Anthropometry Measurements Research Articles

Comparative effectiveness of school-based exercise interventions on physical fitness in children and adolescents: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Schools provide a favorable setting for health education, however, the most effective school-based exercise mode for improving physical fitness remains unclear. This network meta-analysis was designed to assess and rank the comparative efficacy of six exercise modalities on physical fitness indicators in a school-based setting. An online search of the Web of Science, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus databases was conducted. Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials were considered. Outcomes included measures of anthropometry and body composition, muscular fitness, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Data were pooled with a random effects model using the frequentist framework. A total of 66 studies with 8,578 participants (48% girls) were included. High-intensity interval training was the most effective intervention reducing body mass index (mean difference (MD) = -0.60 kg·m-2, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) = -1.04 to -0.15, p = 0.009), elevating VO2max (MD = 3.59 mL·kg-1·min-1, 95% CI = 2.45 to 4.74, p < 0.001), and 20-meter sprint performance (MD = -0.35 s, 95% CI = -0.55 to -0.14, p = 0.001). Aerobic training had the highest probability of reducing waist circumference (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.60, 95% CI = -0.88 to -0.32, p < 0.001). Active video games emerged as a promising modality for improving countermovement jump (MD = 2.43 cm, 95% CI = 0.06 to 4.80, p = 0.041) and shuttle running performance (SMD = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.29 to 1.43, p = 0.003). Strength training was the best exercise mode for improving standing long jump performance (SMD = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.07 to 1.98, p = 0.035) while combined training was rated the first for decreasing body fat percent (MD = -2.56%, 95% CI = -4.73 to -0.40, p = 0.022) and increasing push-up repetitions (SMD = 3.59, 95% CI = 0.81 to 6.37, p = 0.012). School-based exercise interventions have multiple effects on physical fitness. The findings of this study will help to inform physical education teachers and coaches how best to deliver exercise programs in a school setting. Since the study was limited by the original research, the conclusions will require further verification using high-quality randomized controlled trials. PROSPERO, Identifier: CRD42023401963.

FECAL ZONULIN IS ASSOCIATED WITH CARDIOVASCULAR RISK MARKERS AND INCREASED ARTERIAL STIFFNESS IN A POPULATION-BASED SAMPLE

Objective: To identify associations of fecal zonulin with cardiovascular risk factors including vascular damage in population-based sample. Design and method: 77 patients without cardiovascular disease from a population-based sample were randomly invited and signed informed consent. All patients underwent a questionnaire (eating habits, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, anxiety, and depression, quality of life, EFPQ), anthropometry, blood pressure and pulse measurement, laboratory examination (biochemical blood test, lipids, fecal zonulin), vascular examination (carotid arteries ultrasound, applanation tonometry by SphygmoCor, volume sphygmomanometry by Vasera). Results: The analysis included 77 patients - 33 (42.8%) male with mean age 52 [43;59] years, and 44 (57.2%) female with mean age 60.5 [47.75;66] years. The results of the linear regression analysis adjusted for sex and age of the level of zonulin are presented in Table 1. Conclusions: Fecal zonulin has been associated with dietary patterns, heart and kidney markers, vitamin D), behavioral habits such as a tendency to depression and increased alcohol consumption, as well as signs of increased arterial stiffness. For the first time, we used an integrated approach using a surrogate marker of increased intestinal permeability and revealed its relationship with dietary characteristics and markers of vascular stiffness.

FECAL CALPROTECTIN IS ASSOCIATED WITH CARDIOVASCULAR RISK MARKERS, AND CAROTID ATHEROSCLEROSIS IN A POPULATION-BASED SAMPLE

Objective: To identify associations of fecal calprotectin with cardiovascular risk factors including vascular damage in population-based sample. Design and method: 77 patients without cardiovascular diseases from population-based sample were randomly invited and signed informed consent. All patients underwent a questionnaire (eating habits, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, anxiety and depression, quality of life, EFPQ), anthropometry, blood pressure and pulse measurement, laboratory examination (biochemical blood test, lipids, fecal calprotectin), vascular examination (carotid ultrasound, applanation tonometry by SphygmoCor, volume sphygmomanometry by Vasera). Results: Results The analysis included 77 patients, 33 (42.8%) males with mean age 52 [43;59] years, and 44 (57.2%) females with mean age 60.5 [47;66] years. The results of the linear regression analysis adjusted for sex and age of the level of calprotectin are presented in Table 1. Table 1 Results of linear regression analysis of fecal calprotectin levels. Conclusions: Fecal calprotectin as intestinal wall inflammation marker has been associated with dietary patterns, metabolic disorders, behavioral habits such as a tendency to depression and increased alcohol consumption, as well as carotid atherosclerosis.

Assessment of Type 2 Diabetes Risk in General Population using Bitter Taste Sensitivity Status to Phenylthiocarbamide - A Pilot Study

Eating habits and genetic factors contribute to diseases such as obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Variation in bitter taste perception has been linked with intake of alcohol, coffee, vegetable, and smoking habit as well as with adiposity, a risk factor for diabetes development. Therefore, it was hypothesized that bitter taste perception could lead to differences in eating/drinking behavior among individuals, which may lead T2DM development later in the life. Bitter taste sensitivity was assessed using paper strips having supra-threshold concentration of Phenyl Thio Carbamide (PTC). Lifestyle variables were assessed using standard anthropometry measurements and a questionnaire. T2DM risk was assessed using a point based system developed by Finnish Diabetes Association (FINDRISC score). SPSS software was used for statistical analysis. A total of 498 volunteers from New Delhi region participated in the present study, where the mean age of PTC tasters was 24 ± 12 years and for non-tasters was 29 ± 16 years. PTC taster status was significantly correlated with age (p ≤ 0.01), weight (p ≤ 0.05), BMI (p ≤ 0.05) and waste circumference (p ≤ 0.05). A positive correlation was observed for type of chocolate liking (r = 0.113, p ≤ 0.001) and for T2DM risk (p ≤ 0.012) with PTC non-taster status. Logistic regression analysis showed that PTC non-taster individuals are at a higher risk (OR: 1.558, 95% CI: 1.037-2.342, p=0.033) for developing T2DM in the next ten years. Present results have shown that bitter taste sensitivity modulates liking towards certain food and non-tasters for PTC have a higher BMI, weight and are at a higher risk for T2DM development. PTC tasting could be employed as a method for assessing risk of diabetes in healthy individuals. We recommend large scale screening among young adults to promote awareness and early prevention measures.

Translating digital anthropometry measurements obtained from different 3D body image scanners.

Body image scanners are used in industry and research to reliably provide a wealth of anthropometric measurements within seconds. The demonstrated utility of the scanners drives the current proliferation of more commercially available devices that rely on their own reference body sites and proprietary algorithms to output anthropometric measurements. Since each scanner relies on its own algorithms, measurements obtained from different scanners cannot directly be combined or compared. To develop mathematical models that translate anthropometric measurements between the three popular commercially available scanners. A unique database that contained 3D scanner measurements in the same individuals from three different scanners (Styku, Human Solutions, and Fit3D) was used to develop linear regression models that translate anthropometric measurements between each scanner. A limits of agreement analysis was performed between Fit3D and Styku against Human Solutions measurements and the coefficient of determination, bias, and 95% confidence interval were calculated. The models were then applied to normalized scanner data from four different studies to compare the results of a k-means cluster analysis between studies. A scree plot was used to determine the optimal number of clusters derived from each study. Correlations ranged between R2 = 0.63 (Styku and Human Solutions mid-thigh circumference) to R2 = 0.97 (Human Solutions and Fit3D neck circumference). In general, Fit3D had better agreement with Human Solutions compared to Styku. The widest disagreement was found in chest circumference (Fit3D (bias = 2.30, 95% CI = [-3.83, 8.43]) and Styku (bias = -5.60, 95% CI = [-10.98, -0.22]). The optimal number of body shape clusters in each of the four studies was consistently 5. The newly developed models that translate measurements between the scanners Styku and Fit3D to predict Human Solutions measurements make it possible to standardize data between scanners allowing for data pooling and comparison.

The Relationship between the Nutritional Status and Intelligence among the Children in Selected Schools, Bengaluru

Background of the study Nutritional status is the condition of health of the individual as influenced by the utilization of the nutrient. It is concerned primarily with the part played the nutrients in body growth, development and maintenance. Good nutritional status means, maintaining a nutritional status that enables us to grow well and enjoy good health. Nutrition is a fundamental pillar of human life. Methods: A Quantitative approach was used to assess the relationship between nutritional status and intelligence among the children. The research design adopted for the study was Non-experimental correlation research design. Sample of 60 schoolchildren were selected for the study using Probability –simple random sampling technique (lottery method). The modified conceptual framework for the present study was based on Fishbone model. Anthropometry measurement and cultural fair nonverbal intelligence test was used to collect the data from the study. The experts validated the tool for data collection and the reliability was established using test re-test method using Karl Pearson’s formula. Pilot study was conducted to determine the feasibility of the study following which the main study was done. Ethical and legal parameters were taken into consideration throughout the study. The main study was conducted Aryan presidency school, Nagarbhavi Bengaluru. Among children within age group 8-10.The data collected were analyzed and interpreted by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result: The finding of the study showed that the finding of the study revealed that, the assessment of the nutritional by weight 51.5% (31) were in normal range, 21.7% (13) were mildly impaired, 5.0 % (3) were moderately impaired range and 21.7% (13) were severely impaired. The assessments of the nutritional status by height 73.3% (44) were in normal range, 16.7% (10) were mildly impaired, 10.0% (6) were moderately impaired range and no one were severely impaired. The assessment of the nutritional status by MUAC 76.7% (46) were in normal range, 23.3% (14) were Stunted and no one were Stunted and wasted. Intelligence level of the school children 10.0% (6) were very superior, 3.3% were superior, 16.7% (10) were high average, 56.7% (34) were average, 10.0% were low average, 1.7% (1) was borderline and 1.7% (1) was extremely low. The finding of intelligence test -1, the range was 1-12, Mean was 7.6, Standard deviation was 2.59 and Mean percentage was 63.33. With regard to test -2, the Range was 4-13, Mean was 7.8, SD was 2.31 and Mean percentage was 55.7. With regard to test-3 Range was 1-11, Mean was 6.8, SD was 2.34 and Mean percentage was 56.7. With regards to test -4 the Range was 0-8, Mean was 2.98, SD was 1.87 and Mean percentage was 37.3. The overall score of the intelligence Range was 13-39, Mean was 25.2, SD was 6.23 and Mean percentage was 54.8. Correlation between height and intelligence (r=0.344), weight and intelligence (r=0.397) and MUAC and intelligence (r=0.352) among the children. Hence, there is a positive correlation between the nutritional status and intelligent among children. Chi square test was used to find the association between nutritional status and intelligence among the school children with their selected demographic variables .the result of the Chi square analysis indicated that there is a significant association between the nutritional status and intelligence among school children with their selected demographic variables, such as nutritional status by weight and demographic variables among the school children and it was significant associate of type of family and Mother’s occupation, nutritional status by height and demographic variables among the school children and it was found significant associate of mother’s education, nutritional status by MUAC and demographic variables among the school children and it was significant associate of mother’s occupation, and intelligence level and demographic variables among the school children and it was significant associate of class studying. Conclusion: The present study attempted to assess the relationship between the nutritional status and intelligence among the children and found that positive relationship was between the nutritional status and intelligence among the children within age 8-10 years.

Muscle Wasting among Hospitalized Children: A Narrative Review of the Feasibility and Accuracy of Diagnostic Methods.

Muscle wasting is associated with a worse quality of life and increased morbidity and mortality among hospitalized children, especially those with chronic diseases. This review was conducted to summarize the data available on the most feasible and accurate diagnostic methods for detecting muscle wasting among hospitalized children, especially to review the evidence of the accuracy and feasibility of conducting assessments using handgrip strength (HGS). Many diagnostic methods are used in hospital settings to assess muscle wasting, by evaluating either muscle mass or strength, with evidentiary support for assessing muscle mass provided using ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, dual-energy X-ray, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and anthropometry measurements. Currently, the most common diagnostic method used to detect muscle strength loss is the handheld dynamometer. Studies support using HGS among healthy and hospitalized children to assess the overall nutritional status and especially muscle function. However, almost all of these studies have been conducted in hospital settings and recruited children with different chronic diseases using a small sample size. More longitudinal cohort studies with large sample sizes are needed to assess the accuracy and feasibility of using HGS among hospitalized children.

Fetal Alcohol-Related Postnatal Growth Restriction Is Independent of Infant Feeding Practices and Postnatal Alcohol Exposure in a Prospective South African Birth Cohort

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) causes growth restriction that worsens in the first year of life. However, the roles of postnatal nutrition in fetal alcohol growth restriction and the impact of postnatal alcohol exposure via breastmilk on growth remain unknown. We aimed to compare infant feeding practices during the first 6.5 months of life between heavy drinkers and abstainers/light drinkers, to examine whether these practices play confounding roles in fetal alcohol growth restriction, and to determine the impact of postnatal alcohol exposure via breastmilk on growth. Eighty-seven heavy-drinking pregnant women and 71 abstainers/light drinkers (controls) were recruited prenatally from antenatal clinics in Cape Town, South Africa. Demographic background and alcohol, cigarette, marijuana, and methamphetamine use during pregnancy were assessed pre- and postnatally. Infant feeding practices were assessed at 6.5 months postpartum using the USDA Infant Feeding Questionnaire. Infant weight, length, and head circumference were measured at 2 weeks, 6.5 and 12 months, and 5 years. Neither prenatal nor postnatal alcohol consumption was related to the duration of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding, exclusive formula, or mixed feeding. Complementary feeding practices were remarkably similar between exposure groups. PAE was related to all postnatal anthropometry measures at all age points, independent of infant feeding practices. Postnatal alcohol exposure via breastmilk was unrelated to any anthropometry outcome after control for PAE. In conclusion, fetal alcohol-related postnatal growth restriction was not attributable to differences in postnatal infant feeding practices or postnatal alcohol exposure and is thus likely a direct teratogenic effect of PAE.

Correlation of Different Anthropometric Measurements of Hand and Grip Strength in the Adult Female Bangladeshi Garment Workers

Background: A reliable and valid measurement of hand anthropometry is important for designing dimensionally compatible hand tools, gloves and hand-held devices. Hand grip strength is accepted as an objective index for the functional integrity of upper extremity. The estimation of hand grip strength is of immense importance in determining the efficacy of different treatment strategies, treatment outcome and hand rehabilitation. The present study was planned to determine the various dimensions of hands, average hand grip strength of adult Bangladeshi female garment workers and the relationship between hand grip strength and different anthropometric measurements of hand. Material and Methods: Two hundred female garment workers of 20-25 years of age were selected by purposive non random sampling from five different garment factories of Dhaka and Narayangonj city. Different dimensions of both hands were measured directly with the help of digital slide caliper and flexible wire. Hand grip strength of both hands was measured by Smedley’s Hand Grip Strength Dynamometer. Result : Body height, weight, BMI, hand length and hand breadth of adult Bangladeshi garments workers showed positive correlation with hand grip strength, but only significant positive correlation was found between hand length and grip strength of right hand (r=+0.197, P&lt;0.05) and left hand (r=+0.405, P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Significant positive correlation was found between hand anthropometry such as hand length, hand breadth and hand grip strength in adult Bangladeshi female garment workers. J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll 2021; 13(2): 171-176

The relationships between children's motor competence, physical activity, perceived motor competence, physical fitness and weight status in relation to age.

The goal of this cross-sectional study was to further explore the relationships between motor competence, physical activity, perceived motor competence, physical fitness and weight status in different age categories of Dutch primary school children. Participants were 2068 children aged 4 to 13 years old, divided over 9 age groups. During physical education classes, they completed the 4-Skills Test, a physical activity questionnaire, versions of the Self-Perception Profile for Children, Eurofit test and anthropometry measurements. Results show that all five factors included in the analyses are related to each other and that a tipping point exists at which relations emerge or strengthen. Physical fitness is related to both motor competence and physical activity and these relationships strengthen with age. A relationship between body mass index and the other four factors emerges in middle childhood. Interestingly, at a young age, motor competence and perceived motor competence are weakly related, but neither one of these have a relation with physical activity. In middle childhood, both motor competence and perceived motor competence are related to physical activity. Our findings show that children in late childhood who have higher perceived motor competence are also more physically active, have higher physical fitness, higher motor competence and lower body mass index. Our results indicate that targeting motor competence at a young age might be a feasible way to ensure continued participation in physical activities throughout childhood and adolescence.

Relationships between physical activity, fundamental motor skills, and body mass index in preschool children.

To investigate whether there is a potential relationship between physical activity (PA), fundamental motor skills (FMS), and Body Mass Index (BMI) in preschool children and to further explore the differences in PA and FMS between normal-weight and overweight/obese preschool children. Participants were 366 preschool children aged 3 to 6 years; 358 completed all tests (194 boys and 164 girls). PA, FMS, body weight, and height were measured by triaxial accelerometer, the Test of Gross Motor Development, Second Edition (TGMD-2), and anthropometry measurement, respectively. The overall rate of overweight/obesity was 17.0%, with no significant gender difference (χ 2 = 0.628, p = 0.428). Older children perform significantly better in both object control skills and locomotor skills. Independent samples t-tests were used to examine the difference between genders on FMS and PA: girls in the 5-year-old group display better locomotor skills (p = 0.012) than boys. Boys spent more time on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and less time on sedentary activity when compared to girls. Results of partial correlation analysis showed that PA was significantly and positively correlated with both locomotor skills and object control skills in preschool children (p < 0.01), while there was no correlation between FMS, PA level, and BMI. Results of ANCOVA revealed no significant difference in FMS between normal-weight and overweight or obese preschool children; normal-weight girls had significantly longer MPA and MVPA duration and significantly shorter sedentary periods than overweight or obese girls (p < 0.05). Overweight/obesity in preschool children requires effective measures. PA is positively associated with FMS, while BMI is not potentially related to FMS or PA in preschool years. Overweight or obese girls should develop healthier weight status by increasing MVPA hours and reducing sedentary time.

EFFECT OF HAND ANTHROPOMETRY INDICES ON THE MEASUREMENT OF HAND GRIP STRENGTH USING A HANDHELD DYNAMOMETER IN YOUNG ASIAN MALES

Hand grip strength is a measure of one’s muscle strength of the hand and forearm. It also indicates one’s general physical fitness. Hand grip strength is measured using a handheld dynamometer and this procedure can be affected by one’s hand anthropometry. Hand size and shape can be affected by one’s race and ethnicity and thus identifying the specific hand anthropometric measurement that would be related to hand grip strength for a particular ethnicity is important. Thus, this study investigated the relationship between different hand anthropometric measurements with hand grip strength using a handheld dynamometer in South Asian healthy young male adults. Full hand length, middle finger length, palm width and wrist thickness in 52 young male participants aged 18-25 years old were measured. Hand grip strength was measured using a handheld dynamometer. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to study the relationship of each anthropometric variable with hand grip strength. Our data showed, palm width significantly correlates with hand grip strength (r=0.461; p=0.00059). Middle finger length has a weak positive correlation (r=0.260; p=0.063), while full hand length and wrist thickness has no correlation with hand grip strength (r=0.048; p=0.734) and (r=0.094; p=0.509) respectively. Our results show that of the four anthropometry measurements of the hand used in this study, palm width has a strong association with hand grip strength, and it is a statistically significant determinant of hand grip strength in South Asian healthy male young adults. It can also be concluded that middle finger length and wrist thickness do not play a role in affecting hand grip strength.&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; Article visualizations:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="/-counters-/soc/0028/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Predictors of Weight Gain among Undergraduate Students during the COVID-19 Quarantine

Objectives: The quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic has induced stress among university students. Lifestyle changes during this quarantine period have contributed to changes in eating habits. Thus, this study aimed to determine the factors affecting weight status during the COVID-19 quarantine period among undergraduate students at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).&#x0D; Methods: 114 subjects were recruited in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Sections of the questionnaire were sociodemographic information, anthropometry measurements, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS), and Binge Eating Scale (BES). Subjects were required to recall this information during the pre-quarantine period in February 2020 and the post-quarantine period in July 2020.&#x0D; Results: 52.6% of the students had weight gain. The prevalence of overweight and obesity increased from 15.8% and 4.4% before the quarantine to 17.5% and 6.1%, respectively, after the quarantine. Extreme levels of stress, anxiety, and depression were reported by 0.9%, 19.3%, and 8.8% of the respondents. Regression analysis revealed that binge eating score was the only significant predictor of weight status before and after the quarantine period.&#x0D; Conclusion: Altered eating behaviour during the COVID-19 quarantine contributed to weight changes among university students in Malaysia. Factors influencing eating habits must be identified to reduce the incidence of overweight and obesity among university students, especially during the pandemic.

Fracture risk and impact in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: A retrospective cohort study.

Boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are at increased risk of fracture. This study investigated the incidence of fractures, factors contributing to risk of first fracture with emphasis on body mass index (BMI), and the impact of fractures on functional capacity in an Australian cohort of boys with DMD. A retrospective cohort study included boys with DMD who attended a pediatric neuromuscular clinic from 2011 to 2018. Information regarding fractures, anthropometry measurements, body composition and functional assessment was collected. Factors associated with first fracture risk were analyzed with Cox-proportional hazards. Longitudinal analysis of function post-fracture was also conducted. This study included 155 boys with DMD. At least one fracture occurred in 71 (45%) boys; overall incidence of fractures was 399-per-10,000 persons-years. The first fracture was vertebral in 55%; 41% had non-vertebral fractures and 4% had both. Vertebral fractures occurred in significantly older (12.28 vs 9.28 y) boys with longer exposure to glucocorticoids (5.45 vs 2.50 y) compared to non-vertebral fractures. Boys with a history of fracture(s) had a steeper rate of functional decline (measured by Northstar Ambulatory Assessment score) than those with no recorded fractures. A high fracture burden was observed in a large Australian cohort of boys with DMD. Further investigation is required to understand preventative strategies and modifiable risk factors to reduce the incidence of fractures in DMD. The impact on fractures on ambulatory capacity should be closely monitored.

Effectiveness of eHealth weight management interventions in overweight and obese adults from low socioeconomic groups: a systematic review

BackgroundLow socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with increased rates of overweight and obesity. Proponents of electronic health (eHealth) hypothesise that its inclusion in weight management interventions can improve efficacy by mitigating typical barriers associated with low SES.ObjectivesTo establish the scope of eHealth weight management interventions for people with overweight and obesity from a low SES. Secondary objectives were to determine the efficacy of eHealth interventions in facilitating weight loss, physical activity and fitness improvements.MethodsFour databases and grey literature were systematically searched to identify eligible studies published in English from inception to May 2021. Studies examining an eHealth intervention with low SES participants were included. Outcomes included temporal change in weight and BMI, anthropometry, physiological measures and physical activity levels. The number and heterogeneity of studies precluded any meta-analyses; thus, a narrative review was undertaken.ResultsFour experimental studies with low risk of bias were reviewed. There was variance in how SES was defined. Study aims and eHealth media also varied and included reducing/maintaining weight or increasing physical activity using interactive websites or voice responses, periodic communication and discourse via telephone, social media, text messaging or eNewsletters. Irrespectively, all studies reported short-term weight loss. eHealth interventions also increased short-term physical activity levels where it was assessed, but did not change anthropometry or physiological measures. None reported any effect on physical fitness.ConclusionsThis review revealed short-term effects of eHealth interventions on weight loss and increased physical activity levels for low SES participants. Evidence was limited to a small number of studies, with small to moderate sample sizes. Inter-study comparison is challenging because of considerable variability. Future work should prioritise how to utilise eHealth in the longer term either as a supportive public health measure or by determining its long-term efficacy in engendering volitional health behaviour changes.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42021243973

A randomized, controlled trial of a Nordic, protein-reduced complementary diet in infants: effects on body composition, growth, biomarkers, and dietary intake at 12 and 18 months

BackgroundHigh intake of protein and low intake of plant-based foods during complementary feeding can contribute to negative long-term health effects. ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of a protein-reduced, Nordic complementary diet on body composition, growth, biomarkers, and dietary intake, compared with current Swedish dietary recommendations for infants at 12 and 18 mo. MethodsHealthy, term infants (n = 250) were randomly allocated to either a Nordic group (NG) or a conventional group (CG). From 4 to 6 mo, NG participants received repeated exposures of Nordic taste portions. From 6 to 18 mo, NG was supplied with Nordic homemade baby food recipes, protein-reduced baby food products, and parental support. CG followed the current Swedish dietary recommendations. Measurements of body composition, anthropometry, biomarkers, and dietary intake were collected from baseline and at 12 and 18 mo. ResultsOf the 250 infants, 82% (n = 206) completed the study. There were no group differences in body composition or growth. In NG, protein intake, blood urea nitrogen and plasma IGF-1 were lower compared to CG at 12 and 18 mo. Infants in NG consumed 42% to 45% more fruits and vegetables compared to CG at 12 and 18 mo, which was reflected in a higher plasma folate at 12 and 18 mo. There were no between-group differences in EI or iron status. ConclusionsIntroduction of a predominantly plant-based, protein-reduced diet as part of complementary feeding is feasible and can increase fruit and vegetable intake. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02634749.

Exhaled Carbon Monoxide Level and Practices among Tobacco and Nicotine Adult Users in Klang Valley, Malaysia.

Tobacco and nicotine derivatives uses are multiple in nature. These include conventional cigarettes (CCs), heated tobacco products (HTPs), and electronic cigarettes (ECs). This study aims to determine the practices, nicotine dependency profile, association with exhaled carbon monoxide (eCO) level, and pulmonary function (PF) among adult product users and non-smokers. This cross-sectional study involved smokers, nicotine users, and non-smokers from two public health facilities in Kuala Lumpur from December 2021 to April 2022. Data on socio-demography, smoking profile, nicotine dependency level, anthropometry, eCO monitor, and spirometer measurements were recorded. Out of 657 respondents, 52.1% were non-smokers, 48.3% were CC only smokers, poly-users (PUs) (27.3%), EC-only users (20.9%), and HTP-only users (3.5%). EC use was prevalent among the younger aged, tertiary educated, and females; HTP use was prevalent among those of an older age and CC users was common among lower educated males. The highest median eCO (in ppm) seen were as follows: in CC users only (13.00), PUs (7.00), EC users (2.00), HTP users (2.00), and the least was observed among non-smokers (1.00), which is significantly different across the groups (p <0.001). Comparison of practice between the different product users showed significant differences in age of product initiation (p <0.001, youngest in CC users in PUs), duration of product use (p <0.001, longest in exclusive CC users), cost per month (p <0.001, highest in exclusive HTP users) and attempt to quit product (p <0.001, CC use in PUs had the highest attempt to quit), while there is no significant difference in Fagerström score across the groups. Among EC users, 68.2% successfully switched from smoking CCs to ECs. The findings suggest that EC and HTP users are exhaling less CO. The use of these products in a targeted approach may manage nicotine addiction. Switching practice was higher among current EC users (from using CCs), hence emphasizing the need of switching encouragement and total nicotine abstinence later on. Lower eCO levels in the PU group, (as compared to CC-only users) and high quit attempt rate among in CC use in PUs may indicate attempt of PUs in reducing CC use through alternative modalities such as ECs and HTPs.

Age-dependent associations of human milk oligosaccharides with body size and composition up to 4 years of age

BackgroundHuman milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are major components of human milk that may mediate its beneficial effects on infant growth. ObjectivesTo investigate relationships between HMO concentrations in milk at 6 wk postpartum and anthropometry to 4 y of age in human milk-fed infants. MethodsMilk samples were collected from 292 mothers at 6 wk (median 6.0 wk; range 3.3, 11.1] postpartum in a longitudinal, population-derived cohort. Of the infants, 171 were exclusively human milk-fed to 3 mo of age and 127 to 6 mo. Concentrations of 19 HMOs were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. Maternal secretor status (n = 221 secretors) was determined from 2’-fucosyllactose (2’FL) concentration. We calculated z-scores for child weight, length, head circumference, summed triceps and subscapular skinfold thicknesses, and weight-for-length at 6 wk, 6 mo, 12 mo, and 4 y. We investigated associations of secretor status and each HMO measure with change from birth for each z-score using linear mixed-effects models. ResultsMaternal secretor status was not associated with anthropometric z-scores up to 4 y of age. Several HMOs were associated with z-scores at 6 wk and 6 mo, predominantly within secretor status subgroups. Higher levels of 2’FL were associated with greater weight [β = 0.91 increase in z-score per SD increase log-2’FL, 95% CI (0.17, 1.65)] and length [β = 1.22, (0.25, 2.20)] in children born to secretor mothers, but not body composition measures. Higher lacto-N-tetraose was associated with greater weight [β = 0.22, (0.02, 0.41)] and length (β = 0.30, (0.07, 0.53)] among children born to nonsecretor mothers. Several HMOs were associated with anthropometric measures at 12 mo and 4 y of age. ConclusionsMilk HMO composition at 6 wk postpartum is associated with several anthropometry measures up to 6 mo of age in a potential secretor status-specific manner, with largely different HMOs associating with anthropometry from 12 mo to 4 y of age.

Comparison of selected performance-associated parameters after off-season and two-month training preparation in professional Czech ice hockey players

Background: In ice hockey, regular off-ice testing can serve as a controlling mechanism for a training program's effectiveness. Objective: The main aim of this study was to describe changes in selected morphological and physiological parameters, intended to be relevant for a complex ice hockey performance, after two months of pre-season training preparation following one month of an off-season period. Methods: The sample consisted of 22 adult male players aged 18-39 years from a top Czech ice hockey league team. Two laboratory testing procedures performed at the end of the off-season and after two months of the pre-season conditioning consisted of basic anthropometry and body composition measurements, countermovement jump (CMJ), and maximal incremental test focused on the assessment of various parameters, including maximal oxygen consumption (V&#775;O2max), maximal power output during the test (Pmax) or estimation of anaerobic threshold intensity (ANT). Results: After the pre-season, we found a significant decrease in body fat (13.7 vs. 11.4%, p &lt; .001) and an increase in fat-free mass (74.2 vs. 76.6 kg, p &lt; .001), V&#775;O2max (relative 48.8 vs. 52.6 ml.kg-1.min-1 p = .001; absolute 4.20 vs. 4.54 L.min-1, p &lt; .001), Pmax (5.26 vs. 5.44 W.kg-1, p = .011), power output at ANT (4.07 vs. 4.35 W.kg-1, p &lt; .001), and CMJ (44.9 vs. 47.1 cm, p = .002). Conclusions: Based on our results, two months of the pre-season training program led to a significant improvement in body composition and physical performance levels in professional Czech ice hockey players.

Physical activity, exercise habits, and body mass index of adults

Introduction: The risk of degenerative diseases begins to appear in adulthood. Physical activity and exercise habits prevent the incidence of obesity which is a risk factor for degenerative diseases' emergence. Therefore, this study aims toexamine the relationship between physical activity, exercise habits, body mass index, and fat mass percentage.&#x0D; Design and Methods: This study used an analytic observational cross-sectional design and 32 office workers in Surabaya aged 28-56 years were selected by simple random sampling technique. The data collected included measurements of physical activity, exercise habits, anthropometry, and body composition, which were analyzed using Spearman’s rank correlation test.&#x0D; Results: The results showed that 46.9% of participants had moderate activity, 43.8% exercised 1-2x a week, 56.3% exercised for 20-60 minutes, 56.30% had a low exercise intensity, 62.50% had an overweight body mass index, and 71.9% had overfat mass percentage. Spearman's rank test showed a significant relationship between energy intake, physical activity, exercise frequency, duration and intensity, and body mass index as well as between energy intake, physical activity, exercise intensity, and body fat percentage.&#x0D; Conclusions: Increased physical activity and exercise habits were associated with decreased BMI and body fat percentage.&#x0D;