Nutrition and pubertal development

Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Timing of Puberty in Norwegian Boys: Data from the Bergen Growth Study 2

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread environmental contaminants with endocrine-disruptive properties. Their impact on puberty in boys is unclear. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the association between PFAS exposure and pubertal timing in 300 Norwegian boys (9-16 years), enrolled in the Bergen Growth Study 2 during 2016. We measured 19 PFAS in serum samples and used objective pubertal markers, including ultrasound-measured testicular volume (USTV), Tanner staging of pubic hair development, and serum levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. In addition to logistic regression of single pollutants and the sum of PFAS, Bayesian and elastic net regression were used to estimate the contribution of the individual PFAS. Higher levels of the sum of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) were associated with later pubertal onset according to USTV (age-adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29, 3.93) and testosterone level (AOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.34, 4.36). Bayesian modeling showed that higher levels of PFNA and PFHxS were associated with later pubertal onset by USTV, while higher levels of PFNA and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA) were associated with later pubertal onset by testosterone level. Our findings indicate that certain PFAS were associated with delay in male pubertal onset.

Association between bone age maturity and childhood adiposity

BACKGROUND

Evidence shows that overweight and obesity are associated with advanced bone age (BA).

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the effect of adiposity on BA among Mexican children.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 902 children (5-18 years old). Anthropometric measurements, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and automated hand X-ray-based BA measurements were obtained. BA curves of children stratified by sex and age were created based on nutritional status. We also calculated odds ratios for advanced BA associated with the body mass index (BMI), waist/height ratio and adiposity estimated using DXA (total and truncal fat mass).

RESULTS

Participants with overweight/obesity by BMI (SDS ≥1) advanced earlier in BA than did normal weight participants (6.0 vs. 12.0 years in boys and 6.0 vs. 10.3 in girls, p < 0.01); similarly, participants with a greater body fat percentage (SDS ≥1) exhibited earlier advanced BA (7.5 vs. 10.0 years in boys and 6.0 vs. 9.6 in girls, p < 0.01). Differences were also observed according to the waist/height ratio and truncal fat. Children with a BMI or DXA SDS ≥1 had greater odds of presenting an advanced BA of more than 1 year (OR 1.79-3.55, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Increased adiposity in children, mainly in boys, is associated with advanced BA at earlier ages.

Self-reported history of breastfeeding in relation to recalled age at menarche in the United States

Menarche is a key life history event that shapes the female reproductive trajectory and is important to the study of human biology because of the associated epidemiological and social consequences later in life. Our question is whether breastfeeding is associated with the variation in timing of menarche. Using data from a college-aged female student population from Amherst, MA, we examined whether having been breastfed was associated with age at menarche. Of the 340 female participants with information on breastfeeding during infancy, we found that women who were breastfed (n = 286) had an adjusted mean age of menarche of 12.53 years (SE 0.09), while those who were not breastfed (n = 54) had an adjusted mean age of menarche of 12.04 years (SE 0.20; p < 0.03). We propose further research that explores a finer distinction between formula-fed, mixed-fed or predominantly breastfed infants, duration of breastfeeding and age at menarche.

Evidence for central obesity risk-related thresholds for adolescents aged 11 to 18 years in England using the LMS method

INTRODUCTION

Central obesity has been shown to better indicate health risks compared to general obesity. Measures of central obesity include waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist circumference (WC). The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recently recommended the use of WHtR alongside body mass index (BMI) to identify risks in adults and children, whilst recognising the need for more evidence relating to WHtR in children. This study explores risk thresholds for central obesity measures throughout adolescence. It compares these with those currently recommended in England and discusses whether these thresholds are age- and sex-specific.

METHODS

Data on adolescents aged 11 to 18 years from the Health Survey for England (HSE) during 2005 to 2014 was used to calculate WHtR, WHR and WC percentiles. Next, smoothed lambda-mu-sigma (LMS) curves were created and the percentiles which align with the adult thresholds at age 18 years identified. This allows the most appropriate risk related thresholds for each measure during adolescence to be determined.

RESULTS

WHtR LMS curves are stable and flat throughout adolescence. WHR decreases in girls and WC increases in both boys and girls, during adolescence. Across all measures, there is slightly more fluctuation in higher percentiles, and in girls' WHR.

DISCUSSION

In practice, WHtR thresholds are simple to use to identify central obesity related risks. In particular, they are recommended because the same thresholds can be used for males and females and for adolescents and adults. The results support NICE guidance to use WHtR thresholds alongside BMI thresholds to identify individual risk.

IMPLICATIONS AND CONTRIBUTION

This study uses central obesity measures, including waist-to-height and waist-to-hip ratios, to investigate risk-related thresholds for adolescents. It is the first to do so using English data. It provides support for current NICE recommendations to use adult waist-to-height thresholds in adults and children, alongside BMI measures in clinical and non-clinical settings.

Nutrient and Hormonal Effects on Long Bone Growth in Healthy and Obese Children: A Literature Review

Longitudinal bone growth is mediated through several mechanisms including macro- and micronutrients, and endocrine and paracrine hormones. These mechanisms can be affected by childhood obesity as excess adiposity may affect signaling pathways, place undue stress on the body, and affect normal physiology. This review describes the physiology of the epiphyseal growth plate, its regulation under healthy weight and obesity parameters, and bone pathology following obesity. A literature review was performed utilizing PubMed, PMC, NIH, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews pertinent to hormonal and nutritional effects on bone development, child obesity, and pathologic bone development related to weight. The review indicates a complex network of nutrients, hormones, and multi-system interactions mediates long bone growth. As growth of long bones occurs during childhood and the pubertal growth spurt, pediatric bones require adequate levels of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and a base caloric supply for energy. Recommendations should focus on a nutrient-dense dietary approach rather than restrictive caloric diets to maintain optimal health. In conclusion, childhood obesity has profound multifaceted effects on the developing musculoskeletal system, ultimately causing poor nutritional status during development. Weight loss, under medical supervision, with proper nutritional guidelines, can help counteract the ill effects of childhood obesity.

Gut microbiota-metabolite interactions meditate the effect of dietary patterns on precocious puberty

Precocious puberty, a pediatric endocrine disorder classified as central precocious puberty (CPP) or peripheral precocious puberty (PPP), is influenced by diet, gut microbiota, and metabolites, but the specific mechanisms remain unclear. Our study found that increased alpha-diversity and abundance of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria led to elevated levels of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, contributing to precocious puberty. The integration of specific microbiota and metabolites has potential diagnostic value for precocious puberty. The Prevotella genus-controlled interaction factor, influenced by complex carbohydrate consumption, mediated a reduction in estradiol levels. Interactions between obesity-related bacteria and metabolites mediated the beneficial effect of seafood in reducing luteinizing hormone levels, reducing the risk of obesity-induced precocious puberty, and preventing progression from PPP to CPP. This study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between diet, gut microbiota and metabolites in the onset, development and clinical classification of precocious puberty and warrants further investigation.

Microphallus early management in infancy saves adulthood sensual life: A ‎‎comprehensive review

Microphallus/Micropenis is a rare condition with significant physical and psychological implications for affected individuals. This article comprehensively reviews micropenis, its etiology, epidemiology, and various treatment options. We conducted a thorough literature review to collect relevant information on micropenis and microphallus, as well as related disorders. Our primary databases were PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar. We searched for articles published in English between 2000 and 2023. Our analysis included 67 review articles, 56 research studies, 11 case reports, one guideline, and one editorial. Our search terms included "microphallus", "micropenis", "congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism", "androgen insensitivity syndrome", "pediatric management of micropenis", "testosterone therapy", and "psychosocial implications of micropenis". We focused on diagnosing micropenis and related conditions, including hormonal assessments, medical and surgical treatment options, psychosocial and psychological well-being, sexual development of adolescents, and sociocultural influences on men's perceptions of penile size. Additionally, we explored parenting and family dynamics in cases of micropenis and disorders of sex development, implications of hormonal treatment in neonates, and studies related to penile augmentation procedures and their effectiveness. The article highlights the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in addressing the physical and psychological well-being of individuals with micropenis. Surgical procedures, such as penile lengthening and girth enhancement, and non-surgical approaches like hormonal therapy are explored. The significance of psychological support, education, and lifestyle modifications is emphasized. Early management and comprehensive care are crucial for individuals with micropenis, from infancy to adolescence and beyond. A multidisciplinary approach involving urologists, endocrinologists, and mental health professionals is recommended. Regular assessment of treatment effectiveness and the need for updated guidelines are essential to provide the best possible care. Healthcare professionals should prioritize early diagnosis, and neonatologists should measure stretched penile length in neonates. A collaborative effort is needed among professionals, parents, and affected individuals to create a supportive environment that recognizes worth beyond physical differences. Continuous research and evidence-based updates are crucial for improving care standards.

The impact of suppressing puberty on neuropsychological function: A review

AIM

Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of medications that interrupt puberty, given the magnitude and complexity of changes that occur in brain function and structure during this sensitive window of neurodevelopment. This review examines the literature on the impact of pubertal suppression on cognitive and behavioural function in animals and humans.

METHODS

All studies reporting cognitive impacts of treatment with GnRH agonists/antagonists for pubertal suppression in animals or humans were sought via a systematic search strategy across the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies were identified. In mammals, the neuropsychological impacts of puberty blockers are complex and often sex specific (n = 11 studies). There is no evidence that cognitive effects are fully reversible following discontinuation of treatment. No human studies have systematically explored the impact of these treatments on neuropsychological function with an adequate baseline and follow-up. There is some evidence of a detrimental impact of pubertal suppression on IQ in children.

CONCLUSION

Critical questions remain unanswered regarding the nature, extent and permanence of any arrested development of cognitive function associated with puberty blockers. The impact of puberal suppression on measures of neuropsychological function is an urgent research priority.

Menarche and Time to Cycle Regularity Among Individuals Born Between 1950 and 2005 in the US

Importance

Early menarche is associated with adverse health outcomes. Trends toward earlier menarche have been observed in the US, but data remain limited on differences by sociodemographic factors and body mass index (BMI). Time from menarche to cycle regularity is another understudied early-life characteristic with health implications.

Objectives

To evaluate the temporal trends and disparities in menarche and time to regularity and explore early-life BMI as a mediator.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This ongoing cohort study enrolled participants from an ongoing mobile application-based US cohort from November 14, 2019, to March 20, 2023.

Exposures

Birth year (categorized as 1950-1969, 1970-1979, 1980-1989, 1990-1999, and 2000-2005).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Main outcomes were age at menarche and time to regularity, which were self-recalled at enrollment. In addition, early (aged <11 years), very early (aged <9 years), and late (aged ≥16 years) age at menarche was assessed.

Results

Among the 71 341 female individuals who were analyzed (mean [SD] age at menarche, 12.2 [1.6] years; 2228 [3.1%] Asian, 3665 [5.1%] non-Hispanic Black, 4918 [6.9%] Hispanic, 49 518 [69.4%] non-Hispanic White, and 8461 [11.9%] other or multiple races or ethnicities), 5223 were born in 1950 to 1969, 12 226 in 1970 to 1979, 22 086 in 1980 to 1989, 23 894 in 1990 to 1999, and 7912 in 2000 to 2005. The mean (SD) age at menarche decreased from 12.5 (1.6) years in 1950 to 1969 to 11.9 (1.5) years in 2000 to 2005. The number of individuals experiencing early menarche increased from 449 (8.6%) to 1223 (15.5%), the number of individuals experiencing very early menarche increased from 31 (0.6%) to 110 (1.4%), and the number of individuals experiencing late menarche decreased from 286 (5.5%) to 137 (1.7%). For 61 932 participants with reported time to regularity, the number reaching regularity within 2 years decreased from 3463 (76.3%) to 4075 (56.0%), and the number not yet in regular cycles increased from 153 (3.4%) to 1375 (18.9%). The magnitude of the trend toward earlier menarche was greater among participants who self-identified as Asian, non-Hispanic Black, or other or multiple races (vs non-Hispanic White) (P = .003 for interaction) and among participants self-rated with low (vs high) socioeconomic status (P < .001 for interaction). Within a subset of 9865 participants with data on BMI at menarche, exploratory mediation analysis estimated that 46% (95% CI, 35%-61%) of the temporal trend in age at menarche was explained by BMI.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of 71 341 individuals in the US, as birth year increased, mean age at menarche decreased and time to regularity increased. The trends were stronger among racial and ethnic minority groups and individuals of low self-rated socioeconomic status. These trends may contribute to the increase in adverse health outcomes and disparities in the US.

IGF-1 and IGF-2 as Molecules Linked to Causes and Consequences of Obesity from Fetal Life to Adulthood: A Systematic Review

This study examines the impact of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) on various aspects of children's health-from the realms of growth and puberty to the nuanced characteristics of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, liver pathology, carcinogenic potential, and cardiovascular disorders. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, with a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method employing specific keywords related to child health, obesity, and insulin-like growth factors. This study reveals associations between insulin-like growth factor 1 and birth weight, early growth, and adiposity. Moreover, insulin-like growth factors play a pivotal role in regulating bone development and height during childhood, with potential implications for puberty onset. This research uncovers insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin-like growth factor 2 as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma, and it also highlights the association between insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and cancer. Additionally, this research explores the impact of insulin-like growth factors on cardiovascular health, noting their role in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Insulin-like growth factors play vital roles in human physiology, influencing growth and development from fetal stages to adulthood. The impact of maternal obesity on children's IGF levels is complex, influencing growth and carrying potential metabolic consequences. Imbalances in IGF levels are linked to a range of health conditions (e.g., insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes), prompting researchers to seek novel therapies and preventive strategies, offering challenges and opportunities in healthcare.

Exploring the complex dynamics of BMI, age, and physiological indicators in early adolescents

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and blood biochemical indicators in early adolescence, and to provide ideas for early prevention of diseases and explore possible disease-related predictors.

METHODS

3125 participants aged 10 ∼ 14 years were selected from China from the survey of "China Nutrition and Health Surveillance ( 2016 ∼ 2017 ) ". Employing advanced statistical methods, including generalized linear models, heatmaps, hierarchical clustering, and generalized additive models, the study delved into the associations between BMI and various biochemical indicators.

RESULTS

In early adolescence, indicators including systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, weight, height, BMI, hemoglobin, blood uric acid, serum creatinine, albumin, vitamin A presented increasing trends with the increase of age ( P < 0.05 ), whereas LDL-C, vitamin D, and ferritin showed decreasing trends with the increase of age ( P < 0.05 ). The increase in hemoglobin and blood uric acid levels with age was more pronounced in males compared to females ( P < 0.05 ). BMI was positively correlated with blood glucose, hemoglobin, triglyceride, LDL-C, blood uric acid, serum creatinine, ferritin, transferrin receptor, hs-CRP, total protein, vitamin A ( P < 0.05 ). There was a significant BMI × age interaction in the correlation analysis with LDL-C, transferrin receptor, serum creatinine, and hs-CRP ( P < 0.05 ). BMI was a risk factor for hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, low high density lipoprotein cholesterolemia, and metabolic syndrome in all age groups ( OR > 1, P < 0.05 ).

CONCLUSIONS

High BMI was a risk factor for hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, low high density lipoprotein cholesterolemia, and MetS in early adolescents. With the focus on energy intake beginning in early adolescence, the maintenance of a healthy weight warrants greater attention.

Exploring the Mechanistic Interplay between Gut Microbiota and Precocious Puberty: A Narrative Review

The gut microbiota has been implicated in the context of sexual maturation during puberty, with discernible differences in its composition before and after this critical developmental stage. Notably, there has been a global rise in the prevalence of precocious puberty in recent years, particularly among girls, where approximately 90% of central precocious puberty cases lack a clearly identifiable cause. While a link between precocious puberty and the gut microbiota has been observed, the precise causality and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. This narrative review aims to systematically elucidate the potential mechanisms that underlie the intricate relationship between the gut microbiota and precocious puberty. Potential avenues of exploration include investigating the impact of the gut microbiota on endocrine function, particularly in the regulation of hormones, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Additionally, this review will delve into the intricate interplay between the gut microbiome, metabolism, and obesity, considering the known association between obesity and precocious puberty. This review will also explore how the microbiome's involvement in nutrient metabolism could impact precocious puberty. Finally, attention is given to the microbiota's ability to produce neurotransmitters and neuroactive compounds, potentially influencing the central nervous system components involved in regulating puberty. By exploring these mechanisms, this narrative review seeks to identify unexplored targets and emerging directions in understanding the role of the gut microbiome in relation to precocious puberty. The ultimate goal is to provide valuable insights for the development of non-invasive diagnostic methods and innovative therapeutic strategies for precocious puberty in the future, such as specific probiotic therapy.

Current evidence on the effectiveness of Ready-to-Use Supplementary Foods in children with moderate acute malnutrition: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) is defined by a weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ) between -3 and -2 of the WHO reference or by a mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) of ≥11⋅5 and <12⋅5 cm. This study aimed to synthesise the evidence for the effectiveness of Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food (RUSF) compared to other dietary interventions or no intervention on functioning at different levels of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) among children with MAM between 2 and12 years old. Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were systematically searched (last update: 20 November 2022). Pooled estimates of effect were calculated using random-effects meta-analyses. The level of evidence was estimated with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) method. Seven studies were included. RUSF had a significant small-sized better effect (pooled mean: 0⋅38; 95 % CI = [0⋅10, 0⋅67], P = 0⋅01, I² = 97 %) on different anthropometric measurements compared to other dietary interventions among MAM children (n 6476). Comparing RUSF with corn-soy blend Plus Plus (CSB++) showed that RUSF had a small-sized but significantly better effect on the children's anthropometric measures compared to children who received CSB++ (pooled mean: 0⋅16; 95 % CI = [0⋅05, 0⋅27], P = 0⋅01; I2 = 35 %). MAM children treated with RUSF had a better recovery rate compared to those treated with CSB++ (pooled risk difference: 0⋅11; 95 % CI = [0⋅06, 0⋅11], P < 0⋅001; I2 = 0 %). The RUSF intervention seems promising in improving MAM children's nutritional outcomes and recovery rate compared to other dietary interventions.

Validity of Xiphophorus fish as models for human disease

Platyfish and swordtails of the genus Xiphophorus provide a well-established model for melanoma research and have become well known for this feature. Recently, modelling approaches for other human diseases in Xiphophorus have been developed or are emerging. This Review provides a comprehensive summary of these models and discusses how findings from basic biological and molecular studies and their translation to medical research demonstrate that Xiphophorus models have face, construct and predictive validity for studying a broad array of human diseases. These models can thus improve our understanding of disease mechanisms to benefit patients.

Unraveling the South Asian enigma: concurrent manifestations of child anthropometric failures and their determinants in selected South Asian countries

Malnutrition among children is pervasive in South Asia and there are also reports of overnutrition. To better understand this phenomenon, we need a composite measure. However, the existing measures such as CIAF (Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure) and its revised version have ignored the overnutrition aspect of the phenomenon. This study proposes an extended version of CIAF which also considers overnutrition. This new measure was compared with the existing measures by using data from 1990 to 2018 for three selected South Asian countries including Pakistan, India and Bangladesh. We also examined the effects of socioeconomic and environmental variables on the outcome variable. The results reveal that the new measure (ECIAF) is better at measuring the phenomena. The burden of overall malnutrition has been decreased in the region. However, an increase in the concomitant prevalence of wasting and underweight is observed in both Pakistan and India and stunting and overweight is observed only in India. Besides, political stability, prevalence of undernourishment, anemia in children, mother's education, household size, dependency ratio, air pollution and unimproved sanitation are significantly correlated with childhood malnutrition. The findings also testified to long-run cointegrating relationship among the variables.

Breast and Formula Milk and Early Puberty Onset

Nutrients have an enormous impact on many hormonal systems and aspects of health, and nutrition status is a crucial regulator of growth and pubertal development in children and adolescents. In this narrative review, we explore the connection between these feeding methods and the timing of puberty to provide a clearer understanding of how infant nutrition might contribute to the early development of puberty. Puberty is a key stage in the transition from childhood to adulthood and the timing of puberty represents a significant biological milestone of growth. Breast milk seems to have a pivotal role in puberty onset, mainly due to its dynamism, which shape indirectly the gut microbiota in early life, besides direct exposure of the baby to the milk microbiota through gut-breast axis. Concerning breast and formula milk and their effects on the onset of puberty, a protective role of the former occurs. As for the potential harmful effects of soy-based formulas and the isoflavones that they contain, the studies reported demonstrate conflicting opinions, underlining the need for further research on this topic. A healthy and well-nourished diet from the earliest stages of life has significant preventive potential for overall well-being, reducing the risk of many health problems later in life.

Developing a knowledge, attitude, and practice questionnaire on nutrition, physical activity, and body image for 13-14-year-old female adolescents

Objectives

The objective of this study was to develop and validate a Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Questionnaire (KAPQ) on nutrition, physical activity, and body image for 13-14-year-old female adolescents.

Method

The KAPQ initially consisted of 73 items, covering knowledge (30), attitude (22), and practice (21) related to nutrition, physical activity (PA), and body image (BI). The content and face validity were tested to identify the relevance of the questionnaire items to the content and their relevance to nutrition, PA, and BI. Construct validity was assessed using an exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Internal consistency was determined by Cronbach's α value, and stability was determined based on test-retest reliability.

Results

Based on the EFA, each scale had several dimensions. The Cronbach's α ranged between 0.977 and 0.888 for knowledge, 0.902 and 0.977 for attitude, and 0.949 and 0.950 for practice. The test-retest reliability revealed that the kappa of knowledge was 0.773-1.000, while the intraclass correlation (ICC) values for attitude and practice were 0.682-1.000 and 0.778-1.000, respectively.

Conclusion

The final KAPQ, which included 72 items, was valid and reliable for assessing the KAP levels for nutrition, PA, and BI of 13-14-year-old female students in KSA.

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Delayed Puberty Among Adolescents on Boosted Protease Inhibitor-based Second-line Antiretroviral Therapy: A Cross-sectional Study at a Pediatric Infectious Diseases Clinic in Uganda

BACKGROUND

Delayed puberty is a recognized phenomenon among children living with HIV type 1 infection but has not been widely reported among adolescents on second-line or newer treatments in high burden settings. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of, and factors associated with delayed puberty among adolescents on boosted protease inhibitor-based second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Uganda.

METHODS

Between December 2017 and May 2018, we conducted a cross-sectional study among adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV) 10-19 years of age on atazanavir- and lopinavir-based regimens at the Paediatric Infectious Diseases Clinic, Kampala. Participants were on ART for at least 3 months and had a recent viral load. Sociodemographics, clinical measurements: body mass index for age Z score, height for age Z score, Tanner staging were collected. ART history was extracted from medical records. The outcome was delayed puberty defined as absence of signs of breast development in a girl 13 years of age or a testicular volume of less than 4 mL in a boy 14 years of age by Tanner staging, or an age for Tanner staging which was at least 2 standard deviations above the expected mean.

RESULTS

Among 230 perinatally infected ALWHIV participants, 14.7 ± 3.1 years of age were included, 54.9% were female, 5.2% were wasted and the median duration on ART was 9.5 years (interquartile range 7.3-11.7). The prevalence of delayed puberty was 8.7% (10.4% females, 6.7% males). Overall mean age estimates at different Tanner stages by sex were significantly higher than reference populations. Age at ART initiation (adjusted odds ratio 1.37, 95% confidence interval: 1.06-1.77) and body mass index for age Z score (adjusted odds ratio: 7.63, 95% confidence interval: 1.80-32.38) were associated with delayed puberty.

CONCLUSIONS

Timely initiation of ART and nutritional monitoring could optimize body weight and consequently, normal puberty for ALWHIV. Longitudinal studies could establish biological diagnoses and guide treatment of delayed puberty in this population.

Circulating follicle stimulating hormone levels influence body growth in pre-menarcheal girls in a latitude-dependent manner

Introduction

Age at menarche is an essential determinant of reproductive life of a woman. Latitude is an important driver of age at menarche, however the contributions of circulating follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and socio-economic status (SES) to age at menarche in a latitude-dependent manner is not known.

Methods

This population-based cross-sectional study is a component of our major cohort of 10,050 schoolgirls aged 8-16 years from 35 schools across 10 districts. The selected districts were categorised into high and low latitudes by applying a cut-off point at latitude 31.5⁰N. We evaluated the physical parameters, SES, circulating FSH, and growth hormone (GH) levels in pre-menarche girls (N = 252) at different latitudes.

Results

Self-reported age at menarche of girls residing at different latitudes in Pakistan showed that higher latitude is associated with delayed age at menarche. Higher latitude was associated with reduced circulating FSH levels, as well as lower parameters of physical growth including body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio and, waist-height ratio (all p < 0.05) in the pre-menarcheal girls. However, circulating GH levels were not affected by latitude. On the other hand, lower SES was associated with reduced GH levels and lower BMI, which are considered as probably the primary determinants of physical growth.

Conclusions

Taken together, we show that higher latitude may delay the sexual maturation, while poor SES may delay the physical growth in girls.

Clinical and physical characteristics of thinness in adolescents: the HELENA study

PURPOSE

Thinness in adolescence has not been studied as extensively as overweight or obesity. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence, characteristics, and health impacts of thinness in a European adolescent population.

METHODS

This study included 2711 adolescents (1479 girls, 1232 boys). Blood pressure, physical fitness, sedentary behaviors, physical activity (PA), and dietary intake were assessed. A medical questionnaire was used to report any associated diseases. A blood sample was collected in a subgroup of the population. Thinness and normal weight were identified using the IOTF scale. Thin adolescents were compared with adolescents of normal weight.

RESULTS

Two hundred and fourteen adolescents (7.9%) were classified as being thin; the prevalence rates were 8.6% in girls and 7.1% in boys. Systolic blood pressure was significantly lower in adolescents with thinness. The age at the first menstrual cycle was significantly later in thin female adolescents than in those with normal weight. Upper-body muscular strength measured in performance tests and time spent in light PA were significantly lower in thin adolescents. The Diet Quality Index was not significantly lower in thin adolescents, but the percentage of adolescents who skipped breakfast was higher in adolescents with a normal weight (27.7% vs 17.1%). Serum creatinine level and HOMA-insulin resistance were lower and vitamin B12 level was higher in thin adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS

Thinness affects a notable proportion of European adolescents with no physical adverse health consequences.

Precocious puberty under stressful conditions: new understanding and insights from the lessons learnt from international adoptions and the COVID-19 pandemic

Neuro-biological variations in the timing of sexual maturation within a species are part of an evolved strategy that depend on internal and external environmental conditions. An increased incidence of central precocious puberty (CPP) has been described in both adopted and "covid-19 pandemic" children. Until recently, it was hypothesised that the triggers for CPP in internationally adopted children were likely to be better nutrition, greater environmental stability, and improved psychological wellbeing. However, following data collected during and after the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic, other possibilities must be considered. In a society with high levels of child wellbeing, the threat to life presented by an unknown and potentially serious disease and the stressful environment created by lockdowns and other public health measures could trigger earlier pubertal maturation as an evolutionary response to favour early reproduction. The main driver for increased rates of precocious and rapidly progressive puberty during the pandemic could have been the environment of "fear and stress" in schools and households. In many children, CPP may have been triggered by the psychological effects of living without normal social contact, using PPE, being near adults concerned about financial and other issues and the fear of getting ill. The features and time of progression of CPP in children during the pandemic are similar to those observed in adopted children. This review considers the mechanisms regulating puberty with a focus on neurobiological and evolutionary mechanisms, and analyses precocious puberty both during the pandemic and in internationally adopted children searching for common yet unconsidered factors in an attempt to identify the factors which may have acted as triggers. In particular, we focus on stress as a potential factor in the early activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and its correlation with rapid sexual maturation.

A comprehensive intervention package improves the linear growth of children under 2-years-old in rural Bangladesh: a community-based cluster randomized controlled trial

Approximately one-third of children under the age of five are stunted in developing countries and many of them are micronutrient-deficient. We designed a comprehensive intervention package including egg/milk-based snacks to improve linear growth and dietary diversity among 6 to 12-month-old children in rural Bangladesh. In this 1-year community-based cluster randomized controlled longitudinal experiment, 412 mother-infant pairs were randomly assigned to receive either monthly food vouchers (for eggs, milk, semolina, sugar, and oil) to prepare egg and milk-based snacks for their children, along with multiple micronutrient powder (MNP), counseling on child feeding and handwashing, or regular government health communication alone (control; n = 206, treatment; n = 206). The trial was conducted in 12 clusters (small administrative units of sub-district). The primary inclusion criteria were ultra-poor households with limited resources and having children under 2-years-old. The primary and secondary outcomes were differences in children's length gain and dietary diversity. The effect of intervention on child growth was examined using a mixed effect linear regression model. Mean weight and length of the children did not significantly differ between groups at baseline. Around 90% of the children in both groups were breastfed. After receiving intervention for 12 months, LAZ score increased by 0.37 (CI 0.24, 0.51, p < 0.001) and risk of stunting reduced by 73% (OR: 0.27, CI 0.13, 0.58, p = 0.001). This comprehensive intervention package improved the growth and dietary diversity of children in extremely poor Bangladeshi households. A scaling-up of this intervention in contexts with limited resources should be taken into consideration.Trial registration: This trial registered retrospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT03641001, 21/8/2018.

Gender differentials in the timing and prognostic factors of pubarche in Nigeria

Paucity of data exists on the timing of puberty, particularly the pubarche, in developing countries, which has hitherto limited the knowledge of the timing of pubarche, and assistance offered by physicians to anxious young people in Nigeria. Factors associated with the timings of puberty and pubarche are not well documented in Nigeria. We hypothesized that the timing of pubarche in Nigeria differs by geographical regions and other characteristics. We assessed the timing of pubarche among adolescents and young adults in Nigeria and identified prognostic factors of the timing by obtaining information on youths' sexual and reproductive developments in a population survey among in-school and out-of-school youths aged 15 to 24 years in Nigeria. A total of 1174 boys and 1004 girls provided valid information on pubarche. Results of time-to-event analysis of the data showed that mean age at pubarche among males aged 15 to 19 years and 20 to 24 years was 13.5 (SD = 1.63 years) and 14.2 (SD = 2.18 years) (respectively) compared with 13.0 (SD = 1.57 years) and 13.5 (SD = 2.06 years) among females of the same age. Median time to pubarche was 14 (Interquartile range (IQR) = 3) years and 13 (IQR = 3) years among the males and females, respectively. Cumulatively, 37% of the males had attained pubarche by age 13 years versus 53% among females, 57% vs 72% at age 14, and 73% vs 81% at age 15. The likelihood of pubarche among males was delayed by 5% compared with females (Time Ratio (TR) = 1.05: 95% CI = 1.03-1.05). Every additional one-year in the ages of both males and females increases the risk of pubarche by 1%. Similar to the females, males residents in Northeast (aTR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.07-1.21), in the Northwest (aTR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.13-1.27) and in the Southwest (aTR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.11-1.26) had delayed pubarche than males from the South East. Yoruba males had delayed pubarche than Ibo males (aTR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01-1.12). Age at pubarche among adolescents and young adults in Nigeria differed among males and females with earlier onset among females. Pubarche timing varied mainly by ethnicity, region, and location of residence. Our findings will aid medical practitioners in providing appropriate advice and support on pubarche-related issues among adolescents in Nigeria as it could help douse pubarche anxiousness in relation to request for medical assistance.

Thinness among children aged 5–17 years living in Nakivale refugee settlement, South Western Uganda: a cross-sectional study

Background

Hunger and malnutrition are rampant among refugees and displaced populations, many of whom are infants and children. We sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with thinness among children aged 5–17 years living in Nakivale refugee settlement, Isingiro district, southwestern Uganda.

Methods

This was a cross sectional study that enrolled 420 children aged 5 to 17 years. The World Health Organization cluster sampling was used to select 30 villages from which 14 households were selected by consecutive sampling and participants were then chosen per household by simple random sampling. Data were collected on the participant socio-demographic, family, dietary, medical, hygiene and refugee status factors. Thinness was defined as having a z-score < -2 standard deviations of Body Mass Index-for-age from the median WHO growth standards. The prevalence of thinness was determined by ascertaining the total number of children with thinness over the total number of children studied. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine the factors independently associated with thinness with p < 0.05 level of significance.

Results

A total of 420 children aged 5–17 years were enrolled into the study. The median age (IQR) was 8.6 (6.8–11.8) and majority 248 (59.1%) were female. The prevalence of thinness was 5.5% (95% CI: 3.7-8.1%). The factors independently associated with thinness were; living with a chronic disease (aOR 6.47, 95%CI; 1.63–24.64, p = 0.008), use of water from natural sources (aOR 3.32, 95%CI; 1.27–8.71, p = 0.015), and duration of stay in the settlement of less or equal to 10 years (aOR 3.19, 95%CI; 1.15–8.83, p = 0.025).

Conclusion

Five in every 100 children aged 5–17 years in Nakivale refugee settlement have thinness. Thinness was more likely among children who are living with a chronic disease, used water from natural sources and those whose families had stayed shorter in the settlement. Our findings suggest that children with chronic disease should receive extra food supplementation and have routine growth monitoring as part of their chronic care. The study reiterates a need to have clean and safe water supply and close nutrition assessment and monitoring, especially for newly registered refugee children.

Effects of Tartrazine on Some Sexual Maturation Parameters in Immature Female Wistar Rats

Over the past century, the average age for onset of puberty has declined. Several additives present in our food are thought to contribute significantly to this early puberty which is recognized to also affect people's health in later life. On this basis, the impact of 40-days unique oral administration of the food dye tartrazine (7.5, 27, and 47 mg/kg BW doses) was evaluated on some sexual maturation parameters on immature female Wistar rats. Vaginal opening was evaluated during the treatment period. At the end of the treatments, animals were sacrificed (estrus phase) and the relative weight of reproductive organs, pituitary gonadotrophin and sexual steroids level, cholesterol level in ovaries and folliculogenesis were evaluated. Compared to the control group, animals receiving tartrazine (47 mg/kg BW) showed significantly high percentage of early vaginal opening from day 45 of age, and an increase in the number of totals, primaries, secondaries, and antral follicles; a significant increase in serum estrogen, LH and in uterine epithelial thickness. Our findings suggest that tartrazine considerably disturbs the normal courses of puberty. These results could validate at least in part the global observations on increasingly precocious puberty in girls feeding increasingly with industrially processed foods.

Postnatal Protein Intake as a Determinant of Skeletal Muscle Structure and Function in Mice-A Pilot Study

Sarcopenia is characterised by an age-related decrease in the number of muscle fibres and additional weakening of the remaining fibres, resulting in a reduction in muscle mass and function. Many studies associate poor maternal nutrition during gestation and/or lactation with altered skeletal muscle homeostasis in the offspring and the development of sarcopenia. The aim of this study was to determine whether the musculoskeletal physiology in offspring born to mouse dams fed a low-protein diet during pregnancy was altered and whether any physiological changes could be modulated by the nutritional protein content in early postnatal stages. Thy1-YFP female mice were fed ad libitum on either a normal (20%) or a low-protein (5%) diet. Newborn pups were cross-fostered to different lactating dams (maintained on a 20% or 5% diet) to generate three groups analysed at weaning (21 days): Normal-to-Normal (NN), Normal-to-Low (NL) and Low-to-Normal (LN). Further offspring were maintained ad libitum on the same diet as during lactation until 12 weeks of age, creating another three groups (NNN, NLL, LNN). Mice on a low protein diet postnatally (NL, NLL) exhibited a significant reduction in body and muscle weight persisting up to 12 weeks, unlike mice on a low protein diet only prenatally (LN, LNN). Muscle fibre size was reduced in mice from the NL but not LN group, showing recovery at 12 weeks of age. Muscle force was reduced in NLL mice, concomitant with changes in the NMJ site and changes in atrophy-related and myosin genes. In addition, μCT scans of mouse tibiae at 12 weeks of age revealed changes in bone mass and morphology, resulting in a higher bone mass in the NLL group than the control NNN group. Finally, changes in the expression of miR-133 in the muscle of NLL mice suggest a regulatory role for this microRNA in muscle development in response to postnatal diet changes. Overall, this data shows that a low maternal protein diet and early postnatal life low-protein intake in mice can impact skeletal muscle physiology and function in early life while postnatal low protein diet favours bone integrity in adulthood.

There should always be a free lunch: the impact of COVID-19 lockdown suspension of the mid-day meal on nutriture of primary school children in Karnataka, India

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in 2020 resulted in school closures with eventual suspension of the mid-day meal programme, biannual deworming and iron-folic acid supplements. One year into the lockdown, we evaluated the impact of the withdrawal of these programmes on the nutritional status of rural primary-school children, aged 6-12 years, in Karnataka, India.

Methods

Anthropometry, haemoglobin, serum ferritin and C reactive protein were measured in 290 children at two time points, 1 year apart, starting from just before the lockdown (February 2020 to February 2021).

Results

The prevalence of anaemia doubled from 21% to 40% (p<0.0001) with more pronounced changes in older girls (10%-53%); however, the prevalence of iron deficiency did not change (48.8%-51.9%), despite cessation of deworming and iron/folic acid supplements.

Conclusion

The increase in anaemia was due to limiting intakes of other erythropoietic nutrients, possibly due to a lower dietary diversity. The mid-day lunch meal at school (MDM) is an important part of daily food intake in rural school children, and it is important to maintain dietary diversity through the delivery of MDM for such vulnerable groups.

Reproductive life histories: can incremental dentine isotope analysis identify pubertal growth, pregnancy and lactation?

BACKGROUND

There are few reliable osteological indicators to detect parity or infer puberty in skeletal remains. Nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) and stable carbon (δ¹³C) isotope ratios in human tissues can be affected by metabolically unbalanced states engendered by pregnancy or rapid growth, offering potential biomarkers.

AIM

This pilot study explores the potential of incremental dentine-collagen isotope ratio analysis to identify puberty and gestation.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Incremental dentine δ¹⁵N and δ¹³C profiles were produced by analysing third molars extracted as part of dental treatment of 10 individuals living in Sudan. Demographic and anthropometric data at the time of tooth extraction was available. Medical histories were unknown.

RESULTS

Isotopic signatures potentially related to pubertal growth, with an average δ¹⁵N reduction of 0.78 ± 0.29‰, are indicated. Six isotopic signals suggestive of pregnancy, with an average δ¹⁵N decrease of 0.48 ± 0.22‰, are also observed. The timing, speed and amplitude of post-partum δ¹⁵N patterns seemingly infer infant feeding practices and maternal nutritional status.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study highlights the potential of incremental dentine isotope analysis for the reconstruction of early reproductive histories in skeletal remains. However, controlled studies with a larger human cohort are needed to validate these findings, establish isotopic signals linked to puberty and lactation, and improve chronology accuracy.

Association between Sleep Duration and Physical Fitness in Children Aged 3-6 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study from China

Aim: To explore associations between sleep duration and physical fitness (PF) of children aged 3−6 years. Methods: This study investigated the sleep duration and PF data of children aged 3−6 years by stratified random sampling. The restricted cubic spline model and binary logistic regression analysis were mainly used for the empirical analysis of the correlation effect between sleep duration and PF. The final data had a total of 21,857 children, of which 11,245 (51.45%) were boys and 10,612 (48.55%) were girls. Results: The PF level of the children in this study showed a relatively positive level (pass rate = 93.6%), and 19.7% of them had abnormal sleep duration; the results of the restricted cubic spline showed an inverted U-shaped association between the level of PF and the risk of abnormal sleep duration (X2 = 28.13, p < 0.0001). The results of logistic regression analysis showed that children with abnormal sleep duration were more likely to have a low PF, body morphology and motor ability levels at an OR (95% CI) of 1.077 (1.023−1.133), 1.077 (1.016−1.142) and 1.035 (1.08−1.062), respectively. The results of the bias correlation analysis showed varying degrees of correlation between sleep duration and various components of children’s PF. Conclusion: Insufficient or excessive amounts of sleep were significantly associated with PF in children, with abnormal sleep duration leading to reduced levels of PF and its components.

Puberty and growth in patients with pediatric intestinal failure

BACKGROUND

Pediatric intestinal failure (PIF) affects nutrition, metabolism, and endocrine development, but its downstream impact on puberty is unknown.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patients age >8 years with PIF managed at an intestinal rehabilitation program. Outcomes of interest were peak height velocity (PHV), age at PHV, and age at pubertal onset (Tanner stage 2). Outcomes were stratified by sex and compared to established norms.

RESULTS

Of 110 patients with PIF, 54.5% were male. Compared to the CDC 50th percentile, PHV in PIF patients was similar for females (8.09±2.36 vs. 7.37 cm/yr;p = 0.23) but significantly higher for males (9.27±2.56 vs. 7.91 cm/yr;p = 0.038). Age at PHV in PIF patients was significantly younger for both males (12.31±2.14 vs. 13.38 years;p = 0.049) and females (10.70±1.06 vs. 11.71 years;p = 0.001). PIF patients reached pubertal onset earlier than published norms; this was significant for males (12.41±1.80 vs. 13.44 years;p = 0.014), but not for females (10.45±1.81 vs. -11.15 years;p = 0.13). The mean height-for-age Z-score was -1.2, with 20% of patients having a Z-score less than -2.

CONCLUSIONS

Pubertal onset and growth are neither delayed nor diminished in patients with PIF. The high incidence of short stature, however, highlights the importance of optimizing prepubertal linear growth to attain full height potential.

TYPE OF STUDY

Prognosis study (Retrospective cohort study).

Comparative analysis of anthropometric indicators for diagnosing obesity and predicting cardiometabolic risk in Mexican adolescents

INTRODUCTION

obesity is a cardiometabolic risk (CMR) factor in adolescents. It represents a public health problem that requires simple diagnostic strategies based on the determination of anthropometric indicators (AIs) such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), conicity index (CONI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and body fat percentage (BFP). The purpose of the current contribution was to analyze the utility of the aforementioned AIs for evaluating obesity as a CMR factor in Mexican adolescents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

the design of the study is descriptive and cross-sectional. Nutritional status was established by using various AIs and as a CMR factor under the criteria of WHtR. Participating in the present investigation were 2,000 adolescents from 15 to 17 years of age, of which 1,079 (53.9 %) were female and 921 (46.1 %) were male. All were high school students in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, Mexico.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

the prevalence of obesity was influenced by gender. With the WHtR and BFP, male students exhibited a greater prevalence of obesity, while with the BMI and CONI, the percentage of obesity was similar between the two genders. BMI was significantly correlated with BFP, WC and WHtR, and was one of the AIs with the greatest area under the curve, showing a good capacity to predict cardiometabolic risk. BMI is a simple and adequate tool for diagnosing obesity and predicting CMR in adolescents.

Review Nutritional interventions during adolescence and their possible effects

Nutrition is one of the most important factors affecting pubertal development. Increasing demands for energy proteins and micronutrients are necessary to cope with the rapid linear pubertal growth and development, change in body composition, and increased physical activity. Adequate nutrition is a key permissive factor for the normal timing and tempo of pubertal development. Severe primary or secondary malnutrition also can adversely delay the onset and progression of puberty. The higher incidence of anorexia nervosa and bulimia in adolescents imposes a nutritional risk on pubertal development. Here we provide an overview of nutritional requirements (macronutrients and micronutrients) necessary to cope with these changes. In addition, we discuss possible nutritional interventions trials and their effects on several aspects of growth and development in undernourished and stunted adolescents, in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), who require nutritional rehabilitation. This mini-review sums up some important findings in this important complex that links between nutrition, nutritional interventions, and pubertal development.

Severe deprivation in early childhood leads to permanent growth stunting: Longitudinal analysis of height trajectories from childhood-to-adulthood

BACKGROUND

Childhood institutional deprivation is associated with growth stunting in childhood but long-term effects in adulthood remain uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the impact of global institutional deprivation experienced in early childhood on subsequent growth with a special focus on final adult height and puberty timing.

PARTICIPANTS & SETTING

The study was originally set in the UK, though some adoptive families lived abroad by the time of the adult follow up. 165 individuals adopted by UK families before 43 months of age from Romanian orphanages after the fall of the Ceaușescu regime in the early 1990's were compared to 51 non-deprived UK adoptees, adopted before the age of 6 months.

METHODS

The English and Romanian Adoptees (ERA) study is a 20-year longitudinal natural experiment on the effects of institutional deprivation on development. Key growth milestones were extracted from growth curve modelling of height data collected at ages 4, 6, 11, 15 and 23 years using a Bayesian approach to fit the JPA2 model.

RESULTS

Deprivation effects on height were present at the take-off point of accelerating adolescent growth and persisted into adulthood - the largest effects being for individuals who experienced over six months of deprivation. Deprivation was associated with earlier take-off and achievement of peak height velocity of adolescent growth acceleration - an effect driven largely by females' data and correlated with parent ratings of pubertal development.

CONCLUSIONS

Early deprivation appears to reset tempo of growth early in development leading to permanent growth stunting in adulthood and accelerated onset of puberty, specifically in females.

The Role of Pediatric Nutrition as a Modifiable Risk Factor for Precocious Puberty

Puberty is a critical phase of growth and development characterized by a complex process regulated by the neuroendocrine system. Precocious puberty (PP) is defined as the appearance of physical and hormonal signs of pubertal development at an earlier age than is considered normal. The timing of puberty has important public health, clinical, and social implications. In fact, it is crucial in psychological and physical development and can impact future health. Nutritional status is considered as one of the most important factors modulating pubertal development. This narrative review presents an overview on the role of nutritional factors as determinants of the timing of sexual maturation, focusing on early-life and childhood nutrition. As reported, breast milk seems to have an important protective role against early puberty onset, mainly due to its positive influence on infant growth rate and childhood overweight prevention. The energy imbalance, macro/micronutrient food content, and dietary patterns may modulate the premature activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, inducing precocious activation of puberty. An increase in knowledge on the mechanism whereby nutrients may influence puberty will be useful in providing adequate nutritional recommendations to prevent PP and related complications.

Epigenetic Measurement of Key Vertebrate Population Biology Parameters

The age, sex, and sexual maturity of individual animals are key parameters in assessing wild populations and informing conservation management strategies. These parameters represent the reproductive potential of a population and can indicate recovery rates or vulnerabilities. Natural populations of wild animals are difficult to study; logistically, economically, and due to the impacts of invasive biomonitoring. Genetic and epigenetic analyses offer a low impact, low cost, and information-rich alternative. As epigenetic mechanisms are intrinsically linked with both biological aging and reproductive processes, DNA methylation can be used as a suitable biomarker for population biology study. This review assesses published research utilizing DNA methylation analysis in relation to three key population parameters: age, sex, and sexual maturity. We review studies on wild vertebrates that investigate epigenetic age relationships, with successful age estimation assays designed for mammals, birds, and fish. For both determination of sex and identification of sexual maturity, very little has been explored regarding DNA methylation-based assays. Related research, however, confirms the links between DNA methylation and these processes. Future development of age estimation assays for underrepresented and key conservation taxa is suggested, as is the experimental development and design of DNA methylation-based assays for both sex and sexual maturity identification, further expanding the genomics toolkit for population biology studies.

Heterozygosity of the major histocompatibility complex predicts later self-reported pubertal maturation in men

Individual variation in the age of pubertal onset is linked to physical and mental health, yet the factors underlying this variation are poorly understood. Life history theory predicts that individuals at higher risk of mortality due to extrinsic causes such as infectious disease should sexually mature and reproduce earlier, whereas those at lower risk can delay puberty and continue to invest resources in somatic growth. We examined relationships between a genetic predictor of infectious disease resistance, heterozygosity of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), referred to as the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene in humans, and self-reported pubertal timing. In a combined sample of men from Canada (n = 137) and the United States (n = 43), MHC heterozygosity predicted later self-reported pubertal development. These findings suggest a genetic trade-off between immunocompetence and sexual maturation in human males.

A harmful religio-cultural practice (Chhaupadi) during menstruation among adolescent girls in Nepal: Prevalence and policies for eradication

BACKGROUND

Chhaupadi is a deeply rooted tradition and a centuries-old harmful religio-cultural practice. Chhaupadi is common in some parts of Karnali and Sudurpaschim Provinces of western Nepal, where women and girls are considered impure, unclean, and untouchable in the menstrual period or immediately following childbirth. In Chhaupadi practice, women and girls are isolated from a range of daily household chores, social events and forbidden from touching other people and objects. Chhaupadi tradition banishes women and girls into menstruation huts', or Chhau huts or livestock sheds to live and sleep. These practices are guided by existing harmful beliefs and practices in western Nepal, resulting in poor menstrual hygiene and poor physical and mental health outcomes. This study examined the magnitude of Chhaupadi practice and reviewed the existing policies for Chhaupadi eradication in Nepal.

METHODS

We used both quantitative survey and qualitative content analysis of the available policies. First, a quantitative cross-sectional survey assessed the prevalence of Chhaupadi among 221 adolescent girls in Mangalsen Municipality of Achham district. Second, the contents of prevailing policies on Chhaupadi eradication were analysed qualitatively using the policy cube framework.

RESULTS

The current survey revealed that most adolescent girls (84%) practised Chhaupadi in their most recent menstruation. The Chhaupadi practice was high if the girls were aged 15-17 years, born to an illiterate mother, and belonged to a nuclear family. Out of the girls practising Chhaupadi, most (86%) reported social and household activities restrictions. The policy content analysis of identified higher-level policy documents (constitution, acts, and regulations) have provisioned financial resources, ensured independent monitoring mechanisms, and had judiciary remedial measures. However, middle (policies and plans) and lower-level (directives) documents lacked adequate budgetary commitment and independent monitoring mechanisms.

CONCLUSION

Chhaupadi remains prevalent in western Nepal and has several impacts to the health of adolescent girls. Existing policy mechanisms lack multilevel (individual, family, community, subnational and national) interventions, including financial and monitoring systems for Chhaupadi eradication. Eradicating Chhaupadi practice requires a robust multilevel implementation mechanism at the national and sub-national levels, including adequate financing and accountable systems up to the community level.

Testicular Volume in Children with Sickle Cell Anaemia in Uyo, a South-South Nigerian City

INTRODUCTION

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) often presents in early childhood with repeated vaso-occlusive crisis that leads to ischaemia, infarction and fibrosis which may result in a reduction in expected testicular volume (TV) at puberty.

METHOD

This was a cross-sectional study of 95 children with SCA aged 1-18 years compared with 95 age-matched controls. Participants responded to an interviewer-administered questionnaire, with their anthropometric measurements taken, pubertal maturity assessed by Tanner staging and testicular ultrasonography done. Changes in TV across the ages were compared graphically and regression analyses were used to determine the factors independently associated with TV. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

In the prepubertal period, the haemoglobin SS (HbSS) participants had larger median ultrasound TV (MUSTV) compared to the haemoglobin AA (HbAA) controls (p = 0.001). This trend reversed in the pubertal period. On regression analysis, the frequency of testicular pain (p = 0.04), weight (p = 0.02) and pubic hair rating (p = 0.03) of the HbSS participants were significant predictors of increased TVs in the HbSS participants, irrespective of pubertal status.

CONCLUSION

The prepubertal MUSTV of the HbSS participants were higher than those of the HbAA controls, while the HbAA controls had higher MUSTV at puberty and beyond. The frequency of testicular pain episodes, pubic hair rating and weight were independent predictors of TV changes in the HbSS participants. Prevention of repeated vaso-occlusive crisis in the prepubertal period may help prevent the reduction in TV and possible hypogonadism. Lay summarySickle cell anaemia (SCA) causes repeated episodes of painful crisis and in boys, these may affect the way their testes grow. The study set out to document testicular sizes on a one-time basis in boys aged 1-18 years with SCA compared with controls of similar ages. The participants responded to structured questions assisted by the researchers and their body measurements were appropriately taken. Their level of sexual maturation was assessed according to the method by Tanner and the sizes of their testes were measured using an ultrasound machine. The research information was analysed and a statistical value less than 0.05 was taken to mean that there was a difference between the measured variables. The mid-testicular sizes of the SCA participants were noted to be higher than that of their controls during the prepubertal period while the non-SCA boys had higher sizes from puberty onwards. The frequency of testicular pain, weight and pubic hair stage of the SCA boys were important contributors to their increased testes sizes, irrespective of pubertal status. Efforts aimed at preventing painful crisis should start during early childhood to forestall future sexual challenges in adulthood.

Concurrent anemia and stunting among schoolchildren in Wonago district in southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional multilevel analysis

BACKGROUND

Even if many schoolchildren in Ethiopia are anemic and stunted, few have studied the co-existence of anemia and stunting among schoolchildren in Ethiopia. In addition, multilevel analysis to explore the variation in prevalence of concurrent anemia and stunting (CAS) across schools and classes is rarely applied. Thus, we aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of CAS at the individual, household, and school level among schoolchildren in southern Ethiopia.

METHODS

We recruited 864 students aged 7-14 years from the Wonago district in southern Ethiopia using a three-stage random sampling, assigning four schools to level one, 24 classes to level two. We then randomly selected 36 children from each class, and recorded their weight, height, haemoglobin, intestinal helminthic infections, hygienic practices, dietary practices, household food insecurity, and socio-demographic information. A multivariate, multilevel logistic regression model was applied to detect potential risk factors for CAS.

RESULTS

The prevalence of CAS was 10.5% (85/810) among schoolchildren, which increased with age in years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.39 [95% confidence interval 1.13, 1.71, P = 0.002]) and among children who always did not wash their hands with soap after use of latrine (aOR 4.30 [1.21, 15.3, P = 0.02]). Children who walked barefoot (aOR 10.4 [2.77, 39.1, P = 0.001]), were infected with Trichuris trichiura (aOR 1.74 [1.05, 2.88, P = 0.03]), or had head lice infestation (aOR 1.71 [1.01, 2.92, P = 0.04]) had higher CAS prevalence. Prevalence rates of CAS were low in those using treated drinking water (aOR 0.32 [95% CI 0.11, 0.97, P = 0.04]). Most of the risk factors for CAS were identified at the individual level. The clustering effect measured by the intra-cluster correlation coefficient was 6.8% at school level and 19% at class.

CONCLUSION

CAS prevalence is a moderate public health problem among schoolchildren in southern Ethiopia and varies across classes and schools. After controlling for clustering effects at the school and class levels, we found an association between CAS and increasing age, not always washing hands with soap after using latrine, walking barefoot, and T. trichiura infection. Using treated water for drinking was found to have a protective effect against CAS. Thus, educating children on personal hygiene and provision of safe drinking water could reduce the CAS burden in schoolchildren in rural areas of southern Ethiopia.

Longitudinal association of dietary sources of animal and plant protein throughout childhood with menarche

Background

Inconsistent findings have been reported for associations between protein intake and age at menarche. We aimed to investigate the association between intake of protein and protein-containing food groups during childhood with menarche among Iranian girls.

Methods

Girls aged 6–18 years who did not experience menarche in the third or fourth examination cycles of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study were selected and were followed to the fifth examination cycle. Daily intakes of protein from different animal/plant sources and ten protein-containing food groups were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire at baseline (the third or fourth examination cycles). Occurrence of menarche and its onset age were asked during each examination cycle. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) for the occurrence of menarche per one standard deviation (SD) of dietary intakes. Logistic regression was also used to estimate the odds of reaching menarche ≤12 years.

Results

During the study, 147(61%) of girls reached menarche, the median age at menarche was 12 years. The adjusted HRs (95% CI) for the occurrence of menarche per one-SD of dietary intakes were 0.68 (0.48, 0.98; p = 0.040) for plant protein and 1.36 (1.01, 1.84; p = 0.042) for animal protein after adjusting for baseline age, BMI Z-score, energy intake, and mother’s early menarche and education. Substituting 10-g animal protein with plant protein was associated with a 16% (95%CI: 5–25%; p = 0.006) lower risk of menarche. Dietary intakes of poultry (adjusted HR: 1.35; 95% CIs: 1.00–1.82; p = 0.049) and low-fat dairy (adjusted HR: 1.20; 95%CIs: 0.99–1.46; p = 0.064) were marginally associated with the increased risk of menarche. However, the odds of early menarche was significant only for plant protein (adjusted odds ratio = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.16–0.96; p = 0.040).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the risk of menarche increases by higher intakes of animal protein and decreases by plant protein. Intakes of poultry and low-fat dairy associate with a higher risk of menarche. The odds of menarche occurrence ≤12 years reduces by higher intakes of plant protein.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-021-02670-8.

The Role of Fetal, Infant, and Childhood Nutrition in the Timing of Sexual Maturation

Puberty is a crucial developmental stage in the life span, necessary to achieve reproductive and somatic maturity. Timing of puberty is modulated by and responds to central neurotransmitters, hormones, and environmental factors leading to hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis maturation. The connection between hormones and nutrition during critical periods of growth, like fetal life or infancy, is fundamental for metabolic adaptation response and pubertal development control and prediction. Since birth weight is an important indicator of growth estimation during fetal life, restricted prenatal growth, such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and small for gestational age (SGA), may impact endocrine system, affecting pubertal development. Successively, lactation along with early life optimal nutrition during infancy and childhood may be important in order to set up timing of sexual maturation and provide successful reproduction at a later time. Sexual maturation and healthy growth are also influenced by nutrition requirements and diet composition. Early nutritional surveillance and monitoring of pubertal development is recommended in all children, particularly in those at risk, such as the ones born SGA and/or IUGR, as well as in the case of sudden weight gain during infancy. Adequate macro and micronutrient intake is essential for healthy growth and sexual maturity.

The effect of high-fat diet and exercise on KISS-1/GPR54 expression in testis of growing rats

PURPOSE

To find the expression of KISS-1 and G protein-coupled receptor 54 in rats testis from PND 21st to 56th.

METHOD

128 three-week-old weaned rats underwent high-fat diet and exercise (60-70% VO_2max, 1 h/day, 5 days/week) intervention and were randomly divided into group C, CE, HC, or HE. Sample time points were set on the PND 21st, 35th, 43rd, and 56th. The testicular testosterone and the mRNA content, and protein content of KISS-1 and GPR54 in testis tissue were detected by ELISA, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting.

RESULT

(1) The protein of KISS-1 and GPR54 increased gradually during the growing period. KISS-1 mRNA peaked at 35D and GPR54 peaked at 43D. (2) High-fat diet affected the expression of the KISS-1/GPR54 system in rat testis and reduced the expression level of KISS-1 protein. (3) 60-70% VO₂max exercise decreased the KISS-1/GPR54 expression level. Exercise intervention improved testicular development in rats with a high-fat diet.

CONCLUSION

The expression of KISS-1/GPR54 increased during the growing period. High-fat diet can downregulate the protein and gene expression of KISS-1/GPR54 and change the expression trend. 60-70% VO₂max exercise decreased the expression of KISS-1/GPR54, which may be involved in the effects of exercise on high-fat dietary sex hormone disorders.

Association between Dietary Habits and Parental Health with Obesity among Children with Precocious Puberty

Precocious puberty, resulting in various physical, mental, and social changes, may have negative consequences for children and their families. In this study, we investigated whether there were differences between parental obesity, children's and parent's awareness of body shape, and dietary habits according to obesity levels in children with precocious puberty. A total of 193 children (93.3% girls) diagnosed with precocious puberty were classified into three groups according to their obesity levels. Negative body shape awareness and dissatisfaction were significantly higher in the obese group than in the normal-weight group, and parents were more likely to perceive their children as fat than the children themselves. In addition, the obesity rate of parents in the obese group was higher, and the body mass indexes of children and parents were significantly correlated. The nutrition quotients (NQs) were revealed to be significantly lower in the obese group with significantly lower scores. The significant factors related to obesity were the awareness of a fatty body image and dissatisfaction, obesity of the parents, and the NQ. The results show that obese children with precocious puberty were more vulnerable to negative lifestyle, family environment, and self-esteem effects than their normal-weight peers. Therefore, various interventions, such as environmental management, psychological support, and nutrition education, are needed that focus on the obesity and health conditions of children with precocious puberty.

Meta-Analysis of Direct and Indirect Effects of Father Absence on Menarcheal Timing

Despite extensive evidence of the association between father absence and early onset of menarche, whether father absence directly accelerates the onset of menarche or the association is mediated by other negative family psychosocial processes remains unclear. Reliable theories on the basis of which father absence has been investigated also vary. Within the life history (LH) theoretical framework, we conducted a meta-analysis of studies that investigated father absence, menarcheal timing, and various family disturbances that cause stress in children. We tested the hypothesis that father absence exerts a direct effect on menarcheal timing and an indirect effect on menarcheal timing mediated by integrated childhood stress. Quantitative synthesis using a two-stage meta-analytic structural equation modeling approach was applied to test our hypothesis. Based on seven research articles (N = 4,619) that include at least one form of family stressor as well as father absence and menarcheal timing, integrated childhood stress emerged as a robust mediator of the association between father absence and early menarcheal timing, and the total effect of father absence on menarcheal timing had reduced in size after accounting for the mediating effect of childhood stress. The findings emphasize the importance of a father figure in regulating a child's LH, including menarcheal timing.

Ecdysone-dependent feedback regulation of prothoracicotropic hormone controls the timing of developmental maturation

The activation of a neuroendocrine system that induces a surge in steroid production is a conserved initiator of the juvenile-to-adult transition in many animals. The trigger for maturation is the secretion of brain-derived neuropeptides, yet the mechanisms controlling the timely onset of this event remain ill-defined. Here, we show that a regulatory feedback circuit controlling the Drosophila neuropeptide Prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) triggers maturation onset. We identify the Ecdysone Receptor (EcR) in the PTTH-expressing neurons (PTTHn) as a regulator of developmental maturation onset. Loss of EcR in these PTTHn impairs PTTH signaling, which delays maturation. We find that the steroid ecdysone dose-dependently affects Ptth transcription, promoting its expression at lower concentrations and inhibiting it at higher concentrations. Our findings indicate the existence of a feedback circuit in which rising ecdysone levels trigger, via EcR activity in the PTTHn, the PTTH surge that generates the maturation-inducing ecdysone peak toward the end of larval development. Because steroid feedback is also known to control the vertebrate maturation-inducing hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, our findings suggest an overall conservation of the feedback-regulatory neuroendocrine circuitry that controls the timing of maturation initiation.

Nutritional status of Indian adolescents (15-19 years) from National Family Health Surveys 3 and 4: Revised estimates using WHO 2007 Growth reference

BACKGROUND

The National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) in India apply adult cutoffs of nutritional status for the estimation of undernutrition/overweight in the 15-19 age group. The prevalence of thinness in boys and girls thus estimated is 58.1% and 46.8% in NFHS-3, and 45% and 42% in NFHS-4 respectively. But the WHO recommends using age and sex-specific reference for adolescents. We reanalyzed the nutritional status of the adolescents using the WHO 2007 Growth Reference to obtain revised estimates of thinness, overweight and stunting across states, rural-urban residence, and wealth quintiles.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Demographic information, anthropometric data, and wealth index were accessed from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) database. We re-analyzed the anthropometric data using WHO AnthroPlus software which uses the WHO 2007 Growth reference. The revised estimates of thinness assessed by BMI-for-age z-scores in boys and girls was 22.3% (95%CI: 21.6, 23.0) and 9.9% (95%CI: 9.5, 10.3) in NFHS-3 and 16.5% (95%CI: 16.0,17.0) and 9% (95%CI: 8.9, 9.2) in NFHS-4 respectively. Stunting was found to be 32.2% (95% CI: 31.6, 32.9) in boys and 34.4% (95% CI: 34.2, 34.7) in girls in NFHS-4. This was higher than that in NFHS-3; 25.2% (95% CI: 24.4, 26) in boys and 31.2 (95% CI: 30.6, 31.8) in girls. There was a clear socioeconomic gradient as there were higher thinness and stunting in rural areas. There was wide variation among the states with pockets of a double burden of malnutrition.

CONCLUSION

Using the adult cutoffs significantly overestimates thinness in adolescents in the age group of 15-19 years old in India. Stunting, which is an indicator of long term nutrition is also widely prevalent in them. Future editions of DHS and NFHS should consider adolescents as a separate age group for nutritional assessment for a better understanding of nutritional transition in the population.

Dietary diversity and associated factors among adolescents in eastern Uganda: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Globally adolescents constitute over 16% but in SSA, they make up 23% of the population. While little is known about diets of these adolescents, rapid changes in physiological and social processes undergone require adequate diets. This study aimed to determine dietary diversity and associated factors among adolescents residing in the Iganga -Mayuge HDSS.

METHODS

As part of the African Research, Implementation Science, and Education (ARISE) Network, we analysed collected data among 598 adolescents to assess the health status and adolescents' behaviour. Dietary diversity was scored using the 9 food group categories as per the Food and Agriculture Organization -WDDS. Crude and adjusted prevalence rate ratios were estimated using the modified Poisson regression model to identify associated factors.

RESULTS

Among the participants, 45.3% had a low dietary diversity score. Proportions of adolescents who consumed from the different food categories over a 24-h period were; cereals/roots/tubers (99.7%), fats & oils (87.0%), spices & beverages (84.1%), sweets (77.1%), legumes (66.2%), other non-vitamin A-rich vegetables (53.8%), dark green leafy vegetables (42.3%), meat/poultry/fish (33.1%), dairy products (32.9%), eggs (11.2%), vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables (33.4%) and other fruits (8.2%). Staying with a single parent or guardian, low socio-economic class, and dependency on home meals was associated with low dietary diversity.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents diets were low in diversity and characterised with low micronutrients source foods, but plenty of fats and oils. Interventions to address contributing factors to the burden ought to target the parenting contexts of the adolescents residing in rural eastern Uganda.

Prenatal and early postnatal food restrictions cause changes in brain oxidative status and orexigenic/anorexigenic hormones in the offspring of rats: prevention by quercetin and kaempferol

Brain oxidative signaling pathways have been identified as important targets for alleviating food deprivation-induced changes in metabolic gate-ways. Previous studies have shown that prenatal and early postnatal malnutrition alters leptin and ghrelin signaling via oxidative pathways. Thus, it has been hypothesized that agents with antioxidant properties might be beneficial for the mitigation of prenatal and early postnatal food scarcity-induced oxidative damage. Quercetin and kaempferol are natural bioflavonoids with proven antioxidant properties. In this study, we evaluated their effects on prenatal maternal food consumption, maternal and pup weights, biomarkers of orexigenic and anorexigenic hormones and oxidative stress in rats. Rats were allotted into different treatment groups (n ​= ​6) in three different experiments (prenatal, postnatal food-deprivations or both). Prenatal-food restriction (PrNFR) was induced by 50% of ad libitum accessible diet during pregnancy till parturition and postnatal-food restriction (PsNFR) was simulated by litter-enlargement to 16 pups per mother from postnatal day (PND) 2. Rats in each experiment were concurrently treated with vehicle (10 ​mL/kg), quercetin (50, 100 and 200 ​mg/kg, p.o.) or kaempferol (50, 100 and 200 ​mg/kg, p.o.) respectively. A third experimental group consisted of both protocols. Quercetin and kaempferol dose-dependently increased the body weights of pups exposed to PrNFR, PsNFR and PrNFR-PsNFR at PNDs 1-22 respectively. Both compounds increased maternal body weights but attenuated maternal food-intake at prenatal days 7 and 14 due by PrNFR. Quercetin and kaempferol reduced brain malondialdehyde concentrations and increased glutathione levels in PrNFR, PsNFR and PrNFR-PsNFR-exposed offspring of rats. Importantly, quercetin and kaempferol significantly (p ​< ​0.05) prevented PrNFR-, PsNFR- or PrNFR-PsNFR-induced alterations in leptin and ghrelin levels. Cumulatively, quercetin and kaempferol increased pup and maternal weights and attenuated maternal food-intake of rats submitted to PrNFR, PsNFR and PrNFR-PsNFR respectively, likely via nutrigenomic modulations of orexigenic/anorexigenic hormones and inhibition of brain oxidative stress.