Objectives We investigated seasonal changes in brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation and metabolism in a temperate‐climate Albany, NY population. Methods Data were collected among 58 participants (21 males, 37 females, ages: 18–51) in the summer and 59 participants (23 males, 36 females, ages: 18–63) in the winter in Albany, New York. BAT activity was inferred by comparing metabolic rate, heat dissipation in the supraclavicular area, and respiratory quotient at room temperature and cold exposure. Seasonal variation in BAT was determined by comparing these measurements from summer and winter. Results At mild cold exposure, heat dissipation of the supraclavicular area was significantly greater in the winter compared to summer (p < .001); however, no significant differences were found between seasons in metabolic rate measurements. This suggests BAT activation may be metabolically more efficient in the winter, due to prolonged lower seasonal temperatures relative to summer. Respiratory quotient significantly increased upon mild cold exposure in the winter compared to summer (p < .001). While carbohydrate utilization increased in the winter, fat remained the primary metabolic substrate for BAT activity across both seasons. Conclusion The seasonal variations in the effects of nonshivering thermogenesis on metabolic rate and substrate metabolism suggest a buffering of energy expenditure and an increased use of glucose as fuel by BAT as a result of acclimatization to cold in the winter. These findings point towards a potential role of BAT in human whole‐body mediated glucose disposal and cold adaptation.

As global obesity rates continue to rise, it is important to understand the origin, role, and range of human variation of the body mass index (BMI) in assessing health and healthcare. A growing body of evidence suggests that BMI is a poor indicator of health across populations, and that there may be a metabolically healthy obese phenotype. Here we review the reasons why BMI is an inadequate tool for assessing cardiometabolic health. We then suggest that cold climate adaptations may also render BMI an uninformative metric. Underlying evolutionary and environmental drivers may allow for heat conserving larger body sizes without necessarily increasing metabolic health risks. However, there may also be a potential mismatch between modern obesogenic environments and physical adaptations to cold climates, highlighting the need to further investigate the potential of metabolically healthy obese phenotypes among circumpolar and other populations and the broader meaning for metabolic health. Lay Abstract Global obesity rates are on the rise; however, body mass index (BMI) is a poor indicator of metabolic health. Here we propose that cold climate populations may exhibit high BMIs, but relatively healthy metabolic profiles (metabolically healthy obesity) due to environmental and evolutionary pressures associated with inhabiting a cold climate.

A large body of work focuses on the unique aspects of Neanderthal anatomy, inferred physiology, and behavior to test the assumption that Neanderthals were hyper‐adapted to living in cold environments. This research has expanded over the years to include previously unexplored and potentially adaptive features such as brown adipose tissue and fire‐usage. Here we review the current state of knowledge of Neanderthal cold adaptations along morphological, physiological, and behavioral lines. While highlighting foundational as well as recent work, we also emphasize key areas for future research. Despite thriving in a variety of climates, it is well‐accepted that Neanderthals appear to be the most cold‐adapted of known fossil hominin groups; however, there are still many unknowns. There is a great deal yet to be uncovered about the nature and manifestation of Neanderthal adaptation and how the synergy of biology and culture helped buffer them against extreme and variable environments.

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Background Quality mentorship is crucial for long‐term success in academia and overall job satisfaction. Unfortunately, formal mentorship training is lacking, and there is little recourse for failed mentor–mentee relationships. Methods We performed a literature review to understand the current state of mentorship research with a focus on: (1) what mentorship is and why it is important for success; (2) establishing mentor‐mentee relationships; and (3) the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Results From the literature review, we compiled a number of mentorship recommendations for individuals, departments, institutions, and professional associations. These recommendations focus on building a mentorship network, establishing formalized mentorship training, how to build a productive and mutually beneficial mentor–mentee relationship, and instituting a system of mentorship accountability. Conclusion We hope that by centralizing this information and providing a list of resources and actionable recommendations we inspire and encourage others to make meaningful changes in their approach to mentorship to create a more kind, caring, and equitable environment in which to conduct our work.