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Introduction/Aims: Nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are widely used to support the clinical diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders. The aims of this study were to obtain reference values for peroneal, tibial, and sural NCSs and to examine the associations with demographic and anthropometric factors. Methods: In 5099 participants (aged 40–79 years) without type 2 diabetes of The Maastricht Study, NCSs of peroneal, tibial, and sural nerves were performed. Values for compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and sensory nerve action potential amplitude, nerve conduction velocity (NCV), and distal latency were acquired. The association of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and height with NCS values was determined using uni‐ and multivariate linear regression analyses. Results: Detailed reference values are reported per decade for men and women. Significantly lower NCVs and longer distal latencies were observed in all nerves in older and taller individuals as well as in men. In these groups, amplitudes of the tibial and sural nerves were significantly lower, whereas a lower peroneal nerve CMAP was only significantly associated with age. BMI showed a multidirectional association. After correction for anthropometric factors in the multivariate analysis, the association between sex and NCS values was less straightforward. Discussion: These values from a population‐based dataset could be used as a reference for generating normative values. Our findings show the association of NCS values with anthropometric factors. In clinical practice, these factors can be considered when interpreting NCS values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent decades, the incidence of depression has gradually increased in the general population globally. Depression is also common during gestation and could result in detrimental gestational complications for both the mother and the fetus. The survey presented aimed to evaluate whether pregnant women's perinatal depression could be associated with socio-demographic, anthropometry and lifestyle factors, and perinatal and postnatal outcomes. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey conducted on 5314 pregnant women. Socio-demographic and lifestyle factors were recorded by relevant questionnaires via face-to-face interviews. Anthropometric parameters were measured by qualified personnel. Perinatal depressive symptomatology status was evaluated by Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI-II) questionnaire. Results: Depressive symptoms throughout gestation were found in 35.1% of the enrolled women. Perinatal depression was significantly associated with lower educational and economic level, pre-pregnancy regular smoking and reduced levels of Mediterranean diet adherence levels, a higher prevalence of gestational diabetes and preterm birth, as well as a higher incidence of delivering by caesarean section and abnormal childbirth weight. Perinatal depression was also significantly associated with a higher prevalence of maternal postpartum depression and lower prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding practices, as well as with a higher incidence of childhood asthma. Conclusions: Pregnant women's perinatal depression appears to be associated with various socio-demographic, anthropometry, and lifestyle characteristics and with a higher frequency of several adverse pregnancy complications. The present findings emphasize the importance of pregnant women's perinatal mental health, highlighting the need to develop and apply public strategies and policies for psychological counseling and support of future mothers to minimize probable risk factors that may trigger perinatal depression. Novel well-organized, follow-up surveys of enhanced validity are highly recommended to establish more definitive conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is one of the main risk factors related to cardiovascular mortality, being the levels of blood pressure (BP) related to a variety of personal, anthropometric, biochemical and psychological variables; however, the study evaluating the association of all these factors in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in a sample of relatively healthy subjects has not been performed. The aim of the study was to determine the main variables associated with SBP and DPB in a sample of relatively healthy subjects. A total of 171 participants were included, in which personal, anthropometric, positive and negative psychological variables and biochemical variables were measured. We observed that men showed higher levels of SBP and DBP than women, with more differences for SBP. Among the biochemical factors and SBP, we found that albumin and monocytes were positively correlated with it, while potassium, phosphorus and eosinophils were negatively correlated with it. Additionally, schooling was a constant variable negatively correlated with SBP in all samples (global, men and women). Among psychological variables, we observed that emotional perception was negatively correlated with SBP in men's and women's samples, while autonomy was positively correlated with SBP in the men's sample; however, their association was less when compared with the personal and biochemical variables included in the multivariate model. With regard to DBP, we observed that the biochemical variables, hemoglobin, sodium, uric acid and glucose, were positively correlated with DBP in the global sample, while chloride and BUN were negatively correlated with it. In addition, many personal and behavioral variables, including BMI, age and smoking consumption frequency, also correlated with DBP in the global sample. In conclusion, BP is affected by different factors, and these affect each sex differently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine serum levels of Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) and Amyloid-beta (Aβ) proteins in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and investigate the association of demographic factors with their serum levels. Sixty patients with AD and 29 healthy individuals were recruited. Participants' anthropometric indices, physical activity, dietary intake, and also biochemical factors were assessed. Serum LCN2 level was significantly lower in AD patients than the control group. The serum LCN2 level was negatively correlated with BMI, waist circumference (WC), and smoking in the AD group. Serum Aβ level did not significantly differ between the groups and had a negative correlation with BMI, WC, hip circumference (HC), and smoking. In AD patients, smokers had higher levels of LCN2 (p = 0.04) and Aβ (p = 0.05) than non-smokers; and obese subjects had lower levels of LCN2 (p = 0.01) and Aβ (p = 0.02) than normal-weight subjects; and Aβ was lower in those with long disease duration (≥1 year) than those with less disease duration (<1 year) (p = 0.04). Each unit increase in LCN2 and Aβ levels were associated with 3% decreased (p = 0.008) and 4% increased (p = 0.01) risk of AD, respectively. LCN2 and Aβ serum levels were positively correlated together in AD patients (r = 0.80, p < 0.001). Patients with AD may have lower serum LCN2 levels. Anthropometric indices, disease duration, and smoking may have a role in serum levels of LCN2 and Aβ. A strong positive correlation between serum LCN2 and Aβ levels suggests that these two proteins may have interrelated functions in AD pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pinch MVC (maximal voluntary contraction) is not correlated to dexterity • Pinch MVC and E-MVC (extension maximal voluntary contraction) values have different decline over ageing. • No difference in E-MVC (extension maximal voluntary contraction) was observed between hands • In heaviest occupations there is no difference in Palmar pinch MVC between hands • The anthropometric factor most correlated with pinch MVCs is height Cross-sectional study. Flexion (Palmar Pinch, PP-MVC and Tip Pinch, TP-MVC) and extension (E-MVC) maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of the index-thumb system offers a quick way to estimate the level of hands' impairment in several musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions. This study established normative data of PP-MVC, TP-MVC, E-MVC in the Italian population and evaluated their correlation with hand dominance, anthropometric factors, dexterity and workload level. In our study, 303 healthy people (150F, 153M) were recruited. Participants performed PP-MVC, TP-MVC and E-MVC tests per hand, conducted by using a pinch-gauge. T-test was used to analyze MVC means between sexes and between hands. One-way ANOVA was conducted to compare MVC means in male and female samples stratified by age (18-29, 30-44, 45-59, 60-74, +75). Spearman's correlation analysis was performed to determine anthropometric variables, dexterity and workload level effects on MVCs. Medium-to-large effect sizes of age were shown in the majority of tasks. The 30 to 44 years and then +75 years age groups showed the highest and the lowest values, respectively, for both sex and both hands. Men were meanly 50% stronger, and the dominant hand showed higher values (6-10%). MVC-tests correlated moderately with weight and height weakly with dexterity and workload level. After 30 to 44 years, hand strength declines in line with the normal process of aging that also entails muscle fibers and the reduction of daily activities in older adults. In relative terms, E-MVC showed the highest strength loss in the over 75 seconds. The difference between sexes was higher in E-MVC than in flexion MVCs. E-MVC seems to depend more on musculoskeletal architecture that differs from women to men, according to the highest correlation between E-MVC and anthropometric variables. Only high workload levels impacted hand strength. In heaviest occupations, no PP-MVCs differences were observed between hands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cytokines are synthesized and released by immune system cells and mediate critical immune responses. Aging is associated with increased serum levels of some pro-inflammatory cytokines. A positive correlation between the concentration of several cytokines and blood pressure has been reported; higher cytokine concentrations may be related to the underlying causes of hypertension through the effects of inflammatory responses or as an independent aetiology for hypertension. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines and growth factors, with biochemical and anthropometric characteristics, in healthy Iranian subjects. Material and methods: Anthropometric measurements and blood sampling were performed in 103 healthy Iranian participants. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and lipid profile were measured in these participants. Twelve serum cytokines/growth factors (MCP-1, TNF-α, EGF, IFN-γ, VEGF, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) were measured by cytokine biochip array. Results: FBG was positively associated with serum interleukin (IL) 2 (IL-2), IL-4, and IL-1α (p = 0.044, < 0.001, and = 0.017, respectively). Serum epithelial growth factor and IL-4 were positively associated with age (p < 0.001). Interleukin-8 was inversely associated with systolic blood pressure (p = 0.002) and gender (p = 0.028). There was a positive association between vascular endothelial growth factor and high-density lipoprotein (p = 0.007). The serum levels of interferon-γ and tumour necrosis factor-a were positively associated with serum triglycerides (p = 0.018 and 0.006, respectively). Serum interferon-γ and IL-1β levels were positively associated with hip circumference (p = 0.029 and 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: There are associations between various pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors in serum and age, sex, hip circumference and several biochemical measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unfavorable disruptions to daily living routines by exerting deleterious effects on several aspects of human mental and physical health and quality of life worldwide. The purpose of the current survey is to explore the potential association of COVID-19 infection with multiple sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors of community-dwelling older adults. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey including 5197 older adults aged over 65 years old from 10 geographically diverse regions of Greece. Relevant questionnaires were used to record study the population sociodemographic factor, while anthropometric parameters were also measured. Validated questionnaires were also applied to assess several lifestyle factors such as depression, anxiety, stress, cognitive status, sleep quality, health-related quality of life, physical activity levels, and Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence. Results: In multivariate regression analysis, COVID-19 infection was significantly, independently related with urban residence (p = 0.0107), regular smoking (p = 0.0218), overweight status and obesity (p = 0.0036), as well as abdominal obesity (p = 0.0008), higher risk of depression (p = 0.0027), anxiety (p = 0.0045), stress (p = 0.0038), inadequate sleep quality (p = 0.0108), lower physical activity levels (p = 0.0012), reduced MD compliance (p = 0.0009), and poor health-related quality of life (p = 0.0002). In univariate analysis, older adults’ age (p = 0.0001), male gender (p = 0.0015), living alone (p = 0.0023), lower educational and economic level (p = 0.0175 and p = 0.0294, respectively), and cognition decline (p = 0.0032) were also related with the presence of COVID-19 infection; however, these associations were considerably attenuated at a non-significant level by adjustment for several confounders in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: This is one of the few available studies supporting evidence that COVID-19 infection may be associated with diverse sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors in an older adults’ population in Greece. This study highlights the strong demand to provide psychological and nutritional counselling and support to older adults diagnosed with COVID-19 infection in order to ameliorate disease symptoms and severity, emphasizing the adaptation of healthy dietary and lifestyle habits as preventing and supplementary therapeutic factors against COVID-19.

OBJECTIVES: Bell's palsy is a condition of unilateral facial paralysis with the recovery rate varying from person to person. Various factors influence the prognosis of Bell's palsy subjects. Hence, the aim of this research was to examine the relationship between recovery of Bell's palsy and demographic, anthropometric, and the presence of comorbid diseases. METHODOlOGY: A correlation study was conducted on a total of 70 (both male and female) subjects. Independent outcome measures were age, gender, side, height, weight, body mass index, presence of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Dependent outcome measure was Sunnybrook Facial Grading System which grades the recovery following Bell's palsy. Outcome measures were taken at baseline, after 20 days, and after 1 month. RESULTS: Statistical analysis indicates that age, weight, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia have a significant correlation with recovery in Bell's palsy patients. CONCLUSION: The positive correlation between weight and recovery indicated that low weight leads to delayed recovery. A negative correlation of recovery with age, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia indicates that increased age leads to delayed or incomplete recovery and the presence of comorbid diseases leads to delayed/incomplete recovery.

One of the characteristics of modern figure skating is the progressive complication of the competitive programs. This process develops, in particular, in the way of athletes’ mastery of complex coordination elements and compounds of a rotating nature, which appear to be a strong irritant to the vestibular analyzer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of anthropometric factors on the balance stability of female figure skaters. The study’s tasks, which are divided into three groups, as well as the subject and object of the study, are presented. The used methods are described. The methodology of the study is separated and detailed. Also, the different abilities of the body for balance resistance, in various motor actions are described. One of the main used methods is called Stabilometry. The design of the study is followed. The results are visualized in six tables, which are illustrated by five figures. In conclusion, the dependence of Anthropometric status is noted in accordance with the height and length of the lower limbs and the width of the pelvis. The dynamic retention of the balance in landing position is more effective than the static balance in the Romberg posture, which is explained by the specificity of the sport figure skating. There is a worsening of the balance in the increase of anthropometric parameters – height, weight and chest circumference. Balance fluctuations in the Romberg position are significantly dependent on the weight and chest circumference, while the height of the skaters affects the balance – with increasing amplitude there is also an increase in balance fluctuations in the landing position after a jump, i.e. the balance is unstable, which is explained by a higher placement of the center of gravity of the body.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are among the most prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality. This research investigated the relationship between physical activity, lipid profile, and new anthropometric cardiovascular risk factors among men. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 155 adult men (30-50 years old) who were selected randomly from 250 men called by public announcement. Standard methods were used to measure their anthropometric indices and then they were asked to complete the Baecke questionnaire. ANOVA was used to compare basic anthropometric and clinical characteristics in different age groups followed by Tukey’s posthoc test. A correlation of anthropometric measurements with glucose and lipid parameters was determined by the Pearson correlation coefficient. P

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is an aggregation of coexisting conditions that can indicate an individual's high risk of major diseases, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to evaluate potential risk factor indicators by identifying relationships between MS and anthropometric and spirometric factors along with blood parameters among Korean adults. A total of 13,978 subjects were enrolled from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Statistical analysis was performed using a complex sampling design to represent the entire Korean population. We conducted binary logistic regression analysis to evaluate and compare potential associations of all included factors. We constructed prediction models based on Naïve Bayes and logistic regression algorithms. The performance evaluation of the prediction model improved the accuracy with area under the curve (AUC) and calibration curve. Among all factors, triglyceride exhibited a strong association with MS in both men (odds ratio (OR) = 2.711, 95% confidence interval (CI) [2.328–3.158]) and women (OR = 3.515 [3.042–4.062]). Regarding anthropometric factors, the waist-to-height ratio demonstrated a strong association in men (OR = 1.511 [1.311–1.742]), whereas waist circumference was the strongest indicator in women (OR = 2.847 [2.447–3.313]). Forced expiratory volume in 6s and forced expiratory flow 25–75% strongly associated with MS in both men (OR = 0.822 [0.749–0.903]) and women (OR = 1.150 [1.060–1.246]). Wrapper-based logistic regression prediction model showed the highest predictive power in both men and women (AUC = 0.868 and 0.932, respectively). Our findings revealed that several factors were associated with MS and suggested the potential of employing machine learning models to support the diagnosis of MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lateral ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries that an athlete may endure during their career. If not treated correctly, it often leads to recurrent twisting of the ankle joint, causing disruption of the ligaments in the ankle joint. Various anthropometric factors such as height, weight, BMI, as well as previous ankle sprain history are assessed as potential predictors of recurrent lateral ankle sprain. The potential factors are correlated with the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure- Sports Sub Scale to assess their contribution to a recurrent lateral ankle sprain in athletes. The FAAM Sport subscale is used to determine the functioning of the ankle joint, as recorded by the subjects themselves. Methodology: The questionnaire is sent to the candidates who fall under the inclusion criteria, and they are asked to fill the questionnaire. The participants were between the age of 18-30 years. Both male, as well as female athletes were included in the study. Each athlete must have played at least 3 competitive sports in the last 1 year, and they must have a history of at least 1 lateral ankle sprain. The collected data is then compiled and analyzed. Result: After the analysis of the data, previous ankle sprain history depicted maximum correlation with the FAAM- Sport Subscale, as well as an inverse relationship, with a reading of -2.89, and significance of 0.27. Height depicted an inverse relationship as well, with -.119 when compared to FAAM Sport Sub-scale. Weight also shows an inverse relationship (-0.053) when correlated with the FAAM Sport sub-scale. BMI does not show any correlation with the FAAM Sport Subscale (+0.002). Conclusion: Previous ankle sprain history, height and weight depict an inverse relationship with the FAAM Sport Subscale, indicating that, as their score increases, the functioning of the ankle joint decreases, and hence becoming a potential factor for recurrent ankle sprains. BMI however, does not depict any correlation with the FAAM sport sub-scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In this study we collected reference values for the across-tarsal-tunnel conduction of the motor tibial nerve (mTN).Methods: The mTN compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) from the abductor hallucis muscle were obtained by stimulating below/above the malleolus and the popliteal fossa. The effect of weight, height, body mass index (BMI), foot and leg length, sex, and age were evaluated using univariate and multivariate correlation analyses, and predictive equations for each mTN conduction parameter were developed.Results: On the basis of data from 185 subjects, there were differences between women and men in all anthropometric parameters and for some nerve conduction values. Through multivariate analysis, age, but not sex, was found to have a significant impact. Height affected both distal and proximal conduction velocity. BMI affected CMAP amplitude.Discussion: mTN conduction is influenced by various demographic and anthropometric factors. For all intrinsic factors, height demonstrated the greatest effect on mTN conduction across the tarsal tunnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The influence of demographic and anthropometric factors on nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) reference values in high-resolution ultrasound was evaluated in a prospective observational study.Methods: We measured CSA of median, ulnar, radial, and sural nerves in 80 healthy adults from 18 to 98 years of age. Pearson's correlation and multiple linear regression with age, gender, body mass index, and hand volume were calculated.Results: Ulnar and median nerve CSA showed a significant positive correlation with ipsilateral hand volume. Median nerve CSA in the left forearm (mean, 6.2 mm2 ; SD, 1.2) increased by 0.006 mm2 (SE = 0.002; P < .001) per cm3 of hand volume, resulting in a difference of 1.9 mm2 predictable by hand volume (mean, 326 cm3 ; SD, 81; range, 180-500).Conclusions: The observed correlation of CSA and hand volume may influence the interpretation of CSA values in patients with very large or small hands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are among the most prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality. This research investigated the relationship between physical activity, lipid profile, and new anthropometric cardiovascular risk factors among men. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 155 adult men (30-50 years old) who were selected randomly from 250 men called by public announcement. Standard methods were used to measure their anthropometric indices and then they were asked to complete the Baecke questionnaire. ANOVA was used to compare basic anthropometric and clinical characteristics in different age groups followed by Tukey's posthoc test. A correlation of anthropometric measurements with glucose and lipid parameters was determined by the Pearson correlation coefficient. P<0.05 was considered as a significant level. Results: The Mean ±SD age of the participants was 39.8±0.5 years. Their Mean±SD Body Mass Index (BMI) was 25.6±0.3 kg/m2 with a Mean±SD Neck Circumference (NC) of 38.4±0.1 cm, and Mean±SD Wrist Circumference (WRC) of 17.4±0.0 cm. There was a statistically significant difference between age groups concerning height, BMI, WRC, and Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG). The NC showed statistically significant correlation with weight (r=0.7, P<0.001), triglyceride (r=0.1, P=0.033), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) (r=-0.2, P=0.007) and Physical Activity (PA) (r=-0.1, P=0.020). Also the WRC had statistically significant correlation with weight (r=0.7, P<0.001), height (r=0.1, P=0.021) and HDL (r=-0.1, P=0.024). Conclusion: Measuring NC like other methods was a potential assessment tool of cardiovascular risk factors and can be used for epidemiological studies. Also, WRC had no significant relation. However, WRC's negative correlation with HDL was very important and can indicate the health status of individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Handgrip strength is a measurement of upper extremity functionality and an indicator of overall physical ability. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to compare maximum handgrip strength (MGS) between manual workers and office employees and to investigate if the expected difference is related to the anthropometric dimensions of the workers' hands and forearms. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study with a sample of 1740 male workers (905 light manual workers; and 835 office employees), aged 20–64 years. Maximum voluntary contractions were obtained using a JAMAR dynamometer according to the methodology proposed by the American Society of Hand Therapy (ASHT). The highest value obtained from three trials was considered as the MGS for each side. Six anthropometric dimensions (i.e., hand length, palm length, forearm length, hand breadth, wrist circumference and forearm circumference) were measured by digital caliper and tape measure. RESULTS: Maximum handgrip strength of light manual workers (52.7±8.5 kg) was significantly higher than that of office employees (47.3±8.4 kg) (p < 0.001). Maximum handgrip strength was positively correlated with Hand breadth (r = 0.781 for light manual workers and r = 0.766 for office employees; p < 0.001) and Forearm circumference (r = 0.741 for light manual workers and r = 0.752 for office employees; p < 0.001); the only dimensions which were significantly different between the two studied job groups. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study revealed that light manual workers are approximately 12.4% stronger than office employees in terms of maximum handgrip force. It is therefore imperative to consider the observed differences in clinical, workstations, and hand tool designs in order to increase efficiency and comfort at work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is an aggregation of coexisting conditions that can indicate an individual’s high risk of major diseases, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to evaluate potential risk factor indicators by identifying relationships between MS and anthropometric and spirometric factors along with blood parameters among Korean adults. A total of 13,978 subjects were enrolled from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Statistical analysis was performed using a complex sampling design to represent the entire Korean population. We conducted binary logistic regression analysis to evaluate and compare potential associations of all included factors. We constructed prediction models based on Naïve Bayes and logistic regression algorithms. The performance evaluation of the prediction model improved the accuracy with area under the curve (AUC) and calibration curve. Among all factors, triglyceride exhibited a strong association with MS in both men (odds ratio (OR) = 2.711, 95% confidence interval (CI) [2.328–3.158]) and women (OR = 3.515 [3.042–4.062]). Regarding anthropometric factors, the waist-to-height ratio demonstrated a strong association in men (OR = 1.511 [1.311–1.742]), whereas waist circumference was the strongest indicator in women (OR = 2.847 [2.447–3.313]). Forced expiratory volume in 6s and forced expiratory flow 25–75% strongly associated with MS in both men (OR = 0.822 [0.749–0.903]) and women (OR = 1.150 [1.060–1.246]). Wrapper-based logistic regression prediction model showed the highest predictive power in both men and women (AUC = 0.868 and 0.932, respectively). Our findings revealed that several factors were associated with MS and suggested the potential of employing machine learning models to support the diagnosis of MS.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unfavorable disruptions to daily living routines by exerting deleterious effects on several aspects of human mental and physical health and quality of life worldwide. The purpose of the current survey is to explore the potential association of COVID-19 infection with multiple sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors of community-dwelling older adults., Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey including 5197 older adults aged over 65 years old from 10 geographically diverse regions of Greece. Relevant questionnaires were used to record study the population sociodemographic factor, while anthropometric parameters were also measured. Validated questionnaires were also applied to assess several lifestyle factors such as depression, anxiety, stress, cognitive status, sleep quality, health-related quality of life, physical activity levels, and Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence., Results: In multivariate regression analysis, COVID-19 infection was significantly, independently related with urban residence ( p = 0.0107), regular smoking ( p = 0.0218), overweight status and obesity ( p = 0.0036), as well as abdominal obesity ( p = 0.0008), higher risk of depression ( p = 0.0027), anxiety ( p = 0.0045), stress ( p = 0.0038), inadequate sleep quality ( p = 0.0108), lower physical activity levels ( p = 0.0012), reduced MD compliance ( p = 0.0009), and poor health-related quality of life ( p = 0.0002). In univariate analysis, older adults' age ( p = 0.0001), male gender ( p = 0.0015), living alone ( p = 0.0023), lower educational and economic level ( p = 0.0175 and p = 0.0294, respectively), and cognition decline ( p = 0.0032) were also related with the presence of COVID-19 infection; however, these associations were considerably attenuated at a non-significant level by adjustment for several confounders in multivariate analysis., Conclusions: This is one of the few available studies supporting evidence that COVID-19 infection may be associated with diverse sociodemographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors in an older adults' population in Greece. This study highlights the strong demand to provide psychological and nutritional counselling and support to older adults diagnosed with COVID-19 infection in order to ameliorate disease symptoms and severity, emphasizing the adaptation of healthy dietary and lifestyle habits as preventing and supplementary therapeutic factors against COVID-19.

Introduction: Cytokines are synthesized and released by immune system cells and mediate critical immune responses. Aging is associated with increased serum levels of some pro-inflammatory cytokines. A positive correlation between the concentration of several cytokines and blood pressure has been reported; higher cytokine concentrations may be related to the underlying causes of hypertension through the effects of inflammatory responses or as an independent aetiology for hypertension. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines and growth factors, with biochemical and anthropometric characteristics, in healthy Iranian subjects., Material and Methods: Anthropometric measurements and blood sampling were performed in 103 healthy Iranian participants. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and lipid profile were measured in these participants. Twelve serum cytokines/growth factors (MCP-1, TNF-α, EGF, IFN-γ, VEGF, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) were measured by cytokine biochip array., Results: FBG was positively associated with serum interleukin (IL) 2 (IL-2), IL-4, and IL-1α ( p = 0.044, < 0.001, and = 0.017, respectively). Serum epithelial growth factor and IL-4 were positively associated with age ( p < 0.001). Interleukin-8 was inversely associated with systolic blood pressure ( p = 0.002) and gender ( p = 0.028). There was a positive association between vascular endothelial growth factor and high-density lipoprotein ( p = 0.007). The serum levels of interferon-γ and tumour necrosis factor-α were positively associated with serum triglycerides ( p = 0.018 and 0.006, respectively). Serum interferon-γ and IL-1β levels were positively associated with hip circumference ( p = 0.029 and 0.001, respectively)., Conclusions: There are associations between various pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors in serum and age, sex, hip circumference and several biochemical measurements., Competing Interests: The authors declare of conflict of interest., (Copyright: © 2023 Termedia & Banach.)

Summary Objectives To analyze the mRNA expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the liver and white adipose tissue samples of individuals with class III obesity (body mass index ≥40.0 kg/m 2 ) with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods This cross-sectional study included patients with class III obesity exhibiting early or late morphological presentation of NAFLD (non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis [NAFL], n = 8 and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH], n = 13, respectively). All patients underwent bariatric surgery and peripheral blood, liver, and visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) samples were collected. Socio-demographic, anthropometric, clinical, plasma biochemical, and nutritional characteristics of each study subject were assessed and compared between patients presenting with NAFL and NASH. IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression in the liver and WAT samples were measured by using quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results Individuals with class III obesity and NASH showed higher body mass index (BMI) and higher IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression in the WAT compared to that of patients with NAFL ( p = 0.01, for all associations). Conclusions Individuals with class III obesity with higher morphological severity of NAFLD exhibited higher BMI and higher IL-6 and TNF-α expression in the WAT. Future prospective studies are warranted to determine how BMI, IL-6, and TNF-α affect the progression of NAFLD in individuals with class III obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim As society ages, there is a vast number of elderly people with locomotive syndrome. In this study, the factors associated with functional limitations in daily living activities evaluated by female hip osteoarthritis ( OA) patients were investigated. Methods This study was a cross-sectional study. The subjects were 353 female patients who were newly diagnosed with hip OA at an orthopedic clinic with no history of hip joint surgery. Outcome indices were functional limitations in two daily living activities obtained from a questionnaire completed by the patients: (i) standing up (standing from a crouched position) and (ii) stair-climbing (climbing and/or descending stairs). The odds ratios ( ORs) and 95% confidence intervals ( CIs) were computed for explanatory variables using the proportional odds model in logistic regression to evaluate their associations with functional limitations. Results Functional limitations in standing up were associated with heavy weight (third tertile vs. first tertile: 1.91, 1.11-3.27), participation in sports at school (0.62, 0.40-0.98), parity ( vs. nullipara: 1.96, 1.08-3.56), old age and OA stage. Associations with functional limitations in stair-climbing were seen with short height (< 151.0 cm vs. ≥ 156.0 cm: 2.05, 1.02-4.12), bilateral involvement ( vs. unilateral: 1.71, 1.01-2.88), old age and OA stage. Conclusion Old age, OA stage, heavy weight, parity, shorter height and bilateral OA were associated with functional limitations in standing up and/or stair-climbing, whereas participation in sports such as club activities in school maintained standing up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Japan, the majority of hip osteoarthritis (OA) was caused by acetabular dysplasia, and about 90 % of patients were female. The present study focused on Japanese female patients with hip OA due to acetabular dysplasia, and examined the associated factors with OA staging at diagnosis, in special reference to body weight.Methods: Study subjects were 336 Japanese women who were newly diagnosed with hip OA caused by acetabular dysplasia at 15 hospitals in 2008. The self-administered questionnaire elicited patients' body weight at age 20 and at OA diagnosis. Four ranked OA staging according to radiographic findings of the hip joint (pre-OA, initial stage, advanced stage or terminal stage) was regarded as the outcome index. Proportional odds models in logistic regression were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) for severer stage of OA.Results: At diagnosis, 45 % of patients suffered from terminal stage of OA, whereas 13 % and 14 % were categorized into pre-OA and initial stage, respectively. After adjustment for potential confounders, weight gain since age 20 revealed the increased ORs for severer OA stage at diagnosis (OR 2.02; 95 % CI, 1.07-3.80). Other significant characteristics were age (67+ vs. 20-49 years, OR 12.4), lower education (junior high school vs. junior college or higher, OR 4.00), parity (OR 2.19), lower acetabular head index (<60.0 vs. 71.1+, OR 2.36), and longer duration since symptom onset (6.0+ vs. <1.0 year, OR 2.94).Conclusions: Weight gain since age 20 might be involved in mechanisms of OA development, which is independent of age or severity of acetabular dysplasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated whether parental history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is associated with age, lifestyle, anthropometric factors, and clinical severity at the time of T2D diagnosis.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study based on the Danish Centre for Strategic Research in Type 2 Diabetes cohort. We examined the prevalence ratios (PR) of demographic, lifestyle, anthropometric, and clinical factors according to parental history, using Poisson regression adjusting for age and gender.Results: Of 2825 T2D patients, 34% (n = 964) had a parental history of T2D. Parental history was associated with younger age at diagnosis [adjusted (a)PR 1.66, 95% confidence interval: 1.19, 2.31) for age <40 years; aPR 1.36 (95% confidence interval: 1.24, 1.48) for ages 40-59 years] and with higher baseline fasting plasma glucose [≥7.5 mmol/L, aPR 1.47 (95% confidence interval: 1.20, 1.80)], and also tended to be associated with lower beta cell function. In contrast, patients both with and without a parental history had similar occurrence of central obesity [91% vs. 91%], weight gain ≥30 kg since age 20 [52% vs. 53%], and lack of regular physical activity [60% vs. 58%]. Presence of diabetes complications or comorbidities at T2D diagnosis was not associated with parental history.Conclusions: The lack of an association between parental history and adverse lifestyle factors indicates that T2D patients do not inherit a particular propensity for overeating or inactivity, whereas patients with a parental history may have more severe pancreatic beta cell dysfunction at diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current study was to examine the relationship of kicking ball velocity with anthropometric and physiological parameters in soccer. Specifically, the researchers examined how the anthropometric variables such as body weight, body fat, body mass index, and body height, as well as the physiological variables such as running speed, lower body explosive strength, lower limb endurance, balance, and agility are related to ball velocity. Fifty eight U-12 male soccer players, sixty one U-14, forty three U-16, and thirty five adult male soccer players participated in this study. The results showed that ball velocity is related to both anthropometric and physiological factors differently according to the age of the players. It was also confirmed that ball velocity is an indicator of playing level. The key finding from this research was that ball velocity is related to the explosive strength parameters. Thus this relationship is an indicator that coaches and trainers have to take into account so as maximize the kicking potential of their players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) have pain during exercise that subsides with rest.Diagnosis is usually confirmed by intramuscular compartment pressure (IMCP) measurement. Controversy exists regarding theaccuracy of existing diagnostic criteria.Purpose: (1) To compare dynamic IMCP measurement and anthropometric factors between patients with CECS and asymptomaticcontrols and (2) to establish the diagnostic utility of dynamic IMCP measurement.Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.Methods: A total of 40 men aged 21 to 40 years were included in the study: 20 with symptoms of CECS of the anterior compartmentand 20 asymptomatic controls. Diagnoses other than CECS were excluded with rigorous inclusion criteria and magneticresonance imaging. The IMCP was measured continuously before, during, and after participants exercised on a treadmill, wearingidentical footwear and carrying a 15-kg load.Results: Pain experienced by study subjects increased incrementally as the study progressed (P\.001). Pain levels experiencedby the case group during each phase of the exercise were significantly different (P = .021). Subjects had higher IMCP immediatelyupon standing at rest compared with controls (23.8 mm Hg [controls] vs 35.5 mm Hg [subjects]; P = .006). This relationship persistedthroughout the exercise protocol, with the greatest difference corresponding to the period of maximal tolerable pain(68.7 mm Hg [controls] vs 114 mm Hg [subjects]; P \ .001). Sensitivity and specificity were consistently higher than the existingcriteria with improved diagnostic value (sensitivity = 63%, specificity = 95%; likelihood ratio = 12.5 [95% CI, 3.2-49]).Conclusion: Anterior compartment IMCP is elevated immediately upon standing at rest in subjects with CECS. In patients withsymptoms consistent with CECS, diagnostic utility of IMCP measurement is improved when measured continuously during exercise.A cutoff of 105 mm Hg in phase 2 provides better diagnostic accuracy than do the Pedowitz criteria of 30 mm Hg and20 mm Hg at 1 and 5 minutes after exercise, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims Obesity has been associated with increased levels of hemostatic factors. However, few studies have compared change in different anthropometric measures of adiposity in relation to change in levels of hemostatic factors. Our aim was to examine prospectively the association of change in body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), waist circumference (WC), and waist circumference-height ratio (WHtR) with change in markers of hemostasis in a population of postmenopausal women. Methods and results A subsample of women in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) cohort had fasting blood samples and anthropometric measurements obtained at multiple time points over 12.8 years of follow-up. Of these, we studied the 2593 women who were not in the intervention arm of any WHI clinical trial. Their blood samples were used to measure plasma fibrinogen, factor VII antigen activity, and factor VII concentration at baseline, and at years 1, 3, and 6. We conducted mixed-effects linear regression analyses to examine the longitudinal association between change in anthropometric factors and change in hemostatic factors, adjusting for a wide range of potential confounding factors. In longitudinal analyses using repeated measures, change in BMI, WC, and WHtR were all positively associated with change in all 3 hemostatic factors. Change in anthropometric variables was most strongly associated with change in fibrinogen. Conclusions Our results suggest that an increase in adiposity over time is robustly associated with increased levels of hemostatic factors. Registration number of clinical trial: NCT00000611 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies reported conflicting results about the relationship between anthropometric factors, respiratory exchange Ratio, energy expenditure and VO2 max. Therefore the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between anthropometric factors, respiratory exchange ratio and energy expenditure with VO2 max in sedentary men. Materials and Methods: Thirty one sedentary healthy men (23.67±2.45 years old age, BMI=22.49±1.58 kg/m2) volunteered for participation this study. After the measurement of anthropometric factors, subjects performed an acute endurance exercise on the ergometer for determination of VO2 max. Subjects performed major protocol, one hour cycling on ergometer via 70% VO2 max for the determination of the respiratory exchange ratio and the rate of energy expenditure, 72 hours later. Results: The results of this study showed that there is not any significant relationship between VO2 max and anthropometric factors, respiratory exchange ratio and energy expenditure. Also, regression analysis indicated that all these variables cannot predicate the VO2 max. Conclusion: According to the results of this study anthropometric factors, respiratory exchange ratio and energy expenditure are not strong predictors of VO2 max in sedentary young men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The associations between anthropometric factors, physical activity (PA), and breast cancer risk in terms of estrogen-receptor/progesterone-receptor (ER/PgR) status have been unclear in Japanese women. This case-control study was designed to evaluate these associations. Methods: From among female patients aged 30 years and over admitted to a single hospital in Japan between 1997 and 2009, 1,017 breast cancer cases (538ER+/PgR+, 125ER+/PgR−, 23 ER−/PgR+, 249 ER−/PgR−, and 82 missing) and 2,902 controls were selected. Height, weight, body mass index (BMI) (kg/m), and time spent exercising (hours/week) were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. Polytomous logistic regression analysis and tests for heterogeneity across ER+/PgR+ and ER−/PgR− were conducted. Results: Higher BMI was associated with a higher risk of ER+/PgR+ cancer among women overall [odds ratio (OR) = 2.41, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.37-4.23 for BMI ≥30.0; P = 0.0001] and postmenopausal women (OR = 6.24, 95 % CI 2.68-14.53 for BMI ≥30.0; P < 0.0001). A longer time spent exercising (more than 5 h/week) showed a decreased risk for any type of breast cancer among overall and pre- and postmenopausal women, although this did not reach statistical significance. Height was not associated with any risk. Conclusions: Higher BMI is associated with an increased risk of ER+/PgR+ cancer among women overall and postmenopausal women. PA might be associated with a decreased risk of any type. To prevent breast cancer, weight control and PA are important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fractures of the proximal extremity of the femur affect a significant number of the patients involved in locomotor pathology. Besides the post-traumatic fractures that may occur at any age, the fractures of elderly people, which are quite common, represent a major challenge both for the patient and for the public healthcare system. The therapeutic approach of the two entities of the two types of fractures, namely fractures of the femoral neck and fractures of the greater trochanter, called for a different approach of the etiology, the underlying mechanism, and predisposing factors of these types of fractures. A study of the risk factors, the anthropometric factors, of the co-morbidity of the patients with fractures of the femoral neck vs. patients with fractures of the greater trochanter showed that the patients with fractures of the greater trochanter are older, weigh less, have a greater degree of osteoporosis and a worse biological condition. The decisive factor that influences the type of fracture seems to be the loss of bone mass, thus osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of anthropometric factors at adolescence and the change since young age on thyroid cancer risk is unclear. Here, we conducted a case–control study to investigate the association between anthropometric factors at the time of diagnosis and age 20 years and risk of thyroid cancer. A total of 173 patients with thyroid cancer (papillary carcinoma, n = 167 and follicular carcinoma, n = 6) and 865 age- and sex-matched controls were included. Anthropometric factors were assessed using a validated self-administered questionnaire and categorized into three groups. Odd ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using conditional logistic models adjusted for potential confounders. Results showed a positive association between current weights, weight at age 20 years and height, and thyroid cancer risk. Adjusted ORs in the top tertiles were 2.46 (95% CI, 1.54–3.94; trend p < 0.001) for current weight, 2.69 (95% CI, 1.71–4.25; trend p < 0.001) for weight at age 20 years and 2.44 (95% CI, 1.52–3.93; trend p < 0.001) for height compared with the lowest tertile. A positive association with current body surface area (BSA), BSA at age 20 years, and current body mass index was also observed, with respective adjusted ORs in the top tertile of 1.96 (95% CI, 1.23–3.11; trend p = 0.007), 1.82 (95% CI, 1.15–2.88; trend p = 0.007) and 1.71 (95% CI, 1.06–2.78; trend p = 0.034). In contrast, no association with risk was seen for a change in anthropometric factors since age 20 years. These findings suggested that body size in early life as well as in adult is associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer (BC) incidence in India is approximately twice as high in urban women than in rural women, among whom we investigated the role of anthropometric factors and body size. The study was conducted at the Regional Cancer Centre, Trivandrum, and in three cancer hospitals in Chennai during 2002-2005. Histologically confirmed cases (n=1866) and age-matched controls (n=1873) were selected. Anthropometric factors were measured in standard ways. Information on body size at different periods of life was obtained using pictograms. Odds ratios (OR) of BC were estimated through logistic regression modelling. Proportion of women with body mass index (BMI)>25.0 kg/m(2), waist size >85 cm and hip size >100 cm was significantly higher among urban than rural women. Risk was increased for waist size >85 cm (pre-menopausal: OR=1.24, 95% CI: 0.96-1.62; post-menopausal: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.22-2.12) and hip size >100 cm (pre-menopausal: OR=1.47, 95% CI: 1.05-2.06; post-menopausal 2.42, 95% CI: 1.72-3.41). Large body size at age 10 (OR=1.75, 95% CI: 1.01-3.03) and increased BMI (OR=1.33, 95% CI: 1.05-1.69 for 25.0-29.9 kg/m(2) and OR=1.56, 95% CI: 1.03-2.35 for 30+ kg/m(2)) were associated with pre-menopausal BC risk. Our data support the hypotheses that increased anthropometric factors are risk factors of BC in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hormonally-linked adult reproductive and anthropometric risk factors have been well established in the etiology of postmenopausal breast cancer, though early life exposures have been evaluated only more recently. Here, we examine the evidence for associations between lifetime reproductive and anthropometric risk factors for postmenopausal breast cancer. The review finds some evidence for the hypothesis that breast cancer risk is determined by the number of susceptible stem cells, modified by the hormonal environment. The in utero experience of an infant may be associated with postmenopausal breast cancer; preeclampsia may decrease and greater birthweight increase risk, but more evidence is needed. Earlier and more rapid childhood growth appears to increase postmenopausal breast cancer risk and childhood obesity to decrease risk, but very few studies have yet examined these associations. Increased final height and earlier age at menarche are consistently associated with increased risk for postmenopausal breast cancer. Later age at first birth, decreased parity, later menopausal age, use of hormone replacement therapy (especially progestin containing), and increased postmenopausal adiposity are well-established risk factors for postmenopausal breast cancer. The effect of a woman's own pregnancy conditions and lactation are not established. Further investigation is needed to identify whether events occurring early in life modify later events or accumulate over the life course. Many aspects of this research can be conducted by examining the influence of early life events on intermediary events without the need for longitudinal data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: To study serum lipids, body mass index (BMI), and body shape in relation to intermittent claudication (IC) in 19,748 men and women 40–69 years of age. Method: All residents (1995–1997) in Nord-Trøndelag County, Norway, were invited to attend the cross sectional study and received a Norwegian translation of the WHO/Rose questionnaire on intermittent claudication and the Edinburgh claudication questionnaire. Blood lipids and anthropometric data were measured at a consecutive examination. Odds ratios (OR) were estimated for associations with IC by multiple regression analysis. Results: The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol (TC/HDL cholesterol) (P trendmen=.023; P trendwomen<.001) and triglycerides (P trendmen=.029; P trendwomen=.002) were positively associated with the prevalence of IC. HDL cholesterol was negatively (P trendmen=.131; P trendwomen<.001) associated, whereas BMI (P trendwomen=.032), waist circumference (P trendwomen=.021), and hip circumference (P trendwomen=.020) were positively associated with IC in women, but not in men. Adjustment for smoking, diabetes, and systolic or diastolic blood pressure did not change the results. Conclusion: TC/HDL cholesterol and triglycerides were positively, and HDL cholesterol negatively associated with IC in both genders. In women, but not in men, BMI, waist and hip circumference were positively associated with IC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Numerous previous studies have determined the influence of energy capacities and of motor and morphological characteristics on performance in wrestling. Research into the influence of various anthropological subspaces and motor abilities on wrestling techniques on the one hand, and the research into the interrelationship between these subspaces and abilities and wrestling techniques on the other produces valuable perceptions that can be applied in the training process both in wrestlers and in non-wrestlers (pupils, students, members of the police and army forces). The sample was comprised of 72 wrestlers (age 16-20yrs) tested at the same time at the beginning of sports preparations of young wrestlers for the European and World Championships. The measured variables encompassed two anthropometric tests (body height, body weight) and 15 motor tests. Multiple regression coefficients were used to determine the influence of those predictor variables on the following throws: take-down, arm throw, hip headlock throw, throw and arm lock and shoulder block The significant correlation between the set of predictor variables with three wrestling techniques was established. By employing the classical regression analysis it was possible to explain 36-41% of the variance of predictor variables in the three wrestling techniques (hip headlock throw, take-down and throw). The variables that were significant in prediction were throwing the medicine ball from supine position, 20-meter run from the standing start, double hand-tapping and push-ups on the floor It is also interesting to point out the negative influence of anthropometric measures on the execution of this throwing technique in wrestling. The obtained results allow the conclusion that technical efficiency in young top-level wrestlers depends on a large number of motor abilities as well as some morphological characteristics like body weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured in 128 normal postmenopausal women at different skeletal sites: lumbar spine and proximal femur, using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and the cancellous and cortical envelopes of the distal third of radius and tibia, using precise low-dose quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Multivariate analysis included chronological age, ages related to menstrual history (menopause and menarche) and anthropometric factors, e.g. height and weight, as independent predictive variables. Weight is a much-studied predictor of bone density. At sites of high bone turnover, i.e. cancellous envelope, the effect of weight appeared overshadowed by estrogen-related parameters: age-past-menopause was the first predictor of BMD in the cancellous compartment of radius and in Ward's triangle, and the number of reproductive years was the strongest predictor of BMD in the cancellous compartment of tibia and in the spine (L2-4). This suggests that in addition to menopause, the length of menstrual life should be considered as an explanation for the variations in current bone mass in postmenopausal women. At the cortical level of radius, the effect of chronological age was predominant. At the cortical level of tibia, height and weight were the best predictors of BMD. We conclude that the influence of parameters related to menstrual history is predominant in sites with mainly cancellous tissue and that anthropometric factors constitute the best predictors of BMD in the cortical sites of weight-bearing bones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]