Medical Education Commons^™

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 …

Experiences Of Using Electronic Medical Records Among Patients From Ethnic Minority Backgrounds: A Rapid Review, Corey Adams, Reema Harrison, Alison Merchant, Narelle Arblaster, Tracey Bucknall, Kathleen Gray, Guncag Ozavci, Nilmini Wickramasinghe, Vicky Yuan, Elizabeth Manias

Patient Experience Journal

This study explores the experiences of individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds using electronic medical records (EMRs) and identifies strategies to improve the inclusivity and usability of EMRs, aiming to reduce the digital divide in their access and use. A rapid review of the literature was conducted using Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and November 2023, with the assistance of a medical librarian.

A total of 44 studies were included in the review, revealing significant disparities in EMR adoption and utilization among ethnic minority groups. Three key themes of inequality were identified: presentation of …

Patients' Perceptions: A Group Differences Study Twelve Months Before And Twelve Months During A Worldwide Pandemic, Nancy B. Valla

Patient Experience Journal

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic subjected healthcare systems' to decreasing operational margins, enhanced regulatory scrutiny, and challenges related to patients' expectations. Until now, there was a lack of empirical evidence studying patients' perceptions prior to versus deep immersion into the pandemic. Methods: This quantitative non-experimental ex post facto causal-comparative study examined if and to what extent there were significant differences in patients' perceptions of the nurses' communications, doctors' communications, overall hospital rating, and willingness to recommend before versus during the COVID-19 pandemic for HCAHPS participating hospitals in California. The final sample size was 292 facilities grouped by two identically …

The Feasibility Of High Intensity Interval Training In Individuals With Post-Stroke Aphasia, Ferdaus Ghafury, Lauren J. Cervantes, Christian J. Thompson

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Exercise boosts physical health in clinical populations and high intensity interval training (HIIT) has often been found to improve fitness to a greater and faster degree than moderate intensity exercise. However, there is a lack of research on the feasibility and safety HIIT in chronic stroke survivors. PURPOSE: We studied the safety and feasibility of Aphasia Physical EXercise (APEX), a HIIT program for those with post- stroke aphasia. We measured feasibility by: avoidance of adverse events (e.g., injuries), high adherence rates and participants' ability to meet the prescribed exercise intensity during individual training sessions. We also assessed APEX’s effect …

Associations Between Older Adult Physical Activity Levels, Self-Efficacy For Exercise And Sleep Habits, Edilzer Juarez, Kiana Noriega, Giselle Robles, Jasmine Castillo, Sarah Dunn

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Motivation for exercise and engagement in healthy lifestyle behaviors (physically active, quality sleep, etc.) may help reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, especially in older adults. Self-efficacy for exercise (SEE), performing regular physical activity (PA) and maintaining healthy sleep habits, often lead to positive health benefits. PURPOSE: To assess the relationships between SEE, PA levels and sleep quality/quantity in older adults. METHODS: Older adults (N = 60, age; 71.2 土 8.8 years, female; n = 42 and male; n = 18), were recruited for an IRB-approved cross-sectional research study conducted in spring, 2024. The survey (Qualtrics) consisted of …

Race Smart, Finish Strong: Pacing Secrets For The Boston Marathon, Luke Vankeersbilck, Jared Steele, William Bradley Nelson, Iain Hunter

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Much of the literature on marathon pacing is based on flat courses often neglecting the impact of terrain. Runners are often advised to run an even effort throughout a marathon, but it is difficult to establish optimal paces for a hilly race like the Boston Marathon. PURPOSE: This study created a model for effectively pacing the Boston Marathon intending to optimize individual performance. METHODS: 121 runners (72 female, 49 male qualifiers, ages 18-30) entered in the 2023 Boston Marathon participated. Finish times and split times were taken from the official Boston Marathon website, with entry times collected via …

Satellite Cell Content In Different Muscle Regions Following Volumetric Muscle Loss Injury, Jj Payne, Jake Sorensen, Zach Rasmussen, Matthew Mangus, Kylie Chase

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Volumetric muscle loss (VML) refers to the loss of a significant portion of skeletal muscle tissue, which cannot regenerate through the body's natural repair mechanisms. Satellite cells play a crucial role in muscle regeneration due to their ability to proliferate, migrate to injured areas, and fuse with other cells or muscle fibers to repair or create new tissue. PURPOSE: This study examined the satellite cell distribution in different regions of VML-injured muscle to understand their response to trauma. METHODS: Four adult male Lewis rats (3-4 months old) underwent a surgical procedure where a 6mm full-thickness biopsy punch created a VML …

The Impact Of Tendon Structure And Pain-Related Fear On Pain Outcomes In Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy Following Resistance Exercise, Kameron Mortazavi, Matthew Heindel, Oscar Vila-Dieguez, Lori Michener

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathy is a leading cause of shoulder pain which is defined by damage to tendon structure. Resistance exercise is a known effective intervention for RC tendinopathy intended to restore deficits in tendon structure. However, outcomes are highly variable and are often related to fear of moving and/or hurting their shoulder, known as pain-related fear. No study has defined the relative contributions of tendon structure and pain-related fear to pain outcomes following resistance exercise. PURPOSE: Define the relative contributions of pain-related fear and tendon structure to patient-reported pain outcomes following 8-weeks of resistance exercise. METHODS: Participants …

Feasibility Of A Random-Action Target System For Enhancing Performance Of Experienced Shooters In High-Pressure Scenarios, Mariana Castro, Andreas Stamatis, Ali Boolani, Matthew L. Smith

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Effective firearm performance demands accuracy and rapid decision-making, especially for law enforcement, competitive shooters, and military personnel. Traditional training often lacks real-world cognitive challenges, such as decision speed and response inhibition under pressure. This study addresses this gap by incorporating cognitive realism into firearm training to improve shooters’ ability to manage the speed-accuracy trade-off (SAT), where balancing quick reactions with precision is critical to avoid errors in unpredictable scenarios. PURPOSE: To evaluate the feasibility of a non-anticipatory, random-action target system (RATS) by collecting preliminary data on its impact on shooting performance, focusing on accuracy, omission, and commission rates among experienced …

The Physiological And Emotional Responses To Esports Across Different Populations, Christopher Miranda, Daniel Olatundun, Antonio Evola, Frank Billero, Joseph Sauchelli

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Purpose

The study investigated the impact of virtual shooting task on physiological and psychological parameters in various demographics, including sex, athletic status, and gaming experience.

Methods

31 participants were recruited to perform two continuous 1.5-minute virtual target-shooting tasks from a virtual distance of 60 meters and rested for three minutes before and after gameplay. Continuous VO₂, VCO_2, and heart rate were recorded. Psychological states were assessed using the Short Stress State Questionnaire (SSSQ), filled out before and after the gaming session. The athletic status was confirmed during the recruitment process. Participants who were athletes were directly recruited …

Longitudinal Effects Of Graduate Allied Health Education On Physical And Mental Health, Kelly Warren

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Student wellness represents an ongoing focus in academia. Allied health professional (AHP) students complete educational tracks that are rigorous, placing them at risk for impact to physical and mental wellness. Previous data support such changes in this population and poor student wellness may contribute to weak academic performance, attrition, and quality of life.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the impact of the AHP program on the physical, mental, and sleep health of 1st year graduate AHP students.

METHODS: Graduate students (n=29; 30% men, 70% women) in the Stony Brook School of Health Professions participated across 3 timepoints (T01-Baseline/Sept, T02-Feb and T03-Jun) …

Wearable Technology And Artificial Intelligence For Health And Performance Optimization In Division 1 Female Soccer Athletes, Hayley E. Whitney, Joseph Amitrano, Gina Lewandowski, Lauren Calabrese, Dhruv Seshadri

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Funding for female athletes is at a significant disadvantage, with male sports funded at a rate twice as high. Female athletes also experience ACL injuries at a rate 2 times higher than their male counterparts. Division I sports face significant disparities in funding, particularly affecting support tools and resources available for female athletes. The study aims to bridge this clinical gap in the sports medicine field by using wearable technology to enhance health and performance monitoring among Division 1 female soccer athletes, with a particular focus on the menstrual cycle's effects on performance metrics. PURPOSE: The purpose of this …

Collegiate Athletes’ Menstrual Health Management And Athletic Performance, Sydney Kulenguski, Sachiko Komagata

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

There is limited understanding and support for female collegiate athletes’ menstrual health and its connection to their performance in sport. While it is recognized that the menstrual cycle influences the physical and mental health, as well as athletic performance of these athletes, their actual knowledge and management practices regarding their menstrual cycles have not been extensively studied. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess female collegiate athletes’ knowledge of the menstrual cycle and their management practices. METHODS: After receiving approval from Georgian Court University’s (GCU’s) Internal Research Review Board (IRRB), Division 2 female sports teams were …

The Impact Of Trekking Poles On Smart-Watch Step Counts During Outdoor Hiking In Healthy Adults, Josie Gines, Bethany Hoag, Kavon Mcarthur, Myranda Peck, Catalina Kerwin, Wyatt Fullmer, James W. Navalta, Kelly Goonan, Marcus M. Lawrence, Julie E. Taylor

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Hiking is a popular form of recreation with over 57 million participants in the U.S. Many of those hikers also use smart-watches to track their steps, distance and other variables. Anecdotally, the use of trekking poles appears to reduce the accuracy of these smart-watch measures, most notably step counts. PURPOSE: To determine if differences were observed in step counts when hiking with or without trekking poles. METHODS: 10 recreationally active adults (n=5 males, n=5 females, aged 20-39 yrs) randomly completed three trekking pole hiking conditions (no poles, 1 pole, or 2 poles) of ~10 min. uphill and ~10 min. downhill …

Bone Adaptations To Blood Flow Restriction Training, Jacob Laubach, Sophia Lissin, Victoria Batlle, Caroline Osen, Todd Shoepe

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Blood flow restriction training (BFR) has demonstrated effects on various physiological parameters, with similar regulatory mechanisms to bone. PURPOSE: Bone and BFR literature is currently sparse, therefore the purpose of this investigation was to perform a pilot study of bone mineral content (BMC) and density (BMD) responses to BFR. METHODS: The BFR group [n = 23; age = 20.72 ± 1.93; BMI = 25.81 ± 4.40 kg/m2] and control (CON) group [n = 19; age = 19.76 ± 1.31; BMI = 23.62 ± 3.18 kg/m2] underwent dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans at initial and post interventions for forearm, …

Waist Circumference As A Potential Predictor Of Post-Exercise Hypotension Response In College-Aged Subjects: A Pilot Study, Kaitlyn Wabakken, Cody Takenaka, Branden Gallardo, Kayley Brennan, Maribell Maldonado, Josh Aguilera, Makenna Petersen, Michael Swift, Zachary Zeigler

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Roughly 25% of people who exercise to lower blood pressure (BP) do not see a BP reduction following exercise training. Post-exercise hypotension (PEH) has been shown to predict training exercise responses. Past data is inconclusive as to whether or not BMI influences PEH. PURPOSE: This pilot study will determine whether anthropometric and body composition variables differ between PEH responders and non-responders in college-aged subjects. METHODS: Men and women aged 18-30 yr. completed an initial 30-minute moderate-intensity cycling exercise session. Subjects were classified as "responders" if their systolic or diastolic BP decreased following exercise, as measured by the average …

Adapting A Parent-Child Physical Activity Curriculum To A Group Setting For Children In An Underserved Community, Araceli Magallanes, Martina Ricabar, Isabella Gore Rivero, Rubin Daniela, Kathleen S. Wilson

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

After school physical activity (PA) programs provide opportunities for safe participation in PA contributing to children’s health. PURPOSE: This pilot study evaluated the adaptation of a dyadic (parent-child) PA curriculum to a group setting for children in an underserved community. METHODS: Once a week for ten weeks, 17 children (6F/9M, 8±1y) participated in one-hour PA sessions which included warm-up, strength exercises, and games targeting the development of motor skills. Kinesiology students adapted a game-based PA curriculum (FunDoRoo™) for children ages 6-10. One group of students (n=4) planned and conducted the PA sessions (PA leaders), while another group (n=3) observed/rated …

The Impact Of Physical Fitness And Activity On Gpa In College Students, Wes Stergious, Claire Lindemier, Amanda Callaghan, Nick Urias, Zachary Zeigler

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Both physical activity and high aerobic capacity have been linked to academic performance. Past data using questionnaires suggest that there is a link between physical activity levels and GPA. Very little data has used objective fitness measures, and no data has compared physical activity levels and aerobic capacity on GPA. PURPOSE: This correlational study aimed to assess the relationship between objectively measured physical activity and GPA in college students. METHODS: College students were recruited to participate in this correlational study. Participants wore an ActiGraph GT3X+ activity monitor (Pensacola, FL, USA) on their dominant wrist. They were asked to …

The Gut Microbiome And How Adhd And Parkinson’S Disease May Be Linked, April Mccoy, Maria Bellumori

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

There is growing interest in the gut microbiome and its effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Good bacteria in the gut play a role in neurotransmitter synthesis and regulation, which contributes to CNS control. Excess harmful bacteria may lead to leaky gut syndrome and neuroinflammation. Dysbiosis refers to a negative imbalance of the two types of bacteria and is associated with disease and decreased dopamine synthesis. Decreased dopamine, a neurotransmitter, plays a pivotal role in the manifestation of symptoms associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Previous studies have demonstrated a correlation between the gut microbiome and …

Associations Between Serum And Skeletal Muscle Androgens And Androgen Receptor-Associated Biomarkers, Lean Body Mass, And Muscular Strength, Derek Flores, Thomas D. Cardaci, Dillon Harris, Steven B. Machek, Darryn Willoughby

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The relationships between lean body mass (LBM), muscular strength, androgens, and several androgen receptor (AR)-associated biomarkers are sparsely described. PURPOSE: To examine any potential correlations linking these aforementioned factors. METHODS: 10 resistance-trained males were recruited for this crossover study, each assessing their leg and bench press one-repetition maximums (1RM) and body composition before completing two volume- and intensity-equated resistance training sessions separated by 7-10 days. Serum and skeletal muscle tissue samples were acquired in each session at baseline, 3-hours, and 24-hours post-exercise to assess circulating and muscle androgens (testosterone [TST] and dihydrotestosterone [DHT]), AR protein content and gene …

Comparing The Effects Of Pneumatic Compression And Blood Flow Restriction On Muscle Recovery, Jessica Pontarollo, Haneef Zakee, Bailey Mclagan, E Todd Schroeder

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Eccentric muscle contractions are often associated with exercise induced muscle damage (EIMD). EIMD can result in decreased force output, increased stiffness, and a loss in muscle function leading to decreased performance. Two of the many proposed treatments of EIMD are intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) and blood flow restriction (BFR). BFR relies on occlusion and reintroduction of blood. IPC acts as an air-pressure massage, acting on a specific part of the limb, releasing, and re-inflating up the limb. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to determine whether BFR or pneumatic compression could minimize the effect of EIMD on muscle …

Does Resistance Exercise Induce Differential Relationships Between Muscle And Brain Oxygenation In Trained Versus Untrained Individuals?, Amelia Ybarra, Aqueen Lenon, Stefan Keslacy

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

While the benefits of resistance training for muscles are well-documented, its effects on brain activity are less known. PURPOSE: to investigate the changes in oxygenation levels in the brain and muscles during resistance training, comparing these effects between trained and sedentary individuals. METHODS: Eight participants were recruited, four untrained and four athletes. The bench press protocol included one set of twelve repetitions at a weight corresponding to a Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) of 6. Oxygenation levels in cortex and the right triceps muscle were continuously monitored using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) (Oxymon). Blood pressure was measured continuously using a finger …

Is Muscle Fatigue Associated With Increased Cerebral Oxygenation During Resistance Training?, Aqueen Lenon, Amelia Ybarra, Stefan Keslacy

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Fatigue limits performance during resistance training by directly impairing muscle function and brain activity. Does muscle fatigue correspond to changes in brain activity? PURPOSE: The purpose of the study is to determine the relatipnship between brain and muscle oxygenation during exercise-induced muscle fatigue between sedentary and athletes. METHODS: Eight participants, four sedentary and four athletes, were included. The protocol was four sets of twelve repetitions of the bench press, with the weight adjusted to induce failure on the final set. Oxygenation levels in the left prefrontal cortex and the right triceps muscle were continuously monitored using near-infrared spectroscopy …

Comparison Of Energy Expenditure During Virtual Reality Exercise And Outdoor Exercise, Devin M. Green, Myranda Peck, Olivia R. Perez, Eric Lambert, Setareh Zarei, Lijie Zhou, James W. Navalta, Jeffrey Cowley

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Human motor control and physiological responses to virtual activities have been largely unquantified. The aim of this study was to compare virtual (VR) and outdoor (OUT) walks of the same distance. There is a growing need to understand how humans experience different modes of virtual activity, so appropriate recommendations for virtual exercise can be given and improve virtual experiences. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to measure and compare how individuals walk in virtual reality (VR) compared to real life, as well as to evaluate energy expenditure and substrate utilization in the form of fats and carbohydrates. METHODS …

Aerobic Fitness Outperforms Body Composition In Predicting Acft Scores Among Rotc Cadets And Active Military Personnel, Megan Bratetic, Jake Laufenberg, Kaitlyn Wabakken, Anthony Acevedo, Spencer Posey Sgt, Zachary Zeigler

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The use of body composition to determine readiness for military engagement has been contentious. Body composition is just one of many variables that may impact a soldier's readiness to serve. Aerobic capacity also predicts ACFT scores. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to determine if high aerobic fitness is a better predictor of ACFT scores in ROTC cadets and active military than body composition. METHODS: ROTC and active military cadets completed the 6-event ACFT (3-repetition maximum trap-bar deadlift, standing power toss, hand-release pushups, sprint-drag-carry shuttle run, plank, and 2-mile run. The cadets were invited into the laboratory …

Pain Education And Preparation Across Health Care Professions: A Scoping Review, Rodiel Kirby Baloy Ii

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

There is an ongoing evolution in the understanding of pain biology and its underlying mechanisms. Healthcare professional education and preparation must adapt to continue to provide effective management of individuals experiencing pain. PURPOSE: A review of current studies in pain education and preparation across healthcare professions was performed. This scoping review will be part of a larger study assessing the state of pain preparation in the field of physical therapy. METHODS: A scoping review of articles discussing pain education and preparation of healthcare professions, including dentistry (2), medicine (8), nursing (7), occupational safety and health (1), occupational and …

Baseline Characteristics Of Participants Enrolled In The Golf Recreational Exercise For Enhanced Prostate Cancer Survivorship Study, Guanrong Cai, George Salem

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Prostate cancer survivors undergoing hormone therapy experience declines in physical function and quality of life. Exercise has been shown to be beneficial. Comparing baseline key health metrics to normative data can provide insight into the health status of prostate cancer survivors enrolled in a recreational exercise study. PURPOSE: The purpose is to descriptively compare participants’ baseline quality of life and physical function metrics with normative values. METHODS Five prostate cancer survivors (age: 76 yrs, SD=5.1) participated in the study. Baseline assessments included FACT-P (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate) scores, 8ft Time-up-and-go (TUG) test times, grip strength, and gait speed. …

Is There A Limit To Muscle Swelling After An Acute Resistance Training Session With Multiple Sets?, Rex Ruswick, Paulo H. Marchetti

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The number of sets per session and muscle group is an important RT variable responsible for the acute influence of cell swelling and chronic gains in muscle mass and strength. PURPOSE: The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of multiple sets on muscle thickness after an RT session in recreationally trained subjects. METHODS: Twenty-one resistance-trained subjects were recruited to this study (16 males and 5 females; age 24 ± 2.5 years, total body mass 75.1 ± 11.4 kg, height 171.7 ± 8.8 cm). During the first session, a ten repetitions maximum (10RM) test was applied …

The Effect Of Beetroot Juice Supplementation Dose On Neuromuscular Performance During Resistance Exercise, Raymond T. Gerardo, Isabella G. Lincoln, Keonabelle P. Paniagua, Justin M. Foster, Lauren E. Wideen, Nathan J. Ornelas, Isaac Tchaprazian, Jeffrey Li, Michael Egiazarian, Adam Pennell, Rachel Tan

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Nitrate-rich beetroot juice may have more pronounced ergogenic effects on exercise that requires high-power and high-velocity muscle contraction; however, the efficacy of, and the optimal dosing for nitrate to enhance resistance exercise performance is unknown. PURPOSE: To assess whether nitrate elicits dose-dependent ergogenic effects during a battery of resistance exercises in resistance-trained men. METHODS: Eighteen resistance-trained men were assigned in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design to consume 280 ml nitrate-depleted beetroot juice (PL; negligible nitrate), 70 ml nitrate-rich beetroot juice and 210 ml nitrate-depleted beetroot juice (BR-LOW; ~6.5 mmol nitrate), 140 ml nitrate-rich beetroot juice and 140ml nitrate-depleted …

Lower Extremity Muscle Volume As A Prediction For Sprint Speed In Collegiate Football Players, Malorie Wilwand, Joshua Sponbeck, Steven P. Allen, Greg Snow, Iain Hunter, Aaron W. Johnson

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sprinting is a crucial component of success in American football regardless of the position group. PURPOSE: To evaluate the relationship between muscle volume (MV) of the lower body muscles and sprint performance among different AF position groups. METHODS: This was a secondary analysis from the HAMIR study. The study included NCAA Division I AF players aged 18 and older who were active on the roster and not injured at the time of data collection. Positions were grouped as follows: the combo group (linebackers and tight ends), the big group (offensive and defensive linemen), and the skill group (defensive …