Results from the current study showed that an abnormally faster growth rate and higher bone turnover in the patient with AIS might lead to increased bone dimensions. Calcium intake in patients with AIS was very low and likely to be insufficient for normal bone mineralization. Therefore, low bone mass in AIS may result from abnormal bone mineralization qualitatively and quantitatively and, thus, fails to catch up with increased bone growth during the peripubertal period.

Various body segmental lengths were initially significantly shorter in AIS before puberty. However, after the onset of puberty, significantly longer corrected height, arm span, and various body segments were found. And there were significant correlations between anthropometric parameters and the scoliotic curve severity. Results of this large-scale study revealed the presence of abnormal growth in AIS patients during peripubertal development.

The prospective study showed for the first time that the provision of appropriate feeding supports could markedly enhance feeding independence in end-stage cancer patients receiving palliative care, which might improve activities of daily living and QOL, and minimize excessive disability. Furthermore, it merits cooperation among occupational therapists, caregivers, and ward staff to promote feeding independence in this group of patients.

Female adolescent populations with low calcium intakes and sub-optimal vitamin D status are found in northern China. Whether these individuals are able to adapt by enhancing calcium absorption and reducing calcium excretion for maximizing calcium retention is unknown. This study examined the association between true-fractional-calcium-absorption (TFCA), plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin-D, and urinary calcium excretion among adolescents in Northern China. Twelve healthy girls 9 to 17 years old were recruited from Beijing during a winter. Calcium intake, anthropometry, pubertal status, plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin-Ds (25-OHD), serum calcium, and urinary calcium were determined. TFCA was evaluated by dual stable calcium isotopes. The mean ± SD calcium intake, 24-hour urinary calcium excretion, plasma 25