Kinesiology Commons^™

Pilates As A New Form Of Exercise To Lower Childhood Obesity And Depression, Alicia Olson

Whittier Scholars Program

Childhood obesity is is quickly becoming a worldwide epidemic. Some factors contributing to this epidemic include more time spent in passive activities such as watching television and playing video games, eating more high fat/ high sugar content foods, and spending very little if any time being physically active. Children need more exercise options that are less intimidating than running or other strenuous exercises. This project introduces Pilates as a new form of exercise to help decrease childhood obesity and childhood depression. Various literature was looked at to determine how childhood obesity occurs and what can be done to prevent it. …

Neurophysiological Reflex Mechanisms’ Lack Of Contribution To The Success Of Pnf Stretches, J. Brent Feland, Sterling C. Hilton, J. Ty Hopkins, Iain Hunter, Ulrike H. Mitchell, J. William Myrer

Faculty Publications

Background and Purpose: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretches are widely used in athletics and rehabilitation. Although it has been shown that they produce better range-of-motion (ROM) increases than the slow or static stretch, the mechanisms responsible remain an enigma. This study was conducted to determine whether the previously proposed neurophysiological mechanisms of reciprocal inhibition and autogenic inhibition are responsible for the success of PNF stretches. In addition, the authors assessed the existence of the phenomenon of successive induction because it is used to strengthen reciprocal inhibition. Methods: Eighteen subjects 17–44 y performed the PNF stretches contract–relax (CR) and contract–relax, agonist …

The Relationship Between Frequency Of Physical Activity And Stereotypical Behaviors Among Adolescents With Autism, Justin M. Keyes

Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations

No abstract provided.

Development Of Upper Body Coordination During Sitting In Typically Developing Infants, Anastasia Kyvelidou, Wayne A. Stuberg, Regina T. Harbourne, Joan E. Deffeyes, Daniel Blanke, Nikolaos Stergiou

Journal Articles

Our goal was to determine how the actions of the thorax and the pelvis are organized and coordinated to achieve independent sitting posture in typically developing infants. The participants were 10 typically developing infants who were evaluated longitudinally from first onset of sitting until sitting independence. Each infant underwent nine testing sessions. The first session included motor evaluation with the Peabody test. The other eight sessions occurred over a period of 4 mo where sitting behavior was evaluated by angular kinematics of the thorax and the pelvis. A physical therapist evaluated sitting behavior in each session and categorized it according …

Ground Reaction Forces For Children Running In Different Shoes, Dana Forrest

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The purpose of this study was to determine whether certain ground reaction force parameters such as impact force (F1), second maximum force (F2), loading rate, stance time and average vertical ground reaction force (Fzavg) differ when 11-13 year old children run in a neutral shoe (Nike Air Pegasus+ 25) that is either a child or adult style.

Shoes were impact tested in an impact test instrument to determine any performance differences between the two shoes. Next, 10 healthy female subjects aged 12.03 ± 1.14 years with a height of 154.6 ± 4.90 cm and a mass of 46.18 ± 14.33 …

The Effects Of Yoga On Children’S Self-Perceived Stress And Coping Abilities, Holly Smith-Vogtmann

Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations

Stress is a problem for many children in our society. Previous research has shown how yoga can be used to help reduce stress levels. Twenty-seven fourth- and fifth-grade students from an urban elementary school participated in a three-week yoga unit during their physical education class, as a stress management unit. Using a repeated measures design, the participants’ self-perceived stress level, stress coping skills, and perception of yoga was measured. The current study found no significant change in the participants’ self-perceived stress level or stress coping skills after the yoga implementation. There was a significant change in student perceptions of yoga …

Does Acute Passive Stretching Alter The Optimum Height For Drop Jumping?, Jonathan Samuel Ritchie

LSU Master's Theses

The application of static stretching (SS) has previously been shown to limit performance in force production, reaction time, balance and vertical jump height. When looking at the effect of SS on jump performance, researchers have previously used changes in jump height, in squat jumps (SQ), countermovement jumps (CMJ) and drop jumping (DJ) from self selected heights. To date no one has looked at the effect of SS across a range of drop heights. 30 subjects (15 male and 15 female) participated in 1 familiarization trial and four performance trials. All subjects undertook two days of stretching (ST) and two days …

Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facilty 2008 Annual Report, Issue 7, Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility

Biomechanics Annual Report

April 2008 - March 2009

This issue features Announcements, Featured News, Nonlinear Workshop, Projects, Collaborations, Visitors, Awards, Publications, and Support.

Effects Of Exercising With A Weighted Vest On The Output Of Lower Limb Joints In Countermovement Jumping, Behdad Tahayori

LSU Master's Theses

The effect of exercising with a weighted vest equal to 15% of body mass on vertical jump height was assessed. It was hypothesized that the defined treatment protocol could enhance jumping performance by increasing hip, knee and ankle joint power. The findings of this study showed that the defined active stretching protocol significantly increases jump height in male participants (0.3364 m compared to0. 3456 m from pre to post exercise respectively) but did not yield a significant increase in females. No significant changes in joint angle, torque, power or velocity were observed between the pre and post exercise jumping. However, …

A Phase Iii Clinical Trial Of Exercise Modalities On Treatment Side-Effects In Men Receiving Therapy For Prostate Cancer, Robert Newton, Dennis Taaffe, Nigel Spry, Robert Gardiner, Gregory Levin, Bradley Wall, David Joseph, Suzanne K. Chambers, Daniel Galvao

Research outputs pre 2011

Background: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is accompanied by a number of adverse side effects including reduced bone mass and increased risk for fracture, reduced lean mass and muscle strength, mood disturbance and increased fat mass compromising physical functioning, independence, and quality of life. The purpose of this investigation is to examine the effects of long term exercise on reversing musculoskeletal-related side effects, and cardiovascular and diabetes risk factors in men receiving androgen deprivation for their prostate cancer. Specifically, we aim to investigate the effects of a 12-month exercise program designed to load the musculoskeletal system and reduce cardiovascular and diabetes …

A Randomized Controlled Trial Of An Exercise Intervention Targeting Cardiovascular And Metabolic Risk Factors For Prostate Cancer Patients From The Radar Trial, Daniel Galvao, Nigel Spry, Dennis Taaffe, James Denham, David Joseph, David Lamb, Gregory Levin, Gillian Duchesne, Robert U. Newton

Research outputs pre 2011

Androgen deprivation therapy leads to a number of adverse effects including deterioration of the musculoskeletal system and increased risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic complications. The purpose of this study is to determine the effects, efficacy, retention and compliance of a physical exercise intervention in a large established cohort of prostate cancer patients from the Randomised Androgen Deprivation and Radiotherapy (RADAR) study. Specifically, we aim to compare short- and long-term effects of a prostate cancer-specific supervised exercise program to a standard public health physical activity strategy utilizing printed resources on cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors. Our primary outcomes are cardiorespiratory …

Hyperthermic Fatigue Precedes A Rapid Reduction In Serum Sodium In An Ironman Triathlete: A Case Report, Paul Laursen, Greig Watson, Christopher Abbiss, Bradley A. Wall, Kazunori Nosaka

Research outputs pre 2011

No abstract provided.

Increased Strength And Physical Performance With Eccentric Training In Women With Impaired Glucose Tolerance: A Pilot Study, Robin L. Marcus, Paul C. Lastayo, Leland E. Dibble, Laura Hill, Donald A. Mcclain

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

Background: Menopause is associated with both a loss of muscle mass and a worsening of insulin sensitivity (IS). Although eccentric resistance exercise (ECC) can effectively improve muscle mass over time, a single bout of ECC can worsen IS. This study assessed the effect of repeated ECC on IS, muscle mass, and function in postmenopausal women with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).

Methods: Sixteen PM women (aged 56 years +/- 6.4) with IGT were randomly assigned to a 12-week, knee extensor ECC program (n = 10) or a nonexercise control group (CON) (n = 6). Participants underwent hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps, dual-energy …

Effects Of Augmented Real-Time Auditory Feedback On Top-Level Precision Shooting Performance, Stacy Marie Underwood

University of Kentucky Master's Theses

This study examined the effects of training with real-time auditory feedback in precision shooting. Top-level shooters (N=9) were randomly assigned to the feedback or nonfeedback group. Each group performed a pre-test, a 4-week training intervention and a post-test. The feedback group was provided with augmented real-time auditory feedback based on postural and rifle barrel stability during training sessions. Increases in performance were measured through changes in postural stability, rifle barrel stability, shot outcome and shot group diameter. Real-time auditory feedback did not increase postural or rifle barrel stability in the feedback group. No meaningful differences were found related to shot …

Carotid Intima-Media Thickness And Physical And Cognitive Function In Elderly Men And Women: Role Of Physical Activity, John Brent Jr. Rhodes

LSU Master's Theses

The incidence of cognitive impairment in the aging population remains one of the most common morbidities in the elderly, often associated with a decrease in physical function, institutionalization, and death. Several different mechanisms have been proposed, including age-related changes to the vasculature. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between physical activity, carotid intima-media thickness and other vascular measures, and measures of cognitive and physical function in older adults. Measures of daily physical activity, vascular structure and function, and cognitive and physical function were examined in 109 participants [age=81±11 yrs]. Daily physical activity was assessed using the …

Comparison Of Brachial Artery Vasoreactivity In Elite Athletes And Age-Matched Controls, Paul Joseph Blalock

LSU Master's Theses

The ability to distribute blood from areas with low demand to areas with high demand, such as occurs during exercise, is a critical function of the circulatory system. PURPOSE: To compare the resting diameter and vasoreactivity of the brachial artery in elite strength athletes to those of age-matched controls. We hypothesized that the brachial arteries of strength athletes would have larger diameters at rest, and show greater vasoreactivity in response to cuff occlusion and a cold pressor test than in untrained individuals. METHODS: Eight elite strength athletes (age, 23 ± 2 years) and ten age-matched controls (age, 22 ± 1 …

Motivating Middle School Students To Be Physically Active: The Role Of Supportive Environments, Tao Zhang

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

It is clearly documented that promoting regular physical activity participation at young ages increases the likelihood that school-aged students will lead active lifestyles as adults. Unfortunately, more than a third of school-aged students do not engage in sufficient amounts of physical activity necessary to produce significant health benefits (USDHHS, 2000, 2008). Public health officials and physical educators highlight the importance of promoting motivation for physical activity by creating a supportive physical activity environment that should positively influence students’ choices to be physically active. The major objective of this dissertation was to explore the roles of supportive social environments and physical …

An Evaluation Of Endurance And Combined Endurance And Resistance Training On Fitness And C-Reactive Protein, Laura A. Daray

LSU Master's Theses

PURPOSE: This study was designed to determine whether endurance or endurance + resistance training would influence circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and if these changes are related to alterations in aerobic fitness and/or body composition. METHODS: Fifty eight healthy young adults aged 18-24 yrs (78% female) were assigned to one of three groups: 1) endurance training (E) (n=18), 2) endurance + resistance training (ER) (n=11), or 3) active control (AC) (n=29). The E group completed 15 weeks of endurance training for either a half marathon (n=6) or full marathon (n=12). The ER group performed 15 weeks of periodized resistance training …

Participation And Determinants Of Physical Activity Amongst Irish 3rd Level Students., Jonathan Lerner

Theses

Currently, there is a dearth of research investigating physical activity patterns among Irish third level young adults (17-22 year olds). Both national and international research report that levels of physical activity decline in adolescence, this trend being most pronounced among females. Various biological, psychological, social, and environmental determinants have been found to influence physical activity; however, specific factors associated with the decline in activity during adolescence remain largely unknown. This research study examines participation and determinants of physical activity among Irish third level students.

A “National questionnaire” was administered to a sample of 532 students from Health Education Authority (HEA) …

Effects Of Estrogen Receptor Activation On Post-Exercise Muscle Satellite Cell Proliferation, Kareem Bunyan

Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)

This study investigated the role of estrogen receptor activation on total and proliferating satellite cells following running exercise in rats, by using an estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-α) specific agonist, 4,4,4 (4-Propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl) trisphenol (PPT). PPT is the first ER-α specific agonist (Stauffer et al 2000) which binds the ER-a subtype with a 410-greater affinity than ER-β (Stauffer et al 2000). Previous studies have demonstrated that estrogen can augment muscle satellite cell numbers following exercise (Enns and Tiidus, 2008) and that this augmentation may be due to mechanisms activated via estrogen receptors that can influence total, proliferating, and differentiating satellite cell numbers (Enns …

Piecing Together The Puzzle Of Autism: Aspects Of Its Effects On Children With The Condition And Their Caregivers, Roula Markoulakis

Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)

As one of the most prevalent developmental disorders, extensive research exists concerning Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). However, gaps are still evident in a number of areas. Information pertaining to any costs and benefits associated with the experience of caring for a child with autism is inadequate. In Study 1, the lived experiences of married female primary caregivers of children with autism were explored, specifically by examining the costs and benefits of caregiving and its influence on the women’s situations. Furthermore, motor control deficits are apparent in many children with high functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger syndrome (AS), but need to …

An Examination Of Intercollegiate Athletic Injury Tracking Systems Within Canadian Universities, Andrew D. Ross

Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)

Information regarding the practice of athletic injury tracking within Canadian intercollegiate institutions has been relatively deficient. The study aimed to assess the current status of athletic injury tracking systems (AITS) in Canadian universities within the Canadian Interuniversity Sport Association (CIS). A secondary purpose was to obtain data from therapists within Canadian Universities, to identify and analyze issues, benefits, barriers and obtain information regarding how athletic injury tracking methods are conducted. This was achieved by obtaining data regarding the current state of AITS in CIS institutions, clinical demographics, athletic therapists and/or physiotherapists’ opinions regarding the pro’s and con’s of athletic injury …

The Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status And Physical Activity Among Adolescents, Meredith Laurel Stockie

Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)

Background: Many Canadian youth are inactive (Active Healthy Kids Canada, 2009). Socioeconomic status (SES) is one factor that influences youth physical activity (PA) levels; however, the factors involved in this relationship are not well understood. Given that numerous quantitative studies suggest there is a positive relationship between SES and PA among adolescents, but offer little insight into why the given relationship exists, the purpose of the current thesis is to study the factors that influence the relationship between SES and PA among youth aged 12–14 years through a qualitative lens.

Methods: Low (n = 2) and high SES (n = …

The Influence Of Propyl Pyrazole Triol On The Post-Exercise Alpha Estrogen Receptor-Mediated Activation Of Satellite Cells In Skeletal Muscle Of Ovariectomized Rats, Amy Elisabeth Thomas

Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)

Estrogen has been shown to augment satellite cell activation, proliferation and total number and that this may occur through an estrogen receptor (ER) mediated mechanism. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of ERs in the postexercise estrogen-induced augmentation of satellite cells in skeletal muscle of ovariectomized rats. Furthermore, the specific role of the ERα was examined through the use of an ERa agonist, propyl pyrazole triol (PPT). Ovariectomized rats were used (n=64) and separated into 4 groups: sham, estrogen supplemented, agonist supplemented and a combined estrogen and agonist supplemented group. These groups were further subdivided into …

Visitor Perceptions Of Benefits Of Local Park, Deborah L. Kerstetter, Andrew J. Mowen, Nate E. Trauntvein, Toni Liechty, Nuno Rubiero

Kinesiology and Health Science Faculty Publications

Recent research regarding the perceived benets of local parks has been limited, posing a problem for recreation and park directors who must promote the value of and gain support for aging park facilities. To collect evidence concerning the value of local parks and the impact of park upgrades, we conducted a study with one local park to (a) document behavioral changes that have occurred as a result of renovation, and (b) determine the perceived benets of having a community park. Two-thirds of respondents reported visiting the park more frequently since renovations were completed. When asked why they visit the park …

Electromyographic Response Is Altered During Robotic Surgical Training With Augmented Feedback, Timothy N. Judkins, D. Oleynikov, Nikolaos Stergiou

Journal Articles

There is a growing prevalence of robotic systems for surgical laparoscopy. We previously developed quantitative measures to assess robotic surgical proficiency, and used augmented feedback to enhance training to reduce applied grip force and increase speed. However, there is also a need to understand the physiological demands of the surgeon during robotic surgery, and if training can reduce these demands. Therefore, the goal of this study was to use clinical biomechanical techniques via electromyography (EMG) to investigate the effects of real-time augmented visual feedback during short-term training on muscular activation and fatigue. Twenty novices were trained in three inanimate surgical …

Peripheral Arterial Disease Affects Kinematics During Walking, Ronaldo Celis, Iraklis Pipinos, Melissa Scott-Pandorf, Sara A. Myers, Nikolaos Stergiou, Jason Johanning

Journal Articles

Objective: Claudication is the most common manifestation of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) producing significant ambulatory compromise. The purpose of this study was to use advanced biomechanical analysis to characterize the kinematic ambulatory pattern of claudicating patients. We hypothesized that compared with control subjects, claudicating patients have altered kinematic gait patterns that can be fully characterized utilizing advanced biomechanical analysis.

Methods: The study examined fourteen PAD patients (age: 58 ± 3.4 years; weight: 80.99 ± 15.64 kg) with clinically diagnosed femoro-popliteal occlusive disease (Ankle Brachial Index (ABI): 0.56 ± 0.03, range 0.45 to 0.65) and five healthy controls (age: 53 ± …

Effect Of Surface Stability On Core Muscle Activity For Dynamic Resistance Exercises, Jeffrey Willardson, Fabio E. Fontana, Eadric Bressel

Faculty Research and Creative Activity

To compare core muscle activity during resistance exercises performed on stable ground vs. the BOSU Balance Trainer. Methods: Twelve trained men performed the back squat, dead lift, overhead press, and curl lifts. The activity of the rectus abdominis, external oblique abdominis, transversus abdominis/internal oblique abdominis, and erector spinae muscles was assessed. Subjects performed each lift under three separate conditions including standing on stable ground with 50% of a 1-RM, standing on a BOSU Balance Trainer with 50% of a 1-RM, and standing on stable ground with 75% of a 1-RM. Results: Significant differences were noted between the stable 75% of …

Quantifying The Onset Of The Concentric Phase Of The Force–Time Record During Jumping, S.K. Leissring, William Ebben, Luke Garceau, Erich Petushek, R.L. Jensen

Exercise Science Faculty Research and Publications

Thirteen college students performed a drop jump from height equal to their peak vertical jump, single leg jumps from the left and right legs, and a counter movement jump. Vertical ground reaction force (GRF) obtained via an AMTI force plate and video analysis of markers placed on the hip, knee, lateral malleolus, and fifth metatarsal were used to estimate reaction forces on the knee joint. One-way Repeated Measures ANOVA indicated no differences for knee joint reaction forces relative to body weight or peak GRF for any of the jumps (p > 0.05). Average measures Intraclass Correlation Coefficients ranged from r = …

Evaluation Of Selected Physical Activities On Maintenance Of Target Heart Rate In Hispanic Middle School Students, Christopher Ray Estrada

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

No abstract provided.