Motricidade

CIDESD International Congress 2023

2023-12-08T15:21:39+00:00

In partnership with the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, the Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD) organised the international congress on October 12 and 13, 2023. After an unprecedented pandemic situation that led to the postponement of the organisation of this congress, we had the pleasure of hosting this edition in a unique eco-campus, surrounded by a mix of nature and urbanism in Vila Real at the gates of the Douro Valley in the region of Trás-os-Montes.

The International Congress CIDESD 2023 (ICCIDESD2023) was dedicated to showcasing the latest research and innovations in sports sciences, exercise, and health, reflecting the collective endeavours of researchers who face a daily challenge of communicating the evidence to the practitioners shaping the interaction between theory and practice. With more than 300 participants, the programme included several plenary sessions, free communication sessions, an industry exhibition, the presentation and discussion of research projects and various networking activities. As the realm of sports sciences and health is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by a deeper understanding of the confluence of various disciplines, the ICCIDESD focused on topics such as applied technology for sport, exercise and health, outdoor sports, well-being and sustainability, physiology and sports nutrition, psychology, social sciences and human development, exercise medicine and health, sports training and performance analysis.

CIDESD is an R&D Unit organised as a consortium of educational institutions spread across the country, in which UTAD has been playing a decisive role in strategic definition and consolidation in close coordination with national and European science policies.

This event took place at a time coinciding with the start of the evaluation of R&D Units by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, which includes the evaluation of activities for the period 2018-2022 and the plan for 2024-2027. This process will result in a quality rating, determining multi-annual funding. Also, because of this disruptive moment, the ICCIDESD2023 event was particularly important as a forum for internal debate on the present and future of CIDESD.

This abstract book serves not only as a record of the scholarly contributions presented at the conference but also as a resource for ongoing education and inspiration. It is designed to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration, allowing readers to delve into the latest research findings, methodologies, and discussions driving progress in the field.

Influence of physical activity on depressive symptoms and mood states in postmenopausal women

2023-09-12T18:43:37+01:00

Women are more likely to experience depressive symptoms and poor quality of life during postmenopause. Physical activity is an effective strategy to improve the mental health of women in this climacteric phase. This study aimed to investigate the variation of depressive symptomatology and mood states in postmenopausal women as a function of moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels. The search was conducted on the project Meno(s)Pause+Movement and involved 62 women (age range 48-71 years), most of them with natural menopause (87.1%) and without hormone therapy (85.5%). The Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was applied, and the Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R) was used to measure dispositional optimism. Body composition was assessed by bioimpedance, and triaxial accelerometers wGT3X-BT were used to measure MVPA. The cut-off points for the non-dominant pulse proposed by Kamada et al. (2016) were considered, and physical activity was classified according to WHO (2020) guidelines. One-way ANOVA was used to compare the means of the variables in the three MVPA groups (<150 minutes/week; 150-300 minutes/week); >300 minutes/week), being considered a 5% degree of statistical significance. Women who documented using antidepressants or anxiolytics were excluded from the analysis. The research was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (ref. Doc77-CE-UTAD-2022). The mean age, LOT-R, and DASS-21 scores were 53.69 years, 16.52 (±3.0) points, and 11.02 (±9.22) points, respectively. Most of the sample exhibited obesity but a normal muscle condition (skeletal muscle mass ≥16 kg). The average MVPA was 299.05 min/week, with 41.9% of the women showing very recommended levels. No differences were identified in the mean values of the LOT-R, the DASS-21 scale and its dimensions (anxiety, depression and stress) between the 3 AFMV groups. The results suggest that physical activity levels do not influence variation in optimism and depression symptomatology in postmenopausal women.

Correlation between fear of falling, eye-segmental coordination and dynamic balance in the elderly

2023-09-08T14:19:28+01:00

Falls are well documented as being a major cause of accidental injury and deaths worldwide, especially among the elderly, with a higher probability of occurrence in the population over 60 years of age (WHO, 2021). Falls are preventable, but the consequences of falls can lead to injuries and may result in loss of independence. Decreased overall motor skills of the elderly, such as muscle strength, power, flexibility, agility, and endurance, cause walking difficulty (Spirduzo et al., 2005; Jeon M-Y, Choe M, 2002; Salzman, 2010), nevertheless, physical activity and exercise can contribute to maintaining the quality of life, health, physical function and reducing falls among older people (Gillespie et al., 2012; Tricco et al., 2017). Thus, the present study aims to analyse the association between fear of falling, eye-segmental coordination and dynamic balance in participants in a physical exercise program for the elderly. The sample consisted of 103 individuals (22 men and 81 women) with a mean age of 71.3 (±5.9) years, participants of a gerontomotricity municipal program from 5 different locations in the central region of Portugal. Wall Drop Punt Kick and Catch test was used to assess eye-segmental coordination, the Foot Up and Go test was used to assess dynamic balance, and the Falls Efficacy Scale International questionnaire was used to assess the fear of falling. Results confirm that higher levels of eye-segmental coordination are correlated both with dynamic balance and the fear of falling (r = - 0.39, p < 0.001 & r = - 0.28, p < 0.01, respectively) and also that dynamic balance correlates with the fear of falling (r = 0.46, p < 0.001). It is interesting to note that age was not correlated with any of these 3 variables despite its amplitude ranging from 57 to 85 years old. Differences between sex were only observed for eye-segmental coordination (men = 9.36, women = 4.61; p < 0.001). The years of participation in this program ranged from 0.1 to 17.5, but it showed no correlation with any studied variable (p > 0.05). With this study, it could be confirmed that higher levels of fear of falling in the older population are related to lower levels of eye-segmental coordination and lower levels of dynamic balance, emphasising the need to maintain or adopt active lifestyles that promote the development or at least, avoid the decrease of human motor skills performance.

Water Competence and Physical Education: Perception and Real – A Field Assessment Methodology on the Portuguese Azorean Islands

2023-09-24T22:32:15+01:00

Drowning is responsible for about 372000 deaths per year around the world (OMS, 2014). Nowadays, Swimming Instruction is considered a relevant preventive measure for drowning. However, the act of swimming by itself does not ensure the victim full protection; thereby, this study embraces the concept of Water Competency because it includes swimming competencies, awareness, attitude and risk management. Based on a series of studies called “Can you Swim? Survey” (Moran et al., 2012), it was established an evaluation protocol on Perceived Water Competency (PWC), Real Water Competency (RWC) and Risk Management (RM) adapted to the Portuguese reality, focused especially in the Azorean educational context. Aside from these competencies evaluation, the protocol also describes the environmental and sociocultural influences and the Physical Education subject and Sports on the development of water competencies. This work aims to bridge the gap of a standard evaluation methodology of Water Competency (WC). Adding a set of tasks and an effective review of the obtained results, the present methodology allows the classification of groups of students into approved/not approved as an essential precondition of the activities/categories' safe execution in the nautical area. It also presents a dissemination of the tools constructed and established partnership’s methodology. A pilot application was carried out in a group of students (n = 115) with an average age of de 14.58 years for both genders. This test sample belongs to six geographically balanced schools in São Miguel Island – Azores. The obtained results suggest that participants in this study were unable to accurately predict their actual swimming and survival skills, and no significant differences were evident in perceived or actual competency by gender. It was proven that regular informal exposure affects some of the tested competencies. However, the Physical Education classes swimming lessons variable was responsible for the bigger differences. In the end, we checked that formal Competitive Swimming lessons are the variable that shows a bigger influence in the PWC, in particular on the perceived activities of “maximum distance swam in 15 minutes” (Mann-Whitney U = 739, p = 0.000), “100 m backstroke” (Mann-Whitney U = 699, p = 0.000) and “dive entry headfirst” (Mann-Whitney U = 963, p = 0.010); in RM on the: “caught in a rip current at beach” (Mann-Whitney U = 972.5, p = 0.029) and “chased toy into the deep end of a swimming pool” (Mann-Whitney U = 957, p = 0.022); and in RWC on the activities: “maximum distance swam in 15 minutes” (Mann-Whitney U = 777, p = 0.000), “underwater swimming” (Mann-Whitney U = 963.5, p = 0.023), “100 m backstroke” (Mann-Whitney U = 712, p = 0.000) and “2 m surface dive” (Mann-Whitney U = 921.5, p = 0.012). Thereby, when having a major exposure combined with organised water safety or swimming lessons, the RWC increases. This work highlights the importance of proper conditions to maximise exposure and aquatic education amongst young people, leading to the prevention of drowning.

Effects of exercise prehabilitation on functional capacity and health-related quality of life in head and neck cancer patients: Preliminary results of the FIT4TREAT trial

2023-07-21T16:28:48+01:00

Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients submitted to radical chemoradiotherapy (CRT) have to deal with various physical and psychosocial problems related to cancer and its treatment, which negatively affect functional capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Thus, the aim of this work was to analyse the impact of an exercise prehabilitation (EP) program on the functional capacity and HRQoL in HNC patients. In this randomised-controlled trial (NCT05418842), 30 HNC patients proposed for radical CRT were randomly allocated to EP or usual care (UC) group. The EP group participated in an exercise program composed of a combined aerobic and resistance training program (60 minutes), three sessions/week, from randomisation to the beginning of radiotherapy (RT). Aerobic capacity (6-minute walk test, 6MWT), isometric handgrip muscle strength (dynamometer), lower limb functional capacity (30 seconds chair sit-to-stand test, STS) and HRQoL (EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-HN43) were assessed at diagnosis (baseline, M0), and 1-3 days before starting RT (M1). Twenty-six patients completed both pre-treatment assessments, 12 in the EP (61.8±8.4 years, 91.7% men) and 14 in the UC (66.1±9.9 years, 92.9% men) group. The median length of the pre-treatment phase was 28 days (IQR, 24-28 days) and 29 days (IQR, 22-32 days) in EP and UC groups (p=0.786), respectively. Patients adhered on average to 66.3±34.9% of exercise sessions. No differences between groups were observed in any variable at baseline (M0). The 30 seconds STS performance improved with the EP program and remained unchanged in the UC group (EP: Δ4.4±4.6 vs UC: Δ0.1±2.5 repetitions, p=0.007). No differences between groups were observed for the change in the 6MWT (p=0.162); handgrip muscle strength (dominant hand: p=0.819; non-dominant hand, p=0.964); or any domain of HRQoL, except for body image (p=0.020) and dry mouth and sticky saliva (p=0.020) favouring the EP group. In the per-protocol analysis (i.e., adherence ≥80% of planned exercise sessions), changes in 30 seconds STS test remained significant (EP: Δ7.2±2.9 vs UC: Δ0.1±2.5 repetitions, p=0.009) while the 6MWT improved as compared in EP as compared to the UC group (EP: Δ44.7±31.5 vs UC: Δ-5.9±36.0 meters, p<0.001). No serious adverse events related to exercise were reported in the EP group. These preliminary results suggest that EP is safe and improves lower limb functionality, body image, and dry mouth and sticky saliva domains of HRQoL in HNC patients. The benefits of the 6MWT performance appear limited to those with good adherence to the planned exercise sessions.

Knee and hip muscle strength of professional football players from different competitive levels

2023-06-20T16:44:17+01:00

In football, knee and hip muscle strength assessment have been recommended for injury prevention (Mosler et al., 2017; Namazi et al., 2019). Additionally, bilateral strength differences in the knee and hip joints have been related to an increased risk of injury. The aims of this study were threefold: (1) to compare knee and hip muscle strength performance between professional players competing at different levels; (2) to assess bilateral strength differences according to the preferred leg (PL) and the non-preferred leg (NPL); and (3) to compare knee and hip muscle strength performance in two-time moments of the season. This study considered 33 professional football players: 13 were in the elite group (EG) competing in the First Portuguese Football League, and 20 were in the sub-elite group (SEG) competing in the Fourth Portuguese Football League. Participants were assessed for body composition, isokinetic knee strength at 60º/s, and hip adduction strength at two-time moments (TM) separated by five months. Peak torque normalised by bodyweight (PT/BW) of knee extensors (KE) and knee flexors (KF) were used for analysis. The differences between groups in strength were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test. The Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test was conducted to verify differences between the performance of the PL and NPL in each group and to compare the performance between TM1 and TM2. At TM1, the EG presented a significantly better performance in KF PT/BW and hip adduction strength for the PL and NPL (p £ 0.01). In TM2, the EG performed substantially better in KE PT/BW and KF PT/BW (p £ 0.01). In both groups, no substantial bilateral strength differences were observed in knee and hip adduction performance. From TM1 to TM2, significant increases were found in knee strength in both groups (p £ 0.01). Overall, the EG players outperformed their lower-division peers in strength assessments significantly. The results also indicate significant knee and hip muscle strength increases during the season (except for the EG in hip adduction strength), probably as a response to the exposure to training and competition.

Reproducibility of Wall Drop Punt Kick and Catch Test over a period of two weeks

2023-06-26T11:11:38+01:00

This study sought to assess the reliability of a manipulative eye–segmental (hand and foot) coordination task, known as the Wall Drop Punt Kick and Catch test (WDPK&C), over a period of two weeks. A total of forty-one children and adolescents, comprising 18 boys and 23 girls, with an average age of 10.2 years (SD = 1.62), were recruited for the assessment. Participants were given 30 seconds to execute as many ball impacts as possible on a wall located two meters away, following a drop punt kick, wall rebound, and catch sequence. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC = 0.896) for individual measurements, Cronbach Alpha (α = 0.945), and Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC = 0.896) provide robust evidence of reliability when considering two successive measurements. These findings further reinforce the reliability of the WDPK&C test within a sample of Portuguese children and adolescents. Consequently, the WDPK&C test is deemed suitable for application to Portuguese children and adolescents. Future studies should extend the assessment of this test's reliability to diverse age groups, as it is intended to serve as a test suitable for a wide range of ages.

The peak match speed of soccer players: a 20 second analysis

2023-06-20T16:46:26+01:00

To assess peak speeds, usually assess players capacity to quickly accelerate and achieve/maintain a maximal speed in 30 m distance (Altmann et al., 2019). During these tests, players often start from stationary positions, reacting to a sound signal (Haff & Triplett, 2016). However, one may question these test procedures since peak speeds achieved during tests generally exceed peak speeds registered during matches (Buchheit et al., 2021; Djaoui et al., 2017). Additionally, during matches, soccer players usually perform leading sprints (those where players achieved the sprint threshold [> 25.2 km/h)] while entering the high-speed running category [19.8-25.2 km/h] in the previous 0.5 seconds than explosive sprints (those where players reached the sprint threshold without entering the high-speed running category in the previous 0.5 seconds) (di Salvo et al., 2009). This research aimed to characterize match peak speeds, during a 20-second time window (10 seconds immediately before and after the match peak speed), in soccer matches. Twenty elite soccer players were monitored with GNSS devices during six soccer matches from the Brazilian first division. For each player during each match, speeds were collected at 0.1-second intervals (10 Hz) from 10 seconds before and 10 seconds after the match peak speed. Speeds (mean ± SD) were calculated for speeds at each 0.1-second intervals and intra-individual speed differences were compared at every second of the 20 seconds window using paired mean differences. Effect sizes (ES) were established as trivial (<0.2), small (0.2<0.6), moderate (0.6<1.2), large (1.2<2.0), very large (2.0<4.0) and huge (>4.0) with 90% confidence intervals. Match peak speeds ranged from 29.11 km/h to 31.64 km/h. Speeds registered 10 seconds before and 10 seconds after the match peak speed ranged from 5.11 km/h to 9.21 km/h and 6.90 km/h to 7.65 km/h respectively. Speed increased (acceleration) moderately (ES: 0.68 [0.64, 0.72]) 4 seconds before the match peak speed and decreased (deceleration) moderately (ES: -0.73 [-0.77, -0.69]) 3 seconds after the maximal effort. Match peak speeds were achieved from leading starts, which questions the current sprint test procedures. After the match's peak speed, players decelerate quicker than they accelerate but without reaching a full stop. Nevertheless, preparing players for intense decelerations should not be disregarded. Field tests and training sessions should provide a stimulus similar to what is observed during competition.

Lipidogram related to the physical condition of residents of the Community of Puruzinho, Amazonas

2023-07-11T13:13:08+01:00

The evaluation of the physical condition allows a previous knowledge of the physical condition of the person or group researched, as well as the elaboration of training with the precautions appropriate to the objective of the activity, which provides greater security in the quantification of the exercise. Good physical condition is associated with health, while an insufficient physical condition may indicate impairment of the person's health. The objective of the present research is to analyse the values of cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides in relation to the physical condition levels of the residents of the Puruzinho community in the state of Amazonas. This is a descriptive cross-sectional research, and the study universe consists of 164 people distributed in 20 families. The sample consisted of 40 people aged between 13 and 73 years (36.25±14.31), 18 women (35.05±12.89), and 22 men (35.94±16.13). The research data collection instrument consisted of a questionnaire with closed questions developed through personal interviews. Thus, the responses of each individual were analysed, translated into scores and, subsequently, the physical classification, following the following criteria: (1 to 5 points – “Insufficient physical condition”), (6 to 7 points – “Normal physical condition”) and (8 to 10 points – “Good physical condition”). Refrigerated Serum was analysed using the Automated Enzymatic Method (BS-200) to determine the lipid profile. From the questionnaire, it was verified that 50% of the interviewees present a “Good physical condition”, 27.5% of respondents have a “Normal physical condition”, and only 22.5% have “Insufficient physical condition”. The results show the following means and standard deviations for each analysed lipid item: Cholesterol 199.25±44.00, LDL 126.26±39.13, HDL 48.87±10.77 and Triglycerides 120.17±41.14. Of the nine people with insufficient physical condition, one has high blood glucose and borderline cholesterol, two have borderline cholesterol, one has high cholesterol, and four have desirable cholesterol. Of the 11 people with normal physical condition, two have high cholesterol, four have borderline cholesterol, and five have desirable cholesterol. It is necessary to implement a structure for bodily practices in the community, which currently boils down to a field of land for soccer practice. The age group includes adolescents, adults and the elderly. This was a limitation of the research; the sample did not consider this item for the analysis.

Combined Exercise Training, Body Composition, Glucose and Insulin Metabolism in Sedentary Workers

2023-06-24T16:09:58+01:00

Sedentary behaviour (SB) and physical inactivity are two major risk factors for obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease development (Davies et al., 2018). Effective stress-reducing interventions, such as regular exercise, are essential to prevent the harmful impact of SB on metabolic outcomes (Pedersen, 2017). We aimed to analyse the effects of a combined training program on body composition, blood pressure (BP), and glucose and insulin metabolism markers in non-diabetic sedentary workers and to assess the associations between the changes promoted by the exercise intervention and the different variables studied. This is a single-blinded two-arm randomised controlled trial. Thirty-six participants (53.7±6.9 years old; BMI: 27.2±3.9 kg/m²) underwent 16 weeks of combined exercise training [CET (n=18), resistance (6-15 reps at 45-90% 1RM) and aerobic exercise (60-95% HRmax)], 3 times/week, 75 min/session, or a control group (n=18). Body composition, blood pressure (BP), and fasting blood samples were taken pre- and post-intervention. Body composition was determined by bioimpedance (Inbody 270, USA). Blood pressure was measured using an automated oscillometric cuff (NBP-24 NG, USA). Fasting glucose and insulin were analysed using standard enzymatic assays (Atellica CH Analyzer, USA) and ELISA (Crystal Chem, USA), respectively. Plasma HbA1c level was determined by the Ion-exchange HPLC method (Tosoh Bioscience, California). The homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated as (glucose x insulin/22.5). The CET group significantly decreased BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, visceral adipose tissue, and increased muscle mass after the exercise intervention (p<0.01), while no significant changes were observed in the control group. A significant reduction of BP was observed in the CET group (time p=0.001). Fasting glucose increased in both groups without intergroup differences (time p<0.001); however, no significant changes were observed in HbA1c% levels. Fasting insulin was significantly higher in the control group after 16 weeks of follow-up (group p=0.01). The control group also increased the HOMA-IR index (time p=0.01) after 16 weeks of follow-up, with intergroup differences at follow-up (group p=0.03). No significant changes were observed in the CET group for insulin and HOMA-IR index (p>0.05). Bivariate correlations showed a significant positive correlation between the change (D) in systolic BP and D HOMA-IR index (r=0.475, p=0.046). Our results suggest that a combined training program could be an effective strategy to improve body composition and maintain normal glucose and insulin metabolism, preventing the development of metabolic disorders as well as the vascular dysfunction associated with the insulin resistance phenotype.

Electromyographic analysis of deadlift for construction workers

2023-06-23T17:11:27+01:00

Working in construction is physically demanding. The tasks inherent to this professional occupation physically wear workers down, leaving them at a high risk of injury, mainly in the shoulder and knee joints and the lumbar region (Chung et al., 2019; Umer et al., 2018). Those tasks require a great balance capacity and strength of the postural muscles, with the Construction Workers (CW) supporting heavy equipment on unstable surfaces (Manttari et al., 2021). The aim of this study was to analyse the muscular activity in trained civil construction workers (CWPE) and untrained civil construction workers (CWnPE) during a realisation of the deadlift (DL).

Eleven male CW (38.00 ± 9.60 years; 172 ± 1 cm; 87.01 ± 9.8 kg), of which 7 were untrained (N =7) and 4 were trained (N=4). Firstly, each subject filled out a questionnaire, and the maximum repetition for the DL was evaluated. Secondly, the muscular activity was evaluated while performing the deadlift in four different situations: at 50%RM at rest, 80%RM at rest, 80%RM at fatigue, and 50%RM at fatigue. Surface Electromyography (EMG) measured the muscular activity of the Biceps Femoris (BF), Trapezius Transversalis (TT), and Erector Spinae longissimus (ES). The data were collected through the MonitorPlux, using a frequency of 1000Hz, and exported into MATLAB software for data processing. The relative values of Root Mean Square (RMS) were obtained, reflecting the muscular activation during the realisation of the exercise, and Mean Frequency (MFREQ), which is an indicator of fatigue (Puce et al., 2021). Means, minimums, maximums, and standard deviations were calculated as significant differences (p ≤ .05) using the Mann-Whitney U Test.

CWPE had higher muscle activity values and did not present significant differences in muscular activation. The muscle with higher activation was the TT in both groups and was highly perceived at the set at 80%RM at fatigue, being observed the greater activation on the CWPE (TT left: 42.93 ± 31.40%; TT right: 64.75 ± 68.43%) when compared to the CWnPE (TT left: 32.31 ± 25.87%; TT right: 36.69 ± 29.61%). CWnPE showed significant differences between sets of different intensities and conditions on the TT (p ≤ 0.05).

As the results suggest, sets performed in the presence of fatigue and series at higher intensities provide greater muscle activations. There seems to be a strong influence of physical exercise on muscle activity and fatigue in civil construction workers.

Examining the pivotal motivational elements that influence an individual's commitment to sports

2023-06-22T11:18:39+01:00

This research aims to explore the interplay between supportive and hindering behaviours, the fulfilment of basic psychological needs, motivation, and intentions to sustain sports participation among athletes. A longitudinal approach was employed to investigate the evolving relationships between these variables over time. A total of 538 athletes (219 male and 319 female), aged between 15 and 32 years (mean age = 22.78; standard deviation = 4.52), participated in this study. The sample encompassed athletes from football (n = 187), basketball (n = 172), and swimming (n = 179). The structural equation model exhibited a good fit. Positive direct and indirect connections were observed between most constructs, with the exception of the associations between controlled motivation and basic psychological need satisfaction. Intentions to continue sports participation accounted for 12% of the variance in athletes' sports persistence. While the mediation model did not reveal any direct effects for need-supportive or need-thwarting behaviours, it did identify significant indirect pathways within the positive aspect of the model. The overall indirect impact of need-supportive behaviours in the model was β = .14 (90% confidence interval = .26; .37), whereas, for need-thwarting behaviours, it was β = -.05 (90% confidence interval = -.11; -.01), indicating a beneficial mediation process. Cultivating autonomous motivation and fostering a supportive environment that meets athletes' basic psychological needs can be instrumental in nurturing enduring commitment, boosting athletes' intentions to persist in sports, and heightening their prospects for long-term success.

Sleep parameters in postmenopausal women and their relationship with moderate-vigorous physical activity

2023-06-23T10:22:09+01:00

Menopause is associated with decreased physical activity and sleep disturbances. Short sleep duration and poor sleep quality have been associated with an increased risk of falls, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. It´s important to understand how physical activity influences sleep health in postmenopausal women. The purpose of this study was to analyse the variation of sleep duration and quality as a function of moderate-vigorous physical activity (not recommended, MVPA<150 min/week; recommended, MVPA between 150 and 300 min/week; highly recommended, AFM>300 min/week). The sample included 40 postmenopausal women (57.28±5.68 years) enrolled in the Meno(s)Pause+Movement, 85% documenting the use of hormone therapy. Sleep (TST, total sleep time; SOL, sleep onset latency; SE, sleep efficiency; SFI, sleep fragmentation index) and physical activity were estimated using ActiGraph GT3X+ activity monitors. Physical activity was classified according to WHO (2020) guidelines and body composition was measured using bioimpedance (InBody 120). One-way ANOVA was used to compare the means of the variables in the MVPA groups being considered a 5% degree of statistical significance. Women taking medication that influenced sleep were eliminated from the analysis. The research was approved by the Ethics Committee of the UTAD (ref. Doc77-CE-UTAD-2022). Most of the sample showed fat mass ≥35% (65%) and visceral fat >9 points (72.5%). The average MVPA was 299,05 min/week, with 30 women showing levels of at least 150 min/week. All participants presented SFI>5 number of events (25,66±6,38 number of events) and SOL£30 minutes (2.83±1.29 min). The average TST was 7.38 (±0.50) min/day, with 75% showing recommended values. The MVPA groups did not produce a differentiated effect (p>0.05) on the parameters related to the duration and quality of sleep. There is no relationship between MVPA and sleep duration and quality in postmenopausal women. A replication study in a larger sample is suggested.

Effect of a community dual-task exercise program on physical fitness of elderly: the MEMO_MOVE program

2023-09-20T12:42:02+01:00

The elders experience a progressive loss of cognitive and physiological functions, including cognitive impairment and functional motor skills. It is estimated that by 2050, the number of people with dementia will reach 131.5 million worldwide (World Health Organization, 2015). In addition to cognitive and behavioural deficits, people with dementia have increased deficits in balance, gait and motor coordination, leading to an increased risk of falls. Exercise improves cognitive and physical functions and is an important contributor to functional independence. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a tailored dual-task exercise program on physical fitness in people over 65 years of age in the Fundão community. The longitudinal study included elderly people aged ≥ 65 years. Twenty-five community residents, 13 female (F; age: 71.37±11.77 years; height: 160.46±0.08cm; body mass: 67.29±13.67 kg) and 12 male (M; age: 71.25±9.26 years; height: 169.54±3.67 cm; body mass: 79.98±11.94 kg) participated in this cross-sectional study. All participants received a six-month individualised exercise program. Physical fitness was assessed at baseline and the end of the intervention using the Rikli and Jones Test (Rikli & Jones, 1999) for cognitive functions using the MOca test battery (Hobson, 2015). Pre-post analysis was conducted using a t-test for paired samples. As this is a community-based program, there is no control group, as participants in the program are evaluated. A general improvement was found in all tests, from baseline to post-test. Significant differences were found for all physical fitness tests, walking 6 minutes (P=0.006), push-ups (P=0.006), sitting and walking 2.44 m (p=0.006), sitting and standing from a chair (P=0.003), sitting and reaching (P=0.003) and reaching behind the back (P=0.036). There were significant improvements in cognitive functions: Visuospatial/executive (P=0.002), Naming (0.000), Attention: sequence of numbers (P= 0.001), Attention: Subtraction (P=0.001), Language: repetition (P=0.042), Abstraction: similarities (P=0.003) Memory: delayed recall (P=0.004), Orientation (P=0.000), Total Score MOCA (P=0.000). This trial of a personalised dual-task exercise intervention presents preliminary evidence that the MEMO_MOVE community program can improve physical fitness in the elderly, which may decrease the prevalence of falls, a prevalent accident in this population.

Substance Consumption in University Students and the Relationship with Self-Esteem and Psychological Well-Being

2023-06-22T11:35:30+01:00

The consumption of psychoactive substances among college students is a topic that has increasingly garnered more media coverage in the literature. However, there remains considerable controversy surrounding this issue. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between substance use habits (including alcohol, tobacco, and other psychoactive substances) and self-esteem and psychological well-being among college students, with the aim of gaining a deeper understanding of this matter. This study employs a descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative, correlational, and quasi-experimental design. The sample consists of 460 college students aged between 18 and 66 who have internet access. Among these participants, 299 are biologically female and 158 are biologically male. The research utilized several instruments, including a Sociodemographic Questionnaire, the Psychological Well-Being Manifestation Measurement Scale, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. The results indicated no statistically significant differences in terms of self-esteem and psychological well-being based on substance use. However, it was observed that the consumption of other psychoactive substances was significantly higher among male participants compared to female participants.

Predicting the risk of anterior cruciate ligament rupture using muscle strength and flexibility in female football players

2023-07-11T12:44:42+01:00

Female football players are up to six times more likely to rupture their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL-rupture) than their male counterparts (Arendt & Dick, 1995; Junge & Dvorak, 2004). A very high incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries has also been observed, ranging from 1 to 7 per 1,000 hours of play (Schiffner et al., 2018; Del Coso, Herrero, & Salinero, 2018; Larruskain et al., 2018). ACL-rupture in female competitive football (FCF) players also causes personal and professional impairments, which are associated with high economic costs for both players and the football clubs (Mather et al., 2013; Swart et al., 2014). Therefore, the prevention of non-contact ACL injuries is of great importance in sports traumatology. Therefore, the aims of the present research study were: 1) to predict risk factors for ACL-rupture based on muscle lower-limb strength and flexibility, and 2) to establish a diagnostic cut-off for factors related to ACL-rupture in FCF players. A prospective cohort study was conducted to predict risk factors for ACL-rupture in 121 FCF players (aged 14-33 years). The independent variables such as age, anthropometric data, lower limb range of motion (ROM) and hip maximum isometric strength were measured. The model summary (Enter method) showed a significant relationship between the outcome variable (ACL-rupture) and the predictor variables (leg length, HAD-NH [hip adduction with neutral hip] maximal isometric strength, asymmetric ROM [AD-KE (ankle dorsiflexion with knee extended), AD-KF (ankle dorsiflexion with knee flexed) and HE (hip extension)], hip ROM [HIR (hip internal rotation with knee flexed) and HAB (hip abduction with knee extended)]) for H1 (χ²(93) = 30.531, p < 0.001). The Akaike Information Criteria and Bayesian Information Criteria for model fit were 30.24 and 51.79, respectively. The statistical value R₂ showed good model fit, 76.5% for Nagelkerke´s R2, 71.4% for McFadden´s R2 and 67.5% for Tjur´s R². The leg length (OR 2.689e+70 95%IC –54.831 to 379.171; p=0.143), HAD-NH maximal isometric strength (OR 1.029 95%IC –0.073 to 0.130; p=0.584), asymmetric ROM (AD-KE [OR 2.453 95%IC –0.006 to 1.800; p=0.051], AD-KF ([OR 0.356 95%IC –2.679 to 0.614; p=0.219] and HE [OR 2.669 95%IC –0.360 to 2.324; p=0.152]) and hip ROM (HIR [OR 0.418 95%IC –2.051 to 0.305; p=0.146] and HAB [OR 2.326 95%IC –0.226 to 1.914; p=0.122]) are not the predictor variables in FCF players. For ACL-rupture, the ROC curve analysis showed an AUC acceptable for the leg length (cut-off = 0.40 m, AUC = 0.771), HIR ROM (cut-off = 44º, AUC = 0.755) and asymmetric HE ROM (cut-off = 44º, AUC = 0.700). However, HAD-NH maximal isometric strength, asymmetric ROM (AD-KE and AD-KF) and hip ROM (HAD-HF and HAB) showed AUC values equal to or lower than 0.698, which indicates poor specificity and sensitivity. In conclusion, the predictor variables (leg length, HAD-NH maximal isometric strength, asymmetric ROM [AD-KE, AD-KF and HE] and hip ROM [HIR and HAB]) suggest a good-fitting model to explain future ACL-rupture. However, these individually evaluated tests are not in themselves a sufficient screening tool for the risk of future ACL-rupture. Future studies could predict the risk of ACL rupture by increasing the sample size of the ACL-rupture group.

Different physiological and perceptual parameters responses to six squat exercise variations

2023-07-12T12:17:11+01:00

With the use of high-precision wearable devices to monitor internal load increasing exponentially (Seshadri, 2019), objective measures, heart rate (HR) and muscle oxygen saturation (SmO₂), and subjective measures, rate of perceived exertion (RPE) are widely used in the context of resistance training for the differentiated information they provide. This study compared the effects of six body-weight squat variations on HR, SmO₂, and RPE. Fourteen healthy recreational trained participants (age=28.8±7.6 years old; height=1.72±0.07 m; weight=71.9±10.3 kg) underwent two testing sessions: a familiarisation session, and an experimental session where all exercises were performed in a randomised order. The six variations of the squat were 1) deep, 2) jump, 3) wall-sit, 4) uneven, 5) single-leg, and 6) unstable. Each variation was performed for 90 seconds, with five minutes of passive recovery between variations. Two near-infrared spectroscopy devices fixed on the vastus lateralis (VL) and on the soleus (SL) muscles, and a HR monitor were used to assess SmO₂ and HR, respectively. RPE was registered immediately after each exercise. The average HR (HR _avg), average SmO₂ (SmO₂ _avg), amplitude of deoxygenation (SmO₂ _deoxy), and RPE were determined. A one-way ANOVA (repeated measures) was applied, followed by the Bonferroni post hoc pair-wise comparisons. Statistical significance was accepted at p<0.05, and analyses were performed using JASP software 0.17.2.1 (JASP Team, 2023). All data are presented as mean ± standard deviation. A statistically significant effect of squat variations was observed on HR _avg, F(5,60)=8.91, p<0.001, η²=0.130, with jump (148.4±15.5 bpm) presenting higher values compared to deep (134.9±14.9 bpm, p=0.006), wall-sit (131.5±18.4 bpm, p=0.003), uneven (131.0±18.4 bpm, p<0.001), and to unstable (138.3±15.4 bpm, p=0.009). A main effect of squat variations was identified on SmO₂ _avg and SmO₂ _deoxy in VL muscle, with the wall-sit exhibiting lower values and a higher deoxygenation, respectively. No significant differences in SmO₂ _avg and SmO₂ _deoxy in SL muscle were found. Also, significant differences were observed in RPE, F(5,60)=10.55, p<0.001, η²=0.310, with jump eliciting higher perceived exertion compared to all the other variations. These findings revealed that while in the general objective and subjective parameters (i.e., HR and RPE, respectively), it was the jump exercise that promoted more significant changes, in the specific objective parameter (i.e., SmO2 in VL), it was the wall-sit exercise that induced the greatest changes. This reinforces that using different variables allows a more selective and targeted identification of the most effective exercises.

Sport for All at ESECS - a pilot project with people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)

2023-07-11T13:00:12+01:00

The relationship between the levels of autonomy and independence in people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and their levels of functional physical fitness is not clear in the literature. Thus, this study aimed to compare the levels of autonomy and functionality in daily living activities of people with IDD with their functional physical fitness levels and to analyse the effect of a 9-week physical exercise programme (one 1h session per week) on these variables. Seventeen adults (35.17±13.57 years) with IDD participated in this study. Anthropometric data (height, weight, body mass index and muscle mass) and data regarding functionality of daily living activities (WHODAS 2.0) were collected. The functional physical fitness was also assessed (handgrip strength, standing and sitting, and timed up and go test. There was an improvement in the daily living activities functionality (z=-2.19; p=.03) and body composition, namely in body mass index (z=-2.08;p=.04) and muscle mass (z=-1,94;p=.05) in the comparison between two moments. On the other hand, there were no differences in the functional physical fitness variables. Thus, the intervention program seems to have contributed positively to improving the perception of autonomy in daily living activities and body composition but was not enough to improve the participants' functional physical fitness.

Mastering the Art of Penalty Kick Defence: An Exploratory Study on the Key Factors Influencing Goalkeepers’ Success

2023-06-20T16:50:39+01:00

Penalty saves in football are crucial for determining match outcomes and are widely acknowledged as one of the most intense and demanding situations in the sport. Goalkeepers face the formidable challenge of interpreting opponents' cues and responding effectively to prevent goals during penalty kicks. This study aims to rigorously analyse the various factors influencing goalkeepers' success in defending penalty kicks. Data on penalty kicks from prestigious international competitions, specifically the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League, were systematically collected for the period between 2018 and 2022. A representative sample of 103 penalty kicks taken during these matches was selected for comprehensive analysis. The assessment of goalkeepers' influence on penalty kick saves considered previous defensive statistics and relied on three main factors: preferred side (the direction where they have a greater tendency to move for a save), reading ability (anticipating the ball's trajectory based on opponent analysis, such as posture and gaze direction), and reaction speed (the ability to respond to the shot). The results showed an average save rate of 22.3%, with a considerable range spanning from 9.8% to 38.8%. Regarding defensive tendencies, 54.5% of goalkeepers displayed a preference for the right side. Importantly, goalkeepers who instinctively moved towards their preferred side first achieved a significantly higher success rate of 65.3%. The average reaction speed among goalkeepers was measured at 0.37 seconds. A statistically significant negative correlation (r = -0.76, p < 0.001) was observed between reaction speed and defence rate, underscoring that faster reactions enhance the likelihood of successful defence. Furthermore, goalkeepers with a greater ability to anticipate ball trajectories demonstrated higher defence rates. Effective penalty kick defence in football relies on rapid responses, anticipation of ball trajectories, and goalkeepers' proclivity to move towards their preferred side as a primary instinct. Strategic planning and specific skills training significantly impact goalkeepers' performance by incorporating visual reaction exercises, agility, and coordination training and utilising visual resources such as real penalty kick videos. Advanced technologies like data analysis and artificial intelligence offer detailed feedback and cognitive training to improve decision-making. Enhancing diving technique, positioning, and practising various penalty kick angles and trajectories are crucial for technique and coordination. These scientifically supported approaches form a strong basis for future research and training interventions, aiming to enhance goalkeepers' defensive abilities in penalty kicks.

Lifestyle profile and body mass index of an academic community in rondônia

2023-07-06T18:10:12+01:00

A healthy lifestyle is directly linked to the person’s choices regarding physical activities, diet, stress management, relationships with other people and the environment, and preventive behaviour concerning habits that can harm health. Conducted from media resources, the present research aimed to evaluate the Lifestyle Profile of students and employees of the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), relating the lifestyle profile with the body mass index. The sample consisted of 976 women and 521 men, totalling 1,497 people aged 21 to 74 (31.812±8.955), 1,356 academics, 68 teachers and 73 technicians. Lifestyle was evaluated through the Lifestyle Profile questionnaire. Eating habits, Physical activity, Preventive behaviour, relationships, and control of stress were assessed. For each aspect of these five components, score: varied from 0 to 18. Body mass index (BMI) was determined by dividing weight by the square of height. Data were analysed using XLST 2023, an Excel data analysis complement and Spearman's coefficient was used to assess the relationship between BMI and lifestyle profile components, considering a 95% confidence interval and significant correlation for p < 0.05 from the Student's t-test (Spearman). The statistical analysis of the studied variables showed, according to Spearman's test, a positive correlation (p < 0.05) between BMI and Age and a negative correlation (p < 0.05) between BMI and Physical Activity, BMI and Preventive Behaviour, and BMI and Relationships. Therefore, BMI is associated with the ageing process, increasing with age. On the other hand, the higher the BMI, the lower the scores in Physical Activity, Preventive Behavior and Relationships, in other words, the higher the BMI, the greater the need for changes in the Lifestyle Profile with regard to these three components. The analysis of the Lifestyle Profile indicated that more than 50% of the sample lived a sedentary lifestyle, which also required improving eating habits. Regarding BMI, more than 43% were overweight or obese. Research by Melo et al. (2021) in the same academic community concluded that public policies are needed to prevent overweight and obesity, as well as malnutrition, and to promote healthy habits. It is concluded that BMI presents a positive correlation with age and a negative correlation with the components of the Lifestyle Profile: Physical Activity, Preventive Behaviour, and Relationships. This suggests the need for institutional measures within the University to promote a more physically active lifestyle with healthy habits in relation to preventive behaviour and relationships.

Are starters accumulating significantly higher load than non-starters? Load, Wellness, and Training/Match Ratios Quantification of a European Professional Soccer Team

2023-06-23T17:03:35+01:00

The study aimed to (i) compare accumulated load and wellness between starters and non-starters of a European professional soccer team; (ii) analyse the relationships between wellness and load measures, and; (iii) compare training/match ratio (TMr) of external and internal load between starters and non-starters. Ten players were considered starters, while seven were classified as non-starters over a 16-week period in which six training sessions and match day (MD) were considered in each weekly micro-cycle. The following measures were used: wellness (fatigue, quality of sleep, muscle soreness, stress, and mood); load (rated of perceived exertion (RPE), session-RPE (s-RPE), high-speed running (HSR), sprinting, accelerations (ACC) and decelerations (DEC)). Accumulated wellness/load were calculated by summing all training and match sessions, while TMr was calculated by dividing the accumulated load by match data for all load measures. The main results showed that non-starters presented higher significant values for fatigue (p < 0.019; g = 0.24) and lower significant values for duration (p < 0.006; ES = 1.81) and s-RPE (p < 0.001; ES = 2.69) when compared to starters. Moreover, positive and very large correlations were found between quality of sleep and RPE, stress and deceleration, mood and deceleration (all, p < 0.05). Finally, non-starters presented higher values in all TMr than starters, namely, RPE (p = 0.001; g = 1.96), s-RPE (p = 0.002; g = 1.77), HSR (p = 0.001; g = 2.02), sprinting (p = 0.002; g = 4.23), accelerations (p = 0.001; g = 2.72), decelerations (p < 0.001; g = 3.44), and duration (p = 0.003; g = 2.27). In conclusion, this study showed that non-starters produced higher TMr in all examined variables despite the lower match and training durations when compared with starters, suggesting that physical load was adjusted appropriately. Additionally, RPE and a higher number of decelerations may contribute to decreased wellness, namely, quality of sleep, stress and mood for non-starters.

Depression, stress and anxiety in postmenopausal women and its relationship with adiposity levels

2023-07-11T13:15:23+01:00

Women in menopause have more mood swings than before menopause. Several studies attempt to clarify the role of menopause in the development of depression, anxiety, and stress in midlife. However, there is controversy about the relationship of body composition with psychological distress in postmenopausal women. This study investigated the relationship between fat mass (FM) and visceral fat level (FVL) with anxiety, depression and stress in women with menopause for at least 1 year. The study included 50 women (57,49±5.62 years), 46% for more than 6 years in estrogen depletion. Women who documented the use of antidepressants or anxiolytics were excluded from the analysis. The short-form version of the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was administered, and body composition (FM, VFL, SMM - skeletal muscle mass) was assessed with the bioimpedance InBody 120. High levels of total and central adiposity were considered for %FM≥35% (Lohman & Going, 1998) and VFL>9 (Biospace, 2021). Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to analyse the association of variables. Comparisons between groups were conducted using non-parametric tests, based on the normality test results, and a statistical significance was set at p< 0.05. The largest part of the sample documented a natural menopause (86%) and the absence of hormone therapy. The mean DASS-21 scale was 10.56 (±8.83), with higher levels for stress (4.72±3.77) and depression (3.56±3.81). All women exhibited normal muscle condition (SMM≥16 kg), but most of them had obesity (68%), especially central obesity (76%). A significant association (p=0.04) was identified between %FM and the DASS-21 scale (r=0.20, p=0.04). Obese women had lower stress (p=0.04) but a higher value on the DASS-21 scale (p=0.04). In parallel, the presence of greater levels of central adiposity determined higher values of these two measures of psychological distress (p=0.01). The results suggest that postmenopausal women with higher levels of fat mass or central adiposity tend to have a higher DASS-21 scale score. Central obesity produces in women symptoms such as difficulty in relaxing, irritability, and nervous excitement.

Are microcycles with different training session numbers providing sufficient load for male soccer players? Load, wellness and training/match ratios analysis of a professional team

2023-06-23T16:33:34+01:00

Professional soccer involves varying numbers of training sessions and matches each week, which can influence load distribution. Understanding the exact distribution may allow appropriate load periodisation and planning for players. Thus, this study aimed to (i) compare accumulated load and wellness between weeks with different numbers of training sessions and (ii) compare the training/match ratio (TMr) of external and internal load between weeks with different numbers of training sessions. Ten players with a minimum of 45 minutes of weekly match-play participation were analysed over 16 weeks. The microcycle structures consisted of three (3dW), four (4dW), five (5dW) and six (6dW) training sessions plus match-day per week. The following measures were used for analysis: duration, fatigue, quality of sleep, muscle soreness, stress, mood, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), session-RPE (s-RPE), high-speed running distance (HSR), sprint distance (SPD), number of accelerations (ACC) and number of decelerations (DEC). Accumulated wellness/load were calculated by adding all training and match sessions, while TMr was calculated by dividing the accumulated load by match data. The main results showed that accumulated wellness and load were significantly different, with moderate to very large effect sizes, except regarding mood, duration, s-RPE, SPD during 5dW vs 6dW and s-RPE, HSR, SPD, ACC and DEC during 3dW vs 4dW (all p > 0.05). Moreover, 6dW was significantly higher than 4dW regarding TMr of duration (p < 0.05, moderate effect size), RPE, HSR and SPD (all p < 0.05 with very large effect sizes) and for 3dW of HSR and ACC (p < 0.05 with very large effect sizes). This study showed that 5dW and 6dW had higher training measures than 3dW or 4dW. Additionally, higher wellness was presented in the microcycles with higher training frequencies. These findings suggest that physical load and wellness were not adjusted according to the number of training sessions within a microcycle.

Sports injuries of a Portuguese professional football team: a 3-year longitudinal study

2023-06-22T11:12:19+01:00

Football is known for its fast-paced and intensive activities from a professional standpoint, exposing professional football players to a high injury risk across their sportive careers. This study aimed to describe and characterise the sportive injuries of a First Portuguese Football League professional football team over three consecutive seasons. Seventy-one male professional football players (age = 25.7 ± 3.4 years; stature = 181.6 ± 6.5 cm; body mass = 77 ± 7.2 kg) participated in this study, comprising eight goalkeepers (11.3%), 20 defenders (28.2%), 17 midfielders (23.9%), and 26 forwards (36.6%). All players were followed throughout seasons 2019/2020, 2020/2021, and 2021/2022. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data collected. Absolute values present the number of football players and the total number of injuries. The demographic data of the participants are presented by mean and standard deviation. The frequency of the injuries by age, sectorial position, type, zone, specific location, laterality, mechanism, severity, recurrence, and occurrence are represented by absolute values and their percentages. In total, 84 injuries were recorded. Each player missed an average of 16.6 days per injury. Lower limbs were massively affected by injuries across all three seasons, mainly with muscular injuries in the quadriceps and hamstrings and sprains in the tibiotarsal structure. The injury incidence was considerably higher in official matches than in training sessions. The two moments of the season that proved most conducive to injuries were the months of July and January. Our results emphasise the importance of monitoring sports performance, including injury occurrence and assisting in identifying risk factors in professional football. Designing individualised training programs and optimising prevention and recovery protocols are crucial for maximising this global process.

Prematurity and Epilepsy: A Bibliometric Analysis

2023-06-21T11:26:36+01:00

Seven point five per cent of births in Portugal in 2021 were premature live births (INE, 2023). According to the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, being born prematurely (23-31 weeks) may increase five times the risk of being hospitalised for epilepsy in adulthood when compared to those who were born full-term (Crump et al., 2011). The present analysis aimed to determine research hotspots and prospective directions of the relation between prematurity and epilepsy research. Research about epilepsy related to prematurity was done in Web of Science (WoS) and PubMed database, considering the data between the first of January 2013 and the twentieth of June 2023. The descriptors used were: “(epilepsy OR convulsion OR seizure OR epileptic) AND (prematurity) AND (childhood OR children OR child OR infancy OR pediatric OR kids)”. The data extracted from Software R(V.4.3.0) in R format was analysed in the Bibliometrix program (http://www.bibliometrix.org (accessed 20/06/2023)), and the outcome was organised by sources, authors, affiliations, countries, keywords and the evolution of the research along time. One thousand and eighty-two articles were considered for analysis. Research growth since 2015, especially in 2022, was noticeable. USA, Israel and Australia are the countries with the largest number of publications, which was correlated with the affiliations with more research on the area (Tel Aviv University, Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Melbourne, from highest to lowest) and with the principal used keywords (humans, female, male and “infant, newborn”). The most relevant journal was Pediatric Neurology, and the most cited one was Pediatrics. Thomas Michael O’Shea (17 documents) and Francesco Pisani (16 documents) were the ones with the highest number of publications, and the most relevant affiliation was Columbia University Irving Medical Center (99 articles). The trend topics indicate microencephaly/genetics and “infant, newborn, diseases” as the most recently used. The country with the most citations was the USA (100 citations), and the one with the most collaborations. Portugal's collaborations mainly involved European countries but also with the USA, Egypt, Iran, and Israel. The USA is the country that publishes the most. Despite the large initial number, the most cited and relevant articles focus on a much smaller number. The most studied topics are currently microencephaly, genetics, infant, newborn and diseases. It would be important that future research focus on the relevance of these topics related to the incidence of cases in the population of the most influential countries.