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Multi-domain lifestyle intervention in older adults after myocardial infarction: rationale and design of the PIpELINe randomized clinical trial

Multi-domain lifestyle intervention in older adults after myocardial infarction: rationale and design of the PIpELINe randomized clinical trial   Abstract Background:  Traditional cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is effective in improving physical performance and prognosis after myocardial infarction (MI). Anyway, it is not consistently recommended to older adults, and its attendance rate is low. Previous studies suggested that alternative, early and tailored exercise interventions are feasible and effective in improving physical performance in older MI patients. Anyway, the demonstration that they are associated also with a significant reduction of hard endpoints is lacking. Aim:  To describe rationale and design of the "Physical activity Intervention in Elderly patients with myocardial Infarction" (PIpELINe) trial. Methods:  The PIpELINe trial is a prospective, randomized, multicentre study with a blinded adjudicated evaluation of the outcomes. Patients aged ≥ 65 years, admitted

The Link between Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Sarcopenia: An Update Focusing on the Role of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase 4

  Sarcopenia, defined as a progressive loss of muscle mass and function, is typified by mitochondrial dysfunction and loss of mitochondrial resilience. Sarcopenia is associated not only with aging, but also with various metabolic diseases characterized by mitochondrial dyshomeostasis.  Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinases (PDKs) are mitochondrial enzymes that inhibit the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, which controls pyruvate entry into the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the subsequent adenosine triphosphate production required for normal cellular activities. PDK4 is upregulated in mitochondrial dysfunction-related metabolic diseases, especially pathologic muscle conditions associated with enhanced muscle proteolysis and aberrant myogenesis. Increases in PDK4 are associated with perturbation of mitochondria-associated membranes and mitochondrial quality control, which are emerging as a central mechanism in the pathogenesis of metabolic disease-associated muscle atrophy.  Here, we review how mi

Inactivity and Skeletal Muscle Metabolism: A Vicious Cycle in Old Age

Inactivity and Skeletal Muscle Metabolism: A Vicious Cycle in Old Age Aging is an inevitable and gradually progressive process affecting all organs and systems.  The musculoskeletal system makes no exception, elderly exhibit an increased risk of sarcopenia (low muscle mass),dynapenia (declining muscle strength), and subsequent disability. Whereas in recent years the subject of skeletal muscle metabolic decline in the elderly has been gathering interest amongst researchers, as well as medical professionals, there are many challenges yet to be solved in order to counteract the effects of aging on muscle function efficiently.  Noteworthy, it has been shown that aging individuals exhibit a decline in skeletal muscle metabolism, a phenomenon which may be linked to a number of predisposing (risk) factors such as telomere attrition, epigenetic changes, mitochondrial dysfunction, sedentary behavior (leading to body composition alterations), age-related low-grade systemic inflammation (inflamma

Understanding Metabolic Syndrome: A Comprehensive Guide

  Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. In this blog, we will delve into the intricacies of metabolic syndrome, exploring its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments. What is Metabolic Syndrome? Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a combination of factors, including high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. These factors collectively increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health complications. The Journey of Glucose: We'll start by understanding how our bodies process glucose from the foods we eat. As food travels through the digestive tract, nutrients are absorbed and converted into glucose in the liver. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, facilitates the entry of glucose into cells for energy. However, in cases of insulin resistance, cells become less responsive to insulin, le

Book Review #4 Genius Foods: Become Smarter, Happier, and More Productive While Protecting Your Brain for Life

  "Genius Foods: 10 Superfoods"   Extra Virgin Olive Oil: When consuming extra virgin olive oil, take it with a sound similar to slurping soup. Swallow it to allow the oil to permeate. The compound oleocanthal in olive oil is beneficial, as it has anti-inflammatory effects and can enhance cognitive function.   Avocado: Avocado is known for its brain-protective properties. It contains healthy fats that support brain health, vitamins, and compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin that aid absorption of nutrients.   Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which can enhance memory and cognitive function. Regular consumption has been associated with better brain health and cognitive abilities.   Dark Chocolate: Cocoa in dark chocolate contains polyphenols that improve cognitive function, insulin sensitivity, vascular function, and more. Choose dark chocolate with high cocoa content and minimal sugar.   Eggs: Eggs, including the yo

Book Review #3 Genius Foods: Become Smarter, Happier, and More Productive While Protecting Your Brain for Life

  Part 3: Sit in the Driver's Seat in My Body   Collaborators called Sacred Sleep and Hormones In a study published in a scientific journal about sleep, researchers gathered healthy adult participants and deprived them of sleep for one night. As a result, two signals of neural damage increased by 20%. From this, we can infer that even just one day of sleep deprivation can lead to damage in valuable brain cells. Eating habits also play a significant role. A study reported in the scientific journal "Nutritional Neuroscience" revealed that those who switched from a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet to a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet experienced a decrease in deep sleep after only two days. Observational studies targeting both men and women have also shown that excessive consumption of sugars and carbohydrates leads to a decrease in deep sleep. On the other hand, certain nutrients have been found to enhance sleep quality. Fiber intake, in particular, is associated with

Book Review #2 Genius Foods: Become Smarter, Happier, and More Productive While Protecting Your Brain for Life

  Part 2:Everything is interconnected. Finally, cleared of blame, cholesterol.   Today, more than ever in history, we have access to a wealth of information about cardiovascular health. Unfortunately, many doctors are still giving outdated advice that saturated fats are detrimental to cardiovascular health. Dr. Ronald Krauss, a leading nutrition expert in the United States, concluded that saturated fats we consume do not necessarily increase the risk of coronary artery disease or cardiovascular conditions.   The real culprit of heart disease. Cholesterol is an essential nutrient for the body, with about 25% of total cholesterol being used by the brain. Therefore, it plays a critical role. Dr. Shin Hyun-gyun, a world-renowned scholar studying cholesterol's role in the brain, warned that using drugs to reduce cholesterol overall could lead to unintended consequences. Cholesterol is crucial for the production of bile acids, which help absorb essential fatty nutrients that