Prevalence Of Metabolic Disorders Research Articles

PREGNANCY OUTCOMES IN WOMEN WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES COMPARED WITH THE GENERAL OBSTETRIC POPULATION

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most prevalent metabolic disorder during pregnancy. It is described as the vulnerability to impaired glucose tolerance of multiple severities, usually during pregnancy. Objective: To compare pregnancy outcome in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnant women in general population. Patients and Methods: A prospective non-intervention observational study was conducted in Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Samanoud General Hospital and Private Clinics during the period from October 2017 to October 2020. This study included 200 primigravida singleton pregnant women between 24 weeks and 28 weeks of gestation divided into two equal groups: case group included pregnant women attended for their routine antenatal care and discovered to have gestational diabetes and control group included normal healthy pregnant women attended for their routine antenatal care. Results: Fetal weight was significantly higher among study group than controls. Fetal complications in the form of Large for Gestational Age (LGA), premature, shoulder dystocia, hypoglycemia and hyperbilirubinemia were significantly higher among study group than controls. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission was significantly higher among study group was (14%) than controls (3%). Conclusion: Increased maternal and fetal morbidity is linked with maternity gestational diabetes. Early screening, diagnosis, closer monitoring, and intervention were also important to minimize short and long-term maternal and fetal adverse effects, in particular in populations that are high-risk.

Caracterización del perfil lipídico en pacientes con síndrome de Sjögren primario

IntroductionDyslipidaemia is the most prevalent metabolic disorder in primary Sjögren's syndrome (PSS) and an association between low HDL cholesterol levels and disease activity has been suggested. ObjectivesThe purpose of this study is to describe the characteristics of the lipid profile in patients with PSS and explore the correlation between the components of the lipid profile and the activity of the disease. Materials and methodsA descriptive cross-sectional study. We reviewed the medical records of patients over 18 years of age with criteria for PSS who attended the Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael during the period between January 2015 to December 2019. We used R-studio software version 4.0.2 for statistical analysis. A descriptive analysis of the clinical-demographic and serological variables was carried out to evaluate the correlation between them. ResultsA total of 250 medical records were reviewed, of which 35 met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 53.4 years and 88.3% were women. The median duration of disease was 42 months. The mean values for total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides were 191 mg/dL, 42.6 mg/dL, 118.9 mg/dL and 157 mg/dL respectively. A Pearson correlation coefficient of -.43 (95% CI -.67 to -.12) p-value = .008 was found between the ESSDAI activity index and HDL cholesterol. A linear model was performed between the total ESSDAI activity index and HDL cholesterol, finding an estimated coefficient of -.17. A ROC curve was performed with an HDL cholesterol segregation point of 43.5 mg/dL with an area under the curve of .603 (95% CI .40-.80). By excluding patients with high BMI, the area under the curve improved with a segregation point of 38 mg/dL. ConclusionsPatients with low levels of HDL cholesterol showed higher rates of disease activity, with a cut-off point lower than 43 mg/dL being more marked in patients with normal body mass index.

Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Links Hypercholesterolemia and Bladder Cancer Aggressiveness by Promoting Cancer Stemness.

Hypercholesterolemia is a prevalent metabolic disorder that has been implicated in the development of steroid-targeted cancers. However, the link between hypercholesterolemia and urinary bladder cancer (UBC), a non-steroid-targeted cancer, remains unresolved. Here we show that diet-induced and Ldlr deficiency-induced hypercholesterolemia enhances both UBC stemness and progression. Inhibition of intestinal cholesterol absorption by ezetimibe reversed diet-induced hypercholesterolemia and cancer stemness. As a key component in hypercholesterolemic sera, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), but not native low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol or metabolite 27-hydroxycholesterol, increased cancer stemness through its receptor CD36. Depletion of CD36, ectopic expression of an ox-LDL binding-disabled mutant form of CD36(K164A), and the neutralization of ox-LDL and CD36 via neutralizing antibodies all reversed ox-LDL-induced cancer stemness. Mechanistically, ox-LDL enhanced the interaction of CD36 and JAK2, inducing phosphorylation of JAK2 and subsequently activating STAT3 signaling, which was not mediated by JAK1 or Src in UBC cells. Finally, ox-LDL levels in serum predicted poor prognosis, and the ox-LDLhigh signature predicted worse survival in patients with UBC. These findings indicate that ox-LDL links hypercholesterolemia with UBC progression by enhancing cancer stemness. Lowering serum ox-LDL or targeting the CD36/JAK2/STAT3 axis might serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for UBCs with hypercholesterolemia. Moreover, elevated ox-LDL may serve as a biomarker for UBC. SIGNIFICANCE: This study demonstrates how hypercholesterolemia-induced oxidized LDL promotes urinary bladder cancer stemness via a CD36/STAT3 signaling axis, highlighting these factors as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets of aggressive disease.

Metabolic syndrome among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Lagos: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionThe availability and ease of accessibility of highly active antiretroviral therapy have changed the horizon of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) pandemic from a fatal illness to a chronic lifelong disease. People living with HIV (PLWH) are living longer, as such there is an increasing risk of acquiring chronic diseases such as non-communicable diseases Methods and MaterialsA cross-sectional study among adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV) attending the HIV clinic of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research. Anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist circumference, and body mass index) were obtained and expressed as age and sex-adjusted z scores. Blood pressure readings were taken, and blood samples were collected and analyzed for fasting blood sugar, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc). Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was diagnosed if an individual satisfies at least three of five criteria as defined by the National Cholesterol Education Programme Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III). Data obtained was analyzed using the SPSS version 23.0. ResultsThe mean age of the participants was 15.8 ± 3.1 years with 63.6% on antiretroviral therapy for at least 5 years and non-Protease Inhibitor therapy respectively. The prevalence of MetS based on the NCEP ATPIII criteria was 1.3%, while 56.3% of the participants satisfied at least one component of MetS. The most prevalent metabolic disorder was low HDLc (41.6%), hypertriglyceridemia (19.5%), hypertension (11.7%), and hyperglycemia (5.2%). None of the participants was overweight/obese. These metabolic features may lead to early onset cardiovascular disease. Conclusion. It is therefore important that routine care of AYLHIV should include screening and follow-up for these risk factors.

Baicalein Enhances the Effect of Acarbose on the Improvement of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Associated with Prediabetes via the Inhibition of De Novo Lipogenesis.

Prediabetes is a prevalent metabolic disorder with multiple complications, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this study, we investigated the combinatorial effect of baicalein, a dietary flavonoid abundant in multiple edible plants, and acarbose on prediabetes-associated NAFLD. Baicalein and its metabolites inhibited de novo lipogenesis (DNL), thereby decreasing lipid accumulation and hepatokine secretion in oleic acid-induced hepatocytes. Carbohydrate restriction, which mimicked the effect of acarbose, led to comparable results. The combinatorial effect of baicalein and acarbose was further verified in prediabetic mice with NAFLD. Through the 16-week intervention, baicalein and acarbose inhibited DNL and improved glucose tolerance, oxidative stress, liver histology, and hepatokine secretion, thereby ameliorating insulin resistance and NAFLD. Our study demonstrated that baicalein enhanced the effect of acarbose on improving NAFLD and explored the underlying multitarget mechanism, laying a theoretical foundation for the development of flavonoid dietary supplements for the simultaneous improvement of NAFLD and prediabetes.

The Trend of Scientific Productions on the Use of Herbal Medicines in Metabolic Disorders in the Middle East Countries

Context: Prevalence of metabolic disorders, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), dyslipidemia, obesity, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and osteoporosis has been increased. Herbal medicine is an accessible, safe, and low-cost option in managing and caring for metabolic disorders. We conducted a bibliometric analysis of global scientific productions in herbal medications and metabolic disorders in the Middle East countries. Study Selection: Our search terms were “diabetes”, “dyslipidemia”, “obesity”, “osteoporosis”, “metabolic syndrome”, “herb”, and “herbal medicine” in Middle East countries through the Scopus database until January 2020. We analyzed the data regarding publication year, main journal, geographical distribution, document type, subject area, co-authorship network, the h-index of citations by Scopus analysis tools, Visualizing Scientific Landscapes (VOSviewer) version 1.6.4, and SPSS version 15. Results: Among 6408 global publications, most of the papers (> 85%) were original articles, and mostly (44.26%) were about dyslipidemia. A significant time-trend was shown in the number of documents (P < 0.001), mostly in 2019. Medicine and pharmacology were subject areas in > 80% of papers. The top country in the global publication number was Iran. The highest cited papers in dyslipidemia, obesity and osteoporosis were original articles from Turkey and Egypt, but in T2DM and MetS the highest cited paper was a review article from Iran. The top sources were “Phytotherapy Research” and “the Journal of Ethnopharmacology”. The top institutes were from Egypt, Iran, and Saudi Arabia and the principal author in the co-authorship network assessment was from Iran. Conclusions: The time-trend growth in producing scholarly papers in the studied disorders is appreciated, but more evidence-based articles are still needed.

Specialized Proresolving Mediators for Therapeutic Interventions Targeting Metabolic and Inflammatory Disorders

Uncontrolled inflammation is considered the pathophysiological basis of many prevalent metabolic disorders, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, obesity, and neurodegenerative diseases. The inflammatory response is a self-limiting process that produces a superfamily of chemical mediators, called specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs). SPMs include the ω-3-derived family of molecules, such as resolvins, protectins, and maresins, as well as arachidonic acid-derived (ω-6) lipoxins that stimulate and promote resolution of inflammation, clearance of microbes, and alleviation of pain and promote tissue regeneration via novel mechanisms. SPMs function by binding and activating G protein-coupled receptors, such as FPR2/ALX, GPR32, and ERV1, and nuclear orphan receptors, such as RORα. Recently, several studies reported that SPMs have the potential to attenuate lipid metabolism disorders. However, the understanding of pharmacological aspects of SPMs, including tissue-specific biosynthesis, and specific SPM receptors and signaling pathways, is currently limited. Here, we summarize recent advances in the role of SPMs in resolution of inflammatory diseases with metabolic disorders, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity, obtained from preclinical animal studies. In addition, the known SPM receptors and their intracellular signaling are reviewed as targets of resolution of inflammation, and the currently available information on the therapeutic effects of major SPMs for metabolic disorders is summarized.

Elevated Serum Level of DHEAS as a Hormone and IL-6 as a Proinflammatory Cytokine May Better Indicate Metabolic Syndrome in PCOS Women

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent metabolic disorder in reproductive-age women, indeed multifactorial condition. Cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-6 have influence on several metabolic activities. The increase in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is thought to play an important role in IL-6-mediated pathogenetic effects in PCOS women. The aim of this study is to explore whether TNF-alpha and IL-6 are correlated hormone levels in PCOS disease. We recruited 65 PCOS patients and 45 healthy controls. The serum IL-6, TNF-alpha, levels were measured by ELISA and clinical characteristics were measured. Both serum IL-6, TNF-alpha levels (p<0.01), or the serum TSH, FSH, LH, PRL levels were significantly higher in the patients of PCOS (p<0.01). Serum IL-6 levels were correlated with DHEAS level (r=-0.4186, p<0.01). DHEAS level tended to be higher in PCOS women with a correlation between age, BMI, IL-6 level and positively correlated with FSH, LH and PRL levels (p<0.01). There was an elevation of TSH level in the PCOS group (2.4±1.5) vs. control group (1.8±1.6). However, in control samples, there was no correlation between TNF alpha and IL-6, while in the PCOS samples positive correlation, was obtained. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was higher than the control (20.38±13.2) group vs. PCOS women (128.33±33.8) but only 3.44 % of them had Type II diabetes. HOMA-IR index was higher in the PCOS group (8.26±15.06) vs. control group (2.12±0.88) too. There was a correlation between age and IL-6 level and BMI. Serum IL-6 and DHEAS levels were significantly altered in PCOS patients and determined which might be PCOS prognostic importance. Keywords; PCOS; Cytokines; TNF-alpha; IL-6; DHEAS; Metabolic syndrome DOI: 10.7176/JMPB/71-02 Publication date: June 30 th 2021

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Dietary Plant Stanol Supplementation Are Largely Dependent on the Intake of Cholesterol in a Mouse Model of Metabolic Inflammation.

The prevalence of metabolic disorders characterized by chronic inflammation has been on a sharp rise for decades. As such, tools that address metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation are of great importance. Plant stanols are well-known for reducing intestinal cholesterol absorption and may also have direct anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, our aim was to investigate to what extent the benefits of dietary plant stanol supplementation depend on dietary cholesterol intake in an experimental mouse model for cholesterol-induced metabolic inflammation. Here, we used Ldlr−/− mice transplanted with Npc1nih-derived bone marrow, featuring feature bone marrow-derived immune cells characterized by chronic inflammation induced by lysosomal lipid accumulation. Npc1nih- and Npc1wt-transplanted mice were placed on either a high fat, high cholesterol (HFC) or on a chow diet low in cholesterol, with or without 2% plant stanols supplementation. At the end of the study, the metabolic and inflammatory status of the mice was analyzed. Plant stanol supplementation to the HFC diet reduced liver cholesterol levels and improved lipid metabolism and liver inflammation, particularly in Npc1nih-tp mice. In contrast, plant stanol supplementation to the chow diet did not significantly improve the aforementioned parameters, though similar reductive trends to those in the HFC diet setting were observed regarding liver cholesterol accumulation and liver inflammatory markers. The effects of dietary plant stanol supplementation on dietary cholesterol-induced inflammation are largely dependent on dietary cholesterol intake. Future research should verify whether other models of metabolic inflammation exhibit similar stanol-related effects on inflammation.

Indian medicinal plants with antidiabetic potential: An overview

Diabetes Mellitus is the most prevalent metabolic disorder which has made it a major health threat worldwide. The available synthetic drugs for the cure of Diabetes mellitus are associated with high cost, various side effects and several limitations. Medicinal plants are the rich depots of the phytochemicals which can be useful for the treatment of chronic disorders. These plants are the better alternative to chemical drugs causing less or no harm to the body. Several plants are traditionally known for their antidiabetic properties but the detail investigation of their active molecules is required in order to be developed as therapeutic drug. Therefore, the present review aims to provide comprehensive information on various Indian medicinal plants, their constituents and mechanism of action for the cure of diabetes mellitus.

Association of maternal lipid profile and gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 292 studies and 97,880 women.

BackgroundGestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is the most prevalent metabolic disorder during pregnancy, however, the association between dyslipidaemia and GDM remains unclear.MethodsWe searched Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Maternity and Infant Care database (MIDIRS) and ClinicalTrials.gov up to February 2021 for relevant studies which reported on the circulating lipid profile during pregnancy, in women with and without GDM. Publications describing original data with at least one raw lipid [triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), or very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C)] measurement were retained. Data extraction was performed using a piloted data extraction form. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019139696).FindingsA total of 292 studies, comprising of 97,880 pregnant women (28232 GDM and 69,648 controls) were included. Using random-effects meta-analysis models to pool study estimates, women with GDM had significantly higher (by 20%) TG levels, with a pooled weighted mean difference between GDM and non-GDM pregnancies of 0.388 mM (0.336, 0.439, p < 0.001). Further analyses revealed elevated TG levels occur in the first trimester and persist afterwards. Meta-regression analyses showed that differences in TG levels between women with GDM and healthy controls were significantly associated with age, BMI, study continent, OGTT procedure, and GDM diagnosis criteria.InterpretationElevated lipids, particularly, TG, are associated with GDM.

Ovarian cysts disappear after 14-day oral regimen of Korean red ginseng extract in letrozole-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome.

ObjectiveHormonal and inflammatory mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is a prevalent metabolic disorder among women of reproductive age. We aimed to evaluate the comparative efficiency of short-term oral administration of Korean red ginseng extract (KRGE) and the standard treatment on PCOS by focusing on the histopathological parameters and serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB).MethodsA PCOS rat model was established by oral gavage of letrozole (1 mg/kg) for 21 days. The serum levels of LH, FSH, testosterone, and NF-κB were measured, and the morphological features and differences of the ovaries were examined in each group using a light microscope before and after 14 days of treatment with oral regimens—KRGE, oral contraceptives (OCPs), KRGE+OCPs, and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC).ResultsOCPs alone could not normalize the mean ovarian weights of PCOS rats despite the 14-day oral regimen, but they were more effective in reducing the number and size of cysts compared to others. KRGE alone and in combination with OCPs was effective in normalizing abnormal ovarian weights, decreasing LH serum levels, and dissipating the ovarian cysts in PCOS rats. However, when combined with the standard regimen, KRGE showed additional therapeutic effects by efficiently reducing serum testosterone and NF-κB levels.ConclusionOur necropsy and histopathological evidence suggests the efficacy of KRGE as a novel integrative medicine against abnormal multiple follicular cysts. However, antiandrogenic and anti-inflammatory effects were only seen in animals that were administered a combination of KRGE and the standard regimen.

Macrophage Function and the Role of GSK3.

Macrophages are present in nearly all vertebrate tissues, where they respond to a complex variety of regulatory signals to coordinate immune functions involved in tissue development, metabolism, homeostasis, and repair. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) is a ubiquitously expressed protein kinase that plays important roles in multiple pathways involved in cell metabolism. Dysregulation of GSK3 has been implicated in several prevalent metabolic disorders, and recent findings have highlighted the importance of GSK3 activity in the regulation of macrophages, especially with respect to the initiation of specific pathologies. This makes GSK3 a potential therapeutic target for the development of novel drugs to modulate immunometabolic responses. Here, we summarize recent findings that have contributed to our understanding of how GSK3 regulates macrophage function, and we discuss the role of GSK3 in the development of metabolic disorders and diseases.

MiR-130b-3p is high-expressed in polycystic ovarian syndrome and promotes granulosa cell proliferation by targeting SMAD4

BackgroundBeing one of the most prevalent metabolic and endocrine disorders, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has been proven to be associated with microRNA-130b-3p (miR-130b-3p). However, the exact role played by miR-130b-3p in the pathogenesis and progression of PCOS remains unknown. Thus, this article is focused on elucidating the function of miR-130b-3p in the pathogenesis of PCOS. MethodsThe expression levels of miR-130b-3p and SMAD4 in tissues and cells responsible for the development of PCOS were determined by RT-qPCR and western blot. A miR-130b-3p mimic/inhibitor or si-SMAD4 were transfected into KGN cells. The cell viability was detected by CCK-8 and EDU methods. The activity of caspase-3 was measured by caspase-3 analysis. Subsequently, apoptosis and the cell cycle were measured via flow cytometry. The correlation between SMAD4 and miR-130b-3p was confirmed using an RNA pull-down assay and a dual luciferase reporter system assay. ResultsMiR-130b-3p was upregulated in the KGN cells and ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) of PCOS patients. It was found that miR-130b-3p overexpression or SMAD4 silencing can promote KGN cell proliferation and positive EDU rates, induce S phase arrest, inhibit apoptosis and caspase-3 activity. On the other hand, miR-130b-3p inhibitors reduce KGN cell proliferation, inhibit apoptosis and reverse the effect of si-SMAD4. ConclusionMiR-130b-3p directly interacts with SMAD4 to induce KGN cell proliferation, inhibit apoptosis, suggesting that miR-130b-3p expression is positively correlated with the development of PCOS. This may serve as new evidence for the abnormal proliferation of GCs in PCOS.

Greater liver PNPLA3 protein abundance in vivo and in vitro supports lower triglyceride accumulation in dairy cows

Fatty liver syndrome is a prevalent metabolic disorder in peripartum dairy cows that unfavorably impacts lactation performance and health. Patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) is a lipase that plays a central role in human non-alcoholic fatty liver disease etiology but has received limited attention in bovine fatty liver research. Thus, we investigated the relationship between tissue PNPLA3 expression and liver triglyceride accumulation in vivo via a ketosis induction protocol in multiparous dairy cows peripartum, as well as in vitro via small interfering RNA knockdown of PNPLA3 mRNA expression in bovine primary hepatocytes. Results demonstrated a negative association (P = 0.04) between liver PNPLA3 protein abundance and liver triglyceride content in peripartum dairy cows, while adipose PNPLA3 protein abundance was not associated with liver triglyceride content or blood fatty acid concentration. Knockdown of PNPLA3 mRNA resulted in reduced PNPLA3 protein abundance (P < 0.01) and greater liver triglyceride content (P < 0.01). Together, these results suggest greater liver PNPLA3 protein abundance may directly limit liver triglyceride accumulation peripartum, potentially preventing bovine fatty liver or accelerating recovery from fatty liver syndrome.

A study on the perception of hand washing and health status in Korean adults.

This study aimed to investigate the perception about hand washing and health status among Koreans using the data from the Community Health Survey.We examined the differences in the perceptions about hand washing and health statuses of 220,440 participants of the 2017 community health survey. The sample was divided into groups based on demographic variables, perceptions about hand washing, and prevalence of metabolic diseases. Participants’ demographic characteristics were analyzed using frequency, and perceptions about hand washing and subjective health status-related parameters were analyzed using t tests. The prevalence of metabolic disorder was analyzed with χ2 tests.There were significant differences in subjective health status, subjective oral health status, and perceived obesity in the positive and negative hand washing perception groups (P < .01). The prevalence rate of hypertension and diabetes mellitus significantly differed in the positive and negative hand washing perception groups (P < .01), but no differences were observed for hyperlipidemia (P < .01).This study showed that positive hand washing perception is associated with good health care practices. The perceptions of hand washing, which are formed during early childhood, were closely associated with health status. This finding could be useful evidence for developing programs focusing on major health behaviors and levels of health.

Association of metabolic and inflammatory markers with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): an update.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent metabolic disorder in reproductive-age women. It is indeed a multifactorial condition evidenced by ovarian dysfunction, hyperandrogenaemia, infertility, hormonal imbalance and chronic anovulation. Experimental evidence infers that PCOS women are prone to cardiovascular problems and insulin resistance. To furnish the details about the association of inflammatory markers in PCOS. An extensive literature search on PubMed, science direct and google scholar has been performed for articles about PCOS and inflammation in PCOS. A comprehensive analysis using original articles, reviews, systemic and meta-analysis was conducted for better understanding the relationship between inflammatory cytokines and PCOS. The inflammatory markers perform a substantial part in managing the functions of the ovary. Any disturbances in their levels can lead to ovarian dysfunction. Inflammatory markers are associated with PCOS pathogenesis. The interplay between inflammatory cytokines in the PCOS ovary strongly implies that inflammation is one of the most potent risk factors of PCOS. Inflammatory markers have a significant role in regulating the ovary. This manuscript highlights the significance of metabolic and inflammatory markers with PCOS. Since PCOS is always considered as a metabolic disorder, researchers can also consider focusing on the relationship between the inflammatory markers in PCOS to establish a new treatment or management of the disease and to improve women's health.

Newborn Screening-A Bolstering Step towards Quality Health in Neonates

Introduction: Newborn Screening (NBS) is considered the need of the hour for quality health in neonates. It is also important to understand that the rising trend of prevalence of inherited metabolic disorders and the various maternal factors that might influence genetic changes in the foetus in- utero affecting the neonatal outcome. Aim: The primary objective of the study was to determine frequency of Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH) and Glucose- 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in a most approachable tertiary care hospital. The secondary objectives were to find out impact of maternal factors on the frequency of the disease and the impact of the disorder on the neonate’s health. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted on 1282 neonates of 48 hours upto eight weeks of age. The Dried Blood Spot (DBS) specimens collected were analysed for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) level and G6PD enzyme activity. Details of neonatal characteristics and antenatal history were documented. Prevalence of CH and G6PD deficiency was calculated and maternal and neonatal variables were analysed for association using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Results: The prevalence of CH and G6PD were respectively 3.3/1000 and 6.6/1000 making the overall prevalence of metabolic disorders as 9.8/1000. A 27.3% had Low Birth Weight (LBW) and 62% had low Ponderal Index (PI). The odds for raised TSH was 6.62 times in sick neonates. The probability for high TSH in LBW babies was more by 94% and in female neonates by 18%. The neonates with higher TSH values depicted significant association with maternal age (p=0.016), gestational age (p=0.019) and maternal anaemia (p&lt;0.001). Babies born by caesarean section showed twice the chances for screening positive for TSH. Conclusion: The high prevalence estimated in this study and association with maternal factors urges new queries and recommends an obligatory need for NBS program in this region.

Health benefits of barley for diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the most prevalent metabolic disorders in the United States. Increased blood glucose levels and improper crucial metabolism ensuing from insulin action, insulin secretion defect, or both are characteristics of this disease. The risk of developing T2D is associated with many factors, including obesity, race, inactivity, and genetics. Increased whole-grain (WG) consumption has been reported to lower the risk of obesity and T2D. Among WGs, barley shows a comparative advantage in its fiber content, especially the soluble fiber, beta-glucan (β-glucan), an active component credited for this benefit. Barley also contains important phytochemicals, mostly intertwined with its fiber, reported to also offer glycemic response benefits. The mechanism by which barley exerts these changes in glycemic response is not entirely understood. However, the physical properties of barley fiber, the function of microbial metabolites of fiber, short chain fatty acids, and the beneficial effects of its phytochemicals through multiple pathways have all been reported as the potential mechanisms for its antidiabetic effects. This review summarizes recent studies concerning the health-promoting benefit of barley in preventing and moderating the risk factors associated with diabetes and the potential underlying mechanisms.

AMP-Activated Protein Kinase: Do We Need Activators or Inhibitors to Treat or Prevent Cancer?

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key regulator of cellular energy balance. In response to metabolic stress, it acts to redress energy imbalance through promotion of ATP-generating catabolic processes and inhibition of ATP-consuming processes, including cell growth and proliferation. While findings that AMPK was a downstream effector of the tumour suppressor LKB1 indicated that it might act to repress tumourigenesis, more recent evidence suggests that AMPK can either suppress or promote cancer, depending on the context. Prior to tumourigenesis AMPK may indeed restrain aberrant growth, but once a cancer has arisen, AMPK may instead support survival of the cancer cells by adjusting their rate of growth to match their energy supply, as well as promoting genome stability. The two isoforms of the AMPK catalytic subunit may have distinct functions in human cancers, with the AMPK-α1 gene often being amplified, while the AMPK-α2 gene is more often mutated. The prevalence of metabolic disorders, such as obesity and Type 2 diabetes, has led to the development of a wide range of AMPK-activating drugs. While these might be useful as preventative therapeutics in individuals predisposed to cancer, it seems more likely that AMPK inhibitors, whose development has lagged behind that of activators, would be efficacious for the treatment of pre-existing cancers.