Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance, the hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the cause-effect relationship remains to be fully elucidated. Compelling evidence suggest that boosting mitochondrial function may represent a valuable therapeutic tool to improve insulin sensitivity. Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles which adapt to short- and long-term metabolic perturbations by undergoing fusion and fission cycles, spatial rearrangement of the electron transport chain complexes into supercomplexes as well as biogenesis governed by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ co-activator 1 α (PGC 1α). However, these processes appear to be dysregulated in type 2 diabetic individuals. Herein we describe the mechanistic link between mitochondrial dysfunction and insulin resistance in skeletal muscle alongside the intracellular pathways orchestrating mitochondrial bioenergetics. We then review current evidence on nutritional tools, including fatty acids, amino acids, caloric restriction and food bioactive derivatives which may enhance insulin sensitivity by therapeutically targeting mitochondrial function and biogenesis

Assistive technology including virtual reality and augmented reality has gained interest as a novel intervention in a range of clinical settings. This technology has the potential to provide mental stimulation, a connection to autobiographical memory through reminiscence, and enhanced quality of life (QoL) to people living with dementia (PLWD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In this mini-review, we examine the available evidence from studies reporting on the potential benefits of virtual and augmented reality to provide enjoyable, leisurely activities that may promote QoL and psychological well-being and facilitate social interaction. In total, 10 studies of varying study designs and durations (5 min to 6 months) using virtual (n = 9) and augmented reality (n = 1) were examined in PLWD (n = 6) and MCI (n= 3), in addition to 1 study that included participants with both conditions. Overall, the virtual experiences were enjoyed by the participants, improved their mood and apathy, and were preferred when compared with nonvirtual experiences. However, small sample sizes and variations in study design limit the generalizability of the results. Nevertheless, the use of virtual and augmented reality technology for PLWD and MCI is a novel and emerging method which may provide cognitive stimulation and improve well-being. Future research should explore the potential application of this technology to promote social interaction in both the community and aged care settings. We suggest future studies in PLWD and MCI assess the effects of more sustained use of virtual and augmented reality technology on psychological outcomes including QoL, apathy, and depressive symptoms, with the incorporation of physiological biomarker outcomes.

Consumption of anthocyanins (ACNs), due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects, has been proposed for the prevention and treatment of several different diseases and conditions. ACNs are recognized as one of the leading nutraceuticals for prolonging health benefits through the attenuation of oxidative stress, and inflammatory or age-related diseases. Increased consumption of ACNs has the potential to attenuate the damage ensuing from oxidative stress, inflammation, enhance cardiometabolic health, and delay symptoms in predisposed neuropathology. A myriad of evidence supports ACN consumption as complementary or standalone treatment strategies for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), neurodegenerative diseases, as well as, more recently, for the modulation of gut bacteria and bone metabolism. While these findings indicate the beneficial effects of ACN consumption, their food sources differ vastly in ACN composition and thus potentially in their physiological effects. Consumption of foods high in ACNs can be recommended for their potential beneficial health effects due to their relatively easy and accessible addition to the everyday diet.