Lifestyle behavior of physiotherapy students from Ecuador upon admission to higher education: a cross-sectional study.

Introduction: Admission to university has been identified as a period involving the adoption of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. However, few studies have addressed the extent of this experience among Latin American university students. The aim of this study was twofold: first, to describe anthropometric variables, body composition, physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep duration and quality, diet, and alcohol consumption in first-year students entering physiotherapy school at the Universidad de las Americas in Quito, Ecuador; second, to test differences in these variables between sexes. Methods: A total of 116 students were recruited. Sociodemographic variables, anthropometric indices, body composition, physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep quality and duration, adherence to 24-hour movement guidelines, physical fitness (i.e., handgrip strength), diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking habits were evaluated. Results: A total of 50 male (43.1%) and 66 female (56.9%) students were assessed. Overall, the adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines of the students upon admission to university was 8.6%. Conversely, 86 students (74.1%) did not meet any of the recommendations. Upon admission to university, only 8.6% of the students (female 2.6%; male 6%) met the overall 24-hour movement guidelines. Additionally, 82 students (70.7%) needed changes in diet quality, 81 students (69.8%) had significant sleep disturbances, and 22 students (18.9%) had harmful alcohol consumption. A greater proportion of males met all three 24-h movement recommendations (p = 0.025) than females did. In addition, females reported a greater percentage of occasional smokers (p = 0.025) and a greater prevalence of obesity (p < 0.001), a lower level of physical activity (p < 0.001), and a greater percentage of sleep disturbance (p < 0.001). Conversely, males reported greater waist circumference (p = 0.005), weight (p < 0.001), handgrip strength (p < 0.001), and a greater percentage of harmful alcohol consumption (p < 0.001). Discussion: Our study showed that upon admission to university, overall adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines is low among university students. Additionally, a high percentage of students reported unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, with differences according to sex. Our findings could lead to the use of specific sex-specific strategies for the prevention and promotion of movement and lifestyle behaviors during this critical period.

The Influence of Morphological Characteristics on the Ball Throwing Velocity in the Professional Handball Players / Influencia de las Características Morfológicas en la Velocidad de Lanzamiento del Balón en los Jugadores Profesionales de Balonmano

SUMMARY: The aim of this study was to determine influence of upper limbs on the ball throwing velocity. A total of 10 professional handball players (25.74±4.84 years) participated in this study. All of them were playing in the top Montenegrin professional handball league. The results obtained in this study shows that upper limbs have high influence on ball throwing velocity. This study provides normative data and performance standards for professional handball. Coaches can use this information to determine the type of anthropometric characteristics that are needed for handball. Anthropometric parameters such as arm length, wrist diameter, hand length and arm span are the most relevant aspects related to ball throwing speed, given that these parameters cannot be changed through training, they should be taken into account when discovering talents.

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la influencia de los miembros superiores sobre la velocidad de lanzamiento de la pelota. En el estudio participaron un total de 10 jugadores profesionales de balonmano (25,74±4,84 años). Todos ellos jugaban en la principal liga profesional de balonmano de Montenegro. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que los miembros superiores tienen una alta influencia en la velocidad de lanzamiento de la pelota. Este estudio proporciona datos normativos y estándares de rendimiento para el balonmano profesional. Los entrenadores pueden utilizar esta información para determinar el tipo de características antropométricas necesarias para el balonmano. Los parámetros antropométricos como la longitud del brazo, el diámetro de la muñeca, la longitud de la mano y la envergadura del brazo son los aspectos más relevantes relacionados con la velocidad de lanzamiento de la pelota, dado que estos parámetros no se pueden cambiar mediante el entrenamiento, deben tenerse en consideración a la hora de descubrir talentos.

Eligibility for obesity management in Peru: Analysis of National Health Surveys from 2014 to 2022.

Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased fastest in low- and middle-income countries in the last decades. Together with this rising prevalence, pharmacological and surgical interventions for obesity have emerged. How many people need these treatments is unknown. We quantified the prevalence of people in need of pharmacological and surgical treatment for obesity in Peru between 2014 and 2022. Methods: Repeated cross-sectional analysis of national health surveys in Peru was conducted. Eligibility for pharmacological treatment for obesity was: body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m 2 or BMI ≥27 kg/m 2 alongside type 2 diabetes or hypertension (self-reported). Eligibility for bariatric surgery were BMI ≥40 kg/m 2 or BMI between 35 to 39.9 kg/m 2 linked to weight-related health problems. We used Poisson regressions to identify associated factors with eligibility for obesity management. Results: Across years, 260,131 people (mean age 44.0 and 54.5% were women) were studied, 66,629 (27.7%; 95% CI: 27.4% - 28.1%) were eligible for obesity medication, and 5,263 (2.5%; 95% CI: 2.4% - 2.6%) were eligible for bariatric surgery. Female sex, older age, higher socioeconomic level and study year were associated with higher probability of eligibility for both obesity medication and bariatric surgery. Conclusions: Eligibility for obesity management has increased over time in Peru. There is a need to strengthen policies to tackle overweight and obesity in Peru, acknowledging that some individuals may benefit from pharmacological and surgical interventions.

Assessment of anthropometric and physical profile of selected school-age children in rural and urban setting in South-West Nigeria (NigeriaLINX pilot) / Avaliação do perfil antropométrico e físico de crianças em idade escolar selecionadas em ambientes rurais e urbanos no sudoeste da Nigéria (piloto NigeriaLINX)

Objective: the objective of this study was to examine the anthropometric and physical profile of selected school-age children in rural and urban setting. Methods: the descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted for the study while multistage sampling techniques, which included simple random and systematic sampling techniques, were used to draw samples from the target population. The sample constitute healthy children who voluntarily participated in the study after consent for participation was given by individual parent. Anthropometric measurements for the study included height, weight, sitting height and BMI while the physical fitness tests for the study included sit and reach, handgrip strength, speed bounce, standing broad jump, 10m x 5 shuttles run and multistage fitness test. Z score, STEN score and independent T-Test were used for data analysis. Results: a total of 222 healthy children with average age of 10 years (male=112, female=109) participated in the study. The results showed that the urban children were taller (Urban=141.3±9.2m; Rural=134±21.3m), heavier (Urban=37.6±10.4kg; Rural=28.2±6.2kg), had more leg power (Urban=105.7±25.5; Rural=49.4±41.0) and arm strength (Urban=15.7±4.1; Rural=13.4±5.2) than rural children. However, the rural children had higher sit and reach score (Rural=25.3±5.8; Urban=22.8±6.0) and completed more laps in multistage fitness test (Rural=35.5±25.5; Urban=12±5.7). The statistical analysis showed that all the variables were significantly different urban and rural children (P<0.05). Conclusion: the current study shows that the children in the urban and rural settings differed in the selected anthropometric and physical variables Therefore, the physical education program and infrastructural facilities for physical activity and sport participation for school age children should be designed based on the socioeconomic status, social amenities and level of development of the host community

Objetivo: examinar o perfil antropométrico e físico de crianças em idade escolar selecionadas em ambientes rurais e urbanos. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo transversal aplicando técnicas de amostragem em vários estágios, que incluíam processos de amostragem aleatória simples e sistemática, usadas para extrair amostras da população-alvo. A amostra constitui-se de crianças saudáveis que participaram voluntariamente do estudo, após consentimento para participação dado por um dos pais. As medições antropométricas incluíram altura, peso, altura sentada e IMC, enquanto os testes de aptidão física para o estudo incluíram sentar-se e alcançar, força de preensão manual, salto de velocidade, salto em largura, corrida de vaivém de 10 x 5 metros e teste de aptidão multiestágio. Foram usados para a análise escore z, escore STEN e teste t independentemente dos dados. Resultados: um total de 222 crianças saudáveis com idade média de 10 anos (masculino=112, feminino=109) participaram do estudo. Os resultados mostraram que as crianças urbanas eram mais altas (Urbano=141,3±9,2m; Rurais=134±21,3m), mais pesadas (Urbano=37,6±10,4kg; Rurais=28,2±6,2kg), tinham mais força nas pernas (Urbano=105,7±25,5; Rurais =49,4±41,0) e força de braço (Urbano=15,7±4,1; Rural=13,4±5,2) do que as crianças da zona rural. No entanto, as crianças da zona rural tiveram maior pontuação de sentar e alcançar (Rural=25,3±5,8; Urbana=22,8±6,0) e completaram mais voltas no teste de condicionamento físico multiestágio (Rural=35,5±25,5; Urbana=12±5,7). Todas as variáveis eram significativamente diferentes entre crianças urbanas e rurais (P<0,05). Conclusão: o presente estudo mostrou que as crianças das áreas urbana e rural diferiram nas variáveis antropométricas e físicas selecionadas. Portanto, o programa de educação física e as instalações de infraestrutura para atividades físicas e participação em esportes para crianças em idade escolar devem ser projetados com base no status socioeconômico, nas comodidades sociais e no nível de desenvolvimento da comunidade anfitriã

Head and facial dimensions of Chilean workers for design purposes and the differences with other populations.

BACKGROUND: An appropriate match between a product and its end-users requires anthropometric data, which show variations among different countries. Proper Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) fit is key for safety and comfort. Chile had no head and facial anthropometric data available in order to design face/head PPE. OBJECTIVE: To describe face/head anthropometric characteristics of Chilean workers. Additionally, this study compared those dimensions against other populations (United States (US), South Korea and China). METHODS: An anthropometric survey involving 21 measures was conducted between September 2013 to May 2016 using stratified sampling. The measurements were based on ISO/TS 16976-2 and ISO 15535 to ensure the highest standards possible, and a total of 474 workers, aged from 18 to 66 years old, participated in the survey. RESULTS: The biggest differences were in Neck circumference, Weight, Nose breadth, Nose protrusion, Bitragion chin arc, Face length, Subnasale-sellion length, Face width, Bigonial breadth and Bitragion subnasal arc. Head length of Chileans were longer than Chinese and South Korean ones, but shorter than US Head length. Chilean Head breadth is smaller than Chinese and South Korean ones. Chileans Face length was the largest observed. Face width of Chileans was smaller than US and Chinese ones. Gender specific differences were also observed in the inter-country comparisons. Chilean males had larger anthropometric dimensions than females. CONCLUSION: Chilean Head and face dimensions differed significantly when compared against US, South Korean and Chines Head and Face dimensions. Chileans have longer and narrower faces with wider mouths, with a head size in between the US and Asian heads. Face and head PPE for Chileans should use dimensions in the current paper in order to ensure proper fit.

The Impact of a Swimming Training Season on Anthropometrics, Maturation, and Kinematics in 12-Year-Old and Under Age-Group Swimmers: A Network Analysis.

Understanding fluctuations and associations between swimming performance-related variables provide strategic insights into a swimmer's preparation program. Through network analysis, we verified the relationships between anthropometrics, maturation, and kinematics changes (Δ) in 25-m breaststroke (BREAST) and butterfly (FLY) swimming performance, before and after a 47-week swimming training season. Twenty age-group swimmers (n =11 girls: 10.0 ± 1.3 years and n = 9 boys: 10.5 ± 0.9 years) performed a 25-m all-out swim test (T25) in BREAST and FLY techniques, before and after 47 weeks. Three measures of centrality, transformed into a z-score, were generated: betweenness, closeness, and strength. Data were compared (t-test) and effect sizes were identified with Hedges' g. Large effect sizes were observed for swimming performance improvements in BREAST (32.0 ± 7.5 to 24.5 ± 3.8 s; g = 1.26; Δ = -21.9 %) and FLY (30.3 ± 7.0 to 21.8 ± 3.6 s; g = 1.52; Δ = -26.5 %). Small to moderate effect sizes were observed for anthropometric changes. Moderate effect size was observed for maturity offset changes (-2.0 ± 0.9 to -1.3 ± 1.0; g = 0.73; Δ = 50.9 ± 281 %). Changes in maturity offset, stroke rate (SR), and stroke length for both BREAST and FLY swimming speeds were highlighted by the weight matrix. For betweenness, closeness, and strength, changes in arm span (AS) (BREAST) and stroke length (FLY) were remarkable. The dynamic process of athletic development and the perception of complexity of fluctuations and associations between performance-related variables were underpinned, particularly for simultaneous swimming techniques in age-group swimmers.

200-m front crawl performance over a training season in 12 years and underage-group swimmers: growth and kinematics effects

Abstract Aims: analyze kinematics, anthropometrics, and maturation during a training season in 12 y and underage-group swimmers, quantifying changes and estimating their contributions to the 200-m maximal front crawl time trial test (T200) (time trial/fixed distance), as an event representative of the swimming performance. Methods: Nineteen age-group swimmers (11 girls and 8 boys; age 10.0 ± 1.3 y and 10.6 ± 1.0 y) performed a T200 four times during the training season. Changes in kinematic and anthropometric variables throughout the season were calculated. We applied generalized estimating equations to compare the variables over the four experimental tests. Multiple linear regressions were applied to identify the most influential variables and the relative contribution of anthropometrics and kinematics to swimming performance of T200 at baseline (pre-season) and after (using delta values) each macrocycle. Results: Large improvements (d = 1.76) were observed in the T200's performance (from 85.5 ± 38.2 at pre-season to 175.2 ± 50.1 FINA points at the end season). A gender effect was not identified. Stroke rate, stroke length, and stroke index explained, respectively 59, 23, and 17% of the T200 performance changes along the season (R2 = 0.81; F = 26.9; p < 0.001; Durbin-Watson: 1.5). Anthropometric was not related to performance changes, with kinematic being the most determinant factor. Conclusion: Kinematical approaches must be carefully considered by coaches when planning 12 y and underage-group swimmers training programs.

Neck circumference in Latin America and the Caribbean: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: High neck circumference (NC) is associated with high burden diseases in Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC). NC complements established anthropometric measurements for early identification of cardio-metabolic and other illnesses. However, evidence about NC has not been systematically studied in LAC. We aimed to estimate the mean NC and the prevalence of high NC in LAC. Methods: We conducted a systematic review in MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health and LILACS. Search results were screened and studied by two reviewers independently. To assess risk of bias of individual studies, we used the Hoy et al. scale and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. We conducted a random-effects meta-analysis. Results: In total, 182 abstracts were screened, 96 manuscripts were reviewed and 85 studies (n= 51,978) were summarized. From all the summarized studies, 14 were conducted in a sample of the general population, 23 were conducted with captive populations and 49 studies were conducted with patients. The pooled mean NC in the general population was 35.69 cm (95% IC: 34.85cm-36.53cm; I²: 99.6%). In our patient populations, the pooled mean NC in the obesity group was 42.56cm (95% CI 41.70cm-43.42cm; I²: 92.40%). Across all studied populations, there were several definitions of high NC; thus, prevalence estimates were not comparable. The prevalence of high NC ranged between 37.00% and 57.69% in the general population. The methodology to measure NC was not consistently reported. Conclusions: Mean NC in LAC appears to be in the range of estimates from other world regions. Inconsistent methods and definitions hamper cross-country comparisons and time trend analyses. There is a need for consistent and comparable definitions of NC so that it can be incorporated as a standard anthropometric indicator in surveys and epidemiological studies.

Androgen receptor gene microsatellite polymorphism is associated with muscle mass and strength in bodybuilders and power athlete status.

BACKGROUND: The androgen receptor (AR) gene contains a polymorphic trinucleotide (CAG) microsatellite repeat sequence (short or long alleles) that has been associated with fat-free mass in untrained men, which needs to be replicated in athletic cohorts. AIM: The purpose of this study was to explore the AR (CAG)n polymorphism in trained individuals. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 61 professional bodybuilders (40 males, 21 females), 73 elite male sprinters and weightlifters and 186 male controls were enrolled in this study. The influence of the AR (CAG)n polymorphism on muscle mass and strength was assessed in bodybuilders, while the frequencies of AR (CAG)n alleles were compared between power athletes and non-athletes. RESULTS: The polymorphism was associated with anthropometric and strength measurements in bodybuilders of both genders. Those with ≥21 CAG repeats (i.e. carriers of long alleles) exhibited greater (p < 0.05) body mass index, absolute muscle mass, arm/thigh circumference and upper/lower limb strength compared to those with <21 CAG repeats. Furthermore, carriers of ≥21 CAG repeats were more frequent among power athletes compared to controls (p = 0.0076). CONCLUSIONS: Long alleles of the AR (CAG)n polymorphism were associated with greater muscle mass and strength in bodybuilders, and power athlete status.

Caracterización antropométrica y composición corporal de tenistas de elite varones y damas de Chile / Anthropometric characterization and body composition of male and female elite tennis players in Chile

RESUMEN: El objetivo del estudio fue determinar las características antropométricas y de composición corporal en jóvenes tenistas de elite chilenos. El estudio fue de carácter descriptivo de corte transversal. La muestra de 84 tenistas (58 varones 15,5 ± 0,76 años y 26 damas, 15,3 ± 0,8 años), fue seleccionada de forma no probabilística por conveniencia. Se evaluaron variables antropométricas de peso, estatura, estatura sentada, pliegues cutáneos (bíceps, tríceps, subescapular, supraespinal, abdominal, muslo anterior y pierna medial), perímetros (brazo flexionado, muslo medio y pierna) y diámetros (biepicondíleo de húmero y del fémur). Se realizaron análisis antropométricos y cálculos para determinar la composición corporal y el somatotipo de los sujetos participantes. Los resultados para los varones fueron, peso corporal 64,3±7,94 kg, estatura 1,74 ± 0,08 m, porcentaje de grasa 16,6±4,1 %, de componente Mesomorfo balan- ceado. Las damas presentaron un peso corporal 49,8±6,9 kg, estatura 1,65±0,03 m, porcentaje de grasa 19,3±4,8%,de componente Ectomorfo balanceado. En general, ambos grupos muestran características antropométricas y de composición corporal similares a otros grupos de tenistas juveniles, a excepción del somatotipo en el caso de las damas.

SUMMARY: The aim of the study was to determine the anthropometric characteristics and body composition in young Chilean elite tennis players aged 14 to 16 years. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study. A non-probability convenience sampling of 84 tennis players (58 males 15.5 ± 0.76 years old and 26 females, 15.3 ± 0.8 years old) was selected. Anthropometric variables of weight, height, sitting height, skin folds (biceps, triceps, subscapular, supraspinal, abdominal, anterior thigh and medial leg), perimeters (flexed arm, middle thigh and leg) and diameters (humerus and femur) were evaluated. Anthropometric analysis and calculations were performed to determine the body composition and somatotype of the participanting subjects. The results for males were, body weight 64.3 ± 7.94 kg, height 1.74 ± 0.08 m, percentage of fat 16.6 ± 4.1%, balanced mesomorph component. The females had a body weight of 49.8 ± 6.9 kg, height of 1.65 ± 0.03 m, percentage of fat 19.3 ± 4.8%, balanced ectomorph component. In general, both groups showed similar anthropometric and body composition characteristics as compared to other groups of young tennis players, with the exception of the somatotype in the case of the females.

Nutritional assessment of hospitalized patients: Comparison of real and estimated anthropometric measures

ABSTRACT The assessment of the nutritional status of hospitalized patients is fundamental to the establishment of the diagnosis. For bedridden patients, however, it is not possible to determine simple measures, such as weight and height, which are the most widely used variables for nutritional assessments. Objective: Compare real and estimated anthropometric measures in hospitalized patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with adult (>18 years of age) and senior patients (>60 years of age) admitted for clinical or surgical treatment in the general surgery infirmary of Governador Paulo Guerra Restauração Hospital. Data (sex, age, clinical diagnosis, real weight, real height, body mass index, knee height and arm circumference) were collected using nutritional follow-up charts and tabulated using Excel 2016. Statistical analyses were performed in SPSS® version 21.0. Results: One hundred and twenty patients participated in the study (median age: 55 years). Most were adults (73.3%) and women (53.3%). The mean differences in weight between the estimated and real measures were statistically significant (p=0.000), with an overestimation of this variable. Regarding height, the estimated values differed significantly from the real values in both men and women (p<0.000) and the difference was larger among the seniors (mean: -0.072). No significant difference was found between the real and estimated body mass index (p= 0.44). Conclusion: In the comparison of methods for estimating weight and height to real measures, a tendency was found to overestimate these body measures.

RESUMEN La evaluación del estado nutricional de los pacientes hospitalizados es esencial para establecer su diagnóstico. Sin embargo, para los pacientes postrados en cama, no se pueden realizar medidas sencillas como el peso y la altura, que son las más utilizadas para el diagnóstico nutricional. Objetivo: Comparar mediciones antropométricas reales y estimadas en pacientes hospitalizados. Metodología: Estudio transversal, que incluye pacientes adultos (>18 años) y personas mayores de 60 años, ingresados para tratamiento clínico o quirúrgico en la sala de cirugía general del Hospital da Restauração Governador Paulo Guerra. Los datos (sexo, edad, diagnóstico clínico, peso real, altura real, índice de masa corporal, altura de la rodilla y circunferencia del brazo) se recopilaron mediante los formularios de monitoreo nutricional y se tabularon en el software Excel 2016. Los análisis estadísticos se realizaron con SPSS®, versión 21.0. Resultados: 120 pacientes con mediana de 55 años, en su mayoría adultos (73,3%) y mujeres (53,3%). Las diferencias promedio entre las mediciones estimadas y reales fueron estadísticamente significativas, con sobreestimación del peso (p<0,0001). Con respecto a la altura, fue posible identificar que las medidas estimadas diferían significativamente (p<0,0001) de las reales para hombres y mujeres, y que esta variación era aún mayor entre los ancianos (media: -0,072). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre el índice de masa corporal real y el estimado (p= 0,44). Conclusión: Al comparar las metodologías para estimar el peso y la altura con las mediciones reales, fue posible observar una tendencia de los métodos a sobreestimar estas mediciones corporales.

Comparison of birth weight, length, and head circumference between the BRISA-RP and Intergrowth-21st cohorts, / Comparação de peso, comprimento e perímetro cefálico ao nascer entre Coorte BRISA-RP e Intergrowth-21st,

Abstract Objectives: (a) To determine the 3rd, 50th, and 97th percentiles of weight, length, and head circumference of newborns from the Ribeirão Preto BRISA cohort, according to gender and gestational age, and compare them with the Intergrowth-21st standard; (b) To estimate the small for gestational age ( < 3rd percentile), large for gestational age ( > 97th percentile), stunting (length < 3rd percentile), and wasting (body mass index < 3rd percentile). Methods: Observational study of a cohort of 7702 newborns between 01/01/2010 and 12/31/2010 in the city of Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. The 3rd, 50th, and 97th percentiles were determined for the anthropometric measurements using fractional polynomial regression. Results: The weight difference between Ribeirão Preto and Intergrowth-21st was small, being more pronounced in preterm infants (mean difference between the two populations of +266 g); for full-term newborns, there was a mean difference of +66 g, and for post-term infants, of -113 g. For length, the mean variation was always <1 cm; whereas for head circumference, preterm newborns showed a variation >1 cm, and full-term and post-term newborns showed a variation of <1 cm. The small and large for gestational age detection rates were 2.9% and 4.3%, respectively. Stunting affected 6.5% of all newborns and wasting, 1.5%, with a predominance in girls and in full-term pregnancies; both conditions were present in 0.4% of the sample. Conclusions: Newborns from Ribeirão Preto, when compared to the Intergrowth-21 standard, are heavier, longer, and have a larger head circumference until they reach full-term.

Resumo Objetivos: Determinar os percentis 3, 50 e 97 de peso, comprimento e perímetro cefálico de recém-nascidos da Coorte BRISA Ribeirão Preto, segundo sexo e idade gestacional, e comparar com o padrão Intergrowth-21st; b) Estimar os fenótipos pequeno para idade gestacional (< percentil 3), grande para idade gestacional (> percentil 97), stunting (comprimento < percentil 3) e waisting (índice de massa corporal < percentil 3). Método: Estudo observacional de uma coorte de 7.702 recém-nascidos entre 01/01 e 31/12/2010 na cidade de Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil. Os percentis 3, 50 e 97 para as medidas antropométricas foram determinados com regressão polinomial fracionária. Resultados: A diferença de peso entre Ribeirão Preto e Intergrowth-21st foi pequena, mais acentuada nos recém-nascidos pré-termo (diferença média entre as duas populações foi de + 266 gramas); para os recém-nascidos a termo a diferença média foi de + 66 gramas e para os pós-termo de -113 gramas. Para comprimento, a variação média foi sempre < 1 cm; enquanto que para perímetro cefálico os recém-nascidos pré-termo apresentaram variação > 1 cm e os recém-nascidos a termo e pós-termo tiveram variação < 1 cm. As taxas de detecção de pequeno e grande para idade gestacional foram 2,9% e 4,3%, respectivamente. Stunting afetou 6,5% de todos os recém-nascidos e waisting 1,5%, com predomínio em meninas e em gestações a termo; ambas as condições estavam presentes em 0,4% da amostra. Conclusões: Os recém-nascidos de Ribeirão Preto, quando comparados com o padrão Intergrowth-21st, apresentam-se mais pesados, mais longos e com maior circunferência craniana até chegarem a termo.

Economic development in Puerto Rico after US annexation: Anthropometric evidence.

This paper considers economic development in Puerto Rico following its annexation by the United States in 1898, a watershed moment in the history of the island and the pinnacle of American imperialism in Latin America. Drawing on data from three surveys, I show that male height in Puerto Rico increased at more than twice the average rate for Latin America and the Caribbean between 1890 and 1940. I also show that Puerto Ricans at mid-century were among the tallest Latin Americans outside of Argentina and Uruguay. The evidence supports the conclusion that conditions improved substantially after US annexation, in contrast to the prevailing view in the literature.

Comparison of birth weight, length, and head circumference between the BRISA-RP and Intergrowth-21st cohorts.

OBJECTIVES: (a) To determine the 3rd, 50th, and 97th percentiles of weight, length, and head circumference of newborns from the Ribeirão Preto BRISA cohort, according to gender and gestational age, and compare them with the Intergrowth-21st standard; (b) To estimate the small for gestational age (<3rd percentile), large for gestational age (>97th percentile), stunting (length<3rd percentile), and wasting (body mass index<3rd percentile). METHODS: Observational study of a cohort of 7702 newborns between 01/01/2010 and 12/31/2010 in the city of Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. The 3rd, 50th, and 97th percentiles were determined for the anthropometric measurements using fractional polynomial regression. RESULTS: The weight difference between Ribeirão Preto and Intergrowth-21st was small, being more pronounced in preterm infants (mean difference between the two populations of +266g); for full-term newborns, there was a mean difference of +66g, and for post-term infants, of -113g. For length, the mean variation was always <1cm; whereas for head circumference, preterm newborns showed a variation >1cm, and full-term and post-term newborns showed a variation of <1cm. The small and large for gestational age detection rates were 2.9% and 4.3%, respectively. Stunting affected 6.5% of all newborns and wasting, 1.5%, with a predominance in girls and in full-term pregnancies; both conditions were present in 0.4% of the sample. CONCLUSIONS: Newborns from Ribeirão Preto, when compared to the Intergrowth-21 standard, are heavier, longer, and have a larger head circumference until they reach full-term.

Nutritional Assessment Methodologies: Challenges and Opportunities for the Full Realization of the Right to Food and Nutrition.

The structural isolation of nutrition from the human right to food has resulted in the technicalization and medicalization of the meaning and practice of nutrition, including in the field of nutritional assessments, which has led to the construction of public policies that lack a holistic perspective with a rights-based approach. Two main categories of nutritional assessments have been anthropometric measurements and nutritional profiles evident in the WHO and PAHO proposals related to the nutrition of children. In this paper, we present a critical discussion on the production and uses of both instruments in the evaluation of the growth and development of children and in the generation of global recommendations in public health with the objective of proposing alternatives for the measurement of malnutrition in communities affected by violations of the human right to food and nutrition. Our approach focuses on the construction not only based on the calorie-energy needs of the human body but also on food as a social, cultural and political process. It thus becomes an invitation to rethink nutrition from the notion of right to food to the implementation of research from participatory action.

Use of human body morphology as an indication of physical fitness: implications for police officers / Uso de la morfología del cuerpo humano como una indicación de la condición física: implicancias en oficiales de policía

Research with police officers (POs) suggests an association between body composition, physical performance and health. The aim of the study was to investigate the associations between body composition and measures of physical fitness, and their use to predict estimated physical fitness score (EPFS). The sample included 163 male POs (age = 31.61 ± 4.79 years, height = 172.97 ± 6.09 cm, body mass = 77.53 ± 11.66 kg). Eight body composition variables: body mass index (BMI), body fat mass index (BFMI), percent of body fat (PBF), percent skeletal muscle mass (PSMM), index of hypokinezia (IH), skeletal muscle mass index (SMMI), protein mass index (PMI), and fat-free mass index (FFMI); and four physical fitness measures: a 3.2 km run, a 2-minute push-up, 2-minute sit-up and estimated physical fitness score (EPFS) were correlated, followed by the regression analysis for causal relationship between body composition and EPFS. Running 3.2 km test correlated to BMI, PBF, PSMM, BFMI, and SMMI (r = 0.274, 0.250, -0.234, 0.311, p<0.01, respectively); 2-minute push-up correlated to PBF, PSMM, BFMI, SMMI, PMI, IH, and FFMI (r = -0.413, 0.436, -0.375, 0.221, 0.231, -0.411, 0.261, p<0.01, respectively); 2-minute sit-up correlated to PBF, PSMM, BFMI, and IH (r = -0.237, 0.250, -0.236, -0.218, p<0.01, respectively); and EPFS correlated to BMI, FFMI, PBF, PSMM, BFMI, and IH (r = -0.200, 0.168, p<0.05, and r = -0.369, 0.378, 0.376, -0.317, p <0.01, respectively). Two models of predictions were extracted: 1) PBF, BFMI, PMI and FFMI (R2 = 0.250, p<0.001); 2) PBF, BFMI and PMI (R2 = 0.244, p<0.001). Obtained prediction models may be a promising screening method of a POs' fitness, when conducting the physical tests is not possible or safe (obese and injured POs or bad weather conditions).

En este trabajo realizado con oficiales de policía (OP) se sugiere una asociación entre la composición corporal y el rendimiento físico y la salud. El objetivo del estudio fue investigar las asociaciones entre la composición corporal y las medidas de aptitud física, y su uso para predecir el puntaje de aptitud física estimado (PAFE). La muestra incluyó 163 OP masculinos (edad = 31,61 ± 4,79 años, altura = 172,97 ± 6,09 cm, masa corporal = 77,53 ± 11,66 kg). Se analizaron ocho variables de composición corporal: índice de masa corporal (IMC), índice de masa corporal grasa (IMCG), porcentaje de grasa corporal (PGC), porcentaje de masa muscular esquelética (PMME), índice de hipoquinezia (IH), índice de masa muscular esquelética (IMME), índice de masa proteica (IMP) e índice de masa libre de grasa (IMLG); y cuatro medidas de aptitud física: se correlacionaron una carrera de 3,2 km, una elevación de 2 minutos, una postura de 2 minutos y un puntaje de aptitud física estimada (PAFE), seguido del análisis de regresión para la relación causal entre la composición corporal y el PAFE. La prueba de ejecución de 3,2 km se correlacionó con el IMC, PGC, PMME, IMCG y IMME (r = 0,274, 0,250, -0,234, 0,311, p <0,01, respectivamente); Push-up de 2 minutos correlacionado con PGC, PMME, IMCG, IMME, PMI, IH y IMLG (r = -0,413, 0,436, -0,375, 0,221, 0,231, 0,411, 0,261, p <0,01, respectivamente); Sit-up de 2 minutos correlacionado con PGC, PMME, IMCG e IH (r = -0,237, 0,250, 0,236, -0,218, p <0,01, respectivamente); y EPFS correlacionado con IMC, IMLG, PGC , PMME, IGMC e IH (r = -0,200, 0,168, p <0,05, y r = -0,369, 0,378, 0,376, -0,317, p <0,01, respectivamente). Se extrajeron dos modelos de predicción: 1) PGC, IGMC, IMP y IMLG (R2 = 0,250, p <0,001); 2) PGC, IGMC y IMP (R2 = 0,244, p <0,00). Los modelos de predicción obtenidos pueden ser un método prometedor de detección de la condición física de los OP, cuando no es posible o seguro realizar las pruebas físicas (OP obesos y lesionados o condiciones climáticas adversas).

The link between the consumption of sweetened beverages and the development of overweight and obesity among students of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus in Trinidad and Tobago

Background: Many risk factors, which contribute to the development of overweight and/or obesity have been investigated and identified. However, one of the largest independent contributors to the obesity epidemic, which is often overlooked, is the increased consumption of sweetened beverages, particularly among the adolescents and young adults. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between sweetened beverage consumption and the development of overweight and obesity among the students of The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study design was used, with a non-probability sampling method. The target population were the students of the University of the West Indies, St Augustine aged ≥18 years of age. The research data were collected through the distribution of a self-administered questionnaire, which was completed by each participant while anthropometric and clinical measurements were completed by the researchers. A total of 161 questionnaires were distributed to the students of participants. Out of 161 questionnaires distributed, 137 were collected, but only 133 were fully completed, which gave a response rate of 83%. Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics 19.0 (IBM Corporation, Chicago, IL, USA). Results: 97.1% of the participants stated that they consumed sweetened beverages while only 2.9% said that they did not. Based on the results generated from chi-squared statistic test, there was no association between BMI and gender, age group, ethnicity, and the frequency of the consumption of sweetened beverages and their quantities. Conclusion: No association between the intakes of sweetened beverages and overweight and/or obesity was found among the participants, but a very high prevalence of the consumption of these beverages was observed in the subjects.

Risk Factors for Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity in a Primary Care Context of Central Argentina: A Web-Based Interactive and Cross-Sectional Study.

Global health agencies estimate an increase of chronic diseases in South America. Nevertheless, few studies have investigated chronic diseases and their risk factors in the perspective of multimorbidity. This research aimed to identify these aspects in a primary health care setting of central Argentina. The Pan America version of the STEP wise approach surveillance (STEPS) instrument of the World Health Organization was applied to 1044 participants, 365 men and 679 women, with a mean age of 43 years. High prevalence of overweight (33.5%), obesity (35.2%), central obesity (54%), dyslipidemia (43.5%), metabolic syndrome (21.1%), low intake of fruit and vegetables (91.8%), low levels of physical activity (71.5%), risky alcohol consumption (28%), and smoking (22.5%) were detected. Hypertension and diabetes were the most prevalent chronic conditions and the total prevalence of multimorbidity was 33.1%, with 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 chronic conditions found in 19.9%, 9.1%, 2.6%, 1.1% and 0.4% of the population, respectively. Multimorbidity affected 6.4% of the young, 31.7% of the adults, and 60.6% of the elderly, and was more prevalent among women, and in participants with lower levels of education. Having multimorbidity was significantly associated with obesity, central obesity, and higher concentrations of total blood cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. A website was made available to the participants in order to share the experimental results and health-promoting information.

Waist circumference as a mediator of biological maturation effect on the motor coordination in children / Perímetro de cintura como mediador da influência da maturação biológica no desempenho de coordenação motora em crianças

Abstract Objective: The present study aimed to: 1) examine the association of biological maturation effect on performance at a motor coordination battery and 2) to assess whether the association between biological maturation and scores obtained in motor coordination tests is mediated by some anthropometric measurement. Methods: The convenience sample consisted of 73 male children aged 8 years old. Anthropometric data considered the height, body mass, sitting height, waist circumference, body mass index, fat mass and fat-free mass estimates. Biological maturation was assessed by the percentage of the predicted mature stature. Motor coordination was tested by the Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder. A partial correlation between anthropometric measurements, z-score of maturation and the motor coordination tests were performed, controlling for chronological age. Finally, causal mediation analysis was performed. Results: Height, body mass, waist circumference and fat mass showed a slight to moderate inverse correlation with motor coordination. Biological maturation was significantly associated with the balance test with backward walking (r=-0.34). Total mediation of the waist circumference was identified in the association between biological maturation and balance test with backward walking (77%). Conclusions: We identified an association between biological maturation and KTK test performance in male children and also verified that there is mediation of waist circumference. It is recommended that studies be carried out with female individuals and at other age ranges.

Resumo Objetivo: O presente estudo teve como objetivos: 1) analisar a associação do estado maturacional com o desempenho nas provas de coordenação motora em crianças e 2) examinar se a relação entre o estado maturacional e o desempenho no KTK é mediada por alguma medida antropométrica. Métodos: A amostra de conveniência foi composta por 73 crianças do sexo masculino com 8 anos. A antropometria considerou a estatura, massa corporal, altura sentado, o perímetro de cintura, índice de massa corporal, as estimativas de massa gorda e massa livre de gordura. A maturação biológica foi avaliada pelo percentual da estatura matura predita. A coordenação motora foi testada pela bateria Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder. Foi feita a correlação parcial entre as medidas antropométricas, z-escore da maturação e as provas de coordenação motora, com controle para idade cronológica. Por último, a análise de mediação causal foi feita. Resultados: Estatura, massa corporal, perímetro de cintura e massa gorda apresentaram correlação inversa de magnitude pequena a moderada com as provas de coordenação motora. A maturação biológica associou-se significativamente à prova de equilíbrio em marcha à retaguarda (r=-0,34). Foi identificada mediação total do perímetro de cintura na relação do estado maturacional com o equilíbrio em marcha à retaguarda (77%). Conclusões: Foi possível identificar a associação entre o estado físico maturacional e o desempenho em uma prova de bateria de coordenação motora em crianças do sexo masculino e, ainda, afirmar que há mediação do perímetro de cintura. Recomenda-se que estudos sejam feitos com indivíduos de outras idades e do sexo feminino.