Search Results (175)

Objective: This study sought to examine the correlation between physical activity levels and various psychological and nutritional factors associated with the risk of developing eating disorders among female university students in the Health Sciences discipline. Method: The study assessed body image, self-esteem, nutritional status, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and attitudes toward food in a sample of 96 women, categorized into two groups based on their level of physical activity. Results: Significant differences in skeletal muscle mass were identified between the groups, alongside associations between body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and elevated EAT-26 scores. Furthermore, students with higher levels of physical activity exhibited a significantly increased prevalence of eating disorder risk. Logistic regression analysis identified body dissatisfaction as a significant predictor of eating disorder risk, while membership in the group with the highest physical activity levels enhanced model fit and increased eating disorder risk. Conclusions: These findings indicate that, while physical activity is associated with certain benefits related to body composition and eating habits, it may also be linked to a heightened risk of disordered eating behaviors, contingent upon the underlying motivations and body perceptions involved. This study highlights the necessity for comprehensive preventive strategies that address both the physical and psychological dimensions of physical activity in female university students. Full article

Objective: Protein supplements (PSs) are widely consumed by professional and non-professional athletes, yet research on non-athletic PS users’ perceptions, motivations, and health risk awareness is limited. This study aimed to investigate non-professional athletes’ PS patterns of use, motivations, and safety. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a constructed questionnaire reporting on PS usage trends, exercise habits, and demographic factors. Adult respondents were recruited from gyms, athletic organizations, amusement parks, and playing fields. Results: We received 1100 responses, and 327 were PS users. From the total of PS users, there was a prevalence of PS use in males [(203 (62%)]; adults in the age group of 25–34 [136 (42%)], p < 0.001; and participants with a normal BMI (189, 58%), p < 0.001. Following high-intensity fitness exercise sessions and engagement with more than two types of physical activity were associated with more than doubled odds of PS consumption (p < 0.001). The main reasons for PS intake were for muscle mass increase (35%) and recovery (18%), and protein powder was the most popular PS (279; 64%). The main channels of information for PS use were Web/social media (50, 40%) and coaches (54, 43.2%), while one out of two [35 (49%); p = 0.008] of those engaged in more than two types of physical exercise declared that PSs are good for health. Conclusion: The findings highlight demographic, behavioral, and informational factors shaping PS consumption in non-professional athletes. Despite the perceived benefits, reliance on non-expert sources and unregulated products raises concerns about consumer awareness and safety, while educational initiatives to promote evidence-based supplementation practices are deemed crucial. Full article

Background: Participation in sports offers children with intellectual disabilities (IDs) crucial opportunities for development. However, they often face barriers to inclusion in school-based sports, especially in under-resourced areas. This study aimed to (1) assess the level of participation in school sports among learners with IDs, and (2) explore teachers’ perceptions of the benefits and barriers to such participation in special schools within the Vhembe District of South Africa. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive research design was employed. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 teachers from four special schools. Thematic analysis helped identify key themes and interpret responses. Results: All schools offered weekly sports activities, as required by the Department of Education. Teachers viewed sports as vital for social interaction, physical fitness, and psychological well-being. However, barriers such as insufficient adapted equipment, inadequate facilities, and limited family support hindered meaningful participation, particularly for learners with profound disabilities. Conclusions: School sports have the potential to transform the lives of learners with IDs, but systemic barriers restrict access. Increased investment in inclusive infrastructure, adaptive equipment, teacher training, and community awareness is essential to align policy with practice in special education. Full article

Objectives: This explorative study aimed to evaluate athletes’ perceptions of how CrossFit^® affects physical, psychological, and social well-being, exploring gender differences. CrossFit^® is a high-intensity functional training modality aimed at enhancing overall fitness and health. Limited research has explored its perceived impact on broader aspects of well-being, particularly considering gender differences. Methods: A total of 202 participants (age 34.3 ± 10.0 years) with at least 6 months of CrossFit^® experience completed an online self-reported questionnaire not previously published but created following published guidelines. The questions explore athletes’ perceptions of their improvements in physical fitness, injury occurrence, and the effects on mental well-being. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and parametric and non-parametric tests to investigate gender differences. Results: In total, 81.2% of participants perceived improvements in strength, while 83.2% reported enhanced aerobic capacity. Significant body composition improvements were noted by 68.3% of the sample, and 87.6% reported changes in eating habits. Injury incidence was lower among women (30.2%) than men (45.3%) (p = 0.02). Regarding psychological outcomes, 95% of respondents indicated a reduction in stress levels, 73.3% reported better sleep quality, and over 90% perceived improvements in self-esteem and daily energy. Furthermore, 98.5% of participants formed new social connections through CrossFit^®, with 79.2% acknowledging a positive impact on social relationships. No significant gender differences were found across most psychological and social outcomes. Conclusions: CrossFit^® is perceived positively by participants, with similar views across genders, except for injury rates. It enhances physical fitness, mental health, and social well-being, with high training adherence and relatively low injury risk. Full article

Objective: This study analyzed the relationship between self-perceived physical fitness and anthropometric and biochemical variables in young athletes from extracurricular sports programs in northeastern Spain. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used with a sample of 673 young athletes. Data collection included self-reported physical fitness and objective anthropometric and biochemical measurements. The analysis explored associations between perceived fitness dimensions and physical/biochemical variables, with attention to sex differences. Results: Fat mass showed significant inverse associations with all perceived fitness dimensions: general fitness (OR = 0.62, 95% CI [0.41, 0.94]), cardiorespiratory fitness (OR = 0.56, 95% CI [0.37, 0.83]), muscular strength (OR = 0.61, 95% CI [0.41, 0.91]), speed/agility (OR = 0.59, 95% CI [0.39, 0.88]), and flexibility (OR = 0.57, 95% CI [0.39, 0.84]). Higher fat mass was consistently linked to lower perceived fitness. HDL levels were positively associated with general (OR = 1.40, 95% CI [1.13, 1.74]) and cardiorespiratory fitness (OR = 1.32, 95% CI [1.07, 1.62]), while LDL levels showed no significant effect (p > 0.05). Sex differences emerged for general fitness (OR = 0.52, 95% CI [0.33, 0.82]) and flexibility (OR = 0.51, 95% CI [0.33, 0.78]), favoring boys, but no differences were found for cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, or speed/agility (p > 0.05). This suggests that shared athletic environments may reduce typical sex-based disparities. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the importance of considering both anthropometric and biochemical variables when evaluating perceived fitness in youth athletes. Regular athletic engagement may buffer sex-based differences in fitness perception. Full article

Background/Objectives: Aquagym is a form of practicing aerobic gymnastics to stay fit, which is constantly progressing in line with the dynamics of market growth and the fitness industry, bringing benefits to physical and mental health. The purpose of the study was to identify the level of popularity of this sport among people aged 20–65 years and to highlight the benefits of practicing aquagym. Methods: This quantitative research study was designed to use a structured questionnaire to collect data from 150 participants. The sample was chosen to reflect various age groups and to ensure representativeness for the general population interested in physical activity. Participants were divided by gender into two age categories, under 45 and over 45, in order to examine differences in preferences and perceptions between these age segments. For the analysis of between-group differences, we used the Chi-Square and Cramer’s V tests, and for the profile of respondents, a Two-Step Cluster Analysis was applied. Results: Regarding knowledge of the aquagym concept, there is a notable discrepancy between females and males, with significantly more women (54%) than men (18%) stating that they are familiar with this concept. Among the perceived benefits of water gymnastics, most responses indicate maintaining muscle tone (25% women and 14% men) and a fun way to stay fit (20% women and 11% men). Young people under 45 years of age tend to attach more importance to the social and entertaining aspects of aquagym. As for the improvement in quality of life by practicing water gymnastics, a large number of respondents (82%) rated this contribution with a score of 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale, meaning that the positive impact of this activity was highly appreciated. Conclusions: Aquagym lessons are perceived as both an effective form of exercise for health improvement and a means of socialization. The outcomes of the study highlight the opportunity to continuously promote and develop gymnastics in the aquatic environment as an accessible and enjoyable form of physical activity for all ages. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent interest has emerged in novel initiatives that focus on the “whole child” to improve the health and well-being in youth. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a translational health in nutrition and kinesiology (THINK) program addressing physical, psychological, and educational well-being could improve personal health and lifestyle behaviors in youth. Methods: A total of 81 adolescents (44 males, 37 females, 12.50 + 0.62 years) were evaluated at the beginning and end of the spring semester across three different years: 2019, 2021, and 2023. The physical literacy measures included the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PAES) and the Physical Activity Perception Scale (PAPS), along with knowledge-based tests in nutrition and exercise science. Social emotional learning (SEL), STEM education, and nutrition habits were evaluated using standard surveys and questionnaires. The physical evaluations included measures of body composition and physical fitness. Results: At the completion of the spring semester of each year, evaluations were compiled for all three years, with decreases found for % body fat (p < 0.001) and increases found for lean body mass (p < 0.001). The physical fitness components, including muscular strength (p < 0.001), cardiorespiratory fitness (p < 0.001), power (p < 0.001), and flexibility (p < 0.01), all improved. The physical literacy components, including the PACES (p < 0.001), PAPS (p < 0.001), exercise (p < 0.05), and nutrition science knowledge (p < 0.05) results, also improved. There were no significant changes in any other variables. Conclusions: A novel in-school academic curriculum integrating the physical, psychological, and educational well-being of the whole child could lead to improved body composition, physical fitness, and physical literacy. Full article

Background: Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) is defined as the persistence of symptoms 3 months after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. The long-term prevalence and clinical progression of PCS has not been established. Our aim was to investigate the symptoms in PCS patients, explore the degree of physical activity, according to the fatigue severity score, and analyze its association with basic cardio-pulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameters. Methods: A total of 192 subjects with history of SARSCoV-2 infection were included. They filled in the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Questionnaire (CFSQ) and were divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic groups. Forty-seven had persistent post-COVID complaints—reduced physical capacity, fatigue, dyspnea, sleep disturbances, muscle pain. CPET was performed and the pathophysiological parameters in the different fatigue severity groups were compared. Results: Subjects with persistent long-term PCS were divided into two groups—mild (20) and moderate–severe (27), depending on the CFSQ score; forty-eight PCS subjects without complaints served as a control group. The average period between the acute illness and the study was 1028 ± 214 days. Subjects with moderate–severe PCS had more symptoms during CPET (73.6% vs. 24.8% vs. 17.4%), as compared to mild/asymptomatic. The rate of perceived effort was subjective and did not correspond to the workload, heart, or breathing rate in the symptomatic group. These subjects were unable to reach the anaerobic threshold, compared to mild/asymptomatic subjects (51.8% vs. 25%, vs. 12.5%). Patients with moderate–severe PCS showed lower peak VO₂ (24.13 ± 6.1 mL/min/kg vs. 26.73 ± 5.9 mL/min/kg, vs. 27.01 ± 6.3 mL/min/kg), as compared to mild/asymptomatic subjects. Conclusions: Long-term PCS is still present in up to 24% of the general population, more than thirty months after the acute episode. It is characterized by increased perception of symptom burden and diminished aerobic metabolism. A third of the long-term PCS exhibit lower cardio-respiratory fitness, independently from the severity of the symptoms. Full article

Aiming at the efficiency bottleneck and error risk caused by the over-reliance on manual experience in traditional assembly sequence planning, the urgent demand for deep reuse of multi-source knowledge in complex products, and the growing demand for resource saving and sustainable development, this study focuses on the core problem of the lack of empirical knowledge modeling and reasoning mechanism in the assembly process of complex products, and proposes a three-phase assembly sequence intelligent planning method that integrates deep learning and ontology theory. Method: First, we propose an instance segmentation model based on the improved Mask R-CNN architecture, incorporate the ResNet50 pre-training strategy to enhance the generalization ability of the model, reconstruct the Mask branch, and add the attention mechanism to achieve high-precision recognition and extraction of geometric features of the assembly parts. Secondly, a multi-level assembly ontology semantic model is constructed based on the ontology theory, which realizes the structured expression of knowledge from three dimensions: product structure level (product–assembly–part), physical attributes (weight/precision/dimension), and assembly process (number of fits/direction of assembly), and builds a reasoning system with six assembly rules in combination with the SWRL language, which covers the core elements of geometric constraints, process priority, and so on. Finally, experiments are carried out with the example gearbox as the validation object, and the results show that the assembly sequence generated by the method meets the requirements of the process specification, which verifies the validity of the technology path. By constructing a closed-loop technology path of “visual perception–knowledge reasoning–sequence generation”, this study effectively overcomes the subjective bias of manual planning, integrates multi-source knowledge to improve the reuse rate of knowledge, and provides a solution of both theoretical value and engineering feasibility for the intelligent assembly of complex electromechanical products, which reduces the R&D cost and contributes to the sustainable development. Full article

Residential green space (RGS), as a frequently visited green space by residents, is the main space for daily activities and interactions, and its quality directly affects residents’ physical and mental health. Although many studies have revealed the impact of green space characteristics on health, research on the relationship between its environmental elements and health is still insufficient. This study selected five types of residential area in the central urban area of Beijing for investigation, collecting people’s green space perception, usage, and self-rated health information, and, using stepwise regression analysis, exploring the impact of RGS environmental factors on residents’ self-rated health under different vegetation cover rates. The results suggest the following: (1) Residents’ perception and usage of RGS characteristics are closely related to their self-rated health status, but the impact of environmental factors varies depending on vegetation coverage. (2) Maximizing natural features and cultural symbols is crucial for residential areas with high greenery. In residential areas with moderate vegetation, priority should be given to enhancing path elements, maintenance and shelter. For residential areas with low greenery cover, efforts should focus on strengthening fitness facilities and improving shelter to promote people’s health. (3) The impact of activity duration on usage behavior is most significant. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the significance of RGS quality in urban residential areas. They also provide a reference for the optimization and management of the living environment and support the sustainable development of community environments. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to examine the association between self-perceived cardiorespiratory fitness and health outcomes in long-term breast cancer survivors (LTBCSs) and identify possible predictors in women at least 5 years post-diagnosis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out involving 80 LTBCSs, divided into three groups according to their self-reported cardiorespiratory fitness levels: very poor/poor (1–2), average (3), and good/very good (4–5). Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, and this study analyzed variables measured at least five years after diagnosis, focusing on various factors including physical fitness, physical activity (PA) levels, cancer-related fatigue (CRF), mood, pain, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). ANOVA, Mann–Whitney U, and chi-square tests were performed, along with correlation and multiple regression analyses. Cohen’s d was used to calculate effect sizes. Results: Among the 80 LTBCSs, 35% reported very poor/poor self-perceived cardiorespiratory fitness, 35% reported average levels, and 30% reported good/very good levels. Individuals with lower self-perceived cardiorespiratory fitness levels showed significant declines in physical fitness, greater physical inactivity, increased CRF, higher pain levels, and a poorer HRQoL (p < 0.05). Regression analysis identified “self-perceived muscle strength” (β = 0.40; p < 0.01) and “nausea and vomiting” (β = −0.37; p < 0.01) as significant predictors of higher self-perceived cardiorespiratory fitness (adjusted r² = 0.472). Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of self-perceived cardiorespiratory fitness as a relevant indicator of health outcomes in LTBCSs. Given its association with physical fitness, sedentary behavior, CRF, pain, and HRQoL, assessing patients’ perceptions may provide valuable insights for developing tailored rehabilitation strategies. Future interventions should consider both subjective and objective measures to optimize the long-term health and quality of life in this population. Full article

The increased opportunities in virtual schooling offer new opportunities for students but also present new challenges for educators. As virtual enrollment has grown, concerns about student engagement, academic preparedness, and social risks have also grown. Among these concerns is the potential for bullying in online educational settings. While traditional bullying research has been well-documented, studies focusing on bullying within virtual schools remain limited. This study examines teachers’ perceptions of bullying in online schools through a self-reported survey. A total sample of 97 educators from a virtual school was sampled, of which 91% were female. Findings indicate that while physical bullying is rare in the virtual setting, verbal, relational, and cyberbullying are reported by educators. Physical appearance, either body or clothing, was the most reported reason across all types of bullying. Educators reported feeling moderately prepared to identify and respond to these bullying behaviors, but gaps in training and awareness still exist. The study highlights the need for professional development, enhanced digital monitoring, and proactive bullying strategies to fit the virtual learning environment. Full article

Background: The harmonious development of gross motor skills (GMSs) is vital for children, fostering their physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional growth. This study aimed to achieve three primary objectives: (1) to establish standardized reference values for all GMS tests conducted; (2) to examine the impact of overweight and obesity on factors influencing the development of GMSs and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF); and (3) to investigate the relationship between GMSs and CRF levels and body image dissatisfaction among Canadian children from the province of Québec. Methods: The study encompassed 3144 children aged 6 to 12 years (1535 boys and 1609 girls) recruited from 24 elementary schools situated in five urban areas. Anthropometric measurements included body mass, body height, and body mass index (BMI). Physical performance was assessed using a maximal aerobic power test and 12 GMS tests, which comprised two segmental speed tests, four agility tests, two static balance tests, one simple reaction time test, and three coordination tests. Body perception and body image dissatisfaction were evaluated using a silhouette scale featuring two sets of nine drawings depicting a spectrum of body shapes ranging from very thin to obese. Results: Standardized normative values were established for each GMS test. GMSs demonstrated continuous improvement throughout childhood, albeit with a deceleration in progress during later developmental stages. At comparable age, boys generally outperformed girls on tests demanding greater strength, speed, or endurance, whereas girls exhibited superior performance in balance and hand–foot coordination tasks (p ≤ 0.05). However, segmental speed remained equivalent between sexes (p > 0.05). GMS and CRF were significantly influenced by obesity status. Children with a normal BMI demonstrated superior performance compared to their overweight or obese counterparts, particularly in tests requiring body mass displacement (p ≤ 0.05). Conversely, socioeconomic status exhibited no significant impact on body perception in boys (p = 0.106), but it was a notable factor among 6–8-year-old girls from lower socioeconomic backgrounds (p = 0.045). Conclusions: Obesity status is linked to diminished GMS performance, especially in tasks involving body mass movement. These findings underscore the importance of early intervention strategies to encourage an active lifestyle and promote a healthy body composition in children. Full article

While sonar sensors are crucial for underwater robotics perception, the key challenge lies in traditional multibeam sonar simulation’s lack of comprehensive physics-based interaction models. Such missing physical aspects lead to sonar imagery discrepancies, such as the absence of coherent imaging systems and speckle noise effects exposing risks of over-fitted control designs of the systems using the sonar perceptions. Previous research addressed this gap by introducing a physics-based simulation approach by direct calculation of the point-scattering model equations from perception data obtained from rasterization. However, the raster-based method could not control the resolution of data to pipeline into image generation, and its limitation was explicitly presented in local search scenarios where the distance between data is large. To eliminate those limitations and extend capabilities without losing the quality of the image, this paper introduces a ray-based approach to replace the raster-based method when obtaining the perception data from the simulated world to pipeline into physical equation calculations. The results of the ray-based and raster-based models are compared for the front floating object and the ground grazing local search scenario to confirm that the ray-based method maintains equal quality of sonar image generation, including physical characteristics, but it has more flexibility and capability in control of data resolution for correct sonar image generation. Full article

This research explores the intersection of health informatics and behavioral science through the lens of fitness technologies, specifically Fitbit products. Grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Self-Determination Theory (SDT), this study examines how these technologies influence user acceptance and physical activity motivation. Employing a qualitative approach, the paper analyzed Fitbit user reviews to reveal insights into real-world interactions and perceptions, thereby deepening the understanding of technology adoption behaviors in health contexts. The findings highlight the significance of perceived ease of use and usefulness, as well as the integration of health consciousness in technology acceptance, enriching the TAM framework. Additionally, the study confirms Self-Determination Theory’s proposition of intrinsic motivation being more effective for lasting behavior change, as seen in users’ evolving interactions with Fitbit features. Furthermore, this study contributes to health behavior theories by demonstrating the role of technological devices in altering health routines. Full article