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The COVID-19 outbreak forced Italian students to reduce their daily activities, inducing a seden-tary attitude that was worsened by distanced learning. This study aimed to survey the physical activity levels that were maintained before and during the social restrictions following the pan-demic, their correlation to musculoskeletal pain, as well as analyzing the impact of these COVID-19 restrictions on pain and fatigue that affects daily life activities. A total of 2044 students completed the online questionnaire, of which the results of 1654 participants were eligible. Before the pandemic, the levels of physical activity were distributed as: 19.9% no activity, 30.1% light ac-tivity, 21.5% moderate activity, and 28.5% high activity. After one year of the pandemic, 30.6% of the participants were inactive, 48.1%, 10.9%, and 10.5% stated as maintaining, respectively, light, moderate and high levels of physical activity. Furthermore, 43.5% reported neck pain and 33.5% stated to experience low back pain. Physical activity levels lower than 150 min/week may have predisposed students to suffer from neck pain (1.95 OR at 95% CI, 1.44–2.64) and low back pain (1.79 OR at 95% CI, 1.29–2.49). A positive correlation between physical activity levels, Verbal Descriptive Scale (VDS), and pain frequency have been observed for neck and low back pain (p-value < 0.05). Finally, low physical activity levels were associated with musculoskeletal pain onset and pain worsening.
Federico Roggio; Bruno Trovato; Silvia Ravalli; Michelino Di Rosa; Grazia Maugeri; Antonino Bianco; Antonio Palma; Giuseppe Musumeci. One Year of COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy: Effect of Sedentary Behavior on Physical Activity Levels and Musculoskeletal Pain among University Students. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 8680 .
AMA StyleFederico Roggio, Bruno Trovato, Silvia Ravalli, Michelino Di Rosa, Grazia Maugeri, Antonino Bianco, Antonio Palma, Giuseppe Musumeci. One Year of COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy: Effect of Sedentary Behavior on Physical Activity Levels and Musculoskeletal Pain among University Students. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (16):8680.
Chicago/Turabian StyleFederico Roggio; Bruno Trovato; Silvia Ravalli; Michelino Di Rosa; Grazia Maugeri; Antonino Bianco; Antonio Palma; Giuseppe Musumeci. 2021. "One Year of COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy: Effect of Sedentary Behavior on Physical Activity Levels and Musculoskeletal Pain among University Students." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 16: 8680.
(1) Background: One mechanism through which physical activity (PA) provides benefits is by triggering activity at a molecular level, where neurotrophins (NTs) are known to play an important role. However, the expression of the circulating levels of neurotrophic factors, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-4 (NT-4/5), in response to exercise, is not fully understood. Therefore, the aim was to provide an updated overview on the neurotrophin (NT) variation levels of BDNF and NT-4/5 as a consequence of a long-term aerobic exercise intervention, and to understand and describe whether the upregulation of circulating NT levels is a result of neurotrophic factors produced and released from the brain, and/or from neurotrophic secreting peripheral organs. (2) Methods: The articles were collected from PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Embase. Data were analyzed through a narrative synthesis. (3) Results: 30 articles studied humans who performed training protocols that ranged from 4 to 48 weeks; 22 articles studied rodents with an intervention period that ranged from 4 to 64 weeks. (4) Conclusions: There is no unanimity between the upregulation of BDNF in humans; conversely, concerning both BDNF and NT-4/5 in animal models, the results are heterogeneous. Whilst BDNF upregulation appears to be in relative agreement, NT-4/5 seems to display contradictory and inconsistent conclusions.
Daniel Ribeiro; Luca Petrigna; Frederico C. Pereira; Antonella Muscella; Antonino Bianco; Paula Tavares. The Impact of Physical Exercise on the Circulating Levels of BDNF and NT 4/5: A Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 2021, 22, 8814 .
AMA StyleDaniel Ribeiro, Luca Petrigna, Frederico C. Pereira, Antonella Muscella, Antonino Bianco, Paula Tavares. The Impact of Physical Exercise on the Circulating Levels of BDNF and NT 4/5: A Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2021; 22 (16):8814.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniel Ribeiro; Luca Petrigna; Frederico C. Pereira; Antonella Muscella; Antonino Bianco; Paula Tavares. 2021. "The Impact of Physical Exercise on the Circulating Levels of BDNF and NT 4/5: A Review." International Journal of Molecular Sciences 22, no. 16: 8814.
Although absolute jump heights should be considered an important factor in judging the performance requirements of volleyball players, limited data is available on age-appropriate categories. The purpose of this study is to determine the differences in specific anthropometric characteristics and jumping performance variables in under−19 female volleyball players in relation to playing position and performance level. The sample of subjects consisted of 354 players who prepared for the U19 Women’s Volleyball European Championship 2020 (17.4 ± 0.8 years, 1.81 ± 0.07 m, 67.5 ± 7.1 kg). Playing positions analyzed were setters (n = 55), opposites (n = 37), middle blockers (n = 82), outside hitters (n = 137), and liberos (n = 43). The results showed player position differences in every performance level group in variables of body height, spike, and block jump. Observed differences are a consequence of highly specific tasks of different positions in the composition of the team. Players of different performance levels are significantly different, with athletes of higher-ranked teams achieving better results. The acquired data could be useful for the selection and profiling of young volleyball players.
Suncica Pocek; Zoran Milosevic; Nemanja Lakicevic; Kristina Pantelic-Babic; Milka Imbronjev; Ewan Thomas; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Jump Abilities by Player Position and Performance Level of Junior Female Volleyball Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 8377 .
AMA StyleSuncica Pocek, Zoran Milosevic, Nemanja Lakicevic, Kristina Pantelic-Babic, Milka Imbronjev, Ewan Thomas, Antonino Bianco, Patrik Drid. Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Jump Abilities by Player Position and Performance Level of Junior Female Volleyball Players. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (16):8377.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSuncica Pocek; Zoran Milosevic; Nemanja Lakicevic; Kristina Pantelic-Babic; Milka Imbronjev; Ewan Thomas; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Jump Abilities by Player Position and Performance Level of Junior Female Volleyball Players." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 16: 8377.
Elite judo athletes undergo vigorous training to achieve outstanding results. In pursuit of achieving competitive success, the occurrence of injuries amongst judo athletes is not rare. The study aimed to perform a knee flexors and extensors isokinetic torque analysis in elite female judo athletes. Fifty-eight elite female judo athletes of the Serbian national team (21.02 ± 3.11 years; 62.36 ± 11.91 kg, 165.04 ± 10.24 cm, training experience 12.72 ± 2.98 years) volunteered to participate in this study. The range of motion (ROM) was set at 90°. Testing was performed in a concentric-concentric mode for the testing speed of 60 °/s. Five maximal voluntary contractions of knee extensors and knee flexors muscle groups were measured for both legs. The obtained data showed a statistically significant difference in absolute torque values among different categories as heavier athletes demonstrated higher values. Post hoc analysis showed a significant difference between weight categories, as heavier athletes demonstrated higher values, while no significant differences in normalized torque values for different weight categories were observed. The implementation of new elements and training modalities may improve performance and prevent lateral asymmetry, thus reducing the risk of injury.
Wieslaw Blach; Miodrag Drapsin; Nemanja Lakicevic; Antonino Bianco; Tamara Gavrilovic; Roberto Roklicer; Tatjana Trivic; Ognjen Cvjeticanin; Patrik Drid; Maciej Kostrzewa. Isokinetic Profile of Elite Serbian Female Judoists. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 6988 .
AMA StyleWieslaw Blach, Miodrag Drapsin, Nemanja Lakicevic, Antonino Bianco, Tamara Gavrilovic, Roberto Roklicer, Tatjana Trivic, Ognjen Cvjeticanin, Patrik Drid, Maciej Kostrzewa. Isokinetic Profile of Elite Serbian Female Judoists. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (13):6988.
Chicago/Turabian StyleWieslaw Blach; Miodrag Drapsin; Nemanja Lakicevic; Antonino Bianco; Tamara Gavrilovic; Roberto Roklicer; Tatjana Trivic; Ognjen Cvjeticanin; Patrik Drid; Maciej Kostrzewa. 2021. "Isokinetic Profile of Elite Serbian Female Judoists." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 13: 6988.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic situation with the lockdown of public life caused serious changes in people's everyday practices. The study evaluates the differences between Slovenia and Italy in health-related everyday practices induced by the restrictive measures during first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: The study examined changes through an online survey conducted in nine European countries from April 15-28, 2020. The survey included questions from a simple activity inventory questionnaire (SIMPAQ), the European Health Interview Survey, and some other questions. To compare changes between countries with low and high incidence of COVID-19 epidemic, we examine 956 valid responses from Italy (N=511; 50% males) and Slovenia (N=445; 26% males).Results: During the survey, there was a 4.7-fold higher incidence and 12.1-fold more deaths (per 100,000) in Italy than in Slovenia. Barring periods and measures were similar, the latter more stringent in Italy. We found more changes in Italy than in Slovenia: physical inactivity increased (Italy: +65% vs. Slovenia: +21%; p< 0.001), walking time decreased (Italy: -68% vs. Slovenia: -4.4%; p< 0.001); physical work increased by 38% in Slovenia (p< 0.001), and recreation time decreased by 37% in Italy (p< 0.001). Italians reported a decrease in quality of general health, fitness level, psychological well-being, and quality of life (p<0.001); Slovenians showed a decline in psychological well-being and quality of life (p<0.001) but generally had a higher concern for their own health (p=0.005). Changes in eating habits (meal size and consumption of unhealthy food), age and physical inactivity were positively correlated with increases in body mass, while changes in general well-being and concern for health were negatively correlated.Conclusion: The study highlights the implications of COVID-19 measures and epidemiological data and provides insight into the relationship between them and various lifestyle consequences of COVID-19 measures. These findings should be taken into consideration in the implementation of further measures to mitigate the COVI-19 pandemic.
Saša Pišot; Boštjan Šimunič; Ambra Gentile; Antonino Bianco; Gianluca Lo Coco; Rado Pišot; Patrik Dird; Ivana Milovanović. The Differences of Slovenian and Italian Daily Practices Experienced in the First Wave of Covid-19 Pandemic. 2021, 1 .
AMA StyleSaša Pišot, Boštjan Šimunič, Ambra Gentile, Antonino Bianco, Gianluca Lo Coco, Rado Pišot, Patrik Dird, Ivana Milovanović. The Differences of Slovenian and Italian Daily Practices Experienced in the First Wave of Covid-19 Pandemic. . 2021; ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSaša Pišot; Boštjan Šimunič; Ambra Gentile; Antonino Bianco; Gianluca Lo Coco; Rado Pišot; Patrik Dird; Ivana Milovanović. 2021. "The Differences of Slovenian and Italian Daily Practices Experienced in the First Wave of Covid-19 Pandemic." , no. : 1.
Background The aim of this study was to investigate if the supplementation with Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) juice may affect plasma redox balance and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters following a maximal effort test, in young physically active women. Methods A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled and crossover study comprising eight women (23.25 ± 2.95 years, 54.13 ± 9.05 kg, 157.75 ± 0.66 cm and BMI of 21.69 ± 0.66 kg/m2) was carried out. A juice containing OFI diluted in water and a Placebo solution were supplied (170 ml; OFI = 50 ml of OFI juice + 120 ml of water; Placebo = 170 ml beverage without Vitamin C and indicaxanthin). Participants consumed the OFI juice or Placebo beverage every day for 3 days, before performing a maximal cycle ergometer test, and for 2 consecutive days after the test. Plasma hydroperoxides and total antioxidant capacity (PAT), Skin Carotenoid Score (SCS) and HRV variables (LF, HF, LF/HF and rMSSD) were recorded at different time points. Results The OFI group showed significantly lower levels of hydroperoxides compared to the Placebo group in pre-test, post-test and 48-h post-test. PAT values of the OFI group significantly increased compared to those of the Placebo group in pre-test and 48-h post-test. SCS did not differ between groups. LF was significantly lower in the OFI group 24-h after the end of the test, whereas rMSSD was significantly higher in the OFI group 48-h post-test. Conclusion OFI supplementation decreased the oxidative stress induced by intense exercise and improved autonomic balance in physically active women.
Marianna Bellafiore; Anna Maria Pintaudi; Ewan Thomas; Luisa Tesoriere; Antonino Bianco; Angelo Cataldo; Dario Cerasola; Marcello Traina; Maria Antonia Livrea; Antonio Palma. Redox and autonomic responses to acute exercise-post recovery following Opuntia ficus-indica juice intake in physically active women. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2021, 18, 1 -10.
AMA StyleMarianna Bellafiore, Anna Maria Pintaudi, Ewan Thomas, Luisa Tesoriere, Antonino Bianco, Angelo Cataldo, Dario Cerasola, Marcello Traina, Maria Antonia Livrea, Antonio Palma. Redox and autonomic responses to acute exercise-post recovery following Opuntia ficus-indica juice intake in physically active women. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2021; 18 (1):1-10.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarianna Bellafiore; Anna Maria Pintaudi; Ewan Thomas; Luisa Tesoriere; Antonino Bianco; Angelo Cataldo; Dario Cerasola; Marcello Traina; Maria Antonia Livrea; Antonio Palma. 2021. "Redox and autonomic responses to acute exercise-post recovery following Opuntia ficus-indica juice intake in physically active women." Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 18, no. 1: 1-10.
Even though scientific literature shows numerous heath complications and performance decrements associated with rapid weight loss (RWL), its prevalence remains exceedingly high across various combat sports. The aim of this study was to thoroughly search the existing literature to explore the influence of RWL on kidney function in Olympic and non-Olympic combat sport athletes. PubMed and Web of Science were searched for the relevant studies. Only original articles published from 2005 onwards, written in English, that included healthy males and females who prompted ~5% weight loss within a week or less, were included in the study. Retrieved studies showed that creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and urine specific gravity values were significantly increased after RWL in the majority of the included studies. This observation indicates that RWL caused dehydration and subsequent acute kidney damage despite various degrees of weight lost during the RWL phase, which can lead to adverse events in other body systems. Alternative methods of weight reduction that prioritize athletes’ health should be considered.
Nemanja Lakicevic; Antonio Paoli; Roberto Roklicer; Tatjana Trivic; Darinka Korovljev; Sergej Ostojic; Patrizia Proia; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. Effects of Rapid Weight Loss on Kidney Function in Combat Sport Athletes. Medicina 2021, 57, 551 .
AMA StyleNemanja Lakicevic, Antonio Paoli, Roberto Roklicer, Tatjana Trivic, Darinka Korovljev, Sergej Ostojic, Patrizia Proia, Antonino Bianco, Patrik Drid. Effects of Rapid Weight Loss on Kidney Function in Combat Sport Athletes. Medicina. 2021; 57 (6):551.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNemanja Lakicevic; Antonio Paoli; Roberto Roklicer; Tatjana Trivic; Darinka Korovljev; Sergej Ostojic; Patrizia Proia; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Effects of Rapid Weight Loss on Kidney Function in Combat Sport Athletes." Medicina 57, no. 6: 551.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we conduct daily life, as well as sports training and sports competitions. Given the stress produced by COVID-19, and the “bubble” safety measures for the World Sambo Championship, held in Novi Sad, from the 6th to the 8th of November, 2020, athletes might have experienced more stress than athletes normally would in non-pandemic conditions. Therefore, the current study aimed to create a psychological profile of sambo athletes participating in the Sambo World Championship and living in this condition. Methods: One-hundred-fifteen participants took part in the study, completing the Profile of Mood Scale (POMS), the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. A mediation model with Fear of COVID-19 predicting both stress level directly and stress level through mood disturbance was hypothesized. Gender differences were evaluated through t-test. Results: The results showed that the sample presented higher levels of stress but no problems in sleeping. In particular, data analysis confirmed an indirect effect of Fear of COVID on Perceived stress through mood disturbance (β = 0.14, Z = 2.80, and p = 0.005), but did not have a significant impact on the direct effect (β = −0.04, Z = −0.48, and p = 0.63). Gender differences emerged in the perceived stress level (t = −2.86, df = 114, and p = 0.005) and daytime dysfunction (t = −2.52, df = 114, and p = 0.01) where females scored higher than males for both aspects. Conclusion: The athletes participating to the World Sambo Championship experienced stress levels determined by the mood disturbance produced by the fear of the COVID-19 pandemic. Female athletes were more stressed and showed higher daytime dysfunction. The findings of the current study are useful to understand the psychological profile of the athletes competing in the “bubble” conditions during COVID-19 pandemic.
Ambra Gentile; Tatjana Trivic; Antonino Bianco; Nemanja Lakicevic; Flavia Figlioli; Roberto Roklicer; Sergey Eliseev; Sergey Tabakov; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Patrik Drid. Living in the “Bubble”: Athletes' Psychological Profile During the Sambo World Championship. Frontiers in Psychology 2021, 12, 657652 .
AMA StyleAmbra Gentile, Tatjana Trivic, Antonino Bianco, Nemanja Lakicevic, Flavia Figlioli, Roberto Roklicer, Sergey Eliseev, Sergey Tabakov, Nebojsa Maksimovic, Patrik Drid. Living in the “Bubble”: Athletes' Psychological Profile During the Sambo World Championship. Frontiers in Psychology. 2021; 12 ():657652.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAmbra Gentile; Tatjana Trivic; Antonino Bianco; Nemanja Lakicevic; Flavia Figlioli; Roberto Roklicer; Sergey Eliseev; Sergey Tabakov; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Living in the “Bubble”: Athletes' Psychological Profile During the Sambo World Championship." Frontiers in Psychology 12, no. : 657652.
Background The Grooved Pegboard Test (GPT) is widely adopted to evaluate manual dexterity, it presents normative data but the test is influenced by different factors. The influence of time spent on smartphones has not been considered before, for this reason, the objective of this study was to evaluate if smartphone use influences the time to complete the GPT. A total of 38 (21 women; 17 men) young adults 20.7 (1.5) years participated in the study. The time spent on the smartphones during the last seven days was recorded through the device itself and the GPT performance was measured. A correlation analysis between the time spent on the smartphone and GPT was performed while the t-test was adopted to evaluate gender differences. Results No statistically significant differences were detected between men and women in the time to complete the GPT (p = 0.20) and in the time spent on the smartphone (p = 0.87). The GPT and the time spent using the smartphone were not correlated (r = 0.044, p = 0.78). Conclusion The time spent on the smartphone by young adults does not influence the time to complete the GPT, indicating that smartphone use does not influence measures of manual dexterity.
Luca Petrigna; Milda Treigienė; Ewan Thomas; Diba Mani; Simona Pajaujiene; Patrik Drid; Gioacchino Lavanco; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Time spent on the smartphone does not relate to manual dexterity in young adults. BMC Neuroscience 2021, 22, 1 -5.
AMA StyleLuca Petrigna, Milda Treigienė, Ewan Thomas, Diba Mani, Simona Pajaujiene, Patrik Drid, Gioacchino Lavanco, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Time spent on the smartphone does not relate to manual dexterity in young adults. BMC Neuroscience. 2021; 22 (1):1-5.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuca Petrigna; Milda Treigienė; Ewan Thomas; Diba Mani; Simona Pajaujiene; Patrik Drid; Gioacchino Lavanco; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Time spent on the smartphone does not relate to manual dexterity in young adults." BMC Neuroscience 22, no. 1: 1-5.
Aging and menopause are associated with morphological and functional changes which may lead to loss of muscle mass and therefore quality of life. Resistance training (RT) is an effective training mode to increase muscle mass. We reviewed the existing literature to identify studies implementing RT protocols and evaluating muscle hypertrophy exclusively in healthy, postmenopausal and elderly women. Participants’ age range was comprised between 50 and 80 years. The primary outcome observed was muscle hypertrophy. Fat mass was also evaluated, if available. PubMed and Web of Science were the screened database, and original articles written in English and published from 2000 up to 2020 were included. 26 articles were considered eligible and included. Quality assessment revealed a “moderate quality” of the included studies, however the majority of studies was able to reach level 4 of evidence and on overall grade of recommendation C. In total, data from 745 female participants subjected to different forms of resistance training were considered. Heterogeneity across studies was present regarding study design, intervention length (mean 16 weeks), training frequency (3 d/w), no. of exercises (n = 7.4) and participants’ age (65.8 ± 4.9 years). Small-to-moderate significant increases (k = 43; SMD = 0.44; 95% CI 0.28; 0.60; p < 0.0001) of lean body mass were observed in post-menopausal and elderly women, regardless of age, intervention period, weekly training frequency and no. of exercises. No effects were noted for fat mass (k = 17; SMD = 0.27; 95% CI − 0.02; 0.55; p = 0.07). Studies need to concentrate on providing information regarding training parameters to more effectively counteract the effects of aging and menopause on skeletal muscle mass.
Ewan Thomas; Ambra Gentile; Nemanja Lakicevic; Tatiana Moro; Marianna Bellafiore; Antonio Paoli; Patrik Drid; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. The effect of resistance training programs on lean body mass in postmenopausal and elderly women: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Aging Clinical and Experimental Research 2021, 1 -12.
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Ambra Gentile, Nemanja Lakicevic, Tatiana Moro, Marianna Bellafiore, Antonio Paoli, Patrik Drid, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. The effect of resistance training programs on lean body mass in postmenopausal and elderly women: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Aging Clinical and Experimental Research. 2021; ():1-12.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Ambra Gentile; Nemanja Lakicevic; Tatiana Moro; Marianna Bellafiore; Antonio Paoli; Patrik Drid; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "The effect of resistance training programs on lean body mass in postmenopausal and elderly women: a meta-analysis of observational studies." Aging Clinical and Experimental Research , no. : 1-12.
Background Rapid weight loss (RWL) is commonly practiced in combat sports. Both magnitude and methods used to induce RWL are largely similar among combat sports, but currently, there is no data on RWL methodology used by sambo athletes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine RWL procedures sambo athletes apply to lose weight rapidly. Methods The sample consisted of 199 participants, of which 132 males and 67 females who participated in the World Sambo Championship 2020 held in Novi Sad, Serbia. Each participant received RWL questionnaire that was available in multiple languages, and every participant was instructed how to fill it out. Results Almost 87% of sambo participants declared to have intentionally cut their weight prior to the competition, whereby 5.27 kg (SD: ±7.57) was lost. Gradual dieting, sauna use and skipping meals were the most dominant methods used to reduce weight prior to competition while more extreme methods of RWL such as the use of laxatives, diuretics, diet pills and vomiting were also implemented but by much smaller fragment of the participants involved. Conclusions Findings from our study largely match with previously conducted RWL studies in terms of prevalence, magnitude and methods used by combat sport athletes, especially in judo and wrestling. Knowing the hazardous consequences of RWL, alternative methods of sustainable weight loss should be considered.
Patrik Drid; Flavia Figlioli; Nemanja Lakicevic; Ambra Gentile; Valdemar Stajer; Bojan Raskovic; Nina Vojvodic; Roberto Roklicer; Tatjana Trivic; Sergey Tabakov; Sergey Eliseev; Antonino Bianco. Patterns of rapid weight loss in elite sambo athletes. BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation 2021, 13, 1 -7.
AMA StylePatrik Drid, Flavia Figlioli, Nemanja Lakicevic, Ambra Gentile, Valdemar Stajer, Bojan Raskovic, Nina Vojvodic, Roberto Roklicer, Tatjana Trivic, Sergey Tabakov, Sergey Eliseev, Antonino Bianco. Patterns of rapid weight loss in elite sambo athletes. BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2021; 13 (1):1-7.
Chicago/Turabian StylePatrik Drid; Flavia Figlioli; Nemanja Lakicevic; Ambra Gentile; Valdemar Stajer; Bojan Raskovic; Nina Vojvodic; Roberto Roklicer; Tatjana Trivic; Sergey Tabakov; Sergey Eliseev; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Patterns of rapid weight loss in elite sambo athletes." BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation 13, no. 1: 1-7.
Athletes’ lifestyles have been dramatically affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Since COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system and to a lesser degree the cardiovascular system, the goal of this study was to examine the effects of COVID-19-caused detraining on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) of recently recovered volleyball athletes. Sixteen experienced volleyball athletes (age 24 ± 4.5 years) who were recently diagnosed and recovered from a COVID-19 infection volunteered to participate in this study and were tested for CRF and spirometry. Given that participants had only mild symptoms of infection, the primary focus of this study was on the effects of detraining on CRF. On average, the time to exhaustion was 9.4 ± 1.4 min. VE, VCO2, RER and oxygen pulse increased, heart rate exceeded 90% of predicted values, and peak VO2 values were typical for this level of athlete (44.1 ± 3.4 mL/kg). Pulmonary function reflected in FVC, FEV1/FVC and MVV values were well above 80% of predicted values for each of the participants while electrocardiography revealed no ischemia, arrythmias or conduction and repolarization abnormalities were found in the tested subjects. Therefore, it can be concluded that participants experienced typical consequences of detraining. Due to a lack of CRF data prior to COVID-19 infection, we were unable to estimate the magnitude detraining had on CRF. Complete CRF assessment after COVID-19 infection in athletes can be useful for screening of residual myocardial and/or respiratory system damage for safe return-to-play decisions.
Aleksandra Milovancev; Jovana Avakumovic; Nemanja Lakicevic; Valdemar Stajer; Darinka Korovljev; Nikola Todorovic; Antonino Bianco; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Sergej Ostojic; Patrik Drid. Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Volleyball Athletes Following a COVID-19 Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 4059 .
AMA StyleAleksandra Milovancev, Jovana Avakumovic, Nemanja Lakicevic, Valdemar Stajer, Darinka Korovljev, Nikola Todorovic, Antonino Bianco, Nebojsa Maksimovic, Sergej Ostojic, Patrik Drid. Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Volleyball Athletes Following a COVID-19 Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (8):4059.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAleksandra Milovancev; Jovana Avakumovic; Nemanja Lakicevic; Valdemar Stajer; Darinka Korovljev; Nikola Todorovic; Antonino Bianco; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Sergej Ostojic; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Volleyball Athletes Following a COVID-19 Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 8: 4059.
Ewan Thomas; Vincenzo Gennaro; Giuseppe Battaglia; Marianna Bellafiore; Angelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Upper body strength endurance evaluation: A comparison between the handgrip strength and three body weight tests. Isokinetics and Exercise Science 2021, 29, 185 -191.
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Vincenzo Gennaro, Giuseppe Battaglia, Marianna Bellafiore, Angelo Iovane, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Upper body strength endurance evaluation: A comparison between the handgrip strength and three body weight tests. Isokinetics and Exercise Science. 2021; 29 (2):185-191.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Vincenzo Gennaro; Giuseppe Battaglia; Marianna Bellafiore; Angelo Iovane; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Upper body strength endurance evaluation: A comparison between the handgrip strength and three body weight tests." Isokinetics and Exercise Science 29, no. 2: 185-191.
Accumulation of adipose tissue in specific body areas is related to many physiological and hormonal variables. Spot reduction (SR) is a training protocol aimed to stimulate lipolysis locally, even though this training protocol has not been extensively studied in recent years. Thus, the present study sought to investigate the effect of a circuit-training SR on subcutaneous adipose tissue in healthy adults. Methods: Fourteen volunteers were randomly assigned to spot reduction (SR) or to a traditional resistance training (RT) protocol. Body composition via bioimpedance analysis (BIA) and subcutaneous adipose tissue via skinfold and ultrasound were measured before and after eight weeks of training. Results: SR significantly reduced body mass (p < 0.05) and subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue (p < 0.05). Conclusions: circuit-training SR may be an efficient strategy to reduce in a localized manner abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue depot.
Antonio Paoli; Andrea Casolo; Matteo Saoncella; Carlo Bertaggia; Marco Fantin; Antonino Bianco; Giuseppe Marcolin; Tatiana Moro. Effect of an Endurance and Strength Mixed Circuit Training on Regional Fat Thickness: The Quest for the “Spot Reduction”. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 3845 .
AMA StyleAntonio Paoli, Andrea Casolo, Matteo Saoncella, Carlo Bertaggia, Marco Fantin, Antonino Bianco, Giuseppe Marcolin, Tatiana Moro. Effect of an Endurance and Strength Mixed Circuit Training on Regional Fat Thickness: The Quest for the “Spot Reduction”. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (7):3845.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAntonio Paoli; Andrea Casolo; Matteo Saoncella; Carlo Bertaggia; Marco Fantin; Antonino Bianco; Giuseppe Marcolin; Tatiana Moro. 2021. "Effect of an Endurance and Strength Mixed Circuit Training on Regional Fat Thickness: The Quest for the “Spot Reduction”." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 7: 3845.
Background: Like other combat sports, sambo has competition rules that divide athletes into categories based on gender, age and weight. Athletes in combat sports often resort to rapid weight loss (RWL) methods to be more competitive in lower weight categories and gain an advantage against lighter, smaller and weaker competitors. The aim of this study was to examine the methodology implemented by two different sambo age categories, junior and senior athletes, in order to attain RWL. Methods: The sample consisted of 103 male sambo elite athletes (seniors/juniors: age 28.5 ± 4.3/18.9 ± 0.8; height (m): 1.7 ± 0.1/1.8 ± 0.1; weight (kg): 76.3 ± 17.8/74.4 ± 16.3; BMI (kg/m2): 25.0 ± 3.8/23.7 ± 3.9) who completed a survey on RWL. Results: Athletes reported losing a mean of 5 kg starting approximately 12 days before a competition. The most common methodology reported by senior and junior sambo athletes was gradually increasing dieting, followed by sauna and plastic suit training. Less common methods adopted were laxatives, diuretics, the use of diet pills and vomiting. There were significant group differences for sauna and diet pill ingestion. Coaches and parents are influential people in the lives of athletes concerning the weight loss strategy to be adopted. Conclusions: This study’s results unequivocally confirm the prevalent practice of RWL in both senior and junior sambo athletes. Although athletes prevalently chose “less harmful” methods, there is a need to inform parents and coaches of the risks and benefits of RWL.
Flavia Figlioli; Antonino Bianco; Ewan Thomas; Valdemar Stajer; Darinka Korovljev; Tatjana Trivic; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Patrik Drid. Rapid Weight Loss Habits before a Competition in Sambo Athletes. Nutrients 2021, 13, 1063 .
AMA StyleFlavia Figlioli, Antonino Bianco, Ewan Thomas, Valdemar Stajer, Darinka Korovljev, Tatjana Trivic, Nebojsa Maksimovic, Patrik Drid. Rapid Weight Loss Habits before a Competition in Sambo Athletes. Nutrients. 2021; 13 (4):1063.
Chicago/Turabian StyleFlavia Figlioli; Antonino Bianco; Ewan Thomas; Valdemar Stajer; Darinka Korovljev; Tatjana Trivic; Nebojsa Maksimovic; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Rapid Weight Loss Habits before a Competition in Sambo Athletes." Nutrients 13, no. 4: 1063.
One of the main goals of sport psychology is to identify those psychological factors that are relevant for sport performance as well as possibilities of their development. The aim of the study was to determine whether the set of specific psychological characteristics [generalized self-efficacy, time perspective, emotional intelligence (EI), general achievement motivation, and personality dimensions] makes the distinction between athletes based on their (non)-participation in the senior national team, that is, their belonging to the subsample of elite or non-elite athletes depending on this criterion. According to the group centroids it can be said that elite athletes are characterized by a positive high score in self-efficacy, emotionality, present fatalistic time perspective, past positive time perspective, and openness to experience. They are also characterized by low past negative time perspective, emotional competence, and future time perspective. Non-elite athletes have the opposite traits. The results have been discussed in the context of their application in the process of talent selection and development in sport as well as the development of life skills in athletes.
Petar Mitić; Jasmina Nedeljković; Željka Bojanić; Mirjana Franceško; Ivana Milovanović; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. Differences in the Psychological Profiles of Elite and Non-elite Athletes. Frontiers in Psychology 2021, 12, 1 .
AMA StylePetar Mitić, Jasmina Nedeljković, Željka Bojanić, Mirjana Franceško, Ivana Milovanović, Antonino Bianco, Patrik Drid. Differences in the Psychological Profiles of Elite and Non-elite Athletes. Frontiers in Psychology. 2021; 12 ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StylePetar Mitić; Jasmina Nedeljković; Željka Bojanić; Mirjana Franceško; Ivana Milovanović; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid. 2021. "Differences in the Psychological Profiles of Elite and Non-elite Athletes." Frontiers in Psychology 12, no. : 1.
Stretching is commonly used to increase range of motion and flexibility. Therefore, investigations are usually oriented towards the muscle-tendon unit. Limited evidence exists regarding potential effects of stretching on peripheral nerves which lie within muscles. The objective of this investigation will be to elucidate the responses of peripheral nerves to stretching. A literature search was performed using the following databases: Scopus, NLM Pubmed and ScienceDirect. Studies regarding the effects of stretching protocols on responses of peripheral nerves were retrieved for investigation. The NHLBI tool was used for quality assessment. Outcomes included nerve stiffness, nerve displacement, pain pressure thresholds and resistive torque. A total of 10 studies were considered eligible and were included in this investigation. The quality assessment of the studies revealed an overall “fair to good” methodological quality across the included studies. All studies except for one involved healthy participants. High heterogeneity of stretching protocols was retrieved. As a consequence of stretching, nerve stiffness (-15.6%) and pain pressure thresholds (-1.9kg) decreased. Nerve displacements on each movement plane for all the considered nerves and nerve deformation were also frequently observed. Peripheral nerve responses to muscle stretching include decreased nerve stiffness and decreased pain pressure thresholds. Nerve displacement also frequently occurs. It is still unclear if reduced nerve displacement may lead to clinical outcomes. There is a lack of longitudinal studies regarding peripheral nerve adaptations to stretching.
Ewan Thomas; Marianna Bellafiore; Luca Petrigna; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. Peripheral Nerve Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 2021, 20, 258 -267.
AMA StyleEwan Thomas, Marianna Bellafiore, Luca Petrigna, Antonio Paoli, Antonio Palma, Antonino Bianco. Peripheral Nerve Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. 2021; 20 (2):258-267.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEwan Thomas; Marianna Bellafiore; Luca Petrigna; Antonio Paoli; Antonio Palma; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Peripheral Nerve Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review." Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 20, no. 2: 258-267.
The aim of the current study is to examine gender, age. and cross-country differences in fear of COVID-19 and sense of loneliness during the lockdown, by comparing people from those countries with a high rate of infections and deaths (e.g., Spain and Italy) and from countries with a mild spread of infection (e.g., Croatia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina). A total of 3876 participants (63% female) completed an online survey on “Everyday life practices in COVID-19 time” in April 2020, including measures of fear of COVID-19 and loneliness. Males and females of all age groups in countries suffering from the powerful impact of the COVID-19 pandemic reported greater fear of COVID-19 and sense of loneliness. In less endangered countries, females and the elderly reported more symptoms than males and the young; in Spanish and Italian samples, the pattern of differences is considerably more complex. Future research should thoroughly examine different age and gender groups. The analysis of emotional well-being in groups at risk of mental health issues may help to lessen the long term social and economic costs due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Gianluca Lo Coco; Ambra Gentile; Ksenija Bosnar; Ivana Milovanović; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid; Saša Pišot. A Cross-Country Examination on the Fear of COVID-19 and the Sense of Loneliness during the First Wave of COVID-19 Outbreak. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 2586 .
AMA StyleGianluca Lo Coco, Ambra Gentile, Ksenija Bosnar, Ivana Milovanović, Antonino Bianco, Patrik Drid, Saša Pišot. A Cross-Country Examination on the Fear of COVID-19 and the Sense of Loneliness during the First Wave of COVID-19 Outbreak. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (5):2586.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGianluca Lo Coco; Ambra Gentile; Ksenija Bosnar; Ivana Milovanović; Antonino Bianco; Patrik Drid; Saša Pišot. 2021. "A Cross-Country Examination on the Fear of COVID-19 and the Sense of Loneliness during the First Wave of COVID-19 Outbreak." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 5: 2586.
The evaluation of soccer players’ physical fitness from youth onward is important for monitoring performance and planning training. While health-related factors present valid and reliable tests, the skill-related component should be studied in depth. An interesting test to evaluate the skill-related factors is the Harre circuit test (HTC); unfortunately, this test includes the somersault, an element not present in soccer. The aim of the present study is the validation of the Petrucci ability test (PAT), a variation of the HTC without the somersault for young soccer players. Children and adolescents (age range 10–13 years old) soccer players concluded the 20-m, the HTC and the PAT. To establish the validity of the PAT, correlation analysis has been performed, which presented a p < 0.0001 between PAT and HTC; p < 0.001 between PAT and a 20-m test; and p < 0.0001 between HTC and the 20-m test. The results suggest that the PAT can be a valid substitute for the evaluation of the skills-related components of young soccer players and, consequently, also of athletes and schoolchildren.
Marco Petrucci; Luca Petrigna; Francesco Pomara; Maria Cusmà Piccione; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. Validation in Young Soccer Players of the Modified Version of the Harre Circuit Test: The Petrucci Ability Test. Montenegrin Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 2021, 10, 67 -71.
AMA StyleMarco Petrucci, Luca Petrigna, Francesco Pomara, Maria Cusmà Piccione, Marianna Alesi, Antonino Bianco. Validation in Young Soccer Players of the Modified Version of the Harre Circuit Test: The Petrucci Ability Test. Montenegrin Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. 2021; 10 (1):67-71.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarco Petrucci; Luca Petrigna; Francesco Pomara; Maria Cusmà Piccione; Marianna Alesi; Antonino Bianco. 2021. "Validation in Young Soccer Players of the Modified Version of the Harre Circuit Test: The Petrucci Ability Test." Montenegrin Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 10, no. 1: 67-71.
The second edition of the Special Issue entitled “Health Promotion in Children and Adolescents through Sport and Physical Activities” has been successfully completed, as expected
Antonino Bianco. Preface to “Health Promotion in Children and Adolescents through Sport and Physical Activities—2nd Edition”. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 2021, 6, 23 .
AMA StyleAntonino Bianco. Preface to “Health Promotion in Children and Adolescents through Sport and Physical Activities—2nd Edition”. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology. 2021; 6 (1):23.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAntonino Bianco. 2021. "Preface to “Health Promotion in Children and Adolescents through Sport and Physical Activities—2nd Edition”." Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 6, no. 1: 23.