Mariana Tudor

Dr. Mariana Tudor


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Constantin CiucurelConstantin Ciucurel
Constantin Ciucurel
MCManuela Mihaela Ciucurel
Manuela Mihaela Ciucurel
LGLuminita Ionels Georgescu
Luminita Ionels Georgescu
MTMariana Tudor
Mariana Tudor
GOGabriel Alexandru Olaru
Gabriel Alexandru Olaru
Elena Ioana IconaruElena Ioana Iconaru
Elena Ioana Iconaru
Background/Objectives: Physical activity (PA) is a key determinant of mental and physical health, yet its relationship with affective states remains insufficiently explored. Emotional factors, such as depression, anxiety, and motivation levels, can significantly impact PA engagement. This study aims to validate the Affective State and Physical Activity Questionnaire (ASPAQ), a novel 15-item instrument designed to assess the interplay between affective states and PA in adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 412 adults (145 males, 267 females, aged 18–65 years). Participants completed the ASPAQ alongside the International Physical Activity Questionnaire—Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) on an online platform, with the support of trained operators. The psychometric properties of the ASPAQ were evaluated using reliability tests (Cronbach’s alpha, McDonald’s omega), exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and correlational analyses to assess convergent validity. Results: The ASPAQ demonstrated excellent reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.973; McDonald’s omega = 0.973) and a unidimensional structure. Convergent validity was supported by significant correlations between ASPAQ scores and established measures of PA (IPAQ-SF) and depression (PHQ-9). EFA confirmed a single-factor model, reinforcing its conceptual integrity. Conclusions: The ASPAQ is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing the relationship between affective states and PA. Its integration with established measures offers a comprehensive tool for evaluating emotional barriers to PA. Future studies should explore its predictive validity and potential applications in clinical and public health settings to inform personalized interventions promoting PA among individuals with affective challenges.

1 February 2024 in Geriatrics
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Constantin CiucurelConstantin Ciucurel
Constantin Ciucurel
MTMariana Tudor
Mariana Tudor
MCManuela Mihaela Ciucurel
Manuela Mihaela Ciucurel
IBIoan Cosmin Boca
Ioan Cosmin Boca
Elena Ioana IconaruElena Ioana Iconaru
Elena Ioana Iconaru
(1) Background: This research aims to compare social networks among institutionalized and aging-in-place (AIP) older adults through the validation of a new questionnaire. (2) Methods: The cross-sectional study included 100 older adults (mean age: 73.53 ± 5.49 years; age range: 65–85 years), with 48 institutionalized subjects and 52 AIP subjects. We developed, validated, and administered a new questionnaire, the Social Network Assessment for Older People Questionnaire (SNAOPQ), to assess older adults’ social networks using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. (3) Results: The SNAOPQ demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha of 0.91 and McDonald’s omega of 0.91). Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between variables, highlighting differences in social networks between institutionalized and AIP individuals (p ≤ 0.001). Sociodemographic factors like age, education, living arrangement status, and number of descendants significantly influenced SNAOPQ scores (p ≤ 0.001). Age and residence type notably impacted participants’ scores, indicating reduced social network size with age. Tertiary education and living in a couple were associated with more extensive social networks, while a higher number of descendants correlated with social network expansion. (4) Conclusions: Our study highlights significant differences in social networks among older adults based on residence type, emphasizing the impact of sociodemographic factors such as age, education, living arrangement, and the number of descendants.

Constantin CiucurelConstantin Ciucurel
Constantin Ciucurel
GMGeorge Mihail Man
George Mihail Man
TMTANTU MARILENA MONICA
TANTU MARILENA MONICA
MTMariana Tudor
Mariana Tudor
GIGeorgeta Ionescu
Georgeta Ionescu
Elena Ioana IconaruElena Ioana Iconaru
Elena Ioana Iconaru
Background/Objectives: Healthcare professions impose high physical and mental demands, potentially affecting health. Despite advocating for active lifestyles, many physiotherapists do not meet recommended physical activity levels (PALs). This study explores physical activity patterns and recreational engagement among practicing physiotherapists. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational design examined the relationship between physical activity and recreational participation among 60 physiotherapists (38 females, 22 males, mean age 38.62 ± 9.78 years). Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire—Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and the Pittsburgh Enjoyable Activities Test (PEAT). The analysis focused on bivariate correlations between PAL, energy expenditure (MET), recreational habits (PEAT score), and sociodemographic and anthropometric variables. Results: The IPAQ-SF results indicated that 38.3% of participants had a low PAL, 40.0% a moderate level, and 21.7% a high level. Average energy expenditure was 1927.62 ± 1479.73 MET-minutes/week. PEAT data indicated moderate engagement in recreational activities (mean score: 22.63 ± 7.76), with participants predominantly involved in low-intensity, passive leisure. Significant positive correlations were observed between PEAT scores and both MET values (Kendall’s tau-b = 0.669, p ≤ 0.01) and PALs (Kendall’s tau-b = 0.804, p ≤ 0.01), indicating that higher engagement in recreational activities is associated with greater energy expenditure and overall physical activity levels. Conclusions: Despite the physical demands of their profession, many physiotherapists report low activity levels. The positive correlations between physical activity, energy expenditure, and recreational engagement highlight the need for structured exercise to support both personal health and professional integrity. Future research should include larger samples and objective assessments.