Waist-to-height ratio and body fat percentage as risk factors for ischemic cardiovascular disease: a prospective cohort study from UK Biobank.

BACKGROUND: The independent effect of waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and body fat percentage (BF%) on ischemic cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains uncertain. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the independent associations of WHtR and BF% with ischemic CVD. METHODS: This prospective cohort study used data from the UK Biobank. BF% was calculated as fat mass divided by body weight, measured by bioimpedance. Cox models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall and sex-specific associations of BF% and WHtR with risks of ischemic CVD and its main subtypes [myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic stroke (IS)], adjusted for a range of potential confounders, including mutual adjustment for BF% and WHtR. RESULTS: In total, 468,333 participants without existing CVD were included in the analysis. During 12 y of follow-up, 20,151 ischemic CVD events, 13,604 MIs, and 6681 ISs were recorded. WHtR was linearly associated with ischemic CVD, MI, and IS, with an HR per 5% increase of 1.23 (95% CI: 1.20, 1.25), 1.24 (95% CI: 1.21, 1.27), and 1.22 (95% CI: 1.18, 1.26), respectively, independent of BF%. A stronger association between WHtR and MI was seen in females than in males. The association of BF% with these outcomes was substantially attenuated in both sexes after adjustment for WHtR. For example, in females, the HR (highest compared with lowest fifth) was reduced from 1.94 (95% CI: 1.76, 2.15) to 1.04 (95% CI: 0.90, 1.01) for ischemic CVD, from 2.04 (95% CI: 1.79, 2.32) to 0.97 (95% CI: 0.81, 1.16) for MI, and from 1.81 (95% CI: 1.54, 2.13) to 1.07 (95% CI: 0.85, 1.33) for IS. CONCLUSIONS: WHtR, when used as a proxy measure for central obesity, is linearly associated with ischemic CVD in both sexes, which is independent of BF%. In contrast, the relationship of BF% with these health outcomes is predominantly driven by its correlation with WHtR.

Association between Percent Body Fat and Low High-Density Lipoproteinemia in Middle-Aged Men in Korea.

Background: Obesity is a significant health risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Dyslipidemia, defined as a low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level, is associated with these risks. Recent bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) devices offer precise measurements of the percent body fat (PBF). We aimed to determine the association between PBF and HDL-C levels in middle-aged men in Korea. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional sstudy of men aged 40-65 years who visited a health examination center. Body composition was analyzed using BIA. Health habits were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. The participants were divided into four groups based on their PBF: group 1 (<21%), group 2 (21%-23.99%), group 3 (24%-28.99%), and group 4 (≥29%). Logistic regression was used to obtain the odds ratio (OR) between the PBF group and the low HDL-C level and adjusted for other variables. Results: In this study, 2,685 men were analyzed. The number of individuals diagnosed with low HDL-C levels increased significantly as the group-specific PBF increased. Group 4 showed a 5.5-fold greater association with low HDL-C compared to group 1 (P<0.01), whereas group 3 and group 2 showed an OR of 4.38 and 2.95 (P<0.01 and P<0.01), respectively. Conclusion: These results suggest that if middle-aged men are able to decrease their body fat by <5%, their HDL-C levels will increase. We suggest that 3%-5% PBF is a useful guideline for general body fat reduction in Korean middle- aged men in primary care.

Elevated blood pressure in children with cerebral palsy and its relationship with adiposity and physical activity.

BACKGROUND: There is a high prevalance of hypertension in adults with with cerebral palsy (CP). However, less is known about blood pressure in children with CP. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to determine if blood pressure is elevated in children with CP and whether it is related to adiposity and physical activity. METHODS: Thirty children with spastic CP (5-11 y) and 30 age-, sex-, and race-matched typically developing control children were studied. Resting systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and heart rate were measured, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) was calculated. Visceral fat mass and total body fat mass index (FMI) were determined using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Physical activity was assessed using accelerometer-based monitors. RESULTS: Children with CP had higher DBP and heart rate than controls (p < 0.05). DBP percentile and MAP were also higher in children with CP when BMI was statistically controlled. Children with CP and elevated blood pressure or hypertension (n = 8) had 56% more visceral fat mass than children with CP and normal blood pressure (n = 22; p < 0.05). In the groups combined, blood pressure was directly related to visceral fat mass and FMI, and inversely related to physical activity (p < 0.05). However, in children with CP alone, only visceral fat mass was related to blood pressure (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Children with CP have higher resting blood pressure than typically developing children. The higher blood pressure is related to higher visceral adiposity. Careful blood pressure screening should start during childhood in individuals with CP.

Relationship of obesity indices with clinical severity and nerve conduction studies in females presenting with median nerve compression neuropathy at the wrist.

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is considered to be one of the most common peripheral nerve disorders with female preponderance which significantly reduces work efficacy and needs further research on its preventable factors, especially obesity. We studied the effects of obesity indices on Phalen's test duration and median nerve conduction study (NCS) parameters in patients presenting with CTS. Methods: We examined 229 female patients presenting with clinical features of CTS. Clinical examinations including Phalen's test, median NCSs, and body composition were evaluated. Obesity indices and electrophysiological parameters were compared. Results: There were significant associations of both body mass index (BMI) degrees and body fat percent (BF%) with clinical and NCS parameters with a linear relationship. BF% and BMI were strongly negatively correlated with Phalen's test duration (BF%; r = -0.334, BMI; r = -0.270 P = 0.001). On the other hand, BF% and BMI were positively correlated with median distal latency (BF%; r = 0.338, BMI; r = 0.372, P value = 0.001), M-latency (BF%; r = 0.264, BMI; r = 0.285, P = 0.001), median motor conduction velocity (MMCV) (BF%; r = 0.119, P = 0.072, BMI; r = 0.173, P = 0.009), median sensory conduction velocity (MSCV) (BF%; r = -0.195, P = 0.003, BMI; r = 0.327, P = 0.001), and sensory nerve action potential (SNAP amplitude) (BF%; r = -.239, BMI; r = -0.350, P = 0.001). Conclusions: Nerve conduction parameters are significantly affected by obesity degree defined by BMI and BF%. Therefore, combining BMI and BF% assessments gives more clinical information regarding CTS severity and management. The true predictive value of these indices needs to be elucidated further.

Association between body roundness index (BRI) and gallstones: results of the 2017-2020 national health and nutrition examination survey (NHANES).

BACKGROUND: Gallstones are associated with obesity, and the BRI is a new obesity index that more accurately reflects body fat and visceral fat levels. The relationship between BRI and gallstone risk is currently unknown, and we aimed to explore the relationship between BRI and gallstone prevalence. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing data from the 2017-2020 NHANES involving a total of 5297 participants. To assess the association between BRI and gallstones, we used logistic regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and interaction terms. In addition, we performed restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis and threshold effects analysis to characterize nonlinear relationships. We assessed the ability of BRI and Body mass index (BMI) to identify gallstones using receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis and area under the curve (AUC), and compared them using the Delong test. RESULTS: Of the 5297 participants aged 20 years and older included in the study, 575 had gallstones. In fully adjusted models, a positive association between BRI and gallstone prevalence was observed (OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.12-1.20, P < 0.0001). Individuals in the highest quartile of BRI had a 204% increased risk of gallstones compared with those in the lowest quartile (OR = 3.04, 95% CI: 2.19-4.22, P < 0.0001). The correlation between BRI and gallstones persisted in subgroup analyses. RCS analyses showed a nonlinear relationship between BRI and gallstones. The inflection point was further found to be 3.96, and the correlation between BRI and gallstones was found both before and after the inflection point. ROC analysis showed that BRI (AUC = 0.667) was a stronger predictor of gallstones than BMI (AUC = 0.634). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated BRI is associated with an increased risk of gallstones in the U.S. population, and BRI is a stronger predictor of gallstones than BMI. Maintaining an appropriate BRI is recommended to reduce the incidence of gallstones.

Short sleep duration is associated with higher risk of central obesity in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies.

Background and Objective: The relationship between sleep duration and obesity has been the focus of numerous investigations. This systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies aimed to assess the relationship between sleep duration, abdominal obesity, and body composition. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched until February 2024. Cohort studies that assessed the relationship between sleep duration at night and central obesity measures or body composition indices in adults were included. The quality of studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted on studies that reported risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Eighteen studies were eligible to be included. Eleven out of the 18 studies were not included in the analysis as 10 studies did not report RR, and in one study, the definition of short and normal sleep duration was different from others. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that short sleep duration was significantly associated with abdominal obesity (RR = 1.08; 95% CI: 1.04-1.12; I 2 = 49.1%, n = 7), but long sleep duration was not (RR = 1.02; 95% CI: 0.83-1.24; I 2 = 98.2%, n = 6). Conclusions: Short sleep duration was associated with a slightly higher risk of central obesity, while long sleep duration was not.

Morphological changes and their associations with clinical parameters in children with nephropathic cystinosis and chronic kidney disease prior to kidney replacement therapy over 25 years.

BACKGROUND: Infantile nephropathic cystinosis (INC) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder, mostly and often firstly affecting the kidneys, together with impaired disharmonious growth and rickets, eventually resulting in progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD). With the introduction of cysteamine therapy, most pediatric patients reach adulthood with no need for kidney replacement therapy. Still, detailed changes in INC patients' clinical and morphological presentation over the past decades have not yet been thoroughly investigated. METHODS: Two groups with a respective total of 64 children with INC and 302 children with CKD, both treated conservatively and aged 2 to 18 years, were prospectively observed in the time span from 1998 to 2022 with 1186 combined annual clinical and morphological examinations clustered into two measurement periods (1998 to 2015 and ≥ 2016). RESULTS: In INC patients, thoracic proportion indices remained markedly increased, whereas body fat stores remained decreased over the past 25 years (+ 1 vs. below ± 0 z-score, respectively). Their CKD peers presented with overall improved growth, general harmonization of body proportions, and improved body fat stores, while INC patients only presented with an isolated significant increase in leg length over time (∆0.36 z-score). eGFR adjusted for age did not significantly change over the past 25 years in both groups. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) showed a significant decrease in CKD patients over time, while remaining above normal levels in INC patients. CONCLUSIONS: Disproportionate thoracic shape and impaired body fat stores remain the most characteristic morphological traits in INC patients over the past 25 years, while causal mechanisms remain unclear.

Exploring causal effects of gut microbiota and metabolites on body fat percentage using two-sample Mendelian randomization.

AIM: The relationship between the gut microbiota, metabolites and body fat percentage (BFP) remains unexplored. We systematically assessed the causal relationships between gut microbiota, metabolites and BFP using Mendelian randomization analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with gut microbiota, blood metabolites and BFP were screened via a genome-wide association study enrolling individuals of European descent. Summary data from genome-wide association studies were extracted from the MiBioGen consortium and the UK Biobank. The inverse variance-weighted model was the primary method used to estimate these causal relationships. Sensitivity analyses were performed using pleiotropy, Mendelian randomization-Egger regression, heterogeneity tests and leave-one-out tests. RESULTS: In the aspect of phyla, classes, orders, families and genera, we observed that o_Bifidobacteriales [ß = -0.05; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.07 to -0.03; false discovery rate (FDR) = 2.76 × 10-3], f_Bifidobacteriaceae (ß = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.07 to -0.07; FDR = 2.76 × 10-3), p_Actinobacteria (ß = -0.06; 95% CI: -0.09 to -0.03; FDR = 6.36 × 10-3), c_Actinobacteria (ß = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.08 to -0.02; FDR = 1.06 × 10-2), g_Bifidobacterium (ß = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.07 to -0.02; FDR = 1.85 × 10-2), g_Ruminiclostridium9 (ß = -0.03; 95% CI: -0.06 to -0.01; FDR = 4.81 × 10-2) were negatively associated with BFP. G_Olsenella (ß = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.01-0.03; FDR = 2.16 × 10-2) was positively associated with BFP. Among the gut microbiotas, f_Bifidobacteriales, o_Bifidobacteriales, c_Actinobacteria and p_Actinobacteria were shown to be significantly associated with BFP in the validated dataset. In the aspect of metabolites, we only observed that valine (ß = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.5-1.04; FDR = 8.65 × 10-6) was associated with BFP. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple gut microbiota and metabolites were strongly associated with an increased BFP. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this putative causality. In addition, BFP, a key indicator of obesity, suggests that obesity-related interventions can be developed from gut microbiota and metabolite perspectives.

Body fat and circulating leptin levels in the captive short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus).

It is possible that the reproductive strategy of the short-beaked echidna is related to seasonal changes in fat deposition and energy availability, regulated by seasonal changes in endocrine function. We predicted that circulating leptin levels would be directly proportional to adiposity during most of the year, but that a change in this relationship would occur during the pre-breeding season to allow increased fat deposition. To test this hypothesis, we made use of a captive colony of echidnas to describe and quantify changes in fat distribution and the adipostatic hormone leptin. First we assessed seasonal changes in circulating leptin levels, body mass and adiposity for three male and three female adult echidnas maintained on a standard diet. Second, we explored the relationship between circulating leptin levels and increased caloric intake for an additional five adult female echidnas that were provided with supplemented nutrition. Third we visualised fat distribution in male and female adult echidnas using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and after the breeding season, to determine where fat is deposited in this species. For echidnas maintained on the standard diet, there were no seasonal changes in body mass, body fat or plasma leptin levels. However, female echidnas provided with supplemented nutrition had significantly elevated plasma leptin levels during the breeding season, compared to the pre-and post- breeding periods. MRI showed substantial subcutaneous fat depots extending dorso-laterally from the base of the skull to the base of the tail, in both sexes. Pre-breeding season, both sexes had considerable fat deposition in the pelvic/rump region, whilst the female echidna accumulated most fat in the abdominal region. This study shows that male and female echidnas accumulate body fat in the pelvic/rump and the abdominal regions, respectively and that circulating leptin may promote fattening in female echidnas during the breeding season by means of leptin resistance. However, further research is required to evaluate the precise relationship between seasonal changes in leptin and adiposity.

Beyond the assembly line: An assessment of diabetes risks among Indian male industrial workers.

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic non-communicable disease that imposes a significant burden on affected individuals and the community. Considerable attention has been given to industrial accidents and ergonomics, however, lifestyle-related diseases among industrial workers have often been neglected. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim to assess the prevalence of obesity/overweight and ascertain the risk of diabetes mellitus among male employees of an industrial unit in South Mumbai. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted among male employees of an industrial unit in South Mumbai. Family history, exercise patterns, anthropometric measurements and physical vital parameters were recorded. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) was employed to evaluate the risk of diabetes mellitus. Results: In total, 3791 industrial workers participated in the study and 44.5% of participants were above 40 years. Mean height, weight, body mass index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC) and waist to hip ratio (WHR) were 1.67 m, 71.33 kg, 25.99, 90.81 cm and 0.91 respectively. 56.1% individuals had WC more than 90 cm and 79.1% had WHR more than 0.90. 1846 (53%) and 927 (26.6%) participants had moderate and high diabetes risk respectively. The relationship between age, weight, BMI, WC, WHR, body fat mass and fat percentage, and IDRS was statistically significant. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of industrial workers were identified as overweight and at high risk of diabetes mellitus. Consequently, it becomes imperative to offer health education and implement interventions to encourage regular exercise, adopt an active lifestyle, and promote healthy dietary habits among industrial workers.

High Body Fat as a Predictor of Osteoporosis Risk in Postmenopausal Women: Insights From a Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Rural South India.

INTRODUCTION: Osteoporosis poses a significant health burden, particularly among postmenopausal women. While obesity in the form of BMI has been implicated in various health conditions, the relationship between waist-hip ratio (WHR) and osteoporosis remains debated. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of osteoporosis risk and explore the association between WHR and osteoporosis risk among postmenopausal women in rural South India. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu. The study enrolled 435 postmenopausal women aged 45 years and above and the data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and osteoporosis risk assessment using the Osteoporosis Self-assessment Tool for Asian Women (OSTA) scale. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with osteoporosis risk with 95%CI. RESULTS: The mean (SD) age of participants was 54.5 (8.6) years, 87% were married, 33% were illiterate with mean (SD) WHR of 0.88 (0.1). Around 80.5% of the participants were categorized as low risk, 16.1% as intermediate risk, and 3.5% as high risk based on OSTA scores. Older age, lower educational attainment, and higher waist-hip ratio were significantly associated with increased osteoporosis risk. CONCLUSION: This community-based study found a 20% osteoporosis risk among postmenopausal women using the OSTA scale, with age, lower education, and waist-hip ratio as key determinants. Early identification and interventions, particularly targeting older and obese individuals, are crucial to alleviate the burden and complications of osteoporosis.

A polyphenol fraction from Rosa multiflora var. platyphylala reduces body fat in overweight humans through appetite suppression - a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Rosa species are rich sources of polyphenols with physiological functions. In this study a polyphenol-rich Rosa multiflora (var. platyphylala) petal extract (RoseFit™) was investigated for weight loss in humans. METHODS: In a randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, double-blind clinical trial seventy overweight male and female subjects (20-50 years) with body mass index (BMI) 25-30 kg/m2 were randomly allocated to the active treatment group (RoseFit) and placebo group in a 1:1 ratio. The subjects received 300 mg capsules twice daily for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy outcome measures included body weight, BMI, and body composition, as determined using Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Secondary measures consisted of serum lipid profile and appetite marker (leptin and ghrelin) analyses. Safety analyses included biochemical and hematological assessments. RESULTS: At the end of the study, a marked reduction in body weight (-1.20 ± 2.62 kg, p < 0.05) and BMI from baseline was observed in the RoseFit group. In addition, the body fat % (RoseFit = -1.69 ± 2.59%, placebo = 0.96 ± 3.21%; p < 0.001) and fat mass (RoseFit = -1.75 ± 1.80 kg, placebo = 1.61 ± 3.82 kg; p < 0.001) were significantly abated in RoseFit group. Importantly, the lean mass was maintained during the intervention. RoseFit ingestion significantly increased the serum leptin levels compared to the placebo (4.85%; p < 0.05). Further, RoseFit group showed reduction in the hunger hormone ghrelin level (2.27%; p < 0.001) from baseline to the end of study, compared to the placebo. The subjective evaluation of appetite using visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaires further confirmed the appetite-suppression effects of RoseFit. The lipid profile significantly improved in RoseFit-treated subjects. No serious adverse events were observed during the study, indicating the tolerability of RoseFit. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with RoseFit significantly impacts body weight management and can thus be a potential nutraceutical ingredient for sustainable weight loss. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CTRI/2019/10/021584 dated 09/10/2019.

[Comparative analysis of body fat measurement using two bioelectric impedance devices and three household scales (with the function of determining body composition) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry].

Body composition assessment is often used in clinical practice to assess and monitor nutritional status. For example, body fat mass is a predictor of metabolic diseases, and for an athlete it is a criterion of performance. "Gold standard" - the method of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry - in contrast to bioelectrical impedance analysis, is difficult to apply in everyday clinical practice. Therefore, it becomes relevant to compare the consistency of measured body fat mass using densitometry and bioimpedanceometry. The aim of the study was to perform a comparative analysis of body fat mass estimated by bioimpedanceometry (two bioelectric impedance devices and three household scales with a function of determining body composition) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Material and methods. Sixteen healthy, physically active adults aged 25 [23; 26] years, male (n=7) and female (n=9), participated in the cross-sectional study. Body composition was assessed under standard conditions in the morning, after a 12-hour fast, using densitometry (Stratos Dr X-ray densitometer) and bioimpedanceometry [bioelectric impedance devices: Medass ABC-01, Diamant AIST (with manufacturer's predictive equations); household scales with a function of determining body composition: Tanita BC-718, Picooc Mini, Scarlett SC-216]. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica 10 package (StatSoft, USA), and included Friedman's chi-criterion, Lin's correlation concordance coefficient, Bland-Altman method, Spearman's correlation coefficient, and Wilcoxon's criterion with Bonferroni correction for multiple studies. Results. None of the bioimpedanceometry devices studied showed a relationship (Bland- Altman coefficient >0.2) or consistency (Lin's correlation concordance coefficient <0.9) when compared to densitometry, although Spearman correlation was moderate for Tanita BC-718 (r=0.603, p<0.05), Diamant AIST (r=0.641, p<0.01) and Scarlett SC-216 (r=0.609, p<0.05), and notable for Medass ABC-01 (r=0.841, p<0.01) and Picooc Mini (r=0.718, p<0.01). Conclusion. This study found that no bioelectrical impedance device has consistency with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in assessing body fat mass. Since the accuracy of body fat mass measurement is critical in body composition diagnosis, the assessment results obtained by bioimpedanceometry should be interpreted with caution.

Comparative and Predictive Significance of Serum Leptin Levels in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the single most common chronic non-viral liver disease. The burden of the disease on healthcare-providing services has increased tremendously. Although a liver biopsy is the most authentic laboratory investigation for scoring the disease progression, it is an invasive technique. Researchers are vigorously working to find alternate markers for the scoring purpose. Despite the importance and association of leptin with metabolic syndrome and its related disorders, there have been relatively fewer studies on serum leptin and its association with NAFLD. Objective This study aimed to investigate variations in serum leptin levels between subjects with and without fibrosis in NAFLD and to assess the predictive value of serum leptin levels in NAFLD subjects. Materials and methods The study comprised 130 NAFLD subjects from two tertiary care hospitals in Lahore along with 86 healthy controls that were age, gender, and BMI matched with the subjects. Based on the NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS), the subjects were divided into two sub-groups, subjects with simple steatosis and those with fibrosis. Fasting serum leptin, glucose, and insulin levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to find differences between the three groups and Fisher's exact test for categorical comparison. To assess the predictive value of serum leptin for steatosis and fibrosis in NAFLD subjects, receiver operation characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was implemented. Results The difference in serum leptin level was statistically highly significant (p-value <0.001), with leptin levels of 10 (17.1) ng/mL among controls, 20.5 (21) ng/mL in simple steatosis, and 21 (28.6) ng/mL in fibrosis. The area under the ROC curve was 0.67 and 0.52 for steatosis and fibrosis, respectively. The cut-off value of 12.2 ng/mL showed 70% sensitivity and 50% specificity for steatosis, while at a threshold of 18 ng/mL, leptin demonstrated 40% sensitivity and specificity for fibrosis. Conclusion In conclusion, this study found that serum leptin levels are higher in NAFLD subjects compared to healthy controls, and it is a good independent predictor for the detection of liver steatosis.

Predictive factors of bone strength variation in adolescent girls according to body composition.

PURPOSE: This study examined correlations among anthropometric parameters, body composition, bone parameters and predictive factors of bone mass in adolescent girls with different body fat percentages (%fat). METHODS: A total of 129 females aged 15-18 years were categorized into 3 groups using %fat-for-age at the 50th and 95th percentiles as cutoff points (normal, over, and excess %fat groups). We recorded anthropometric data and measured the speed of sound at the tibia and radius using quantitative ultrasound. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to measure body composition and bone parameters, including bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and the BMD-z-score (z-score) in the lumbar spine (LS) and whole body (WB). These parameters were compared among the 3 groups using bivariate and multivariate correlation analyses. RESULTS: There were strong correlations among all anthropometric parameters, body composition, and DXA in the over %fat group. Lean parameters strongly correlated with LS and WB in the normal %fat group, whereas both lean mass (LM) and fat mass (FM) were positively correlated with BMC in the excess %fat group. The predictive factors of bone mass differed among the groups, as follows: lean body mass was predictive of BMD and BMC at both sites in the normal and over %fat groups; LM and body weight were predictive of LS-BMC and WB-bones, respectively, in the over %fat group; and FM was predictive of WB-bones in the excess %fat group. Body fat and waist circumference were negative predictors of bone mass. CONCLUSION: Predictive factors of bone strength appear to depend on the amount of body fat in adolescent girls.

Associations of body composition with physical activity, nutritional intake status, and chronotype among female university students in Japan.

BACKGROUND: Having higher muscle mass in early adulthood is an important factor in preventing sarcopenia. However, university students undergo lifestyle changes compared to their high school years, which may lead to changes in body composition, such as an increase in body fat and a decrease in muscle mass. The study aimed to investigate the association between body composition and lifestyle behaviors, including chronotype, among Japanese female university students, due to the prevalence of underweight among young females in the country. METHODS: The physical activity level (PAL), daily dietary intake status, morningness-eveningness questionnaire (MEQ) score, and body composition of 230 students were assessed in this cross-sectional study. Body composition was measured using a multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analyzer, and body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (%BF), and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) were determined. RESULTS: Individuals who were evening type (ET) had a higher %BF and lower SMI than those who were non-ET, but no differences in body weight or BMI were found. Although ET individuals had lower total energy intake, protein intake, and PALs than non-ETs, the differences were small. However, multiple regression analyses showed that SMI was significantly positively associated with MEQ and PAL, and %BF was significantly negatively associated with MEQ and PAL. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that female university students with lateness of chronotype and low physical activity have a body composition imbalance resulting in higher body fat and lower muscle mass. Therefore, young females may need to take chronotype-specific measures (especially ET individuals) to help them maintain an appropriate body composition.

Defining Overweight and Obesity by Percent Body Fat instead of Body Mass Index.

OBJECTIVE: Thresholds for overweight and obesity are currently defined by body mass index (BMI), a poor surrogate marker of actual adiposity (percent body fat, %BF). Practical modern technologies provide estimates of %BF but medical providers need outcome-based %BF thresholds to guide patients. This analysis determines %BF thresholds based on key obesity-related comorbidities, exhibited as metabolic syndrome (MetSyn). These limits were compared to existing BMI thresholds of overweight and obesity. DESIGN: Correlational analysis of data from cross sectional sampling of 16,918 adults (8,734 men and 8,184 women) from the US population, accessed by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) public use datasets. RESULTS: Individuals measured by BMI as overweight (BMI>25 kg/m2) and with obesity (BMI>30 kg/m2) included 5% and 35% of individuals with MetSyn, respectively. For men, there were no cases of MetSyn below 18%BF, %BF equivalence to "overweight" (i.e., 5% of MetSyn individuals) occurred at 25%BF, and "obesity" (i.e., 35% of MetSyn individuals) corresponded to 30%BF. For women, there were no cases of MetSyn below 30%BF, "overweight" occurred at 36%BF, and "obesity" corresponded to 42%BF. Comparison of BMI to %BF illustrates the wide range of variability in BMI prediction of %BF, highlighting the potential importance of using more direct measures of adiposity to manage obesity-related disease. CONCLUSIONS: Practical methods of body composition estimation can now replace the indirect BMI assessment for obesity management, using threshold values provided from this study. Clinically relevant "overweight" can be defined as 25 and 36% BF for men and women, respectively, and "obesity" is defined as 30 and 42% BF for men and women.

Vitamin D Inadequacy and Its Relation to Body Fat and Muscle Mass in Adult Women of Childbearing Age.

To assess the correlation between vitamin D status and body composition variables in adult women of childbearing age, a cross-sectional study was conducted involving women aged 20-49 years. The participants were categorized based on their vitamin D status and further divided according to body mass index (BMI). Anthropometric and biochemical data were collected to compute body composition indices, specifically body fat and muscle mass. The sample included 124 women, with 63.70% exhibiting vitamin D inadequacy. Women with inadequate vitamin D status demonstrated a higher waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and body adiposity index (BAI), along with a lower BMI-adjusted muscle mass index (SMI BMI), compared to those with adequate levels of vitamin D (p = 0.021; p = 0.019; and p = 0.039, respectively). A positive correlation was observed between circulating concentrations of 25(OH)D and SMI BMI, while a negative correlation existed between circulating concentrations of 25(OH)D and waist circumference (WC), WHtR, conicity index (CI), fat mass index (FMI), body fat percentage (% BF), and fat-to-muscle ratio (FMR). These findings suggest that inadequate vitamin D status may impact muscle tissue and contribute to higher body adiposity, including visceral adiposity. It is recommended that these variables be incorporated into clinical practice, with a particular emphasis on WHtR and SMI BMI, to mitigate potential metabolic consequences associated with vitamin D inadequacy.

Calcium, Phosphate, and Vitamin D in Children and Adolescents with Chronic Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Chronic diseases may affect the nutritional status of children and adolescents. Calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and vitamin D (Vit-D) are crucial nutrients for their growth and development. Proper diagnosis and treatment are critical components of personalized and precision medicine. Hence, we conducted a cross-sectional and comparative study to evaluate Ca, P, and Vit-D levels in their non-skeletal functions and their association with health and nutritional biomarkers in children and adolescents with diverse chronic conditions. We performed anthropometric, body composition, clinical evaluation, biochemical analysis, and dietary survey methods. A total of 78 patients (1-19 years, 43 females, 42 children) took part in this study. Overall, 24, 30, and 24 participants were obese, undernourished, and eutrophic, respectively. Results found that 74% and 35% of individuals had deficient Vit-D and Ca intake, respectively. Most cases were normocalcemic. Results also found that 47% of the subjects had Vit-D deficiency (VDD), 37% were insufficient, and 37% had hypophosphatemia. Of the 46% and 31% of patients with VDD and insufficient levels, 19% and 11% were hypophosphatemic, respectively. Calcium, P, and Vit-D levels were associated with anthropometric parameters, body mass index, body composition, physical activity, diet, growth hormones, and the immune, liver, and kidney systems. These results show the coincident risk of altered Ca, P, and Vit-D metabolism in children and adolescents with chronic diseases.

Association of Anthropometric Adiposity Indices and Hand Grip Strength among Male Industrial Workers in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Hand Grip Strength (HGS), a basic, non-invasive measure of musculoskeletal function is found to be a risk marker for cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cancer. Considering the importance and paucity of studies among industrial workers, we aim to study the association between anthropometric adiposity indices and the HGS of industrial workers. Materials and Methods: The study is a descriptive, cross-sectional study. Anthropometric measurements and HGS of 198 male industrial workers between 21 and 60 years of age, employed at metal manufacturing industries in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India were assessed. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive and inferential statistics were done using "R" statistical software. Results: The mean age of male industrial workers was 39.51 ± 12.20 years. The majority of the workers were found to be obese (64%) and the mean body fat percentage was 27.69 ± 5.13%. The mean HGS of the worker's dominant hand was found to be 35.80 ± 8.93 kg and of their non-dominant hand was 35.0 ± 8.67 kg. When compared to the normative values of HGS for Indians, results revealed significantly higher HGS of both dominant and non-dominant hands of workers between the age group of 21-30 years and 51-60 years. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that body weight [ß(s.e) =0.27 (0.05), P < 0.000], body fat [ß(s.e) = -0.52 (0.14), P < 0.000) and WHR [ß(s.e) = -28.81 (11.9), P = 0.017] independently predicted the HGS of dominant hand. In non-dominant hand, body weight [ß(s.e) = 0.26 (0.05), P < 0.000] and body fat [ß(s.e) = -0.60 (0.13), P < 0.000] independently predicted HGS. Conclusions: Body fat, body weight, and Waist-to-Hip ratio (WHR) were found to have a significant influence on the HGS of industrial workers. Strategies aimed to reduce overall body fat and abdominal obesity may prove beneficial in improving HGS and nutritional status thereby reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases.