Metabolic Health Research Articles

Metabolic, cardiac, and bone health testing in patients with prostate cancer on androgen-deprivation therapy: A population-based assessment of adherence to therapeutic monitoring guidelines.

Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) remains a cornerstone in treatment for patients with advanced prostate cancer. ADT is associated with several adverse effects, including osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular events, leading to guidelines recommending routine testing to monitor for these toxicities. There is a lack of data assessing adherence to these recommendations. The authors conducted a retrospective cohort study using administrative data from Ontario, Canada between 2008 and 2021. They identified all older men (aged 65 years and older) who received ADT for prostate cancer using comprehensive provincial health databases. The primary outcomes were the use of testing for lipids, dysglycemia (glucose), bone health serum, and bone density between 6 weeks before and 1 year after the initiation of ADT. In total, 29,097 patients were examined, of whom 52.8% were prescribed ADT by urologists, 37.9% were prescribed ADT by radiation oncologists, 2.8% were prescribed ADT by medical oncologists, and 2.4% were prescribed ADT by other physicians. Adherence to guidelines was low: only 21.3% of patients received a bone density scan, 41.2% underwent bone health-related serum tests, 51.3% completed a lipid profile, and 65.9% underwent dysglycemia testing within 1 year of diagnosis. Overall, only 11.9% of patients received all of the recommended investigations. Adherence to testing did not appear to improve over time (2008-2021) or with guideline publication. Patient (age) and physician (specialty) factors had important associations with adherence to testing. Most patients receiving ADT for prostate cancer do not receive recommended testing to monitor for treatment-related toxicity. Further study is required to address barriers to therapeutic monitoring of men on ADT and to reduce treatment-associated adverse events.

Pharmacists' Knowledge, Perception, and Prescribing Practice of Probiotics in the UAE: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The human body is a complex and interconnected system where trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota, coexist with these cells. Besides maintaining digestive health, this relationship also impacts well-being, including immune function, metabolism, and mental health. As frontline healthcare providers, pharmacists are pivotal in promoting the benefits of probiotics for immune support. This study explored pharmacists' knowledge, perception, and practice behavior in the UAE towards the implication of probiotic application beyond digestive health, such as cardiovascular and mental health impacts and their diverse dosage forms. An online self-administered survey was distributed among pharmacists in the UAE. Data were collected through personal visits to pharmacies, where pharmacists were approached and asked to complete the questionnaire. The sample size included 407 pharmacists, determined using the formula for proportions with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 29. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics and survey responses. The knowledge levels were categorized into poor, moderate, and good. Chi-square analysis was employed to investigate associations between demographic factors and knowledge levels, with a significance level set at p < 0.05, enhancing the robustness of the study's findings. This study included 407 completed eligible responses. About 63.56% of participants were female, with 52.1% employed in pharmacy chains. While 91.2% of pharmacists recognized probiotics' role in immune support, only 30% were aware of their cardiovascular benefits. Moreover, chewing gum was the least known dosage form of probiotics, recognized by only 16.7% of respondents. Additionally, only 57% of the participants recognized liposomes as a dosage form. In practice, most pharmacists recommended storing probiotics at room temperature, accounting for 66.6%. The most prevalent misconception encountered in the pharmacy setting was the belief that probiotics are primarily intended for gastrointestinal tract problems, at 79.1% of the respondents. Regarding perception, the agreement was observed regarding the safety of probiotics for all ages. Perceived barriers included the high cost of probiotics, with the majority (86.5%) indicating this as a significant obstacle, while lack of demand was identified as the minor barrier by 64.6%. Additionally, an association was found at a significance level of p < 0.05 with knowledge, gender, educational level, type and location of pharmacy, and source of information. The study highlights knowledge gaps in pharmacists' understanding of probiotic applications beyond digestive health, particularly cardiovascular health and depression. Targeted educational interventions are necessary to address these gaps. The findings underscore the importance of ongoing professional development for pharmacists, enhancing their role in patient education and the promotion of probiotics for overall health.

Gene Enrichment and Pathway Analysis for Ketosis Resistance in Dairy Cattle: A GWAS-Based Approach

Ketosis in dairy cattle is a common metabolic disorder that arises during the transition period from late gestation to early lactation. It is primarily caused by an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, leading to an excessive accumulation of ketone bodies. This condition can significantly affect cattle health and productivity. Recent advances in genomic research, especially genome-wide association studies (GWAS), offer an opportunity to explore the genetic factors that contribute to ketosis resistance. The aim of this study is to comprehensively review and analyze existing GWAS data using gene enrichment analysis to identify potential functional candidate gene pathways associated with ketosis resistance in dairy cattle. In this study, data obtained from seven different studies were examined and 640 non-repetitive genes were obtained after filtering. Using Enrichr, an online tool for gene annotation, pathway analysis was performed with human homologs of the identified genes. Our findings highlight the acylglycerol homeostasis pathway, the regulation of triglyceride metabolism, and the role of chylomicrons in maintaining metabolic balance during ketosis. Additionally, immune response pathways were found to be linked to the genes associated with ketosis, offering insights into the intricate interplay between metabolic and immune pathways in ketosis. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding genetic factors in developing breeding strategies aimed at enhancing metabolic health and productivity in dairy cattle. Future research should focus on validating these candidate genes and exploring their mechanistic roles to facilitate targeted interventions and improve resistance to ketosis in dairy herds.

Metabolic kinetics and muscle and brain health markers in older adults, and the role of age and presence of chronic morbidities: A large cross-sectional cohort study

Background & aimsOlder adults are at risk for muscle and cognitive function decline during advanced aging, but the underlying metabolic mechanisms and the role of aging-associated chronic morbidities remain unclear. In the present study, we examined whether protein and amino acid kinetics in older adults with and without chronic morbidities are different when 50-70 and 70-90 of age and related to markers of muscle and brain health declines. MethodsIn a large cross-sectional observational study, 575 older adults from 12 trials (2014-2022) were stratified based on their age (50-70y vs. 70-95y) and the presence of chronic morbidities. The main outcomes were whole-body production (WBP) and interconversions of amino acids by stable amino acid tracers, body composition, and muscle and cognitive performance. Additionally, the association between metabolic markers and muscle and brain health was assessed. ResultsOverall lower muscle strength, muscle and fat mass, and cognitive function (p<0.03), but no mood disturbances, were found in 70-95y compared to 50-70y older adults. Presence of morbidities was associated with lower muscle strength and mass, and cognitive function, but higher visceral adipose tissue, and mood disturbances (p<0.05). Aging was associated with suppressed WBP of most amino acids, de novo arginine production, and net protein breakdown, but higher myofibrillar protein breakdown (p<0.007). Presence of morbidities was associated with lower WBP of glutamine, glutamate, histidine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and net protein breakdown, and higher WBP of valine and taurine (p<0.04). Age showed significant negative correlations with WBP of nearly all amino acids, de novo arginine production and net protein breakdown (r: [-0.407, -0.136], p<0.01) but a positive correlation with WBP of myofibrillar protein breakdown (r=0.133, p=0.009). Lean mass showed positive correlations with de novo arginine production and net protein breakdown and WBP of all amino acids except for isoleucine (r: [0.16, 0.799], p<0.005). Worse cognitive performance was positively associated with WBP of tau-methylhistidine and taurine (r: [0.13, 0.141], p<0.04), but negatively associated with WBP of glycine, valine, and net protein breakdown (r: [-0.222, -0.135], p<0.05). ConclusionComprehensive phenotyping of a large group of older adults revealed differences in metabolic health in response to advanced aging and chronic morbidities. Poor muscle health accompanied by advanced aging was associated with overall metabolic downregulation, except for enhanced myofibrillar (muscle) protein breakdown. Presence of chronic morbidities was further associated with disturbed muscle health, mood, arginine, and taurine pathways, and higher visceral adipose tissue. Therefore, different phenotypes among older adults need to be considered when evaluating therapeutic approaches to improve muscle and brain health.

Level of prooxidant-antioxidant status in highly productive cows with comorbid obstetric, gynecological and orthopedic pathology

The lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense system is a balanced system responsible for the processing and utilization of lipids in the body’s cells. It plays an important role in lipid metabolism, cell protection and overall health of the body. Its proper functioning is necessary to ensure optimal functioning of cells and organs throughout the body. The article clinically and experimentally substantiates the pathogenetic role of lipid peroxidation products and the level of antioxidant protection in cows with endometritis and purulent-necrotic processes in the finger area, as well as with the comorbid course of endometritis and orthopedic pathology. It has been shown that multimorbid manifestation is accompanied by a more severe course than individual diseases. It has been established that the development of postpartum endometritis and purulent-necrotic lesions of the limbs in cows is accompanied by a highly significant increase in lipid peroxidation products in the blood serum against the background of a decrease in the amount of antioxidant enzymes, with the exception of ceruloplasmin. Moreover, these changes are accompanied by a sharp jump in the comorbid course of endometritis and orthopedic pathology in highly productive animals.

Effect of Bacillus velezensis T23 solid-state fermentation product on growth, gut and liver health, and gut microbiota of common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Nowadays, the fermented products of probiotics have been playing a significant role in aquaculture and become an emerging research interest. This study evaluated the 0, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 g/kg solid state fermentation product of Bacillus velezensis T23 supplemented diets (39 % crude protein and 10 % crude fat) on the growth, lipid metabolism, liver and intestinal health, and gut microbiota of Cyprinus carpio (2.51 ± 0.01 g) by physio-biochemical, histomorphological and gut microbiome methods. The results showed that in the 0.4 T23 group, the weight gain was significantly increased (p < 0.05), compared to the control. In the 0.3 and 0.4 T23 groups, the expressions of lipogenesis-related genes (fas, acc, srebp and pparγ) were significantly down-regulated, while the expressions of lipolysis-related (pparα, lpl, fabp1 and apo-po) genes were up-regulated. Furthermore, the levels of serum ALT and AST were decreased notably (p < 0.05), whereas T-AOC and SOD activity were increased significantly in the 0.3 and 0.4 T23 groups, compared with the control. Pro-inflammatory genes (nf-kb, tnf-α, and il-1β) were downregulated in 0.3 and 0.4 T23 groups (p < 0.05). Anti-inflammatory related genes (il-10 and tgf-β) were upregulated in 0.3 T23 groups. This result had been supported by liver histomorphology that T23 diets had decreased the levels of liver health biomarkers and intestinal injury and improve the hepatic antioxidant capacity. Dietary supplementation of T23 at a level of 0.3 g/kg increased α-diversity and the relative abundance of Fusobacteriota (phylum) and Cetobacterium (genus). The ratio of “(Fusobacteriota+Firmicutes+Bacteroidota)/Proteobacteria” in 0.3 and 0.4 T23 groups was significantly increased, compared with the control group. Hence, this study clarified that the addition of solid state fermentation product of B. velezensis T23 to the diet (0.3 and 0.4 g/kg) of common carp improves inflammatory response, liver and gut health, and modulates the intestinal microbiota of carp positively.

Metabolic Effect of Acute Lead and Restraint Stress Exposure on Female Wistar Rats

Lead is a common environmental toxicant while restraint stress is primarily a psychological stressor. Lead exposure and psychological stressors, are known to exert adverse effects on metabolic health independently. The aim of this study is to investigate the metabolic effects of acute lead and restraint stress exposure in female Wistar rats. Twenty-four (24) female Wistar rats weighing 180 - 240 grams were randomly divided into four (4) groups (n=6): Control (CTL), Restraint stress alone (RSA), Lead acetate alone (LDA), Restraint stress + Lead acetate (RSL). The duration of the study was 21 days. The lead acetate alone group were orally administered 100mg/kg of lead acetate, the restraint stress alone group were restrained for 1 hour daily and the restraint stress + lead group were administered lead acetate and restrained for 1 hour daily. Twenty-four hours post last lead administration and restraint stress exposure, all animals were anesthetized and sacrificed. Blood was collected via cardiac puncture for biochemical analysis. Results showed serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TAG) and total cholesterol (CHO) levels in lead alone and restraint stress alone groups were significantly increased (p&lt;0.05) compared with control. The restraint + lead group showed a significant increase in serum LDL, TAG and CHO levels when compared with control, lead alone and restraint stress alone groups. Serum HDL levels showed no significant difference across all groups. Serum glucose, insulin and cortisol levels in lead alone and restraint stress alone groups were significantly increased (p&lt;0.05) when compared with control. The restraint + lead group showed a significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in serum glucose, insulin and cortisol levels when compared with control, lead alone and restraint alone groups. In conclusion, this study showed that exposure to restraint stress and lead has a significant effect on the metabolic profile of female Wistar rats.

Harnessing Prebiotics to Improve Type 2 Diabetes Outcomes.

The gut microbiota, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract (GI), plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic health and influencing disease susceptibility. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut microbiota, has been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through mechanisms such as reduced glucose tolerance and increased insulin resistance. A balanced gut microbiota, or eubiosis, is associated with improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Various strategies, including the use of prebiotics like inulin, fructooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, resistant starch, pectic oligosaccharides, polyphenols, β-glucan, and Dendrobium officinale have been shown to improve gut microbial composition and support glycemic control in T2DM patients. These prebiotics can directly impact blood sugar levels while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, thus enhancing glycemic control. Studies have shown that T2DM patients often exhibit a decrease in beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria, like Roseburia and Faecalibacterium, and an increase in harmful bacteria, such as Escherichia and Prevotella. This review aims to explore the effects of different prebiotics on T2DM, their impact on gut microbiota composition, and the potential for personalized dietary interventions to optimize diabetes management and improve overall health outcomes.

Hexokinase Domain Containing 1 (HKDC1) Gene Variants and Their Association With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Mini-Review

Abstract Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common metabolic disorder during the gestational period. Maternal glucose metabolism differs significantly from nonpregnant levels during pregnancy, with increased insulin resistance being the main physiological response. Maternal glucose levels during pregnancy, have a significant impact on the development of early and long-term metabolic health of the offspring. Therefore, a better understanding of the GDM pathophysiology is needed. Hexokinase domain containing 1 (HKDC1) gene was discovered as a gene related to glucose metabolism during pregnancy compared with nongravid state. HKDC1 plays a critical role in glucose homeostasis during pregnancy. Haplotypes of HKDC1 genetic variants associated with 2-h plasma glucose (2hPG) in pregnancy, disrupt regulatory element activity, thereby reducing HKDC1 expression in different tissues. The association of HKDC1 variants with gestational diabetes and 2hPG was investigated in several ethnic groups. These studies suggested that HKDC1 plays a more important role in glucose metabolism during pregnancy than outside of it and also demonstrated that while GDM and type 2 diabetes mellitus have many similarities, there are differences in at least one underlying pathway. This review focuses on the findings of the genetic studies on HKDC1 and GDM.

Loss of adipose ATF3 promotes adipose tissue lipolysis and the development of MASH

The crosstalk between adipose tissue and the liver is finely controlled to maintain metabolic health. Yet, how adipose tissue controls toxic free fatty acid overflow into the liver remains incompletely understood. Here, we show that adipocyte activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) was induced in human or mouse obesity. Adipocyte Atf3−/− (Atf3Adi−/−) mice developed obesity, glucose intolerance, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) in chow diet, high-fat diet, or Western diet-fed mice. Blocking fatty acid flux by inhibiting hepatocyte CD36, but not the restoration of hepatic AMPK signaling, prevented the aggravation of MASH in Atf3Adi−/− mice. Further studies show that the loss of adipocyte ATF3 increased lipolysis via inducing adipose triglyceride lipase, which in turn induced lipogenesis and inflammation in hepatocytes. Moreover, Atf3Adi−/− mice had reduced energy expenditure and increased adipose lipogenesis and inflammation. Our data demonstrate that adipocyte ATF3 is a gatekeeper in counteracting MASH development under physiological and pathological conditions.

NBF2, an Algal Fiber-Rich Formula, Reverses Diabetic Dyslipidemia and Hyperglycemia In Vivo.

Ulva prolifera, known as Aonori in Japan, is an edible alga species that is mass-cultivated in Japan. Supplementation with Aonori-derived biomaterials has been reported to enhance metabolic health in previous studies. This was an experimental study that evaluated the metabolic health effects of NBF2, a formula made of algal and junos Tanaka citrus-derived biomaterials, on obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). We used 18 obese and hyperglycemic Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats that were assigned randomly to three groups of six animals: a high-dose NBF2 drink (20 mg/kg) group, a low-dose (10 mg/kg) NBF2 drink group and the control group that received 2 mL of tap water daily for a total of six weeks. We also used eight LETO rats as the normal control group. In addition to the glucose tolerance test (OGTT), ELISA and real-time PCR assays were performed. High-dose and lowdose NBF2 improved insulin sensitivity, as well as glycemic and lipid profiles, as compared with control rats. The OGTT showed that both NBF2 groups and LETO rats had normalized glycemia by the 90-min time-point. NBF2 up-regulated PPARα/γ-mRNA and Sirt2-mRNA gene expressions in BAT and improved the blood pressure profile. These findings suggest that the NBF2 formula, which activates PPAR-α/γ mRNA and Sirt2-mRNA, may reverse dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia in T2DM.

Relationship between morphometric measurements and blood parameters in horses with varying adiposity levels and physiological conditions.

Understanding and finding the correlation between morphometric measurements and horse blood parameters is crucial for predicting equine metabolic issues. This study aims to analyse morphometric measurements and blood samples in horses with varying adiposity levels. Cross-sectional observational. A total of 50 horses were included in the study and categorized into groups based on their body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS). The insulin concentration was significantly higher in overweight horses (p=0.022). Female horses exhibited higher cortisol concentrations (p=0.025) and girth circumference at the withers (p=0.004) compared to males. Lactating mares exhibited higher concentrations of serum total protein (p=0.012) and globulin (p=0.003). A positive correlation was observed between BCS and insulin concentrations (r=0.290, p=0.041). Negative correlations were found between neck circumference to height at withers and glucose (r=-0.309, p=0.029), CNS and glucose (r=-0.315, p=0.026) as well as between crest diameter and cortisol (r=-0.360, p=0.01). Increasing the sample size and conducting longitudinal studies would enhance the study's validity and reliability. Although insulin, glucose and cortisol concentrations have predictive capabilities based on signs and certain morphometric measurements, their correlations are not always strong. Therefore, this study challenges the notion that all overweight horses are unhealthy, as overweight horses can still have good metabolic health. Conversely, lean horses may also experience metabolic issues. Hence, relying solely on visual cues is insufficient to diagnose the metabolic status of horses. Other factors must also be considered to assess their health status accurately.

Association of metabolically healthy obesity with risk of heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction among older adults.

Obesity is major cause of heart failure (HF), but it is related with a better prognosis among the elderly. Therefore, we aimed to examine whether metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) in late life increases HF risk and is reflected in impaired left ventricular (LV) function. The participants were grouped into four metabolic phenotypes based on obesity and metabolic status: metabolically healthy non-obesity (MHN), MHO, metabolically unhealthy non-obesity (MUN), metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO). Association of metabolic phenotypes with LV function was evaluated using multiple linear regression models. And association between metabolic phenotypes and risk of HF was assessed using multivariable logistic regression models. In addition, we validated the association of metabolic phenotypes and HF risk in a separate longitudinal cohort. In the primary cohort of 6335 participant, there were 434 participants diagnosed with HF. Compared to MHN participants, the risk of HF was higher among older individuals with MUN (OR = 1.51 [95% CI: 1.14-1.99]) and MUO (OR = 2.01 [95% CI: 1.39-2.91]), but not older individuals with MHO (OR = 0.86 [95% CI: 0.30-2.43). Regarding to LV function, worse LV diastolic function was noted among MUN and MUO individuals rather than MHO individuals. Older adults with MHO were also not associated with risk of HF in the validation cohort. Among older individuals, the metabolic health status might modify the association of obesity with risk of HF and LV diastolic dysfunction. Worse LV diastolic function and higher risk of HF were just noted in individuals with MUO, but not in those with MHO.

Ultra-processed foods intake in relation to metabolic health status, serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor and adropin levels in adults

BackgroundIn recent years, there has been a lot of discussion over the impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) intake on overall health of subjects. However, the association between UPFs intake and metabolic unhealthy (MU) status is still in a state of ambiguity. The current study assessed the relationship between UPFs intake and MU status with regard to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and adropin levels.MethodsA sample of Iranian adults (aged 20–65 years) was selected to participate in this cross-sectional study using a multistage cluster random-sampling method. UPFs intake was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire and NOVA classification. Concentrations of metabolic parameters, BDNF and adropin were determined through fasting blood samples. MU status was assessed according to the criteria proposed by Wildman.ResultsThe overall prevalence of MU phenotype among study participants (n = 527) was 42.5%. Higher intake of UPFs was associated with elevated odds of MU status in multivariable-adjusted model (ORT3 vs. T1=1.88; 95%CI: 1.02–3.45). Moreover, a positive association was observed between UPFs intake and hypertriglyceridemia after controlling all confounders (ORT3 vs. T1=2.07; 95%CI: 1.15–3.73). However, each tertile increase in UPFs intake was not significantly associated with serum BDNF (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:\\beta\\:$$\\end{document}=0.15; 95%CI: -0.05, 0.34; P = 0.14) and adropin (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\:\\beta\\:$$\\end{document}=-1.37; 95%CI: -6.16, 3.42; P = 0.58) levels in multivariable-adjusted linear regression models.ConclusionOur findings suggested that higher consumption of UPFs was related to increased likelihood of MU status among a sample of Iranian adults. Further longitudinal studies are needed to verify the directionality and generalizability of the results to all adult populations.

Effects of Menopause and High Fat Diet on Metabolic Outcomes in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease.

About two-thirds of those with Alzheimer's disease (AD) are women, most of whom are post-menopausal. Menopause accelerates dementia risk by increasing the risk for metabolic, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular diseases. Mid-life metabolic disease (obesity, diabetes/prediabetes) is a well-known risk factor for dementia. A high fat diet can lead to poor metabolic health in both humans and rodents. Our goal was to determine the effects of a high fat diet on metabolic outcomes in the AppNL-F knock-in mouse model of AD and assess the effects of menopause. First, 3-month-old AppNL-F and WT female mice were placed on either a control or a high fat diet until 10 months of age then assessed for metabolic outcomes. Next, we did a more extensive assessment in AppNL-F mice that were administered VCD (4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide) or vehicle (oil) and placed on a control or high fat diet for 7 months. VCD was used to model menopause by causing accelerated ovarian failure. Compared to WT controls, AD female mice had worse glucose intolerance. Menopause led to metabolic impairment (weight gain and glucose intolerance) and further exacerbated obesity in response to a high fat diet. There were interactions between diet and menopause on some metabolic health serum biomarkers and the expression of hypothalamic markers related to energy balance. This work highlights the need to model endocrine aging in animal models of dementia and will contribute to further understanding the interaction between menopause and metabolic health in the context of AD.

Multisystem Health Consequences of Prenatal Hyperandrogenism in Offspring

Objective: Prenatal hyperandrogenism, characterized by elevated androgen levels during pregnancy, has significant multisystem impacts on offspring health. This review systematically examines the effects of prenatal hyperandrogenism on the cardiovascular, metabolic, reproductive, and behavioral health of offspring. By analyzing existing research, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the long-term health impacts of prenatal hyperandrogenism, offering insights for clinical management and prevention of related diseases. Mechanism: A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed database with the key words: “hyperandrogenemia and child”, “hyperandrogenemia and offspring”, “androgen excess and child”, “androgen excess and offspring”, “prenatal hyperandrogenism”, “prenatal androgen excess”, and a combination of these terms to find quality articles published from 1995 to 2024. Findings in Brief: Elevated prenatal androgen levels disrupt normal fetal development, leading to long-term consequences such as cardiovascular dysfunction, including hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy, and metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. It has a significant impact on the long-term health of the offspring’s reproductive system, with potential links to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Furthermore, prenatal hyperandrogenism is associated with increased risks of neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and anxiety. Conclusions: Elevated prenatal androgen levels disrupt normal fetal development, leading to long-term cardiovascular, metabolic, reproductive, and neuropsychiatric disorders. The underlying mechanisms involve hormonal regulation, placental function, oxidative stress, gene expression alterations, and metabolic programming. Further research is needed to develop effective interventions to mitigate these adverse effects.

Exploring the heterogeneity of hepatic and pancreatic fat deposition in obesity: implications for metabolic health.

This retrospective observational study investigates the heterogeneity of hepatic and pancreatic fat deposition and its implications for metabolic health in individuals with obesity. A total of 706 patients with obesity underwent an MRI to quantify liver and pancreatic fat. Patients were classified into four groups based on fat deposition: no fat (None), fatty pancreas only (NAFPD), fatty liver only (NAFLD), and both conditions (NAFLD+NAFPD). Biochemical profiles, insulin resistance (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance, HOMA-IR), and β-cell function were analyzed. A series of multiple linear regressions were used to investigate the independent effects of characteristics on glucose, insulin, and C-peptide at 0h. Another multiple linear regression was performed to evaluate the effects of basic characteristics on average liver fat, mean pancreatic fat, and visceral fat. The majority (76.63%) exhibited both NAFLD and NAFPD, highlighting the heterogeneity of fat deposition among individuals with obesity. Groups with fatty liver displayed significantly higher fasting glucose, insulin, C-peptide, and HOMA-IR levels than those without fatty liver (P < 0.01). Fatty pancreas alone did not significantly influence these metabolic parameters (P > 0.05). This underscores the greater metabolic impact of hepatic fat compared to pancreatic fat. The study confirms the complex heterogeneity of fat deposition in obesity, with the fatty liver being a more influential factor in metabolic disturbances than the fatty pancreas. The prevalent co-occurrence of NAFLD and NAFPD in this population underscores the need for targeted management strategies focusing on hepatic fat reduction to mitigate metabolic risk.

The fetal origins of metabolic health: exploring the association between newborn biological age and metabolism hormones in childhood

BackgroundTelomere length (TL), mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn), and DNA methylation age (DNAmAge) are common aging biomarkers. However, research on the associations between these three markers at birth and subsequent metabolic status was limited. This study aimed to evaluate the association between TL, mtDNAcn, and DNAmAge in newborns and the variation in metabolic hormones of children at 3 years old.MethodsThis research involved 895 mother–child pairs from a birth cohort in China, with TL and mtDNAcn measured using quantitative real-time PCR, DNA methylation (DNAm) assessed using Infinium MethylationEPIC Beadchip, and DNAm age (DNAmAge) determined using Horvath’s epigenetic clock. Insulin and leptin levels were measured via electrochemiluminescence assay. Multivariable adjusted linear regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis were utilized to examine the association between aging markers and metabolic hormones.ResultsThe linear regression analysis indicated the percentage change of metabolism hormones for per doubling of aging biomarkers alterations and found significant associations between DNAmAge and insulin levels (adjusted percent change (95% CI), − 13.22 (− 23.21 to − 1.94)), TL and leptin levels (adjusted percent change (95% CI), 15.32 (1.32 to 31.24)), and mtDNAcn and leptin levels (adjusted percent change (95% CI), − 14.13 (− 21.59 to − 5.95)). The RCS analysis revealed significant non-linear associations between TL (Ln transformed) and insulin (Ln transformed) (P = 0.024 for nonlinearity), as well as DNAmAge (Ln transformed) and leptin (Ln transformed) (P = 0.043 for nonlinearity). Specifically, for TL and insulin, a positive association was observed when TL (Ln transformed) was less than − 0.05, which transitioned to an inverse association when TL (Ln transformed) was greater than − 0.05. Regarding DNAmAge and leptin, there was a sharp decline when DNAmAge (Ln transformed) was less than − 1.35, followed by a plateau between − 1.35 and − 0.67 and then a further decline when DNAmAge (Ln transformed) was greater than − 0.67.ConclusionsIn this prospective birth cohort study, variation in metabolic hormones of children at 3 years old was associated with TL, mtDNAcn, and DNAmAge at birth. These findings suggested that TL, mtDNAcn, and DNAmAge might play a role in the biological programming of metabolic health from birth.

Telerehabilitation Program Impact on Overactive Bladder Symptoms and Metabolic Health in Obese Women: a Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION. Overactive bladder syndrome is caused by many factors including obesity, insulin resistance and poor dietary habits. Since it is a chronic disease and needs time to be treated, introducing telepilates in addition to Mediterranean diet would encourage better adherence and results to the treatment program. AIM. To assess the impact of a virtual group-based telerehabilitation program on overactive bladder symptoms and metabolic health in women with obesity. MATERIAL AND METHODS. Eighty obese women (BMI 30.0–34.9 kg/m2) between the ages of 35 and 45 were allocated into two equal groups, 40 for each: (A) supervised telepilates and (B) unsupervised telepilates. The supervised group participated in a 12-week Pilates workout program over videoconference platforms three times a week. Meanwhile, the unsupervised group only received four online meetings. The groups’ diet was the Mediterranean style. The Hemostatic Model of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), Patient Perception of Urgency Scale (PPIUS), Overactive Bladder Questionnaire Short Form (OAB-q SF), and Telehealth Usability Scale (TUS) were measured. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION. The supervised telepilates group exhibited statistically significant amelioration of overactive bladder symptoms and a reduction in HOMA-IR (p 0.001), while the unsupervised telepilates group showed insignificant changes in these measures (p 0.05). Furthermore, the supervised telepilates group showed significantly greater reductions in BMI and WC (p 0.001) than the unsupervised telepilates group (p 0.05). Additionally, the supervised telegroup outperformed the unsupervised telegroup on all parameters of TUS (p 0.001) CONCLUSION. Women with obesity experienced decrease in overactive bladder symptoms and improved metabolic health after completing a 12-week telepilates training program.

Metabolic syndrome in the setting of obesity: impact on in-hospital complications and outcomes after total knee and hip arthroplasty.

This study aims to evaluate the impact of metabolic syndrome in the setting of obesity on in-hospital outcomes and resource use after total joint replacement (TJR). A retrospective analysis was conducted using the National Inpatient Sample from 2006 to the third quarter of 2015. Discharges representing patients aged 40 years and older with obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2) who underwent primary TJR were included. Patients were stratified into two groups with and without metabolic syndrome. The inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) method was used to balance covariates. The obese cohort with metabolic syndrome was significantly older, more likely to be female, had higher rates of Medicare insurance, and more likely to be non-Hispanic Black than the obese cohort without metabolic syndrome. In the unweighted analysis, patients with obesity and metabolic syndrome were more likely to experience cardiac, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and postoperative anemia complications, had a longer length of stay, and were less likely to be discharged home compared to obese patients without metabolic syndrome. After adjusting for covariates using IPTW, patients with obesity and metabolic syndrome were more likely to experience postoperative anemia complications only and had lower rates of home discharge, but there were no significant differences in any other complication variables or length of stay. Given the variability of metabolic health in obesity, the development of tailored perioperative protocols and recommendations acknowledging this variability in metabolic health in obese patients would ultimately potentially benefit patients and improve outcomes of TJR.