Subscapular Skinfold Thickness Research Articles

Fetal bisphenol and phthalate exposure and early childhood growth in a New York City birth cohort

BackgroundExposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as bisphenols and phthalates during pregnancy may disrupt fetal developmental programming and influence early-life growth. We hypothesized that prenatal bisphenol and phthalate exposure was associated with alterations in adiposity through 4 years. This associations might change over time. MethodsAmong 1091 mother–child pairs in a New York City birth cohort study, we measured maternal urinary concentrations of bisphenols and phthalates at three time points in pregnancy and child weight, height, and triceps and subscapular skinfold thickness at ages 1, 2, 3, and 4 years. We used linear mixed models to assess associations of prenatal individual and grouped bisphenols and phthalates with overall and time-point-specific adiposity outcomes from birth to 4 years. ResultsWe observed associations of higher maternal urinary second trimester total bisphenol and bisphenol A concentrations in pregnancy and overall child weight between birth and 4 years only (Beta 0.10 (95 % confidence interval 0.04, 0.16) and 0.07 (0.02, 0.12) standard deviation score (SDS) change in weight per natural log increase in exposure), We reported an interaction of the exposures with time, and analysis showed associations of higher pregnancy-averaged mono-(2-carboxymethyl) phthalate with higher child weight at 3 years (0.14 (0.06, 0.22)), and of higher high-molecular-weight phthalate, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate, mono-(2-carboxymethyl) phthalate, and mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate with higher child weight at 4 years (0.16 (0.04, 0.28), 0.15 (0.03, 0.27), 0.19 (0.07, 0.31), 0.16 (0.07, 0.24), 0.11 (0.03, 0.19)). Higher pregnancy-averaged high-molecular-weight phthalate, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate, and mono-2(ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate concentrations were associated with higher child BMI at 4 years (0.20 (0.05, 0.35), 0.20 (0.05, 0.35), 0.22 (0.06, 0.37), 0.20 (0.05, 0.34), 0.20 (0.05, 0.34)). For skinfold thicknesses, we observed no associations. DiscussionThis study contributes to the evidence suggesting associations of prenatal exposure to bisphenols and high-molecular-weight phthalates on childhood weight and BMI.

Inequalities in adiposity trends between 1979 and 1999 in Guatemalan children.

Guatemala suffered from civil war and high levels of inequality and childhood stunting in the second half of the 20th century, but little is known about inequalities in secular trends in adiposity. To investigate differences in childhood body mass index (BMI) and skinfold thickness trajectories from 1979 to 1999 between three groups of children: High socioeconomic position (SEP) Ladino, Low SEP Ladino, and Low SEP Indigenous Maya. The sample comprised 19 346 children aged 7-17 years with 54 638 observations. The outcomes were height, BMI, triceps skinfold thickness (TST), and subscapular skinfold thickness (SST) Z-scores according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) references. Sex-specific multilevel models were used to estimate and compare mean trajectories from 1979 to 1999 between the three groups. Mean Z-scores were always highest for High SEP Ladino children and lowest for Low SEP Maya children. Despite their very short stature, the Low SEP groups had SST trajectories that were above the 50th centile. The BMI trajectories were relatively flat and within one major centile band of the CDC median, with differences between the three groups that were small (0.2-0.3 Z-scores) and did not attenuate over time. Conversely, the TST Z-score trajectories demonstrated larger positive secular trends (e.g., from -1.25 in 1979 to -0.06 in 1999 for Low SEP Maya boys), with differences between the three groups that were large (0.5-1.2 Z-scores) and did attenuate over time (in boys). Secular trends and between-group difference in the SST Z-score trajectories were less pronounced, but again we found stronger evidence in boys that the estimated inequalities attenuated over time. Secular trends and inequalities in skinfolds differ from those for BMI in Guatemalan children. Differences between groups in skinfolds attenuated over time, at least in boys, but whether this is good news is questionable given the very short stature yet relatively large subscapular skinfolds of the Low SEP groups.

Identification of key somatic features that are common and the ones that differ between swim strokes through allometric modeling.

The aim of this study was to explore which key somatic features are common to four swim strokes and medley, and specifically to identify which characteristics benefit only specific strokes. The sample was composed of 130 swimmers (95 males aged 19.5 ± 2.9 years and 35 females aged 18.4 ± 2.8 years). A set of anthropometric variables was used to predict swimming speed in the four swimming strokes and medley. A multiplicative model with allometric body size components was used to identify the demographic and anthropometric predictors of swimming speed. Trunk height and waist circumference were the only variables significantly different among swimming strokes (p < 0.05). Associations between swimming speed and arm length were similar in breaststroke and medley, and in freestyle, backstroke and butterfly (R2 = 60.9%). The model retained as swimming speed predictors the age2, upper body circumference, hand breadth, waist circumference, and subscapular skinfold thickness (these last two had negative associations). All these predictors were common to all four swim strokes and medley. Arm length was also retained as a significant predictor, but this one varied significantly between the four different swim strokes and medley. These findings highlight the importance of having a "V-shape" trunk, longer upper limbs, and large hands as predictors of swimming performance.

Relationships Between Exposure to Gestational Diabetes Treatment and Neonatal Anthropometry: Evidence from the Born in Bradford (BiB) Cohort

ObjectivesTo examine the relationships between gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) treatment and neonatal anthropometry.MethodsCovariate-adjusted multivariable linear regression analyses were used in 9907 offspring of the Born in Bradford cohort. GDM treatment type (lifestyle changes advice only, lifestyle changes and insulin or lifestyle changes and metformin) was the exposure, offspring born to mothers without GDM the control, and birth weight, head, mid-arm and abdominal circumference, and subscapular and triceps skinfold thickness the outcomes.ResultsLower birth weight in offspring exposed to insulin (− 117.2 g (95% CI − 173.8, − 60.7)) and metformin (− 200.3 g (− 328.5, − 72.1)) compared to offspring not exposed to GDM was partly attributed to lower gestational age at birth and greater proportion of Pakistani mothers in the treatment groups. Higher subscapular skinfolds in offspring exposed to treatment compared to those not exposed to GDM was partly attributed to higher maternal glucose concentrations at diagnosis. In fully adjusted analyses, offspring exposed to GDM treatment had lower weight, smaller abdominal circumference and skinfolds at birth than those not exposed to GDM. Metformin exposure was associated with smaller offspring mid-arm circumference (− 0.3 cm (− 0.6, − 0.07)) than insulin exposure in fully adjusted models with no other differences found.Conclusions for PracticeOffspring exposed to GDM treatment were lighter and smaller at birth than those not exposed to GDM. Metformin-exposed offspring had largely comparable birth anthropometric characteristics to those exposed to insulin.

Measurement of body composition by deuterium oxide dilution technique and development of a predictive equation for body fat mass among severe neurologically impaired children.

Neurologically impaired (NI) children are at risk of malnutrition, which consequently impacts their health and quality of life. Accurate nutrition assessment is an important step in guiding appropriate nutrition support. Conventional anthropometric measurements among NI children have some limitations. Determining body composition requires more complex equipment, which is not routinely performed. This study was conducted to evaluate the association between anthropometric parameters and body composition assessed using the deuterium dilution technique (DDT) in NI children. A cross-sectional study enrolled severe NI children aged 1-20 years who received home enteral nutrition for at least 3 months. Weight, length, and 4-site skinfold thickness were measured. Body composition was determined using DDT following the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) protocol. A total of 37 NI children (56.76% male, median age 7.2 years) were enrolled. The prevalence of underweight, stunting, and overweight were 22, 38, and 35%, respectively. Body composition analysis showed the mean (SD) of total body water (TBW) and fat mass (FM) were 10.52 (4.51) kg and 9.51 (6.04) kg, respectively. Multivariate GLM analysis showed that the factors associated with FM were age (β = 0.07 [0.05,0.08]; p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (β = 0.82 [0.52, 1.12]; p < 0.001), biceps skinfold thickness (BSF) (β = 0.49 [0.23,0.75]; p = 0.001), and subscapular skinfold thickness (SSF) (β = -0.24 [-0.46,0.03]; p = 0.030). A predictive equation for FM was constructed. A high prevalence of malnutrition was found among severe NI children despite enteral nutrition support. Our findings showed that age, BMI, BSF, and SSF were associated with FM. The predictive equation of FM was proposed and needed to be further validated and applied to clinical practice.

Effects of laser acupuncture on anthropometric parameters and lipid profile in obese adolescents

The purpose was to compare the effects of diet and exercise and laser interference and maneuver on anthropometric parameters and blood effects of object agents. The study was a randomized controlled longitudinal study. It included 45 adolescents from both sexes who were divided randomly into two groups: one group was treated with low calorie diet and exercise as group A and group B was treated with low calorie diet, exercise, and laser acupuncture. All parameters and blood samples were done before and after the interventions. Group A showed a highly significant reduction post intervention in anthropometric parameters: triceps skin fold thickness (SFT), biceps SFT, subscapular SFT, suprailiac SFT, abdominal SFT, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), waist C, and hip C, except for waste/hip (W/H) ratio which showed no significant difference,p > 0.05 and some lipid profiles (cholesterol, LDL) with p < 0.001 Whereas, a significant decrease in TG was observed (p < 0.05). On the other hand, a significant increase in HDL was observed (p < 0.05). Group B (LCD + exercise + LA) showed a highly significant reduction post intervention in anthropometric parameters: triceps SFT, biceps SFT, subscapular SFT, suprailiac SFT, abdominal SFT, MUAC, waist C, and Hip C, except for W/H ratio which showed no significant difference,p > 0.05 and lipid profile: cholesterol, LDL, and TG with (p < 0.001), whereas a highly significant increase in HDL was observed (p < 0.001). The current study revealed a significant difference between group A and group B regarding the percentage of change, where the highest values were found in group B compared to group A, in anthropometric parameters (weight, BMI, subscapular SFT, MUAC, waist circumference) and some lipid profiles (LDL and HDL) with p < 0.05. Laser acupuncture was a safe, easy, and more effective tool with extra effect in management of obesity when added to diet and exercise on anthropometric parameters and lipid profile.

Association between Consumption of Ultra-Processed Food and Body Composition of Adults in a Capital City of a Brazilian Region.

The present study investigates the relationship between the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and anthropometric indices of body composition in adults and seniors living in Teresina, the state capital of an area in northeastern Brazil. The article seeks to address two questions: Is UPF consumption linked to worsening body composition in different age groups? Do anthropometric indicators of body composition change with the increasing consumption of UPF? The study is a cross-sectional, household, population study, carried out with 490 adults and seniors. The food consumption was obtained with a 24 h food recall, and the foods were classified using NOVA. Anthropometric indicators evaluated were waist-to-height ratio, triceps skinfold thickness, arm circumference, corrected arm muscle area, subscapular skinfold thickness, and calf circumference. The association between energy contribution of UPF with anthropometric indicators was verified with a simple and multiple linear regression analysis. Individuals aged 20 to 35 years showed a significant association between UPF consumption and skinfold thickness (ß: 0.04; CI: 0.03/0.09), demonstrating an increase in this subcutaneous body fat marker with higher UPF consumption. Moreover, in participants aged 36 to 59 years, an inverse correlation between UPF intake and muscle mass markers, arm circumference (ß: -0.02; confidence interval: -0.03/-0.01), and corrected arm muscle area (ß: -0.07; confidence interval: -0.12/-0.02) were observed. Such results suggest there is decreased muscle mass with increasing UPF consumption. This is the first study that verified an association between UPF consumption and low-cost body composition indicators in different age groups.

Anthropometric measures and arsenic methylation among pregnant women in rural northern Bangladesh

IntroductionArsenic methylation converts inorganic arsenic (iAs) to monomethyl (MMA) and dimethyl (DMA) arsenic compounds. Body mass index (BMI) has been positively associated with arsenic methylation efficiency (higher DMA%) in adults, but evidence in pregnancy is inconsistent. We estimated associations between anthropometric measures and arsenic methylation among pregnant women in rural northern Bangladesh. MethodsWe enrolled pregnant women (n = 784) (median [IQR] gestational week: 14 [13, 15]) in Gaibandha District, Bangladesh from 2018 to 2019. Anthropometric measures were BMI, subscapular and triceps skinfold thicknesses, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), fat area (MUAFA), and muscle area (MUAMA). Arsenic methylation measures were urinary iAs, MMA, and DMA divided by their sum and multiplied by 100 (iAs%, MMA%, and DMA%), primary methylation index (MMA/iAs; PMI), and secondary methylation index (DMA/MMA; SMI). In complete cases (n = 765 [97.6%]), we fitted linear, beta, and Dirichlet regression models to estimate cross-sectional differences in iAs%, MMA%, DMA%, PMI, and SMI per IQR-unit difference in each anthropometric measure, adjusting for drinking water arsenic, age, gestational age, education, living standards index, and plasma folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine. ResultsMedian (IQR) BMI, subscapular skinfold thickness, triceps skinfold thickness, MUAC, MUAFA, and MUAMA were 21.5 (19.4, 23.8) kg/m2, 17.9 (13.2, 24.2) mm, 14.2 (10.2, 18.7) mm, 25.9 (23.8, 28.0) cm, 15.3 (10.5, 20.3) cm2, and 29.9 (25.6, 34.2) cm2, respectively. Median (IQR) iAs%, MMA%, DMA%, PMI, and SMI were 12.0 (9.3, 15.2)%, 6.6 (5.3, 8.3)%, 81.0 (77.1, 84.6)%, 0.6 (0.4, 0.7), and 12.2 (9.3, 15.7), respectively. In both unadjusted and adjusted linear models, all anthropometric measures were negatively associated with iAs%, MMA%, and PMI and positively associated with DMA% and SMI. For example, fully adjusted mean differences (95% CI) in DMA% per IQR-unit difference in BMI, subscapular skinfolds thickness, triceps skinfold thickness, MUAC, MUAFA, and MUAMA were 1.72 (1.16, 2.28), 1.58 (0.95, 2.21), 1.74 (1.11, 2.37), 1.45 (0.85, 2.06), 1.70 (1.08, 2.31), and 0.70 (0.13, 1.27) pp, respectively. ConclusionsAnthropometric measures were positively associated with arsenic methylation efficiency among pregnant women in the early second trimester.

Maternal diet quality and associations with body composition and diet quality of preschool children: A longitudinal study.

Nutrition, associated with nutritional status, influences the growth of children. This study aimed to identify the association between maternal diet quality and the diet and body composition of their children. This is a prospective longitudinal study with mother-child pairs. To assess diet quality, nutritional status, and socioeconomic data, two interviews in the children's first and third months of life (2011-2016) and one interview when children were of preschool age (2017-2019) were performed. Diet quality was assessed based on daily food consumption and frequency, considering: 1) food groups, based on the Brazilian food pyramid; 2) level of processing, according to the NOVA classification (unprocessed and/or minimally processed foods, processed foods and ultra-processed foods). One-way ANOVA with Tukey post hoc and Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn's post hoc tests were used to evaluate the influence of factors on children's diet quality. Pearson and Spearman's correlations were used to evaluate the relationship between maternal and children's diet quality, maternal schooling level, and child age. Along with the nutritional assessment of children, multiple linear regression models assessed the impact of covariables on maternal and children's diet quality. Eighty-three mother-child pairs participated in this study. The more frequent the maternal consumption of unprocessed and/or minimally processed foods, the higher the consumption of these foods by children (r = +0.30; p = 0.006) and the lower their subscapular skinfold (SSF) thickness (p = 0.011; β = -0.278). On the other hand, the higher the maternal consumption of ultra-processed foods, the higher the children's tricipital skinfold (TSF) thickness (p = 0.010; β = +0.274) and SSF (p = 0.043; β = +0.222). Maternal diet quality was associated with the diet and body composition of children.

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.

Влияние дополнительной нутритивной поддержки на нутритивный статус и переносимость химиотерапии у детей в реальной практике противотуберкулезного диспансера

Aim: in conditions of the real clinical practise, to evaluate the effect of nutritional support (NS) with a hypercaloric polymer formula with dietary fibers on the nutritional status of children with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) who started chemotherapy, as well as the possible NS impact on the chemotherapy efficacy and tolerability. Patients and Methods: a retrospective and prospective, partial cross-sectional cohort study was conducted. The main group (prospective) included 23 children with an established diagnosis of pulmonary TB and I–III degree underweight. In the comparison group (retrospective), 20 children were selected who corresponded to the main characteristics of the main group patients. Main group, in addition to a balanced individually selected hospital diet, received NS with a hypercaloric polymer formula with dietary fibers in the amount of 100 ml 2 times a day on a daily basis (300 kcal/day). The patient's body weight, height, subscapular skinfold thickness, body mass index (BMI) Z-score, hemoglobin level, total protein, urine specific gravity, chemotherapy tolerance and NS product tolerance (in the main group) were assessed initially and after 3 months. Results: the study demonstrated that the NS use has a significant positive effect on the nutritional status (body weight, height, BMI) of children with malnutrition who received chemotherapy in pulmonary TB. NS use with a specialized product contributed to a significant improvement in blood parameters (an increase in hemoglobin and total protein count) and normalization of urine specific density versus the comparison group, which achieved no significant improvement in these indicators. The good tolerability of the specialized product helped to reduce the risk of adverse events during daily chemotherapy administration by 65.2%, which improved treatment adherence. Conclusion: the obtained results confirmed the NS administration efficacy for children with diagnosed pulmonary TB during chemotherapy indicated to normalize the nutritional status. KEYWORDS: tuberculosis, children, adverse events, nutritional support, adherence, efficacy. FOR CITATION: Barbolina S.F., Naumov A.G., Ovchinnikova O.A., Bikbaev R.R. Nutritional support effect on the nutritional status and tolerability of chemotherapy in children in the real clinical practice of the tuberculosis dispensary. Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2023;6(4):405–410 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2023-6-4-13.

Estimativa da massa gorda em adolescentes do sexo feminino do sul do Brasil: desenvolvimento e validação de modelos matemáticos

abstract This study aimed to develop and validate the first mathematical models, based on anthropometric properties, to estimate fat mass (FM) in a heterogeneous sample of female adolescents. A cross-sectional and quantitative study conducted with 196 individuals aged 12 to 17 years from the metropolitan region of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: regression sample (n = 169) and validation sample (n = 27). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used as the reference method to determine body fat in relative and absolute values. Stature, body mass, waist girth and triceps, subscapular, biceps, iliac crest, abdominal, front thigh and medial calf skinfold thickness were defined as independent variables and measured according to an international technical protocol. Statistical analyzes used the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression model, paired t test and Pearson correlation. Four multivariate mathematical models with high determination coefficients (R2 ≥90%) and low estimated standard errors (SEE = ≤2.02 kg) were developed. Model 4 stands out for its low number of independent variables and significant statistical performance (R2 = 90%; SEE = 1.92 kg). It is concluded that the four mathematical models developed are valid for estimating FM in female adolescents in southern Brazil.

Gestational diabetes in women with obesity; an analysis of clinical history and simple clinical/anthropometric measures.

We assessed clinical risk factors, anthropometric measures of adiposity and weight gain to determine associations with development of GDM in a cohort of pregnant women with obesity. This was a secondary analysis of the UPBEAT trial of a complex lifestyle intervention in pregnant women with obesity (ISRCTN89971375). Clinical risk factors, and measures of adiposity and weight were assessed in the early 2nd trimester (mean 17 +0 weeks), and adiposity and weight repeated in the early 3rd trimester (mean 27 +5 weeks'). Of the 1117 women (median BMI 35.0 kg/m2) with complete data, 25.8% (n = 304) developed GDM (IADPSG criteria, OGTT 24-28weeks). Using multivariable analysis, early clinical risk factors associated with later development of GDM included age (adj OR 1.06 per year; 95% CI 1.04-1.09), previous GDM (3.27; 1.34-7.93) and systolic blood pressure (per 10mmHg, 1.34; 1.18-1.53). Anthropometric measures positively associated with GDM included second trimester (mean 17+0 weeks) subscapular skinfold thickness, (per 5mm, 1.12; 1.05-1.21), and neck circumference (per cm, 1.11; 1.05-1.18). GDM was not associated with gestational weight gain, or changes in skinfolds thicknesses or circumferences between visits. In this cohort of women with obesity, we confirmed clinical risk factors for GDM, (age, systolic blood pressure) previously identified in heterogeneous weight women but add to these indices of adiposity which may provide a discriminatory approach to GDM risk assessment in this group. This study also underscores the need to focus on modifiable factors pre-pregnancy as an opportunity for GDM prevention, as targeting gestational weight gain and adiposity during pregnancy is likely to be less effective.

Breastfeeding duration is associated with higher adiposity at 6-8 months of age.

Breastfeeding (BF) has been identified as a protective factor against childhood obesity. However, evidence ofthe association between BF duration and adiposity remains inconclusive. Few studies have been conducted among Southeast Asian infants that have measured body composition during infancy using the gold standard stable isotope method. This study aimed to evaluate the association between BF duration and body composition during infancy. Healthy full-term Thai infants aged 6-8 months (n = 60) receiving exclusive or predominant BF for at least 3 months were recruited. Skinfold thickness (SFT) was measured by well-trained investigators. Body composition was assessed by the deuterium dilution technique. Infants with longer BF duration (>6 months; mean 7.5 ± 0.5 months, n = 29) had a higher subscapular SFT z-score than those with shorter BF duration (≤6 months; mean 5.3± 0.9 months, n = 31) by 0.48 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01-0.94). After adjustment for age and sex, BF duration and age at introduction of complementary feeding (CF) were positively associated with fat mass and fat mass index at 6-8 months. One month increase in BF duration and CF age was associated with a 0.37 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.69) kg/m2 and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.18, 1.34) kg/m2 increase in the fat mass index, respectively. After adjusting for infant body mass index (BMI) during the earlier infancy period, the strength of the association was attenuated. This finding may reflect reverse causality where infants with lower BMI received formula or CF earlier. A longitudinal study with follow-up into childhood is warranted to confirm the effects of BF on adiposity in infancy and childhood.

Prediction of fat-free mass in a multi-ethnic cohort of infants using bioelectrical impedance: Validation against the PEA POD.

BackgroundBioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is widely used to measure body composition but has not been adequately evaluated in infancy. Prior studies have largely been of poor quality, and few included healthy term-born offspring, so it is unclear if BIA can accurately predict body composition at this age.AimThis study evaluated impedance technology to predict fat-free mass (FFM) among a large multi-ethnic cohort of infants from the United Kingdom, Singapore, and New Zealand at ages 6 weeks and 6 months (n = 292 and 212, respectively).Materials and methodsUsing air displacement plethysmography (PEA POD) as the reference, two impedance approaches were evaluated: (1) empirical prediction equations; (2) Cole modeling and mixture theory prediction. Sex-specific equations were developed among ∼70% of the cohort. Equations were validated in the remaining ∼30% and in an independent University of Queensland cohort. Mixture theory estimates of FFM were validated using the entire cohort at both ages.ResultsSex-specific equations based on weight and length explained 75–81% of FFM variance at 6 weeks but only 48–57% at 6 months. At both ages, the margin of error for these equations was 5–6% of mean FFM, as assessed by the root mean squared errors (RMSE). The stepwise addition of clinically-relevant covariates (i.e., gestational age, birthweight SDS, subscapular skinfold thickness, abdominal circumference) improved model accuracy (i.e., lowered RMSE). However, improvements in model accuracy were not consistently observed when impedance parameters (as the impedance index) were incorporated instead of length. The bioimpedance equations had mean absolute percentage errors (MAPE) < 5% when validated. Limits of agreement analyses showed that biases were low (< 100 g) and limits of agreement were narrower for bioimpedance-based than anthropometry-based equations, with no clear benefit following the addition of clinically-relevant variables. Estimates of FFM from BIS mixture theory prediction were inaccurate (MAPE 11–12%).ConclusionThe addition of the impedance index improved the accuracy of empirical FFM predictions. However, improvements were modest, so the benefits of using bioimpedance in the field remain unclear and require further investigation. Mixture theory prediction of FFM from BIS is inaccurate in infancy and cannot be recommended.

Diversity of change in body mass index and skinfold thickness between different study courses within four years of study among the male students in a university in Poland

Objective: This study examined whether there were significant changes (expectedly increase) in BMI (Body Mass Index), and relative subcutaneous body fat during the four years of study in a university and compared these changes between the students of different courses, viz., Computer science, Law and administration, Humanities and Physical education. Design: This was a prospective follow up study with measurements at two time points with gap of four years. Body mass index, Triceps, subscapular, mid-axillary, abdominal, supra-illiac and medial-calf skinfold thicknesses were measured at two points of time, just after entrance to university and again after completion of four years. Student’s T-test, one-way ANOVA, and repeated measures ANNOVA (two-way) were employed to assess significance of differences in anthropometric measures between groups of students. Setting: The study was conducted at the University of Rzeszów, Poland. Participants: 191 young men university students aged approximately 19.5 years and 24.0 years, at the beginning and after four years, respectively, during this study. Results: Students of all courses underwent increments in BMI, absolute- and relative skinfold thicknesses, except that the students of physical education course did not show change in skinfold thicknesses relative to BMI. Conclusions: It has been concluded that the change in the adiposity profile during the years of study at university varied according to the course types. Further, detailed studies on the nature and cause of such variation occurring between course types may lead to better understanding etiology of overweight and obesity before entering to adult life.

The effect of calf and thigh circumferences in determining brain lesion characteristics in patients with acute stroke: A hospital-based study

The role of stroke risk factors in stroke patterning and differentiation is poorly investigated, especially for measures of body composition. This study aimed to investigate the effect of skinfold thickness, waist and limb circumference measurements in patterning and differentiation of stroke in hospitalized patients. Prospective study of acute stroke patients hospitalized in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Nigeria was conducted in 16 months. Biceps brachii, triceps brachii, suprailiac and subscapular skinfold thickness measurements were taken using Skyndex Research Caliper. Upper arm, waist, thigh, and calf circumferences were taken, using an inelastic measuring tape according to the same standards. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, unpaired sample t-test, and Binary logistic regression using SPSS IBM version 20. The results shown that the studied anthropometric parameters, do not only predispose to stroke but tend to determine the specific stroke pathologic type. Thigh circumference predisposes more, and calf circumference predisposes less to ischemic stroke subtype. This means that these studied anthropometric parameters can predict stroke subtype and serve as predisposing factors conclusively.

Associations of Cord Blood Lipids with Childhood Adiposity at the Age of Three Years: A Prospective Birth Cohort Study.

We aimed to examine the associations between cord blood lipids and childhood adiposity and to investigate whether these associations vary across birth weight categories (small for gestational age (SGA), appropriate for gestational age (AGA) and large for gestational age (LGA)) in 1306 infants in the Born in Guangzhou Cohort Study, China. Adiposity outcomes at the age of three years included z-scores of weight-for-length/height (WFLZ), body mass index (BMIZ), subscapular (SSTZ) and triceps skinfold thickness (TSTZ), and the sum of skinfold thicknesses (SSFTZ). Cord blood triglycerides (TG) levels were negatively associated with WFLZ and BMIZ, whereas high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were positively associated with WFLZ, BMIZ, TSTZ and SSFTZ. These associations were attenuated after adjustment for birth weight. Stratified analyses revealed that total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were positively associated with childhood adiposity indicators among AGA infants but tended to be negatively associated with the adiposity indicators among LGA infants (p values for interaction <0.05). Furthermore, TG levels appeared to be positively associated with adiposity indicators among SGA infants but negatively associated with the outcomes among LGA infants (p values for interaction <0.05). Cord blood lipids levels might be associated with childhood adiposity, and these associations appear to differ across different birth weight categories. If confirmed in future studies, our findings suggest that individualized management plans might be warranted in preventing obesity.

The Relationship between A Skinfold Thicknesses with Level of High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Elderly Woman

Aging causes changes in body composition such as a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in adiposity associated with inflammation. High sensitivity C-reactive protein is the marker of inflammation. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between Skinfold Thicknesses with the Level of High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Elderly women. This observational study used a cross-sectional design. Subjects were determined using consecutive sampling and adjusted for inclusion criteria with minimal sample were 53 subjects. Data collected were skinfold thicknesses measured with skinfold caliper and serum HsCRP analyzed by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), physical activity level measured by International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and dietary intake measured by food recall 3 x 24 hours. Data analysis using Ranks Spearman correlation test. The median value thickness of the biceps is 17.94 ± 10.60 mm, the thickness of the triceps skinfold thickness is 23.40 ± 8.06 mm, the subscapular skinfold thickness is 14.95 ± 7.48 mm, the suprailiac skinfold thickness is 17.00 ± 8.85 mm while the median HsCRP serum 2.09 ± 2.11 mg/L is classified as moderate. There was a relationship between suprailiac skinfold thickness (r = 0.45 p = 0.001) and subscapular (r =0.40 p =0.003). However, there was no relationship between biceps skinfold thickness (r =0.29 p =0.34) and triceps (r=0.75 p =0.47) with HsCRP levels. There was a significant relationship between suprailiac and subscapular skinfold thickness. However, there was no significant relationship between biceps and triceps skinfold thickness.

Vascular aging in the young: New carotid stiffness centiles and association with general and abdominal obesity – The KIGGS cohort

Background and aimsThe evidence for an association between obesity and increased carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and carotid stiffness (CS) in the young has been limited by methodological challenges related to study populations, measurements, methods of percentile derivation and comprehensiveness of obesity markers investigated. This nationwide general population study developed new CS and CIMT centiles in the young and used them to study associations with body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-height-ratio, bioimpedance-derived absolute and relative fat mass, fat-free mass, subscapular skinfold thickness and blood pressure. MethodsIn its 11-year follow-up, the KiGGS cohort, which is based on a nationally representative sample, included semi-automated state-of-the-art sonographic CIMT and CS measurements in 4,709 participants aged 14 to 28. Distensibility coefficient (DC), stiffness index β, Young's elastic modulus (YEM) and Peterson's elastic modulus (Ep) centiles were modelled by sex, age and height simultaneously. ResultsCS increased with age in both sexes, and young men had stiffer arteries than young women at all ages. All obesity measures at baseline and at follow-up, except for subscapular skinfold thickness, were positively associated with several CS parameters with moderate relative risks (RR), e.g. cross-sectional RR 2.23 (95% CI 1.26–3.93) for DC ≥ 90th percentile when waist circumference ≥90th percentile; RR 5.98 (3.38–10.56) for elevated DC associated with simultaneously elevated waist circumference and BP. ConclusionsThese new state-of-the-art CS percentiles show consistent associations of obesity with CS in the young and support primary prevention efforts starting at a young age.