Kinesiology Commons^™

The Impact Of Heavy Resistance Training On Type Ii Muscle Fibers Throughout Female Reproductive Stages, Lily G. Colberg

Scripps Senior Theses

Type II muscle fibers, also known as fast-twitch muscle fibers, are reliant on aerobic glycolysis and are crucial for high-force contractions, mobility, and rapid movements, such as fast reflexes. Heavy resistance training has been found to increase type II muscle fiber concentration in young, middle-aged, and elderly individuals. However, there have been few studies conducted on female-only sample populations. In women, the impact of heavy resistance training on type II muscle fibers is affected by the progressive decline of estrogen that defines the transition throughout the four female reproductive stages: premenopause, perimenopause, late-transition menopause, and postmenopause. Menopausal estrogen depletion causes …

Examining Weight Related Attitudes And Health Behaviors Among College Students, Alexis C. Denski

Senior Honors Theses and Projects

BACKGROUND: College is a pivotal period for the development of lifelong health behaviors. Factors such as greater personal freedom, poor diet, social norms, and insufficient physical activity (PA) contribute to common weight gain and increase of body image challenges. Although many college students report trying to lose weight, there is limited research examining if their PA and dietary behaviors align with evidence-based health recommendations. PURPOSE: Examine the proportion of college students trying to change their weight and their engagement in weight-related behaviors such as PA, strength training (ST), and dietary factors. METHODS: In Fall 2019, a random sample of 5,000 …

I Want To Be The Very Best: Are Gamified Applications Like Pokémon Go Associated With Positive Health Outcomes?, Derek D. Mesa

Master's Theses or Doctor of Nursing Practice

Physical activity is a significant problem facing the United States, which can be associated with several negative health outcomes. Poor physical health and poor mental well-being are two outcomes that are often examined by researchers alongside reported physical activity. With the introduction of more advanced technology, interventions such as gamification can be made widely available to diverse groups. Gamification is the use of game-like elements in non-game environments, such as physical activity and health improvement. To determine if gamification has an association with the domains of physical activity, mental well-being, and physical health, this study employed a cross-sectional mixed methods …

Enhancing The Playing Field:​ Effects Of Playground Renovation On Recess Physical Activity​, Hudson M. Parsley

2026 Honors Symposium

Background: Children in recent years have become increasingly sedentary, which poses major risks to their health and overall well-being. Recess is a point of interest in the field of exercise science, as research has found increased recess time is associated with increased levels of PA, but little is known on how the quality of recess, such as playground structures, affects physical activity. Purpose: The aim of my study is to investigate if there is a significant change in physical activity habits during recess among elementary school students due to a change in playground play structures and surfaces, in the form …

Sleep Problems In Children With Adhd: Associations With Internalizing Symptoms And Physical Activity, Xiao Liang, Mengping Zhao, Li Su, Justin A. Haegele, Richard H. Xu, Jiayue Li, Jinxian Guo, Choi-Yeung Tse, Shirley X. Li, David H. K. Shum

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience high rates of sleep problems and are at increased risk for developing internalizing problems. This study aimed to examine the association of sleep problems and physical activity with internalizing symptoms in children with ADHD. This cross-sectional study included 188 children with ADHD (M age = 8.60 ± 1.38, 78.7% boys). Self-reported questionnaires were used to assess sleep problems (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]) and internalizing symptoms (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 [DASS 21]). The presence of sleep problems was defined as a PSQI score > 5. Physical activity was recorded by an ActiGraph …

Associations Between Accelerometer-Measured Physical Activity And Sleep Duration And Health Indicators In Children And Adolescents With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Xiao Liang, Hui Qiu, Justin A. Haegele, Xiao Li, Minghui Li, Jiayue Li, Shirley Xin Li

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized available studies to explore relationships between accelerometer-measured physical activity (PA) levels or sleep duration and health-related outcomes in children and adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses guidelines, the six databases APA PsychInfo, CINAHL Ultimate, Embase, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus with Full Text and Web of Science were searched from inception through July 2024. The correlation coefficient (r) was employed to determine the effect size in the meta-analysis. A random-effects model was utilised to estimate the potentially heterogeneously distributed effect sizes with a 95 % …

Felt Ambivalence Weakens The Attitude-Intention Pathway For Regular Leisure-Time Physical Activity In Chinese Adolescents: A Three-Wavee Prospective Study, Yaogang Han, Yubing Wang, Pan Li, Guohua Zheng

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

Background: Favorable attitudes toward regular leisure-time physical activity may not always translate into intention if adolescents feel ambivalent about the behavior. This study tested whether felt ambivalence weakens the prospective attitude–intention association and the indirect effect of attitude on later behavior through intention. Methods: Chinese adolescents (N = 1714; Grades 7–12; mean age = 15.0 years) completed a three-wave survey at approximately two-week intervals. Wave 1 assessed attitudes toward regular leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, felt ambivalence, and physical activity habit; Wave 2 assessed intention; and Wave 3 assessed leisure-time physical activity. Moderated mediation was tested in a structural equation model …

From Intention To Enactment: Action Planning And Habit Automaticity Distinguish Successful From Unsuccessful Intenders To Engage In Regular Leisure-Time Moderate-To-Vigorous Physical Activity, Yaogang Han, Yubing Wang, Pan Li, Binn Zhang

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

University students often intend to exercise regularly but fail to translate intention into action. The present study tested which post-intentional processes distinguish successful from unsuccessful intenders in self-reported regular leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) enactment. Chinese undergraduates from 10 universities completed a three-wave survey administered at roughly two-week intervals. Habit automaticity was assessed at Wave 1, intention together with action planning and coping planning at Wave 2, and self-reported regular-exercise status at Wave 3. Because the dependent variable was assessed using a single stage-based self-report item, the findings should be interpreted as explaining self-reported regular-exercise status rather than objectively measured …

The Relationship Between Physical Activity, Sleep, And Hallucinations In Adults With Charles Bonnet Syndrome, Jarrod Hollis, Rohit Narayan, Eldre W. Beukes, Rosie Lindsay, Aliyah Bharwani, Umair Mughal, Ikra Yaqoob, Justin A. Haegele, Scott Muriden, Peter M. Allen

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

Physical activity levels, hallucination experiences, sleep quality, and perceived stress were assessed using a survey administered to 57 adults with a confirmed diagnosis of Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). Physical activity demonstrated a significant negative correlation with hallucination severity (r = –0.335, p = 0.011, two-tailed). A significant negative correlation was also observed between physical activity and perceived stress (r = –0.497, p < 0.001, two-tailed). In contrast, no significant association was identified between hallucination frequency and sleep disruption or insomnia. These findings suggest that engaging in appropriate levels of physical activity may help reduce the severity of hallucinations and mitigate stress among individuals with CBS. The observation that higher levels of physical activity are associated with reduced hallucination burden may help the development of evidence-based management strategies for CBS. Additionally, the finding that physical activity was significantly related to hallucination severity, whereas sleep disruption was not, merits deeper exploration in future research.

When Price Varies Across Otas: How Room Rate Disparity Shapes Switching Behavior And Brand Trust, Ling Ling, Chich-Chien Chen, Zvi Schwartz

Human Movement Studies & Special Education Faculty Publications

This study investigates how room rate disparity across Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) influences consumers’ switching behavior and perceptions of hotel brand integrity. Employing a scenario-based experimental design with a sample of 430 Chinese consumers, we explored price differences interact with loyalty status, price trajectory information, and brand consistency. Our findings reveal a complex non-linear inverse sigmoid relationship between rate disparity and channel switching. Contrary to expectations, loyalty membership did not reduce switching intent or increase discount thresholds. Moreover, rate disparity triggered brand integrity concerns, with brand doubt consistently exceeding switching intent. While price trajectory information did not change switching likelihood, …

Decreased Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Capillary Recruitment In Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, David Langleben, Stylianos E. Orfanos, Benjamin D. Fox, Michele Giovinazzo, Magali Kaddis, John D. Catravas

Bioelectrics Publications

The human lung normally accommodates exercise-induced cardiac output increases mainly via recruitment of non-concomitantly perfused pulmonary capillaries. Recruitment is detectable by measuring the first-pass transpulmonary metabolism of ³H-benzoyl-Phe-Ala-Pro, providing an estimate of functional capillary surface area (FCSA). Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) results from luminal narrowing of small precapillary arterioles, reducing downstream perfused FCSA. We hypothesized that exercising PAH patients would not be able to recruit FCSA normally. We studied two patients with severe PAH. Despite exercising to maximal dyspnea, neither could recruit FCSA. These limited data are the first direct measurements of FCSA in exercising PAH patients.

Radial And Carotid Arterial Pulse Signals For Assessing Cardiovascular Function At Rest And During Post-Exercise Recovery In A Heart Transplant Patient: A Case Study, Md Mahfuzur Rahman, Mamun Hasan, Jennifer F. May, John M. Herre, Leryn Reynolds, Zhili Hao

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Faculty Publications

Aim: This study investigates the feasibility of using radial and carotid arterial pulse signals to assess cardiovascular (CV) function at rest and during post-exercise recovery in a heart transplant (HTx) patient. Method: Two micro-fabricated tactile sensors were used to simultaneously acquire arterial pulse signals at the radial artery (RA) and carotid artery (CA). Measurements were taken at rest and at multiple time points post-exercise on three subjects: an HTx patient, a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI; coronary stent) patient and a healthy control. An SDOF-TF-based time-frequency analysis algorithm was applied to extract a comprehensive set of CV parameters, including heart rate …

Radial And Carotid Arterial Pulse Signals For Assessing Cardiovascular Function At Rest And During Post-Exercise Recovery In A Heart Transplant Patient: A Case Study, Md Mahfuzur Rahman, Mamun Hasan, Jennifer F. May, John M. Herre, Leryn Reynolds, Zhili Hao

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Faculty Publications

Aim: This study investigates the feasibility of using radial and carotid arterial pulse signals to assess cardiovascular (CV) function at rest and during post-exercise recovery in a heart transplant (HTx) patient. Method: Two micro-fabricated tactile sensors were used to simultaneously acquire arterial pulse signals at the radial artery (RA) and carotid artery (CA). Measurements were taken at rest and at multiple time points post-exercise on three subjects: an HTx patient, a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI; coronary stent) patient and a healthy control. An SDOF-TF-based time-frequency analysis algorithm was applied to extract a comprehensive set of CV parameters, including heart rate …

Independent Animal Chiropractic Practice: An Evidence-Based Argument For Autonomy Beyond Veterinary Supervision, Montana Adams

Undergraduate Honors Theses

Animal chiropractic is a growing form of conservative care used to improve mobility, reduce pain, and support neuromusculoskeletal function in animals. Despite evidence suggesting it is both effective and low risk, access remains limited due to inconsistent state regulations. Many jurisdictions require chiropractors to obtain veterinary supervision, referral, or licensure, even when they have completed specialized training and certification in animal chiropractic. This paper evaluates the effectiveness and safety of animal chiropractic while analyzing the impact of current regulatory policies. Research indicates that chiropractic care can improve mobility and reduce spinal conditions in animals when performed by trained professionals. However, …

Acute Responses To Low-Intensity Aerobic Exercise With Continuous And Intermittent Blood Flow Restriction, James Brown, Jakob D. Lauver, Timothy R. Rotarius, Justin P. Guilkey

Kinesiology

Introduction: This study examined muscular and cardiovascular responses to light-intensity aerobic exercise with different blood flow restriction (BFR) protocols. Methods: Ten males performed four protocols on the cycle ergometer: low-intensity exercise with no BFR (LIE), LIE with continuous BFR (CONT-BFR), LIE with intermittent BFR (INT-BFR), and high-intensity exercise (HIE). Each protocol consisted of five 2-min work intervals (INT) at 35% of peak work rate for LIE, CONT-BFR, and INT-BFR and 70% of peak work rate for HIE. During CONT-BFR, cuffs were inflated to 60% of arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) at the start of INT 1 and remained inflated until the …

The Effect Of Aerobic Exercise With Blood Flow Restriction On Substrate Utilization And Energy Expenditure, Jakob D. Lauver, Nathen Andrews, Chase Harris, Nelo E. Zanchi, Kelly E. Johnson, Timothy R. Rotarius, Justin P. Guilkey

Kinesiology

Purpose: This study examined the effects of intermittent blood flow restriction (LI-BFR) compared to low- (LI) and high-intensity interval exercise (HI) on substrate utilization and energy expenditure (EE). Methods: Exercise protocols consisted of 2-minute work intervals interspersed with 1-minute recovery intervals (20W), HI consisted of 5 intervals performed at a workload corresponding to 140% of ventilatory threshold intensity and LI and LI-BFR consisted of 10 intervals performed at 70% of ventilatory threshold. BFR cuffs were inflated to 80% of limb occlusion pressure during each work interval and deflated during each recovery. Following each exercise protocol subjects rested for three hours, …

Wearable Sensor-Based Phase Segmentation Analysis Of Front Crawl Swimming: A Scoping Review, Jonathan Simoes, Samuel Aylward, Daniel Hamze, Daniel James Goble, Daniel M. Russell, Joshua Haworth

Exercise Science Faculty Publications

Front crawl swimming stroke phase segmentation has historically relied on video analysis, but the development of wearable sensor technology has created new opportunities for automated phase segmentation. This scoping review mapped the available evidence on wearable sensor-based stroke phase segmentation methods in front crawl swimming, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A systematic search of SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore conducted from January to June 2026, identified 15 eligible peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024. The review revealed an emerging field of research that has converged methodologically around inertial measurement units (IMUs) and the Chollet phase segmentation framework while remaining …

Examining Any Differences Between Genders’ Activity Levels During Recess, Kara M. Wells

2026 Honors Symposium

Physical activity in children is significant for all aspects of their development, including cognitive, physical, emotional, and social aspects. Recess is important for children to be given a designated time to exercise and get physical activity. For some children, recess is the only time they get to exercise in a day. This study aims to examine differences in activity levels between genders at Leverett Elementary School. It is important to know if there is a disparity between boys and girls at recess, so that educators, parents, and administrators can work to bridge any gaps and ensure that all kids are …

Pain And Pace: Investigating Gait Velocity In Individuals With Cancer, Melaina E. Taylor

2026 Honors Symposium

Background: Cancer remains the second leading cause of death worldwide, with incidence rates continuing to rise. Pain, a hallmark symptom of many cancers, is caused by both the progression of disease and treatments. Gait, the way in which someone walks, is now dubbed the “6th vital sign” for its strong relationship with functional status, longevity, and survival. Specifically, gait velocity is a key metric for gait, with previous studies in cancer free adults showing increased pain associated with a decreased gait velocity. The relationship between gait velocity and pain has not yet been explored in individuals with cancer. Purpose: The …

Non-Invasive Detection Of Intracranial Pressure, Andrei V. Nesterenko

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Intracranial pressure is a critical metric used when managing tumors, strokes, TBIs, hydrocephalus, and other operative conditions. Traditional methods for continuous ICP monitoring, intraparenchymal catheters, epidural transducers etc., are invasive and carry a high risk of infection. Previous attempts to create accurate, easy to use, and non-invasive ICP monitoring techniques have been unsuccessful. In this study, we investigated the utility of supraorbital and posterior auricular photoplethysmography to monitor changes in ICP during orthostatic tilt and hyperventilation, which increase and decrease ICP respectively.

Through a continuous 5-minute recording on a tilt-table we characterized SOA and PAA waveforms in 12 participants (ages …