Fitness Program Research Articles

Zumba Exercise Training in the Management of Body Composition and Insulin Resistance in Sedentary Obese Women

Obesity is a pathophysiologic component of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and is typically linked to insulin resistance (IR). However, incorporating regular physical exercise into one’s daily schedule is an effective approach to managing IR, blood sugar levels, and general health. The study’s goal is to assess the feasibility of the Zumba fitness program and its effects on body composition and IR indicators. It is a quasi-experimental design for a single-group pre- and post-Zumba dancing intervention at a fitness center in Al-Ahsa Governorate, Saudi Arabia. Sixty-two sedentary obese women (body mass index [BMI]: 37.55 ± 3.99 kg/m2) 32.5± 0.56 years, completed a 16-week intervention attending moderate to vigorous Zumba dancing sessions 5 d/week, 60 min/class. Study instruments were structured by anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis, and some biochemical markers. After implementing the Zumba exercise program, the results show a substantial improvement in BMI, body fat composition, and IR when compared to before the program. According to body fat position, the reduction in fat composition ranged from 3.7 to 9.71%, while BMI decreased on average by around 6.31%. Significant variations have also been noted in fasting blood glucose levels of 28.04%, in leptin levels of 13.75%, in insulin levels of 28.27%, and IR levels of 8.83%. Further, decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were between 2.18% and 4.91%, and the increase in high-density lipoprotein was 5.22%. Total bilirubin, total protein, and total albumin did not vary significantly between the pre- and post-program periods, though aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase did. In conclusion, the program demonstrated strong feasibility and adherence, and it had a favorable impact on body weight, BMI, body fat composition, lipid profiles, and IR parameters, which can improve insulin sensitivity and stop women from developing T2D in the future.

Effects of a 12-week Baduanjin regimen on biomechanical properties of axial muscle fascia in ankylosing spondylitis

Background: This study aims to evaluate the effects of a 12-week Baduanjin regimen on the biomechanical properties of axial muscle fascia in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) through a randomized controlled trial, and to explore the underlying mechanisms of Baduanjin in AS treatment. Methods: Thirty patients with AS were randomly assigned to either the Baduanjin intervention group or the nonintervention group, with 15 patients in each group. The intervention group underwent a 12-week Baduanjin fitness program, while the nonintervention group continued their usual lifestyle and medication. Biomechanical parameters of muscle fascia, including muscle stiffness (N/m), muscle tension (frequency, Hz), and muscle elasticity (logarithmic decrement of oscillation amplitude), were measured at specified spinal locations using the MyotonPRO® soft tissue tester at baseline (week 0) and after 12 weeks (week 12). Results: The Baduanjin group exhibited significant improvements in muscle fascia stiffness, tension, and elasticity in the lumbar and cervical spine compared to the nonintervention group, with notable differences in lumbar stiffness and tension (P < .05). Postintervention, lumbar stiffness and tension were significantly reduced, and elasticity increased in the Baduanjin group, indicating beneficial effects on the biomechanical properties of axial muscle fascia in AS patients. No significant changes were observed in the nonintervention group. The Baduanjin group reported only mild muscle pain initially, which resolved with appropriate management, with no serious adverse effects noted. Conclusion: The findings suggest that Baduanjin significantly enhances the biomechanical properties of axial muscle fascia in AS patients. By improving these properties, Baduanjin may reduce mechanical stress, alleviate micro-damage and inflammation at attachment points, regulate downstream signaling pathways, and potentially limit new bone formation. This study provides scientific support for the use of Baduanjin in managing AS and offers a foundation for future research.

Non-extractable residues (NER) in persistence assessment: effect on the degradation half-life of chemicals

The ECHA guidance on persistence (P) assessment has been updated with respect to non-extractable residues (NER). Unless further characterized, total NER shall be considered as non-degraded parent compound. We investigated how different NER fractions affect degradation half-lives (DegT50) of chemicals and the P assessment. Total NER consist of the fractions sorbed/sequestered (NER I), covalently bound (NER II), and bioNER (incorporated into the biomass, NER III). NER I pose a risk due to potential release, NER II have much lower release potential, and bioNER do not have any. NER I and NER II are considered as xenoNER. Data from 46 degradation tests with 24 substances were analyzed to find DegT50 for four scenarios: (i) extractable parent compound, (ii) parent plus total NER, (iii) parent plus xenoNER, and (iv) parent plus NER I. The microbial turnover to biomass (MTB) model was applied to calculate bioNER, and then xenoNER were calculated as total NER minus bioNER. The half-lives were determined by the fit program CAKE, using single first-order kinetics (SFO) for all fits. We found increasing degradation half-lives for the scenarios: extractable parent only < parent + NER I < parent + xenoNER < parent + total NER. A third of all chemicals show half-lives above the persistence criterion (120 days in OECD 307 and 308, and 40 days in OECD 309) for scenario i, and two thirds with scenario ii and, therefore, would be classified as ‘persistent’. For two compounds, the subtraction of bioNER led to a change to ‘not persistent’. The inclusion of NER in the P assessment (ECHA 2017, 2023) will thus have significant effects on the DegT50 of compounds and the persistence assessment. Experimental quantification of NER I (scenario iv) significantly reduces half-lives, in comparison to total NER (scenario ii). The results are closer to half-lives for parent only (scenario i) and give the lowest acceptable DegT50 below the vP criteria under the latest guidance. In addition, refining the DegT50 based on modelled bioNER can provide a more realistic option for persistence assessment, without laborious and costly analyses for NER I determination, when considered in the regulatory assessment of persistence. Moreover, bioNER can also be calculated for existing test data.

The History and Evolution of the Back Squat in the United States

ABSTRACT This article provides the first academic history of the barbell back squat and its evolution from a bodyweight exercise in the 19th century to a loaded exercise, used for a variety of purposes, in the present age. In doing so, the article highlights 3 key drivers in the evolution of the back squat—those being changes in equipment, the diversification of strength sports, and scientific communication concerning the safety and efficacy of the movement. The goal of this article was not to provide a dry and irrelevant history but rather to stress the complexity of the squat's prominence within fitness programs and the need to hold a nuance view toward the “optimal” way to approach this movement. In doing so, it examines how the movement evolved from 1 primarily done on the tips of one's toes, to a loaded movement on tippy toes, to a flat footed movement. By contextualizing the back squat's history, this article challenges rigid notions of “correct” squatting technique and encourages a more nuanced understanding of exercise selection in strength and conditioning practice. It concludes by highlighting the importance of critically examining the social construction of knowledge in fitness and sport, and the value of historical perspective in informing contemporary training practices.

Identifying Variations in Motor Fitness Components among Upper Primary and Secondary School Male Students

Background. Motor fitness helps students develop academically and socially. The students are more engaged in fitness activities with classmates of similar skills. Therefore, motor fitness programs should address kids’ capacity to increase physical activity. Objectives. The study aimed to ascertain variations in upper primary and secondary school male students with respect to selected motor fitness components, i.e. strength (standing broad jump), speed (50-meter sprint) and endurance (800-meter run). Materials and methods. A total of 150 male students, aged 12 to 16, from five schools in Delhi, India, participated in this study. The students were divided into five groups, each consisting of 30 students from both private and government schools. The study assessed three motor fitness components: strength (measured by the standing broad jump), speed (measured by a 50-meter sprint), and cardiovascular endurance (measured by an 800-meter run). The one-way ANOVA was used to identify significant differences among the groups, with post hoc LSD tests performed for pairwise comparisons. A significance level of p &lt; 0.05 was applied to all analyses. Results. The analysis revealed statistically significant differences among the groups in all three motor fitness components: speed (F(4,145) = 27.07, p &lt; 0.05), strength (F(4,145) = 16.93, p &lt; 0.05), and cardiovascular endurance (F(4,145) = 75.46, p &lt; 0.05). Post hoc analysis using the LSD test further indicated that students in each group differed significantly in strength, speed, and cardiovascular endurance when compared to one another. Conclusions. The study concludes that male students in grades nine and ten demonstrate significantly higher levels of strength, speed, and cardiovascular endurance compared to students in grades six, seven, and eight. Therefore, motor fitness programs targeting these components should be tailored differently for upper primary and secondary school students to address their distinct developmental needs.

The Impact of Functional Training on Balance and Vestibular Function: A Narrative Review.

Objectives: The objective of this narrative review was to examine the available literature regarding the increasingly popular method of exercise commonly referred to as "Functional Training" and its potential implications on vestibular and balance function. Methods: a narrative review of the experimental literature prior to September 2024 was conducted. To be included in this review, the selected investigations need to include some aspect of vestibular function, balance function, functional training, and/or functional movement and be conducted in humans. Results: Evidence emerged to support the claim that implementing a physical fitness training program may improve vestibular and balance function but that a functional training program or a physical fitness program designed to improve functional movements may improve vestibular and balance function to a greater extent. Additionally, these results may be altered by factors such as age and sex. Furthermore, while there is a multitude of literature regarding the impact of functional training on balance, few investigations combine these data with direct assessments of vestibular function. Conclusions: Functional training may aid in improving vestibular and balance function, along with scores on common tests such as the Y balance test. However, more research is necessary to elucidate the direct mechanisms by which functional training may impact vestibular and balance function.

A143: Integrating Stakeholder Theory and SWOT Analysis to Examine COVID-19 Outbreak Impact on Fitness Programs

Background/Purpose: The fitness industry has been an important segment in the sports-related global market (SFIA, 2020). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupations Projection (2016-2026) indicated there would be an 18.70% annual occupational employment percentage increase in the need for athletic trainers (CareerOneStop, 2019). The U.S. 71394 Gym, Health &amp; Fitness Clubs Report revealed a 1%–6% revenue increase each year since 2012. This projection indicated that the fitness market uptrend would continue in the next decade. However, the COVID-19 outbreak had a significant impact on the fitness market, and it was projected to have a 10% revenue decline in 2020 (IBISWorld, 2020). This study examined the challenges that fitness programs faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Marketing strategies and fitness program redesigns were proposed. Methods: This case study’s subjects were the fitness programs. Stakeholder Theory was employed as it concerns participants serving as its primary stakeholders. Supplementing with SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, strengths and weaknesses identified internal factors that directly and indirectly affect fitness programs’ operation during the COVID-19 pandemic, while opportunities and threats examined the external factors. Results: Based on SWOT analysis, internal strengths that impact fitness programs’ operations were: 1) Fitness training could still be operated via an online format and keep participants safely and actively engaged during the crisis; 2) Online training can be globally distributed with no charge via its application platform; 3) Recorded and standardized daily training can be done at any time without limits. Weaknesses were: 1) Limited exercises available and no trainers’ in-person interaction to demonstrate and correct participants’ exercises; 2) Technology application and internet requirements may opt out participants who may not favor technology or have access to the internet. External opportunities were: 1) During a crisis like COVID-19, health-oriented outcomes were of great need; 2) The service-oriented business model would win out over the tangible products model due to the major economic and social impact. Threats were: 1) Online application consumption has not been a major trend like studio membership purchases; 2) COVID-19 lockdown led to significant financial impact and emotional disorders for fitness participants; 3) More interruptions from family routines would affect people’s fitness participation. Conclusions: To survive in a global pandemic such as COVID-19, fitness programs need to consider shifting traditional studio membership sales to technology-assisted services purchases in order to boost their revenues. Collaboration with local community health care providers to facilitate real-time interaction and post-family training activities would further strengthen fitness programs’ involvement and the primary stakeholders’ attachment.

Effect of Multi-component Exercise Program on Functional Performance in Breast Cancer Survivors.

Breast surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and modified radical mastectomy (MRM) may cause long-term side effects such as decreased muscle strength, pulmonary function, cardio-respiratory fitness (CRF), altered body fat distribution and poor sleep quality. These short- and long-term repercussions have an enormous effect on physical functioning in this population. The goal of this research was to determine the effect of a multi-component exercise program on functional performance in breast cancer survivors. In this research, 132 women with breast cancer were selected based on specific inclusion criteria. Participants were separated in a pair of two groups: the control group, which participated in breast cancer support group therapy, and the experimental group, which engaged in a multi-component exercise program. Each group consisted of 66 participants. The study assessed functional performance using a 12-minute walk test and a sit-to-stand test. Over a year, the breast cancer support group and the multi-component fitness program were implemented. Pre- and post-assessments were used to determine the effectiveness of the multi-component workout program. Statistical evaluation was executed utilizing SPSS statistical software (version 26.0 for Windows; SPSS, Inc., Chicago, USA) to obtain the results. The study findings indicate significant improvements in functional performance for the experimental group. Specifically, the sit-to-stand test showed extremely significant results (p-value of 0.0002), and the 12-minute walk test also demonstrated significance (p-value of 0.008). These positive outcomes highlight the effect of the multi-component exercise program in enhancing physical performance in breast cancer survivors. The study revealed that both of the control group as well as the experimental group exhibited impaired functional performance in measures of outcome including 12-minute walk tests well as sit-to-stand test before the intervention. However, the multi-component exercise program had a notable positive impact on muscle performance among breast cancer survivors.

Health Perceptions and Practices of a Telewellness Fitness Program: Exploratory Case Study.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people lacked access to group fitness opportunities due to elevated risk of infection, lockdown, and closure of exercise facilities. Additionally, many people experienced higher than average rates of mental health burden (eg, anxiety and stress). To help address these needs, an existing in-person community exercise class, taught by a faculty member from an academic medical center, transitioned to an online synchronous (OS) physical fitness class via the Zoom (Zoom Video Communications) videoconferencing platform. As such, the instructor advertised the OS fitness classes through an existing email list of community members and university faculty, staff, students, or alumni email listservs. This telewellness intervention sought to create a sense of community, build social support, and promote physical and mental wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aim was to determine the perceived mental and physical health benefits of attending an OS fitness class for community members, including health care workers. We also assessed the use and functionality of related technologies necessary for delivering and attending the fitness classes. An online survey questionnaire was created and tested to collect quantitative and qualitative data for an exploratory study. Data were collected to evaluate the fitness class, motivation, perceived health benefits, and related technologies. A convenience sample of people who had participated in the OS fitness classes was recruited for this study via an emailed recruitment flyer. A total of 51 participants accessed and completed the survey questionnaire. Survey participants consisted of 28 of 51 (55%) with a university affiliation, 17 of 51 (33%) with no university affiliation, and 6 of 51 (12%) who declined to state. The largest group of participants reporting full-time employment (18/51, 35%) also reported university affiliation with the academic medical center. In this group, 13 of 51 (25%) participants reported full-time employment, university affiliation, and doctoral degrees. High overall exercise class satisfaction was observed in the survey responses (mean 4.0, SD 1). Data analyses revealed significant perceived value of both mental and physical health benefits as motivating factors for participating in the OS fitness class. Challenges were identified as not being able to receive individual feedback from the instructor and the inability of some participants to see if they were in sync with the rest of the class. Results provide preliminary support for the use of online videoconferencing fitness platforms to promote wellness and facilitate group exercise in the community during times of high infection risk. Future studies should continue to explore perceived benefits, mental and physical wellness, best practices, and the design of related technologies.

"Obesity: The Emerging Epidemic in Nepal”

Nepal is witnessing a significant rise in obesity as traditional agrarian lifestyles give way to urbanization and sedentary behaviours. The dissolution of agriculture as a cultural practice has led to a reduction in daily physical activity, contributing to an alarming increase in non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. This article explores how Nepal can adopt new health-oriented cultural practices to combat obesity, drawing inspiration from the gym culture in the United States and the cycling culture in Europe. It advocates for the promotion of physical activity through community-based fitness programs, active transportation, and integrating exercise into educational curriculums. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of reviving traditional dietary practices and supporting mental well-being. The article underscores the need for government support in implementing policies and infrastructure that foster a culture of health, ensuring a healthier future for Nepal's population

SitFit: A core fitness tracker for improved sit-up accuracy and injury prevention

This study investigated the students’ perceptions of a self-paced fitness program that is integrated with SitFit, a fitness tracker that measures body inclination during sit-up exercises, and their acceptance of digital innovation in physical education. The data was gathered from a survey of 1001 Thai undergraduates. Results revealed that attitudes toward using the technology and the perceived ease of use were important predictors of behavioral intention to use the sit-up fitness tracker. consistent with previous TAM studies. Subsequently, SitFit was developed based on exercise principles and expert advice to enable users to exercise more effectively while reducing injury risk.

Hydrological Modeling of Krishna Upper Catchment Area of India Using Multisite Calibration and Validation of SWAT Model

Multisite calibration &amp; validation of model reduces the uncertainty present in the model parameters and improve the SWAT model output. In the present study, an effort was made to set up SWAT model along with multisite calibration and validation for Kishna upper basin of India. A total of six gauging stations maintained by Central water commission across the area were selected for SWAT model calibration and validation. Sequential Uncertainty Fitting (SUFI-2) programme of SWAT-CUP (Calibration and Uncertainty Programme) was employed to calibrate the SWAT model. During sensitivity analysis of SWAT model, parameters which are highly sensitive that influences flow characteristics of different gauging station were identified. These parameters along with parameter range were used to calibration and validation of SWAT model each of the sub basins. Observed flow and predicted stream flows were compared with certain model performance indices. These indices indicated that for all six gauging stations, the SWAT model found to be very good. The performance indices like R2, NSE, RSR and PBIAS were ranged from 0.70 to 0.84, 0.67 to 0.76, 0.49 to 0.57 and -11.7 to 24.0% respectively during model calibration period and 0.70 to 0.93, 0.67 to 0.83, 0.41 to 0.58 and 8.5 to 22.9% respectively during model validation period. A good agreement between observed and simulated flows at all the gauging stations were observed. It can be concluded that SWAT model output was improved with multisite calibration and validation of the model.

Likelihood of fitness improvements during a standardised physical fitness programme in US Army trainees of different fitness levels

IntroductionUS Army Initial Entry Training (IET) aims to develop general fitness and conditioning among large groups of trainees. Despite group mean improvement in physical fitness during IET, some trainees experience...

Developing Strategies to Promote Physical Fitness for University Students

Background and Aims: The physical fitness problems of university students must be paid great attention to. As the backbone of training university students, how to guide the students to exercise scientifically and achieve the best physical fitness for effect has become an urgent problem for physical educators in universities and universities. The objective of this research was to develop strategies to promote physical fitness for university students. Methodology: This research is mixed methods research. The population for this research includes 5,275 first-year students enrolled at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies for the 2023 academic year. Using the Taro Yamane formula, the sample size was calculated to be 371 university students. The questionnaire was distributed to 371 university students to investigate the problems and current situation of physical fitness of university students. After that, 7 experts were invited to develop a question framework for a focus group. 10 experts conducted a focus group to develop the question framework for use in the Delphi consensus, and 19 experts were invited to conduct a two-round Delphi consensus, to develop the strategies to promote physical fitness for university students. Finally, a connoisseurship method was used to confirm the developed strategies with 9 experts. The data gathered from the questionnaire were analyzed using the average and standard deviation, while consensus data were evaluated through the median and interquartile range. The established criteria for consensus required a median of ≥ 3.50 and an interquartile range of ≤ 1.50. Results: The strategies to promote physical fitness for university students were organized into 6 key aspects and comprised 51 factors. These 6 key aspects include: (1) Policy and Administrative Support, (2) Physical Education Curriculum and Programs, (3) Facilities and Equipment, (4) Engagement and Motivation, (5) Monitoring and Assessment, and (6) Sustainability of Fitness Programs. Conclusion: The study emphasizes a thorough strategy for improving university students' physical fitness by addressing program sustainability, policy, curriculum, facilities, motivation, and assessment. These six tactical elements guarantee a balanced, encouraging atmosphere for sustained health and fitness.

Speech Perception Outcomes with the Anatomy-Based Fitting Map among Experienced, Adult Cochlear Implant Users: A Longitudinal Study

Plain Language SummaryThe goal of this experimental, long-term study is to evaluate speech perception over 6 months of the use of anatomy-based fitting (ABF), a relatively novel programming technique. While normal fitting uses the manufacturer’s default frequency distribution algorithm, ABF programming in cochlear implant (CI) processors uses the position of the intracochlear electrode to disperse the associated frequencies. This indicates that the frequency properties of the nerves being stimulated by the electrode contact point match the frequency distribution caused by ABF. Consequently, it is hypothesized that ABF enhances auditory perception by improving place-pitch cue precision. Nine CI ears from eight experienced adult CI users were included in this investigation. Postoperative computed tomography scans were used in a surgical planning software called Otoplan to detect the locations of the implanted electrodes and corresponding center frequencies. To create the anatomy-based frequency bands, data from Otoplan were transferred into the Maestro 9.0 CI fitting program. Nonsense syllables with consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) identification scores in quiet and in noise (+5 dB SNR) were compared in the beginning, 3, and 6 months after ABF use. The findings showed that vowels and consonants were perceived more clearly with the ABF map, particularly for sounds that had voicing signals. The outcomes also suggested that ABF would be more advantageous for speech recognition in the presence of noise. Overall, the findings imply that, at least for experienced adult CI users, treating place mismatch with an ABF map could enhance speech perception.

CONCEPT OF A PROFESSIONAL MASTER'S PROGRAM: FITNESS AND NUTRITION

Purposes of the article. To put the basis of the Fitness and Nutrition Master’s Program. Scientific novelty. The given article presents the purpose and content of the «Fitness and Nutrition» master’s program. There are defined goals, objectives, competencies. The mentioned program is focused on preparing fitness trainers that would be able to conduct various areas of health-improving and recreational activities, developing nutrition programs for it, depending on their specifics, orientation and preferences of those involved. Conclusions. Graduates of the Fitness and Nutrition master's program will be able to work in fitness centers and clubs, sports schools, specialized educational institutions, recreation organizations – sanatoriums, rest homes, hotel fitness rooms, etc., occupying different positions from the hierarchical profile step. The master's program will cover the demands of the labor market with specialists in the field of physical education, fitness, sports: fitness centers and clubs, sports schools, sports centers and clubs. Graduates will have the opportunity to work as a fitness nutritionist, sports nutritionist, specialist advisor in nutrition and sports diet, carrying out different nutritional programs adapted to the type and volume of physical effort, counseling in order to adjust the diet for weight gain or loss, long-term follow-up of nutritional status and counseling for supporting the effort, recovery after the effort and recommendations regarding hydration and the administration of nutritional supplements.

How does the application of low impact out bound locomotor games affect the physical fitness of children with moderate disabilities?

Physical fitness is an important element in the physical and mental development of children, including those with learning disabilities. Children with dementia often face various challenges that may hinder their participation in conventional physical activities. As a result, they are at risk of health problems such as obesity, cardiovascular disorders, and decreased overall quality of life. Therefore, this study aims to provide locomotor movement activities, namely playing outside the classroom or outdoors or outbound to improve the physical fitness of children with intellectual disabilities. This research is experimental research, research design with pretest-posttest control group design experimental research design used to measure the variable effect of outbound low impact locomotor games, namely game activities walking in a 10 m stove, running in a straight line 10 m, jumping times 30 cm, jumping holes 30 cm with light intensity. The population of the study was 42 children with disabilities at SLBN Marsudi Putra I Manding Bantul Yogyakarta, 30 children with moderate disabilities, the sampling technique was purposive sampling. The sample was divided into two groups, namely the control group and the treated group for 2 months per week twice. Initial data processing, the data was processed using descriptive statistics. Furthermore, the normality test was carried out using the Shapiro-Wilk test with a significance level of α = 0.01. The homogeneity test used Barlett's test with a significance level of α = 0.01. All data were tested using analysis with a significance level of α = 0.01. Before conducting the t test, the data was tested using the normality test and homogeneity test first as a prerequisite test. There is an effect of giving outbound low impact locomotor games on increasing the physical fitness of moderate deaf children assessed from the aspects of running 30 m, moving the ball, shuttle run 10 m, lifting barbells, and lying down. This shows that the data for running 30 m, moving the ball, shuttle run 10 m the experimental group has a faster average time than the control group. While the data on lifting barbells and lying sitting and resting obtained by the experimental group average is higher or the number is more than the control group. This research highlights the importance of integrating fun and inclusive physical activities in fitness programs for children with disabilities. By doing so, they can enjoy better health benefits and improve their overall quality of life.

Measurements of line parameters for 12C16O2 near λ = 1.05 μm by cavity ring-down spectrometer

The absorption spectra of 12C16O2 within the wavenumber range of 9358–9648 cm−1 have been precisely measured using a continuous-wave cavity ring-down spectrometer at room temperature. Employing synthetic gas mixtures comprising carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and argon, the line parameters, including line intensities and self-, N2- and Ar- broadening coefficients have been retrieved in the 2003r-00001 (r = 1,2,3) bands. This retrieval process was facilitated by a multi-spectral fitting program that utilizes Voigt line profiles. A comparative analysis of our measured line intensities and self-broadening coefficients with those present in established databases, such as HITRAN2020, CDSD296, AMES-2021, and HITEMP2010, has been conducted. The line intensities and self-broadening coefficients for 12C16O2 deviate by an average of less than 1 % from the values reported in the HITRAN2020 database. The J-dependence of N2- and Ar- broadening coefficients has been investigated by comparing this work with experimental results and theoretical predictions from other vibrational bands. This research offers important experimental references for the improvement of computational models and the exploration of Venus and Mars.

Injury Profiling in Male Police Cadets During Initial Training Phase: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Musculoskeletal injuries during the "Initial Training Phase" (ITP) are a major medical problem faced by law enforcement agencies worldwide. Aiming to develop an injury prevention strategy, we examined the incidence, type, associated factors, and severity of injuries and secondarily tracked their evolution over time by batches in a police academy. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using prospectively collected injury data on 979 newly recruited male police cadets enrolled in eight batches between 2015 and 2023. Among the 376 injured participants (age: 18.1 ± 0.3 years, body-mass: 75.8 ± 12.5 kg, body-height: 173.7 ± 4.0 cm, body mass index [BMI]: 25.1 ± 4.1 kg·m-2, body-fat percentage: 18.1% ± 5.1%), 405 injuries were recorded during the ITP. Musculoskeletal injury data were analyzed according to type, associated-factors, severity, and evolution across batches. Almost half of the recruits (41.4%) sustained at least one musculoskeletal injury. Based on injury frequency (39-69 case) and exposure time (20,944.5-43,006.5 hours per participant) indices, and with an implication of scientific training tips, the long-term follow-up over-batches showed that the injury incidence was decreased 2.5-fold from Batch 1 to Batch 8 (p < .0001). Most injuries occurred between Weeks 2 and 5 (80% cumulative). The most common injury type was medial tibial stress syndrome (36.0%), followed by iliotibial band syndrome (12.6%), and ankle sprain (10.4%). This injury profile aligns with previous studies on law enforcement recruits, although comparisons should be made cautiously due to variations in training programs and recruit characteristics between agencies. The most frequently reported perceived potential contributors of injuries were vitamin and mineral deficiencies (20.7%), overweight/obesity (19.1%), and harsh physical activities (13.0%). During ITP, almost half of the recruits sustained at least one musculoskeletal injury, most of them in the fourth week. Some of the major associated factors of injury could be controlled resulting in a potential reduction of the injury incidence by up to 2.5 times. Implementing tailored fitness programs, incorporating subjective and objective training load assessments, and enhancing monitoring could significantly decrease injury rates, improve recruit readiness, and reduce resource and time waste on injury treatment.

Wearable Devices for Training and Patient Monitoring: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction:Wearable technologies and remote patient monitoring (RPM) are transforming sports and healthcare by enabling continuous and real-time monitoring of various health parameters. These innovations hold significant potential for improving training outcomes in physical rehabilitation and fitness programs, managing chronic diseases, and enhancing patient engagement. Aim of the Study:This review aims to summarize and highlight the most relevant findings on the current status, clinical applications, challenges, and prospects of wearable health-related sensing technologies in the context of training and chronic disease management. Material and Methods:A review of scientific publications from 2018 to 2024 was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Keywords such as "wearable," "remote patient monitoring," "sensors," "training," and "chronic disease management" were used. Conclusions:Wearable devices are gaining popularity among the entire population, not only among individuals with chronic health conditions. The use of wearable technologies has shown promise in improving training and health outcomes by providing continuous monitoring, personalized care, and enhanced training programs. However, challenges such as data accuracy, privacy concerns, and integration with healthcare systems must be addressed and present opportunities for future advancements.