Anthropometric Assessment Research Articles

Nutritional Status of Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in Irbid Governorate, Jordan: A Case-Control Study

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a crucial infertility problem among women in the world; especially Arab women. The main objective of this case-control study was to perform anthropometric, biochemical, clinical and nutritional assessment among PCOS patients. The study population composed of 60 Jordanian women aged 19–39 years, and classified into two groups: 30 were cases (PCOS patients) and 30 were control group (Healthy women). Results of the study indicated that the Body Mass Index (BMI) were significantly higher among PCOS patients than healthy women. Furthermore, significant differences were shown in the mean values of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and (LH): Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) (LH:FSH) ratio which were higher among PCOS patients with a p=0.01 and p=0.03, respectively. Also, significant differences between PCOS patients and healthy women were shown for three clinical manifestations of PCOS including infertility, sleep apnea, and eating disorders. Moreover, the findings of the validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) revealed no significant differences between two study groups in the consumption of macronutrients and total energy intake. It is obviously concluded from the study that PCOS is remarkably responsible for substantial variations in anthropometric and biochemical measurements, hormonal levels, and clinical features among PCOS patients.

The ABCDs of nutritional assessment in infectious diseases research.

Malnutrition is the most common acquired cause of immunodeficiency worldwide. Nutritional deficiencies can blunt both the innate and adaptive immune response to pathogens. Furthermore, malnutrition is both a cause and consequence of infectious diseases. The bidirectional relationship between infectious diseases and undernutrition, as well as the inflammatory milieu of infectious diseases, can complicate nutritional assessment. This article aims to provide clinicians and researchers with an overview of commonly used tools to assess nutritional status, with a particular emphasis on their use in the context of infectious diseases. This includes anthropometric, biochemical, clinical/physical, and dietary assessments to screen and evaluate undernutrition, diet quality, and food insecurity effectively.

Food Consumption According to the NOVA Food Classification and Its Relationship with Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress in Women

Background/Objectives: Depression, anxiety, and stress are highly prevalent mental disorders worldwide, and food consumption can change in individuals with these conditions. We aimed to assess the food consumption of women with depressive symptoms and compare it to a control without symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 96 women, aged 18–59, allocated into two groups: control (n = 62) or depressive symptoms (n = 34). The participants underwent an anthropometric assessment, and food consumption was evaluated using a 24 h food recall and the NOVA classification. Depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress were measured using the DASS-21 questionnaire. Results: Anthropometric parameters did not differ between the groups. Women with depressive symptoms consumed fewer calories (p = 0.006), carbohydrates (p = 0.014), proteins (p = 0.036), and lipids (0.011) from unprocessed and minimally processed foods (UMPF) compared to the control women. A negative correlation was found between the dietary consumption energy of UMPF and symptoms of depression (r = −0.337; p = 0.001), anxiety (r = −0.262; p = 0.014), and stress (r = −0.260; p = 0.014), as well as a positive correlation between energy intake from ultra-processed foods (UPF) and symptoms of depression (r = 0.218; p = 0.042) and stress (r = 0.227; p = 0.034). Regression analysis showed that depressive symptoms accounted for 7.6% of the lower energy consumption from UMPF. Conclusions: Women with depressive symptoms displayed lower UMPF consumption, and this was negatively correlated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Professional dietary advice can improve health status in these patients.

Development, Content Validity and Usability of a Self-Assessment Instrument for the Lifestyle of Breast Cancer Survivors in Brazil

Background/Objectives: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally, and it negatively impacts diet and quality of life, increasing the risk of recurrence. Adhering to World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) lifestyle guidelines, such as healthy eating habits and nutritional status, can help in primary and secondary cancer prevention. However, no questionnaire was found for self-assessment of these guidelines for the Brazilian population. The aim of this study is to carry out content validity, pilot, and usability testing of the self-administered digital instrument “PrevCancer” assessing adherence to the WCRF/AICR recommendations in Brazilian female breast cancer survivors. Methods: We conducted a psychometric study that involved the development of an instrument based on WCRF/AICR recommendations. Assessment of content validity involved the Content Validity Index (CVI) based on expert assessments (n = 7). The pilot study involved the System Usability Scale (SUS) after applying the developed instrument (n = 65) and anthropometric assessment for convergent validity by female participants (n = 55). The final usability test consisted of evaluating the satisfaction with the instrument of women with breast cancer (n = 14). Results: The “PrevCancer” instrument demonstrated good content (CVI = 1.0) as well as good usability and acceptability in the pilot study (mean SUS score = 88.1). The convergent validity stage demonstrated positive associations between the PrevCancer parameters and anthropometric parameters (p < 0.001). In the final usability study (mean SUS score = 90.3), participants’ receptivity to the instrument was excellent. Conclusions: The PrevCancer instrument had valid content and great usability by the target population, proving to be a useful tool for future cancer research.

Examining the burden and relationship between stunting and wasting among Timor-Leste under five rural children.

Globally and in Timor-Leste, wasting and stunting remain major public health problems among 'under five years children, but the interrelationship between the two has been poorly investigated. A better understanding of this interrelationship is a prerequisite to improving wasting and stunting programming. In our study, we assessed the influence of age on the prevalence of wasting and stunting, the overlap between the two conditions, and the effect of wasting parameters on linear growth catch-up using the data of 401 children recruited at 0 to 54 months of age [median (IQR) of 17 (7-32) months] with repeated anthropometric assessments [median (IQR) follow-up time was 25 (16-39) months]. At recruitment, prevalences of stunting, wasting and concurrence of the two conditions were 54.6%, 9.5% and 4.6%, respectively. These prevalences were already high and above the thresholds for public health importance among children below months of age and remained high throughouttheir childhood. Over the follow-up period, the change (95%CI) in Height-for-Age Z-score (HAZ) was -0.01 (-0.13; 0.11) (p = 0.850), and that of the Height-for-Age Difference (HAD) was -3.74 (-4.28; -3.21) cm (p<0.001). Stunting reversal was observed in 25.6% of those stunted at recruitment, while a positive change in HAD was observed in only 19.6% of assessed children. Path analysis by structural equation modelling showed no significant direct effect of WHZ at recruitment on the likelihood of positive change in HAD, with its influence being fully mediated by its change over the follow-up period. This change had an inverse relationship with the occurrence of a positive change in HAD. On the contrary, Mid-Upper Arm Circumference at recruitment had a significant positive direct effect on the likelihood of a positive HAD change. These results show that interventions to combat wasting and stunting need to be integrated.

Primary and residual cardiometabolic risk factors among young adults in a Russian city

BackgroundCardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality and a significant contributor to temporary and permanent disabilities worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the burden of primary and residual cardiometabolic risk factors in a sample of young adults in the Russian city of Kazan.MethodsThis case-control study used the Cardiometabolic Disease Staging (CMDS) classification system, which has been validated in several countries. The study included 191 individuals aged 25–44 years who met the inclusion criteria but did not meet any exclusion criteria. Data collection involved a patient card with questions from the World Health Organization’s STEPS instrument, face-to-face patient interviews, and a physical examination. Anthropometric assessments included height, weight, and waist circumference measurements. Body composition was evaluated using bioelectrical impedance measurements. Patients also underwent in-depth laboratory biochemical analyses.ResultsThe study cohort was comprised of 97 females (50.8%) and 94 males (49.2%). The median age of participants was 35.00 years [IQR: 30.00–39.00]. The study cohort showed an increase in all anthropometric parameters, with abdominal obesity and overweight reaching 100% in the CMDS 3. Apart from atherogenic lipids and raised blood pressure, other risk factors that precipitate residual risk and were not part of CMDS, such as insulin levels, insulin resistance, leptin values, and hyperuricemia, increased as CMDS levels increased.ConclusionsThe prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors was high in young adults in Kazan. This study highlights the need for the early identification and management of cardiometabolic risk factors in young adults to prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases later in life.

Assessment of Paraoxonase 1 and Arylesterase Activities and Lipid Profile in Bodybuilders: A Comparative Study of Physical Activity and Anthropometry on Atherosclerosis.

Background and Objectives: Atherosclerosis, driven by dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress, is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study evaluates the effects of vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise (VIBBE) on atherosclerosis biomarkers-including paraoxonase-1 (PON1) and arylesterase (ARE) activities-and lipid profiles in male bodybuilders who do not use anabolic-androgenic steroids. Comparisons were made with individuals engaged in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (MIAE), as well as overweight/obese sedentary (OOS) and normal-weight sedentary (NWS) individuals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 122 healthy male participants aged 18-45 years, divided into four groups: VIBBE (n = 31), OOS (n = 30), MIAE (n = 32), and NWS (n = 29). Anthropometric assessments were performed, and fasting blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses, including lipid profiles and PON1 and ARE activities. Statistical analyses compared the groups and evaluated correlations between adiposity measures and atherosclerosis biomarkers. Results: The VIBBE group exhibited significantly lower levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and logarithm of the TG to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio [log(TG/HDL-C)] compared to the OOS group (p < 0.05 for all), indicating improved lipid profiles. However, these improvements were not significant when compared to the NWS group (p > 0.05), suggesting that VIBBE may not provide additional lipid profile benefits beyond those associated with normal weight status. PON1 and ARE activities were significantly lower in the VIBBE group compared to the MIAE group (p < 0.05 for both), suggesting that VIBBE may not effectively enhance antioxidant defences. Correlation analyses revealed significant inverse relationships between PON1 and ARE activities and adiposity measures, including body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), body fat percentage (BFP), fat mass index (FMI), and obesity degree (OD) (p < 0.05 for all). Positive correlations were observed between oxLDL and log(TG/HDL-C) and adiposity measures (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusions: Vigorous-intensity bodybuilding exercise improves certain lipid parameters compared to sedentary obese individuals but does not significantly enhance antioxidant enzyme activities or further improve lipid profiles beyond those observed in normal-weight sedentary men. Conversely, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise significantly enhances PON1 and ARE activities and improves lipid profiles, offering superior cardiovascular benefits. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating moderate-intensity aerobic exercise into physical activity guidelines to optimize cardiovascular health by balancing improvements in lipid metabolism with enhanced antioxidant defences.

ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN AORTIC DIAMETER AND ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASURES IN MEN: A CT STUDY

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally, with Ukraine experiencing a mortality rate of 64.3% in 2019, predominantly affecting men. Aortic aneurysms, assessed by aorta diameter, are significant among these diseases. While computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for diagnosing aortic syndromes, there's a lack of comprehensive data on aortic morphometrics in Ukraine, particularly in men. This research aims to bridge this gap by analyzing CT-derived data on the ascending aorta in Ukrainian men. Aim. To enhance diagnostic accuracy and guide treatment strategies, including surgical interventions, by understanding the correlation between aortic morphology, age, and anthropometric variables in this high-risk demographic. Materials and methods. The study used DICOM images from computed tomography angiography of the aorta with contrast enhancement and ECG synchronization. Methods included anthropometric assessments, CT imaging, and statistical analysis. The study involved 62 male subjects without heart or ascending aorta pathology. Data included age, body length, and weight, which were used to calculate BMI and BSA. Diameter measurements of the aorta were taken at specific levels: the aortic ring, aortic sinus, sinotubular junction, maximum diameter of the ascending aorta, mid-section of the ascending aorta, and just before the brachiocephalic trunk departure. Statistical analyses employed the Student's t-test and Pearson's correlation analysis, with a significance level of p&lt;0.05. Results. The study encompassed 62 male subjects without cardiovascular pathology, with an average age of 52.56±13.52 years, average body length of 1.76±0.07 m, average body weight of 84.74±14.14 kg, average BMI of 27.54± 4.74 kg/m², and BSA of 2.03±0.18 m². A moderate positive correlation between age and aortic diameter was observed, ranging from +0.35 for the average diameter of the aorta at the aortic ring level to +0.57 for the maximum diameter of the aorta (p&lt;0.05). However, no significant correlations were found between aortic diameters and body height in men (p&gt;0.05). Notably, a moderate positive correlation was observed between body weight and aortic diameter at the sinotubular junction level (r=+0.61, p&lt;0.001) and the aortic sinus level (r=+0.34, p= 0.027). Furthermore, an increase in aortic diameter at the sinotubular junction level was significantly correlated with an increase in BMI (r=+0.59, p&lt;0.001) and BSA (r=+0.57, p&lt;0.001). Additionally, body surface area demonstrated a significant positive correlation with an aortic diameter at the aortic sinus level, exhibiting a moderate positive correlation (r=+0.35, р=0.023). Men with a BMI of 25 kg/m² or higher (n=45) showed significantly larger aortic diameters at almost all levels (excluding the aortic ring diameter) compared to those with lower BMIs (р&lt;0.05). Conclusions. CT-morphometric indicators of the diameter of the aorta in men normally increase with age. Body weight is directly correlated with the diameter of the aorta at the level of the sinotubular junction and aortic sinuses. In men with excess body weight and obesity, larger values of the diameters of the aorta were established at all studied levels, except for the level of the sinotubular junction.

Dehydration and Suboptimal Sleep Aggravate Early Renal Impairment in Children: Longitudinal Findings from the PROC Study

Background: While dehydration is associated with pediatric renal impairment, the regulation of hydration status can be affected by sleep. However, the interaction of hydration and sleep on kidney health remains unclear. Methods: We conducted a cohort study among 1914 healthy primary school children from October 2018 to November 2019 in Beijing, China. Four-wave urinary β2-microglobulin and microalbumin excretion were assayed to assess transient renal tubular and glomerular impairment, and specific gravity was measured to determine hydration status with contemporaneous assessment of sleep duration, other anthropometric, and lifestyle covariates. We used generalized linear mixed-effects models to assess longitudinal associations of sleep duration and hydration status with renal impairment. Results: We observed 1378 children with optimal sleep (9–&lt;11 h/d, 72.0%), 472 with short sleep (&lt;9 h/d), and 64 with long sleep (≥11 h/d, 3.3%). Over half (55.4%) of events determined across 6968 person-visits were transient dehydration, 19.4% were tubular, and 4.9% were glomerular impairment events. Taking optimal sleep + euhydration as the reference, the results of generalized linear mixed-effects models showed that children with long sleep + dehydration (odds ratio [OR]: 3.87 for tubular impairment [tubules] and 3.47 for glomerular impairment [glomerulus]), long sleep + euhydration (OR: 2.43 for tubules), optimal sleep + dehydration (OR: 2.35 for tubules and 3.00 for glomerulus), short sleep + dehydration (OR: 2.07 for tubules and 2.69 for glomerulus), or short sleep + euhydration (OR: 1.29 for tubules) were more likely to present transient renal impairment, adjusting for sex, age, body mass index z-score, systolic blood pressure z-score, screen time, physical activity, and Mediterranean diet adherence. Conclusions: Dehydration and suboptimal sleep aggravate transient renal impairment in children, suggesting its role in maintaining pediatric kidney health.

Fluoxetine and Sertraline Inhibit Height Growth and Growth Hormone Signaling During Puberty.

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of fluoxetine and sertraline on height growth and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) during puberty. In this 6-month cohort study, electronic medical records were used to identify 8- to 15-year-old participants, within 1 month of starting fluoxetine (n = 39) or sertraline (n = 27), and sexual maturation stages 2 to 4 were confirmed. Conditions that interfere with height growth led to exclusion. Participants underwent anthropometric assessments and phlebotomy. Healthy, unmedicated children (n = 36) also provided anthropometric data. After the baseline height Z-score, sex, Tanner stage, daily selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) dose, and time were accounted for, the interaction effect of dose by time was inversely associated with height Z-score in SSRI-treated participants (β = -0.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.35, -0.02). Sertraline and fluoxetine did not differ in their effect on height growth. Compared with being unmedicated, SSRI treatment was associated with a smaller growth in height (time × dose 2-way interaction effect β = -1.30; 95% CI: -2.52, -0.09). The interaction effect of dose by time was significant for body mass index Z-score (β = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.64) but not weight Z-score (β = 0.24; 95% CI: -0.01, 0.49). Body mass index Z-score increased more with sertraline compared with fluoxetine (time × dose × SSRI type 3-way interaction effect P < 0.05). SSRI dose was inversely associated with IGF-1 (β = -63.5; 95% CI: -112.2, -14.7) but not insulin growth factor binding protein-3 concentration (β = -207.3; 95% CI: -536.2, 121.5). Fluoxetine and sertraline reduce height gain and IGF-1 concentration, in a dose-dependent manner. Longer-term studies are necessary.

Assessment of vitamin B12 and folate status and their determinants in children aged 6–59 months with severe acute malnutrition admitted to a tertiary-care centre in North India

ABSTRACT Background Vitamin B12 and folate are essential micronutrients, a deficiency of which causes anaemia, poor growth and an increased risk of infections, along with irreversible neurological damage to the developing brain in children. Methods A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted in 100 children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) aged 6–59 months admitted to a tertiary-care facility in northern India from July 2021 to June 2022. A structured proforma was used to record socio-demographic information, a detailed clinical history, results of general and systemic physical examination and a detailed anthropometric assessment. Serum folate and vitamin B12 were estimated by electrochemiluminescence. Results The mean age of the children was 24.18 months, and 64.0% were aged 6–12 months. The male-to-female ratio was 1.08:1. Anaemia was present in 87.0% of the children, and it was severe in 35% of them. There was serum vitamin B12 and folate deficiency in 61.0% and 19.0%, respectively. A deficiency of vitamin B12 was significantly associated with delayed developmental milestones in all domains, a mid-upper-arm circumference of <11.5 cm, severe anaemia, a low platelet count and folate deficiency, and a folate deficiency was significantly associated with older age, delayed developmental milestones in all domains, severe anaemia, a low platelet count and vitamin B12 deficiency. Conclusion Vitamin B12 deficiency is highly prevalent in children aged 6–59 months with SAM, but the prevalence of folate deficiency is much lower. Apart from iron and folic acid supplementation, government programmes should consider vitamin B12 supplementation for children aged 6–59 months.

Innovative android application for anthropometric assessment of nutritional status in boys aged 0-59 months

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Background: &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Smartphone users in Indonesia mostly use smartphones to access mobile applications rather than mobile websites. As many as 82% of smartphone users in Indonesia access mobile applications while the remaining 9% of users each access mobile websites and websites via desktop. The majority of the population of smartphone users who access mobile applications come from productive age, namely 75% from 18-24 year olds and 79% from 25-34 year olds. The survey results prove that the development of information technology in mobile technology has developed rapidly. These technological developments have resulted in changes and developments in all fields, one of which is the health sector. &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Objectives: &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;The aim of this research is to design and create Android-based anthropometry of nutritional status aged 0-59 months. which can be downloaded via the cell phone used by Posyandu cadres.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Methods:&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;This research developed an innovative Android application to assess the nutritional status of boys aged 0-59 months using the Waterfall development method in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). This approach starts from requirements analysis, system design, coding, testing, to implementation and maintenance, which is carried out in a linear and gradual manner to ensure that each phase of development runs in a structured manner and produces effective and high-quality applications.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Results: &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;The research results show that this anthropometric application significantly increases the efficiency and effectiveness of Posyandu cadre service time. By reducing the need for manual recording and calculations, this application speeds up the process of assessing the nutritional status of children aged 0-59 months, reduces errors, and allows cadres to focus more on direct interactions with mothers and children, thereby improving the overall quality of services.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Conclusions: &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Android-based Anthropometric Application for Nutritional Status Age 0-59 Months is a digital tools.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Association between plant-based dietary index and disease severity in patients with ulcerative colitis: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundPlant foods are naturally rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed the association between the plant-based dietary index (PDI) and Mayo score in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC).MethodsThis analytical cross-sectional study included 158 patients with UC. The Mayo score was used to determine disease severity. An expert nutritionist performed the anthropometric assessments. A 168-item quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to calculate the PDI, healthy PDI (hPDI), and unhealthy PDI (uPDI). To assess the association between the total Mayo score (as a dependent factor) and different indices of PDI (as an independent variable), the linear regression model was used.ResultsThe mean age of participants was 42.52 ± 12.61 years. There were significant differences in the total Mayo score between tertiles of PDI score (p = 0.02). The result of linear regression showed that in the unadjusted model, compared with the patients in the first tertile of PDI, the patients in the second (-0.21 (-1.89, -0.17)), and third tertile (-0.21 (-1.95, -0.16)) had significantly lower total mayo scores. The inverse association remained significant after adjusting for covariates. However, uPDI and hPDI tertiles were not significantly associated with total Mayo scores in the adjusted and unadjusted models.Conclusionhigher PDI was significantly associated with higher UC severity. However, considering the limitations of the study, more cohort studies are needed to confirm these results.

The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation with or without Calcium on Vitamin D Epimer and Metabolites.

A possible role of vitamin D epimers and metabolites in the measurement and response to treatment of vitamin D has been reported recently. Furthermore, the influence of underlying vitamin D receptor (VDR) genetic polymorphisms which have been linked to diseases such as obesity remains unclear. We therefore aimed to examine the influence of vitamin D3 and calcium supplements on vitamin D epimer and metabolite concentrations in subjects with and those without vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms. A total of 277 participants who were part of a randomized intervention trial of vitamin D3 and calcium or a placebo for 6 months had clinical and anthropometric assessments. Blood samples were taken for measurements of vitamin D, epimers and metabolites of vitamin D, four vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism SNPs, namely, BsmI, FokI, TaqI, and ApaI, metabolic and inflammatory markers, and related biochemical variables. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to assess the between-group difference in cumulative changes in vitamin D epimers and metabolites at 6 months after adjusting for the presence of the 4 VDR genotypes and allele gene polymorphisms. Overall, 277 participants, with a mean (±SD) age of 41 ± 12 and 204 (74%) of whom were female, were included in the study. We found no statistically significant differences in vitamin D metabolites or (epimers) between male and females or younger subjects compared to those over 40 years of age except in 7C4 BL (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in 1,25(OH)2D3 concentrations between subjects with and those without genotypes AG and the allele G SNP2_Taql VDR gene polymorphism. Vitamin D3 concentrations were also significantly lower in subjects with the CC SNP3_Apal gene polymorphism compared to those without the CC SNP3 gene. No statistically significant effects were seen on vitamin D epimers and metabolites concentration in response to supplements before or after adjusting for the presence of the 4 VDR genotypes and allele gene polymorphisms. The CC SNP3 gene had statistically significant influence on vitamin D3 levels. Vitamin D and/or calcium supplements, however, had no effects on vitamin D epimer and metabolite concentration before or after adjusting for the presence of the 4 VDR genotypes and alleles.

Socioeconomic Status and Obesity.

Obesity is a pervasive public health problem that causes debilitating complications across the life course. One opportunity for preventing the onset of obesity is to focus on its social determinants. Socioeconomic status (SES), which includes factors such as income, educational attainment, occupational prestige, and access to resources, is a key determinant of obesity. In this scoping mini-review, we summarized review articles and meta-analyses of the SES-obesity association. From the 1980s to the present, cross-sectional studies have demonstrated a persistent socioeconomic gradient in obesity in which the association is negative in developed countries and positive in developing countries. Longitudinal studies have revealed the bidirectionality of the SES-obesity association; some studies demonstrate that socioeconomic adversity precedes the onset of obesity, while others provide evidence of reverse causality. While earlier studies relied on anthropometric assessments of weight and height to define obesity, the use of modern technologies like dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and bioelectrical impedance have demonstrated that the socioeconomic gradient in obesity is robust across multiple indicators of body composition, including direct measures of lean and fat mass. More recently, examination of mediators and moderators of the SES-obesity association have highlighted causal pathways and potential intervention targets, with a focus on health behaviors, environmental conditions, psychological factors, and biological processes. We describe current gaps in knowledge and propose opportunities for future innovation to reduce the burden of obesity and related socioeconomic disparities.

White Tea Consumption Alleviates Anthropometric and Metabolic Parameters in Obese Patients

Background and Objectives: Obesity and related disorders are an increasing global health problem. Achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss through lifestyle changes and/or pharmacological interventions have not met expectations. Dietary supplements and alternative treatments have also shown limited effectiveness in this regard. The consumption of green tea in general has been shown to benefit obese patients, with effects attributed to caffeine, catechins, polyphenols and other components. However, the potential of white tea to prevent and treat the negative effects of obesity has not been addressed so far. In this study, the effect of white tea (WT) consumption in obese individuals was anthropometrically and biochemically investigated. Materials and Methods: Based on anthropometric and biochemical assessments, the patients were assigned to the control, orlistat, metformin and WT groups. Patients were given a diet and exercise program and one of either orlistat, metformin or WT for 12 weeks. At the end of the 12th week, the anthropometric and biochemical measurements were reassessed. Results: Body weight, waist circumference and BMI parameters decreased significantly in all groups. TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and MMP-9 levels decreased significantly in the WT group. In addition, contrary to a significant elevation in HDL-C, the serum cholesterol, LDL-C and TG levels decreased significantly. Furthermore, leptin, ghrelin and asprosin levels decreased significantly. Serum glucose levels decreased significantly in all groups except for the control. In the WT group, while there was a significant decrease in the levels of serum PL MDA and 8-OHdG, the opposite was true for GSH. Conclusions: The oral consumption of WT, its availability and its potency in obesity treatment and prevention pave the way for further delineation of the mechanisms of actions of its bioactive compounds at the cellular and endocrinological levels.

Behavioural Problems in Preadolescence: Does Nutritional Status Have a Role?

Malnutrition in children and adolescents is a global issue particularly in low- and middle-income countries, while behavioural problems are becoming a growing public health concern in the area of child and adolescent mental health, with very few studies examining their association in preadolescence. This study aimed to assess the epidemiological relationship between malnutrition and behavioural problems in preadolescence. A school based, cross-sectional survey was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan. Total 660, 11- to 12-year-old preadolescents were selected from a middle-class, coeducational school chain. Sociodemographic questionnaires and an officially adapted version of Youth Self-Report Form (YSR), which is the child and adolescent reported version of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), were used to collect data, along with anthropometric assessments following the WHO protocol. Thin and stunted preadolescents had significantly higher odds of internalizing problems (AOR = 2.05, p = 0.003 and AOR = 2.09, p = 0.039, respectively) than normal ones. Overnutrition was not associated with any behavioural issues. According to the Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure, 40% of preadolescents had at least one type of malnutrition and among them about 3% had co-occurring malnutrition (stunted and thin or overweight). They significantly had higher risk of being associated with the internalizing problems (AOR 2.92, p = 0.027). The effect was considerably higher than that associated with stunted or thin only, highlighting the cumulative impact of the co-occurring malnutrition on the internalizing problems. Our study concludes that overnutrition and undernutrition are prevalent in preadolescents, with significant association of undernutrition with internalizing problems. Moreover, our study is the first that reports that the co-occurrence of malnutrition is significantly associated with increased risk of internalizing problems. This study highlights the importance of the link between physical and mental health and emphasizes the need for holistic interventions and programmes for addressing preadolescents' issues.

Improving Pediatric Health Outcomes Through Anthropometric Assessment of Growth and Nutrition in Under-Five Children

Improving Pediatric Health Outcomes Through Anthropometric Assessment of Growth and Nutrition in Under-Five Children

Cohort Profile: the prospective cohort study on the incidence of metabolic diseases and risk factors in Shunde, China (Speed-Shunde Cohort).

The objective of the prospective cohort study on the incidence of metabolic diseases and risk factors in Shunde (Speed-Shunde cohort) was to evaluate the incidence of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome and metabolic-associated multimorbidity, such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in Shunde, Foshan, Guangdong, China. Additionally, the study sought to identify the potential determinants that may impact the development of these conditions and the potential consequences that may result. In the Speed-Shunde cohort, data were gathered via questionnaires, physical measurements, and laboratory analyses encompassing demographic data, behavioral tendencies, anthropometric assessments, controlled attenuation parameters and liver stiffness measurement utilizing vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE), as well as serum and urine detection (such as oral 75g glucose tolerance tests, hemoglobin A1c levels, lipid profiles, liver and renal function tests, urinary microalbumin and creatinine levels, etc.). The baseline data were gathered from October 2021 to September 2022 from over 10,000 Chinese community-based adults and the follow-up surveys would be conducted every two or three years. Blood and urine samples were obtained and stored for future omics data acquisition. Initial analyses revealed the prevalence and risk factors associated with metabolic-associated multimorbidity. The Speed-Shunde Cohort study is a longitudinal community-based cohort with comprehensive CKM health and metabolic-associated multimorbidity assessment. It will provide valuable insights into these conditions' development, progression, and interrelationships, potentially informing future prevention and treatment strategies.

Mandibular Gender Dimorphism: The Utility of Artificial Intelligence and Statistical Shape Modeling in Skeletal Facial Analysis.

In gender-affirming surgery, facial skeletal dimorphism is an important topic for every craniofacial surgeon. Few cephalometric studies have assessed this topic; however, they fall short to provide skeletal contour insights that direct surgical planning. Herein, we propose statistical shape modeling (SSM) as a novel tool for investigating mandibular dimorphism for young white individuals. A single-center, retrospective study was performed using computed tomography (CT) scans of white individuals, aged 20 to 39 years old. AI-assisted, three-dimensional (3D) mandibles were reconstructed in Materialise Mimics v25.0. We used SSM to generate average 3D models for both genders. Relevant manual anthropometric measurements were taken for the SSMs and individual mandibles. Contour disparities were then represented using 3D overlays and heatmaps. Statistical analyses were performed using unpaired student t testing or Wilcoxon signed rank testing with 95% confidence interval as deemed appropriate by population-level normality assessment. Ninety-eight patients (53 females, 45 males) were included. Male mandibles showed greater bigonial width, intercondylar width, ramus height, and body length [p<0.005]. There was no statistically significant difference in the gonial angle measurements [p=0.62]. All relevant manual individual measurements demonstrated excellent concordance to their SSM counterparts. The 3D overlays of SSMs revealed squarer male chins with more lateral but less anterior projection than their female counterparts. Also, the female mandibles showed smoother transition at the gonial angle. SSM provides a novel tool to objectively evaluate volumetric and contour dimorphisms between genders. Moreover, this method can be automated, allowing for expedited comparisons between populations of interest compared to manual assessment. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 . Bullet points about the importance of this work: Advancing Anthropometric Assessment: Statistical shape modeling (SSM) offers a cutting-edge approach to visualizing gender-specific skeletal anatomic differences for aesthetic and gender-affirming facial surgery. Expediting Comparative Analysis: The workflow established in this paper streamlines the evaluative process, enabling rapid morphologic comparisons between populations. Patient-Centered Care: This study establishes a foundation for the development of SSMs in individualized operative planning.