Body Mass Index Categories Research Articles

Factors associated with ablation-related thrombus extension following microfoam versus radiofrequency saphenous vein closure

ObjectivePolidocanol endovenous microfoam ablation (MFA) is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for great saphenous vein (GSV) closure, yet there are few published data on the subsequent risk of ablation-related thrombus extension (ARTE). Recent societal practice guidelines recommend against routine postprocedure duplex ultrasound (DU) examination after thermal ablation of the GSV in asymptomatic patients. At present, limited data do not allow this recommendation to extend to MFA. Our aim is to identify characteristics and outcomes associated with ARTE following MFA vs radiofrequency ablation (RFA). MethodsA retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was conducted of patients who underwent MFA and RFA closure of incompetent above-knee GSVs. Patients treated for isolated tributary vein treatment or did not have a postprocedure DU examination within 48 to 72 hours were not included. Patients were classified into two groups: ARTE and no ARTE. Demographic data, Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic class, Venous Clinical Severity Score, operative details, postprocedure (48-72 hours) DU findings, and adverse events were analyzed. Variables that were significant on univariate analysis were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression with the primary outcome being development of ARTE. ResultsBetween June 2018 and February 2023, 800 limbs were treated with either MFA (n = 224) or RFA (n = 576). Ninety-six GSVs treated with MFA met the study criteria. One hundred fifty successive GSVs treated with RFA during the same period were included as a comparison group. There was no statistically significant difference in baseline demographics between the two groups. Six patients (2.4%) demonstrated ARTE on postoperative DU examination at 48 to 72 hours (MFA, n = 5 [5.2%]; RFA, n = 1 [0.7%]; P = .02). Saphenous vein ablation with MFA (P = .045) and a vein diameter of >10 mm (P = .017) were associated with ARTE on both univariable and multivariable analysis. All patients who developed ARTE were treated with oral anticoagulants (mean, 15.6 days). Body mass index, Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic class, Venous Clinical Severity Score, microfoam volume, operative time, and prior deep venous thrombosis were not predictive of ARTE. ConclusionsARTE after above-knee GSV closure occurred more frequently after MFA. Our results suggest that a saphenous vein diameter of >10 mm may be associated with ARTE. Despite this finding, all patients with ARTE were treated with short-term anticoagulation with no related complications. Until larger studies with high-risk subgroups have been studied after MFA, DU examination should be performed routinely after this procedure and patients with ARTE anticoagulated until the thrombus retracts caudal to the saphenofemoral junction or is no longer present on DU examination. Current societal guidelines recommending against routine post-thermal ablation DU examination should not be applied to similar patients after saphenous nonthermal MFA ablation.

Association between dietary inflammatory index and anemia in US adults.

Anemia is a widespread global health concern, and recent research has unveiled a link between anemia and inflammation. The Dietary Inflammation Index (DII) is a novel tool used to assess the overall inflammatory potential of an individual's diet. However, until now, there have been no studies demonstrating a connection between DII and anemia. This study aimed to explore the relationship between DII and the risk of anemia among Americans, as well as to examine the influence of other risk factors on this association. Data from 32,244 patients were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database spanning from 1999 to 2018. Using multivariable logistic regression, we examined the correlation between DII and anemia. Subgroup analyses and smoothed curve analyses were conducted to further investigate the association between DII and anemia. The analysis revealed a significant positive association between higher DII scores and increased anemia risk in the American population (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.06, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.03 to 1.09, p < 0.0001). This association remained consistent in subgroup analyses, encompassing various age groups, distinct Body Mass Index (BMI) categories, varying diabetes mellitus statuses, histories of hypertension, females, individuals with a RIP <3.5, and Non-Hispanic Black individuals. Notably, the association was particularly significant among non-smokers. Smoothed curve fitting analysis demonstrated a linear relationship between DII and the prevalence of anemia. Our findings underscore a positive correlation between the inflammatory potential of one's diet and the risk of anemia, especially when coupled with other risk factors. Consequently, reducing the consumption of pro-inflammatory foods may serve as one of the effective measures against the development of anemia. Given the variations in gender, age, BMI, and chronic diseases observed in our study, tailored policies could better cater to the specific needs of diverse populations.

Impact of Serum Albumin Levels and Body Mass Index on Outcomes of Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair in Korean Population

Although obese patients seem to be susceptible to chronic diseases, obesity paradox has been observed in the field of vascular surgery, in which many previous studies have reported that overweight patients have good postoperative outcomes and underweight patients have poor postoperative outcomes. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the impact of body mass index (BMI) and serum albumin levels, which are evaluated as indicators of nutritional status, on outcomes of open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair. We reviewed the vascular surgery database of a single tertiary referral center for all patients who underwent open AAA repair due to degenerative etiology from 1996 to 2021. To analyze the effect of BMI, patients were classified into 4 groups according to the Asian-Pacific classification of BMI: underweight (UW) (<18.5kg/m2), normal weight (NW) (18.5-22.9kg/m2), overweight (OW) (23-24.9kg/m2), and obese (OB) (≥25kg/m2). The χ2, Fisher's exact, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare demographics, comorbidities, radiologic findings, surgical details, and 1-year mortality rates between the 4 groups. We also compared the preoperative serum albumin levels of each group to assess nutritional status indirectly. Cox's proportional hazards model was performed to determine factors associated with mortality. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed, and the differences were analyzed by a log-rank test. We did not perform an analysis for 30-day mortality because cases of 30-day mortality in UW patients were rare due to the unbalanced distribution of the number of patients in the 4 groups. Among a total of 678 patients, 22 were classified as UW (3.2%), 200 as NW (29.5%), 183 as OW (27.1%), and 273 as OB (40.1%). The median age was 70 (64-75) years and 577 of 678 (85.1%) patients were male gender. Higher serum albumin level was associated with decreased 1-year mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.15-0.63; P=0.001). UW patients had a higher 1-year mortality rate than NW patients (HR, 3.67; 95% CI, 1.02-13.18; P=0.046). OB patients had a lower overall mortality rate than NW patients (HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.53-1; P=0.05). Low BMI (<18.5kg/m2) and low serum albumin level were associated with poor 1-year survival after elective open AAA repair. These patients also need more careful preoperative intervention, like weight gain or nutritional support, for better outcomes. The obesity paradox existed in our study; high BMI (≥25kg/m2) was associated with better overall survival after elective open AAA repair.

MiMultiCat: A Unified Cloud Platform for the Analysis of Microbiome Data with Multi-Categorical Responses.

The field of the human microbiome is rapidly growing due to the recent advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies. Meanwhile, there have also been many new analytic pipelines, methods and/or tools developed for microbiome data preprocessing and analytics. They are usually focused on microbiome data with continuous (e.g., body mass index) or binary responses (e.g., diseased vs. healthy), yet multi-categorical responses that have more than two categories are also common in reality. In this paper, we introduce a new unified cloud platform, named MiMultiCat, for the analysis of microbiome data with multi-categorical responses. The two main distinguishing features of MiMultiCat are as follows: First, MiMultiCat streamlines a long sequence of microbiome data preprocessing and analytic procedures on user-friendly web interfaces; as such, it is easy to use for many people in various disciplines (e.g., biology, medicine, public health). Second, MiMultiCat performs both association testing and prediction modeling extensively. For association testing, MiMultiCat handles both ecological (e.g., alpha and beta diversity) and taxonomical (e.g., phylum, class, order, family, genus, species) contexts through covariate-adjusted or unadjusted analysis. For prediction modeling, MiMultiCat employs the random forest and gradient boosting algorithms that are well suited to microbiome data while providing nice visual interpretations. We demonstrate its use through the reanalysis of gut microbiome data on obesity with body mass index categories. MiMultiCat is freely available on our web server.

The relationship between the severity of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in adults with IDDs and eating and drinking problems and nutritional status.

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) experience eating, drinking and swallowing problems, such as chewing problems, choking, gagging, coughing during eating, aspiration and rumination syndrome, which may lead to poor nutritional status. This study aimed to determine the relationship between IDD levels, eating, drinking and swallowing problems and nutritional status in adults with IDDs. The sample consisted of 71 participants (37 men and 34 women) with a mean age of 22.5±7years (range 18-60years). Professionals classified intellectual disability as mild, moderate or severe. The Screening Tool of Feeding Problems scale was applied to the caregivers of adults with IDDs to identify eating, drinking and swallowing problems. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-h dietary recall and a food and nutrition photograph catalogue. The researchers measured body weight, height and middle upper arm circumference. Body mass index was calculated. Four body mass index categories were determined: underweight (<18.5kg/m2 ), normal weight (18.5-24.9kg/m2 ), overweight (25.0-29.9kg/m2 ) and obese (≥30kg/m2 ). Chi-squared tests were used to detect the relationship between IDD levels and eating and drinking problems, and analysis of variance tests were conducted to detect the relationship between IDD levels with anthropometric measurements and dietary intake. Participants had mild (42.3%; n=30), moderate (29.6%; n=21) or severe IDD (28.2%; n=20). They were underweight (12.7%; n=9), normal weight (59.2%; n=42) or overweight and/or obese (28.2%; n=20). Participants with severe IDD had significantly higher Screening Tool of Feeding Problems 'nutrition-related behaviour' and 'eating and drinking skill deficit problem' sub-scale scores than those with mild IDD. However, the groups had no significant difference in 'food refusal and selectivity' sub-scale scores. Participants with severe IDD also had anorexia prevalence similar to those with mild IDD. The groups did not significantly differ in anthropometric measurements, daily energy intake and macronutrient and micronutrient intake. While adults with severe IDD had more eating and drinking skill deficits (e.g. chewing problems and independent eating difficulties) and nutrition-related behaviour problems than those with mild IDD, the eating, drinking and swallowing problems, which may critically affect their food intake, were similar to adults with mild IDD. The anthropometric measurements and energy and nutrient intakes of adults with severe IDD were not significantly different from those with mild IDD consistently. Findings indicate that nutritional deficiencies and nutritional behaviour problems may be avoidable in adults with IDDs.

Maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index and risk of preterm birth: a collaboration using large routine health datasets

BackgroundPreterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of child morbidity and mortality. Evidence suggests an increased risk with both maternal underweight and obesity, with some studies suggesting underweight might be a greater factor in spontaneous PTB (SPTB) and that the relationship might vary by parity. Previous studies have largely explored established body mass index (BMI) categories. Our aim was to compare associations of maternal pre-pregnancy BMI with any PTB, SPTB and medically indicated PTB (MPTB) among nulliparous and parous women across populations with differing characteristics, and to identify the optimal BMI with lowest risk for these outcomes.MethodsWe used three UK datasets, two USA datasets and one each from South Australia, Norway and Denmark, together including just under 29 million pregnancies resulting in a live birth or stillbirth after 24 completed weeks gestation. Fractional polynomial multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the relationship of maternal BMI with any PTB, SPTB and MPTB, among nulliparous and parous women separately. The results were combined using a random effects meta-analysis. The estimated BMI at which risk was lowest was calculated via differentiation and a 95% confidence interval (CI) obtained using bootstrapping.ResultsWe found non-linear associations between BMI and all three outcomes, across all datasets. The adjusted risk of any PTB and MPTB was elevated at both low and high BMIs, whereas the risk of SPTB was increased at lower levels of BMI but remained low or increased only slightly with higher BMI. In the meta-analysed data, the lowest risk of any PTB was at a BMI of 22.5 kg/m2 (95% CI 21.5, 23.5) among nulliparous women and 25.9 kg/m2 (95% CI 24.1, 31.7) among multiparous women, with values of 20.4 kg/m2 (20.0, 21.1) and 22.2 kg/m2 (21.1, 24.3), respectively, for MPTB; for SPTB, the risk remained roughly largely constant above a BMI of around 25–30 kg/m2 regardless of parity.ConclusionsConsistency of findings across different populations, despite differences between them in terms of the time period covered, the BMI distribution, missing data and control for key confounders, suggests that severe under- and overweight may play a role in PTB risk.

Frailty modifies the association of body mass index with mortality among older adults: Kyoto-Kameoka study

The differences in the association of body mass index (BMI) with mortality between older adults with and without frailty remain unclear. This study investigated this association in community-dwelling older adults with and without frailty. This prospective study included 10,912 adults aged ≥65 years who provided valid responses to a baseline mail survey questionnaire in the Kyoto-Kameoka Study in Japan. The BMI was calculated based on self-reported height and body weight and classified into four categories: <18.5, 18.5-21.4, 21.5-24.9, and ≥25.0kg/m2. Frailty was evaluated using the validated Kihon Checklist and defined as a score of 7 or higher out of a possible 25 points. Mortality data were collected from 30 July 2011 to 30 November 2016. Hazard ratios (HR) for all-cause mortality were calculated using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model. During the 5.3 year median follow-up period (54,084 person-years), 1352 deaths were recorded. After adjusting for confounders, including lifestyle and medical history, compared with participants with a BMI of 21.5-24.9kg/m2, those in the lower BMI category had a higher mortality HR, while those with a higher BMI displayed an inverse association with mortality (<18.5kg/m2: HR: 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.58-2.17; 18.5-21.4kg/m2: HR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.21-1.58; and ≥25.0kg/m2: HR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67-0.96). In a model stratified by frailty status, the BMI range with the lowest HR for mortality was 23.0-24.0kg/m2 in non-frail older adults; however, in frail older adults, a higher BMI was inversely associated with mortality. The relationship between BMI and mortality varies between individuals with and without frailty, with those experiencing frailty potentially benefiting from a higher BMI compared to those without frailty. This study suggests that frailty should be assessed when considering the optimal BMI for the lowest mortality risk among older adults.

The nutritional status of mycetoma affected patients seen at the Mycetoma Research Center, Sudan.

Nutrition plays a critical and crucial role in addressing neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and their complications, as they often contribute to malnutrition, which can worsen the impact of these conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the nutritional status of mycetoma patients, which has not been explored previously. This descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted at the Mycetoma Research Center (MRC), University of Khartoum, Sudan. The study included 179 confirmed mycetoma patients and an equal number of age- and sex-matched normal controls. The nutritional status of the mycetoma patients was assessed and compared with that of the control group. The majority of the patients were young adults with varying educational levels, predominantly from Central Sudan. The foot was the most commonly affected part; most patients had lesions more than 10 cm in diameter. The Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated for both study groups, revealing that 43.5% of the patients and 53.6% of controls had a normal BMI. Furthermore, 36% of patients were underweight, contrasting with only 11% in the control group. Correlation analyses indicated no significant associations between BMI and age groups, educational levels, daily meals, food quantity, and appetite in the study population (p > 0.05). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in BMI concerning disease duration and affected sites (p = 0.0577). The Kruskal-Wallis test did not reveal significant differences in BMI means among the groups. The study revealed that most participants consumed three meals daily, and the control group showed a more robust appetite and consumed more food than the patient group (p = 0.005). Nevertheless, there were no significant differences in the consumption of different food types between the patient and control groups and among different BMI categories (p = 0.025 and 0.040, respectively).

Transition in metabolic health phenotypes across general adiposity categories and association with the risk of depression: a prospective analysis.

The association between obesity and depression may partly depend on the contextual metabolic health. The effect of change in metabolic health status over time on subsequent depression risk remains unclear. We aimed to assess the prospective association between metabolic health and its change over time and the risk of depression across body mass index (BMI) categories. Based on a nationally representative cohort, we included participants enrolled at the wave 2 (2004-2005) of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing and with follow-up for depression at wave 8 (2016-2017). Participants were cross-classified by BMI categories and metabolic health (defined by the absence of hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia) at baseline or its change over time (during waves 3-6). Logistic regression model was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the risk of depression at follow-up stratified by BMI category and metabolic health status with adjustment for potential confounders. The risk of depression was increased for participants with metabolically healthy obesity compared with healthy nonobese participants, and the risk was highest for those with metabolically unhealthy obesity (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.18-2.20). Particularly hypertension and diabetes contribute most to the increased risk. The majority of metabolically healthy participants converted to unhealthy metabolic phenotype (50.1% of those with obesity over 8years), which was associated with an increased risk of depression. Participants who maintained metabolically healthy obesity were still at higher risk (1.99, 1.33-2.72), with the highest risk observed for those with stable unhealthy metabolic phenotypes. Obesity remains a risk factor for depression, independent of whether other metabolic risk factors are present or whether participants convert to unhealthy metabolic phenotypes over time. Long-term maintenance of metabolic health and healthy body weight may be beneficial for the population mental well-being.

Underweight, overweight, and weight change in older family caregivers and their care recipients: longitudinal evidence from a randomized controlled trial.

This study aimed to identify differences among body mass index (BMI) categories of older family caregivers (≥60years) and their care recipients (≥65years). Secondly, this study aimed to examine group differences and factors associated with weight change during a nutrition and oral health intervention. This secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT04003493)) involved individually tailored nutritional guidance from a clinical nutritionist and oral health guidance from a dental hygienist. Baseline BMI differences were analyzed, followed by further analyses of group differences and associated factors of weight change over a 6-month period using generalized estimating equations. Among the participants (113 family caregivers and 107 care recipients), 36.3% and 35.1% were overweight (BMI >29kg/m2), while 18.6% and 21.6% were underweight (BMI <24kg/m2) at baseline, respectively. For family caregivers differences in BMI categories included age, mid-arm and calf circumferences, and plasma prealbumin concentration. For care recipients differences were observed in medication use, mid-arm and calf circumferences, Mini Nutritional Assessment scores, physical function, and number of teeth. During the 6-month intervention, there were no differences in weight change between intervention and control groups for both caregivers and care recipients. Factors significantly associated (p < 0.05) with weight loss included female sex for both caregivers and care recipients, and frailty for caregivers. Family caregivers' characteristics were not significantly associated with weight change in their care recipients. In conclusion, being overweight is a prevalent among older family caregivers and care recipients. Factors such as age, medication use, physical function, number of teeth, and Mini Nutritional Assessment scores varied across BMI categories. Female sex was associated with weight loss in both older family caregivers and care recipients, and frailty was associated with weight loss in caregivers. However, the characteristics of family caregivers did not explain the weight loss of their care recipients. Clinical Trial Registration: [https://www.ClinicalTrial.gov/], identifier [NCT04003493].

The Impact of Tuberous Breast on Adolescents: A Cross-sectional Study.

Tuberous breast deformity is a nondiagnostic, descriptive term for a congenital breast difference that becomes apparent at puberty. Although the negative physical and psychosocial effects of macromastia and breast asymmetry are established, no studies to date have explored the impact of tuberous breasts on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes using a robust sample size. In this cross-sectional study, HRQoL surveys were administered to adolescent women with tuberous breasts and healthy female controls, aged 12-21 years. Surveys included the Short-Form 36v2, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Eating Attitudes Test-26. Demographics were compared, and linear regressions were fit to determine the effect of tuberous breast deformity on survey scores, with body mass index (BMI) category as a covariate. Thirty-four patients with tuberous breasts and 264 controls participated. Patients with tuberous breasts had higher mean BMI than controls (P < 0.05). After adjusting for differences in BMI category, patients with tuberous breasts scored lower than controls on the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and in Short-Form 36v2 domains related to physical and psychological health (P < 0.05, all). Compared with controls, patients with tuberous breasts had a higher mean score on the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (P < 0.05). Tuberous breast deformity may negatively impact patients' physical and psychosocial HRQoL and increase their risk for disordered eating and higher BMIs. It is imperative that healthcare providers and third-party payors understand tuberous breast deformity is not just a cosmetic issue and tailor care and coverage policies accordingly.

Evaluation of the pulmonary responses, stride length, and perceived exertion during uphill, level, and downhill walking in various body weights involving youngsters

Background: Walking uphill and downhill on motor-driven treadmills has been included in different exercise programs for athletes or for rehabilitation purposes. The body’s response to uphill, level, and downhill walking is different, and those responses vary from one group of individuals to another. Abundant work has been done by considering the treadmill, but very few studies have been done by changing the gradient levels in these treadmills. Aim and Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate pulmonary responses, Stride Length, and perceived exertion during Uphill, Level, and Downhill walking in various Body weights among young adults in undergraduate students. The objectives were – (i) To evaluate pulmonary responses, stride length, and perceived exertion while Uphill walking; (ii) To evaluate pulmonary responses, stride length, and perceived exertion while level walking; (iii) To evaluate pulmonary responses, stride length, and perceived exertion while Downhill walking; (iv) To compare the pulmonary responses, stride length, and level of exertion experienced when walking uphill, level, and downhill. Materials and Methods: After receiving approval for the study from the institutional human ethics committee, a sample of 60 people were enrolled who were subsequently divided into three groups based on their body mass index (BMI). Each group has 20 participants: the overweight group has a BMI of 25–29 kg/m2, the normal group has a BMI of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2, and the underweight group has a BMI of &lt;18.5 kg/m2. Before being involved in the study, Informed consent was obtained after participants received a brief explanation of the study. 3 days in the laboratory were scheduled for the participants. Initially, the participant’s personal history and medical history were recorded. The anthropometric measurements were taken as per the recommended guidelines. On the 1st day, participants walked on a treadmill at level ground (0% gradient); on the second and 3rd days, they walked uphill (15% gradient) and downhill (15% gradient), respectively. For each session, tidal volume, minute breathing, and rate of perceived exertion, were measured. Results: Findings within the intergroup revealed a substantial increase in the rate of perceived effort during uphill walking among the overweight groups compared to the normal and underweight groups. None of the BMI groups experienced any appreciable changes in tidal volume or minute ventilation (MV). When the intra-group comparison was made, it was discovered that uphill walking significantly changed the tidal volume, MV, and rate of perceived exertion when compared to level and downhill walking in all the BMI categories. Conclusion: These findings provide a complete picture of the pulmonary changes carried on by the uphill, level, and downhill walking that we all perform daily as well as the variations in lung response at various body mass indices during exercise. These conclusions can therefore be used to recommend exercises for various BMI categories.

Significance of slow vital capacity, difference between slow and forced vital capacity, ratio of FEV1/SVC with increasing age and BMI in healthy males and females

Background: The slow vital capacity (SVC), forced vital capacity (FVC) difference, and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1)/SVC ratio are crucial for understanding respiratory health, especially in mild airway obstruction. These parameters are more reliable than traditional measures and are influenced by age and body mass index (BMI). Investigating their relationship can improve diagnostic accuracy and health-care interventions. Aims and Objectives: (i) To record peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), FVC, FEV1 of expiration, FEV1/FVC ratio, forced expiratory flow rate (FEF25-75%), mean forced expiratory flow rate from 0.2 to 1.2 l of volume expired (FEF.2-1.2), SVC, and find the difference between SVC and FVC, ratio of FEV1/SVC. (ii) To correlate SVC, SVC-FVC, FEV1/SVC, and other pulmonary function tests (PFTs) with age, gender, and BMI emphasizing their importance in detecting airway obstruction. (iii) To assess these known indicators of airflow obstruction in healthy individuals to gain knowledge of changing lung health with respect to advancing age, gender, and BMI. Materials and Methods: The study included 200 individuals, comprising both men and women aged between 18 and 60 years, who were in good health. The sample was divided into five age groups, and participants were classified into categories of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese based on their BMI. Standard procedures were employed to record anthropometric measurements. PEFR was measured using Wright’s peak flow meter, whereas FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of FVC (FEF25-75%), forced expiratory flow at 2-1.2 l (FEF.2-1.2), and SVC were assessed using an expirograph (Helios 401, RMS, India). Adequate statistical analysis was conducted on the gathered data. Results: There was a highly significant difference in the means of SVC, SVC-FVC, FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs (P &lt; 0.000) over the five age groups by ANOVA and a significant difference between younger and older age groups analyzed by post hoc test. It also showed a highly significant difference in the mean values of SVC, FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs over the categories of BMI and a significant difference between normal and obese groups by multiple comparisons. A small increase in mean values of SVC-FVC was seen in overweight, obese, and underweight compared to the normal BMI group. Females showed reduced mean values of SVC, FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs compared to males. (P &lt; 0.000). The mean value of SVC-FVC in females is greater than in males (P &lt; 0.01), which suggest that the tendency for airway obstruction may be greater in women compared to men due to smaller airway diameter and diffusion surface. PEFR, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25-75%, FEF.2-1.2, SVC, and FEV1/SVC were negatively correlated with age. SVC-FVC was positively correlated with age (r = 0.338, P &lt; 0.000). There was a negative correlation between PEFR, FVC, FEV1, FEF25-75%, FEF.2-1.2, SVC, and BMI. Conclusions: PFT serves as a crucial diagnostic tool in assessing respiratory health, with parameters such as FVC and FEV1 commonly utilized. However, SVC is gaining recognition for its nuanced insights into lung function. This article delves into the significance of SVC, highlights the differences between SVC and FVC, and explores the relationship between FEV1/SVC ratio, age, and BMI in healthy individuals. The current research was undertaken due to a scarcity of existing studies and demonstrated that SVC, the ratio of FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs diminish with age progression and increasing BMI. In addition, females exhibited decreased lung function, with a greater disparity between SVC and FVC than males.

The Effect of Obesity on Severity of Asthma: An Observational Prospective Study from Pakistan.

The current research study aimed to access the relationship between obesity and asthma exacerbations and severity among adult patients at the outpatient section of a federal hospital (PIMS) in Islamabad, Pakistan. A cross-sectional research study was carried out on 207 asthma adult patients belonging to different areas and ethnic groups from the country. The study setting was the PIMS hospital, which attracts patients from all over the country due to its facilities and cost-effective treatments. The body mass index (BMI) of asthma patients was calculated using the heights and weights of the study subjects. However, the pulmonary functions were calculated using a computerized spirometer i-e Spirolab III S/N 303681 in line with Winspiro PRO 7.1.version software. It presents the patient's forced vital capacity that expires in the first second of expiration to full (FEV1) in comparison to forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio, that is, Tiffeneau-Pinelli index was also recorded to determine the asthma severity. According to recent surveys, the overall prevalence of patients with overweight and obesity was 29.0% and 23.7%, respectively. A Chi-square test was used, and a statistically significant relationship was observed between BMI and asthma severity (P < 0.001). The adult obese female patients presented poor pulmonary functions. The average FEV1/FVC ratio presented significant variance among four different categories of BMI with P < 0.05. This difference was due to the normal BMI category as the Tiffeneau-Pinelli index, that is, FEV1/FVC in the normal BMI group was significantly lower as compared to that in underweight and obese patients. The study subjects presented raised asthma severity in accordance with the raised BMI. Obese patients presented comparatively raised asthma exacerbations. Moreover, a statistically significant association of gender difference was observed between obesity and asthma severity. It was concluded that adult asthmatic women with obesity presented raised asthma severity as compared to adult asthmatic males.

Postural balance and functional mobility in relation to BMI and body composition among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionThis study aimed to compare different Body Mass Index (BMI) categories, body composition parameters, postural balance, and functional mobility among female students at a College of Applied Medical Sciences; and examine the relationship between BMI and body composition with postural balance and functional mobility among female students at the college of applied medical sciences. Materials and methodsFemale students, aged 18‒25 years old. They were subdivided into four groups according to their BMI category: underweight, normal, overweight, or obese, with n = 20 participants in each group. A Bioelectrical Impedance Human Body Analyzer (BIA) was used to assess the following body composition parameters: Fat Percentage (FATP), fat mass, muscle mass, and Total Body Water (TBW). A NeuroCom Balance Master was used to assess postural balance and functional mobility. A Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was employed to assess functional mobility. All data were analyzed using SPSS. ResultsParticipants’ ages and heights were matched (p > 0.05). However, there were variables that were statistically significantly higher in terms of weight, BMI and body composition, including FATP, fat mass, muscle mass, and TBW (p = 0.000), among the obese group. Moreover, postural balance was lower among the obese group. There was a significant relationship between BMI and body composition variables in respect of postural balance but not in relation to functional mobility. ConclusionPostural instability but not functional mobility was related to higher BMI and body composition values among the study groups.

Evaluation of Exercise Program for Overweight and Obese Pediatric Participants in a Single Tertiary Center in Singapore.

Pediatric obesity is rising in prevalence. We audited the results of an exercise program for overweight and obese pediatric participants in a tertiary pediatric hospital. The main aim was to determine the program's effectiveness, with the main outcome of change in body mass index (BMI). Retrospective review of data from all pediatric participants attending the program between January 2017 and December 2022. Inclusion criteria for analysis were BMI ≥90th centile, ages 6-15, attendance in at least 2 sessions and for at least 1week. Statistical analysis was done using Generalized Additive Modeling. One hundred thirty seven participants were included. The average duration in the program was 16months (min = 1wk, max = 57mo). Majority (66%, n = 94) attended at intervals of >4weeks. Only 7% (n = 9) attended weekly. The shorter the visit intervals, the more likely the BMI loss. The greatest decrease in BMI (-0.275; 95% confidence interval, -0.381 to -0.17) was in 15-year-old obese participants with visit intervals of <1week. At the last visit, 84.7% maintained, 12.4% improved and 2.9% worsened in BMI category, respectively. Participants who attended an exercise program at least weekly demonstrated the best outcomes. Most did not adhere to the recommended frequency and thus had poorer outcomes. We have since made improvements to our program to increase visit frequency.

Direct oral anticoagulant use in hospitalized patients with atrial fibrillation across body mass index categories: design and rationale for a retrospective cohort study.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and obesity are common conditions globally; yet, there remains suboptimal pharmacological management contributing to high rates of hospitalization in patients with AF. The altered pathophysiology of both obese and underweight individuals may influence the pharmacology of medications, including those used to manage AF. This, in turn, increases the risk of adverse events and impacts patient risk for stroke and rehospitalization. Despite the well-established complications of obesity, research investigating the relationship between obesity and AF is scant. The primary aim of this study is to describe cardiovascular-related hospitalization in AF patients according to BMI categories. A secondary aim is to describe anticoagulant and antiarrhythmic prescribing practice patterns in patients with AF, according to the BMI category. A retrospective, exploratory descriptive observational cohort study, using routinely collected electronic medical record data from five public hospitals within a single health district, with a population dominantly that is culturally and linguistically diverse, and has a low socioeconomic status. Data extraction will include a 24-month period (January 2017 to December 2018) with a 12-month follow-up. All adult (⩾18 years) patients at discharge diagnosed with AF, prescribed any oral anticoagulant and/or oral rate/rhythm control agent, will be eligible for inclusion. Ethics approval from the health district and the University of Wollongong has been granted. Findings will seek to demonstrate associations between management strategies and patient outcomes, as well as describe patterns of acute care management from prescribers. These data will be used to inform and generate hypotheses for large-scale studies examining the impact of body weight on anticoagulation prescribing at national and global scales.

Changes in Obesity Prevalence Following Spinal Cord Injury: A Retrospective Review of Body Mass Index

Background: The prevalence of obesity is high in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) due to the alterations in body composition that occur as a direct result of injury. Body mass index (BMI) is used to classify body habitus. In 2009, an adjusted BMI classification, with lower thresholds for obesity, was recommended for individuals with SCI. Objective: Determine obesity prevalence before and after SCI to examine the trajectory of obesity development. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges of applying a modified BMI classification system in this population. Methods: We conducted a retrospective medical record review. Adults with traumatic SCI were selected. Height and body weight measurements were used to calculate BMI two years before injury through two years after injury. Results: Obesity prevalence is high in SCI participants. However, we report no significant difference in BMI between motor complete and incomplete injuries, or between tetraplegic or paraplegic injuries. We report a decrease in BMI from one year before injury to one- and two-years after injury for all groups. With moderate obesity before injury, the transition to a new BMI classification system creates a challenge in reducing obesity prevalence. Conclusion: Obesity prevalence encompassed nearly all participants by the second year following SCI. The adjusted BMI classification system dictates the high obesity prevalence in this population and is best used as a screening tool to track the risk of developing obesity. Exceptions should be considered when using the SCI-adjusted BMI classification system, and tissue composition analysis is preferred.

From cup to clock: exploring coffee's role in slowing down biological aging.

Background: Previous research has proposed that coffee consumption may have potential health benefits, yet the effect of coffee on one's biological age has not been determined to date. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of coffee drinking on biological aging. Methods: Participants were chosen from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and had to meet the selection criteria. Coffee consumption was evaluated through two 24-hour dietary questionnaires. Biological age was measured using both the PhenoAge and KDM-BA algorithms. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were adopted to analyze the association of coffee consumption with biological aging. Results: A total of 13 384 participants with an average daily coffee consumption of 1.73 cups were included. Participants with higher coffee consumption tended to be older, male, non-Hispanic white; had a higher educational level beyond high school; were more likely to be married; had better financial status; and were less likely to smoke or engage in excessive drinking. These individuals with higher coffee consumption exhibited a younger biological age in relation to their chronological age, as indicated by lower mean advancements in PhenoAge and KDM-BA scores. Furthermore, coffee intake was found to be inversely related to PhenoAge and KDM-BA progressions, as well as to the chances of accelerated biological aging, both in unadjusted and adjusted models. These associations remained consistent across all age and gender groups. Additionally, some heterogeneity was also observed among body mass index and physical activity categories. Conclusions: Coffee drinking was inversely related to biological age advancements and the likelihood of accelerated biological aging. Moderate coffee consumption may offer substantial benefits in reducing biological aging.

Body mass index and cognitive functioning decline: Exploring the relationship.

Cognitive functions may play an important role in the management of obesity by promoting compliance towards lifestyle-related behaviours. This study aimed to identify cognitive deficits among adults and examine their association across different Body Mass Index (BMI) categories in an Indian setting. The study is a cross-sectional survey of a sample attending a tertiary care hospital in northern India. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale was administered as part of an interview schedule to evaluate participants' cognitive performance across eight domains. The responses were analyzed to investigate the association between BMI and total MoCA scores, as well as domain-specific MoCA scores. Three hundred forty-nine participants, with a mean age of 36.9 ± 10.9 years and a BMI of 26.7 ± 4.6 kg/m2, were recruited. BMI was found to be significantly associated with the total MoCA score, indicating a negative relationship (P < 0.001). A significant negative association was found between six domain-specific scores, namely visuospatial, attention, language, abstraction, delayed recall (P < 0.001), orientation (P < 0.05), and BMI. An association between BMI and cognitive functioning (both overall and domain-specific) was observed, showing a dose-effect relationship. In these cases, visuospatial, attention, language, abstraction, delayed recall, and orientation were found to be affected.