Medical Education Commons^™

Increases In Knee Extension Muscle Activation But Not Peak Torque Following High Intensity Training, Adriana Alonso Gomez, Sierra M. Washignton, Annalee G. Krahn, Sarah N. Fambro, Andrew J. West, Andru N. Botello, Adam C. Avalos, Andrew A. Wolfe, Michael J. Luera

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Autoregulatory progressive resistance exercise (APRE) modulates training intensity in response to individual performance to optimize increases in muscular strength. Muscular activation patterns during maximal torque production can provide additional insight to increased strength following an APRE training intervention. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 4-week APRE training program on peak torque and muscle activation in the vastus lateralis (VL) during maximal voluntary isokinetic knee extension. METHODS: Eight resistance trained males (age: 21.5 ± 2.3yrs; height: 176.5 ± 6.8cm; weight: 70.3 ± 17.8kg) participated in upper- and lower-body APRE 4-times per week for 4-weeks. …

Effects Of Autoregulatory Progressive Resistance Exercise On Upper-Body Rate Of Force Development And Cross-Sectional Area, Andru N. Botello, Sierra M. Washington, Annalee G. Krahn, Andrew J. West, Dylan J. Harty, Jenaya V. Brown, Mason A. Crews, Sarah N. Fambro, Adriana Alonso Gomez, Andrew A. Wolfe, Micheal J. Luera

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Rate of force development (RFD) is used to measure explosive strength during a rapid contraction of a muscle action and is also important for athletes who prioritize explosiveness and quickness. Reports indicate autoregulatory progressive resistance exercise (APRE) yields greater physical performance adaptations than traditional linear periodization models. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare isometric bench press RFD and skeletal muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) of the triceps longhead following 4-weeks of an APRE training program. METHODS: Eight resistance trained males (age: 21.5 ± 2.3yrs; height: 176.5 ± 6.8cm; weight: 70.3 ± 17.8kg) participated in a 4-week …

The Relationship Between Traditional Performance Measures Countermovement Jump Testing In Youth Female Soccer Athletes, Samiha Momin, Haley Goble, Roxanne Miller, Shari Liberman, Bradley Lambert

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Jump testing using electronic force plates has gained interest in sport and rehabilitation settings for evaluating performance and recovery across all levels, from youth to professional. While these devices produce extensive data on jump metrics, little information exists on how they relate to traditional sport performance measures used in athletic or therapy settings for youth athletes. PURPOSE: Examine the relationship between countermovement jump (CMJ) testing measures assessed via the VALD ForceDecks Lite® force plate system and common sport performance tests associated with lower extremity strength, power, agility, and injury risk in elite youth soccer athletes. METHODS: All procedures for …

Comparison Of Ncaa D1 Women’S Basketball Game Day And Previous Practice Training Loads, Kyle Jean, Karissa A. Mesquita, David Clark, Yasuki Sekiguchi

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Game day training loads in NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball players differ significantly from practice loads, emphasizing the intense physical demands of competition. Analyzing these variations is crucial for optimizing training strategies, balancing workload, and enhancing recovery. PURPOSE: Examining the game day and the previous week training load before each game in NCAA D1 Women’s Basketball players. METHODS: Eleven females (Age: 22±2years, Height: 183.41±8.92cm, Weight: 84.62±18.78kg) NCAA D1 Women’s Basketball players donned accelerometer units for games and practices from October 2023 through March 2024. Variables collected by the units include Total Distance, Duration, Accumulated Acceleration Load, High Speed …

Effect Of Sodium Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibition On Exercise Hyperemia In Older Adults, Harrison A. Peyrovi, Steven A. Romero, Johnathan D. Tune, Ysabella Ruiz-Pick, Asim Kichloo, Gregory M. Dick, Brenda L. Gilliland

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Skeletal muscle blood flow is attenuated in older adults performing dynamic exercise which is due, in part, to impaired local vasodilatory mechanisms. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have shown that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors improve vasodilator function at rest. However, the extent to which this improvement extends to exercise is unknown. PURPOSE: To test the hypothesis that compared with placebo, short-term administration of an SGLT2 inhibitor will increase skeletal muscle blood flow in older adults performing unilateral plantar flexion exercise via increased vascular conductance. METHODS: We utilized a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design. Four older adults (3 women; age …

Co-Existence Of St-Segment Depression And Exaggerated Systolic Blood Pressure Response In Older Runners, Kazumasa Manabe, Owen N. Beck, Justus Ortega, Hirofumi Tanaka

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Regular exercise is known to confer substantial benefits for cardiovascular health. However, long-distance runners with abnormal exercise electrocardiography like ST-segment depression have been reported to show a higher prevalence of exercise-induced hypertension, which may link to future cardiovascular events. In recent years, the recommendation to screen and assess cardiovascular risks has extended to various populations including chronically active and seemingly healthy older athletes. PURPOSE: In the retrospective analysis of a previous research study to evaluate walking economy in older adults, we observed a fairly high occurrence of both ST segment depression and peak systolic BP in older endurance-trained athletes. …

Non-Linear Relationship Between Mental Toughness And Anxiety In Ncaa Athletes: Unexpected Mid-Range Vulnerability, Gabriel Rollins, Ernest Rimer, Xavier Smith, Nathan Wells, Brett Hayes, Jennifer Daily, Christopher Peters, Andreas Stamatis

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Elite athletes often experience various anxiety symptoms and disorders that, if left untreated, can negatively impact their mental well-being, psychological functioning, and athletic performance. While mental toughness (MT) is generally viewed as advantageous in terms of mental health (MH) outcomes, previous research has suggested that excessively high MT levels may lead to maladaptive behaviors, such as ignoring injuries or delaying help-seeking, which can exacerbate MH challenges. Lately, official organizations (e.g., NCAA) have emphasized the need for structured and regular MH screening (e.g., anxiety) of elite athletes. PURPOSE: To investigate the relationship between MT and anxiety in NCAA student-athletes, specifically …

Vascular Responses During Steady-State Exercise In Adults With Type 1 Diabetes, Ruby A. Nyarko, Ashlesha D. Dalve, Justo Perez Iii, Pratima V. Kumar, Jasdeep Kaur

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is associated with widespread hyperglycemia-induced vascular damage, which affects both conduit and resistance arteries. This damage has been demonstrated by impaired vasodilatory responses to a 5-minute ischemic stimulus (flow-mediated dilation) and infusion of pharmacological vasodilators in patients with T1D. However, whether this vascular impairment affects blood flow regulation during steady-state exercise in T1D remains unclear. PURPOSE: Herein, we tested the hypothesis that adults with T1D would exhibit blunted forearm blood flow (FBF) and forearm vascular conductance (FVC) during steady-state rhythmic handgrip exercise (RHG), compared to age-matched healthy controls. METHODS: We studied 27 adults (15 …

Examining The Relationship Of E-Cigarette Vapor Exposure And Exercise Performance In Aerobically Trained Rats, Miranda N. Farrar, Nancy Morales

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, are alternatives to traditional cigarettes and they are rapidly growing in popularity. These electronic nicotine delivery systems heat up nicotine and vehicle liquids to deliver nicotine to the user via vapor rather than smoke. Although they are touted as a “healthier” alternative to smoking, vape use is associated with changes in heart rate and blood pressure, increased lung inflammation, and reduced mucociliary clearance. Such physiological changes may have an effect on exercise performance and athletic ability. PURPOSE: This study’s purpose was twofold: to train rats to successfully run on a treadmill, and to evaluate the …

Low-Energy Cooling Strategies To Mitigate Thermal Strain Of Older Adults Exposed To Very Hot-Dry Heat, Isa A. Farooqi, Zachary J. Mckenna, Whitley C. Atkins, Elizabeth A. Gideon, Craig G. Crandall

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Extreme heat causes morbidity and mortality, particularly among older adults. Although air conditioning can mitigate heat strain, it may be inaccessible due to limited resources, high costs, or power outages. Consequently, cooling strategies other than air-conditioning are needed to mitigate excessive elevations in core temperature and cardiovascular strain in this population. While electric fans offer a low-cost and widely available intervention, their effectiveness in very hot conditions is minimized due to potential increases in heat gain and dehydration. In contrast, skin wetting is a promising low-cost and energy-free cooling strategy that enhances evaporative heat loss. PURPOSE: We tested the hypotheses …

Reliability Of Handgrip Strength Measurements And Their Relationship With Physical Performance Outcomes In Older Women, Alexandra Khartabil, Ty B. Palmer

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Handgrip strength measurements, such as peak force and rate of force development (RFD), are effective parameters at characterizing the strength capacities of numerous muscle groups in the upper and lower extremities. Previous studies have determined the reliability of handgrip peak force and RFD in young, college-aged adults. However, the reliability of these measurements in older adults remains unclear. It is also unclear if these measurements are associated with performance during sit-to-stand and medicine ball throw tests. PURPOSE: The primary aim of this study was to examine the reliability of handgrip peak force and RFD measurements in older women. A secondary …

Music Enhances Motor Cortex Excitability In Physically Active Individuals, Anupama Thapa, Ana Carolina Panhan, Erin Lally, Joosung Kim

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Music is often used by exercisers and benefits physical performance. The positive effects of music on physical function are induced by the changes in motor cortex excitability while listening to music. Recent studies reveal that modulation of brain excitability in the hand is increased by music but is likely dependent on the characteristics of music tempo, preference, and the individual’s motivational state. No study has explicitly investigated whether music perceived as motivating for exercise creates changes in motor cortex excitability of the quadriceps. PURPOSE: This randomized crossover study examines the effect of the preferred music on motor cortex excitability …

Changes In Gait Patterns: Indicators Of Increased Fall Risk Across Diverse Age Groups, Diego Diaz-Vega, Heontae Kim, Ho Han, Jungyu Lee, Fatima Siddiqua

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Gait patterns, including measures such as velocity, step length differential, and various temporal aspects of the gait cycle, are essential indicators of an individual's mobility and balance. With aging, changes in these gait metrics are commonly observed and are closely linked to an increased risk of falls. However, detailed evidence on gait changes across different age groups remains limited, particularly in healthy adults. PURPOSE: The primary aim of this study is to identify key gait metrics and evaluate their potential as indicators of increased fall risk across diverse age groups. METHODS: A total of 252 healthy adults aged …

Accumulated Seasonal Effects Of External Training Load On Performance, Sydnei Mooring, Harsh Buddhadev, Mayrena I. Hernandez, Jennifer Bunn

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

External training load (ETL), which characterizes the mechanical stress sustained during physical activity, is a key determinant of athletic performance. Understanding seasonal variations in ETL provides valuable insight for optimizing performance and reducing overuse injury risk in volleyball, a sport heavily reliant on vertical jumping actions. PURPOSE: To examine seasonal variations in ETL and performance metrics in high school volleyball athletes, with a specific focus on jump-related mechanical variables. METHODS: This study involved secondary analysis of data collected during a prospective observational study of a 6A high school volleyball team competing in the 2021 Texas University Interscholastic League. Data from …

The Effect Of Menstrual Cycle Phase On Igf-1 And Myostatin After An Acute Bout Of Anaerobic Exercise: A Preliminary Analysis, Kelsi R. Lambright, Cayla Clark, Ashley Latchford, Edwin J. Davila, Dan E. Newmire

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle influence various physiological processes, including skeletal muscle metabolism. Understanding how anabolic and catabolic pathways respond to anaerobic exercise in females is crucial for uncovering the mechanisms behind muscle adaptations. The limited research on the influence of menstrual cycle fluctuations on muscle metabolism underscores the need for this study and further exploration of exercise physiology in females. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of menstrual cycle phases on the anabolic hormone-insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and the catabolic regulator myostatin (GDF-8) in response to a bout of anaerobic exercise in eumenorrheic …

Body Composition Impacts Jump Performance In D1 Athletes, Veronika Kramarenko, Vipa Bernhardt, Michael D. Oldham, Brian Jones, Ouays Bakcha, Chaehyun Byun, Cheyenne Martinez, Joseph Mcclain, Marshall Tousant

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

INTRODUCTION: Body composition is critical in athletic performance, influencing metrics such as jump height and force production. Variations in body composition, such as increased lean tissue mass and reduced fat mass, have been identified as strong predictors of superior jump performance due to their positive effects on power-to-weight ratios and reduced injury risk (MacDonald et al., 2013). Lean mass is strongly correlated with improved jump performance, as greater lean mass enhances muscle cross-sectional area and, consequently, the force and power generated during physical activities like countermovement jumps (CMJ) (Stephenson et al., 2015). Low body fat percentages are generally associated with …

Developing An Evidence-Based Model For Healthy Stride Length Prediction, Jungyu Lee, Ho Han, Heontae Kim, Diego Diaz-Vega

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Stride length is a vital health indicator, reflecting physical fitness and mobility status. Although several existing formulas aim to estimate stride length, many are limited by a lack of scientific validation, especially among healthy, active adults. This study addresses these limitations by developing a validated model based on healthy adults without known mobility impairments, aiming to establish a more accurate, clinically useful standard for stride length estimation. The model provides a reference range for healthy stride length, usable as a tool to identify individuals at risk of mobility issues. PURPOSE: To develop an evidence-based model for predicting stride length …

Pre- To Post-Season Changes In Body Composition And Movement Quality And Quantity In D1 Football Players, Brian Jones, Ouays Bakcha, Chaehyun Byun, Veronika Kramarenko, Cheyenne Martinez, Joseph Mcclain, Marshall Tousant, Vipa Bernhardt, Michael D. Oldham

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

INTRODUCTION: Body composition may influence an individual's movement efficiency and performance outcomes. Lower body fat percentage may enable individuals, either sedentary or athletic, to perform movements more efficiently, while greater total lean mass may enhance performance in strength and power-related activities. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the changes in collegiate football players’ total lean mass and body fat percentage, as well as movement quantity and quality measures from preseason to postseason. METHODS: Data from a larger study were analyzed for this project. Division 1 male football players (n= 72, 19.6 ± 1.4 yrs) …

The Relationship Between Handgrip Strength And Cardiovascular Risk Factors In Older Women, Adriana N. Guerrero, Emily Sauers

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Cardiovascular disease is the leading causes of death in the world. Several clinical trials have found that handgrip strength is associated with lower cardiovascular risk and related death. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and handgrip strength. METHODS: Subjects for this study included 8 women from the Congregation of Devine Providence (78.13+7.79 yrs) at Our Lady of the Lake University. Preliminary measures included a medical history questionnaire and the CHAMPS physical activity questionnaire. On the first day of testing, subjects arrived fasted between 7-9am. After a 5-minute rest, blood pressure and …

Does Swearing Improve Exercise Performance And Pain Tolerance?: Cultural Perspective, Jide Yinka Adebiyi, Christos Kyrillou, Elijah Martinez, Anika Patel, Emily Payne, Linsheng Chen, Daroonwan Suksom, Hirofumi Tanaka

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Swearing is often generated by self or received from others (e.g., coaches) during physical exertion for various reasons including punctuating the passion, releasing frustration, and resetting the mind. However, the effects of swearing and yelling on exercise performance and pain tolerance remain largely unexplored. Additionally, it is unknown whether individuals from different cultures experience varying degrees of impact of yelling and swearing. PURPOSE: We determined the impact of self-generated and observer-generated swearing and yelling on exercise performance and pain tolerance in individuals living in the US where swearing is often used and heard and in Thailand where such occurrence is …

Awareness Of The Physiological Changes Occurring In Older Adults Can Reduce Dehydration And Electrolyte Imbalances, Lisa Isley

Nursing | Senior Theses

Background: Individuals over 65 years are at an increased risk of dehydration. The physiological changes that occur with age and medication consumption can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances that can physically and mentally impair individuals over 65 years old. Objective: By providing education to individuals 65 years and older regarding the significance of drinking water and consuming electrolytes daily, older adults can reduce their dehydration symptoms and improve their quality of life. Method: The proposed research is a quasi experimental study geared towards individuals 65 years and older. The quasi-experimental study will include two pre-surveys and then two post-surveys. The …

The Ethics Of Student Attrition In Healthcare Education Programs, Kent Haina Jr, Peter A. Depergola Ii

Journal of Health Ethics

Student attrition is a problem in healthcare education programs, but there is little in the literature regarding the organizational ethics of lowering it. Some argue that lowering attrition is unethical, because it would lower academic and professional standards, potentially impacting patient care. Others say students deserve to make decisions about when to leave a course of study. However, these arguments ignore inequities in attrition, as well as the conflicts of interest in, and moral obligations of colleges and universities. Lowering attrition rates in healthcare education programs is inherently ethical because it levels the playing field for underrepresented minorities that disproportionately …

Virtual Learning In Emergency Medicine Residency Programs, Ashley Rider, Laura Oh, Rahul Bhat, Michael Gottlieb, Bruce Lo, Ulemu Luhanga, Shayne Gue, Jason Laenngfeld, Sarah Greenberger, Jeffery Hill, Jonathan Heidt

Department of Emergency Medicine Faculty Publications

During the COVID-19 pandemic, educational systems worldwide faced significant disruptions as in-person learning became unfeasible. In response, many institutions, including graduate medical education programs, swiftly transitioned to virtual learning platforms to adapt to these challenges. The rapid and unplanned pivot in learning format resulted in temporary negative impacts on residency training. Conversely, the experience of the rapid shift may have resulted in some long-term benefits while also preparing programs for future disruptions. This review aimed to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of virtual learning, potential mitigation strategies for the realized disadvantages, and potential areas of future research.

Bundled Approach To Improve Colorectal Cancer In Primary Care, Elizabeth Reddiar

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects - Archive

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, despite being preventable through timely screening. National guidelines recommend regular screening for adults aged 45 to 75; (American cancer Society (ACS), 2025) however, screening rates remain suboptimal, particularly in primary care settings serving diverse and high-volume populations. Local Problem: At the project site, a community-oriented primary care clinic in North Texas, baseline data revealed CRC screening completion rates were below benchmarks set by the organization. Barriers included limited patient awareness, inconsistent provider reminders, and workflow challenges in distributing and tracking fecal immunochemical test …

Newly Credentialed Athletic Trainers' Onboarding Process During The Transition To Practice, Ashley B. Thrasher, Stacy E. Walker, Julie M. Cavallario

Rehabilitation Sciences Faculty Publications

Context: As new athletic trainers (ATs) transition into their roles, some employers provide orientation and onboarding to assist with the transition to practice. Research in which authors outline the ideal onboarding process for new ATs transitioning to practice is lacking.

Objective: To examine the onboarding process for new ATs.

Design: Grounded theory.

Setting: College or university, secondary school, and hospital or clinic.

Patients or other participants: Seventeen newly credentialed, employed ATs who recently graduated from professional masters' programs (11 female, 6 male; 25.6 ± 2.2 years) and 12 employers (6 female, 6 male; years in role supervising new ATs: 8.5 …

Perceived Stress Modulates Blood Pressure Reactivity To Stress In College Students, Manuel Sune, Natalie Younan, Caio Sousa

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Stress is an unavoidable part of everyday life that can have numerous effects on our bodies. In addition, the individual psychological perception of stress could represent a higher stress or stress reactivity in the physiological level, becoming the onset of many stress-related diseases. Persistently high levels of stress are common in college students and it's important to manage these levels to prevent the risk of health problems in the future. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of perceived stress on cardiovascular reactivity to stress in college students. METHODS: Fourteen college students (f=5) participated in the …

The Effects Of Physical Activity On Cardiovascular Reactivity To Stress In College Students, Natalie Younan, Manuel Sune, Caio V. Sousa

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Stress is part of everyday life. Chronic stress can be a contributor to many physiological and psychological health problems. Chronic stress is also related to hyperreactivity to acute stress. PURPOSE: In this study, we aimed to investigate whether students with low, moderate, and high levels of physical activity (PA) have distinct cardiovascular responses to the cold pressor test (CPT). METHODS: College students (n=14; f=5) were given the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to assess their physical activity levels. After the assessment, participants were set up to the FINAPRES with an arm cuff and finger …

Sled-Pull Training Decreases Rate Of Force Development In Men And Women Soccer Players, James Ma, John A. Brasher, Robert Musci, Jenevieve L. Roper

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sled-pull training is a popular training method thought to increase lower extremity strength and power in athletes. Lower extremity strength and power are factors for success in sport, particularly soccer. Asymmetry is thought to negatively impact athletes, by increasing their risk of injury, and should be the focus of any training program. PURPOSE: To determine the impact of a 12-week sled pull training intervention on isometric leg rate of force development (RFD) and RFD asymmetry. METHODS: Thirty men (n = 15; 20 ± 1.5yrs, 168.28 ± 5.17cm, 73.44 ± 3.46kg) and women (n = 15; 19.58 ± 1yr, …

Heart Rate And Energy Expenditure Validity Of Garmin Instinct Devices During Hiking Outdoors With And Without Trekking Poles: A Pilot Study, Kavon Mcarthur, Bethany Hoag, Josie Gines, Myranda Peck, James Navalta, Facsm, Kelly Goonan, Julie E. Taylor, Marcus M. Lawrence

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

ACSM has again named wearable technology the top fitness trend for 2024. Yet, the validity of wrist-worn devices for measuring average/maximal heart rate (HR) and estimating energy expenditure (EE) during outdoor hiking with and without trekking poles is unknown. PURPOSE: To determine the concurrent validity of identical Garmin Instinct devices to record valid measures of average and maximal HR as well as estimated EE during outdoor hiking with no poles, 1 or 2 trekking poles. METHODS: 11 (n=6 males, n=5 females, aged 20-39 yrs) adults randomly completed 3 pole conditions (no poles, 1 or 2 poles) during an ~10 min. …

Impact Of Running A 162-Km Mountain Race On Hydration And Gastrointestinal Response, Ryan Ott, Kamiry Robison, Kiara Fradin, Melani Kelly, Andrew Creer

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Gastrointestinal (GI) distress is a common complaint among runners, often worsening when less hydrated. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate hydration status and GI responses of 162-km ultramarathon runners. METHODS: 14 runners (11 males, 3 females; 36.9 ± 6.1 yrs, 72.5 ± 11.9 kg) completed the Bear 100 (7200m of vertical gain). Pre-, post-, and 24-h post-race completion, a survey to assess GI symptom presence was completed and weight and a urine sample was collected. Scored on a 10-point scale (0 = no problems; 10 = worst it has ever been), GI symptoms were divided into 1) …