The interaction of genetics and physical activity in the pathogenesis of metabolic dysfunction associated liver disease.

Genetic variants associated with increased liver fat and volume have been reported, but whether physical activity (PA) can attenuate the impact of genetic susceptibility to these traits is poorly understood. We aimed to investigate whether higher PA modify genetic impact on liver-related traits in the UK Biobank cohort. PA was self-reported, while magnetic resonance images were used to estimate liver fat (n = 27,243) and liver volume (n = 24,752). Metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease (MASLD) and chronic liver disease (CLD) were diagnosed using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes. Ten liver fat and eleven liver volume-associated genetic variants were selected and unweighted genetic-risk scores for liver fat (GRSLF) and liver volume (GRSLV) were computed. Linear regression analyses were performed to explore interactions between GRSLF/ GRSLV and PA in relation to liver-related traits. Association between GRSLF and liver fat was not different among lower (ß = 0.063, 95% CI 0.041-0.084) versus higher PA individuals (ß = 0.065, 95% CI 0.054-0.077, pinteraction = 0.62). The association between the GRSLV and liver volume was not different across different PA groups (pinteraction = 0.71). Similarly, PA did not modify the effect of GRSLF and GRSLV on MASLD or CLD. Our findings show that physical activity and genetic susceptibility to liver-related phenotypes seem to act independently, benefiting all individuals regardless of genetic risk.

Physical activity is predictive of conditioned pain modulation in healthy individuals: a cross-sectional study.

Even in healthy populations, conditioned pain modulation (CPM) magnitude varies. This may be accounted for by (non-)modifiable factors, including physical activity. Yet, little research has thoroughly examined physical activity and its relation with CPM magnitude in a representative sample. Therefore, the present study investigated the predictive effect of physical activity on CPM magnitude in 105 healthy adults. Physical activity was assessed during seven consecutive days by self-report using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and by monitored-based accelerometry. CPM was examined using a heterotopic noxious conditioning stimulation protocol during which the effect of a hot water conditioning stimulus on pressure pain thresholds was evaluated. Comparative, correlation, and hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed. Report-based walking predicts 4.8% of variance in pain modulatory capacity, moderate physical activity predicts 10.2% of variance in pain modulatory capacity, and report-based time spent on total physical activity predicts 7.0% of variance in pain modulatory capacity. More MET-minutes/week spent on total physical activity, including walking and moderate physical activity is associated with greater pain modulatory capacity. The findings of this study add to the limited evidence on the predictive effect of physical activity on CPM. It urges to consider physical activity a confounding factor when examining CPM. The current study provides evidence that a physically active lifestyle benefits endogenous pain modulation in healthy adults. Given its potential, walking and moderate-intensity physical activity might be achievable treatment strategies for pain patients known to have impaired CPM. PERSPECTIVE: The results of this article show that a physically active lifestyle including larger amounts of walking and moderate activity predict greater pain modulatory capacity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study has not been preregistered.

Lower perceived stress among physically active elite private university students with higher levels of gratitude.

Elite private universities have high stress levels, particularly for underrepresented populations. While physical activity and gratitude can both reduce stress, independent effects from gratitude and interaction effects between physical activity and gratitude on stress are insufficiently explored. Our study investigated these effects among undergraduates at elite private universities. Undergraduates (n = 145) completed an online survey in Fall 2022. Moderate-high physical activity levels were reported by 96.19% of the sample. No significant interaction effect between physical activity and gratitude was seen nor a significant main effect of physical activity on perceived stress. A significant main effect of gratitude on perceived stress [F (2, 99) = 16.732, p < .001, ω2 = .253] was found with higher perceived stress among participants with low compared to moderate (p = .001) or high gratitude (p < .001). Gratitude exerted an independent, significant effect on perceived stress among elite university undergraduates and could be used as an additional healthy coping mechanism along with physical activity to combat stress.

Effect of a 12-Week High-Calorie-Expenditure Multimodal Exercise Program on Health Indices in Women With Overweight: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: High-calorie-expenditure training is common among endurance athletes and is an effective strategy for weight loss. Although many training protocols include walking, running, cycling, and swimming according to a target heart rate, there is limited research on high-calorie-expenditure interventions with multimodal training programs using quantitative methods. OBJECTIVE: The aims of this research protocol are to (1) develop a high-calorie-expenditure training program to cover target calorie expenditure according to the trainability of women classified as overweight (according to a BMI of 25-29.9 kg/m2); (2) determine the effect of high-calorie-expenditure workouts on conditioning, glycemic variables, and body composition; and (3) evaluate the implementation of the intervention and results in comparison with outcomes obtained under a standard-calorie-expenditure training program. METHODS: This is a randomized controlled trial with a pretest-posttest design. Participants include 33 women with a BMI in the overweight range (25-29.9) allocated to three groups: two intervention groups and one control group. The intervention will be conducted for 12 weeks. Participants in the first group will be assigned an exercise program with high energy expenditure of approximately 3000-3500 kilocalories/week in the form of 5 sessions per week with an intensity of 50%-75% maximum oxygen rate (VO2 max) and 60%-80% target heart rate. The second group will be assigned an exercise program with a standard energy expenditure of approximately 1200-1500 kilocalories/week with 3 sessions per week at an intensity of 60%-75% VO2 max, according to The American College of Sports Medicine guideline. The effects of the multimodal training program with daily tasks will be compared to those of the standard-calorie-expenditure and control (no exercise) conditions with respect to changes in glycemic indices and body composition. Daily calories will be calculated through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and using Nutrition 4 software. RESULTS: Preliminary results show significant weight loss in both the high- and standard-calorie-expenditure groups (P=.003). Significant improvements were also found in muscle percentage (P=.05) and BMI (P=.05) for the high-calorie-expenditure group. Analyses are ongoing for glycemic indices, inflammation factors, and blood parameters. CONCLUSIONS: High-calorie-expenditure training can cause further weight loss than standard exercise, which can eventually lead to greater fat mass reduction and improvement in glycemic indices. These results demonstrate that, in some cases, it may be necessary to increase the activity of women and use multimodal exercise programs with increased volume and intensity to increase the expenditure of exercise and daily activity. We found a net effect of exercise and daily activity at the individual level, whereas the daily lifestyle and physical behaviors of the participants remained constant. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20220202053916N1; https://tinyurl.com/c8jxfw36. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/51599.

Physical activity in relation to metabolic health and obesity: The Feel4Diabetes study.

AIM: To examine physical activity levels in association with metabolic health and estimate the stability of metabolically healthy obese (MHO) phenotypes over a 2-year period. METHODS: In total, 2848 men and women from families at risk of the development of diabetes were recruited. Participants were classified as obese or non-obese and metabolic health was defined using five existing definitions. Physical activity was estimated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and pedometers. RESULTS: Prevalence of the MHO phenotype varied among definitions (0% to 20.2%). Overall, the MHO were more active than the metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO). Daily sitting hours (odds ratio [OR] = 1.055, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.009-1.104) and daily steps (per 500; OR = 0.934, 95% CI: 0.896-0.973) were remarkable predictors of metabolic health in individuals with obesity; and likewise, in individuals without obesity. After 2 years, 44.1% of baseline MHO adults transitioned to MUO, while 84.0% of the MUO at baseline remained at the same phenotype. Although physical activity was not a major determinant in phenotype transitioning, daily steps were associated with the maintenance of metabolic health over time in the non-obese group. CONCLUSION: A universally accepted definition for MHO is needed. Being physically active can contribute to a metabolically healthy profile even in the presence of obesity; still, MHO is a transient condition and physical activity alone may not be an adequate factor for its maintenance.

Dose-response associations between physical activity and sedentary time with functional disability in older adults with or without frailty: a prospective cohort study.

Purpose: Evidence regarding the dose-response curve shapes of physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (ST) in older adults with functional disability (FD) is extremely limited. Moreover, these associations may differ depending on with/without frailty. We examined the dose-response associations between moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and ST with FD among older adults with/without frailty. Methods: We included 7,480 initially nondisabled adults (3,795 men and 3,685 women) aged 65-84 years in Ota City, Tokyo, Japan. MVPA and ST were evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. FD was prospectively identified using a nationally unified database of the long-term care insurance system. Frailty was determined using Check-List 15, validated against Fried's frailty criteria. Multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of MVPA and ST for FD were calculated, and dose-response curves were examined using restricted cubic splines. Results: During 3.6 years of follow-up, 1,001 (13.4%) participants had FD. Among all participants, compared with no MVPA, the HRs for FD reduced linearly up to approximately 2000 metabolic equivalents (METs)■min/week of MVPA, and the lowest HR (HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.51-0.74) was reached at around 3,000-4,000 METs■min/week. Although the shape of this association was consistent regardless of with/without frailty, the magnitude of the association tended to be stronger in frail older adults than in non-frail older adults. Compared with those for the median (300 min/day) of ST, the HRs for FD increased linearly as ST reached approximately 600 min/day or more, independent of MVPA, with a maximum HR of 1.31 (95% CI: 1.01-1.71) for 1,080 min/day among all participants. This association was more pronounced among non-frail older adults but not statistically significant among frail older adults. Conclusion: Higher MVPA levels consistently reduced the incidence of FD regardless of frailty in a significant inverse nonlinear dose-response manner. A significant positive nonlinear dose-response association between ST and FD risk was identified among non-frail older adults but not among frail older adults. Increasing MVPA and reducing prolonged ST are important for preventing FD among non-frail older adults. However, reducing ST alone may be insufficient; increasing MVPA, even if by only small increments, is highly recommended for frail older adults.

Sagittal spinal curvatures of young adults in the context of their self-reported physical activity and somatic parameters.

The objective of this study was to assess the thoracic kyphosis (ThKA) and lumbar lordosis (LLA) in healthy young adults and to investigate potential relationships between spinal curvatures, self-reported physical activity (PA), and somatic parameters. The study included 380 female students and 211 male students aged 20.7 ± 1.5 years. The ThKA and LLA were measured using a Plurimeter-V gravity inclinometer. The level of PA was estimated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. ThKA was lower in women compared to men, while LLA was higher in women than in men (p < 0.0001). Female students reported lower PA than male students (p < 0.001). Female students with ThKA within normal values reported a significantly higher amount of low-intensity PA compared to those with ThKA below or above the norm. A correlation was found between ThKA and body mass index (BMI), body adiposity index (BAI), WC, and fat percentage (rho < 0.2), whereas LLA showed correlations with BMI, BAI, waist circumference, and fat percentage (rho < 0.2). Among male students, a correlation was found between LLA and BMI as well as WC (rho < 0.2). Maintaining a healthy body composition may be instrumental in mitigating the risk of developing spinal curvature abnormalities.

An Assessment of Physical Activity and Risk Factors in People Living with Dementia: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study in a Long-Term Care Facility in Vietnam.

BACKGROUND: People living with dementia (PLWD) may experience substantial cognitive decline as the disease progresses, which interferes with their daily activities. This study aimed to assess physical activity (PA) performance and care dependency (CD) and identify factors related to PA among PLWD. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in 63 PLWD from National Geriatrics Hospital, Vietnam, from 2021 to 2023. We used the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and Care Dependency Scale (CDS) to assess the nutritional status and the levels of PA and CD, respectively. We used the Mann-Whitney test to compare the differences in the PA types and CD levels between dementia levels and a multivariable logistics regression model to analyze factors related to PA. RESULTS: More than half of the subjects had mild dementia. In total, 35% of the PLWD had a low level of PA, and 46.3% were completely independent of care. The mean score in each CDS aspect of the subjects with moderate/severe dementia was statistically significantly lower than that of those with mild dementia (p ≤ 0.05). Lower dependency (OR = 0.9; 95% CI = 0.88-0.99) and malnutrition (OR = 15.4; 95% CI = 1.18-20.21) were associated with insufficient PA in the PLWD. CONCLUSION: Formal caregivers and healthcare workers should encourage PLWD to perform physical activities at any level and personalize the development of tailored and nutritional care strategies for each individual.

Profiling the patient with inflammatory bowel disease in the relationship between physical activity and partner/social network status: A post hoc patient-tailored analysis of the "BE-FIT-IBD" study.

INTRODUCTION: Normal quality of life is an ultimate target in the therapeutic approach to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) in the context of which regular physical activity (PA) is often a chimeric parameter that is not standardized in terms of quality/quantity. The study aimed to profile a sample of IBD patients about the relationship between PA-partner status and social network support. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A post hoc analysis of the "BE-FIT-IBD" study was set up by stratifying the data of PA with that of partner status and the support that the patient's social network (i.e., relatives, friends) provided in inciting the patient to practice regular PA. RESULTS: In the 219 patients included, there was a greater tendency for patients with stable partners to view the risk of reactivation/worsening of IBD as a barrier to conducting regular PA (p<0.0001). Single patients considered PA more as a protective factor (p=0.045). Patients without a PA-supporting social network retained IBD-related treatment as a PA barrier (p=0.016) and PA as a risk for IBD complications (p=0.01), with less confidence that PA could improve the course of IBD (p<0.001). Rectal syndrome was an IBD-related barrier more represented in patients with PA-deterring social network (p<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: These factors are potential targets for recovering the IBD patient's adherence to regular PA.

The association between physical activity and quality of life among people aged 60-89 living in own homes and nursing homes.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to obtain a response to the question of whether and how physical activity (PA) among people aged 60-89 years impacts quality of life and other sociodemographic characteristics (sex, age and place of living). METHODS: Among 341 respondents aged 60 to 89, including 273 women (80%) and 68 men (20%) successfully completed IPAQ and WHOQOL AGE questionnaires. In the study were used International Physical Activity Questionnaire - IPAQ and World Health Organization Quality Of Life - Age - WHOQOL-AGE in Polish version. RESULTS: The average total physical activity, including vigorous-intensity physical effort, moderate-intensity physical effort and walking amounts to 1381.87 ± 1978.60 MET-min/week. The average quality of life for the whole group of older people as evaluated with WHOQOL AGE scale was 64.79 (SD = 14.76; min:18.77-max: 98.07). Statistical analysis between physical activity and life quality proved significant dependence for the global life quality rating (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our research has shown that PA improves quality of life among older people. Higher scores of quality of life were obtained in the F1 subscale (satisfaction) than in the F2 subscale (meeting expectations) in both age groups. Age significantly affects quality of life for older people.

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CONNECTIONS BETWEEN SCREENS AND MOVEMENT, SEDENTARY BEHAVIOR, PHYSICAL (IN)ACTIVITY AND HEALTH HABITS / CONEXIONES EPIDEMIOLÓGICAS ENTRE PANTALLAS Y MOVIMIENTO, COMPORTAMIENTO SEDENTARIO, (IN)ACTIVIDAD FÍSICA Y HÁBITOS DE SALUD / CONEXÕES EPIDEMIOLÓGICAS ENTRE TELAS E MOVIMENTO, COMPORTAMENTO SEDENTÁRIO, (IN)ATIVIDADE FÍSICA E HÁBITOS DE SAÚDE

This study analyzed physical activity patterns, sedentary behaviors and exposure to screens in students from four school units in Rio de Janeiro. The objective was to provide insights for the development of health promotion strategies through physical activities and sports (AFES). Using the IPAQ questionnaire, data were collected from 1668 students, with an average age of approximately 13.8 years from all grades of primary and secondary education. Statistical tests were used for analysis. The results indicated that students walked, on average, more than 10 minutes per day on 4 days (male) and 3 days (female), with 75 minutes (male) and 69 minutes (female) of daily walking, respectively. The average of moderate activities was 91 minutes per day, while vigorous activities totaled, on average, 126 minutes (male) and 71 minutes (female). Significant sex differences were observed in daily walking, moderate and vigorous activities, and weekly inactivity time. Variations were also identified between school units, indicating differences in the application of AFES. The positive and significant correlation between the total number of days and the time of vigorous activities (ρ = 0.65; p ≤ 0.05) highlights the importance of different strategies. With regard to inactivity and exposure to screens, the average time during the week was 574 minutes, while on weekends it was 510 minutes. These results contribute to direct health promotion policies, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches for students in Rio de Janeiro.

Este estudio analizó patrones de actividad física, conductas sedentarias y exposición a pantallas en estudiantes de cuatro unidades escolares de Río de Janeiro. El objetivo fue proporcionar conocimientos para el desarrollo de estrategias de promoción de la salud a través de actividades físicas y deportivas (AFES). Utilizando el cuestionario IPAQ, se recogieron datos de 1668 estudiantes, con una edad promedio de aproximadamente 13,8 años, de todos los grados de educación primaria y secundaria. Se utilizaron pruebas estadísticas para el análisis. Los resultados indicaron que los estudiantes caminaron, en promedio, más de 10 minutos por día durante 4 días (hombres) y 3 días (mujeres), con 75 minutos (hombres) y 69 minutos (mujeres) de caminata diaria, respectivamente. El promedio de actividades moderadas fue de 91 minutos por día, mientras que las actividades vigorosas sumaron, en promedio, 126 minutos (hombres) y 71 minutos (mujeres). Se observaron diferencias de sexo significativas en la caminata diaria, las actividades moderadas y vigorosas y el tiempo de inactividad semanal. También se identificaron variaciones entre unidades escolares, lo que indica diferencias en la aplicación de AFES. La correlación positiva y significativa entre el número total de días y el tiempo de actividades vigorosas (ρ = 0,65; p ≤ 0,05) resalta la importancia de diferentes estrategias. En cuanto a la inactividad y exposición a pantallas, el tiempo medio entre semana fue de 574 minutos, mientras que los fines de semana fue de 510 minutos. Estos resultados contribuyen a políticas directas de promoción de la salud, enfatizando la necesidad de enfoques personalizados para los estudiantes de Río de Janeiro.

Este estudo analisou os padrões de atividade física, comportamentos sedentários e exposição a telas em estudantes de quatro unidades escolares no Rio de Janeiro. O objetivo foi fornecer insights para o desenvolvimento de estratégias de promoção da saúde através de atividades físicas e esportes (AFES). Utilizando o questionário IPAQ, foram coletados dados de 1668 estudantes, com idade média de aproximadamente 13.8 anos de todas as séries do ensino fundamental e médio. Testes estatísticos foram empregados para análise. Os resultados indicaram que os estudantes caminharam, em média, mais de 10 minutos por dia em 4 dias (masculino) e 3 dias (feminino), com 75 minutos (masculino) e 69 minutos (feminino) de caminhada diária, respectivamente. A média de atividades moderadas foi de 91 minutos por dia, enquanto as atividades vigorosas totalizaram, em média, 126 minutos (masculino) e 71 minutos (feminino). Diferenças significativas entre sexos foram observadas na caminhada diária, atividades moderadas e vigorosas, além do tempo de inatividade semanal. Variações também foram identificadas entre as unidades escolares, indicando diferenças na aplicação das AFES. A correlação positiva e significativa entre o total de dias e o tempo de atividades vigorosas (ρ = 0.65; p ≤ 0.05) destaca a importância de estratégias diferenciadas. No que diz respeito à inatividade e exposição a telas, a média de tempo durante a semana foi de 574 minutos, enquanto nos finais de semana foi de 510 minutos. Esses resultados contribuem para direcionar políticas de promoção da saúde, enfatizando a necessidade de abordagens personalizadas para estudantes no Rio de Janeiro.

Epidemiological Connections between Screens and Movement: Navigating Sedentary Behavior, Physical (In)Activity and Health Habits in Schoolchildren in Rio de Janeiro / Conexiones epidemiológicas entre pantallas y movimiento: Navegando por el comportamiento sedentario, la (in)actividad física y los hábitos de salud en escolares de Río de Janeiro / Conexões Epidemiológicas entre Telas e Movimento: Navegando por Comportamento Sedentário, (In)Atividade Física e Hábitos de Saúde em Escolares do Rio de Janeiro

The study investigated physical activity habits, sedentary behaviors and exposure to screens in students from four school units in Rio de Janeiro, from a private educational institution, considering WHO guidelines. The research arises in response to the existing gap in understanding these patterns, given the lack of specific studies on schoolchildren in the region. Amid global concern about sedentary lifestyle, understanding specific patterns among students becomes crucial to developing effective strategies. The observational and exploratory study used the IPAQ questionnaire to collect data on physical activity and sports (AFES), as well as sedentary behaviors in 1668 students from four private school units. Statistical analysis, including Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis, sought to understand differences between sexes and school units. The results revealed an average of 4 days of walking of more than 10 minutes for males and 3 days for females. The average number of days performing moderate activities was 3, with males dedicating, on average, 100 minutes, and females 84 minutes. As for vigorous activities, both sexes had an average of 3 days, with males reporting 126 minutes and females 71 minutes. The total time of weekly physical activity was 260 minutes on average, with small variations between genders.With regard to inactivity and exposure to screens, the average time during the week was 574 minutes, while on weekends it was 510 minutes. Significant differences between sexes were evident in daily walking, moderate and vigorous activities, and sitting time during the week. Furthermore, there were variations between school units. The positive and significant correlation between the total number of days and the time of vigorous activities highlights the importance of differentiated strategies. These results provide valuable insights to guide health promotion policies, highlighting the need for personalized and contextualized approaches for this specific population.

El estudio investigó hábitos de actividad física, conductas sedentarias y exposición a pantallas en estudiantes de cuatro unidades escolares de Río de Janeiro, de una institución educativa privada, considerando directrices de la OMS. La investigación surge como respuesta al vacío existente en la comprensión de estos patrones, ante la falta de estudios específicos en escolares de la región. En medio de la preocupación mundial por el estilo de vida sedentario, comprender patrones específicos entre los estudiantes se vuelve crucial para desarrollar estrategias efectivas. El estudio observacional y exploratorio utilizó el cuestionario IPAQ para recolectar datos sobre actividad física y deporte (AFES), así como sobre conductas sedentarias en 1668 estudiantes de cuatro unidades escolares privadas. Los análisis estadísticos, incluidos Mann-Whitney y Kruskal-Wallis, buscaron comprender las diferencias entre sexos y unidades escolares. Los resultados revelaron una media de 4 días de caminata de más de 10 minutos para los hombres y de 3 días para las mujeres. La media de días realizando actividades moderadas fue de 3, dedicando los hombres una media de 100 minutos y las mujeres 84 minutos. En cuanto a las actividades vigorosas, ambos sexos tuvieron un promedio de 3 días, siendo los hombres 126 minutos y las mujeres 71 minutos. El tiempo total de actividad física semanal fue de 260 minutos en promedio, con pequeñas variaciones entre géneros. En cuanto a la inactividad y exposición a pantallas, el tiempo medio entre semana fue de 574 minutos, mientras que los fines de semana fue de 510 minutos. Se evidenciaron diferencias significativas entre sexos en la caminata diaria, las actividades moderadas y vigorosas y el tiempo sentado durante la semana. Además, hubo variaciones entre las unidades escolares. La correlación positiva y significativa entre el número total de días y el tiempo de actividades vigorosas resalta laimportancia de las estrategias diferenciadas. Estos resultados proporcionan información valiosa para orientar las políticas de promoción de la salud, destacando la necesidad de enfoques personalizados y contextualizados para esta población específica.

O estudo investigou os hábitos de atividade física, comportamentos sedentários e exposição a telas em estudantes de quatro unidades escolares no Rio de Janeiro, de uma instituição de ensino privada, considerando as diretrizes da OMS. A pesquisa surge em resposta à lacuna existente na compreensão desses padrões, dada a falta de estudos específicos sobre escolares na região. Em meio à preocupação global com o sedentarismo, a compreensão dos padrões específicos entre estudantes torna-se crucial para desenvolver estratégias eficazes. O estudo, observacional e exploratório, utilizou o questionário IPAQ para coletar dados sobre atividade física e esportivas (AFES), bem como comportamentos sedentários em 1668 estudantes de quatro unidades escolares privadas. A análise estatística, incluindo Mann-Whitney e Kruskal-Wallis, buscou entender as diferenças entre sexos e unidades escolares. Os resultados revelaram uma média de 4 dias de caminhada de mais de 10 minutos para o sexo masculino e 3 dias para o feminino. A média de dias realizando atividades moderadas foi de 3, com o sexo masculino dedicando, em média, 100 minutos, e o feminino 84 minutos. Quanto às atividades vigorosas, ambos os sexos tiveram média de 3 dias, com o sexo masculino relatando 126 minutos e o feminino 71 minutos. O tempo total de atividade física semanal foi de 260 minutos em média, com pequenas variações entre sexos. No que diz respeito à inatividade e exposição a telas, a média de tempo durante a semana foi de 574 minutos, enquanto nos finais de semana foi de 510 minutos. As diferenças significativas entre sexos foram evidenciadas na caminhada diária, atividades moderadas e vigorosas, e tempo sentado durante a semana. Além disso, houve variações entre as unidades escolares. A correlação positiva e significativa entre o total de dias e o tempo de atividades vigorosas destaca a importância de estratégias diferenciadas. Esses resultados proporcionam insights valiosos para orientar políticas de promoção da saúde, destacando a necessidade de abordagens personalizadas e contextualizadas para essa população específica. 

Comparison of the level of physical activity after the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with limited physical activity (PA) of most of the world's population. This cross-sectional prospective study aimed to assess the levels of PA of university students in Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia after COVID-19 using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF). METHODS: A total of 2635 students completed questionnaires regarding their PA levels using the IPAQ-SF between September and December 2022. RESULTS: PA measured by metabolic equivalent of task (MET) scores, varied between the three countries: Slovakia median MET-minutes/week score 4459.9; Czech Republic 3838.8 Poland 3567.1. The results of the post hoc analysis revealed there were significant differences in MET-minutes/week values between the Czech Republic and Poland (p < 0.035) as well as between the Czech Republic and Slovakia (p < 0.037). The analysis of energetic expenditure during walking revealed that students from the Czech Republic and Slovakia had higher median MET-min/weeks values (Czech 2284.1; Slovak 2467.1) compared to their Polish (1536.1) peers (p < 0.001). Polish cohort presented with significantly higher body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001) than Czech and Slovak groups (BMI Czech: 22.3; Slovak 22.8; Polish 23.8). CONCLUSIONS: Significant differences in PA levels between the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia university students were identified. Slovakia showed the highest median PA measured as a MET score, and Poland showed the lowest. Compared to available pre-COVID studies it seems the total level of PA in the observed cohorts has not returned to the pre-COVID levels and students remain less active.

Physical Activity and Health of Middle-Aged and Older Japanese Across the COVID-19 Pandemic: Differential Outcomes Highlight a Problematic Life Stage.

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 caused major disruptions across the super-aged nation of Japan, yet few studies explored temporal changes among middle-aged and older cohorts from baseline to the height of community transmission. Changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior during global pandemics may alter patterns of morbidity and mortality among susceptible aging populations. OBJECTIVES: This study investigated patterns of physical activity, sitting behavior, and health among representative samples of middle-aged and older adults in Tokyo before and during the pandemic. METHODS: Repeated online surveys were conducted with quota samples of 800 Tokyo residents in 2019 and 2021 using validated Japanese-language measures, including the short form-International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Basic Ecological Health Scale-6. Statistical analyses included comparative evaluations of activity parameters by age cohort, gender, and selected covariates. Statistical tests included the Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test for Independence and Hierarchical Regression. RESULTS: Over 34% of respondents were inactive at each data collection point, and 72% reported negative impacts of COVID-19 on their physical activities. Older adults showed no significant changes in their activity and sitting behavior and reported better health compared with those in middle age across the pandemic. Middle-aged males reported a significant decline in total activity of 33% across the pandemic period (U = 16,958, z = -2.64, p = .008, r = .13). Middle-aged females reported the lowest levels of physical activity, and health, and showed a 29% increase in sitting behavior across the pandemic (U = 16,925, z = -2.68, p = .007, r = .13). Subjective health status was consistently associated with higher overall activity and walking before and during the pandemic. CONCLUSION: Differential outcomes were identified between age and gender regarding health, physical activity, walking, and sitting across the pandemic with significantly worse impacts reported among middle-aged samples. IMPLICATIONS: These results have implications for healthy transitions to later life and the design of postpandemic interventions to address activity opportunities in Japan.

Investigation of a practical assessment index to capture the clinical presentation of cachexia in patients with lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE: Cancer cachexia constitutes a poor prognostic factor in patients with lung cancer. However, the factors associated with cancer cachexia remain unclear. This study aimed to identify factors that influence cancer cachexia in patients with lung cancer. METHODS: In this retrospective observational study conducted at the Kansai Medical University, 76 patients with lung cancer were evaluated for physical function, nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form) and physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form) at the first visit to the rehabilitation outpatient clinic. The patients were divided into cachexia and noncachexia groups. The log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazards model were used to investigate the relationship between cachexia and prognosis. To examine the factors that influence cachexia, multivariate regression analysis with significant (P < 0.05) variables in the univariate logistic regression analysis was performed. Spearman's correlation analysis was performed to investigate the association between International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form and performance status. RESULTS: Overall, 42 patients (55.2%) had cachexia associated with survival time since their first visit to the outpatient rehabilitation clinic, even after confounders adjustment (hazard ratio: 3.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.12-9.45, P = 0.031). In the multivariate analysis, Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (odds ratio: 20.34, 95% confidence interval: 4.18-99.02, P < 0.001) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (odds ratio: 4.63, 95% confidence interval: 1.20-17.89, P = 0.026) were identified as independent factors for cachexia. There was no correlation between International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form and performance status (r = 0.155, P = 0.181). CONCLUSION: Malnutrition and low physical activity were associated with cachexia in patients with lung cancer. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form may be a useful indicator of physical activity in cachexia. Regularly assessing these factors and identifying suitable interventions for cachexia remain challenges to be addressed in the future.

Concordance Between Accelerometer-Measured and Self-Reported Physical Activity and Sedentary Time in Adults with Autism.

This study examined the concordance between accelerometry-measured and self-reported physical activity (PA) and sedentary time in adults with autism. Twenty-four participants wore an ActiGraph GT3X + accelerometer for seven consecutive days and completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF) on the last day of their study participation. Bland-Altman plots assessed the magnitude of agreement between the two measures. Nearly 80% of the participants accumulated the recommended ≥ 150 min of moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA)/week, but were also sedentary for over nine hours/day according to accelerometry data. Findings showed that adults with autism tended to overreport MVPA (b = 1.606, p < 0.01) and underreport sedentary time (b = 1.161, p = 0.03) via the IPAQ-SF, as compared to objective measurements.

Barreras percibidas y nivel de actividad física en universitarios colombianos durante la pandemia por covid-19 / Perceived barriers and level of physical activity in colombian university students during the COvID-19 pandemic / Barreiras percebidas e nível de atividade física em estudantes universitários colombianos durante a pandemia da COvID-19

Resumen La pandemia de COvID-19 condujo a adoptar nuevos estilos de vida que implican riesgos en la salud física y mental, además de alterar la rutina familiar, social, laboral y académica. Los estudiantes que iniciaron estudios universitarios se encontraron ante un nuevo sistema de educación, por lo que se desconoce el comportamiento de la práctica de actividad física durante este periodo. Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo identificar las barreras percibidas y el nivel de actividad física en universitarios de primer semestre de la Institución Universitaria Escuela Nacional del Deporte, Colombia. Para ello, se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo y transversal en el que participaron 381 estudiantes: 258 de fisioterapia y 123 de profesional en deporte, matriculados en el 2020-2 y 2021-1. Los instrumentos para recoger la información fueron el Cuestionario Internacional de Actividad Física (IPAQ) y el Barriers to Being Active Quiz (BBAQ). Los resultados mostraron que el 55.64% de los participantes reportó bajos niveles de actividad física, con porcentajes mayores en el grupo de fisioterapia; el 85.79% presentaron, al menos, una barrera para realizar actividad física, con diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre el grupo de fisioterapia comparado con el grupo de deporte para las barreras falta de tiempo, voluntad e influencia social. En conclusión, fue posible evidenciar bajos niveles de actividad física en el grupo de fisioterapia comparado con el grupo de deporte que reportó niveles de actividad física moderada y vigorosa más altos; en ambos grupos, la falta de tiempo y falta de voluntad fueron las barreras percibidas más relevantes, pero en porcentajes diferentes.

Abstract The COvID-19 pandemic led to the adoption of new lifestyles that involve risks for physical and mental health, in addition to altering routines in the family, in society, in the workplace and in the academic context. Those students that entered the university during the pandemic faced a new educational system, and the result is that the behavior of the practice of physical activity during this time is unknown. The objective of the present research was to identify perceived barriers and the level of physical activity in first-semester university students at the university-level entity Escuela Nacional del Deporte, in Colombia. For this purpose, a quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out, in which 381 students participated—258 in physiotherapy and 123 in professional sports, enrolled in the second term of 2020 and the first term of 2021. The data gathering instruments were the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the Barriers to Being Active Quiz (BBAQ). The results showed that 55.64% of the participants reported low levels of physical activity, with higher percentages in the physiotherapy group; 85.79% showed at least one barrier to practicing physical activity, with statistically significant differences between the physiotherapy group and professional sports group in terms of the barriers of lack of time, will and social influence. In conclusion, it was possible to observe low levels of physical activity in the physiotherapy group as compared to the sports group, which reported higher levels of moderate and vigorous physical activity. In both groups, lack of time and lack of will were the most relevant perceived barriers, though in different percentages.

Resumo A pandemia da COvID-19 levou à adoção de novos estilos de vida que envolvem riscos à saúde física e mental, além de alterar rotinas familiares, sociais, laborais e acadêmicas. Os alunos que iniciaram os estudos universitários se depararam com um novo sistema de ensino, assim que se desconhece o comportamento da prática de atividade física neste período. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo identificar as barreiras percebidas e o nível de atividade física em estudantes universitários do primeiro semestre da Instituição Universitária Escola Nacional de Esportes, Colômbia. Para isso, foi realizado um estudo quantitativo, descritivo e transversal, do qual participaram 381 alunos: 258 de fisioterapia e 123 de esporte, matriculados em 2020-2 e 2021-1. Os instrumentos de coleta de informações foram o Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ) e o Questionário Barries to Being Active Quiz (BBAQ). Os resultados mostraram que 55,64% dos participantes relataram baixo nível de atividade física, com maiores percentuais no grupo de fisioterapia; 85,79% apresentaram pelo menos uma barreira para atividade física, com diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre o grupo de fisioterapia em relação ao grupo de esporte para as barreiras: falta de tempo, vontade e influência social. Em conclusão, foi possível evidenciar baixos níveis de atividade física no grupo de fisioterapia em comparação ao grupo de esporte que relatou maiores níveis de atividade física moderada e vigorosa; em ambos os grupos, a falta de tempo e a falta de vontade foram as barreiras percebidas mais relevantes, mas em porcentagens diferentes.

Agreement between Accelerometer-Assessed and Self-Reported Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Female Breast Cancer Survivors.

An accurate quantitative assessment of physical activity and sedentary lifestyles enables a better understanding of their relationship with the health records of cancer survivors. The objective of this study was to compare the subjective and objective methods of physical activity measurement in female breast cancer survivors. Materials and methods: In total, 135 female breast cancer survivors at the Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland, were included in this study. A shortened version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to subjectively assess the participants' physical activity (PA), and an ActiGraph GT3X-BT accelerometer was used for an objective assessment. In total, 75% of the studied women did not report any vigorous PA, irrespective of the measurement method. The average values of moderate PA and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) measured with IPAQ compared with the accelerometer were sevenfold and tenfold higher, respectively. Conversely, the sedentary behavior values measured with the accelerometer were almost three times higher than those measured with IPAQ. The PA and sedentary behavior measurements were significantly different. Irrespective of PA intensity, the accelerometer-based measurements produced significantly lower results than IPAQ, while higher results were observed for sedentary behavior. The measurement differences between these two methods increased as the average differences grew. Regardless of the measurement method, a negative association was observed between moderate PA with general adiposity and adipose tissue distribution, whereas sedentary behavior demonstrated an opposite trend. This indicates the detrimental role of obesity in limiting PA.

Diabetic Polyneuropathy and Physical Activity in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to access whether a personal attitude to physical activity (PA) may influence the appearance of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) patients with well-controlled type 1 diabetes mellitus. METHODS: Ninety patients attending the diabetes technology outpatient clinic were enrolled. DPN was investigated according to the Toronto consensus diagnostic criteria. PA was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. RESULTS: PA was low in 21.1%, moderate in 42.2% and high in 36.7% of patients. According to Toronto criteria, we defined two categories: the first one with DPN absent or possible (57 (63.3%)) and a second one with DPN certain or probable (33 (36.7%)). The χ2-test of the PA groups and the DPN categories showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001), with less neuropathy in patients belonging to the group of moderate/high PA. Exposure to a minimum of 600 MET minutes/week was protective factor against the onset of DPN (odd ratio 0.221, c.i. 0.068-0.720, p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that DPN is less present in type 1 diabetic patients with good metabolic control and a good personal habit of PA. Moderate-to-vigorous PA of at least 600 MET minutes/week might be a protective factor against DPN.

Fatigue and Physical Activity in People after COVID-19 in Poland.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this research was to look at the amount of fatigue and physical activity (PA) in individuals after COVID-19 in Poland and the correlation between fatigue and PA. METHODS: The online research was carried out among adult Polish residents (122 women and 82 men) who had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during the previous year. The level of fatigue was measured using the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). The PA level was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). RESULTS: A total of 46.6% of the subjects had been ill with COVID-19 for more than 6 months before the time of the survey response. The MFIS total measure is 77 of the maximum score, and the median is 17. A total of 26% of respondents reported low activity, while 41% of respondents reported high activity. A statistically significant negative relationship was found between PA level and total fatigue score. The best scores for fatigue and PA were obtained by the subjects with mild COVID-19. The time since diagnosis (as opposed to older age and female sex) was not clearly associated with most measures. CONCLUSIONS: PA may play an important role in regulating the severity of fatigue; it should be increased, especially in patients after COVID. Further studies are also needed to investigate the mechanism of differences in fatigue and PA.