Biceps Skinfold Research Articles

Nutritional assessment of Oraons of West Bengal: a comparison between biochemical and anthropometric methods

Comprehensive nutritional assessment is the basis of nutritional diagnosis and necessary to identify the individual or the population at a risk of dietary deficiencies. However, there is no specific and confirmatory method to measure nutritional status. Present study tried to find out the efficacy of two nutritional assessment method (1) biochemical test like Total serum protein (TSP) and (2) anthropological measurements like body mass index (BMI) and mid-upper-arm-circumference (MUAC). Later, three methods were tested and compared for the strength of assessing the nutritional status. Study was conducted among 198 adult Oraon, 84 male, 114 female individuals of Madarihat and Falakata police station area, Alipurduar district, West Bengal. Selected blood parameters such as total serum protein (TSP), serum albumin and haemoglobin and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, mid-upper arm circumference, waist circumference, hip circumference, calf circumference, biceps skinfold, triceps skinfold, and calf skinfold) were obtained following standard instruments and protocols. Nutritional status of all individuals was assessed by TSP, BMI and MUAC classification methods. Comparison between/among three classification methods (TSP, BMI and MUAC) was done and discriminant function analysis was adopted to find out the percentage of correct classification by each methods. It was found that prevalence of undernutrition using TSP classification was 38.1% male and 43.0% female; using BMI was 34.5% male and 53.5% female; using MUAC was 45.2% male and 64.9% female. Discriminant function analysis showed that BMI (97.0%) had the highest capability of correct classification followed by MUAC (84.80%) and TSP (63.60%). Results indicate that however, TSP is an objective way of nutritional assessment, but BMI had the highest capability of correct classification of nutritional status. It may be pointed out that the evaluation with TSP was expensive and invasive whereas BMI is non-expensive and completely a non-invasive way of evaluation. Therefore, BMI may widely be used for nutritional assessment.

BODY COMPOSITION AND MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SOCCER PLAYERS IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

The aim of this research was to determine the differences among the top soccer players of the two clubs in Bosnia and Herzegovina, FC Sarajevo and FC Zeljeznicar, both from Sarajevo in the body composition and morphological characteristics. A sample of 51 subjects was divided into two sub-samples. The first sub-sample of the subjects consisted of 25 players FC Sarajevo of the average age 23.60±4.66, who occupied the first position on the table after the semi-season 2018/19, while the other sub-sample consisted of 26 players of FC Zeljeznicar of the average age of 23.58±4.93, who occupied the fourth position on the table after the semiseason 2018/19. Soccer players were tested between the two semi seasons of the championship 2018/19. Body composition and morphological characteristics in the were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables: body height, body weight, body mass index, fat percentage, muscle mass, upper leg skinfold, lower leg skinfold, triceps skinfold, biceps skinfold, skinfold of the back and abdominal skinfold. The standard central and dispersion parameters of all variables were calculated. The significance of the differences between the players of the top two soccer clubs in the variables for assessing body composition and morphological characteristics was determined by a t-test for independent samples. It was found that the soccer players of the two mentioned clubs have statistically significant differences by the two variables that estimate the upper leg skinfold and triceps skinfold, in favor of FC Sarajevo.

PREDICTION OF 100 m FRONT CRAWL PERFORMANCE THROUGH ANTHROPOMETRICAL CHARACTERISTICS IN YOUTH GREEK SWIMMERS ACCORDING TO GENDER

Aim. Investigate the predictive relationship between 100 m front crawl swimming performance of youth swimmers and anthropometric characteristics. Materials and methods. Fifty-one active athletes (n = 30 male and n = 21 female) participated in the research and for the purposes of the analysis were divided into two categories (13–15 years n = 32, and 16–18 years old, n = 19). The following anthropometric data were used as set of predictive variables (7 longitudinal, 7 skinfolds, 3 circumference and 1 voluminosity variables). Results. One prediction model for each gender and age group emerged. The percentage of the explained variance of the dependent variable (100 m front crawl performance time) is 84.6 %, 54.4 %, 71.1 % and 72.7 % respectively for male, female, youth and cadet swimmers. The significant variables for each model were: arm span, biceps skinfold, biceps bracchi circumference in contraction for male swimmers, sitting height for female swimmers, biceps bracchi circumference in contraction and body weight for youth swimmers, triceps skinfold and biceps bracchi circumference in contraction for cadet swimmers. Conclusion. Youth swimmers’ performance can be predicted by important anthropometric parameters.

Single joint exercises do not provide benefits in performance and anthropometric changes in recreational bodybuilders

The purpose of the present study was to compare the changes in anthropometric measures and muscle performance in users and non-users of androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) performing resistance training (RT) programmes involving only multiple joint (MJ) exercises or a combination of MJ and single joint (SJ) exercises. Thirty recreational bodybuilders were divided into 4 groups: non-AAS users performing only MJ exercises (MJ), non-AAS users performing MJ + SJ (MJ + SJ), AAS users performing only MJ exercises (AAS − MJ) and AAS users performing MJ + SJ exercises (AAS − MJ + SJ). Before and after 8 weeks of training, the participants were tested for 10 repetition maximum (10RM) in different RT exercises. Flexed arm circumference (FAC), biceps and triceps skinfolds were measured. No interactions were found between time and the performance of SJ exercise in any variable (p > .05). However, there was a significant interaction between AAS use and time (p < .001), such that AAS users showed greater 10RM gains in all exercises, skinfold decreases and increases in FAC than non-users. In conclusion, our study shows that the addition of SJ exercises to MJ exercises brings no additional benefit in terms of muscle performance and anthropometric changes in trained men, either if they were using AAS or not. These results suggest that trained men can save time not including SJ in their routines and still achieve optimal results. Moreover, our results show that AAS use is associated with greater increases in muscle strength and FAC and greater reductions in biceps and triceps skinfold thickness.

Correlation between anthropometric characteristics and playing ability of university level male basketball players

The purpose of the study was to determine the correlation between anthropometric characteristics and playing ability of university level male Basketball players. For this purpose, a total of 250 male Basketball players were chosen from the Universities of Northern India. The purposive sampling method was used to select the sample. The subjects were tested for their anthropometric characteristics and Basketball playing ability. For anthropometry, the variables such as Upper arm length, Lower arm Length, Total arm length, Hand length, Hand span, Upper Leg Length, Lower Leg Length, Total leg length, Upper Arm Circumference, Forearm Circumference, Thigh Circumference, Calf Circumference, Biacromial Diameter, Wrist Diameter, Biceps Skinfold, Suprailiac Skinfold, Subscapular Skinfold and Triceps Skinfold. For playing ability, AAHPERD Basketball skill test was used. Results revealed that all the anthropometric characteristics were related to the Basketball playing ability except Triceps skinfolds and Subscapular skinfolds. It can be concluded from the study that anthropometric characteristics play important role in Basketball performance.

Comparisons of anthropometric characteristics between the volleyball and football players of age 16-18 years

The purpose of this study was to find the differences of anthropometric characteristics between the male Volleyball and Football players. The subjects were male Volleyball and Football players of age 16-18 years. They were tested for their anthropometric measurements in order to make comparisons. It was found that significant differences were found between both groups with regard to the variables: Height, Sitting height, Weight, Leg length, Arm length, Biacromial Diameter, Ankle Diameter, Upper Arm Circumference, Calf Circumference, Biceps skinfold, Triceps skinfold and Calf skinfold. However, no significant differences were found between the both groups for the variables: Bicondylar Humerus Diameter, Wrist Diameter, Bicondylar Femur Diameter, Forearm Circumference, Thigh Circumference, Subscapular skinfold and Suprailliac skinfold. It can be concluded that Volley ballers had greater lengths whereas Footballers had greater diameters and skinfold scores.

Effects of Adding Single Joint Exercises to a Resistance Training Programme in Trained Women.

Background: The present study’s aim was to compare the changes in muscle performance and anthropometric measures in trained women performing RT programs composed only of MJ exercises or programmes that involve the addition of SJ exercises. Methods: Seventeen trained women were randomised to MJ or MJ+SJ. Both groups performed the same MJ exercises following a nonlinear periodisation model for 8 weeks. The only difference was that the MJ+SJ group also performed SJ exercises. The participants were tested for 10 repetition maximum (10 RM), flexed arm circumference, and both biceps and triceps skinfold. Results: Both groups significantly increased 10 RM load for the bench press (12.6% MJ and 9.2% MJ+SJ), triceps (15.6% MJ and 17.9% MJ+SJ), pull down (9.8% MJ and 8.3% MJ+SJ), biceps (14.0% MJ and 13.0% MJ+SJ), leg press (15.2% MJ and 12.8% MJ+SJ) and knee extension (10.2% MJ and 9.1% MJ+SJ). The decreases in triceps (−5.1% MJ and −5.3% MJ+SJ) and biceps (−6.5% MJ and −5.7% MJ+SJ) skinfolds were also significant as were the increases in arm circumference (1.47% MJ and 1.58% MJ+SJ). In all tests there was nothing significantly different between groups. Conclusions: The use of SJ exercises as a complement to a RT programme containing MJ exercises brings no additional benefit to trained women.

Does the addition of single joint exercises to a resistance training program improve changes in performance and anthropometric measures in untrained men?

The present study compared changes in muscle performance and anthropometric measures in young men performing resistance training (RT) programs composed of only multi joint (MJ) exercises, or with the addition of single joint (SJ) exercises (MJ+SJ). Twenty untrained men were randomized to MJ or MJ+SJ groups for 8 weeks. Both groups performed the same MJ exercises. The difference was that the MJ+SJ group added SJ exercises for upper and lower limbs. Participants were tested for 10 repetitions maximum (10RM), flexed arm circumference, and biceps and triceps skinfolds. Both groups significantly increased 10RM load for the bench press (MJ 38.5%, MJ+SJ 40.1%), elbow extension (MJ 28.7%, MJ+SJ 31.9%), pull down (MJ 34.0% MJ+SJ 38.5%), elbow flexion (MJ 38.2%, MJ+SJ 45.3%), leg press (MJ 40.8%, MJ+SJ 46.8%) and knee extension (MJ 26.9%, MJ+SJ 32.9%), with no significant difference between them. The decreases in biceps (MJ -3.6%, MJ+SJ –3.9%) and triceps (MJ –3.4%, MJ+SJ -3.3%) skinfolds were significant for both groups, with no difference between them. However, the flexed arm circumference increased significantly more for MJ+SJ (5.2%), than for MJ (4.0%). The use of SJ exercises as a complement to a RT program containing MJ exercises brings no additional benefit to untrained men in terms of muscle performance and skinfold reduction, though it promoted higher increases in arm circumference.

Differences in muscular and perceptual responses to a neck/shoulder fatiguing task between women and men

Fatigue is a risk factor for the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) of the neck/shoulder, and exertion is a state that connects the sensory/affective and physical aspects of fatigue. Relationships between ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and electromyogram (EMG) signal characteristics have been identified. However, the sex-specific effects on these relationships are unclear and could be affected by personal factors such as skinfold thickness. 28 healthy young adults completed a fatiguing task with the arm held at shoulder height. Neck/shoulder EMG and RPE were collected at the end of each minute. Males showed stronger correlations between RPE with anterior deltoid (AD, rs = 0.37) and upper trapezius (UT, rs = 0.48) EMG, whereas females showed a weak relationship between RPE and UT EMG (rs = 0.22), and no relationship with AD EMG. Significant correlations were observed between biceps EMG and skinfold thickness in both males and females. Findings suggest that neck/shoulder perceived exertion is strongly associated to the activity of shoulder mobilizers (anterior deltoid) in men, whereas in women, it is rather associated to the activity of shoulder stabilizers (upper trapezius), and to a lesser extent. It is possible that in turn, these sex differences affect fatigue adaptation strategies. Skinfold thickness may be an important variable to consider when studying sex-specific characteristics of muscle fatigue.

Long-Term Effects of Oral Antidiabetic Drugs During Pregnancy on Offspring: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Follow-up Studies of RCTs.

IntroductionAntidiabetic drugs (OADs) are increasingly prescribed to treat hyperglycaemia during pregnancy in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), even though long-term effects on offspring are unknown. This systematic review summarises the evidence of follow-up studies of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) reporting on long-term effects of prenatal exposure to OADs on offspring.MethodsThe MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases were searched from inception to April 2018 for the concepts antidiabetic agents and prenatal exposure (or pregnancy and offspring/child) in combination with an RCT search filter. RCTs evaluating post-neonatal health effects in offspring and comparing maternal treatment with an OAD with no treatment, placebo, an alternative OAD or insulin during pregnancy were eligible for inclusion. Two independent researchers selected, extracted and assessed the data. Meta-analyses were performed using a random effects model and the Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool was used for quality assessment.ResultsTen studies were included, with a maximal follow-up duration of 9 years, comprising 778 children of mothers with GDM or PCOS who were randomised to either metformin or insulin/placebo during pregnancy. Meta-analysis showed that children prenatally exposed to metformin were heavier compared to controls (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.26 [95% CI 0.11–0.41]), but not taller (SMD 0.10 [95% CI −0.14–0.33]). Additionally, offspring body mass index (BMI) z scores did not differ according to metformin exposure (mean difference 0.30 [95% CI −0.01–0.61]). Individual small studies reported that prenatal exposure to metformin was associated with greater mid-upper arm, head and waist circumferences, biceps skinfolds, waist-to-height ratio, more arm fat, higher fasting glucose, ferritin and lower LDL cholesterol in offspring.ConclusionPrenatal exposure to metformin is associated with increased offspring weight, but not with height or BMI. Larger follow-up studies are needed to confirm and look into the implications of these findings.Plain Language SummaryPlain language summary available for this article.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1007/s13300-018-0479-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The influence of body composition on exercise-associated skin temperature changes after resistance training

Resistance exercise leads to an increase in skin temperature (Tskin) in the area of the exercised muscle. Infrared thermography seems to be applicable to identify these primary used functional muscles with measuring Tskin changes. The aim of the current study was to investigate the influence of body composition on Tskin patterns after resistance exercise.38 male subjects (19–32 years, BMI 20.4–55.2 kg/m2) participated. Body fat percentage and biceps skinfold thickness were calculated. The subjects were divided into two groups: lean group (LG) with body fat percentage < 25%, obese group (OG) with body fat percentage ≥ 25%. All participants completed three sets with ten repetitions of unilateral biceps curl at 50% of the one repetition maximum. To represent exercise-induced changes of Tskin to rest (Trest), the algebraic difference of each time point to Trest was calculated. The resulting delta values (∆) are as follows: immediately after the first, second, and third set (∆Tset1,∆Tset2,∆Tset3), and at 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,15,20,25,30 min after the third set (∆T1-∆T30). The maximum positive difference to Trest was defined as ∆Tmax, and the time to reach ∆Tmax was defined as Time to ∆Tmax.LG and OG differed significantly at Trest (32.8 ± 0.9 vs. 31.1 ± 1.4 °C), ∆Tmax (1.9 ± 0.4 vs. 0.9 ± 0.8 °C), Time to ∆Tmax (4.5 ± 2.0 vs. 17.6 ± 10.2 min) and at ∆Tset2 to ∆T15 (p < 0.005). Correlations between body composition (BMI, body fat percentage, biceps skinfold thickness) and Trest, ∆Tset2, ∆Tset3, ∆Tmax (−0.47 <r < −0.74, p < 0.005) and Time to ∆Tmax (0.52 <r < 0.70, p < 0.005) could be shown. In LG, a homogeneous load-induced Tskin pattern was found in all subjects, whereas heterogeneous Tskin progressions were shown in the OG.In conclusion, a greater body fat percentage and a greater skinfold thickness are associated with delayed and lower increases in Tskin after resistance exercise. In contrast to lean subjects, identifying the primary used functional muscles using infrared thermography in obese subjects is challenging.

New Equations to Predict Body Fat in Asian-Chinese Adults Using Age, Height, Skinfold Thickness, and Waist Circumference

BackgroundAdiposity is an independent predictor of metabolic disease. However, highly accurate body fat assessment is not routinely done due to limited access to expensive and labor-intensive methods. ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to develop body fat prediction equations for Asian-Chinese adults using easily attainable anthropometric measurements. DesignPrediction equations of body fat were developed using anthropometric and skinfold thickness measurements obtained from a cross-sectional study. These new equations were then validated using baseline data from an independent randomized controlled study. Participants/settingHealthy participants with no major diseases and not taking long-term medications were recruited in an ongoing cross-sectional study that began in June 2014 (n=439, 170 males, 269 females), as well as a randomized controlled trial (n=108, 58 males, 50 females) conducted from January 2013 to October 2014. Both the studies were conducted at Clinical Nutrition Research Center located in Singapore. Main outcome measuresData used to develop and validate equations were from two original studies that assessed body fat by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, age, waist circumference, height, and biceps and triceps skinfolds. Statistical analysis performedSex-specific percent body fat prediction equations were developed using stepwise regression with Akaike Information Criterion on the cross-sectional data. The equations were then validated using data from the randomized controlled study and also compared against Asian-specific Davidson equations. ResultsThe best body fat prediction model (R2=0.722, standard error of estimation=2.97 for females; R2=0.815, standard error of estimation=2.49 for males) for both sexes included biceps and triceps skinfolds, waist circumference, age, and height. The new equations developed resulted in modest discrepancies in body fat of 1.8%±2.7% in males (P<0.001) and 0.7%±3.1% in females (P=0.125; not significant) compared with the Asian-specific Davidson equations (−7.4%±3.2% [P<0.001] and −7.4%±2.7% [P<0.001], respectively). ConclusionsSex-specific equations to predict the percent body fat of Asian-Chinese adults with a higher degree of accuracy were developed. Ease of use in both field and clinical settings will be a major advantage.

Razlike u telesnoj kompoziciji i motoričkim sposobnostima sinhronih plivačica i devojčica koje se ne bave sportom

The aim of this study was to determine the differences in body composition and motor abilities between synchronized swimmers and non-athlete girls. The sample of this study was consisted of 37 girls, 16 of them were actively engaged in synchronized swimming and 21 girl were not engaged in sport activities, ages 12-14. The anthropometric characteristics of the subjects were assessed by the following measures: Body Height (BH) (cm); Body Mass (BM) (kg); Body Mass Index (BMI) (kg/m2). Body composition was assessed by measure: Triceps skinfold (TRI) (mm); Biceps skinfold (BIC) (mm); Subscapular skinfold (SUB) (mm); Abdominal Skinfold (ABD) (mm); Calf Skinfold (CALF) (mm); Sum of five skinfolds (SUM5) (mm); Body Fat Percent (BF%) (%); Muscle Mass Percent (% MM) (%). The motor abilities were evaluated using the three tests by a Eurofit battery, used for the evaluation of flexibility - sit and reach (FLEX) (cm); for static strength assessment - hand grip (HGRIP) (N); for muscular endurance assessment - bet-arm hangs (BAH) (sec.). The use of analysis of variance determined a statistically significant difference in body composition only in variable of truncal skinfold measurment (p = 0.014) for the benefit of girls engaged in synchronized swimming, while in the space of motor abilities the difference was determined in all variables: handgrip, sit and rich and bent arm hang tests (p = 0.000), also for the benefit of synchronized swimmers. Active engagement in sports activities such as synchronized swimming at this age can contribute to the equaly distribution of body fat, as well as the development of motor abilites that are most represented in the training process of synchronized swimming.

Skinfold Thickness Measurement in Term Nigerian Neonates: Establishing Reference Values.

Skin fold thickness (SFT) measurement is a reliable, cheap, simple, noninvasive method of body fat estimation at all ages including the neonatal period. Objective. To determine reference values of biceps, triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac skinfold thickness measurements in term Nigerian newborns. Method. A prospective cross-sectional study over a six-month period (Dec 2010–May 2011) was carried out on term and healthy neonates delivered between 37 and 41 weeks. The anthropometric measurements were taken within the first 48 hours of life including the skinfold thickness. The skinfold thickness measurements were taken at four sites, namely, triceps, biceps, subscapular, and suprailiac, using Harpenden skinfold calipers. The mean of two readings was recorded. Result. A total of one thousand one hundred and sixty-eight neonates were studied. The birth weight ranged between 2000 g and 5000 g with a mean birth weight of the neonates at 3259 ± 470 g. The mean birth weight of the males (3339 ± 0.45) was significantly higher than that of females (3200 ± 0.44) (p < 0.0001). Female neonates had higher mean values of triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac skinfold thickness (p < 0.001, resp.) while male neonates had higher mean value of biceps skinfold thickness (p = 0.008). Females also had higher mean values of the sum of skinfold thicknesses at all four sites and the sum at the two truncal sites at every stratified gestational age. Conclusions. The sex specific percentile chart developed for skinfold thickness measurements can be used to detect deviation from the reference population such that infants who are at risk of nutritional or health problems are identified early, and intervention is instituted promptly.

Maternal Alcohol Use and Nutrition During Pregnancy: Diet and Anthropometry.

Despite known risks of prenatal nutritional deficiencies and studies documenting increased prevalence of poor dietary intake among nonpregnant alcohol abusers, the nutritional status of heavy drinking pregnant women remains largely unstudied. Animal models have found interactions between prenatal ethanol exposure and micronutrients, such as choline, folate, B12, and iron, and human studies have reported that lower maternal weight and body mass confer increased fetal alcohol-related risk. One hundred and twenty-three heavy drinking Cape Coloured pregnant women and 83 abstaining controls were recruited at their first antenatal clinic visit. At 3 prenatal study visits, each gravida was interviewed about alcohol, smoking, and drug use and weight, height, and arm skinfolds were measured. Dietary intakes of energy, protein, fat, and major micronutrients were assessed from three 24-hour recall interviews. The majority of women gained less than the recommended 0.42kg/wk during pregnancy. Whereas methamphetamine use was associated with smaller biceps skinfolds, an indicator of body fat, alcohol consumption was not related to any anthropometric indicator. Alcohol was related to higher intake of phosphorus, choline, and vitamins B12 and D. Alcohol, cigarette, and methamphetamine use were related to lower vitamin C intake. Insufficient intake was reported by >85% of women for 10 of 22 key nutrients, and >50% for an additional 3 nutrients. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy was not associated with meaningful changes in diet or anthropometric measures in this population, suggesting that poor nutrition among drinkers does not confound the extensively reported effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on growth and neurobehavior. The poor gestational weight gain and high rates of insufficient intake for several nutrients in both the alcohol-exposed and control groups are also of public health importance.

Comparison of Anthropometry and Lower Limb Power Qualities According to Different Levels and Ranking Position of Competitive Surfers.

Fernandez-Gamboa, I, Yanci, J, Granados, C, and Camara, J. Comparison of anthropometry and lower limb power qualities according to different levels and ranking position of competitive surfers. J Strength Cond Res 31(8): 2231-2237, 2017-The aim of this study was to compare competitive surfers' lower limb power output depending on their competitive level, and to evaluate the association between competition rankings. Twenty competitive surfers were divided according to the competitive level as follows: international (INT) or national (NAT), and competitive ranking (RANK1-50 or RANK51-100). Vertical jump and maximal peak power of the lower limbs were measured. No differences were found between INT and NAT surfers in the anthropometric variables, in the vertical jump, or in lower extremity power; although the NAT group had higher levels on the elasticity index, squat jumps (SJs), and counter movement jumps (CMJs) compared with the INT group. The RANK1-50 group had a lower biceps skinfold (p < 0.01), lower skinfolds in the legs (Front thigh: p ≤ 0.05; medial calf: p < 0.01), lower sum of skinfolds (p ≤ 0.05), higher SJ (p < 0.01), CMJ (p < 0.01), and 15 seconds vertical CMJ (p ≤ 0.05); also, maximal peak power of the right leg (MPPR) and left leg (MPPL) were higher in the RANK1-50 group. Moderate to large significant correlations were obtained between the surfers' ranking position and some skinfolds, the sum of skinfolds, and vertical jump. Results demonstrate that surfers' physical performance seems to be an accurate indicator of ranking positioning, also revealing that vertical jump capacity and anthropometric variables play an important role in their competitive performance, which may be important when considering their power training.

Predicting playing status in professional water polo players: analysis by gender.

The aim of this study was twofold: firstly, to identify the characteristics of water polo players that discriminate between women and men based on specific playing positions; and secondly to develop a predicting model to identify the characteristics that are best suited to a given playing position based on gender. The study included 130 professional water polo players. Anthropometric characteristics and throwing velocity were analyzed in different situations: no defender or goalkeeper, goalkeeper only and the players made three rapid arm movements and then threw the ball at maximum speed without further feinting with goalkeeper. Measured variables were compared according to gender and player position using discriminant analysis. The predictive model accurately classifies 71.1% of the male players using three variables (arm span, muscle mass Lee and penalty without goalkeeper), and 64.7% of the female players using three variables (triceps skinfold, biceps skinfold and anteroposterior chest breadth). The anthropometric characteristics and throwing velocity play an important role in identifying the different specific positions in male and female water polo players. In female players, the variables that were determinant in the predictive model, were those associated with body composition.

Special Judo Fitness Test Level and Anthropometric Profile of Elite Spanish Judo Athletes.

Casals, C, Huertas, JR, Franchini, E, Sterkowicz-Przybycień, K, Sterkowicz, S, Gutiérrez-García, C, and Escobar-Molina, R. Special judo fitness test level and anthropometric profile of elite spanish judo athletes. J Strength Cond Res 31(5): 1229-1235, 2017-The aim of this study was to determine the anthropometric variables that best predict Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT) performance. In addition, anthropometric profiles of elite Spanish judo athletes were compared by sex and age category (seniors and juniors). In this cross-sectional study, a total of 51 (29 females) athletes from the Spanish National Judo Team were evaluated during a competitive period. All athletes performed the SJFT and underwent an anthropometric assessment through skinfold thickness measurements. Mann-Whitney comparisons by sex and age category showed that males had significantly higher muscle mass and lower fat mass than females (p < 0.001), whereas juniors and seniors exhibited few differences in body composition. Linear regression analyses (stepwise method) were performed to explore the relationships between anthropometric characteristics and SJFT variables. Model 1 included sex, age category, and body mass as predictors. Body mass and sex significantly predicted the SJFT index (R = 0.27, p < 0.001); thus, both criteria should be considered before interpreting the test. The predictors of model 2 were quick-assessment variables, including skinfolds, breadths, girths, and height. This regression model showed that the biceps skinfold significantly predicted the SJFT index in elite athletes (R = 0.31, p < 0.001). Model 3 included body compositions and somatotypes as predictors. Higher muscle and bone masses and lower ectomorphy were associated with better SJFT performance (R = 0.44, p < 0.001). Hence, training programs should attempt to increase the muscle mass percentage and reduce the upper arm fat, whereas the bone percentage could be considered in the selection of talented athletes in conjunction with other factors.

Older Age and Worse Nutritional State Were Related with Impaired Inflammatory Response in Elderly Patients

Background : Ageing process is related with multisystem disorders. One of them is immune response impairment. It is imperative to evaluate the association between age and related nutritional status with inflammatory response in elderly patient. Methods : A cross sectional study to evaluate inflammatory response among elderly patients (?60 years) at Geriatric Out -patient Clinic, Sanglah Hospital was conducted. Seventy-two patients were enrolled in the study. Age, nutritional states (body mass index and mini nutritional assessment), and inflammatory markers (interleukin-2 [IL-2] and C-reactive protein [CRP]) and other anthropometric as well as laboratory parameters were measured in the study. Results : In the study it was revealed that age has a moderately negative correlation with both of plasma IL-2 and serum CRP levels (R= -0.305, p=0.009; and R= -0.413, p=0.005, respectively). Plasma IL-2 levels were positively correlated with several variables like body mass index (R=0.282, p=0.016), mini nutritional assessment (R=0.237, p=0.045), biceps skin fold (R=0.291, p=0.013), and triceps skin fold (R=0.258, p=0.028). While serum CRP levels has positive correlation with lying diastolic blood pressure (R=0.345, p=0.020) and negative correlation with calf circumference (R=- 0.312, p=0.037). No significant associations were found between diabetes and hypertension with inflammatory markers. Conclusion : This study concluded that older age and worse nutritional state were related to worse inflammatory response in the elderly patients.

A Study on Handgrip Strength in Pregnant and Non-pregnant Women of North India

Objectives: The objectives of the present study were to estimate the handgrip strength of 129 purposively selected pregnant and non-pregnant women (63 pregnant and 66 non-pregnant women) aged 20-35 years and to search its correlations with selected anthropometric variables studied. Adequate numbers of controls were also taken for comparisons. Methods: To serve these purposes, fourteen anthropometric variables, viz height, weight, BMI, biceps and triceps skinfolds, percent body fat, percent lean body mass, upper arm circumference, dominant and non-dominant handgrip strength, arm muscle area, arm area, arm fat area and arm fat index were measured on all the subjects. Results: Statistically significant differences (p 0.05) with any of the anthropometric variables studied. Conclusions: Pregnant women had significantly lower handgrip strength as compared to non-pregnant women.