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Objectives: Dietary strategies to improve arachidonic acid:eicosapentaenoic acid (AA:EPA) ratios are of interest due to potential reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress following exercise. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a novel dietary intervention, that is, the ingestion of 30 g of dark chocolate, on blood lipid profiles and gut microbiota composition in elite male soccer players. Methods: Professional male soccer players were randomly assigned to the experimental group (DC) provided with 30 g of dark chocolate or to the control group (WC), provided with 30 g of white chocolate, for 30 days. Before and after intervention, blood, fecal sample, and anthropometry data were collected. For each outcome, two-way repeated-measure analysis of variance was used to identify differences between baseline and endpoint (Week 4), considering treatment (dark chocolate, white chocolate) as intersubjects' factors. Metagenomic analysis was performed following the general guidelines, which relies on the bioBakery computational environment. Results: DC group showed increased plasma polyphenols (from 154.7 ± 18.6 μg gallic acid equivalents/ml to 185.11 ± 57.6 μg gallic acid equivalents/ml, Δ pre vs. post = +30.41 ± 21.50) and significant improvements in lipid profiles: total cholesterol (Δ −32.47 ± 17.18 mg/dl DC vs. Δ −2.84 ± 6.25 mg/dl WC, Time × Treatment interaction p <.001), triglycerides (Δ −6.32 ± 4.96 mg/dl DC vs. Δ −0.42 ± 6.47 mg/dl WC, Time × Treatment interaction p <.001), low-density lipoprotein (Δ −18.42 ± 17.13 mg/dl vs. Δ −2.05 ± 5.19 mg/dl WC, Time × Treatment interaction p <.001), AA/EPA ratio (Δ −5.26 ± 2.35; −54.1% DC vs. Δ −0.47 ± 0.73, −6.41% WC, Time × Treatment interaction p <.001) compared with WC group. In addition, 4 weeks of intervention showed a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein concentration in DC group (Δ + 3.26 ± 4.49 mg/dl DC vs. Δ −0.79 ± 5.12 mg/dl WC). Microbial communities in the DC group maintained a slightly higher microbial stability over time (exhibiting lower within-subject community dissimilarity). Conclusion: Ingesting 30 g of dark chocolate over 4 weeks positively improved AA:EPA ratio and maintained gut microbial stability. Dark chocolate ingestion represents an effective nutritional strategy to improve blood lipid profiles in professional soccer players. What Are the Findings? Ingesting 30 g of dark chocolate for 4 weeks positively influences blood lipid AA: EPA ratio while maintaining gut microbial stability. What This Study Adds? Dietary intake of specific foods such as dark chocolate represents an alternative strategy to support the health and recovery of elite soccer players. WhatImpact Might This Have on Clinical Practice in the Future? From a clinical and translational perspective, dark chocolate ingestion positively modulates favorable blood lipid profiles and polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism while maintaining gut microbial stability. Dark chocolate ingestion may be considered as an effective nutritional strategy in elite sport environments during periods of high-intensity training and congested competitions. Further research is required to determine functional outcomes associated with the observed improvements in blood lipid profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this investigation was to assess alterations of pulmonary oxygen uptake ( V ˙ O 2 ) and muscle deoxygenation on-kinetics during heavy-intensity cycling in youth cyclists over a period of 15 months. Methods: Eleven cyclists (initial age, 14.3 [1.6] y; peak V ˙ O 2 , 62.2 [4.5] mL·min−1·kg−1) visited the laboratory twice on 3 occasions within 15 months. Participants performed an incremental ramp exercise test and a constant workrate test within the heavy-intensity domain during the first visit and second visit, respectively. Subsequently, parameter estimates of the V ˙ O 2 and muscle deoxygenation on-kinetics were determined with mono-exponential models. Results: The V ˙ O 2 phase II time constant decreased from occasion 1 (34 [4] s) to occasion 2 (30 [4] s, P =.005) and 3 (28 [4] s, P =.010). However, no significant alteration was observed between occasions 2 and 3 (P =.565). The V ˙ O 2 slow component amplitude either expressed in absolute values (ie, L·min−1) or relative to end exercise V ˙ O 2 (ie, %) showed no significant changes throughout the study (P =.972 and.996). Furthermore, the muscle deoxygenation on-kinetic mean response time showed no significant changes throughout the study (18 [8], 18 [3], and 16 [5] s for occasions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; P =.279). Conclusion: These results indicate proportional enhancements of local muscle oxygen distribution and utilization, which both contributed to the speeding of the V ˙ O 2 on-kinetics herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe serum irisin and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) concentrations in healthy female adolescents with different training activity patterns and their associations with bone mineral properties and metabolic markers. Methods: A total of 62 adolescent girls aged 14–18 years were recruited: 22 rhythmic gymnasts, 20 swimmers, and 20 untrained controls. Bone mineral characteristics by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, daily energy intake by dietary recall, serum irisin, FGF-21, undercarboxylated osteocalcin, and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen were measured in all girls. Results: Whole body and lumbar spine areal bone mineral density and lumbar spine bone mineral content were higher in the rhythmic gymnasts group compared with swimmers and untrained controls groups (P <.05). Serum irisin, FGF-21, undercarboxylated osteocalcin, and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen levels were not significantly different between the groups. In the rhythmic gymnasts group, serum FGF-21 concentration was positively correlated with lumbar spine areal bone mineral density independently of confounding factors (r =.51; P =.027). Conclusions: Serum irisin and FGF-21 levels were not different between adolescent eumenorrheic girls with different training activity patterns. FGF-21 was positively associated with lumbar spine areal bone mineral density, which predominantly consists of trabecular bone in adolescent rhythmic gymnasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of agility ladder training combined with plyometric or multidirection speed drills, on performance in young female volleyball players. Methods: Seventy-six young female volleyball players were randomly distributed into 3 maturity-matched groups: (1) the agility ladder + plyometric drills group, (2) the agility ladder + multidirection speed drills group, and (3) the control group. Both experimental groups followed a 6-week training program, twice weekly, in addition to the regular volleyball training sessions, while the control group participated only in the regular volleyball training sessions. Assessments pretraining and posttraining included countermovement jump, 20-m sprint, and agility T test. Results: Both experimental groups improved T-test performance (P <.005) but only agility ladder + multidirection speed drills group outperformed the control group (P <.05). Conclusions: Agility ladder training programs combined with either plyometric or speed drills can improve change of direction performance in young female volleyball players but only the combination of agility ladder with multidirection speed drills is more effective than volleyball training per se. The small effectiveness of these protocols may be attributed to the short training period, or to the fact that training elements were combined in a single session. This hypothesis remains to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compute reference centiles for 5- and 30-m sprint times relative to chronological and skeletal age in youth soccer players. Subsequently, to compare individual's sprint performance scores derived from the chronological and skeletal age reference centiles. Methods: Sprint times were collected for a sample of male U11 to U19 soccer players (n = 1745 data points). Skeletal age data were available for a subsample (n = 776 data points). Reference centiles were fitted using generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape. Individual z scores relative to chronological and skeletal age reference centiles were computed and compared for each maturity group (late, on-time, early, and very early) using standardized mean differences (SMD). Results: Reference centiles for chronological age increased more rapidly between 10.5 and 15.5 years, while reference centiles for skeletal age increased more rapidly between 13.0 and 16.5 years. Differences in chronological and skeletal z scores for very early (SMD: −0.73 to −0.43) and late (SMD: 0.58 to 1.29) maturing players were small to large, while differences for early (SMD: −0.30 to −0.19) and on-time (SMD: 0.16 to 0.28) were trivial to small. Conclusion: Reference centiles provide a valuable tool to assist the evaluation of sprint performance in relation to chronological and skeletal age for talent identification purposes in youth soccer players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The current study aimed to determine the effect of a synthetic-grass sport surface on core body temperature, skin temperature, heart rate, thermal sensation, thermal comfort, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) during intermittent exercise in hot conditions. Methods: Using a randomized crossover design, 13 trained/developmental team-sport athletes completed two 50-minute standardized intermittent running protocols on a synthetic and a natural-grass surface, on separate days (control-condition air temperature 32.6 °C [1.3 °C], relative humidity 43.2% [5.3%]). Results: Final skin temperature was significantly higher on synthetic compared with natural grass at the calf (40.1 °C [2.5 °C] vs 33.4 °C [0.6 °C]; P <.001), shoulder (36.6 °C [1.7 °C] vs 33.7 °C [0.7 °C]; P <.001), and chest (33.2 °C [1.1 °C] vs 31.8 °C [1.2 °C]; P =.02). Thermal sensation (median: 2.3; interquartile range [0.5] vs 2.2 [0.5], P =.03) and sweat rate (1.5 [0.4] L·h−1 vs 1.2 [0.3] L·h−1; P =.02) were also significantly higher on synthetic grass. While final core body temperature was significantly higher on the natural than synthetic grass (38.4 °C [0.3 °C] vs 38.2 °C [0.4 °C]), there were no significant differences in delta core temperature, as well as heart rate, thermal comfort, or RPE. Conclusions: Higher skin temperatures, thermal sensation, and sweat rates suggest that exercising on synthetic grass in hot conditions may increase some markers of heat strain during exercise. However, delta core body temperature, heart rate, thermal comfort, and RPE remained unaffected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to compare running economy across habituated and nonhabituated advanced footwear technology (AFT) in trained long-distance runners. Methods: A total of 16 participants completed up to six 5-minute trials in 1 to 3 pairs of their own habituated shoes and 3 different and standardized AFTs at individual marathon pace. We measured oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide production and expressed running economy as oxygen uptake (in milliliters oxygen per kilogram per minute), oxygen cost of transport (oxygen per kilogram per minute), energetic cost (in watts per kilogram), and energetic cost of transport (in joules per kilogram per kilometer). We used linear mixed-effect models to evaluate differences. Relative shoe weight and shoe mileage (distance worn during running) were covariates. Results: Forty-eight standardized and 29 individual AFT conditions were measured (mileage 117.0 [128.8] km, range 0–522 km; 25 habituated 135.7 [129.2] km, range 20–522 km; 4 nonhabituated 0 [0] km, range 0–0 km). Rating of perceived exertion, blood [La], and respiratory exchange ratio ranged from 9 to 15, 1.11 to 4.54 mmol/L, and 0.76 to 1.01. There was no effect for habituation on energetic cost of transport (thabituation = −.232, P =.409, b = −0.006; 95% CI, −0.058 to 0.046) or other running economy metrics. Neither shoe weight nor shoe mileage had an effect. Conclusions: Our results suggest that habituation to AFTs does not result in greater benefits in the use of AFTs. This means that implementation in training may not be needed, even if we cannot rule out any other possible benefits of habituation at this stage, such as adaptation of the musculoskeletal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are becoming increasingly popular among endurance athletes despite unconfirmed accuracy. We assessed the concurrent validity of the FreeStyle Libre 2 worn on 2 different sites at rest, during steady-state running, and postprandial. Methods: Thirteen nondiabetic, well-trained recreational runners (age = 40 [8] y, maximal aerobic oxygen consumption = 46.1 [6.4] mL·kg–1·min–1) wore a CGM on the upper arm and chest while treadmill running for 30, 60, and 90 minutes at intensities corresponding to 50%, 60%, and 70% of maximal aerobic oxygen consumption, respectively. Glucose was measured by manually scanning CGMs and obtaining a finger-prick capillary blood glucose sample. Mean absolute relative difference, time in range, and continuous glucose Clarke error grid analysis were used to compare paired CGM and blood glucose readings. Results: Across all intensities of steady-state running, we found a mean absolute relative difference of 13.8 (10.9) for the arm and 11.4 (9.0) for the chest. The coefficient of variation exceeded 70%. Approximately 47% of arm and 50% of chest paired glucose measurements had an absolute difference ≤10%. Continuous glucose Clarke error grid analysis indicated 99.8% (arm) and 99.6% (chest) CGM data fell in clinically acceptable zones A and B. Time-in-range analysis showed reduced accuracy at lower glucose levels. However, CGMs accurately detected trends in mean glucose readings over time. Conclusions: CGMs are not valid for point glucose monitoring but appear to be valid for monitoring glucose trends during steady-state exercise. Accuracy is similar for arm and chest. Further research is needed to determine whether CGMs can detect important events such as hypoglycemia during exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the effect of whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) on postmatch recovery in basketball. Methods: Using a crossover design, 17 youth male players (age 16.2 [1.2] y, stature 190.5 [9.4] cm, body mass 79.2 [9.6] kg, experience 9.9 [3.9] y) completed 2 simulated matches, followed by WBC (4 min, −75 to − 85 °C) or a placebo intervention (CON). Countermovement-jump height, change-of-direction performance, 10- and 20-m sprint times, heart-rate variability (log-transformed squared root of the mean sum of the squared differences between R-R intervals [Ln-rMSSD]), muscle soreness, and perceived recovery (Perceived Recovery Status Scale [PRS]) were recorded at prematch, postmatch, postrecovery, and 24 hours postmatch. Additionally, Ln-rMSSD was recorded upon awakening on match day and the following morning. Results: Compared with CON, higher PRS values were reported in WBC at prematch and postrecovery (P ≤.026), while no significant between-interventions differences were found for any other measure (P >.05). Regarding the effect of time, our findings revealed that 20-m sprint times, Ln-rMSSD, and PRS deteriorated in both interventions from prematch to postmatch (ie, acute changes, P ≤.045), while muscle soreness worsened in WBC only (P ≤.003). Conversely, countermovement-jump height, change-of-direction, and 10-m sprint performance were unaffected by match play in the acute phase (P >.05), while none of the investigated measures showed impairments at 24 hours postmatch, compared with prematch (P >.05). Conclusions: Overall, these findings suggest that WBC was mostly ineffective for improving postexercise recovery in the investigated sample, with benefits observed for perceived recovery being potentially influenced by the participants' status at baseline (ie, higher prematch PRS scores in WBC compared with CON). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe and compare the race characteristics, demands, and durability profile of a male and a female Grand Tour winner. Methods: Overall and stage-type-specific (ie, time trials, flat, semimountainous, and mountain) demands and race characteristics during 2 Grand Tours were determined and compared between the female and male cyclists. In addition, relative power output distribution and pacing, percentage of functional threshold power (FTP), and changes in maximal mean power outputs (MMPs) with increasing levels of kilojoules burned were determined. Results: Although many differences were found between course and absolute racing demands between the male (FTP: 413 W; critical power: 417 W) and female (FTP: 297 W; critical power: 297 W) cyclists, similar power distributions and pacing strategies were found if data were expressed relatively. However, the female cyclist rode a higher percentage of her FTP during the first 2 quarters of flat stages (14.7%–15.1%) and the last quarter of mountain stages (9.8%) than the male cyclist. Decrements in MMPs were only observed after burning 30 kJ·kg−1 in the female and 45 kJ·kg−1 in the male Grand Tour winner. Conclusions: Both the male and female Grand Tour winners produced very high 20- to 60-minute MMPs, whereas decrements in MMPs were only observed after having burned 75% (female) and 80% (male) of total kilojoules burned during a stage. These are the latest and lowest in MMPs reported in the scientific literature and highlight the importance of durability in combination with excellent climbing and time-trial skills, which are needed to be able to win a Grand Tour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In molecular simulations, efficient methods for investigating equilibration and slow relaxation in dense systems are crucial yet challenging. This study focuses on the diffusional characteristics of monodisperse hard disk systems at equilibrium, comparing novel methodologies of event-chain Monte Carlo variants, specifically the Newtonian event-chain and straight event-chain algorithms. We systematically analyze both event-based and CPU time-based efficiency in liquid and solid phases, aiming to elucidate the microscopic mechanisms underlying structural relaxation. Our results demonstrate how chain length or duration, system size, and phase state influence the efficiency of diffusion dynamics, including hopping motion. This work provides insights into optimizing simulation techniques for highly packed systems and has the potential to improve our understanding of diffusion dynamics even in complex many-body systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximum running speed is a performance determinant in para-athletics and cerebral palsy football. Sixty international para-athletes with brain impairments completed five activity-limitation tests (standing broad jump, four bounds for distance, split jumps, 10-m speed skip, and running in place) and two criterion tests (40-m sprint and modified agility test). The same three tests (standing broad jump, four bounds for distance, and 10-m speed skip) that correlated with running performance in nondisabled runners (.67 < r < −.82; p <.05; 75% of variance) also correlated in para-athletes with brain impairments (.41 < r < −.62; p <.01; 55% of variance). Standing broad jump, four bounds for distance, split jumps, and running in place also correlated with change-of-direction speed (.43 < r < −.63; p <.01; 58% of variance). Results indicate that methods of classification for para-athletics with nondisabled runners are also valid with para-athletes with brain impairments, and new sport-specific relationships were found for assessing the performance of rapid and short sprints toward different directions, specific of a team para-sport like cerebral palsy football. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the training characteristics of an elite team pursuit cycling squad in the 3-month preparation phases prior to 2 successive world-record (WR) performances. Methods: Training data of 5 male track endurance cyclists (mean [SD]; age 23.4 [3.46] y; body mass 80.2 [2.74] kg; 4.5 [0.17] W·kg−1 at LT2; maximal aerobic power 6.2 [0.27] W·kg−1; maximal oxygen uptake 65.9 [2.89] mL·kg−1·min−1) were analyzed with weekly total training volume by training type and heart rate, power output, and torque intensity distributions calculated with reference to the respective WRs' performance requirements. Results: Athletes completed 805 (82.81) and 725 (68.40) min·wk–1 of training, respectively, in each season. In the second season, there was a 32% increase in total track volume, although track sessions were shorter (ie, greater frequency) in the second season. A pyramidal intensity distribution was consistent across both seasons, with 81% of training, on average, performed below LT1 power output each week, whereas 6% of training was performed above LT2. Athletes accumulated greater volume above WR team pursuit lead power (2.4% vs 0.9%) and torque (6.2% vs 3.2%) in 2019. In one athlete, mean single-leg-press peak rate of force development was 71% and 46% higher at mid- and late-phases, respectively, during the preparation period. Conclusions: These findings provide novel insights into the common and contrasting methods contributing to successive WR team pursuit performances. Greater accumulation of volume above race-specific power and torque (eg, team pursuit lead), as well as improved neuromuscular force-generating capacities, may be worthy of investigation for implementation in training programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study validated variables corresponding to lactate threshold (LT) in swimming. Speed (sLT), blood lactate concentration (BLLT), oxygen uptake (VO2LT), and heart rate (HRLT) corresponding to LT were calculated by 2 different incremental protocols and validated in comparison with maximal lactate steady state (MLSS). Methods: Ten competitive swimmers performed a 7 × 200-m front-crawl incremental "step test" with 2 protocols: (1) with 30-second rests between repetitions (short-rest incremental protocols) and (2) on a 5-minute cycle (swim + rest time, long-rest incremental protocols). Five methods were used for the assessment of sLT and corresponding BLLT, VO2LT, and HRLT: intersection of 2 lines, Dmax, modified Dmax, visual inspection, and intersection of combined linear and exponential regression lines. Subsequently, swimmers performed two to three 30-minute continuous efforts to identify speed (sMLSS) and physiological parameters corresponding to MLSS. Results: Both protocols resulted in similar sLT and corresponding physiological variables (P >.05). Bland–Altman plots showed agreement between protocols (sLT, bias: −0.017 [0.002] m·s−1; BLLT, bias: 0.0 [0.5] mmol·L−1; VO2LT, bias: −0.1 [2.2] mL·kg−1·min−1; HRLT. bias: −2 [8] beats·min−1). However, sLT calculated by modified Dmax using short rest was higher compared with speed at MLSS (1.346 [0.076] vs 1.300 [0.101] m·s−1; P <.05). Conclusions: Calculated sLT, BLLT, VO2LT, and HRLT using all other methods in short-rest and long-rest incremental protocols were no different compared with MLSS (P >.05). Both 7 × 200-m protocols are valid for determination of sLT and corresponding physiological parameters, but the modified Dmax method may overestimate sLT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To characterize the time structure of K1 kickboxing matches of Glory World Series (Glory) and to determine potential differences between winners and losers. Methods: Seventeen matches of Glory 2019 (17 first rounds, 13 second rounds, and 8 third rounds) were video-analyzed to quantify (1) the time expended in high- and low-intensity activity and pauses, (2) the number and pattern of attacks, and (3) the number of effective attacks. Fighters were professional male athletes (age 27.9 [2.7] y) of the middle-weight category (85 kg). The number and the pattern of attacks and the number of effective attacks were compared between winners and losers. Results: The mean times expended in high- and low-intensity activity and pauses were 234.6 (133.9) seconds, 97.4 (60.1) seconds, and 36.0 (19.9) seconds, respectively, resulting in an effort-to-pause ratio of ∼1.8:1. Compared with losers, winners presented (1) a greater number of attacks in the second round (P =.004) and entire match (P =.009), (2) a greater number of attacks containing 3 attacks in sequence in the second round (P =.001) and attacks containing >3 attacks in the third round (P =.049), and (3) a greater number of effective attacks in the second round (P =.011) and entire match (P =.008). Conclusions: The findings of the present study indicate that K1 kickboxing in Glory matches presents a ∼1.8:1 effort-to-pause ratio and that winners perform more attacks, effective attacks, and attacks in sequence. These data provide useful insights to improve the training specificity of kickboxing athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the effects of 6-week barbell weighted-jump-squat (WJS) training with and without eccentric load reduction on explosive performance. Methods: Twenty well-trained male athletes were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 10) or a control group (n = 10). Participants completed 12 WJS training sessions (6 sets of 5 repetitions of barbell back squat at 30% of 1-repetition maximum [1RM]) twice a week over a 6-week period. While the control group used 0% eccentric loading (ie, traditional WJS), the experimental group utilized a 50% eccentric loading reduction with a mechanical braking unit (ie, eccentric load set at 15% of 1RM). Performance assessments, including countermovement jump, 20-m sprint, standing long jump, and 1RM barbell back squat, were conducted both before (pretests) and after (posttests) the intervention. Results: Both the experimental group and the control group demonstrated a significant increase in countermovement-jump height (+6.4% [4.0%] vs +4.9% [5.7%]; P <.001) and peak power output (+2.3% [2.7%] vs +1.9% [5.1%]; P =.017), faster 20-m sprint times (+9.4% [4.8%] vs +9.2% [5.5%]; P <.001), longer standing long jump (+3.1% [2.5%] vs +3.0% [3.3%]; P <.001), and higher 1RM back squat (+6.4% [4.0%] vs +4.9% [5.7%]; P <.001) from pretests to posttests. However, there was no significant condition × time interaction for any variable (all P ≥.294). Conclusions: Both WJS training methods, with and without load reduction in the eccentric phase, effectively enhance explosive performance. Nevertheless, athletes in later stages of injury rehabilitation or intense training may find reducing eccentric load a more tolerable strategy for achieving similar performance gains compared with traditional isoinertial loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effects of transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) applied over the primary motor cortex (M1) and cerebellum on balance control and shooting accuracy in elite ice hockey players. Methods: Twenty-one elite ice hockey players underwent anodal tDCS over the M1 (a-tDCSM1), anodal tDCS over the cerebellum (a-tDCSCB), concurrent dual-site anodal tDCS over the M1 and the cerebellum (a-tDCSM1+CB), and sham stimulation (tDCSSHAM). Before and after receiving tDCS (2 mA for 15 min), participants completed an ice hockey shooting-accuracy test, Pro-Kin balance test (includes stance test and proprioceptive assessment), and Y-balance test in randomized order. Results: For static balance performance, the ellipse area in the 2-legged stance with eyes open and the 1-legged stance with the dominant leg significantly improved following a-tDCSM1, a-tDCSCB, and concurrent dual-site a-tDCSM1+CB, compared with tDCSSHAM (all P <.05, Cohen d = 0.64–1.06). In dynamic balance performance, the average trace error of the proprioceptive assessment and the composite score of the Y-balance test with the dominant leg significantly improved following a-tDCSM1 and concurrent dual-site a-tDCSM1+CB (all P <.05, Cohen d = 0.77–1.00). For the ice hockey shooting-accuracy test, shooting-accuracy while standing on the unstable platform significantly increased following a-tDCSM1 (P =.010, Cohen d = 0.81) and a-tDCSCB (P =.010, Cohen d = 0.92) compared with tDCSSHAM. Conclusion: tDCS could potentially be a valuable tool in enhancing static and dynamic balance and shooting accuracy on unstable platforms in elite ice hockey players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of morning versus evening plyometric training (PT) on performance adaptations in male volleyball players. Methods: A total of 30 collegiate national-level young male volleyball players (age = 21.9 [2.1]; height = 186 [4.1]; body mass = 82.4 [4.6]) were randomly divided into 3 groups: morning PT (MPT), evening PT (EPT), and an active control group, each group consisting of 10 subjects. The players engaged in PT sessions twice weekly for a period of 6 weeks. The evaluation of biomotor abilities such as countermovement vertical jump, standing long jump, spike jump, block jump, 10-m sprint, T-test, sit and reach, and Y-balance test took place in the morning and evening before and after the intervention. Results: Both the MPT and EPT groups indicated significant (P <.05) improvements in all biomotor abilities from pretraining to posttraining during both the morning and evening testing sessions. Furthermore, the MPT group displayed greater adaptive responses in the vertical jump (P =.001), standing long jump (P =.023), and Y-balance test (P ≤.01) compared to the EPT group. Time-of-day fluctuations were the same between the MPT and EPT groups at the pretest. Conversely, EPT demonstrated significantly more daytime variations than MPT in the jump, sprint, and balance tests at postintervention (P <.05). Conclusion: Engaging in PT at specific times of the day has a significant impact on biomotor ability adaptations, with a focus on morning being more favorable than the evening for achieving greater gains in jump and balance performance of volleyball players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the impact of different rest periods between short sprint interval training (SSIT) trials on the physiological and performance adaptations of female volleyball players. Methods: Twenty-four trained college athletes volunteered to participate in this study and were randomly assigned to 3 SSIT groups with different work-to-rest ratios (1:2 [5-s run:10-s rest], 1:4 [5-s run:20-s rest], and 1:6 [5-s work:30-s rest]). Before and after 6-week training, physiological parameters (maximum oxygen uptake, first and second ventilatory thresholds, and peak and mean power output) and physical performance measures (ie, countermovement vertical jump, 10-m sprint, and T-test change-of-direction speed) were evaluated. Results: After the training period, all groups improved (P =.001) their sport-related performance and physiological parameters, ranging from moderate to very large effect sizes. Comparative analysis of the magnitude of training effects indicated that the 1:6 SSIT group had in a significantly greater change in countermovement vertical jump (P =.007), 10-m sprint (P =.014), peak power output (P =.019), and mean power output (P =.05) compared with 1:2 SSIT group. By contrast, the 1:2 SSIT group demonstrated significantly (P =.022) greater changes in maximum oxygen uptake than the 1:6 SSIT group. However, the change-of-direction speed and changes in first and second ventilatory thresholds were the same among the groups (P >.05). Conclusions: When performing SSIT, longer rest intervals are suitable for physical and anaerobic performance, and shorter rest periods are appropriate for enhancing the cardiorespiratory fitness of female volleyball players' performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Maximal speed is an important physical-fitness attribute for female Australian footballers. The effects of sprint training, maximal strength, and technical training have been reported in laboratory studies. However, no study has determined the combined effect and relative contribution of these training modalities on maximal speed adaptation in situ. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the training factors affecting maximal speed adaptation during a preseason in subelite female Australian Rules footballers. Methods: Maximal speed during field training, predicted 1-repetition maximum (1RM) for box squat and hip thrust, and sprint biomechanics were assessed during early and late preseason (∼9 wk apart) in 15 female subelite Australian Rules Football players (age 20 [3] y). On-field training volume and intensity (total distance, high-speed running, very-high-speed running, and maximal speed) were determined using a Global Positioning System. A multivariate regression model was used to determine the factors associated with changes in maximal speed across the preseason. Results: The preseason training program had a small effect on maximal speed and large to very large effects on strength and sprint biomechanics. The multivariate regression with the greatest fit (P <.001, R2 =.939) included change in estimated 1RM box squat (β = −0.63), total distance per week (β = −0.55), and change in hip projection (β = 0.16) as factors. Multivariate regression of biomechanical factors (P =.044, R2 =.717) and maximal strength factors (P =.003, R2 =.676) were also significant. Conclusion: The development of maximal speed across a preseason is dependent on (1) total distance per week, (2) maximal strength adaptation, and (3) sprint technique adaptation in female subelite Australian rules football players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the combination of protein supplementation and resistance training (RT), compared with RT alone or combined with a placebo, in improving gait speed. Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus databases, and 18 randomized controlled trials with 1,147 older participants were included for meta-analysis. Data were pooled as the effect sizes (Hedges' g) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of the gait speed (in meters per second). The random-effect meta-analysis, subgroup analyses, meta-regression, and sensitivity analysis were conducted. Results: The combination of protein supplementation and RT significantly improved gait speed (Hedges' g: 0.52 m/s, 95% confidence interval [0.17, 0.86], p =.005; I2 = 86.5%) compared with the RT alone. The subgroup analyses revealed that the significant improvement in gait speed postprotein intervention plus RT was observed only in participants who consumed protein after RT (Hedges' g: 0.90 m/s, 95% confidence interval [0.46, 1.33], p =.001; I2 = 79.6%). The pooled result did not significantly change after excluding any single study at one time or excluding smaller studies with large effect sizes. Conclusions: Protein supplementation combined with RT could significantly improve the gait speed of older adults compared with RT alone. This positive effect is more pronounced in people who consume protein after RT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of multicomponent training on adropin, endothelial function, insulin resistance, and sleep quality in overweight older adults. In this randomized controlled study, 40 overweight older adults were randomly divided into training and control groups. The multicomponent training program including aerobic, resistance, and balance exercise was followed for 8 weeks, 3 days a week. Study variables were measured 48 hr before and after the intervention. After 8 weeks of multicomponent training, adropin (p =.01), nitric oxide (p =.01), and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max; p =.002) increased, and glucose (p =.001), insulin (p =.001), insulin resistance (p =.01), systolic blood pressure (p =.01), and sleep disorders (p =.01) decreased significantly. Also, Pearson's test results showed a significant inverse relationship between adropin level (p =.01 and r = −.55) and glucose (p =.01 and r = −.51) with sleep disorders. It seems that multicomponent training increases adropin and improves insulin resistance, endothelial function, and sleep quality in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Randomized controlled trials that deliver physical activity interventions have demonstrated benefits for older adults across numerous health outcomes. However, too little attention has been directed to ensuring that such trials are measuring patient-relevant outcomes. To support outcome selection for future trials, the objective of this study was to understand what outcomes related to their physical activity participation older adults find important. Methods: We conducted 12 semistructured interviews with adults aged 65 years and older and analyzed interview transcripts with a reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Older adults desired diverse outcomes from their physical activity participation, ranging from generic (e.g., quality of life) to specific (e.g., leg strength). Relevant outcomes were classified under five themes: physical, clinical, social, psychological, and overarching, each with respective subthemes. Conclusions: The outcomes that older adults found important were plentiful and rooted in a desire to improve their quality of life. Some of the outcome themes have been reported frequently in past trials (e.g., physical), but others have not (e.g., social). Future researchers should be aware of, and responsive to, the priorities of older adults when designing trials and defining outcomes. Significance/Implications: This study will help to improve outcome selection for future trials of physical activity with older adults. In alignment with a patient-oriented research philosophy, this study will also ground future outcome selection in the priorities of older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spiroergometry is important for modern performance diagnostics, and reference values have been evaluated for bicycle and treadmill ergometers. The aim of this study is to assess the comparability of bicycle and hand-crank spiroergometry and its associated parameters, as hand-crank spiroergometry can be used during rehabilitation in patients with definitive or temporally impairment of the lower extremity. Methods: Thirty-seven healthy volunteers completed 2 exhausting performance diagnostics on hand-crank and bicycle spiroergometry. Participants' anthropometric characteristics, maximum power, multiple exertion criteria, maximum aerobic capacity, and maximum heart rate were detected, and ventilatory and metabolic thresholds were determined. Results: The maximum power, maximum heart rate, maximum aerobic capacity, and ventilatory thresholds were significant higher on the bicycle ergometer (P <.001). The metabolic thresholds occurred on higher lactate values on the hand-crank ergometer. Equations for calculating maximum aerobic capacity from the maximum power measured in either hand-crank or bicycle ergometer could be found through regression analysis. Conclusions: Although there are problems in interpreting results of different ergometries due to severe physiology differences, the equations can be used for patients who are temporally unable to complete the established ergometry due to a deficit in the lower extremity. This could improve training recommendations for patients and para-athletes in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Ankle sprains are a common injury in sports, for which use of external ankle support during rehabilitation has been suggested to improve clinical outcomes. Design: Cohort study. Methods: Thirteen soccer players experiencing acute lateral ankle sprain injury were provided a novel adaptive ankle brace or conventional ankle taping (control) as external ankle support throughout the injury rehabilitation process. All other clinical procedures were identical, and rehabilitation was supervised by the same team staff member. Time from injury to clearance to return to sport was tracked. Player experience with the ankle brace also was queried via electronic surveys. Results: The median time to return to sport was less for the Brace group (52.5 d) compared to the Control group (79.5 d), but the distributions of the 2 groups were not found to differ significantly (P =.109). Player surveys indicated they felt the brace to be comfortable or very comfortable, with better freedom of movement than other braces and the same freedom of movement as wearing no brace. All players reported wearing the brace to be the same or better experience as ankle taping. Discussion: These preliminary results indicate that the adaptive ankle brace is at least as effective as ankle taping for providing external support during the rehabilitation phase following acute lateral ankle sprain and suggest it may be a more effective ankle support solution in terms of patient compliance than conventional bracing or taping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: We designed this study to investigate the effects of 2 myofascial release techniques, Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Foam Roller (FR), on pain, joint range of motion, and muscle strength in athletes suffering from iliotibial band (ITB) tightness. Design: A total of 39 male soccer players were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial, aged between 18 and 23 years who were divided into 3 groups: Only Exercise, IASTM, and FR. Methods: All participants performed daily strengthening and stretching exercises, while 1 group added IASTM, and the other added FR to the exercise program. We evaluated ITB tightness with the Ober test and an inclinometer, pressure pain threshold, using an algometer, and we evaluated muscle strength with the Cybex Norm Isokinetic device. Results: We found that all 3 groups exhibited an increase in the Ober inclination angle after the interventions (P =.001), but the increase was greater for participants in the IASTM and FR groups, compared with exercise alone. Additionally, both the IASTM and FR groups displayed an increased pressure pain threshold (P =.001), whereas there was no change in the control group. Moreover, while all 3 groups experienced an increase in hip muscle strength (P =.001), the IASTM and FR groups exhibited a greater increase compared with exercise alone (P =.001). Conclusions: Based on these findings, exercise improves pain, range of motion, and muscle strength in athletes with ITB tightness, and IASTM, and FR techniques enhanced exercise effects but did not differ from one another. While our study demonstrated that both IASTM and FR techniques significantly enhance the benefits of exercise for athletes with ITB tightness, further research could delve into the long-term effects of these interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: To stabilize the humeral head within the glenoid fossa during arm elevation, the rotator cuff muscles may contribute through internal and external rotation. The main purpose of the current study was to compare the acromiohumeral distance between athletes with primary subacromial impingement syndrome who received progressive resistance exercises consisting of either shoulder internal or external rotation. Design: A randomized and controlled clinical study. Methods: Thirty athletes with primary subacromial impingement syndrome were enrolled and randomly divided into 2 experimental groups. The progressive resistance exercise protocol in experimental group I comprised shoulder internal rotation, while in experimental group II consisted of shoulder external rotation. The experimental groups worked out 3 days a week for 6 weeks. The experimental groups were compared with the control group consisting of 15 healthy athletes. The acromiohumeral distance was measured before and after the intervention using an ultrasound machine under the passive and active across no arm elevation and 45°of arm elevation. Results: The acromiohumeral distance significantly increased in both experimental groups under the passive and active arm positions following the intervention (P <.001), with no significant differences detected between the experimental groups (P >.665). The paired comparisons of the acromiohumeral distance discrepancy indicated a significant difference between the control group and each experimental group under the active and passive arm positions (P <.001), while no significant difference was observed between the experimental groups (P >.999). Conclusions: The present study revealed, for the first time, that both progressive resistance exercise protocols involving either the shoulder internal or the external rotation increased the acromiohumeral distance in individuals with primary subacromial impingement syndrome and improved associated pain and disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This randomized clinical trial compared the effectiveness of music and informative videos as distraction tools to reduce the anxiety of patients during root canal treatment and retreatment. Method and materials: A total of 90 patients were enrolled in the study. The patients were randomly allocated to three groups: Group 1 listened to music during the treatment (n = 30), Group 2 watched an informative preoperative video (n = 30), and a control group underwent treatment without a distraction method (n = 30). Prior to treatment, the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale (CDAS) and a visual analog scale for pain were used to assess anxiety and preoperative pain. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were recorded before the intervention (T1), after the local anesthetic (T2), following pulp extirpation or removal of root fillings (T3), and immediately following rubber dam removal (T4). One-way ANOVA, followed by post-hoc Bonferroni tests for multiple comparisons, were used to compare mean values of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation among the groups. A P value of 5% was considered as significant. Results: Listening to music reduced systolic blood pressure, heart rate (P < .001), and diastolic blood pressure (P = .003) in patients undergoing root canal treatment and retreatment at T4 compared to the baseline (T1). Music (P < .001) and informative video (P = .003) groups had significantly lower postoperative visual analog scale pain scores. Conclusion: Listening to music during root canal treatment and retreatment reduced anxiety levels in patients compared to informative preoperative videos and no distraction technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of immediate loading on the osseointegration and bone density of implants placed in a healed alveolar bone crest and supporting single crowns. Materials and Methods: Two solid titanium transmucosal mini-implants were placed in the distal regions of the mandible in 14 patients. One mini-implant was immediately functionally loaded, whereas the other was left unloaded. After 2 months of healing, biopsy samples were retrieved and the levels of new bone, old bone, and total bone (new + old) were assessed. Results: Histologic examination was performed on biopsies from 12 patients (n = 12). The new bone-to-implant contact percentage (BIC%) was 40.3% ± 16.8% and 55.1% ± 19.1% (P = .043) at the unloaded and loaded sites, respectively; in addition, the total BIC% was 44.9% ± 17.0% and 59.5% ± 18.8%, respectively (P = .034). The new bone density was 45.9% ± 11.6% for the unloaded implants and 45.9% ± 16.7% for the loaded implants (P = .622). Conclusions: Immediate loading had a positive effect on bone apposition at the implant surface, but no effect on bone density was observed after 2 months of healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study assessed the accuracy of linear measurements and dental implant selection performed in a smartphone application compared to a computer software. Materials and Methods: Forty-four DICOM files from the posterior mandible in partially edentulous patients were evaluated by three trained and calibrated examiners. Images were analyzed using three visualization methods: cross-sectional view (CScr) and coronal (CSco) plane using the CS 3D Imaging software, and coronal (DRco) plane using the DroidRender smartphone application. For standardization, bone width and height measurements were taken in the edentulous posterior mandible, 10 mm posterior to the mental foramen. Implants were selected according to the 2022/2023Straumann Standard implant catalog. Linear measurements were compared using repeated-measures ANOVA, and implant selection was compared using Friedman test. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Linear measurements showed a statistically significant difference for bone width (P = .030), but not for height (P = .685). The choice of implant was not influenced by the visualization method (P = .614). Conclusions: It is possible to suggest the use of smartphone applications as an additional diagnostic tool for DICOM evaluation and implant planning in the posterior mandible. Smartphone applications allow an assessment not limited to 2D images or to static environments. Therefore, information exchange and diagnostic opinion in emergency situations may be facilitated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate and compare patient satisfaction levels in edentulous patients treated with different configurations of implant-supported prostheses as well as previous prosthesis experiences before implant treatment. Materials and Methods: A study population of 142 patients was identified and separated into four treatment groups: group 1 comprised 43 patients treated with an implant-supported overdenture in the mandible and conventional complete denture in the maxilla; group 2 comprised 32 patients treated with implant-supported overdentures in the maxilla and mandible; group 3 comprised 26 patients treated with an implant-supported overdenture in the mandible and a fixed prosthesis in the maxilla; and group 4 comprised 41 patients treated with implant-supported maxillomandibular fixed restorations. Questionnaires asking about masticatory performance, pronunciation, comfort, and social ability were used to evaluate treatment outcomes. Results: The patients in group 4 were significantly more satisfied regarding masticatory performance than other treatment modalities. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for comfort and social ability were similar in groups 3 and 4 and significantly higher than those in groups 1 and 2. The patients who used a conventional removable prosthesis before implant treatment were more satisfied with their implant-supported prosthesis regarding social ability (P = .03). Conclusions: The treatment design of an implant-supported fixed prosthesis in the maxilla and implant overdenture in the mandible provided a comparable level of satisfaction with maxillomandibular fixed prosthesis for edentulous patients. This combination served as a practical solution especially for patients with mandibular atrophy who would require extensive surgeries to support maxillomandibular fixed prostheses. In the maxilla, patient satisfaction with an implant-supported overdenture was not superior to that with a conventional prosthesis. Note that previous removable prosthesis experience may influence social comfort for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of a new collagen substitute, which will potentially reduce the invasiveness of techniques by avoiding the need for a second surgical site (ie, the donor site), needs to be evaluated in relation to the surgical procedure that could benefit the most by utilizing such a matrix. This study compared the clinical outcomes following treatment of RT1 multiple adjacent gingival recessions (MAGRs) using the modified coronally advanced tunnel (MCAT) technique or the multiple coronally advanced flap (MCAF) in conjunction with a new volume-stable xenogeneic collagen matrix (VXCM). Secondarily, the study evaluated whether patients report a preference between the two surgical techniques in terms of discomfort. A total of 20 patients requiring treatment of MAGRs were randomly assigned to one of the two treatment groups: MCAF+VCMX (Group A) or MCAT+VCMX (Group B). The following measurements were recorded at baseline (before surgery) and at 6 and 12 months: gingival recession depth (REC), probing pocket depth (PD), keratinized tissue width (KTW), and gingival thickness (GT). Postoperative pain and discomfort were recorded using a visual analog scale (VAS) at 1 week. The primary outcome variable was mean root coverage (mRC), and secondary outcomes were complete root coverage (CRC), changes in KTW and GT, patient discomfort and satisfaction, and duration of surgery. Healing was uneventful in both groups. At 12 months, both treatments resulted in statistically significant improvements in REC and GT compared to baseline (P < .05). The mRC was 79.95% ± 29.92% in the MCAF group and 64.74% ± 40.5% in the MCAT group (P = .124). CRC was seen in 65.6% of MCAF-treated sites and 52% of MCAT-treated sites (P = .181). Similar clinical results should be expected when MAGRs are treated with MCAF or MCAT, with the adjunct of VCMX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) therapy compared with unassisted socket healing (USH) in attenuating interproximal soft tissue atrophy. Adult patients who underwent maxillary single-tooth extraction with or without ARP therapy were included. Surface scans were obtained and CBCT was performed to digitally assess interproximal soft tissue height changes and measure facial bone thickness (FBT), respectively. Logistic regression models were conducted to investigate the individual effect of demographic and clinical variables. Ninety -six subjects (USH = 49; ARP = 47) constituted the study population. Linear soft tissue assessments revealed a significant reduction of the interproximal soft tissue over time within and between groups (P < .0001). ARP therapy significantly attenuated interproximal soft tissue height reduction compared to USH: -2.0 ± 0.9 mm mesially for USH vs -1.0 ± 0.5 mm mesially for ARP; -1.9 ± 0.7 mm distally for USH vs -1.1 ± 0.5 mm distally for ARP (P < .0001). Thin (< 1 mm) facial bone thickness (FBT) upon extraction was associated with greater interproximal soft tissue atrophy compared to thick FBT (> 1 mm), independent of the treatment received (P < .0001). Nevertheless, ARP therapy resulted in better preservation of interproximal soft tissue height, especially in thin bone phenotype, by a factor of 2 for the mesial site (+1.3 mm) and by a factor of 1.6 for the distal site (+0.9 mm). This study demonstrated that ARP therapy largely attenuates interproximal soft tissue dimensional reduction after maxillary single-tooth extraction compared to USH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the survival, marginal bone loss (MBL), and prosthetic complications of 4.5-mm extra-short implants and longer implants splinted to the short implants via the restoration. A retrospective controlled cohort study was performed. The 4.5-mm extra-short group (study group; SG) included 48 consecutively placed implants. The control group (CG) included 48 implants splinted to the extra-short implants. The same surgical team treated the 39 included patients, and all implants were restored with a screw-retained fixed restoration and intermediate abutments. Immediate and conventionally loaded implants were included. All implants were in function during the follow-up period (14 ± 3.4 and 17 ± 13 months for SG and CG, respectively). No differences in technical complications were observed between the groups (one and two cases of screw loosening for SG and CG, respectively; two provisional prosthesis fractures for SG; P = .310). Marginal bone stability was similar for SG and CG at the mesial level (-0.01 ± 0.28 mm for SG vs -0.18 ± 0.72 mm for CG; P = .270) and at the distal level (0.02 ± 0.39 mm for SG vs -0.18 ± 0.68 mm for CG; P = .076). The same good clinical performance could be observed for 4.5-mm implants and longer implants under the same prosthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the contemporary digital age, continued online learning behaviors have become indispensable for fostering employee development. However, the learning and development literature predominantly focuses on traditional instructor‐led approaches. It remains unclear how organizations can shape employees' learning behaviors, particularly in the context of online learning. The current study clarifies this underexplored research area by investigating how organizational investment in employee developmental climate (IEDC) can promote employees' continued online learning behaviors. Drawing on social influence theory and employing a multilevel research design, we find empirical support for our research model, which specifies that IEDC positively affects employees' continued online learning behaviors through the effect of normative pressure. The findings also reveal the moderating role of online learning facilitating conditions. Specifically, in firms characterized by higher levels of online learning facilitating conditions, the positive relationship between IEDC and normative pressure becomes more pronounced when compared to organizations with lower levels of such facilitating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research interest in thriving at work has burgeoned over the past decades, but little is known about how human resource (HR) practices affect employees' thriving at work. Drawing upon self‐determination theory and person‐organization fit theory, we developed and tested a moderated mediation model to explain how fun HR practices influence employees' thriving at work. The results of two studies, a scenario experiment (N = 164) and a time‐lagged survey (N = 253), supported our hypotheses. Specifically, the findings revealed that fun HR practices relates positively to employees' thriving at work. Autonomous motivation partially mediates the abovementioned relationship. Furthermore, fun HR practices translate into higher autonomous motivation and subsequent thriving at work for employees with higher preference for workplace fun. Our research contributes to the existing literature by identifying fun HR practices as an antecedent of thriving at work and revealing the psychological mechanisms through which fun HR practices affect employees' thriving at work. The practical implications, limitations, and future research avenues are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated the test–retest reliability and usefulness of the foot–ankle rebound-jump test (FARJT) for measuring foot–ankle reactive strength metrics in athletes. Methods: Thirty-six highly trained, healthy athletes (5 female; 21.5 [3.9] y; 1.80 [0.10] m; 72.7 [10.4] kg) performed 8 repeated bilateral vertical foot–ankle rebound jumps on 2 testing days. Testing days were 1 week apart, and these sessions were preceded by a familiarization session. Reactive strength metrics were calculated by dividing jump height (in meters) by contact time (in seconds) for the reactive strength index (RSI) and flight time (in seconds) by contact time (in seconds) for the reactive strength ratio (RSR). The mean of 4 jumps (excluding the first and last 2 jumps) on each testing session were considered for RSI and RSR reliability and usefulness analysis. Results: We found a high reliability of the FARJT for RSI (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] >.90 and coefficient of variation [CV] = 12%) and RSR (ICC ≥.90 and CV = 8%). Regarding their usefulness, both RSI and RSR were rated as "marginal" in detecting the smallest worthwhile change (typical error > smallest worthwhile change) and "good" in detecting a moderate change in performance. Conclusions: The results showed that a FARJT is a highly reliable test for measuring foot–ankle reactive strength in athletes and useful for quantifying changes, for example, following a training block. However, its usefulness as an accurate daily or weekly monitoring tool in practice is questionable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Performing back squats with elastic bands has been widely used in resistance training. Although research demonstrated greater training effects obtained from adding elastic bands to the back squat, little is known regarding the optimal elastic resistance and how it affects neuromuscular performance. This study aimed to compare the force, velocity, power, and muscle activity during back squats with different contributions of elastic resistance. Methods: Thirteen basketball players performed 3 repetitions of the back squat at 85% of 1-repetition maximum across 4 conditions: (1) total load from free weight and (2) 20%, (3) 30%, and (4) 40% of the total load from elastic band and the remaining load from free weight. The eccentric and concentric phases of the back squat were divided into upper, middle, and bottom phases. Results: In the eccentric phase, mean velocity progressively increased with increasing elastic resistance, and muscle activity of the vastus medialis and rectus femoris significantly increased with the largest elastic resistance in the upper phase (P ≤.036). In the concentric phase, mean power (P ≤.021) and rate of force development (P ≤.002) significantly increased with increasing elastic resistance. Furthermore, muscle activity of the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis significantly improved with the largest elastic resistance in the upper phases (P ≤.021). Conclusion: Velocity, power, rate of force development, and selective muscle activity increased as the elastic resistance increased in different phases during the back-squat exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The relationship between external load and creatine-kinase (CK) response at the team/position or individual level using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) has been studied. This study aimed to compare GPS-derived and Football Movement Profile (FMP) –derived CK-prediction models for national-team soccer players. The second aim was to compare the performance of general and individualized CK prediction models. Methods: Four hundred forty-four national-team soccer players (under 15 [U15] to senior) were monitored during training sessions and matches using GPS. CK was measured every morning from whole blood. The players had 19.3 (18.1) individual GPS-CK pairs, resulting in a total of 8570 data points. Machine learning models were built using (1) GPS-derived or (2) FMP-based parameters or (3) the combination of the 2 to predict the following days' CK value. The performance of general and individual-specific prediction models was compared. The performance of the models was described by R2 and the root-mean-square error (RMSE, in units per liter for CK values). Results: The FMP model (R2 =.60, RMSE = 144.6 U/L) performed similarly to the GPS-based model (R2 =.62, RMSE = 141.2 U/L) and the combination of the 2 (R2 =.62, RMSE = 140.3 U/L). The prediction power of the general model was better on average (R2 =.57 vs R2 =.37) and for 73% of the players than the individualized model. Conclusions: The results suggest that FMP-based CK-prediction models perform similarly to those based on GPS-derived metrics. General machine learning models' prediction power was higher than those of the individual-specific models. These findings can be used to monitor postmatch recovery strategies and to optimize weekly training periodization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to determine whether the initial levels of aerobic fitness and hematological variables in young female road cyclists are related to their athletic performance development during their careers. Methods: Results of graded exercise tests on a cycle ergometer and total hemoglobin mass (tHb-mass) measurements were analyzed in 34 female road cyclists (age 18.6 [1.9] y). Among them, 2 groups were distinguished based on their competitive performance (Union Cycliste Internationale world ranking) over the following 8 years. Areas under the curve in receiver-operating-characteristic curves were calculated as indicators of elite-performance prediction. Results: Initial graded exercise test variables (peak power, peak oxygen uptake, and power at 4 mmol/L blood lactate) were not significantly different in elite (n = 13) versus nonelite (n = 21) riders. In contrast, elite riders had higher tHb-mass expressed either in absolute measures (664 [75] vs 596 [59] g, P =.006) or normalized to body mass (11.2 [0.8] vs 10.3 [0.7] g/kg, P =.001) and fat-free mass (14.4 [0.9] vs 13.1 [0.9] g/kg, P <.001). Absolute and relative erythrocyte volumes were significantly higher in elite subjects (P ranged from <.001 to.006). Of all the variables analyzed, the relative tHb-mass had the highest predictive ability to reach the elite level (area under the curve ranged from.82 to.85). Conclusion: Measurement of tHb-mass can be a helpful tool in talent detection to identify young female road cyclists with the potential to reach the elite level in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine associations between exercise heart rate (HRex) during a continuous-fixed submaximal fitness test (CF-SMFT) and an intermittent-variable protocol (semistandardized kicking drill [SSD]) in Australian Football athletes, controlling for external intensities, within-session scheduling, and environmental conditions. Methods: Forty-four professional male Australian Football athletes (22.8 [8.0] y) were monitored over 10 sessions involving a 3-minute CF-SMFT (12 km·h−1) as the first activity and a SSD administered 35.7 (8.0) minutes after the CF-SMFT. Initial heart rate and HRex were collected, with external intensities measured as average velocity (in meters per minute) and average acceleration–deceleration (in meters per second squared). Environmental conditions were sampled. A penalized hierarchical linear mixed model was tuned for a Bayesian information criterion minima using a 10-fold cross-validation, with out-of-sample prediction accuracy assessed via root-mean-squared error. Results: SSD average acceleration–deceleration, initial heart rate, temperature, and ground hardness were significant moderators in the tuned model. When model covariates were held constant, a 1%-point change in SSD HRex associated with a 0.4%-point change in CF-SMFT HRex (95% CI, 0.3–0.5). The tuned model predicted CF-SMFT HRex with an average root-mean-squared error of 2.64 (0.57) over the 10-fold cross-validation, with 74% and 86% of out-of-sample predictions falling within 2.7%-points and 3.7%-points, respectively, from observed values, representing the lower and upper limits for detecting meaningful changes in HRex according to the documented typical error. Conclusions: Our findings support the use of an SSD to monitor physiological state in Australian Football athletes, despite varied scheduling within session. Model predictions of CF-SMFT HRex from SSD HRex closely aligned with observed values, considering measurement imprecision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In distance running, pacing is characterized by changes in speed, leading to runners dropping off the leader's pace until a few remain to contest victory with a final sprint. Pacing behavior has been well studied over the last 30 years, but much remains unknown. It might be related to finishing position, finishing time, and dependent on critical speed (CS), a surrogate of physiologic capacity. We hypothesized a relationship between CS and the distance at which runners "fell behind" and "let go" from the leader or were "outsprinted" as contributors to performance. Methods: 100-m split times were obtained for athletes in the men's 10,000-m at the 2008 Olympics (N = 35). Split times were individually compared with the winner at the point of "falling behind" (successive split times progressively slower than the winner), "letting go" (large increase in time for distance compared with winner), or "outsprinted" (falling behind despite active acceleration) despite being with the leader with 400 m remaining. Results: Race times ranged between 26:55 and 29:23 (world record = 26:17). There were 3 groups who fell behind at ∼1000 (n = 11), ∼6000 (n = 16), and ∼9000 m (n = 2); let go at ∼4000 (n = 10), ∼7000 (n = 14), and ∼9500 m (n = 5); or were outkicked (n = 6). There was a moderate correlation between CS and finishing position (r =.82), individual mean pace (r =.79), "fell behind" distance (r =.77), and "let go" distance (r =.79). D′ balance was correlated with performance in the last 400 m (r =.87). Conclusions: Athletes displayed distinct patterns of falling behind and letting go. CS serves as a moderate predictor of performance and final placing. Final placing during the sprint is related to preservation of D′ balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the kinematic profile of 2 underwater pullout breaststroke techniques. Methods: Sixteen swimmers (9 men, 20.67 [2.71] y old; 7 women, 18.86 [0.83] y old) performed 3 × 25-m breaststroke using 2 pullout breaststroke techniques: Fly-Kick first and Combined. A speedometer was used to assess the peak and the mean velocity during the glide, propulsion, and recovery phases of both techniques, as well as for the total underwater sequence. The underwater distance was retrieved from video footage and was considered for each pullout technique. The range of motion of the knee during the fly-kick was also retrieved, and the time to complete the 25 m was considered the performance outcome, accompanied by the mean velocity, stroke rate, stroke length, and stroke index. Results: Velocity–time series showed different profiles between pullout techniques (P ≤.05) mostly in the glide and propulsion phases for males and females, respectively. The mean velocity of 25 m was shown to be greater in females when using the Fly-Kick first technique (P =.05, d = 0.36). Greater values in total underwater distance and knee range of motion were also observed for this technique in both cohorts. Conclusions: Female swimmers presented a higher performance when using the Fly-Kick first technique. Different kinematic profiles arise when swimmers use different underwater pullout techniques where the Fly-Kick first may allow them to reach higher kinematical standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to enhance the understanding of soccer match peak demands by describing worst-case scenario (WCS) and time spent above 80% and 90% of the WCS for total distance (TD) and high-speed running (HSR). The investigation considered playing level (first team vs under-19 [U19] team) and playing position (center backs, fullbacks, midfielders, and forwards) to assess how WCS and the time spent above specific thresholds vary across different populations. Methods: Data from 31 players in a professional Italian soccer club were collected during the 2022–23 season. Microtechnology devices tracked physical activity during matches. Players were categorized by position, and WCS was determined using rolling averages over a 1-minute period. Time spent above 80% and 90% of WCS for TD and HSR was calculated. Results: The U19 team exhibited higher HSR WCS compared with the first team (∼63 m·min−1 vs ∼56 m·min−1). Midfielders recorded the highest TD WCS (∼208 m·min−1), and forwards exhibited the highest HSR WCS (∼70 m·min−1). The first team spent significantly more time above 80% (∼6 min) and 90% (∼1 min) of TD WCS. Midfielders spent significantly more time above the 80% (∼7 min) of TD WCS, while forwards above the 80% (∼2 min) of HSR WCS. Conclusions: The study emphasizes that WCS used alone may not sufficiently capture real match intensity. Considering the time spent above specific thresholds provides additional insights (ie, between-levels differences and position). Practitioners should consider both WCS and time spent above thresholds for individualized training prescriptions, reflecting differences in playing roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate how cycling time-trial (TT) performance changes over a cycling season, both in a "fresh" state and in a "fatigued" state (durability). Additionally, the aim was to explore whether these changes are related to changes in underlying physiological factors such as gross efficiency, energy expenditure (EE), and substrate oxidation (fat oxidation [FatOx] and carbohydrate oxidation [CarbOx]). Methods: Sixteen male semiprofessional cyclists visited the laboratory on 3 occasions during a cycling season (PRE, START, and IN) and underwent a performance test in both fresh and fatigued states (after 38.1 [4.9] kJ/kg), containing a submaximal warm-up for the measurement of gross efficiency, EE, FatOx, and CarbOx and a maximal TT of 1 (TT1min) and 10 minutes (TT10min). Results were compared across states (fresh vs fatigued) and periods (PRE, START, and IN). Results: The average power output (PO) in TT1min decreased (P <.05) from fresh to fatigued state across all observed periods, whereas there was no change in the PO in TT10min. Over the course of the season, the PO in TT1min in the fatigued state improved more compared with the PO in TT1min in the fresh state. Furthermore, while EE did not significantly change, there was an increase in FatOx and a decrease in CarbOx toward the fatigued state. These changes diminished during the cycling season (IN), indicating a greater contribution of CarbOx in the fatigued state. Conclusions: TT1min performance is more sensitive to fatigue compared with TT10min. Also, during a cycling season, durability improves more when compared with fresh maximal POs, which is also observed in the changes in substrate oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Musculoskeletal modeling, typically implemented using marker-based systems in laboratory environments, is commonly used for noninvasive estimations of loads. Inertial measurement units (IMUs) have become an alternative for the evaluation of kinematics. However, estimates of spine joint contact forces using IMUs have yet to be thoroughly evaluated. Dynamics tasks and static postures from activities of daily living were captured on 11 healthy subjects using both systems simultaneously. Spine kinematics obtained from IMU- and marker-based systems and L4–L5 joint contact forces were compared. Lateral bending resulted in a weak agreement with significant differences between the 2 systems (P =.02, average root mean-squared error = 4.81), whereas flexion–extension and axial rotation exhibited the highest agreement with no significant differences (P <.05, average root mean-squared error = 5.51 and P <.31, average root mean-squared error = 5.08, respectively). All tasks showed excellent correlations (R2 =.76–.99) in estimated loads between systems. Differences in predicted loads at the L4–L5 were only observed during flexion–extension (1041 N vs 947 N, P =.0004) and walking with weights (814 N vs 727 N, P =.004). Different joint reaction force outcomes were obtained in 2 of the 8 tasks between systems, suggesting that IMUs can be robust tools allowing for convenient and less expensive evaluations and for longitudinal assessments inside and outside the laboratory setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of player's postural control following a lower limb injury is of interest to sports medicine practitioners due to its fundamental role in daily tasks and sporting activities. The aim was to longitudinally monitor professional rugby union players' postural control during each phase of the rehabilitation program (acute, middle, and late) following a lower limb injury. Seven male rugby union players (height 1.80 [0.02] m; mass 100.3 [11.4] kg; age 24 [4] y) sustained a time loss, noncontact lower limb injury. Static postural control was assessed via sway path (in meters), and dynamic postural control was assessed via vertical postural stability index. Group differences (P <.05) were reported across the acute, middle, and late phase. Smaller magnitudes of sway path were observed for eyes-open sway path, and for the middle and late phase smaller magnitudes of vertical postural stability index (P <.05) at the end session compared with first session. Whereas larger magnitudes of vertical postural stability index were found between baseline and the last session (P <.05). Large interindividual and intraindividual variation was apparent across the 3 phases of rehabilitation. Postural control improvements were identified during rehabilitation. However, postural control did not return to baseline, with altered kinetics throughout each rehabilitation phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate the effects of dual- and single-task training in older adults with age-related hearing loss. Intervention groups included single-, dual-task training, and control groups. The dual- and single-task trainings were held 2 days a week for 40 min for a total of 10 sessions for 5 weeks. We evaluated physical, cognitive, and auditory functions, quality-of-life, balance, concerns about falling, independence in activities of daily living, and dual-task performance. A total of 42 patients fully participated in this study. Statistically significant differences were observed in chair stand, chair sit-and-reach, global cognitive function, and delayed recall between the intervention groups and control group (p <.05). There was no statistically significant difference in quality-of-life, balance, falling concerns, independence in activities of daily living, and dual-task performance between all groups (p >.05). In conclusion, single- and dual-task training had a positive effect on physical and cognitive functioning in older adults with age-related hearing loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research has explored the physical activity habits of people with dementia and their family carers separately, with little consideration of how physical habits are associated within dyads. In this observational study, we sought to explore the relationship between people with dementia and their carers' physical activity, at a group level and at a dyadic level. Twenty-six participant dyads (persons with dementia and their carer spouses) were asked to wear an accelerometer for 30 days continuously. Comparisons were made at a group level and a dyadic level. People with dementia did not participate in significantly more moderate to vigorous physical activity (M = 15.44 min/day; SD = 14.40) compared with carers (M = 17.95 min/day; SD = 17.01). Within dyads, there were moderately strong associations between daily moderate to vigorous physical activity (r =.48–.54), but not with overall activity levels (r =.24). Despite physical activity habits remaining relatively low within people with dementia and carers, respectively, moderate to vigorous physical activity levels appear to be correlated within dyads. Understanding mutual influence on physical activity levels within dyads is an important pathway to promote an active lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This study investigated adherence to physical activity (PA) guidelines and associated sociodemographic factors among older Koreans from 2011 to 2020. Methods: Utilizing four public data sets from the National Survey of Older Koreans, the study included the data on 40,993 older adults 65 years and older in South Korea, collected between 2011 and 2020. Adherence to PA guidelines and sociodemographic factors were assessed through self-reported questionnaires. The data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance and post hoc tests. Results: Overall adherence increased from 39.1% in 2011 to 48.2% in 2017, then decreased to 37.6% in 2020 (p <.001). Men had higher adherence than women (p <.001). Age-related adherence peaked in the young-older group (65–74 years old) and was lowest in the oldest-old group (85+ years old) (p <.001). Marital status, education, and income were also significantly related to PA adherence (p <.001) across the years. Conclusion: Although continuous increase in adherence to PA among Koreans 65 years and older was observed, the decline in PA levels during the COVID era underscored the need for targeted interventions and well-informed health care policies to address demographic challenges. Still, considering that data were collected during the recommended social distancing period, a cautions interpretation of these findings is warranted. Significance/Implications: Health policies aiming to improve adherence to PA guidelines should prioritize Korean older adults who are female, belong to the oldest-old group, are single, and have low education and income levels, with the goal of enhancing health equity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]