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Effect of low vs. high carbohydrate intake after glycogen-depleting workout on subsequent 1500 m run performance in high-level runners /
No full textCarbohydrate (CHO) metabolism is crucial for short-duration, high-intensity exercise performance, but the effects of variations in glycogen availability have not been investigated in field trials of trained athletes. This study was designed to test how 1500 m time trial (TT) performance is affected by the manipulation of pre-race glycogen reserves. Competitive middle-distance runners (n = 11 (4 females)) completed a 1500 m individually paced indoor TT after abundant (high, >5 g/kg/d) or restricted (low, <1.5 g/kg/d) dietary CHO intake for 2 days after a glycogen-depleting session. Stride pattern, heart rate (HR), capillary blood lactate, and glucose and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) response were determined. The TT was slower in low vs. high condition by 4.5 (4.5) s (~2%; p < 0.01), with a tendency toward shorter stride length. Blood lactate and glucose were lower before the TT in low vs. high condition (1.8 (0.5) vs. 2.2 (0.7) mmol/L and 5.4 (0.7) vs. 5.9 (0.8) mmol/L, p = 0.022 and 0.007, respectively), and peak lactate was higher in high vs. low condition (16.8 (3.1) vs. 14.5 (4.2) mmol/L, p = 0.039). Plasma MDA was the same before the TT, and 15 min after the TT, it increased similarly by 15% in low (p = 0.032) and high (p = 0.005) conditions. The restriction of pre-test CHO intake impaired 1500 m TT performance and reduced baseline and peak blood lactate concentrations but not blood glucose or MDA response
The role of digital technologies in employment as a factor of effective anti-discrimination policy in Europe.
No full textThe relevance of studying the impact of digital technologies on anti-discrimination employment policy in Europe is explained by several important factors. The last decades have been marked by the rapid development of information and communication technologies, which have significantly changed the labor market. The study of the impact of digital technologies on anti-discrimination employment policy in Europe is extremely relevant, as it contributes to the development of a fairer and more inclusive labor market, helps to take into account current challenges and opportunities, and contributes to the formation of effective human resources management strategies. The purpose of the study: theoretical and practical aspects of how digital technologies affect the implementation and effectiveness of anti-discrimination employment policies in European countries. Research methodology: The use of a combination of methods (systemic, structural, comparative, statistical and other) will allow for a comprehensive understanding of the impact of digital technologies on anti-discrimination employment policies in Europe and help develop recommendations for improving the situation. The European Parliament has called on the Council of the EU to adopt a new comprehensive anti-discrimination directive that will extend legal protection at the EU level against discrimination at all levels, including on the grounds of sex, race or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age, and sexual orientation. Previous efforts by the Council have been blocked by some member states. The European Directive is needed to address the current fragmented European approach to antidiscrimination policy, where some forms of discrimination, such as age, are covered only in employment matters. Results of the study: 1. The role of digitalization in ensuring equal employment opportunities in Europe is analyzed. 2. Innovative digital solutions in anti-discrimination policy in the European labor market are identified. 3. Digital tools in addressing the problems of multiple discrimination in employment and promoting the development of creative industries in the EU are identified. 4. The author reveals the directions of optimization of European practices of using digital technologies to combat discrimination in employment. Thus, the European Union is actively combating discrimination in the workplace by offering a variety of legal and policy instruments to protect human rights. In many EU countries, there are mechanisms of social dialogue between the government, employers and trade unions that facilitate the conclusion of agreements to combat discrimination in the workplace and joint awareness-raising activities
The combined impact of physical activity and sedentary behavior on executive functions in older adults: a cross-sectional study /
No full textBackground: The interplay between physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) significantly influences cognitive health in older adults, with executive functions (EFs) being particularly vulnerable to lifestyle factors. However, previous research on older adults focused mainly on PA and is limited due to the lack of comprehensive consideration of other factors that influence EFs. Current guidelines suggest an association between sedentary behavior (SB) and EFs, yet few studies have examined the combined effects of PA and SB on EFs. Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between PA, SB, and EFs in older adults. Methods: A total of 116 healthy older adults aged ≥65 years were recruited and categorized into four groups based on activity lifestyles: higher PA and higher SB (PHSH); higher PA and lower SB (PHSL); lower PA and higher SB (PLSH); and lower PA and lower SB (PLSL). EFs were assessed using the Tower of London (TOL) task and the Stroop test, which measure high-order EFs (planning and problem-solving) and core EFs (inhibitory control), respectively. Results: The PHSL group performed better on the TOL task, with lower total move scores and shorter total problem-solving times, compared to the PLSH group. The total move score of the PLSL group was better, and the total problem-solving time of the PHSH group was shorter than those of the PLSH group. However, the Stroop test scores did not differ between the four groups. Conclusion: These findings suggest that increasing PA or reducing SB selectively enhances executive functions, particularly in planning and problem-solving, while less impacting inhibitory control in older adults. This highlights the importance of considering the nuanced effects of PA and SB on different aspects of executing functioning in older adults
Uncovering deep-rooted conflicts: the role of psychoanalytic psychotherapy in treating athletes' social media-related psychological distress /
No full textThe use of social media by athletes can support them in difficult moments, but it can also become a source of negative emotions and psychological distress. This perspective critically examines psychoanalytic psychotherapy as a method for restoring athletes' psychological well-being after experiencing negative effects from social media use. The paper characterizes the key elements of psychoanalytic psychotherapy relevant to athletes, discusses the role of the psychoanalytic psychotherapist in working with athletes and describes the specifics of the psychoanalytic therapeutic process in this context. The potential advantages of psychoanalytic approaches over cognitive-behavioral methods are examined in treating the psychological impacts of problematic social media use among athletes. The analysis suggests that hate speech and negative online interactions can activate athletes' unprocessed life experiences rooted in early developmental stages. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy may offer a particularly effective method for restoring athletes' psychological wellbeing in such cases by addressing deep-rooted intrapsychic conflicts. However, a comprehensive approach integrating multiple therapeutic modalities is recommended to address the complex challenges athletes face in the digital age. This perspective acknowledges limitations in current research and suggest directions for future studies to develop and validate tailored interventions for athletes grappling with social media-related psychological distress
Exploring the association between adolescents’ health literacy and health behavior by using the Short Health Literacy (HLS19-Q12) Questionnaire /
No full textBackground: Health literacy (HL) is an important element of public health that is linked to health behavior in children and adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the structural validity and reliability of the HLS19-Q12 in the adolescent population, to measure the general HL of adolescents, and to assess the relationship between adolescents’ HL and health behavior. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 825 students aged 15–19 years attending Lithuanian gymnasiums. The participants completed an online survey that collected information on key sociodemographic, HL, and health behavior indicators. Factor analysis, Cronbach’s alpha, and McDonald’s omega were used to validate the Lithuanian version of the HLS19-Q12. Health behavior indicators, including physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, self-rated health, and body mass index (BMI), were measured. We used regression analyses to assess the associations. Results: The HLS19-Q12 showed an acceptable reliability index (Cronbach’s α = 0.885, McDonald’s omega ω = 0.877) and adequate structural validity (comparative fit index = 0.89, Tucker and Lewis’s index of fit = 0.88, root mean square error of approximation = 0.06). We found that 67.1% of the adolescents had excellent or sufficient HL, 27.7% had problematic HL, and 5.2% had inadequate HL. Compared with girls, boys had greater HL. HL was positively related to physical activity and self-rated health and negatively related to alcohol use and smoking. Conclusions: HLS19-Q12 is a reliable and valid measure of HL among adolescents in upper grades; higher levels of HL have been found to result in better health behaviors
The role of schoolyard affordances for physically literate and active schoolchildren in era of digitalization /
No full textKnowledge and understanding domain of physical literacy of primary schoolchildren in relation to physical activity.
No full textPhysical literacy (PL) comprises several different aspects – physical competency, motivation, selfconfidence, knowledge, understanding, daily behaviour in choosing physically active and healthy lifestyle. Learning to move may be even considered as the main literacy that we as humans truly need to acquire (Ydo, 2021). The aim of this cross-sectional pilot study was to evaluate the physical literacy domain of knowledge and understanding of primary school children, and compare it in respect of their own and their parents’ physical activity. In total, 103 dyads of 3rd-4th grade students and their parents (or legal guardians) took part in an online survey which consisted of two parts: (1) chidren had to fill in the questionnaire of the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy (in loose translation to Lithuanian); (2) parents, in addition to demographic data, provided answers regarding their own and their child’s physical activity. For this purpose, the Netherlands physical activity questionnaire (NPAQ) was used. The knowledge and understanding of the majority of children were of achieving and excelling level. Girls had greater results in PL than boys. The more physically active, the greater PL in knowledge and understanding. Boys, but not girls, who are attending sports after school had higher level of PL than their physically passive counterparts. Children, whose parents exercise regularly more often had higher score in PL than those who do it rarely, although children of the latter had lower score in PL than those whose parents do not excersise regurlarly
The use of assistive technology to promote practical skills in persons with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disabilities: A systematic review /
No full textPersons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or intellectual disability (ID) have difficulties in planning, organising and coping with change, which impedes the learning of daily living skills (DLSs), social participation and self-management across different environmental settings. Assistive technologies (ATs) is a broad term encompassing devices and services designed to support individuals with disabilities, and if used in a self-controlled manner, they may contribute inclusion in all domains of participation. This comprehensive literature review aims to critically assess and unify existing research that investigates the use of assistive technology within the practical domain for individuals with ASD and/or ID. The 18 relevant studies included in this review highlighted the benefits of AT for social participation and independence in daily activities of individuals with ASD and/or ID. Professionals working with this target group should be knowledgeable of the speedy progress of AT products and the potential of persons with ASD and/or ID to use mainstream devices to meet their individual needs. This awareness provides an opportunity to advocate for the universal benefits of AT for everyone. Technologies such as virtual reality, mobile applications and interactive software have been shown to improve DLSs, communication and social interaction. These tools offer engaging, user-friendly platforms that address the specific needs of these individuals, enhancing their learning and independence
Physical literacy of physical education teachers and the application of physical literacy components during physical education classes /
No full textThis study emphasizes the importance of a teacher’s adaptability in conveying knowledge and the varied interpretations of exercises among educators. While there is an evident difference in how physical education (PE) is approached, the common thread is the motivation and involvement of students. Promoting physical activity and forming associated habits at school has a major impact on a person’s entire life. Students should learn these skills through PE classes led by physically literate teachers. The aim of this study was to determine PE teachers’ physical literacy (PL), their understanding of the concept of PL, and the application of its components in PE classes. In the first phase of the research questionnaire survey of 81 PE teachers, the aim was to determine their physical literacy. In the second phase, observations were conducted to assess which components of PL teachers use during PE classes. In the third phase, a group interview was conducted to determine the opinions of PE teachers on the components of PL and its application. Teachers with a normal BMI and teaching higher grade students (p < 0.05) had significantly higher PL scores than those with a BMI that was too high (p < 0.05). Additionally, correlation analysis (r = −0.247, p < 0.05) showed that as BMI decreased, the PL score increased. Only two aspects of PL are developed during PE classes—competence and motivation. Very little or no elements of knowledge and understanding of physical activities and associated health benefits, and ways to reduce sedentary time and promote daily habits were observed. PE teachers’ interviews revealed that they recognized PL as a holistic concept for the development of a person’s physical abilities and knowledge. PE specialists also suggested teaching methods that could be applied outside of classes and acknowledged shared problems that reduce students’ motivation to move and how to address them. This study highlights the complexity of the concept of PL and reveals many areas for future research: searching for a universal assessment of PL and focusing on the concept of promoting new, creative, less linear ways of assessing and teaching PL
