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Why do sports fans sometimes (often?) go crazy at sporting events and then afterwards proceed with their day as if nothing much happened? If something of genuine significance happened, something that warranted the emotional ups and downs the fan experienced during the game, why don’t its effects linger? These questions pose a version of the puzzle of sports fandom. Others have applied Kendall Walton’s theory of fiction to solve the puzzle, but Walton’s account of sports fandom fiction is unacceptably thin. Recent attempts by Nathan Wildman and Joseph Moore to address this thinness problem fail. We answer the thinness objection by explaining how sports fandom is a collaboratively authored fiction, constructed by fans, sponsors, players, teams, media commentators, and more. The stories of sports fandom fiction are passed to new generations of fans in a way more reminiscent of The Iliad or The Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Sports fandom fiction is more like folklore, and less like a novel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the nutritional status and malnutrition risk factors among Kyrgyz Turk children and adolescents in Ulupamir village, Türkiye, a unique immigrant population with limited representation in academic literature. A total of 150 participants were assessed through anthropometric measurements and dietary intake analysis. The results reveal a high prevalence of stunting, underweight, and thinness, reflecting significant malnutrition challenges. Key contributing factors include low socioeconomic status, inadequate energy and nutrient intake, and dietary insufficiencies, particularly in micronutrients such as vitamins D, C, and B12. Risk factors such as age, daily iron consumption, and meal skipping were significantly associated with malnutrition. When compared to national data, the prevalence of malnutrition in Ulupamir was notably higher, underscoring disparities linked to socioeconomic and cultural dynamics. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions focusing on dietary diversity, nutritional education, and improved food accessibility to address the malnutrition in this underrepresented community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The rise of obesity and other nutrition-related conditions among children and adolescents is a global challenge, particularly in the Middle East. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of being underweight, overweight, and obese among Jordanian children and adolescents using the body mass index (BMI) percentiles of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) standards. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional/longitudinal study analyzed 58,474 (42.6% males; 57.4% females) height, weight, and BMI-for-age records from 31508 healthy Jordanian children and adolescents aged 2–19 years. The data were retrieved from the Ministry of Health's nationwide electronic database (2017–2023) and assessed using the CDC and WHO growth standards. Logistic regression was performed to assess the variables associated with overweight/obese status. Results: The prevalence of being underweight, overweight, and obese varied by the reference used, as more cases of being obese and underweight were reported when applying the CDC standards. The regression models showed the males had significantly lower odds of being overweight and obese than the females. Increased age was associated with higher odds of being overweight and obese, with annual increases observed across all age groups. Conclusions: Using the WHO and CDC standards, the prevalence of being underweight was higher in the males aged 6 years and older, while being overweight and obese was more prevalent in the females. The observed annual increase in the prevalence of being overweight and obese underscores the need for targeted strategies. Growth references tailored to regional profiles may improve national nutrition policies for Jordanian children and adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of undernourished children depends only on wasting yet it can coexist with underweight and/or stunting. Among children admitted to hospital with acute illness, we determined the proportion with wasting coexisting with underweight and/or stunting and their risk factors. A retrospective review of hospital records of children 6‒59 months old admitted at Garissa County referral hospital, Kenya, from January 2017 to December 2019 was conducted. Using World Health Organization 2006 growth standards, undernutrition were defined: wasting as Weight‐for‐height Z‐score < −2, stunting Height‐for‐age Z‐score < −2 and underweight Weight‐for‐age Z‐score < −2. We studied wasting coexisting with underweight and/or stunting. Among 624 children recruited, 347 (56%) were males and 511 (82%) <24 months old. Diarrhoea 210 (34%) and pallor/anaemia 310 (50%) were the most frequent admission diagnosis. HIV infection was present among 8 (1.3%) children. Wasting, underweight and stunting were present among 595 (95%), 518 (83%) and 176 (28%) children respectively. 161 (26%), 506 (81%) and 161 (26%) children had wasting coexisting with stunting, underweight and both stunting and underweight respectively. In the multivariable regression, diarrhoea was positively associated with wasting coexisting with stunting (adjusted risk ratio [aRR = 2.96] [95% CI = 2.06‒4.23]) and anaemia with wasting coexisting with underweight (aRR = 1.23) (95% CI = 1.03‒1.47). Overall, 343 (55%) children were discharged alive, 67 (11%) absconded from the wards, 164 (26%) were transferred to another hospital and 50 (8.0%) died before discharge. The risk of inpatient death was 10.3%, 7.9%, 8.4% and 6.8% among children not wasted, wasted only, wasted & underweight, and wasted and underweight and stunted respectively (Chi‐square p = 0.60). The study reports an unacceptably high levels of undernourishment, including coexisting forms of undernutrition among hospitalised children. This highlights a public health priority for current nutrition therapeutic care and need of continuity of care among those children discharged alive in the community‐based management of acute malnutrition programmes. Key messages: In this population of hospitalised children, we found critically high levels of wasting and underweight. The most frequent form of undernutrition coexistence was wasting and underweight.Early detection and effective treatment of hospitalised children with coexisting forms of undernutrition (CFU) deserves more attention in the current nutrition therapeutic treatment programmes.Routine reporting of CFU in hospital settings should be encouraged. Future research to increase our understanding of its mechanism and need for robust interventions should be prioritised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors affecting the growth of HIV‐exposed‐uninfected (HEU) children are multi‐factorial, with limited information available on the dietary intake from 6 months. This study compared the dietary intake, micronutrient composition of breastmilk, and growth of HEU and HIV‐unexposed‐uninfected (HUU) infants aged 6 and 12 months in an urban setting. A repeated cross‐sectional study used structured questionnaires to collect socio‐demographic, dietary intake, food group data, and anthropometric measurements in the Siyakhula study. The HEU (48%) and HUU (52%) infants were included (total n = 181). At 6 months, HEU infants had lower weight‐for‐age z‐scores (WAZ) (−0.6 ± 1.1 vs. 0.1 ± 1.2; p < 0.001), length‐for‐age z‐scores (−0.8 ± 1.4 vs. −0.1 ± 1.2; p < 0.001), and mid‐upper‐arm circumference‐for‐age z‐scores (MUACAZ) (0.5 ± 1.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.9; p < 0.001) than HUU infants. At 12 months, HEU infants had lower WAZ, MUACAZ, and weight‐for‐length z‐scores compared to HUU infants (p < 0.05). Stunting was found at 6 (15%) and 12 (12%) months in HEU infants. The micronutrient composition of breastmilk fed to both groups was similar. Breastfeeding rates were lower in HEU than in HUU infants at 6 (49% vs. 64%; p = 0.005) and 12 (24% vs. 46%; p = 0.002) months. Less than 3% of HEU and HUU infants achieved minimal dietary diversity scores at 12 months. Dietary intake of fat was similar in all breastfed infants, but iron and vitamin B12 were higher in non‐breastfed HEU infants at 12 months. HEU infants had lower breastfeeding rates than HUU infants. A lack of dietary diversity was found in all infants. Nutrition education and counselling in the complementary feeding phase are essential for optimal growth. Key messages: HIV‐exposed‐uninfected (HEU) infants had lower growth than HIV‐unexposed‐uninfected (HUU) infants at 6 and 12 months, but HEU infants could catch up on growth at 12 months. Stunting and underweight were high in HEU infants.At 6 and 12 months, breastfeeding rates were lower in HEU than in HUU infants with a lack of continued breastfeedingDietary diversity was low in HEU and HUU infants, but flesh food consumption was higher in HEU than in HUU infantsDietary intakes were higher in breastfed HEU than HUU infants; HEU infants had better dietary macro‐ and micronutrient intakes than HUU infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The period following childbirth is marked by dynamic changes in maternal physiology and the growth trajectory of the newborn. We aimed to elucidate the changes and associations in body composition of infants and their mothers during the first year postpartum. Methods: This pilot study assessed infant body composition using the PEA POD air displacement plethysmography (ADP) system (birth–6 months) and deuterium dilution (9–12 months). Maternal body composition was assessed using the BOD POD ADP system at 12 months postpartum. Mothers were grouped by prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2 (lean) or ≥25 kg/m2 (overweight/obese: OW/OB), and data were analysed using linear regression. Results: Twenty-nine infant–mother pairs were assessed. Infant percent fat mass (%FM) increased from birth to 6 months (9.3% vs. 24.2%; p < 0.001) and then gradually declined. At birth and 3 months, %FM was significantly higher in infants born to OW/OB mothers compared to their lean counterparts. A significant positive association (β = 0.3; p = 0.040) was observed between maternal %FM and infant %FM at 1 year post-delivery after controlling for the mother's prepregnancy BMI. Conclusions: Infants born to OW/OB mothers have increased %FM at birth and 3 months, which may have consequences for their health throughout childhood and into adulthood. Moreover, maternal prepregnancy BMI is a significant predictor of maternal postpartum weight status and body composition and impacts the relationship between maternal and infant body composition at 12 months postpartum. While the findings of our pilot study underscore the importance of encouraging women of childbearing age to maintain a healthy BMI before conception, further research is needed to substantiate these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate the nationwide prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) among adults with underweight in the US general population. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999–2020), we estimated the age-standardised prevalence of dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, CVD and the presence of zero or at least two CMD. Multivariable Poisson regressions were used to compare CMD prevalence between subgroups, adjusting for age, sex and race/ethnicity. Among the 855 adults with underweight included, the weighted mean age was 40·8 years, with 68·1 % being women and 70·4 % non-Hispanic White. The estimated prevalence rates were 23·4 % for dyslipidemia (95 % CI 19·4 %, 27·5 %), 15·6 % for hypertension (95 % CI 13·3 %, 17·8 %), 2·5 % for diabetes (95 % CI 1·5 %, 3·5 %), 7·9 % for chronic kidney disease (95 % CI 6·9 %, 8·8 %) and 6·1 % for CVD (95 % CI 4·3 %, 7·9 %). The prevalence of having zero and at least two CMD was 50·6 % (95 % CI 44·1 %, 57·0 %) and 12·3 % (95 % CI 8·1 %, 16·4 %), respectively. Non-Hispanic Black adults had significantly higher prevalence of diabetes (adjusted prevalence ratio, 3·35; 95 % CI 1·35, 8·30) compared with non-Hispanic White adults. In conclusion, approximately half of the underweight adults had at least one CMD, and 12·3 % had at least two CMD. Prevention and management of CMD in underweight adults are critical yet neglected public health challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The foot is an essential organ for human locomotion. Assessment of plantar pressure distribution could provide key clinical information on foot functions. However, the mechanism that links body mass index to injury is not clear. The aims of this study were (1) to analyze the feature of plantar pressure distribution in Chinese adolescents and (2) to estimate the prevalence of flatfoot. Methods: 1,217 participants aged 17–23 years (756 males and 461 females) were enrolled in this study. Static and dynamic foot-related variables, including contact area and plantar pressure, were measured. Based on BMI, participants were stratified into three groups: the underweight group (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2), the norm weight group (18.5 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m2), and the overweight group (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the three different BMI groups. Results: Overall, BMI had an impact on the contact area and plantar pressure at the 2nd to 4th metatarsal, 5th metatarsal, midfoot, and lateral heel, with greater pressure in these areas in the dynamic state. In particular, when shifting from the static phase to the dynamic phase, the plantar pressure of the forefoot shifted laterally. Moreover, the contact area, and plantar pressure at 2nd to 4th metatarsal, 5th metatarsal, middle foot, and lateral heel pressures were positively correlated with BMI. Among the 1217 participants, 67 adolescents were diagnosed with flatfoot. Conclusions: This study confirms that BMI does influence plantar pressures and that each BMI classification displays unique plantar pressure characteristics in Chinese adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To study effect of pregnancy on obese women's maternal cardiometabolic biomarkers as a signature for maternal morbidity and complications. Methods: This cross-sectional cohort study involved pregnant Emirati women who had regular menstrual cycles and had normal blood pressure. Pre-pregnancy body mass index was calculated using height and weight measurements recorded within three months before current pregnancy. Average systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements were calculated from each visit. Blood samples were collected randomly once and following cardiometabolic biomarkers were measured. Results: We enrolled 178 pregnant women, with a mean age ± standard deviation of cohort was 29.9 ± 4.97 years and Pre-pregnancy body mass index 28.11 ± 6.58 kg/m2. None of blood pressure measurements or biomarkers serum concentrations were statistically different across Pre-pregnancy body mass index groups except for soluble intercellular cytoadhesive molecule-1levels which were the highest in underweight women. Pregnant women with pre-gestational obesity had higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels compared to women with normal or overweight. All variables were statistically significantly different by trimesters except systolic blood pressure, random blood glucose, lipoprotein-A, and high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein. After adjusting, in a multivariate linear regression model, for maternal age, trimester of pregnancy, education level, parity and smoking, none of biomarkers or blood pressure were found to be significantly associated with Pre-pregnancy body mass index. In a multivariate linear regression model adjusting for maternal age, Pre-pregnancy body mass index, education level, parity and smoking, gamma-glutamyl transferase, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, apolipoprotein A & B, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations remained significantly associated with advancing trimester of pregnancy. There was a significant interaction between Pre-pregnancy body mass index and trimester of pregnancy for serum gamma-glutamyl transferase and soluble intercellular cytoadhesive molecule-1concentration. Conclusion: This study emphasizes how pregnancy has a significant impact on cardiometabolic markers in obese women, indicating both hyperlipidemic status of pregnancy and diabetogenic tendency in obese patients who are not diabetics. These findings may suggest that pregnancy in obese patients increases risk of developing metabolic syndrome in future, therefore more attention is recommended of pregnant obese women and further study of establishing specific cardiometabolic biomarkers screening program. Plain Language Summary: The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended a prevention strategy to reduce the maternal complications of obese pregnant women. This study assesses the effect of pregnancy on obese women's maternal cardiometabolic biomarkers (CMBs) as risk of increase maternal morbidity and complications. The women Pre-pregnancy body mass index (pBMI) was calculated and their blood pressure measured. Blood samples were collected randomly once during maternal clinical visits and the cardiometabolic biomarkers were analyzed. Many variables were significantly different by pregnancy trimesters that emphasizes the negative impact of pregnancy on cardiometabolic markers in obese women. These findings may suggest that pregnancy in obese patients increases the risk of developing metabolic syndrome in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Overweight and obesity affects millions of individuals worldwide and consequently represents a major public health concern. Individuals living with overweight and obesity have difficulty maintaining a low body weight due to known physiological mechanisms which prevent further weight loss and drive weight regain. In contrast, mechanisms which promote low body weight maintenance receive less attention and are largely unknown. To uncover these intrinsic mechanisms, we investigated a human cohort of constitutionally thin (CT) individuals which maintain a low body weight and are resistant to weight gain despite exposure to an obesogenic environment. Methods: To identify novel genes that contribute to low body weight maintenance, we performed transcriptomics on adipose tissue biopsies collected from CT and normal body weight (NBW) individuals and identified sulfotransferase 1A1 (SULT1A1) as a target for further investigation in mice. Sult1a1 knockout (KO) mice were fed a standard diet to assess the impact of Sult1a1 deletion on metabolic traits. To determine if high-fat feeding recapitulated the CT weight gain resistance phenotype, Sult1a1 KO mice were fed a high-fat diet for 13-weeks. A subset of wild-type and Sult1a1 KO mice from the standard diet were further analyzed for characterization of adipose tissue respiratory capacity. Results: In comparison to NBW controls, adipose tissue from CT individuals expresses less SULT1A1. Sult1a1 KO mice weigh 10% less at the end of the study period and on a high-fat diet, Sult1a1 KO mice tended to gain less weight and had reduced fat mass at 14-weeks of age. These changes were associated with reduced fasting insulin and lessened adipose tissue inflammation and fibrosis. Subcutaneous adipose tissue from Sult1a1 KO mice on a standard chow diet had elevated leak respiration, uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression and increased expression of a mitochondrial marker, VDAC, associating Sult1a1 deletion to adipose tissue browning. Conclusions: Our results associate Sult1a1 deletion with a tendency for lower body weight through remodeling of white adipose tissue towards a brown phenotype. The presence of UCP1, the expression of an additional mitochondrial protein and increased respiratory capacity suggest browning of the subcutaneous adipose tissue depot of Sult1a1 KO mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Method Results Conclusions In the CBT model of anorexia nervosa, emaciation is assumed to occur because individuals over‐value their weight and shape. However, current BMI (for adolescents, BMI z‐score) may be relevant to psychopathology beyond its relation with weight concern. We explored the relations between BMI/z‐BMI and attempts to change one's eating and/or weight (restraint and eating concern) before and after controlling for weight concern among individuals with AN or atypical AN (AAN).Participants were 1666 female residential patients with AN or AAN. For those below age 21, we examined the relations between z‐BMI and EDE‐Q Restraint and Eating Concern when Weight Concern was and was not controlled. For adults, we conducted the same analyses using BMI.BMI and z‐BMI were positively related to weight concern, restraint, and eating concern. When controlling for weight concern, the positive relationships between z‐BMI and both restraint and eating concern became significant negative relationships. This pattern also emerged among adults, though the negative relationship between BMI and restraint did not reach significance.In AN‐spectrum disorders, (1) BMI/z‐BMI was related to weight/eating concerns despite substantial weight loss and (2) when weight concern was controlled, these relationships between BMI/z‐BMI and restraint/eating concerns were largely reversed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine low birth weight (LBW) in First Nations babies born in a large metropolitan health service in Queensland, Australia. Materials and Methods: A retrospective population‐based study using routinely collected data from administrative data sources. All singleton births in metropolitan health services, Queensland, Australia of ≥20 weeks gestation or at least 400 g birthweight and had information on First Nations status and born between 2019 and 2021 were included. The study measured birthweight and birthweight z‐score, and also identified the predictors of LBW. Multivariate regression models were adjusted by demographic, socioeconomic and perinatal factors. Results: First Nations babies had higher rates of LBW (11.4% vs 6.9%, P < 0.001), with higher rates of preterm birth (13.9% vs 8.8%, P < 0.001). In all babies, the most important factors contributing to LBW were: maternal smoking after 20 weeks of gestation; maternal pre‐pregnancy underweight (body mass index <18.5 kg/m2); nulliparity; socioeconomic disadvantage; geographical remoteness; less frequent antenatal care; history of cannabis use; pre‐existing cardiovascular disease; pre‐eclampsia; antepartum haemorrhage; and birth outcomes including prematurity and female baby. After adjusting for all contributing factors, no difference in odds of LBW was observed between First Nations and non‐First Nation babies. Conclusions: First Nations status was not an independent factor influencing LBW in this cohort, after adjustment for identifiable factors. The disparity in LBW relates to modifiable risk factors, socioeconomic disadvantage, and prematurity. Upscaling culturally safe maternity care, focusing on modifiable risk factors is required to address LBW in Australian women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the evolution of gravastars within the context of the Lyra geometry. The mathematical formulations of the three regions of a gravastar: (i) the inside region, (ii) the shell region and (iii) the external void region are described separately, along with their physical characteristics and graphical representations. The study explores different aspects of our model by analysing the behaviour of physical parameters. It solves the modified Einstein's field equations, which are derived from this geometry, under the conditions of gravastar formation. The investigation focusses on the physical properties of the shell region, such as energy density, proper length, full energy, entropy, surface tension, thinness and energy conditions. Additionally, the stability of the gravastar model is examined by analysing the surface red-shift in relation to the shell length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between perfectionism and expectations of thinness and dietary restriction in adults. Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with adults 18-65 years old. Demographic characteristics and anthropometric measurements were questioned using a questionnaire form. Perfectionism characteristics of individuals were evaluated with "Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS)" developed to make a multidimensional assessment of perfectionism, and the findings regarding their expectations from thinness and food restriction were evaluated with the "Thinness and Restricting Expectancy Inventory (TREI) Scale". Data collection was facilitated using a web-based questionnaire. Those who were not in the appropriate age range and did not tick the "I consent to participate in this study voluntarily" tab were excluded from the study. Results: The study population was 1,376 adults (mean age: 27.42±10.99 years; 74.4% female). The TREI total score showed a weak positive correlation with the FMPS total score (r=0.351, p<0.001), and body mass index (BMI) (r=0.288, p<0.001). In multiple regression analysis, BMI, marital status, and TREI score showed an independent association with the FMPS total score. Male sex, TREI score, fear of making mistakes, and dieting showed independent associations with BMI. Conclusions: Perfectionism is associated with body dissatisfaction, BMI, expectations regarding thinness, and dietary restriction. It is considered an influential personality trait for identifying the risk of developing eating disorders and assessing the treatment process in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–elastomer assemblies, such as aluminum–NBR and stainless steel–FKM, widely used for sealing or damping functions in various fields, are currently prepared with highly toxic bonding agents. To substitute the use of these liquids, plasma technologies were applied. The chemical nature of the plasma polymerized adhesives is found to have no influence on the viscoelastic properties of the elastomer. Furthermore, cohesive assemblies were prepared with acetylene, acrylic acid or maleic anhydride as plasma polymerized layers. Their adhesive performances were evaluated thanks to a tack-like test. Their adhesion mechanisms, even if complex, are namely identified as the interdiffusion of elastomer chains within the plasma-based polymer film and the thermodynamic adhesion. Specifically, we propose that the adhesiveness of metal–rubber assemblies, correlated to the maximum stress at failure in the tack-like test, is proportional to an energy per unit volume. This new variable is determined as the ratio of the surface tension to the thinness of the plasma adhesive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Black individuals remain underrepresented in disordered eating research, despite evidence that both Black men and women present with disordered eating behaviors. Culturally‐informed theoretical frameworks suggest that these behaviors may be linked to race‐related sociocultural experiences, such as aspects of racial identity. While studies have focused on racial identity commitment, the association between attitudes toward one's racial identity and disordered eating remains underexplored. The present study examines whether positive attitudes toward one's Blackness and Black culture are associated with disordered eating. Method: In a cross‐sectional online sample of Black men and women (N = 458), we measured self‐reported attitudes toward Blackness (i.e., centrality and private regard) and disordered eating behaviors (i.e., purging, binge eating, excessive exercise, and drive for thinness). Results: In pre‐registered linear regression models, private regard was negatively associated with purging and binge eating. Across all models, centrality was not associated with disordered eating. On average, Black women reported greater drive for thinness whereas Black men reported higher excessive exercise scores. Discussion: This is the first study to demonstrate associations between racial attitudes and disordered eating among Black men and women. Our findings affirm unique correlates of disordered eating among Black people and suggest that positive attitudes toward one's Blackness and Black culture may be a protective factor against the development of disordered eating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Preventing functional disability benefits the quality of life of older adults and mitigates the economic burden of an aging society. However, the most effective physical performance tests and optimal cut points for identifying older adults at risk of functional disability remain unclear, and Japan lacks physical function‐based assessment tools. We aimed to identify the physical performance tests related to functional disability and to develop a predictive test battery for it. Methods: We included 975 older adults (mean 72.8 ± 5.2 years, 55.4% women) in Kasama City, Japan. Functional disability was defined as certification of care level 2 or above based on the long‐term care insurance system. Cox proportional hazards analysis examined the association between physical performance tests and incident functional disability. Results: During a mean follow‐up of 8.6 years (maximum 14 years), 236 participants (24.2%) developed functional disability. After adjusting for covariates, higher performances in grip strength, single‐leg balance with eyes open (SLB), timed up‐and‐go (TUG), five‐repetition sit‐to‐stand (5‐STS), and 5‐m habitual walk were significantly associated with a lower risk of functional disability. In a stepwise model, SLB, TUG, and 5‐STS were key predictors of functional disability. Receiver operating characteristic analysis determined optimal cut points of 32.6/32.7 s for SLB, 6.5/6.6 s for TUG, and 7.8/7.9 s for 5‐STS. We developed a predictive battery combining these cut points (area under the curve = 0.78). Conclusions: The developed battery of physical performance tests predicts future functional disability and is useful for screening older adults at high risk. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1343–1349. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Evidence is scarce on the clustering patterns of disordered eating di-mensionsor symptoms and their effects on future cardiometabolic health. This study examines associations of disordered eating trajectory profiles (from 13 to 21 years), with BMI and related cardiometabolic features at ages 21, 24 and 27. METHODS: Participants are from the Epidemiological Health Investigation of Teenagers cohort (Porto, Portugal). At 13,17 and 21 years, 3 Eating Disorder Inventory subscales were assessed (drive for thinness, bulimia and body dissatisfaction), and a latent class analysis derived trajectory profiles. Associations with BMI and having ≥1 metabolic syndrome feature at 21 (n = 1619), 24 (n = 916) and 27 years (n = 720) were tested using generalized linear models and binary logistic regressions. RESULTS: The following 4 profiles were obtained: "higher" levels (highest severity of symptoms at all ages, 16-19%), "increasing" (especially of body concerns, 26-28%), "decreasing" (18-19%), and "lower" (highest proportion of individuals with low/without disordered eating, 35-37%). Compared with the lower levels profile, both sexes with higher and increasing disordered eating presented heightened BMI at 21, 24 and 27 years. Women in the higher levels profile had higher odds of having ≥1 metabolic syndrome feature at 21 and 24 years, while men with higher and increasing disordered eating presented increased odds at 21, 24 and 27 years. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals, particularly males, with higher or increasing disordered eating levels from 13 to 21 years of age presented a higher risk of worsened cardiometabolic health up to 6 years later in adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study examined the nexus between mother's education and nutritional status and their relationships with child stunting, wasting, underweight, and overweight. Methods: The data of 34,193 under-five (U-5) children from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and binary and complementary log-logistic regression models. Results: The prevalence of child stunting, wasting, underweight, and overweight were 36.51%, 6.92%, 21.73%, and 2.05%, respectively. Compared to children born to mothers with at least secondary education, uneducated women's children (odds ratio (OR) = 1.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.32–1.82) and those of women with primary education (OR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.28–1.72) were more likely to be stunted. Similarly, children born to uneducated women (OR = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.24–1.83) were more likely to be underweight than women with at least secondary education. The likelihood of child underweight (OR = 1.71; 95% CI = 1.45–2.01) and wasting (rate ratio (RR) = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.47–2.26) were higher among underweight mothers, respectively, than those with normal body mass index (BMI). The likelihood of child stunting (OR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.67–0.84) and underweight (OR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.57–0.77) were lower among obese/overweight mothers compared to those with normal BMI, but their children were more likely to be overweight (RR = 1.77; 95% CI = 1.27–2.48). Conclusion: Attainment of higher education by mothers should be promoted to prevent childhood nutritional imbalances, and sensitization on healthy dietary habits and lifestyles should be promoted among women, especially the overweight/obese, to reduce their risk of having overweight children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several countries are experiencing challenges in maintaining standard haemodialysis services for people with kidney failure. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the health profile of people receiving haemodialysis and to identify factors associated with interdialytic weight gain. Design: A cross‐sectional study. Participants: A total of 166 adults with kidney failure and receiving haemodialysis for at least 3 months were included. Measurements: A structured chart audit form collected, demographic and haemodialysis treatment characteristics, recent biochemical and haematological results, and prescribed treatment regimens from clinical records. Data were analysed descriptively. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated to identify independent risk factors for interdialytic weight gain. Results: Mean age was 52 years (SD = 12.5), over half were male (60.2%, n = 100), and most were receiving 4 h of haemodialysis once per week (87.3%, n = 145). Approximately half (51.8%, n = 86) had an interdialytic weight gain >2%. Being female (OR = 3.39; 95% CI, 1.51–7.61), increased comorbidities (OR = 1.50; 95% CI, 1.22–1.84) and having BMI outside of the normal range (overweight/obese [OR = 8.49; 95% CI, 3.58–20.13] or underweight [OR = 4.61; 95% CI, 1.39–15.31]) were independent risk factors for increased interdialytic weight gain. Conclusion: Most patients were receiving 4 h of haemodialysis once per week although only modest alterations in potassium, phosphate, and fluid status were observed. Understanding the patient profile and predictors of interdialytic weight gain will inform the development of self‐management interventions to optimise clinician support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated production traits, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), and fecal microbiota composition in finishing boars (n = 207) selected for feed efficiency (FE; low = LFE; high = HFE) based on estimated breeding value for feed conversion ratio (FCR) within a Large White dam and sire genetic lines. Also, the association between gut microbiota with production and digestibility traits was investigated. Regardless of the genetic line, HFE pigs presented low FCR (P < 0.05), had thinner back fat (P < 0.05) and had greater loin depth (P < 0.05) than LFE pigs. Also, HFE pigs had a significantly higher ATTD for Ca and a tendency for a higher crude protein (P = 0.06) and phosphorous (P = 0.10) ATTD than LFE pigs. No significant differences in alpha- and beta-diversity measurements for fecal microbiota were seen between FE groups in each genetic line. The genera Lactobacillus and Prevotella were associated (P < 0.01) with some growth performance (e.g., feed intake), carcass traits (e.g., backfat thickness), and nutrient digestibility (e.g., Ca). In conclusion, HFE pigs had favourable production traits and higher digestibility of key nutrients than LFE pigs; however, the bacterial genera were associated with phenotypic traits but not by genetic merit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anorexia nervosa is classified by the American Psychological Association as an eating-related mental disorder, which affects mostly young adult women and adolescent girls. Although refeeding programs are often used to recover bodyweight in patients with anorexia nervosa, treatment failures are high, and the determinants of the disorder remain unknown. The present paper uses a nutritional epidemiology perspective to examine determinants of anorexia nervosa from the patients' point of view. A grounded-theory literature-review method was used to search and review research findings from the peer-reviewed literature related to the etiology of anorexia nervosa, including recent qualitative interviews with patients. Unlike a systematic review, a grounded theory method is more appropriate for developing a new theory to explain phenomena like the cause, recovery, and prevention of anorexia nervosa. Reviewed research suggests that anorexia nervosa may be a problematic body-change strategy rather than a mental disorder. Additionally, the present paper proposes that replacing the drive for thinness in anorexia nervosa with a drive for leanness may help patient recovery, especially when guided by easily accessible body-composition estimates. Fat-free mass restoration in the recovery of anorexia nervosa may also be facilitated by resistance training, which improves patients' psychological status and body composition. Additionally, replacing a dysfunctional dieting strategy in anorexia nervosa with knowledge, skills, and experience in proper weight management has a potential preventive effect against the disorder. More research is needed to investigate the applied effects of the drive for leanness, body-composition assessments, resistance-training programs, and weight-management skills associated with the recovery and prevention of anorexia nervosa. Furthermore, successful application of the information in this paper may be adapted to peer role model programs to prevent anorexia nervosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have a crucial role in driving economic growth and innovation. In the modern business landscape characterized by uncertainty, the adoption of lean philosophy has gained prominence as a means to continuously improve SMEs' operational efficiency and competitiveness. A fuzzy assessment model was proposed as comprehensive framework and guide for SMEs during their lean journey that utilizes the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (Fuzzy AHP), Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (Fuzzy DEMATEL), and Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (Fuzzy TOPSIS) to serve many objectives; identifying the most important and influence lean dimensions on SMEs leanness; assessing the level of adoption of lean philosophy in SMEs for five essential lean dimensions, namely management, process, supplier, customer, and employee; identifying the interrelationships among them; and identifying the driving dimensions for the improvement process to focus SMEs limited resources on it in improvement process due to its direct influence on the other lean dimensions. The proposed fuzzy model was applied in Iraqi medium-sized enterprise producing healthy water, juice, and soft drinks to identify the most important and influence lean dimension on enterprise leanness, identify the driving dimension of the improvement process, and assess the level of leanness of these five lean dimensions. The results showed that the management dimension has the highest level of importance and influence on SMEs' leanness, equal to 41.31%, and is distinguished as a driving dimension that has a high influence on improving the driven dimensions of process and customer. Although the level of importance and influence of the process dimension is 19.96%, it is an effect dimension and is considered a driven dimension. Plotting the interrelationship among the five lean dimensions in the diagram shows management has an influence on all lean dimensions and, at the same time, has a mutual relationship with employees and customers. An employee has a mutual relationship with the process dimension. In addition, the results showed that enterprise has deficiency in adopting a lean philosophy, where its level of leanness equal 0.39. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to develop and implement dosing recommendations for antimicrobials in obese and underweight patients within an academic hospital, and assess their impact on antibiotic prescribing. Methods: A multi-step approach project was performed. First, obese and underweight patient prevalence and antimicrobial prescription frequency was determined in a point prevalence study. Second and third, a literature review and e-survey provided dosing evidence. Fourth, a consensus meeting was organized to formulate dosing recommendations. Fifth, these were implemented in our clinical validation service as six clinical rules continuously screening patients' records for potentially inappropriate prescriptions (PIPs). Uptake was evaluated by documenting the number of advices and acceptance rate. Last, an interrupted time series analysis (ITS) compared pre- and post-implementation periods to measure the impact of the intervention on residual PIPs/day. A residual PIP was defined as a PIP which persisted up to 48 h. Results: First, 41% of 15.896 hospitalized patients received antimicrobials over 20 days; of which 12% were obese and 9% underweight. Antibiotics were predominantly prescribed according to standard dosing regimens, adjusted to renal function. Next, six dosing recommendations, derived from literature, survey, and consensus, were implemented. In the fifth step, during an 18-week period, 219 advices were given, with 86% acceptance rate. Last, in the ITS analysis, at preintervention, a median of 75% residual PIPs/day existed, reduced to 0% postintervention. Use of clinical rules resulted in a significant immediate 84% relative reduction in residual PIPs (95% CI 0.55–0.94). Conclusion: After conducting a literature review, e-survey, and seeking consensus from a panel of experts, dosing recommendations for antimicrobial treatment in both obese and underweight patients were developed. These recommendations have been successfully implemented into clinical practice, addressing the specific needs of these patient populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The first two years of life are crucial for child growth and development, and short stature is a common issue influenced by nutritional deficiencies. This study aimed to determine the relationship between vitamin D levels and short stature in children under 2 years of age in Bandung. Methods: Conducted as part of the ALG Grant research entitled 'The Role of Vitamin D in Reducing Maternal and Infant Mortality Rates Across Bandung Regency', this case-control study included 221 children, of whom 46.1% were below average height. Results: Nutritional status played a significant role, with short stature being associated with underweight (21.6%), severely underweight (29.4%), wasted (12.7%), and severely wasted (10.8%) conditions. However, the analysis revealed no significant difference in vitamin D levels between children with short stature and those with normal stature (median 28.8 vs. 28.8, p = 0.555). Logistic regression showed that short stature increased the risk of developmental deviations by 5.46 times compared to normal stature. Conclusions: While short stature remains a concern in Bandung, vitamin D levels do not appear to influence the incidence of short stature or developmental deviations in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We examined the factors associated with low tongue pressure to clarify its association with physical abnormalities in adolescent and young adult women. Methods: This study enrolled 92 women aged 10–20 years. Following the collection of anthropometric data, measurements were performed, including grip strength, maximum occlusal force, maximum tongue pressure, and masticatory performance. Based on the Rohrer index and body mass index (BMI), the participants were divided into normal weight, underweight, and overweight/obese groups. Low tongue pressure was defined as the bottom 20th percentile of maximum tongue pressure. After univariate analyses, factors associated with low tongue pressure were identified using multivariate binomial logistic regression analysis. Results: In the bivariate analysis, maximum tongue pressure was significantly positively correlated with grip strength (r = 0.407, p < 0.05). Binomial logistic regression analysis revealed that factors associated with low tongue pressure included being underweight (odds ratio [OR] = 7.451, p = 0.005, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.857–29.898), being overweight/obese (OR = 18.384, p = 0.004, 95% CI = 2.483–136.112), and having lower grip strength (OR = 0.864, p = 0.015, 95% CI = 0.768–0.972). Conclusions: Low tongue pressure is closely associated with being underweight, being overweight, and having lower grip strength among young women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: The aim of the study is to evaluate the trend in adverse obstetric outcomes of parturients across the spectrum of body mass index. METHODS: This is a cohort study of pregnant women who received obstetric care at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, between January 2015 and December 2015. The data were prospectively collected into the Obstetric Data Registry of the department. Composite adverse maternal outcomes and composite adverse fetal outcomes were obtained for each group. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 24, and a p value of less than.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Out of the 1,006 parturients, 334 (33.2%) were obese. Composite adverse maternal outcome increased from 35.1% for women with normal weight to 62.3% for obese women (p <.001). Composite adverse fetal outcome also increased from 25.9% for women with normal weight to 30% for obese women (p <.001). The odds of composite adverse maternal outcome were increased in overweight women (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.12, 3.49]) and obese women (aOR 1.65, 95% CI [1.21, 2.24]) compared with women of normal weight. Also, the odds of composite adverse fetal outcome were reduced in overweight (aOR 0.64, 95% CI [0.44, 0.93]) but increased in underweight (aOR 4.78, 95% CI [2.00, 11.44]) and obese (aOR 1.16, 95% CI [1.03, 12.39]) women. CONCLUSION: Composite adverse obstetric outcomes were increased in underweight, overweight, and obese women when compared with women of normal weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) ultra-thin materials are more crucial than their bulk counterparts for the covalent functionalization of their surface owing to atomic thinness, large surface-to-volume ratio, and high reactivity of surface atoms having unoccupied orbitals. Since the surface of a 2D material is composed of atoms having unoccupied orbitals, covalent functionalization enables one to improve or precisely modify the properties of the ultra-thin materials. Chemical functionalization of 2D materials not only modifies their intrinsic properties but also makes them adapted for nanotechnology applications. Such engineered materials have been used in many different applications with their improved properties. In the present Perspective, we begin with a brief history of functionalization followed by the introduction of functionalized 2D materials. Our Perspective is composed of the following sections: the applications areas of 2D graphene and graphene oxide crystals, transition metal dichalcogenides, and in-plane anisotropic black phosphorus, all of which have been widely used in different nanotechnology applications. Finally, our Perspectives on the future directions of applications of functionalized 2D materials are given. The present Perspective sheds light on the current progress in nanotechnological applications of engineered 2D materials through surface functionalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Method Results Conclusion This study aimed to compare treatment outcomes associated with three severity indicators—DSM–5 for anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN), ICD–11 for AN, and drive for thinness (DT) for AN and BN—within a treatment‐seeking population.A total of 628 female participants diagnosed with either AN (n = 266; mean age = 26.71) or BN (n = 362; mean age = 29.49) were recruited from an ED unit. Upon admission, participants were classified based on DSM–5 (AN and BN) and ICD–11 severity categories. They underwent CBT‐E comprehensive manualised programs, according to ED subtype, and were categorised into ‘full remission’, ‘partial remission’, ‘non‐remission’ or ‘drop‐out’ based on DSM–5 diagnostic criteria at discharge.Significant associations were found only for ICD–11 AN severity groups (p = 0.03, Cramer's V = 0.18), with ‘dangerously low BMI’ associated with poorer outcomes than ‘significantly low BMI’. No other significant relationships were found with DSM–5 or DT severity groups.This study reveals the limitation of using a single severity indicator and emphasises the necessity of a comprehensive assessment to capture the complexities of AN and BN. Future research should also evaluate the validity of these severity measures across various factors, including biological correlates and psychopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin and muscular have been characterised as body shape ideals for women and men, respectively, yet each sex misperceives what the other sex desires; women exaggerate the thinness that men like and men exaggerate the muscularity that women like. Body shape ideals align with stereotypic perceptions of femininity in women and masculinity in men. The present study investigates whether misperception of opposite-sex desires extends to femininity/masculinity in facial morphology. We used interactive 3D head models to represent faces varying in sexual dimorphism. White European heterosexual men and women were asked to choose their own and ideal face shape, the ideal shape of a short- and a long-term partner, and the face shape they thought the opposite sex would most like for a short- and a long-term partner. Women overestimated the facial femininity that men prefer in a partner and men overestimated the facial masculinity that women prefer in a partner. The discrepancy between own and ideal sexual dimorphism (an index of appearance dissatisfaction) covaried with by the misperception of what the opposite-sex desires. These results indicate misperception of opposite-sex facial preferences and that mistaken perceptions may contribute to dissatisfaction with own appearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Emaciation disease has significantly impacted olive flounder production in Korea since the 2000s, with various myxosporeans identified as causative agents. This study on Jeju Island examined both myxosporean infections and environmental factors, finding that emaciation lesions can occur without pathogens. The results indicate that environmental factors, along with myxosporeans, can worsen the disease. Future research should aim to pinpoint specific environmental conditions that contribute to its severity. Emaciation disease has directly affected the production of olive flounder—a major aquaculture species in Korea—since the 2000s. Various myxosporeans have been reported as its causative agents. In this study, we investigated the recent resurgence of emaciation on Jeju Island, considering not only myxosporean infections but also potential environmental factors. Unlike previous studies that have primarily attributed the causes of emaciation disease to infections by myxosporeans, this research aimed to determine whether pathogen infection is indeed the sole cause of emaciation disease through molecular and histopathological analyses. Molecular biological and histopathological analyses of aquaculture and laboratory samples revealed that gross pathology lesions of emaciation can occur in the absence of pathogens, as well as in environments with myxosporean infections. These findings suggest that emaciation disease can be exacerbated by certain environmental factors in addition to myxosporeans. Future research should focus on detailed experimental designs to identify the specific environmental conditions contributing to the severity of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Nowadays, body weight management has gained significant consumer attention due to the health megatrend. It plays a key role in preventing diseases, maintaining health, and creating a balanced diet, as well as in mental and physical health. Overweight and obesity are serious problems that can result in various non-communicable diseases; thus, managing the body weight of those who are overweight or obese without pathological changes would help reduce the prevalence of these diseases. By reducing body weight, not only individual health expenses but also public health costs could be reduced. To do so, it is necessary to assess at what levels consumers perceive their own health status, as well as the extent to which they pay attention to body weight management. Our research aimed to contribute to the foundation of public intervention programs by exploring some characteristics of body weight management among Hungarian consumers. Methods: We used a large-sample questionnaire survey involving a total of 550 people. Various statistical methods were used to analyze the data, including descriptive statistics, association tests, and hypothesis tests. Results: According to our results, those who want to lose weight are more engaged in managing their body weight than those who are satisfied with their weight or who want to gain weight, often aiming to reach an ideal weight through diet and exercise, and are willing to invest more in healthier lifestyles, both in terms of their diet and physical activity. In this regard, we did not find significant differences between the genders. Conclusions: Based on our findings, we can conclude that dietitians and doctors should play a more active role in guiding lifestyle changes since the majority of our respondents do not consider them credible sources of information on healthy eating, and they do not consult them on this topic. On the other hand, however, a much larger proportion seek information from them regarding regular physical activity, and after personal trainers, they are considered the second most authentic source of information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objectives Methods Results Conclusions This study examined long‐term changes in body composition and bone mineral characteristics among male long‐distance runners from a high‐profile university team, focusing on concerns about impaired musculoskeletal development due to extreme leanness and weight management practices in this population.Trajectory analyses were performed using multilevel modeling of 608 dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry datasets from 109 runners (mean age, height, and weight of 18.0 years, 171.4 cm, and 56.8 kg at baseline, respectively) collected biannually over 4 years.Linear increases in total and regional lean mass (LM) were observed on average, with the increase in leg LM being double that of arm LM (0.07 vs. 0.03 kg per occasion, respectively). Similarly, total bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC) exhibited linear growth on average, with BMD accrual being greater in the legs than in the arms (0.004 vs. 0.001 g/cm2 per occasion, respectively). However, rib BMD and BMC were predicted to decrease. Individually predicted growth rates in total LM were significantly associated with those in total BMD (r = 0.347, p < 0.001) and BMC (r = 0.424, p < 0.001).These results indicate site‐specific musculoskeletal adaptations to intensive long‐distance running training. Moreover, a random slope model accurately captured the trajectories of most dependent variables, highlighting the heterogeneity of training responses. The predictive models developed in this study offer practical strategies for identifying runners at risk of suboptimal physical development, thereby facilitating the development of personalized conditioning programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filters and photoediting are widely used to transform or alter photos, mainly selfies, before sharing with friends or on social networks. In adult population there is a strong evidence of the potential risks of this behaviuor. Aim of the present work is to revise international literature exploring the correlation between photo manipulation and anorexia nervosa among children and adolescents. International literature focusing on photo manipulation and anorexia nervosa has been examined, according to the PRISMA Extension guidelines for Scoping Reviews using the following strategies: "Photomanipulation" Filters: English, Child: 6–12 years, Adolescent: 13–18 years, from 2000–2024 Pubmed Search: (("Photography"[Mesh]) AND "Anorexia Nervosa"[Mesh]) AND "Anorexia Nervosa"[Majr] Filters: Adolescent: 13–18 years, Child: 6–12 years, from 2000–2024. According to the literature review strategy, only few and limited evidences are available for the pediatric population. As well as in adults, there is an increased risk for eating disorders in adolescents regularly sharing selfies and practicing photo manipulation. New social media and online chat may be associated with lower personal weight satisfaction, higher drive for thinness, and eating disorder symptoms. The Italian Pediatric Society Communication Group suggests to increase the awareness on the potential risks of photo manipulation among children and adolescents, suggesting the plan of more studies target to this population to gain evidence specifically, social campaigns and school education. Finally, the use of technology should be included as part of routine pediatric control visit, especially in the pre-adolescence period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Individuals with constitutional thinness have been presented with a lower muscular energy metabolism at the cellular level but their effective aerobic capacities and exercise-related energy efficiency remains unexplored. The present study compares maximal and sub-maximal aerobic capacities between subjects with constitutional thinness and age-matched normal-weight ones. Methods: Anthropometric measures, body composition (Dual-X-ray absorptiometry), physical activity and sedentary time (GT3x actigraphs), and maximal aerobic capacities (cycling V ˙ O 2peak test) were assessed in 18 constitutionally thin (CT—body mass index < 17.5 kg m−2) and 17 normal-weight (NW—body mass index between 20 and 25 kg m−2) women. Energy efficiency was assessed during a submaximal cycling test and a walking exercise. Results: CT had a lower body mass and body mass index compared to NW. Absolute peak oxygen uptake and maximal aerobic power were lower in CT subjects compared to NW (ES: − 1.63 [− 2.40; − 0.86] and − 1.32 [− 2.05; − 0.58], p < 0.001). V ˙ O 2peak related to body mass was not different between groups. Gross and net efficiency (ES: − 0.78 [− 1.48; − 0.06], p = 0.03 and ES: − 0.73 [− 1.43; − 0.01], p = 0.05) were lower in CT compared to NW during the submaximal cycling exercise. The gross energy cost of walking related to body mass was lower in subjects with CT (ES: − 1.80 [− 2.60; − 0.97, p = 0.05), with no difference for the net one. Perceived exertion was similar between groups in responses to both submaximal exercises. Conclusion: Constitutionally thin women do not show impaired aerobic capacities at moderate to maximal intensities despite lower energy efficiency while cycling and walking at low-to-moderate intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescent exposure to food and body care influencer advertising on social networks (SN) has become a concern because, in addition to the difficulty of recognition, it can have repercussions on the physical self-perception and health of the adolescent. The study applies a nationally representative survey to 1020 adolescents in urban Peru to examine their exposure and physical self-perception. The results indicate high exposure to this advertising, a tendency towards thinness in the ideal female figure, and a high level of dissatisfaction and social relevance of physical appearance for the adolescent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Jikei Academic Nursing Practice Center for the Community developed a community nursing practice that matched community health problems and concerns in Chofu and Komae cities, suburban areas of the Tokyo Metropolis. This study aimed to identify health problems and high‐risk populations via an understanding of the practice of health behaviors, health literacy, and quality of life. This was an online, cross‐sectional study conducted in September 2023. In total, 1520 (Chofu: n = 1170; Komae: n = 350) participants were enrolled. Participants' demographic characteristics, health literacy, health behaviors, and quality of life scores were obtained. Sleep quality was poor compared with national data. Younger participants had higher poor health literacy, did not practice health behaviors, and had a lower quality of life. In addition, parenting and informal nursing care for family members were associated with unhealthy eating, smoking, drinking, and poor quality of life. This study found that health problems and concerns before planning were significant in increasing the salience of interventions for community residents. Based on the findings of this study, an action plan for community‐wide nursing practice was created. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study investigates the reproductive tract infections (RTIs) among tribal migrant women in urban areas of Gujarat, India. These groups of women face multiple challenges, including limited healthcare access, poor living conditions, and inadequate reproductive and child healthcare services. Therefore, the present study was conducted to assess the RTIs of tribal women living in urban areas. It was a community-based cross-sectional study. It was conducted among the four municipal corporation areas in Gujarat. A sample of 592 women, who were in reproductive age (15–45 years) and belonging to tribal community and seasonally migrated to urban areas, were included for the study. Almost 64% of the participants married before the legal age of 18, with 29% marrying before the age of 15. Furthermore, early pregnancy (at <18 years) was reported by 29% of the women. Approximately 22% of the women experienced reproductive health issues, with a prevalence of 13% for symptomatic RTIs, 8% for urinary tract infections (UTIs), and 8% for menstrual problems. Almost 58.4% of women with RTIs, 54.1% with UTIs, 48.9% with menstrual problems, and 46.1% with polycystic ovary syndrome were classified as underweight. However, this relationship was not statistically significant. The study revealed the 13% of the prevalence of RTIs among the migratory tribal women. It is matching with national-level community-based study of India National Family Health Survey. The current study explored that there is no association of nutrition and RTI. Also, it is required to plan a larger-level community-based study to understand overall reproductive health issues among all different group of women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tobacco use is one of the greatest public health problems in the world. Prevalence of alcohol and tobacco use among lactating women ranged between 35.9–83.0% and 1.4–6.1%, respectively, in various parts of the world. Both alcohol and nicotine pass quickly into breast milk. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of alcohol and tobacco use in lactating women and its association with having underweight, stunted, and wasted nursing children in India. The study also draws comparisons to identify the common associated socio-economic factors for alcohol and tobacco use among lactating women and having underweight, stunted, and/or wasted children. A cross-sectional analytical study involving secondary data from the National Family Health Survey-5. A cross-sectional analytical study involving secondary data from the National Family Health Survey-5 conducted nationally in community settings in two phases during 2019–2021. Alcohol and tobacco use among lactating women was self-reported, and the nutritional status of children was assess anthropometrically during the survey and categorised into under-weight, stunted, and wasted as per standardised growth charts. prevalence of tobacco use among currently lactating mothers in India was 3.24%. Prevalence of alcohol use among currently lactating mothers was 0.57%. Nursing children of mothers consuming alcohol had significantly higher odds of being wasted [OR = 1.44; (95% CI = 1.07–1.92)]. Richer wealth index {compared to poor, poorer [OR = 0.74; (95% CI = 0.59–0.91)], rich [OR = 0.64; (95% CI = 0.50–0.84)], richer [OR = 0.46; (95% CI = 0.33–0.65)], richest [OR = 0.19; (95% CI = 0.11–0.33)]}, higher education status {compared to illiterate, secondary education [OR = 0.79; (95% CI = 0.63–0.97)], higher education [OR = 0.38; (95% CI = 0.24–0.62)]}, and non-tribal ethnicity [OR = 0.40; (95% CI = 0.33–0.50)] were found to be significantly associated with lower odds of alcohol and tobacco use among lactating mothers. Age, religion, residence, and occupation were also found to be significantly associated. Lactating women with lower education status or belonging to lower income groups needs to be prioritised for further qualitative assessment of alcohol and tobacco use during lactation. Our study reflects the national and state-level prevalence of alcohol and tobacco use among lactating women, which often masks the local and community-level intricacies. There is a need to further explore local and community-level factors affecting alcohol use during lactation and its association with child nutrition. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The current study tested whether proposed sport-related risk factors for disordered eating behaviors were associated with increases in disordered eating over first-year college athletes' first four months of collegiate sport participation. Participants: Participants included a sample of first-year college athletes (N = 59, 45% female) from a Division I National Collegiate Athletics Association (DI) university. Method: This follow-up study tested whether 1) wearing a uniform that emphasizes body concerns, 2) participating in a lean sport, and 3) perceived pressure for thinness from coaches and teammates would lead to increases in weight/shape concerns and disordered eating behaviors over the first four months of collegiate sport participation. Results: Wearing a uniform that emphasizes body concerns and perceived coach pressure for thinness predicted increases in weight/shape concern. Both teammate and coach pressure for thinness predicted increases in restrained eating behaviors. Conclusion: Findings suggest that there are identifiable, athlete-specific risk factors for the development of disordered eating behaviors among first-year college athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study investigated the association of physical activity (PA) levels with all‐cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality risks stratified by adiposity and age. Methods: Participants (36 703; mean age: 49.1; 57.1% women) were selected from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2013. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to examine the association between PA and mortality across different adiposity categories and ages. Results: Median follow‐up was 9.22 years; 2393 individuals died, including 538 with CVD. Compared with normal‐weight controls, underweight individuals had increased all‐cause mortality risk (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33–1.79). The overweight and obese groups demonstrated reduced mortality risks (HRs: 0.75 [95% CI: 0.67–0.84] and 0.59 [95% CI: 0.51–0.67], respectively). Mortality risk based on abdominal obesity had an HR of 1.22 (95% CI: 1.08–1.37). PA protected against mortality risk most in the obese group performing more than 1000 MET‐min/week and was particularly significant among those who were underweight and obese aged 65 and older. Conclusions: Overweight and obese Asian individuals (based on body mass index) had a lower mortality risk than those with normal body mass index, whereas obesity based on waist circumference was associated with increased mortality. PA protected against mortality across various weight categories, especially in individuals aged ≥65. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1156–1164. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assesses the associations between nutritional status and cognitive development of schoolchildren. A unit increase in height-for-age Z-score was associated with 0.12 SD, 0.08 SD and 0.12 SD increase in standardized digit span, Raven's colored progressive metrics, and performance index of visual search task, respectively. A unit increase in body-mass-index-for-age Z-score was associated with 0.11 SD increase in standardized digit span. Hemoglobin concentration was not associated with any of the cognitive outcomes. Chronic malnutrition was associated with cognitive development in schoolchildren while thinness and hemoglobin concentrations were associated with selected or no cognitive outcomes, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Malnutrition in children and adolescents is a global issue particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries, while behavioural problems are becoming a growing public health concern in the area of child and adolescent mental health, with very few studies examining their association in preadolescence. This study aimed to assess the epidemiological relationship between malnutrition and behavioural problems in preadolescence. Methods: A school based, cross‐sectional survey was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan. Total 660, 11‐ to 12‐year‐old preadolescents were selected from a middle‐class, coeducational school chain. Sociodemographic questionnaires and an officially adapted version of Youth Self‐Report Form (YSR), which is the child and adolescent reported version of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), were used to collect data, along with anthropometric assessments following the WHO protocol. Results: Thin and stunted preadolescents had significantly higher odds of internalizing problems (AOR = 2.05, p = 0.003 and AOR = 2.09, p = 0.039, respectively) than normal ones. Overnutrition was not associated with any behavioural issues. According to the Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure, 40% of preadolescents had at least one type of malnutrition and among them about 3% had co‐occurring malnutrition (stunted and thin or overweight). They significantly had higher risk of being associated with the internalizing problems (AOR 2.92, p = 0.027). The effect was considerably higher than that associated with stunted or thin only, highlighting the cumulative impact of the co‐occurring malnutrition on the internalizing problems. Conclusion: Our study concludes that overnutrition and undernutrition are prevalent in preadolescents, with significant association of undernutrition with internalizing problems. Moreover, our study is the first that reports that the co‐occurrence of malnutrition is significantly associated with increased risk of internalizing problems. This study highlights the importance of the link between physical and mental health and emphasizes the need for holistic interventions and programmes for addressing preadolescents' issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to capture the lived experiences of sizeism, or size discrimination, for fat and big men. The intention of this study was to identify the essence of fat and big men's experience of sizeism to more adequately understand how sizeism may impact the lives of these men to assist with the creation of more culturally competent psychological services and interventions for this population. A total of 10 participants were included in this study. Participants self-identified as fat or big, cisgender, and varied in race/ethnic identity and age (from 25 to 44 years). Data analysis of their experiences revealed five emergent themes: (a) accessing masculinity, (b) navigating thin privilege, (c) psychological consequences of living in fat male bodies, (d) sexual capital, (e) and fat/big as identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This epidemiological research investigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and lower limb function and community well-being among the older population (≥65 years old) in South Korea. Using the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans (N = 10 097; Mage = 73.6 ± 6.63; MBMI = 23.6 ± 2.61), the study identified underweight (2.3%), normal (72.8%), and obese (24.9%) groups. Findings revealed significant associations between BMI and lower limb function, with underweight individuals facing greater physical challenges (P <.05–.01). Underweight participants were also found to live farther from key community locations, possibly reflecting social and environmental factors (P <.01) and expressed higher dissatisfaction with community environments (P s <.05–.01). The study emphasizes the need for tailored community planning and health care strategies, focusing on the unique needs of the underweight older adults, considering South Korea's rapidly increasing older population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is evidence that frailty is an independent predictor of worse outcomes after stroke. Similarly, although obesity is associated with a higher risk for stroke, there are multiple reports describing improved mortality and functional outcomes in higher body mass index (BMI) patients in a phenomenon known as the obesity paradox. We investigated the effect of low BMI on outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 231 stroke patients who underwent MT at an academic medical center between 2020-2022. The patients' BMI data were collected from admission records and coded based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) obesity guidelines. Recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) in R software was employed to automatically detect a BMI threshold associated with a significant survival benefit. Frailty was quantified using the Modified Frailty Index 5 and 11. Results In our dataset, by CDC classification, 2.6% of patients were underweight, 27.3% were normal BMI, 30.7% were overweight, 19.9% were class I obese, 9.5% were class II obese, and 10% were class III obese. There were no significant differences between these groups. RPA identified a clinically significant BMI threshold of 23.62 kg/m². Independent of frailty, patients with a BMI ≤23.62 kg/m² had significantly worse overall survival (P<0.001) and 90-day modified Rankin Scale (P=0.027) than patients above the threshold. Conclusions Underweight patients had worse survival and functional outcomes after MT. Further research should focus on the pathophysiology underlying poor prognosis in underweight MT patients, and whether optimizing nutritional status confers any neuroprotective benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The durability and mechanical properties of synthetic medical gloves, such as those made from nitrile, vary drastically depending on the manufacturer. This study reports the chemical composition of several brands of nitrile gloves via FTIR and solid-state NMR analysis and relates composition to glove durability (found via GAD), mechanical performance (found via Instron), and whether the gloves meet or fail ASTM International standards. Out of the four nitrile examination glove brands tested, American Nitrile Slate brand had superior durability results and was found to be made of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, as expected. The U.S. Medical glove brand, which was also found to be pure nitrile, had the superior tensile results, consistently reaching over 800% elongation before breaking. Although Restore Touch brand exam gloves were made of nitrile, they exhibited substandard tensile strength and durability due to the thinness of the glove, which barely met the ASTM minimum thickness value. The Vglove brand glove had the overall worst mechanical properties, did not meet ASTM requirements, and had an NMR spectrum consistent with that of a polyvinyl chloride glove, rather than nitrile. Gloves that fail to meet the minimum performance requirements should not be used for medical purposes to protect the health and safety of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the risk factors influencing 1-year mortality after intramedullary nail fixation for fragile intertrochanteric fracture in elderly individuals. Methods: The medical records of 622 consecutive elderly patients (aged ≥ 65 years) with fragile intertrochanteric fractures treated with proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA) and followed-up were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into death and survival groups according to their survival status within 1 year after surgery, and the differences in age, sex, region of residence, tobacco use, alcohol use, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia), preoperative hemoglobin, preoperative albumin, deep vein thrombosis, fracture type (AO classification), injury-to-surgery time, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, anesthesia modality, duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, and blood transfusion were compared. The Kaplan–Meier method was used for univariate analysis to screen for statistically significant differences between the two groups, and the data were entered into the Cox proportional hazards model for multivariate analysis to determine independent risk factors affecting 1-year postoperative mortality. For subgroup analysis, we explored the varying effects of hypoproteinemia and being underweight in patients of different genders, as well as the effects of different age ranges, different injury-to-surgery times, and different blood transfusion volumes on 1-year postoperative mortality. Results: The mortality rates at 1, 3, and 6 months, and 1 year after surgery were 3.9%, 7.2%, 10.1%, and 15.3%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that advanced age, male sex, tobacco use, underweight (BMI < 18.5), coronary heart disease, stroke, dementia, pneumonia, number of comorbidities ≥ 3, hypoproteinemia and injury-to-surgery time ≤ 2 days were associated with the 1-year postoperative survival status (P < 0.1). Multivariate analysis revealed that advanced age, male sex, dementia, number of comorbidities ≥ 3, hypoalbuminemia, and being underweight were independent risk factors for 1-year postoperative mortality. Subgroup analysis showed that being underweight was associated with 1-year postoperative mortality only in male patients but not in female patients, whereas hypoproteinemia was associated with 1-year postoperative mortality in both male and female patients. Furthermore, an injury-to-surgery time of less than 2 days improved patient survival, and patients more than 80 years old showed an elevated risk of postoperative mortality. Conclusions: Preoperative health status is a critical predictor of postoperative outcomes in elderly patients with fragile intertrochanteric fractures. Priority care should be given to the patients who are elderly, male, have dementia, have comorbidities, or are malnourished. Prompt nutritional reinforcement should be provided to patients with intertrochanteric fractures with comorbid hypoproteinemia and underweight. Furthermore, surgery should be performed as early as possible in patients with fewer comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]