Muscle Oxygen Extraction during Vascular Occlusion Test in Physically Very Active versus Inactive Healthy Men: A Comparative Study.

An increase in the delivery and use of oxygen to the musculature in physically active subjects are determinants of improving health-related aerobic capacity. Additional health benefits, such as an increase in the muscle mass and a decrease in fat mass, principally in the legs, could be achieved with weekly global physical activity levels of more than 300 min. The objective was to compare the muscle vascular and metabolic profiles of physically very active and inactive subjects. Twenty healthy men participated in the study; ten were assigned to the physically very active group (25.5 ± 4.2 years; 72.7 ± 8.1 kg; 173.7 ± 7.6 cm) and ten to the physically inactive group (30.0 ± 7.4 years; 74.9 ± 11.8 kg; 173.0 ± 6.4 cm). The level of physical activity was determined by the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). A resting vascular occlusion test (5 min of an ischemic phase and 3 min of a reperfusion phase) was used, whereas a near-field infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) device was used to evaluate the muscle oxygenation in the right vastus lateralis of the quadriceps muscle. The area under the curve of the deoxyhemoglobin (HHb) during the ischemic phase and above the curve of the tissue saturation index (TSI) during the reperfusion phase were obtained to determine muscle metabolic and vascular responses, respectively. Physically very active group showed a higher absolute HHb (3331.9 ± 995.7 vs. 6182.7 ± 1632.5 mmol/s) and lower TSI (7615.0 ± 1111.9 vs. 5420.0 ± 781.4 %/s) and relative to body weight (46.3 ± 14.6 vs. 84.4 ± 27.1 mmol/s/kg and 106.0 ± 20.6 vs. 73.6 ± 13.8 %/s/kg, respectively), muscle mass (369.9 ± 122.2 vs. 707.5 ± 225.8 mmol/kg and 829.7 ± 163.4 vs. 611.9 ± 154.2 %/s/kg) and fat mass (1760.8 ± 522.9 vs. 2981.0 ± 1239.9 mmol/s/kg and 4160.0 ± 1257.3 vs. ±2638.4 ± 994.3 %/s/kg, respectively) than physically inactive subjects. A negative correlation was observed between HHb levels and TSI (r = -0.6; p < 0.05). Physically very active men (>300 min/week) present better muscle oxidative metabolism and perfusion and perform significantly more physical activity than physically inactive subjects. Extra benefits for vascular health and muscle oxidative metabolism are achieved when a subject becomes physically very active, as recommended by the World Health Organization. In addition, a higher level of physical activity determined by GPAQ is related to better vascular function and oxidative metabolism of the main locomotor musculature, i.e., the quadriceps.

Examining the Interaction between Exercise, Gut Microbiota, and Neurodegeneration: Future Research Directions.

Physical activity has been demonstrated to have a significant impact on gut microbial diversity and function. Emerging research has revealed certain aspects of the complex interactions between the gut, exercise, microbiota, and neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that changes in gut microbial diversity and metabolic function may have an impact on the onset and progression of neurological conditions. This study aimed to review the current literature from several databases until 1 June 2023 (PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) on the interplay between the gut, physical exercise, microbiota, and neurodegeneration. We summarized the roles of exercise and gut microbiota on neurodegeneration and identified the ways in which these are all connected. The gut-brain axis is a complex and multifaceted network that has gained considerable attention in recent years. Research indicates that gut microbiota plays vital roles in metabolic shifts during physiological or pathophysiological conditions in neurodegenerative diseases; therefore, they are closely related to maintaining overall health and well-being. Similarly, exercise has shown positive effects on brain health and cognitive function, which may reduce/delay the onset of severe neurological disorders. Exercise has been associated with various neurochemical changes, including alterations in cortisol levels, increased production of endorphins, endocannabinoids like anandamide, as well as higher levels of serotonin and dopamine. These changes have been linked to mood improvements, enhanced sleep quality, better motor control, and cognitive enhancements resulting from exercise-induced effects. However, further clinical research is necessary to evaluate changes in bacteria taxa along with age- and sex-based differences.

Bio-Banding in Handball: Academy Players' Perceptions Based on Maturity Status and Gender.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate young male and female handball players' perceptions of the bio-banding concept. The estimated biological maturity status was assessed in a sample of 46 male and 40 female handball players (aged 14.06±1.40 years), who competed in both an annual age-group and bio-banded tournament. To test the players' perception of bio-banding, a post-competition questionnaire was conducted. A series of ANOVA and one-sample t-tests were used in order to examine the differences in perception between the different maturity groups. An inductive thematic analysis of the qualitative data recorded in the open-ended questions was also carried out. The results showed that early-maturing boys enjoyed the bio-banding tournament more than late-maturing boys (p<0.05). Conversely, no differences were found in girls (p>0.05). Furthermore, discussions were conducted based on the qualitative analysis of the players' written comments regarding their overall experience, finding individual variance in biological maturity may be less relevant in female sports contexts due to gender-related differences. Thus, a greater influence on play and leadership in late maturing boys and early maturing girls, a greater physical challenge in early maturing boys and an opportunity to express themselves technically and tactically in late maturing boys and on-time maturing girls were observed. Therefore, stakeholders must consider the different consequences of bio-banding in order to maximize the athlete's sport development process.

Two decades of research in human movement science in Costa Rica: future growth and development / Dos décadas de investigación en ciencias del movimiento humano en Costa Rica: crecimiento y desarrollo futuro

Rojas-Valverde, D. (2023). Two decades of research in human movement science in Costa Rica: future growth and development. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-20. This manuscript provides a thorough analysis of the two-decade study of human movement science in Costa Rica, emphasizing the noteworthy expansion and advancement of the field. To enhance athletic performance, avoid injuries, treat diseases, and encourage physical exercise, researchers in Costa Rica have developed in-depth analyses, from the basic mechanics of human movement to the development of novel methods and technologies to do so. This article also looks at the potential for Costa Rica to become a leader in the field of human movement science research in the region, as well as its future growth and development. To spur innovation and enhance the outcomes of this research, the author discusses the significance of collaboration with specialists from across the world as well as the requirement for ongoing investment in research and development. The future challenges section provides keys to maintaining the exponential growth of recent years to foster development in issues such as the participation of women in the area, the permanent renewal of study plans, and the incorporation of cross-cutting axes of systematization and research in academic and labour processes. Finally, this study offers a path for the development of human movement science research in Costa Rica, with the potential to significantly move forward in the worldwide endeavour to enhance human movement, performance, and health.

Rojas-Valverde, D. (2023). Dos décadas de investigación en ciencias del movimiento humano en Costa Rica: crecimiento y desarrollo futuro. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-20. Este manuscrito proporciona un análisis completo del estudio de dos décadas de la ciencia del movimiento humano en Costa Rica, enfatizando la notable expansión y avance del campo. Con el fin de mejorar el rendimiento deportivo, evitar lesiones, tratar enfermedades y fomentar el ejercicio físico, investigadores en Costa Rica han desarrollado análisis profundos, desde la mecánica básica del movimiento humano hasta la creación de métodos y tecnología novedosos para hacerlo. El artículo también analiza el potencial de Costa Rica para convertirse en un líder en el campo de la investigación de la ciencia del movimiento humano en la región, así como su futuro crecimiento y desarrollo. Con el fin de estimular la innovación y mejorar los resultados de esta investigación, el autor analiza la importancia de la colaboración con especialistas de todo el mundo, así como el requisito de una inversión continua en investigación y desarrollo. La sección de retos futuros entrega claves para mantener el crecimiento exponencial de los últimos años y evolucionar en temas como la participación de la mujer en el área, la renovación permanente de los planes de estudio y la incorporación de ejes transversales de sistematización e investigación en los procesos universitarios y laborales. Al final, esta investigación ofrece un camino para el desarrollo de la ciencia del movimiento humano en Costa Rica, con el potencial de avanzar significativamente en el esfuerzo mundial para mejorar el movimiento, el rendimiento y la salud humanos.

Rojas-Valverde, D. (2023). Duas décadas de pesquisa em ciência do movimento humano na Costa Rica: crescimento e desenvolvimento futuros. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1),1-20. Este manuscrito fornece uma análise abrangente do estudo de duas décadas da ciência do movimento humano na Costa Rica, enfatizando a notável expansão e o avanço do campo. Para melhorar o desempenho esportivo, prevenir lesões, tratar doenças e promover o exercício físico, os pesquisadores da Costa Rica desenvolveram análises aprofundadas, desde a mecânica básica do movimento humano até a criação de novos métodos e tecnologias para isso. O artigo também analisa o potencial da Costa Rica para se tornar líder no campo da pesquisa da ciência do movimento humano na região, bem como seu crescimento e desenvolvimento futuros. Com a finalidade de estimular a inovação e melhorar os resultados desta pesquisa, o autor discute a importância da colaboração com especialistas de todo o mundo, bem como a necessidade de investimento contínuo em pesquisa e desenvolvimento. A seção sobre desafios futuros fornece as chaves para manter o crescimento exponencial dos últimos anos e evoluir em áreas como a participação das mulheres no campo, a renovação permanente dos planos de estudo e a incorporação de temas transversais de sistematização e pesquisa nos processos universitários e de trabalho. Por fim, esta pesquisa oferece um caminho para o desenvolvimento da ciência do movimento humano na Costa Rica, com o potencial de avançar significativamente o esforço global para melhorar a saúde, o movimento e o desempenho humanos.

Anthropometric, aerobic and muscle power profile of young Costa Rican basketball players / Perfil antropométrico, aeróbico y de potencia muscular de jugadores juveniles de baloncesto costarricenses

Gutiérrez-Vargas, R., Ugalde-Ramírez, A., Pino-Ortega, J., Trejos-Montoya, J.A., Blanco-Romero, L., Sánchez-Ureña, B., Gutiérrez-Vargas, J.C. y Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Perfil antropométrico, aeróbico y de potencia muscular de jugadores juveniles de baloncesto costarricenses. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-17. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir un perfil antropométrico, aeróbico y de potencia muscular de basquetbolistas juveniles costarricenses según sexo, posiciones de juego y categoría de edad. Se evaluaron 99 jugadores juveniles (43 mujeres y 56 hombres; 18 bases, 51 aleros y 30 pívots; 42 categoría U16 y 57 categoría U18) de ocho equipos diferentes. La experiencia deportiva de los jugadores fue de 6.5 ± 3.1 años. Se realizaron las siguientes evaluaciones: altura, peso, índice de masa corporal, masa músculo-esquelética, porcentaje de grasa, prueba de contramovimiento (CMJ) y prueba de Yo-Yo de Recuperación Intermitente Nivel I. Los principales resultados mostraron valores significativamente mayores en hombres que en mujeres en peso, talla, masa músculo-esquelética, distancia recorrida en la prueba Yo-Yo, en el VO2max, altura en el CMJ y en el tiempo de vuelo. El porcentaje de grasa fue mayor en mujeres que en hombres. Los jugadores pívots presentaron significativamente mayor estatura, peso corporal y porcentaje de grasa que las otras posiciones de juego. Los bases y los aleros cubrieron más metros en la prueba Yo-Yo y tuvieron mayor VO2máx que los pívots. Entre las categorías U16 y U18 no se encontraron diferencias significativas en ninguna variable. Modelos de regresión mostraron la influencia del peso, porcentaje de grasa corporal, masa músculo esquelética y la edad sobre el VO2máx y CMJ. Como conclusión, según el sexo y las posiciones de juego de los jugadores, estos indicadores variaron. Además, esta información será útil para procesos de promoción, desarrollo y diseño de entrenamientos de baloncesto juvenil en Costa Rica.

Gutiérrez-Vargas, R., Ugalde-Ramírez, A., Pino-Ortega, J., Trejos-Montoya, J.A., Blanco-Romero, L., Sánchez-Ureña, B., Gutiérrez-Vargas, J.C. e Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Perfil antropométrico, aeróbico e de potência muscular de jogadores juvenis de basquete da Costa Rica. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-17. Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever um perfil antropométrico, aeróbico e de potência muscular de jogadores juvenis de basquete da Costa Rica segundo o sexo, as posições de jogo e a categoria de idade. Foram avaliados 99 jogadores juvenis (43 mulheres e 56 homens; 18 armadores, 51 alas e 30 pivôs; 42 na categoria U16 e 57 na categoria U18) de oito equipes diferentes. A experiência esportiva dos jogadores foi de 6,5 ± 3,1 anos. Foram realizadas as seguintes avaliações: altura, peso, índice de massa corporal, massa musculoesquelética e porcentagem de gordura, teste de salto com contramovimento (SCM) e teste de Yo-Yo de Recuperação Intermitente Nível I. Os principais resultados mostraram valores significativamente maiores em homens do que em mulheres com relação ao peso, tamanho, massa muscular esquelética, distância percorrida no teste Yo-Yo, VO2max, altura no SCM e no tempo de voo. A porcentagem de gordura foi maior em mulheres do que em homens. Os jogadores pivôs apresentaram significativamente maior estatura, peso corporal e porcentagem de gordura do que as outras posições de jogo. Os armadores e os alas cobriram mais metros no teste Yo-Yo e tiveram maior VO2max do que os pivôs. Entre as categorias U16 e U18 não foram encontradas diferenças significativas em nenhuma variável. Modelos de regressão mostraram a influência do peso, da porcentagem de gordura corporal, da massa musculoesquelética e da idade no VO2max e SCM. Conclui-se, portanto, que esses indicadores variam segundo o sexo e as posições dos jogadores. Além disso, essa informação será útil para processos de fomentação, desenvolvimento e desenho de treinamentos de basquete juvenil na Costa Rica.

Gutiérrez-Vargas, R., Ugalde-Ramírez, A., Pino-Ortega, J., Trejos-Montoya, J.A., Blanco-Romero, L., Sánchez-Ureña, B., Gutiérrez-Vargas, J.C. & Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Anthropometric, aerobic and muscle power profile of young Costa Rican basketball players. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 21(1), 1-17. The purpose of this study was to describe an anthropometric, aerobic and muscle power profile of young Costa Rican basketball players according to sex, play positions and age. The assessment was carried outa on 99 young players (43 women and 56 men; 18 guards, 51 forwards and 30 centers; 42 in the U16 category and 57 in the U18 category) from eight different teams. The sports experience of the players was 6.5 ± 3.1 years. The following parameters were assessed: height, weight, body mass index, skeletal muscle mass and body fat percentage, countermovement test (CMJ) and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level I. The main results showed significantly higher values in men than in women in terms of weight, height, skeletal muscle mass, distance covered in the yo-yo test, VO2max, height in CMJ and in flight time. Body fat percentage was higher in women than in men. Centers showed significantly higher height, weight and body fat percentage than other play positions. Guards and forwards covered more meters in the yo-yo test and showed higher VO2max than centers. No significant differences were found between the U16 and U18 categories in any variable. Regression models showed the influence of weight, body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass and age on VO2max and CMJ. In conclusion, these indicators varied according to the sex and play position of the players. Additionally, this information will be useful for processes of promotion, development and training design of youth basketball in Costa Rica.

Crucial workload variables in female-male elite Brazilian Beach Handball: An exploratory factor analysis.

This study aimed to identify the most important variables of male and female beach handball workload demands and compare them by sex. A total of 92 elite Brazilian beach handball players (54 male: age 22.1 ± 2.6 years, height 1.8 ± 0.5 m, weight 77.6 ± 13.4 kg; and 38 female: age 24.4 ± 5.5 years, height 1.7 ± 0.5 m, weight 67.5 ± 6.5 kg) were analyzed in 24 official matches during a four-day congested tournament. From 250 variables measured by the inertial measurement unit, fourteen were extracted for analysis using Principal Component Analysis as selection criteria. Five Principal Components (PC) were extracted that explained 81.2-82.8% of total variance (overview of workload demands during beach handball). Specifically, 36.2-39.3% was explained by PC1 (DistanceExpl, Distance, Distance4-7 km/h, and Acc), 15-18% by PC2 (AccMax, Acc3-4 m/s, Dec4-3 m/s), 10.7-12.9% by PC3 (JumpsAvg Take-Off, JumpsAvg Landing and PLRT), 8-9.4% by PC4 (Distance> 18.1 km/h, SpeedMax), and 6.7-7.7% by PC5 (HRAvg and Step Balance). Sex-related differences were found in the PC distribution of variables, as well as in selected variables (HRAvg, Dec4-3 m/s, Acc3-4 m/s, JumpsAvg Take-Off, JumpsAvg Landing, AccMax, Distance, Distance4-7 km/h, Acc, SpeedMax) with higher values in male players (p < .05). In conclusion, the sex-related PC distribution and workload demands in beach handball should consider for training design and injury prevention programs.

A Proposal of Speed Zone Classification in Basketball: A New-Criteria Based on Maximum Registered Values / Propuesta para la clasificación de las zonas de velocidad en baloncesto: Un nuevo criterio basado en los máximos valores registrados

Abstract The quantification of training load has become mandatory for coaches and team staff. Within the analyzed variables, distance covered at different speed zones is one of the most studied. However, there is no consensus in the definition of speed zones in the published articles about each team sport, so it makes difficult a comparison between them. Therefore, the purposes of this article were to establish a criteria standard in the classification of speed zones in team sports and to analyze its practical application in basketball. Five speed categories were established for basketball following the methodology described above: 0-10km/h, >10-13.8 km/h, >13.8-17.6 km/h, >17.6-21.5 km/h, and >21.5 km/h. The results showed differences between periods in high-speed displacements and sprints, maximum speed, total decelerations, and accelerations. In conclusion, the categorization of workload based on standard deviation according to maximum speed could be a viable option to individualize the analysis of distance covered per speeds in team sports such as basketball. Its use may lead to a better understanding and contextualization of the locomotion data in specific sports and teams.

Resumen La cuantificación de la carga de entrenamiento se ha convertido en una obligación para el personal entrenador y el personal técnico en los deportes de equipo. Dentro de las variables analizadas, la distancia recorrida en distintas zonas de velocidad es una de las más estudiadas. Sin embargo, no existe consenso en la definición de zonas de velocidad en los artículos publicados sobre cada uno de estos deportes, por lo que dificulta la comparación entre ellos. Por tanto, los objetivos de este artículo fueron establecer un criterio estándar en la clasificación de zonas de velocidad en los deportes de equipo y analizar su aplicación práctica en baloncesto. Se establecieron cinco categorías de velocidad para el baloncesto siguiendo la metodología descrita anteriormente: 0-10 km/h, >10-13,8 km/h, >13,8-17,6 km/h, >17,6-21,5 km/h y >21,5 km/h. Los resultados muestran entre períodos en desplazamientos de alta velocidad y esprints, velocidad máxima, desaceleraciones y aceleraciones totales. En conclusión, la categorización de las demandas basadas en la desviación estándar, según la velocidad máxima, podría ser una opción viable para individualizar el análisis de la distancia recorrida por velocidades en deportes de equipo como el baloncesto. Su utilización puede ayudar a una mejor comprensión y contextualización de los datos de desplazamientos en deportes y equipos específicos.

Resumo A quantificação da carga de treinamento se tornou uma obrigação para treinadores e pessoal técnico em esportes coletivos. Entre as variáveis analisadas, a distância percorrida em diferentes zonas de velocidade é uma das mais estudadas. Entretanto, não há consenso na definição de zonas de velocidade nos artigos publicados sobre cada esporte coletivo, o que torna difícil a comparação entre eles. Portanto, os objetivos deste artigo eram estabelecer um critério padrão na classificação das zonas de velocidade nos esportes coletivos e analisar sua aplicação prática no basquetebol. Foram estabelecidas cinco categorias de velocidade para o basquetebol seguindo a metodologia descrita acima: 0-10 km/h, >10-13,8 km/h, >13,8-17,6 km/h, >17,6-21,5 km/h, >21,5 km/h. Os resultados mostram entre períodos de alta velocidade e sprints, velocidade máxima, desacelerações e acelerações totais. Em conclusão, a categorização das demandas com base no desvio padrão de acordo com a velocidade máxima poderia ser uma opção viável para individualizar a análise da distância percorrida pelas velocidades em esportes coletivos como o basquetebol. Seu uso pode ajudar a compreender e contextualizar melhor os dados de movimento em esportes e equipes específicas.

Anthropometric, aerobic and muscle power profile of young Costa Rican basketball players / Perfil antropométrico, aeróbico y de potencia muscular de jugadores juveniles de baloncesto costarricenses

Gutiérrez-Vargas, R., Ugalde-Ramírez, A., Pino-Ortega, J., Trejos-Montoya, J.A., Blanco-Romero, L., Sánchez-Ureña, B., Gutiérrez-Vargas, J.C. & Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Anthropometric, aerobic and muscle power profile of young Costa Rican basketball players. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(2), 1-15. The purpose of this study was to describe an anthropometric, aerobic and muscle power profile of young Costa Rican basketball players according to sex, play positions and age. The assessment was carried outa on 99 young players (43 women and 56 men; 18 guards, 51 forwards and 30 centers; 42 in the U16 category and 57 in the U18 category) from eight different teams. The sports experience of the players was 6.5 ± 3.1 years. The following parameters were assessed: height, weight, body mass index, skeletal muscle mass and body fat percentage, countermovement test (CMJ) and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level I. The main results showed significantly higher values in men than in women in terms of weight, height, skeletal muscle mass, distance covered in the yo-yo test, VO2max, height in CMJ and in flight time. Body fat percentage was higher in women than in men. Centers showed significantly higher height, weight and body fat percentage than other play positions. Guards and forwards covered more meters in the yo-yo test and showed higher VO2max than centers. No significant differences were found between the U16 and U18 categories in any variable. Regression models showed the influence of weight, body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass and age on VO2max and CMJ. In conclusion, these indicators varied according to the sex and play position of the players. Additionally, this information will be useful for processes of promotion, development and training design of youth basketball in Costa Rica.

Gutiérrez-Vargas, R., Ugalde-Ramírez, A., Pino-Ortega, J., Trejos-Montoya, J.A., Blanco-Romero, L., Sánchez-Ureña, B., Gutiérrez-Vargas, J.C. y Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Perfil antropométrico, aeróbico y de potencia muscular de jugadores juveniles de baloncesto costarricenses. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(2), 1-15. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir un perfil antropométrico, aeróbico y de potencia muscular de basquetbolistas juveniles costarricenses según sexo, posiciones de juego y categoría de edad. Se evaluaron 99 jugadores juveniles (43 mujeres y 56 hombres; 18 bases, 51 aleros y 30 pívots; 42 categoría U16 y 57 categoría U18) de ocho equipos diferentes. La experiencia deportiva de los jugadores fue de 6.5 ± 3.1 años. Se realizaron las siguientes evaluaciones: altura, peso, índice de masa corporal, masa de músculo esquelética y porcentaje de grasa, prueba de contramovimiento (CMJ) y prueba de Yo-Yo de Recuperación Intermitente Nivel I. Los principales resultados mostraron valores significativamente mayores en hombres que en mujeres en peso, talla, masa muscular esquelética, distancia recorrida en la prueba Yo-Yo, VO2max, altura en el CMJ y en el tiempo de vuelo. El porcentaje de grasa fue mayor en mujeres que en hombres. Los jugadores pívots presentaron significativamente mayor estatura, peso corporal y porcentaje de grasa que las otras posiciones de juego. Los bases y los aleros cubrieron más metros en la prueba Yo-Yo y tuvieron mayor VO2max que los pívots. Entre las categorías U16 y U18 no se encontraron diferencias significativas en ninguna variable. Modelos de regresión mostraron la influencia del peso, porcentaje de grasa corporal, masa músculo esquelética y la edad sobre el VO2max y CMJ. Como conclusión, según el sexo y las posiciones de juego de los jugadores, estos indicadores variaron. Además, esta información será útil para procesos de promoción, desarrollo y diseño de entrenamientos de baloncesto juvenil en Costa Rica.

Gutiérrez-Vargas, R., Ugalde-Ramírez, A., Pino-Ortega, J., Trejos-Montoya, J.A., Blanco-Romero, L., Sánchez-Ureña, B., Gutiérrez-Vargas, J.C. e Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Perfil antropométrico, aeróbico e de potência muscular de jogadores juvenis de basquete da Costa Rica. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(2), 1-15. Este estudo teve como objetivo descrever um perfil antropométrico, aeróbico e de potência muscular de jogadores juvenis de basquete da Costa Rica segundo o sexo, as posições de jogo e a categoria de idade. Foram avaliados 99 jogadores juvenis (43 mulheres e 56 homens; 18 armadores, 51 alas e 30 pivôs; 42 na categoria U16 e 57 na categoria U18) de oito equipes diferentes. A experiência esportiva dos jogadores foi de 6,5 ± 3,1 anos. Foram realizadas as seguintes avaliações: altura, peso, índice de massa corporal, massa musculoesquelética e porcentagem de gordura, teste de salto com contramovimento (SCM) e teste de Yo-Yo de Recuperação Intermitente Nível I. Os principais resultados mostraram valores significativamente maiores em homens do que em mulheres com relação ao peso, tamanho, massa muscular esquelética, distância percorrida no teste Yo-Yo, VO2max, altura no SCM e no tempo de voo. A porcentagem de gordura foi maior em mulheres do que em homens. Os jogadores pivôs apresentaram significativamente maior estatura, peso corporal e porcentagem de gordura do que as outras posições de jogo. Os armadores e os alas cobriram mais metros no teste Yo-Yo e tiveram maior VO2max do que os pivôs. Entre as categorias U16 e U18 não foram encontradas diferenças significativas em nenhuma variável. Modelos de regressão mostraram a influência do peso, da porcentagem de gordura corporal, da massa musculoesquelética e da idade no VO2max e SCM. Conclui-se, portanto, que esses indicadores variam segundo o sexo e as posições dos jogadores. Além disso, essa informação será útil para processos de fomentação, desenvolvimento e desenho de treinamentos de basquete juvenil na Costa Rica.

Pesticide exposure and cortical brain activation among farmworkers in Costa Rica.

BACKGROUND: Previous epidemiological studies have reported associations of pesticide exposure with poor cognitive function and behavioral problems. However, these findings have relied primarily on neuropsychological assessments. Questions remain about the neurobiological effects of pesticide exposure, specifically where in the brain pesticides exert their effects and whether compensatory mechanisms in the brain may have masked pesticide-related associations in studies that relied purely on neuropsychological measures. METHODS: We conducted a functional neuroimaging study in 48 farmworkers from Zarcero County, Costa Rica, in 2016. We measured concentrations of 13 insecticide, fungicide, or herbicide metabolites or parent compounds in urine samples collected during two study visits (approximately 3-5 weeks apart). We assessed cortical brain activation in the prefrontal cortex during tasks of working memory, attention, and cognitive flexibility using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). We estimated associations of pesticide exposure with cortical brain activation using multivariable linear regression models adjusted for age and education level. RESULTS: We found that higher concentrations of insecticide metabolites were associated with reduced activation in the prefrontal cortex during a working memory task. For example, 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy; a metabolite of the organophosphate chlorpyrifos) was associated with reduced activation in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (ß = -2.3; 95% CI: -3.9, -0.7 per two-fold increase in TCPy). Similarly, 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA; a metabolite of pyrethroid insecticides) was associated with bilateral reduced activation in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortices (ß = -3.1; 95% CI: -5.0, -1.2 and -2.3; 95% CI: -4.5, -0.2 per two-fold increase in 3-PBA for left and right cortices, respectively). These associations were similar, though weaker, for the attention and cognitive flexibility tasks. We observed null associations of fungicide and herbicide biomarker concentrations with cortical brain activation during the three tasks that were administered. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides may impact cortical brain activation in the prefrontal cortex - neural dynamics that could potentially underlie previously reported associations with cognitive and behavioral function. Furthermore, our study demonstrates the feasibility and utility of fNIRS in epidemiological field studies.

Effectiveness of Nitrate Intake on Recovery from Exercise-Related Fatigue: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Recovery between efforts is critical to achieving optimal physical and sports performance. In this sense, many nutritional supplements that have been proven to improve recovery and physical and physiological performance are widely used. Supplements such as nitrates (NO3-), including organic foods such as beets, promote muscle recovery and relieve fatigue. This study aimed to comprehensively summarise the available literature on the effect of NO3- consumption on exercise-related fatigue and muscle damage. METHODS: A systematic search was carried out based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) using electronic databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science). From a total of 1634 studies identified, 15 studies were included in this review. RESULTS: Based on the review, NO3- intake provokes physiological and metabolic responses that could potentially boost exercise-related recovery. NO3- could improve recovery indicators related to strength, pain, inflammation, and muscle damage. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the relative proven effectiveness of NO3- on recovery after aerobic and anaerobic efforts, based on the heterogeneity of the procedures (e.g., dosage, chronic vs. acute intake, participants' characteristics, variables and outcomes), it could be premature to suggest its extended use in sports.

Influence of fat percentage on muscle oxygen uptake and metabolic power during repeated-sprint ability of footballers

The aim of this study was to analyse the muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) dynamics during a repeated-sprint ability (RSA) protocol (8 sprints x 20 meters, 20 s recovery) using near-infrared spectroscopy. Twenty-five footballers were grouped according to the levels of body-fat percentage (level 1: <9%; level 2: 9.1–11.5%; and level 3: >11.6%) from the Spanish third division participated. During RSA, energy cost (EC), metabolic power (MP), speed and total time as external load were measured. Desaturation and resaturation rates and muscular oxygen extraction (▽% SmO2) of the gastrocnemius muscle, along with heart rate (HR) were used as indicators of internal load. ▽% SmO2 was identified as the most sensitive variable to detect the minimal change during RSA. Footballers with a lower fat percentage (level 1) achieved a higher ▽% SmO2 after the 4th sprint (Δ= –13; p= 0.001) and (Δ= 9.6; p= 0.017) vs level 2 and level 3, respectively. SmO2 was related to EC (r2= 0.57 p= 0.005), MP (r2= 0.61 p= 0.003), speed (r2= 0.59 p= 0.004) and total time (r2= 0.59 p= 0.004). Therefore, SmO2 was a better indicator of internal load than HR during RSA. The ▽% SmO2 can be used as a parameter to explore potential differences in footballers' RSA performance. Besides, we highlighted the relevance of measuring the body-fat percentage, since it is a variable that affects performance by disturbing ▽% SmO2, altering the ability to resist repeated high-speed bouts (sprints), a critical variable in football. (AU)

Comparing Sampling Frequencies to Measure Collective Tactical Variables During Soccer Training.

ABSTRACT: Rico-González, M, Pino-Ortega, J, Rojas-Valverde, D, and Arcos, AL. Comparing sampling frequencies to measure collective tactical variables during soccer training. J Strength Cond Res 36(10): 2862-2867, 2022-The sampling frequency of microsensors that measure the position of the players in team sports is a variable that could affect the accuracy of the measurement. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the sampling frequency on the outcomes of tactical behavior variables during soccer training. Sixteen U16 male soccer players participated in the study. Three tactical variables (change in the geometrical center position [cGCp], mean distance between players [mean-DbP], and total area [TA]) were measured at 4 different sampling frequencies (i.e., 10, 4, 2, and 1 Hz) during a 7+goalkeeper-a-side soccer match by a time motion tracking system using inertial measurement units (IMU; WIMU PRO, RealTrack Systems, Almeria, Spain). Significant (p < 0.01) and substantial (ES = moderate-large) differences were found in the cGCp values across all sampling frequencies. Several significant (p < 0.05) and substantial (ES = small-moderate) differences were found in the mean-DbP values between 10 data per second and the rest of the sampling frequencies. There were no significant (p > 0.05) and substantial (ES = trivial) differences in the TA values across all sampling frequencies. The sampling frequency affects the outcomes of cGCp and mean-DbP but does not affect the values of TA. The outcomes of the studies that assess collective tactical behavior should be compared with caution if GC-related and distance variables were measured using different sampling frequencies. In addition, it seems that a smaller amount of data could be sufficient to measure area variables with greater magnitudes.

Analysis of Injuries and Wellness in Blind Athletes during an International Football Competition.

Five-a-side football for blind people is the only adapted football modality present at the Paralympic games. Fa5 is a collaborative-opposition sport in which its participants play with no vision, which causes numerous impacts. At the London 2012 Paralympic Games, it was the sport with the highest incidence of sports injuries. The main objective of this work is to analyse the association between pain perception; spatio-temporal, mechanical, and metabolic workload with injuries; and wellness in players during an international Fa5 competition. The following variables, monitored during an International Fa5 Tournament, were analysed: general well-being, perception of pain and injuries, and the spatio-temporal and metabolic workload. The results show that the incidence of injuries increases as the tournament progresses, where injured players reported greater muscle pain and stress before the matches started. Besides, the players' internal and external load did not explain the incidence of injury. Still, the values obtained in the wellness questionnaire, the perception of pain, and stress suggested they contributed to the incidence of injury.

Accuracy and reliability of inertial devices for load assessment during flywheel workout / Precisión y confiabilidad de los dispositivos inerciales para la evaluación de la carga durante entrenamiento con polea cónica

Abstract There is currently an increase in inertial flywheel application in strength training; thus, it must be monitored by an accurate and reliable device. The present study tested: (1) the accuracy of an inertial measurement device (IMU) to correctly measure angular velocity and (2) its inter-unit reliability for the measurement of external load. The analysis was performed using Pearson Correlation and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). The IMU accuracy was tested using Bland-Altman and the reliability with the coefficient of variation (CV). Ten elite-level football players performed ten series of 5 repetitions in a one-hand standing row exercise (5 series with each arm). A nearly perfect accuracy (ICC=.999) and a very good between-device reliability (Bias=-.010; CV=.017%) was found. IMU is a reliable and valid device to assess angular velocity in inertial flywheel workout objectively.

Resumen Actualmente, hay un aumento en la utilización de la polea cónica en el entrenamiento de fuerza; por lo tanto, es necesario monitorearlo con un dispositivo preciso y confiable. El presente estudio probó: (1) la precisión de un dispositivo de medición inercial (IMU), para medir correctamente la velocidad angular y (2) su confiabilidad entre unidades para la medición de carga externa. El análisis se realizó utilizando la correlación de Pearson y el Coeficiente de Correlación Intra-clase (CCI). La precisión de la IMU se probó usando Bland-Altman y la confiabilidad con el Coeficiente de Variación (CV). Diez jugadores de fútbol de nivel élite realizaron 10 series de 5 repeticiones en un ejercicio de fila de pie con una mano (5 series con cada brazo). Se encontró una precisión casi perfecta (ICC = .999) y una muy buena confiabilidad entre dispositivos (Sesgo = -. 010; CV = .017%). IMU´s es un dispositivo confiable y válido para evaluar objetivamente la velocidad angular en el entrenamiento inercial de la polea cónica.

Resumo Atualmente, há um aumento na utilização da polia cônica no treinamento de força; portanto, é necessário monitorá-lo com um dispositivo preciso e confiável. O presente estudo testou: (1) a precisão de um dispositivo de medição inercial (IMU), para medir corretamente a velocidade angular e (2) sua confiabilidade interunidades para medição de carga externa. A análise foi realizada por meio da correlação de Pearson e do Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (ICC). A precisão do IMU foi testada usando Bland-Altman e a confiabilidade com o Coeficiente de Variação (CV). Dez jogadores de futebol de elite realizaram 10 séries de 5 repetições em um exercício de linha em pé com uma mão (5 séries com cada braço). Foi encontrado uma precisão quase perfeita (ICC = 0,999) e confiabilidade entre dispositivos muito boa (Bias = - 0,010; CV = 0,017%). IMU's é um dispositivo confiável e válido para avaliar objetivamente a velocidade angular no treinamento inercial da polia cônica.

Rol crítico del trabajo final de graduación en el proceso de formación investigativa del estudiantado de ciencias del movimiento humano

Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Rol crítico del trabajo final de graduación en el proceso de formación investigativa del estudiantado de ciencias del movimiento humano. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(1), 1-10. Las prácticas científicas son un pilar en la formación de los profesionales de las Ciencias del Movimiento Humano (CMH), lo que acerca al estudiantado a la identificación y solución de problemas del contexto. Si bien las experiencias prácticas e investigativas son inherentes al proceso de mediación y formación pedagógica, un factor vinculado con este proceso es la elaboración del trabajo final de graduación (TFG). Gracias a los procesos de autoevaluación de las carreras, se ha identificado que el TFG es uno de los factores por los cuales la eficiencia terminal es cada vez menor. Esta problemática se ha subsanado, entre otras formas, con la utilización de modalidades como la prueba de grado, que requieren de menos tiempo y son muy puntuales en el mismo factor. Lo anterior si bien solventa en cierta medida la necesidad de aumentar las tasas de eficiencia terminal, no es considerado el mejor ejercicio académico para la identificación y resolución de problemas del contexto entorno a las CMH. En este sentido, urge resignificar el TFG como un proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de los conocimientos, valores y habilidades vinculados al ejercicio de la profesión y no reducirlo a una tarea al final de la etapa educativa. Para ello, debe vincularse el TFG a las prácticas de los cursos, provocando una construcción gradual del proceso investigativo y, de esta forma, implementar planes de diseño, gestión y seguimiento de los TFG.

Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). The critical role of the final graduation paper in the process of research formation of the students of human movement science. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(1), 1-10. Scientific practices are a pillar in the formation of professionals in Human Movement Science (HMS), which brings students closer to identifying and solving context problems. While practical and research experiences are inherent to the process of pedagogic mediation and formation, a factor linked to this process is the development of the final graduation paper (FGP). Thanks to the self-evaluation processes in study curricula, it has been possible to identify that the FGP is one of the factors why terminal efficiency is increasingly lower. This problem has been remedied, among other ways, with the use of other evaluation modes such as the degree exam, which requires less time and is very on-spot for the same factor. While this meets to a certain extent the need to increase the rates of terminal efficiency, it is not considered to be the best academic exercise for the identification and solution of context problems related to HMS. In this respect, it is urgent to re-signify the FGP as a process of teaching/learning of the knowledge, values and skills related to the practice of this profession, instead of reducing it to a homework at the end of the educational stage. For this purpose, it is necessary to link the FGP to course practices, resulting in a gradual construction of the research process, and thus implementing the plans for the design, management and follow-up of the FGP.

Rojas-Valverde, D. (2022). Papel crítico do trabalho final de graduação no processo de formação investigativa dos estudantes de ciências do movimento humano. PENSAR EN MOVIMIENTO: Revista de Ciencias del Ejercicio y la Salud, 20(1), 1-10. As práticas científicas são um pilar na formação dos profissionais de Ciências do Movimento Humano (CMH), aproximando os estudantes da identificação e solução de problemas contextuais. Embora as experiências práticas e investigativas sejam inerentes ao processo de mediação e formação pedagógica, um fator vinculado a esse processo é a elaboração do Trabalho de Conclusão de Curso (TCC). Graças aos processos de autoavaliação das matérias, identificou-se que o TCC é um dos fatores pelos quais a eficiência terminal é cada vez menor. Essa problemática foi remediada, entre outras formas, com a utilização de modalidades como a prova de graduação, que precisam de menos tempo e são muito pontuais no mesmo aspecto. As considerações anteriores, embora resolvam, em certa medida, a necessidade de aumentar as taxas de eficiência terminal, não é considerado o melhor exercício acadêmico para a identificação e resolução de problemas contextuais relacionados com as CMH. Nesse sentido, é improrrogável ressignificar o TCC como um processo de ensino-aprendizagem dos conhecimentos, valores e habilidades vinculados ao exercício da profissão e não o reduzir a uma tarefa no final da etapa educativa. Para isso, é preciso vincular o TCC às práticas dos cursos, promovendo uma construção gradativa do processo investigativo e, assim, implementar planos de elaboração, gestão e acompanhamento do TCC.