Training Protocol Research Articles

The Impact of a Western Diet and Resistance Training in a Rat Model of Mammary Cancer

This study aimed to investigate the impact of a Western diet and resistance training on cardiac remodeling in a rat model of chemically induced mammary cancer. Fifty-six female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of eight experimental groups, evaluating the impact of Western and standard diets, exercise and sedentarism, and the induction of mammary cancer. Mammary cancer was induced via the intraperitoneal administration of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) (50 mg/kg) at seven weeks of age. The resistance training protocol consisted of ladder climbing three times per week for an 18-week period, with a gradual increase in load over time. At the end of the 20-week experimental period, the animals were anesthetized and underwent echocardiography. Subsequently, the animals were euthanized, and organs and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) were collected and analyzed. A histopathological examination was performed on the mammary tumors. The Western diet increased relative VAT and contributed to cardiovascular and tumor-related changes, including an increase in interventricular septum thickness (IVS) and left ventricle posterior wall thickness (LVPW) at end-systole. Exercise reduced fat accumulation, improved cardiac performance, and helped regulate cardiovascular function, as indicated by a higher eccentricity index (EI) in the WD+EX group compared to the WD group. The WD was associated with increased VAT accumulation and initially delayed tumor initiation; however, over time, it contributed to bigger tumor aggressiveness. This diet also delayed tumor initiation but increased LVPW. Exercise, when combined with a WD, accelerated tumorigenesis, malignant transformation and invasiveness, resulted in the higher prevalence of invasive tumors. These findings underscore the complex and potentially compounding effects of diet and exercise on cancer progression.

Sharing "off-script": A qualitative analysis of providers' empathic self-disclosures during dignity therapy.

Healthcare provider self-disclosures are common although sometimes controversial. Providers have unique opportunities to self-disclose for the purpose of conveying empathic concern during Dignity Therapy sessions. We examine the topics of empathic self-disclosures (ESDs) during Dignity Therapy sessions. We analyzed 203 audio-recorded, transcribed Dignity Therapy sessions from a stepped-wedge, randomized trial of Dignity Therapy led by 14 nurses and chaplains in outpatient palliative care. We extracted 117 ESDs across sessions and applied thematic analysis guided by the constant comparative method to generate ESD topic themes and properties. Providers disclosed ESDs referring to topics of Relationships and Family, Personal Experiences and Characteristics, Cohort Communalities, Location and Geography, and Values. Though each provider led multiple Dignity Therapy sessions in this dataset, providers rarely disclosed the same information to more than one patient. Some disclosures subtly shifted the patient's life review. Providers often acknowledged patients that their self-disclosures were not prescribed elements of Dignity Therapy sessions. Providers engage in ESD across a range of personal topics in a Dignity Therapy context. Some ESD topics overlapped with those considered appropriate in existing health communication literature. Other topics involved complex or underexamined types of disclosures. While self-disclosures appear to be made with empathic intent, providers undermined the impact of some ESDs by portraying them as unprescribed components of the conversation. More research is needed to assess the positive and negative impacts of ESDs during Dignity Therapy and to support augmentation of Dignity Therapy training protocols to account for providers' ESDs.

Device Failures and Adverse Events Associated With Rhinolaryngoscopes: Analysis of the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) Database.

Rhinolaryngoscopes are one of the most widely used tools by otolaryngologists and speech-language pathologists in current clinical practice. However, there is limited data on adverse events associated with or caused by the use of rhinolaryngoscopes. In this study, we used the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database with the aim of providing insights that may assist otolaryngologists in better understanding the limitations of these devices and selecting appropriate procedures for their specific clinical setting. We characterized complications associated with the postmarket use of rhinolaryngoscope devices from the US Food and Drug Administration MAUDE database from 2016 through 2023. A total of 2591 reports were identified, including 2534 device malfunctions, 56 injuries, and 1 death, from 2016 through 2023. The most common device problem with rhinolaryngoscopes was breakage (n=1058 reports, 40.8%), followed by fluid leaks (n=632 reports, 24.4%). The third most common problem was poor image quality (n=467 reports, 18%). Other device issues included contamination or device reprocessing problems (n=127 reports, 4.9%), material deformation or wear (n=125 reports, 4.8%), and device detachment (n=73 reports, 2.8%). Of the 63 reported adverse events, the most common patient-related adverse event was hemorrhage or bleeding, accounting for 18 reports, with the root causes including material deformation or wear, breakage, wrinkled rubber, or improper operation. Our study offers valuable insights for endoscopists and manufacturers to recognize potential issues and adverse events associated with the use of rhinolaryngoscopes. It emphasizes the need for improving device reliability, training, and procedural protocols to enhance patient safety during diagnostic procedures.

Accuracy of tactile bougie use in infrequent intubators: a cadaveric airway study.

When difficulty with laryngoscopy is encountered, confirmation of endotracheal access can be confirmed using the tactile feedback (i.e., tracheal clicks) of a tracheal tube introducer (bougie). There is anecdotal evidence that a bougie placed in the esophagus may have a unique, tactile "boggy" resistance. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the sensitivity and specificity of clicks and boggy resistance for infrequent airway providers in cadaveric airways. We conducted a prospective observational study using descriptive statistics to examine the diagnostic accuracy of clicks and boggy resistance for bougies placed in cadaveric airways. We recruited prehospital providers from within Atlantic Canada who then underwent a brief formal training protocol. Cadavers were equipped with a static laryngoscope and bougie (placed either in the trachea or esophagus). Each participant, blinded to bougie placement, was then tested on two separate cadavers and asked whether they felt clicks and/or boggy resistance. Thirty-seven paramedics participated in the study (32 advanced care paramedics, five critical care paramedics) and were randomized to perform 74 bougie assessments on cadaveric airways. For tracheal clicks, we calculated an overall sensitivity of 86% (95% confidence interval [CI], 75 to 98) and an overall specificity of 81% (95% CI, 68 to 94). Sensitivity for the esophageal boggy resistance test was 78% (95% CI, 65 to 92) while specificity was 86% (95% CI, 75 to 98). Following a brief training session, prehospital providers who intubate infrequently seemed to show a relatively high degree of accuracy using tracheal clicks and esophageal boggy resistance to confirm bougie placement in cadaveric airways.

Towards safer mines: Analyzing occupational health and safety perceptions and injury patterns in Serbian underground mining

Background Mining is a high-risk sector, particularly in underground environments, where workers face daily hazards. This research evaluates workplace safety perceptions in Serbian underground coal mines, ranking workers by education, age, and job role, while incorporating injury data to provide a comprehensive assessment of safety across different worker groups. Objective This study is aimed at analyses of the correlation between occupational health and safety (OHS) perceptions and the injury index across different worker groups, to identify improvement opportunities and propose targeted measures for enhancing OHS practices. Methods The PROMETHEE II method categorized workers based on production units, qualifications, and age, focusing on criteria like protective equipment, work conditions, risk awareness, management, work organization, and training. The entropy method provided objective weightings for these criteria, allowing for comparison with injury index rankings to establish priorities for improvement. Results Štavalj and Vrška Čuka ranked highest in OHS perception. Workers with MSc/Dr qualifications displayed heightened awareness of safety, while those aged 56 to 65 exhibited the best understanding of health and safety. Spearman rank correlation coefficients revealed a strong negative correlation (−0.796) for production units, a strong positive correlation (0.70) for qualifications, and a very strong positive correlation (0.90) for age concerning PROMETHEE II rankings and injury index indicators. Conclusions The disparities between worker perception rankings and injury index rankings suggest opportunities for targeted safety improvements and enhanced training protocols.

Comparison of the Effect of Resistance, Swimming, and Combination Training Patterns on Bone Density in Female Osteoporotic Rats

Introduction: The aim of the study was to compare the effects of resistance, swimming, and combined training patterns on L5 vertebral mineral density in osteoporotic rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 36 female Wistar rats, each weighing between 170-190 grams, were selected as samples. To verify the induction of osteoporosis, 12 rats were randomly divided into two groups: healthy and alcohol-injected (6 rats). Osteoporosis induction was induced through intraperitoneal injection of a saline solution combined with ethanol over a period of 3 weeks. 24 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups (6 rats): 1. Resistance training, 2. Swimming training, 3. Combined training, and 4. Control. Swimming training (90 minutes per day, 5 days in 12 weeks) and resistance protocol (5 days in 12 weeks, each session 8 sets with 8-12 repetitions of climbing the ladder) and the combined group performed resistance training in 4 sets with 8-12 repetitions of climbing the ladder and swimming training with half the duration of the swimming group. After 12 weeks, samples were collected from the spine and the density of L5 was evaluated using a DEXA machine. Data were analyzed using independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey's test with a significance threshold of less than 0.05 in SPSS-16 (P<0.05). Results: In the intragroup comparison, resistance training and combined training significantly increased L5 density (P=0.00). In the intergroup comparison, L5 density of the combined group showed a significant increase compared to the training and control groups (P=0.00). The resistance group showed a significant increase in this variable compared to the swimming and control groups (P=0.00). Conclusion: Using combined exercise as a therapeutic approach can increase bone density; therefore, it serves as an effective strategy for improving osteoporosis.

Exercise Training and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Males with Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background and Objectives: Obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Physical exercise has been established as an effective intervention for reducing cardiovascular mortality. This systematic review aimed to investigate the effects of various exercise modalities on cardiovascular risk factors in men with obesity. Materials and Methods: This review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2005 and November 2023. Studies were eligible if they assessed the impact of exercise interventions on blood pressure (BP), lipid profiles, and glucose/insulin regulation in males aged 18 years or older with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 kg/m2 or greater. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Results: A total of 25 RCTs were included in the analysis, with PEDro scores ranging from 3 to 7. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) was associated with significant reductions in BP, with an average decrease of 12.5 mmHg. However, the magnitude of BP reduction varied across studies, likely due to differences in training protocols and study quality. Resistance training (RT) was associated with modest improvements in glycemic control, with some studies reporting a reduction in fasting blood glucose levels by 5–10%. Combined exercise (CT) programs, which included both aerobic and resistance training, as well as aerobic exercise alone, were shown to improve lipid profiles, with some studies showing reductions in total cholesterol levels ranging from 10–15%. However, the findings were inconsistent, highlighting the need for further research to better understand the potential benefits and optimal exercise regimens. Conclusions: This systematic review supports the potential of exercise training in reducing cardiovascular risk factors in men with obesity, though the effectiveness varies depends on the type of exercise. Combined exercise programs have shown promise for lipid profiles, but further research is needed to confirm these effects. HIIT has been linked to BP reductions in some studies, although the results are inconsistent and depend on protocols and study quality. The limitations in study quality may impact the reliability of these findings.

High-intensity interval training improves hepatic redox status via Nrf2 downstream pathways and reduced CYP2E1 expression in female rats with cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity.

Cisplatin (CP) is an antineoplastic drug associated with various cytotoxic adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity. Exercise training may offer hepatoprotection by improving redox status. This study compared the effects of light-intensity continuous training (LICT), moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on CP-induced hepatotoxicity in female Wistar rats. The rats were divided into five groups (n=7): sedentary control (C+S), CP and sedentary (CP+S), CP with LICT (CP+LICT), CP with MICT (CP+MICT), and CP with HIIT (CP+HIIT). The training protocols involved eight weeks of treadmill exercise before CP administration (5mg/kg). Seven days after CP injection, the rats were euthanized to collect blood and liver tissue samples. Our findings demonstrate that HIIT was the most effective protocol in preventing histopathological alterations and reducing oxidative and nitrosative damage markers in macromolecules, including 4-HNE (lipids), nitrotyrosine (proteins), and 8-OHdG (DNA). The reduction in these markers appears to be linked to decreased CYP2E1 levels. Moreover, HIIT activated the Nrf2 pathway and upregulated its downstream antioxidant enzymes, including SOD1, catalase, GPx, and HO-1. In conclusion, HIIT emerged as the most effective protocol for mitigating hepatic damage, likely through CYP2E1 suppression and enhancement of antioxidant defenses via Nrf2 signaling pathway activation.

Enhancing U-Net-based Pseudo-CT generation from MRI using CT-guided bone segmentation for radiation treatment planning in head & neck cancer patients.

This study investigates the effects of various training protocols on enhancing the precision of MRI-only Pseudo-CT generation for radiation treatment planning and adaptation in head & neck cancer patients. It specifically tackles the challenge of differentiating bone from air, a limitation that frequently results in substantial deviations in the representation of bony structures on Pseudo-CT images. The study included 25 patients, utilizing pre-treatment MRI-CT image pairs. Five cases were randomly selected for testing, with the remaining 20 used for model training and validation. A 3D U-Net deep learning model was employed, trained on patches of size 643with an overlap of 323. MRI scans were acquired using the Dixon gradient echo (GRE) technique, and various contrasts were explored to improve Pseudo-CT accuracy, including in-phase, water-only, and combined water-only and fat-only images. Additionally, bone extraction from the fat-only image was integrated as an additional channel to better capture bone structures on Pseudo-CTs. The evaluation involved both image quality and dosimetric metrics. The generated Pseudo-CTs were compared with their corresponding registered target CTs. The mean absolute error (MAE) and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) for the base model using combined water-only and fat-only images were 19.20 ± 5.30 HU and 57.24 ± 1.44 dB, respectively. Following the integration of an additional channel using a CT-guided bone segmentation, the model's performance improved, achieving MAE and PSNR of 18.32 ± 5.51 HU and 57.82 ± 1.31 dB, respectively. The dosimetric assessment confirmed that radiation treatment planning on Pseudo-CT achieved accuracy comparable to conventional CT. The measured results are statistically significant, with ap-value < 0.05. This study demonstrates improved accuracy in bone representation on Pseudo-CTs achieved through a combination of water-only, fat-only and extracted bone images; thus, enhancing feasibility of MRI-based simulation for radiation treatment planning.

ASSESSMENT ON THE LEVEL OF SATISFACTION OF ADULT SURGICAL PATIENTS WITH ANAESTHESIA CARE AT 68 NIGERIAN ARMY REFERENCE HOSPITALS

This research assessed the level of satisfaction of anaesthesia care among adult’s surgical patients at 68 Nigeria army reference hospital Lagos. The study employed descriptive cross-sectional design and a target population of 384 adult’s surgical patients. The instrument used for this study was a self-structured questionnaire with a reliability 0.7. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize the demographic data of respondents using frequency, proportion, mean, standard deviation and range at a significant level of 0.05. In which the findings showed a mean age of the participants to be 33.97 ± 12.28 years. Among them, the largest age group was 20-29, comprising 166 individuals. Gender distribution showed 168 males and 197 females. And 38.4% participants held tertiary qualifications. Among the respondents, 40.0% were satisfied with anesthesia care, 46.3% reported receiving adequate information that positively influenced their satisfaction, 38.1% were moderately satisfied with the quality of care, and 39.7% perceived effective communication by healthcare providers as satisfactory. Additionally, 46.3% found clear explanations of anesthesia procedures to enhance their quality of care. Three hypothesis were tested and the results showed that; there is no significant relationship between patients’ satisfaction with anaesthesia care provided (p= 0.01), there is no significant relationship between competence of anaesthesia providers and satisfaction (p= 0.01). Also, there is no significant relationship between satisfaction, perceived impact of effective communication and Competence of Anaesthesia Providers on quality of anaesthesia care (p= 0.01). In conclusion, the study highlights a high level of patient satisfaction with anesthesia care, high quality of care provided, and a significant positive impact of effective communication by healthcare providers on patient satisfaction. Therefore, the study recommended that; Hospitals should create enabling environment for implementing further strategies that enhance collaboration, improve training and pain management protocols to ensure patient satisfaction with anaesthesia care.

Linking Adherence to Effectiveness in Family-Based Adolescent ADHD Academic Training and Medication Decision-Making Protocols

ABSTRACT Objective Changing Academic Support in the Home for Adolescents with ADHD (CASH-AA) and Medication Integration Protocol (MIP) are two family-based behavioral protocols designed to promote family solutions to academic problems and medication decision-making. Building on a randomized control trial examining these protocols, the current study examined how protocol dose, an indicator of treatment adherence, was associated with treatment outcomes. Method The sample consisted of 145 adolescent clients (M age = 14.8, 72% male, 42% White, 37% Hispanic, 15% Black) and 49 community and hospital-based therapists (82% female, 63% White, 29% Hispanic). Latent growth curve models examined how therapist reports of minutes adolescents and their caregivers received CASH-AA and MIP predicted levels and change in inattentive and hyperactive symptoms (MINI-International Neuropsychiatric Interview); co-occurring symptoms (Youth Self Report/Child Behavior Checklist); homework problems (Homework Problems Checklist); and medication compliance at baseline, 3, 6, and 12-month follow-ups. Results MIP minutes were prospectively associated with lower caregiver-reported inattentive and hyperactive symptoms, adolescent- and caregiver-reported externalizing symptoms and caregiver-reported homework problems at the 12-month follow-up (ẞ range = −.16 to −.39, p < .05), as well as faster decline in caregiver-reported inattentive symptoms (ẞ = -.29, p < .001). CASH-AA minutes were associated with greater caregiver-reported inattentive symptoms (ẞ = .11, p = .049) at 12-month follow-up and slower declines in homework problems (ẞ = -.39, p < .001). Neither MIP nor CASH-AA minutes were associated with internalizing symptoms or medication use. Conclusions Findings further support MIP as an effective behavioral protocol for adolescent ADHD and indicate the need for increasing MIP implementation efforts in community settings.

Evaluating the Effects of Three High Intensity Interval Training Protocols on Maximum Oxygen Consumption and Leg Strength in Recreational Football Athletes

Objectives. This study aimed to examine the effects of three high intensity interval training (HIIT) protocols on VO₂max and leg strength in recreational football athletes. Materials and methods. Thirty-one participants were recruited and randomly assigned to one of three HIIT protocols: HIIT20/20, HIIT40/10, or HIIT60/5. The training programs spanned 6 weeks with a frequency of 3 sessions per week on non-consecutive days. Baseline testing for VO₂max and leg strength was conducted using an incremental exercise test with blood gas analysis and an isokinetic machine, respectively, at 1 week before the intervention, and post-intervention testing occurred 1 week after the last training session. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA was employed to compare changes between groups and across time points. Results. The results demonstrated that there was a significant increase in VO₂max in both the HIIT40/10 (∆10.4 %, CI95% = 1.67–7.42 ml/kg/min, ES = Moderate) and HIIT60/5 (∆12 %, CI95% = 2.28–8.84, ES = Moderate) groups, while no considerable changes were observed in leg strength across any group (p &gt; 0.05). Additionally, a Weak but substantial correlation between leg strength and VO₂max was found at both pre-intervention (r = 0.39) and post-intervention (r = 0.38) periods. Conclusions. In conclusion, if the training goal was to improve VO₂max through HIIT, both the HIIT40/10 and HIIT60/5 protocols were more effective than HIIT20/20.

Unlocking the full potential of resistance training: a comparative analysis of low- and high-intensity effects on neurotrophic growth factors and homocysteine

ObjectiveResistance training has been demonstrated an effective approach for preventing the cognitive function decline through physiological mechanisms; however, the effect of acute resistance training at different intensities on growth factor and homocysteine levels remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the impact of resistance training at varying intensities on peripheral neurobiological factors and homocysteine levels in young adults.MethodsTwelve young male adults, predominantly engaged in various sports activities but without prior strength training experience, were recruited to participate in a randomized controlled cross-over trial. They implemented two different resistance training protocols: high intensity (HIRT, 12 repetitions at 80% 1RM) and low intensity (LIRT, 24 repetitions at 40% 1RM). Blood samples were collected at three time points: pre-training, post training, and after 30 min of rest to measure changes in serum lactate, serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), irisin, and plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels.ResultsBoth resistance training protocols significantly increased blood lactate and perceived exertion compared to pre-training (HIRT, p < 0.01; LIRT, p < 0.01), with higher levels observed in HIRT. Acute HIRT significantly elevated serum BDNF, IGF-1, and VEGF levels post training compared to LIRT (p < 0.05), while no difference was observed in irisin levels between the two protocols at any time point. Both training protocols significantly reduced plasma Hcy levels post training (p < 0.01) and maintained lower levels than pre-training and after 30 min of rest (p < 0.05), with no significant differences between the two protocols.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that high intensity training appears to have a greater impact on specific neurobiological factors; however, regardless of intensity, resistance training can significantly decrease plasma homocysteine.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT06114550. Date of registration 01/30/2024. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06114550.

EEG correlates of acquiring race driving skills.

Objective &#xD;&#xD;Race driving is a complex motor task that involves multiple concurrent cognitive processes in different brain regions coordinated to maintain and optimize speed and control. Delineating the neuroplasticity accompanying the acquisition of complex and fine motor skills such as racing is crucial to elucidate how these are gradually encoded in the brain and inform new training regimes. This study aims, first, to identify the neural correlates of learning to drive a racing car using non-invasive electroencephalography (EEG) imaging and longitudinal monitoring. Second, we gather evidence on the potential role of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in enhancing the training outcome of race drivers. &#xD;&#xD;Approach&#xD;We collected and analyzed multimodal experimental data, including drivers' EEG and telemetry from a driving simulator to identify neuromarkers of race driving proficiency and assess the potential to improve training through anodal tDCS. &#xD;&#xD;Main Results&#xD;Our findings indicate that theta-band EEG rhythms and alpha-band effective functional connectivity between frontocentral and occipital cortical areas are significant neuromarkers for acquiring racing skills. We also observed signs of a potential tDCS effect in accelerating the learning process. &#xD;&#xD;Significance &#xD;These results provide a foundation for future research to develop innovative race-driving training protocols using neurotechnology.

Optimising Sprint Performance in Rugby: Insights from a Systematic Review of Training Methods

Background: Sprint performance is crucial in rugby, impacting offensive and defensive actions. Despite increasing research on team sports, specific sprint training guidelines for rugby remain limited. This review evaluates the effectiveness of various training methods to improve sprint performance in semi-professional and professional players. Objectives: To identify and assess the most effective training methodologies for improving rugby sprint performance and provide evidence-based recommendations for coaches. Methods: A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus, including studies published before November 2024. Eligible studies focused on Rugby Union, Rugby League, or Rugby Sevens players undergoing resistance-based or sprint-specific training for at least four weeks. Exclusion criteria included amateur players, athletes under 16, or interventions using advanced technologies. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: Twenty-six studies involving 644 rugby players were analysed. Training programmes ranged from 4 to 18 weeks (average: 8 weeks) and were categorised into resistance training, small-sided games, and sprint-specific methods. Resistance training combined with plyometrics and agility drills achieved the most significant sprint improvements. Small-sided games enhanced sprint performance by simulating game-like scenarios, while resisted sprint training showed notable results for short-distance acceleration but limited maximum speed gains. Conclusions: Rugby sprint performance improves through periodised training protocols incorporating resistance exercises, plyometrics, and sport-specific drills. Coaches should use small-sided games and resisted sprint training to target short-distance acceleration and agility. Further research should examine the long-term effects of these methods and their influence on match performance.

Psychophysiological Response Differences Between Advanced and Beginner Climbers and Fatigue Management

Background/Objectives: Rock climbing is a multifaceted athletic activity that requires both psychological and physiological resilience. This study aimed to examine the differences in psychological factors and fatigue predictors between novice and advanced climbers, with a focus on the interplay between experience and performance. Methods: The study included 60 participants categorized based on climbing experience (novice or advanced). Psychological and physiological assessments were conducted, including heart rate variability (HRV), grip strength, rate of force development (RFD), subjective perceived stress (SPS), and anxiety levels using validated questionnaires. Results: Advanced climbers exhibited lower anxiety levels and better sympathetic modulation compared to novices. Significant differences in HRV parameters, grip strength, and RFD were observed, reflecting the impact of experience on physiological responses. Advanced climbers demonstrated notable strength decreases post-climbing, supporting the utility of a force sensor on a 20 mm edge for assessing forearm fatigue. Correlations between cortisol levels, anxiety, and self-confidence during climbing were also identified. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of psychological and physiological factors in climbing performance. Forearm fatigue emerged as a critical predictor, suggesting that portable force sensors can optimize training and injury prevention. Insights from this study may enhance training protocols and improve real-time performance monitoring in climbers.

Effects of a 12-Week Skipping Exercise Program on Leg Endurance in Competitive Badminton Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of the study. Leg endurance is vital for badminton, yet training methods for its enhancement are inadequately explored. This study examined the impact of a skipping exercise regimen on leg endurance and performance metrics among competitive badminton athletes. Materials and methods. A total of sixty competitive badminton athletes enrolled badminton players from regional clubs and university in North Sumatera Indonesia, with a mean age of 21.5 ± 1.7 years, were systematically assigned to either an intervention group (n=30) or a control group (n=30) through a randomization process. The participants in the intervention cohort undertook a 12-week progressive skipping exercise program in conjunction with their regular badminton training, whereas the control group adhered solely to standard training protocols. The primary outcome measures comprised a badminton-specific endurance assessment and the 30-second Wingate test, while secondary outcome parameters included evaluations of agility, jump performance, and movement dynamics on the court. Results. The intervention cohort exhibited significant enhancements across all metrics relative to the control group (p &lt; 0.001). Notable effect sizes were recorded for the badminton-specific endurance test (d = 1.32), Wingate peak power (d = 1.17), and mean power (d = 1.25). Secondary outcomes also reflected considerable advancements, including agility (d = 1.08-1.13), jump performance (d = 1.03-1.10), and on-court movement patterns (d = 1.07-1.16). Strong correlations were identified between leg endurance improvements and badminton-specific performance metrics (r = 0.65-0.73, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions. The 12-week skipping exercise program markedly improved leg endurance and related performance metrics in competitive badminton players. These results indicate that skipping exercises constitute an effective, versatile, and sport-specific training approach for enhancing physical readiness in badminton. Coaches and athletes are encouraged to integrate structured skipping programs into their training routines to elevate badminton-specific physical performance.

Influence of Different Strength Training Protocol on Breaststroke Performance in Competitive Swimmers

The purpose of the study. This study aims to evaluate the effects of different strength training protocols on breaststroke performance in competitive swimmers, focusing on physiological adaptations, biomechanical efficiency, and performance outcomes. Materials and methods. A 24-week randomized controlled trial was conducted with 48 competitive breaststroke swimmers (26 male, 22 female, aged 18–25 years). Participants were assigned to three groups: traditional endurance training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and an integrated approach combining HIIT with technical refinement. Training intensity, volume, and technical components were systematically varied and monitored. Performance metrics, physiological adaptations, and biomechanical parameters were analyzed using mixed-effects linear models and Cohen’s d to determine effect sizes. Results. The integrated training group demonstrated the most significant improvements across all metrics. Performance times decreased by 2.3% (50m), 2.7% (100m), and 3.1% (200m) compared to smaller gains in the traditional and HIIT-only groups. Biomechanical efficiency improvements included increased stroke length (10.2%) and reduced drag coefficient (12.4%). Physiological enhancements, such as a 12.3% increase in lactate threshold speed and 8.5% improvement in VO₂max, were also observed. Conclusions. An integrated approach combining HIIT with technical skill development yields superior outcomes in breaststroke performance compared to traditional or HIIT-only protocols. This holistic training method optimizes both physiological and biomechanical adaptations, offering a robust framework for enhancing competitive breaststroke swimming.

Influence of strength and power training on the rate of force development, peak force and functional mobility in elderly people with Parkinson's disease: a randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveTo analyze the influence of lower limb muscle strength and muscle power training on rate of force development (RFD) and peak force (PF) in elderly people with Parkinson's disease (PD), as well as the effect of these training sessions influence on the functional mobility (FM) of this population.MethodsThis was a randomized controlled clinical trial and registered on the virtual platform for registration of experimental and non-experimental studies “Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC)”. Thirty four elderly people of both genders without and with PD were divided into four groups: strength training control (GSC, n = 8); potency training control (GPC), n = 9; subjects with PD submitted to strength training (GSPD, n = 8); subjects with PD submitted to potency training (GPPD, n = 9). GSC and GPC consisted of with no history of neurological diseases. PF and RFD in the first 50 and 200 milliseconds (ms) were determined. FM was also assessed using the following tests: gait speed test (GS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS); parallel feet on a force platform. Next, the participants underwent lower limbs muscle strength or muscle power training for eight consecutive weeks twice a week and were then re-evaluated.ResultsThe repeated measures ANOVA test showed a significant difference for PF, RFD and FM regardless of training type.ConclusionThe proposed muscle strength and muscle power training protocols influenced the increase in RFD, PF and FM of all participants; however, the increase in RFD in the first 200 ms was more pronounced in the groups submitted to power training and the increase in PF was more pronounced in the groups submitted to strength training.

Certificate program "Readiness, response and management of emergency situations" as a component in the formation of competencies for public health specialists

In the field of public health, the acquiring of relevant knowledge, skills and competencies for managing emergencies as well as the problem of effective response to them, and how to mitigate their consequences within the healthcare system are the crucial issues. The research employs bibliosemantic, informational, analytical, medical, statistical, sociological methods, method of content analysis, as well as surveys of practitioners from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Public Health Center of Ukraine. The minimum sample size comprises 326 individuals, which was calculated using the statistical package G*Power; a total of 369 respondents participated in the survey. The statistical processing of the materials was carried out using the licensed program Microsoft Excel 2016. In addition, the inclusion criteria for respondents concerned the individuals who participated in rapid response groups (both primary and reserve). The exclusion criteria encompassed specialists who were on leave for various reasons, such as maternity or health-related issues, in addition to individuals who opted not to engage in the survey. When developing the requisite competencies, it is imperative to allocate appropriate consideration to the practical aspect, as evidenced by the information gathered through the survey. Thus, 47% of respondents believe that this aspect needs improvement. Furthermore, within the array of challenges linked to the attainment of requisite competencies, specialists from rapid response groups have delineated the subsequent factors: psychological and emotional stress, a perceived threat to personal safety (19%), inadequate levels of professional training (18.4%), health-related concerns (11.7%), and deficiencies in material and technical support (26.8%). Consequently, upon analysis of the acquired data, the imperative to initiate the subsequent modifications to the accredited program "Readiness, Response and Emergency Management" has been ascertained, namely: to enhance practical training methodologies, to underscore holistic competencies, to implement psychological training protocols, and to instruct on the operation with modern technical equipment.