Association of Histopathological and Biochemical Aspects of NAFLD With the Severity of Liver Fibrosis in Individuals With Obesity: Cross-sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Given the importance of fibrosis in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), identifying biochemical and histopathological aspects associated with its severity is important to determine the course of disease in high-risk populations. OBJECTIVES: The study aims to investigate correlations between biochemical and histopathological variables associated with the occurrence and severity of NAFLD-related liver fibrosis in individuals with obesity. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study which enrolled 171 individuals who underwent bariatric surgery at a tertiary university hospital. Clinical, laboratory, and histopathological hepatic characteristics were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to identify factors associated with the outcomes studied (severity of fibrosis staging) through simple and multiple regression models. RESULTS: Female were 87.7%, and the mean age was 38.4 ± 9.3 years. The most common histopathological abnormalities were macrovesicular steatosis (74.9%) and hepatocellular ballooning (40.4%). In the histopathological univariate analysis, liver fibrosis significantly correlated with severities of microvesicular steatosis (p = 0.003), lobular inflammation (p = 0.001), and NAS (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the degrees of microvesicular steatosis (p < 0.001) and NAS (p < 0.001) independently correlated with fibrosis severity. In the univariate biochemical analysis, fibrosis severity significantly correlated with levels of hemoglobin A1c (p = 0.004) and glucose (p = 0.01). In the multivariate analysis, glucose levels independently correlated with liver fibrosis degree (p = 0.007). CONCLUSION: Significant and independent associations were observed between the intensities of microvesicular steatosis, NAS, and glucose levels and the severity degree of liver fibrosis in individuals with obesity.

Effect of superficial adipose tissue mitochondrial and cellular functionality induced by extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT).

Due to its regenerative action, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is applied in treating integumentary and musculoskeletal diseases. However, other potential therapeutic interventions are being investigated. It is essential to fully understand its mitochondrial signaling pathway to achieve this, which plays a fundamental role in elucidating the mechanism of action and possible therapeutic interventions. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the effect of ESWT on mitochondrial pathways through the relationship between lipolysis and adipocyte apoptosis, as well as cellular functionality. This is a non-randomized case-control clinical trial where obese women received ESWT sessions in the abdominal region, after which tissue samples were collected for histological and immunohistochemical analyses of adipose tissue. The data demonstrated positivity in the expression of mitochondrial markers related to cell apoptosis, such as FIS1 (p < 0.0203) and OPA1 (p < 0.0283), in addition to the positivity of anti-MFN1, responsible for regulating mitochondrial cell proliferation (p < 0.0003). In summary, this study demonstrates that ESWT was able to activate specific mitochondrial signaling pathways, which may be associated with its ability to stimulate lipolysis and apoptosis in superficial adipose tissue. However, no significant improvements in cellular functionality were observed.

Impact of pre-operative weight loss on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease histopathology and insulin resistance in individuals undergoing bariatric surgery: a propensity matched cross-sectional comparison

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The effect of weight loss (WL) on histopathological aspects of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may provide further insights into the dynamics of hepatic recovery after WL. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effects of pre-operative WL on insulin resistance- and NAFLD-related histology in individuals undergoing bariatric surgery (BS) with or without pre-operative WL. DESIGN AND SETTING: A matched cross-sectional study was conducted at a public university hospital and a private clinic in Campinas, Brazil. METHODS: An analytical, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted using prospectively collected databases of individuals who underwent BS and liver biopsy at either a public tertiary university hospital (with pre-operative WL) or a private clinic (without pre-operative WL). Random electronic matching by gender, age, and body mass index (BMI) was performed and two paired groups of 24 individuals each were selected. RESULTS: Of the 48 participants, 75% were female. The mean age was 37.4 ± 9.6. The mean BMI was 38.9 ± 2.6 kg/m2. Fibrosis was the most common histopathological abnormality (91.7%). Glucose was significantly lower in the WL group (92 ± 19.1 versus 111.8 ± 35.4 mg/dL; P = 0.02). Significantly lower frequencies of macrovesicular steatosis (58.3% versus 95.8%; P = 0.004), microvesicular steatosis (12.5% versus 87.5%; P < 0.001), and portal inflammation (50% versus 87.5%; P = 0.011) were observed in the WL group. CONCLUSION: Pre-operative WL was significantly associated with lower frequencies of macro- and mi- crovesicular steatosis, portal inflammation, and lower glycemia, indicating an association between the recent trajectory of body weight and histological aspects of NAFLD.

Identification of Predictors of Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis and Its Severity in Individuals Undergoing Bariatric Surgery.

BACKGROUND: As obesity reached epidemic proportions, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) also had a worrisome parallel increase. The non-invasive differentiation of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) from uncomplicated NAFLD remains an important challenge in current clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To identify predictors of the occurrence and severity of NAFLD and NASH. METHODS: This is an analytical cross-sectional study which included individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. Participants were histologically classified according to the presence NASH and severity of NAFLD. Demographic, clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical aspects were analyzed and compared. RESULTS: Out of 171 individuals, 87.7% were female and the mean age was 38.4±9.3 years. The average BMI was 38±3.0 kg/m2. NAFLD was histologically confirmed in 74.9%; the commonest histopathological abnormalities were macrovesicular steatosis (74.9%) and ballooning (40.4%). Simple steatosis occurred in 30.4%, 44.4% presented with NASH, and 31% had severe NAFLD. NASH associated with higher levels of ALT (0.03), ALP (0.02), and glucose (0.02). Cutoff values were, respectively, 23 U/L, 67 U/L, and 81 mg/dL. Their concomitant use provided an 83.1% specificity for NASH. Severe NAFLD associated with diabetes (p=0.02), higher BMI (p=0.01), AST (p=0.04), ALT (p<0.01), ALP (p=0.01), glucose (p=0.02), and ferritin (p<0.01). BMI over 39.3 kg/m2 and ferritin over 178 ng/mL concomitantly provided a 70.5% accuracy for severe NAFLD. CONCLUSIONS: NASH and severe NAFLD associated with higher levels of ALT, ALP, and glucose. Severe NAFLD associated with higher BMI and higher ferritin levels in this group. The concomitant evaluation of these laboratory tests could help ruling out NASH and safely screening severe NAFLD.

Fibrotic NASH in Individuals with Obesity: a Cross-sectional Analysis of the Prevalence of this Significant Milestone of Disease Progression and Accuracy of a Non-invasive Marker for its Screening.

BACKGROUND: Fibrotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), i.e., the concomitant presence of active inflammation and fibrosis, represents a milestone in the natural history of NAFLD and a critical time point in its progression. The purpose of this study was to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of the non-invasive Fibrotic NASH Index (FNI) in individuals with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study, enrolling individuals who underwent bariatric surgery with liver biopsy at a tertiary university hospital. FNI was calculated, and a cutoff value was determined. Its diagnostic accuracy was then calculated through comparison with the gold standard test for this analysis (histopathological examination). RESULTS: Of 128 participants, 83.6% were female, and the average age was 39.8 ± 8.7 years. The mean BMI was 38.7 ± 5.7 kg/m2. NAFLD was histologically confirmed in 76.6%, of which 81.6% had NASH. Histologically confirmed fibrotic NASH was observed in 22.7% of the general study population, 29.6% of individuals with NAFLD, and 36.3% of those with NASH. The mean FNI was 0.18 ± 0.19. An optimal cutoff point of 0.21 was determined, with an overall accuracy of 90.1%, an 82.8% sensitivity, a 90.8% specificity, a 72.6% positive predictive value, and a 94.7% negative predictive value. CONCLUSIONS: FNI provided adequate accuracy in detecting and ruling out fibrotic NASH. Considering the importance of fibrotic NASH within the natural history of NAFLD progression and the fact that this marker uses simple variables, it may be of great importance in high-risk populations, and its external validation and use should be encouraged.

Photobiomodulation therapy with light-emitting diode in stimulating adipose tissue mitochondria.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is known for its ability to induce a photochemical process, primarily targeting mitochondria, a process referred to as photobiomodulation (PBM). Recently, its use has been attributed as an adjunct in obesity treatment, to stimulate lipolysis and apoptosis. However, the pathway of stimulation remains uncertain. Thus, the objective of this study was to understand whether mitochondrial stimulation occurs in adipose tissue cells after PBM therapy, which could lead to the processes of lipolysis and apoptosis. A non-randomized clinical trial was conducted using a split abdomen design in obese women who received red and infrared LED photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT). The patients underwent bariatric surgery, and adipose tissue samples were collected for immunohistochemical analysis with primary mitochondrial antibodies. Adipose tissue samples subjected to LED intervention exhibited positivity in mitochondrial antibodies for cAMP, DRP1, FAS, FIS1, MFN2, and OPA1 (p<0.001) compared to the control group. In conclusion, we observed that PBMT was capable of generating mitochondrial stimulation in adipose tissue cells, as evidenced by the positive antibody signals. This finding suggests that mitochondrial stimulation could be the mechanism and action underlying adipose tissue lipolysis and apoptosis.

WEIGHT LOSS AND QUALITY OF LIFE AFTER ONE ANASTOMOSIS GASTRIC BYPASS: A 2-YEAR FOLLOW-UP STUDY.

•One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) led to significant weight loss after 2 years. •OAGB associated was well-succeeded in regards to weight loss in most individuals. •OAGB led to significant improvement of quality of life (QoL) assessed by the BAROS system. •"Self-steem" and "work capacity" were the most positively affected QoL domains after OAGB. Background - Studies assessing quality of life (QoL) after one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) are currently scarce. Objective - To analyze the main weight loss outcomes and QoL in individuals undergoing OAGB during a 2-year follow-up. Methods - This is a retrospective study based on a prospectively collected database including individuals which underwent OAGB at a tertiary-level university hospital. After 2-years, excess weight loss was assessed, and post-surgical therapeutical success was determined using Reinhold's criteria. QoL was assessed through the Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcomes System (BAROS). Results - Out of 41 participants, 90.2% were female and the average age was 38±8.3 years old. The average body mass index significantly decreased from 37.1±5.6 kg/m2 to 27±4.5 kg/m2 after 2-years (P< 0.001). The mean percentage of excess weight loss was 84.6±32.5%. Regarding weight loss outcomes, 61% were considered "excellent", while 26.8% were "good" according to Reinhold's criteria. With regards to QoL assessed by BAROS, most individuals achieved a score classified as either "excellent" (26.8%), "very good" (36.6%), or "good" (31.7%). The highest degrees of satisfaction achieved were in the domains "self-esteem" and "work capacity", in which 75.6% and 61%, respectively, were classified as "much better". Conclusion - OAGB associated with significant weight loss and resolution of obesity-related medical conditions, as well as relevant QoL improvement assessed by the BAROS system.

GASTRIC PLICATION ASSOCIATED WITH FUNDOPLICATION IN INDIVIDUALS WITH CLASS I OBESITY AND GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE: WEIGHT LOSS OUTCOMES, REFLUX-RELATED SYMPTOMS, ENDOSCOPIC AND pH MONITORING FINDINGS.

BACKGROUND: The association of gastric plication with fundoplication is a reliable option for the treatment of individuals with obesity associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease. AIMS: To describe weight loss, endoscopic, and gastroesophageal reflux disease-related outcomes of gastric plication with fundoplication in individuals with mild obesity. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was carried out, enrolling individuals who underwent gastric plication with fundoplication at a tertiary private hospital from 2015-2019. Data regarding perioperative and weight loss outcomes, endoscopic and 24-hour pH monitoring findings, and gastroesophageal reflux disease-related symptoms were analyzed. RESULTS: Of 98 individuals, 90.2% were female. The median age was 40.4 years (IQR 32.1-47.8). The median body mass index decreased from 32 kg/m2 (IQR 30,5-34) to 29.5 kg/m2 (IQR 26.7-33.9) at 1-2 years (p<0.05); and to 27.4 kg/m2 (IQR 24.1-30.6) at 2-4 years (p=0.059). The median percentage of total weight loss at 1-2 years was 7.8% (IQR -4.1-14.7) and at 2-4 years, it was 16.4% (IQR 4.3-24.1). Both esophageal and extra-esophageal symptoms showed a significant reduction (p<0.05). A significant decrease in the occurrence of esophagitis was observed (p<0.01). The median DeMeester score decreased from 30 (IQR 15.1-48.4) to 1.9 (IQR 0.93-5.4) (p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: The gastric plication with fundoplication proved to be an effective and safe technique, leading to a significant and sustained weight loss in addition to endoscopic and clinical improvement of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Perda de peso e qualidade de vida após o Bypass Gástrico de Anastomose Única: resultados de um seguimento de 2 anos / Weight loss and quality of life after one anastomosis gastric bypass: a 2-year follow-up study

ABSTRACT Background: Studies assessing quality of life (QoL) after one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) are currently scarce. Objective: To analyze the main weight loss outcomes and QoL in individuals undergoing OAGB during a 2-year follow-up. Methods: This is a retrospective study based on a prospectively collected database including individuals which underwent OAGB at a tertiary-level university hospital. After 2-years, excess weight loss was assessed, and post-surgical therapeutical success was determined using Reinhold's criteria. QoL was assessed through the Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcomes System (BAROS). Results: Out of 41 participants, 90.2% were female and the average age was 38±8.3 years old. The average body mass index significantly decreased from 37.1±5.6 kg/m2 to 27±4.5 kg/m2 after 2-years (P< 0.001). The mean percentage of excess weight loss was 84.6±32.5%. Regarding weight loss outcomes, 61% were considered "excellent", while 26.8% were "good" according to Reinhold's criteria. With regards to QoL assessed by BAROS, most individuals achieved a score classified as either "excellent" (26.8%), "very good" (36.6%), or "good" (31.7%). The highest degrees of satisfaction achieved were in the domains "self-esteem" and "work capacity", in which 75.6% and 61%, respectively, were classified as "much better". Conclusion: OAGB associated with significant weight loss and resolution of obesity-related medical conditions, as well as relevant QoL improvement assessed by the BAROS system.

RESUMO Contexto: Existem poucos estudos que analisaram a qualidade de vida (QV) após o bypass gástrico de anastomose única (BGAU). Objetivo: Analisar os principais resultados de perda de peso e QV em indivíduos submetidos ao BGAU ao longo de 2 anos de seguimento. Métodos: Este é um estudo retrospectivo baseado em um banco de dados coletado prospectivamente que incluiu indivíduos submetidos ao BGAU em um hospital universitário de nível terciário. Após 2 anos, foi analisado o percentual de perda do excesso de peso (%PEP) e o sucesso terapêutico pós-cirúrgico foi classificado através critérios de Reinhold. A qualidade de vida foi avaliada por meio do Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcomes System (BAROS). Resultados: Dos 41 participantes, 90,2% eram do sexo feminino e a idade média foi de 38±8,3 anos. O índice de massa corporal médio diminuiu significativamente de 37,1±5,6 kg/m2 para 27±4,5 kg/m2 após 2 anos (P<0,001). O %PEP médio foi de 84,6±32,5%. Quanto à avaliação dos resultados de perda de peso, 61% foram considerados "excelentes", enquanto 26,8% foram "bons" segundo os critérios de Reinhold. Com relação à QV avaliada pelo BAROS, a maioria dos indivíduos obteve escores classificados como "excelente" (26,8%), "muito bom" (36,6%) ou "bom" (31,7%). Os maiores graus de satisfação alcançados foram nos domínios "autoestima" e "capacidade para o trabalho", nos quais 75,6% e 61%, respectivamente, foram classificados como "muito melhor". Conclusão: O BGAU associou-se à significativa perda de peso e resolução de comorbidades, bem como melhora relevante da qualidade de vida avaliada pelo sistema BAROS.

DO HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION AND ERADICATION THERAPY STATUS INFLUENCE WEIGHT LOSS OUTCOMES AND ENDOSCOPIC FINDINGS AFTER ROUX-EN-Y GASTRIC BYPASS?A HISTORICAL COHORT STUDY.

BACKGROUND: Currently, there is conflicting evidence linking Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection with weight loss and endoscopic findings after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). OBJECTIVE: To identify correlations between HP infection and its eradication with weight loss and endoscopic findings after RYGB. METHODS: This is an observational retrospective cohort study based on a prospectively collected database of individuals who underwent RYGB from 2018-2019 at a tertiary university hospital. HP infection and the HP eradication therapy outcomes were correlated with post-operative weight loss and endoscopic findings. Individuals were classified according to the status of HP infection into four groups: no infection; successful eradication; refractory infection; and new-onset infection. RESULTS: Of 65 individuals, 87% were female and the mean age was 39±11.2 years. Body mass index significantly decreased from 36.2±3.6 to 26.7±3.3 kg/m2 one year after RYGB (P<0.0001). The percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) was 25.9±7.2% and the percentage of excess weight loss was 89.4±31.7%. HP infection prevalence decreased from 55.4% to 27.7% (p=0.001); 33.8% never had HP infection, 38.5% were successfully treated, 16.9% had refractory infection and 10.8 % had new-onset HP infection. %TWL was 27.3±7.5% in individuals who never had HP, 25.4±8.1% in the successfully treated, 25.7±5.2% in those with refractory infection, and 23.4±6.4% in the new-onset HP infection group; there were no significant differences among the four groups (P=0.6). Pre-operative HP infection significantly associated with gastritis (P=0.048). New-onset HP infections significantly associated with a lower frequency of jejunal erosions after surgery (P=0.048). CONCLUSION: No effects of the HP infection on weight loss were identified in individuals undergoing RYGB. A higher prevalence of gastritis was observed in individuals with HP infection before RYGB. New-onset HP infection after RYGB was a protective factor for jejunal erosions.

Is Helicobacter pylori infection associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in individuals undergoing bariatric surgery? Cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: A possible direct link between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has recently emerged. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze associations between the presence of histologically demonstrated NAFLD aspects with H. pylori infection in individuals with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. DESIGN AND SETTING: An observational analytical cross-sectional study was conducted based on data collected from the medical records of individuals undergoing bariatric surgery at a tertiary university hospital in 2019. METHODS: NAFLD was assessed through histological examination of wedge liver biopsies collected during the proceedings. H. pylori infection was analyzed through the association of the urease test and histological examination performed in biopsies routinely collected during preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy. RESULTS: Of the 88 participants, 85% were female, and the average age was 39.1 ± 8.4 years. H. pylori infection was present in 61.4% of the patients. The mean body mass index was 36.6 ± 3.4 kg/m2. The most prevalent histopathological aspects of NAFLD were macrovesicular steatosis (92%), hepatocellular ballooning (92%), lobular inflammation (93.2%), portal inflammation (96.6%), and fibrosis (93.2%). No histopathological aspect of NAFLD was found to be significantly associated with H. pylori infection. CONCLUSION: In this study population, H. pylori infection was not significantly associated with the histopathological aspects of NAFLD in individuals with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery.

Application of Scores Assessing Histological Activity and Estimated Long-Term Risk Analysis of Hepatic Decompensation of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Individuals Undergoing Bariatric Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Histological scores can estimate disease staging, allowing a standardization of the assessment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The prediction of risk of NAFLD progression is relevant to allow the planning of interventions. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the application of the Iowa NAFLD decompensation risk score, the NAFLD activity score (NAS), and steatosis-activity-fibrosis score (SAF) and to assess correlations between these scores. METHODS: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study enrolling 76 individuals who underwent bariatric surgery at a tertiary university hospital. Liver biopsy was performed during procedures; histological scores were then assessed. The Iowa score was calculated using age, diabetes, and platelet count. RESULTS: 89.5% were female and mean age was 39.1 ± 9.6 years. Mean BMI was 38.2 ± 3.7 kg/m2. Steatosis (92.1%), hepatocellular ballooning (93.4%), lobular inflammation (93.4%), and fibrosis (97.4%) were the commonest histopathological findings. According to NAS, 22.4% had definite non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). According to SAF, 89.5% had moderate or severe NAFLD. The mean risks of NAFLD decompensation at 5, 10, and 12 years were 0.8%, 2.5%, and 2.9%, respectively. The group whose risk of decompensation was above 10% comprised 2.6% and 5.3% at 10 and 12 years, respectively. The severity assessed by SAF significantly associated with definite NASH diagnosis through NAS (p < 0.001). Iowa score did not correlate with both NAS/SAF scores. CONCLUSION: The Iowa score demonstrated that individuals with obesity present with a significant long-term risk of NAFLD-related events. There were high rates of moderate/severe forms of NAFLD assessed by NAS and SAF scores. There were no significant correlations between Iowa and NAS/SAF scores.

Microvesicular Steatosis in Individuals with Obesity: a Histological Marker of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Severity.

BACKGROUND: In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), steatosis can manifest through two distinct forms: macrovesicular (macroS) and microvesicular (microS). OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of microS and its association with biochemical parameters and NAFLD-related histological findings in individuals with obesity. METHODS: This is an observational retrospective cross-sectional study, enrolling individuals who underwent bariatric surgery and liver biopsy at a university hospital. A 1:2 propensity matching was performed to pair microS with isolated macroS; this matching enrolled variables "age," "gender," "body mass index (BMI)," and "obesity-associated medical problems." Clinical, biochemical, and histopathological aspects were then analyzed and compared. RESULTS: Of 115 participants, 88.7% were female; average age was 40.5 ± 5 years and mean BMI was 37.9 ± 3.3 kg/m2. Steatosis occurred in 82.6% (67.8% isolated macroS and 14.8% microS). MicroS is significantly associated with higher levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (39.8 ± 26.4 vs. 26.7 ± 17.5; p = 0.04) and glucose (103.8 ± 52.6 vs. 83.3 ± 10.8; p = 0.03) and higher frequencies of moderate to severe macroS (41.2% vs. 2.0%; p < 0.001), portal fibrosis (100% vs. 50%; p < 0.001), perisinusoidal fibrosis (100% vs. 55.9%; p < 0.001), lobular inflammation (100% vs. 41.1%; p < 0.001), and portal inflammation (100% vs. 41.1%; p < 0.001). An independently positive association was observed between intensities of microS and macroS (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: MicroS is significantly associated with higher levels of ALT and glucose and higher frequencies of moderate to severe macroS, hepatocellular ballooning, portal fibrosis, perisinusoidal fibrosis, lobular inflammation, and portal inflammation. These findings indicate that microS could be considered a reliable histological marker of NAFLD severity.

Endoscopic and histopathological assessment of individuals undergoing one anastomosis gastric bypass: a 2-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: There is much debate over the occurrence of biliary reflux to the gastric pouch after one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and its potential risks. OBJECTIVE: To assess endoscopic and histopathological findings following a standardized protocol of biopsy collection two years after OAGB. METHODS: A historical cohort study was conducted, based on a prospectively collected database, which involved 39 participants who underwent OAGB. Participants underwent clinical evaluation and esophagogastroduodenoscopy at the time of surgery and 24 months afterward. Post-operatively, biopsy specimens in esophagogastric junction, pouch, and anastomosis were systematically collected. RESULTS: 92.3% of the participants were female and the mean age was 37 ± 8.5 years. The mean body mass index (BMI) significantly decreased from 37.6 ± 5.7 kg/m2 to 27 ± 4.1 kg/m2 after 2 years (p < 0.001). The mean %TWL was 27.2 ± 10.5%. The prevalence of non-erosive gastritis significantly increased from 25.6 to 51.3% (p = 0.02). Erosive gastritis significantly decreased from 28.2 to 10.3% (p = 0.04). Four cases of marginal ulcers were identified (10.3%). The commonest histopathological finding was mild inflammation in 74.3% (esophagogastric junction), 58.9% (pouch), and 71.8% (anastomosis). There was one case of focal intestinal metaplasia in each site of interest and no cases of dysplasia or severe inflammation. CONCLUSIONS: Using a standardized protocol of post-operative biopsy collection, low rates of severe endoscopic and histopathological abnormalities were observed two years after OAGB. Nevertheless, as most patients have histologically proven inflammation, bile in the gastric pouch, and endoscopic gastritis, long-term surveillance is essential because of the uncertain risk of these abnormalities.

A infecção por Helicobacter pylori e o resultado de seu tratamento de erradicação influenciam a perda de peso e achados endoscópicos após o bypass gástrico em Y de Roux? Um estudo de coorte histórica / Do helicobacter pylori infection and eradication therapy status influence weight loss outcomes and endoscopic findings after roux-en-y gastric bypass?a historical cohort study

ABSTRACT Background: Currently, there is conflicting evidence linking Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection with weight loss and endoscopic findings after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Objective: To identify correlations between HP infection and its eradication with weight loss and endoscopic findings after RYGB. Methods: This is an observational retrospective cohort study based on a prospectively collected database of individuals who underwent RYGB from 2018-2019 at a tertiary university hospital. HP infection and the HP eradication therapy outcomes were correlated with post-operative weight loss and endoscopic findings. Individuals were classified according to the status of HP infection into four groups: no infection; successful eradication; refractory infection; and new-onset infection. Results: Of 65 individuals, 87% were female and the mean age was 39±11.2 years. Body mass index significantly decreased from 36.2±3.6 to 26.7±3.3 kg/m2 one year after RYGB (P<0.0001). The percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) was 25.9±7.2% and the percentage of excess weight loss was 89.4±31.7%. HP infection prevalence decreased from 55.4% to 27.7% (p=0.001); 33.8% never had HP infection, 38.5% were successfully treated, 16.9% had refractory infection and 10.8 % had new-onset HP infection. %TWL was 27.3±7.5% in individuals who never had HP, 25.4±8.1% in the successfully treated, 25.7±5.2% in those with refractory infection, and 23.4±6.4% in the new-onset HP infection group; there were no significant differences among the four groups (P=0.6). Pre-operative HP infection significantly associated with gastritis (P=0.048). New-onset HP infections significantly associated with a lower frequency of jejunal erosions after surgery (P=0.048). Conclusion: No effects of the HP infection on weight loss were identified in individuals undergoing RYGB. A higher prevalence of gastritis was observed in individuals with HP infection before RYGB. New-onset HP infection after RYGB was a protective factor for jejunal erosions.

RESUMO Contexto: Há evidências conflitantes na literatura atual ligando a infecção por Helicobacter pylori (HP) com a perda de peso e achados endoscópicos após o bypass gástrico em Y de Roux (BGYR). Objetivo: Identificar correlações entre infecção por Helicobacter pylori HP e seu tratamento de erradicação com perda de peso e achados endoscópicos após BGYR. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo e observacional de coorte histórica, baseado em um banco de dados coletados prospectivamente de indivíduos submetidos ao BGYR de 2018 a 2019 em um hospital terciário universitário. A infecção pelo HP e os resultados da terapia de erradicação do HP foram correlacionados com a perda de peso pós-operatória e os achados endoscópicos. Os indivíduos foram classificados de acordo com o status de infecção pelo HP em quatro grupos: ausência de infecção; erradicação bem-sucedida; infecção refratária; e infecção nova. Resultados: Dos 65 indivíduos, 87% eram do sexo feminino e a média de idade foi de 39±11,2 anos. O índice de massa corporal diminuiu significativamente de 36,2±3,6 para 26,7±3,3 kg/m2 um ano após BGYR (P<0,0001). O percentual de perda de peso foi 25,9±7,2% e o percentual de perda do excesso de peso foi 89,4±31,7%. A prevalência de infecção por HP diminuiu de 55,4% para 27,7% após a cirurgia (P=0,001); 33,8% nunca tiveram infecção por HP, 38,5% tiveram um tratamento bem-sucedido, 16,9% tiveram infecção refratária e 10,8% tiveram nova infecção por HP. Infecção pré-operatória por HP associou-se significativamente à presença de gastrite (P=0,048). Infecções por HP de início recente associaram-se significativamente com menor frequência de erosões jejunais após a cirurgia (P=0,048). Conclusão: Não foram identificados efeitos da infecção por HP na perda de peso em indivíduos submetidos ao BGYR. Maior prevalência de gastrite foi observada em indivíduos com infecção por HP antes da cirurgia. A infecção por HP de início recente após BGYR foi um fator protetor para erosões jejunais.

GASTRIC PLICATION ASSOCIATED WITH FUNDOPLICATION IN INDIVIDUALS WITH CLASS I OBESITY AND GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE: WEIGHT LOSS OUTCOMES, REFLUX-RELATED SYMPTOMS, ENDOSCOPIC AND pH MONITORING FINDINGS / PLICATURA GÁSTRICA ASSOCIADA A FUNDOPLICATURA EM INDIVÍDUOS COM OBESIDADE GRAU I E DOENÇA DO REFLUXO GASTROESOFÁGICO: ANÁLISE DE PERDA DE PESO, SINTOMAS DE REFLUXO, ACHADOS ENDOSCÓPICOS E DE pHMETRIA

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The association of gastric plication with fundoplication is a reliable option for the treatment of individuals with obesity associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease. AIMS: To describe weight loss, endoscopic, and gastroesophageal reflux disease-related outcomes of gastric plication with fundoplication in individuals with mild obesity. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was carried out, enrolling individuals who underwent gastric plication with fundoplication at a tertiary private hospital from 2015-2019. Data regarding perioperative and weight loss outcomes, endoscopic and 24-hour pH monitoring findings, and gastroesophageal reflux disease-related symptoms were analyzed. RESULTS: Of 98 individuals, 90.2% were female. The median age was 40.4 years (IQR 32.1-47.8). The median body mass index decreased from 32 kg/m2 (IQR 30,5-34) to 29.5 kg/m2 (IQR 26.7-33.9) at 1-2 years (p<0.05); and to 27.4 kg/m2 (IQR 24.1-30.6) at 2-4 years (p=0.059). The median percentage of total weight loss at 1-2 years was 7.8% (IQR −4.1-14.7) and at 2-4 years, it was 16.4% (IQR 4.3-24.1). Both esophageal and extra-esophageal symptoms showed a significant reduction (p<0.05). A significant decrease in the occurrence of esophagitis was observed (p<0.01). The median DeMeester score decreased from 30 (IQR 15.1-48.4) to 1.9 (IQR 0.93-5.4) (p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: The gastric plication with fundoplication proved to be an effective and safe technique, leading to a significant and sustained weight loss in addition to endoscopic and clinical improvement of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A associação de plicatura gástrica com fundoplicatura é uma opção atrativa para o tratamento de indivíduos com obesidade associada à doença do refluxo gastroesofágico. OBJETIVOS: Descrever a evolução ponderal, clínica, endoscópica e de pHmetria após a gástrica com fundoplicatura em indivíduos com obesidade grau I e doença do refluxo gastroesofágico. MÉTODOS: Um estudo de coorte histórica foi realizado, incluindo indivíduos que realizaram gástrica com fundoplicatura em um hospital privado terciário de 2015 a 2019. Os dados sobre os resultados perioperatórios e de perda de peso, achados endoscópicos e de pHmetria de 24 horas e sintomas relacionados à doença do refluxo gastroesofágico foram analisados. RESULTADOS: Dos 98 indivíduos, 90,2% eram do sexo feminino. A idade mediana foi de 40,4 (IQR 32,1-47,8) anos. A mediana do índice de massa corporal diminuiu de 32 (IQR 30,5-34) kg/m2 para 29,5 (IQR 26,7-33,9) kg/m2 em 1-2 anos (p<0,05); de 2 a 4 anos, foi de 27,4 (IQR 24,1-30,6) kg/m2 (p=0,059). A mediana da porcentagem da perda total de peso em 1-2 anos foi de 7,8% (IQR −4,1-14,7) e em 2-4 anos, foi de 16,4% (IQR 4,3-24,1). Tanto os sintomas esofágicos quanto os extras esofágicos apresentaram redução significativa (p<0,05). Observou-se diminuição significativa na ocorrência de esofagite (p<0,01). A pontuação mediana do escore de DeMeester diminuiu de 30 (IQR 15,1-48,4) para 1,9 (IQR 0,93-5,4) (p<0,0001). CONCLUSÕES: A associação entre plicatura gástrica e fundoplicatura laparoscópica mostrou-se uma técnica eficaz e segura, levando a perda de peso significativa, bem como melhora endoscópica e clínica da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico.

Is Helicobacter pylori infection associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in individuals undergoing bariatric surgery? Cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: A possible direct link between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has recently emerged. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze associations between the presence of histologically demonstrated NAFLD aspects with H. pylori infection in individuals with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. DESIGN AND SETTING: An observational analytical cross-sectional study was conducted based on data collected from the medical records of individuals undergoing bariatric surgery at a tertiary university hospital in 2019. METHODS: NAFLD was assessed through histological examination of wedge liver biopsies collected during the proceedings. H. pylori infection was analyzed through the association of the urease test and histological examination performed in biopsies routinely collected during preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy. RESULTS: Of the 88 participants, 85% were female, and the average age was 39.1 ± 8.4 years. H. pylori infection was present in 61.4% of the patients. The mean body mass index was 36.6 ± 3.4 kg/m2. The most prevalent histopathological aspects of NAFLD were macrovesicular steatosis (92%), hepatocellular ballooning (92%), lobular inflammation (93.2%), portal inflammation (96.6%), and fibrosis (93.2%). No histopathological aspect of NAFLD was found to be significantly associated with H. pylori infection. CONCLUSION: In this study population, H. pylori infection was not significantly associated with the histopathological aspects of NAFLD in individuals with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery.

Trajectory of NAFLD characteristics after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a five-year historical cohort study

Abstract BACKGROUND: The long-term effects of bariatric surgery on the course of non-alcoholic fatty hepatopathy (NAFLD) are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the evolution of NAFLD characteristics through noninvasive markers after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) over a five-year period. DESIGN AND SETTING: Historical cohort study; tertiary-level university hospital. METHODS: The evolution of NAFLD-related characteristics was evaluated among 49 individuals who underwent RYGB, with a five-year follow-up. Steatosis was evaluated through the hepatic steatosis index (HSI), steatohepatitis through the clinical score for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (C-NASH) and fibrosis through the NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS). RESULTS: 91.8% of the individuals were female. The mean age was 38.3 ± 10 years and average body mass index (BMI), 37.4 ± 2.3 kg/m2. HSI significantly decreased from 47.15 ± 4.27 to 36.03 ± 3.72 at 12 months (P < 0.01), without other significant changes up to 60 months. C-NASH significantly decreased from 0.75 ± 1.25 to 0.29 ± 0.7 at 12 months (P < 0.01), without other significant changes up to 60 months. NFS decreased from 1.14 ± 1.23 to 0.27 ± 0.99 at 12 months (P < 0.01), and then followed a slightly ascending course, with a marked increase by 60 months (0.82 ± 0.89), but still lower than at baseline (P < 0.05). HSI variation strongly correlated with the five-year percentage total weight loss (R = 0.8; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: RYGB led to significant improvement of steatosis, steatohepatitis and fibrosis after five years. Fibrosis was the most refractory abnormality, with a slightly ascending trend after two years. Steatosis improvement directly correlated with weight loss.

Effect of Extracorporeal Shock Waves on Induced Neocollagenesis of Integumentary Tissue.

Background: Obesity became a worldwide public health problem and its treatment presents a strict relationship with skin flaccidity, for which the development of non-invasive therapies is an emerging field. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the physiological response of the skin tissue of individuals with obesity with flaccidity to the physiological stimulus of shockwave therapy (ESWT). Methods: This is a comparative intervention study based on histological and immunohistochemical analyses of a set of samples of skin tissue of women with Grade II obesity who achieved a 10 percent preoperative weight loss before bariatric surgery and complaints of skin flaccidity, subjected to the ESWT treatment. A total of seven sessions were carried out in the abdominal region on the left side, and the collateral side was used as control; the biological material was collected at the moment of the bariatric surgery. Hematoxylin and Eosin, Masson's trichrome, Picrosirius Red and the markers for immunohistochemical were used for the morphological evaluation. Results: Fourteen women were included in the research. The results demonstrated that the tissue which underwent the ESWT intervention presented significant increases of fibroblast cells (p<0.0001) and collagen fibers Type I and II (p<0.0002). In the significant expressions of the markers FGF1, FGF2, FGFR1 were identified in the exposed side (p<0.0002, 0.0017, <0.0001, respectively) as well as a significantly higher expression of Ki67 marker of cell proliferation (p<0.0002). Conclusion: ESWT was associated with a significant increase of cell proliferation and collagen expression in flaccid skin of individuals who achieved weight loss before bariatric surgery.

SARS-CoV-2 infects adipose tissue in a fat depot- and viral lineage-dependent manner.

Visceral adiposity is a risk factor for severe COVID-19, and a link between adipose tissue infection and disease progression has been proposed. Here we demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 infects human adipose tissue and undergoes productive infection in fat cells. However, susceptibility to infection and the cellular response depends on the anatomical origin of the cells and the viral lineage. Visceral fat cells express more ACE2 and are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection than their subcutaneous counterparts. SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to inhibition of lipolysis in subcutaneous fat cells, while in visceral fat cells, it results in higher expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Viral load and cellular response are attenuated when visceral fat cells are infected with the SARS-CoV-2 gamma variant. A similar degree of cell death occurs 4-days after SARS-CoV-2 infection, regardless of the cell origin or viral lineage. Hence, SARS-CoV-2 infects human fat cells, replicating and altering cell function and viability in a depot- and viral lineage-dependent fashion.