Assessment of functional fitness impacted by hospital rehabilitation in post-stroke patients who additionally contracted COVID-19.

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the effects of rehabilitation in post-stroke patients, or post-stroke patients with simultaneous COVID-19 infection, in relation to: improved locomotion efficiency, improved balance, reduced risk of falling as well as the patients' more effective performance in everyday activities. Methods: The study involved 60 patients in the early period (2-3 months) after a stroke. Group I consisted of 18 patients (30.0%) who, in addition to a stroke, also contracted COVID-19. Group II consisted of 42 patients (70%) post-stroke, with no SARS-CoV2 infection. The effects were assessed on the basis of: Tinetti test, Timed Up & Go test and Barthel scale. Results: Both groups achieved a statistically significant improvement in their Barthel score after therapy (p < 0.001). The Tinetti test, assessing gait and balance, showed that participants in Group I improved their score by an average of 4.22 points. ±4.35, and in Group II, on average, by 3.48 points ± 3.45 points. In the Timed Up & Go test over a distance of 3 m, significant improvement was achieved in both groups, as well but the effect was higher in Group I (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Hospital rehabilitation in the early period after stroke improved locomotion efficiency and balance, and reduced the risk of falls in post-stroke patients, both with and without COVID-19 infection.

Evaluation of Reliability of the Luna EMG Rehabilitation Robot to Assess Proprioception in the Upper Limbs in 102 Healthy Young Adults.

BACKGROUND Proprioception, the body's ability to perceive its own position and movement, is fundamental for motor control and coordination. Reliable assessment tools are essential, particularly for conditions affecting proprioceptive function. This study aimed to evaluate the external and internal compliance of the Luna EMG -multifunction robotic device in assessing proprioception. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study involved 102 healthy students (31 men and 71 women; mean age 22.2±1.46 years), assessing proprioception using the Luna EMG for the upper limbs. Two investigators conducted measurements, which were repeated after 2 weeks under identical conditions. RESULTS Based on the identified values of the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (ICC=0.969-0.997), which is a key measure of agreement between 2 assessments, the study shows a high agreement of measurements both between investigators (for right hand: P=0.3484 [Exam 1]; P=1.0000 [Exam 2]; for left hand: P=0.1092 [Exam 1]; P=0.7706 [Exam 2]) and between the examinations (for right hand: 0.1127 [Investigator 1]; 0.2113 [Investigator 2]; for left hand: P=0.0087 [Investigator 1]; P=0.1466 [Investigator 2]). The Bland-Altman analysis showed very small inter-rater deviations, approximately 0.05° in the first examination for the left side and 0.04° for the right side. The highest deviation between the examinations, amounting to 0.08°, was identified for the left side. CONCLUSIONS The study shows that the Luna EMG multifunction robotic device enables a reliable evaluation of upper limb proprioception. Measurements performed using this device show high internal and external consistency in the assessment of the proprioceptive senses of the upper limb in 102 healthy young adults.

Risk factors and prevalence of hypertension in older adults from south-eastern Poland: an observational study.

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of hypertension and to investigate risk factors linked to hypertension in older adults. An observational study was conducted in a group of adults between 60 and 85 years of age, living in south-eastern Poland. In line with the specific inclusion criteria, 80 women and 29 men were enrolled for the study (109 adults). Participants' body weight, height, and body fat percentage (BFP) were assessed using a bioelectrical impedance analysis, blood pressure was measured using automated oscillometric sphygmomanometer, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time were assessed using a tri-axial accelerometer, whereas data related to socio-economic and lifestyle factors were collected using a self-report technique. Arterial hypertension was found at a rate of 16% in participants with normal body weight, 22% in those with overweight and 85% in those with obesity. Body mass index (BMI) and BFP correlated significantly with systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). The highest median SBP and DBP values were found in the group of participants with obesity, and the lowest values were identified in those with normal body weight. Out of all the investigated socio-economic risk factors linked to hypertension, education level was the only one that showed significant associations. A logistic regression analysis was performed to check which factors were most strongly associated with hypertension in the study group. The stepwise method showed that hypertension was more common in participants with a higher BMI, and BFP and in those who did not meet MVPA recommendation.

The effect of aquatic and land exercise on the mental well-being of women following breast cancer surgery-comparative study.

PURPOSE: Women after surgical treatment of breast cancer are less likely to engage in physical activity and may exhibit depressive symptoms even for many years post-treatment. The aim of the study was to compare the impact of 6 months aquatic and land exercise on mental well-being of women after breast cancer surgery. METHODS: The study was based on a survey which involved a total of 90 women ≥ 50 years of age (including 60 subjects after treatment of breast cancer ≥ 2 years after surgery and 30 healthy control). The study participants were divided into three groups, i.e. women attending general exercise sessions in a gym (A, n = 30), participating in aquatic exercise (B, n = 30), as well as healthy female peers reporting no regular physical exercise for the period of 6 months (C, n = 30). The present data were acquired using standardized questionnaires designed to assess physical activity (IPAQ-SF), mental well-being (WHO-5) and level of anxiety, i.e., Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7). RESULTS: Both the aquatic and land exercise had positive effect on mental well-being of woman after breast cancer surgery and there were no significant differences between them. Analysis of the anxiety level (GAD-7) confirms that women after breast cancer treatment were more exposed to a feeling of generalised anxiety disorder, i.e. 8.67 vs. 6.73, 4.5 (p = 0.001). The results of WHO-5 index were significantly higher in the A and B groups comparing to healthy control, i.e. 13.27 vs. 14.18; 10.10 (p < 0.001), but the obtained results still indicate the low self-esteem of the study group. Women after breast cancer surgery who regularly participated in aquatic exercise were engaged in more vigorous physical activity compared to the other groups, i.e. 1049.33 vs. 521.33; 860.00 MET min/week (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Regardless of the type of physical activity, 6 months aquatic and land exercise contributed to improved mental well-being and ensured adequate levels of moderate physical activity of woman after BC surgery. Regular physical activity is crucial in the rehabilitation after mastectomy and can be an effective treatment to achieve beneficial mental outcomes.

Enhanced Rehabilitation Outcomes of Robotic-Assisted Gait Training with EksoNR Lower Extremity Exoskeleton in 19 Stroke Patients.

BACKGROUND Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, often resulting in impaired mobility and gait abnormalities, necessitating effective rehabilitation approaches. Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) offers precise control and intensive, task-specific training. The EksoNR exoskeleton shows potential in facilitating gait recovery. This study assesses the efficacy and tolerability of RAGT using EksoNR in the rehabilitation of 19 stroke patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective nonrandomized, observational study design was employed with a single group convenience sample. The study included 19 individuals post-stroke, who underwent a 4-week rehabilitation program. Baseline and post-rehabilitation assessments were conducted using selected International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) codes, gait exoskeleton parameters (number of steps, walking time, time of verticalization) obtained during the exoskeleton sessions, and the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). RESULTS The study revealed statistically significant improvements in all analyzed ICF categories, except for D530 Toileting, indicating enhanced functioning. The most notable improvements in activity and participation were observed in the categories of D410 Changing basic body position (-0.84±0.60) and D450 Walking (-0.84±0.60). Additionally, gait analysis demonstrated significant enhancements in the number of steps (difference of 506.79±252.49), walking time (13.02±7.91), and time of verticalization (11.82±9.21) (p>0.001). The TUG test also showed a statistically significant improvement in mobility (p=0.005). CONCLUSIONS This study supports previous findings, demonstrating that RAGT using the EksoNR lower extremity exoskeleton improves gait and functional status in stroke patients, while being well tolerated. The results highlight the potential of this approach for improved rehabilitation outcomes.

The Impact of Physical Exercises with Elements of Dance Movement Therapy on Anthropometric Parameters and Physical Fitness among Functionally Limited Older Nursing Home Residents.

Changes in the composition of the body mass of functionally limited older patients may contribute to a decrease in functional fitness and the development of chronic diseases. This research aimed to assess the differences in anthropometric parameters and physical fitness of older patients, over the age of 65, in a 12-week clinical intervention study. Method: The study participants were nursing home inhabitants aged 65-85 who were functionally limited. Persons meeting the inclusion criteria were assigned to one of the three groups: Group 1-basic exercises/BE group (n = 56); Group 2-physical exercises with elements of dancing/PED group (n = 57); Group 3-control group/CO group (n = 56) routine care. The data were collected at the beginning of the study and at the 12-week mark. The outcome was observed for hand grip strength (HGS), arm curl test (ACT), Barthel Index (BI), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), triceps skin fold (TSF), waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR), and arm muscle area (AMA). Results: The study included 98 women and 71 men. The average age of the participants was 74.40 years. The analysis of the effects of the 12-week exercise program showed the greatest changes in HGS, ACT, and BI in the exercise groups, especially in the PED group compared to the BE group. Statistically significant differences in the examined parameters of the PED vs. BE vs. CO groups were demonstrated in favour of the exercising groups. In conclusion, a 12-week program of group physical exercises, both PED and BE, improves physical fitness indicators and anthropometric indicators.

Assessment of Health Behaviours and Satisfaction with Life among Catholic Priests in Poland.

The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the health behaviours of diocesan priests in Poland and their level of life satisfaction. The specific goal was to determine the factors that most affect their quality of health (internal health control, the influence of others or coincidence) and life satisfaction (positive mental attitude, preventive behaviour, eating habits, health practices). The study involved 250 diocesan priests from the Podkarpackie region who took part in the research by completing an anonymous questionnaire. The questions were mainly based on tools for assessing health behaviours, namely the HBI-health behaviour inventory, MHLC-multidimensional scale of health locus of control and the SWLS-satisfaction with life scale. The general index of health behaviour of clergymen on the HBI scale was 77.12 ± 16.20 (Me = 78), showing a moderate level on the sten scale. On the MHLC health locus of control scale, the respondents believed that their health depended most on internal control: 25.27 ± 5.10 and the influence of others: 23.13 ± 5.57, are of utmost importance for their health. To a lesser extent they believed that health was dependent on chance: 17.60 ± 5.95. The SWLS satisfaction with life index was 22.51 ± 5.43 (Me = 23), also within the moderate range of the sten scale. The factors most closely related to the assessment of life satisfaction were positive mental attitudes and the overall HBI index. The health behaviours of priests measured by the HBI scale and the level of satisfaction with the life of SWLS clergymen are within a moderate range. On the MHLC scale, priests likewise believe that their health depends on themselves and then on others. They are clearly less likely to indicate accidental causes.

Differences in Body Balance According to Body Mass Classification among Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Athletes.

Background: Body weight is an important aspect in the development of components of physical fitness that can affect athletic performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in body balance of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) athletes according to body mass classification: underweight/normal weight (UW/NW); overweight/obese (OW/OB). Material and Methods: The study was conducted among 69 BJJ athletes (age 23.26 ± 3.53) and 93 non-practicing adults (age 21.73 ± 2.32). This study was based on a quantitative assessment of body balance on the Zebris PDM platform during two tests, i.e., with eyes open and closed. Results: The total path of the center of pressure (COP TTL) was significantly higher in participants with UW/NW compared to those with OW/OB, both in participants from the study group and control group (p < 0.001). COP TTL was significantly lower in UW/NW BJJ athletes than in participants in the control group with the same BMI category (987.4 mm vs. 1238.5 mm and 1080.59 mm vs. 1280.70 mm, respectively) (p < 0.001). Conclusions. BJJ training is associated with a better balance in terms of COP TTL in the case of people with normal or underweight. The presence of excess body weight has a positive effect on lower COP TTL values in both practicing and non-practicing people.

Preterm Birth and the Type of Birth and Their Impact on the Incidence of Overweight and Obesity in Children.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the influence of the type of birth and preterm birth on the risk of overweight and obesity in the children studied. The study involved 749 children of pre-school and school age, between 4 and 15 years of age. Information about the type of delivery and the potential preterm birth came from the child's health book and the mother's pregnancy card. The authors assessed the body height and body weight of each child. The analysis showed that on average every six children were born before due date (before the end of 37 weeks of gestation) and slightly more than 40% of the children were born by cesarean section (CS). A statistical analysis was performed, including descriptive statistics and Spearman's correlation, and to evaluate the differences in the analyzed groups, nonparametric tests and chi-square independence tests were used: the Mann-Whitney test, and the Kruskal-Wallis test due to the lack of a normalized distribution. The incidence of overweight and obesity was higher in 7-11-year-old boys born with CS vs. vaginal birth (VD) (p = 0.026). There were no statistically significant differences between BMI centile value and preterm birth. Cesarean section birth significantly increases the percentage of boys with overweight and obesity in early school age and may be associated with higher percentile values of children with BMI in this age group.

The Role of Physical Activity in the Reduction of Generalised Anxiety Disorder in Young Adults in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic.

Physical activity is critically important not only for physical but also for mental health. Exercise may be a beneficial form of therapy for young adults with anxiety disorders. The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the public, including young adults, in terms of their mental well-being and opportunities for physical activity. The study aimed to identify the influence of physical activity (PA) on generalised anxiety in young adults. It also assessed the changes which occurred in the level of PA and in generalised anxiety in young adults as a result of COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was carried out online with 506 young adults aged 18 to 34 years (=24.67 years ± 4.23 years). Respondents provided two answers to each question, i.e., information relating to the last 7 days during the pandemic (first hard lockdown), and to a period of 7 days before the pandemic (retrospective). The levels of physical activity were measured using 7-item International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), whereas the level of generalised anxiety was assessed using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) questionnaire. During the pandemic there was a significant correlation between the level of generalised anxiety and the level of physical activity reported by the respondents (p = 0.048). A higher level of physical activity corresponded to lower level of generalized anxiety in young adults. During the pandemic, young adults spent significantly less time performing physical activity (8752.5 vs. 6174.6 metabolic equivalents (MET) min/week, p < 0.001), they spent more time engaging in sedentary behaviours (Me = 240 vs. Me = 300 min/day, p < 0.001), and they walked much less (from Me = 6930.0 (MET) min/week vs. 3861.0 (MET) min/week (44.29% decrease). Furthermore, after the outbreak of the pandemic the level of perceived generalised anxiety increased significantly (p < 0.001). Physical activity may play an important role in reducing anxiety disorder in young adults. During the COVID-19 pandemic young adults were significantly less involved in PA, which adversely affected their physical and mental condition. The importance of sufficient PA should be emphasised during this specific period, particularly among young adults.

Sociodemographic and Socioeconomic Factors Influencing the Body Mass Composition of School-Age Children.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the components of overweight, obesity, and body mass components among children aged 7 to 13 years against important sociodemographic factors. The analyses considered 315 school-age children from 7 to 13 years of age (164 boys and 151 girls). Each subject was assessed for body weight and height, body weight category, and main sociodemographic factors. Body mass components of body mass (body-fat percentage (BFP), muscle tissue, fat-free mass (FFM), and total body water (TBW) levels) were evaluated using the electrical bioimpedance method (BIA) and the TANITA 780 MC analyzer. A statistical analysis showed significant differences between the body composition of children living in cities in relation to children living in small towns and villages, and no significant differences were found between the results of children living in small towns and children living in villages. The presence of statistically significant differences between the values of the parameters of body composition of the studied children was demonstrated depending on the level of education of their fathers. The presence of statistically significant relationships between BMI of mothers and BFP of their children (p = 0.003), FFM (p = 0.003), muscle tissue (p = 0.001), and TBW (p = 0.001) has been demonstrated. The higher content of adipose tissue in children is strongly dependent on the higher BMI and body mass category of the mother, as well as the lower level of education of the father. The place of residence also significantly affects both the body fat content and the total body water content of body hydration. Living in the city is associated with better body composition.

Assessment of Functional Performance in Children with Cerebral Palsy Receiving Treatment in a Day Care Facility: An Observational Study.

BACKGROUND The study assessed changes in functional performance of children with cerebral palsy (CP), immediately following treatment and 2 months later, in addition to investigating the relationship between therapy effect and sex, age, or comorbidities. MATERIAL AND METHODS Functional performance of 32 children with spastic diplegia CP, aged 9-16 years, was assessed for: 1) manual function (Box and Block test), motor capacities (Gross Motor Function Measure), sensory capacities (Finger Identification [FI] and Localisation of Tactile Stimuli test [LTC]), and 2) activity and participation, ie, independence in essential and more complex daily activities (Barthel Index; Paediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory). Measurements were conducted before the start (Month 0), immediately after 6-month rehabilitation program (Month 6), and following a 2-month period with no therapy, ie, 8 months after baseline measurement (Month 8). RESULTS Comparison of Month 0 and Month 6 scores showed significant differences (P<0.001) in all measures. However, Month 8 scores were significantly worse in all the measures, except for sensory capacities assessed using FI and LTC (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Functional performance of children with CP was positively affected by 6-month therapy, but 2 months later these effects significantly deteriorated, except for the sensory capacities. This suggests that therapy focusing on functional performance should be included as a permanent component of rehabilitation programs. These findings may be important for clinical practice as they show that therapy of children with CP should be continuous and systematic, and this should be taken into account by those designing therapeutic programs.

Impact of a Rehabilitation Program on the Change in Components of Body Mass of the Upper and Lower Limbs in People After Ischemic Stroke.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of rehabilitation in terms of changes in the body mass composition in the upper and lower limbs depending on the length of time after stroke and the age of the patient. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eighty-two patients after ischemic stroke were tested 3 times: on admission, after 5 weeks, and 3 months after leaving the hospital (follow-up). During each examination, a segmental analysis of the components of the body mass of the upper limbs and lower limbs was performed, depending on the side of paresis. RESULTS Patients between 7 and 12 months after stroke with right-sided paresis had a reduction of fat (P=0.027) and an increase in muscle tissue in the lower (P=0.030) and upper limbs with paresis (P=0.037), as well as in the healthy upper limb (P=0.034) after rehabilitation. Only in the youngest age group (25-44 years) and in patients with left-sided paresis was there a decrease of adipose tissue in the healthy upper (P=0.012) and paresis limbs (P=0.032) and an increase in the muscle tissue mass in the right upper limb (P=0.010) after rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS The rehabilitation program had a significant impact on the change in the composition of body mass in upper and lower limbs in people with right-sided paresis, particularly 7 to 12 months after stroke and in the youngest age group (25-44 years). These results may be useful in planning a rehabilitation program for stroke patients to consider the patient's dominant hand and neglect.

Consumption of selected food products by adults representing various body mass categories, during Covid-19 lockdown in Poland.

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to assess consumption of selected food products by adults with a range of body mass before and during the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic as well as identify factors impacting the consumption of selected foods. METHODS: The study was conducted in a group of 690 subjects during the most severe lockdown due to Covid-19 in Poland ([Formula: see text] = 23 years of age). The dietary assessment was carried out by means of an online survey based on the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ-6). The respondents were asked to provide two answers to each question, one covering a 7-day period before the lockdown and one related to a 7-day period during the lockdown. RESULTS: During lockdown in the study group there was increase in consumption of sweets and snacks (p = 0.010), grain products (p = 0.050), fat (p = 0.007) as well as alcohol (p < 0.001). During the lockdown respondents with normal BMI increased consumption of sweets and snacks (p = 0.011), dairy products and eggs (p = 0.034), grain products (p = 0.029) and alcohol (p = 0.00). The group of overweight respondents was found to consume significantly more alcohol (p = 0.022), while those with obesity tended to consume more meat (p = 0.002), fish (p < 0.001) and lower amounts of dairy products (p = 0.003). The factors which affected intake of selected food products include age, smoking, place of residence, obesity and education. CONCLUSIONS: Covid-19 pandemic is significantly related to the change in the frequency of intake of selected products by all adults, irrespective of their BMI. The adverse changes were particularly observed in respondents with overweight and obesity.

The association between steps per day and blood pressure in children.

Lower levels of physical activity are associated with an increased overall cardiometabolic risk, as well as the risk or being overweight. It is difficult to determine the optimal level of physical activity that protects the needs of children and young people. Studies on the required number of steps, as well as approximating the daily volume of physical activity, are gaining increasing credibility in research and practice. Researchers propose a "rule" of ≥ 11,500 steps per day, for children and teenagers of both sexes. The aim of the study was to assess whether 11,500 steps a day is sufficient to maintain normal blood pressure among children and adolescents. 1002 children and adolescents aged 4-15 were included in the study. To assess physical activity, measured in the number of steps per day, the Actigraph accelerometer wGT3X-BT was used. The normal number of steps was defined as greater than or equal to 11,500 steps per day for children and teenagers, for both girls and boys. In the entire study group, a significantly lower risk of hypertension was observed when the number of steps was normal (OR is 0.45 and the upper confidence limit for OR is 0.71). The study confirmed the beneficial protective role of physical activity against hypertension in older children and adolescents. However, it should be emphasized that no such relationship has been demonstrated in the case of preschool children. The presented norms of the number of steps should be promoted to the wider community to make prevention of cardiovascular diseases even more effective.

Is There a Link between Balance and Body Mass Composition in Children and Adolescents?

School-age children are particularly prone to disturbances in body composition, because this is a period of intensive growth and a period in which correct habits are shaped, especially in relation to diet. This is why it is so important to diagnose emerging disorders early so as to implement therapeutic or educational activities. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the factors of body mass composition and body mass index (BMI), as well as the balance parameters in children and adolescents. The study group consisted of 1137 children aged 7 to 15. There were 559 girls and 578 boys among the subjects. The study used the Tanita 780 body mass composition analyser and the Zebris stabilometric platform. It was found that girls were characterized by a significantly higher content of adipose tissue (24.37% vs. 20.45%), while boys were characterized by a higher content of lean tissue (32.99% vs. 30.43%), muscle tissue (31.23% vs. 28.86%) and water (24.15% vs. 22.28%). Interestingly, the girls had better balance than their peers in all analyzed parameters (COF TTL.-616.72 vs. 661.50; CEArea-73.63 vs. 112.24; COF HD-3.44 vs. 4.23; COF VD-4.52 vs. 5.12). It turned out that among children in adolescence, a higher adipose tissue content and a higher BMI correlated with a smaller surface area (p < 0.05) defined by the center of gravity and smaller deviations of the center of gravity in the horizontal plane (p < 0.05). Sex and adolescence play an important role in differentiating both body composition and body balance. The results of this study allow us to conclude that children with higher BMI values have better balance. Due to the fact that these conclusions are inconsistent with those of other researchers, it will be worth continuing the research (e.g., on a different population group) in order to confirm the results and to draw far-reaching conclusions.

Prenatal and Postnatal Anxiety and Depression in Mothers during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The aim of this study was to assess the changes in the occurrence of prenatal and postnatal anxiety and depression symptoms, and to assess what factors significantly affect the appearance of symptoms of depression and anxiety in young mothers. The study group consisted of 130 women after childbirth. Due to the ongoing restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the survey was prepared online. The questionnaire was fully anonymous, and it contained the authors' own questions and two standardized questionnaires: the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Generalized Anxiety Disorders GAD-7. The conducted analysis clearly indicated that the level of postpartum depression, in as many as 52 of the mothers, had increased significantly compared to the time before delivery, when symptoms of depression were shown by 22 women (p = 0.009). However, there was no statistically significant change between prenatal and postnatal anxiety. There are many factors associated with postnatal depression. The strongest predictors turned out to be average socioeconomic status, history of anxiety disorders, past neurosis or depression, lack of or inadequate level of assistance from healthcare professionals, as well as lactation problems and postpartum pain.

Health behaviours of young adults during the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic - a longitudinal study.

BACKGROUND: The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic has created a number of obstacles to daily functioning, which have led to a need for major changes in lifestyles. The aim of the study was to assess whether and to what extent the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic has affected the health behaviours of young adults. METHODS: 506 people aged 18 to 34 ([Formula: see text] =24.67 years ±4.23 years) who filled in an online survey were qualified for the study. Assessment was made of eating habits (a modified Food Frequency Questionnaire, FFQ), physical activity and sedentary behaviours (International Physical Activity Questionnaire, short form IPAQ-SF), sleep quality (The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI), and generalized anxiety (Generalized anxiety Disorder, 7-item, GAD-7 scale). RESULTS: During the pandemic, young adults changed their dietary preferences toward sweets and cereal products, increased alcohol (p < 0.001) and fat (p = 0.005) intake, significantly reduced their physical activity (from 8752.5 metabolic equivalents (MET) min/week vs. 6174.6 MET min/week, p < 0.001), increased the time spent sedentarily (Me = 240 min vs. Me = 360 min, p < 0.001) and had decreased sleep quality (PSQI score Me = 7.00 vs. Me = 9.00). CONCLUSIONS: The Covid-19 pandemic worsened health behaviours and intensified the feeling of generalized anxiety in young adults. Generalized anxiety during obligatory lockdown had the greatest negative impact on sedentary behaviours and sleep quality.

Changes in Children's Body Composition and Posture during Puberty Growth.

The main goal of our study was to determine how the age of children, puberty and anthropometric parameters affect the formation of body composition and faulty body posture development in children. The secondary goal was to determine in which body segments abnormalities most often occur and how gender differentiates the occurrence of adverse changes in children's body posture and body composition during puberty. The study group consisted of 464 schoolchildren aged from 6-16. Body posture was assessed with the Zebris system. The composition of the body mass was tested with Tanita MC 780 MA body mass analyzer and the body height was measured using a portable stadiometer PORTSTAND 210. The participants were further divided due to the age of puberty. Tanner division was adopted. The cut-off age for girls is ≥10 years and for boys it is ≥12 years. The analyses applied descriptive statistics, the Pearson correlation, stepwise regression analysis and the t-test. The accepted level of significance was p < 0.05. The pelvic obliquity was lower in older children (beta = -0.15). We also see that age played a significant role in the difference in the height of the right pelvis (beta = -0.28), and the difference in the height of the right shoulder (beta = 0.23). Regression analysis showed that the content of adipose tissue (FAT%) increased with body mass index (BMI) and decreased with increasing weight, age, and height. Moreover, the FAT% was lower in boys than in girls (beta negative equal to -0.39). It turned out that older children (puberty), had greater asymmetry in the right shoulder blade (p < 0.001) and right shoulder (p = 0.003). On the other hand, younger children (who were still before puberty) had greater anomalies in the left trunk inclination (p = 0.048) as well as in the pelvic obliquity (p = 0.008). Girls in puberty were characterized by greater asymmetry on the right side, including the shoulders (p = 0.001), the scapula (p = 0.001) and the pelvis (p < 0.001). In boys, the problem related only to the asymmetry of the shoulder blades (p < 0.001). Girls were characterized by a greater increase in adipose tissue and boys by muscle tissue. Significant differences also appeared in the body posture of the examined children. Greater asymmetry within scapulas and shoulders were seen in children during puberty. Therefore, a growing child should be closely monitored to protect them from the adverse consequences of poor posture or excessive accumulation of adipose tissue in the body.

The Efficiency of Spa Rehabilitation in Chronic Ischemic Stroke Patients-Preliminary Reports.

BACKGROUND: Rehabilitation-oriented therapy after a stroke must continue in various forms as a life-long effort. AIM: The study investigated the impact of spa rehabilitation on the quality of life and functional efficiency in patients after an ischemic stroke at a chronic stage of recovery. METHODS: The assessment was carried out in a spa resort in southeastern Poland. It involved 32 patients with strokes who participated in a three-week rehabilitation program. Three examinations were performed: upon admission, on the day of discharge and at a two-month follow-up. The quality of life and functional efficiency were assessed with the WHOQOL-BREF and Barthel Index. RESULTS: The quality of life was significantly higher in Exam II compared with Exam I (p < 0.001), and improvement was retained at the follow-up. The Barthel scores were higher in Exam II compared with Exam I (79.84 vs. 68.59), while the differences between the scores in Exams II and III were small (p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS: Three-week spa rehabilitation seems to favorably affect the functional efficiency and quality of life after a stroke. The effects appear to be long-term. The gender, age and time from stroke onset do not seem to impact short-term effects. However, long-term effects are related to the time from stroke onset.