Metabolic syndrome pandemic

Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular conditions prediction in individuals with metabolic syndrome-associated lipoprotein lipase gene (LPL) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)

OBJECTIVE

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is predictive of increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular conditions (CVC). Lipoprotein lipase gene (LPL) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may be of importance to the eventual diagnosis of T2D and CVC. This study aimed to predict the diagnosis of T2D and CVC amongst individuals with LPL SNPs rs268, rs11542065, rs116403115, rs118204057, rs118204061, rs144466625, and rs547644955.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study using the UK Biobank data. Variables associated with MetS, T2D and CVC were selected from the data set. The total number of subjects in the cohort was 12,872 (mean age 56 years ± 8.1, 90.0 % were of British ethnicity, and 53.9 % were females). Logistic regression was used to assess whether the T2D and CVC can be predicted based on the presence of LPL SNPs and some of the clinical measures.

RESULTS

Prediction models using clinical parameters showed good area under the curve (AUC) for prediction of T2D and CVC diagnosis (in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, area under the curve (AUC) = 0.959 for T2D, AUC = 0.772 for CVC). The addition of Polygenic Risk Scores (PRS/s) showed an improvement for diagnosis of both (AUC = 0.961 and 0.790 for TD and CVC, respectively). Further addition of SNPs showed more increase in AUC (AUC = 0.965 and 0.837 for T2D and CVC, respectively). The additive effect of the PRSs and LPL SNPs was more pronounced in the CVC than in the T2D model. The variant that had major significance for both T2D and CVC diagnoses was rs547644955 (AUC 1.0 and 0.910, respectively). The SNPs rs116403115 and rs118204057 both had an AUC of 1.0 for T2D diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

The prediction of T2D and CVC diagnoses with the use of clinically available factors may be enhanced with the addition of PRSs and SNPs, including LPL SNPs, which may have implications for stratified or personalised approaches for disease prevention or treatment.

Household Food Insecurity and Metabolic Syndrome in Adults: A Meta-Analysis

Background: Household food insecurity (HFI) refers to the lack of access to safe and nutritious food, and this condition may be associated with the occurrence of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Thus, this study aimed to conduct a quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis) to summarize the evidence from epidemiological studies on the association between HFI and MetS. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Information Center databases to retrieve epidemiological studies published until October 2023. The entire process of selection, data extraction, and assessment of article quality was independently performed by two reviewers. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the criteria proposed by the National Institutes of Health instrument. The random-effects model was used to report the quantitative synthesis of combined data. The Q-test and I2 index were used to assess heterogeneity. Egger's and Begg's tests were employed to evaluate publication bias. Results: A total of 10 articles meeting the eligibility criteria were selected and included in this meta-analysis. High heterogeneity was observed among the studies (I2 > 70), along with a low risk of publication bias. Considering all ten included studies, no statistically significant association was found between HFI and MetS (odds ratio = 1.17; 95% confidence interval: 0.89-1.55; I2 = 79.9%). Conclusions: The findings of this meta-analysis did not reveal a statistically significant association between HFI and MetS, indicating the need for further studies aimed at exploring and expanding the scientific evidence on this relationship.

Associations of Combined Physical Activity and Body Mass Index with Metabolic Syndrome in American Adults: From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2017-2020

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the combined associations of physical activity and body mass index with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in a population-based sample of American adults.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingData from the 2017-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).SubjectsA total of 2945 American adults who participated in the NHANES 2017-2020.MeasuresParticipants' physical activity levels were categorized based on the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Metabolic syndrome was determined using the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines.AnalysisThe prevalence of metabolic syndrome among the various groups was analyzed using binary logistic regression to observe differences in the associated risks of developing metabolic syndrome.ResultsAn increase in body mass index and a decrease in physical activity are both risk factors for metabolic syndrome. Statistical results show that the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the obese and sedentary group is 22.31 times higher than that in the normal weight and active group (P = 0.000).ConclusionA combination of at least 600 MET-minutes of physical activity per week and a lower body mass index is significantly associated with the lowest prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

Changing the triglyceride diagnostic criteria of metabolic syndrome for African Americans

The incidence and prevalence of metabolic syndrome has been increasing globally with no signs of abating. Individuals with metabolic syndrome are at increased risk of multiple comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Studies show that there is a paradoxical relationship in African Americans however, as they experience a higher rate of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus despite having a lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome when compared to whites. The triglyceride paradox, an unusual phenomenon in which African Americans consistently express a more normal triglyceride status even when having conditions known to be characterized by high triglyceride levels, is believed to account for this paradoxical relationship. In this manuscript, we review the history and pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome while also discussing the importance of the triglyceride paradox in explaining the inverse relationship that exists between metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes mellitus in African Americans. In addition, we advocate for decreasing the triglyceride cutoff value when diagnosing metabolic syndrome in this population to more precisely determine who is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease.

Sexual dimorphisms in endocrinopathies: Their impact on the evolution of metabolic diseases

Sexual dimorphisms, the biological differences between males and females, are well-documented across various endocrine disorders. These dimorphisms not only influence the presentation and progression of endocrinopathies but also play a critical role in the development and evolution of metabolic diseases. This review explores the intricate relationship between sexual dimorphisms and endocrinopathies such as Diabetes Mellitus, Thyroid disorder, Cushing's syndrome, Addison's disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Hypogonadism in males and acromegaly, and their subsequent effects on metabolic dysfunctions like insulin resistance, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. By examining the hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors underlying these gender-specific differences, we aim to elucidate how sexual dimorphisms contribute to the disparate prevalence, clinical outcomes, and treatment responses observed in metabolic disorders. This review highlights the significance of considering sexual dimorphisms in advancing the understanding of metabolic diseases.

Association between dietary index for gut microbiota and metabolic syndrome risk: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007-2018

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) poses a significant global health challenge, closely associated with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other conditions. With the global prevalence of MetS steadily rising, the potential role of gut microbiota in its development has garnered increasing attention. Against this backdrop, the present study aims to explore the association between the dietary index for gut microbiota (DI-GM) score and MetS. This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2007-2018 U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), including 339,242 adults aged ≥ 18 years. The DI-GM score, constructed based on 14 food or nutrient components, served as the exposure variable. MetS was defined according to the Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria, including abdominal obesity (waist circumference ≥ 102 cm in men and ≥ 88 cm in women), elevated triglycerides (≥ 150 mg/dL), reduced HDL cholesterol (< 40 mg/dL in men and < 50 mg/dL in women), elevated blood pressure (≥ 130/85 mmHg), and elevated fasting glucose (≥ 100 mg/dL). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to adjust for demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and other potential confounders. Higher DI-GM scores were significantly associated with a reduced risk of MetS. After adjusting for all confounders, individuals in the highest quartile (Q4) of DI-GM scores had a 16% lower risk of MetS compared to those in the lowest quartile (Q1) (OR: 0.84; 95%CI: 0.70-1.01). Mediation analyses revealed that systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) mediated 4.63% and 3.83% of the association between DI-GM and MetS, respectively. There is an inverse association between DI-GM scores and the risk of MetS, potentially mediated in part by inflammatory markers. These findings provide new evidence supporting dietary interventions aimed at improving gut microbiota to prevent MetS.

Analysis of causal effects on metabolic syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease: a Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a conglomerate of metabolic abnormalities including hypertension, obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). The relationship between MetS and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) has received a lot of attention lately. Epidemiological investigation has yet to determine if the two illnesses are causally related. To investigate the causal link between IBD and MetS levels, we screened publically available genome-wide association study (GWAS) data using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. The study aimed to comprehensively analyze the causal association of each component of MetS, including fasting blood glucose(FBG), HDL-C, triglyceride(TG), waist circumference(WC), and hypertension, on the risk of IBD and its subtypes via univariate, two-way, and multivariate MR (MVMR) methods.

METHODS

We selected independent genetic variants of MetS and IBD as instrumental variables (IVs) from published data from the IEU OpenGWAS project and IIBDGC (International Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetic Consortium), used MR to infer potential causal effects between them, and used a variety of methods (random effect inverse variance weighting (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger regression, etc.) to ensure the robustness of causal effects.

RESULTS

Univariate two-sample MR (TSMR) revealed that WC was significantly linked to the risk of Crohn's disease (CD) (OR = 1.659; 95% CI: 1.144-2.405; p = 0.008) and IBD (OR = 1.383; 95% CI: 1.050-1.822; p = 0.021). However, MVMR did not support this finding. In MVMR analysis, hypertension was predicted to be positively associated with the risk of IBD (OR = 2.322516, 95% CI: 1.097713-4.91392, p = 0.0275365), whereas FBG was confirmed to reduce the risk of CD in MVMR studies (OR = 0.4346427, 95% CI: 0.2685399-0.7034868, p = 0.0006948939). Other elements of the MetS did not significantly correlate with IBD.

CONCLUSION

Although confounding factors cannot be completely ruled out, certain metabolic components, such as WC, may impact the risk of IBD. In addition to highlighting the need for more research to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential indirect effects between MetS components and IBD, this research offers insight into therapeutic treatment decisions for patients with IBD and MetS.

The Association of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Parent-Child Dyads in Guam: Pacific Islands Cohort on Cardiometabolic Health Study

The Western Pacific region, including Guam, has the highest prevalence of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus, which are associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS)-a cluster of preventable risk factors. Children with parents with MetS are likely to develop MetS in the future. MetS prevalence in Guam and the impact of MetS on children are unknown. Data from the Pacific Islands Cohort on Cardiometabolic Health (PICCAH) study in Guam were analyzed to determine MetS in adults and MetS risk in children using the International Diabetes Federation criteria and sex- and age-specific waist circumference values for abdominal obesity, respectively. MetS Z-scores were calculated. MetS or MetS risk indicators, including MetS Z-scores, were examined by lifestyle risk factors (parent and child: physical activity and sleep; parent only: sedentary behavior and stress; child only: screen time). The relationship between adult MetS Z-scores and child MetS Z-scores was evaluated using linear-regression analyses. Child-parent risk for MetS was directly correlated in this population. The high prevalence of adult MetS in Guam demonstrates a critical need for interventions involving both parents and children. Expanding the analysis to assess the relationships between other lifestyle factors, like diet, in parent-child dyads is necessary to refine such intervention programs.

Vision transformer based interpretable metabolic syndrome classification using retinal Images

Metabolic syndrome is leading to an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Our study developed a model using retinal image data from fundus photographs taken during comprehensive health check-ups to classify metabolic syndrome. The model achieved an AUC of 0.7752 (95% CI: 0.7719-0.7786) using retinal images, and an AUC of 0.8725 (95% CI: 0.8669-0.8781) when combining retinal images with basic clinical features. Furthermore, we propose a method to improve the interpretability of the relationship between retinal image features and metabolic syndrome by visualizing metabolic syndrome-related areas in retinal images. The results highlight the potential of retinal images in classifying metabolic syndrome.

Comparison of the predictive value of 17 anthropometric in-dices for the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Chinese residents: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is increasingly viewed as a pressing concern for public health globally. The objective of this study was to compare the predictive ability of 17 anthropometric indices for the risk of MetS in Chinese residents, to explore the differences in the predictive effect of the indices between different sexes, and to identify the optimal predictive indices of MetS for men and women.

METHODS

This research utilized a cross-sectional study involving 5479 residents in Shandong Province, China. According to the subjects' working curve (ROC), TyG-WHtR, TyG-WC, METS-VF, CVAI, and LAP with the area under the curve (AUC) greater than 0.850 were included in the follow-up. To explore the associations between indices and the prevalence of MetS, three logistic regression models were employed. The dose-response relationship between the indices and the risk of MetS was performed by the Restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MetS in this study is approximately 45.56%. The multivariate logistic regression showed the predictive capacity of the TyG-WC and METS-VF for MetS was superior in males, while only METS-VF in females. Furthermore, there is a non-linear relationship between MTES-VF and MetS risk both in men and women (non-linearity p < 0.001). The potential for the risk of MetS increased when the METS-VF exceeded 6.67 in males or 6.30 in females. In addition, in the male population, TyG-WC is non-linearly related to MetS risk (non-linear p < 0.001), and the risk of MetS may increase when TyG-WC is higher than 750.40.

CONCLUSIONS

TyG-WC and METS-VF have a good predictive value for the risk of MetS in the Chinese male population, with TyG-WC being better than METS-VF. For females, METS-VF could be regarded as the most reliable indicator.

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists Combined With Personalized Digital Health Care for the Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome in Adults With Obesity: Retrospective Observational Study

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a complex and multifaceted health condition characterized by a clustering of interconnected metabolic abnormalities, including central obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Effective management of MetS is crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of combining glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP)/GLP-1 agonists with a continuous, digitally delivered behavioral change model by an integrated care team, in treating MetS among individuals with obesity.

Methods

The 6-month Zone.Health (meta[bolic]) weight loss program involved 51 participants (mean age 45, SD 10 years; mean BMI 35, SD 5 kg/m²), categorized by gender, and treated with either tirzepatide or semaglutide. Participants received continuous support via a digital health platform, which facilitated real time monitoring and personalized feedback from an integrated care team. Engagement levels with the digital platform, measured by the frequency of inbound interactions, were tracked and analyzed in relation to health outcomes.

Results

Tirzepatide reduced waist circumference (WC) by -18.08 cm, compared with -13.04 cm with semaglutide (P<.001). Triglycerides decreased significantly with both drugs, with tirzepatide showing a reduction of -64.42 mg/dL and semaglutide -70.70 mg/dL (P<.001). Tirzepatide generally showed more pronounced improvements in fasting glucose, blood pressure (BP), low-density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol compared with semaglutide. Higher engagement with the digital health platform showed significant difference among the 3 groups; the group with the highest level of app-based interactions (≥25 interactions) had the greatest WC reduction (mean -19.04, SD 7.40 cm) compared with those with ≤15 interactions (mean -9.60, SD 5.10 cm; P=.002). Similarly, triglycerides showed the greatest reduction in the group with ≥25 interactions (mean -108.56, SD 77.06 mg/dL) compared with those with ≤15 interactions (mean -44.49, SD 50.85 mg/dL; P=.02). This group also exhibited the largest reduction in diastolic BP (mean -10.33, SD 7.40 mm Hg) compared with those with ≤15 interactions (mean -0.83, SD 7.83 mm Hg; P=.004), and the most substantial decrease in fasting glucose levels (mean -18.60, SD 10.82 mg/dL) compared with those with ≤15 interactions (mean -2.49, SD 27.54 mg/dL; P=.02). Participants in the highest quartile of digital engagement had a 60% greater likelihood of MetS reversal compared with those in the lowest quartile.

Conclusions

This study shows that combining GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists with a digital behavioral change model significantly improves MetS markers in individuals with obesity. Tirzepatide proved more effective than semaglutide, leading to greater reductions in WC and triglyceride levels, along with better improvements in fasting glucose, BP, and lipid profiles. Higher app-based engagement was linked to better health outcomes, with participants in the highest engagement group having a 60% greater likelihood of treating MetS compared with those with the lowest engagement.

The impact of hypercortisolism beyond metabolic syndrome on left ventricular performance: a myocardial work analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is characterized by an unfavorable cardiovascular (CV) and metabolic risk profile, but the potential adverse effects of hypercortisolism on myocardial function are not well known. Myocardial Work analysis is a new echocardiographic method that utilizes left ventricular pressure-strain loops to quantify cardiac performance independent of afterload.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In a cross-sectional analysis, we compared four groups: patients with overt endogenous CS (n = 31, mean age 47 ± 12 years, 71% women), patients with endogenous CS in long-term remission after medical cure (CS-LTR; n = 49, 53 ± 12 years, 78% women), healthy subjects (n = 439; 49 ± 11 years, 57% women), and individuals with metabolic syndrome (n = 305, 59 ± 10 years, 37% women). Both CS patient groups exhibited a CV risk pattern and metabolic profile worse than healthy subjects but better than individuals with metabolic syndrome. Analyses adjusted for sex and age revealed higher Wasted Work both in overt CS (median; quartiles: 105 mmHg%; 74, 147) and CS-LTR (97 mmHg%; 69, 158), respectively, when compared to healthy individuals (75 mmHg%; 54, 109, p < 0.01) or individuals with metabolic syndrome (95 mmHg%, 65, 136, p < 0.05), resulting in compromised Work Efficiency (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Left ventricular performance is compromised in overt CS beyond alterations found in individuals with metabolic syndrome sharing equal CV risk factors and remains so despite biochemical remission during the LTR period. Myocardial Work analysis is suited to detect the subtle yet clinically relevant differences between different phenotypes of myocardial involvement.

Effects of pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational weight gain on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in Poland

Overweight and obesity are significant public health concerns, affecting pregnant women and potentially leading to numerous complications for both maternal and neonatal health. The aim of this study is to estimate how pre-pregnancy overweight and obesity, as well as gestational weight gain, influence pregnancy outcomes and neonatal health in Poland. The study material consisted of data from 2878 women aged 16-46 years from hospitals in Warsaw and Krosno. The analysis included data on the course of singleton pregnancies and the biological condition of the newborns, correlated with pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG), which were compared to the standards set by the Institute of Medicine (IOM). Factor that significantly influences pre-pregnancy BMI and GWG is the number of pregnancies. For first-born women pre-pregnancy BMI was significantly lower than that of women giving birth for the second, third and subsequent times (ANOVA p < 0.0001), at the same time, the increase in weight in this group was the greatest (ANOVA p < 0.0001). The study found that pre-pregnancy BMI correlates more strongly with the occurrence of gestational diabetes than GWG above IOM recommendations (regression: p < 0.0001, R = 0.112 vs. p < 0.0001, R = 0.104). Analogous correlations were observed for the incidence of gestational hypertension and termination of pregnancy by caesarean section. Birth weight and length are significantly affected by both pre-pregnancy BMI and GWG but the effect of weight change is stronger (birth weight - pre-pregnancy BMI regression p < 0.0001, R = 0.116; GWG p < 0.0001, R = 0.248; birth length - pre-pregnancy BMI regression p < 0.0001, R = 0.087; GWG p < 0.0001, R = 0.180). An analogous relationship was observed for the presence of macrosomia. For APGAR scores, an inverse relationship was observed; while GWG did not show a significant relationship with the first minute score, perinatal neonatal status was significantly related to the mother's pre-pregnancy BMI (regression p = 0.0006). Similarly, pre-pregnancy maternal BMI > 25 significantly increased the odds of perinatal injury and breastfeeding difficulties.

Abdominal obesity and cardiometabolic risk markers: A comparative analysis of waist circumference, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and magnetic resonance imaging techniques

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

This study compares three methods to determine central adiposity (waist circumference -WC - and visceral adipose tissue - VAT - estimated by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry - DXA, and by magnetic resonance imaging - MRI) in their ability to predict increases in cardiometabolic risk (CMR) markers in young individuals. We examined their associations with CMR in 47 men and women aged 25-40.

METHODS AND RESULTS

VAT mass was assessed using DXA and MRI. Blood samples were analyzed for CMR markers. Associations between central adiposity measurements and CMR factors were analyzed using Spearman's correlation coefficient, and the ability of these three central adiposity measurements to detect increased CMR was compared using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Similar to what was observed for the MRI-DXA and VAT-DXA, WC showed strong correlations with LDL-c and triglycerides (TG) and an inverse correlation with HDL-c (rho = -0.657 MRI, rho = -0.628 DXA, and rho = -0.604 WC, p < 0.01). On the other hand, only MRI-VAT and WC were associated with insulin and HOMA-IR (rho = 0.341 MRI and rho = 0.421 WC, p < 0.01). Central adiposity measurements were negatively associated with cold-induced 18F-FDG uptake in subcutaneous adipose tissue and positively associated with VAT TG content. No significant differences were observed when comparing the three central adiposity measurements in ROC curve analysis, and all measurements could predict increases in CMR markers and the combined CMR index.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reinforces the importance of using WC to assess increases in CMR markers among young adults. Given its practicality and efficacy, WC should be recommended in health centers to assess CMR risk.

Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors and the Risk of Genitourinary Infections at HbA1c ≥10%: A Population Health-Based Retrospective Review

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. Evidence has shown a 3- to 5-fold increase in the risk of genitourinary infections with their use due to inhibition of renal glucose reabsorption, resulting in glucosuria. Increased glucosuria is thought to increase the risk of genitourinary infections at a greater degree in patients with a significantly elevated HbA1c (≥10%), and initiation of SGLT2i is often delayed in these patients. While a limited body of evidence exists indicating that A1c level is not an independent risk factor for SGLT2i-induced genitourinary infection, pragmatically this concern remains a barrier to SGLT2i utilization.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the real-world genitourinary (GU) infection rate in patients receiving SGLT2i with a baseline HbA1c ≥10% compared to patients with a baseline HbA1c <10%.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study evaluated data from 5542 adult patients treated between January 2013 and January 2023, who were prescribed an SGLT2i. Data collected included sex, age, race/ethnicity, renal function, date of SGLT2i start, number of SGLT2i orders, name and dose of SGLT2i, HbA1c, and a predetermined set of diagnosis codes related to bacterial and fungal genitourinary infections. The primary outcome was the overall GU infection rate after SGLT2i initiation within groups of baseline HbA1c of ≥10% and <10%, and the secondary outcome was total GU infections within these same groups.

RESULTS

The primary outcome was equivalent between those with HbA1c <10% and HbA1c ≥10% (0.0064 ± 0.0565 vs 0.0030 ± 0.0303 infection per month [mean ± standard deviation]; P < 0.0001 for both lower and upper bounds). There was no statistically significant difference in total GU infections between the same groups (0.027 ± 0.21 vs 0.015 ± 0.14, P = 0.11). Female gender and prior recurrent infection were associated with increased GU infection after SGLT2i.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

A baseline HbA1c ≥ 10% was not significantly associated with an increased risk of GU infection following the initiation of SGLT2i compared to those with a baseline HbA1c of <10%.

Sugar-sweetened beverages, low/no-calorie beverages, fruit juices intake and risks of metabolic syndrome in adults: The SWEET project

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an important determinant of cardiometabolic disease development, with excessive sugar intake as one of the key modifiable risk factors. However, evidence on the association between sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), their replacement by low/no caloric beverages (LNCB), and MetS development is still limited.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data from participants' of Lifelines (n = 58 220), NQPlus (n = 1094) and Feel4Diabetes (n = 342) were prospectively analysed. Dose-response associations were investigated using restricted cubic spline analyses (Lifelines). Cox proportional hazard regression analysis with robust variance was used to quantify associations between intakes of SSB, fruit juices (FJ) and LNCB and MetS incidence; data were pooled using random-effects models. Associations were adjusted for demographic, lifestyle and other dietary factors. In Lifelines, NQPlus, and Feel4Diabetes, 3853 (7 %), 47 (4 %), and 39 (11 %) participants developed MetS, respectively. Pooled analyses showed that each additional serving of SSB was associated with a 6 % higher risk of MetS (95%CI 1.02-1.10). A J-shaped association was observed for FJ and MetS, with a significant inverse association at moderate intake levels (IPR 0.89, 95 % CI 0.82-0.96). LNCB intake was not associated with MetS (IPR 1.59, 95%CI 0.74-2.43), but findings across studies were inconsistent (I2 94 %, p-value <0.01). Replacing SSB with FJ or LNCB did not show any associations with MetS incidence.

CONCLUSION

SSB intake was adversely associated with MetS incidence. A J-shaped association was observed between FJ and MetS. For LNCB, results were inconsistent across studies and therefore findings must be interpreted cautiously.

Supplementing the standard diet with brown rice bran powder might effectively improve the metabolic syndrome characteristics and antioxidant status: an open label randomized controlled trial

Purpose: This study explores the impact of brown rice bran powder (BRBP), known for its beneficial components, such as dietary fiber and γ-oryzanol, on individuals suffering from metabolic syndrome (MetS). Subjects/Methods: In this eight-week open-label controlled trial, fifty participants with MetS were randomly assigned to either a control group, which received a standard diet (SDiet), or an intervention group, which incorporated 15 grams of BRBP daily into their diet. Demographic, anthropometric and clinical data were collected, and blood samples were taken to assess metabolic factors and antioxidant enzyme activities. Additionally, the participants completed the gastrointestinal symptom rating scale questionnaire. Results: Analysis of covariance controlled for the baseline levels and medication consumptions revealed that postthis trial, compared to the controls, patients who received BRBP showed significant reductions in BMI (P-value = 0.001; effect size (ES): -1.13), waist circumference (P-value < 0.001; ES: -1.28), total-cholesterol (P-value = 0.028; ES: -0.74), LDL-cholesterol (P-value = 0.002; ES: -0.86), blood sugar (P-value = 0.013; ES: -0.82), as well as triglyceride glucose (TyG)-BMI index (as a marker of insulin resistance) (P-value < 0.001; ES: -1.35). Further, BRBP resulted in significant improvements in antioxidant enzyme activities, including glutathione peroxidase (P-value = 0.010; ES: 0.86), superoxide dismutase serum activities (P-value = 0.021; ES: 0.78), and constipation rate (P-value = 0.018; ES: -0.85) compared to SDiet alone. However, no significant changes were found regarding levels of triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol, glutathione, catalase and blood pressure after the trial. Conclusion: The findings of this trial support the weight-reducing, hypocholestrolemic, anti-hyperglycemic, and antioxidative effects of adding BRBP to SDiet that is prescribed for MetS patients.

Hepatic Estrogen Receptor Alpha Overexpression Protects Against Hepatic Insulin Resistance and MASLD

Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is associated with cardiometabolic risk. Although studies have shown that estradiol positively contributes to energy metabolism via estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), its role specifically in the liver is not defined. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of ERα overexpression, specifically in the liver in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups, vehicle fed with regular chow (RC) (RC-Vehicle); vehicle fed an HFD (HFD-Vehicle); AAV-treated fed with RC (RC-AAV); and AAV-treated fed an HFD (HFD-AAV), for 6 weeks (8-10 mice per group). AAV was administered intravenously to induce ERα overexpression. Results: We demonstrate that overexpression of ERα in RC-fed mice reduces body fat (28%). These mice show increased oxygen consumption in cultured primary hepatocytes, both in basal (19%) and maximal respiration (34%). In HFD-fed mice, we showed a decrease in hepatic TAG content (43%) associated with improved hepatic insulin sensitivity (145%). Conclusions: From this perspective, our results prove that hepatic ERα signaling is responsible for some of the metabolic protective effects of estrogen in mice. Overexpression of ERα improves hepatocyte mitochondrial function, consequently reducing hepatic lipid accumulation and protecting animals from hepatic steatosis and hepatic insulin resistance. Further investigations will be needed to determine the exact molecular mechanism by which ERα improves hepatic metabolic health.

Mohamed A, Abou-Ellail M, Afify M, Hamimy W, Abdelmaksoud MD. Evaluation of the association of some circulating miRNA molecules in the metabolic syndrome

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of including miRNA-371 and miRNA-143 in the early detection and diagnosis of the extent of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) in obese patients by measuring the expression of miRNA-143 and miRNA-371 in metabolically and pre-metabolically obese individuals and comparing the results with metabolically healthy obese controls. In addition, the study aimed to assess the correlation between the two types of miRNA and the criteria of MetS. Methods: The expression levels of miRNA-143 and miRNA-371 were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for 135 obese patients who were divided into the following three different categories based on metabolic criteria: 1) metabolic syndrome obese (MetS) group, 2) pre-metabolic syndrome obese (PreMetS) group, and 3) metabolically healthy obese (MHO) group. Results: The results indicated a significant association of miRNA-143 and miRNA-371 with the MetS group compared with the PreMetS and MHO groups. As a result, the correlation analysis for these miRNAs revealed a large association with the results of the analysis for various factors, especially with regard to fasting glucose and lipid profiles in the MetS group. Conclusion: There was an association between obesity and MetS. This study was able to establish the role of miRNA-371 and miRNA-143 molecules in metabolically obese individuals. Therefore, by tracking the regulatory pathway of these molecules and expanding the understanding of the process of regulation and interference with the various metabolic pathways, this study could provide a deeper analysis and understanding of the MetS in obesity and the molecular causes leading to it.

The impact of substituting clarified butter with canola oil on the components of metabolic syndrome, fatty liver index, and insulin resistance among individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome: a quasi-experimental study

Purpose

Clarified butter, contain harmful saturated and beneficial trans-fatty acids. Canola oil is a promising alternative to other oils for reducing saturated fat intake. This trial aimed to investigate the effects of replacing clarified butter with canola oil in patients with metabolic syndrome on various metabolic syndrome components, fatty liver index (FLI), and insulin resistance.

Methods

In this trial, 42 individuals with metabolic syndrome referred to the clinic in Imam Khomeini University Hospital in Urmia, Iran, were enrolled. The participants, who commonly consumed (3 to 8 serving per day) clarified butter, were instructed to follow a healthy diet and replace their consumption of clarified butter with an equivalent amount of canola oil for 3 months. To compare the differences of outcomes in the group, the paired samples T-test and cohen's d effect size were applied. To analyze the changes in dietary intakes and Metabolic equivalent of task (MET), repeated measures of ANOVA was used.

Results

There was a significant decrease in fasting blood sugar (FBS) (< 0.001), triglyceride (TG) (0.003), and anthropometric measurements (< 0.001). Furthermore, significant reductions were observed in total cholesterol (TC) (< 0.001), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (0.009), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels (0.003), FLI (< 0.001), insulin levels (0.007), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (0.002), and increase in quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (QUICKI) (< 0.001). Unfavorably, there was a significant reduction in the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (< 0.001).

Conclusion

The replacement of clarified butter with canola oil demonstrated potential benefits in improving metabolic syndrome.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-024-01453-z.

Metabolic syndrome among patients with type 2 diabetes in Jordan: A cross-sectional study

Metabolic syndrome is a major public health problem worldwide and an independent predictor of cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its individual components among Jordanian patients with T2DM. A cross-sectional design was conducted among T2DM patients at the National Center for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Genetics in Jordan. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and clinical data extracted from medical records. The National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) and International Diabetes Federation (IDF) diagnostic criteria were used to define metabolic syndrome. Among 1017 participants aged between 22 and 90 years, the overall prevalence of IDF defined metabolic syndrome was 84.2% (72.5% and 96.2% among males and females, respectively). Using ATP III criteria, overall prevalence was 79.1% (77.4% and 80.8% among males and females, respectively). Advancing age, female gender, nonadherence to a diet regimen, sedentary lifestyle or insufficient physical activity, and duration of diabetes ≥10 years were significantly associated with increased odds of metabolic syndrome, regardless of the definition used. Current smoking status and family history of cardiovascular diseases were significantly associated with increased likelihood of ATP III defined metabolic syndrome. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Jordanian patients with T2DM is extremely high. The main modifiable risk factors of metabolic syndrome among these patients include nonadherence to a diet regimen, insufficient physical activity, being overweight/obese and smoking. It is recommended that healthcare providers counsel patients on the importance of maintaining physical activity, smoking cessation, and adherence to a diet regimen.

Serum total bilirubin is a risk factor of metabolic syndrome and its components in obese Egyptians

Background/Aim

The link between serum total bilirubin and metabolic syndrome and its components has been previously proposed. However, it is unknown whether total bilirubin is a risk factor of metabolic syndrome and its components in obese Egyptians. Therefore, this study was conducted to clarify the association of total bilirubin levels with metabolic syndrome and its components in obese Egyptians.

Methods

A total of 200 adults with obesity were enrolled in this study. Obese participants were evaluated for metabolic syndrome; there were 92 obese participants with metabolic syndrome and 108 obese participants without metabolic syndrome. Anthropometric measurements, fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), HOMA-β (%), lipid profile, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and serum total bilirubin were assessed.

Results

Total bilirubin was significantly lower in obese participants with metabolic syndrome than in those without metabolic syndrome. Compared with middle bilirubin tertile, high and low bilirubin tertiles were independently associated with metabolic syndrome. Regarding metabolic syndrome components, a significant positive association between low bilirubin tertile and hypertension was found independent of the all studied confounding factors, whereas the association of total bilirubin level with waist circumference (WC), FBG, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides was dependent on body mass index (BMI), HOMA-IR, and high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP).

Conclusion

Total bilirubin is an independent risk factor of metabolic syndrome in obese Egyptians. We have found an independent association between high bilirubin level and reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, whereas low bilirubin level was associated with increased risk of metabolic syndrome. Bilirubin is also independently associated with hypertension, but its association with other components of metabolic syndrome is mainly dependent on BMI, HOMA-IR, and hs-CRP.

The relationship between oxidative balance score and circadian syndrome: evidence from the NHANES 2005-2018

Background

The oxidative balance score (OBS) is a composite indicator that evaluates the balance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants in one's diet and lifestyle. However, the relationship between OBS and circadian syndrome (CircS) has remained unexplored. This investigation aimed to determine a correlation between OBS and CircS.

Methods

This population-based study examined 7,202 participants from the 2005 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 1,433 of whom had CircS. We utilized weighted multivariate logistic regression, trend tests, subgroup analysis, and interaction tests to evaluate the correlation between OBS (total OBS, dietary OBS, and lifestyle OBS) and CircS. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) models and threshold effect analysis were used to explore nonlinear relationships.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the protective factor for CircS was a high OBS level (total OBS: Odds ratio (OR) = 0.95, 95% Confidence interval (CI): 0.93-0.97; dietary OBS: OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96-1.00; lifestyle OBS: OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.61-0.69). Compared to the quartile 1 group, OBS (total OBS, dietary OBS, and lifestyle OBS) was negatively and statistically significantly associated with the risk of developing Circs in the quartile 4 group (total OBS: OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.32-0.70; dietary OBS: OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.48-0.99; lifestyle OBS: OR = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.04-0.11). According to subgroup analysis and interaction tests, there was an interaction effect between the association of lifestyle OBS and CircS in terms of education level (p for interaction = 0.01). Furthermore, we observed a nonlinear negative relationship between lifestyle OBS and CircS prevalence, with inflection points at 6 (p for nonlinearity = 0.002).

Conclusion

The results showed a substantial negative connection between OBS and CircS. Encouraging foods filled with antioxidants and antioxidant-rich lifestyles may reduce the risk of CircS.

Higher global diet quality score is inversely associated with odds of metabolic syndrome among Iranian adults

BACKGROUND

Growing research underscores the significance of diet quality in the development of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). Our study investigates the correlation between the Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS) and MetS, along with its components, in Iranian adults.

METHODS

This study utilizes data from the Yazd Health Study (YaHS) and includes a final analysis of 2,904 participants aged 20-70 years. Dietary data were gathered using food frequency questionnaires. MetS was defined in line with the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria. GDQS was derived by totaling the points across all 25 food groups, with scores ranging from 0 to 49. To examine the association between GDQS and MetS, multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted in both crude and adjusted models.

RESULTS

Participants who had the highest adherence to GDQS had a 20% lower chance of having MetS than those who had the lowest adherence after adjusting for confounding variables in Model II (T3 vs. T1: OR = 0.80; 95% CI: 0.46-0.99, P-trend = 0.045). There was no association between GDQS and MetS components including increased blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride, abdominal obesity and reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in crude and adjusted models.

CONCLUSION

higher adherence to GDQS was inversely related to odds of MetS. Further longitudinal and clinical trials investigations are required to confirm these associations.

Agreement between equation-derived body fat estimator and bioelectrical impedance analysis for body fat measurement in middle-aged southern Indians

Excess body fat (BF) contributes to metabolic syndrome (MetS). The Clínica Universidad de Navarra-Body Adiposity Estimator (CUN-BAE) is an equation-derived body fat estimator proposed to assess BF. However, its efficiency compared to the standard method is unknown. We aimed to compare the efficacy of CUN-BAE with the standard method in estimating BF in southern Indians. We included 351 subjects, with 166 MetS patients and 185 non-MetS subjects. BF was obtained from the standard bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method and measured by CUN-BAE in the same subjects. We compared the efficacy of CUN-BAE in estimating BF with that of BIA via Bland-Altman plots, intraclass correlation coefficients, concordance correlation coefficients and the kappa index. The mean body fat percentage (BF%) values measured by BIA and CUN-BAE in all the subjects were 28.91 ± 8.94 and 29.22 ± 8.63, respectively. We observed significant absolute agreement between CUN-BAE and BIA for BF%. BIA and CUN-BAE showed good reproducibility for BF%. CUN-BAE had accuracy comparable to BIA for detecting MetS using BF%. Our findings indicate that CUN-BAE provides precise BF estimates similar to the BIA method, making it suitable for routine clinical practice when access to BF measurement devices is limited.

Association of a dietary pattern related to serum vitamin D levels with metabolic syndrome risk among Korean adults: based on the Korean national health and nutrition examination survey

PURPOSE

Vitamin D has a crucial role in our metabolic health. We aimed to examine associations of vitamin D status and its related dietary pattern (DP) with prevalent risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in 9,237 Korean adults aged 19-64 years based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

METHODS

Vitamin D status was examined by serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). A vitamin D-related DP associated with 25(OH)D levels was derived using reduced rank regression (RRR). Associations of vitamin D status and its related DP with MetS prevalence were examined using multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Men with sufficient vitamin D status had a 44% lower risk of MetS prevalence (OR: 0.56; 95%CI: 0.36-0.87) compared to those with deficiency. A vitamin D-related DP derived using RRR was characterized by high intakes of vegetables, fish, fruits, and nuts and low intakes of eggs, oils, and mushrooms in this study population. Among men, the DP was significantly associated with a lower risk of MetS prevalence, showing a 12% (95%CI: 4-20%) reduction in risk for a one-unit increase in the DP score. However, there was no significant association among women.

CONCLUSION

The study's findings suggest that a sufficient vitamin D status and a related DP with high intakes of vegetables, fish, fruit, and nuts were associated with the risk of MetS, particularly in Korean male adults.

The interaction between dietary nitrates/nitrites intake and gut microbial metabolites on metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) prevalence has increased globally.The evidence shows thatdiet and gut microbial metabolites includingtrimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and kynurenine (KYN) play an important role in developing MetS. However, there is a lack of evidence on associations between between diet and these metabolites. This study aimed to investigate the interaction between dietary nitrate/nitrite and gut microbial metabolites (TMAO, KYN) on MetS and its components.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 250 adults aged 20-50 years. Dietary intake was assessed using food frequency questionnaires (FFQ), and serum TMAO and KYN levels were measured. MetS was defined usingthe National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP ATP III) criteria.

Result

The ATPIII index revealed an 11% prevalence of metabolic syndrome among the study participants. After adjusting for confounders, significant positive interactions were found: High animal-source nitrate intake and high TMAO levels with elevated triglycerides (TG) (p interaction = 0.07) and abdominal obesity (p interaction = 0.08). High animal-source nitrate intake and high KYN levels with increased TG (p interaction = 0.01) and decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) (p interaction = 0.01).Individuals with high animal-source nitrite intake and high TMAO levels showed increased risk of hypertriglyceridemia (OR: 1.57, 95%CI: 0.35-2.87, p = 0.05), hypertension (OR: 1.53, 95%CI: 0.33-2.58, p = 0.06), and lower HDL (OR: 1.96, 95%CI: 0.42-2.03, p = 0.04). Similarly, high animal-source nitrite intake with high KYN levels showed lower HDL (OR: 2.44, 95%CI: 1.92-3.89, p = 0.07) and increased risk of hypertension (OR: 2.17,95%CI: 1.69-3.40, p = 0.05). Conversely, Negative interactions were found between high plant-source nitrate/nitrite intake with high KYN and TMAO levels on MetS and some components.

Conclusion

There is an interaction between dietary nitrate/nitrite source (animal vs. plant) and gut microbial metabolites (TMAO and KYN) on the risk of of MetS and its components. These findings highlight the importance of considering diet, gut microbiome metabolites, and their interactions in MetS risk assessment.

Time-Restricted Feeding Reduces Atherosclerosis in LDLR KO Mice but Not in ApoE Knockout Mice

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia increases cardiovascular disease risk, the leading cause of death worldwide. Under time-restricted feeding (TRF), wherein food intake is restricted to a consistent window of <12 hours, weight gain, glucose intolerance, inflammation, dyslipidemia, and hypercholesterolemia are all reduced in mice fed an obesogenic diet. LDLR (low-density lipoprotein receptor) mutations are a major cause of familial hypercholesterolemia and early-onset cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

We subjected benchmark preclinical models, mice lacking LDLR-knockout or ApoE knockout to ad libitum feeding of an isocaloric atherogenic diet either ad libitum or 9 hours TRF for up to 13 weeks and assessed disease development, mechanism, and global changes in hepatic gene expression and plasma lipids. In a regression model, a subset of LDLR-knockout mice were ad libitum fed and then subject to TRF.

RESULTS

TRF could significantly attenuate weight gain, hypercholesterolemia, and atherosclerosis in mice lacking the LDLR-knockout mice under experimental conditions of both prevention and regression. In LDLR-knockout mice, increased hepatic expression of genes mediating β-oxidation during fasting is associated with reduced VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) secretion and lipid accumulation. Additionally, increased sterol catabolism coupled with fecal loss of cholesterol and bile acids contributes to the atheroprotective effect of TRF. Finally, TRF alone or combined with a cholesterol-free diet can reduce atherosclerosis in LDLR-knockout mice. However, mice lacking ApoE, which is an important protein for hepatic lipoprotein reuptake do not respond to TRF.

CONCLUSIONS

In a preclinical animal model, TRF is effective in both the prevention and regression of atherosclerosis in LDLR knockout mice. The results suggest TRF alone or in combination with a low-cholesterol diet can be a lifestyle intervention for reducing cardiovascular disease risk in humans.

PPARα suppresses low-intensity-noise-induced body weight gain in mice: the activated HPA axis plays an critical role

BACKGROUND

As the second most risky environmental pollution, noise imposes threats to human health. Exposure to high-intensity noise causes hearing impairment, psychotic disorders, endocrine modifications. The relationship among low-intensity noise, obesity and lipid-regulating nuclear factor PPARα is not yet clear.

METHODS

In this study, male wild-type (WT) and Pparα-null (KO) mice on a high-fat diet (HFD) were exposed to 75 dB noise for 12 weeks to explore the effect of low-intensity noise on obesity development and the role of PPARα. 3T3-L1 cells were treated with dexamethasone (DEX) and sodium oleate (OA) to verify the down-stream effect of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activation on the adipose tissues.

RESULTS

The average body weight gain (BWG) of WT mice on HFD exposed to noise was inhibited, which was not observed in KO mice. The mass and adipocyte size of adipose tissues accounted for the above difference of BWG tendency. In WT mice on HFD, the adrenocorticotropic hormone level was increased by the noise challenge. The aggravation of fatty liver by noise exposure occurred in both mouse lines, and the transport of hepatic redundant lipid to adipose tissues were similar. The lipid metabolism in adipose tissue driven by HPA axis accorded with the BWG inhibition in vivo, validated in 3T3-L1 adipogenic stem cells.

CONCLUSION

Chronic exposure to low-intensity noise aggravated fatty liver in both WT and KO mice. BWG inhibition was observed only in WT mice, which covered up the aggravation of fatty liver by noise exposure. PPARα mediates the activation of HPA axis by noise exposure in mice on HFD. Elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) promoted lipid metabolism in adipocytes, which contributed to the disassociation of BWG and fatty liver development in male WT mice. Summary of PPARα suppresses noise-induced body weight gain in mice on high-fat-diet. Chronic exposure to low-intensity noise exposure inhibited BWG by PPARα-dependent activation of the HPA axis.

Metabolomics and Lipidomics for Studying Metabolic Syndrome: Insights into Cardiovascular Diseases, Type 1 & 2 Diabetes, and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Metabolomics and lipidomics have emerged as tools in understanding the connections of metabolic syndrome (MetS) with cardiovascular diseases (CVD), type 1 and type 2 diabetes (T1D, T2D), and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This review highlights the applications of these omics approaches in large-scale cohort studies, emphasizing their role in biomarker discovery and disease prediction. Integrating metabolomics and lipidomics has significantly advanced our understanding of MetS pathology by identifying unique metabolic signatures associated with disease progression. However, challenges such as standardizing analytical workflows, data interpretation, and biomarker validation remain critical for translating research findings into clinical practice. Future research should focus on optimizing these methodologies to enhance their clinical utility and address the global burden of MetS-related diseases.

Metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease among adult cancer patients: results from NHANES 2007-2018

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), and CVD is a major challenge for cancer patients. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and association of MetS and CVD among adult cancer patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included cancer patients aged > 18 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2018. The prevalence of MetS and CVD was calculated using weighted analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between MetS and CVD.

RESULTS

The study included 2658 adult cancer patients, of whom 1260 exhibited MetS and 636 had CVD. The weighted prevalence of MetS and CVD in cancer patients was 45.44%, and 19.23%, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression showed a 79% increased risk in higher CVD prevalence in cancer patients with MetS, with the OR (95% CI) of 1.79 (1.31, 2.44). Notably, obesity, elevated blood pressure (BP), high glucose, and low high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the MetS components were significantly associated with higher CVD prevalence after adjusting for covariates. Moreover, the risk of CVD prevalence in cancer patients increased with more MetS components. Notably, MetS was more strongly linked to CVD in patients aged < 65 and women.

CONCLUSIONS

Among adult cancer patients, over two-fifths (45.44%) were estimated to have MetS, while about one-fifth (19.23%) were considered to have CVD. Notably, obesity, elevated BP, high glucose, low HDL-C, and higher number of MetS components were found to be significantly associated with higher CVD prevalence among cancer adults. Cancer patients under 65 and women with MetS may be at increased risk of CVD.

Identification and verification of immune-related genes for diagnosing the progression of atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome are the main causes of cardiovascular events, but their underlying mechanisms are not clear. In this study, we focused on identifying genes associated with diagnostic biomarkers and effective therapeutic targets associated with these two diseases.

METHODS

Transcriptional data sets of atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome were obtained from GEO database. The differentially expressed genes were analyzed by RStudio software, and the function-rich and protein-protein interactions of the common differentially expressed genes were analyzed.Furthermore, the hub gene was screened by Cytoscape software, and the immune infiltration of hub gens was analyzed. Finally, relevant clinical blood samples were collected for qRT-PCR verification of the three most important hub genes.

RESULTS

A total of 1242 differential genes (778 up-regulated genes and 464 down-regulated genes) were screened from GSE28829 data set. A total of 1021 differential genes (492 up-regulated genes and 529 down-regulated genes) were screened from the data set GSE98895. Then 23 up-regulated genes and 11 down-regulated genes were screened by venn diagram. Functional enrichment analysis showed that cytokines and immune activation were involved in the occurrence and development of these two diseases. Through the construction of the Protein-Protein Interaction(PPI) network and Cytoscape software analysis, we finally screened 10 hub genes. The immune infiltration analysis was further improved. The results showed that the infiltration scores of 7 kinds of immune cells in GSE28829 were significantly different among groups (Wilcoxon Test < 0.05), while in GSE98895, the infiltration scores of 4 kinds of immune cells were significantly different between groups (Wilcoxon Test < 0.05). Spearman method was used to analyze the correlation between the expression of 10 key genes and 22 kinds of immune cell infiltration scores in two data sets. The results showed that there were 42 pairs of significant correlations between 10 genes and 22 kinds of immune cells in GSE28829 (|Cor| > 0.3 & P < 0.05). There were 41 pairs of significant correlations between 10 genes and 22 kinds of immune cells in GSE98895 (|Cor| > 0.3 & P < 0.05). Finally, our results identified 10 small molecules with the highest absolute enrichment value, and the three most significant key genes (CX3CR1, TLR5, IL32) were further verified in the data expression matrix and clinical blood samples.

CONCLUSION

We have established a co-expression network between atherosclerotic progression and metabolic syndrome, and identified key genes between the two diseases. Through the method of bioinformatics, we finally obtained 10 hub genes in As and MS, and selected 3 of the most significant genes (CX3CR1, IL32, TLR5) for blood PCR verification. This may be helpful to provide new research ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of AS complicated with MS.

Role of HOMA-IR and IL-6 as screening markers for the metabolic syndrome in patients with chronic schizophrenia: a psychiatric hospital-based cross-sectional study

This study starts from the metabolic related indexes and cellular inflammatory factors in patients with chronic schizophrenia to find out that it can be used as an effective screening index of metabolic syndrome. 320 patients with chronic schizophrenia (course of disease > 5 years) and 165 healthy subjects were selected. The mental symptoms of the patients were measured by positive and negative syndrome scale. Blood samples from patients and healthy controls were collected to detect blood glucose, triglyceride, HDL and fasting insulin. The serum levels of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, IFN-γ and TNF-α were determined repeatedly by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of HOMA-IR, plasma inflammatory factors IL-2, IL-6, IL-17 and TNF-α in patient group were higher than those in healthy group. It was found that there were differences in age and related metabolic indexes between patients with chronic schizophrenia with and without metabolic syndrome. In addition, HOMA-IR, plasma cytokines IL-2 and IL-6 still showed differences between groups. In the Spearmen correlation analysis of insulin resistance index, cytokines and metabolic indexes, it was found that there was a significant correlation between HOMA-IR, IL-6 and related metabolic indexes and metabolic syndrome. ROC curve analysis showed that HOMAIR and IL-6 could be used as screening indexes for MS in male and female patients with schizophrenia.Metabolic syndrome is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease in patients with chronic schizophrenia. HOMA-IR and IL-6 can be used as effective biological indicators to screen MS in patients with chronic schizophrenia.

Ethnic differences in metabolic syndrome in high-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This review aimed to systematically quantify the differences in Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) prevalence across various ethnic groups in high-income countries by sex, and to evaluate the overall prevalence trends from 1996 to 2022. We conducted a systematic literature review using MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library, focusing on studies about MetS prevalence among ethnic groups in high-income countries. We pooled 23 studies that used NCEP-ATP III criteria and included 147,756 healthy participants aged 18 and above. We calculated pooled prevalence estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using both fixed-effect and random-effect intercept logistic regression models. Data were analysed for 3 periods: 1996-2005, 2006-2009, and 2010-2021. The pooled prevalence of MetS in high-income countries, based on the NCEP-ATP III criteria, was 27.4% over the studied period, showing an increase from 24.2% in 1996-2005 to 31.9% in 2010-2021, with men and women having similar rates. When stratified by ethnicity and sex, ethnic minority women experienced the highest prevalence at 31.7%, while ethnic majority women had the lowest at 22.7%. Notably, MetS was more prevalent in ethnic minority women than men. Among ethnic minorities, women had a higher prevalence of MetS than men, and the difference was highest in Asians (about 15 percentage points). Among women, the prevalence of MetS was highest in Asians (41.2%) and lowest in Blacks/Africans (26.7%). Among men, it was highest in indigenous minority groups (34.3%) and lowest among in Blacks/Africans (19.8%). MetS is increasing at an alarming rate in high-income countries, particularly among ethnic minority women. The burden of MetS could be effectively reduced by tailoring interventions according to ethnic variations and risk profiles.

Heterocyclic Amines Disrupt Lipid Homeostasis in Cryopreserved Human Hepatocytes

Metabolic dysfunction associated-steatotic liver disease (MASLD)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is the liver manifestation of metabolic syndrome, which is characterized by insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and/or obesity. Environmental pollutant exposure has been recently identified as a risk factor for developing MASH. Heterocyclic amines (HCAs) are mutagens generated when cooking meat at high temperatures or until well-done. Recent epidemiological studies reported that dietary HCA exposure may be linked to insulin resistance and type II diabetes, and we recently reported that HCAs induce insulin resistance and glucose production in human hepatocytes. However, no previous studies have examined the effects of HCAs on hepatic lipid homeostasis. In the present study, we assessed the effects of two common HCAs, MeIQx (2-amino-3, 8-dimethylimidazo [4, 5-f] quinoxaline) and PhIP (2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4, 5-b] pyridine), on lipid homeostasis in cryopreserved human hepatocytes. Exposure to a single concentration of 25 μM MeIQx or PhIP in human hepatocytes led to dysregulation of lipid homeostasis, typified by significant increases in lipid droplets and triglycerides. PhIP significantly increased expression of lipid droplet-associated genes, PNPLA3 and HSD17B13, and both HCAs significantly increased PLIN2. Exposure to MeIQx or PhIP also significantly increased expression of several key genes involved in lipid synthesis, transport and metabolism, including FASN, DGAT2, CPT1A, SCD, and CD36. Furthermore, both MeIQx and PhIP significantly increased intracellular cholesterol and decreased expression of PON1 which is involved in cholesterol efflux. Taken together, these results suggest that HCAs dysregulate lipid production, metabolism, and storage. The current study demonstrates, for the first time, that HCA exposure may lead to fat accumulation in hepatocytes, which may contribute to hepatic insulin resistance and MASH.

Prevalence and Associations Between Metabolic Syndrome Components and Hyperuricemia by Race: Findings From US Population, 2011-2020

OBJECTIVE

We explored the trend in prevalence of hyperuricemia and metabolic syndrome in US populations and investigated associations between components of metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia by race.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the four most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles (2011 to March 2020), comprising 10,175 participants. Hyperuricemia is defined as serum urate >7.0 mg/dL (men) or >5.7 mg/dL (women), following the NHANES-III guideline. The definition of metabolic syndrome follows the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III guideline. We estimated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia in each cycle and performed subgroup analyses with logistic regression to investigate the patterns of associated components of metabolic syndrome with hyperuricemia.

RESULTS

In the most recent cycle (2017 to March 2020), the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 45.9% and that of hyperuricemia was 20.7%. Over the 2011 to 2020 period, a significant rise in metabolic syndrome prevalence was observed among Hispanic and Asian populations, and the prevalence of hyperuricemia has increased significantly only in the Hispanic population. After adjustment for confounding factors, patients with metabolic syndrome exhibited a higher hyperuricemia in women than in men. Elevated blood pressure was the strongest factor with hyperuricemia. The association was the weakest in the Asian population. Waist circumference was the only significant factor associated with hyperuricemia in the Asian population.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome has an increasing pattern, but there was no specific decadal trend in prevalence of hyperuricemia. There is an ethnicity-specific association of metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia, especially among Asians.

Research advances in the therapy of metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome refers to the pathological state of metabolic disorder of protein, fat, carbohydrate, and other substances in the human body. It is a syndrome composed of a group of complex metabolic disorders, whose pathogenesis includes multiple genetic and acquired entities falling under the category of insulin resistance and chronic low-grade inflammationand. It is a risk factor for increased prevalence and mortality from diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular diseases are the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality globally, thus it is imperative to investigate the impact of metabolic syndrome on alleviating this substantial disease burden. Despite the increasing number of scientists dedicating themselves to researching metabolic syndrome in recent decades, numerous aspects of this condition remain incompletely understood, leaving many questions unanswered. In this review, we present an epidemiological analysis of MetS, explore both traditional and novel pathogenesis, examine the pathophysiological repercussions of metabolic syndrome, summarize research advances, and elucidate the mechanisms underlying corresponding treatment approaches.

Heavy arch: from inflammatory bowel diseases to metabolic disorders

BACKGROUND

Metabolic disorders and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) have captured the globe during Westernisation of lifestyle and related dietary habits over the last decades. Both disease entities are characterised by complex and heterogeneous clinical spectra linked to distinct symptoms and organ systems which, on a first glimpse, do not have many commonalities in clinical practice. However, experimental studies indicate a common backbone of inflammatory mechanisms in metabolic diseases and gut inflammation, and emerging clinical evidence suggests an intricate interplay between metabolic disorders and IBD.

OBJECTIVE

We depict parallels of IBD and metabolic diseases, easily overlooked in clinical routine.

DESIGN

We provide an overview of the recent literature and discuss implications of metabolic morbidity in patients with IBD for researchers, clinicians and healthcare providers.

CONCLUSION

The Western lifestyle and diet and related gut microbial perturbation serve as a fuel for metabolic inflammation in and beyond the gut. Metabolic disorders and the metabolic syndrome increasingly affect patients with IBD, with an expected negative impact for both disease entities and risk for complications. This concept implies that tackling the obesity pandemic exerts beneficial effects beyond metabolic health.

Regulatory Roles of MicroRNAs in the Pathogenesis of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome refers to a group of several disease conditions together with high glucose triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, lower high-density lipoprotein level, and large waist circumference. About 400 million people worldwide, one-third of the Euro-American population and 27% Chinese population over age 50 have it. microRNAs, an abundant novel class of endogenous small, non-coding RNAs in eukaryotic cells, act as negative controllers of gene expression by promoting either degradation/translational repression of target messenger RNA. More than 2000 microRNAs in the human genome have been identified and they are implicated in various biological & pathophysiological processes, including glucose homeostasis, inflammatory response, and angiogenesis. Destruction of microRNAs has a crucial role in the pathogenesis of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Recently the discovery of circulating microRNAs in human serum may help to promote metabolic crosstalk between organs and serves as a novel approach for the identification of various diseases, like Type 2 diabetes & atherosclerosis. In this review, we will discuss the most recent and up-to-date research on the pathophysiology and histopathology of metabolic syndrome besides their historical background and epidemiological highlight. As well as search the methodologies employed in this field of research and the potential role of microRNAs as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for metabolic syndrome in the human body. Furthermore, the significance of microRNAs in promising strategies, like stem cell therapy, which holds enormous promise for regenerative medicine in the treatment of metabolic disorders will also be discussed.

Oat protein modulates cholesterol metabolism and improves cardiac systolic function in high fat, high sucrose fed rats

Oats are recognized to provide many health benefits that are mainly associated with its dietary fibre, β-glucan. However, the protein derived from oats is largely understudied with respect to its ability to maintain health and attenuate risk factors of chronic diseases. The goal of the current study was to investigate the metabolic effects of oat protein consumption in lieu of casein as the protein source in high fat, high sucrose (HF/HS) fed Wistar rats. Four-week-old rats were divided into three groups and were fed three different experimental diets: a control diet with casein as the protein source, an HF/HS diet with casein, or an HF/HS diet with oat protein for 16 weeks. Heart structure and function were determined by echocardiography. Blood pressure measurements, an oral glucose tolerance test, and markers of cholesterol metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver and kidney damage were also performed. Our study results show that incorporation of oat protein in the diet was effective in preserving systolic heart function in HF/HS fed rats. Oat protein significantly reduced serum total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Furthermore, oat protein normalized liver HMG-CoAR activity, which, to our knowledge, is the first time this has been reported in the literature. Therefore, our research suggests that oat protein can provide hypocholesterolemic and cardioprotective benefits in a diet-induced model of metabolic syndrome.

Exploring the Link Between Metabolic Syndrome and Cellulite

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) encompasses a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including insulin resistance, hypertension, abdominal obesity, and dyslipidemia, increasing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes risks. Cellulite, a cosmetic condition marked by dimpled skin, predominantly affects women and shares risk factors with MetS, such as obesity and hormonal imbalances. This review examines the potential link between MetS and cellulite, focusing on shared pathophysiological pathways and implications for clinical practice and future research. Common factors such as inflammation, hormonal changes, and adipose tissue dysfunction are explored. The review highlights the importance of longitudinal studies to track cellulite progression in MetS patients, biomarker identification for early detection, intervention trials to assess therapeutic efficacy, mechanistic studies to elucidate underlying pathways and the impact of comorbidities on cellulite development. Understanding these relationships can enhance prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for both MetS and cellulite, addressing significant public health and cosmetic concerns.

Role of the Intestine and Its Gut Microbiota in Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity

The metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) is currently one of the biggest global health challenges because of its impact on public health. MetSyn includes the cluster of metabolic disorders including obesity, high blood pressure, hyperglycemia, high triglyceride levels, and hepatic steatosis. Together, these abnormalities increase the cardiovascular risk of individuals and pose a threat to healthcare systems worldwide. To better understand and address this complex issue, recent research has been increasingly focusing on unraveling the delicate interplay between metabolic disorders and the intestines and more specifically our gut microbiome. The gut microbiome entails all microorganisms inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract and plays a pivotal role in metabolic processes and overall health of its host. Emerging evidence proves an association between the gut microbiome composition and aspects of MetSyn, such as obesity. Understanding these relationships is crucial because they offer valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying development and progression of metabolic disorders and possible treatment options. Yet, how should we interpret this relationship? This review focuses on the interplay between the gut and MetSyn. In addition, we have reviewed the existing evidence of the gut microbiome and its association with and impact on metabolic disorders, in an attempt to understand the complex interactions and nature of this association. We also explored potential therapeutic options targeting the gut to modify metabolic disorders and obesity.

Age-related ciliopathy: Obesogenic shortening of melanocortin-4 receptor-bearing neuronal primary cilia

Obesity is often associated with aging. However, the mechanism of age-related obesity is unknown. The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) mediates leptin-melanocortin anti-obesity signaling in the hypothalamus. Here, we discovered that MC4R-bearing primary cilia of hypothalamic neurons progressively shorten with age in rats, correlating with age-dependent metabolic decline and increased adiposity. This "age-related ciliopathy" is promoted by overnutrition-induced upregulation of leptin-melanocortin signaling and inhibited or reversed by dietary restriction or the knockdown of ciliogenesis-associated kinase 1 (CILK1). Forced shortening of MC4R-bearing cilia in hypothalamic neurons by genetic approaches impaired neuronal sensitivity to melanocortin and resulted in decreased brown fat thermogenesis and energy expenditure and increased appetite, finally developing obesity and leptin resistance. Therefore, despite its acute anti-obesity effect, chronic leptin-melanocortin signaling increases susceptibility to obesity by promoting the age-related shortening of MC4R-bearing cilia. This study provides a crucial mechanism for age-related obesity, which increases the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Positive association between blood ethylene oxide levels and metabolic syndrome: NHANES 2013-2020

Purpose

The exposure of Ethylene oxide (EO) is linked to systemic inflammatory response and various cardiovascular risk factors. Hemoglobin's binding to ethylene oxide (HbEO) was used to measure serum EO level. This research aims to explore the association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and HbEO, and between HbEO and components of metabolic syndrome.

Method

This research included 1842 participants from 2013 to 2020 in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database. Weighted logistic regression models were used to analyze the relationship between HbEO and metabolic syndrome risk, using odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). The restricted cubic spline plot explores whether there is a dose-response relationship between HbEO and MetS risk. Subgroup analysis was performed to analyze study heterogeneity.

Results

Significant differences were found in gender, educational level, marital status, diabetes status and hypertension among different groups (P < 0.001, P = 0.007, P = 0.003, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). The serum HbEO level exhibited positive correlation with metabolic syndrome risk in Q2 level (OR=1.64, 1.04~2.48), Q3 level (OR=1.99, 1.29~3.08), and Q4 level (OR=2.89, 1.92~4.34). The dose-response association suggested a possible linear association between serum HbEO and metabolic syndrome risk (P-overall=0.0359, P-non-linear=0.179). L-shaped association was found between HbEO and the risk of MetS in female population, obese population and mid-age and elder population (P-overall<0.001, P-non-linear=0.0024; P-overall=0.0107, P-non-linear=0.0055 P-overall<0.001 P-non-linear=0.0157).

Conclusion

This study indicates a linear correlation between MetS and HbEO, with MetS risk escalating as HbEO levels increase. The prevalence of MetS varies depending on BMI, age and gender, and these factors can also influence MetS prevalence when exposed to EO.

Association of Nightly Fasting, Meal Frequency, and Skipping Meals with Metabolic Syndrome among Kuwaiti Adults

Mounting evidence suggests that meal timing and frequency are associated with cardiometabolic health by influencing circadian rhythms. However, the evidence is inconsistent and limited, especially in non-Western cultures. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the association between temporal habits of dietary intake, such as nightly fasting duration and meal frequency, and metabolic syndrome among Kuwaiti adults. A 24-hour recall was used to assess temporal habits of dietary intake. Meal frequency was defined as the number of daily eating episodes. The study included a total of 757 adults aged 20 years and older. The participants' mean age was 37.8 ± 12.3 years. After adjusting for all confounders, higher meal frequency was found to be associated with a lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome in adults (OR, 0.43; 95%CI, 0.19-0.96) and a lower prevalence of elevated triglycerides in men only (OR, 0.23; 95%CI, 0.09-0.60). No association was found between nightly fasting and metabolic syndrome, but a longer fasting duration was associated with a lower prevalence of elevated triglycerides (OR, 0.19; 95%CI, 0.06-0.63). The findings suggest that having frequent meals and longer durations of nightly fasting may help decrease the risk of metabolic syndrome and elevated triglycerides.

Correlation analysis between occupational stress and metabolic syndrome in workers of a petrochemical enterprise: based on two assessment models of occupational stress

BACKGROUND

Occupational stress is becoming a common phenomenon around the world. Being in a high occupational stress state for a long time may destroy the metabolic balance of the body, thereby increasing the risk of metabolic diseases. There is limited evidence regarding the correlation between occupational stress and metabolic syndrome (MetS), particularly in the petrochemical workers.

METHODS

A total of 1683 workers of a petrochemical enterprise in China were included in the survey by cluster sampling method. The occupational stress assessment was carried out by the Job Content Questionnaire and the Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire, and the general demographic characteristics, work characteristics, occupational hazards, lifestyle and health examination data of the participants were collected. Logistic regression and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the correlations and influencing factors between occupational stress and its dimensions with MetS and its components.

RESULTS

A total of 1683 questionnaires were sent out, and 1608 were effectively collected, with an effective recovery rate of 95.54%. The detection rates of occupational stress in Job Demand-Control (JDC) and Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI) models were 28.4% and 27.2%, respectively. In this study, 257 participants (16.0%) were diagnosed with MetS. Compared with the non-MetS group, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), triglycerides (TG) and fasting blood-glucose (FBG) levels were significantly higher in the MetS group, and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were significantly lower (P < 0.001). The results of multiple linear regression showed that after adjusting for nation, marital status, education, work system, smoking and drinking, and further adjusting for occupational hazards, the D/C ratio was significantly negatively correlated with SBP in the JDC model. Social support was negatively correlated with WC. In the ERI model, there was a significant positive correlation between over-commitment and FBG.

CONCLUSIONS

The detection rates of occupational stress and MetS were high in workers of a petrochemical enterprise. In the JDC model, occupational stress was negatively correlated with SBP, and social support was negatively correlated with WC. In the ERI model, there was a significantly positive correlation between over-commitment and FBG.

A review of CRISPR-Cas and PCR-based methods for the detection of animal species in the food chain-current challenges and future prospects

Regular testing and systematic investigation play a vital role to ensure product safety. Until now, the existing food authentication techniques have been based on proteins, lipids, and nucleic acid-based assays. Among various deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-based methods, the recently developed Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) based bio-sensing is an innovative and fast-expanding technology. The CRISPR/Cas-9 is known as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats due to the flexibility and simplicity of the CRISPR/Cas9 site-specific editing tool has been applied in many biological research areas such as Gene therapy, cell line development, discovering mechanisms of disease, and drug discovery. Nowadays, the CRISPR-Cas system has also been introduced into food authentication via detecting DNA barcodes of poultry and livestock both in processed and unprocessed food samples. This review documents various DNA based approaches, in an accessible format. Future CRISPR technologies are forecast while challenges are outlined.