Vitamin D and the Metabolic Phenotype in Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery: A Longitudinal Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of vitamin D (VD) concentrations coupled with metabolic phenotypes preoperatively and 6 months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on body variables and weight loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A longitudinal, retrospective, analytical study comprising 30 adult individuals assessed preoperatively (T0) and 6 months (T1) after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The participants were distributed preoperatively into metabolically healthy obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obese individuals (MUHO) according to the HOMA-IR classification, as well as the adequacy and inadequacy of vitamin D concentrations in the form of 25(OH)D. All participants were assessed for weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), visceral adiposity index (VAI), body circularity index (BCI), body adiposity index (BAI), weight loss, and assessment of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D concentrations using high-performance liquid chromatography with an ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV). The statistical program used was SPSS version 21. RESULTS: VD adequacy and a healthy phenotype in the preoperative period may play an important role concerning body fat distribution, as the body averages for WHtR (0.020*) and BCI (0.020*) were lower in MHO participants. In comparison, those with VD inadequacy and MUHOs had higher BAI averages (0.000*) in the postoperative period. Furthermore, it is possible that VD inadequacy before and after RYGB, even in the presence of an unhealthy phenotype, may contribute to the increase in VAI values (0.029*) after this surgery. Only those with inadequate VD and MUHOs had higher 25(OH)D concentrations. Besides, this unhealthy phenotype had a greater reduction in BMI in the early postoperative period (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study suggests that VD adequacy and the presence of a healthy phenotype appear to have a positive impact on the reduction of visceral fat in the context of pre- and postoperative obesity. In addition, there was a greater weight reduction in those with VD inadequacy and in MUHO, which suggests that the volumetric dilution effect of VD and catabolism after bariatric surgery is more pronounced in this specific metabolic phenotype.

Determinants of circulating calcitonin value: analysis of thyroid features, demographic data, anthropometric characteristics, comorbidities, medications, and smoking habits in a population with histological full exclusion of medullary thyroid carcinoma.

Objective: Calcitonin (Ctn) measurement is crucial for the early diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). However, Ctn levels can be skewed/elevated due to other reasons, and the Ctn upper reference value remains controversial. In this field, studies have heterogeneous settings, published data are controversial, and no evidence has been achieved. The study's aim was to evaluate all previously investigated Ctn determinants in a population with histological exclusion of MTC. Methods: The institutional records from 2010 to 2022 were reviewed to select patients with thyroid nodules who had undergone total thyroidectomy with histological exclusion of MTC and who had tested for Ctn just before surgery. Thyroid features, demographic and anthropometric data, comorbidities, medications, and lifestyle information were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results: A total of 127 cases were included. The median age for thyroidectomy was 51 years. Median Ctn was 1.04 pg/mL (interquartile range (IQR) 1.04-2.77), with two cases having values above 10 pg/mL. In univariate analysis, Ctn was correlated with gender (p < 0.001), body weight (p = 0.016), height (p = 0.031), body surface area (p = 0.016), thyroid size (p = 0.03), thyroglobulin (p < 0.001), and chronic kidney disease (p < 0.001). After multivariate analysis, the model with the highest accuracy included gender, chronic kidney disease, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) with an adjusted R-squared of 0.4. Conclusions: This study demonstrates, in a population histologically proven as MTC-free, that the Ctn value is mainly influenced by gender, anthropometric/thyroid features, and chronic kidney disease, with the further impact of TSH.

Differences in Body Composition and Maturity Status in Young Male Volleyball Players of Different Levels.

Volleyball is an intermittent team sport that requires specific anthropometrical and physical characteristics for winning performance. The present study aimed to evaluate the maturity status of the young male players of eight volleyball teams, and to observe differences in anthropometric characteristics and body composition. Ninety-four male adolescent volleyball players were recruited during a national tournament carried out in Treviso (Italy). Anthropometric characteristics such as weight, stature, skinfold thicknesses, circumferences and diameters, and bioelectrical impedance were measured. The biological maturation was estimated for all players. Each team was classified as a higher or lower lever according to its tournament ranking. A two-way ANOVA compared team levels and players' maturity status. Considering the maturity offset, 62 boys were classified as "on time", 20 as "late", and 12 as "early". Three clubs presented many boys with "early" as the maturity offset, and two of these finished the tournament in the first position. Young volleyball players classified as "early" seemed to show anthropometric characteristics linked to better performance at the tournament (higher height, upper arm and calf muscle area, fat mass percentage, and total fat-free mass). The results of the present study could have practical implications for talent selection, but further studies are needed to better evaluate the effect of maturity status on the characteristics of volleyball players.

Tokyo 2021 Olympic Water Polo Champions and Their Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition Compared to Other Players / Campeones Olímpicos de Waterpolo de Tokio 2021 y sus Características Antropométricas y Composición Corporal en Comparación con Otros Jugadores

SUMMARY: The Olympic Games always offer great interest when it comes to water polo. Currently, many selections have an approximate quality and details determine who will win. Prior to the tournament the authors wanted to verify body composition and anthropometric characteristics of players of the three national teams, Serbia, the United States of America (USA) and Montenegro. The purpose of this research was to determine the differences in body composition and anthropometric characteristics between the water polo players of the national team of Serbia and Olympic champion in Tokyo 2021, the national team of USA which took sixth place and the national team of Montenegro, which took the eighth place. Body mass index, fat percentage and muscle mass (body composition variables) were evaluated by Bioelectric Impedance type MC-980 and body height, body weight, triceps skinfold, biceps skinfold, skinfold of the back, abdominal skinfold, upper leg skinfold, lower leg skinfold (other anthropometric characteristics) were evaluated by an anthropometer and a calliper. ANOVA showed that there was a statistically significant difference in fat percentage. The LSD post hoc test showed statistically significant differences between the water polo players of the Montenegrin national team (13.33 %) compared to the water polo players of the USA national team (16.67 %). It can be stated that water polo players from Montenegro had a statistically significantly lower fat percentage than water polo players from the USA and a lower level of fat than water polo players from Serbia, though this was not statistically significant. Although the fat percentage is a disruptive factor with athletes, it had no effect on the result at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, because Serbia eventually won the gold medal, the USA obtained sixth place, and Montenegro eighth place. It means that some other abilities influenced the results at the Tokyo Olympics in water polo, for example tactical, physical, psychological, technical... which is to be shown by some other research.

Los Juegos Olímpicos siempre ofrecen un gran interés en lo que respecta al waterpolo. Actualmente, muchas selecciones tienen una calidad aproximada y los detalles determinan quién ganará. Antes del torneo, los autores deseaban comprobar la composición corporal y las características antropométricas de los jugadores de las tres selecciones nacionales: Serbia, Estados Unidos (EE.UU.) y Montenegro, que siempre tienen las mayores ambiciones en las grandes competiciones. El propósito de esta investigación fue determinar las diferencias en composición corporal y características antropométricas entre los jugadores de waterpolo de la selección nacional de Serbia, que fue campeona olímpica en Tokio 2021, la selección nacional de Estados Unidos que ocupó el sexto lugar y la selección nacional de Montenegro, que acabó octavo. El índice de masa corporal, el porcentaje de grasa y la masa muscular (variables de composición corporal) se evaluaron mediante Impedancia Bioeléctrica tipo MC-980 y la altura corporal, el peso corporal, el pliegue del tríceps, el pliegue del bíceps, el pliegue de la espalda, el pliegue abdominal, el pliegue de la parte superior de la pierna y la parte inferior de la pierna. Los pliegues cutáneos (otras características antropométricas) fueron evaluados mediante un antropómetro y un calibrador. ANOVA mostró que había una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el porcentaje de grasa. La prueba post hoc de LSD mostró diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los jugadores de waterpolo de la selección nacional de Montenegro (13,33 %) en comparación con los jugadores de waterpolo de la selección de Estados Unidos (16,67 %). Se puede afirmar que los jugadores de waterpolo de Montenegro tenían un porcentaje de grasa estadísticamente significativamente menor que los jugadores de waterpolo de EE. UU. y un nivel de grasa más bajo que los jugadores de waterpolo de Serbia, lo que no es estadísticamente significativo. Aunque el porcentaje de grasa es un factor perturbador para los atletas, no tuvo ningún efecto en el resultado de los Juegos Olímpicos de Tokio, ya que al final Serbia ganó la medalla de oro, Estados Unidos quedó en sexto lugar y Montenegro en el octavo lugar. Esto significa que en los resultados de los Juegos Olímpicos de Tokio en el waterpolo influyeron otras habilidades, por ejemplo tácticas, físicas, psicológicas y técnicas, tal como lo demostrarán investigaciones a futuro.

Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet during Pregnancy: Associations with Sociodemographic and Anthropometric Parameters, Perinatal Outcomes, and Breastfeeding Practices.

Background and Objectives: The Mediterranean diet (MD) has been recognized as a beneficial nutritional pattern that promotes human health, decreasing the risks of a variety of human disorders and pathological states, including adverse pregnancy outcomes. In this aspect, the current survey aimed to assess the potential association of compliance with the MD during gestation with various sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters, perinatal outcomes, and breastfeeding practices. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study performed on 5688 pregnant women from 10 distinctive Greek areas. Face-to-face interviews with qualified questionnaires and thorough retrievals of medical records were performed to collect data concerning the participants' sociodemographic and anthropometric parameters, perinatal outcomes, and breastfeeding practices. Results: Elevated compliance with the MD during pregnancy was independently related with older age, higher educational status, and better economic status as well as decreased incidences of pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity and excess gestational weight gain and a lower likelihood of gestational diabetes. Moreover, greater adherence to the MD was independently associated with an increased prevalence of delivering vaginally and a greater prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding for at least 16 weeks postpartum. Conclusions: A higher level of compliance with the MD for the period of gestation was associated with several favorable lifestyle factors that may promote maternal health. Further studies with a prospective design as well as studies exploring the potential effects of maternal compliance with the MD for the period of pregnancy on the health of children should be performed. Future studies should also be extended beyond the MD by assessing the potential beneficial effects of adopting a Mediterranean lifestyle on maternal and child health.

HIV infection in adult Ugandans with new-onset type 2 diabetes: exploring its influence on the anthropometric and metabolic profile.

OBJECTIVE: HIV infection increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and may influence its phenotypic profile. In this study, we aimed to compare the anthropometric and metabolic characteristics of HIV-infected and uninfected adult Ugandans with new-onset type 2 diabetes to evaluate the influence of HIV infection on specific surrogate markers of adiposity, insulin resistance, and pancreatic beta-cell function. METHODS: We consecutively recruited 500 HIV-infected and uninfected adult Ugandans with new-onset type 2 diabetes (diagnosed in < 3 months) from seven tertiary hospitals over a 20-month period and compared their anthropometric and metabolic characteristics to identify any significant differences. RESULTS: Of the 500 participants with new-onset type 2 diabetes, 59 (11.8%) had a self-reported history of HIV infection. Compared with HIV-uninfected participants with type 2 diabetes, participants with HIV infection and type 2 diabetes had a lower median (IQR) hip circumference (97.8 [91.0-106.0] cm vs. 104.0 [96.0-112.0], p = 0.002) and visceral fat level (8 [6-11] vs. 10 [7-12], p < 0.001) assessed using bioimpedance analysis. No statistically significant difference was noted with the markers of pancreatic beta-cell function (fasting, 30-minute, and 120-minute C-peptide concentrations, oral insulinogenic index, and homeostatic model assessment 2-beta cell function) and insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment 2-insulin resistance) between both groups. CONCLUSION: In our study population, HIV infection was not associated with increased adiposity, pancreatic beta-cell function, and insulin resistance. Large prospective studies are needed to investigate the effect of HIV on the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes in adult Ugandans.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Nordic Walking and a Resistance Indoor Training Program: Anthropometric, Body Composition, and Functional Parameters in the Middle-Aged Population.

Sedentary behaviors are increasing in the population, so strategies for the increment of physical activity levels are needed. The use of green space seems to be a valid support to be more active. The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a period of outdoor training (Nordic walking (NW)) with indoor resistance training (GYM) in a nonclinical population based on anthropometric characteristics, body composition, and functional parameters. This study was conducted on 102 participants (77 middle-aged people performed NW and 25 performed indoor training). Participants were measured twice: at baseline and after three months. Anthropometric measurements (weight, BMI, skinfolds, perimeters), body composition, bioelectrical impedance, vectorial analysis (BIA and BIVA), and physical tests were carried out. A two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to evaluate the effect of the treatments, groups, and sexes. There were several intervention effects linked to a decrease in fat parameters (such as skinfolds, fat mass, and percentage of fat mass). Considering the type of intervention, NW showed a higher increase in muscle mass and a higher decrease in fat parameters than the GYM group. In conclusion, the two types of training could represent a good way to remain active and prevent sedentary behaviors.

Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition of Elite Youth Male Basketball Players - Participants of Junior Euroleague / Características Antropométricas y Composición Corporal de Jugadores de Baloncesto Masculino Juveniles de Élite - Participantes de Junior Euroleague

SUMMARY: The aim of this research was to determine the differences among the junior basketball players of the BC Partizan and BC Buducnost Voli, in terms of their anthropometric characteristics and body composition. A sample of 22 subjects was divided into two sub-samples. The first sub-sample of the subjects consisted of 11 players of the basketball team Partizan (Serbia), of the average age 17.18 ± 0.50, while the other sub-sample consisted of 11 players of basketball team Buducnost Voli (Montenegro), based on the average age of 17.28 ± 0.30. All players were tested in Podgorica, in a lasting period of two days, while they held international friendly tournament, just before the start of the national championships. Anthropometric characteristics in the body composition were evaluated by a battery of eleven variables: body height (cm), body weight (kg), triceps skinfold, back skinfold, biceps skinfold, abdominal skinfold, thighs skinfold, calf skinfold, body mass index (BMI), percentage of fat and muscle mass (kg). Differences in anthropometric characteristic and composition of the body of the male junior basketball players of two basketball teams were determined by using a discriminatory parametric procedure with t-test for small independent samples. It was found that the basketball players of Partizan are taller and have a lower body mass. Also, there are significant statistical differences by seven: triceps skinfold, back skinfold, biceps skinfold, abdominal skinfold, calf skinfold, thigh skinfold and BMI.

El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar las diferencias entre jugadores de baloncesto junior del BC Partizan y BC Buducnost Voli, en cuanto a sus características antropométricas y composición corporal. Una muestra de 22 sujetos se dividió en dos submuestras. La primera submuestra estuvo formada por 11 jugadores del equipo de baloncesto Partizan (Serbia), con una edad media de 17,18 ± 0,50, mientras que la otra estaba formada por 11 jugadores del equipo de baloncesto Buducnost Voli (Montenegro), cuya edad media era de 17,28 ± 0,30 años. Todos los jugadores fueron evaluados en Podgorica, en un período de dos días, mientras se realizaba un torneo amistoso internacional, precisamente antes del inicio de los campeonatos nacionales. Las características antropométricas en la composición corporal se evaluaron mediante una batería de once variables: altura corporal (cm), peso corporal (kg), pliegue cutáneo tríceps, pliegue cutáneo dorsal, pliegue cutáneo bicipital, pliegue cutáneo abdominal, pliegue cutáneo de muslos, pliegue cutáneo de pantorrillas, índice de masa corporal (IMC), porcentaje de grasa y masa muscular (kg). Se determinaron las diferencias en las características antropométricas y la composición del cuerpo de los jugadores juveniles masculinos de baloncesto de los dos equipos de baloncesto mediante un procedimiento paramétrico discriminatorio con prueba t para pequeñas muestras independientes. Se encontró que los jugadores de baloncesto del Partizan eran más altos y tenían una masa corporal más baja. Además, existían diferencias estadísticas significativas en los pliegue cutáneos del tríceps, de la espalda, del bíceps, abdominal, de la pantorrilla y del muslo además de diferencias en el IMC.

Prognostic Significance of Ultrasound Characteristics and Body Mass Index in Patients with Apparent Early-Stage Cervical Cancer: A Single-Center, Retrospective, Cohort Study.

The primary aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic impact (defined as disease-free-DFS and overall survival-OS) of the ultrasound scan tumor parameters, patients' anthropometric parameters, and their combination in early-stage cervical cancer. The secondary aim was to assess the relation between ultrasound characteristics and pathological parametrial infiltration. This is a retrospective, single-center, observational cohort study. Consecutive patients with clinical FIGO 2018 stage IA1-IB2 and IIA1 cervical cancer who underwent preoperative ultrasound examination and radical surgery between 02/2012 and 06/2019 were included. Patients who underwent neo-adjuvant treatment, fertility sparing surgery, and pre-operative conization were excluded. Data from 164 patients were analyzed. Body mass index (BMI) ≤20 Kg/m2 (p < 0.001) and ultrasound tumor volume (p = 0.038) were related to a higher risk of recurrence. The ratios between ultrasound tumor volume and BMI, ultrasound tumor volume and height, and ultrasound largest tumor diameter and BMI were significantly related to a higher risk of recurrence (p = 0.011, p = 0.031, and p = 0.017, respectively). The only anthropometric characteristic related to a higher risk of death was BMI ≤20 Kg/m2 (p = 0.021). In the multivariate analysis, the ratio between ultrasound-measured largest tumor diameter and cervix-fundus uterine diameter (with 37 as the cut-off) was significantly associated with pathological microscopic parametrial infiltration (p = 0.018). In conclusion, a low BMI was the most significant anthropometric biomarker impairing DFS and OS in patients with apparent early-stage cervical cancer. The ratios between ultrasound tumor volume and BMI, ultrasound tumor volume and height, and ultrasound largest tumor diameter and BMI significantly affected DFS but not OS. The ratio between ultrasound-measured largest tumor diameter and cervix-fundus uterine diameter was related to parametrial infiltration. These novel prognostic parameters may be useful in pre-operative workup for a patient-tailored treatment in early-stage cervical cancer.

The Influence of a 9-Week Movement Program on the Body Composition of 7- to 8-Year-Old Schoolchildren in the Eastern Cape of South Africa.

Pediatric obesity has become a growing global epidemic which has negative health consequences, including for South African children. This study aimed to determine the immediate and sustainable influences of a 9-week movement program on the body composition of 7 to 8-year-old school children in a rural area of South Africa. A two group, pre-test, post-test and re-test after six months experimental design was used to compare anthropometric measurements of the intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). Ninety-three schoolchildren (IG = 57; CG = 36) participated in the study. A 9-week movement program was followed twice a week for 30 min during school hours with an emphasis on improving BMI. Hierarchical Linear Modelling (HLM) was used to analyze the data with time, sex and group as predictors. Effect sizes was computed based on the Cohen's d to assess the practical significance of findings. The intervention positively changed the waist circumference. The subscapular skinfold and BMI showed statistical and practically significant sustainable changes because of the intervention, although gender influenced these effects. School based movement interventions, focusing on improving fundamental movement skills (FMS), have the potential to contribute to a healthier BMI, skinfold thickness and circumferences among young children.

Developmental characteristics of younger school-aged boys in relation to the socio-economic environment / Características del desarrollo de niños menores en edad escolar en relación con el entorno socioeconómico

SUMMARY: The main goal of this research was to determine whether there is a statistically significant difference in the anthropometric characteristics of fourth grade elementary school students, who live in different demographic environments in Montenegro. The research was conducted on a sample of 120 students, fourth grade elementary school, male (60 students from urban areas and 60 students from rural areas). To measure anthropometric characteristics, 12 measures were applied (Body height, arm length, leg length, shoulder width, elbow diameter, knee diameter, body weight, upper arm circumference, lower leg circumference, skin fold of the back, skin fold of the upper arm, skin fold of the abdomen). After conducting research with the application of appropriate statistical procedures: descriptive analysis, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and analysis of variance (ANOVA), it was noticed that there is a statistically significant difference in the treated space of anthropometric characteristics. Boys from rural areas are more dominant than boys from urban areas in the longitudinal and transverse dimensionality of the skeleton and in volume on certain body segments, and boys from urban areas are more dominant than boys from rural areas in body weight and subcutaneous fat, which puts them at risk for obesity.

El objetivo principal de esta investigación fue determinar si existe una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en las características antropométricas de los estudiantes de cuarto grado de primaria, que viven en diferentes entornos demográficos en Montenegro. La investigación se realizó sobre una muestra de 120 estudiantes, cuarto grado de primaria, sexo masculino (60 estudiantes de zona urbana y 60 estudiantes de zona rural). Para medir las características antropométricas se aplicaron 12 medidas (Altura del cuerpo, longitud del brazo, longitud de la pierna, ancho del hombro, diámetro del codo, diámetro de la rodilla, peso corporal, circunferencia del brazo, circunferencia de la pierna, pliegue de la piel de la espalda, pliegue de la piel de la parte superior brazo, pliegue cutáneo del abdomen). Después de realizar la investigación con la aplicación de los procedimientos estadísticos apropiados: análisis descriptivo, análisis de varianza multivariante (MANOVA) y análisis de varianza (ANOVA), se observó que existe una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el espacio tratado de características antropométricas. Los niños de áreas rurales son más dominantes que los niños de áreas urbanas en la dimensionalidad longitudinal y transversal del esqueleto y en volumen en ciertos segmentos del cuerpo, y los niños de áreas urbanas son más dominantes que los niños de áreas rurales en peso corporal y grasa subcutánea, lo que los pone en riesgo de obesidad.

Relación entre características antropométricas, autopercepción del índice de masa corporal, condición física y hábitos alimentarios en estudiantes universitarios de salud y educación

Introducción: La etapa universitaria es un período de modificación en los estilos de vida. Los estudiantes de carreras de pedagogía y de la salud, adicionalmente, asumirán un rol de guías y modelos respecto a conductas saludables hacia sus estudiantes y pacientes respectivamente. Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre las características antropométricas, la autopercepción del índice de masa corporal (IMC), la condición física y los hábitos alimentarios en estudiantes universitarios de carreras de pedagogía y de la salud. Materiales y método: Estudio descriptivo y correlacional. La muestra fue conformada por 158 estudiantes universitarios (edad, 22,5±2,5 años). Se evaluó las características antropométricas, autopercepción del IMC, condición física y hábitos alimentarios. Resultados: El IMC se correlacionó positivamente con el IMC percibido (r= 0.46, p= 0.012). El perímetro de cintura se correlacionó positivamente con el IMC percibido y la fuerza de prensión manual. El porcentaje de grasa corporal se correlacionó positivamente con el IMC percibido y negativamente con la condición física (potencia, prensión manual y flexibilidad). El área muscular del brazo se correlacionó con el IMC percibido, puntaje de IMC percibido y condición física. Los hábitos alimentarios presentaron una correlación negativa con el IMC percibido, pero no así con las características antropométricas. Conclusión: Los estudiantes universitarios de las carreras de salud y educación con mejor características antropométricas (menor IMC, perímetro de cintura y porcentaje de grasa y mayor área muscular del brazo), presentan una autopercepción mayor del IMC y un mejor rendimiento en las pruebas de condición física.

Introduction: The university stage is a period of modification in lifestyles. Pedagogy and health career students, additionally, will assume the role of guides and models regarding healthy behaviours towards their students and patients, respectively. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between anthropometric characteristics, self-perception of body mass index (BMI), physical condition and eating habits among pedagogy and health career university students. Materials and method: Descriptive and correlational study. The sample consisted of 158 university students (age 22.5 ± 2.5 years). Anthropometric characteristics, self-perception of BMI, physical condition and eating habits were evaluated. Results: BMI was positively correlated with perceived BMI (r= 0.46, p= 0.012). Waist circumference was positively correlated with perceived BMI and handgrip strength. The percentage of body fat was positively correlated with the perceived BMI and negatively with the physical condition (power, handgrip and flexibility). Arm muscle area was correlated with perceived BMI, perceived BMI score, and physical condition. Eating habits were negatively correlated with perceived BMI but not with anthropometric characteristics. Conclusion: University students from health and education careers with better anthropometric characteristics (lower BMI, waist circumference and fat percentage, and greater muscle area of the arm), have a higher self-perception of BMI and better performance in fitness tests physical.

Construction of an anthropometric discriminant model for identification of elite swimmers: an adaptive lasso approach.

Background: Anthropometric characteristics are important factors that affect swimming performance. The aim of this study is to build a discriminant model using anthropometric factors to identify elite short-to-medium-distance freestyle swimmers through an adaptive Lasso approach. Methods: The study recruited 254 swimmers (145 males and 109 females) who were divided them into elite (aged 17.9 ± 2.2 years, FINA points 793.8 ± 73.8) and non-elite (aged 17.1 ± 1.3 years, FINA points 560.6 ± 78.7) groups. Data for 73 variables were obtained, including basic information, anthropometric and derivative indicators. After filtering out highly correlated variables, 24 candidate variables were retained to be used in adaptive Lasso to select variables for prediction of elite swimmers. Deviance and area under the curve (AUC) were applied to assess the goodness of fit and prediction accuracy of the model, respectively. Results: The adaptive Lasso selected 12 variables using the whole sample, with an AUC being 0.926 (95% CI [0.895-0.956]; P = 2.42 × 10-29). In stratified analysis by gender, nine variables were selected for male swimmers with an AUC of 0.921 (95% CI [0.880-0.963]; P = 8.82 × 10-17), and eight variables were for female swimmers with an AUC of 0.941 (95% CI [0.898-0.984]; P = 7.67 × 10-15). Conclusion: The adaptive Lasso showed satisfactory performance in selecting anthropometric characteristics to identify elite swimmers. Additional studies with longitudinal data or data from other ethnicities are needed to validate our findings.

Childhood Mediterranean Diet Adherence Is Associated with Lower Prevalence of Childhood Obesity, Specific Sociodemographic, and Lifestyle Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study in Pre-School Children.

BACKGROUND: The Mediterranean diet (MD) has been related with a decreased probability of overweight/obesity as well as central obesity at all stages of the human life, decreasing the risk of diverse disease states and improving quality of life. Over the last few years, the prevalence of childhood overweight/obesity and especially abdominal obesity has highly increased worldwide, being associated with a higher likelihood of overweight/obesity as well as central obesity at the next stages of the life during adulthood. The purpose of the present study was to explore the relationship of MD compliance with sociodemographic, anthropometry and lifestyle features in pre-school children aged 2-5 years old. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study, which includes 5188 pre-school children from diverse regions of Greece. Relevant questionnaires were applied to evaluate the sociodemographic features of the enrolled children. Anthropometric parameters were measured by relevant techniques. Qualified questionnaires were utilized for assessing several lifestyle factors such as physical activity, quality of life, breastfeeding practices, MD adherence, as well as the prevalence of childhood asthma and diabetes mellitus type I. RESULTS: Of the enrolled children, 41.7% showed low MD compliance and 36.4% of them indicated moderated compliance, while only 21.9% of them showed a high MD adherence. Overweight/obesity was noted in 24.2% of the assigned children, while abdominal obesity was noticed in 18.2% of them. Higher MD compliance was related with an elevated prevalence of sex (boys, p = 0.0005), Greek nationality (p = 0.0088), rural type of residence (p = 0.0099), childhood overweight/obesity (p < 0.0001) and abdominal obesity (p < 0.0001), lower childbirth weight (p < 0.0001), increased physical activity (p = 0.0041), improved quality of life (p = 0.0008), exclusive breastfeeding (p < 0.0001), childhood asthma (p = 0.0001) and diabetes mellitus type 1 (p = 0.0002). CONCLUSIONS: A higher MD adherence is associated with specific sociodemographic, better anthropometric, and beneficial lifestyle factors in pre-school children. However, MD compliance remains low or moderate in the vast majority of children aged 2-5 years old. Thus, future public strategies and policies should be performed to inform parents of the potential beneficial effects of MD against obesity and related chronic diseases at the next stage of their children's lives.

Αssessment of Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status of Former Opioid Users Undergoing Detoxification Process.

RATIONALE: Opioid dependence is often associated with impaired nutritional status, weight changes, nutritional deficiencies, and increased sugar consumption. Scientific quantified data on the dietary habits and intake of such patients are sparse. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study. The study was conducted among 60 male and female former heroin addicts, who sought detoxification at the OKANA replacement therapy unit, in a public university hospital. All patients were treated for their addiction with buprenorfine/naloxone in combination with counseling. With the use of an administered questionnaire, several parameters were assessed and recorded, including nutritional habits, anthropometric characteristics, recent weight and medical history, and physical activity level of the participants. Additionally, a three-day dietary recall was performed and quantified with the aid of nutritional analysis software. The results were compared with the macronutrient requirements, calculated total energy expenditure, and the population reference intake (PRI) of the participants. Finally, the level of compliance of the participants to the Mediterranean diet model was assessed using the Mediterranean diet score tool. RESULTS: The vast majority of the participants (77%) had a normal BMI of 18.5-25, and 15% were categorized as underweight (<18.5). Furthermore, 63% of the patients reported a mean unintended weight reduction of 9 kg over the last three months. Regarding mean energy and protein intake, no significant differences between reported intake and calculated requirements were recorded. Sugar consumption was high since it reached 20% of the total energy intake. Micronutrient intake was significantly lower for vitamins K, E, and C and potassium compared with the PRI (p=0.034, p=0.001, p=0.046, and p=0.001, respectively). Finally, a low adherence of the participants to the Mediterranean diet model was observed since 38% scored ≤15 and 62% ≤ 30 on the Mediterranean diet score tool. CONCLUSIONS: According to the results of the study, the general nutritional status of this category of patients seems to be impaired, presenting an apparent weight reduction and an inadequate intake of some micronutrients and displaying disturbed eating behaviors. Further data on the field are required to build a future evidence base. Dietary assessment and individualized nutritional counseling, when necessary, might need to be incorporated into the typical clinical management of this patient category to avoid nutritional deficiencies and improve the withdrawal process.

Menstrual pattern and anthropometric characteristics of women with primary and secondary infertility in comparison with age-matched controls.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of infertility has increased significantly due to lifestyle changes and the presence of diverse environmental stress. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) are two common anthropometric measures of obesity. Factors such as differences in race, sex, and age influence BMI, and recent studies have reported limitations in the use of BMI to determine obesity. Body fat distribution has a more valid criterion for determining obesity than BMI. Our aim was to compare the menstrual pattern and anthropometric parameters of women with primary and secondary infertility with those of age-matched controls and to assess the correlation between the anthropometric variables and fertility types. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which the anthropometric measurements and menstrual history over the last 3 months of cases of primary and secondary infertility were compared with the age-matched control group. RESULTS: Women with primary and secondary infertility tend to be overweight or obese. The menstrual pattern of women with infertility was not statistically different as compared to the control groups. There were significant differences in weight, BMI, hip circumference, WC, and neck circumference (NC) of women with primary infertility with those of age-matched controls. A statistically significant difference was noted in NC between the primary and secondary infertility groups. CONCLUSION: The results obtained show that women with infertility tend to be overweight/obese. Due to the limited sample size, the relationship between menstrual pattern and anthropometric characteristics such as waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and frame size (FRS) and infertility could not be established.

The Influence of COVID-19 on University Students' Well-Being, Physical Activity, Body Composition, and Strength Endurance.

BACKGROUND: Very few scientific studies have simultaneously evaluated changes in well-being (WB), physical activity (PA), and strength endurance (SE) based on results from before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. AIM: The aim of the study was to assess WB, PA, and SE levels, as well as body composition parameters in university students before and during the pandemic. METHODS: The study included 30 males and 30 females (mean age: 21.7 ± 2.51 and 21.6 ± 2.34 years, respectively). Well-being using the Self-Perception Questionnaire (POMS), PA from the Polish regular version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), body composition parameters using the InBody 270 analyzer, and SE based on the results of a 12 min test involving a Concept 2PM-5 rowing ergometer were assessed before and during the pandemic. RESULTS: An assessment of university students' WB revealed a significant increase in variables such as tension, depression, anger, confusion, and a significant decline in vigor (p < 0.05). In both sexes, PA and SE decreased significantly-from 2115.4 to 1822.8 METs-min/week and from 2184.5 to 2035 m, respectively, in males, and from 1793.5 to 1699.8 METs-min/week and from 2021.5 to 1943.8 m, respectively, in females. At the same time, body mass and BMI values increased significantly (p < 0.001) in both females and males. CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant decrease in WB, PA and SE levels in young females and males, and led to a significant increase in their body mass and BMI.

Evaluation of Normal Renal Size and its Influencing Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study on the Adult Population of Mashhad.

Background: The normal range of kidney size is a controversial issue among different populations given to its impressibility by multiple factors, therefore, this study aimed to provide valid reference ranges for kidney dimensions in the adult population of Mashhad. Also, we assessed the association of kidney size characteristics with some personal predisposing factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 938 healthy individuals. Ultrasound measurement, physical examination, and laboratory analysis were performed. Demographic, dietary, and anthropometric data were obtained. The variables were categorized into 5 groups each, and data analysis were performed using the following statistical tests: Pearson correlation test, variance analysis, t-test, and chi-square test. A value of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Weight had the most association with kidney size followed to a lesser extent by height and age. Even after adjustment for other confounding variables, weight remained as an independent factor, while this effect was resolved for height and age. Also, all values for renal function, body bio-impedance, blood pressure components, and water intake were notably correlated with kidney size. Conclusion: This study determined the normal kidney size in healthy adults. We also declared the normal range of kidney size is a dynamic concept and should be assessed for each individual separately according to their personal determinative factors.

Physical Characteristics and Performance Tests in Male Water Polo: A Multiple Regression Analysis on Youth.

BACKGROUND: In water polo, more physical and performance variables are related to a performance in a match. The aim of our work was therefore: (a) to evaluate the relationships between anthropometric characteristics and performance tests and performance in a match in young male water polo players; (b) to propose new guidelines for match analysis. METHODS: Multiple regression analysis was used to study the results in anthropometric evaluations (height, body mass, chest circumference, arm span, non-dominant arm length) and performance tests (push-up, chin-up, shuttle swim test, sprint swim 10 m, eggbeater kick, 100 m swimming) and two coaches' evaluations of two friendly matches using new guidelines. A total of 130 subjects (age: 15.6 ± 0.9 years) were involved in the study. RESULTS: In this study, we proposed a new performance model based on multiple regression analysis (r = 0.85, r2 = 0.73, adjusted r2 = 0.57) and described by the following equation: Coach's Evaluation = 151.6 + (-0.016 × height) + (0.6 × body mass) + (-0.82 × chest) + (-0.59 × arm span) + (0.75 × non dominant arm length) + (-0.037 × push up) + (0.17 × chin up) + (5.87 × shuttle swim test) + (-2.2 × 10 m sprint swim) + (0.05 × eggbeater kick) + (-0.35 × 100 m swimming). Inter-observer values were: CV: -3.9%, ICC: 0.82, ES: 0.1. Intra-observer: CV: -4.1%, ICC: 0.96, ES: 0.06. CONCLUSIONS: The relationships between anthropometric and performance variables and the match analysis have been statistically described. The equation found can be used to predict the overall performance of a player and permits evaluations of how much the improvement in one of the qualities can affect the players' overall performance. Moreover, the new method for match analysis we have proposed showed a good reliability and can be used for new studies on water polo.

Forced Sedentariness and Sports Activity as Factors Differentiating Anthropometric Characteristics, Indices, and Body Composition in People with Disabilities.

Introduction: Although the assessment of physique and body composition poses methodological, technical, and interpretative difficulties, it is of great importance for the health of people with disabilities. The aim of the study was to demonstrate that sedentariness and sports activity are factors differentiating anthropometric characteristics, indices, and body composition in people with physical disabilities. Materials and methods: Fifty-eight people were examined: 48 elite Polish Para athletes, including Paralympic track and field athletes (PTF, n = 8), sitting volleyball players (SV, n = 15), wheelchair rugby players (WR, n = 25), and individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI, n = 10). Body mass (BM), body height (BH), body length (BL), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), body fat percentage (%FT), and visceral fat rating (VFR) were measured. Furthermore, BMI, BMIcorrected, and body adiposity index (BAI) were evaluated. Results: The highest WC, BAI, %FT, and VFR were found for the CSCI group. The type of sport significantly differentiated between anthropometric features, indices, and body composition of the athletes. Sitting volleyball players achieved the highest mean BM (83.9), WC (92.9), HC (103.7), BMI (24.5), BAI (23.4), and VFR (12.6). The highest %FT (28.9) was found in wheelchair rugby players. Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that forced sedentariness and sports activity among individuals with disabilities differentiate body structure and physique.