Depression and Obesity: Analysis of Common Biomarkers

Genotypic Variations Associated with Changes in Body Mass in Response to Endurance Training

This study investigates the extent to which different genotypes can explain changes in body mass following an 8-week running program, in a UK population. Participants were randomly assigned to either a training (n = 17) or control group (n = 21). Participants' diets were not altered, only the exercise regime was manipulated to isolate effects. The exercise group completed a periodized running program consisting of 20-30 min, over an agreed route, three times per-week, whilst the control groups refrained from daily exercise. Participants were screened at the end of the study for 1,000 gene variants using a DNA test kit. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in body mass, within the exercise, compared to the control group (p = .002). This reduction in body mass varied significantly (p = .024) between individuals within the exercise group. Moreover, genetic analysis identified 17 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with this variation (r2 = .74; p < .001). These findings indicate that individuals with specific alleles are better predisposed to weight-management, compared to their counterparts, following an exercise program. This study helps to bridge the gap between population health and exercise science and can inform research in the application of genetics to help develop individually tailored health interventions.

Factors Associated with the Development of Depression and the Influence of Obesity on Depressive Disorders: A Narrative Review

Depression affects several aspects of life, including socioeconomic status, relationships, behavior, emotions, and overall health. The etiology of depression is complex and influenced by various factors, with obesity emerging as a significant contributor. This narrative review aims to investigate the factors associated with the development of depression, with a particular focus on the role of obesity. The literature search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO from May to July 2024. The review highlights the impact of environmental and socioeconomic conditions; lifestyle choices, including physical activity and dietary habits; stress; traumatic experiences; neurotransmitter imbalances; medical and psychological conditions; hormone fluctuations; and epigenetic factors on depression. A key emphasis is placed on the inflammatory processes linked to obesity, which may drive the bidirectional relationship between obesity and depression. The findings suggest that obesity is associated with an increased risk of depression, potentially due to chronic inflammation, neurochemical dysregulation, and the emotional and social challenges related to weight stigma and obesity management. Understanding these interconnected factors is important for developing targeted interventions to address both obesity and depression, leading to improved quality of life for those affected.

The association between depressive symptoms and overweight or obesity in prepubertal children: Findings from the QUALITY cohort

BACKGROUND

Youth obesity and depression are public health concerns. Although meta-analyses suggest a positive association between those conditions in adults and adolescents, evidence remains unclear in prepubertal children. We examined the bidirectional associations between levels of depressive symptoms and weight status in 8-10-year-old children with a parental history of obesity, over two years, and whether they differ by sex.

METHODS

Data were drawn from the QUebec Adipose and Lifestyle InvesTigation in Youth Cohort Study's baseline and first follow-up evaluations (n = 558). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 12-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale and weight status using body mass index z-scores based on World Health Organization standards. Linear and logistic regression models were used to test the directionality and magnitude of the associations, adjusting for age, sex, physical activity, screen time, parental education, alcohol and cigarette use, and baseline outcome measure.

RESULTS

Children with higher levels of depressive symptoms at baseline were not more likely to have overweight/obesity at follow-up (odds ratio [95 % Coefficient Interval] = 0.95[0.88;1.02]). Baseline overweight/obesity was not associated with subsequent higher levels of depressive symptoms (beta coefficient [95 % Coefficient Interval] = 0.20 [-0.47;0.87]). No sex differences emerged.

LIMITATIONS

Selection bias may have occurred due to loss at follow-up (10 % attrition) and exclusion of 6 participants taking mood disorder medication.

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike in adults and adolescents, no association between weight status and depressive symptoms was observed in childhood over two years. Underlying mechanisms linking both conditions later in life may not apply as early as prepubertal childhood.

Insights from the ACTION Teens Study: a survey of adolescents living with obesity, their caregivers and healthcare professionals in the UK

OBJECTIVES

The Awareness, Care and Treatment In Obesity maNagement (ACTION) Teens study explored attitudes, behaviours, perceptions and barriers regarding effective obesity care among adolescents living with obesity (ALwO), caregivers and healthcare professionals (HCPs).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional online survey study.

SETTING

Study across 10 countries; here, we report data from UK respondents.

PARTICIPANTS

Overall, 416 ALwO (aged 12 to <18 years; body mass index ≥95th percentile for age and sex (WHO charts)), 498 caregivers and 250 HCPs in the UK completed the survey (August-December 2021).

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Survey questions addressed key aspects of obesity management for ALwO.

RESULTS

Overall, 46% of ALwO perceived their weight as normal or below normal and 86% believed their health was at least good; 56% and 93% of caregivers responded similarly for their ALwO. Despite this, most ALwO (57%) had attempted to lose weight in the past year and 34% felt highly motivated to lose weight. YouTube and social media were most often used by ALwO for information about weight management (41% and 39%); few ALwO and caregivers sought information from a doctor (13% and 22%). Among ALwO who had discussed weight with an HCP (n=122), 49% trusted their weight-management advice. Only 10% of ALwO and 8% of caregivers were told by a doctor that they/their child had obesity. For HCPs, obesity-related comorbidities were the most common reason for initiating weight conversations with ALwO (73%), while short appointment times were the most common barrier (46%). Overall, 30% of ALwO and 11% of caregivers did not feel comfortable bringing up weight with an HCP.

CONCLUSIONS

Improved education and communication are needed among ALwO, caregivers and HCPs in the UK to help improve awareness of obesity, its aetiology and its impact on health, and to support HCPs to proactively initiate weight-related conversations and build trust with ALwO and caregivers.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05013359.

The association between depressive symptoms and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein: Is body mass index a moderator?

Objective

Depression and obesity are highly comorbid conditions with shared biological mechanisms. It remains unclear how depressive symptoms and body mass index (BMI) interact in relation to inflammation. This cross-sectional study investigated the independent associations of depressive symptoms and BMI with high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), as well as the moderating role of BMI on the depressive symptoms-hs-CRP association.

Methods

Participants (n = 8827) from the 2015-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were aged ≥20 with a BMI ≥18.5 kg/m2, completed the Depression Screener, and had hs-CRP data. Multivariable linear regression was used to analyze hs-CRP in relation to depressive symptoms and BMI. An interaction term was included to examine whether the depressive symptoms-hs-CRP relationship differs depending on BMI.

Results

There was a slight, albeit non-significant, increase in hs-CRP levels with each one-point increase in depressive symptoms (aCoef.Estm. = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.05, 0.06, p = 0.754). Participants with overweight (aCoef.Estm. = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.61, 1.53, p < 0.001) or obese (aCoef.Estm. = 3.51, 95% CI = 3.04, 3.98, p < 0.001) BMIs had higher mean hs-CRP levels than those with a healthy BMI. There were no significant interactions between depressive symptoms and overweight (aCoef.Estm. = 0.04, 95% CI = -0.04, 0.13, p = 0.278) or obese (aCoef.Estm. = 0.11, 95% CI = -0.01, 0.22, p = 0.066) BMI indicating a lack of difference in the depressive symptoms-hs-CRP association across participants in the healthy versus overweight and obese ranges.

Conclusions

This study suggests that BMI might not act as a moderator in the association between depressive symptoms and hs-CRP. Results should be replicated in larger samples. Further research is warranted to understand underlying mechanisms.

Gender Differences in the Association Between Screen Time and Depression

Introduction

Previous research has shown that screen time is associated with depression, especially in children. Some evidence further suggests that the association may be stronger in women than in men, although findings are inconclusive. This cross-sectional study examines the association between screen time and depression in representative U.S. adults, stratified by gender.

Methods

This study used data from the 2015-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey; analysis was conducted in 2023. Screen time was partitioned into 3 categories-0-2 hours, 3-4 hours, and >4 hours-and included TV and computer time. Depression was defined as a Patient Health Questionnaire score ≥10. TV time and computer time were also analyzed as separate exposures. A multivariable logistic regression model examined the association between screen time and depression.

Results

Results showed that there was a significant interaction between gender and screen time. An association between the highest screen time exposure group and depression was observed for women (>4 hours per day: OR=3.09; 95% CI=1.68, 5.70). The type of screen time affected the relationship, with TV showing a stronger association than computer time. There were no significant associations in men across all exposure groups.

Conclusions

Further research is needed to determine whether higher levels of screen time, especially TV, may be a depression risk marker for women but not men.

Metabolic Health, Overweight or Obesity, and Depressive Symptoms among Older Australian Adults

BACKGROUND

The relationship between overweight or obesity and depressive symptoms in individuals with or without cardio-metabolic abnormalities is unclear. In a cross-sectional study we examined the odds of experiencing depressive symptoms in overweight or obese older adults with or without metabolic abnormalities.

METHODS

The participants included 3318 older adults from the Hunter Community Study Cohort with a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 18.5 kgm2, stratified by BMI and metabolic health risk. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30 kgm2 and metabolically healthy as the absence of metabolic risk factors, according to International Diabetic Federation criteria for metabolic syndromes. Moderate to severe depressive symptoms were defined as a Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) score ≥ 16.

RESULTS

Compared to the metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW) group, the odds of experiencing moderate/severe depressive symptoms were higher in those classified as a metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW) (odds ratio (OR) = 1.25, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.76-2.06) or metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) (OR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.00-2.19), but not in those classified as metabolically unhealthy overweight (MUOW) (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.63-1.45), metabolically healthy overweight (MHOW) (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.51-1.26), and metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.65-1.64). Compared with MHNW males, the odds of moderate/severe depressive symptoms were increased in all other BMI category-metabolic health groups for males and females.

LIMITATIONS

Our relatively small sample size and cross-sectional design did not allow us to robustly establish causality.

CONCLUSION

The odds of experiencing moderate/severe depressive symptoms were increased in metabolically unhealthy older adults regardless of normal weight or obesity, with the odds of having moderate/severe depressive symptoms being higher in females than in males.

Efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2.4 mg according to antidepressant use at baseline: A post hoc subgroup analysis

OBJECTIVE

To explore the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2.4 mg in people with overweight/obesity who were also being treated with antidepressants (ADs).

METHODS

Across the Semaglutide Treatment Effect for People with obesity (STEP) 1-3 and 5 trials, adults with overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2 only) were enrolled. People with severe major depressive disorder within 2 years prior to screening or with a patient health questionnaire-9 score ≥15 at screening were excluded. Participants were categorized into subgroups according to baseline AD status (on/off ADs) in this post hoc exploratory analysis of the STEP trials.

RESULTS

Of 3683 participants randomized, 539 were on ADs at baseline. Mean body weight change from baseline to week 68 was greater for semaglutide versus placebo, regardless of baseline AD use. In STEP 1, for participants on ADs at baseline, mean change from baseline was -15.7% with semaglutide versus -0.2% with placebo and -14.7% versus -2.8% for those not on ADs at baseline. Similar patterns were seen in STEP 2, 3, and 5. The prevalence of adverse events (AEs) was generally similar between semaglutide and placebo in participants on ADs at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

In adults with overweight/obesity, semaglutide provided clinically meaningful weight loss regardless of baseline AD use, with an AE profile consistent with previous studies.

Alterations in anthropometric, inflammatory and mental health parameters during Ramadan intermittent fasting in a group of healthy people: a prospective cohort study

Fasting has been practiced with different time span in different areas of the world and for various reasons. One of the types of fasting regimens is Ramadan intermittent fasting (RIF), which is described as intermittent dry fasting and known as the most commonly practiced form of religious fasting. Different studies have shown its effects on body composition parameters and mental health, fatigue and quality of life (QoL). Elucidating the relationship of RIF on biological parameters would also be of importance to show its mechanism. Therefore, we evaluated several biological mediators related to mental health, such as ß-nerve growth factor (ß-NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and matrix-metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). This study consisted of fasting (FG; n = 25) and non-fasting group (NFG; n = 25). Four different time points were assessed for FG: one week before (T1), mid (T2), last days (T3), and one week after (T4) RIF. T1 and T3 were the assessment time points for NFG. Biological mediators were determined from serum samples by using Human Magnetic Luminex and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, we then performed correlation analyses between biological mediators and our previously published clinical parameters including body composition and mental health parameters at all time points. Significant alterations were shown in FG for ß-NGF (T2vsT3, p < 0.05; T2vsT4, p < 0.05), GDNF (T1vsT4, p < 0.05; T2vsT4, p < 0.05), IL-8 (T2vsT3, p < 0.05; T3vsT4, p < 0.05), TNF-α (T1vsT3, p < 0.05; T1vsT4, p < 0.001; T2vsT4, p < 0.001), and MMP-9 (T1vsT4, p < 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences between FG and NFG in all biological mediators at T1 and T3. Correlation analysis showed that MMP-9 levels had negative correlation with body mass index (BMI) at T3. At T3 BDNF levels had negative correlation with Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) as one of measured QoL parameters. ß-NGF, GDNF, TNF-α, and MMP-9 had positive correlation with some of body composition and mental health parameters. Findings demonstrate that RIF altered different biological mediators could give benefit to health. Its benefit is mediated by the alteration of biological mediators.

Exploring the Influence of Social Class and Sex on Self-Reported Health: Insights from a Representative Population-Based Study

This study investigates the intricate interplay between social class, sex, and self-reported health (SRH) using data from the European Health Survey of Spain 2020 (EESE2020). Employing a cross-sectional design and a representative sample of 22,072 individuals, the analysis explores the persistence of disparities after adjusting for covariates, focusing on health-related variables. The study employs logistic regression models and directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to delineate the direct effects of social class and sex on SRH, identifying a minimum adjustment set to control for confounding variables. Results reveal a gradient effect of social class on SRH, emphasizing the enduring impact of socioeconomic factors. Sex-based disparities in SRH diminish after considering additional health-related variables, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach. DAGs serve as transparent tools in disentangling complex relationships, guiding the identification of essential covariates. The study concludes that addressing health inequalities requires comprehensive strategies considering both individual health behaviours and socio-economic contexts. While recognizing limitations, such as the cross-sectional design, the findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of health disparities, informing evidence-based interventions and policies for a more equitable healthcare system.

Potential biopsychosocial factors mediating/moderating the relationship between depressive symptoms and body size among children and adolescents: A systematic review

The prevalence of depression and obesity in the pediatric population has increased along with multiple adverse health outcomes in later life. However, the mechanisms underlying the bidirectional relationship between obesity and depression have not yet been clarified. We aim to systematically summarize the literature reporting on mediational or moderational biopsychosocial factors in the relationship between depression and body size among children and adolescents. Four electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and PsychArticles) were systematically searched from inception until December 23, 2021, and subsequently updated until June 9, 2023. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022301475). A total of 36 unique records reporting 152,513 children and adolescents meeting the inclusion criteria were identified. The results indicate that disparate psychological variables (e.g., body image, victimization and bullying, eating disorders, and sleep problems) may mediate the bidirectional relationship between depressive symptoms and body size. Moreover, the mediational/moderational effect of biological factors has not been well established. The moderational effect of social factors was inconsistently reported. Future research should aim to identify and characterize factors that may impact the bidirectional relationship between depression and obesity to inform prevention intervention strategies for affected children and adolescents.

Physical activity as a mediator of the association of body mass index change with anxiety/depression symptoms in Brazilian adults during COVID-19

BACKGROUND

the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted people's behaviors and mental health around the world.

AIM

to verify the mediating role of physical activity (PA) level in the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and anxiety and depression symptoms.

METHODS

this is a cross-sectional study with Brazilian adults aged ≥ 18 years (n = 2,000, 59.6 % women) selected by the nonprobabilistic snowball method through digital means of communication (WhatsApp®, Telegram®, Facebook®, Twitter®, e-mails). Linear regression models were fitted for PA level mediation analyses in the relationship between BMI and anxiety/depression symptoms.

RESULTS

significant differences were found between the active/not overweight group and the other three groups (active/overweight, insufficiently active/not overweight and insufficiently active/overweight [p < 0.001]) for anxiety/depression after adjusting for age, gender, chronic diseases, alcohol consumption, and smoking. When testing the mediating role of daily PA in the association between BMI and anxiety/depression symptoms, BMI was negatively associated with daily PA in the first regression equation (p < 0.001); in the second, BMI was positively related to anxiety/depression symptoms (p < 0.001); and in the third, daily PA showed an inverse relationship with anxiety/depression symptoms (p < 0.001), and although BMI remained negatively associated with anxiety/depression symptoms, these associations maintained their statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

the results suggest that the effect of BMI on anxiety and depression was partially mediated by daily PA.

Breast cancer survivors with pain: an examination of the relationships between body mass index, physical activity, and symptom burden

PURPOSE

Overweight and obesity are common for breast cancer survivors and associated with high symptom burden (i.e., pain, fatigue, depressive symptoms). Physical activity may protect breast cancer survivors with higher body mass indexes (BMI) from increased symptoms. However, the role of physical activity in buffering the relationship between higher BMI and greater symptoms is unclear.

METHODS

Baseline data from a randomized trial investigating Pain Coping Skills Training among breast cancer survivors (N = 327) with pain were used to examine the relationship between self-reported BMI (kg/m2) and physical activity level (Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity; suboptimal vs. optimal) with pain (Brief Pain Inventory; severity and interference), fatigue (PROMIS-Fatigue short form), and depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale). Analyses were conducted in SPSS. Hayes PROCESS macro (Model 1) assessed whether physical activity moderated the relationship between BMI and symptoms.

RESULTS

Lower BMI (B = .06, p < .01) and optimal physical activity (B =  - .69, p < .01) were independently associated with lower pain interference. Lower BMI was also associated with lower pain severity (B = .04, p < .001). Neither BMI nor physical activity was associated with fatigue or depressive symptoms. Physical activity did not moderate the relationship between BMI and symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Among breast cancer survivors experiencing pain, higher BMI and being less physically active were related to greater pain (i.e., severity and/or interference). Physical activity did not buffer the relationships between BMI and pain, fatigue, and depressive symptoms, suggesting that physical activity alone may not be sufficient to influence the strength of the relationships between BMI and symptoms.

Is neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) a potential blood biomarker linking depression to obesity? A case-control study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

No definite biomarker linking depression and obesity has been found yet. Our study aimed to investigate neuregulin-1 (NRG-1) as a potential blood biomarker for this association.

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted on 108 obese subjects assigned for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and 100 non-obese controls. Depression was assessed pre- and post-operatively. Serum NRG-1 was measured.

RESULTS

Pre-operatively depression was significantly higher among obese compared to non-obese patients. After the operation, 1.9% of the severely depressed subjects reported no depression, while 5.6% became moderately depressed; about 6% of the moderately depressed and 16% of the mildly depressed became not depressed. Serum NRG-1 level was significantly lower among obese and severely depressed compared to the controls. It was negatively correlated to the level of depression pre- and post-operative (r = -0.764 and -0.467 respectively). The sensitivity of serum NRG1 as a predictor for depression pre- and post-operative was 92.45% and 52.94% respectively. Specificity was 69.09% and 79.73% respectively at cut-off values of ≤ 3.5 and ≤ 2.5 ng/ml.

CONCLUSION

NRG-1 is a possible biomarker for the diagnosis of depression pre-bariatric surgery and the prediction of its prognosis post-operatively.

Depression and lifestyle: Focusing on nutrition, exercise, and their possible relevance to molecular mechanisms

Accumulating evidence has suggested the important role of lifestyle factors in depressive disorder. This paper aimed to introduce and outline recent research on epidemiological and intervention studies on lifestyle-related factors in depressive disorder with a special focus on diet. Evidence on exercise, sleep. and related behaviors is also described. Here, findings from meta-analytic studies are emphasized and related studies by the author's research group are introduced. Dietary factors that increase the risk of the illness include energy overload, skipping breakfast, unhealthy diet styles such as Western diet, inflammation-prone diet, and high consumption of ultraprocessed food (UPF). Nutritional imbalances such as inadequate intake of protein, fish (Ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids), vitamins (folate and vitamin D), and minerals (iron and zinc) increases the risk of depression. Poor oral hygiene, food allergy, addiction to alcohol, and smoking constitute risk factors. Sedentary lifestyle and increased screen time (e.g. video games and the internet) confer the risk of depression. Insomnia and disturbed sleep-wake rhythm are also involved in the pathogenesis of depression. There is accumulating evidence at the meta-analysis level for interventions to modify these lifestyle habits in the protection and treatment of depressive disorder. Main biological mechanisms of the link between lifestyle factors and depression include monoamine imbalance, inflammation, altered stress response, oxidative stress, and dysfunction of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, although other players such as insulin, leptin, and orexin also play a role. To increase resilience to modern stress and ameliorate depression through modification of lifestyle habits, a list of 30 recommendable interventions is presented.

Selecting Antidepressants Based on Medical History and Stress Mechanism

Purpose At present, clinicians typically prescribe antidepressants based on the widely accepted "serotonin hypothesis." This study explores an alternative mechanism, the stress mechanism, for selecting antidepressants based on patients' medical history. Methods This study investigated clinicians' prescribing patterns for the 15 most common antidepressants, including amitriptyline, bupropion, citalopram, desvenlafaxine, doxepin, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, mirtazapine, nortriptyline, paroxetine, ropinirole, sertraline, trazodone, and Venlafaxine. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression was used to identify factors that affect the remission of depression symptoms after receiving an antidepressant. Results The study found that a wide range of factors influenced the propensity of clinicians to prescribe antidepressants, with the number of predictors ranging from 51 to 206 variables. The prevalence of prescribing an antidepressant ranged from 0.5% for doxepin to 24% for the combination of more than one antidepressant. The area under the receiver operating curves (AROC) ranged from 77.2% for venlafaxine to 90.5% for ropinirole, with an average AROC of 82% for predicting the propensity of medications. A variety of diagnoses and prior medications affected remission, in agreement that the central mechanism for the impact of medications on the brain is through stress reduction. For example, psychotherapy, whether done individually or in a group, whether done for a short or long time, and whether done with evaluation/assessment or not, had an impact on remission. Specifically, teenagers and octogenarians were less likely to benefit from bupropion, citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, and sertraline compared to patients between 40 and 65 years old. The findings of this study suggest that considering a patient's medical history and individual characteristics is crucial for selecting the most effective antidepressant treatment. Conclusions Many studies have raised doubt about the serotonin hypothesis as the central mechanism for depression treatment. The identification of a wide range of predictors for prescribing antidepressants highlights the complexity of depression treatment and the need for individualized approaches that consider patients' comorbidities and previous treatments. The significant impact of comorbidities on the response to treatment makes it improbable that the mechanism of action of antidepressants is solely based on the serotonin hypothesis. It is hard to explain how comorbidities lead to the depletion of serotonin. These findings open up a variety of courses of action for the clinical treatment of depression, each addressing a different source of chronic stress in the brain. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of depression treatment and provides valuable insights for clinicians in selecting antidepressants based on patients' medical history.

Affective neural circuits and inflammatory markers linked to depression and anxiety symptoms in patients with comorbid obesity

Although we have effective treatments for depression and anxiety, we lack mechanistic understanding or evidence-based strategies to tailor these treatments in the context of major comorbidities such as obesity. The current feasibility study uses functional neuroimaging and biospecimen data to determine if changes in inflammatory markers, fecal short-chain fatty acids, and neural circuit-based targets can predict depression and anxiety outcomes among participants with comorbid obesity. Blood and stool samples and functional magnetic resonance imaging data were obtained at baseline and 2 months, during the parent ENGAGE-2 trial. From 30 participants with both biospecimen and fMRI data, this subsample study explored the relationship among changes in inflammatory markers and fecal short-chain fatty acids and changes in neural targets, and their joint relationship with depression and anxiety symptoms. Bivariate and partial correlation, canonical correlation, and partial least squares analyses were conducted, with adjustments for age, sex, and treatment group. Initial correlation analyses revealed three inflammatory markers (IL-1RA, IL-6, and TNF-α) and five neural targets (in Negative Affect, Positive Affect, and Default Mode Circuits) with significantly associated changes at 2 months. Partial least squares analyses then showed that changes in IL-1RA and TNF-α and changes in three neural targets (in Negative Affect and Positive Affect Circuits) at 2 months were associated with changes in depression and anxiety symptoms at 6 months. This study sheds light on the plausibility of incorporation of inflammatory and gastrointestinal biomarkers with neural targets as predictors of depression and comorbid anxiety outcomes among patients with obesity.

Decreased β-hydroxybutyrate and ketogenic amino acid levels in depressed human adults

β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a major ketone body synthesized mainly in the liver mitochondria and is associated with stress and severity of depression in humans. It is known to alleviate depressive-like behaviors in mouse models of depression. In this study, plasma BHB, ketogenic and glucogenic amino acids selected from the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Community-Based Cohort Study were analysed and measured using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) was utilized to select adult participants with depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥ 16; n = 5722) and control participants (CES-D < 16; n = 18,150). We observed significantly reduced plasma BHB, leucine, and tryptophan levels in participants with depressive symptoms. Using social defeat stress (SDS) mice models, we found that BHB levels in mice sera increased after acute SDS, but showed no change after chronic SDS, which differed from human plasma results. Furthermore, acute SDS increased mitochondrial BHB levels in the prefrontal cortex at 6 h. In contrast, chronic SDS significantly increased the amount of food intake but reduced hepatic mitochondrial BHB levels in mice. Moreover, gene transcriptions of voltage-dependent anion-selective channel 1 (Vdac1) and monocarboxylic acid transporter 1 (Mct1), major molecules relevant to mitochondrial biogenesis and BHB transporter, significantly decreased in the liver and PFC after chronic SDS exposure. These results provide evidence that hepatic and prefrontal mitochondrial biogenesis plays an important role in BHB synthesis under chronic stress and in humans with depressive symptoms.

Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) powder supplementation has beneficial effects on appetite in overweight/obese women with depression: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Appetite disturbance is a common problem in obesity and depression. The beneficial effects of polyphenols in promoting satiety have been shown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of sumac supplementation along with calorie restricted diet (CRD) on appetite in overweight and obese women with depression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this trial, 60 overweight and obese women with depression were randomly assigned to receive a CRD plus 3 g/day of either sumac or placebo for 12 weeks. The appetite score, serum levels of leptin, neuropeptide Y (NPY), insulin, fasting blood sugar (FBS), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) were assessed at baseline and at the end of the study.

RESULTS

Sumac supplementation significantly reduced the appetite score (p = 0.02), serum levels of leptin (p = 0.03), NPY (p = 0.01), insulin (p = 0.03), FBS (p = 0.03), and HOMA-IR (p = 0.02) compared to the placebo group. QUICKI increased significantly in the sumac group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Sumac along with a CRD may have some beneficial effects on appetite through possible modulatory effects on leptin resistance, insulin sensitivity, and NPY levels in overweight and obese women with depression.

Associations of polygenic risks, depression, and obesity-related traits in Taiwan Biobank

BACKGROUND

The comorbidity of obesity and major depressive disorder (MDD) may be attributable to a bidirectional relationship and shared genetic influence. We aimed to examine the polygenic associations between obesity and MDD and to characterize their corresponding impacts on the obesity mechanism.

METHODS

Genome-wide genotyping was available in 106,604 unrelated individuals from Taiwan Biobank. Polygenic risk score (PRS) for body mass index (BMI) and MDD was derived to evaluate their effects on obesity-related traits. Stratified analyses were performed for the modified effect of depression on the polygenic associations.

RESULTS

The MDD PRS was positively associated with waistline (beta in per SD increase in PRS = 0.12), hipline (beta = 0.08), waist-hip ratio (WHR) (beta = 0.05), body fat rate (beta = 0.08), BMI (beta = 0.05), overweight (OR = 1.02 for BMI ≥ 25), and obesity (OR = 1.05 for BMI ≥ 30). For the synergism between depression and BMI PRS, the presence of active depression symptoms defined by the PHQ-4 (p for interaction < 0.05 for waistline, WHR, and BMI) was more salient than lifetime MDD.

LIMITATIONS

Limitations include recall bias for MDD due to a retrospective self-reporting questionnaire, a low response rate of the PHQ-4 for evaluating active psychological symptoms, and limited generalizability to non-Taiwanese ancestries.

CONCLUSIONS

The shared genetic etiology of obesity and depression was demonstrated. The amplified effect of BMI polygenic effect on obesity for individuals with active depressive symptoms was also characterized. The study may be helpful for designing public health interventions to reduce the disease burden caused by obesity and depression.

Association between Fecal Microbiota, SCFA, Gut Integrity Markers and Depressive Symptoms in Patients Treated in the Past with Bariatric Surgery-The Cross-Sectional Study

(1) Background: Depressive symptoms often appear after surgical treatment. (2) Methods: We involved 41 adults who underwent bariatric surgery a minimum of 6 months before the study and had the Beck scale ≥12. We analysed patients' mental state, gut barrier markers, faecal short chain fatty acids, and microbiota. (3) Results: Gut microbiota composition differed significantly among patients undergoing two different types of surgery (F = 1.64, p = 0.00002). Additionally, we discovered an association between short chain fatty acids and the Beck scale (F = 1.22, p = 0.058). The rearrangement of bacterial metabolites may be due to the patients' use of increased dietary protein, with insufficient intake of products containing vegetable fiber (Diet Quality Index (DQI-I )adequacy 22.55 (±3.46) points). (4) Conclusions: Bariatric surgery affects the gut microbiota, which may play an important role in the development of depressive and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients after bariatric surgery. Low fiber consumption and increased levels of faecal isobutyric acid may lead to intestinal inflammation. There is a need for further research on this topic including a larger sample size.

The relationship between serum fatty acids and depressive symptoms in obese adolescents

Depression and obesity are highly prevalent and are considered inflammatory pathologies; in addition, they are also associated with dietary patterns including types of fatty acids (FA). Changes in the FA composition in the brain are determined by changes in the content and quality of dietary and serum FA. The aim of this study was to verify the relationships between serum-free FA, inflammatory processes and depressive symptoms in obese adolescents. This was a cross-sectional study that analysed a database composed of 138 post-pubertal adolescents. Data regarding the depressive symptoms, body composition, glucose metabolism, lipid profile, FA profile, leptin concentration, as well as adiponectin, IL-A, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, C-reactive protein and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 levels of the subjects were collected. A total of 54·6 % of the adolescents presented with depressive symptoms, and there were positive correlations between depressive symptoms and serum saturated fatty acids (SFA) content, body fat, and inflammatory adipokines, such as leptin, IL-6, and the leptin/adiponectin ratio. Moreover, the content of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was negatively correlated with depressive symptoms, suggesting that eicosatrienoic acid (C20:2n6) and dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (C20:3n-6) are independently associated with depressive symptom scores and can be critical predictors of poor mental health in humans. These results point to the relationship between SFA and depressive symptoms in obese adolescents. However, longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the causality between dietary SFA and depression in obese individuals.

Interventions targeting comorbid depression and overweight/obesity: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Overweight/obesity and depression are highly co-occurring conditions with shared pathophysiology as well as social and economic determinants. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review aims to comprehensively synthesize extant literature with a focus on the effectiveness of interventions targeting obesity and depression comorbidity.

METHODS

We searched databases including MEDLINE, ProQuest Central, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, from inception of the databases until Nov 12, 2021. Articles were included if they reported on the effects of pharmacological, psychological or dietary interventions on comorbid depression and overweight/obesity as their primary or secondary outcome.

RESULTS

Of the 5480 identified records, 19 eligible researches comprising 15 RCTs and 4 uncontrolled longitudinal studies for 3408 participants with comorbid depression and overweight/obesity. The available literature is not sufficient to inform evidence-based treatments targeting obesity and comorbid depression contemporaneously. Notwithstanding, the combination of CBT and lifestyle intervention show efficacy targeting obesity and comorbid depression as do some nutritional supplements, antidepressants and anti-diabetic agents.

LIMITATIONS

The high heterogeneity of various interventions in the included studies may cause a lack of comparability between different studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Concurrent management of depression and overweight/obesity is suggested by available data. There is a pressing need for studies that evaluate the effectiveness in real world samples of persons experiencing multiple co-occurring chronic diseases including but not limited to depression and overweight/obesity.

Bioimpedance Body Measures and Serum Lipid Levels in Masculine Depression

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a main reason for suicide, and serum lipids are involved in both affective disorders and related suicidal behavior. Moreover, masculine depression has been suggested as a subtype of depression with an increased risk for suicide. Here, we studied the relationship between body measures, serum lipids, suicidal thoughts, and masculine depression.

Methods

Depressed patients (44% women) were divided by a sex-separated median-split into a group of 81 "patients with masculine depression" (mean age ± standard error: 36.4 ± 1.6 years) and a group of 82 "patients with non-masculine depression" (age 45.7 ± 1.6 years) according to the Male Depression Risk Scale. We compared body measures, serum lipid levels, and past suicidal ideation between these groups and explored differences between these groups and 176 healthy controls (51% women; age 37.2 ± 1.0 years).

Results

Patients with masculine depression did not significantly differ from patients with non-masculine depression in any of the body measures, lipid markers, or suicidal thoughts. Compared to healthy controls, both patient groups showed significantly higher body fat (B[masculine depression] = 0.041 and B[non-masculine depression] = 0.050), lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (B = -0.045 and -0.044), and a higher risk for suicidal thoughts (B = 3.927 and 2.663) than healthy controls. Suicidal thoughts were significantly associated with lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL)/HDL ratios (B = -0.455) in patients with depression and with higher LDL cholesterol levels (B = 0.020) in healthy controls subjects.

Limitation

Correlational study design and focus on in-patients.

Conclusion

In the studied cohort, masculine depression was not significantly associated with the analyzed parameters of body measures, serum lipids, or suicidal thoughts in in-patients with depression.

The Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Depression, Anxiety, Body Image, and Eating Attitudes in Adolescents in Iran

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and depression, anxiety, body image, and eating attitudes in 12- to 16-year-old adolescents.

Materials and Methods

In this descriptive-analytical study on 437 students in Shahrekord, Iran, selected by two-step random sampling (selection of schools and students), participants were divided into normal weight (BMI: 5-85^th), overweight (BMI: 85-95^th), and obese (BMI >95^th) groups and completed the questionnaires and data were analyzed by SPSS version 23.

Results

BMI had a positive correlation with anxiety, depression, and dysfunctional eating attitudes, and negative correlation with body image in adolescents. Mean scores of depression and anxiety in both overweight and obese groups were significantly higher than those in normal weight adolescents but scores of body image and eating attitudes were not different between overweight and normal weight groups.

Conclusion

Obesity and overweight may have adverse effects on mental health of adolescents and more attention to psychological aspect of obesity can help us to provide better health services to overweight and obese adolescents.

Antiobesity, Antihyperglycemic, and Antidepressive Potentiality of Rice Fermented Food Through Modulation of Intestinal Microbiota

The present study has been aimed at evaluating the antiobesity, antihyperglycemic, and antidepressive potentials of Asparagus racemosus starter-based rice fermented foods. High-throughput NGS technology has revealed a number of bacterial genera in the prepared fermented rice, such as Lactobacillus (29.44%), Brevundimonas (16.21%), Stenotrophomonas (6.18%), Pseudomonas (3.11%), Bacillus (2.88%), and others (<2%). Eight-week administration of rice fermented food has increased food intake, whole-body weight, organ weight, different fat masses, serum lipid profiles, and histology of liver and adipose tissues in HFD-induced obese mice. In addition, upregulation of fatty acid oxidation and downregulation of adipocytogenesis- and lypogenesis-related genes along with the expression of their regulatory nuclear factors such as PPARα, PPARγ, PPARδ, and SREBP-1c have also been noted. Moreover, fermented food decreases fasting blood glucose level and improves glucose and insulin tolerance as well as the expression of GLUT4 receptor. Antiobesity and antihyperglycemic effects are also supported by the changes in insulin, leptin, and adiponectin hormone levels. The real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analyses have clearly demonstrated the intense colonization of Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium, as well as the suppressed growth rate of γ- and δ-Proteobacteria and Firmicutes in the gut after fermented food intake. In the intestine, the latter group of microorganisms possibly modulate short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels such as acetate, butyrate, and propionate more than twofold. The impairment of memory-learning and anxiety-like obesity-associated cognitive phenotypes is mitigated significantly (p < 0.01) by fermented food as well. Thus, the formulated fermented food could be used as a natural therapeutic to alleviate obesity and its associated psychological and pathophysiological ailments.

Biopsychosocial and Nutritional Factors of Depression among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Systematic Review

The rising prevalence of depression among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients has triggered an alarming situation, and further actions need to be taken by health care professionals and policymakers to curb the issue. There is a lack of evidence review in terms of the biopsychosocial and nutritional factors that are related to depression among T2DM. Hence, this review aimed to identify available evidence on the biopsychosocial and nutritional factors associated with depression among T2DM patients based on the existing literature. Articles were systematically searched from four databases, namely PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOHost. The approach for the identification of the final articles followed PRISMA guidelines. The selected full-text articles were published between 2017 and 2021 in the English language, and included studies focused on depression among T2DM patients. Using AXIS tools, the eligible articles were evaluated to assess the quality of studies. A total of 19 studies were included in the review, and information related to research questions and associated factors was extracted. Biological, psychological, social, and nutritional factors were shown to be linked with depression among T2DM patients. Future studies need to considered using the biopsychosocial model and incorporating nutritional factors to manage the issues of depression among T2DM patients.

Salivary bacterial signatures in depression-obesity comorbidity are associated with neurotransmitters and neuroactive dipeptides

BACKGROUND

Depression and obesity are highly prevalent, often co-occurring conditions marked by inflammation. Microbiome perturbations are implicated in obesity-inflammation-depression interrelationships, but how the microbiome mechanistically contributes to pathology remains unclear. Metabolomic investigations into microbial neuroactive metabolites may offer mechanistic insights into host-microbe interactions. Using 16S sequencing and untargeted mass spectrometry of saliva, and blood monocyte inflammation regulation assays, we identified key microbes, metabolites and host inflammation in association with depressive symptomatology, obesity, and depressive symptomatology-obesity comorbidity.

RESULTS

Gram-negative bacteria with inflammation potential were enriched relative to Gram-positive bacteria in comorbid obesity-depression, supporting the inflammation-oral microbiome link in obesity-depression interrelationships. Oral microbiome was more highly predictive of depressive symptomatology-obesity co-occurrences than of obesity or depressive symptomatology independently, suggesting specific microbial signatures associated with obesity-depression co-occurrences. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed significant changes in levels of signaling molecules of microbiota, microbial or dietary derived signaling peptides and aromatic amino acids among depressive symptomatology, obesity and comorbid obesity-depression. Furthermore, integration of the microbiome and metabolomics data revealed that key oral microbes, many previously shown to have neuroactive potential, co-occurred with potential neuropeptides and biosynthetic precursors of the neurotransmitters dopamine, epinephrine and serotonin.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, our findings offer novel insights into oral microbial-brain connection and potential neuroactive metabolites involved.

Mood Disorders Induced by Maternal Overnutrition: The Role of the Gut-Brain Axis on the Development of Depression and Anxiety

Since the first evidence suggesting that maternal nutrition can impact the development of diseases in the offspring, much has been elucidated about its effects on the offspring’s nervous system. Animal studies demonstrated that maternal obesity can predispose the offspring to greater chances of metabolic and neurodevelopmental diseases. However, the mechanisms underlying these responses are not well established. In recent years, the role of the gut-brain axis in the development of anxiety and depression in people with obesity has emerged. Studies investigating changes in the maternal microbiota during pregnancy and also in the offspring demonstrate that conditions such as maternal obesity can modulate the microbiota, leading to long-term outcomes in the offspring. Considering that maternal obesity has also been linked to the development of psychiatric conditions (anxiety and depression), the gut-brain axis is a promising target to be further explored in these neuropsychiatric contexts. In the present study, we review the relationship between maternal obesity and anxious and depressive features, exploring the gut-brain axis as a potential mechanism underlying this relationship.

Effects of High-fat Diet and Chronic Mild Stress on Depression-like Behaviors and Levels of Inflammatory Cytokines in the Hippocampus and Prefrontal Cortex of Rats

Obesity and depression tend to co-occur, and obese patients with chronic low-grade inflammation have a higher risk of developing depression. However, mechanisms explaining these connections have not been fully elucidated. Here, an animal model of comorbid obesity and depression induced by high-fat diet (HFD) combined with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) was used, and sucrose preference, open field, elevated plus maze and Morris water maze tests were used to detected depression-and anxiety-like behaviors and spatial memory. The levels of inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB and microglial activation in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were examined in the study. Our results revealed that the comorbidity group exhibited the most severe depression-like behavior. Obesity but unstressed rats had the highest serum lipid levels among groups. The HFD and CUMS alone and combination of them increased levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, which was significantly related to depression-like behaviors. Further, NF-κB protein and mRNA levels and microglial activation in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex significantly increased in stressed, obese and comorbid groups, with animals in comorbid group having the highest NF-κB mRNA levels in the hippocampus and level of NF-κB proteins in the prefrontal cortex, and the highest microglial activation in both brain areas. The study concluded that HFD and CUMS alone and combination induce depression-like symptoms, abnormal serum lipid levels, microglial activation and increased inflammatory cytokines in the brain, effects that are possibly mediated by TLR4-NF-κB signaling.

Network Analysis of Depressive Symptomatology in Underweight and Obese Adults

BACKGROUND

Depressive symptoms can affect people's quality of life and social environment. In addition, in severe situations, they can lead to suicidal behaviors.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze the differences in depressive symptoms in underweight and obese Peruvian adults.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out based on secondary data obtained from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística e Informática (INEI), Lima, Peru. A sample of 10 053 participants was considered, of which 55.96% were women. Two Gaussian plot models were estimated and the levels of depressive symptomatology were compared between the 2 groups (adults with underweight and obese).

RESULTS

A total of 1510 (15.02%) were underweight adults and 8543 (84.98%) were obese adults. There were differences in the reporting of depressive symptoms in the underweight group; the most central items were "Depressed mood" (PH2), "Tiredness/low energy" (PH4), and "Psychomotor difficulties" (PH8).

CONCLUSION

This study provides new evidence on the dynamic relationship between depressive symptoms according to the body mass index categories (underweight and obese) assessed.

Mindful eating for overweight and obese women in Brazil: An exploratory mixed-methods pilot study

Background: Worldwide, approximately 95% of obese people who follow diets for weight loss fail to maintain their weight loss in the long term. To fill this gap, mindfulness-based interventions, with a focus on mindful eating, are promising therapies to address this challenging public health issue. Aim: To verify the effects of the Mindfulness-Based Eating Awareness Training (MB-EAT) protocol by exploring quantitative and qualitative data collected from Brazilian women. Methods: A single-group, mixed-methods trial was conducted at a public university with adult women (n = 34). Four MB-EAT groups were offered weekly for 2.5-h sessions over 12 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included body mass index (BMI) and self-report measures of anxiety, depression, mindfulness, self-compassion, and eating behaviour. Qualitative information was collected using focus groups in the last session of each group, including both participants and MB-EAT instructors. The qualitative data were examined using thematic analyses and empirical categories. Results: Twenty participants (58.8%) completed both pre- and post-intervention assessments, with adequate attendance (≥4 sessions). There was a significant average decrease in weight of 1.9 ± 0.6 kg from pre- to post-intervention. All participants who had scored at the risk level for eating disorders on the EAT-26 decreased their score below this risk level. Qualitative analysis identified that participants were able to engage a more compassionate perspective on themselves, as well as greater self-awareness and self-acceptance. Conclusion: The MB-EAT showed preliminary efficacy in promoting weight loss and improvements in mindfulness and eating behaviour. This intervention promoted effects beyond those expected, extending to other life contexts.

Associations between Depression, Nutritional Status and Mediterranean Diet in Dalmatian Kidney Transplant Recipients

Depression has been addressed as a predictor of worse outcomes in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Nutritional status plays a great role in treatment of this population. The Mediterranean diet (MeDi) has been associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the rate of depression and its correlations to nutritional status and dietary habits according to the MeDi in Dalmatian KTRs. We included 115 KTRs, and data about body composition and anthropometric, laboratory and clinical parameters were obtained for each study participant. The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) questionnaire was used to assess depressive symptoms and the Mediterranean Diet Serving Score (MDSS) was used to assess adherence to the MeDi. We found the presence of depressive symptoms in 21.73% of the Dalmatian KTRs. BDI-II score was reciprocally associated with fat mass, trunk visceral fat, anthropometric parameters of obesity, triglyceride levels and olive oil consumption. Inverse associations were found between BDI-II score and skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength, MCV, hemoglobin levels and consumption of fish and white meat, as suggested by the MeDi. Our results showed the interconnections between nutritional status, dietary habits and depression in Dalmatian KTRs.

[Depression in men with testosterone deficiency]

OBJECTIVE

Clinical assessment of depression in men with testosterone deficiency to improve differential diagnosis of this type of depression.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-seven men (mean age 50.1±9.08 years) with depressive episode and testosterone level ≤12.1 nmol/l were included in the main group. Depressive episode was diagnosed based on ICD-10 criteria (F-32). Additional assessment of physical and psychometrics parameters was evaluated. Forty men (mean age 42.3±10.53 years) with depression based on ICD-10 criteria (F32, F33) and testosterone level >12.1 nmol/l were included in the comparison group.

RESULTS

Symptoms of depression in men with testosterone deficiency were less severe and led to less functional disturbance. There were some clinical differences in symptoms and syndromes. Single-episode course with manifestation at a later age was more typical for the main group while the comparison group was mostly characterized by recurrent episodes manifesting at an earlier age.

CONCLUSION

Depression in men with testosterone deficiency has a number of differences that must be taken into account when diagnosing and choosing treatment tactics.

Food insecurity partially mediates the association between drug use and depressive symptoms among men who have sex with men in Los Angeles, California

OBJECTIVE

To understand the relationship between drug use, food insecurity (FI) and mental health among men who have sex with men (MSM).

DESIGN

Cohort study (2014-2019) with at least one follow-up.

SETTING

Visits at 6-month intervals included self-assessment for FI and depressive symptoms. Urine testing results confirmed drug use. Factors associated with FI were assessed using multiple logistic regression with random effects for repeated measures. General structural equation modelling tested whether FI mediates the relationship between drug use and depressive symptoms.

PARTICIPANTS

Data were from HIV-positive and high-risk HIV-negative MSM in Los Angeles, CA (n 431; 1192 visits).

RESULTS

At baseline, FI was reported by 50·8 % of participants, depressive symptoms in 36·7 % and 52·7 % of urine screening tests were positive for drugs (i.e. marijuana, opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy). A positive drug test was associated with a 96 % increase in the odds of being food insecure (95 % CI 1·26, 3·07). Compared to those with high food security, individuals with very low food security have a nearly sevenfold increase in the odds of reporting depressive symptoms (95 % CI 3·71, 11·92). Findings showed 14·9 % of the association between drug use (exposure) and depressive symptoms (outcome) can be explained by FI (mediator).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of FI among this cohort of HIV-positive and high-risk HIV-negative MSM was high; the association between drug use and depressive symptoms was partially mediated by FI. Findings suggest that enhancing access to food and nutrition may improve mood in the context of drug use, especially among MSM at risk for HIV transmission.

Cross-National Variations in COVID-19 Mortality: The Role of Diet, Obesity and Depression

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has been characterized by wide variations in mortality across nations. Some of this variability may be explained by medical comorbidities such as obesity and depression, both of which are strongly correlated with dietary practices such as levels of sugar and seafood consumption. Methods: COVID-19 mortality indices for 156 countries were obtained from the Johns Hopkins University’s data aggregator. Correlations between these variables and (a) per capita consumption of sugar and seafood, and (b) country-wise prevalence of depression and obesity were examined. Results: Sugar consumption (r = 0.51, p < 0.001) and prevalence of obesity (r = 0.66, p < 0.001) and depression (r = 0.56, p < 0.001) were positively correlated with crude mortality rates, while seafood consumption was negatively correlated with the infection fatality rate (r = −0.28, p = 0.015). These effects were significant even after correcting for potential confounders. The associations with depression and obesity remained significant upon multivariate regression. Conclusions: Both obesity and depression, which are associated with inflammatory dysregulation, may be related to cross-national variations in COVID-19 mortality, while seafood consumption may be protective. These findings have implications in terms of protecting vulnerable individuals during the current pandemic.

Adiposity in Depression or Depression in Adiposity? The Role of Immune-Inflammatory-Microbial Overlap

Some of the most common and debilitating conditions are metabolic disorders (metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) and depression. These conditions are also exacerbated by the fact that they often co-occur. Although the exact mechanisms underlying such relationships are poorly known, antipsychotic medication and antidepressant use, diet and physical activity, and lifestyle factors are believed to play a role; however, their high co-occurrence rate suggests a possible pathophysiological overlap. This paper reviews several possible bases for this overlap, including hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, immune alterations with chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. While it is entirely possible that changes in the microbiota may play a role in each of them, interventions based on the implementation of dietary and other lifestyle changes, supplementation with prebiotics or probiotics and faecal microbiota transplantation have failed to achieve conclusive results. A better characterization of the above associations may allow a more targeted approach to the treatment of both depressive and metabolic disorders. The paper also presents several practical applications for future studies.

Potentially obesogenic diets alter metabolic and neurobehavioural parameters in Wistar rats: a comparison between two dietary models

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies related to the obesity pandemic have intensified in recent years, being the animal studies are also considered of great relevance. However, despite the fact that many diets have been reported in the literature to induce obesity in animal models, there is still a gap regarding evidence of the efficacy of these models, considering not only changes in somatic parameters, but also the triggering of comorbidities associated with obesity. In this scenario, the aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of western and cafeteria diets as obesity-inducing protocols, focusing on the evaluation of metabolic, somatic, oxidative, histological and behavioural parameters of Wistar rats.

METHODS

The rats were fed a control (CON), western (WTD) or cafeteria (CAF) diet for 16 weeks.

RESULTS

The CAF diet caused anxiogenic-like behaviour. Body mass (BMI), Lee and adiposity indices increased in the CAF group. CAF and WTD diets reduced glucose and insulin tolerance, caused dyslipidemia, increased lipid peroxidation and decrease antioxidant capacity in the liver, kidneys and brain. The WTD and CAF groups shows greater IL-6 protein expression in adipose tissue, developed hepatic steatosis and ischaemic neurons, whereas interstitial nephritis was observed only in the CAF group.

CONCLUSION

The CAF diet was most effective in inducing obesity, as shown both by the somatic parameters and by the greater number of obesity-related metabolic and neurobehavioural disorders in the evaluated rats.

Obesogens: How They Are Identified and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Their Action

Adult and childhood obesity have reached pandemic level proportions. The idea that caloric excess and insufficient levels of physical activity leads to obesity is a commonly accepted answer for unwanted weight gain. This paradigm offers an inconclusive explanation as the world continually moves towards an unhealthier and heavier existence irrespective of energy balance. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are chemicals that resemble natural hormones and disrupt endocrine function by interfering with the body's endogenous hormones. A subset of EDCs called obesogens have been found to cause metabolic disruptions such as increased fat storage, in vivo. Obesogens act on the metabolic system through multiple avenues and have been found to affect the homeostasis of a variety of systems such as the gut microbiome and adipose tissue functioning. Obesogenic compounds have been shown to cause metabolic disturbances later in life that can even pass into multiple future generations, post exposure. The rising rates of obesity and related metabolic disease are demanding increasing attention on chemical screening efforts and worldwide preventative strategies to keep the public and future generations safe. This review addresses the most current findings on known obesogens and their effects on the metabolic system, the mechanisms of action through which they act upon, and the screening efforts through which they were identified with. The interplay between obesogens, brown adipose tissue, and the gut microbiome are major topics that will be covered.