlated/associated with maternal-fetal variables.

Light-emitting diode (LED) photobiomodulation regulates thermogenesis and lipogenesis markers in adipose tissue and improves anthropometric and metabolic parameters in obese mice.

To evaluate the effects of Light-Emitting Diode (LED) irradiation on the expression of thermogenesis and lipogenesis-associated markers in adipose tissue and metabolic parameters of obese mice. Twenty-four male mice were divided into four groups: i) ST fed standard diet; ii) HCD fed hyperglycemic diet; iii) LED + I fed hyperglycemic diet and irradiated with LED in the interscapular region; iv) LED + A fed hyperglycemic diet and irradiated with LED in the abdominal region. The first phase of the study comprehended the induction of obesity for 12 weeks. Next, the animals were submitted to six irradiation sessions (days 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, and 21) using a 660-nm LED (5.77 J/cm2 at 48,1 mW/cm2). Anthropometric, biochemical, and histological parameters and the expression of thermogenesis and lipogenesis-associated markers were assessed in adipose tissue. There was diminished weight gain between the HCD and LED + A groups (ST: 0.37 ± 0.65; HCD: 3.10 ± 0.89; LED + I: -1.26 ± 0.83; LED + A: -2.07 ± 1.27 g; p < 0.018). There was a 33.3% and 23.8% reduction in epidydimal adipose tissue weight and a 25% and 10.7% in the visceral adiposity for the LED + I and LED + A groups, respectively, when compared with HCD. There was a decreased accumulation of fat droplets in adipose tissue in LED + A and LED + I groups. Additionally, LED irradiation was associated with increased mRNA expression of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in the brown adipose tissue (ST: 2.27 ± 0.19; HCD: 1.54 ± 0.12; LED + I: 2.44 ± 0.22; p = 0.014) and decreased fatty acid synthetase (FAS) expression in epidydimal adipose tissue (ST: 0.79 ± 0.13; HCD: 1.59 ± 0.13; LED + A: 0.85 ± 0.04; p = 0.0008). LED treatment improved anthropometric parameters, possibly associated with the histological alterations, thermogenesis and lipogenesis markers in white adipose tissue, and expression modulation in brown adipose tissue.

Curcumin improves metabolic response and increases expression of thermogenesis-associated markers in adipose tissue of male offspring from obese dams.

Maternal obesity and dietary style in the pregnancy-lactation period may result in long-term effects on the metabolic health of the offspring, thus increasing the risk of diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound that has beneficial properties on metabolism. Accordingly, this study is intended to evaluate the effects of curcumin supplementation in pregnant and lactating female mice on the anthropometric, metabolic and molecular parameters of the offspring fed a hyperglycemic diet. The study was conducted with 24 male mice randomized into three groups: i) control group (SD) originating from dams fed a standard diet; ii) hyperglycemic group (HGD) originating from dams fed a hyperglycemic diet; iii) curcumin group (CUR) originating from dams fed a hyperglycemic diet and supplemented with curcumin in the pregnancy-lactation period. All offspring groups were fed a hyperglycemic diet for 12 weeks. Anthropometricand biochemical parameters were measured, as well as the expression of thermogenesis-associated markers in the interscapular brown and inguinal white adipose tissues. The results showed less weight gain in the CUR group, with a concomitant reduction in food consumption compared to the HGD group. Biochemical parameters indicated lower levels of total cholesterol, glucose, and insulin for the CUR group, in addition to improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The molecular evaluation indicated increased mRNA expression levels of UCP1 and PRDM16 in the brown and white adipose tissues. It is concluded that curcumin supplementation in the pregnancy-lactation period in dams with diet-induced obesity may lead to improvements in the offspring's metabolic phenotype, even if they are submitted to an obesogenic environment, possibly via thermogenesis activation.

Enalapril improves obesity associated liver injury ameliorating systemic metabolic markers by modulating Angiotensin Converting Enzymes ACE/ACE2 expression in high-fat feed mice.

Obesity is a chronic disease caused multiple associated factors that results in excessive body fat accumulation. The Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) unbalance is now recognized as a key factor on regulating body energy and metabolism. AIM: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the Enalapril (ACE inhibitor) effects on the metabolic function and hepatic steatosis of obese mice evaluating Angiotensin Converting Enzymes (ACEs) expression. METHODS: The experiment was performed using 32 male Swiss mice (8 weeks old) equally and randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 8): standard diet (ST), standard diet plus Enalapril (ST + ENAL), hyperlipidic diet (HF) and hyperlipidic diet plus Enalapril (HF + ENAL). Weekly measurements of animal weight and feed consumption were performed. At the end of treatment period a glucose tolerance test (GTT) and insulin sensitivity test (IST) were performed. Ultrasonography was used to evaluate hepatic and epididymal fat pad. Liver samples were submitted to HE histology and gene expression analyses were performed using Real-Time PCR. RESULTS: The main results showed a decrease in body weight after treatment with Enalapril, as well as a reduced size of epididymal fat pad (EFP). Hepatic echogenicity and steatosis measurement were lower in the obese groups treated with Enalapril also modulating ACE2/ACE expressions. CONCLUSIONS: Enalapril use improved metabolism reducing hepatic steatosis, decreasing ACE expression and increasing ACE2 expression.

Sirtuins, brain and cognition: A review of resveratrol effects.

Sirtuins (SIRTs) are a protein family with high preservation degree among evolutionary scale. SIRTs are histone deacetylases regulatory enzymes of genetic material deeply involved in numerous physiological tasks including metabolism, brain function and aging. Mammals sirtuins comprise seven enzymatic components (SIRT1-SIRT7). The highest studied sirtuin is SIRT1, which plays an essential position in the prevention and evolution of neuro-disorders. Resveratrol (3,5,4-trihydroxystylbene) (RSV) is a polyphenol, which belongs to a family compounds identified as stilbenes, predominantly concentrated in grapes and red wine. RSV is the must studied Sirtuin activator and is used as food supplementary compound. Resveratrol exhibits strong antioxidant activity, reducing free radicals, diminishing quinone-reductase-2 activity and exerting positive regulation of several endogenous enzymes. Resveratrol is also able to inhibit pro-inflammatory factors, reducing the stimulation of the nuclear factor kB (NF-kB) and the release of endogenous cytokines. Resveratrol treatment can modulate multiple signaling pathway effectors related to programmed cell death, cell survival, and synaptic plasticity. In this context, the present review looks over news and the role of Sirtuins activation and resveratrol effects on modulating target genes, cognition and neurodegenerative disorders.

Adherence to medication, physical activity and diet among older people living with diabetes mellitus: Correlation between cognitive function and health literacy.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a public health problem, which requires enhanced self-care in order to avoid complications. However, cognitive impairment can reduce these abilities and may affect health literacy (HL) of patients in terms to understand and apply information. Therefore, this study evaluated the correlation between cognitive condition and HL related to medication adherence, physical activity and nutritional status among people living with DM. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out among elderly people (≥ 60 years old) with DM. The cognitive condition was evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the HL using the following questionnaires: Literacy Assessment for Diabetes (LAD-60), Nutritional Literacy among People with Diabetes (NLD), Health Literacy on the Practice of Physical Activities among Diabetics (HLPPA - D), and Health Literacy regarding Drug Adherence among Diabetics (HLDA-D). Sociodemographic and biochemical profile was also evaluated. Spearman correlation was used (p < 0.05). RESULTS: 187 individuals with DM were included. Regarding laboratory analyses, insulin dosage had a mean value of 12.3 microUI/mL (SD: ±15.7), mean blood glucose was 148.1 mg/dl (SD: ±59.7) and mean HbA1c was 7.54 % (SD: ±1.8). In the correlation analysis, higher age and lower income were weakly correlated with lower cognitive level. No correlation was identified for biochemical variables and cognitive condition. A positive and weak correlation between cognition and HL was observed in the studied population. CONCLUSIONS: In older people living with DM the cognitive condition is correlated to specific topics of HL (nutritional status, physical activity and medication adherence).

High fructose intake and the route towards cardiometabolic diseases.

It is known that dietary habits have a strong influence on body metabolism. In the last decades, the dietary habits have changed worldwide, and the consumption of fructose, especially in sugar-sweetened beverages, increased significantly. In this perspective, the present review aimed to summarize the effects of fructose on different cardiometabolic conditions. Clinical, experimental, and epidemiological studies evidenced that fructose can exert several deleterious effects when its consumption is above the recommended amounts. The increased fructose consumption decreases satiety, favoring a positive energy balance, increases adipogenesis, leading to visceral fat accumulation, induces ectopic fat accumulation, especially in the skeletal muscle and liver, leading to insulin resistance, inflammation, and lipid metabolism impairment, increases arterial blood pressure and causes vascular damage. Therefore, increased fructose consumption is linked to the development of alarming cardiometabolic conditions, such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular diseases, through several different mechanisms. Further clinical and experimental studies are still necessary to elucidate additional signaling pathways and mechanisms by which fructose is involved in all the mentioned cardiometabolic disorders. Also, the reported findings raise the need for the creation of public health policies aimed to prevent diet-associated cardiometabolic disorders, thus improving the population quality of life.

Maternal obesity modulates both the renin-angiotensin system in mice dams and fetal adiposity.

Obesity is a chronic multifactorial disease and is currently a public health problem. Maternal obesity during pregnancy is more dangerous as it impairs the health of the mother and future generations. Obesity leads to several metabolic disorders. Since white adipose tissue is an endocrine tissue, obesity often leads to disordered secretion of inflammatory, glycemic, lipid and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components. The RAS represents a link between obesity and its metabolic consequences. Therefore, our goal was to evaluate the possible changes caused by a high-fat diet in RAS-related receptor expression in the uterus and placenta of pregnant mice and determine the underlying effects of these changes in the fetuses' body composition. Breeding groups were formed after obesity induction by high-fat (HF) diet. Dams and fetuses were euthanized on the 19th day of the gestational period. The HF diet effectively induced obesity, glucose intolerance and insulin resistance in mice. Fetuses born from HF dams showed increased body weight and adiposity. Both results were accompanied by increased AT1R expression in placenta and uterus together with increased angiotensin-converting enzyme expression in the uterus and a decreased expression of MAS1 in placenta of HF dams. These results suggest a link between RAS, maternal obesity induced by HF diet and the fetuses' body adiposity. This new path now can be more thoroughly explored.

Oral gallic acid improve liver steatosis and metabolism modulating hepatic lipogenic markers in obese mice.

INTRODUCTION: Gallic acid (GA) is a natural endogenous polyphenol found in a variety of fruits, vegetables and wines, with beneficial effects on the energetic homeostasis. AIM: The present study aimed to investigate oral gallic acid effects on liver steatosis and hepatic lipogenesis markers in obese mice evaluating new possible molecular related mechanisms. METHODS: Twenty-four Swiss male mice were divided into four groups and fed for 60 days with standard diet (ST), standard diet plus gallic acid (ST + GA), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-fat diet plus gallic acid (HFD + GA). We evaluated the relationship between body weight, food intake and serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin, aspartate and alanine transaminases. Liver histology was analyzed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. These results were accompanied by bioinformatics analyses. The acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) expression was assessed by quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR). RESULTS: The main findings of the present study showed that GA reduced liver steatosis, body weight and plasma insulin levels. Analyzes of hepatic steatosis related genes expression showed that ACC and FAS mRNA were significantly suppressed in liver of HFD + GA mice. These data was corroborated by bioinformatics analysis. CONCLUSION: These data suggest an important clinical application of GA in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases.

Oral gallic acid improves metabolic profile by modulating SIRT1 expression in obese mice brown adipose tissue: A molecular and bioinformatic approach.

AIMS: The aim of the presente study was to examine the effects of oral gallic acid (GA) administration on the brown adipose tissue of obese mice fed with high-fat diet. New mechanisms and interactions pathways in thermogenesis were accessed through bioinformatics analyses. MAIN METHODS: Swiss male mice were divided into four groups and fed during 60 days with: standard diet, standard diet combined with gallic acid, high-fat diet and high-fat diet combined with gallic acid. Body weight, food intake, and blood parameters (glucose tolerance test, total-cholesterol, high-density low-c, triglyceride and glucose levels) were evaluated. Brown and subcutaneous white adipose tissue histological analysis were performed. SIRT1 and PGC1-α mRNA expression in the brown adipose tissue were assessed. KEY FINDINGS: Our main findings showed that the gallic acid improved glucose tolerance and metabolic parameters. These results were accompanied by bioinformatics analyses that evidenced SIRT1 as main target in the thermogenesis process, confirmed as increased SIRT1 mRNA expression was evidenced in the brown adipose tissue. SIGNIFICANCE: Together, the data suggest that the gallic acid effect in brown adipose tissue may improve body metabolism, glucose homeostasis and increase thermogenesis.

Câncer infantojuvenil do âmbito familiar: percepções e experiências frente ao diagnóstico / Cancer in children and adolescents in the family settings: perceptions and experiences with respect to their diagnosis / Cáncer infantojuvenil del ámbito familiar: percepciones y experiencias frente al diagnóstico

Resumo Introdução O diagnóstico de câncer infantojuvenil pode afetar o relacionamento e a dinâmica familiar, além de desencadear sofrimentos e medos, causados pela apreensão de sua descoberta, tratamento e controle. Assim, este estudo objetiva compreender o enfrentamento das famílias diante do diagnóstico de câncer infantojuvenil. Materiais e Métodos Constituiu-se de estudo descritivo, transversal e de abordagem qualitativa, realizado no Centro de Alta Complexidade em Oncologia Irmã Malvina de Montes Claros-MG. Para a concepção da pesquisa, foi realizada uma entrevista semiestruturada a 27 cuidadores familiares de crianças e adolescentes portadores de câncer, que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Em seguida, os dados foram tabulados e analisados pela técnica análise de conteúdo. O estudo foi autorizado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa sob o parecer 2.536.184/2018. Resultados Após a análise dos dados, foi possível traçar um perfil socioeconômico do familiar e epidemiológico da criança doente. Quanto aos familiares, na maioria, eram de sexo feminino, com parentesco de 1° grau com a criança doente, e dedicavam seu tempo a atividades direcionadas ao cuidado com o filho. No tocante à epidemiologia dos casos, cerca de 55% representavam a Leucemia Linfoblástica Aguda. Discussão Os resultados encontrados foram agrupados em três categorias que abordam o impacto inicial do diagnóstico, o conhecimento como forma de alívio e as estratégias de enfrentamento. Conclusões Observou-se que o diagnóstico de câncer infantojuvenil tem grande impacto na dinâmica familiar e gera nessas famílias sentimentos dolorosos e desesperadores que desencadeiam a busca por alternativas de enfrentamento para se adaptarem a essa nova realidade.

Abstract Introduction Diagnosis of cancer in children and adolescents may affect relationships and family dynamics, apart from provoking suffering and fears due to mistrust on the discovery, treatment, and control of the disease. Considering the above, the purpose of this study is to understand what families face when cancer is diagnosed in children and adolescents. Materials and Methods A descriptive, cross-cutting and qualitative study was carried out at the Oncology High Complexity Center Irmã Malvina de Montes Claros-MG. For the purposes of this research, a semi-structured interview was conducted with 27 family caregivers of children and adolescents with cancer who met the inclusion criteria. Later, the data were tabulated and analyzed using the content analysis technique. This study was authorized by the Research Ethics Committee under report 2.536.184/2018. Results Once data had been analyzed, it was possible to draw up a socioeconomic profile of the family member and an epidemiological profile of the child patient. Most of the family members were female who were related to the child patient in the first grade of consanguinity and devoted their time to activities related to the care of the child. With respect to the epidemiology, about 55% of the cases were related to Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Discussion Results were grouped into three categories covering the initial impact of the diagnosis, knowledge as a form of relief, and strategies for coping with the disease. Conclusions It was observed that the diagnosis of cancer in children and adolescents has a great impact on family dynamics, generating hurtful and desperate feelings in these families, which trigger the search for alternatives to face this illness that can be adapted to this new reality.

Resumen Introducción El diagnóstico de cáncer infantojuvenil puede afectar las relaciones y la dinámica familiar, además de desencadenar sufrimiento y miedos, causados por el recelo causado por el hallazgo, tratamiento y control de la enfermedad. Considerando lo anterior, este estudio tiene por objeto entender a lo que se enfrentan las familias ante el diagnóstico de cáncer infantojuvenil. Materiales y Métodos Estudio descriptivo, transversal y de enfoque cualitativo, realizado en el Centro de Alta Complejidad en Oncología Irmã Malvina de Montes Claros-MG. Para los fines de esta investigación, se realizó una entrevista semi-estructurada a 27 cuidadores familiares de niños y adolescentes con cáncer que cumplieran con los criterios de inclusión. Posteriormente, los datos fueron tabulados y analizados utilizando la técnica de análisis de contenido. El estudio fue autorizado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación bajo el informe 2.536.184/2018. Resultados Una vez analizados los datos, fue posible trazar un perfil socioeconómico del familiar y epidemiológico del niño enfermo. En cuanto a los familiares, en su mayoría, eran de sexo femenino, con parentesco de 1º grado de consanguinidad con el niño enfermo y dedicaban su tiempo a actividades relacionadas con el cuidado del hijo. En lo que respecta a la epidemiología de los casos, cerca del 55% correspondía a Leucemia Linfoblástica Aguda. Discusión Los resultados encontrados se agruparon en tres categorías que abordan el impacto inicial del diagnóstico, el conocimiento como forma de alivio y las estrategias para enfrentar la enfermedad. Conclusiones Se observó que el diagnóstico de cáncer infantojuvenil tiene un gran impacto en la dinámica familiar y genera en estas familias sentimientos dolorosos y desesperadores que desencadenan la búsqueda de alternativas para enfrentar la enfermedad que se adapten a esa nueva realidad.

Effect of resveratrol on expression of genes involved thermogenesis in mice and humans.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of resveratrol on FNDC5 and thermogenesis markers expression in the adipose tissue of mice and humans. Thirty-two male mice were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8) and fed with: Standard Diet; Standard Diet + Resveratrol (400 mg/kg); High-fat Diet; High-fat Diet + Resveratrol for eight weeks. Twenty male and female volunteers, aged 30-55 years, BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² were divided into two groups and treated for four weeks with 500 mg trans-resveratrol or placebo, adipose tissue biopsies were taken. Analysis of body weight, food intake, glycemic and lipid profiles, mRNA expression from tissues and primary culture of adipocytes were performed. The main results show that resveratrol improves the glycaemic and lipid profiles along with an increase in the levels of UCP1, PRDM16, PGC1α, and SIRT1. The increase in FNDC5 expression was observed in the mouse and human subcutaneous adipose tissue. The SIRT1 antagonist in adipocyte primary culture resulted in decreased FNDC5 expression. Our data suggest that improved metabolism produced by oral administration of resveratrol is, at least in part, associated with increased thermogenesis followed by high expression of UCP1, PRDM16, PGC1α and that increased FNDC5 expression in the subcutaneous adipose tissue from mice and human might be modulated by SIRT1.

Estilo de vida dos trabalhadores da saúde atuantes no norte de Minas Gerais / Lifestyle of living health workers in the north of Minas Gerais

Objetivo: analisar o estilo de vida dos trabalhadores da saúde que prestam assistência direta a pacientes críticos/crônicos. Métodos: estudo transversal realizado com 235 trabalhadores da área da saúde que atuam nos serviços hospitalares referência em oncologia, nefrologia, terapia intensiva neonatal e pronto socorro do Norte de Minas Gerais. Foi utilizado instrumento autoaplicável, com questões referentes as características sociodemográficas, de formação e ocupacionais dos participantes, bem como questionário denominado Estilo de Vida Fantástico. Os dados foram tabulados e analisados por meio de software estatístico SPSS (Statistical Package Social Science), versão 20.0. Resultados: o valor médio global do estilo de vida foi de 72,38 pontos, o qual prediz em um estilo de vida "Muito bom". Quanto as categorias agrupadas 17 (7,2%) trabalhadores apresentaram estilo de vida pouco saudável, e os domínios do questionário Fantástico que alcançaram as menores médias foram o de atividade física, seguido pelo tipo de comportamento e nutrição, estes que mais requerem mudanças. Conclusão: os trabalhadores da saúde apresentaram um estilo de vida muito bom e o Técnico de Enfermagem apresentou o estilo de vida menos saudável. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the lifestyle of health workers who provide direct assistance to critical/ chronic patients. Methods: a cross - sectional study was carried out with 235 health workers who work in reference hospital services in oncology, nephrology, neonatal intensive care and first aid in the North of Minas Gerais. A self-administered instrument was used, consisting of questions related to the sociodemographic, training and occupational characteristics of the participants, as well as a questionnaire called a Fantastic Lifestyle. The data were tabulated and analyzed by statistical software SPSS (Statistical Package Social Science), version 20.0. Results: the overall average lifestyle value was 72.38 points, which predicts a "very good" lifestyle. As for the grouped categories, 17 (7.2%) workers presented an unhealthy lifestyle, and the domains of the questionnaire fantastic that reached the lowest averages were those of physical activity, followed by the type of behavior and nutrition, the ones that most require change. Conclusion: the health workers presented a very good lifestyle, in which it shows that most of the positive attitudes and values included in the questionnaire fantastic are being practiced. (AU)

Objetivo: analizar el estilo de vida de los trabajadores de la salud que prestan asistencia directa a pacientes críticos / crónicos. Métodos: estudio transversal realizado con 235 trabajadores del área de la salud que actúan en los servicios hospitalarios referencia en oncología, nefrología, terapia intensiva neonatal y pronto socorro del Norte de Minas Gerais. Se utilizó un instrumento autoaplicable, con cuestiones referentes a las características sociodemográficas, de formación y ocupacionales de los participantes, así como cuestionario denominado Estilo de Vida Fantástico. Los datos fueron tabulados y analizados através de software estadístico SPSS (Statistical Package Social Science), versión 20.0. Resultados: el valor medio global del estilo de vida fue de 72,38 puntos, el cual predice en un estilo de vida "Muy bueno". En cuanto a las categorías agrupadas 17 (7,2%) trabajadores presentaron estilo de vida poco saludable, y los dominios del cuestionario Fantástico que alcanzaron las menores promedias fueron el de actividad física, seguido por el tipo de comportamiento y nutrición, los que más requieren cambios. Conclusión: los trabajadores de la salud presentaron un estilo de vida muy bueno y el Técnico de Enfermería presentó el estilo de vida menos sano. (AU)

Body mass index and the visceral adipose tissue expression of IL-6 and TNF-alpha are associated with the morphological severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in individuals with class III obesity.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the mRNA expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the liver and white adipose tissue samples of individuals with class III obesity (body mass index ≥40.0kg/m2) with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS: This cross-sectional study included patients with class III obesity exhibiting early or late morphological presentation of NAFLD (non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis [NAFL], n=8 and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH], n=13, respectively). All patients underwent bariatric surgery and peripheral blood, liver, and visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) samples were collected. Socio-demographic, anthropometric, clinical, plasma biochemical, and nutritional characteristics of each study subject were assessed and compared between patients presenting with NAFL and NASH. IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression in the liver and WAT samples were measured by using quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS: Individuals with class III obesity and NASH showed higher body mass index (BMI) and higher IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression in the WAT compared to that of patients with NAFL (p=0.01, for all associations). CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with class III obesity with higher morphological severity of NAFLD exhibited higher BMI and higher IL-6 and TNF-α expression in the WAT. Future prospective studies are warranted to determine how BMI, IL-6, and TNF-α affect the progression of NAFLD in individuals with class III obesity.

Obesity and malnutrition similarly alter the renin-angiotensin system and inflammation in mice and human adipose.

The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the metabolic profile, inflammatory markers and the gene expression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components in the visceral adipose tissue of eutrophic, obese and malnourished individuals and mice models of obesity and food restriction. Male Swiss mice were divided into eight groups and fed different levels of food restriction (20%, 40%, or 60%) using standard or high-fat diet. Metabolic profile and adipose tissues were assessed. The expression of AGT (Angiotensinogen), ACE (Angiotensin-converting enzyme), ACE2 (Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the mice epididymal adipose tissue and the human visceral adipose tissue was assessed. The main findings showed reduced body weight, improved metabolism, decreased adipose tissues weight and reduced adipocyte area in mice submitted to food restriction. Diminished expression of IL-6, TNF-α, AGT, AT1 and ACE was detected in the 20% and 40% food restriction animal groups, although they were increased in the 60% malnourished group. Increased expression of IL-6, TNF-α, AGT and ACE in obese and malnourished individuals was observed. Adipocytes size was increased in obese individuals and reduced in malnutrition. In conclusion, we found that food restriction of 20% and 40% improved the metabolic profile, ameliorated the inflammatory status and down-regulated the RAS in mice. Severe 60% food restriction (malnutrition), however, stimulated a proinflammatory state and increased AGT and ACE expression in the adipose tissue of mice. A similar profile was observed in the adipose tissue of obese and malnourished humans, supporting the critical role of inflammation and RAS as mediators of metabolic disorders.

Effects of Resveratrol and ACE Inhibitor Enalapril on Glucose and Lipid Profiles in Mice.

BACKGROUND: Lipogenesis is a process that involves the fatty acids synthesis. Resveratrol and enalapril have been studied for their beneficial physiological properties on the glucose and lipid metabolism. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the oral administration of resveratrol and enalapril effects on glucose and lipid metabolism, evaluating the white pad lipogenesis genes expression in mice. METHODS: Swiss male mice were divided into four groups and treated for eight weeks as follows: Standard diet ad libitum (G1); Standard diet + Resveratrol (G2); Standard diet + Enalapril (G3); Standard diet + Resveratrol + Enalapril (G4), where resveratrol was administered with the food and enalapril with the water. Body weight, lipid profile, adiposity, glycemic parameters and epididymal adipocytes area were assessed. The expression levels of FAS, ACC, PPARγ and SREBP-1c were assessed by RT-PCR. RESULTS: The main findings showed an improvement in the insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in the group G2 as compared to G1. Similar results were found for the fasting glucose levels. Decreased triglycerides were observed in the animals treated with resveratrol and enalapril, along with decreased weight of the epididymal adipose tissue in the animals of the G2 group. A mild reduction in the group G4 as compared to the group G1 was observed. Decreased mRNA expression of FAS, ACC and PPARγ in the G4 group when compared to the G1 group were observed. CONCLUSION: In conclusion the resveratrol and enalapril association improved the glucose and lipid profiles by modulating the expression of some lipogenesis genes, which are critical regulators of metabolic homeostasis.

Effects of Sleeve Gastrectomy on the Metabolic Profile and on the Expression of Renin-Angiotensin System in Adipose Tissue of Obese Rats.

BACKGROUND: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has been used as a multipurpose surgical procedure for the treatment of obesity. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to assess the effects of SG on the metabolic and inflammatory profile and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) expression in the white adipose tissue of male rats with obesity induced by a high-fat diet. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were treated with a standard diet or high-fat diet and submitted to SG or sham surgery. The glycemic and lipid profiles and gene expression of inflammatory markers and RAS components in adipose tissue were evaluated. RESULTS: SG led to weight loss, decreased adiposity (p < 0.01) and a reduction in plasma glucose (p < 0.05), C-peptide (p < 0.05), insulin (p < 0.001) and total cholesterol (p < 0.05) levels. In addition, SG led to a decrease in the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (p < 0.01), interleukin- 6 (IL-6) (p < 0.001), angiotensinogen (AGT) (p < 0.001) and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) (p < 0.05) and increased the expression of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) (p < 0.05) in white adipose tissue. No statistically significant differences were observed for AT1 (p = 0.10) and Mas (p = 0.22) receptors. CONCLUSION: This study showed that SG leads to weight loss and improves metabolic parameters. Changes in the expression of RAS components and of inflammatory molecules in adipose tissue seem to play a role the before beneficial effects of the SG.

Perfil nutricional de idosos e sua associação com fatores cognitivos e sociodemográficos / Nutritional profile of elderly and its association with cognitive and sociodemographic factors

Objetivo: verificar associações do estado nutricional com fatores sociodemográficos e estado cognitivo de uma população de idosos não institucionalizados. Método: estudo documental, analítico e transversal, de abordagem quantitativa, com 856 idosos. Os dados sociodemográficos, e da avaliação nutricional e cognitiva foram obtidos de prontuários clínicos. Os dados foram tabulados e analisados por meio do software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v.18.0 para Windows® e apresentados em tabelas. Resultados: o perfil nutricional dos idosos foi caracterizado pela alta prevalência de sobrepeso. Mulheres apresentaram maior frequência de sobrepeso. A alfabetização associou-se ao sobrepeso, e sua ausência, ao baixo peso. Idosos com idade mais avançada apresentaram maior prevalência de baixo peso, e menor de sobrepeso. Conclusão: idosos com problemas cognitivos apresentaram maior prevalência de baixo peso, enquanto o sobrepeso esteve relacionado com a ausência de prejuízo cognitivo.

Brown and White Adipose Tissue Expression of IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 are Associated with Alterations in Clinical, Metabolic and Anthropometric Parameters in Obese Humans.

Aim: The present study aimed to analyze the expression of IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 in adipose tissue (WAT and BAT) in association to clinical, metabolic and anthropometric parameters in obese humans. Methods: WAT and BAT samples from obese patients (n=27) were collected. IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 markers were measured by qRT-PCR. The association between IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 mRNA expression and anthropometric and clinical parameters were evaluated, using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Our results demonstrated that high levels of IL6 are associated with altered glucose levels in the WAT (p=0.01). In contrast, high levels of IL6 in the BAT were associated with decreased % fat (p=0.01) and fat weight (p=0.02) and increased mVO2 (p=0.02) and VO2 (p=0.02). For UCP1, a higher expression in the BAT was observed when compared to the WAT (p=0.0001). This gene expression was associated with lower values of BMI (p=0.03), % fat (P=0.02) and fat weight (P=0.02) and increased mVO2 (p=0.041) and VO2 (p=0.001). In the WAT, decreased levels of SIRT1 were associated with increased fat weight (p=0.02); in the BAT, associations were found for % fat (p=0.018) and mVO2 (p=0.03). Conclusion: These results reveal different characteristics in the biological actions between WAT and BAT in obese humans. Increased levels of IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 in the BAT were associated with metabolic parameters improvements.