Body surface scan anthropometrics are associated with grip strength in the general population.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Body shape and anthropometrics are well-known risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and mortality. Hand-grip strength (HGS) is also a meaningful marker of health and a promising predictor of CVD and mortality. There is a lack of studies that have systematically investigated associations between body shape and anthropometrics with HGS. In a population-based study, we investigated if anthropometric markers derived from 3D body scanning are related to HGS. METHODS AND RESULTS: We used the data of 1,599 individuals aged 36 to 93 years, who participated in the Study of Health in Pomerania. A total of 87 anthropometric markers, determined by a 3D body scanner, were included in the analysis. Anthropometric measurements were standardized and used as exposure variables. HGS was measured with a hand dynamometer and used as outcome. Sex-stratified linear regression models adjusted for age and height were used to relate standardized anthropometrics and HGS. Anthropometric markers were ranked according to -log-p-values. In men, left and right forearm circumference, left arm length to neck (C7), left forearm length, and forearm-fingertip length were most strongly related to HGS. In women, right forearm circumference, forearm-fingertip length, shoulder breadth, left forearm circumference, and right wrist circumference showed the most significant associations with HGS. The final prediction models contained 13 anthropometric markers in males (R2=0.54) and eight anthropometric markers in females (R2=0.37). CONCLUSIONS: The identified parameters may help estimate HGS in the clinical setting. However, studies in clinical settings are essential to validating our findings.

Associations between 47 anthropometric markers derived from a body scanner and relative fat-free mass in a population-based study.

BACKGROUND: Low relative fat free mass (FFM) is associated with a greater risk of chronic diseases and mortality. Unfortunately, FFM is currently not being measured regularly to allow for individuals therapy. OBJECTIVE: One reason why FFM is not being used may be related to additional equipment and resources, thus we aimed to identify easily accessible anthropometric markers related with FFM. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed data of 1,593 individuals (784 women; 49.2%, age range 28-88 years) enrolled in the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP-TREND 1). Forty-seven anthropometric markers were derived from a 3D optical body-scanner. FFM was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (FFMBIA) or air displacement plethysmography (FFMADP). In sex-stratified linear regression models, FFM was regressed on anthropometric measurements adjusted for body height and age. Anthropometric markers were ranked according to the coefficient of determination (R2) derived from these regression models. RESULTS: Circumferences of high hip, belly, middle hip, waist and high waist showed the strongest inverse associations with FFM. These relations were stronger in females than in males. Associations of anthropometric markers with FFMAPD were greater compared to FFMBIA. CONCLUSION: Anthropometric measures were more strongly associated with FFMADP compared to FFMBIA. Anthropometric markers like circumferences of the high or middle hip, belly or waist may be appropriate surrogates for FFM to aid in individualized therapy. Given that the identified markers are representative of visceral adipose tissue, the connection between whole body strength as surrogate for FFM and fat mass should be explored in more detail.

Administration of silymarin in NAFLD/NASH: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease with a high prevalence worldwide and poses serious harm to human health. There is growing evidence suggesting that the administration of specific supplements or nutrients may slow NAFLD progression. Silymarin is a hepatoprotective extract of milk thistle, but its efficacy in NAFLD remains unclear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Relevant studies were searched in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, clinicaltrails.gov, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure and were screened according to the eligibility criteria. Data were analyzed using Revman 5.3. Continuous values and dichotomous values were pooled using the standard mean difference (SMD) and odds ratio (OR). Heterogeneity was evaluated using the Cochran's Q test (I2 statistic). A P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 26 randomized controlled trials involving 2,375 patients were included in this study. Administration of silymarin significantly reduced the levels of TC (SMD[95%CI]=-0.85[-1.23, -0.47]), TG (SMD[95%CI]=-0.62[-1.14, -0.10]), LDL-C (SMD[95%CI]=-0.81[-1.31, -0.31]), FI (SMD[95%CI]=-0.59[-0.91, -0.28]) and HOMA-IR (SMD[95%CI]=-0.37[-0.77, 0.04]), and increased the level of HDL-C (SMD[95%CI]=0.46[0.03, 0.89]). In addition, silymarin attenuated liver injury as indicated by the decreased levels of ALT (SMD[95%CI]=-12.39[-19.69, -5.08]) and AST (SMD[95% CI]=-10.97[-15.51, -6.43]). The levels of fatty liver index (SMD[95%CI]=-6.64[-10.59, -2.69]) and fatty liver score (SMD[95%CI]=-0.51[-0.69, -0.33]) were also decreased. Liver histology of the intervention group revealed significantly improved hepatic steatosis (OR[95%CI]=3.25[1.80, 5.87]). CONCLUSIONS: Silymarin can regulate energy metabolism, attenuate liver damage, and improve liver histology in NAFLD patients. However, the effects of silymarin will need to be confirmed by further research.

How do Age at the Surgery and Birth Weight Influence Post-Operative Anthropometric Parameters in Infants with Surgical Closure of Large Ventricular Septal Defects? A Prospective Cohort Study from a Lower-Middle-Income Country.

Closure of the large ventricular septal defects (VSD) in infancy can lead to normalization of growth, but data are limited. Our study is done to assess the growth pattern in different age groups of children and lower birth weight babies after shunt closure. This is a prospective observational study that included infants with isolated large VSD operated in infancy. Anthropometric data were collected at baseline and at follow-up, and growth patterns were analyzed. 99 infants were included in the study. The mean age and weight at the time of surgery were 6.97 ± 2.79 months and 5.07 ± 1.16 kg, respectively. The mean follow-up duration was 8.99 ± 2.31 months. The weight for age (W/A) was the most adversely affected parameter preoperatively, and there was significant improvement noted in the mean Z score for W/A after shunt closure (- 3.67 ± 1.18 vs. - 1.76 ± 1.14, p = 0.0012). There was improvement in Z-scores for length for age (L/A) and weight for length (W/L), although it was not statistically significant. The infants from all the age groups had statistically significant growth in the anthropometric parameters. The rate of weight gain was maximum in the infants operated below 8 months of age (2-4 months = 3588 g, 5-6 months = 3592 g, 7-8 months = 3606 g, 9-10 months = 2590 g, 11-12 months = 2250 g). Low birth weight and normal birth weight infants had similar Z-scores at the time of surgery and at follow-up in all 3 anthropometric parameters, and birth weight did not affect pre- as well as post-operative growth parameters. Suboptimal improvement in weight and length was seen in 40 and 20% of babies even after successful surgical repair, respectively. Growth failure in infants with a large VSD can be multifactorial. Early surgical closure of the shunt can lead to early normalization of growth parameters and faster catch-up growth. Few babies may fail to demonstrate a positive growth response even after timely surgical correction, and may be related to intrauterine and genetic factors or faulty feeding habits.

Pancreatic stiffness and anthropometric parameters in healthy volunteers.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to define the values of percutaneous ultrasound shear-wave and strain elastography of the pancreas in healthy volunteers. METHODS: This is a single-center prospective study conducted on volunteers who underwent examination of percutaneous point shear­wave elastography and strain elastography. Both the shear-wave speed (Vs) and strain histogram were measured 3 times and median values were evaluated. Relevant recorded clinical data were age, sex, and height. RESULTS:  From May 2020 to October 2021 a total of 90 patients (21 male, 69 female) were included in the study. Their average age was 26 years (from 22 to 65). The average SWM in kPa was 6.07 (2.58-17.29). The average value of SE was 134.44 (78.51-184.35). Most of the patients had BMI in the range of normal weight with an average value of 22.75 (17.5-28). The average depth of the localization of the pancreas was 4.5 cm. The effect of BMI on the strain histogram was significant (p < 0.05). We found a significant relationship between the strain histogram and the depth of localization of the pancreas (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION:  We described normal values for pancreatic stiffness using ultrasound elastography by 2D-SWE and strain elastography. Our results indicate changes in values depending on BMI and depth of the pancreas. (Tab. 1, Fig. 5, Ref. 19).

Antiobesity and Hypolipidemic Potential of Nitraria retusa Extract in Overweight/Obese Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study.

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of Nitraria retusa extract (NRE) in reducing weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat composition (BF), and anthropometric parameters among overweight/obese women, comparing the results with those of a placebo group. Overweight/obese individuals participated in a 12-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Body weight, BMI, body composition, and anthropometric parameters were assessed. Additionally, lipid profile and safety evaluation parameters were evaluated. Compared to the placebo group, the NRE group exhibited a mean weight loss difference of 2.27 kg (p < 0.001) at the trial's conclusion. Interestingly, the most significant weight reduction, amounting to 3.34 kg ± 0.93, was observed in younger participants with a BMI > 30.0. Similarly, BMI and BF% significantly decreased in the NRE group, contrary to the placebo group (p = 0.008 and p = 0.005, respectively). The percentage of body water (BW) (p = 0.006) as well as the ratio of LBM/BF (p = 0.039) showed a significant increase after the NRE intervention compared to the placebo. After age adjustment, all variables, except LBM/BF, retained statistical significance. Additionally, all anthropometric parameters were significantly reduced only in the NRE group. Most importantly, a significant reduction in Triglyceride (TG) levels in the NRE group was revealed, in contrast to the placebo group (p = 0.011), and the significance was still observed after age adjustment (p = 0.016). No side effects or adverse changes in kidney and liver function tests were observed in both groups. In conclusion, NRE demonstrated potent antiobesity effects, suggesting that NRE supplementation may represent an effective alternative for treating obesity compared to antiobesity synthetic drugs.

The effect of coconut oil and palm oil on anthropometric parameters: a clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: During recent years several studies have investigated the impact of different dietary oils on body weight. They have shown differential positive and negative effects on anthropometry. We investigated the effects of palm and coconut oils on body weight and other anthropometric parameters, considering their importance as a primary source of saturated fat, controlling for other confounding variable such as total energy intake. METHODS: The study was conducted as a sequential feeding clinical trial with 40 healthy men and women divided into two feeding periods of initial palm oil (8 weeks) and subsequent coconut oil (8 weeks), with a 16-week washout period in between. Each participant received a pre-determined volume of each oil, which were integrated into their routine main meals and snacks during the respective study periods. Changes in body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were evaluated. Physical activity levels and dietary intake were also evaluated as potential confounding factors. RESULTS: Thirty-seven participants completed both oil treatment periods. The mean (± SD) age of the participants was 39 (± 13.1) years. There were no significant differences in any of the anthropometric parameters between the initial point of feeding coconut oil and the initial point of feeding palm oil. Following both oil treatment phases, no significant changes in the subjects' body weight, BMI, or other anthropometric measurements (WC, HC, and WHR) were observed. CONCLUSION: Neither coconut oil nor palm oil significantly changed anthropometry-related cardiovascular risk factors such as body weight, BMI, WC, HC, and WHR. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Sri Lankan Clinical Trial Registry: SLCTR/2019/034 on 4th October 2019 ( https://slctr.lk/trials/slctr-2019-034 ).

Genetic polymorphisms in the angiotensin converting enzyme, actinin 3 and paraoxonase 1 genes in women with diabetes and hypertension

ABSTRACT Objective: To study associations between polymorphisms in the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE I/D), actinin 3 (ACTN3 R577X) and paraoxonase 1 (PON1 T(-107)C) genes and chronic diseases (diabetes and hypertension) in women. Materials and methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from saliva samples of 78 women between 18 and 59 years old used for genetic polymorphism screening. Biochemical data were collected from the medical records in Basic Health Units from Southern Brazil. Questionnaires about food consumption, physical activity level and socioeconomic status were applied. Results: The XX genotype of ACTN3 was associated with low HDL levels and high triglycerides, total cholesterol and glucose levels. Additionally, high triglycerides and LDL levels were observed in carriers of the TT genotype of PON1, and lower total cholesterol levels were associated to the CC genotype. As expected, women with diabetes/hypertense had increased body weight, BMI (p = 0.02), waist circumference (p = 0.01), body fat percentage, blood pressure (p = 0.02), cholesterol, triglycerides (p = 0.02), and blood glucose (p = 0.01), when compared to the control group. Conclusion: Both ACTN3 R577X and PON1 T(-107)C polymorphisms are associated with nutritional status and blood glucose and lipid levels in women with diabetes/hypertense. These results contribute to genetic knowledge about predisposition to obesity-related diseases.

Enhancing Type 2 Diabetes Management: Exploring the Synergistic Impact of Vestibular Exercise and Yoga.

Background Type 2 diabetes management often necessitates a multifaceted approach encompassing metabolic and anthropometric parameters. This study explores the potential of vestibular stimulation activities and yoga as complementary strategies in improving the health of individuals with type 2 diabetes. Methods A total of 180 participants were divided into three groups: vestibular exercises alone, yoga alone, and a combined group undertaking both interventions. Various metabolic parameters including fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), HbA1c (glycosylated hemoglobin), cholesterol, lipid profile, and blood pressure, alongside anthropometric parameters like body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, waist, hip circumference, waist-hip ratio, and arm and thigh circumference, were measured at baseline and after three months of intervention. Results Vestibular exercises and yoga, when practiced separately, demonstrated significant reductions in FBS (p < 0.01 for both). Both interventions were also effective in improving PPBS control (p < 0.01). Yoga led to a greater decrease in HbA1c compared to the control group (p < 0.01), suggesting a stronger impact on long-term glucose regulation. Vestibular exercises reduced total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) significantly (p < 0.01), while yoga additionally lowered triglycerides and increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (p < 0.01), and notably reduced systolic blood pressure (p < 0.01). In terms of anthropometric parameters, the yoga group exhibited a significant reduction in BMI (p < 0.01), with the combined group showcasing the most substantial reduction (p < 0.01). Both yoga and the combined group achieved significant reductions in body fat percentage (p < 0.01), waist and hip circumferences (p < 0.01), and arm and thigh circumferences (p < 0.01). The combined intervention showed a borderline significant decrease in waist-hip ratio (p = 0.074). Conclusion Vestibular stimulation activities and yoga, whether practiced separately or together, have a beneficial impact on various metabolic and anthropometric parameters in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Combining these interventions appears to yield the most pronounced improvements, offering a holistic approach to enhancing type 2 diabetes management. These findings emphasize the potential of incorporating vestibular stimulation activities and yoga into diabetes care programs to promote overall health and well-being in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Evaluation of Micronutrients and Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines Levels in Nutritionally Deprived Children-A Tertiary Care Hospital-Based Study.

BACKGROUND: Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is a significant public health problem in developing countries, including India, where a significant proportion of children suffer from malnutrition. OBJECTIVE: This research aims to investigate the factors contributing to severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Additionally, the study seeks to explore the relationship between micronutrient levels and pro-inflammatory cytokines in SAM children with and without clinical complications. Furthermore, the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment in SAM children without complications is evaluated. METHODS: The study involved three groups comprising 66 subjects each: a healthy control group, SAM children with complications, and SAM children without complications. Blood samples were collected, and various analyses were conducted, including biochemical, hematological, micronutrient, and pro-inflammatory marker quantification. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. RESULTS: The results indicate that the levels of IL-6, CRP, and TNF-α were significantly higher in the SAM group with complications compared to both the control group and the SAM group without complications. Zinc and copper levels were significantly lower in both SAM groups compared to the control group, and a negative correlation was observed between zinc levels and inflammatory markers. The study also assessed the efficacy of antibiotic treatment in SAM children without complications by comparing their weight, height, weight-for-height, and weight-for-age at baseline and after a 15-day follow-up period. Significant improvements in these parameters were observed in both the group receiving antibiotic treatment and the group not receiving antibiotic treatment. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that a combination of antibiotic treatment and nutritional support can lead to significant clinical improvements in SAM children without complications. This study has important implications for the management and treatment of SAM in India and other developing countries.

Sindrome de burnout, estado nutricional y conducta alimentaria en trabajadores de la salud / Burnout syndrome, nutritional status and eating behavior in health workers

Introducción: El síndrome de Burnout o agotamiento profesional aparece como una respuesta al estrés crónico en eltrabajo, con secuelas negativas a nivel individual y general. Objetivo: Determinar la presencia del síndrome de bur-nout, estado nutricional y conducta alimentaria en los traba-jadores de la salud. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio transversal, descriptivo y observacional. Para identificar la presencia del síndrome de Burnout se aplicó el cuestionario Maslach Burnout Inventory.La evaluación del estado nutricional se realizó por medio dela toma de datos antropométricos y la conducta alimentaria se identificó con el cuestionario semi-cuantitativo de frecuen-cia de consumo de alimentos. Resultados: La muestra de investigación estuvo constituida por 142 mujeres y 91 varones que representaron el60,9% y 39,1% respectivamente. La conducta alimentaria secaracterizó por un consumo insuficiente de lácteos, hortalizas,frutas, carnes, panes y cereales. Con respecto a las caracte-rísticas antropométricas relacionadas al estado nutricional seencontró que el mayor porcentaje de investigados presentanuna prevalencia de exceso de peso del 78% y un riesgo car-diovascular del 91%. En las 3 subescalas que valora la pre-sencia del síndrome de burnout se pudo observar que tantoen los componentes de cansancio emocional y despersonali-zación son bajos, reflejando un 60,9% y 53,6% respectiva-mente. Mientras que la dimensión de realización personal esalta, evidenciando un 63,1%.Conclusiones: En la población de estudio no existen indicios de presencia de síndrome de burnout, sin embargo, un menor porcentaje de trabajadores de la salud presentan can-sancio emocional (19,3%), despersonalización (25,8%) ybaja realización personal (19,7%). Por lo cual se recomienda, buscar estrategias para reducir la carga administrativa y disminuir el nivel de agotamiento laboral en quienes lo padeceny prevenirlo en aquellos que presenten factores de riesgo (AU)

Introduction: Burnout syndrome or professional exhaustion appears as a response to chronic stress at work, withnegative consequences at an individual and general level. Objective: Determine the presence of burnout syndrome, nutritional status and eating behavior in health workers. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive and observational study. To identify the presence of Burnout syndrome, the Maslach Burnout Inventory questionnaire was applied. To assess the nutritional status, anthropometric datawere taken and eating behavior was identified with the semi-quantitative questionnaire on frequency of food consumption. Results: The research sample consisted of 142 womenand 91 men who represented 60.9% and 39.1% respectively. The eating behavior was characterized by an insufficient con-sumption of dairy products, vegetables, fruits, meats, breadsand cereals. Regarding the anthropometric characteristics re-lated to nutritional status, it was found that the highest per-centage of those investigated had a prevalence of excessweight of 78% and a cardiovascular risk of 91%. In the 3 sub-scales that assess the presence of burnout syndrome, it wasobserved that both the emotional exhaustion and deperson-alization components are low, reflecting 60.9% and 53.6%respectively. While the dimension of personal fulfillment ishigh, evidencing 63.1%.Conclusions: In the study population there are no indica-tions of the presence of burnout syndrome, however, a lowerpercentage of health workers present emotional exhaustion(19.3%), depersonalization (25.8%) and low personal fulfillment (19.7%). Therefore, it is recommended to seek strategies to reduce the administrative burden and reduce the levelof job burnout in those who suffer from it and prevent it inthose who present risk factors (AU)

The effect of 6-week consumption of bakery products on changes in selected anthropometric parameters in women.

Background: The changes in consumers' eating habits are one of the most important factors affecting the consumption of selected foods. The most important factors for bakery products consumers are freshness, taste, price, durability, composition, and country of origin. Objective: The aim of this study was to monitor changes in selected anthropometric characteristics in women from the general population in Slovakia, after 6 weeks of bakery products consumption. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on healthy adult women from the general population (n=78), who were divided into four subgroups ("gluten" group, "gluten-free" group, "whole-grain" group and "control" group). The intervention dose consisted of a different combination of several types of bakery products (bread, pastries, soft pastries) within the individual weeks of consumption, while the intervention lasted 6 weeks, women consumed 150-200 grams per day. Anthropometric characteristics were measured by body composition analyser InBody 720 (Biospace Co. Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea), which works on the principle of bioelectrical impedance analysis. We also used the Lookin´Body 3.0 software to process the results. The collected data from these measurements were evaluated statistically and graphically in Microsoft Office Excel 2010 (Los Angeles, CA, USA). The levels of statistical significance were set at P<0.05 (*); P<0.01 (**); P<0.001 (***). Differences among subgroups of probands were tested with Pared Student t-test. Results: The amount of fat mass (FM) in the participants changed along a similar curve as their body weight. After the 6-week intervention, there was a slight decrease in FM with statistical significance (P<0.01). In the third measurement, i.e., two months after the intervention, there was an increase in the amount of FM, but without statistical significance. Fat free mass (FFM) values in women increased very slightly after 6 weeks of consumption and remained approximately at the same level two months after the intervention (without statistical significance). We noted the most significant changes in the visceral fat area (VFA) parameter, which had a steadily increasing tendency. Changes in VFA values were statistically significant after the 6-week intervention (P<0.01) and also after two months of the intervention (P<0.05). Conclusions: Changes in body composition in women were noted already after 6 weeks of bakery products consumption, especially in the FM, FFM, VFA and partially BMI parameters, but no changes were recorded in the WHR parameters during the entire duration of the study. One of the most significant results is the finding that there was an increase in VFA when consuming all types of bakery products (gluten, gluten-free and whole grain).

Pulmonary functions and anthropometric parameters of young male and female adults participating in moderate aerobic exercise.

Respiratory disorders may be one of the adverse effects of sedentary lifestyle. This study investigated respiratory functions (FEV1, FVC and PEFR) and anthropometric parameters (body weight and body mass index) of healthy young males and females participating in moderate aerobic exercise. Forty young healthy untrained non-athletes, twenty males and twenty females (age, 25 ± 5.6 years; body weight, 65 ± 4.0 kg; body height, 176.9 ± 2.5 cm) volunteered to participate in this study. The exercise regimen was of moderate intensity lasting for 20 min daily on a treadmill consistently at the speed of 13 km/h for 14 days. The weight and height of participants were measured using medical scale and wall-mounted stadiometer respectively. The forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were assessed using digital spirometer. The results showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in body weight and body mass index of female participants after 14 days of exercise regimen. The FEV1, FVC and PEFR were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in both male and female subjects after exercise. The Pearson correlation showed a significant (p < 0.05) positive correlation between BMI with FEVI/FVC% in female participants. There was an increase in calories burnt from day 4 of the study in both male and female participants. It is concluded that moderate aerobic exercise improved respiratory functions (FEV1, FVC and PEFR) in both male and female subjects with greater improvement in females while reducing body weight and body mass index in females.

Urethral length and its relationship with anthropometric parameters in adult male Nigerians.

BACKGROUND: The available literature on urethral length in adult males is limited. To the best of our knowledge, such measurement has never been carried out amongst Nigerian and African men. This study aimed to document average urethral length as well as the relationship between urethral length and age, and anthropometric parameters amongst the Nigerian male adult population to add to the database for urethral length. METHODS: It was a prospective cross-sectional study amongst adult male Nigerians who had an indication for urethral catheterization as part of their regular treatment at the urologic clinics as well as male adult patients who required urethral catheterization in the theatre and the wards for various reasons. All patients had anthropometric parameters measured or calculated. The total usable length (A) of the catheter was measured before catheterization and the unused catheter length (B) was measured after catheterization for each patient. The calculated urethral length (C) was obtained by subtracting B from A. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Mean urethral length was determined while the correlation between urethral length and age as well as anthropometric parameters were determined using Pearson Correlation. RESULTS: A total of 450 adult males were recruited. The mean age of subjects was 63.58 years with a range of 22-91 years. The average total usable and unused catheter lengths were 30.01 and 8.97 cm respectively. The mean urethral length among participants was 21.32 cm (8.4 Inches) with a range of 16.5 to 28 cm (6.5-11.0 Inches). There were no statistically significant correlations between urethral length and age ([r (450) = - 0.029, p = 0.546]) as well as with anthropometric parameters (height: r (450) = - 0.088, p = 0.61; weight: [r (450) = - 0.047, p = 0.324 and BMI: r (450) = - 0.082, p = 0.08) in adult males. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that there may be racial differences in adult male urethral length but no relationship with age and anthropometric parameters. Further research is needed to explore these findings.

Genetic polymorphisms in the angiotensin converting enzyme, actinin 3 and paraoxonase 1 genes in women with diabetes and hypertension.

Objective: To study associations between polymorphisms in the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE I/D), actinin 3 (ACTN3 R577X) and paraoxonase 1 (PON1 T(-107)C) genes and chronic diseases (diabetes and hypertension) in women. Materials and methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from saliva samples of 78 women between 18 and 59 years old used for genetic polymorphism screening. Biochemical data were collected from the medical records in Basic Health Units from Southern Brazil. Questionnaires about food consumption, physical activity level and socioeconomic status were applied. Results: The XX genotype of ACTN3 was associated with low HDL levels and high triglycerides, total cholesterol and glucose levels. Additionally, high triglycerides and LDL levels were observed in carriers of the TT genotype of PON1, and lower total cholesterol levels were associated to the CC genotype. As expected, women with diabetes/hypertense had increased body weight, BMI (p = 0.02), waist circumference (p = 0.01), body fat percentage, blood pressure (p = 0.02), cholesterol, triglycerides (p = 0.02), and blood glucose (p = 0.01), when compared to the control group. Conclusion: Both ACTN3 R577X and PON1 T(-107)C polymorphisms are associated with nutritional status and blood glucose and lipid levels in women with diabetes/hypertense. These results contribute to genetic knowledge about predisposition to obesity-related diseases.

Understanding the Association Between Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Case-Control Study.

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) represents a sleep-related impairment linked to upper airway function. The question of whether OSA drives obesity or if shared underlying factors contribute to both conditions remains unresolved. Hence, this present study aims to understand the interplay between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and obesity through in-depth analysis of anthropometric data within control subjects and OSA patients. Methodology A case-control study was conducted, which included 40 cases and 40 matched healthy controls. Study participants with reported symptoms of snoring, daytime drowsiness, or both were included in the study. All the study participants underwent comprehensive anthropometric assessments such as height, weight, body mass index (BMI), neck circumference, waist circumference, hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, skin-fold thickness, and thickness measurements of biceps, triceps, suprailiac, and subscapular muscles. Results Within the OSA group, significant disparities emerged in mean age, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and diverse fat accumulations encompassing visceral, subcutaneous, trunk, and subcutaneous leg fat. Notably, skin-fold thickness at specific sites - biceps, triceps, subscapula, and suprailiac - demonstrated considerable augmentation relative to the control group. Furthermore, mean values associated with height, weight, BMI, neck circumference, fat percentage, subcutaneous arm fat, entire arm composition, and trunk skeletal muscle either equaled or exceeded those in the control group. However, statistical significance was not attained in these comparisons. Conclusion This investigation underscored a pronounced correlation between numerous endpoints characterizing OSA patients and markers of obesity. Consequently, addressing altered levels of obesity-linked anthropometric variables through pharmacological interventions might hold promise as a pivotal strategy for improving symptoms associated with OSA.

Association of Mediterranean Diet Adherence with Sociodemographic, Anthropometric, and Lifestyle Factors during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study in Greece.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected several aspects of people's lifestyle worldwide. Healthy dietary patterns and their bioactive components may improve or even co-treat the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in several aspects of people's lifestyle and mental health in daily life. The aim of this survey is to evaluate the potential effect of Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence against COVID-19-induced complications. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional survey performed on 3721 adults aged between 18 and 65 years old, which aims to evaluate the potential association of MD adherence with multiple sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors during the COVID-19 pandemic period. RESULTS: This study has supported evidence that elevated MD compliance was independently related to female gender, better economic status, no smoking, increased risk of abdominal obesity, higher physical activity levels, greater prevalence of adequate sleep quality, better quality of life, and reduced probability of anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic by adjusting for multiple confounders. CONCLUSIONS: MD compliance may improve or even co-treat the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in several aspect of people's lifestyle in daily life. Further research is strongly recommended exploring the possible beneficial effects of the MD against COVID-19 lifestyle complications in daily life.

Postpartum Depression Is Associated with Maternal Sociodemographic and Anthropometric Characteristics, Perinatal Outcomes, Breastfeeding Practices, and Mediterranean Diet Adherence.

Postpartum depression, with a prevalence ranging between 14% and 25% worldwide, has been considered an urgent health concern that negatively affects both mothers' and their infants' health. Postpartum depression may negatively affect maternal sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters and lifestyle factors. Nutrition has recently been identified as a crucial factor for the management and co-treatment of postpartum depression. This survey aims to determine the possible association of postpartum depression with mothers' socio-demographic and anthropometric characteristics, perinatal outcomes, breastfeeding practices, and Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional survey, which was performed on 3941 women during the postpartum period. Postpartum depression was assessed by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Anthropometric parameters and perinatal outcomes were retrieved from mothers' medical records. Sociodemographic data and breastfeeding practices were recorded by face-to-face interviews between enrolled mothers and trained personnel. Mediterranean diet adherence was assessed by MedDietScore. Both univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression were applied for analyzing our data. RESULTS: Postpartum depression was significantly associated with lower educational level, Greek nationality, higher prevalence of multiparity and overweight/obesity postpartum, higher incidence of caesarean section and not breastfeeding, and lower levels of MD adherence. In multivariate analysis, postpartum depression was independently associated with mothers' educational level, postpartum BMI status, type of delivery, breastfeeding practices, and MD adherence after adjusting for multiple confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS: This study has provided evidence that elevated MD compliance was related to a decreased risk of postpartum depression. Additionally, postpartum depression was associated with multiple sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters, perinatal outcomes, and breastfeeding practices. Future well-designed, prospective studies with high-quality methodology should be performed to obtain conclusive results.

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.

Evaluation of liver function biomarkers, blood pressure, and anthropometric parameters among chronic kidney disease patients: Laboratory-based cross-sectional study in Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a non-communicable disease leading to a progressive decline in kidney functions and complications like liver disorders. Serum levels of liver parameters such as aminotransferases and bilirubin are important biomarkers for the diagnosis of liver diseases. Studies on the effect of CKD with and without end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on the levels of liver biomarkers in Ethiopia are limited. Hence, this study aimed to assess liver biomarkers, blood pressure (BP) and anthropometric indices in CKD patients attending a renal clinic of Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital(FHCSH) in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 CKD patients attending the renal clinic of FHCSH in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire through face-to-face interview. BP and anthropometric parameters were measured based on the standard procedures. About 5 ml of serum was used to analyzeliver parameter using automated chemistry analyzer. All data analyses such as independent sample t-testand one-way ANOVA were done using SPSS version 25.0. Besides, Pearson's correlation analysis and multiple linear regression were done to identify predictors of liver biomarkers in CKD patients. P-value< 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The mean serum levels of AST and ALT were significantly lower in CKD patients under dialysis when compared to CKD patients with no dialysis (p < 0.05). These enzymes were positively and negatively correlated with eGFRand the severity of CKD, respectively. However, there were no significant differences in bilirubin level between different stages of CKD. There was also a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the levels of AST and ALT with BMI.There was also a significant rise of SBP and DBP in CKD patients under dialysis compared to CKD patients not in dialysis. Conclusion: Aminotransferases were significantly lower in CKD patients undergoing dialysis than in CKD patients not undergoing dialysis, warranting the need fora separate standard reference ranges or using other diagnostic criteria to diagnose liver comorbidities in CKD patients. The levels of AST and ALT in CKD patients were also significantly increased with BMI. Besides, BP was significantly elevated with the severity of CKD, indicating the more advanced the CKD is, the higher BP.