Collegiate Males Research Articles

#Instabod versus #BoPo: An experimental study of the effects of viewing idealized versus body-positive content on collegiate males’ and females’ body satisfaction.

#Instabod versus #BoPo: An experimental study of the effects of viewing idealized versus body-positive content on collegiate males’ and females’ body satisfaction.

Effects of attentional focus strategy on drop jump for athletes with different experience levels: Performance, kinetics and kinematics

The attentional focus strategy (AFS) affects drop jump (DJ) performance; however, its effects on DJ kinetics and kinematics are unclear. This study examines the effects of AFS on DJ performance, kinetics and kinematics. Forty collegiate males were divided into a DJ experienced group and a DJ inexperienced group, and they performed two trials of DJs after listening to instructions designed to elicit internal (INT), external (EXT) or neutral (NEUT) focus of attention. In the experienced group, the reactive strength index (RSI) was larger with the NEUT than with the INT. Hip joint torque and positive hip joint power in the concentric phase was smaller with the NEUT than with the INT, and the hip joint angle at the lowest centre of mass was larger with the NEUT than with the INT ( p < .05). In the inexperienced group, RSI was larger with the EXT than with the INT. Further, the hip joint torque in the concentric phase was smaller with the EXT than with the INT; positive ankle joint power was larger with the EXT than with the INT; and the hip joint angles at the lowest centre of mass and take-off were larger with the EXT than with the INT ( p < .05). These results showed that the AFS affected the DJ performance, kinetics and kinematics and suggested that effective DJ training may be achieved with the NEUT for DJ experienced and with the EXT for DJ inexperienced.

Effects of Ballistic Training and Complex Training on Explosive Power and Velocity Performance of Upper Limb in Collegiate

<p>目的：近年來正拳攻擊在跆拳道比賽中的使用率及得分率已逐漸提升，而正拳攻擊的重要因素為上肢爆發力及速度，本研究比較彈震式訓練 (ballistic training, BT)與複合式訓練 (complex training, CT) (一般阻力訓練結合BT) 對爆發力與速度之增強效果。方法：依受試者臥推最大肌力以分層配對分組方式分成12名彈震式訓練組 (BT組) 及12名複合式阻力訓練組 (CT組)，各組完成8週每週3次的訓練課程。BT組以40％1RM負荷進行訓練，CT組以85％1RM進行一般阻力訓練後，再以40％1RM進行BT訓練。所有組別於訓練前、後實施握推自發性等長收縮力 (50ms RFD, 100ms RFD, 250ms RFD, RFD max) 及40％1RM負荷之槓鈴推動平均速度及峰值速度檢測。結果：BT組與CT組訓練後自發性等長收縮力及槓鈴推動峰值及平均速度表現均達顯著增強效果 (p < .05)。CT組自發性等長收縮力中的最大發力率增強效率顯著優於BT組 (p < .05)。結論：融入速度監控策略的BT與CT均能有效提升一般健康男性大學生上肢爆發力與速度表現能力。相較於BT，CT在最大發力率的增強效率上取得較高的優勢，未來可進一步研究，跆拳道訓練增加CT或BT訓練來提升正拳攻擊得分成功率</p> <p> </p><p>Purpose: The performance and scoring percentage of fist about Taekwondo games have been rising in recent years. The velocity and force are major factors of fist. The purpose of this study was to compare the training effects between Ballistic training (BT) and Complex training (CT, general resistance training combined with BT) in velocity and explosive performance. Methods: twenty-four health college males were recruited and pair divided into ballistic training group (BTG, n=12) and complex training group (CTG, n=12). All training groups have to complete 8-week resistance training program that included 3 training sessions per week. before and after the resistance training, the maximum voluntary isometric contraction was tested to calculated rate of force development of bench press (RFD 50ms, RFD 100ms, RFD 250ms, RFD max), bar propulsive velocity (mean velocity, peak velocity) were collected for statistical analysis. Result: Both BT and CT with velocity monitoring strategies can significantly improve explosive power and velocity performance of the upper limb in healthy collegiate males (p < .05). The enhancement percentage of RFD max in CTG was significantly higher than BTG (p < .05). Conclusion: BT and CT were effective training methods to improve explosive power and velocity performance. CT was more effective in improving RFD max than BT. Further research could be focused on the effects of CT or BT training on Taekwondo training to improve the success rate of fist.</p> <p> </p>

Low-dye taping may enhance physical performance and muscle activation in basketball players with overpronated feet.

Low-dye taping (LTD) is widely used by athletes and medical practitioners but the research regarding its impacts on athletic performance is lacking. This study investigated the effects of using low-dye taping on plyometric performance and muscle activities in recreational basketball players with overpronated feet. Twelve collegiate males with at least three years basketball training experience and navicular drop (ND) value ≥10 mm performed the navicular drop, drop jump and countermovement jump tests. Surface electromyography of selected lower limb muscles were observed during bilateral free squat. All tests in non-taped (NT) and taped (TAP) conditions were counterbalanced using repeated crossover study design. Paired t-test with an alpha level of 0.05 and non-clinical magnitude-based decision (MBD) with standardized effects were used to analyze data. Contact time and reactive strength index (RSI) in the TAP condition were significantly shorter (p = 0.041) and higher (p<0.01) than the NT condition respectively. No significant difference in CMJ performance between NT and TAP was observed. MBD demonstrated clear effects on both ND (standardized effect: -1.54±0.24), flight time (standardized effect: 0.24±0.30), contact time (standardized effect: -0.27±0.21), RSI (standardized effect: 0.69±0.35) and eccentric activities of inferior gluteus maximus (standardized effect: 0.23±0.35), gluteus medius (standardized effect: 0.26±0.29) and tibialis anterior (standardized effect: 0.22±0.06). LDT is effective in correcting overpronated feet by increasing ND height. Meanwhile, it provides a small increase in RSI and gluteal muscle activity during the eccentric (down) phase of the bilateral squat, and without affecting CMJ performance. Conditioning coaches or therapists may use LDT to enhance gluteal activation for reducing injury occurrence and reactive strength performance in drop jump tasks.

Effect of Dynamic Stretching versus Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching of Antagonist Muscle on Knee Extensor Torque and Dynamic Balance in Young Male Collegiate

Introduction: Many athletes perform stretching exercises as part of a warm-up prior to physical activity in order to prevent injuries and enhance their performance by an increase in flexibility. The significance of this study was that it may provide information about the better stretching method between dynamic and PNF stretching immediately before the sports events which may help to enhance the strength of knee extensor, thereby helping in improving performance and injury prevention.Method: An experimental design was used in the study. 51 subjects were randomly divided and statistically analysed for results. Group 1 had to under go dynamic stretching, Group 2 had to undergo PNF stretching for a period of four, and Group 3 (control group) did not undergo any kind of stretching. Results: It was observed that there was no significant difference in peak torque and average torque at 60⁰/s and 180⁰/s and SEBT scores after 4 weeks of dynamic vs PNF stretching. No significant difference was found in dynamic balance after 4 weeks of dynamic vs PNF stretching. Conclusion: We may infer that dynamic stretching and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching of antagonist muscle have the same effect on knee extensor torque and dynamic balance in young collegiate males.

The effect of 10 days of energy-deficit diet and high-intensity exercise training on the plasma high-density-lipoprotein (HDL) level among healthy collegiate males

ABSTRACT An energy-deficit (ED) diet increases lipid mobilisation, while endurance exercise improves lipid profile by promoting formation of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) among moderately active population. However, it is not clear whether ED with high-intensity exercise training can improve lipid profiles. Therefore, 20 recreationally active males (20.3 ± 2.7 years old with peak oxygen consumption (O2peak) of 2.8 ± 0.2 L min−1) with HDL concentration of 1.44 ± 0.32 mmol L−1, were evenly allocated to either an ED group (1590 ± 79 kcal day−1: 40% of total caloric omitted at lunchtime) or a control (CON) group (2570 ± 139 kcal day−1). Participants in both groups performed high-intensity cycling at 90% O2peak at a constant workload for 8 min, 2 h after breakfast on day D0, D2, D4, D6, D8 and D10 (Dn is day number), after which blood samples were collected. In ED, compared to D0, triglycerides (TG) decreased on D6-10 (p < .01) while total low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC) increased on D2-10, while HDL progressively increased on D6-10 (p = .01) with a final value of 1.67 ± 0.24 mmol L−1. In CON, there were no changes in TG, TC and HDL while LDL was reduced on D8-10 (p = .01). Moreover, the proportions of TC/HDL and LDL/HDL increased in ED on D2-10 and D2-8 (p = .05), respectively, while LDL/HDL in CON was reduced on D8-10 (p = .01). In brief, 10 days of ED and a series of high-intensity exercise sessions show progressive elevation of HDL which suggest longer period is required to observe changes in lipid ratios.

Validity of the Portable Ultrasound BodyMetrix™ BX-2000 for Measuring Body Fat Percentage

BodyMetrix™ BX-2000 (IntelaMetrix, Livermore, CA, USA) has been introduced as one of the alternatives and portable methods to estimate body fat percentage. However, inconsistent results between protocols built-in the BodymetrixTM may be compelling the question of its validity. Thus, this study first investigated the possible errors between protocols and evaluated the validity of body fat percentage (BF%) compared to the gold standard method (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, DEXA). One hundred and five collegiate males, aged 20.01 ± 2.11 years, body height, 174.81 ± 6.01 cm, body mass, 73.26 ± 13.60 kg, and body mass index, 23.91 ± 3.77 kg·m−2 participated in the present study. Participants’ body fat percentage was estimated by built-in nine different protocols in the BodyMetrix™ BX-2000 using A-MODE ultrasound. Pearson correlation (r), Mean absolute percentage errors (MAPEs), Bland &amp; Altman plots, and Equivalence testing were used to examine the validity of each protocol by comparing it to the criterion measure (i.e., DEXA). The results indicated good potential for almost all of the protocols in correlation (Min: r = 0.79, Max: r = 0.92)., MAPEs (Min: 20.0%, Max: 33.8%), and Bland-Altman (Min diff: 16.7, Max diff: 41.4). Particularly, the estimated BF% from protocol 7 (4-sites by Durnin &amp; Wormersley) and protocol 9 (9-sites Parllo) were completed within the equivalence zone (±10% of the mean). The estimates measured by protocol 7 and protocol 9 identified as the most valid methods for estimating BF% using a BodyMetrix™ BX-2000, compared to the DEXA. Our findings provide valuable information when applying in young male individuals, but future studies with other populations such as female or adolescents may be required to suggest a valid protocol within the instrument.

A Comparison of Breastfeeding Exposure, Attitude, and Knowledge Between Collegiate African American and White Males with no Biological Children.

Human milk is the preferred source of infant nourishment; yet, acceptance of human milk as the norm for infant feeding is debated. In the United States there is a disparity in breastfeeding rates, which are significantly lower in African Americans compared to Whites. Multiple variables appear to influence breastfeeding, including the male partner. To assess and compare breastfeeding exposure, attitude, and knowledge between African American and White college males with no biological children. A second objective was to explore the relationship between breastfeeding variables and educational attainment, academic major, and sibling presence. A subset of responses from a larger cross-sectional survey were analyzed. African American and White collegiate males aged 18-40years without biological children were included in the study. The questionnaire included demographic, exposure, attitude, and knowledge items. A total of 117 African American and 713 White males were included and represented all academic colleges on campus. African American participants documented less exposure to breastfeeding, a more positive attitude, and similar poor knowledge scores compared to their White counterparts. Sibling presence was linked with exposure, and exposure was linked to attitude. Both African American and White science majors scored higher on all factors than humanities or business majors. Breastfeeding exposure influences males' attitudes toward breastfeeding. Future research should consider types of exposure to identify the sources most influential. Furthermore, tailoring breastfeeding interventions to increase exposure and knowledge in core wellness courses may improve attitudes and social acceptance among collegiate males.

Changes in Metabolism and Caloric Intake after Sport Concussion: A Case Series

ABSTRACT Purpose Resting metabolic rate (RMR) changes as a result of moderate and severe traumatic brain injury in humans. However, the effect of sport concussion (SC) on RMR and subsequent food intake is unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine how SC affected energy expenditure, caloric intake (CI), and energy balance (EBal) in student-athletes. Methods In this case series, 10 student-athletes (3 high school males, 3 high school females, 2 collegiate males, and 2 collegiate females) were assessed ≤72 h after SC (T1), 7 d after T1 (T2), and 7 d after T2 (T3) by undergoing indirect calorimetry and recording diet and step count for 3 d around each assessment. RMR, total energy expenditure (TEE), CI, and EBal were evaluated across time using repeated-measures ANOVA. Main outcomes were related to symptoms using Spearman’s ρ correlations. Results RMR (F (2) = 1.52, P = 0.24, η2 = 0.15) and TEE (F (2) = 2.29, P = 0.13, η2 = 0.20) were not statistically different over time. However, males experienced increased RMR (mean difference, T3 − T1 = 206 kcal·d−1) compared with a decline for females (T3 − T1 = −32 kcal·d−1). CI decreased from T2 to T3 by approximately 385 kcal in both males and females (F (2) = 4.73, P = 0.02, η2 = 0.35). EBal changed (F (2) = 4.35, P = 0.03, η2 = 0.33) from overeating (T1 = 593 kcal surplus) to relative balance (T3 = 61 kcal surplus). Conclusions Although overall energy expenditure was not altered over time after concussion, a pattern suggesting sex differences was present. Participants initially overconsumed calories relative to TEE; however, this disparity declined over time to the point of EBal by the third assessment.

Assessing the Differences Between a Governed and Non-Controllable Focal Point on Male Broad Jump Performance

Prior studies have investigated the manipulation of a visual target (i.e. sport specific focal point, non-controllable, or governed focal point) on vertical jump performance, yet few studies have examined factors that directly impact broad jump performance. The broad jump (BJ) test is often utilized to determine how far a person can jump and is a measurement of an individual’s horizontal power ability. A previous focal point broad jump study utilizing female subjects suggested that BJ performance may slightly increase when using a governed focal point. However, this has not been evaluated using a male population. PURPOSE: To examine the impact of a governed (i.e. set focal point) vs. non-governed (i.e. no set focal point) focal point on broad jump performance in active males. METHODS: Thirty-three no less than averagely fit collegiate males had their descriptive data (Ht. = 174.97 + 6.82 cm, Wt. = 81.85 + 10.52 kg, BF% = 15.22 + 5.76%, age = 22.00 + 1.70 yrs) collected. Subjects completed an 8 min dynamic warmup and then received a four minute passive recovery (PR) period. Subjects then completed four familiarization broad jumps (ie. a jump series). After another four minute PR period, subjects completed two series of jumps (ie. four trials apiece with 60 seconds of PR between each jump) in a counterbalanced order with either a governed focal point (FP) or non-governed focal point (NFP) being utilized for each jump. The FP and NFP jump series were separated by 4 min of PR. The farthest jump for FP vs. NFP was compared using Paired-Samples t-Tests with significant differences occurring at p< 0.05. RESULTS: Significant differences (p = 0.015) occurred between FP (235.46 + 21.59 cm) and NFP (233.33 + 22.49 cm). Also, nineteen subjects highly benefited from utilizing a governed focal point with a mean jump increase of 5.26%. CONCLUSION: It appears that using a focal point (FP) may elicit a farther jump in no less than averagely fit males as compared to utilizing a non-controlled focal point (NFP). Further research may be required to evaluate the impact of a sport specific focal point vs. a generic set focal point on broad jump performance with males and females who participate in sports where horizontal power is highly associated with improved sport performance.

The Effect of Skipping rope Exercise on Physical and Cardiovascular fitness among Collegiate Males

OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY: To determine the effect of skipping rope exercise on physical fitness and cardiovascular fitness among collegiate males. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: Sedentary life style is contributing to the early onset and progression of life style disease such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and obesity. Cardiovascular fitness reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases like diabetes or Hypertension. Skipping rope is a low-cost physical activity. Thus, its impact on the physical fitness is being studied by various researchers. Skipping rope involves the muscles in arms and legs, and it also improves cardiovascular function. METHODOLOGY: This experimental study was conducted among collegiate males of age group between 18 and 25 years at Faculty of physiotherapy. Study duration was twelve weeks. Subjects were selected by simple random sampling method. Inclusion criteria were inactive subjects based on IPAQ-S. Exclusion criteria were minimally active and active subjects based on IPAQ-S, sports population, those with heart disease, any lung disease and anemia. Outcome measure for cardiovascular fitness is VO2 max by step test and Physical fitness by FMS (Functional Movement Screening) and by IPAQ-S (International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short form). PROCEDURE: International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form (IPAQ-S) was given to participants initially Inactive subjects were recruited based on IPAQ-S values and randomly divided into two groups Group A (experimental) and Group B (control group). Subjects were selected based on inclusion criteria. Pre-Assessment of the cardiovascular fitness and physical fitness were noted. Experimental group received skipping rope exercise two sessions per day from moderate to vigorous intensity based on target heart rate including warm up and cool down period to avoid injuries. Exercise began with 55% of target heart rate and then progressed to 65% by 2nd week and progressed to 70% by 3¬rd week and 75 % by 4th week and finally 85% by 5th week. Group B (control group) were suggested to do their as usual routine activities. Heart Rate was periodically noted. Post test scores were recorded after 12 weeks of intervention. RESULT: On comparing the pre and post test values between groups, it shows statistically significant improvement in Group A (Experimental group) at p = 0.001 on VO2 max and FMS.

Relationship among Breastfeeding Exposure, Knowledge, and Attitudes in Collegiate Males Residing in East Texas.

Researchers exploring breastfeeding attitudes and knowledge among women suggest the decision to breastfeed is influenced by the male partner, yet few studies address males. Because collegiate males will soon enter fatherhood, assessment of their attitudes and knowledge may inform interventions aimed at increasing intention to breastfeed. This study aimed to describe collegiate males' exposure to, attitude toward, and knowledge about breastfeeding. A cross-sectional online survey was used with males ≥ 18 years of age enrolled at a Texas public university. Attitude indices measured included social limitations, public displays of breastfeeding, and employer accommodations. Descriptive statistics, correlational and regression analyses were employed. The participants' (N = 949) average age was 25.48 years; > 80% reported not being fathers. Exposure to breastfeeding was high; > 80% witnessed breastfeeding and/or had someone close breastfeed. High attitude scores indicated social acceptability of breastfeeding. Knowledge appeared limited: only 16% identified the recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life; > 50% overlooked the reduced risk for overweight/obesity, ear infections, diarrhea, or food allergies. Correlations between knowledge, exposure, total attitude, and index scores were positive (p < .01) except for the public displays index. Stepwise multiple regression determined that breastfeeding exposure, knowledge scores, and father's educational level predicted total attitude score, (R2 = 0.13, F (3,851) = 44.02, p < .01). The positive attitudes outcome among this male population is promising for breastfeeding support and advocacy. Education efforts improving knowledge will likely increase behavioral intention, resulting in increased breastfeeding rates and duration.

The relationship between core endurance and upper extremity performance in sedentary collegiate males

Core muscles contribute to general spine stabilization when the trunk is exposed to flexion and extension moments. It is thought that movements begin from the center of the body (called the “powerhouse” or “core”) and flow outward to the extremities, and a strong core strengthens the whole body. Few studies have examined the relationship between core endurance and upper extremity performance and most of the studies have been done in athletes. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between core endurance, and upper extremity performance in sedentary collegiate males. Sedentary collegiate males who had not suffered any orthopedic injury in the past year were enrolled the study. Core endurance (CE) was evaluated using Trunk Extensor Test, Bilateral Side Bridge Tests, and The Core Muscle Strength and Stability test. The results of the core endurance tests were compared with several upper extremity performance measurements: The Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (bilaterally in medial, inferolateral, and superolateral directions-UQYBT), Close Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUES test), medicine ball throws test (forward, reverse, right, and left in static and dynamic positions), hand grip strength, and Nelson hand reaction test. Eighty-three males were assessed during the study. Their mean age was 22.07 ± 1.89 year (range: 18–25) and mean body mass index was 23.77 ± 3.26 kg/m 2 (range: 17.67–36.11). We observed low correlations between the CE tests and UQYBT ( r range = 0.220 − 0.393, P < 0.05) but no correlations between the CE and hand grip strength and Nelson hand reaction test. CKCUES and medicine ball throws test (nondominant side in dynamic position) correlated with side bridge test, r = 0.279 and r = 0.240, respectively ( P < 0.05). The results of this study imply that the core endurance is related to the upper extremity performance in closed kinetic chain but not with open kinetic chain functions, where only distal extremity performance is present.

Normative Performance on the Balance Error Scoring System by Youth, High School, and Collegiate Athletes.

Annually, more than 1 million youth athletes in the United States receive or are suspected of receiving a concussion. The Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) is the most commonly used clinical balance evaluation designed to provide a better understanding of the motor-control processes of individuals with concussion. Despite the widespread use of the BESS, a fundamental gap exists in applying this tool to young athletes, as normative values are lacking for this population. To determine age- and sex-specific normative values for the BESS in youth, high school, and collegiate athletes. Cross-sectional study. Local youth sport organizations, high schools, and colleges. Student-athletes (N = 6762) completed preseason baseline concussion testing as part of a comprehensive concussion-management program. Groups were youth males aged 5 to 13 years (n = 360), high school males aged 14 to 18 years (n = 3743), collegiate males aged 19 to 23 years (n = 497), youth females aged 5 to 13 years (n = 246), high school females aged 14 to 18 years (n = 1673), and collegiate females aged 19 to 23 years (n = 243). Errors according to the BESS specifications. Performance on the BESS was worse ( P < .01) in youth athletes than in high school and collegiate athletes. In the youth and high school cohorts, females exhibited better scores than males ( P < .05). Sex was not a factor for collegiate athletes. Data from the youth cohort were further subdivided into 4-year bins to evaluate potential motor-development differences. The error count was highest for 5- to 9-year-old males and decreased with age. Performance on the BESS depended on sex and age, particularly in youth athletes. These sex- and age-specific normative values provide a reference to facilitate and unify clinical decision making across multiple providers caring for youth athletes with concussions.

The relationship between transversus abdominis muscle thickness with static and dynamic balance in healthy adults

Current evidence suggests that enhanced core stability increase lower extremity function and promote postural stability. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between ulrasonographic thickness of transversus abdominis muscle (TrA), which is one of the core muscle, and static and dynamic balance and core endurance in healthy collegiate males. Healthy collegiate males who had not suffered any orthopedic injury in the past year were enrolled the study. The thickness of TrA was measured at rest and during contraction on both dominant and nondominant side using ultrasound. Also percentage of change in TrA thickness was calculated as [(thickness(contraction) − thickness(rest))/thickness(rest)] × 100. The static and dynamic balance parameters were evaluated with a balance system (Korebalance Mobile System). Core endurance (CE) was also assessed using trunk extensor test, bilateral side bridge tests and the core muscle strength and stability test. Sixty males were assessed during the study. Their mean age was 22.20 ± 1.77 years and mean body mass index was 23.53 ± 2.93 kg/m 2 . Dominant side TrA muscle thickness at rest was correlated with dynamic balance ( r = −0.319, P = 0.013) whereas no correlation for dominant side TrA muscle thickness at contraction. Nondominant side TrA muscle thickness at rest was correlated with core endurance ( r = 0.350, P = 0.006) wheras no correlation for nondominant side TrA muscle thickness at contraction. Percentage of change in dominant side TrA thickness was correlated with dynamic balance ( r = 0.464, P = 0.000). Percentage of change in nondominant side TrA thickness was correlated with core endurance ( r = −0.361, P = 0.005). According to our results, muscle thickness of TrA is associated with postural balance and core endurance. Training to increase the muscle mass of the TrA would be useful to improve balance parameters. Further prospective studies are warranted to investigate the effects of the training of TrA and core endurance on postural balance and athletic performance.

Echogenicity Quantified By Ultrasonographic Panoramic Scans Compared To Still-images In Collegiate Men

Measuring the echo intensity (EI) of skeletal muscle via ultrasonography has been used to estimate muscle quality and diagnose pathological and neurological conditions. When assessing skeletal muscle, ultrasonographic (US) still-images do not always permit the entire muscle to be viewed in a single image, so panoramic US scans have been developed. In addition, homogeneity of fibrous tissue throughout a single muscle is often assumed for easy assessment, however, muscles may not be homogeneous. Many studies continue to use still-images to quantify EI without regard to the size or possible heterogeneity of the muscle. PURPOSE: To determine if the EI quantified via US panoramic transverse scans (PTS) is related to the EI of US longitudinal still-images (LSI) taken of the vastus lateralis (VL) muscle in collegiate males. METHODS: Twenty-four collegiate men (20.2 ± 1.6 y; BMI: 25.8 ± 3.3 kg·m-2) participated in this study. Muscle EI of the VL was assessed in the self-reported dominant limb (DOM) via three PTS and three LSI. PTS were captured using extended-field-of-view ultrasonography, and LSI were captured using B-mode ultrasonography. Intra-class correlations (ICC), standard errors of measurement (SEM), and minimal differences (MD) were calculated between each of the three images for both PTS and LSI. EI was quantified for each image using histogram analysis through an image analysis software. RESULTS: ICCs, SEM, and MD reported for the EI of the PTS and for the EI of the LSI were ICC = 0.956, SEM = 1.640, and MD = 4.546, and ICC = 0.991, SEM = 1.059, and MD = 2.935, respectively. A significant positive correlation existed between the EI of the PTS and the EI of the LSI (r = 0.744, p < 0.001). Significant differences between the EI of the PTS (μ = 57.97; σ = 8.26) and the EI of the LSI (μ = 65.39; σ = 10.88) were observed (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: While there is a strong positive correlation between the EI values quantified by both PTS and LSI, the use of LSI yielded a slightly higher reliability measurement with a smaller SEM and smaller MD compared to PTS. In addition to the higher reliability and sensitivity, the LSI measurement also requires less time, and therefore may be more advantageous when assessing EI of the VL in collegiate males.

The Correlation Between Blood Lactate And Cardiac Troponin I following A Set Of Intermittent Running

Exercise intensity is considered to be a key factor affecting the release of cardiac troponin (cTn). However, most of the studies focus on responses of endurance sports or exercise. The experimental data of cTn and other biomarkers responses to intermittent exercise is still limited. PURPOSE: To determine the correlations between plasma cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and blood lactate, body mass index (BMI), as well as physiological characteristics after intermittent running. METHODS: Eighteen healthy, physically active collegiate males performed a graded exercise test to determine their VO2max and completed the intermittent running protocol 48 h later. This exercise protocol consisted of six 4-min running bouts and separated by 3 min of rest. Running velocity was set at an average of 90% VO2max. Capillary blood samples were drawn before and immediately after exercise for measuring lactate. Venous blood samples were collected at pre- and 3 h post-exercise for measuring cTnI. The nonparametric Spearman’s rank order correlation coefficient was used for statistic analysis. RESULTS: Plasma cTnI concentration was significantly increased following exercise. The delta cTnI was positively correlated with delta lactate (p = .013, rho = .57). However, no significant correlations were found between cTnI and body mass index, VO2max, as well as running velocity. CONCLUSION: The intermittent running protocol of this study induced the elevation in cTnI. The release of cTnI was associated with blood lactate level. As endurance sports, the intensity of intermittent exercise might be a factor affecting the release of cTn.

Association between sleep quality and inflammatory complement components in collegiate males.

An accumulating amount of evidence has linked humoral mediators of inflammation with sleep measures. Nevertheless, important details of this association, in particular the role of the complement components in the context of chronic sleep attributes, have remained largely uncharacterized. Fifty university students (age, 23.3 ± 3.8years; BMI, 23.7 ± 2.9kg/m(2)) completed the study. Four dichotomized sleep measures assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used in association analysis using binary logistic regression with complement component 3, 4, and complement factor I (CFI). The sleep measures were defined as sleep quality (good sleep/poor sleep; PSQI ≤5/PSQI >5), bedtime (early/late; before 00:00h/after 0:00h), sleep duration (short/normal ≤6h/>6h), and sleep onset latency (normal/disturbed; 0-1 score/2-3 score on the PSQI component of sleep latency). The complement component 4 was associated with sleep quality (unadjusted, OR = 1.025, p < 0.05; adjusted for age, OR = 1.025, p < 0.05; adjusted for BMI, OR = 1.027, p < 0.05) and sleep duration (unadjusted, OR = 1.041, p < 0.01; adjusted for age, OR = 1.041, p < 0.01; adjusted for BMI, OR = 1.046, p < 0.01). CFI was associated with bedtime (unadjusted, OR = 0.737, p < 0.01; adjusted for age, OR = 0.717, p < 0.01; adjusted for BMI, OR = 0.677, p < 0.01) and with sleep duration (unadjusted, OR = 0.796, p < 0.05; adjusted for age, OR = 0.796, p < 0.05). The findings indicate the importance of the role of complement components in the dynamics of sleep. Therefore, sleep should be assessed in conditions where complement components are affected.

Effect of Preconditioning by Light Load Eccentric Exercise Versus Heat on Markers of Muscle Damage in Collegiate Males

Background:Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) occurs following unaccustomed or intense bouts of exercise. Previous research has demonstrated that that preconditioning with low load exercise or heat relieves muscle soreness. However, actively warming up the muscles with exercise may be an effective alternative.Objectives:This study compared preconditioning effect of light load eccentric exercise and heat using microwave diathermy on markers of muscle damage in collegiate males.Patients and Methods:Thirty six sedentary collegiate males were randomly assigned into two experimental groups: 10% Eccentric exercise group (10% ECC group) and Microwave diathermy group (MWD group). Both the groups performed 30 repetitions of maximal eccentric exercise (Max-ECC) of the elbow flexors. The 10% ECC group performed light load eccentric exercise (10% ECC), five sets, six repetitions using a dumbbell set at 10% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction strength (MVC), 2 days prior to Max-ECC. The MWD group received heat using microwave diathermy (150 watts, 20 minutes) one day prior to Max-ECC. Changes in MVC, range of motion (ROM), upper arm circumference, soreness, were assessed before and 24-72 hours after whereas serum creatine kinase activity and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity up to 48 hours following the Max-ECC were compared between groups by a mixed model ANOVA.Results:No significant difference (P > 0.05) were found between the groups for changes in all variables post Max-ECC, except for LDH activity showing significant interaction effect (P = 0.04).Conclusions:Preconditioning with light load eccentric exercise and heat using microwave diathermy treatment did not differ in their effects on muscle damage markers after Max-ECC. However, with time their effects on LDH activity were found to be different.

Men at the Crossroads: A Profile Analysis of Hypermasculinity in Emerging Adulthood

The purpose of this study is twofold: to evaluate the factor structure of the Auburn Differential Masculinity Index (ADMI-60) and to investigate the varied adoption of hypermasculine attitudes within a sample of 328 collegiate males ( M = 19.50, SD = 1.53). Factor analytic procedures were used to determine a factor structure that provided the best fit for the data. Four dimensions emerged: dominance &amp; aggression, sexual identity, anti-femininity, and devaluation of emotion. Cluster analytic methods were used to determine a profile structure. These clusters were compared across variables associated with the construct: hostility toward women, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms. Results indicate that a four-cluster solution was robust and well fitting, with each cluster having a unique adoption of the dimensions, Extreme Hypermasculine, Traditional Masculine, Traditional Hypermasculine, Non-Hypermasculine. Results of the study suggest hypermasculinity is not an all-or-none construct, but males can endorse varied levels, which may lead to diverse outcomes.