Feasibility and Usefulness of Repetitions-In-Reserve Scales for Selecting Exercise Intensity: A Scoping Review.

The intensity of resistance training (RT) exercise is an important consideration for determining relevant health and performance-related outcomes. Yet, current objective exercise intensity measures present concerns in terms of viability or cost. In response to these concerns, repetition-in-reserve (RIR) scales may represent an adequate method of measuring and regulating intensity. However, no recent review has focused on how RIR scales have been used for this purpose in prior research. We prepared the present scoping review to analyze the feasibility and usefulness of RIR scales in selecting RT intensity. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases (last search date April 2023) for experimental and non-experimental studies that utilized an RIR scale to measure proximity to failure in RT activities with apparently healthy individuals of any age. We qualitatively analyzed 31 studies (N = 855 mostly male adult participants) published between 2012-2023. RIR scales appeared to be contextually feasible and useful in prescribing and adjusting RT intensity. The most common trend in this research was to prescribe a target RIR and adjust the exercise load for a desired proximity to muscle failure. Additionally, when measuring proximity to failure as an outcome of interest, the literature suggests that the RIR prediction should be made close to task failure to increase its accuracy. Future research should further explore the impact of sex, RT experience, exercise selection, and muscle conditioning on the overall RIR approach.

Validation of the Portuguese Version of the Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument.

BACKGROUND: The Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument (PPLI) has been the most adopted physical literacy instrument designed for adults to date, having been already translated to 5 languages. Still, despite its popularity, there is limited evidence of its psychometric properties. The aim of this study was to translate and adapt cross-culturally the PPLI to the Portuguese language and to analyze the psychometric properties of the Portuguese version in a sample of Portuguese-speaking adults. METHODS: The study sample was composed of 434 participants (70% females) with a median age of 25 (18-39) years. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess psychometric properties of the scale. In addition, instrument assumptions between sexes through invariance testing were examined. Finally, concurrent validity, test-retest reliability, and test-retest agreement analyses were performed to gather additional evidence. RESULTS: The results of the present study generally supported the measurement model. The 9-item, 3-factor model presented a good fit to the data and adequate construct validity (χ2 = 82.859 [24], P < .001, comparative-fit index = .948, Tucker-Lewis index = .922, standardized root mean square residual = .049, root mean square error of approximation = .075). In addition, the scale presented concurrent validity. Some issues arose with measurement invariance and overtime consistency. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the lack of validated instruments, we suggest a fair use of Portuguese version of PPLI to access physical literacy in adults. This study contributes to the validation of the PPLI by providing evidence of its psychometric properties in the Portuguese-speaking adult population and facilitates comparative analysis with previous and future studies utilizing the PPLI instrument.

The Nostrum to Exercise: How Self-Selected and Imposed Exercise Intensity Prescription Relates to Affective, Cognitive, and Behavioral Outcomes-A Systematic Review / El Nostrum al Ejercicio: Cómo la Prescripción de Intensidad de Ejercicio Autoseleccionada e Impuesta se Relaciona con Resultados Afectivos, Cognitivos y Conductuales-Una Revisión Sistemática / A Panaceia do Exercício: Como a Prescrição de Intensidade de Exercício Autoselecionada e Imposta se Relaciona com Resultados Afetivos, Cognitivos e Comportamentais-Uma Revisão Sistemática

Permitir seleccionar la intensidad del ejercicio se ha propuesto como un método para apoyar la adherencia al ejercicio, pero no se encontró ninguna exploración extensa que contrastara este enfoque con un método de intensidad impuesta. Esta revisión sistemática explora la relación entre la intensidad del ejercicio seleccionada por el usuario y los resultados afectivos, cognitivos y conductuales en contextos de actividad física. La búsqueda se realizó en las bases de datos PubMed, SPORTDiscus y PsycINFO con los criterios de inclusión: (1) experimentales y no experimentales; (2) publicados en una revista revisada por pares; (3) escritos en inglés; (4) que exploraran la autoselección de intensidad y/o la autorregulación en contextosde ejercicio; (5) muestras con individuos de entre 18 y 64 años; y (6) centrados en individuos aparentemente sanos. Veintinueve estudios (N=749 participantes) fueron incluidos para revisión, 25 explorando el ejercicio aeróbico y cuatro de resistencia. En general, la intensidad de ejercicio autoseleccionada mostró mejores resultados afectivos, cognitivos y conductuales positivos en comparación con la prescripción de intensidad de ejercicio impuesta, pero la alta heterogeneidad en los métodos y resultados justifica la precaución al interpretar los resultados. La autoselección de la intensidad puede promover la mejora de las respuestas afectivas, las percepciones de autonomía, la autoeficacia, la intención de ser físicamente activo, y más minutos de participación en el ejercicio. Las discrepancias en los métodos de autoselección de la intensidad, las diferencias en los protocolos de ejercicio y las características de las muestras ponen de manifiesto la necesidad de realizar más estudios.(AU)

Allowing to select the exercise intensity has been proposed as a method to support exercise adherence, but no extensive exploration was found contrasting this approach to an imposed intensity method. For this matter, this systematic review aimed to explore the relationship between self-selected exercise intensity and affective, cognitive, and behaviouraloutcomes in physical activity settings, and whenever possible, compare this approach to other forms of exercise intensity prescription. Search wasconductedin the PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and PsycINFO databases (last search date July 2022) with the following inclusion criteria: (1) experimental and non-experimental; (2) published in a peer-reviewed journal; (3) written in English; (4) exploring intensity self-selection and/or self-regulation in exercise settings; (5) samples with individuals aged between 18 and 64 years; and (6) focused on apparently healthy individuals. Twenty-nine studies (N=749 participants) were included in this review, 25 exploring aerobic exercise and four resistance training activities. Overall, self-selected exercise intensity showed better positive affective, cognitive, and behaviouraloutcomes compared to imposed exercise intensity prescription, but high heterogeneity on the methods and outcomes warrant caution when interpreting the results. Self-selected intensity may promote improved affective responses, autonomy perceptions, self-efficacy, intention to be physically active,and more minutes of exercise participation. However, discrepancy on the intensity self-selection methods, exercise protocol differences, and samples characteristics, highlight the need for further studies on the topic to better understand the possible magnitude of this effect.(AU)

Permitir a seleção da intensidade do exercício tem sido proposto como um método para apoiar a adesão ao exercício, mas não foi encontrada nenhuma exploraçãoextensiva que contrastasse esta abordagem com um método de intensidade imposta. Por esta razão, esta revisão sistemática teve como objetivo explorar a relação entre a intensidade do exercício autosselecionada e os resultados afetivos, cognitivos e comportamentais em contextos de atividade física e, sempre que possível, comparar esta abordagem comoutrasformas de prescrição da intensidade do exercício. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados PubMed, SPORTDiscus e PsycINFO (última data de pesquisa em julho de 2022) com os seguintes critérios de inclusão:(1) experimentais e não-experimentais; (2) publicados numa revista com revisão por pares; (3) escritos em inglês; (4) que explorassem a autosseleção da intensidade e/ou a autorregulação em contextos de exercício; (5) amostras com indivíduos com idades compreendidas entre os 18 e os 64 anos; e (6) focados em indivíduos aparentemente saudáveis. Vinte e nove estudos (N=749 participantes) foram incluídos nesta revisão, 25 explorando o exercício aeróbico e quatro atividades de treino de resistência. Em geral,a intensidade de exercício autosselecionada mostrou melhores resultados positivos a nível afetivo, cognitivo e comportamental em comparação com a prescrição de intensidade de exercício imposta, mas a elevada heterogeneidade dos métodos e dos resultados justifica cautela na interpretação dos resultados. Aintensidade autosselecionada pode promover melhores respostas afetivas, perceções de autonomia, autoeficácia, intenção de ser fisicamente ativo e mais minutos de participação no exercício. No entanto, a discrepância entre os métodos de autosseleção da intensidade, as diferenças entre os protocolos de exercício e as características das amostras, realçam a necessidade de mais estudos sobre o tema para melhor compreender a possível magnitude deste efeito.(AU)

Analysis of the Effect of Different Physical Exercise Protocols on Depression in Adults: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

CONTEXT: Physical exercise (PE) is an effective treatment for depression, alone or as an adjunct. OBJECTIVE: There is a lack of indicators regarding the frequency, intensity, duration, and type of physical exercise (PE). This study aims to synthesize and analyze the dose-effect of different PE protocols in adult subjects in the treatment of depression, based on the analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). DATA SOURCES: The search was conducted using Web of Science, PubMed, and Cochrane Library electronic databases. STUDY SELECTION: Studies with an exercise-based intervention published by December 31, 2021 were identified. RCTs and meta-analyses involving adults with depression were also included; 10 studies were selected, including a total of 956 subjects. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 1. RESULTS: Effect sizes were summarized using standardized mean differences (95% confidence interval) by effected randomized models. The results reinforce that exercise appears to be beneficial in improving depression among adults aged 18 to 65 years. Interventions lasting above 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity and group interventions seem to have a more significant effect on reducing depression. Studies have revealed that aerobic exercise, compared with resistance or flexibility, has a more positive effect on depression. CONCLUSION: PE can be a way to reduce depression and can be used as a possible adjunctive tool for pharmacological and/or alternative treatments. Considering the findings of this study, it is important that health professionals (eg, exercise physiologists, physicians, nurses, psychologists) promote the practice of PE as a complementary alternative and act early to prevent the worsening of depression. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020188909.

From data to action: a scoping review of wearable technologies and biomechanical assessments informing injury prevention strategies in sport.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this scoping review was to evaluate the current use of technologies in sports settings for training adaptation and injury prevention. The review aimed to map the existing literature, identify key concepts and themes, and highlight gaps in research, thus offering guidance for future studies. METHODS: This study followed the guidelines of the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews and a search in four major databases was conducted. RESULTS: A total of 21 studies were included. The findings highlighted the widespread use of various technologies, including wearable devices and force plates, to monitor athletes' performance and inform evidence-based decision-making in training and injury prevention. Variables such as Player Load, changes of direction, and acute chronic workload ratio were identified as key metrics in injury prediction. CONCLUSIONS: This review uncovers a dynamic field of research in athlete injury prevention, emphasizing the extensive use of varied technologies. A key finding is the pivotal role of Player Load data, which offers nuanced insights for customizing training loads according to sport-specific demands, player positions, and the physical requirements of various activities. Additionally, the review sheds light on the utility of tools like force plates in assessing fatigue, aiding recovery, and steering injury rehabilitation, particularly in sports prone to knee and ankle injuries. These insights not only enhance our understanding of injury prevention but also provide a strategic direction for future research, aiming to boost athlete safety, performance, and career longevity.

O exercício físico e a vitalidade: análise multigrupos em função do sexoe experiência da prática / Ejercicio físico y vitalidad: análisis multigrupo según sexo y experiencia de práctica / Physical exercise and vitality: multigroup analysis according to sex and practice experience

La percepción subjetiva de vitalidad es un indicador de bienestar que se puede traducir en una mejor calidad de vida. Un instrumento válido y fiable permitirá a los investigadores medir con precisión la vitalidad en el contexto del ejercicio físico.. Así, el objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la validez y fiabilidad de la Subjetive Vitality Scale (SVS) en una muestra portuguesa de practicantes de ejercicio físico según sexo y experiencia de práctica. Los datos se recolectaron de una muestra de un total de 330 adultos (mujeres = 145; hombres = 185). Los participantes tenían entre 18 y 64 años (M = 28.52; DT = 9.86), con una experiencia de ejercicio promedio de 8.14 meses (DT = 6.14), y con una frecuencia semanal de entre 1 y 7 veces (M = 4.42; DT = 1.35). Se realizó un análisis factorial confirmatorio del modelo de medición de seis ítems de la escala y un análisis de invariancia en función del género y la experiencia práctica. También se analizaron los resultados de las correlaciones bivariadas con el fin de evaluar la validez nomológica del instrumento con diversión y con la intención de continuar en la práctica. El modelo de medición SVS demostró un ajuste aceptable en cada una de las muestras y los coeficientes de fiabilidad compuesta fueron adecuados. Las correlaciones indicaron que mayores niveles de vitalidad se asociaron con mayores niveles de diversión e intención de continuar practicando ejercicio físico en el futuro. El modelo de medida demostró ser invariante entre muestras, lo que aporta un mayor sustento a su validez para evaluar la percepción subjetiva de vitalidad en el contexto del ejercicio físico. La SVS parece ser así un instrumento fiable para evaluar la vitalidad, en ambos sexos, así como en personas con diferentes experiencias de práctica. (AU)

The subjective perception of vitality is an indicator of well-being that can translate into improved quality of life. A valid and reliable instrument will allow researchers to accurately measure vitality in the context of exercise. Thus, the objective ofthe present study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Subjective Vitality Scale (SVS) in a Portuguese sample of physical exercise practitioners according to gender and practice experience. Data were collected from a sample of a total of 330 adults (women = 145; men = 185). Participants were aged between 18 and 64 years (M = 28.52; SD = 9.86), with a mean exercise experience of 8.14 months (SD = 6.14), and with a weekly frequency of between 1–7 times (M = 4.42; SD = 1.35). A confirmatory factor analysis of the scale's six-item measurement model and an analysis of invariance as a function of gender and practice experience were performed. The results of bivariate correlations were also analyzed toassess the nomological validity of the instrument with enjoyment and with the intention of continuing in practice. The SVS measurement model demonstrated an acceptable fit in each of the samples and the composite reliability coefficients were adequate. Correlations indicated that higher levels of vitality were associated with higher levels of enjoyment and intention to continue to practice physical exercise in the future. The measurement model proved to be invariant between samples, thus adding greater support to its validity to assess the subjective perception of vitality in the context of physical exercise. The SVS thus seems to be a reliable instrument for assessing vitality, in both sexes, as well as in people with different practice experiences. (AU)

A perceção de vitalidade subjetiva é um indicador de bem-estar que se pode traduzir na melhoria da qualidade de vida. Um instrumento válido e fiável irá permitir aos investigadores uma medição precisa da vitalidade no contexto de exercício físico. Desta forma, o objetivo do presente estudo consistiu em avaliar a validade e a fiabilidade da Subjetive Vitality Scale (SVS) numa amostra portuguesa de praticantes de exercício físico em função do sexo e da experiência da prática. Foram recolhidos dados de uma amostra com um total de 330 adultos (mulheres = 145; homens = 185). Os participantes tinham idades compreendidas entre 18–64 anos (M = 28.52; DP = 9.86), com experiência média de exercício de 8.14 meses (DP = 6.14), e com uma frequênciasemanal entre 1–7 vezes (M = 4.42; DP = 1.35). Realizou-se uma análise fatorial confirmatória do modelo de medida de seis itens da escala e uma análise de invariância em função do sexo e experiência da prática. Foram, também, analisados os resultados de correlações bivariadas com o objetivo de avaliar a validade concorrente do instrumento com o divertimento e com a intenção de continuar na prática. O modelo de medida da SVS demonstrou um ajustamento aceitável em cada uma das amostras e os coeficientes de fiabilidade compósita foram adequados. As correlações indicaram que maiores níveis de vitalidade estavam associados a maiores níveis de divertimento e intenção de continuar a praticar exercício físico no futuro. O modelo de medida revelou ser invariante entreamostras, acrescentando, por isso, um maior suporte à sua validade para avaliar a perceção subjetiva de vitalidade em contexto do exercício físico. A SVS parece, assim, ser um instrumento fiável para a avaliação da vitalidade, em ambos os sexos, bem como em pessoas com diferentes experiências de prática. (AU)

Assessing affective valence and activation in resistance training with the feeling scale and the felt arousal scale: A systematic review.

Evidence suggests affective responses to exercise can influence exercise adherence. However, there is a limited understanding of how and when to measure core affect in resistance training. As such, the objective of this systematic review was to analyze how the Feeling Scale and/or the Felt Arousal Scale have been used in resistance training to assess core affect. Focus was given to the contextual feasibility, timing, and frequency of assessment. A search in PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and PsycINFO databases was conducted (last search date July, 2022) with the purpose of including experimental and non-experimental studies, utilizing the Feeling Scale and/or the Felt Arousal Scale in resistance training, and focused on apparently healthy individuals of any age. Twenty-seven studies (N = 718 participants) published between 2009-2022 were qualitatively analyzed. Both scales appeared to be able to detect core affect within a wide array of intensities, ages, and equipment. As for the timing and frequency of measurement, no apparent standardization was evident. The use of the Feeling Scale, the Felt Arousal Scale, or both, to measure core affect appears to be feasible in resistance training practices. However, a lack of methodological background raises concerns regarding the quality of previous studies' assessments and comparisons of results across studies.

Exploring the impact of individualized pleasure-oriented exercise sessions in a health club setting: Protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Research on the relationship between exercise-induced affect and exercise or physical activity behavior has gained momentum in recent years, yielding several observational and longitudinal studies. However, experimental tests demonstrating a causal role of affective responses on exercise adherence are lacking. Given the need to devise exercise prescriptions that can facilitate adherence and promote regular physical activity, a Randomized Controlled Trial targeting individual pleasurable responses in a health-club setting will be conducted. The experimental protocol will compare two individualized evaluation, prescription, and supervision methods, adjusted for intensity, with the aim to explore their impact on behavioral, affective, and motivational outcomes. The planned study will be a pragmatic randomized, single-blinded, controlled superiority trial with two parallel groups and an allocation ratio of 1:1. Apparently healthy volunteer participants (N = 46) between 18 and 45 years old, who are not regularly active, will be randomly allocated to a control or experimental group. The control group will follow a general American College of Sports Medicine exercise prescription; the experimental group will follow the same prescription but with enhancements aimed at promoting pleasure: (1) individualization based on individual differences in preference for and tolerance of exercise intensity; (2) self-regulation of intensity; and (3) repeated assessments of core affect. The primary outcome will be post-intervention exercise-session attendance. Affective and motivational variables will be examined as secondary outcomes. The results are expected to advance exercise prescriptions by promoting affective regulation, thus helping to improve exercise adherence and related outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov; ID: NCT05416593.

Affective responses to stretching exercises: Exploring the timing of assessments.

Affective responses during exercise have been identified as a predictor of exercise adherence. However, research has been mostly limited to aerobic and resistance exercise. Considering that stretching activities are also an important component of physical fitness, this quasi-experimental study was designed to: 1) compare affective responses during and immediately after stretching exercises in apparently healthy adults, and 2) assess the consistency and repeatability of affect ratings obtained one week apart. For this purpose, we analyzed the Feeling Scale (FS) and Felt Arousal Scale (FAS) ratings using Time (during and after stretching) x Intensity (light, moderate, vigorous) x Stretched Muscle Group (quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, latissimus dorsi, triceps) with repeated measures analysis of variance (ANCOVA) in 34 participants (21 males; aged 32.8 ± 8.6 years). The repeatability of FS and FAS ratings was assessed using two-way random-effects models, Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), and Bland-Altman plots. FS scores were higher following the stretching exercises, whereas FAS scores were lower, particularly in the vigorous intensity. In general, the inter-day repeatability for FS and FAS measurements was good across muscle groups. ICC tended to be higher at vigorous intensities. Ratings of core affect can be collected during static passive stretches using the FAS and FAS in ecologically valid settings. These results suggest that an adequate assessment of core affective responses to stretching activities should be performed during the exercises.

Using Psychometric Testing Procedures for Scale Validity, Reliability, and Invariance Analysis: The PRETIE-Q Portuguese Version.

This study investigated the psychometric nature of preference for and tolerance of exercise intensity in physical activity. It initially re-examined the Preference for and Tolerance of the Intensity of Exercise Questionnaire (PRETIE-Q) among Portuguese exercisers, looking at its applicability to different exercise activities and exercise experiences. Then, to investigate the applicability of the measure in different groups, its invariance was examined. The sample consisted of 1117 participants (528 male, 589 female) aged 18-81 years old (Mage = 36.81, SD = 11.89). All participants reported at baseline that they were exercising, on average, 3.93 days (SD = 1.36) per week. The exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) displayed the best fit. The ESEM did show invariance when tested for multigroup analysis. The conclusion of this research is that the ESEM demonstrated the best fit, displaying invariance in multigroup analysis. Furthermore, when assessing preference and tolerance in various exercise modalities, the PRETIE-Q should be primarily used as a multidimensional instrument due to the differential recognition of preference and tolerance in seemingly similar physical activity circumstances, highlighting the importance of employing context-verified measures to evaluate exercise-intensity preference and tolerance based on sample characteristics or real-time context.

Testing Assumptions of the Physical Activity Adoption and Maintenance Model: A Longitudinal Perspective of the Relationships Between Intentions and Habits on Exercise Adherence.

In this study, we aimed to examine empirically the Physical Activity Adoption and Maintenance model (PAAM). We collected data on these variables at baseline (T0) and 6-months later (T1). We recruited 119 participants (42 male, 77 female) aged 18-81 years old (Mage = 44.89, SD = 12.95). who reported, at baseline, that they exercised an average of 3.76 days per week (SD = 1.33) in training periods lasting 15-60 minutes (M = 38.69; SD = 23.28). We conducted hierarchical multiple regression analysis to test the association between each determinant (intentions, habits, and frequency) and future exercise adherence. We tested four models by entering blocks of predictors according to PAAM assumptions. The variance change (R2) between the first and fourth models (ΔR2 = .391) was statistically significant, showing that the fourth model accounted for 51.2% of variance for future exercise adherence, F (6, 112) = 21.631, p < .001, R2 = .73, adjusted R2 = .512. Exercise intention at T1 maintained its significant association (p = .021) with exercise frequency at T1 in all tested models. Exercise frequency at T0 was the most significant predictor (p < .01) of future exercise adherence, with past experience the second most significant predictor (p = .013). Interestingly, exercise habits at T1 and T0 did not predict exercise frequency at T1 in the fourth model. Among the variables we studied, having constantly high exercise intentions and high regular exercise frequency are significantly associated with maintaining or increasing regular future exercise behavior.

Respuestas autonómicas y análisis de la carga interna mediante la evaluación aguda de la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca tras una sesión de entrenamiento funcional de alta intensidad / Autonomic responses and internal load analysis through acute assessment of heart rate variability after a high-intensity functional training session

Backgroud: Heart rate variability (HRV) measurement is an important tool that may help indicate possible physiological changes, and HRV monitorization could be a great strategy for clinical analysis (autonomic control) and performance (internal load).Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate autonomic responses and internal load through HRV during a higintensity functional training (HIFT) session.Material and method: Thirty-three individuals (22 men and 11 women) participated in the study (Age: Mean = 34.9 ± 7.2years; Weight: Mean = 72.3 ± 13.7 kg; Height: Mean = 1.72 ± 0.1 m; BMI: Mean = 24.4 ± 3.0 kg/m²). All participants engaged ina 60-to-90-minute HIFT session. HRV analysis was performed during the specific warm-up period (targeted warm-up or skilltraining that followed the general mobility and light cardiovascular warm-up), during exercise (approximately 50 minutes),and in the recovery phase (10 minutes post-training). A Polar H10 heart rate monitor chest strap (Kempele, Finland®) wasused to collect HRV and was connected to the Elite HRV mobile application. The data were further transferred to Kubios HRVStandart software, version 3.3.1, in order to process the acquired data.Results: For isolated analyzes (pre- and post-), differences were found for SDNN (P<0.001), RMSSD (P<0.001) and HF(P=0.041), yet not for LF / HF (P=0.483). In the analysis of HRV kinetics, significant results were found between momentsfor RR, SDNN, RMSSD, LF and HF (P<0.05). In the analysis of the internal load, the highest level of stress was identified in 40(P=0.010) and 50 minutes of exercise (P=0.001), as well as in recovery (P<0.001), this assessment being carried out throughHRV through the LnRMSSD index. A negative correlation was observed between maximum heart rate (HRmax) and LnRMSSDat 40 (r=-0.51) and 50 minutes of exercise (r=-0.58). In recovery, the correlation was positive, yet insignificant (r=0.032)...(AU)

Introducción: La medición de la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardiaca (HRV) es una herramienta importante que puedeayudar a indicar posibles cambios fisiológicos. La monitorización de la HRV podría ser una gran estrategia para el análisisclínico (control autonómico) y el rendimiento (carga interna).Objetivo: El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar las respuestas autonómicas y la carga interna a través de la VFC duranteuna sesión de entrenamiento funcional de alta intensidad (HIFT).Material y método: Treinta y tres individuos (22 hombres y 11 mujeres) participaron en el estudio (Edad: Media = 34,9 ±7,2 años; Peso: Media = 72,3 ± 13,7 kg; Altura: Media = 1,72 ± 0,1 m; IMC: Media = 24,4 ± 3,0 kg / m²). Todos los participantesparticiparon en una sesión HIFT de 60 a 90 minutos. El análisis de la VFC se realizó durante el periodo de calentamiento específico (calentamiento dirigido o entrenamiento de habilidades que seguía al calentamiento cardiovascular ligero y demovilidad general), durante el ejercicio (aproximadamente 50 minutos) y en la fase de recuperación (10 minutos despuésdel entrenamiento). Se utilizó una banda de pecho con pulsómetro Polar H10 (Kempele, Finlandia®) para recoger la VFC y seconectó a la aplicación móvil Elite HRV. Los datos se transfirieron posteriormente al software Kubios HRV Standart, versión3.3.1, para procesar los datos adquiridos.Resultados: En los análisis aislados (pre y post), se encontraron diferencias para SDNN (p <0,001), RMSSD (p <0,001) y HF(p = 0,041), pero no para LF / HF (p = 0,483). En el análisis de la cinética de la VFC, se encontraron resultados significativos entremomentos para RR, SDNN, RMSSD, LF y HF (p <0,05). En el análisis de la carga interna, el mayor nivel de estrés se identificóen 40 (p = 0,010) y 50 minutos de ejercicio (p = 0,001), así como en la recuperación (p <0,001), realizándose esta valoración...(AU)

Assessing Affective Valence and Activation in Stretching Activities with the Feeling Scale and the Felt Arousal Scale: A Systematic Review.

Affective responses have been considered key determinants for exercise adherence, but research on affective responses to stretching activities is scarce. Given the role of these responses in exercise adherence, our aim in this review was to explore (a) the utility and feasibility of core affect in stretching-related activities as measured by the Feeling Scale (FS) and/or the Felt Arousal Scale (FAS); (b) the timing of administering these scales; and (c) the scales' applicability and interpretability in this context. Inclusion criteria for studies in this review were experimental and non-experimental studies written in English that based affect assessment on the FS and/or FAS and that applied these scales to participants engaged in physical activity, individually or in groups. We also considered studies that focused on stretching activities that were either isolated or components of a class/activity and studies that used healthy participants of any age. Exclusion criteria were populations with mental health problems, cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or diseases likely to alter pain perception or be associated with chronic pain, instrument validation studies, gray literature, and systematic reviews. We searched PubMed, SPORTDiscus and PsycINFO databases, and we added studies retrieved manually from reference sections while following PRISMA guidelines. We used the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool for judging methodological quality of research articles. Our final analyses were based on 12 empirical studies published between 2003 and 2021with a total of 718 participants. Both scales were found to be useful and feasible in the most usual places for exercise, but core affect results cannot be properly interpreted due to variability of study protocols and the absence of guidelines for adequate baseline assessment. Most studies recorded affect responses pre-session, during session, and post-session. We observed no standardized timing or frequency of assessment, and there was high heterogeneity among stretching protocols. Currently, research in core affect assessment of stretching-related activities lacks sufficient methodological quality to draw generalizable conclusions.

How Does the Level of Physical Activity Influence Eating Behavior? A Self-Determination Theory Approach.

Physical activity and diet are two predominant determinants of population health status that may influence each other. Physical activity has been identified as a behavior that may lead to a healthier diet and regulates eating behaviors. This research aimed to investigate how the level of physical activity is associated with the motivation related to eating behaviors and, consequently, the eating style individuals have on a daily basis. This was a cross-sectional study in which participants completed an online questionnaire that assessed the following variables: the level of physical activity, the motivation toward eating behavior, and the type of eating behavior. In total, 440 individuals (180 men and 260 women) who regularly exercised in gyms and fitness centers aged between 19 and 64 years (M = 33.84; SD = 10.09) took part in the study. The data were collected following the Declaration of Helsinki and with the approval of the Ethics Committee of the Polytechnic of Leiria. For the statistical analysis, mean and standard deviations were first calculated, as well as bivariate correlations between all the variables of interest. Then, structural equation model analyses were performed considering the levels of physical activity as the independent variable, motivations toward eating behavior as the mediators, and eating styles as the dependent variables. It was concluded that a greater level of physical activity leads to a more self-determined type of eating regulation, which in turn results in less constricted eating behaviors that are influenced by external factors and emotional factors.

Using passive Wi-Fi for community crowd sensing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sensing passersby and detecting crowded locations is a growing area of research and development in the last decades. The COVID-19 pandemic compelled authorities and public and private institutions to monitor access and occupancy of crowded spaces. This work addresses the detection of crowds in points of interest (POI) by using a territory grid analysis categorizing POIs by the services available in each location and comparing data gathered from a community passive Wi-Fi infrastructure against mobile cellular tower association data from telecom companies. In Madeira islands (Portugal), we used data from the telecom provider NOS for the timespan of 4 months as ground truth and found a strong correlation with sparse passive Wi-Fi. An official regional mobile application shows the occupancy data to end-users based on the territory categorization and the passive Wi-Fi infrastructure in POIs. Occupancy data shows historical hourly trends of each location, and the real-time occupation, helping visitors and locals plan their commutes better to avoid crowded spaces.

The stress granule protein G3BP1 alleviates spinocerebellar ataxia-associated deficits.

Polyglutamine diseases are a group of neurodegenerative disorders caused by an abnormal expansion of CAG repeat tracts in the codifying regions of nine, otherwise unrelated, genes. While the protein products of these genes are suggested to play diverse cellular roles, the pathogenic mutant proteins bearing an expanded polyglutamine sequence share a tendency to self-assemble, aggregate and engage in abnormal molecular interactions. Understanding the shared paths that link polyglutamine protein expansion to the nervous system dysfunction and the degeneration that takes place in these disorders is instrumental to the identification of targets for therapeutic intervention. Among polyglutamine diseases, spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) share many common aspects, including the fact that they involve dysfunction of the cerebellum, resulting in ataxia. Our work aimed at exploring a putative new therapeutic target for the two forms of SCA with higher worldwide prevalence, SCA type 2 (SCA2) and type 3 (SCA3), which are caused by expanded forms of ataxin-2 (ATXN2) and ataxin-3 (ATXN3), respectively. The pathophysiology of polyglutamine diseases has been described to involve an inability to properly respond to cell stress. We evaluated the ability of GTPase-activating protein-binding protein 1 (G3BP1), an RNA-binding protein involved in RNA metabolism regulation and stress responses, to counteract SCA2 and SCA3 pathology, using both in vitro and in vivo disease models. Our results indicate that G3BP1 overexpression in cell models leads to a reduction of ATXN2 and ATXN3 aggregation, associated with a decrease in protein expression. This protective effect of G3BP1 against polyglutamine protein aggregation was reinforced by the fact that silencing G3bp1 in the mouse brain increases human expanded ATXN2 and ATXN3 aggregation. Moreover, a decrease of G3BP1 levels was detected in cells derived from patients with SCA2 and SCA3, suggesting that G3BP1 function is compromised in the context of these diseases. In lentiviral mouse models of SCA2 and SCA3, G3BP1 overexpression not only decreased protein aggregation but also contributed to the preservation of neuronal cells. Finally, in an SCA3 transgenic mouse model with a severe ataxic phenotype, G3BP1 lentiviral delivery to the cerebellum led to amelioration of several motor behavioural deficits. Overall, our results indicate that a decrease in G3BP1 levels may be a contributing factor to SCA2 and SCA3 pathophysiology, and that administration of this protein through viral vector-mediated delivery may constitute a putative approach to therapy for these diseases, and possibly other polyglutamine disorders.

Corrigendum: Impact of victory and defeat on the perceived stress and autonomic regulation of professional eSports athletes.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.987149.].

Clinical applications of exercise in Parkinson's disease: what we need to know?

INTRODUCTION: Exploring the potential of exercise in the rehabilitation process of patients with Parkinson's (PD) may be an interesting treatment perspective. Exercise-induced responses derived from neurotrophic elements appear to ameliorate the decline in neurodegeneration. Despite this understanding, the literature needs to be updated. AREAS COVERED: Our review focuses on: a) the key mechanisms of exercise on PD, highlighting mainly the responses related to neuroplasticity; b) the effects induced by different traditional types of exercise, also highlighting the effects of complementary therapies related to movement; c) the volume of exercise required to support efficient results are explored in the context of PD. Additionally, the proposition of new clinical application strategies in the context of PD will also be determined. EXPERT OPINION: It is suggested that different intensities of aerobic exercise be explored for the treatment of PD. The results associated with high intensity seem promising for performance, physiological and clinical parameters, such as BDNF production and cognition. On the other hand, the diversification of tasks and repetition of motor gestures appear as consistent arguments to exercise prescription. Finally, for future investigations, the neuromodulation strategy in association with aerobic exercise appears as a potential inducer of benefits on gait and cognitive function.

Impact of victory and defeat on the perceived stress and autonomic regulation of professional eSports athletes.

Competitive sports involve physiological, technical and psychological skills, which influence directly on individuals' performance. This study aims to investigate the levels of perceived stress and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) before and after matches with victory and defeat in professional eSports athletes. Our hypothesis was that the winners would have better autonomic and stress responses after match, thus corroborating the literature on neurocardiac connections. Fifty male eSport players were selected players from 10 different Brazilian teams. The experiment was carried out in 2 sessions. Firstly, after signing the informed consent form, 24 h before the game, anthropometric, physical activity levels and time of expertise data were recorded only for sample characterization and the players were familiarized with the perceived stress scale-10 (PSS-10) and the HRV measurements. Secondly, players performed the PSS-10 and HRV recording at rest by 10 min 60 and 30 min before the game (i.e., baseline time) and 10 min after the end of the game. Overall, concerning PSS-10 our findings show that VG had significant reduced scores in post-game time compared to baseline (BL) and pre-game times, while DG had significant increased scores in post-game time compared to BL and pre-game times. Regarding HRV, our results demonstrate that VG had significant increase in RR, SDNN, rMSSD, pNN50 and HF, and significant decrease in LF and LF/HF, while DG had a significant decrease in RR, SDNN, rMSSD and HF, and significant increase in LF and LF/HF. It was observed that VG had better HRV responses (greater parasympathetic activation) as well as lower levels of perceived stress, while DG had worst HRV responses (greater sympathetic activation) and higher levels of perceived stress.

Translation and Construct Validity of the Feeling Scale and the Felt Arousal Scale in Portuguese Recreational Exercisers / Traducción y Validez de Constructo de la Feeling Scale y la Felt Arousal Scale en Ejercitadores Recreativos Portugueses / Tradução e Validade de Constructo da Feeling Scale e Felt Arousal Scale em Praticantes Portugueses de Exercício Recreacional

La Feeling Scale y la Felt Arousal Scale son escalas ampliamente utilizadas en la investigación del deporte. En este estudio, las escalas originales fueron traducidas del inglés al portugués. Posteriormente, se comprobó si las puntuaciones de afecto y activación en el Self-Assessment Manikin, una escala basada en imágenes, predecían las puntuaciones en la Feeling Scale y en la Felt Arousal Scale en 47 deportistas recreativos portugueses, antes y después de una sesión de ejercicio. El Self-Assessment Manikin mostró correlaciones de moderadas a fuertes con la Feeling Scale (r = 0.70 y r = 0.56, p < 0.01) y la Felt Arousal Scale (r = 0.65 y r = 0.72, p < 0.01), y un poder predictivo sustancial sobre la Feeling Scale (R2 = 47% y R2 = 31%) y la Felt Arousal Scale (R2 = 42% y R2 = 52%). En base a este estudio, la Feeling Scale y la Felt Arousal Scale demostraron ser instrumentos válidos para medir el afecto y la excitación en los ejercitantes recreativos portugueses. (AU)

The Feeling Scale and Felt Arousal Scale are widely used in sport research. They provide a practical assessment of self-reported affect and arousal during exercise. The original scales were translated from English to Portuguese. Afterward, it was tested if the affect and arousal scores in the picture-based Self-Assessment Manikin predicted the scores in the Feeling Scale and the Felt Arousal Scale in 47 Portuguese recreational exercisers, before and after an exercise session. Self-Assessment Manikin showed moderate-to-strong correlations with the Feeling Scale (r = 0.70 and r = 0.56, p < 0.01) and the Felt Arousal Scale (r = 0.65 and r = 0.72, p < 0.01), and substantial predictive power over the Feeling Scale (R2 = 47% and R2 = 31%) and the Felt Arousal Scale (R2 = 42% and R2 = 52%). The Feeling Scale and Felt Arousal Scale are valid instruments to measure affect and arousal in Portuguese exercisers. (AU)

A Feeling Scale e a Felt Arousal Scale são amplamente utilizadas na investigação em desporto. Fornecem uma avaliação prática dos estados psicológicos de afeto e da ativação durante o exercício. Neste estudo, as escalas originais foram traduzidas do inglês para português. Posteriormente, testou-se se a pontuação do afeto e da ativação na Self-Assessment Manikin, uma escala baseada em imagens, previa a pontuação na Feeling Scale e na Felt Arousal Scale em 47 desportistas recreativos portugueses, antes e depois de uma sessão de exercício. A Self-Assessment Manikin mostrou correlações moderadas a fortes com a Feeling Scale (r = 0.70 e r = 0.56, p < 0.01) e com a Felt Arousal Scale (r = 0.65 e r = 0.72, p < 0,01), e um poder preditivo substancial sobre a Feeling Scale (R2 = 47% e R2 = 31%) e a Felt Arousal Scale (R2 = 42% e R2 = 52%). A Feeling Scale e a Felt Arousal Scale são instrumentos válidos para medir o afeto e a ativação em desportistas recreativos portugueses (AU)