Anthropometric Parameters Research Articles

Analysis of ventricular repolarization parameters and heart rate variability in obesity: a comparative study

Obesity is associated with dysfunctional electrocardiographic and cardiac autonomic parameters, which may lead to increased cardiovascular morbidity. Novel electrocardiographic repolarization markers such as Tpeak-Tend (Tpe) interval have not yet been deeply studied in obese patients. We aimed to investigate the association between ventricular repolarization parameters and heart rate variability (HRV) and how they are affected by changes occurring in the cardiac autonomic nervous system. Ninety subjects categorized by Southeast Asian BMI (kg/m2) standards - normal (18-22.9), overweight (23-24.9), and obese (> 24.9), underwent assessment of ventricular repolarization parameters and HRV. Linear correlation between different parameters was also conducted. Obese subjects exhibited longer QTc and Tpe intervals compared to normal-weight subjects (p-value < 0.001, 0.026 respectively). The QTc interval showed a significant correlation (p < 0.05) with all HRV parameters by linear correlation, while the Tpe interval did not. Anthropometric parameters (BMI, WC, and WHR) were also correlated to both ventricular repolarization variables and HRV. While changes in the QTc interval may be due to obesity and/or autonomic changes occurring in the obese state, the Tpe interval does not show a relation with autonomic parameters. Thus, implicating that a change in the Tpe interval is primarily due to the direct effect of either cardiac or visceral obesity. The observed associations between ECG parameters, obesity indices, and HRV parameters suggest a role for ECG in screening for cardiovascular morbidity.

Muscle Mass and Muscle Strength in Non-Dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Background: Sarcopenia is a state with a progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. However, muscle strength and muscle mass are different features, which are usually not studied separately. The aim of the study was to investigate anthropometric and clinical correlates and sources of variation in both skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: The study sample consisted of 84 patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) &lt; 45 mL/min/1.73 m2. Muscle strength was estimated by measuring hand grip strength (HGS). Muscle quantity was measured with bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS). Serum creatinine, urea, uric acid (UA), and albumin were measured as well. Results: Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) significantly and positively correlated with body mass, NH weight (normally hydrated weight), height, body mass index (BMI), lean tissue mass (LTM), lean tissue index (LTI), fat mass (FM), and fat tissue index (FTI), and was negatively associated with hydration status. HGS significantly and positively correlated with body mass, NH weight, height, LTM, LTI, and ASM, and was negatively associated with UA and urea. After adjustment for age, sex, and height, HGS remained significantly and negatively related with UA and hydration status. Conclusions: In CKD patients, ASM is determined by anthropometric parameters, but HGS is determined by both anthropometric and clinical variables specific for CKD. In order to study the determinants of HGS in CKD, relationships with HGS should be adjusted for anthropometric variables.

Left atrial strain parameters are able to predict presence of atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background Three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography allows evaluation of left atrial function, left atrial function has been assessed in various diseases for prognostication [1]. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is most common arrhythmia, and one of its manifestations is increased left atrial filling pressure and left atrial dilatation. Methods Echocardiography loops were collected between December 2019 and December 2021, only valid atrial loops, and sinus rhythm during examination. Spearman test was used for correlation matrices of left atrial parameters; uni- , multivariate and binary logistic regression to predict presence or absence of atrial fibrillation. Results A total of 116 patients (50% females) aged 76.9±11.2 were included in the analysis. Males and females differed in anthropometric and other clinical parameters. Intra- and interobserver variability was close to 1% since most of the measurements are semi-automatized. 2D and 3D left atrial volumes correlated significantly (r=0.8, P&amp;lt;0.0001, Fig.1). Almost all left atrial strain measurement uni- and multivariately predicted the presence of atrial fibrillation, binary logistic regression identified two most significant parameters (left atrial longitudinal strain reservoir and conduit phase, LASr, LAScd, P=0.042, P=0.044, respectively, Fig.2). LASr is significantly greater in patients without history of AF vs patient with AF history, (16±16, 10.5±7.1, respectively, P=0.012). The probability of sinus rhythm increases linearly with the increasing value of LASr. Conclusion Left atrial longitudinal strain was able to differentiate patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation as compared to patients without history of this arrhythmia.

Effects of a Six-Month Physical Activity Program on Health Risk Factors and Body Composition Among Overweight and Obese Middle-Aged Adults

Introduction. Physical activity is vital for preventing and managing lifestyle-related diseases, which pose significant health and socio-economic challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a six-month supervised physical activity program on health risk factors and body composition in middle-aged individuals with overweight or obesity. Methods. The study involved 166 men and women aged 30 to 65 years, with a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 26 to 35 and moderate to severe health risks. Participants of the study were engaged in a six-month physical activity training program designed in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines. Comprehensive assessments were performed at baseline and after the intervention, including measurements of various anthropometric and body composition parameters, as well as evaluations of functional performance. Fitness tests were also conducted to assess participants’ physical capacity and to monitor improvements throughout the training period. Results. Baseline measures of body mass composition and age demonstrated a strong positive correlation with visceral fat rating (VFR) in both men (r = 0.364, p &lt; 0.001) and women (r = 0.420, p = 0.002). Following the six-month training program, participants exhibited an average improvement of 30% (p &lt; 0.001) in their Cooper endurance test results. The physical activity intervention positively impacted body mass index (BMI) and various body composition metrics, including fat mass, VFR, and muscle mass, across all participants and most subgroups (gender, BMI, and age). In males, training at higher maximum heart rate (HRmax) zones significantly contributed to a reduction in the percentage of fat mass (80–89% HRmax) and an increase in the percentage of muscle mass (70–79% and 80–89% HRmax). Conclusions. The study indicates that a six-month supervised physical activity program significantly improves health risk factors and body composition (visceral fat reduction and improvement in percent of fat and muscle mass) among middle-aged individuals with overweight or obesity. Therefore, we advocate for the integration of structured physical activity interventions into healthcare practices to effectively enhance health outcomes in this population.

Epicardial adipose tissue volume and density are associated with heart failure with improved ejection fraction

Abstract Background Heart failure (HF) with improved ejection fraction (EF, HFimpEF) gains increasing attention as a distinct HF subtype, characterized by left ventricular reverse remodeling and myocardial recovery. Multiple cardiometabolic factors are implicated in this process. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), emerging as an endocrine and paracrine organ, contributes to the onset and progression of HF. However, the relation between EAT and the incidence of HFimpEF is still unclear. Methods A total of 203 hospitalized HF patients with reduced EF (HFrEF, EF≤ 40%) who underwent coronary CT angiography (CCTA) during index hospitalization were consecutively enrolled between November 2011 and December 2022. Routine follow-up and repeat echocardiograms were performed. The incidence of HFimpEF was defined as (1) an absolute EF improvement ≥10% and (2) a second EF &amp;gt; 40% (at least 3 months apart). EAT volume and density were semiautomatically quantified on non-enhanced series of CCTA scans. Results During a median follow-up of 8.6 (4.9~13.3) months, 104 (51.2%) patients developed HFimpEF. Compared with HFrEF patients, HFimpEF patients had lower EAT volume (126.03 ± 57.71 cm3 vs 182.74 ± 82.99 cm3 , P&amp;lt; 0.001) and higher EAT density (-74.92 ± 6.84 HU vs -78.76 ± 6.28 HU, P&amp;lt; 0.001) both in ischemic and non-ischemic HF patients. EAT density was inversely correlated with EAT volume (r= -0.33, P&amp;lt; 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed lower EAT volume (OR: 0.881 [95% CI 0.821~0.939]) and higher density (OR: 2.354 [95% CI 1.314~4.415]) were both independently associated with the incidence of HFimpEF, after adjusting for conventional risk factors, pharmacological therapies and baseline anthropometric parameters including body mass index. Subgroup analysis revealed that the association between EAT properties and HFimpEF was not modified by HF etiology. Conclusions This study reveals that lower EAT volume and higher EAT density are associated with development of HFimpEF. Therapies targeted at reducing EAT quantity and improving its quality might provide favorable effects on myocardial recovery in HF patients.

Changes in Gut Microbial Composition and DNA Methylation in Obese Patients with NAFLD After Bariatric Surgery

This study investigates the effects of bariatric surgery on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by examining the interplay between gut microbiota, epigenetics, and metabolic health. A cohort of 22 patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy (SG) was analyzed for changes in gut microbial composition and DNA methylation profiles before and six months after surgery. Correlations between gut microbial abundance and clinical markers at baseline revealed that certain genera were associated with worse metabolic health and liver markers. Following SG, significant improvements were observed in the clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical parameters of the NAFLD patients. Although alpha-diversity indices (i.e., Chao1, Simpson, Shannon) did not show significant changes, beta-diversity analysis revealed a slight shift in microbial composition (PERMANOVA, p = 0.036). Differential abundance analysis identified significant changes in specific bacterial taxa, including an increase in beneficial Lactobacillus species such as Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus iners and a decrease in harmful taxa like Erysipelotrichia. Additionally, DNA methylation analysis revealed 609 significant differentially methylated CpG sites between the baseline values and six months post-surgery, with notable enrichment in genes related to the autophagy pathway, such as IRS4 and ATG4B. The results highlight the individualized responses to bariatric surgery and underscore the potential for personalized treatment strategies. In conclusion, integrating gut microbiota and epigenetic factors into NAFLD management could enhance treatment outcomes, suggesting that future research should explore microbiome-targeted therapies and long-term follow-ups on liver health post-surgery.

Оценка нутритивного статуса и рисков его нарушения у детей с болезнью Крона: одномоментное исследование

Children with Crohn's disease (CD) are at high risk for developing nutritional deficiencies. According to studies in adult patients with CD, loss of lean and skeletal muscle mass and decreased bone mineral density (BMD) are unfavorable prognostic factors for the course of the disease; among children, the prevalence of these changes has not been sufficiently studied as yet. The purpose of this research was to study the frequency and correlation between disorders of body composition and decreased bone mineral density in children with CD. Materials and methods used: medical records of 163 aged 5 to 17 y/o with a confirmed CD diagnosis were assessed for the risk of nutritional deficiency using STRONGkids screening tool, anthropometric parameters, body composition with bioimpedance measurements as well as the disease activity index with PCDAI and endoscopic activity with SES-CD. BMD was assessed in 145 using densitometry. Results: depending on the degree of risk of malnutrition, children were divided into 2 groups as follows: G1 with high and G2 with moderate risks for malnutrition. G1 patients had significantly lower values of both anthropometric indices (Z-scores BMI/age, mid-upper arm circumference/age) and lean and skeletal muscle mass (p&lt;0.001) along with more severe course of CD according to PCDAI (p&lt;0.001). According to bioimpedansometry data, a significant increase in catabolic processes was found in G1 children as a decrease in Z-scores for both the phase angle (p&lt;0.001) and the active cell mass (p&lt;0.001). A decrease in BMD was detected in 9 (37%) of G1 and 26 (21.4%) of G2. A correlation was found between Z-scores lean body mass/age and BMD/age (p&lt;0.001, Rs=0.612). Among children with reduced BMD values, the indicators for BMI, lean, skeletal muscle and active cell mass according to bioimpedance measurements were significantly lower (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: the data obtained during the study proposes high incidence of decreased bone mineral density along with pathological changes in body composition in children with CD. The use of STRONGkids tool to identify children at high risk of developing malnutrition, especially in the absence of the technical ability to conduct a detailed assessment of nutritional status with determination of body composition and BMD indicators, makes it possible to timely identify patients requiring individual nutritional support aiming to optimizing diets and, if necessary, prescribing addition of specialized food supplements.

Влияние избыточной массы тела и ожирения на спирометрические, гематологические показатели, уровень общего иммуноглобулина Е и интерлейкина-6 в сыворотке крови у детей и подростков с бронхиальной астмой

There is undoubtedly insufficient number of studies dedicated to the interleukin-6 (IL-6) in blood serum of children and adolescents with bronchial asthma (BA) and those are contradictory. Connection between the IL-6 serum level and systemic markers of type 2 inflammation in BA in children and adolescents depending on the nutritional status remains a subject to discussion as well. The purpose of this research was to study the effect of excess body weight (BW) and obesity on spirometric, hematological parameters, total immunoglobulin E (IgE), IL-6 levels in blood serum of children and adolescents with BA. Materials and methods used: a single-center observational cross-sectional pilot study of 76 adolescents aged 6 to 17 y/o (75% (57) boys) with BA was conducted. All were measured for anthropometric and spirometric parameters, body composition, hematological parameters, total IgE and IL-6 levels in blood serum. Dysanapsis was diagnosed when three conditions were simultaneously met: 1. high or high-to-normal zFVC (above 0.674), 2. normal zFEV1 (above -1.645), and 3. low FEV1/FVC index (below 80%). Results: the number of monocytes (109/l) in peripheral blood and the serum IL-6 level (pg/ml) were statistically significantly higher in the group of patients with overweight and obesity compared to patients with underweight/normal BW (0.55 [0.49; 0.77] v 0.51 [0.42; 0.58], p=0.043 and 1.99 [1.20; 5.78] v 1.28 [0.31; 2.43], p=0.002, respectively). In patients with excess BW and obesity, an inverse statistically significant relationship was found between the serum IL-6 level, zFEV1/FVC and the dysanapsis ratio (R=-0.53, p=0.009, R=-0.61, p=0.002, respectively). Conclusion: formation of an obstructive pattern in children and adolescents with BA with excess BW and obesity may be associated with non-T2-dependent inflammatory mechanisms.

Взаимосвязь уровня неконьюгированного билирубина и спирометрических показателей у подростков с бронхиальной астмой

Either a high-to-normal or slightly elevated total bilirubin level may have external respiration protective effect in patients with bronchial asthma (BA). However, Authors have searched but not found any studies related to the connection between the unconjugated bilirubin level and spirometric parameters in adolescents. The purpose of this research was to study the connection between unconjugated bilirubin level and spirometric parameters in adolescents with BA. Materials and methods used: a single-center observational cross-sectional pilot study of 74 adolescents aged 10 to 17 y/o with BA was conducted. All participants had undergone measurements of anthropometric and spirometric parameters, hematological parameters, both total and unconjugated bilirubin level. Results: elevated total bilirubin (17.1 mmol/l and higher) occurred in 40.5% (30) being the highest in homozygous carriers of UGT1A1 gene polymorphisms with an increased number of TA repeats, the differences were statistically insignificant. The unconjugated bilirubin level and such spirometric indicators as z-ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity of the lungs (FVC) and z-criterion of the mean forced expiratory flow during the 25-75% of FVC (MEF25-75) had statistically significant direct correlation (R=0,42, p&lt;0,001, R=0,37, p=0,001, respectively). Patients with obstructive lung ventilation disorders at the time of examination (zFEV1/FVC less than -1.645) had lower levels of both total and unconjugated bilirubin, the differences were statistically significant (p=0.002 and p=0.004, respectively). Conclusion: statistically significant correlations between unconjugated bilirubin level and such spirometric parameters as zFEV1/FVC and zMEF25-75 as well as unconjugated bilirubin low level identification in patients with spirometric indicators of bronchial obstruction suggest a protective effect of unconjugated bilirubin on the development of bronchial obstruction in adolescents with BA.

Пути оптимизации антропометрических параметров у детей с фармакорезистентной эпилепсией, получающих кетогенную диетотерапию

Ketogenic diet (KD) whilst being an effective method of diet therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) is nevertheless accompanied by a significant number of side effects that include the possibility for the delayed physical development in pediatric patients. The problem is multifactorial and is primarily associated with the non-physiological nature of the ketogenic diet itself. Foreign studies on the KD effect on the physical development in children are contradictory and there are none domestic ones. The purpose of this research was to study the dynamics of anthropometric parameters in children with DRE against the background of KD and to assess the possibilities of the alimentary factor in its improvement. Materials and methods used: single-center retrospective cohort study had been carried out on the basis of the Russian Federal Research Centre for Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety (Moscow, Russia) in 2016-2024. The study included patients with an established diagnosis of DRE against the background of KD aged 1 to 18 y/o. Patients were monitored for 24 months as follows: quarterly during the first year and semiannually during the second year of observation, using anthropometric, clinical-laboratory and clinical-instrumental research methods. Results: by the 3rd month of KD, out of 174 pediatric patients, the diet was effective in 105 (60%); by 12th month, 100% control over attacks was achieved in 11 (6%). Analysis of anthropometric parameters made it possible to establish that at the initial point of observation, in accordance with the z-score of the body mass index (BMI), 108 (64%) had normal nutritional status, 22 (13%) had malnutrition and 40 (24%) were overweight/obese. When studying the dynamics of weight and height indicators of children who were on KD throughout the observation period, it was found that the median BMI z-score statistically significantly changed upward (p=0.047), which was largely due to growth retardation, with a decrease in the height/age z-score throughout the observation period (p&lt;0.001). It was found that the protein component of the diet, as well as the level of ketonemia, have a significant impact on the dynamics of the BMI z-score in KD patients. The amount of protein in the diet at 6% to 7% of the energy value contributed to the maintenance of optimal growth parameters in children within this research. Conclusion: the significance of the BMI indicator in assessing the nutritional status over KD decreases against the background of growth retardation. Taking into account the value of the protein/energy indicator when calculating nutrition helps in maintaining of the physical development rate in such patients.

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.

Male Linear Anthropometrics of Selected Nigerian Ethnicities: A Cross - Sectional Analysis

Introduction: This study aims at evaluating selected linear anthropometrics of three Nigerian ethnic groups to provide baseline data for the creation of 3D Negroid anatomic models. Methods: The research design was a cross-sectional design. The sampling technique was multistage proportionate random sampling. The places of study were Imo, Oyo, and Kano States of Nigeria. The study lasted for one (1) year. Random selection of 1500 adult males from three major tribes (500 Igbo, 500 Yoruba, and 500 Hausa between the ages of 18 and 40 years). Tukey’s Post Hoc test of multiple comparisons was carried out to determine the specific ethnic groups that differ in specific anthropometric parameters. Results: The differences in standing height, arm length, and thigh length across the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba ethnic groups are statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that the Igbo and Yoruba groups had higher standing heights compared to the Hausa group. Arm length was longer in the Igbo and Yoruba groups compared to the Hausa group. However, thigh length was greater in the Hausa group compared to both the Igbo and Yoruba groups, while the Hausa group had longer thigh lengths than both the Igbo and Yoruba groups. The Igbo group displayed the largest arm span, whereas the Hausa group had the widest shoulder breadth. However, the Hausa group had a lower bi-iliac breadth in comparison to the other two ethnic groups.

Contribution of body adiposity index and conicity index in prediction of metabolic syndrome risk and components

Background and aimsBody adiposity index (BAI) and conicity index have been known as useful measures in predicting cardio-metabolic diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive potential of BAI and conicity index for the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in comparison with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and waist-hip ratio (WHR). MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 174 adults (87 with MetS and 87 healthy individuals) were recruited from a medical weight loss center. Anthropometric parameters, systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SDP and DBP), lipid profile, and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were measured. ResultsAll anthropometric parameters were significantly higher in subjects with MetS than in healthy subjects. Both in MetS and healthy subjects, females had significantly higher BAI and BMI than males. In the fully adjusted model, the odds of MetS increased for each unit increase in BAI by 27 % (p = 0.001), in BMI by 33 % (p = 0.001), in WC by 13 % (p < 0.001), and in HC by 9 % (p = 0.005). ROC curve analysis showed that all the anthropometric parameters displayed clinical importance in predicting MetS, but WHR had the largest area under the curve (AUC) in total, male, and female patients. In participants with MetS, the conicity index was negatively correlated with FBS; BAI was positively associated with HDL level. ConclusionAll studied anthropometric parameters had acceptable accuracy for predicting MetS. Traditional parameters, particularly the WHR, exhibited a higher predictive power concerning MetS. The results underscore the reliability of conventional anthropometric measures in clinical and epidemiological settings.

The impact of nutritional intervention on quality of life and outcomes in patients with head and neck cancers undergoing chemoradiation

IntroductionChemoradiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients has a curative intent but often deteriorates nutritional status leading to sarcopenia and cachexia.MethodsIn this observational and single-centered study, a prospective evaluation of several biochemical and anthropometrical parameters, weight loss, handgrip strength, visual analogue scale of appetite, questionnaires associated with malnutrition &amp;amp; quality of life and body composition (obtained by Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis) was performed before and after high-dose cisplatin chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy in 60 patients affected by head and neck cancer. Oral nutritional supplements were used to reach the correct number of daily calories and proteins.Results and discussionAll patients completed radiotherapy as planned and the 96,4% of them did not interrupt chemotherapy for toxicity, reaching a total dose of at least 200mg/m2. Despite a rapid deterioration of body composition during treatment, nutritional support helped patients to maintain (or in some cases improve) anthropometric parameters from the end of chemoradiotherapy to the following 3 months. Low prealbumin and albumin pre-treatment led to higher risk of toxicities with consequent reduction of cisplatin dose intensity, whereas weight at the end of the treatment seems to be an interesting predicting factor for disease free and overall survival (p=0.007; p=0.015).

Increased Cardiometabolic Risk in Men with Hypoprolactinemia: A Pilot Study

Low prolactin levels in men predispose them to mood disturbances, sexual dysfunction, and diabetes. The purpose of the current study was to assess cardiometabolic risk in males with hypoprolactinemia. This prospective study included three age-matched groups of young and middle-aged men: individuals with cabergoline-induced hypoprolactinemia (n = 15), cabergoline-treated subjects with prolactin levels within the reference range (n = 20), and untreated men with normal prolactin levels (n = 31). In men with hypoprolactinemia, the cabergoline dose was reduced in order to normalize prolactin concentration. Anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, QRISK3 score; plasma concentrations of prolactin, glucose, insulin, lipids, uric acid, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), fibrinogen, homocysteine, and testosterone; whole-blood levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C); urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR); and carotid intima–media thickness were assessed at baseline and six months later. Men with hypoprolactinemia were characterized by higher body mass index, fat content, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, fasting and 2 h post-load glucose, HbA1C, HOMA1-IR, uric acid, hsCRP, fibrinogen, homocysteine, and UACR; by lower HDL cholesterol and testosterone; by greater intima–media thickness; and by a higher QRISK3 score than their peers with normal prolactin levels. There were no statistically significant differences in the measured parameters between both groups of men with normal prolactin levels. Normalization of prolactin concentration was accompanied by normalization of biochemical variables, systolic blood pressure, and QRISK3 score. Although cabergoline dose reduction did not cause statistically significant changes in the remaining anthropometric parameters and intima–media thickness, six months later, they did not differ from those observed in the remaining study groups. Our findings suggest that iatrogenic hypoprolactinemia is associated with increased cardiometabolic risk, which is reversible and resolves after the normalization of prolactin levels.

Clinical and instrumental characteristics of osteoarthritis in hyperuricemia

Objective: to investigate in a multicentre single-stage study the relationships between hyperuricemia (HU) and clinical, instrumental and laboratory parameters of osteoarthritis (OA).Material and methods. The study included 200 patients aged 40 to 75 years with a definite diagnosis of knee (KN) OA that met ACR criteria, with stage I–III OA by Kellgren–Lawrence. The mean age of the patients was 55.9±10.3 years and the body mass index (BMI) was 29.4±6.2 kg/m2. An individual chart was completed for each patient, including anthropometric parameters, medical history and clinical examination data, visual analogue scale (VAS) assessment of KN pain, WOMAC, patient's general health assessment (GHA) and information on comorbidities. All patients underwent standard radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the KN (WORMS), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of the lumbar spine and femoral neck, and laboratory examination.Results and discussion. HU was diagnosed in 57 (28.5) patients when the serum uric acid (UA) level was above 360 μmol/L. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of HU. The age of the patients in the two groups was comparable, but they differed significantly in terms of disease duration, BMI, waist and hip circumference, which were greater in the HU group (p &lt;0.05). Statistically significant differences were also found in the assessment of the severity of OA course: there were higher pain indices according to VAS, WOMAC total score and its components (pain and functional impairment, FI), GHA in the HU group. On MRI, osteitis was more common in the medial aspect of the tibia (odds ratio 5.75; 95% confidence interval 1.29–25.6; p=0.03). Patients with HU had higher concentrations of CRP, COMP, leptin, insulin, triglycerides and creatinine (p &lt;0.05 for all values).Spearman correlation analysis confirmed the association between HU and duration and radiological stage of OA, the presence of osteitis in the medial aspect of tibia detected by MRI, pain according to VAS and WOMAC, FI according to WOMAC and GHA (p&lt;0.05).Conclusion. At high UA levels, pain values according to VAS and WOMAC are higher, GHA is worse, and CRP and COMP levels are elevated. MRI shows more frequent osteitis in the medial aspect of the tibia in patients with HU. Deciphering the mechanisms that determine the relationship between HU and OA is important for the development of new methods for the prevention and treatment of these diseases.

Weight loss, changes in body composition and inflammatory status after a very low-energy ketogenic therapy (VLEKT): does gender matter?

BackgroundConsidering differences in body composition and inflammatory status between sexes, as well as recent recommendations advocating for personalized dietary approaches, this study aimed to explore how sex influences weight loss, changes in body composition, and inflammatory status in subjects with grade I and II obesity undergoing a 45-day of the Very Low-Energy Ketogenic Therapy (VLEKT).MethodsParticipants (21 premenopausal females and 21 males), included in the study adhered to the 45-day of the VLEKT and underwent assessments of anthropometric parameters (weight, height, body mass index—BMI –, and waist circumference), body composition via bioelectrical impedance analysis, and inflammatory status measured by high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels at baseline and post-intervention.ResultsAt baseline, premenopausal females and males did not differ in BMI (p = 0.100) and hs-CRP levels (p = 0.948). Males demonstrated overall larger benefits than premenopausal females from the VLEKT in terms of weight loss (Δ% = − 11.63 ± 1.76 vs − 8.95 ± 1.65 kg, p < 0.001), fat mass (Δ% = − 30.84 ± 12.00 vs -21.36 ± 4.65 kg, p = 0.002), and hs-CRP levels (Δ% = − 41.42 ± 21.35 vs − 22.38 ± 17.30 mg/L, p = 0.003). Of interest, in males phase angle values are statistically improved compared to female (Δ% = 17.11 ± 9.00 vs 7.05 ± 3.30°, p < 0.001).ConclusionThese findings underscore the importance of considering sex-specific responses in personalized obesity treatment strategies, particularly dietary interventions like VLEKTs.Graphical

Machine Learning Based Assessment of Elite Football Players Based on Anthropometric and Motor Fitness Parameters with Regard to their Playing Positions

Sports players strive to be the epitome of human excellence, pushing the barrier of skill and execution with training, focus and direction, amplified by regular training and practice. This could be attributed to various factors such as response to stimuli, physical factors, psychological factors etc. The present study incorporated the prediction of the most suited playing position of elite male football players using machine learning approaches based on their Anthropometric Parameters (AP–11 parameters) and Motor Fitness Parameters (MFP–7 parameters). Of the features analysed, results identified the position indicative nature of some parameters among6 AP (Height, Body Mass Index, Basal Metabolic Rate, Fat %, Thigh Circumference, Calf circumference) and 4 MFP (120 m, 80 m, 40 m dash and T-Test) by Spearman’s Rank Correlation Test. Further, the prediction of ideal playing position was achieved using various classifiers such as Support Vector Machine (SVM), SVM with over sampled data, SVM with hyperparameter tuning, SVM with variable scaling and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XG Boost). Among these, the highest classification accuracy and f1-score at 92% and 0.92 respectively were obtained for XG Boost Classifier which portrayed a faster performance as compared to the other approaches. The present study could be useful in professional sports training and rehabilitation so as to help the players perform better in the football game.

Vitamin D Supply of Twins during Fetal Life, Its Relation to Anthropometric Parameters of Newborns and the Analysis of Other Factors Related to Birth Size

Background/Objectives: Vitamin D deficiencies are very common in pregnant women, raising concerns about adverse health outcomes in children. This issue has hardly been studied in multiple pregnancies, the prevalence of which has been steadily increasing. Therefore, our study investigated the relationship between newborns’ anthropometric parameters and the concentration of 25(OH)D in maternal blood of women with twin pregnancies and umbilical cord blood. Methods: The study included 50 women who gave birth after the 36th week of twin gestation. The concentration of 25(OH)D was determined in maternal blood collected during the antenatal period and in the umbilical cord blood of 100 newborns. Anthropometric parameters of the newborns (birth weight, length and head and chest circumference) were obtained from hospital records. Data on nutrition and lifestyle during pregnancy were collected from the patients during an interview conducted by a dietitian. Results: No relationship between maternal and neonatal cord blood vitamin D concentrations and any of the anthropometric parameters of the newborns was found. However, only 6% of the mothers and 13% of the newborns had vitamin D deficiency (≤20 ng/mL). The type of pregnancy and maternal height were the main factors associated with neonatal size. Newborns from dichorionic pregnancies were on average 202 g heavier (p &lt; 0.001) and 1 cm longer (p = 0.006) than newborns from monochorionic pregnancies. Newborns of mothers ≤160 cm in height had on average 206 g lower birth weight (p = 0.006) and were 3.5 cm shorter (p = 0.003) compared to newborns of taller mothers. Conclusions: Therefore, in our study, the neonatal size of twins was not related to the vitamin D status but to other factors such as the type of pregnancy and maternal height.

Nutritional diagnoses in people with type 2 diabetes: association with metabolic, anthropometric, and dietary parameters

BackgroundNutritional diagnosis involves identifying a nutritional problem, its cause, and the signs that indicate it to guide appropriate treatment. Few studies report on the most prevalent nutritional diagnoses in people living with type 2 diabetes (T2D).ObjectiveTo define nutritional diagnoses across different domains and their association with metabolic, anthropometric, and dietary parameters in individuals with T2D.MethodsA personalized nutritional intervention was conducted using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) model, which encompasses assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and evaluation, utilizing standardized terminology from the Nutrition Care Process Terminology (NCPT). Two dietitians, trained and standardized in applying the NCP and NCPT, performed patient assessments and established the diagnoses. Patients over 18 years old with a diagnosis of T2D for less than 5 years were included.ResultsData from 2,050 patients were analyzed, of whom 55.3% were women, and 44.7% were men, with a median age of 57 and 54 years, respectively. The most prevalent nutritional diagnosis was excessive energy and carbohydrate intake. Diagnoses were distributed across domains: Intake (55.9%), Behavioral/Environmental (32.7%), Clinical (10.2%), and 1.2% without nutritional diagnosis. Significant intergroup differences were observed in anthropometric variables such as BMI, waist circumference, and body fat percentage (p &amp;lt; 0.05). HbA1c and glucose levels were significantly higher in the Intake and Behavioral groups (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) was higher in the ingestion group (p = 0.007). Caloric and carbohydrate intake were higher in the ingestion group, while protein and fat intake were higher in the clinical and behavioral groups (p &amp;lt; 0.001).ConclusionNutritional diagnoses in the intake domain, followed by behavioral/ environmental and clinical domains, are highly prevalent in people with T2D and are associated with worse metabolic control, higher BMI, and increased energy and carbohydrate intake. Timely identification of issues in these domains can support targeted nutritional therapy to improve disease management and promote a healthy lifestyle.Clinical trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02836808?term=caipadi&amp;amp;rank=2, Identifier (NCT02836808).