Validity and precision of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire for climacteric women using computational intelligence techniques.

This study aimed to evaluate the validity and precision of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) for climacteric women using computational intelligence techniques. The instrument was applied to 873 women aged between 40 and 65 years. Considering the proposal to regroup the set of data related to the level of physical activity of climacteric women using the IPAQ, we used 2 algorithms: Kohonen and k-means, and, to evaluate the validity of these clusters, 3 indexes were used: Silhouette, PBM and Dunn. The questionnaire was tested for validity (factor analysis) and precision (Cronbach's alpha). The Random Forests technique was used to assess the importance of the variables that make up the IPAQ. To classify these variables, we used 3 algorithms: Suport Vector Machine, Artificial Neural Network and Decision Tree. The results of the tests to evaluate the clusters suggested that what is recommended for IPAQ, when applied to climacteric women, is to categorize the results into two groups. The factor analysis resulted in three factors, with factor 1 being composed of variables 3 to 6; factor 2 for variables 7 and 8; and factor 3 for variables 1 and 2. Regarding the reliability estimate, the results of the standardized Cronbach's alpha test showed values between 0.63 to 0.85, being considered acceptable for the construction of the construct. In the test of importance of the variables that make up the instrument, the results showed that variables 1 and 8 presented a lesser degree of importance and by the analysis of Accuracy, Recall, Precision and area under the ROC curve, there was no variation when the results were analyzed with all IPAQ variables but variables 1 and 8. Through this analysis, we concluded that the IPAQ, short version, has adequate measurement properties for the investigated population.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in Female Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pelvic floor muscles training in elite female volleyball athletes and whether it is an effective therapy for stress urinary incontinence. Fourteen athletes, both continent and incontinent, between 18 and 30 years of age, were randomly assigned to an experimental group or a control group. The experimental group received a protocol for pelvic floor muscle training for 4 months. This consisted of three phases: awareness/stabilization, strength training and power. The control group was not subject to any intervention during the same period. Measures were collected at the initial and final phase for both groups. Maximum voluntary contractions were evaluated with a perineometer, involuntary urine loss with a Pad test and quality of life with the King's Health Questionnaire. Baseline sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics were not significantly different. Comparing the two groups, the experimental group improved maximum voluntary pelvic contractions (p<0.001) and reduced urine loss (p=0.025), indicating the existence of significant differences between groups in the variation from the initial and final phases. The percentage of urine loss decreased in the experimental group, from 71.4-42.9%, suggesting that the protocol intervention for 16 weeks may help athletes with stress urinary incontinence.

Correction: Health conditions associated with overweight in climacteric women.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218497.].

Health conditions associated with overweight in climacteric women.

This study aims to investigate the association between health conditions and overweight in climacteric women assisted by primary care professionals. It is a cross-sectional study conducted with 874 women from 40 to 65 years of age, selected by probabilistic sampling between August 2014 and August 2015. In addition to the outcome variable, overweight and obesity, other variables such as sociodemographic, reproductive, clinical, eating and behavioural factors were evaluated. Descriptive analyses of the variables investigated were performed to determine their frequency distributions. Then, bivariate analyses were performed through Poisson regression. For the multivariate analyses, hierarchical Poisson regression was used to identify factors associated with overweight and obesity in the climacteric period. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 74%. Attending public school (PR: 1.30-95% CI 1.14-1.50), less schooling (PR: 1.11-95% CI 1.01-1.23), gout (PR: 1.18-95% CI 1.16-1.44), kidney disease (PR: 1.18-95% CI 1.05-1.32), metabolic syndrome (MS) (PR: 1.19-95% CI 1.05-1.34) and fat intake (PR: 1.12-95% CI 1.02-1.23) were considered risk factors for overweight. Having the first birth after 18 years of age (PR: 0.89-95% CI 0.82 to 0.97) was shown to be a protective factor for overweight and obesity. The presence of overweight and obesity is associated with sociodemographic, reproductive, clinical and eating habits.

Effects of a 20-week concurrent training program on bone metabolism in elderly women / Efecto de 20 semanas de entrenamiento concurrente sobre el metabolismo óseo de adultas mayores

The present study evaluated the effect of a 20-week concurrent training program on bone metabolism in elderly women. The sample consisted of 51 elderly women living in the municipality of Muriaé (MG), distributed into two groups: a concurrent training group (CTG = 25), with an average age of 69.44 ± 6.82 years, and a control group (CG = 26), with mean age of 68.30 ± 6.34 years. Biophysical parameters were determined based on weight, height and body mass index. Bone metabolism was assessed by collecting second-morning urine samples before and after intervention to analyze levels of the biochemical marker deoxypyridinoline (DPD), which quantifies bone resorption. Results: The results showed a post-intervention decline in DPD content in the GTC when compared to controls (p = 0.007) and an improvement in the variables weight, BMI and DPD between the GTC and GC (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Concurrent training was efficient in improving bone metabolism in the elderly population studied.

El presente estudio evaluó los efectos de 20 semanas de entrenamiento concurrente sobre el metabolismo óseo de adultas mayores. La muestra fue compuesta por 51 mujeres adultas mayores, residentes en el municipio de Muriaé (MG), voluntarias, distribuidas en dos grupos, un grupo participó en entrenamiento concurrente (GTC=25), con una edad media de 69,44±6,82 años y un grupo control (GC=26) con una media de 68,30±6,34 años. Los parámetros biofísicos se determinaron por medio del peso corporal, la estatura e índice de masa corporal. Para la evaluación del metabolismo óseo, se realizó la recolección de la orina matinal en el pre y post-test, utilizando como reactivo el marcador bioquímico de deoxipiridinolina (DPD) que cuantifica la reabsorción ósea. Los resultados mostraron una reducción en la concentración de DPD en el GTC cuando se compararon los grupos (p = 0,007) y la mejora de las variables, peso corporal, IMC y DPD entre el GTC y el GC en el post-test (p = 0,000). Se percibe que el entrenamiento concurrente, para las mujeres adultas mayores fue eficiente en la mejoría de las condiciones de salud del metabolismo óseo.

Efeitos de 20 semanas de treinamento combinado na capacidade funcional de idosas / Effects of 20 weeks of combined training on the functional capacity of elderly / Efectos de 20 semanas de entrenamiento combinado en la capacidad funcional de mujeres ancianas

Resumo O estudo baseou-se em avaliar os efeitos de 20 semanas de treinamento combinado na capacidade funcional de idosas; 66 foram divididas por randomização em dois grupos, um grupo treinamento combinado (GTC, n = 33, com 69,12 ± 7 anos) e outro grupo controle (GC, n = 33, com 69,21 ± 6,60 anos). O período de intervenção da pesquisa ocorreu durante 20 semanas. A avaliação da CF foi feita pela Escala de Atividade da Vida Diária (AVD) proposta por Katz, associada à Escala das Atividades Instrumentais da Vida Diária (AIVD) proposta por Lawton. Para o treinamento de força muscular, usou-se carga máxima entre 70-85% de 1RM e no treinamento de resistência cardiovascular optou-se pelo uso de 70-89% da FC de reserva. Os resultados apresentam melhorais estatisticamente significativas na escala de CF de Lawton (Δ% = 21,04%, p = 0,007) e na escala de CF de Katz, (Δ% = 7,31%, p < 0,001) comparados com os do GC. Os resultados possibilitam concluir que a prática do treinamento combinado melhorou a CF de idosas.

Abstract The study was based on evaluating the effects of 20 weeks of concurrent training on the functional capacity of elderly. 66 elderly women were divided by randomization into two groups, a concurrent training group (CTG, n = 33, with 69,12 ± 7,00 years) and a control group (CG, n = 33, with 69,21 ± 6,60 years). The study intervention period occurred during 20 weeks. The evaluation of the CF was made by the Daily Life Activity Scale (ADL) proposed by Katz, associated with the Scale of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) proposed by Lawton. For muscle strength training, maximum load was used between 70-85% of 1RM and in cardiovascular resistance training, 70-89% of reserve HR was used. The results show statistically significant improvement in CF Lawton scale (Δ% = 21,04%, p = 0,007) and CF scale Katz (Δ% = 7.31%, p < 0,001) compared to the control group. The results allow to conclude that the practice of concurrent training improved CF elderly.

Resumen El estudio se basó en la evaluación de los efectos de 20 semanas de entrenamiento combinado en la capacidad funcional (CF) de mujeres ancianas. Se dividió a 66 mujeres ancianas en dos grupos de forma aleatoria: un grupo de entrenamiento combinado (GEC, n = 33, con 69,12 ± 7,00 años) y un grupo control (GC, n = 33, con 69,21 ± 6,60 años). El período de la intervención fue 20 semanas. La evaluación de la CF se llevó a cabo con la Escala de Actividades de la Vida Diaria (AVD), propuesta por Katz, relacionada con la Escala de Actividades Instrumentales de la Vida Diaria (AIVD), propuesta por Lawton. Para el entrenamiento de la fuerza muscular se utilizó una carga máxima del 70-85% de 1RM y para el entrenamiento cardiovascular se optó por el uso del 70-89% de la reserva de la FC. Los resultados muestran una mejora estadísticamente considerable en la escala de la CF de Lawton (Δ% = 21,04%, p = 0,007) y la escala de la CF de Katz (Δ% = 7,31%, p < 0,001) en comparación con el grupo control. Los resultados permiten concluir que la práctica de entrenamiento combinado mejoró la CF de las mujeres ancianas.

Effect of three months of periodized hydrogymnastics exercise program on urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline in older women.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of three months of periodized hydrogymnastics exercise program on urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline in older women. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Twenty-six subjects were randomly assigned in two, intervention group (n = 16) and control group (n = 10). The intervention group followed 12-week of periodized hydrogymnastics training program five times a week, 50 minutes of water exercise with work heart rate reserve of 40-50% (1-6th week) increasing the load to 50-60% (7-12th week); the control group was not involved in exercise and remained sedentary. The urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline was evaluated by high resolution liquid chromatography using the reactive immulite pyrilinks-D siemens medical solutions, pretest at the baseline and at the end post-test of the 12-week of water-exercise. As statistical analyses mixed 2 x 2 ANOVA was used, also percentage changes (Δ %) was calculated. RESULTS: The results did not show significant improvement (p < 0.05) comparing the interaction intergroup and the measurements of urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline (p = 0.504), percentage change (Δ %) showed positive improvements in the experimental group of -13.7 (nM/mMcreatine) in comparison with -7.1 (nM/mMcreatine) from the control group. CONCLUSION: The present study involves periodization increasing the load heart rate reserve of hydrogymnastics exercise in order to produce grater adaptations, but the results showed than is not possible to infer that hydrogymnastics is effective in increase urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline in older women, will be appropriated in the future more studies to better clarify the possibilities of improvements between hydrogymnastics and urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline.

ANTHROPOMETRY TO IDENTIFY HIGH VISCERAL FAT AREA IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN.

INTRODUCTION: the evaluation of the body fat distribution by anthropometry can serve to identify excess visceral fat. This diagnosis will enable implementation of specific measures to both prevent and treat excess visceral fat in postmenopausal women. OBJECTIVE: the aim of this study was to analyze different anthropometric indicators and identify the best cutoff points to discriminate subjects with high visceral fat area (HVFA) in postmenopausal women. METHODS: cross-sectional study with a sample of 255 postmenopausal women. Different Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed and the areas under them compared in terms of the conicity index (C-index), body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist circumference (WC), weight-to-height ratio (WHtR) and HVFA. Sensitivity and specificity identified the best cutoff points between the different anthropometric indicators in order to discriminate subjects with HVFA. The confidence interval was set at 95%. RESULTS: statistically significant areas under the ROC curve were found for all anthropometric indicators analyzed. The following cutoff points, with their respective sensitivities and specificities to discriminate subjects with HVFA, were suggested: C-index (1.19; 75.00%- 74.77%); BMI (27.3 kg/m2; 81.08%-80.37%); WHR (0.98; 90.54%-83.18%); WC (85 cm; 85.14%-81.31%); and WHtR (0.55; 80.41%-80.37%). CONCLUSION: these results demonstrate that anthropometric indicators identify HVFA well in postmenopausal women and can be used instead of more sophisticated exams to detect high levels of visceral fat.

Introducción: la evaluación de la distribución de la grasa corporal por antropometría puede servir para identificar el exceso de grasa visceral. Este diagnóstico permitirá la aplicación de medidas específicas para prevenir y tratar el exceso de grasa visceral en mujeres posmenopáusicas. Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio fue analizar diferentes indicadores antropométricos e identificar los mejores puntos de corte para discriminar sujetos con alta área de grasa visceral (AAGS) en mujeres posmenopáusicas. Métodos: estudio transversal con una muestra de 255 mujeres posmenopáusicas. Se construyeron diferentes curvas Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) y las áreas bajo ellas comparadas en términos del índice de conicidad (índice C), el índice de masa corporal (IMC), razón cintura-cadera (RCC), circunferencia de la cintura (CC), relación cintura-estatura (RCEst) y AAGS. La sensibilidad y la especificidad identificaron los mejores puntos de corte entre los diferentes indicadores antropométricos para discriminar sujetos con AAGS. El intervalo de confianza se fijó en 95%. Resultados: las zonas estadísticamente significativas bajo la curva ROC se encontraron para todos los indicadores antropométricos analizados. Fueron sugeridos los siguientes puntos de corte, con sus respectivas sensibilidades y especificidades, para discriminar sujetos con AAGS: índice C (1,19; 75,00%­74,77%); IMC (27,3 kg / m2; 81,08%­80,37%); RCC (0,98; 90,54%-83,18%); CC (85 cm; 85,14%-81,31%); y RCEst (0,55; 80,41%­80,37%). Conclusión: estos resultados demuestran que los indicadores antropométricos identifican bien a las mujeres postmenopáusicas con AAGS y pueden ser utilizados en lugar de los exámenes más sofisticados para detectar altos niveles de grasa visceral.

Behavior of temporal parameters of the ground reactive forces for the walking of postmenopausal women.

The study aimed to examine the influence of body composition and menopause characteristics on certain temporal parameters of the behavior of vertical and anteroposterior components of ground reactive forces, as well as the vertical and anteroposterior rates on the walking of postmenopausal women. The sample consisted of 67 postmenopausal women, average age 59 years. Body composition was assessed by octapolar bioimpedance and ground reactive force by the Kistler force platform. Vertical loading rate correlated positively with age (r = 0.02) and negatively with weight (r = -0.33). The relationship between the rates of vertical loading and unloading associated positively with menopause time (r = 0.27) but negatively with weight (r = -0.27). Vertical unloading rate showed a negative association with abdominal visceral adiposity (r = -0.27). The relationship between the times of the intermediate and final phases of the support correlated significantly with abdominal visceral adiposity (r = 0.25) and fat mass (r = 0.24). The study suggests that fat mass and abdominal visceral adiposity affect the support time, and increased abdominal visceral adiposity implies a slower pre-suspension phase during the walking of postmenopausal women. Hormone replacement therapy was shown to be an enhancer of steeper vertical loading and anteroposterior unloading and longer time in the double support phase, indicating a greater stability of postmenopausal women when walking.

Anthropometry to identify high visceral fat area in postmenopausal women / Antropometría para la identificación de zona de grasa visceral alta en mujeres posmenopáusicas

Introduction: the evaluation of the body fat distribution by anthropometry can serve to identify excess visceral fat. This diagnosis will enable implementation of specific measures to both prevent and treat excess visceral fat in postmenopausal women. Objective: the aim of this study was to analyze different anthropometric indicators and identify the best cutoff points to discriminate subjects with high visceral fat area (HVFA) in postmenopausal women. Methods: cross-sectional study with a sample of 255 postmenopausal women. Different Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed and the areas under them compared in terms of the conicity index (C-index), body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist circumference (WC), weight-to-height ratio (WHtR) and HVFA. Sensitivity and specificity identified the best cutoff points between the different anthropometric indicators in order to discriminate subjects with HVFA. The confidence interval was set at 95%. Results: statistically significant areas under the ROC curve were found for all anthropometric indicators analyzed. The following cutoff points, with their respective sensitivities and specificities to discriminate subjects with HVFA, were suggested: C-index (1.19; 75.00%- 74.77%); BMI (27.3 kg/m2; 81.08%-80.37%); WHR (0.98; 90.54%-83.18%); WC (85 cm; 85.14%-81.31%); and WHtR (0.55; 80.41%-80.37%). Conclusion: these results demonstrate that anthropometric indicators identify HVFA well in postmenopausal women and can be used instead of more sophisticated exams to detect high levels of visceral fat (AU)

Introducción: la evaluación de la distribución de la grasa corporal por antropometría puede servir para identificar el exceso de grasa visceral. Este diagnóstico permitirá la aplicación de medidas específicas para prevenir y tratar el exceso de grasa visceral en mujeres posmenopáusicas. Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio fue analizar diferentes indicadores antropométricos e identificar los mejores puntos de corte para discriminar sujetos con alta área de grasa visceral (AAGS) en mujeres posmenopáusicas. Métodos: estudio transversal con una muestra de 255 mujeres posmenopáusicas. Se construyeron diferentes curvas Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) y las áreas bajo ellas comparadas en términos del índice de conicidad (índice C), el índice de masa corporal (IMC), razón cintura-cadera (RCC), circunferencia de la cintura (CC), relación cintura-estatura (RCEst) y AAGS. La sensibilidad y la especificidad identificaron los mejores puntos de corte entre los diferentes indicadores antropométricos para discriminar sujetos con AAGS. El intervalo de confianza se fijó en 95%. Resultados: las zonas estadísticamente significativas bajo la curva ROC se encontraron para todos los indicadores antropométricos analizados. Fueron sugeridos los siguientes puntos de corte, con sus respectivas sensibilidades y especificidades, para discriminar sujetos con AAGS: índice C (1,19; 75,00%-74,77%); IMC (27,3 kg/m2; 81,08%-80,37%); RCC (0,98; 90,54%-83,18%); CC (85 cm; 85,14%-81,31%); y RCEst (0,55; 80,41%-80,37%). Conclusión: estos resultados demuestran que los indicadores antropométricos identifican bien a las mujeres postmenopáusicas con AAGS y pueden ser utilizados en lugar de los exámenes más sofisticados para detectar altos niveles de grasa visceral (AU)

Effect of three months of periodized hydrogymnastics exercise program on urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline in older women

ABSTRACT Objective To determine the effect of three months of periodized hydrogymnastics exercise program on urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline in older women. Subjects and methods Twenty-six subjects were randomly assigned in two, intervention group (n = 16) and control group (n = 10). The intervention group followed 12-week of periodized hydrogymnastics training program five times a week, 50 minutes of water exercise with work heart rate reserve of 40-50% (1-6thweek) increasing the load to 50-60% (7-12th week); the control group was not involved in exercise and remained sedentary. The urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline was evaluated by high resolution liquid chromatography using the reactive immulite pyrilinks-D siemens medical solutions, pretest at the baseline and at the end post-test of the 12-week of water-exercise. As statistical analyses mixed 2 x 2 ANOVA was used, also percentage changes (Δ %) was calculated. Results The results did not show significant improvement (p < 0.05) comparing the interaction intergroup and the measurements of urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline (p = 0.504), percentage change (Δ %) showed positive improvements in the experimental group of -13.7 (nM/mMcreatine) in comparison with -7.1 (nM/mMcreatine) from the control group. Conclusion The present study involves periodization increasing the load heart rate reserve of hydrogymnastics exercise in order to produce grater adaptations, but the results showed than is not possible to infer that hydrogymnastics is effective in increase urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline in older women, will be appropriated in the future more studies to better clarify the possibilities of improvements between hydrogymnastics and urinary concentration of deoxypyridinoline. Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2015;59(6):523-7.

Efeitos de um programa de treinamento concorrente sobre a autonomia funcional em idosas pós-menopáusicas / Effects of a concurrent training program on functional autonomy in postmenopausal elderly

A perda da autonomia funcional no idoso relaciona-se não somente com a limitação no estado físico, mas também a função cognitiva e psíquica, tornando-o mais inativo no meio social em que convive. Dessa forma, é de suma importância à inserção do idoso em programas que estimulem a prática regular de exercício físico e o convívio social. O presente estudo centrou-se em avaliar os efeitos de um programa de treinamento concorrente sobre a autonomia funcional de idosas pós-menopáusicas. Foram selecionadas 51 idosas, residentes no município de Muriaé (MG), voluntárias, distribuídas em dois grupos, um grupo treinamento concorrente (GTC=25), com média de idade de 69,44±6,82 anos e um grupo controle (GC=26) com média de idade de 68,30±6,34 anos. Os parâmetros biofísicos foram estimados por meio da massa corporal, estatura e índice de massa corporal. A avaliação da autonomia funcional foi feita pela bateria de testes do Grupo de Desenvolvimento Latino-Americano para a Maturidade (GDLAM), composta de: caminhar 10m (C10m), levantar-se da posição sentada (LPS), levantar-se da posição decúbito ventral (LPDV), levantar-se da cadeira e locomover-se pela casa (LCLC) e o teste de vestir e tirar uma camiseta (VTC). Após a intervenção, o GTC apresentou um valor fraco nos testes C10m e LPDV; regular nos testes LCLC, VTC e no índice de GDLAM e bom no teste LPS. Os resultados mostraram que o GTF no pós-teste apresentou melhores resultados em todas as variáveis da autonomia funcional, exceto no teste de LPDV (p=0,057) em relação ao GC (p<0,0125). Na avaliação intragrupos no GTC, encontrouse diferenças estatisticamente significativas para os testes de autonomia funcional C10m (p=0,007), LPS (p=0,000) e IG (p=0,007). Esta pesquisa confirma que a prática regular de exercício físico é essencial para a restauração e controle da autonomia funcional na população de idosos.(AU)

The loss of functional independence in the elderly is related not only to the limitation in physical state, but also the cognitive and mental function, making it inactive in the social environment in which lives. Thus, it is of paramount importance to the insertion of the elderly in programs that encourage the regular practice of physical exercise and social interaction. This study focused on evaluating the effects of a concurrent training program on functional autonomy of postmenopausal elderly. 51 elderly were selected residents in the city of Muriaé (MG), volunteers, divided into two groups, a concurrent training group (CTG=25), with a mean age of 69.44±6.82years and a control group (CG=26) with mean age of 68.30±6.34 years. The biophysical parameters were estimated using the body mass, height and body mass index. The assessment of function0061l autonomy was made by the test battery of the Latin American Development Group for Maturity (LADGM), composed of: walk 10m (W10m), rising from a sitting position (RSP), rising from a recumbent position ventral (RRPV), rising from a chair and walk around the house (RCWH) and the test of wear and take a T-shirt (WTT). After the intervention, the CTG offered very little value in W10m and RRPV tests; regular in RCWH testing, WTT and index LADGM and good in RSP test. The results showed that the CTG in the post-test showed better results in all the variables of the functional autonomy, except in the test RRPV (p=0.057) compared to the CG (p <0.0125). In intragroup evaluation in CTG, we found statistically significant differences in the functional autonomy tests W10m (p=0.007), RSP (p=0.000) and index LADGM (p=0.007). This research confirms that regular physical activity is essential for the restoration and control of the functional autonomy of the elderly population.(AU)

Associação entre o nível de atividade física e a área de gordura visceral em mulheres pós-menopáusicas / Association between the level of physical activity and area of visceral fat in postmenopausal women / Asociación entre el nivel de actividad física y el área de grasa visceral en mujeres postmenopáusicas

INTRODUÇÃO: O aumento da gordura visceral abdominal está associado à redução dos níveis de atividade física habitual e gera na mulher pós-menopáusica, o surgimento da doença da inatividade física, caracterizada pela manifestação de um conjunto de patologias, entre as quais se incluem diabetes mellitus do tipo 2 e doenças cardiovasculares. Por outro lado, a atividade física regular parece ter impacto significativo na prevenção tanto da gordura intra-abdominal quanto das complicações metabólicas e cardiovasculares. OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação entre a caminhada e a atividade física de moderada intensidade com a área de gordura intra-abdominal em mulheres pós-menopáusicas. MÉTODOS: A amostra foi composta por 239 mulheres com média de idade de 57,4 ± 6,6 anos participantes do programa "Menopausa em Forma". Para análise da atividade física foi utilizado o IPAQ versão longa. Consideraram-se os valores de 1.601 kcal/semana na caminhada e 2.283 kcal/semana na atividade física de moderada intensidade como suficientes para prevenção do excesso de gordura intra-abdominal. Utilizou-se a análise de regressão logística para estimar a odds ratio (OR), com intervalo de confiança de 95%. RESULTADOS: Após análise multivariada observou-se que a caminhada ofereceu proteção contra o excesso de gordura intra-abdominal, principalmente nas mulheres com períodos menstruais regulares, OR = 0,22 (0,08-0,62) e que não fazem reposição hormonal, OR = 0,05 (0,01-0,49). Já o nível de atividade física de intensidade moderada ofereceu proteção contra a gordura intra-abdominal independentemente da reposição hormonal ou dos períodos menstruais regulares, OR = 0,37 (0,14-0,66). ...

INTRODUCTION: Increased abdominal visceral fat is associated with reduced levels of physical activity and generates in postmenopausal women the emergence of physical inactivity disease, characterized by a set of conditions including diabetes mellitus type 2 and, cardiovascular disease.. On the other hand regular physical activity appears to have significant impact in preventing both intra-abdominal fat and metabolic and cardiovascular complications. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between walking and physical activity of moderate intensity with the emergence of an area of intra-abdominal fat in postmenopausal women. METHODS: The sample consisted of 239 women with a mean age of 57.4±6.6 years participants in the "Menopausa em Forma" (fitness in menopause) program. For analysis of physical activity long-version IPAQ was used. The values of 1,601 kcal/week in walking and 2,283 kcal/week in physical activity of moderate intensity were considered sufficient to prevent excessive intra-abdominal fat. We used a logistic regression analysis to estimate the odds ratio (OR) with a confidence interval of 95%. RESULTS: Multivariate analysis revealed that the walk offered protection against excessive intra-abdominal fat, especially in women with regular menstrual periods, OR=0.22 (0.08-0.62) and and in those not receiving hormone replacement therapy, OR=0.05 (0.01-0.49). The level of moderate-intensity physical activity offered protection against intra-abdominal fat regardless of hormone replacement or regular periods, OR=0.37 (0.14-0.66). CONCLUSION: We conclude therefore that walking and especially the physical activity of moderate intensity may be important for prevention of excessive intra-abdominal fat and its metabolic and cardiovascular complications in postmenopausal women. .

INTRODUCCIÓN: El aumento de la grasa visceral abdominal está asociado a la reducción de los niveles de actividad física habitual y genera en la mujer postmenopáusica el surgimiento de la enfermedad de la inactividad física, caracterizada por la manifestación de un conjunto de patologías, entre las cuales se incluyen diabetes mellitus del tipo 2 y enfermedades cardiovasculares. Por otro lado, la actividad física regular parece tener impacto significativo en la prevención tanto de la grasa intraabdominal como de las complicaciones metabólicas y cardiovasculares. OBJETIVO: Verificar la asociación entre la caminata y la actividad física de moderada intensidad con el área de grasa intraabdominal en mujeres postmenopáusicas. MÉTODOS: La muestra fue compuesta por 239 mujeres con promedio de edad de 57,4 ± 6,6 años participantes del programa "Menopausia en Forma". Para análisis de la actividad física fue utilizado el IPAQ versión larga. Se consideraron los valores de 1.601 kcal/semana en la caminata y 2.283 kcal/semana en la actividad física de moderada intensidad como suficientes para prevención del exceso de grasa intraabdominal. Se usó el análisis de regresión logística para estimar la odds ratio (OR), con intervalo de confianza de 95%. RESULTADOS: Después del análisis multivariado se observó que la caminata ofreció protección contra el exceso de grasa intraabdominal, principalmente en las mujeres con períodos menstruales regulares, OR = 0,22 (0,08-0,62) y que no hacen reposición hormonal, OR = 0,05 (0,01-0,49). Ya el nivel de actividad física de intensidad moderada ofreció protección contra la grasa intraabdominal independiente de la reposición hormonal o de los períodos menstruales regulares, OR = 0,37 (0,14-0,66). CONCLUSIÓN: ...

The upper limit of the cardiorespiratory training zone (40-84%HRR) is overestimated for postmenopausal women.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the heart rate reserve (HRR) at first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT's) in postmenopausal women and compare it with optimal intensity range recommended by the ACSM (40-84%HRR). An additional aim was to evaluate whether a higher aerobic power level corresponded to a higher HRR at VT's. METHODS: Fifty-eight postmenopausal women participated in this study (aged 48-69). A graded 25 Wmin(-2) cycle ergometer (Monark E839) exercise protocol was performed in order to assess aerobic power. The heart rate and gas-exchange variables were measured continuously using a portable gas analyzer system (Cosmed K4b). The first (VT1) and the second (VT2) VT's were determined by the time course curves of ventilation and O2 and CO2 ventilatory equivalents. A K-means clustering analysis was used in order to identify VO2max groups (cut-off of 30.5 mlkg(-1)min(-1)) and differences were evaluated by an independent sample t-test. Bland-Altman plots were performed to illustrate the agreement between methods. RESULTS: The women's HRR values at VT1 were similar to 40% HRR in both VO2max groups. At VT2 both VO2max groups exhibited negative differences (P<0.01) for the predicted 84%HRR intensity (-14.46% in the lower VO2max group and -16.32% in the higher VO2max group). CONCLUSIONS: An upper limit of 84% overestimates the %HRR value for the second ventilatory threshold, suggesting that the cardiorespiratory target zone for this population should be lower and narrower (40-70%HRR).

[Impact of an exercise program in adiposity and muscular condition of postmenopausal women]. / Impacto de um programa de exercício físico na adiposidade e na condição muscular de mulheres pós-menopáusicas.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of an exercise program on fat mass (FM), visceral fat area (VFA), skeletal muscle mass (SMM) and skeletal muscle mass index (SMMI) of post-menopausal women. METHODS: A sample of 169 women (56.8±6.4 years) was randomized into an exercise group (EG, n=91) and a control group (CG=78). The first performed 12 months of physical exercise, including step, weight training and flexibility, with three weekly sessions of 60 minutes each. The basal metabolic rate (BMR) and the corporal composition were evaluated by octopolar InBody 720 bioimpedance and the food record method was considered. The variables modification rates were determined and the comparison of the average values was realized by Student's t-test, with the level of significance of 5%. RESULTS: In absolute terms, the CG increased (p<0.01) the FM (1.8%) and VFA (3.9 cm²) and worsened muscle condition (-1.06%), with consequences for BMR (-27.9 kcal/day). Differences were found (p<0.05) between the EG and the CG for Δ% FM (-4.2%), ΔVFA (-4.00 cm²), ΔSM (3.09%), ΔSMI (0.03%) and ΔBMR (2.9%). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that exercise attenuated the increase in the levels of total and central adiposity and muscle loss associated with menopause and aging.

[Level of physical activity in the prevention of excess visceral fat in postmenopausal women: how much is needed?]. / Nível de atividade física para prevenção do excesso de gordura visceral em mulheres pós-menopáusicas: quanto é necessário?

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the level of physical activity (kcal/week) needed to prevent excess visceral fat in postmenopausal women. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The sample included 239 women with a mean age of 57.2 years. Visceral fat area (VFA) was measured by octopolar bioelectrical impedance, and physical activity, by the long version IPAQ. ROC Curves (Receiver Operating Characteristic) were drawn, and a 95% confidence interval was used. RESULTS: The areas under the ROC curve for moderate physical activity and walk proved to be significant. Weekly expenditure of 1,601 kcal in walking, or 2,283 kcal in moderate physical activity were identified as good cutoff values to prevent excess VFA. CONCLUSION: Mild to moderate physical activity, with a caloric expenditure between 1,601 and 2,283 kcal/week, prevents excess central adiposity in postmenopausal women.

Impacto de um programa de exercício físico na adiposidade e na condição muscular de mulheres pós-menopáusicas / Impact of an exercise program in adiposity and muscular condition of postmenopausal women

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito de um programa de exercício na massa gorda (MG), área de adiposidade visceral (AAV), massa muscular esquelética (MME) e índice de massa muscular esquelética (IMME) de mulheres pós-menopáusicas. MÉTODOS: A amostra com 169 mulheres (56,8±6,4 anos) foi randomizada em grupo de exercício (GE, n=91) e controle (GC=78). O primeiro realizou 12 meses de exercício físico de step, musculação e flexibilidade, envolvendo 3 sessões semanais de 60 minutos cada. A taxa metabólica basal (TMB) e a composição corporal foram avaliadas por meio da bioimpedância octopolar InBody 720 e o método de registro alimentar foi considerado. Determinou-se a taxa de modificação (D) das variáveis e a comparação dos valores médios foi realizada por testes t de Student, sendo respeitado grau de significância estatística de 5%. RESULTADOS: Em termos absolutos, o GC aumentou (p<0,01) a MG (0,9%) e a AAV (3,9 cm²) e apresentou piora da condição muscular (-1,06%), com reflexos na TMB (-27,9 kcal/dia). Foram identificadas diferenças (p<0,05) entre o GE e o GC para a Δ%MG (-4,2%), ΔAAV (-4,0 cm²), ΔMME (3,09%), ΔIMME (0,03%) e ΔTMB (2,9%). CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados sugerem que o exercício atenuou o aumento dos níveis de adiposidade total e central e a perda muscular associada à menopausa e ao envelhecimento.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of an exercise program on fat mass (FM), visceral fat area (VFA), skeletal muscle mass (SMM) and skeletal muscle mass index (SMMI) of post-menopausal women. METHODS: A sample of 169 women (56.8±6.4 years) was randomized into an exercise group (EG, n=91) and a control group (CG=78). The first performed 12 months of physical exercise, including step, weight training and flexibility, with three weekly sessions of 60 minutes each. The basal metabolic rate (BMR) and the corporal composition were evaluated by octopolar InBody 720 bioimpedance and the food record method was considered. The variables modification rates were determined and the comparison of the average values was realized by Student's t-test, with the level of significance of 5%. RESULTS: In absolute terms, the CG increased (p<0.01) the FM (1.8%) and VFA (3.9 cm²) and worsened muscle condition (-1.06%), with consequences for BMR (-27.9 kcal/day). Differences were found (p<0.05) between the EG and the CG for Δ% FM (-4.2%), ΔVFA (-4.00 cm²), ΔSM (3.09%), ΔSMI (0.03%) and ΔBMR (2.9%). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that exercise attenuated the increase in the levels of total and central adiposity and muscle loss associated with menopause and aging.

Nível de atividade física para prevenção do excesso de gordura visceral em mulheres pós-menopáusicas: quanto é necessário? / Level of physical activity in the prevention of excess visceral fat in postmenopausal women: how much is needed?

OBJETIVO: Analisar a quantidade de atividade física (kcal/semana) necessária à prevenção do excesso de gordura visceral em mulheres pós-menopáusicas. SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: A amostra incluiu 239 mulheres com uma idade média de 57,2 anos. A área de gordura visceral (AGV) foi medida por bioimpedância octopolar e a atividade física, com a versão longa do IPAQ. Foram construídas curvas Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) e considerado um intervalo de confiança de 95%. RESULTADOS: As áreas sob a curva ROC para a atividade física moderada e a caminhada revelaram-se significativas. O dispêndio semanal de 1.601 kcal na caminhada ou de 2.283 kcal de atividade física moderada foi identificado como bons valores de corte para prevenir o excesso de AGV. CONCLUSÃO: A prática da atividade física de intensidade leve a moderada, com um gasto calórico entre 1.601 e 2.283 kcal/semana, previne o excesso de adiposidade central em mulheres pós-menopáusicas.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the level of physical activity (kcal/week) needed to prevent excess visceral fat in postmenopausal women. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The sample included 239 women with a mean age of 57.2 years. Visceral fat area (VFA) was measured by octopolar bioelectrical impedance, and physical activity, by the long version IPAQ. ROC Curves (Receiver Operating Characteristic) were drawn, and a 95% confidence interval was used. RESULTS: The areas under the ROC curve for moderate physical activity and walk proved to be significant. Weekly expenditure of 1,601 kcal in walking, or 2,283 kcal in moderate physical activity were identified as good cutoff values to prevent excess VFA. CONCLUSION: Mild to moderate physical activity, with a caloric expenditure between 1,601 and 2,283 kcal/week, prevents excess central adiposity in postmenopausal women.

Percepção do valor, do prazer e do sofrimento de funcionários brasileiros que trabalham em agências da ONU no Brasil

Esta pesquisa qualitativa se propõe a investigar a percepção do valor, do prazer e do sofrimento de funcionários brasileiros que trabalham em agências especializadas, programas e fundos das Nações Unidas no Brasil. Para tanto foram entrevistados seis funcionários vinculados a três agências do sistema ONU com contratos estatutários (staff member) e com ampla experiência de trabalho, variando entre 4,5 e 21 anos de experiência neste tipo de organização. Os dados da pesquisa foram avaliados pelométodo de análise de conteúdo, conforme proposto por Bardin (2011), e os resultados analisados à luz dos estudos de psicodinâmica do trabalho e valores motivacionais. A abordagem dos valores motivacionais permitiu identificar a prevalência dos valores individuais relacionados às dimensões: autotranscedência e conservação, e também dos valores organizacionais relacionados às dimensões: conservação, hierarquia e igualitarismo. Esta abordagem não apresentou resultados conclusivos, mas permitiuum olhar amplo da estrutura e da forma de trabalho na ONU. Já a abordagem da psicodinâmica possibilitou um aprofundamento da percepção das situações de trabalho, permitindo avaliar as principais situações geradoras de prazer, de sofrimento, situações contraditórias e as estratégias de defesa utilizadas. Sobre as situações geradoras de prazer no trabalho, destacam-se: o prazer e orgulho por trabalhar na ONU e servir a uma boa causa; os salários, os benefícios e o ambiente de trabalho positivo.No que se refere às situações geradoras de sofrimento destacam-se: a sobrecarga de trabalho; as urgências; a forma de gestão burocrática; os eríodos de mudança, a ausência de um plano de carreira, o Fundo de Pensão e a distância entre o trabalho prescrito e o trabalho real. Conclui-se que a percepção do prazer e os mecanismos de superação do sofrimento utilizados fazem com que os funcionário...

This qualitative study investigates the perception of values, pleasure and suffering at work of Brazilian employees working at United Nations organizations in Brazil. For that six staff members from three UN agencies representations in Brazil, with significant working experience in the UN ranging from 4.5 to 21 years, were interviewed. The survey data was evaluated through ‘analysis of content’ methodology, as proposed by Bardin (2011), and the results were analyzed in light of studies in the field of psychodynamics and motivational values. The motivational values approach identified prevalence of individual values related to the dimensions:auto-transcendence and conservation; and prevalence of organizational values related to the dimensions: conservation, hierarchy and egalitarianism. This approach didn´t provide a conclusive result, but a comprehensive overview of the working structure. The psychodynamics approach allowed a deeper analysis of working dynamics perceptions related to situations generating pleasure and suffering, contradictory views and defensive strategies adopted by employees. Major situations generating pleasure atwork identified were: pleasure in working to the UN and serving to a good cause, salaries and allowances and positive work environment. With regard to the situations that caused suffering, the following items were identified: work overload; emergencies; bureaucracy, changing periods, absence of a career plan, concerns regarding pension funds and distance between prescribed and real work. The conclusion of this study is that the perception of pleasure and the coping mechanisms applied to overcome suffering make employees want to stay working at the UN organization. At last, since this is a pioneering research in this type of organization in Brazil, it is recommended to continue studies to validate and/or identify other important issues, thus contributing to the construction of relevant knowledge in this area.