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• Fat mass during weight maintenance is independent of usual weight loss in athletes. • Athletes used to a higher degree of weight loss consumed more protein and less fat. • Athletes with a higher degree of weight loss seem to favor fat-free mass sparing. • Sex influences the negative relationship between fat intake and usual weight loss. • Food reward is not altered in athletes used to higher degrees of weight variations. Weight variations are common in sporting life, with important inter-individual variability in the degree of an athlete's habitual weight loss. As a part of the WAVE study (NCT04107545), the main objective of this preliminary study was to determine whether the habitual degree of weight loss was associated with anthropometric, body composition, nutritional or psychometric profiles during a period of weight maintenance in athletes accustomed to weight variations. We hypothesized that athletes accustomed to a higher habitual degree of weight loss may have a higher body weight and body fat mass, and may present a more controlled diet regimen and cognitive restriction than athletes with a lower habitual degree of weight loss. During a period of weight maintenance, 62 athletes (24.0 ± 5.3 years; 26 women) completed anthropometry and body composition measurements, a 48-hours food diary and self-reported questionnaires to determine their weight variation practice, nutritional profile and mood state. Athletes were stratified within inter- and intra-quartile groups according to their habitual degree of weight loss. Athletes with a higher habitual degree of weight loss were those who consumed more protein (P <.001) and less fat (P =.01) as a proportion of total energy compared with those losing less weight, without any difference in body composition between the groups. The rapid weight loss score was significantly higher in individuals losing more weight (P <.001) and no difference was observed for the mood state profile. The present results suggest a potential control of nutritional regulation during a period of weight maintenance in order to spare fat-free mass and favor fat mass loss in athletes who are routinely losing more weight. Fat-free mass may be the main nutritional driver due to low body fat mass in athletes, which may limit the "catch-up fat" phenomenon commonly observed in nonathletic population. Athletes used to weight variations (N = 62) were enrolled in a stable body weight period for physical and psychological measurements. The habitual degree of weight loss does not seem associated with body weight or composition nor the profile of mood state and food preferences. However, athletes used to a higher degree of weight loss consumed more relative protein and less relative fat than those losing less weight. This may suggest potential conscious control of nutritional regulation in order to spare fat-free mass and favor fat mass loss in those athletes losing more weight. %WL, usual degree of weight loss; BW, body weight; FFM, fat-free mass; FM, fat mass; RWLQ, rapid weight loss questionnaire. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Test an obesity intervention for families with low incomes. A total of 208 families were included (a parent with a body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 and a child aged 6–12 years). A 12-month randomized controlled trial combining family health coaching (motivational interviewing) and connection to community resources. Comparison group: referrals for basic needs, written educational materials. Questionnaires, accelerometry, and anthropometrics. Intention-to-treat analysis of change in outcomes. Two-sided t test with multiple imputation. Parents were 95% female, 31% Black, and 27% Hispanic. Children had a mean BMI-Z score of 1.15. Primary outcomes did not differ between groups at 12 months. Both groups significantly (P < 0.05) improved on the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity Scale for behaviors related to childhood obesity (mean ± SE: comparison, 2.8 ± 1.0; intervention, 2.2 ± 0.9), increased child sedentary activity (comparison, 32.5 ± 12.1; intervention, 39.9 ± 12.4 min/d), and decreased child moderate-vigorous physical activity (comparison, −9.6 ± 3.3; intervention −7.0 ± 3.0 min/d). Parents had no change in BMI. We successfully embedded screening and referral to address social needs within an obesity intervention. The coaching intervention did not provide additional benefits. Future research could explore ways to make these interventions more accessible, valuable, and effective for families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Burkina Faso, one in every four children under 5 years is stunted. Climate change will exacerbate childhood stunting. Strengthening the health system, particularly the quality of nutrition care at primary health facilities, can minimise the adverse climate effect on stunting. Thus, we examined the quality of nutritional status assessment (QoNA) during curative childcare services in primary health facilities in rural Burkina Faso and its relationship with rainfall-induced childhood stunting. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using anthropometric, rainfall, and clinical observation data. Our dependent variable was the height-for-age z-score (HAZ) of children under 2 years. Our focal climatic measure was mean rainfall deviation (MRD), calculated as the mean of the difference between 30-year monthly household-level rainfall means and the corresponding months for each child from conception to data collection. QoNA was based on the weight, height, general paleness and oedema assessment. We used a mixed-effect multilevel model and analysed heterogeneity by sex and socio-economic status. Among 5027 young (3–23 months) children (mean age 12 ± 6 months), 21% were stunted (HAZ ≤ −2). The mean MRD was 11 ± 4 mm, and the mean QoNA was 2.86 ± 0.99. The proportion of children in low, medium, and high QoNA areas was 10%, 54%, and 36%, respectively. HAZ showed a negative correlation with MRD. Higher QoNA lowered the negative effect of MRD on HAZ (β = 0.017, P = 0.003, confidence interval = [0.006, 0.029]). Males and children from poor households benefited less from the moderating effect of QoNA. Improving the quality of nutrition assessments can supplement existing efforts to reduce the adverse effects of climate change on children's nutritional well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three Y-STRs amplification kits were tested with 63 critical skeletal remain samples. • PowerPlex® Y23 achieves more RFU and reportable loci than the other kits. • The newly developed Investigator® Argus® Y-28 showed a good performance. Y chromosome short tandem repeats (Y-STRs) typing is a useful tool in scenarios such as mass graves analysis or disaster victim identification and has become a routine analysis in many laboratories. Not many comparisons have been performed with the currently available commercial kits, much less with degraded skeletal remains. This research aims to evaluate the performance of three commercial Y-STR kits: Yfiler™ Plus, PowerPlex® Y23, and Investigator® Argus Y-28 in 63 degraded skeletal remains from mass graves. PowerPlex® Y23 yields more reportable markers and twice the RFU on average, while Yfiler™ Plus and Investigator® Argus Y-28 exhibited a similar behaviour. Additionally, Argus Y-28, which has not been tested with this kind of samples in literature before, showed a good performance. Finally, a predictive model was attempted to be developed from quantification and autosomal STR data. However, no acceptable model could be obtained. Nevertheless, good Y-STR typing results may be expected if at least 50 pg DNA input is used or 13 autosomal markers were previously obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriate assessment of fetal growth is essential for safe clinical care. There have been many recent strategies to improve the detection of aberrant fetal growth patterns, one of which has been to optimize fetal growth centile charts. Over recent years there has been ongoing debates regarding the optimal growth chart for clinical usage. Controversy can arise where growth charts have demonstrated wide variance in the proportion of fetuses classified within the extremities of growth. Standards for growth charts need to be evidenced based and validated against pregnancy outcomes to demonstrate clinical utility and widespread usage. They should be supplied by high quality methodological reasoning and ideally evidenced through large prospective multicentre studies. Given the variable terminology to classify growth centile charts, including the variety of charts available, a complete understanding by healthcare professional can be troublesome to achieve. This practical guide aims to provide clarity on this diverse subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of most school-based health promotion initiatives are inconclusive. This trial assessed the effect of time-varying exposures to a multicomponent school-based health promotion intervention (SI! Program) on adiposity markers. A total of 48 schools in Madrid (Spain) were cluster randomized to receive the SI! Program through elementary education grades 1 to 6 (E1-6, 12 schools, 459 children), 1 to 3 (E1-3, 12 schools, 513 children), or 4 to 6 (E4-6, 12 schools, 419 children) or to receive the standard curriculum (control, 12 schools, 379 children). The primary endpoint was the between-group difference at 3- and 6-year follow-up in the change from baseline in adiposity markers and the overall knowledge-attitudes-habits (KAH) score. At 3-year follow-up, children who had the intervention showed significantly lower increases than the control group in z -scores for body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and waist circumference (WC) (z BMI: −0.09; 95% CI: −0.16 to −0.03; P = 0.003; z WC and z WHtR: −0.19; 95% CI: −0.28 to −0.10; P < 0.001). At 6-year follow-up, the beneficial trend in z WC and z WHtR was maintained in the E1-6 and E1-3 groups: difference z WC control vs E1-6 (−0.19; 95% CI: −0.36 to −0.03; P = 0.020), control vs E1-3 (−0.22; 95% CI: −0.38 to −0.06; P = 0.009); difference z WHtR control vs E1-6 (−0.24; 95% CI: −0.41 to −0.06; P = 0.009), and control vs E1-3 (−0.29; 95% CI: −0.47 to −0.11; P = 0.001). No significant between-group differences were found in the change of overall KAH score. Early elementary school interventions may be more effective than later interventions on abdominal adiposity. Further research should assess the sustainability effects of school-based health promotion programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cross-sectional study on eating behavior and dietary practices. • Males had a lower prevalence of Emotional Eating (EE) and Uncontrolled Eating (UE). • Older individuals had a lower prevalence of high EE and UE scores. • Older individuals also had a higher adherence to Dietary Practices. • High EE and UE scores were associated with Body Mass Index (BMI) and Body Fat (BF). • Dietary practices were inversely associated with BMI and BF. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), hypertension, and obesity are major contributors to global mortality. This study aimed to evaluate eating behavior and dietary practices among individuals with T2DM and/or hypertension, examining their associations with sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics. We hypothesized that these factors may contribute to body mass index (BMI) and body fat (BF) levels in these individuals. In a cross-sectional study, adults/older individuals diagnosed with T2DM and/or hypertension were included. Eating behavior was evaluated via Three-factor Eating Questionnaire-R21. Dietary practices were assessed using the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population (DGBP) questionnaire. Poisson regression examined associations between eating behaviors, dietary practices, and sociodemographic factors. Linear regressions were employed to analyze relationships between eating behavior, dietary practices, BMI, and BF. The study included 275 primarily female (70.5%) participants under 60 years old (54.2%). Male and older participants had a lower prevalence of high scores in the 'emotional eating' (EE; PR: 0.40 [0.25;0.63]) and 'uncontrolled eating' (UE; PR: 0.68 [0.50;0.92]) domains. In contrast, older patients had a higher prevalence of adherence to the DGBP recommendations (PR:1.53 [1.20;1.94]). A positive association was observed between high EE (β:3.71 [1.98;5.44]) and UE (β:2.85 [1.15;4.55]) scores and BMI, whereas higher dietary practice scores (β:-2.19 [-3.88;-0.50]) were negatively associated with BMI. High EE (β:2.20 [0.38;4.02]) and UE (β:1.92 [0.17;3.67]) scores were positively associated with BF regardless of the confounding factors included. Higher scores on the dietary practices were inversely associated with BF (β:-1.94 [-3.67;-0.21]). Understanding dietary behaviors and practices can facilitate a more comprehensive and effective treatment approach. In a cross-sectional study of adults with type 2 diabetes and/or hypertension, males and older participants had a lower prevalence of high scores in EE and UE domains. Conversely, older patients had a higher prevalence of adherence to the DGBP. High EE and UE scores correlated positively with BMI, while higher dietary practices were negatively associated with BMI. High EE and UE scores were also associated with BF, whereas higher dietary practices were inversely associated with BF. Abbreviations: BF, Body Fat percentage; BMI, Body Mass Index; DGBP, Dietary Guideline for the Brazilian Population; EE, Emotional Eating; UE, Uncontrolled Eating. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intersegmental coordination between thigh, shank, and foot plays a crucial role in human gait, facilitating stable and efficient human walking. Limb elevation angles during the gait cycle form a planar manifold describes the by the planar covariation law, a recognized fundamental aspect of human locomotion. How does the walking speed, age, BMI, and height, affect the size and orientation of the intersegmental coordination manifold and covariation plane? This study introduces novel metrics for quantifying intersegmental coordination, including the mean radius of the manifold, rotation of the manifold about the origin, and the orientation of the plane with respect to the coordinate planes. A statistical investigation is conducted on a publicly available human walking dataset for subjects aged 19–67 years, walking at speeds between 0.18 and 2.3 m s−1 to determine correlations of the proposed quantities. We used two sample t-test and ANOVA to find statistical significance of changes in the metrics with respect to gender and walking speed, respectively. Regression analysis was used to establish relationships between the introduced metrics and walking speed. High correlations are observed between walking speed and the computed metrics, highlighting the sensitivity of these metrics to gait characteristics. Conversely, negligible correlations are found for demographic parameters like age, body mass index (BMI), and height. Male and female groups exhibit no practically significant differences in any of the considered metrics. Additionally, metrics tend to increase in magnitude as walking speed increases. This study contributes numerical metrics to characterize ISC of lower limbs with respect to walking speed along with regression models to estimate these metrics and related kinematic quantities. These findings hold significance for enhancing clinical gait analysis, generating optimal walking trajectories for assistive devices, prosthetics, or rehabilitation, aiming to replicate natural gaits and improve the functionality of biomechanical devices. • Walking speed effects the lower limb intersegmental coordination (ISC) patterns. • Lower limb angles covary in a PCL plane during walking. • Size and orientation of the ISC manifold depend primarily on walking speed. • BMI, age, and height have negligible effect on size and orientation of ISC manifold. • Gender does not significantly affect ISC patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data in the literature on the results of Kinesio taping (KT) application after cast removal in patients with distal radius fracture (DRF) are quite limited. It was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of KT applied immediately after cast removal in addition to the exercise program on edema, functionality, range of motion, and muscle strength in patients with conservatively followed DRF. Randomized controlled single-blinded clinical study. This study was conducted with 64 patients with a diagnosis of DRF. The patients were randomized as Kinesio taping group (KTG) and control group. Both groups received a conventional home exercise program. KT was applied to patients in KTG for 10 days. Circumference and volume measurements were taken at baseline and day 10. Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire for Disability, Visual Analog Scale, grip strength, and wrist joint range of motion measurements were taken at baseline, day 5, and day 10. The circumference difference between the affected extremity and the healthy extremity was statistically greater in the control group on the fifth day at the wrist level (<0.001) and 6 cm proximal to the wrist (p = 0.001). The circumference difference between the affected extremity and the healthy extremity was statistically greater in the control group on the 10th day at the wrist level (p < 0.05) and 6 cm proximal to the wrist (p = 0.01). Wrist extension angle (<0.001), wrist flexion angle (p = 0.001), and supination angle (p = 0.001) were higher in KTG on the 10th day. On the 10th day, the grip strength (p < 0.05) was higher in the KTG, while the Visual Analog Scale value (p < 0.01), Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire for Disability score (p < 0.01), and the percentage of strength loss in the healthy arm (p < 0.01) were lower in the KTG. In patients with DRF who were treated conservatively with a cast, the inclusion of Kinesio taping (KT) in the rehabilitation program was found to be effective in reducing edema and pain, as well as improving functionality, strength, and range of motion. • Kinesio tape application is effective on edema in the postoperative subacute period. • Kinesio tape KT application is effective in pain control, improvement of function and muscle strength. • Kinesio tape KT application is effective in wrist flexion, extension and supination range of motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Serum RC levels were positively and independently associated with the severity of hepatic steatosis and liver fibrosis. • During follow-up, baseline serum RC levels were independently associated with increased risk of development and decreased likelihood of regression of MASLD. • Baseline serum RC levels were positively correlated with the incident of liver fibrosis. The aim of this study was to explore the associations of serum remnant cholesterol (RC) levels with the progression and regression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in Chinese adults. We conducted a cross-sectional study in 13,903 individuals who underwent transient elastography tests (cohort 1) and a longitudinal study in 17,752 individuals who underwent at least two health check-up exams with abdominal ultrasound (cohort 2). Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were collected. Serum RC levels were calculated. Noninvasive fibrosis indices such as FIB-4 were evaluated in cohort 2. In cohort 1, serum RC levels were positively and independently associated with the severity of hepatic steatosis and liver fibrosis according to logistic regression analysis. In cohort 2, baseline serum RC levels were increased in participants with the incidence of MASLD and decreased in participants with the regression of MASLD during the follow-up period. Baseline serum RC levels were independently associated with an increased risk of development and a decreased likelihood of regression of MASLD: the fully adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were 2.785 (95 % CI 2.332–3.236, P < 0.001) and 2.925 (95 % CI 2.361–3.623, P < 0.001), respectively. In addition, when we used FIB-4 to evaluate liver fibrosis, baseline serum RC levels were positively correlated with the incidence of high-intermediate probability of advanced fibrosis. However, we did not find an association between serum RC levels and the regression of liver fibrosis. Serum RC levels are independently correlated with the progression and regression of MASLD in Chinese adults, suggesting that RC may participate in the pathophysiological process of MASLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standardised guidelines for stance are used to improve interobserver reliability in anthropometric measurements in clinical practice. A key feature of the stance in Pilates is the 'drawing in and up' of the abdomen. The aim of this study was to study the impact of the Pilates stance on height, waist circumference and interscapular distance, compared to that recommended in clinical practice. 48 healthy females (median age 60 years) were assessed before and after 10-week Pilates-based matwork training. One Pilates expert and one novice took independent measurements of weight, height, waist circumference and interscapular distance (ISD). Pilates stance, compared to Normal, increased height by up to 2.7 cm and decreased waist up to 5.2 cm (each P < 0.001, repeated measures ANOVA). ISD decreased up to 14 mm (P < 0.001) and this decrease was greater after training (P < 0.001). After controlling for age and length of time learning Pilates, greater baseline ISD predicted a greater change in ISD after the intervention. Effect of Pilates stance was greater when the expert took the measurements (each P ≤ 0.001). Activation of trunk muscles in the Pilates stance increases height and decreases waist circumference, compared to the stance recommended in UK healthcare settings. A decrease in ISD was observed, which was greater after a Pilates-based matwork programme. There are significant inter-observer differences, therefore current clinical guidelines for stance are recommended for repeated anthropometry. The value of the Pilates stance in improving posture and the role of ISD as a marker, should be further studied in various contexts, including clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First study examining fiber intake and metabolic health in Iranian adolescents. • Total dietary fiber was inversely related to odds of metabolically unhealthy status. • Total dietary fiber was inversely related to odds of hyperglycemia. Little is known about the relationship between dietary fiber and metabolic health status in adolescents. This study was performed to investigate total dietary fiber intake and metabolic health status in a sample of Iranian adolescents with overweight/obesity. We hypothesized that higher total dietary fiber intake would reduce odds of metabolically unhealthy status. In this cross-sectional study, 203 adolescents (aged 12–18 years) with overweight/obesity were randomly recruited from several educational areas with different socioeconomic statuses using a multistage cluster sampling approach. Dietary intakes were evaluated by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Demographic, anthropometric, and cardiometabolic data were gathered through standard methods. Adolescents were categorized as having either metabolically healthy overweight/obesity or metabolically unhealthy overweight/obesity (MUO) phenotypes according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and IDF/Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) criteria. Subjects had mean age of 13.97 (years) and mean fiber intake of 19.5 (g/d). After considering potential confounders, adolescents with the highest fiber intake, compared with the lowest intake, had decreased odds of MUO based on IDF (odds ratio [OR] = 0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04–0.46) and IDF/HOMA-IR (OR = 0.16; 95% CI, 0.04–0.56) definitions. Also, each additional unit of total dietary fiber intake (1 g/d) was associated with lower chance of MUO phenotype considering IDF and IDF/HOMA-IR criteria. Individuals with higher intakes of dietary fiber were also less likely to have hyperglycemia (in fully adjusted model: OR = 0.17; 95% CI, 0.06–0.52). We found that consumption of total dietary fiber was inversely associated with odds of MUO among Iranian adolescents. Further prospective studies are required for confirming our results. The association between dietary fiber intake and likelihood of metabolically unhealthy status was investigated in a sample of adolescents with overweight and obesity. Higher intake of dietary fiber was associated with reduced odds of metabolically unhealthy phenotype based on International Diabetes Federation and International Diabetes Federation/Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance criteria. Abbreviation: HDL, high-density lipoprotein. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modulation of glucose metabolism through dietary sources has been recognized as 1 of the most sustainable approaches for preventing of cardiometabolic diseases. Although fibers and phenolic compounds derived from jaboticaba (Plinia jaboticaba) peel have demonstrated improvements in metabolic pathways in preclinical models, their beneficial effects in clinical trials remain to be fully determined. This study aimed to assess the impact of jaboticaba peel (JP) powder supplementation on glucose metabolism compared with a placebo in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS). A single-blind, parallel, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 49 individuals with MetS was conducted. Participants were assigned to receive either a JP supplement (15 g/day) or a matched placebo. Anthropometry measurements, body composition, blood pressure, metabolic and inflammatory parameters, and a mixed-meal tolerance test were assessed at weeks 0 and 5. Daily intake of JP improved the area under the curve of glucose (P =.025) and the interleukin-6 (IL-6) (P =.045). No significant time × treatment effects were observed for blood pressure, body weight, body composition, lipid metabolism, glucagon-like peptide-1, inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β), C-reactive protein, and insulin sensitivity and resistance indexes. JP supplementation may be a promising approach for managing MetS disorders, potentially by reducing the area under the curve for glucose and the proinflammatory cytokine IL-6. This research is registered at the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-8wwq9t). Obesity constitutes a primary component of metabolic syndrome. Hyperglycemic and hyperlipidemic conditions prompt adipocytes to accumulate lipids. This abnormal lipid accumulation leads to dysfunctional adipose tissue, fostering inflammation, insulin resistance, and the secretion of pro-inflammatory adipokines. The consumption of jaboticaba peel, rich in anthocyanins and fiber, was shown in this study to yield beneficial effects in metabolic syndrome by reducing postprandial glucose and inflammation. Abbreviation: IL-6, interleukin-6. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pregnant women, the Energy-adjusted Dietary Inflammatory Index (E-DII) is adopted to measure the inflammatory potential of the diet, but it does not predict the quality of the diet. Our hypothesis is that a more pro-inflammatory diet during pregnancy is also a poorer quality diet. Thus, the objective of this study is to verify the association of the E-DII with the Diet Quality Index Adapted for Pregnancy (DQI-P) and the nutrient intake from the diet in terms of the second and third gestational trimesters. This is a cross-sectional study that took place in Brazil (2018–2019), with eligible adult women up to 72 hours' postpartum and in good health. Socioeconomic, gestational, anthropometric, and food consumption data were collected, enabling the calculation of E-DII, DQI-P, and nutrient intake. The sample (n = 260) had a median E-DII of 0.04 (–1.30 to 1.90) and DQI-P of 68.82 (18.82–98.22). There was no relevant difference between E-DII tertiles by sociodemographic, gestational, and anthropometric characteristics. The E-DII and the DQI-P showed agreement (55.7%) and inverse correlation (r = –0.53; P <.001). Each 1-unit increase in DQI-P, iron, iodine, magnesium, pyridoxine, and vitamin E decreased the E-DII score (P <.05). An increase of 1 unit in protein, saturated fatty acids, and vitamin C increased the E-DII score (P <.05). Thus, the results suggest that the E-DII can predict diet quality during pregnancy, with the added benefit of measuring the inflammatory potential of the diet. In a cross-sectional study with Brazilian pregnant women (n = 260), we found that the E-DII and the DQI-P showed concordance and inverse correlation. Increasing DQI-P, iron, iodine, Mg, and vitamins B 6 and E decreased E-DII. The opposite occurred for PTN, SFA, and vitamin C. Image source: Canva/Flaticon. Abbreviations: B 6 , pyridoxine; DQI-P, Diet Quality Index Adapted for Pregnancy; E-DII, Energy-adjusted Dietary Inflammatory Index; Mg, magnesium; PTN, proteins; SFA, saturated fatty acids. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt) is an adipocytokine that is elevated in obesity, type 2 diabetes and increased levels are associated with inflammatory processes. Nampt serum concentrations have been suggested to follow a diurnal rhythm peaking in the afternoon in lean males. However, no data exists regarding the effects of gender and body weight. We measured Nampt serum levels over 24 h in a cohort of healthy individuals living with either normal weight or obesity. Furthermore, effects of meals, oral glucose tolerance test and physical exercise on Nampt concentrations were evaluated. Correlation analyses to other hormonal- and lab parameters and anthropometric measurements were performed. Nampt showed a diurnal rhythm with increased levels at daytime and a peak in the early afternoon. This diurnal rhythm was significant for all groups but obese males. The Nampt amplitude, measured both relatively and absolutely, was significantly higher in females than in males. Meals did not influence Nampt serum levels, whereas physical exercise and an OGTT did significantly influence Nampt serum levels. In conclusion, we found gender specific differences in Nampt amplitude and coefficient variation with both being higher in females. The circadian rhythm of Nampt was independent of gender in healthy lean individuals, whereas it was disturbed in men with obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with schizophrenia exhibit a reduced life expectancy mainly due to medical-related pathologies which might have been initiated due to stressful events during fetal development. Indeed, intra-uterus growth patterns predict anthropometric measures in adulthood, describing risk factors for schizophrenia and metabolic disorders. We aim to evaluate anthropometric values in two cohorts of antipsychotic-naïve first-episode episode psychosis (FEP) and correlated them with surrogate markers of the fetal environment such as birth weight (BW) and season of birth. BW, season of birth, and anthropometric values from 2 cohorts of FEP patients (Barcelona and Santander) were evaluated. In cohort B, 91 patients, and 110 controls while in cohort S, 644 and 235 were included respectively. Patients were shorter, slimmer, and with lower BMI compared with controls. In both cohorts, patients, and female patients born in winter displayed the shortest height. Regarding BW, height was significantly associated with the interaction of diagnosis and BW in the whole sample and the male subsample. Our results confirm reduced anthropometric features in FEP at onset while suggesting the influence of winter birth and BW, highlighting the role of early life events in the later outcome of FEP with sex differences. • First episode psychosis patients present reduced anthropometric at onset. • Birth weight and winter birth, proxy for prenatal events, impact in anthropometry • Early life events promote long-lasting consequences in the outcome of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myriad options are available for plastic surgeons to perform soft-tissue analysis, which is vital to perioperative evaluation and research. Our objective is to compare the accuracy, precision, and efficiency of the available cephalometric modalities for conducting facial soft-tissue measurements. Twenty soft-tissue facial measurements were performed by 5 measurers with varying experiences on 5 adult subjects, using 6 methods—manual calipers, cone-beam CT, virtual reality (VR), 3D stereophotogrammetry, iPad-based 3D photogrammetry, and 2-dimensional photographs. Measurement sessions were timed and performed in triplicate, for a total of 9000 measurements. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated for accuracy and one-way ANOVA was used for comparison. The coefficient of variation (CoV) was compared among groups to evaluate the precision of different methods by considering caliper measurements as the gold standard. ICC among raters was 0.932, indicating excellent reliability. VR was significantly faster than other methods (137 s vs. 217 s for caliper, p < 0.001). CoV was the highest for 2D photographs and the lowest for VR (11.0 vs. 6.4, p < 0.001). The CoV of the caliper was similar to that of other methods, except for 2D photography, which was significantly higher. Measurements with the greatest absolute difference from caliper measurements, across modalities, were those around the eyes (left to right exocanthion), tragion to antitragion, and tragion to exocanthion. 2D photography is not an accurate method for cephalometric measurements. VR had the lowest variation between measurements, and was the fastest and equivalent to caliper measurements in accuracy. For studies involving a large number of cephalometrics, VR measurements may be a good option to improve study throughput. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tailored nutrition counseling enhances the efficacy of routine treatment for substance (alcohol/drugs) use disorders (SUDs). For this purpose, it is important to understand the current nutritional status of addicts and the changes in their nutritional status during the treatment process. Furthermore, the consumption of sweets to manage substance cravings is common among people with SUDs, but the evidence for the effectiveness of this practice is limited and conflicting. We therefore hypothesized SUD treatment would be associated with increases in appetite, nutrient intake, and anthropometric measurements in addicts, and that these changes, including changes in sweet consumption, would not be associated with decreased substance craving. Data for this prospective observational study were collected from 38 adult male patients who completed 21 days of inpatient SUD treatment. During the treatment, the participants' levels of appetite (P < 1.0 × 10−4), the frequency of main meals (P < 1.0 × 10−4), intake of macro- and micronutrients (P <.05 for each), and anthropometric measurements (P ≤ 5.9 × 10−4), significantly increased. Furthermore, it was found that the patients had a significant increase in sweets craving (P < 1.0 × 10−4) and sweets consumption (P = 1.2 × 10−3) during treatment. However, there was no significant difference between the individuals whose craving decreased and those whose craving did not decrease at the end of the treatment (P >.05 for both). The findings suggest the need to offer dietary counseling to individuals undergoing inpatient SUD treatment, given the substantial changes in nutritional status, and that increased consumption of sweets is not an effective strategy to reduce substance craving. Individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorder experienced a significant decrease in cravings for substances. However, they also reported an increase in cravings for and consumption of substitute psychostimulants, such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, and sweets. This shift was accompanied by an increase in appetite and anthropometric measurements. Therefore, personalized dietary counseling is a crucial component for individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders, given these changes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Women with polycystic ovary syndrome had higher Inflammatory diet score. • Dietary Inflammatory Pattern is positively associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. • Carbohydrate intake was significantly higher in polycystic ovary syndrome women. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, is influenced by various factors. Because there is evidence linking inflammation with chronic diseases, we hypothesized that there is a relationship between an empirical dietary inflammatory pattern score (EDIP) with odds of PCOS among the adult population. This case control study was conducted on Tehranian women in Iran. A total of 494 participants (203 women with PCOS in the case group and 291 healthy people in the control group), aged 18 to 45 years, were recruited for the study. Demographic information, anthropometric indices, physical activity level, and dietary intake were collected by a trained nutritionist. EDIP score was calculated to estimate overall dietary inflammatory potential based on 18 food groups. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 19. Based on the results, the mean age of participants in the case and control groups were 28.98 ± 5.43 and 30.15 ± 6.21 years, respectively. Individuals with PCOS had a significantly higher difference in EDIP score compared with healthy participants (2.03 ± 1.13 vs 1.70 ± 0.93, P <.001). Also, the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for the risk of PCOS across quartiles of EDIP showed a significant direct relationship (P =.003). In conclusion, our study showed that there was a direct association between PCOS risk and EDIP score. Findings suggest that inflammatory index might be a potential mechanism linking diet and PCOS development. This case control study, the possible association between an empirical dietary inflammatory pattern score (EDIP) and risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), was investigated. A total of 494 participants (203 women with PCOS in the case group and 291 healthy people in the control group), aged 18 to 45 years were recruited. The results showed that there was a positive association between PCOS risk and EDIP score. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Carnosine, a naturally occurring dipeptide, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-glycating effects, with preliminary evidence suggesting it may improve important chronic disease risk factors in adults with cardiometabolic conditions. In this randomised controlled trial, 43 adults (30%F) living with prediabetes or T2DM consumed carnosine (2 g) or a matching placebo daily for 14 weeks to evaluate its effect on glucose metabolism assessed via a 2-h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. Secondary outcomes included body composition analysis by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), calf muscle density by pQCT, and anthropometry. Carnosine supplementation decreased blood glucose at 90 min (−1.31 mmol/L; p = 0.02) and 120 min (−1.60 mmol/L, p = 0.02) and total glucose area under the curve (−3.30 mmol/L; p = 0.04) following an oral glucose tolerance test. There were no additional changes in secondary outcomes. The carnosine group results remained significant before and after adjustment for age, sex, and change in weight (all>0.05), and in further sensitivity analyses accounting for missing data. There were no significant changes in insulin levels. This study provides preliminary support for larger trials evaluating carnosine as a potential treatment for prediabetes and the initial stages of T2DM. Likely mechanisms may include changes to hepatic glucose output explaining the observed reduction in blood glucose without changes in insulin secretion following carnosine supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southward expansion of East Asian farmers profoundly influenced the social evolution of Southeast Asia by introducing cereal agriculture. However, the timing and routes of cereal expansion in key regions are unclear due to limited empirical evidence. Here we report macrofossil, microfossil, multiple isotopic (C/N/Sr/O) and paleoproteomic data directly from radiocarbon-dated human samples, which were unearthed from a site in Xingyi in central Yunnan and which date between 7000 and 3300 a BP. Dietary isotopes reveal the earliest arrival of millet ca. 4900 a BP, and greater reliance on plant and animal agriculture was indicated between 3800 and 3300 a BP. The dietary differences between hunter-gatherer and agricultural groups are also evident in the metabolic and immune system proteins analysed from their skeletal remains. The results of paleoproteomic analysis indicate that humans had divergent biological adaptations, with and without farming. The combined application of isotopes, archaeobotanical data and proteomics provides a new approach to documenting dietary and health changes across major subsistence transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The anthropometric measurements of the older people should also be taken into account in the design of bathroom equipment in order to increase the adaptation of the older people to the person-environment fit. • In general, the products and equipment in the toilet and bathroom suitable for the body characteristics of adults are primarily inadequate and do not meet the needs of older people. • Older-oriented designs with high performance and quality support and life-facilitating tools and equipment in toilet and bathroom equipment will positively affect participation in life and will allow successful and active aging. • Older people should be provided with living environments with specifically designed facilities appropriate for their physical and cognitive strengths, capabilities, and limitations, and to match their body dimensions. This study aimed to evaluate the ergonomic design of toilets and bathroom equipment for older adults using anthropometric measurements. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 2,721 people aged ≥ 65 years in Turkey. Fourteen anthropometric measurements were evaluated. Body dimension characteristics were described using minimum, maximum, and arithmetic means and standard deviations and the 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 95th percentiles. The measurements showed that companies generally do not design bathroom toilet equipment that is suitable for older adults. This study provides advice to designers and manufacturers on how to adapt their products to the bathroom according to users' body characteristics in order to increase person-environment fit for older people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Handgrip strength is a common, simple, and inexpensive method to measure muscle strength. On the other hand, the functional performance measurement involves a usual task which implies repeating elements between the individuals' interaction and the environment. This is fundamental for projecting their results to daily life situation. To explore the relationship between grip strength and measures of functional performance of the upper limbs (ULs) in people over 18 years of age, and to determine the influence of sociodemographic and anthropometric variables on the relationship. A cross-sectional study was conducted under the analytical empirical approach, using linear associations between handgrip strength and functional performance measurement tests (correspondence analysis). Three hundred sixty-two male and female individuals between 18 and 91 years of age from 4 Colombian cities participated. The grip strength of both ULs measured with a digital dynamometry was associated with the Box and Block Test (BBT, manual dexterity), Nine-Hole Peg Test (NHPT, daily living tasks), and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JJT, ability to grasp, pick up, and place). Multiple linear regression analyzes were performed to assess possible explanatory factors of a sociodemographic and anthropometric order. A significant association was found between the grip strength of dominant and non-dominant ULs with all functional performance tests (ρ > 0.27 and p <.001), except for the writing and simulated feeding subtests of the JJT (ρ ≤ 0.16). An interactive effect of age was found in the relationship between grip strength and the 3 functional performance tests. These results support the association between grip strength with the NHPT, JJT, and BBT measures and the interactive effect of age on the performance of all tests. • Handgrip strength is a simple method used in rehabilitation to assess physical ability. • Handgrip strength is a prognostic predictor in different health conditions. • Functional performance measures project their results to situations of daily life. • Functional performance measures involve a habitual task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Estimates of skeletal completeness currently reflect unknown assumptions. • Methods to calculate skeletal completeness are either not being used or not cited. • Typically estimates are not more precise with more years of skeletal experience. • Practitioners demonstrate more agreement for individual bones versus assemblages. • Bones are reported as less complete by practitioners with more experience. Forensic anthropologists engage with numerous and diverse stakeholders in their casework. Regarding the recovery of human remains, these stakeholders may be interested in quantifying or qualifying the amount of remains recovered. How forensic anthropologists respond to such questions, whether verbally or in written reporting, has the potential to impact the trajectory of a case. However, communications about skeletal completeness are rarely discussed within the field. Current data-collection procedures recommend the use of inventories. This approach may be less feasible for complicated assemblages involving commingling or high degrees of fragmentation. Numerous methods exist to quantify the amount of skeletal remains present in complex or larger assemblages, but it remains unclear to what extent forensic anthropologists utilize these methods and whether factors like degree of expertise influence analysts' ability to report skeletal completeness consistently and precisely. A study was designed to examine differences between public and professional perceptions of skeletal completeness, presenting images of incomplete bones and skeletal remains. Survey participants were asked to assess the completeness of the remains in each image. Few patterns were observed regarding photographs of skeletal assemblages, but distinct differences were observed among individual bones between respondents with different degrees of expertise. These responses reflect potentially unexamined assumptions underlying assessments of incomplete bones and skeletal assemblages. This highlights the necessity of standardizing how we report estimates of completeness within the forensic anthropology community and how we discuss these results with external stakeholders. Completeness estimates must be either removed from reports and bench notes or annotated and cited clearly, as is standard with other aspects of forensic anthropological analysis. Several methods are summarized, with recommendations for integrating them into casework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Forensic application of IRMS is dependent on the quality isotope data. • We discuss ways to assess isotopic data reliability for human identification work. • We also discuss accreditation of isotope testing for forensic identification. Application of isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) to skeletal remains has become an important tool to investigate human behavior and history. Isotopic variations in collagen, enamel, and keratin reflect variations in an individual's diet and drinking water. Since food and water sources typically are geographically linked, isotope testing can assist in forensic identification by classifying remains to a likely geographic or population origin. If remains are commingled, differences in diet or geographic origin also can support their separation. The usefulness of IRMS in forensic science is dependent on the underlying quality and surety of the isotope test results; in other words, we need to understand their reliability in interpretations. To take ownership of isotopic data quality, we recommend asking a series of questions: 1. How well are the mass spectrometer and associated peripheral(s) operating? 2. Are test results reproducible (over time and between locations)? 3. Can we differentiate between populations that we would like to? 4. How variable are the populations of interest? 5. Have the samples been isotopically altered? 6. How variable are the samples? Here, we use data collected during the buildout and accreditation of an isotope testing program at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) to answer the above questions for the forensic application of IRMS for human identification. While our primary focus is on the preparation and analysis of bone collagen, the questions above should be considered whenever isotope testing is used in forensic casework. Whether the populations of interest are drugs or humans, olives or explosives, users need to evaluate their isotopic data and interpretations to ensure they are scientifically sound and legally defensible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exceptional fossils preserve non-biomineralized tissues in the geological record and provide crucial information on the evolution of life on Earth. Exceptionally preserved fossils are rarely discovered complete, challenging their morphological description and their palaeontological interpretation. Although decay experiments reconstructing degradation sequences in modern animals are necessary to better understand taphonomic processes involved in exceptional preservation, their applicability to some enigmatic and/or extinct fossil taxa remains limited. Here, based on a representative sample of 423 specimens collected from a single stratigraphic level from the Early Ordovician Fezouata Biota, we reconstruct the degradation sequence of both skeletal remains and soft tissues of stylophorans, an extinct clade of echinoderms. The rare preservation of the water vascular system can be explained by the rapid post-mortem opening of the cover plates resulting from the fast decay of associated muscles and the action of ligaments. In contrast, the proximal aulacophore and associated stylocone formed a particularly decay-resistant closed module, thus favouring the preferential preservation of included soft parts (fore-gut). The non-random location and frequency of pyritised intra-skeletal structures strongly suggest that skeletal elements dictated the preservation of underlying soft parts. As such, taphonomic investigations should not only focus on the environment surrounding a decaying animal, but also on the different environments created within a particular carcass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examine the prospective association among diet with adolescent cardiometabolic risk (CMR) and anthropometrics. Secondary analysis of an observational study of adolescents aged 10–16 years. Twenty-four-hour food recalls were used to calculate Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015) scores. Anthropometrics were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and height/weight measurements. CMR included mean arterial pressure, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides. Associations between HEI-2015 score at baseline with follow-up adiposity and CMR were examined using regression models. A total of 192 adolescents were included. Baseline HEI-2015 scores were inversely associated with follow-up total CMR z-score (P = 0.01), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (P < 0.01), waist circumference z-score (P = 0.02), body mass index percentile (P = 0.01), fat mass (P = 0.04), lean mass (P = 0.02), and visceral adipose tissue mass (P = 0.01). Adolescents with lower adherence to dietary guidelines and greater CMR and anthropometry measurements at baseline continued this trajectory across the observation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our original article we evaluated diagenetic changes to rat cortical bone osteocyte lacunae over increasing post-mortem intervals. We suggested that with further, more intensive research, it may be possible to exploit these changes for the purposes of post-mortem interval estimation of skeletal remains. In their comment to our paper, Miszkiewicz et al. (in press) raise concerns about the project design and interpretation of the results. Here, we reply to their comments and offer answers to their concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the impacts of the Dekthai Kamsai programme on overweight/obesity, underweight and stunting among male and female primary school students. A quasi-experiment was conducted in 16 intervention and 19 control schools across Thailand in 2018 and 2019. In total, 896 treated and 1779 control students from grades 1 to 3 were recruited. In intervention schools, a set of multifaceted intervention components were added into school routine practices. Anthropometric outcomes were measured at baseline and at the beginning and end of every school term. Propensity score matching with linear and Poisson difference-in-difference analyses were used to adjust for the non-randomisation and to analyse the intervention's effects over time. Compared with controls, the increases in mean BMI-for-age Z-score (BAZ) and the incidence rate of overweight/obesity were lower in the intervention schools at the 3rd, 4th and 8th measurements and the 3rd measurement, respectively. The decrease in mean height-for-age Z-score (HAZ) was lower at the 4th measurement. The decrease in the incidence rate of wasting was lower at the 5th, 7th and 8th measurements. The favourable impacts on BAZ and HAZ were found in both sexes, while the favourable impact on overweight/obesity and unfavourable impact on wasting were found in girls. This intervention might be effective in reducing BAZ, overweight/obesity, poor height gain, but not wasting. These findings highlight the benefits of a multifaceted school nutrition intervention and a need to incorporate tailor-made interventions for wasting to comprehensively address the double burden of malnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Choosing the optimal sarcopenia screening tool for a specific clinical scenario is challenging. We aimed to summarize all validated sarcopenia screening tools with diagnostic accuracy tested in one or more study populations. Scoping review. Hospitals, nursing homes, communities, or health checkups. We systematically searched 3 databases in April 2022: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Two review authors independently performed the study selection and data extraction. The included tools' contents, characteristics, and number of citations were summarized and visualized. We summarized 102 diagnostic accuracy studies involving 53 screening tools, classified into 7 groups: questionnaires (n = 13); serum biomarkers (n = 10); formulas, algorithms, and models (n = 9); physical ability tests (n = 9); integration tools (n = 7); anthropometric indices (n = 3); and ultrasound or bioimpedance analysis (n = 2). The most commonly used questionnaire was SARC-F (770 citations), followed by SARC-CalF (254 citations) and MSRA-7 (61 citations). Handgrip strength and Ishii score were the most widely used physical performance tests (331 citations) and formulas (294 citations), respectively. Sarcopenia index (based on serum cystatin C and creatinine) and calf circumference were the most commonly used serum biomarkers (123 citations) and anthropometric indexes (127 citations), respectively. Ultrasound was the most commonly used imaging tool for screening sarcopenia (57 citations). The included tools varied significantly in content. Various tools assessed some or all components of sarcopenia with different methods, and others assessed different domains, such as age, body mass index, falls, diet, and even mental health. We also summarized the screening tools that were validated in different clinical settings (hospitals, communities, nursing homes, and health checkups). More than 50 validated tools are currently available for screening sarcopenia in different clinical settings. The results of this review may help clinicians and researchers in selecting optimal tools for sarcopenia in different clinical scenarios and in developing future tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The cross-sectional area of the median nerve as measured by diagnostic ultrasound is larger in healthy individuals over 40 compared to those under years old. • The cross-sectional area of the median nerve as measured by diagnostic ultrasound is larger in healthy individuals with an elevated body mass index and weight. • Anthropometric and demographic characteristics including age, body mass index, and weight should be considered when examining the cross sectional area of the median nerve at the wrist, especially when determining cut-off points for establishing a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. This study aimed to identify the relationship between age, body mass index (BMI), weight, height, and wrist circumference and median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA). The study also aimed to examine the difference between CSA in individuals reporting a high amount (>4 hours per day) of electronic device use compared to those reporting a low amount (≤4 hours per day). One hundred twelve healthy individuals volunteered to participate in the study. Anthropometric, demographic, and self-reported electronic device usage data were collected. A transverse image of the median nerve was captured using ultrasonography from the dominant wrist at the carpal tunnel inlet. A Spearman's rho correlation coefficient was used to examine correlations between participant characteristics (age, BMI, weight, height, and wrist circumference) and CSA. Separate Mann-Whitney U tests were used to examine differences in CSA in those younger and older than age 40, in those with BMI <25 kg/m2 and BMI ≥25 kg/m2, and in high and low-frequency device users. BMI, weight, and wrist circumference showed fair correlations with CSA. There were significant differences in CSA between individuals younger than 40 and those older than 40 and between individuals with BMI <25kg/m2 and those with BMI ≥25kg/m2. There were no statistically significant differences in CSA in the low- and high-use electronic device groups. Anthropometric and demographic characteristics including age and BMI or weight should be considered when examining the CSA of the median nerve, especially when determining cut-off points for establishing a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the association between anthropometric measures and semen parameters. Cross-sectional study. Male participants aged ≥21 years. We analyzed data from 659 males (1185 samples) participating in a semen testing substudy of the Pregnancy Online Study (PRESTO), a North American preconception cohort study. After enrollment, we invited males aged ≥21 years to perform at-home semen testing using the Trak system. Participants reported selected anthropometric variables (current weight, height, waist circumference, and weight at age 17 years) and covariate data via an online baseline questionnaire. We used generalized estimating equations models to estimate the percent difference in mean log-transformed semen parameter values and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between selected anthropometric variables and semen volume (mL), sperm concentration (million/mL), and total sperm count (million), adjusting for sociodemographics, lifestyle factors, and medical history. We also evaluated World Health Organization-defined thresholds for low semen quality. Percentage differences in mean log-transformed semen volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count (95% CI) comparing current body mass index ≥35 vs. <25 kg/m2 were −6.3 (−15.8, 4.3), −6.4 (−24.6, 16.2), and −12.2 (−31.1, 11.8), respectively. Percentage differences (95% CIs) comparing waist circumferences of ≥42 vs. <31 inches were −4.2 (−15.0, 8.0), −6.4 (−27.6, 21.0), and −10.4 (−31.9, 17.9) for semen volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count, respectively. Greater adult weight gain since age 17 years was associated with reduced semen volume (≥25 vs. <5 kg; percent difference, −9.7; 95% CI, −18.4, 0.1), but not sperm concentration or total sperm count. The highest categories of each anthropometric variable generally were associated with World Health Organization-defined low total sperm count (≤39 million). Selected anthropometric factors were associated modestly with poorer semen quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several techniques exist to measure fat-free mass (FFM). Accordingly, this study is based on data from our recent trial comparing the sensitivity of the main field methods available with that of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) as reference and analyzing the cross-sectional accuracy of these field methods in recreationally resistance-trained males. We hypothesized that the use of these techniques would lead to varying estimates of FFM compared with DXA. Participants (N = 23; 21.4 ± 3.3 years) completed a 10-week resistance training plus diet intervention designed to optimize hypertrophy. FFM was determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), 23 anthropometric equations, and DXA. After the intervention, FFM increased significantly according to BIA and most anthropometric estimates, but this increase was not detected by 2 anthropometric equations or by DXA. Only 1 of these 2 equations showed significant correlation with DXA and no standardized or significant differences to this reference method, although it did display significant heteroscedasticity. In our cross-sectional analysis, only 1 anthropometric equation gave rise to good accuracy as confirmed by DXA. Our findings indicate that the use of different techniques to assess FFM gains in response to a hypertrophic intervention yields different results. BIA with general embedded equations should not be used to monitor a young male adult's body composition. To monitor FFM over time, we would recommend the Dunne et al. equation (2) as the most sensitive field method, and to assess FFM cross-sectionally, equation (1) of these authors is the most accurate field method. This study compares the sensitivity and the cross-sectional accuracy of BIA and anthropometry using DXA as a reference in resistance-trained males. Fat-free mass was significantly increased according to BIA and to most anthropometric estimates, but not according to 2 anthropometric equations or to DXA. Anthropometric equations (1) and (2) of Dunne et al. [20] reported the best sensitivity and the best accuracy, respectively. BIA, bioimpedance analysis; DXA, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The double burden of malnutrition (DBM), characterized by concurrent undernutrition and overnutrition, is a growing global concern. Families share resources and eating behaviors and programs often target households, yet evidence of the DBM at the family level is scarce. Objectives: This study examined trends and inequality in the intrahousehold DBM in India between 2006 and 2021. Methods: Data were from 3 waves of India's National Family Health Survey (NFHS 2006, 2016, and 2021). We examined 3 types of household member (with children aged <5 y) combinations: mother-child (N = 328,039 across 3 waves), father-child, and parent (mother and father)-child (N = 47,139 for each pair). The DBM was defined as one or more individuals with undernutrition (either wasting or stunting in children or underweight in adults) and one or more overweight individuals within the same household. DBM was examined over time, at national and subnational levels, and by residence and wealth. Results: Nearly all DBM was in the form of an overweight parent and an undernourished weight or stunted child. The prevalence of parent-child DBM increased from 15% in 2006 to 26% in 2021. Father-child pairs experienced the most rapid DBM increase, from 12% in 2006 to 22% in 2021, an 83% increase, driven by increasing overweight among men. In 2021, the DBM was highest in North-Eastern and Southern states, and among relatively rich households from urban areas. The increase in the DBM was faster in rural areas and among poor households compared with that in urban areas and rich households. Urban-rural and rich-poor inequalities in the DBM have decreased over time. Conclusions: The intrahousehold DBM has increased over time, affecting 1 in 4 households in India in 2021. Family-based interventions that can simultaneously address child underweight and parent overweight are required to address India's increasing intrahousehold DBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgeons face difficulties achieving simultaneous lip height and width symmetry while repairing unilateral complete cleft lip, so one is often sacrificed at the expense of the other. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of growth on lip height and width symmetry, to guide the surgeon to the best decision. The study patients (N = 105) were divided into two groups based on the treatment method: 42 were treated with the modified rotational advancement technique (MRA group) and 63 with the Millard rotation-advancement technique (RA group). Furthermore, based on lip height and width symmetry at 6 months postoperative, the patients were divided into three groups: 38 with symmetrical lip height and width (SL), 41 with horizontal lip width more symmetrical than lip height (RAW), and 26 with vertical lip height more symmetrical than lip width (RAH). Measurements were taken preoperatively (T0), 6 months (T1) and 5 years (T2) postoperatively. The MRA group had significantly more symmetrical lip height than the RA group at T1 (P = 0.003) and T2 (P = 0.002); however no statistically significant difference in lip width symmetry was observed between the two groups. In relation to the effects of growth, only lip width symmetry in the RAH group improved significantly between T1 and T2 (P = 0.023). In conclusion the improvement in lip width symmetry following 5 years of postoperative growth did not achieve the same symmetry as when lip width symmetry was achieved intraoperatively. Thus, the MRA technique could be used to obtain intraoperative symmetry of lip height and width. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Heat-induced colour changes have been used for decades in anthropological analyses. • Stages of burned bone colour have been reported by many authors. • A variety of factors affect bones' heat-induced colour. • Multidisciplinary research could improve the applicability to the legal framework. Skeletal human remains presenting heat-induced changes have been a focus of study for a long time. However, there is still a long way to go for the anthropologists to be able to fully interpret and understand these changes. Heat-induced colour modifications are one of the least understood phenomena in bone, displaying a variety of exceptions (e.g., tints of yellow, orange, blue, green, pink, and red) to the expected colour variations that bone can produce when exposed to high temperatures (i.e., ivory, brown, black, various shades of grey, and white). In addition to these, there is a lack of uniformization in the literature regarding the methods to determine the exact colourations observed and the nomenclature used, giving way to subjective descriptions. However, commitment to more objective and reliable methods is visible in more recent research. In this review, we compiled data published in the literature throughout the years to portray the state of the art regarding the potential of heat-induced colour changes for inferring the circumstances of death and the applicability of these methods in the legal framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auricular reconstruction is a technically challenging and aesthetically demanding procedure as the ear has a complex anatomy. Anthropometry aids in achieving aesthetic ear reconstruction. We considered that implication of stereophotogrammetric technology will lead to a better understanding of human ear morphology. A cross-sectional study was conducted in our institutional OPD in a tertiary health care centre in the Northern part of India.400 people were chosen based on selection criteria. facial scans were done for 3D pictures using Canfield VECTRA® H2 3D imaging device. Study variables were assessed after marking landmarks on the 3D-generated auricular image of an individual. This study consisted of 55.5% males and 44.5% females belonging to the age group of 5–25 years (30.3%), 26–40 years (38.8%) and>40 yr (31.0%). Out of 400 cases, the majority had; oval shaped auricle, normally rolled helix, square earlobe; knob shaped tragus. The attached type of earlobe attachment was more in the right auricle (37%) and the partial attachment ear lobe was more in the left side auricle (35.5%). Darwin's tubercle showed more proportion in the case of males. The mean length and width of the auricle & attachment length are higher in males compared to females. Ear Angulation is highest among females. Assessment of ear morphology using technologically sound methods like stereophotogrammetry paves the way for a more quick, reliable and easy-to-use method for understanding ear morphology. Precise assessment of ear morphology using stereophotogrammetry helps in providing more cosmetic and acceptable ear restoration. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropometric features are important in determining gender and ethnic groups. The aim of this 3D photogrammetric study was to assess the face of Senegalese subjects. A total of 104 3D facial photographs taken with the Bellus 3D application were studied. Measurements were taken at various anthropometric points using Meshlab software. The acquired data were recorded and processed using Jamovi software version 1.8.4.0. Correlations between the quantitative variables were tested and only one with a significance of p 0.05 was retained. Overall, measured distances were higher in men. A statistically significant difference between men and women was found for nose width (p0. 001), face width (p < 0.005) and face height (p0. 0002). Conclusion: 3D anthropometric analysis shows a fairly significant sexual dimorphism, with males having greater facial and nasal proportions. A leptoprosopic (long) facial shape and a mesorrhine nose were maintained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraprocessed foods (UPF) consumption plays a critical role in the development of chronic diseases, but evidence of their effect on children's health is limited. We hypothesized that the consumption of UPF can influence blood pressure levels in 6-year-old children. This study is a secondary analysis of a randomized field trial in Brazil that is registered at clinicaltrial.gov (NCT00635453). Dietary intake was obtained using 2 multiple-pass 24-hour recalls when 305 children were 3 and 6 years old. We classified foods according to the NOVA system and determined the percentage of total energy intake derived from ultraprocessed foods. We collected anthropometric measures from and evaluated systolic and diastolic blood pressures of 6-year-old children. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the association between UPF consumption and blood pressure levels. UPF represented 40.3% (interquartile range, 34.1-48.5) of the total energy intake at 3 years and 45.2% (interquartile range, 41.5-53.2) at 6 years. The adjusted linear regression analyses showed that systolic blood pressure was associated with UPF consumption at 6 years (P =.05), birth weight (P =.02), waist circumference (P <.01), and physical activity (P =.04), whereas diastolic blood pressure was associated with UPF consumption at 3 and 6 years (P =.01 and P <.01, respectively), birth weight (P =.05), and waist circumference (P <.01). Our data suggest that UPF consumption played a role in increasing 6-year-old children's blood pressure. These results reinforce the importance of effective strategies to prevent the excessive consumption of UPF in childhood. The results of the study showed that ultraprocessed food consumption, larger waist circumference, low birth weight, and not practicing physical activity were associated with higher blood pressure among 6-year-old Brazilian children. These findings are useful for understanding the critical role that early-life factors play in cardiovascular health. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between socioeconomic status (SES) and chronic disease has recently become more evident in middle- and low-income countries. We hypothesized that poor socioeconomic conditions, such as food insecurity, low educational level, or low SES, may restrict access to a healthy diet and may be associated with cardiometabolic risk independently of body fat. This study examined the relation between socioeconomic indicators, body fat, and cardiometabolic disease risk markers in a random sample of mothers living in Queretaro, Mexico. Young and middle-aged mothers (n = 321) answered validated questionnaires to determine SES, food insecurity, and educational level and a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire to determine dietary patterns and the cost of individual diet. Clinical measurements included anthropometry, blood pressure, lipids profile, glucose, and insulin. Obesity was present in 29% of the participants. Women with moderate food insecurity had higher waist circumference, glucose, insulin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance than women with food security. High triglyceride concentration and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were associated with lower SES and lower educational level. Women who consumed a lower carbohydrate diet had higher SES, higher education, and better cardiovascular risk markers. The higher carbohydrate diet profile was the least expensive diet. There was an inverse association between the cost and energy-density of foods. In conclusion, food insecurity was associated with glycemic control markers, and lower SES and education were related to a low-cost, higher carbohydrate diet and to a greater cardiovascular risk. The influence of the social environment on obesity and cardiovascular diseases needs to be further explored. In Mexican mothers, food insecurity (FI) and socioeconomic status (SES) relate differently to cardiometabolic risk. The higher SES group is associated with lower body fat, lower body mass index (BMI), and a higher-cost lower carbohydrate (CH) diet, which we consider the healthiest. The lower CH diet is related with lower triglycerides, lower insulin, and higher cholesterol concentrations (HDL and LDL) compared with the higher CH diet. FI is linked with more abdominal fat and higher glucose. Abbreviations: HDL, high-density lipoprotein; LDL, low-density lipoprotein. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is hypothesized that plasma proportion of selected fatty acids (FAs) and dietary habits are linked with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in postmenopausal women. Therefore, this study was designed to determine the association of plasma FA composition and markers of dietary habits with an atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), a predictor of CVD risk in postmenopausal women. In total, 87 postmenopausal women with an average age of 57 ± 7 years were recruited and their dietary intake, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, and FA status in total plasma lipid proportions were determined, showing that 65.5% of the participants had a high risk of CVD according to their AIP value. After adjusting for some confounders (age, body mass index, and physical activity level), the risk of CVD was only positively associated with the frequency of consumption of animal fat spreads (butter and lard) of terrestrial origin. Regarding the FA profile, CVD risk was positively associated with the percentages of vaccenic acid, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid, and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA; mainly n-7) in total FA, as well as the MUFA/SFA ratio in total plasma and stearoyl-CoA desaturase-16 activity (16:1/16:0 ratio). In contrast, the risk of CVD was negatively associated with percentages of α-linolenic acid, total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and PUFA/MUFA ratio in total plasma lipid, and the estimated activity of Δ5-desaturase (20:4/20:3 n-6 ratio). These results support the current recommendations to decrease the frequency of animal fat spread intake because it is associated with a reduced CVD risk based on AIP in postmenopausal women. In accordance with these plasma percentages of ALA, vaccenic acid, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid, PUFA, PUFA/MUFA ratio, and 16:1/16:0 ratio may be important parameters in CVD risk assessment. We aimed to explore the association between the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and dietary habits as well as plasma fatty acid (FA) levels in postmenopausal women (PW). Dietary intake, anthropometric, biochemical parameters, and FA levels in plasma lipids were determined. The atherogenic index of plasma was calculated to predict CVD risks. Some plasma fatty acid in plasma may be important markers in assessing CVD risk. Limitation of animal fat spreads in diet may lower risk of CVD in PW. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the relationships between hepatic steatosis and various indices of obesity, and to identify the most useful index for the prediction of hepatic steatosis in children and adolescents with obesity. A total of 226 children and adolescents with a mean body mass index (BMI) z-score of 2.65 and a mean age of 11.4 years were subjected to anthropometric and body composition measurements, laboratory testing, abdominal fat mass assessment, and hepatic fat accumulation by magnetic resonance imaging-derived proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF). The participants were divided into quartiles according to the severity of their hepatic steatosis, and the presence of hepatic steatosis was defined using an MRI-PDFF ≥ 5%. The multivariate ordinal regression analysis showed that the severity of hepatic steatosis was positively associated with BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio, fat mass, fat-free mass, visceral adiposity, and abdominal subcutaneous adiposity. Higher activities of liver enzymes and higher concentrations of triglyceride, C-reactive protein, fasting insulin, and leptin were associated with more severe hepatic steatosis, whereas high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and adiponectin were negatively associated with hepatic steatosis. The indices of obesity with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) > 0.8 for the prediction of hepatic steatosis were liver enzymes, visceral adipose tissue area, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist-to-height ratio. The severity of hepatic steatosis significantly correlated with various indices of obesity and cardiometabolic markers in children and adolescents with obesity. The indices of abdominal obesity would be the most useful for the prediction of hepatic steatosis. • It is crucial to diagnose and screen for fatty liver disease from an early stage in children with obesity. • The severity of hepatic steatosis assessed using quantitative MRI significantly correlated with various indices of obesity. • The indices of abdominal visceral obesity and liver enzymes showed the greatest diagnostic value for hepatic steatosis. • Healthcare providers may find these readily available indices useful for the screening of children for fatty liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A scoping review of hand function in children and adolescents with Down Syndrome. • Physical characteristics of the upper extremity in Down Syndrome are detailed. • The correlation between upper extremity physical characteristics and determinants of hand function is explored. Down Syndrome (DS) is a genetic condition. Physical characteristics like short stature, hypotonia, small, and thick hands result in decreased grip and pinch strength and quality of fine motor tasks. The purpose of this review is to summarize the evidence of upper extremity physical characteristics and its influence on hand function in DS population. A scoping review. A comprehensive electronic literature search was conducted through PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library. The search was limited to articles written in English and published between 2010 to 2021. Additionally, books were referred for a better understanding of the hand function in DS. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was adopted to develop the protocol. Following a detailed review of 28 articles meeting the inclusion criteria, fetuses with a diagnosis of DS are reported to have shortening of humerus on sonographic markers wherein 9% of fetuses had below 5th percentile shortening. Additionally, literature reports that during reaching there was increased trunk rotation (effect size = 0.88). DS population had 60% less grip strength, 33% less palmar pinch strength ,20% less key pinch strength and poor manual dexterity (CI = 4.5-5.5). Findings of this review concludes that physical characteristics of the upper extremity have an influence on hand function performance in children and adolescents with DS.However, only arm length and hand span have been quantified and correlated with grip strength. Further work must focus on correlation of upper extremity anthropometry and overall hand function in children and adolscents with DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skeletal remains from archaeological and forensic contexts are commonly used for various analyses, including DNA. Our research investigates relatively fast and inexpensive ATR-FTIR spectroscopy with further data manipulation as a potential pre-screening technique for assessing the preservation state of skeletal remains. We seek to correlate spectra and chemometric indices with the biological, chemical, and physical composition of the skeletal tissue, and the quality and quantity of DNA preserved in the tissue, also considering the skeletal element, absolute age, and environmental conditions to which the remains have been exposed. Our research focuses on human bones and teeth derived from archaeological, WWII and forensic contexts. The samples are cleaned and pulverized according to established methodological procedures for DNA extraction. DNA is extracted and quantified, while the remaining powder is analysed by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. The obtained spectra are manipulated to extract the chemometric indices, which are the base for statistical analyses, machine learning, and prediction algorithms. A compilation of results from several studies shows that ATR-FTIR spectra present a solid base for researchers to better understand the preservation state of phosphates, carbonates, and collagen in the skeletal tissues, assessment of post-mortem interval, and the preservation of the DNA. Although many questions still need to be answered, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy with further data manipulation has a high potential for research of taphonomic changes, PMI and DNA preservation in human skeletal remains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on previous studies, we hypothesized that the dietary inflammatory potential in pregnant women might influence maternal and child health. The objective of this work is to review the literature on the association of Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) during pregnancy with early and late maternal and child health outcomes. We searched Cochrane, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Virtual Health Library. Observational studies on DII in the gestational period that met the objective of this review were selected. There was a double-blind evaluation of 185 studies, of which 16 were included in narrative synthesis and 9 in meta-analysis. High methodological quality, longitudinal studies (87.5%) and the Food Frequency Questionnaire for DII evaluation (68.8%) prevailed. Outcomes studied were gestational diabetes mellitus (n = 5), gestational age at delivery (n = 7), type of delivery (n = 3), gestational weight gain or pregestational body mass index (n = 11), and anthropometry at birth (n = 8) and of the child up to age 10 years (n = 4). Higher maternal DII was associated with increased risk of small-for-gestational-age babies (odds radio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.21; I 2, 29%; P =.24) and low birth weight (<2.500 g) (odds ratio, 1.16; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.26; I 2, 56%; P =.10). The association between higher maternal DII and higher risk of obesity in late childhood is also suggestive. Thus, maternal diet may be a modifiable factor of inflammation in pregnancy associated with health outcomes of the offspring. Systematic review of observational studies that evaluated the DII during pregnancy associated with GDM, gestational age at delivery, type of delivery, and maternal and child anthropometry. Sixteen studies were included in narrative synthesis and 9 in meta-analysis. A higher DII score was associated with a higher risk of SGA babies, LBW, and obesity until later childhood. BMI, body mass index; DII, Dietary Inflammatory Index; GDM, gestational diabetes mellitus; GWG, gestational weight gain; LBW, low birth weight; SGA, small-for-gestational-age. Image source: Canva/Flaticon. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With expanding indications, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) is now being performed in greater proportion for shoulders with an intact rotator cuff. However, little is known regarding the dynamic in vivo effects of rTSA implants on the rotator cuff and deltoid musculature. The purpose of this study was to quantify changes in the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the rotator cuff and deltoid following rTSA, and to assess the clinical impact of these changes. Twenty-five patients undergoing rTSA augmented by a glenoid bone graft were included for analysis. Patients underwent preoperative and one-year postoperative CT scans. Range-of-motion measurements and functional scores were collected at approximately one year postoperatively. Cross-sectional area measurements of the supraspinatus (SS) and combined infraspinatus/teres minor (IS/Tm) were made at three separate points on parasagittal CT sections by two independent reviewers. Similarly, CSA measurements of the deltoid were made at three separate points in a plane perpendicular to the humeral shaft. Scalar measurements on CT sections in two orthogonal planes were used to assess lateralization and distalization. Compared to preoperative measurements, the CSA of the SS and IS/Tm decreased in 72% (18/25; mean 13.4% decrease; SD, 19.8%; range, 61.8% decrease to 13.7% increase; P =.02) and 64% (16/25; mean 8.7% decrease; SD, 13.5%; range, 35.3% decrease to 14.9% increase; P =.11) of shoulders, respectively. Eighty-four percent of shoulders saw a decrease in their combined posterosuperior cuff complex area (21/25; mean 11.5% decrease; SD, 11.2%; range, 43.4% decrease to 5.4% increase; P =.035). In contrast, deltoid CSA increased in 80% of patients (20/25; mean 7.9% increase; SD, 20.2%; range, 41.3% decrease to 67.8% increase; P =.43). There were no significant differences in CSA changes between shoulders with cuff-intact glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA) and rotator cuff tear arthropathy (RCTA) (P =.36, P =.58, P =.16, P =.36 for SS, IS/Tm, posterosuperior cuff and deltoid, respectively). In shoulders with GHOA, a smaller decrease in CSA of the SS was associated with a smaller increase in deltoid CSA (R = −0.68; P =.03), and greater improvements in forward elevation (R = 0.66; P =.04). In general, the posterosuperior cuff CSA declines and the deltoid CSA increases following rTSA with a minimally lateralized construct. In the setting of GHOA, changes in CSA of the SS were inversely associated with deltoid CSA changes and positively associated with improvements in forward elevation. For patients with an intact rotator cuff undergoing rTSA, preservation of the SS may optimize active forward elevation motion, while also decreasing deltoid muscle burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Facial symmetry plays an important role in facial attractiveness and is one of the major criteria used to determine attractiveness in humans. In craniomaxillofacial surgery, facial symmetry is one of the main considerations. The aim of this study was to determine anthropometric measurements quantitatively and investigate the relationship between facial symmetry and attractiveness in a local Malay population. The study included 30 photographed Malay individuals and 100 photograph assessors, all aged between 18 and 26 years. The assessors indicated their preferences regarding the more attractive face on original and manipulated (symmetrical face) photographs. None of the photographed subjects had a perfectly symmetrical face (asymmetry index (AI) of 0%); 33.3% of the photographed subjects had an AI in the range of 1.6–2.0%. The majority of assessors chose the manipulated symmetrical face as the most attractive (manipulated photograph selected in 91.2% of cases). As facial symmetry is considered a critical factor in attractiveness, it is beneficial to consider balance and symmetry prior to facial reconstruction. The AI values found in this study may be useful as guidance to determine the normal minimum balance of facial symmetry. No AI values indicating perfect symmetry were observed for the unedited facial anthropometric measurements. However, the projection of a perfectly symmetrical face does influence the perception of facial attractiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adiposity is associated with an increased risk of primary liver cancer (PLC). As the most commonly used indicator of adiposity, the body mass index (BMI) has been questioned for its limitations in reflecting visceral fat. This study aimed to investigate the role of different anthropometric indicators in identifying the risk of PLC by accounting for potential non-linear associations. Systematic searches were conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Sinomed, Web of Science, and CNKI databases. Hazard ratios (HRs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the pooled risk. The dose-response relationship was assessed using a restricted cubic spline model. Sixty-nine studies involving more than 30 million participants were included in the final analysis. Regardless of the indicator used, adiposity was strongly associated with an increased risk of PLC. When comparing the HRs per 1-standard deviation increment across indicators of adiposity, the association was strongest for waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) (HR = 1.39), followed by waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (HR = 1.22), BMI (HR = 1.13), waist circumference (WC) (HR = 1.12), and hip circumference (HC) (HR = 1.12). A strong non-linear association was observed between each anthropometric parameter and the risk of PLC, regardless of whether the original or decentralised value was used. The positive association between WC and PLC risk remained substantial after adjusting for BMI. The incidence of PLC was higher with central adiposity (52.89 per 100,000 person-years, 95% CI = 50.33–55.44) than general adiposity (39.01 per 100,000 person-years, 95% CI = 37.26–40.75). Central adiposity seems to contribute more to the development of PLC than general adiposity. A larger WC, independent of BMI, was strongly associated with the risk of PLC and might be a more promising predictive indicator than BMI. [Display omitted] • BMI, WC, WHR, WHtR, and HC were, respectively, positively associated with the risk of PLC. • Elevated WC, independent of BMI, was associated with an increased risk of PLC. • The incidence of PLC was higher in central adiposity than that in general adiposity. • WC might be a more promising predictive indicator for PLC beyond BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]