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This study investigates dietary supplement use among rugby players and their general health, focusing on prevalence and underlying motivations. Involving 92 athletes, it examines the relationship between supplement usage, motivations, and health outcomes using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey and a 24-item ad hoc questionnaire. Findings reveal a high frequency of supplement usage, motivated by desires to enhance performance, appearance, and mood. Significant differences in health-related quality of life are found between users and non-users, particularly in mental health, social functioning, and emotional stability. Motivations like performance enhancement and body shape manipulation were linked to altered health perceptions, indicating the psychosocial impacts of supplementation. This study emphasizes the need to consider the holistic effects of supplements on athlete well-being, advocating for a balanced approach prioritizing both physical and mental health. It calls for increased awareness among athletes, coaches, and sports professionals about the potential risks and benefits of supplement use and the importance of informed decision-making. Additionally, it highlights the need for further research to understand the mechanisms of supplement use and its impact on athlete health, aiming to enhance sports science and promote overall athlete well-being in competitive environments.

Background: The fine visuomotor function is commonly impaired in several neurological conditions. However, there is a scarcity of reliable neuropsychological tools to assess such a critical domain., Aims: The aim of this study is to explore the psychometric properties and provide normative data for the Visual-Motor Speed and Precision Test (VMSPT)., Results: Our normative sample included 220 participants (130 females) aged 18-86 years (mean education = 15.24 years, SD = 3.98). Results showed that raw VMSPT scores were affected by higher age and lower education. No effect of sex or handedness was shown. Age- and education-based norms were provided. VMSPT exhibited weak-to-strong correlations with well-known neuropsychological tests, encompassing a wide range of cognitive domains of clinical relevance. By gradually intensifying the cognitive demands, the test becomes an indirect, performance-oriented measure of executive functioning. Finally, VMSPT seems proficient in capturing the speed-accuracy trade-off typically observed in the aging population., Conclusions: This study proposes the initial standardization of a versatile, time-efficient, and cost-effective neuropsychological tool for assessing fine visuomotor coordination. We propose renaming the VMSPT as the more approachable "Little Circles Test" (LCT)., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

The prevalence of obesity has become a global health concern, with significant impacts on quality of life and mortality rates. Recent research has highlighted the role of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in driving the obesity epidemic. UPFs undergo extensive processing, often containing high levels of sugars, fats, and additives, while lacking essential nutrients. Studies have linked UPF consumption to obesity and cardiometabolic diseases, underscoring the importance of dietary patterns rich in whole foods. Thus, the aim of this narrative review is to elucidate the correlation between ultra-processed foods and the increased trend of obesity and its related complications. These foods, prevalent in modern diets, contribute to nutritional deficiencies and excessive caloric intake, exacerbating obesity rates. Lifestyle factors such as busy schedules and quick meal management further drive UPF consumption, disrupting hunger regulation and promoting overeating. UPF consumption correlates with adverse health outcomes, including dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance. Promoting whole, minimally processed foods and implementing school-based nutrition education programs are crucial steps. Also, numerous challenges exist, including unequal access to healthy foods, the industry's influence, and behavioral barriers to dietary change. Future research should explore innovative approaches, such as nutrigenomics and digital health technologies, to personalize interventions and evaluate policy effectiveness. Collaboration across disciplines and sectors will be vital to develop comprehensive solutions and improve public health outcomes globally.

The ketogenic diet (KD) is marked by a substantial decrease in carbohydrate intake and an elevated consumption of fats and proteins, leading to a metabolic state referred to as "ketosis," where fats become the primary source of energy. Recent research has underscored the potential advantages of the KD in mitigating the risk of various illnesses, including type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, heart disease, and cancer. The macronutrient distribution in the KD typically entails high lipid intake, moderate protein consumption, and low carbohydrate intake. Restricting carbohydrates to below 50 g/day induces a catabolic state, prompting metabolic alterations such as gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis. Ketogenesis diminishes fat and glucose accumulation as energy reserves, stimulating the production of fatty acids. Neurodegenerative diseases, encompassing Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease are hallmarked by persistent neuroinflammation. Evolving evidence indicates that immune activation and neuroinflammation play a significant role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. The protective effects of the KD are linked to the generation of ketone bodies (KB), which play a pivotal role in this dietary protocol. Considering these findings, this narrative review seeks to delve into the potential effects of the KD in neuroinflammation by modulating the immune response. Grasping the immunomodulatory effects of the KD on the central nervous system could offer valuable insights into innovative therapeutic approaches for these incapacitating conditions., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Monda, La Torre, Messina, Di Maio, Monda, Moscatelli, De Stefano, La Marra, Padova, Dipace, Limone, Casillo, Monda, Messina and Polito.)

This study explores the interplay between executive functions and body weight, examining both the influence of biological factors, specifically sex, and methodological issues, such as the choice between Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) as the primary anthropometric measure. A total of 386 participants (222 females, mean age = 45.98 years, SD = 17.70) were enrolled, from whom sociodemographic (sex, age, years of formal education) and anthropometric (BMI and WC) data were collected. Executive functions were evaluated using the Frontal Assessment Battery-15 (FAB15). The results showed the increased effectiveness of WC over BMI in examining the relationships between executive functions, sex differences, and body weight. In particular, this study revealed that there was a significant moderating effect of sex at comparable levels of executive functioning. Specifically, women with higher executive performance had lower WCs than their male counterparts, suggesting that executive function has a greater impact on WC in women than in men. Our findings highlight the importance of conducting more in-depth investigations of the complex relationship between cognitive deficits and weight gain, considering confounding variables of behavioral, psychobiological, and neurophysiological origin., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

The developing domain of mental health in sports has gained much interest, acknowledging its pivotal role in athlete performance and well-being. The aim of this research is to provide a quantitative description concerning the levels of mental health, physical activity, cognitive fusion, cognitive flexibility, and coping strategies that characterize rugby athletes by using a data-driven approach. A total of 92 rugby athletes took part in this study and filled out a set of self-administered questionnaires. A correlational analysis showed that general well-being was positively associated with years spent playing rugby ( r = 0.23) and coping mechanisms ( r = 0.29). Athletes' well-being was also negatively correlated with cognitive inflexibility ( r = -0.41) and cognitive fusion ( r = -0.39). A k-means cluster analysis identified two unique groups: group 1, characterized by higher levels of psychological well-being, lower levels of physical activity, greater cognitive flexibility, improved coping techniques, and reduced cognitive fusion, and group 2, which exhibits opposite characteristics. The discrepancies observed in psychological characteristics such as coping strategies, cognitive fusion, and cognitive inflexibility highlight their potential impact on the general health of rugby players. To comprehend the complex interplay between psychological and physical elements in rugby athletes, long-term studies with larger samples are crucial.

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. The latter mainly include affective, sleep, and cognitive deficits. Non-demented PD patients often demonstrate impairments in several executive domains following neuropsychological evaluation. The current pilot study aims at assessing the discriminatory power of the Frontal Assessment Battery-15 (FAB15) in differentiating (i) non-demented PD patients and healthy controls and (ii) PD patients with more and less pronounced motor symptoms., Methods: Thirty-nine non-demented early-stage PD patients in the "on" dopamine state (26 females, mean age = 64.51 years, SD = 6.47, mean disease duration = 5.49 years, SD = 2.28) and 39 healthy participants (24 females, mean age = 62.60 years, SD = 5.51) were included in the study. All participants completed the FAB15. Motor symptoms of PD patients were quantified via the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale-Part III (UPDRS-Part III) and Hoehn and Yahr staging scale (H&Y)., Results: The FAB15 score, adjusted according to normative data for sex, age, and education, proved to be sufficiently able to discriminate PD patients from healthy controls (AUC = 0.69 [95% CI 0.60-0.75], SE = 0.06, p = 0.04, optimal cutoff = 11.29). Conversely, the battery lacked sufficient discriminative capability to differentiate PD patients based on the severity of motor symptoms., Conclusion: The FAB15 may be a valid tool for distinguishing PD patients from healthy controls. However, it might be less sensitive in identifying clinical phenotypes characterized by visuospatial impairments resulting from posteroparietal and/or temporal dysfunctions. In line with previous evidence, the battery demonstrated to be not expendable in the clinical practice for monitoring the severity of PD-related motor symptoms., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Ilardi, di Maio, Villano, Messina, Monda, Messina, Porro, Panaro, Gamboz, Iavarone and La Marra.)

Knowledge about the mechanisms of transmission and the processing of nociceptive information, both in healthy and pathological states, has greatly expanded in recent years. This rapid progress is due to a multidisciplinary approach involving the simultaneous use of different branches of study, such as systems neurobiology, behavioral analysis, genetics, and cell and molecular techniques. This narrative review aims to clarify the mechanisms of transmission and the processing of pain while also taking into account the characteristics and properties of nociceptors and how the immune system influences pain perception. Moreover, several important aspects of this crucial theme of human life will be discussed. Nociceptor neurons and the immune system play a key role in pain and inflammation. The interactions between the immune system and nociceptors occur within peripheral sites of injury and the central nervous system. The modulation of nociceptor activity or chemical mediators may provide promising novel approaches to the treatment of pain and chronic inflammatory disease. The sensory nervous system is fundamental in the modulation of the host's protective response, and understanding its interactions is pivotal in the process of revealing new strategies for the treatment of pain.

Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was accompanied by an overabundance of fake news increasing the risk of developing false memories (FMs). Previous studies have shown that the relationship between fake news and FMs could be mediated by some individual variables, including attitudinal biases. We explored the role of these variables in true memories (TMs) and FMs formation, with special emphasis on vaccine- and Green Pass (GP)-related topics., Method: We set up a large online survey exploring several constructs including media usage, attitude toward vaccines and GP, perceived (PK) and objective knowledge (OK) about COVID-19-related information, fear of the disease, depression and anxiety symptoms, coping mechanisms, and reasoning skills. Then, we asked participants whether they remembered certain news (true or fake), providing confidence ratings., Results: Data from 289 respondents (198 females) from the general population were analyzed. Participants with positive attitude reported a greater fear that their loved ones contracted the COVID-19, a more frequent use of traditional media, and a higher PK when compared with respondents with negative attitude. On the whole sample, participants reported higher confidence levels when required to judge their memory of true than fake news; however, participants with positive attitude reported a higher confidence for both true and fake news. The relationship between attitude and TM confidence was mediated by the PK, whereas the relationship between attitude and FM confidence was probably affected by OK., Conclusion: Attitude can modulate individual behaviors in the context of health issues. The PK and OK may interact with attitude in the memory formation., (© 2022 The Authors. Brain and Behavior published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: The present study examines the relationship between obesity, executive functions, and body image in a nonclinical population from southern Italy., Methods: General executive functioning (Frontal Assessment Battery-15), and body image disturbances (Body Uneasiness Test) were assessed in a sample including 255 participants (138 females, M age = 43.51 years, SD = 17.94, range = 18-86 years; M body mass index (BMI) = 26.21, SD = 4.32, range = 18.03-38.79)., Findings: Multiple Linear Regression Analysis indicated that age, years of education, FAB15 score, body image concerns, and avoidance predicted the variance of BMI. A subsequent mediation analysis highlighted that the indirect effect of FAB15 on BMI through avoidance was statistically significant., Interpretation: Our results suggest that more performing executive functioning predicts a decrease in BMI that is partially due to the mitigation of avoidance behaviors., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 La Marra, Ilardi, Villano, Polito, Sibillo, Franchetti, Caggiano, Strangio, Messina, Monda, Di Maio and Messina.)

Background: The association between obesity and executive functions (EFs) is highly controversial. It has been suggested that waist circumference (WC), compared to body mass index (BMI), is a better indicator of fat mass and EFs in obesity. Moreover, according to the viewpoint that the brain's functional architecture meets the need for interactive behavior, we hypothesize that the relationship between EFs and body weight might be mediated by the motor performance., Methods: General executive functioning (frontal assessment battery-15), additional cognitive subdomains (trail making test and digit span backward), and motor performance (finger tapping task) were assessed in a sample that included 330 volunteers (192 females, M age = 45.98 years, SD = 17.70, range = 18-86 years)., Results: Hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that the FAB15 score and FTT negatively predicted WC but not BMI. A subsequent mediation analysis highlighted that the indirect effect of FAB15 on WC through finger tapping was statistically significant., Conclusions: Our results suggest that WC, as compared to BMI, is a more effective measure for studying the association between EFs and body weight. Still, we found that the motor domain partially mediates the dynamics of such a relationship.

Background: The relationship binding body weight to psychological well-being is unclear. The present study aims at identifying the contribution, and specificity, of some dimensions (i.e., eating-related symptoms, body image disorders, eating habits, personality traits, and emotional difficulties) characterizing the psychological profile of obese adolescents (749 participants, 325 females; 58.3% normal-weight, 29.9% overweight, and 11.7% obese; mean age = 16.05, SD = 0.82)., Methods: By introducing the scores obtained by standardized self-report tools into a generalized linear model, a factorial reduction design was used to detect the best fitting discriminant functions and the principal components explaining the higher proportion of the variance., Results: We found two discriminant functions correctly classifying 87.1% of normal-weight, 57.2% of overweight, and 68.2% of obese adolescents. Furthermore, two independent factors, explaining 69.68% of the total variance, emerged., Conclusions: The first factor, "Body Image Concerns", included the drive for thinness, body dissatisfaction, and interpersonal distrust. The second factor, "Selective Depersonalization", included a trend toward depersonalization and dissatisfaction with the torso. The neurophysiological implications of our findings will be discussed.

In the last decades, it has been proposed that executive functions may be particularly vulnerable to weight-related issues. However, evidence on the matter is mixed, especially when the effects of sociodemographic variables are weighted. Thus, the current study aimed at further examining the relationship between executive functions and obesity. To this aim, we compared treatment-seeking overweight, obese, and morbidly obese patients with normal-weight control participants. We examined general executive functioning (Frontal Assessment Battery−15) and different executive subdomains (e.g., inhibitory control, verbal fluency, and psychomotor speed) in a clinical sample including 208 outpatients with different degrees of BMI (52 overweight, BMI 25−30, M age = 34.38; 76 obese, BMI 30−40, M age = 38.00; 80 morbidly obese, BMI > 40, M age = 36.20). Ninety-six normal-weight subjects served as controls. No difference on executive scores was detected when obese patients were compared with over- or normal-weight subjects. Morbidly obese patients reported lower performance on executive scores than obese, overweight, and normal-weight subjects. Between-group difference emerged also when relevant covariates were taken into account. Our results support the view that morbid obesity is associated with lower executive performance, also considering the critical role exerted by sociodemographic (i.e., sex, age, and education) variables. Our results support the view that executive functioning should be accounted into the management of the obese patient because of non-negligible clinical relevance in diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic terms., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Several studies suggest that different combinations of nutraceutical supplements may improve the lipid profile, representing a viable alternative to statins. However, their effects on individuals with myopathy need to be investigated. The aim of our study was to explore the mid- and long-term physiological effects of monacolin k (5 mg) and astaxanthin (0.1 mg) supplements in association with a low-energy/fat diet in a group of subjects with mild myopathy. Eighty subjects (44 women) took part in this observational study. Participants were assigned to the experimental group (EG, n = 40, 24 women) treated with a low-energy/fat diet (1200-1500 Kcal/day and 15-20% lipids) in combination with monacolin k (5 mg) and astaxanthin (0.1 mg) supplementation, and to the control group (CG, n = 40, 20 women) treated only with a low-energy/fat diet (1200-1500 Kcal/day and 15-20% lipids). BMI and biochemical parameters (blood glucose, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, C-reactive protein (CRP) and creatine phosphokinase-CPK) were collected at baseline (T0), after 12 (T1) and 24 (T2) weeks. A mixed factorial ANOVA was performed to determine if there were significant main effects and/or interactions between time and treatment. Treatment (EG vs. CG) was entered as the between-subjects factor and time (T0 vs. T1 vs. T2) as the within-subject factor. We found a significant improvement in total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, PCR and CPK parameters in EG compared with CG. Our results highlight the efficacy and safety of combined use of monacolin k (5 mg) and astaxanthin (0.1 mg) in combination with a low-energy/fat diet in the treatment of dyslipidemia.

Orexins, or hypocretins, are excitatory neuropeptides involved in the regulation of feeding behavior and the sleep and wakefulness states. Since their discovery, several lines of evidence have highlighted that orexin neurons regulate a great range of physiological functions, giving it the definition of a multitasking system. In the present review, we firstly describe the mechanisms underlining the orexin system and their interactions with the central nervous system (CNS). Then, the system's involvement in goal-directed behaviors, sleep/wakefulness state regulation, feeding behavior and energy homeostasis, reward system, and aging and neurodegenerative diseases are described. Advanced evidence suggests that the orexin system is crucial for regulating many physiological functions and could represent a promising target for therapeutical approaches to obesity, drug addiction, and emotional stress.

Background: Recent evidence suggests that a higher body weight may be linked to cognitive impairment in different domains involving executive/frontal functioning. However, challenging results are also available. Accordingly, our study was designed to verify whether (i) poor executive functions are related to a higher body weight and (ii) executive functioning could contribute to weight loss in treatment-seeking overweight and obese patients., Methods: We examined general executive functioning, inhibitory control, verbal fluency, and psychomotor speed in a sample including 104 overweight and obese patients. Forty-eight normal-weight subjects participated in the study as controls., Results: Univariate Analysis of Variance showed that obese patients obtained lower scores than overweight and normal-weight subjects in all executive measures, except for errors in the Stroop test. However, when sociodemographic variables entered the model as covariates, no between-group difference was detected. Furthermore, an adjusted multiple linear regression model highlighted no relationship between weight loss and executive scores at baseline., Conclusions: Our results provide further evidence for the lack of association between obesity and the executive domains investigated. Conflicting findings from previous literature may likely be due to the unchecked confounding effects exerted by sociodemographic variables and inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Decreased upper-extremity/visuomotor abilities are frequently encountered in healthy aging. However, few studies have assessed hand movements in the prodromal stage of dementia. The evaluation of visuomotor skills in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (PwMCI) may have non-negligible clinical relevance both in diagnostic and prognostic terms, given the strong relationships with executive functioning and functional autonomies. In the present review paper, these issues will be disclosed by describing general pathophysiological and neuropsychological mechanisms responsible for visuomotor deficits, and by reporting the available experimental results on differences in visuomotor functioning between PwMCI, healthy controls and/or patients with dementia. Moreover, the relationships binding visuomotor and executive domains to functional autonomies will be then addressed. Finally, we will propose insights for future research., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2022 The Author(s). Published by IMR Press.)

Objective: The Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) is a neuropsychological tool largely used to assess executive functions. Prior studies found a marked ceiling effect for the prehension behavior subtest (PBT) in healthy and clinical populations. Aims of the present study were (i) to examine the psychometric properties of the FAB without the contribution of PBT and (ii) to provide normative data for a revised version of the FAB after exclusion of PBT (FAB15)., Methods: The normative sample included 1,187 healthy participants. PBT had near-zero variance, poor content validity, and no discrimination power. Internal consistency increased when PBT was excluded. We assessed the FAB15 factorial structure, interrater, and test-retest reliabilities. Normative data  for the FAB15 were extracted through a regression-based procedure according to sex, age, and education., Results: The principal component analysis revealed a single "executive factor" or alternatively a bifactorial solution reflecting the different degree of discriminative capability vs. difficulty of the subtests. The FAB15 demonstrated excellent interrater and test-retest reliabilities. Regression analysis showed that sex (lowly educated women < lowly educated men), higher age, and lower education affected FAB15 score. Accordingly, three grids for adjustment of raw scores (men, women, and both) were constructed. The cut-off was fixed at the non-parametric outer tolerance limit on the fifth centile (9.36, 95% CI)., Conclusion: The observation of a ceiling effect in healthy subjects makes PBT not suitable for inclusion in a neuropsychological battery. The FAB15 may successfully replace the conventional FAB as a more severe and valid short screening tool to assess executive functioning., (© 2021. Fondazione Società Italiana di Neurologia.)

Background/objectives: The Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) was recently introduced to assess adherence to the EAT-Lance recommendations. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between PHDI and metabolic syndrome (MS). Subjects/methods: We used the data of 6465 participants from the PERSIAN cohort study at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. Diet was assessed using a 130-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). The PHDI comprises sixteen components and is scored between 0 and 150 points. We first assessed the validity and reliability of the PHDI for this population. We used regression logistic models to assess the relationships between PHDI and MS and its related indicators. Results: The average PHDI score was 52.3 ± 9. The Cronbach’s alpha value was 0.53. After controlling for age and sex, the PHDI was positively related to the Diet Quality Index-International (DQI-I) and was negatively related to carbon and water footprints (p < 0.001). PHDI quartile was negatively associated with MS, hypo-HDL cholesterolemia, and abdominal obesity after controlling for confounders (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The validity and reliability of the PHDI were found to be satisfactory for the Iranian population we studied. Our results showed that a higher PHDI was potentially related to a reduced likelihood of MS, hypo-HDL cholesterolemia, and abdominal obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Eating disorders (EDs) have emerged as a growing public health concern. However, the role of sleep in this context remains underexplored. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the associations between sleep parameters and chronotype with ED risk in a sample of university students in Spain. Methods: ED risk was assessed via the Sick, Control, One stone, Fat, Food Questionnaire, and sleep quality was assessed via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Other sleep parameters and chronotypes were self-reported. Sociodemographic, body composition, lifestyle, and depressive symptom data were collected. Logistic and linear regression models adjusted for the main confounders were used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the study associations. Results: A total of 403 students (70.2% female) aged 18 to 30 years participated in the study. Those reporting poor sleep quality (OR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.08–3.17, p = 0.025) and ≤6 h of night-time sleep duration (OR = 4.14, 95% CI 2.00–8.57, p < 0.01) were more likely to be at risk of EDs in the adjusted analyses. The association between night-time sleep duration and the risk of ED did not remain significant when we adjusted for sleep quality. In addition, an evening chronotype was associated with an increased risk of EDs (OR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.07–2.66, p = 0.039) only before adjustment for confounders. Conclusions: Among university students, poorer sleep quality was cross-sectionally associated with EDs. Future prospective studies are needed to examine whether promoting sleep quality may serve as an effective strategy for preventing the risk of EDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: Adults in Indonesia have challenges due to the high prevalence of obesity. Factors that contributed to obesity included unhealthy eating practices. Skipping breakfast habits are linked to health issues such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Breakfast practices also reflected the social and cultural dynamics in urban and rural. Socioeconomic and demographic factors could cause differences in breakfast practices between urban and rural areas in Indonesia. Objectives: This research aimed to examine the differences in breakfast practices among Indonesian adults in urban and rural areas based on various characteristics and to explore the association between socioeconomic and demographic characteristics with breakfast practices. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study using secondary data from the Indonesia Food Barometer (IFB) in 2018. A total of 770 adults (26-45 years old) were examined to observe the differences in breakfast practices (skipping breakfast, eating together, buying food, cooking food, and activities during meals) in urban and rural areas. Logistic regression analysis was also employed to examine the association between skipping breakfast and modern breakfast practices with socioeconomic and demographic variables. Results: Chi-square analysis showed significant differences between urban and rural areas in eating alone, eating outside the home, and buying food during breakfast (pvalue <0.001). Factors related to skipping breakfast were education level and type of residence (all p-value <0.001), while occupation (p-value = 0.004) and type of residence (p-value <0.001) were related to modern breakfast practices. Conclusions: There were differences in breakfast practices between urban and rural. Skipping breakfast and modern breakfast practices were more prevalent in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the widespread issue of distracted eating, our study investigates how cognitive distraction influences the sensory perception of food-related odors among individuals with varying weight statuses. We conducted an exploratory, randomized, and cross-sectional experimental study, using the Tetris game to simulate real-life cognitive distraction, incorporating two distraction levels (low and high) and presenting five distinct odors. A total of 59 participants, categorized into a lean (n = 30) and overweight/obese group (n = 29) based on their body mass index (BMI), received odor stimuli while playing Tetris at low and high difficulty, corresponding to low and high distraction levels, respectively. Participants subsequently rated odor intensity and pleasantness under the two cognitive distraction conditions. Respiratory movements were monitored to ensure accurate olfactory stimulation. Our findings revealed no significant difference in odor intensity ratings across distraction levels (p = 0.903). However, there was a significant reduction in odor pleasantness under high cognitive distraction (p = 0.007), more pronounced in lean participants compared to those with an overweight status (p = 0.035). Additionally, an interaction between gender and cognitive distraction effects was observed in odor pleasantness perception. The differential effects of distraction across weight-status groups and genders are discussed in the context of hedonic motivation and compensatory mechanisms. This study sheds light onto the sensory mechanisms underlying distracted eating and could inform more personalized strategies for promoting healthier eating habits in a world dominated by distractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the era of disease-modifying therapies, empowering the clinical neuropsychologist's toolkit for timely identification of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is crucial. Objective: Here we examine the clinimetric properties of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) for the early diagnosis of MCI due to Alzheimer's disease (MCI-AD). Methods: Data from 48 patients with MCI-AD and 47 healthy controls were retrospectively analyzed. Raw MoCA scores were corrected according to the conventional Nasreddine's 1-point correction and demographic adjustments derived from three normative studies. Optimal cutoffs were determined while previously established cutoffs were diagnostically reevaluated. Results: The original Nasreddine's cutoff of 26 and normative cutoffs (non-parametric outer tolerance limit on the 5th percentile of demographically-adjusted score distributions) were overly imbalanced in terms of Sensitivity (Se) and Specificity (Sp). The optimal cutoff for Nasreddine's adjustment showed adequate clinimetric properties (≤23.50, Se = 0.75, Sp = 0.70). However, the optimal cutoff for Santangelo's adjustment (≤22.85, Se = 0.65, Sp = 0.87) proved to be the most effective for both screening and diagnostic purposes according to Larner's metrics. The results of post-probability analyses revealed that an individual testing positive using Santangelo's adjustment combined with a cutoff of 22.85 would have 84% post-test probability of receiving a diagnosis of MCI-AD (LR+ = 5.06). Conclusions: We found a common (mal)practice of bypassing the applicability of normative cutoffs in diagnosis-oriented clinical practice. In this study, we identified optimal cutoffs for MoCA to be allocated in secondary care settings for supporting MCI-AD diagnosis. Methodological and psychometric issues are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk and its derivatives are included in a balanced diet of humans as excellent sources of proteins, vitamins, and essential minerals that are functional nutrients. Knowledge about the nutritional benefits or harms due to milk consumption has been expanding in recent years. We previously explored, in rodent models, the metabolic effects of isoenergetic intake of milk derived from cows, donkeys, or humans, while the impact of goat's milk intake has remained unexplored. The aim of this work was to investigate, in an animal model, the effects of dietary supplementation with goat's milk on energy homeostasis and inflammatory state, focusing on the modulation of mitochondrial functions in most metabolically active organs, such as skeletal muscle and the liver. In addition, we highlighted a link between nutrient intake, substrate metabolism, and the orexinergic system. Our results indicate that goat milk improves mitochondrial oxidative capacity and reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in both organs. Notably, goat milk lowers the circulating levels of Orexin-A, a neuropeptide that plays a crucial role in regulating peripheral energy balance and central nervous system mechanisms. These data provide the first evidence that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of goat milk are mediated by the modulation of mitochondrial functions and orexinergic signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many of today's recreational runners have changed their diet from omnivorous to vegetarian or vegan for reasons like better sport performance, animal ethics, positive health, eco-aspects, or male infertility. Others have constructed the flexitarian diet due to current trends in sustainable eating. The aim of this investigation was to analyze the dietary habits and race day strategies of recreational endurance runners following current sustainable dietary trends. Recreational endurance runners (18+ years) were invited to complete the standardized online survey on socio-demography/anthropometry, motivations, running/racing history, food frequency, and race day dietary strategy. Chi-squared tests and Wilcoxon tests were used for the statistical analysis. In total, 289 participants submitted the survey; 146 subjects following flexitarian (n = 34), vegetarian (n = 50), or vegan (n = 62) diets were included in the final sample. Significant differences were found across the diet types: BMI (p = 0.018), fruit/vegetable consumption (p < 0.001), and the dietary motive of performance (p = 0.045). The findings suggest that the flexitarian diet may be appropriate for health- and environmentally conscious populations living in a meat-centered society and lacking social support to eat completely vegetarian/vegan. Following a plant-based diet is perceived as easy for health-conscious, athletic populations, and the vegan diet does not require a particularly effortful/complex race day strategy for endurance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is a transitional stage between normal aging and Alzheimer's disease, making early screening imperative for potential intervention and prevention of progression to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, there is a demand for research to identify effective and easy-to-use tools for aMCI screening. While behavioral tests in virtual reality environments have successfully captured behavioral features related to instrumental activities of daily living for aMCI screening, further investigations are necessary to establish connections between cognitive decline and neurological changes. Utilizing electroencephalography with steady-state visual evoked potentials, this study delved into the correlation between behavioral features recorded during virtual reality tests and neurological features obtained by measuring neural activity in the dorsal stream. As a result, this multimodal approach achieved an impressive screening accuracy of 98.38%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the molecular underpinnings of neurodegeneration processes is a pressing challenge for medicine and neurobiology. Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) represent the most prevalent forms of neurodegeneration. To date, a substantial body of experimental evidence has strongly implicated hypoxia in the pathogenesis of numerous neurological disorders, including AD, PD, and other age-related neurodegenerative conditions. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a transcription factor that triggers a cell survival program in conditions of oxygen deprivation. The involvement of HIF-1α in neurodegenerative processes presents a complex and sometimes contradictory picture. This review aims to elucidate the current understanding of the interplay between hypoxia and the development of AD and PD, assess the involvement of HIF-1 in their pathogenesis, and summarize promising therapeutic approaches centered on modulating the activity of the HIF-1 complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is an editorial summary of the top cited papers in the field of Systems Neuroscience in 2022. The top ten papers cover a range of topics including tinnitus, obesity, and neuromodulation. The papers come from authors all over the world, representing diverse perspectives. Some notable findings include the lack of therapeutic benefit of a specific stimulation modality for tinnitus, the potential improvement of tinnitus treatment through an enriched acoustic environment, the impact of psychological and sociodemographic factors on tinnitus-related distress, the potential benefits of aerobic exercise for individuals with mild cognitive impairment, the importance of considering insular epilepsy during surgical planning, the functional changes in brain activity induced by hypnosis, the effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation on motor cortex oscillation and inhibition, the effects of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation on autonomic responses, the neuroplastic capacity of different brain stimulation modalities, and the lack of association between obesity and executive functioning. These papers provide valuable insights into various aspects of Systems Neuroscience and are worth exploring for researchers and individuals interested in these topics. [Extracted from the article]

Aims: To assess oral health, treatment burden, mortality risk, and demographics in elders with care-resistant behaviors (CRB) in nursing homes (NH) and compare them with those without CRB., Methods and Results: 503 participants from eight NH who received dental treatment through a mobile dental clinic were included. Their medical and dental records were screened regarding oral/dental health, treatment history, general health, demographics, and CRB. Statistical analysis was performed to show correlations between CRB and the measured parameters. Data were verified for normal distribution; a point-biserial correlation model was used (95% CI: α = 0.05). No correlation was found between CRB and Decayed Missing Filled Teeth (DMF-T) (r pb  = -0.061, p = .177), as well as periodontal status (r pb  = 0.004, p = .946). A negative correlation was observed between CRB and the required number of treatment procedures (r pb  = -0.181, p < .0001), time (r pb  = -0.118, p = .010), and costs (r pb  = -0.100, p = .028). Sex predilection for men regarding CRB was evident (r pb  = -0.155, p = .01). No correlation appeared between CRB and vital status (r pb  = -0.41, p = .355)., Conclusion: Oral health seems to be similar in institutionalized elders with or without CRB. Treatment burden was not elevated, but even reduced in elders with CRB, evincing that few/no treatment procedures were performed in those elders. CRB demonstrated a sex predilection for men. An association between CRB and increased mortality was not evident., (© 2024 The Author(s). Special Care in Dentistry published by Special Care Dentistry Association and Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Vertical neglect represents a visuospatial deficit occurring as a possible consequence of acquired brain injury (ABI). Differently from unilateral spatial neglect on horizontal space, vertical neglect is poorly studied in the literature and rarely assessed in clinical practice. In the available studies, the terms “radial,” “vertical,” and “altitudinal” neglect are often used interchangeably, although they do not describe the same spatial dimension. “Altitudinal” and “vertical” refer to the sagittal plane, whereas “radial” refers to the transverse plane. The term “vertical” is sometimes used interchangeably with respect to both axes. The aim of this systematic review was to identify the main characteristics of vertical neglect after ABI, the diagnostic tools used, and the treatment options. We also proposed a clarification of the manifestations and characteristics of vertical and radial neglect. The 23 articles reviewed, showed that the vertical neglect occurred more frequently on the lower space than on the upper space, that its presence was associated with horizontal neglect, and that it could also occur with compromise of the radial space, with the near radial being more common. The most frequent etiology associated with vertical neglect is vascular, particularly ischaemic. The lesions side are very heterogeneous and include both cortical and subcortical areas and all lobes, although the temporal lobe is most affected. With regard to the assessment tools, paper and pencil tasks are the most commonly used diagnostic tools to identify vertical neglect, although in recent years the use of computer-based tasks increased. Taken together, our results suggest that vertical neglect may be underestimated in patients with right hemisphere lesions and should always be assessed, especially in cases where the patient shows signs of horizontal neglect. The clinical assessment of vertical neglect is very important since it can lead to important functional limitations in everyday life, such as poor wheelchair handling, stumbling over unnoticed obstacles located below (or above), walking down stairs, taking off shoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to study the peculiarities of the eating behaviour of children of primary school age, their food preferences, choice of products and attitudes towards school meals, food habits in the choice of products and attitudes towards the school canteen in the context of the implementation of the school meal reform. Materials and methods. A large-scale medical and sociological study was conducted, which included children (5,401) of primary school age (from 6 to 10 years old) and their parents (4,347 people) from various schools in Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Donetsk regions. The questionnaires included questions about food preferences, frequency of consumption of different foods, attitudes towards school meals and factors that influence food choices. The collected data were processed and analyzed using descriptive statistics methods in Excel. Research results indicate a significant level of awareness of the importance of a healthy diet by most children, but an insufficient level of water consumption, an insufficient understanding of the importance of nutrition for maintaining health by children, high popularity of high-carbohydrate products and a low level of satisfaction of some parents with school meals. Conclusions. The conducted analytical research revealed several educational and organizational problems related to the introduction of healthy food in schools, especially within the framework of reforming school food programs. According to the Strategy for reforming the school nutrition system, compliance with the principles of healthy nutrition, ensuring high-quality, safe and healthy nutrition, and improving the taste properties of school nutrition compliance with the principles of healthy nutrition, is extremely important for the preservation of children's health and the prevention of chronic non-infectious diseases. The results of our research indicate the need for additional educational programs for children and parents, the gradual introduction of new food standards, as well as ensuring the availability of healthy food in school canteens, and the implementation of social projects that will contribute to the formation of healthy eating habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship between body image, eating disorders, psychological characteristics, and mood and anxiety symptoms in Chilean youth, with nutritional status, particularly overweight and obesity. With a sample of 1001 participants from five regions of Chile, aged 15 to 23 years. The Eating Disorder Inventory 3 (EDI-3), the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire Appearance Scales (MBSRQ_AS), and the Symptom Inventory Derogatis Revised (SCL90-R) and a sociodemographic questionnaire were used to analyze these variables. A model including nine exogenous (independent) variables and ten endogenous variables, based on a literature review, was evaluated by path analysis. The results show a significant association between factors such as sex, family history of overweight, self-classification by weight, and body dissatisfaction with body mass index (BMI). Eating behaviors such as overeating, and lack of appetite were also found to be influenced by interpersonal sensitivity, overweight preoccupation, and drive for thinness. The study underscores the importance of promoting a positive body image and addressing overweight/obesity from a combined health psychology and public health perspective, highlighting the need for interventions that consider nutritional status, and in particular overweight and obesity, as a phenomenon with multifactorial causes and maintainers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity, a complex disorder with rising global prevalence, is a chronic, inflammatory, and multifactorial disease and it is characterized by excessive adipose tissue accumulation and associated comorbidities. Adipose tissue (AT) is an extremely diverse organ. The composition, structure, and functionality of AT are significantly influenced by characteristics specific to everyone, in addition to the variability connected to various tissue types and its location-related heterogeneity. Recent investigation has shed light on the intricate relationship between bone marrow stem cells and obesity, revealing potential mechanisms that contribute to the development and consequences of this condition. Mesenchymal stem cells within the bone marrow, known for their multipotent differentiation capabilities, play a pivotal role in adipogenesis, the process of fat cell formation. In the context of obesity, alterations in the bone marrow microenvironment may influence the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells towards adipocytes, impacting overall fat storage and metabolic balance. Moreover, bone marrow's role as a crucial component of the immune system adds another layer of complexity to the obesity–bone marrow interplay. This narrative review summarizes the current research findings on the connection between bone marrow stem cells and obesity, highlighting the multifaceted roles of bone marrow in adipogenesis and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a global health concern owing to its association with numerous degenerative diseases and the fact that it may lead to early aging. Various markers of aging, including telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, altered protein homeostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell disorders, and intercellular communication, are influenced by obesity. Consequently, there is a critical need for safe and effective approaches to prevent obesity and mitigate the onset of premature aging. In recent years, intermittent fasting (IF), a dietary strategy that alternates between periods of fasting and feeding, has emerged as a promising dietary strategy that holds potential in counteracting the aging process associated with obesity. This article explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms through which IF affects obesity-related early aging. IF regulates various physiological processes and organ systems, including the liver, brain, muscles, intestines, blood, adipose tissues, endocrine system, and cardiovascular system. Moreover, IF modulates key signaling pathways such as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), sirtuins, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and fork head box O (FOXO). By targeting these pathways, IF has the potential to attenuate aging phenotypes associated with obesity-related early aging. Overall, IF offers promising avenues for promoting healthier lifestyles and mitigating the premature aging process in individuals affected by obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orexin/hypocretin neuropeptide family has emerged as a focal point of neuroscientific research following the discovery that this family plays a crucial role in a variety of physiological and behavioral processes. These neuropeptides serve as powerful neuromodulators, intricately shaping autonomic, endocrine, and behavioral responses across species. Notably, they serve as master regulators of vigilance and stress responses; however, their roles in food intake, metabolism, and thermoregulation appear complementary and warrant further investigation. This narrative review provides a journey through the evolution of our understanding of the orexin system, from its initial discovery to the promising progress made in developing orexin derivatives. It goes beyond conventional boundaries, striving to synthesize the multifaceted activities of orexins. Special emphasis is placed on domains such as stress response, fear, anxiety, and learning, in which the authors have contributed to the literature with original publications. This paper also overviews the advancement of orexin pharmacology, which has already yielded some promising successes, particularly in the treatment of sleep disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Eating while distracted has been associated with a higher body mass index (BMI), whereas mindful eating and episodic memory for recent eating have shown the opposite pattern. This pre‐registered, global study (https://osf.io/rdjzk) compared the relative association between these variables (and four "positive controls": restraint, disinhibition, emotional eating, plate clearing) and self‐reported BMI. The timing of data collection (April–May 2020) during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic enabled an investigation of the impact of stay‐at‐home restrictions imposed on the UK population on the measures of eating behavior. Methods: An online survey was completed, including: (i) demographic data (e.g., self‐reported BMI), (ii) Likert ratings assessing episodic memory for recent eating, mindful eating, cognitive distraction, restrained eating, emotional eating, disinhibition and plate clearing over the last 12 months and the last 7 days (during the first UK COVID‐19 lockdown), and (iii) the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ). Results: A large adult sample participated (N = 846; mean (SD) age = 33.0 (14.3) years; mean (SD) BMI = 24.6 (5.6) kg/m2). Mindful eating (MEQ‐total score) was associated with a lower self‐reported BMI (β = −0.12; 95% CI = −0.20, −0.04; p = 0.004), whereas disinhibited eating was associated with a higher self‐reported BMI (β = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.21, 0.38; p < 0.001). In UK participants (n = 520), consistent changes in eating behavior during lockdown were not found. For those that did experience change, decreases were reported in; emotional eating, disinhibited eating, focusing on taste during a meal (a measure of mindful eating), and using a smart phone while eating. Conclusions: These findings provide evidence in a large global sample for associations between BMI and (i) mindful eating, and (ii) disinhibited eating. Future research should evaluate whether mindful eating demonstrates a prospective association with body weight and should consider mechanisms of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study purpose. At the end of the twentieth century, the development of highly reliable and painless non-invasive transcranial brain stimulation techniques and devices has aroused great scientific and clinical interest in numerous fields. In neuroscience, since the introduction of innovative and non-invasive devices such as the brain stimulator, the investigation of cortical processes and their neural basis has played a fundamental role. Furthermore, neuroscientists are attracted to therapeutic applications for the treatment of food craving. This narrative review is aimed to explain the growing and constant interest of neuroscientific experimentation in the field of non-invasive transcranial stimulation. Material and methods. After an introduction explaining the historical evolution of NIBS, we will try to provide an overview of the two stimulation techniques (TMS and tDCS); we will describe the different types of stimulation that can be performed using these techniques, the excitatory/inhibitory effects, and the various mechanisms of action at the level of brain activity. Results. We will also provide some elucidations regarding the implications of the facilitative/inhibitory effects, and how these stimulation methods can be used to advance knowledge of the neurofunctional organization of the brain. Conclusion. The results of the study showed the effect of brain neuromodulation on sports and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Young adults between 18 and 25 years of age are in an important transitional time and university students are considered vulnerable given that they generally maintain an unhealthy lifestyle characterized by poor diet quality and meal skipping. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between executive functions, academic achievement, eating behavior, eating habits, and BMI in university students. Methods: Undergraduate university students (18-25 years) who lived in Mexico City were included in the sample; executive function, eating habits, eating behavior and academic achievement were measured. Results: 1903 university students (1,038 women, 865 men), with a mean age of 20.65 years (SD ±1.66), participated in the study. Spearman's r correlation analysis revealed that there is a significant correlation between all variables of interest, with the most significant correlations found with academic achievement, emotional eating, and eating habits. Discussion: Our study confirms previous findings in the association between EF, eating habits, eating behavior, and academic achievement in university students, and also provides a first approach to the association between UP food intake, overall meal skipping (breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner) and EF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frontal lobe functions (FLFs) play an important role in human behavioral regulation and can be a determinant of eating behavior. The aim of this study was to analyse FLFs in individuals with obesity, with and without binge eating disorder (BED), compared to individuals with normal weight (NW), and to analyse the effect of sex and binge disorder on quality of life, with age and BMI as covariates. A total of 114 participants, comprising three different groups (NW individuals, individuals with obesity but without BED, and individuals with obesity and BED), completed the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) and Impact of Weight on Quality of Life (IWQOL-lite) questionnaires. The results showed that individuals with obesity, with and without BED, have poorer frontal lobe functioning than the NW group. Individuals with obesity and BED have lower performance in terms of FLFs than individuals with obesity but without BED. Male participants have a higher perception of quality of life in all dimensions, with women showing lower values in self-esteem and sex life. Individuals with obesity and BED show greater weaknesses in physical function. These results suggest that low FLFs and worse quality of life characterize individuals with obesity, and this is more evident in these individuals with BED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Insomnia is present in up to one third of the adult population worldwide, and it can present independently or with other medical conditions such as mental, metabolic, or cardiovascular diseases, which highlights the importance of treating this multifaceted disorder. Insomnia is associated with an abnormal state of hyperarousal (increased somatic, cognitive, and cortical activation) and orexin has been identified as a key promotor of arousal and vigilance. The current standards of care for the treatment of insomnia recommend non‐pharmacological interventions (cognitive behavioural therapy) as first‐line treatment and, if behavioural interventions are not effective or available, pharmacotherapy. In contrast to most sleep medications used for decades (benzodiazepines and 'Z‐drugs'), the new orexin receptor antagonists do not modulate the activity of γ‐aminobutyric acid receptors, the main inhibitory mechanism of the central nervous system. Instead, they temporarily block the orexin pathway, causing a different pattern of effects, e.g., less morning or next‐day effects, motor dyscoordination, and cognitive impairment. The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties of these drugs are the basis of the different characteristics explained in the package inserts, including the recommended starting dose. Orexin receptor antagonists seem to be devoid of any dependence and tolerance‐inducing effects, rendering them a viable option for longer‐term treatment. Safety studies did not show exacerbation of existing respiratory problems, but more real‐world safety and pharmacovigilance experience is needed. This review provides an overview of the orexin history, the mechanism of action, the relation to insomnia, and key features of available drugs mediating orexin signalling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disruption of leptin (LEP) signaling in the hypothalamus caused by type 2 diabetes (T2D) can impair appetite regulation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the improvement in appetite regulation induced by high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in rats with T2D can be mediated by LEP signaling. In this study, 20 male Wister rats were randomly assigned to one of four groups: CO (non-type 2 diabetes control), T2D (type 2 diabetes), EX (non-type 2 diabetes exercise), and T2D + EX (type 2 diabetes + exercise).To induce T2D, a combination of a high-fat diet for 2 months and a single dose of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg) was administered. Rats in the EX and T2D + EX groups performed 4–10 intervals of treadmill running at 80–100% of their maximum velocity (Vmax). Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), serum levels of insulin (INS) and LEP (LEPS) as well as hypothalamic expression of LEP receptors (LEP-R), Janus kinase 2 (JAK-2), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT-3), neuropeptide Y (NPY), agouti-related protein (AGRP), pro-opiomelanocortin cocaine (POMC), amphetamine-related transcript (CART), suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS3), forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) were assessed. ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests were used to compare the results between the groups. The levels of LEPS and INS, as well as the levels of LEP-R, JAK-2, STAT-3, POMC, and CART in the hypothalamus were found to be higher in the T2D + EX group compared to the T2D group. On the other hand, the levels of HOMA-IR, NPY, AGRP, SOCS3, and FOXO1 were lower in the T2D + EX group compared to the T2D group (P < 0.0001). The findings of this study suggest that HIIT may improve appetite regulation in rats with T2D, and LEP signaling may play a crucial role in this improvement. Graphical abstract (leptin signaling in the hypothalamus), Leptin (LEP), Leptin receptor (LEP-R), Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), expressing Neuropeptide Y (NPY), Agouti-related protein (AGRP), anorexigenic neurons (expressing pro-opiomelanocortin cocaine (POMC), Amphetamine-related transcript (CART), suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS3), forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adults do not engage in enough physical activity. Investigating cognitive and physiological factors related to improving this behavior—and reducing health risks—remains a public health priority. Our objective was to assess whether cognitive flexibility influenced perceptions and choice of exercise programs and whether flexibility was associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. Independent sample groups of college-aged adults (18–24 yrs) participated in two studies. Data were collected on individuals' degree of cognitive flexibility (both self-reported and objectively measured), perceptions and choice of exercise programs, and health status markers known to be associated with CVD (vascular function, muscular strength, and body composition). Vascular function was assessed with a near-infrared spectroscopy device, strength was defined as handgrip, and body composition was estimated via digital circumferences. Self-reported flexibility reliably predicted individuals' choice of exercise program and perceptions of effort required for success on an exercise program. The relationships among CVD risk factors and objectively measured cognitive flexibility were not significant, demonstrating that identifying a healthy individual's degree of performance-based cognitive flexibility does not predict health status. Furthermore, although greater self-reported trait flexibility (rigidity) is known to predict higher (lower) likelihood of physical activity, this finding should not be extrapolated to also assume that flexibility (rigidity), as measured by objective cognitive tests, is associated with reduced CVD risk in healthy adults. We posit a rationale for how understanding cognitive flexibility and rigidity can play an impactful role in improving adherence to exercise prescriptions targeted to reducing risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is highly comorbid with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) and may diminish the benefits of shunting; however, findings in this area are mixed. We examined postoperative outcomes, with emphases on cognition and utilization of novel scoring procedures to enhance sensitivity. Methods: Using participant data from an iNPH outcome study at Butler Hospital, a mixed effect model examined main and interaction effects of time since surgery (baseline, 3 months, 12 months, and 24–60 months) and AD comorbidity (20 iNPH and 11 iNPH+AD) on activities of daily living (ADLs) and iNPH symptoms. Regression modeling explored whether baseline variables predicted improvements 3 months postoperatively. Results: There were no group differences in gait, incontinence, and global cognition over time, and neither group showed changes in ADLs. Cognitive differences were observed postoperatively; iNPH patients showed stable improvements in working memory (p = 0.012) and response inhibition (p = 0.010), while iNPH + AD patients failed to maintain initial gains. Regarding predicting postoperative outcomes, baseline AD biomarkers did not predict shunt response at 3 months; however, older age at surgery predicted poorer cognitive outcomes (p = 0.04), and presurgical Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) (p = 0.035) and Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) scores (p = 0.009) predicted improvements incontinence. Conclusion: iNPH + AD may be linked with greater declines in aspects of executive functioning postoperatively relative to iNPH alone. While baseline AD pathology may not prognosticate shunt response, younger age appears linked with postsurgical cognitive improvement, and utilizing both brief and comprehensive cognitive measures may help predict improved incontinence. These results illustrate the potential benefits of surgery and inform postoperative expectations for those with iNPH + AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Skeletal muscle adiposity (myosteatosis) is recognized as a major risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases, and it increases with aging. The relationship of myosteatosis with cognitive impairment is unknown. Methods: The association of calf myosteatosis (measured by computed tomography‐derived skeletal muscle density; higher values indicate less myosteatosis) with cognitive function was examined among 626 African Caribbean women who were aged 40 to 84 years, a population highly vulnerable to increased myosteatosis. Cognition was assessed by the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), a test of information processing speed (higher scores indicate better performance). Linear regression was used to assess the association of muscle density with DSST. Results: Adjusting for age, education, muscle area, BMI, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular event history, lifestyle factors, lipid‐lowering medication use, and menopausal status, a one‐SD lower muscle density was associated with a 1.69‐point lower DSST score (p = 0.002). BMI, diabetes, and hypertension interactions were not statistically significant, suggesting that the main association was not moderated by overall obesity or cardiometabolic diseases. Conclusions: These findings suggest that greater myosteatosis is associated with slower information processing speed, an early indicator of cognitive impairment. Further studies are needed to establish this association in this and other populations using an expanded battery of cognitive tests with longitudinal follow‐up and to identify the biological mechanisms underlying this relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity is a risk factor for dementia within the old population however not within the middle-aged population, that is referred to the "obesity paradox". This study explored the association of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) in middle-aged (40– 65 years) versus old population (≥ 65 years).Methods: The current study enrolled 1735 individuals over the age of 40 who had their first ischemic stroke from the Impairment of Cognition and Sleep (ICONS) subgroup of the China National Stroke Registry-3 (CNSR-3). BMI and WC were used for the diagnosis of obesity and central obesity, respectively. PSCI was diagnosed according to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The main clinical outcome was the incidence of PSCI assessed at three months after stroke. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between obesity and three-month PSCI. Stratified analysis was also performed to explore the effect of age on the relationship between obesity and PSCI.Results: In the general population, multivariable logistic regression found that the adjusted odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of general obesity was 1.45 (1.06– 1.98) and that of central obesity was 1.54 (1.24– 1.91) for the three-month incidence of PSCI. Stratified analysis by age showed that the adjusted OR with a 95% CI of general obesity was 1.84 (1.24– 2.72) in middle-aged patients and 0.89 (0.52– 1.54) in elderly patients (p-value for interaction = 0.05). Central obesity was associated with PSCI in all age groups: 1.57 (1.18– 2.09) in middle-aged patients and 1.52 (1.08– 2.15) in elderly patients (p-value for interaction= 0.93).Conclusion: General obesity was related to an increased risk of PSCI in middle-aged but not elderly patients, whereas central obesity was associated with an increased risk of PSCI in all age groups, suggesting that the obesity paradox arises only obesity is outlined by BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]