Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue Distribution Research Articles

P-784 Visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue in children born after assisted reproductive technology with frozen and fresh embryo transfer

Abstract Study question Is the distribution of abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) comparable between children following assisted reproduction and natural conception (NC)? Summary answer Children following frozen embryo transfer (FET) have significantly lower VAT/SAT-ratio than children following NC. However, this is not believed to be clinically important. What is known already It is well-established that an adverse distribution of the abdominal adipose tissue with high VAT/SAT-ratio increases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases, hence the VAT/SAT-ratio is closely related to the metabolic profile. Children conceived after FET and fresh embryo transfer (Fresh-ET) are at risk of being born large-for-gestational-age (LGA) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA), respectively. Both, being born LGA and SGA, increases the risk of obesity in later life. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have reported the VAT/SAT-ratio in children following assisted reproductive technology (ART) (both FET and Fresh-ET). Study design, size, duration Prospective observational cohort study including 150 singletons aged 7- to 10-years old conceived after FET (n = 50), Fresh-ET (n = 50) and NC (n = 50). All children were born in Eastern Denmark. The study is conducted between November 2018 and August 2020. Participants/materials, setting, methods This is a substudy af the “Health in Childhood following Assisted Reproductive Technology” (HiCART) study. The children underwent abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the quantification of abdominal adipose tissue along with measurements of anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, fasting blood samples and Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) scan. The volumes of VAT and SAT were semi-automatically quantified blinded for the mode of conception. Multivariate linear regression analysis of the VAT/SAT-ratio was performed to adjust for confounders. Main results and the role of chance The VAT/SAT-ratio differed significantly between the three groups (mean SD; FET 0.26 (0.08), Fresh-ET 0.29 (0.07), NC 0.30 (0.08), ANOVA, p = 0.014). Pairwise comparison revealed that children conceived after FET had significantly lower VAT/SAT-ratio as compared to children conceived after NC (p = 0.007). In addition, children following FET tended to have lower VAT/SAT-ratio as compared to the Fresh-ET group (p = 0.059). Multivariate linear regression analysis of the VAT/SAT-ratio confirmed a lower VAT/SAT-ratio in FET after adjustment for potential confounding factors (child age and sex, maternal age at delivery and maternal BMI at pregnancy and child birth weight and BMI). Repeat-analysis of 20 MRI showed good intra-rater reliability of VAT and SAT quantifications. As previously reported in the HiCART studies, there were no differences between the groups in anthropometric measurements including body mass index (BMI), lean body mass, blood pressure or high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). However, the level of triglycerides was found to be significantly higher in Fresh-ET compared to FET and NC (p = 0.028). Limitations, reasons for caution Selection bias cannot be excluded as only children from Eastern Denmark were invited. The observational nature of a cohort study prevents the establishment of causality. Wider implications of the findings Reassuringly, this study found no clinical important difference in abdominal adipose tissue between children following ART (both FET and Fresh-ET) and NC. However, future studies in larger cohorts are warranted. Trial registration number ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03719703

MRI-based quantification of adipose tissue distribution in healthy adult cats during body weight gain.

The incidence of obesity in pet population increased over the last decades. Cats have been suggested as model for human obesity because of similar co-morbidities as diabetes and dyslipidaemia. Aim of this study were to quantify the distribution of visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue (VAT, SAT respectively) in healthy adult cats during feeding-induced body weight (BW) gain by MRI, and to correlate it to the increased hepatic fat fraction (HFF). Cats received a commercial dry food ad libitum for 40 weeks and were longitudinally scanned three times. VAT and SAT were determined from Dixon MRI data by a dedicated software solution (ATLAS, established in human and rodents). HFF was quantified from a commercially available sequence. At both individual and group level, normalized adipose tissue volumes significantly increased longitudinally, with median VAT/SAT ratio always < 1. With increased BW, more than proportional increased total adipose tissue was observed together with more than proportional increased HFF. HFF is disproportionately high in overweight cats compared to SAT and VAT accumulation in the 40 weeks observation period. Quantitative unbiased MRI examination of different body fat components is useful in longitudinal monitoring of obesity in cats.

Description of a Novel Web-Based Liposuction System to Estimate Fat Volume and Distribution.

Preoperative planning for liposuction is vital to ensure safe practice and patient satisfaction. However, current standards of fat assessment before surgery are guided by subjective methods such as visual inspection, skin-pinch tests, and waist circumference measurements. This study aimed to develop an inexpensive software-based tool that utilizes ultrasound (US) imaging and an online platform to accurately simulate regional subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) distribution and safe volume estimation for liposuction procedures. The authors present a web-based platform with integrated 2-dimensional (2D) and 3-dimensional (3D) simulations of SAT to support liposuction planning and execution. SAT-Map was constructed using multiple sub-applications linked with the python framework programming language (Wilmington, DE). The SAT-Map interface provides an intuitive and fluid means of generating patient-specific models and volumetric data. To further accommodate this, an operational manual was prepared to achieve consistent visualization and examination of estimated SAT content. The system currently supports static 2D heatmap simulation and 3D interactive virtual modelling of the SAT distribution. Supplementary clinical studies are needed to evaluate SAT-Map's clinical performance and practicality. SAT-Map revolutionizes the concept of preoperative planning for liposuction by developing the first combined web-based software that objectively simulates fat distribution and measures safe liposuction volume. Our software approach presents a cost-efficient, accessible, and user-friendly system offering multiple advantages over current SAT assessment modalities. The immediacy of clinically accurate 3D virtual simulation provides objective support to surgeons towards improving patient conversation, outcomes, and satisfaction in liposuction procedures.

PMON280 Effect of Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) on Adipose Tissue Morphology and Metabolism in Transgender Individuals

Abstract Background Circulating sex hormones exert unique effects on metabolism, leading to sexual dimorphism in white adipose tissue distribution and function. The gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) or cross-sex hormone therapy (CSHT) for transgender patients lower the endogenous sex hormones while raising the opposite sex hormones. Sex hormones are known to have a significant impact on white adipose tissue and metabolism. However, long-term metabolic changes with GAHT in transgender individuals have not been studied, nor are the underlying mechanisms properly elucidated. Hypothesis We test the hypothesis that GAHT will result in sexual dimorphic changes in morphology and function of white adipose tissue according to the type of sex hormones used and the native sex of the patients. Aim 1 To study the effect of cross-sex hormones on clinical parameters such as blood pressure, weight, waist-hip circumference ratio, serum lipids, insulin sensitivity Aim 2 To study the changes in human subcutaneous white adipose tissue (SWAT) distribution and expansion with GAHT Aim 3 To study changes in circulating metabolites and adipokines, and pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic gene expression in SWAT with GAHT. Methodology 31 hormone-naive patients (19 Male-to-Female; MtF and 12 Female-to-Male; FtM) were enrolled in the longitudinal study and followed up for 3 years. Clinical parameters and blood samples were gathered at baseline and at 6 month intervals. DXA scans and fat biopsies (peri-umbilical SWAT) were performed at baseline and at 1 year intervals. Results The results presented here compare baseline and at 1 year of GAHT. There was an increase in total cholesterol in the MtF group. HOMA-IR, total fat mass and visceral fat mass increased in MtF group, while they decreased in the FtM group. In MtF group, lean mass and bone mineral content (BMC) decreased at 1 year, but no change was observed in the FtM group. On histological assessment, fat cell size increased in MtF group, while it decreased in the FtM group. Conclusion In MtF transgender patients, androgen deprivation and estrogen treatment resulted in reduced insulin sensitivity together with a rise in total cholesterol possibly via a decrease in lean mass and adipose tissue expansion through significant adipocyte hypertrophy. In FtM transgender patients, testosterone treatment caused improved insulin sensitivity possibly via a decrease in total and visceral fat mass. The greatest strengths of our project include its longitudinal nature over 3 years to capture long-term effects in the same patients as well as deeper mechanistic insights into the underlying metabolite, adipokine and gene expression changes. The limitations of our study include the small sample size with heterogeneity of study population in terms of demographics and lifestyles. Presentation: Monday, June 13, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Is Neck Circumference Related to Other Anthropometric Measurements and Biochemical Parameters in Type 2 Diabetes?

Background Obesity is one of the leading risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist/hip ratio are anthropometric measurements used to diagnose obesity. In recent years, neck circumference, one of the anthropometric indicators used in assessing obesity, has come to the fore. This study investigates the relationship between neck circumference and other anthropometric measurements and specific biochemical parameters in T2DM. Methods Four hundred sixty-four individuals with type 2 diabetes were included in the study. Subjects' body weight, height, and other anthropometric measurements like circumferences of the waist, hip, and neck were measured. BMI, waist/hip, and waist/height ratio were calculated. The biochemical tests of the subjects in the previous month from the study were accessed from the hospital information system. The relationship between anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters with neck circumference was evaluated. Results The mean age of the subjects was 54.6±8.51 years. 56.2% were femaleand 43.8% were male, and the time from T2DM diagnosis was 9.9±7.49 years. Most male subjects were overweight (49.8%), and approximately one-third of the women were first-degree obese (33.0%). Body weight, BMI, waist, hip, and neck circumferences, and waist/hip and waist/height ratios were significantly higher in both male and female subjects in the neck circumference high-risk group than those in the low-risk group (p<0.05). In terms of biochemical parameters, fasting blood glucose andHbA1c values of men with neck circumference at risk were significantly higher than those in the low-risk group. Neck circumference measurements of the participants were positively correlated with body weight (r=0.543; p<0.001), height (r=0.260; p<0.001), waist circumference (r=0.562; p<0.001), hip circumference (r=0.293; p<0.001), BMI (r=0.366; p<0.001), waist/hip ratio (r=0.428, p<0.001), and waist/height ratio (r=0.393, p<0.001). Neck circumference had a low positivecorrelation with fasting blood glucose (r=0.165; p<0.001), HbA1c (r=0.281; p<0.001), and triglyceride (r=0.231; p<0.001) and a negative relationship with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r=-0.118; p=0.001). When the relationship between neck circumference and biochemical parameters was examined, it was seen that this correlation was only in men. Conclusion Neck circumference measurement is a simple and reliable method andis not affected by external factors. It correlates with other anthropometric measurements and can be used as a good indicator of the distribution of upper subcutaneous adipose tissue in T2DM. However, more studies with larger samples are needed on this subject.

Differences in the Morphological Characteristics and Body Composition between Elite Montenegrin Kata and Kumite Karatekas

Elite karatekas should have specific morphological characteristics suitable for their specializations. This study aimed to determine the differences in morphological characteristics and body composition of elite Montenegrin karate athletes according to different specializations. This study consisted of a total of 16 male karate athletes divided according to specialization in kata (form or movement pattern) and kumite (fighting) disciplines. The subject sample included healthy, black belt karate senior athletes, with no prior injuries divided into kata (n-6, 19.83±4.71 years) and kumite (n-10, 20.4±5.21 years) athletes. Morphological characteristics and body composition were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables: body height (BH), body mass (BM), triceps skinfold (TS), biceps skinfold (BiS), back skinfold (BS), abdominal skinfold (AS), upper leg skinfold (UlS), lower leg skinfold (LlS), body mass index (BMI), fat percentage (FP), and muscle mass percentages (MP). The differences in morphological characteristics and the composition of the body between kata and kumite karatekas were determined by using a statistical procedure with a t-test for small independent samples. It was determined that the kumite had a higher body height, and body weight, as well as a higher percentage of muscle mass than kata karatekas. In other parameters concerning the distribution of subcutaneous adipose tissue, as well as the percentage of body fat, there was no difference between the groups. The results suggest that there is some difference in morphological characteristics between kata and kumite karatekas, but for more complete conclusions an analysis should be performed on a larger sample of high-level karate athletes.

Investigation of the Relationship between the Mid_Thigh Adipose Tissue Distribution Measured by MRI and Serum Osteocalcin-A Sex-Based Approach.

Osteocalcin, in its non-carboxylated form, has a positive effect on glucose metabolism. Additionally, osteocalcin levels are related to body composition, especially muscle mass. The relation to the distribution of different adipose tissue types, such as subcutaneous, intermuscular, and visceral adipose tissue, is unclear. This study aimed to investigate associations between serum osteocalcin and the distribution of subcutaneous and intermuscular adipose tissue of the mid-thigh. Furthermore, the influence of different training methods on osteocalcin levels was investigated. We performed adipose tissue quantification of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) using MRI measurements of the mid-thigh in 128 volunteers (63 male/65 female). Laboratory analysis included blood lipid panel, serum insulin, adiponectin, and osteocalcin measurements. The main observation was a significant correlation of total serum osteocalcin (TOC) and the distribution of adipose tissue of the mid-thigh (SAT/(SAT + IMAT)) (cc = −0.29/p-value = 0.002), as well as the cross-sectional muscle area (MA), increasing with the weekly resistance training duration in males. Additionally, TOC (p-value = 0.01) and MA (p-value = 0.03) were negatively related to serum insulin. The significant relationship between TOC and SAT/(SAT + IMAT) is a new finding and confirms the negative influence of IMAT on glucose metabolism in a sex-specific approach. We could substantiate this by the negative relation of TOC with serum insulin.

Subcutaneous adipose tissue distribution and serum lipid/lipoprotein in unmedicated postmenopausal women: A B-mode ultrasound study

Abstract Background It has been observed that gluteal-femoral adipose tissue has a protective effect against risk factors for cardiovascular disease but has not yet been concluded how different evaluation methods of fat distribution affect the results. Methods To test the hypothesis that B-mode ultrasound-measured subcutaneous adipose tissue distribution is associated with cardiovascular risk factors, 326 Japanese unmedicated postmenopausal women aged 50–70 years were analyzed. Subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness at 6 sites (anterior and posterior aspects of trunk, upper-arm, and thigh) and serum total (TC) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) was measured, and a ratio of HDLC to TC (HDLC/TC) was calculated. We used Bayesian linear regression with 4 separate models with each model predicting HDLC/TC. Results Our first model provided evidence for an inverse correlation (r = –0.23) between ultrasound measured body fat (6 site measurement) and HDLC/TC. The second model noted evidence for an inverse correlation between trunk fat and HDLC/TC and found evidence for the null with respect to the correlation between thigh fat and HDLC/TC. Therefore, we added thigh fat to the null model to produce Distribution Model 2. Within this model, we noted an inverse correlation (r = –0.353) between trunk fat and HDLC/TC. Our last model determined that within the trunk fatness, the abdominal area (anterior trunk) was a larger predictor than the subscapular site (posterior trunk). Conclusion These results support the evidence that ultrasound-measured abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness is a non-invasive predictor for monitoring the risk for dyslipidemia in postmenopausal women.

Subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness around the ASIS area for human body models in reclined positions

Objective Subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) thickness above the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) influences belt fit of a vehicle occupant. To improve finite element (FE) human body models and their application assessing future seating positions in cars, there is a need for more detailed data. Methods Anthropometric input data were used to statistically model a lower limit of the SAT thickness in the area around the ASIS (at the ASIS or in the groin) extracted from 102 postmortem computed tomography (pmCT) data sets (56 males and 46 females). Additionally, 2 pmCT scans of 1 male individual in both supine and sitting conditions were used to estimate change in SAT thickness by position. Results Distributions and locations of minimum values for SAT thickness were derived for males and females. Sex, age, and body mass index (BMI) remained in a linear regression model for the minimum SAT thickness in the ASIS area. Thirty-seven percent of the variance in the SAT distribution of the sample can be explained by these input variables. The individual with data in supine and sitting positions showed an SAT thickness value above the ASIS 6 times higher in the sitting position than in the supine position. Conclusions Individual factors influence SAT thickness around the ASIS in addition to BMI, sex, and age. The presented values need to be regarded as a lower limit of SAT thickness, because in 63% the minimum was found in the groin area and the measurements were performed in a supine position. The increase in SAT thickness in a sitting position compared to supine seen in the case example shows the need for further data acquisition to establish a transfer function interpolating between both positions. The SAT thickness minimum values in the ASIS area shown in this study can provide valuable input for soft tissue modeling in human body models with the aim to analyze seat belt fit and to computationally assess lap belt and occupant interaction sensitivity to SAT tissue thickness under load. This might be crucial in reclined sitting positions in automated driving.

The Effect of The Body Composition to Prognosis in Young Breast Cancer Patients

Objective:In cancer patients, the effect of the body composition on prognosis is a new clinical area of interest. In patients with class 2 or 3 obesity (BMI >35), survival found to be worse control groups in a pooled analysis. BMI category is not truly representing body composition and hard to use to determine the true muscle and fat quantity. Computed tomography (CT) is a frequent method to determine body composition precisely. Methods:Axial CT images, including all abdominal muscles (psoas, erector spinae, quadratus lumborum) external and internal oblique and rectus abdominis) total skeletal muscle area (SMA), was calculated. Besides, axial CT images of the body fat subcutaneous adipose and visceral adipose tissue distribution (VAT, SAT) areas were calculated in cm2 using threshold values of -30 to -190 for adipose tissue. Results:Eighty-four women were included in the study. Most of the patients were normal or over-weighted. Invasive carcinoma NST was the dominant histological subtypes, with 94% of the study population. The count of the sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic patients was 11 and 68 respectively. Although the median OS cannot be reached at the end of the follow-up period for both groups, the difference between groups statistically insignificant. The median OS was not reached for both groups, the difference between low and high TVAT groups was statistically significant. In multivariate analysis, TVAT was found to be an independent risk factor. Conclusion:In this study, we demonstrate sarcopenia may be seen in patients with breast cancer under 40 years old, and it may not have a prognostic effect.

The effect of body composition on prognosis in critically ill COVID-19 patients

Aim: Although limited risk factors were observed with the accumulated evidence during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, there is still a lack of evidence for markers distinguishing asymptomatic-mild disease from severe disease. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of sarcopenia and visceral adipose tissue in ICU patients treated for COVID-19. Material and Methods: The study designed as a retrospective cross-sectional study for evaluating the effect of prognostic radiologic features in COVID-19 infected patients. The patient characteristics, intubation status and dates, transfer to ICU, and last control or death dates were recorded. Axial CT images, including all abdominal muscles, total skeletal muscle area, were calculated. The total and psoas sarcopenia index (PSI) was calculated by dividing the square of the patient’s height by the square meter (cm2/m2). Also, axial CT images of the body fat subcutaneous adipose and visceral adipose tissue distribution areas were calculated in cm2 using threshold values of-30 to-190 for adipose tissue. Results: In the study population, there were nine deaths that occurred among male patients. In univariate analysis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and PSI were found to be related to prognosis. The median survival was 14 days in PSI low group. The prognostic effect of the PSI was still valid in the male population. Other factors had no relationship with survival in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, the prognostic effect of TSI and PSI was related to prognosis, while COPD lost its prognostic effect. Discussion: In this study, we found a new prognostic factor in critically ill COVID-19 patients, which may be a new area of interest. In contrast to other studies, we found no effect of BMI and visceral adipose tissue on mortality in COVID-19 patients treated in ICU. This feasible method needs further evaluation and validation with prospective studies in a large patient population.

Variable Expressivity and Allelic Heterogeneity in Type 2 Familial Partial Lipodystrophy: The p.(Thr528Met) LMNA Variant.

Type 2 familial partial lipodystrophy, or Dunnigan disease, is a metabolic disorder characterized by abnormal subcutaneous adipose tissue distribution. This rare condition results from variants principally affecting exons 8 and 11 of the LMNA gene. In this study, five FPLD2-diagnosed patients carrying the c.1583C>T, p.(Thr528Met) variant in exon 9 of the LMNA gene and with obvious clinical heterogeneity were evaluated. Specific polymorphisms in LMNA and in PPARG were also detected. Exhaustive clinical course, physical examination, biochemical features and family history were recorded, along with the assessment of anthropometric features and body composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Preadipocytes obtained from a T528M patient were treated with the classic adipose differentiation medium with pioglitazone. Various adipogenes were evaluated by real-time PCR, and immunofluorescence was used to study intracellular localization of emerin, lamin A and its precursors. As demonstrated with Oil red O staining, the preadipocytes of the T528M patient failed to differentiate, the expression of various adipogenic genes was reduced in the lipodystrophic patient and immunofluorescence studies showed an accumulation of farnesylated prelamin A in T528M cells. We conclude that the T528M variant in LMNA could lead to FPLD2, as the adipogenic machinery is compromised.

Role of smoking on body fat distribution and coronary artery disease

Abstract Introduction Smoking and obesity are recognized as important modifiable risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the general perception that smoking protects against obesity is a common reason for starting, and/or not quitting smoking. Purpose To detect the quantity, quality and relative distribution of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) estimated by abdominal computed tomography in smokers versus non- smokers. Methods The abdominal muscular wall was traced manually to calculate SAT and VAT areas (cm2) (outside and inside abdominal muscular wall respectively) as well as SAT density [Hounsfield units (HU)] at L4-L5 in 409 consecutive patients referred for evaluation of chest pain by multi-slice computed tomography coronary angiography (MSCT-CA). Results 26% of the studied patients (n=107) were current smokers, while the remaining 74% (n=302) never smoked. Coronary artery atherosclerosis was more prevalent in smokers compared to non-smokers (64.5% vs 55.0%; p=0.09). Smokers had statistically significantly lower body mass index (BMI) (31.2±4.3 vs. 32.5±4.7 kg/m2; p=0.015), hip circumference (HC) (98.6±22.5 vs. 103.9±20.9 cm; p=0.031), total fat area (441.62±166.34 vs. 517.95±169.51cm2; p&amp;lt;0.001), and SAT area (313.07±125.54 vs. 390.93±143.28 cm2; p&amp;lt;0.001) as compared to non-smokers. However, smokers had statistically significantly greater waist-to-hip ratio (0.98±0.08 vs. 0.96±0.08; p=0.010), VAT/SAT area ratio (0.41±0.23 vs. 0.35±0.20; p=0.013), and denser SAT depot (−98.91±7.71 vs. −102.08±6.44 HU; p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion Smoking contributes to CAD and to the pathogenic redistribution of body fat towards VAT, through limiting SAT potential to expand. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Long-term hypercortisolism induces lipogenesis promoting palmitic acid accumulation and inflammation in visceral adipose tissue compared with HFD-induced obesity.

Glucocorticoids (GCs) play critical roles in adipose tissue metabolism. Here, we compare in a mouse model the effects of chronic glucocorticoid excess and diet-induced obesity on white adipose tissue mass and distribution, by focusing on visceral adipose tissue (VAT) fatty acid composition changes, the role of de novo lipogenesis (DNL) and the inflammatory state. We used a noninvasive mouse model of hypercortisolism to compare GC-induced effects on adipose tissue with diet-induced obesity [high-fat diet (HFD) 45%] and control mice after 10 wk of treatment. Subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and VAT mass and distribution were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI). Fatty acid composition in VAT was analyzed by NMR spectroscopy and gas chromatography. Gene expression of key enzymes involved in DNL was analyzed in liver and VAT. Macrophage infiltration markers and proinflammatory cytokines were measured by gene expression in VAT. HFD or GC treatment induced similar fat mass expansion with comparable distribution between SAT and VAT depots. However, in VAT, GCs induce DNL, higher palmitic acid (PA), macrophage infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokine levels, accompanied by systemic nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) elevation, hyperinsulinemia, and higher homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels compared with diet-induced obesity. Thus, chronic hypercortisolism induces DNL and fatty acid composition changes toward increased SFA and reduced polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels in VAT, promoting macrophage recruitment and proinflammatory cytokines, suggesting a worse cardiometabolic profile even compared with HFD mice.

Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue in Female Volleyball Players: Is It Related with Performance Indices?

Background and objectives: The aim of the present study was to examine subcutaneous adipose tissue distribution in female volleyball players with regards to (a) variation by anatomical site, (b) differences among age groups and playing positions, and (c) physiological characteristics associated with performance. Materials and Methods: Participants were adolescent (n = 89, age 15.6 ± 0.9 years, mean ± standard deviation) and adult female volleyball players (n = 78, 24.8 ± 5.3 years), who performed a series of anthropometric and performance tests including skinfold thickness in 10 sites, Abalakov jump (AJ) and handgrip test (HG). Results: Chin had the smallest thickness, and iliac crest and abdomen the largest. The largest correlations of skinfold thickness were shown with regards to AJ ad HG. Coefficient of variations in skinfold thickness correlated with performance indices with small magnitude. Triceps and chin were the most frequent predictors of performance indices. The anatomical site of skinfold was near the active muscle groups related to performance in HG. Conclusions: In conclusion, performance indices such AJ and HG were related with thickness of specific skinfolds and with the variation of thickness by anatomical site (i.e., the less the variation, the better the performance). Considering the relevance of specific skinfolds (e.g., triceps and chin) for performance, their further use would be recommended for purposes of training monitoring, volleyball players’ selection and talent identification.

Serum adipokine concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes: the relationships with distribution, hypertrophy and vascularization of subcutaneous adipose tissue

Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia 2Novosibirsk State Medical University, Novosibirsk, Russia&#x0D; BACKGROUND: Adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction plays an important role in metabolic disorders in obesity and type 2 diabetes. The role of distribution, hypertrophy and vascularization of AT in adipokine secretion disturbances remain to be clarified.&#x0D; AIMS: To determine the relationships between serum concentrations of adipokines and the mass and distribution of AT, diameter of adipocytes and vascularization of subcutaneous AT in patients with type 2 diabetes.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 125 patients were examined, including 82 subjects with obesity. Thirty persons without diabetes and obesity, matched by sex and age, were acted as control. Concentrations of leptin, resistin, visfatin, adipsin and adiponectin in fasting serum were determined using multiplex analysis. Mass and distribution of AT was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Samples of SAT were obtained from umbilical region using a knife biopsy in 25 patients and in 15 individuals who died in accidents. Blood and lymphatic vessels in SAT were revealed with immunohistochemistry, using antibody to CD-34 and podoplanin respectively. The volume and numerical density, ultrastructure of blood and lymphatic vessels, and mean diameter of subcutaneous adipocytes were evaluated.&#x0D; RESULTS: Patients with diabetes, as compared to control, had significantly higher levels of leptin, resistin, adipsin and visfatin (all p0.001). Adiponectin showed no differences. Concentrations of leptin, resistin, visfatin, adipsin and adiponectin correlated positively with gynoid fat mass. Additionally, leptin and adipsinshowed positive correlations with truncal and central abdominal fat mass. Concentration of leptin, but not other adipokines, was associated with hypertrophy of subcutaneous adipocytes. A decrease in volumetric density of microvessels(р=0.01) and increase in volume and numerical density of lymphatic vessels (both р=0.02) was observed in subcutaneous AT from diabetic subjects. The swelling of cytoplasm, mitochondria, cisterns of granular endoplasmic reticulum and reduced content of micropinocytotic vesicles was revealed in lymphatic capillaries. Resistin and visfatin showed inverse associations with density of microvessels.&#x0D; CONCLUSION: Endocrine dysfunction of AT in patients with type 2 diabetes, manifested by elevation of serum concentrations of leptin, resistin, visfatin and adipsin, is associated with mass and distribution of AT, hypertrophy of subcutaneous adipocytes and vascularization abnormalities of subcutaneous AT.

Subcutaneous adipose tissue distribution and telomere length.

Background Overweight and obese individuals have a reduced life expectancy due to cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, stroke and cancer. Systemic inflammation and premature telomere shortening have been discussed as potential mechanisms linking these conditions. We investigated the relation of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) distribution to leukocyte relative telomere length (RTL). Methods We measured RTL in 375 participants of the observational STYJOBS/EDECTA cohort (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00482924) using a qPCR based method. SAT distribution was determined by lipometry yielding a percent body fat value and SAT thicknesses at 15 standardized locations across the entire body. A correlation analysis between RTL, age, sex, lipometry data and conventional body measures (body mass index [BMI], waist-, hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio) was calculated. The strongest determinants of RTL were determined by a stepwise multiple regression analysis. Results RTL was not associated with age or sex. RTL was significantly negatively correlated with BMI, percent body fat, waist-, hip circumference and waist-to-height ratio. Furthermore, RTL correlated with SAT at the following locations: neck, triceps, biceps, upper back, front chest, lateral chest, upper abdomen, lower abdomen, lower back, hip, front thigh, lateral thigh, rear thigh and calf. Stepwise regression analysis revealed nuchal and hip SAT as the strongest predictors of RTL. No significant association was seen between RTL and waist-to-hip ratio. Conclusions RTL is negatively associated with parameters describing body fat composure. Nuchal and hip SAT thicknesses are the strongest predictors of RTL. Central obesity appears to correlate with premature genomic aging.

Ultrasound examination in the diagnosis of fetal macrosomia

Ultrasound examination in obstetrics is a method of screening of pregnant women including identification of fetal macrosomia. Diagnosis of macrosomia is extremely important, along with other indications the conclusion about the presence of a large fetus may affect the tactics of giving birth. Gestational diabetes (GD) is a known clinical risk factor for fetal macrosomia and accounts for the majority of all types of diabetes observed during pregnancy. In women with GD fetal macrosomia is the main complication, which often together with others serves as an indication for a planned cesarean section in order to reduce potentially possible perinatal complications, as macrosomia of diabetic origin is characterized by disproportional distribution of subcutaneous adipose tissue in the fetus with predominant localization in the upper half of the trunk, which increases the probability of dystocia of the shoulders and damage to the brachial plexus. In perinatal morbidity and mortality the major proportion is presented by newborns weighing more than 4 kg but there is insufficient data in the literature on how prenatal ultrasound should be monitored in cases of suspected macrosomia in the fetus, especially in patients without diabetes. At the moment, to determine the estimated weight of the fetus, the formulas created more than 30 years ago are used and their accuracy is not always high. The difficulty is caused by the lack of data on the diagnostic accuracy of macrosomal markers. A search is being made for additional parameters capable of increasing the diagnostic value of ultrasound method for determining the estimated weight of the fetus.

Thromboxane-Dependent Platelet Activation in Obese Subjects with Prediabetes or Early Type 2 Diabetes: Effects of Liraglutide- or Lifestyle Changes-Induced Weight Loss.

Thromboxane (TX)-dependent platelet activation and lipid peroxidation, as reflected in vivo by the urinary excretion of 11-dehydro-TXB2 and 8-iso-prostaglandin (PG)F2α, play a key role in atherothrombosis in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) since the earlier stages. Thirty-five metformin-treated obese subjects with prediabetes or newly-diagnosed T2DM were randomized to the glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist (GLP-RA) liraglutide (1.8 mg/day) or lifestyle counseling until achieving a comparable weight loss (−7% of initial body weight), to assess whether changes in subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral (VAT) adipose tissue distribution (MRI), insulin sensitivity (Matsuda Index) and beta-cell performance (multiple sampling OGTT beta-index), with either intervention, might affect TX-dependent platelet activation, lipid peroxidation and inflammation. At baseline, Ln-8-iso-PGF2α (Beta = 0.31, p = 0.0088), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (Beta = 2.64, p = 0.0011) Ln-TNF-α (Beta = 0.58, p = 0.0075) and SAT (Beta = 0.14, p = 0.044) were significant independent predictors of 11-dehydro-TXB2. After achievement of the weight loss target, a comparable reduction in U-11-dehydro-TXB2 (between-group p = 0.679) and 8-iso-PGF-2α (p = 0.985) was observed in both arms in parallel with a comparable improvement in glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, SAT, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). In obese patients with initial impairment of glucose metabolism, the extent of platelet activation is related to systemic inflammation, isoprostane formation and degree of glycemic control and abdominal SAT. Successful weight loss, achieved with either lifestyle changes or an incretin-based therapy, is associated with a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation and platelet activation.

Characterization of MDPL Fibroblasts Carrying the Recurrent p.Ser605del Mutation in POLD1 Gene.

Mandibular hypoplasia, deafness, and progeroid features, with concomitant lipodystrophy, define a multisystem disorder named MDPL syndrome. MDPL has been associated with heterozygous mutations in POLD1 gene resulting in loss of DNA polymerase δ activity. In this study, we report clinical, genetic, and cellular studies of a 13-year-old Pakistani girl, presenting growth retardation, sensorineural deafness, altered distribution of subcutaneous adipose tissue, and insulin resistance. We performed Sanger sequencing of POLD1 gene in the proband and the healthy parents. Fibroblasts obtained from dermal biopsy were evaluated for the specific hallmarks of cellular senescence and for their response to the DNA-induced damage. Patient carried the recurrent heterozygous de novo in frame deletion (c.1812_1814delCTC, p.Ser605del ) within POLD1 gene, previously detected in 16 MDPL patients. In patient's fibroblasts we observed severe nuclear envelope anomalies, presence of micronuclei, accumulation of prelamin A, altered cell growth, and cellular senescence. In addition, we observed a persistence of DNA damage after cisplatin exposure, compared to control cells. In conclusion, the MDPL nuclear and cellular findings resemble features observed in other progeroid syndromes and familial lipodystrophies. Although further investigations will be necessary, these information could be used to establish targeted therapeutic approaches.