The effect of physical exercise during competitions and in simulated conditions on hormonal-neurophysiological relationships in kickboxers.

K1-format kickboxing is a widely followed combat sport that requires intense physical exercise. However, research into the body's response to this type of combat is sparse. This study aims to assess the alterations in hormone levels and brain activity in elite kickboxers following an actual K1 bout and compare these changes with those observed in a control group engaged in a simulated fight exercise with a punchbag. The study included 100 male professional kickboxers, randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group (K1 fight) and a control group (simulated fight with a punchbag). Blood samples were obtained before and after exercise to evaluate testosterone (T) and cortisol concentrations (C). Concurrently, brain activity was recorded using quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). After the activity in the experimental group mean testosterone level slightly, non-significantly decreased from 13.7 nmol/l to 12.4 nmol/l, while mean cortisol significantly (p < 0.001) increased from 313 to 570 nmol/l. In the control group after the exertion against a punchbag mean cortisol significantly (p < 0.001) increased from 334 to 452 nmol/l and testosterone increased non-significantly, from 15.1 to 16.3 nmol/l. In both groups, the testosterone/cortisol ratio (T/C ratio) showed significantly lower levels after the intervention (p < 0.001 and p < 0.032) in the experimental and control group respectively. The comparison of groups after exercise revealed significantly higher cortisol levels (experimental group x = 570 nmol/l; control group x = 452 nmol/l) and a significantly lower T/C ratio (experimental group x = 2.7; control group x = 3.9), (p = 0.001) in the experimental group. Significantly higher brain activity was found in selected leads after a bout (experimental group). Furthermore, in the experimental group, significant associations of weak to moderate strength were found between hormone fluctuations and selected areas of brain activity (p < 0.05). K1-format kickboxing induces a stress response, evident in the sharp changes in cortisol and testosterone levels. A notable observation was the inverse direction of changes in both hormones. Brain activity analysis indicated the potential influence of raised cortisol concentrations on specific brain areas. This study augments our understanding of the physiological responses during K1 kickboxing bouts and may inform the future evolution of this sport.

An Attempt to Develop a Model of Brain Waves Using Quantitative Electroencephalography with Closed Eyes in K1 Kickboxing Athletes-Initial Concept.

BACKGROUND: Brain injuries are a common problem in combat sports, especially in disciplines such as kickboxing. Kickboxing is a combat sport that has several variations of competition, with the most contact-oriented fights being carried out under the format of K-1 rules. While these sports require a high level of skill and physical endurance, frequent micro-traumas to the brain can have serious consequences for the health and well-being of athletes. According to studies, combat sports are one of the riskiest sports in terms of brain injuries. Among the sports disciplines with the highest number of brain injuries, boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), and kickboxing are mentioned. METHODS: The study was conducted on a group of 18 K-1 kickboxing athletes who demonstrate a high level of sports performance. The subjects were between the ages 18 and 28. QEEG (quantitative electroencephalogram) is a numeric spectral analysis of the EEG record, where the data is digitally coded and statistically analysed using the Fourier transform algorithm. Each examination of one person lasts about 10 min with closed eyes. The wave amplitude and power for specific frequencies (Delta, Theta, Alpha, Sensorimotor Rhythm (SMR), Beta 1, and Beta2) were analysed using 9 leads. RESULTS: High values were shown in the Alpha frequency for central leads, SMR in the Frontal 4 (F4 lead), Beta 1 in leads F4 and Parietal 3 (P3), and Beta2 in all leads. CONCLUSIONS: The high activity of brainwaves such as SMR, Beta and Alpha can have a negative effect on the athletic performance of kickboxing athletes by affecting focus, stress, anxiety, and concentration. Therefore, it is important for athletes to monitor their brainwave activity and use appropriate training strategies to achieve optimal results.

Preliminary Development of a Brainwave Model for K1 Kickboxers Using Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) with Open Eyes.

K1 kickboxing fighting is characterised by high injury rates due to the low restrictions of fighting rules. In recent years, much attention has been paid to research on changes in brain function among athletes, including those in combat sports. One of the tools that are likely to help diagnose and assess brain function is quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). Therefore, the aim of the present study was an attempt to develop a brainwave model using quantitative electroencephalography in competitive K1 kickboxers. A total of thirty-six male individuals were purposefully selected and then comparatively divided into two groups. The first group consisted of specialised K1 kickboxing athletes exhibiting a high level of sports performance (experimental group, n = 18, mean age: 29.83 ± 3.43), while the second group comprised healthy individuals not training competitively (control group, n = 18, mean age: 26.72 ± 1.77). Body composition assessment was performed in all participants before the main measurement process. Measurements were taken for kickboxers during the de-training period, after the sports competition phase. Quantitative electroencephalography of Delta, Theta, Alpha, sensimotor rhytm (SMR), Beta1 and Beta2 waves was performed using electrodes placed on nine measurement points (frontal: FzF3F4, central: CzC3C4, and parietal: PzP3P4) with open eyes. In the course of the analyses, it was found that the level of brain activity among the study population significantly differentiated the K1 formula competitors compared with the reference standards and the control group in selected measurement areas. For kickboxers, all results of the Delta amplitude activity in the area of the frontal lobe were significantly above the normative values for this wave. The highest value was recorded for the average value of the F3 electrode (left frontal lobe), exceeding the norm by 95.65%, for F4 by 74.45% and Fz by 50.6%, respectively. In addition, the Alpha wave standard value for the F4 electrode was exceeded by 14.6%. Normative values were found for the remaining wave amplitudes. Statistically significant differentiation of results, with a strong effect (d = 1.52-8.41), was shown for the activity of Delta waves of the frontal area and the central part of the parietal area (Fz,F3,F4,Cz-p < 0.001), Theta for the frontal area as well as the central and left parietal lobes (Fz,F3,F4-p < 0.001, Cz-p = 0.001, C3-p = 0.018; d = 1.05-3.18), Alpha for the frontal, parietal and occipital areas (for: Fz,F3-p < 0.001, F4-p = 0.036, Cz-p < 0.001, C3-p = 0.001, C4-p = 0.025, Pz-p = 0.010, P3-p < 0.001, P4-p = 0.038; d = 0.90-1.66), SMR for the central parietal and left occipital lobes (Cz-p = 0.043; d = 0.69, P3-p < 0.001; d = 1.62), Beta for the frontal area, occipital and central lobes and left parietal segment (Fz,F3-p < 0.001, F4-p = 0.008, Cz, C3, Pz, P3,P4-p < 0.001; d = 1.27-2.85) and Beta 2 for all measurement areas (Fz, F3, F4, Cz, C3, C4, Pz, P3, P4-p < 0.001; d = 1.90-3.35) among the study groups. Significantly higher results were shown in the kickboxer group compared to the control. In addition to problems with concentration or over-stimulation of neural structures, high Delta waves, with elevated Alpha, Theta and Beta 2 waves, can cause disorders in the limbic system and problems in the cerebral cortex.

Nonspecific Low Back Pain among Kyokushin Karate Practitioners.

Background and objective: Spinal pain is a common and growing problem, not only in the general population but also among athletes. Lifestyle, occupation, and incorrectly exerted effort have a significant impact on low back pain. To assess the prevalence of low back pain among those practicing Kyokushin karate, we take into account age, body weight, sex, length of karate experience, level of skill, and occupation. Materials and Methods: The study involved 100 people practicing Kyokushin karate, aged 18 to 44. A questionnaire developed for this study and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used. Results: The research showed the prevalence of low back pain among karate practitioners (55%), depending on age (R = -0.24; p = 0.015), body weight (χ2 = 16.7; p = 0.002), occupation (χ2 = 18.4; p = 0.0004), and overall length of karate experience (R = -0.28; p = 0.04). A correlation was also found between sex (χ2 = 22.3; p = 0.001), occupation (χ2 = 51; p = 0.0000), length of experience (R = -0,28; p = 0.04), karate skill level (R = 0.39; p = 0.003), and the intensity of pain defined using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Subjects with low back pain showed minimal (71%) and moderate (29%) disability according to the Oswestry index. Conclusions: Low back pain is common in karate practitioners and depends on age, weight, occupation, and length of karate experience. The intensity of low back pain is influenced by sex, occupation, overall length of training experience, and one's level of karate skill. Lumbar spine ailments reduce functionality and quality of life to a small degree. Karate practitioners seldom seek treatment for spinal pains, and only few use physiotherapy and pharmacology.

Correction: Warzecha, Z. et al. Protective Effect of Pretreatment with Acenocoumarol in Cerulein-Induced Acute Pancreatitis. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17, 1709.

We would like to submit the correction to our published paper [...].

Correction: Warzecha, Z., et al. Therapeutic Effect of Low Doses of Acenocoumarol in the Course of Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Rats. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18, 882.

We would like to submit this correction to our published paper [...].

Essential Role of Growth Hormone and IGF-1 in Therapeutic Effect of Ghrelin in the Course of Acetic Acid-Induced Colitis.

Previous studies have shown that ghrelin exhibits a protective and therapeutic effect in the gut. The aim of the present study was to examine whether administration of ghrelin affects the course of acetic acid-induced colitis and to determine what is the role of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in this effect. In sham-operated or hypophysectomized male Wistar rats, colitis was induced by enema with 1 mL of 3% solution of acetic acid. Saline or ghrelin (given at the dose of 8 nmol/kg/dose) was administered intraperitoneally twice a day. Seven days after colitis induction, rats were anesthetized and the severity of the colitis was assessed. Treatment with ghrelin reduced the area of colonic mucosa damage in pituitary-intact rat. This effect was associated with increase in serum levels of GH and IGF-1. Moreover, administration of ghrelin improved blood flow in colonic mucosa and mucosal cell proliferation, as well as reduced mucosal concentration of proinflammatory interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) and activity of myeloperoxidase. Hypophysectomy reduced serum levels of GH and IGF-1 and increased the area of colonic damage in rats with colitis. These effects were associated with additional reduction in mucosal blood follow and DNA synthesis when compared to pituitary-intact rats. Mucosal concentration of IL-1ß and mucosal activity of myeloperoxidase were maximally increased. Moreover, in hypophysectomized rats, administration of ghrelin failed to affect serum levels of GH or IGF-1, as well as the healing rate of colitis, mucosal cell proliferation, and mucosal concentration of IL-1ß, or activity of myeloperoxidase. We conclude that administration of ghrelin accelerates the healing of the acetic acid-induced colitis. Therapeutic effect of ghrelin in experimental colitis is mainly mediated by the release of endogenous growth hormone and IGF-1.

Therapeutic Effect of Low Doses of Acenocoumarol in the Course of Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Rats.

Intravascular activation of coagulation is observed in acute pancreatitis and is related to the severity of this inflammation. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of acenocoumarol therapy on the course of acute pancreatitis induced in male rats by pancreatic ischemia followed by reperfusion. Acenocoumarol at a dose of 50, 100, or 150 µg/kg/dose was administered intragastrically once a day, starting the first dose 24 h after the initiation of pancreatic reperfusion. RESULTS: Histological examination showed that treatment with acenocoumarol reduces pancreatic edema, necrosis, and hemorrhages in rats with pancreatitis. Moreover, the administration of acenocoumarol decreased pancreatic inflammatory infiltration and vacuolization of pancreatic acinar cells. These findings were accompanied with a reduction in the serum activity of lipase and amylase, concentration of interleukin-1ß, and plasma d-Dimer concentration. Moreover, the administration of acenocoumarol improved pancreatic blood flow and pancreatic DNA synthesis. Acenocoumarol given at a dose of 150 µg/kg/dose was the most effective in the treatment of early phase acute pancreatitis. However later, acenocoumarol given at the highest dose failed to exhibit any therapeutic effect; whereas lower doses of acenocoumarol were still effective in the treatment of acute pancreatitis. CONCLUSION: Treatment with acenocoumarol accelerates the recovery of ischemia/reperfusion-induced acute pancreatitis in rats.

Somatic Profile of the Elite Boulderers in Poland.

Ozimek, M, Krawczyk, M, Zadarko, E, Barabasz, Z, Ambrozy, T, Stanula, A, Mucha, DK, Jurczak, A, and Mucha, D. Somatic profile of the elite boulderers in Poland. J Strength Cond Res 31(4): 963-970, 2017-The study was designed to determine the values of selected somatic characteristics, body proportions, and the somatotype of elite bouldering climbers in Poland and to establish the relationships between the values of the somatic characteristics and climber's performance in bouldering. The study was conducted in a group of elite sport climbers (n = 10) who were ranked by the Polish Mountaineering Association in 2011, 2012, and 2013. The anthropometric measurements were made according to the relevant rules and standards. The results were used to calculate the values of somatic variables and body proportion indices for the climbers and to establish their somatotype. The results were compared with the data on untrained students (n = 165). The boulderers were found to differ significantly from the controls regarding body height (p < 0.01), body mass (p ≤ 0.05), body density (p < 0.01), fat mass percentage (FM%) (p < 0.01), fat mass (FMkg) (p < 0.01), lean body mass (p ≤ 0.05), arm span (p ≤ 0.05), and leg length (p < 0.01). Body proportions in the groups significantly differed in the arm length index (p < 0.01), arm-to-leg length ratio (p < 0.01), and in the indices of the forearm (p < 0.01), thigh (p < 0.01), and lower leg (p ≤ 0.05) muscles. With regard to the somatotypes of the analyzed groups, the biggest differences were observed for the levels of mesomorphy (NS) and endomorphy, the latter being statistically significant (p < 0.01). The strongest and significant correlations between the competitive level of the climbers and the values of their somatic characteristics were established for FM% (r = -0.81), fat mass (in kilograms) (r = -0.82), body density (r = 0.81), endomorphy (r = -0.74), arm length (r = 0.77), and the arm length index (r = 0.80). The results of linear regression showed that the competitive level of a bouldering climber was significantly explained (p < 0.01) by fat mass (in kilograms) and the value of the arm length index. A high level of performance in bouldering is related to small stature (an ecto-mesomorph somatotype) and a low body fat percentage (low endomorphy). Regarding body proportions, greater than average arm length to body height ratio and well-developed musculature of the limbs are required for a boulderer to perform on a competitive level. High arm length index and low body fat percentage represent the strongest determinants of performance in bouldering. It can be assumed that arm length index has a high diagnostic value for recruitment and selection of climbers.

Serum Soluble Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 1 (sFlt-1) Predicts the Severity of Acute Pancreatitis.

Organ failure is the most important determinant of the severity of acute pancreatitis (AP). Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) is positively associated with organ failure in sepsis. Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of automated sFlt-1 measurements for early prediction of AP severity. Adult patients (66) with AP were recruited, including 46 with mild (MAP), 15 with moderately-severe (MSAP) and 5 with severe AP (SAP). Serum and urine samples were collected twice. Serum sFlt-1 was measured with automated electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Serum concentrations of sFlt-1 were significantly higher in patients with MSAP and SAP as compared to MAP. SAP patients had the highest concentrations. At 24 and 48 h, sFlt-1 positively correlated with inflammatory markers (leukocyte count, C-reactive protein), kidney function (creatinine, urea, cystatin C, serum and urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, urine albumin/creatinine ratio), D-dimer and angiopoietin-2. sFlt-1 positively correlated with the bedside index of severity in AP (BISAP) score and the duration of hospital stay. Serum sFlt-1 above 139 pg/mL predicted more severe AP (MSAP + SAP). In the early phase of AP, sFlt-1 is positively associated with the severity of AP and predicts organ failure, in particular kidney failure. Serum sFlt-1 may be a practical way to improve early assessment of AP severity.

Protective Effect of Pretreatment with Acenocoumarol in Cerulein-Induced Acute Pancreatitis.

Coagulation is recognized as a key player in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The aim of the current research was to examine the effect of pretreatment with acenocoumarol on the development of acute pancreatitis (AP) evoked by cerulein. METHODS: AP was induced in rats by cerulein administered intraperitoneally. Acenocoumarol (50, 100 or 150 µg/kg/dose/day) or saline were given once daily for seven days before AP induction. RESULTS: In rats with AP, pretreatment with acenocoumarol administered at the dose of 50 or 100 µg/kg/dose/day improved pancreatic histology, reducing the degree of edema and inflammatory infiltration, and vacuolization of acinar cells. Moreover, pretreatment with acenocoumarol given at the dose of 50 or 100 µg/kg/dose/day reduced the AP-evoked increase in pancreatic weight, serum activity of amylase and lipase, and serum concentration of pro-inflammatory interleukin-1ß, as well as ameliorated pancreatic DNA synthesis and pancreatic blood flow. In contrast, acenocoumarol given at the dose of 150 µg/kg/dose did not exhibit any protective effect against cerulein-induced pancreatitis. CONCLUSION: Low doses of acenocoumarol, given before induction of AP by cerulein, inhibit the development of that inflammation.

The influence of a 12-week program of physical activity on changes in body composition and lipid and carbohydrate status in postmenopausal women.

INTRODUCTION: For years there have been studies on what kind of physical activity is optimal for maintaining proper health condition. Besides well known and approved endurance training of moderate intensity, an importance of interval exercise where short term, sudden intensification of work is performed at low endurance load is emphasized. The aim of the work was to assess the effects of a program of physical activity applied to postmenopausal women regarding improvement of their body composition and biochemical indices of lipid and carbohydrate status. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The program of physical activity contained 12-week trainings of Nordic walking (NW) and gymnastic-dance classes (G-D). The intensity of effort during the NW training was at the level of 60% HRmax, whereas intensity of G-D exercises was selected based on a subjective assessment of effort according to the scale of American College of Sports Medicine. RESULTS: The 12-week program of physical activity resulted in statistically significant lowering of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) fraction levels. An increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol level was observed, whereas the values of triacylglycerols (TG) did not change. The average fasting blood glucose level decreased significantly. Similar changes were noted for the insulin level. The analysed body biometrical-structural indices did not change significantly. CONCLUSIONS: The applied 12-week program of physical activity without changes of dietary habits contributed to an improvement in plasma lipid profile and an increased insulin sensitivity, but it did not affect significantly body composition.

Foot Placement in the Basic Position on the Start Block OSB12 of Young Competitive Swimmers.

BACKGROUND: The basic position on the starting block can influence the performance at the start, as it is the initial phase on which the other phases depend, as well as the swimming performance in sprint events in all swimming styles. The aim of our study is to analyze the effect of the foot in the base position on the block start on performance in the 5 m distance start. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifteen performance swimmers aged 17 ± 2 years were tested in their preferred wide and narrow starting positions, performing a total of six starts during which angular, temporal, and length changes were monitored in block, flight, and underwater phases. Fisher individual tests for differences of means were used to determine differences in kinematic parameters of the kick start to the 5 m distance. Differences in the position of the feet in kinematic parameters of the kick start to the 5 m distance were determined using the two-sample t-test with equal variance and effect size by Cohen's d. RESULTS: Swimmers were found to have significant differences (p < 0.05) between foot widths in block time (0.02 s), time to 2 m (0.05 s), flight and glide time and distance, maximal depth, and time to 5 m (0.08) in favor of the narrow baseline position. CONCLUSIONS: We recommend marking the center of the start block on the OSB or OSB platform for the competitors, as well as the center of the backrest, for better orientation and assuming the correct basic foot position on the start block.

The Impact of a 12-Week Aqua Fitness Program on the Physical Fitness of Women over 60 Years of Age.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess the impact of a 12-week Aqua Fitness program on the physical fitness of older women and emphasize sustainable health practices for aging populations. We focused on evaluating the program's effectiveness, using the Senior Fitness Test to measure improvements in physical capabilities. METHODS: An experimental research design was implemented, with 30 participants aged 60 and older. The participants were divided into a control group and an experimental group, each comprising 15 individuals. The control group received aqua Fitness exercises, and the experimental group received aqua fitness exercises and isometric (combined) exercises. Lower limb muscle strength, upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, upper body flexibility, dynamic balance, agility, and endurance were assessed using the Senior Fitness Test. Assessments were conducted pre- and post-training. RESULTS: For a comparison within the group, combined exercises (aqua fitness and isometric exercises) had a significant effect on lower limb muscle strength, upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, upper body flexibility on the right side, dynamic balance, agility, and endurance. Aqua fitness exercises alone showed significant effects on upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, and endurance and no significant effects on other variables. For the comparison between groups, no significant differences were found between the effects of aqua fitness exercises and combined exercises on lower limb muscle strength, upper limb muscle strength, lower body flexibility, upper body flexibility, and endurance. Significant differences were found only in dynamic balance and agility between the two groups of aqua fitness and combined exercises. CONCLUSIONS: Although the combined program (aqua fitness and isometric exercises) had a greater effect on improving the physical fitness of older adults than aqua fitness alone, there was no significant difference between the two groups. Therefore, the results of this study highlight the potential of aqua fitness in promoting sustainable health and physical fitness in the older adult population.

Effect of Various Hydration Strategies on Work Intensity and Selected Physiological Indices in Young Male Athletes during Prolonged Physical Exercise at High Ambient Temperatures.

Background: In high temperatures, adequate hydration is vital for sustained physical exercise. This study explores the effect of three hydration strategies on physiological indices and work intensity. Methods: The research involved 12 healthy males who engaged in three test series, each separated by a one-week interval. During the trials, participants underwent a 120 min cycling session in a thermal climate chamber (temperature: 31 ± 2 °C, humidity: 60 ± 3%, air movement: <1 m/s). Measurements of rectal temperature (Tre) and heart rate (HR), and assessment of subjective workload perception, and thermal comfort were made both before and during the exercise. The computation of the physical strain index (PSI) relied on Tre and HR values. Three hydration strategies (isotonic drink, water, and no hydration) were administered before, during, and after the exercise. Results: Regardless of the hydration strategy, the participants' mean body mass decreased as a result of the exercise. Statistically significant differences in HR were observed between the no-hydration and water groups (p < 0.036). The mean PSI values significantly varied between hydration strategies, with the no hydration group exhibiting a higher PSI compared to the isotonic drink or water groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: All hydration strategies contribute to thermoregulatory processes and mitigate the rise in internal body temperature during sustained physical exercise in elevated ambient temperatures.

Effectiveness of high-fat and high-carbohydrate diets on body composition and maximal strength after 15 weeks of resistance training.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to compare High Carbohydrates Low Fat (HCLF) and Low Carbohydrate High Fat (LCHF) diets in terms of changes in body composition and maximal strength. PATIENTS/METHODS: The study involved 48 men aged 25 â€‹± â€‹2.5, divided into two groups, one of which (n â€‹= â€‹23) was following the LCHF diet and the other (n â€‹= â€‹25) the HCLF diet. Both groups performed the same resistance training protocol for 15 weeks. Maximal strength in squat, bench press and deadlift was assessed pre- and post-intervention. Measurements of selected body circumferences and tissue parameters were made using the multifunctional, multi-frequency, direct bioelectric impedance InBody 770 analyzer from InBody Co., Ltd (Cerritos, California, USA). The team with the necessary qualifications and experience in research performed all the measurements and maintained participants' oversight throughout the entire length of the study. RESULTS: Both nutritional approaches were effective in terms of reducing body fat mass. The HCLF group achieved greater skeletal muscle hypertrophy. Significant decreases in body circumferences, especially in the abdominal area, were observed for both dietary approaches. Maximal strength significantly increased in the HCLF group and decreased in the LCHF group. CONCLUSION: Holistic analysis of the results led to the conclusion that both dietary approaches may elicit positive adaptations in body composition. The two approaches constitute useful alternatives for both recreational exercisers and physique athletes with body composition goals.

The Use of Neurofeedback in Sports Training: Systematic Review.

Biofeedback training is a method commonly used in various fields of life, for example, in medicine, sports training or business. In recent studies, it has been shown that biofeedback, and neurofeedback, can affect the performance of professional athletes. Training based on the neurofeedback method includes exercising the brain waves. The aim of the article is to evaluate the influence of neurofeedback training on the physical fitness of professional athletes representing various sports disciplines, such as judo, volleyball and soccer. Based on 10 scientific papers from various sources, including PubMed, the latest research on neurofeedback and its impact on athletes has been reviewed. On the basis of the literature review from 2012 to 2022 on the neurofeedback method in sports training, it can be stated that this type of practice has a significant impact on physical fitness and sports performance. This review comprised 10 research studies with 491 participants in the neurofeedback groups, and 62 participants in the control group. Two reviewers independently extracted data and evaluated the quality of the studies utilising the PEDro scale. Properly planned and conducted neurofeedback training affects stimulation and improvement of many variables (reducing stress levels, increasing the ability to self-control physiological factors, enhancing behavioural efficiency and meliorating the speed of reaction to a stimulus).

The Use of Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) to Assess Post-COVID-19 Concentration Disorders in Professional Pilots: An Initial Concept.

Announced by WHO in 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has affected many people, leading to serious health consequences. These consequences are observed in the daily lives of infected patients as various dysfunctions and limitations. More and more people are suffering post-COVID-19 complications that interfere with or completely prevent them from working or even functioning independently on a daily basis. The aim of our study was to demonstrate that innovative quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) can be used to assess cognitive function disorders reported after the COVID-19 pandemic. It is worth noting that no similar study has been conducted to date in a group of pilots. The QEEG method we used is currently one of the basic neurological examinations, enabling easy observation of post-COVID-19 changes in the nervous system. With the innovativeness of this technique, our study shows that the use of quantitative electroencephalography can be a precursor in identifying complications associated with cognitive function disorders after COVID-19. Our study was conducted on twelve 26-year-old pilots. All participants had attended the same flight academy and had contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection. The pilots began to suspect COVID-19 infection when they developed typical symptoms such as loss of smell and taste, respiratory problems, and rapid fatigue. Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG), which is one of the most innovative forms of diagnostics, was used to diagnose the patients. Comparison of the results between the study and control groups showed significantly higher values of all measurements of alpha, theta, and beta2 waves in the study group. In the case of the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR), the measurement results were significantly higher in the control group compared to the study group. Our study, conducted on pilots who had recovered from COVID-19, showed changes in the amplitudes of brain waves associated with relaxation and concentration. The results confirmed the issues reported by pilots as evidenced by the increased amplitudes of alfa, theta, and beta2 waves. It should be emphasized that the modern diagnostic method (QEEG) presented here has significant importance in the medical diagnosis of various symptoms and observation of treatment effects in individuals who have contracted the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The present study demonstrated an innovative approach to the diagnosis of neurological complications after COVID-19.

Comparison of Head Strike Incidence under K1 Rules of Kickboxing with and without Helmet Protection-A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Kickboxing is a combat sport that encompasses various forms of competition. K1 kickboxing is conducted without any restrictions on the force of strikes, and the bout can end prematurely through a knockout. Headgear has been introduced in amateur kickboxing to safeguard the head. However, scientific studies have shown that despite their use, serious head injuries can still occur. The aim of this study was to evaluate the temporal structure of the bout by calculating the number of head strikes in K1 kickboxing bouts with and without headgear. METHODS: Thirty K1 kickboxing bouts were analyzed, with 30 participants included in the study. The fights were conducted according to the World Association Kickboxing Organization (WAKO) rules. The bouts consisted of three rounds of 2 min each, with a 1 min break between rounds. Sparring pairs were arranged according to weight categories. The first bouts were conducted without headgear, and two weeks later, the fights were repeated with WAKO-approved headgear. The number of head strikes was assessed retrospectively by analyzing video recordings of the bouts, categorizing strikes as hand or foot strikes, and differentiating between strikes that hit the head directly or indirectly. RESULTS: The results showed statistically significant differences between bouts with and without headgear in terms of the number of strikes to the head (p = 0.002), strikes directly to the head (p < 0.001), all hand strikes to the head (p = 0.001), hand strikes directly to the head (p = 0.003), and foot strikes directly to the head (p = 0.03). Higher values were observed in bouts with headgear. CONCLUSIONS: Headgear increases the probability of direct strikes to the head. Therefore, it is important to familiarize kickboxers with the use of headgear in their sport to minimize head injuries.

Nutritional Status, Intentions and Motivations towards Adopting a Planetary Health Diet-A Cross-Sectional Study.

The planetary health diet is a proposition of a diet that is healthy for both people and the environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the nutritional behaviours among people who follow the planetary health diet and those who do not and assess the source of motivation that drives a willingness to follow sustainable diet guidelines. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data were collected from Polish adult volunteers. For analysis, respondents were divided into the following two groups: those following a planetary health diet (PD) and those who were not (O). Of the 216 respondents, 39.4% followed the PD. Non-adherence to the PD was linked to a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. Taste was the most important factor for both groups during grocery shopping. However, sustainable agriculture and the health benefits of products were significantly more important for the PD followers. It can be concluded that adherence to the planetary diet is associated with lower body mass. This highlights the need for increased awareness and education about a diet's health benefits and environmental impact.