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Background: Detraining is the partial or complete loss of physical training-induced adaptations as a result of exercise interruption or reduction. The COVID-19 pandemic led to the discontinuation of many older adult exercise programs and led to increased depressive symptoms (DS), increased sedentary behavior (SB), and decreased quality of life (QoL). Objective: To evaluate the effects of detraining, in the pandemic, on physical capacity and its relationship with DS, QoL, and SB of community-dwelling older adults. Methods: The physical capacity (static balance, dynamic balance, and lower limb and handgrip strength) of 35 participants was assessed prepandemic and after 18 and 24 months of the pandemic. DS, QoL, and SB were evaluated only at 18-month period. The analysis of variance for repeated measures or the Friedman and Pearson or Spearman tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: There was a decline in dynamic balance (p <.001) and strength in the lower limbs (p <.001) in the first 18 months, as well as maintenance in the following 6 months. The reduction in dynamic balance during the 18 months of the pandemic was associated with greater DS (p =.015; r =.414) and worse QoL (p =.024; r = −.381) in this period. More time spent on SB (p =.024; r =.386) in the 18th month was associated with worse dynamic balance in the following 6 months. Conclusion: Detraining in the pandemic setting led to long-lasting harmful effects, which can last for 2 years, on the physical capacity of community-dwelling older adults. Implication: Our findings highlight how periods of detraining can interfere in physical and mental health of older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Previous reviews have often concluded that open-skill sports are more effective at enhancing executive function (EF) than closed-skill sports. However, this conclusion may not hold for closed-skill sports with high cognitive demands, such as golf. This study aimed to compare the effects of football (open-skill) and golf (closed-skill) training on enhancing EF in university students. Method: Using a quasi-experimental, pre-post test design, 63 male participants were assigned to three groups: football (n = 21), golf (n = 21), and a sedentary control group (n = 21). Over 16 weeks of training, the intervention groups engaged in four 90-min training sessions per week, while the control group attended one 80-min physical education class per week. Assessments were conducted before and after the intervention. EFs, including inhibition control and working memory, were assessed using the Flanker task and Corsi-block tapping task, respectively. Cardiovascular fitness (CRF) was measured by the multi-stage fitness test. Results: The golf group showed significant improvements in inhibition control from pre- to post-intervention (p = 0.02, d = 0.26), while the football and control groups did not exhibit significant changes. Post-intervention comparisons indicated no significant differences in EF performance between the golf and football groups; however, both outperformed the control group (golf, p = 0.002, d = 0.99; football, p = 0.01, d = 0.67). No significant improvement was observed in working memory for any group. Additionally, changes in CRF were not significantly correlated with EF performance. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence that golf, a closed-skill sport with high cognitive demands, can effectively improve inhibitory control after 16 weeks of training. This improvement is comparable to that observed in football, an open-skill sport. The findings also suggest that the cognitive demands of the sports, rather than improvements in physical fitness, may be primarily responsible for the enhancements in EF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: A Body Shape Index (ABSI), which accounts for waist circumference relative to mass and height, shows a robust association with mortality risk. The present study evaluates the effectiveness of ABSI as a predictor of 10-year all-cause mortality in physically active, non-obese elderly individuals. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 159 volunteers (94 women, aged 60–80 years), recruited in the frame of the "Physical Activity and Nutrition for Great Ageing" (PANGeA) Cross-border Cooperation Program Slovenia–Italy 2007–2013, and followed for 10 years. Baseline characteristics included anthropometric measurements, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and cardiovascular fitness tests (VO2max). Statistical analyses (Cox regression, Kaplan–Meier survival) were conducted to examine the relationship between ABSI and mortality. Results: During the 10-year follow-up, 10 deaths (6.7%) were recorded. ABSI (adjusted for age, smoking, comorbidities, and therapy) was an independent predictor of mortality (hazard ratio = 4.65, p < 0.001). Higher ABSI scores were linked to reduced VO2max (r = −0.190, p = 0.017) and increased systolic blood pressure (r = 0.262, p = 0.001). An ABSI-based predictive model showed strong discriminatory power (AUROC = 0.91). Conclusions: ABSI is a reliable predictor of 10-year mortality in active, non-obese elderly individuals and may improve risk stratification in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart rate (HR) is a key indicator of fitness and cardiovascular health, and accurate HR monitoring and prediction are essential for enhancing personalized fitness experiences. The rise of wearable technology has significantly improved the ability to track personal health, including HR metrics. Accurate modeling of HR response during workouts is crucial for providing effective fitness recommendations, which help users achieve their goals while maintaining safe workout intensities. Although several HR monitoring and prediction models have been developed for personalized fitness recommendations, many remain impractical for real-world applications, and the domain of personalization in fitness applications still lacks sufficient research and innovation. This paper presents a hybrid approach to modeling HR response to workout intensity for personalized fitness recommendations. The proposed approach integrates a physiological model using Dynamic Bayesian Networks (DBNs) to capture heart rate dynamics during workout sessions. DBNs, combined with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, model the evolution of HR over time based on workout intensity and individual fitness characteristics. The DBN parameters are dynamically derived from flexible neural networks that account for each user's personalized health state, enabling the prediction of a full HR profile for each workout, while incorporating factors such as workout history and environmental factors. An adaptive feature selection module further enhances the model's performance by focusing on relevant data and ensuring responsiveness to new data. We validated the proposed approach on the FitRec dataset, and experimental results show that our model can accurately predict HR responses to workout intensity in future sessions, achieving an average mean absolute error of 5.2 BPM per workout—significantly improving upon existing models. In addition to HR prediction, the model provides real-time fitness personalized recommendations based on individual's observed workout intensity to an exercise. These findings demonstrate the model's effectiveness in delivering precise, user personalized heart response to exercise with potential applications in fitness apps for personalized training and health monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a systematic review that evaluates the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on exercise capacity and asthma-related outcomes in children with asthma. The review includes seven studies involving 432 pediatric asthma patients. The findings suggest that HIIT can improve exercise capacity, asthma control, and quality of life in children with asthma. However, the review acknowledges limitations such as small sample sizes and variability in HIIT protocols. Further research is needed to standardize HIIT protocols and assess its long-term effects on lung function and inflammation in pediatric asthma management. [Extracted from the article]

The effect of exercising in water on the cardiac energy index (PARACH) and some health-related cardiovascular fitness variables for girls The research aims to identify the effect of exercising in the aquatic environment on: Cardiac energy index and some physical fitness variables, body fat mass, fat-free body mass, muscle size, percentage of water in the muscles, for girls (17-20) years old. The researcher used the experimental method due to its suitability to the nature of the research, its goals and hypotheses, and the research sample was chosen. In an intentional manner. The most important results were that exercising in water has a positive effect on physical fitness, cardiac energy index, weight, body mass index, fat percentage, fat-free body mass, muscle size, water percentage, and basal metabolic rate The most important results were that swimming has a positive effect on motor abilities, cardiac energy index, weight, body mass index, fat percentage, fat-free body mass, muscle size, water percentage, and basal metabolic rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and Background: To determine whether occupational physical activity (OPA) and physical fitness (Fitscore) predict cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and its components. Methods: Among middle-aged men (N = 5482) of seven cohorts of the Seven Countries Study (SCS), several baseline risk factors were measured, and there was a follow-up for 60 years until virtual extinction. OPA was estimated from the type of work while Fitscore was derived from linear combinations of levels of arm circumference, heart rate and vital capacity computed as a factor score by principal component analysis. The predictive adjusted power of these characteristics was obtained by Cox models for coronary heart disease (CHD), heart diseases of uncertain etiology (HDUE), stroke and CVD outcomes. Results: Single levels of the three indicators of fitness were highly related to the three levels of OPA and Fitscore. High levels of both OPA and Fitscore forced into the same models were associated with lower CVD, CHD, HDUE and stroke mortality. When assessed concomitantly in the same models, hazard ratios (high versus low) for 60-year CVD mortality were 0.88 (OPA: 95% CI: 0.78–0.99) and 0.68 (Fitscore 95% CI: 0.61–0.75), and the predictive power of Fitscore outperformed that of OPA for CHD, HDUE and stroke outcomes. Similar results were obtained in individual outcome models in the presence of risk factors. Segregating the first 30 from the second 30 years of follow-up indicated that people dying earlier had lower arm circumference and vital capacity, whereas heart rate was higher for CVD and most of its major components (all p < 0.0001). Conclusions: OPA was well related to the indicators of fitness involving muscular mass, cardio-circulatory and respiratory functions, thus adding predictive power for CVD events. The Fitscore derived from the above indicators represents another powerful long-term predictor of CHD, HDUE and stroke mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of using maximal cadence criteria cut points established during overground and treadmill walking, on intensity outputs measured during community ambulation. The second aim was to establish the relationship between cardiovascular fitness (predicted VO 2 max capacity) and community ambulation intensity performance, in typically developing individuals. What is the effect on intensity measures when using cadence cut point criteria derived from overground and treadmill walking and does predicted VO 2 max correlate with exercise related community activity in a typically developing population? A group of 37 typically developing participants between 8 and 27 years of age, underwent a graded submaximal VO 2 testing protocol followed by a typical week of community ambulation, recorded with a step activity monitor. Maximum cadence criteria established during overground and treadmill walking were applied and the data were compared. The weekly step activity variables included: total steps, total ambulatory time, intensity, duration, and volume. Predicted VO 2 Max was calculated, and correlations calculated to step activity outputs. Results showed significant differences (p<0.001) between cadence cut point criteria across all intensity measures except in the amount of time spent in the 30–60 % intensity category (p=0.182). Predicted VO 2 max did not significantly correlate with step activity outputs related to exercise (moderate+ intensity and long duration ambulatory bouts; p>0.277). This study illustrates the importance of close consideration in applying recommended cut off criteria when assessing intensity outputs from step activity data. Cadence from both overground and treadmill walking were collected in a controlled lab setting, but the influence of the treadmill mechanical and forced cadence criteria must be considered when selecting intensity cut points. • Step intensity is affected when using treadmill and overground max cadence criteria. • Maximum cadence determined in a lab setting may not correlate to community walking. • Exercise related community ambulation data do not correlate to predicted VO 2 max. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are currently facing a pandemic of physical inactivity that might contribute to the growing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Here, we summarize currently available evidence on the association between physical activity and CKD, and also review the effects of exercise intervention in affected patients. Physical activity/exercise might act as a polypill against CKD, preventing its development or even exerting beneficial effects once it is established (i.e. improvements in patients' physical fitness and cardiovascular risk, as well as in kidney function). Exercise benefits are also found at advanced CKD stages or in patients under hemodialysis. The biological mechanisms behind the clinical evidence are also discussed. An active lifestyle appears as a cornerstone in CKD prevention and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen consumption ( V ˙ O 2 ) estimation is vital for evaluating aerobic performance and cardiovascular fitness. This study explores various regression models to develop a real-time V ˙ O 2 and V ˙ O 2 m a x estimation model. Utilizing a dataset from PhysioNet, encompassing cardiorespiratory measurements from 992 treadmill tests conducted at the University of Malaga's Exercise Physiology and Human Performance Lab from 2008 to 2018, participants aged 10 to 63, including amateur and professional athletes, underwent breath-by-breath monitoring of physiological parameters. The study underlines the efficacy of regressor models in handling complex datasets and developing a robust real-time V ˙ O 2 estimation model. After adjusting parameters to V ˙ O 2 in "mL/kg/min" from "mL/min", and selecting 'Age', 'Weight', 'Height', 'HR', 'Sex', and 'Time' as parameters for V ˙ O 2 estimation, XGBoost emerged as the optimal choice. Validation using a test dataset of 132 participants yielded the following results for Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), R-squared ( R 2 ), Root Mean Squared Logarithmic Error (RMSLE), and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) metrics: MAE of 0.1793, MSE of 0.1460, RMSE of 0.3821, R 2 of 0.9991, RMSLE of 0.0140, and MAPE of 0.0066. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of various regressor models in developing a continuous V ˙ O 2 m a x estimation model that has promising performance metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review emphasizes the globally accepted physical activity guidelines and explores the various molecular adaptations that occur with continuous exercise. It is essential to highlight the critical roles of cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, and muscle mass in reducing mortality and enhancing quality of life. It has been shown in various studies that there are certainly substantial reductions in cardiovascular and all-cause mortality among individuals with high cardiorespiratory fitness levels. Resistance training is also examined, which, likewise, reveals significant mortality benefits, even with minimal weekly engagement. When delving into the molecular mechanisms, it is apparent that exercise training favorably influences certain cardiovascular conditions, mostly owing to its effect on enhanced lipid metabolism, improvement in glucose regulation, ability to modulate inflammation and oxidative processes, and induction of other cardioprotective effects like improved sympathetic tone and left ventricular remodeling. Cardiovascular diseases and malignancy also share the same risk factors, which explains why exercise can also mitigate the risk of developing many types of cancers. But despite these advancements in research, cardiovascular diseases continue to be prevalent, which may suggest the need to devise other means of promoting physical activity involvement. These approaches may include a greater emphasis on the societal benefits of increased exercise adherence, facilitated by community involvement and technological advancements in fitness tracking devices. We conclude that the future directions for exercise research should emphasize the need for personalized or tailored exercise programs to make it more engaging, accessible, and inclusive for a diverse set of people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the effects of 6 weeks of training cessation on young swimmers' anthropometrics, in-water force, performance, and kinematics according to biological maturation. Methods: Eighteen swimmers (7 girls: 12.43 [0.73] y old; 11 boys: 13.27 [0.79] y old) were assessed pretest and posttest 6 weeks apart. Body mass, stature, arm span, and hand surface area were measured as anthropometric parameters, and biological maturation was estimated (ie, peak height velocity [PHV]). The in-water force was retrieved during 2 bouts of 25-m front crawl, allowing the estimation of the symmetry index. The time to complete the 25-m was considered the performance outcome, whereas velocity, stroke rate, stroke length, stroke index, and arm stroke efficiency were used as kinematic parameters. Results: All anthropometric parameters increased during the detraining period. Although the in-water force remained unchanged, the magnitude of the effects was large for the symmetry index (P =.021; d = 0.87). For the pooled sample, neither performance nor kinematics changed after detraining, but the stroke index increased (P =.054; d = 0.27). Pre-PHV swimmers showed unchanged values in all parameters, despite natural growth. Mid-PHV swimmers showed a similar trend in addition to reductions in stroke rate (P =.040; d = 0.60) and increases in stroke length (P =.043; d = 1.00). Conclusions: In-water force, performance, and kinematics (25-m front crawl) were not impaired after 6 weeks of training cessation in a group of young swimmers. Given interindividual and intraindividual differences according to maturity status, coaches should be aware that distinct trends within the group can be found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a randomized crossover trial, we examined the effects of interrupting sedentary behavior on glycemic control in trained older adults, before and after 2 weeks of detraining. Fourteen participants (65–90 years old) completed two 7-hr conditions before and after 2 weeks of detraining: (a) uninterrupted sitting (SIT) and (b) sitting plus 2 min of moderate-intensity activity every 30 min (INT). Both before and after detraining, no differences were observed for 7-hr glucose area under the curve (7 hr AUC) and mean glucose between sitting plus 2 min of moderate-intensity activity and uninterrupted sitting conditions. After detraining and for the SIT condition, higher values of 7-hr AUC (p =.014) and mean glucose (p =.015) were observed, indicating worsened glycemic control. No changes were observed in INT condition between both time points. Frequent interruptions in sedentary behavior had no effect on glycemic control, prior to or after detraining. Even so, older adults experiencing a short-term detraining period should avoid prolonged bouts of sedentary behavior that may jeopardize their glycemic control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Zumba exercise in improving physiological parameters among male students enrolled in an aerobic exercise program in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. Materials and methods. A one-group pre-post-test design was used, involving fifteen male students aged betweennineteen and twenty-four years old. The participants engaged in Zumba sessions supervised by health professionals three times per week for eight weeks. A series of measurements, including VO₂max, agility, and muscle strength, was evaluated at pretest and posttest stages using various equipment and methods. Results. Statistical analysis using SPSS version 26 software included normality testing with the Shapiro-Wilk test and a significance level set at p ≥ 0.05. A paired sample t-test was performed to compare pretest and posttest measurements of VO₂max, agility, and muscle strength. The results are presented as Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD). The findings reveal significant improvements in all parameters assessed post-intervention. VO₂max increased from 26.5 ± 4.5 to 30.8 ± 4.2 mL/kg/min, agility improved from 15.8 ± 1.2 to 14.6 ± 1.3 seconds, limb muscle strength increased from 394.2 ± 66.4 to 411.1 ± 67.5 joules, and arm muscle strength increased from 123.5 ± 17.1 to 138.2 ± 13.9 joules (all p ≤ 0.001). These results demonstrate the effectiveness of Zumba exercise in enhancing physical fitness among male college students. Conclusions. The findings suggest that Zumba exercise is an effective non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing cardiovascular fitness, agility, and muscular strength among male students. Integrating Zumba exercise into regular physical activity routines may contribute to stimulating an active lifestyle and improving overall health outcomes.

Background: Eccentric resistance training elicits greater preservation of training-induced muscular adaptations compared with other training modalities, however the detraining profiles of different training dosages remain unknown. Aims: To examine the detraining effects following once- or twice-weekly eccentric-specific resistance training in older adults. Methods: Twenty-one older adults (age = 70.5 ± 6.0 year) completed a 12-week detraining period following the 12-week eccentric training programmes with neuromuscular function and muscle structure assessed six (mid-detraining) and 12 (post-detraining) weeks following training cessation. Results: From post-training to post-detraining, no significant regression of the training-induced improvements (collapsed group data reported) occurred in power (0%), strength (eccentric = 0%, isometric = 39%), or explosive strength over numerous epochs (0–32%), resulting in values that remained significantly greater than at pre-training. However, significant regression in the improvements in muscle thickness (91%) and fascicle angle (100%) occurred, resulting in values that were not significantly greater than pre-training. Discussion: The limited regression in neuromuscular function following a 12-week detraining period has important implications for supporting eccentric exercise prescription in older adults who often face periods of inactivity. However, further work is required to develop an effective maintenance dosage strategy that preserves improvements in muscle structure. Conclusions: Eccentric resistance training elicits improvements in the neuromuscular function of older adults, which are sustained for at least 12 weeks after eccentric training cessation. Key Points: • Improvements in neuromuscular function were sustained for at least 12 weeks following training cessation, whereas significant regression in muscle structure occurred. • Training frequency did not influence the regression profiles of training-induced adaptations. • Further research is warranted to develop a maintenance dosage that preserves training-induced adaptations in muscle structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Lung-resected patients experience physical deterioration that limits their quality of life, but there are important gaps in the knowledge of the evolution of this deterioration. The aim of this study was to assess physical deterioration in lung cancer survivors in the short and medium term, using self-administered functional measures that would allow us to obtain information about patients' perceptions. These results can facilitate the future management of lung cancer patients after resection, reducing the sequelae they suffer and improving their quality of life. Background. Lung resection represents the main curative treatment modality for lung cancer. These patients present with physical deterioration that has been studied previously using objective variables; however, no previous studies have evaluated the self-perceived physical fitness of these patients. For these reasons, to increase the current knowledge on lung cancer patients' impairment, the aim of this study was to characterize the self-perceived physical deconditioning of lung cancer patients undergoing lung resection in the short and medium term after surgery. Methods. A longitudinal, observational, prospective cohort study was performed in the Thoracic Surgery Service of the Hospital Virgen de las Nieves (Granada). Symptoms (pain, fatigue, cough and dyspnea) and physical fitness (upper and lower limbs) were assessed before surgery, at discharge and at one month after discharge. Results. Among the total of 88 patients that we included in our study, significant differences were found at discharge in symptoms (p < 0.05) and physical fitness (p < 0.05). One month after surgery, higher levels of pain (p = 0,002) and dyspnea (p = 0.007) were observed, as well as poorer results in the upper (p = 0.023) and lower limbs' physical fitness, with regard to the initial values. Conclusions. Patients undergoing lung resection present an increase in symptoms and physical fitness deterioration at discharge, which is maintained one month after surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological age, reflecting the cumulative damage in the body over a lifespan, is a dynamic measure more indicative of individual health than chronological age. Accelerated aging, when biological age surpasses chronological age, is implicated in poorer clinical outcomes, especially for breast cancer (BC) survivors undergoing treatments. This preliminary study investigates the impact of a 16-week online supervised physical activity (PA) intervention on biological age in post-surgery female BC patients. Telomere length was measured using qPCR, and the ELOVL2-based epigenetic clock was assessed via DNA methylation pyrosequencing of the ELOVL2 promoter region. Telomere length remained unchanged, but the ELOVL2 epigenetic clock indicated a significant decrease in biological age in the PA group, suggesting the potential of PA interventions to reverse accelerated aging processes in BC survivors. The exercise group showed improved cardiovascular fitness, highlighting PA's health impact. Finally, the reduction in biological age, as measured by the ELOVL2 epigenetic clock, was significantly associated with improvements in cardiovascular fitness and handgrip strength, supporting improved recovery. Epigenetic clocks can potentially assess health status and recovery progress in BC patients, identifying at-risk individuals in clinical practice. This study provides potential and valuable insights into how PA benefits BC survivors' health, supporting the immediate benefits of a 16-week exercise intervention in mitigating accelerated aging. The findings could suggest a holistic approach to improving the health and recovery of post-surgery BC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiota and its secreted metabolites play a significant role in cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health and diseases. The dysregulation of the intestinal microbiota poses a significant threat to cardiovascular and skeletal muscle well-being. Nonetheless, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying these changes remain unclear. Furthermore, microgravity presents several challenges to cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health compromising muscle strength, endothelial dysfunction, and metabolic changes. The purpose of this review is to critically examine the role of gut microbiota metabolites on cardiovascular and skeletal muscle functions and dysfunctions. It also explores the molecular mechanisms that drive microgravity-induced deconditioning in both cardiovascular and skeletal muscle. Key findings in this review highlight that several alterations in gut microbiota and secreted metabolites in microgravity mirror characteristics seen in cardiovascular and skeletal muscle diseases. Those alterations include increased levels of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio, elevated lipopolysaccharide levels (LPS), increased in para-cresol (p-cresol) and secondary metabolites, along with reduction in bile acids and Akkermansia muciniphila bacteria. Highlighting the potential, modulating gut microbiota in microgravity conditions could play a significant role in mitigating cardiovascular and skeletal muscle diseases not only during space flight but also in prolonged bed rest scenarios here on Earth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although literature suggests that exercise can improve symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease (PD) patients, research on the effects of aerobic exercise and resistance training (AE&RT) in early-stage PD remains limited. Understanding the synergistic effects of these exercise modalities can provide valuable insights for optimizing exercise interventions for PD patients, particularly in the early stages of the disease, where interventions may have the greatest impact on long-term functional outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combined AE&RT program on motor function, postural stability, and cognitive processing speed in early stage PD patients. A total of 236 participants with early-stage PD were assigned to either the Aerobic Exercise Group (AE group) (n= 112) or the AE&RT Group (n= 124) inthis controlled randomized trial. The study employed a one-year supervised exercise program, with the AE Group participating in aerobic activities and the AE&RT Group engaging in combined AE&RT. Outcome measures included symptom improvement, motor function, postural stability, cognitive processing speed, peak oxygen consumption, quality of life evaluation, and the incidence of adverse events. The AE&RT Group demonstrated greater improvements in tremor, muscle rigidity, gait instability, sleep problems, and hyposmia compared to the AE Group. Additionally, the combined exercise group exhibited better cognitive processing speed, as well as enhanced motor function and postural stability. Peak oxygen consumption was significantly higher in the AE&RT Group. However, the quality of life evaluation indicated a statistically higher quality of life in the AE Group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups. The findings suggest that the integration of AE&RT in early-stage PD patients leads to more comprehensive improvements in motor symptoms, cognitive function, postural stability, and cardiovascular fitness compared to aerobic exercise alone. These results have important implications for developing tailored exercise interventions to enhance the physical and cognitive well-being of individuals with early-stage PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) who required mechanical ventilation and had prolonged hospital stay present with medical instability and functional impairments after the acute hospitalization. To present the rehabilitation outcome of three patients with COVID-19 admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation unit using a case series method. Subjects included three consecutive male patients admitted to the rehabilitation unit with a diagnosis of deconditioning and critical illness myopathy. On admission, patients were evaluated by a multidisciplinary team using outcome measures such as 6-min walk test (6 MWT), 10-m walk test (10 MWT), berg balance scale (BBS), and dynamometry. Each patient received daily therapy with a minimum of 900 min per week during their rehabilitation stay. Treatment strategies included fatigue management, training of mobility and activities for daily living tasks, muscle strengthening, and cognitive retraining. All patients showed significant improvements across all the outcome measures, specifically, the 6MWT (minimal clinically identifiable difference (MCID) range: 14–30.5 m) and the 10MWT (MCID range: 0.10–0.20 m/s) which exceeded the MCID for all three patients. The BBS also demonstrated significant improvement, surpassing the minimum detectable change of 5–7 points. Of the three patients, two were able to be discharged at an independent level, while one required supervision for safety. Patients with COVID-19, who experienced prolonged hospital stay present with severe impairments in muscle strength, functional mobility, and participation in daily living tasks. Inpatient rehabilitation may have the potential to reduce impairments and accelerate the recovery process while managing ongoing medical issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Management strategies for stable angina include pharmacotherapy, revascularization, and exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR). The optimal treatment for stable angina patients with severe coronary artery stenosis remains unclear. This study aimed to compare interventional therapy with exercise rehabilitation in this population. Methods: Fifty stable angina patients with severe coronary stenosis who underwent stent implantation were included in the optimal medical therapy (OMT) plus percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) group, and 50 patients who did not undergo interventional treatment were included in OMT plus CR group receiving exercise rehabilitation guidance for one year. Cardiovascular composite endpoint events, cardiopulmonary fitness, and quality of life scale scores were assessed after one year. Results: No significant difference in incidence of cardiovascular composite endpoint events was observed between OMT plus PCI group with OMT plus CR group (20.0% vs 14.6%) after one year. Cardiopulmonary fitness represented as peak VO2 (19.2± 3.5 vs 17.6± 3.2 mL/kg/min), peak load (120± 19 vs 108± 20 W), and AT (13.5± 1.5 vs 12.1± 1.3 mL/kg/min) were significantly higher in the rehabilitation group than the intervention group after one year. Both groups showed improvement in their quality of life, but the rehabilitation group improved in more scales. Conclusion: Interventional therapy did not reduce cardiovascular events compared to exercise-based rehabilitation in stable angina patients with severe coronary artery stenosis, but the rehabilitation can improve cardiovascular fitness and quality of life more. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The demand for effective and safe treatments of genitourinary syndrome (GSM) in post-menopausal women (PMW) is growing. Published data on the efficacy and safety of ospemifene (OSP) prompt an updated literature review to enlighten possible improvements in the GSM treatment. Area covered: We searched articles published in English from 2010 to 2023 through Medline (PubMed) and Embase databases with Boolean terms: OSP, PMW, GSM, endometrium, breast cancer, cardiometabolic syndrome, bone metabolism, adherence to treatment, and patient satisfaction. We selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational and cross-sectional studies and completed the search manually. Expert opinion: Of the 157 retrieved records, 25 primary studies met the inclusion criteria (15 regarding efficacy and safety, two for additional effects, and four for adherence and satisfaction with the OSP treatment). Seven RCTs involved nearly 5,000 patients, 10 out of 18 prospective observational studies 563, and six retrospective analyses 356,439. Evidence of OSP treatment in PMW with GSM relies on RCTs and remarkable real-world data. The 25 primary studies showcased the high clinical response to symptoms, the favorable safety profile of OSP with very few adverse events, a neutral impact on the endometrium, breast, bone, and thrombosis, and the possible improvement of cardiovascular risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manual wheelchair users (MWUs) are prone to a sedentary life that can negatively affect their physical and cardiovascular health, making regular assessment important to identify appropriate interventions and lifestyle modifications. One mean of assessing MWUs' physical health is the 6 min push test (6MPT), where the user propels themselves as far as they can in six minutes. However, reliance on observer input introduces subjectivity, while limited quantitative data inhibit comprehensive assessment. Incorporating sensors into the 6MPT can address these limitations. Here, ten MWUs performed the 6MPT with additional sensors: two inertial measurement units (IMUs)—one on the wheelchair and one on the wrist together with a heart rate wristwatch. The conventional measurements of distance and laps were recorded by the observer, and the IMU data were used to calculate laps, distance, speed, and cadence. The results demonstrated that the IMU can provide the metrics of the traditional 6MPT with strong significant correlations between calculated laps and observer lap counts (r = 0.947, p < 0.001) and distances (r = 0.970, p < 0.001). Moreover, heart rate during the final minute was significantly correlated with calculated distance (r = 0.762, p = 0.017). Enhanced 6MPT assessment can provide objective, quantitative, and comprehensive data for clinicians to effectively inform interventions in rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The narrative review examines how school-based team sports catalyze holistic student wellness, leveraging their inherent nature and addressing barriers to inclusivity. Utilizing the holistic wellness framework—which encompasses physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, and occupational dimensions—the review evaluates the multifaceted effects of these sports on student well-being. Supported by wellness models like Dr. Bill Hettler's Six Dimensions of Wellness and various research studies, the framework highlights the interconnectedness of these areas in achieving overall well-being. School-based team sports promote discipline, teamwork, physical fitness, and social interaction while fostering skill development, ethical behavior, and emotional resilience. These elements, collectively, may support the holistic development of students, enhancing their overall health and success. The methodological approach of this review involves a synthesis of empirical research, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses from the past two decades (2004–2024), sourced from databases such as PubMed, EBSCO (EDS), and Google Scholar. Key findings include enhanced cardiovascular fitness, emotional resilience, cognitive performance, social skills, spiritual fulfillment, and career readiness awareness. The review highlights the necessity of integrating team sports into educational curricula to promote well-rounded student development and proposes strategies to overcome socioeconomic, cultural, and structural barriers to participation. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to examine the long-term effects of team sports and explore the potential of digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing these benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The review encompasses the therapeutic effects of Pranayama practices on diverse health parameters. This review explores the Therapeutic Impact of Pranayama Practices on Physical and Mental Health. The authors conducted a comprehensive review of the Scopus, Research Gate, web of science, pub med and google scholar databases, looking for relevant studies focused largely on the Pranayama Practices on Physical and Mental Health. It underscores the importance of incorporating pranayama into fitness routines for a well-rounded and balanced approach to health Significant improvements in cardiovascular variables, including blood pressure, heart rate variability, and exercise tolerance. Respiratory indices, such as vital capacity and respiratory rate, displayed positive outcomes. Cognitive functions in conditions like type 2 diabetes were positively influenced by Pranayama. Mental health parameters, including stress, saw remarkable improvements. Physical fitness components, such as strength, endurance, flexibility, and body composition, demonstrated significant enhancements with the incorporation of Pranayama protocols. The review highlights the preventive and therapeutic applications of Pranayama in disorders ranging from psychosomatic conditions to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The evidence supports the integration of Pranayama practices into daily life for holistic health benefits. Further research is urged to unravel specific mechanisms underlying these therapeutic effects and establish optimal guidelines for incorporating Pranayama into contemporary health and wellness strategies. This review contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of traditional yogic practices and modern healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is recognised as a leading attributable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. Global initiatives towards the prevention and treatment of arterial hypertension are centred around non-pharmacological lifestyle modification. Exercise recommendations differ between professional and scientific organisations, but are generally unanimous on the primary role of traditional aerobic and dynamic resistance exercise. In recent years, isometric exercise training (IET) has emerged as an effective novel exercise intervention with consistent evidence of reductions in blood pressure (BP) superior to that reported from traditional guideline-recommended exercise modes. Despite a wealth of emerging new data and endorsement by select governing bodies, IET remains underutilised and is not widely prescribed in clinical practice. This expert-informed review critically examines the role of IET as a potential adjuvant tool in the future clinical management of BP. We explore the efficacy, prescription protocols, evidence quality and certainty, acute cardiovascular stimulus, and physiological mechanisms underpinning its anti-hypertensive effects. We end the review with take-home suggestions regarding the direction of future IET research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Glostrup Population Studies are a collection of cohort studies conducted in Copenhagen, Denmark since 1964. These studies have explored various health aspects such as cardiovascular diseases, lifestyle, mental health, and chronic conditions. The studies have collected comprehensive datasets and collaborated with other researchers to address current and future health challenges. The studies have examined factors like alcohol and smoking and their effects on allergies, asthma, blood pressure, and heart rate. The data collected from these studies have been used to develop tools for predicting coronary heart disease risk. The studies have also conducted health examinations and follow-ups on different cohorts, collecting data on physical function, muscle strength, heart and lung function, and reaction time. They have also evaluated factors like socioeconomic status, lifestyle, and psychological factors. The studies have measured various biomarkers such as lipids, hematology, metabolism, and inflammatory markers. The studies have been conducted on different age groups and have followed up with participants over several years to track changes in health and lifestyle. The studies have utilized questionnaires, physical examinations, and the collection of various biomarkers to gather data on socioeconomic factors, health, symptoms, diseases, lifestyle, and psychological factors. The studies have measured parameters like blood pressure, pulse, ECG, lipids, hematology, metabolism, liver markers, kidney markers, and genetics. The studies have also conducted assessments such as blood pressure, anthropometry, spirometry, and skin prick tests, as well as analysis of markers for allergies and celiac disease [Extracted from the article]

Background: This study examined the effects of a single all-out bout of 30-s sprint-cycle performed daily for 5 consecutive days per week for 6 weeks, on aerobic fitness, muscle strength and metabolic-health markers in physically active young males and females. Methods: Healthy, physically active 20–28 year olds, were randomly assigned to either experimental (EXP, N = 11) or non-training control (CON, N = 8) group. With supervision, the EXP group performed one bout of 30-s sprint-cycle daily, Mondays to Fridays over 6 weeks, while CON group continued with their usual lifestyle. The followings were measured at pre- and post-intervention: maximal aerobic power, peak torque of knee extensors and flexors at velocities 30° s−1 and 300° s−1, resting heart rate, resting blood pressure, body fat percentage, fasting lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and fasting insulin levels. Results: There were no significant improvements in the EXP group for all the measured variables (all P > 0.05); except for significant interaction effects in peak torque of knee extensors at 30° s−1 (P = 0.044) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (P = 0.046). Post hoc test indicate that CON group showed decline in their low-density lipo-proteins levels (P = 0.024). Conclusion: Six weeks of one all-out bout of 30-s sprint-cycle per day, for 5 consecutive days per week, was ineffective in improving cardiovascular fitness, maximal strength, and most health markers in physically active young adults. The present results when combined with the previous literature suggest that there is a possibility of a minimum threshold for a number of sprint-cycle bouts needed to be performed before any form of cardio-metabolic-health benefit is accrued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasting Ramadan can affect the normal circadian pattern, especially in terms of sleep times and patterns. The objective was to analyze sleep quality and habits in diseased and healthy population using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) both during and outside of Ramadan. A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on 240 subjects (cardiovascular diseases [CVD], diabetes [DM]) and 120 healthy subjects. Data entry and processing were performed with R. 3.2.4 software. The significance level was 0.05. Regarding fasting, 88.33% of subjects with CVD fasted during Ramadan against 55.83% of subjects with DM (P > 0.05). PSQI results showed that subjects with CVD and DM were poor sleepers (PSQI > 5), regardless of the period during or outside Ramadan, unlike healthy subjects who had a good quality of sleep during Ramadan (PSQI ≤ 5). Sleep latency did not change for all subjects regardless of the period (P > 0.05). While the duration of sleep was always higher during Ramadan despite the population (P < 0.05). The observance of Ramadan influenced the potential duration of sleep, which was found to be longer during the holy month. However, no significant impact was observed on the quality of sleep of diseased subjects, nor on sleep latency for all subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Various forms of exercise have proven health benefits for people with Parkinson's (pwPD) yet high intensity functional training (HIFT) has yet to be studied. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility, physical and psychosocial impacts of a HIFT program for pwPD and their care partners (CPs). Design: A single group, pre-post design with assessments before, in the middle (13 weeks), and after the 25-week intervention. Setting: Community fitness facility Participants: Fourteen pwPD (10 at Hoehn Yahr Stage ≤2, 4 females) and 10 CPs (5 females) were included (mean age = 71.5 (6.1)). Intervention: A 25-week HIFT program (≤49 exercise sessions, ≤75 min long) Measures: Recruitment, retention, attendance, safety and exercise intensity (measured via session-Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE)) was assessed in addition to cardiovascular endurance, lower extremity strength, walking speed, balance, exercise self-efficacy, balance confidence, social support for exercise and health-related quality of life. Analysis: Descriptive data was used to describe feasibility measures. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre- and post-program data. Effect size, r, was calculated. Results: Recruitment rates were ≥40% for pwPD and CPs and retention rates were 80% for pwPD and 62.5% for CPs. Average session attendance was 71.2% with 15 adverse events reported, including 7 non-injurious falls. Median session-RPE was 5 (IQR = 1) out of 10. PwPD demonstrated significant improvements in cardiovascular endurance, self-selected and fast walking speeds, balance and social support for exercise. CPs demonstrated significant improvements in cardiovascular endurance and lower extremity strength. Exercise self-efficacy, balance confidence and health-related quality of life did not significantly change for pwPD or CPs. Conclusion: High intensity functional training appears feasible for pwPD and their CPs and may lead to health benefits. Healthcare providers should consider HIFT as another option to engage pwPD in community-based exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiorespiratory fitness is known to protect against cognitive decline in older adults. Specifically, it has been shown that physical activity and fitness are beneficial for executive functions that are crucial for independent living up to old age. In this study, 115 individuals aged 80 years and older underwent a cardiorespiratory fitness assessment using the two-minute step test and had their electroencephalogram recorded during a colored flanker task in order to measure executive function performance. Cardiorespiratory fitness was related to quicker responses during the flanker task. A mediation analysis was carried out to determine whether these positive effects were mediated through event-related potentials (N1, N2, or P3) or motor-related cortical potentials (MRCP). Cardiorespiratory fitness was related to better visual discriminative processing as indicated by larger occipital N1 amplitudes. In addition, fitness was associated with larger MRCP amplitudes, which are a correlate of the response generation process. Fitness was not found to have a significant effect on fronto-central N2 or parietal P3, which are thought to capture cognitive control processes such as conflict detection and response inhibition. Moreover, all effects reported were present in all three flanker trial conditions (congruent, neutral, and incongruent). Thus, these results indicate that the quicker response times in fitter people were related to visual processing and motor response generation rather than cognitive control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drones have emerged as a cost‐effective solution to detect and map plant invasions, offering researchers and land managers flexibility in flight design, sensors and data collection schedules. A systematic review of trends in drone‐based image collection, data processing and analytical approaches is needed to advance the science of invasive species monitoring and management and improve scalability and replicability.We systematically reviewed studies using drones for plant invasion research to identify knowledge gaps, best practices and a path toward advancing the science of invasive plant monitoring and management. We devised a database of 33 standardized reporting parameters, coded each study to those parameters, calculated descriptive statistics and synthesized how these technologies are being implemented and used.Trends show a general increase in studies since 2009 with a bias toward temperate regions in North America and Europe. Most studies have focused on testing the validity of a machine learning or deep learning image classification technique with fewer studies focused on monitoring or modelling spread. Very few studies used drones for assessing ecosystem dynamics and impacts such as determining environmental drivers or tracking re‐emergence after disturbance. Overall, we noted a lack of standardized reporting on field survey design, flight design, drone systems, image processing and analyses, which hinders replicability and scalability of approaches. Based on these findings, we develop a standard framework for drone applications in invasive species monitoring to foster cross‐study comparability and reproducibility.We suggest several areas for advancing the use of drones in invasive plant studies including (1) utilizing standardized reporting frameworks to facilitate scientific research practices, (2) integrating drone data with satellite imagery to scale up relationships over larger areas, (3) using drones as an alternative to in‐person ground surveys and (4) leveraging drones to assess community trait shifts tied to plant fitness and reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automotive racing is one of the most internationally recognized sports. Drivers within their respective disciplines are exposed to a variety of forces throughout the race, each of which is theorized to inflict a physiological adaptation within the driver. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review was to collate the evidence and provide a summary of the physiological profiles of these drivers and provide practitioners with recommendations to optimize these adaptations. Of the 1,304 articles screened, 24 met the inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, 13 reported on the anthropometric and physiological measures of 4-wheeled racing athletes from both open and closed-wheel disciplines. The remaining 11 studies reported on the physiological profiles of 2-wheeled racing athletes from both on-road and off-road riding disciplines. Open-wheel racers have greater cardiopulmonary fitness than close-wheel racers, as well as greater strength throughout movements of neck lateral flexion and isometric knee extension. Close-wheel racers were shown to be heavier with greater fat mass than the open-wheel racers but exhibited greater isometric shoulder flexion and plantarflexion strength. Female 2-wheeled racers were also shown to have a weaker handgrip strength than their male counterparts. Whereas male on-road riders demonstrated greater levels of handgrip strength than their off-road counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Zumba exercise in improving physiological parameters among male students enrolled in an aerobic exercise program in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. Materials and methods. A one-group pre-post-test design was used, involving fifteen male students aged between nineteen and twenty-four years old. The participants engaged in Zumba sessions supervised by health professionals three times per week for eight weeks. A series of measurements, including VO₂max, agility, and muscle strength, was evaluated at pretest and posttest stages using various equipment and methods. Results. Statistical analysis using SPSS version 26 software included normality testing with the Shapiro-Wilk test and a significance level set at p ≥ 0.05. A paired sample t-test was performed to compare pretest and posttest measurements of VO₂max, agility, and muscle strength. The results are presented as Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD). The findings reveal significant improvements in all parameters assessed post-intervention. VO2max increased from 26.5 ± 4.5 to 30.8 ± 4.2 mL/kg/min, agility improved from 15.8 ± 1.2 to 14.6 ± 1.3 seconds, limb muscle strength increased from 394.2 ± 66.4 to 411.1 ± 67.5 joules, and arm muscle strength increased from 123.5 ± 17.1 to 138.2 ± 13.9 joules (all p ≤ 0.001). These results demonstrate the effectiveness of Zumba exercise in enhancing physical fitness among male college students. Conclusions. The findings suggest that Zumba exercise is an effective non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing cardiovascular fitness, agility, and muscular strength among male students. Integrating Zumba exercise into regular physical activity routines may contribute to stimulating an active lifestyle and improving overall health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several hallmarks of metabolic syndrome, such as dysregulation in the glucose and lipid metabolism, endothelial dysfunction, insulin resistance, low-to-medium systemic inflammation, and intestinal microbiota dysbiosis, represent a pathological bridge between metabolic syndrome and diabesity, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative disorders. This review aims to highlight some therapeutic strategies against metabolic syndrome involving integrative approaches to improve lifestyle and daily diet. The beneficial effects of foods containing antioxidant polyphenols, intestinal microbiota control, and physical activity were also considered. We comprehensively examined a large body of published articles involving basic, animal, and human studie, as well as recent guidelines. As a result, dietary polyphenols from natural plant-based antioxidants and adherence to the Mediterranean diet, along with physical exercise, are promising complementary therapies to delay or prevent the onset of metabolic syndrome and counteract diabesity and cardiovascular diseases, as well as to protect against neurodegenerative disorders and cognitive decline. Modulation of the intestinal microbiota reduces the risks associated with MS, improves diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and exerts neuroprotective action. Despite several studies, the estimation of dietary polyphenol intake is inconclusive and requires further evidence. Lifestyle interventions involving physical activity and reduced calorie intake can improve metabolic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nasal septum is a key component of the nasal structure, affecting proper airflow and providing support for the nasal structures. A deviated septum (DSN) can lead to breathing disorders, impaired nasal patency, recurrent nosebleeds, olfactory disorders and frequent upper respiratory tract infections. In competitive sports, where ventilation performance is critical, septal deviation can adversely affect athletic performance. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of septoplasty on patients' physical performance. Methodes This article is based on the available literature found in the Google Scholar, PubMed database with the use of key words such as ,,septoplasty'', ,,nasal septal deviation'', ,,septoplasty quality of life'', ,,nasal septal deviation athletes'', ,,septoplasty sport'', ,,nasal obstruction sport''. Results Conducted studies show that surgical correction of a deviated nasal septum improves physical performance as well as respiratory and cardiovascular functions. Restoring proper airflow through the nose after surgery leads to a noticeable improvement in physical performance, highlighting the significance of septoplasty in enhancing patient comfort and improving athletic outcomes.

Sociodemographic and lifestyle factors (sleep, physical activity, and sedentary behavior) may predict obesity risk in early adolescence; a critical period during the life course. Analyzing data from 2971 participants (M = 11.94, SD = 0.64 years) wearing Fitbit Charge HR 2 devices in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, glass box machine learning models identified obesity predictors from Fitbit-derived measures of sleep, cardiovascular fitness, and sociodemographic status. Key predictors of obesity include identifying as Non-White race, low household income, later bedtime, short sleep duration, variable sleep timing, low daily step counts, and high heart rates (AUCMean = 0.726). Findings highlight the importance of inadequate sleep, physical inactivity, and socioeconomic disparities, for obesity risk. Results also show the clinical applicability of wearables for continuous monitoring of sleep and cardiovascular fitness in adolescents. Identifying the tipping points in the predictors of obesity risk can inform interventions and treatment strategies to reduce obesity rates in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise-induced modifications in ECG parameters among individuals with an early repolarization pattern (ERP) have not been evaluated in detail. We aimed to assess this phenomenon, with potential associations with arrhythmogenesis. Methods: Twenty-three young, healthy males with ERP (ERP+) participated in this study, alongside a control group, which consisted of nineteen healthy males without ERP (ERP−). ECGs at baseline, at peak exercise (Bruce protocol), and during the recovery phase were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Results: The treadmill test demonstrated strong cardiovascular fitness, with similar chronotropic and pressor responses in both groups. In the baseline ECGs, the QRS complex and the QT interval were shorter in the ERP+ group. During exercise, the P-wave duration was significantly longer and the QRS was narrower in the ERP+ group. In the recovery phase, there was a longer P wave and a narrower QRS in the ERP+ group. During the treadmill test, the J wave disappeared or did not meet the criteria required for ERP diagnosis. Conclusions: The slowed intra-atrial conduction found during exercise could be predictive of atrial arrhythmogenesis in the setting of ERP. The disappearing of J waves during exercise, due to increased sympathetic activity, has potential clinical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children with Marfan (MFS) and Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) report limitations in physical activities, sports, school, leisure, and work participation in daily life. This observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study explores associations between physical fitness and cardiovascular parameters, systemic manifestations, fatigue, and pain in children with MFS and LDS. Forty-two participants, aged 6–18 years (mean (SD) 11.5(3.7)), diagnosed with MFS (n = 36) or LDS (n = 6), were enrolled. Physical fitness was evaluated using the Fitkids Treadmill Test's time to exhaustion (TTE) outcome measure. Cardiovascular parameters (e.g., echocardiographic parameters, aortic surgery, cardiovascular medication) and systemic manifestations (systemic score of the revised Ghent criteria) were collected. Pain was obtained by visual analog scale. Fatigue was evaluated by PROMIS® Fatigue-10a-Pediatric-v2.0-short-form and PROMIS® Fatigue-10a-Parent-Proxy-v2.0-short-form. Multivariate linear regression analyses explored associations between physical fitness (dependent variable) and independent variables that emerged from the univariate linear regression analyses (criterion p <.05). The total group (MFS and LDS) and the MFS subgroup scored below norms on physical fitness TTE Z-score (mean (SD) −3.1 (2.9); −3.0 (3.0), respectively). Univariate analyses showed associations between TTE Z-score aortic surgery, fatigue, and pain (criterion p <.05). Multivariate analyses showed an association between physical fitness and pediatric self-reported fatigue that explained 48%; 49%, respectively, of TTE Z-score variance (F (1,18) = 18.6, p ≤.001, r2 =.48; F (1,15) = 16,3, p =.01, r2 =.49, respectively). Conclusions: Physical fitness is low in children with MFS or LDS and associated with self-reported fatigue. Our findings emphasize the potential of standardized and tailored exercise programs to improve physical fitness and reduce fatigue, ultimately enhancing the physical activity and sports, school, leisure, and work participation of children with MFS and LDS. What is Known: • Marfan and Loeys-Dietz syndrome are heritable connective tissue disorders and share cardiovascular and systemic manifestations. • Children with Marfan and Loeys-Dietz syndrome report increased levels of disability, fatigue and pain, as well as reduced levels of physical activity, overall health and health-related quality of life. What is New: • Physical fitness is low in children with Marfan and Loeys-Dietz syndrome and associated with self-reported fatigue. • Our findings emphasize the potential of standardized and tailored exercise programs to improve physical fitness and reduce fatigue, ultimately enhancing the physical activity and sports, school, leisure, and work participation of children with Marfan and Loeys-Dietz syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Data collected from training sessions has the potential to better understand how well racehorses will perform on race-days. To date, no research has explored whether speed during and heart rate recovery after fast exercise could predict a horse winning a race. This theory was tested by analysing information from fitness trackers worn by 485 racehorses during training sessions in Australia by looking at factors like the horse's speed and heart rate recovery after exercise. The study found that certain factors, like being a colt or a 'stayer', were good indicators of future success on the racetrack. However, heart rate recovery and speed at the start or throughout the final 600 m during training were not as powerful as race predictors. Nevertheless, combining physiological data with other less tangible factors will help professionals identify which horses are more likely to perform at their best in races, aiding decision-making and potentially reducing race-day poor performance. Ultimately, this could lead to more successful outcomes for the horses, trainers and owners. In-training racehorse physiological data can be leveraged to further explore race-day performance prediction. To date, no large retrospective, observational study has analysed whether in-training speed and heart rate recovery can predict racehorse success. Speed (categorised as 'slow' to 'fast' according to the time taken to cover the last 600 m from a virtual finish line) and heart rate recovery (from gallop to 1 min after exercise) of flat racehorses (n = 485) of varying age, sex and type according to distance (e.g., sprinter, miler and stayer) were obtained using a fitness tracker from a single racing yard in Australia. Race-pace training sessions on turf comprised 'fast gallop' (n = 3418 sessions) or 'jumpout' (n = 1419). A posteriori racing information (n = 3810 races) for all 485 racehorses was extracted and combined with training data. Race performance was categorised as win/not-win or podium or not, each analysed by logistic regression. Colts (p < 0.001), stayers (p < 0.001) and being relatively fast over the last 600 m of a benchmark test in training (p < 0.008) were all predictive of race performance. Heart rate recovery after exercise (p = 0.21) and speed recorded at 600 m of a 1 km benchmark test in training (p = 0.94) were not predictive. In-training physiological data analytics used along with subjective experience may help trainers identify promising horses and improve decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Paediatric obstructive sleep disordered breathing (OSDB) has a considerable impact on cardiovascular physiology, but the consequences on children's basal metabolism and response to exercise are far from being known. The objective was to propose model estimations for paediatric OSDB metabolism at rest and during exercise. A retrospective case–control analysis of data from children submitted to otorhinolaryngology surgery was performed. The heart rate (HR) was measured, while oxygen consumption (VO2) and energy expenditure (EE) at rest and during exercise were obtained using predictive equations. The results for the patients with OSDB were compared with controls. A total of 1256 children were included. A total of 449 (35.7%) had OSDB. The patients with OSDB showed a significantly higher resting heart rate (94.55 ± 15.061 bpm in OSDB vs. 92.41 ± 15.332 bpm in no‐OSDB, p = 0.041). The children with OSDB showed a higher VO2 at rest (13.49 ± 6.02 mL min−1kg−1 in OSDB vs. 11.55 ± 6.83 mL min−1kg−1 in no‐OSDB, p = 0.004) and a higher EE at rest (67.5 ± 30.10 cal min−1kg−1 in OSDB vs. 57.8 + 34.15 cal min−1kg−1 in no‐OSDB, p = 0.004). At maximal exercise, patients with OSDB showed a lower VO2max (33.25 ± 5.82 mL min−1kg−1 in OSDB vs. 34.28 ± 6.71 in no‐OSDB, p = 0.008) and a lower EE (166.3 ± 29.11 cal min−1kg−1 in OSDB vs. 171.4 ± 33.53 cal min−1kg−1 in no‐OSDB, p = 0.008). The VO2/EE increment with exercise (Δ VO2 and Δ EE) was lower in OSDB for all exercise intensities (p = 0.009). This model unveils the effect of paediatric OSDB on resting and exercise metabolism. Our findings support the higher basal metabolic rates, poorer fitness performance, and cardiovascular impairment found in children with OSDB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain a major global health concern, contributing significantly to both death and morbidity. To avoid premature mortality, people with heart diseases who are more likely to have a crisis should be informed as soon as feasible. In the meanwhile, the main difficulties in determining the risks of heart disease diagnosis are related to inadequate information, poor data quality, imprecision, and uncertainty. In this research, we examined a wide range of variables, with particular attention to critical risk factors identified by medical professionals, such as age, body mass index (BMI), diastolic and systolic blood pressure (BP), alcohol usage, smoking, and physical activity. Furthermore, a range of feature selection techniques is used to evaluate their utility in the prediction of CVD. To help with the creation of a predictive model that can identify and evaluate cardiovascular risk and enable the early prediction of heart attacks, we also recommend conducting a comparison analysis. Using a combination of numerous dataset attributes, we empirically assess the performance of our system and attain 70% accuracy in both training and testing data, with the best score difference of 0.15%. When 99% accuracy in training data and 63% accuracy in test data are combined, the worst difference score comes out to 36%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to quantify the changes from a 4-week winter off-season period upon physical qualities in highly trained youth soccer players in relation to chronological age and biological maturity. Data were collected from 39 male U14, U15 and U16 soccer players of a professional club. Players performed a testing battery during the last week prior to and first week after the 4-week winter off-season period consisting of standing height, body mass, Countermovement Jump (CMJ), Repeated Jump Test 5max (RJT5max), Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull (IMTP), and a sub-maximal run assessing exercise heart rate (HRex). Changes between pre- and post were assessed for each age group (U14, U15, and U16), and each maturity group (growth spurt, post-growth spurt, approaching maturity) by calculating standardized mean differences (SMD) and Pearson product-moment correlations (r). Changes in standing height and body mass were trivial (SMD: 0.09 to 0.15) across age groups and maturity groups. There were small to large correlations (r:-0.67 to 0.33) between skeletal age and changes in standing height and body mass within maturity groups. Changes in CMJ, RJT5max, and IMTP were trivial across age groups (SMD:-0.19 to 0.19) and maturity groups (SMD: -0.19 to 0.19). Changes for HRex were small across age groups (SMD: 0.51 to 0.58) and maturity groups (SMD: 0.48 to 0.59). Correlations between changes in physical performance characteristics and skeletal age within maturity groups revealed no clear pattern ranging from trivial to moderate (r: -0.42 to 0.30). Highly trained youth soccer players were able to maintain their physical performance characteristics except for cardiovascular fitness irrespective of the chronological age and biological maturity, while standing height and body mass remained largely unchanged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the vitamin D status of Malagasy with T2DM seen at the Soavinandriana Hospital Center, and the association between hypovitaminosis D and CRF. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, carried out over a period of 2 years. Assayed by the chemiluminescence technique, vitamin D was "normal", "insufficient" and "deficient" if the 25-hydroxyvitamin D plasma was ≥ 30 ng/mL, 20– 29 ng/mL and ≤ 19 ng/mL, respectively. Hypovitaminosis D was the set of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency. Results: Among the 318 T2DM, the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D was 66.0% (45.2% insufficiency and 20.8% deficiency). Their factors associated were age ≥ 70 years (OR = 2.15 [1.26– 3.66]), glycated haemoglobin ≥ 7% (4.97 [2.97– 8.39]), and retinopathy (OR = 4.15 [1.85– 9.32]). After adjustment for age, Hb A1c ≥ 7% and retinopathy, hypovitaminosis D was associated with hypertension (OR = 8.77 [4.76– 16.2]), dyslipidaemia (OR = 8.05 [3.98– 14.5]), ex-smoking (OR = 6.07 [2.78– 13.3]), microalbuminuria (OR = 2.95 [1.25– 6.97]) and carotid atherosclerosis (OR = 2.96 [1.83– 4.35]). Conclusion: Hypovitaminosis D was common in T2DM. Its treatment is primarily preventive. It is also important to control associated CRF, diabetes and its complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the association of cardiorespiratory fitness with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in healthy adults. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated 17,990 asymptomatic self-referred adults free of diabetes or cardiovascular disease who were screened in a preventive healthcare setting. All subjects underwent measurement of IOP and completed a maximal exercise stress test according to the Bruce protocol. Fitness was categorized into age and sex-specific quintiles according to the treadmill time and dichotomized to low (lowest quintile) and non-low fitness groups. Elevated IOP was defined as ≥ 21 mmHg. Results: Median age was 45 (IQR 39–52) years and 12,073 (67%) were men. There were 3,351 (19%) subjects in the low fitness group. Median IOP was 14 mmHg (IQR 12–16) with elevated IOP documented in 188 (1%) subjects. Univariate binary logistic regression model demonstrated that compared with non-low fitness group, subjects in the low fitness group were 2.2 times more likely to have elevated IOP (95% CI 1.598–2.95, p<0.001). Multivariate binary logistic regression with adjustment to known cardiovascular risk factors (age, sex, hypertension, smoking, overweight, regular physical activity, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, and fasting glucose levels) successfully demonstrated that lower fitness was independently and significantly associated with a 90% increased likelihood of elevated IOP (95% CI 1.37–2.61, p<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that the association was more pronounced among women compared with men (OR 3.8 vs. 1.6, p for interaction = 0.069). Conclusions: Low cardiorespiratory fitness is independently associated with increased IOP among apparently healthy adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]