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Title: A STUDY OF WHY OLDER PEOPLE 65+ DO OR DO NOT EXERCISE.
Creator: Williams, Nancy McCoin, Rohter, Frank, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACTThis qualitative study uses interviews to examine factors explaining why 20 elderly individuals from a variety of occupations and still living in the community independently did or did not exercise. Within the limits of this qualitative study, the reasons elderly participants gave for avoiding exercise included fear of injury, joint pain, poor health, complications from various degenerative diseases, and a lack of enjoyment of exercise. The reasons for exercising included necessity...
Show moreABSTRACTThis qualitative study uses interviews to examine factors explaining why 20 elderly individuals from a variety of occupations and still living in the community independently did or did not exercise. Within the limits of this qualitative study, the reasons elderly participants gave for avoiding exercise included fear of injury, joint pain, poor health, complications from various degenerative diseases, and a lack of enjoyment of exercise. The reasons for exercising included necessity due to post-heart attack motivation, work-site exercise program or equipment availability, opportunity to habituate work-related tasks, spouse support, history of exercise experience, ability to exercise without injury, enjoyment of family outings, and an appreciation of the enjoyment of exercise.
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Date Issued: 2004
Identifier: CFE0000015, ucf:46097
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000015

Title: AEROBIC EXERCISE AS A MEANS OF REDUCING LOW BACK PAIN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.
Creator: Privett , Theresa, Schellhase , Kristen, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Background: Low back pain (LBP) is considered the leading cause of inactivity and lost employment time. It can be extremely difficult to treat as most conventional therapies have poor success rates. People with LBP need to be made more aware of the diverse and economical treatments available in order to save on expenses and diminish stress. Patients and healthcare professionals have many choices when deciding on the best plan of care; however, it is often difficult to determine which option...
Show moreBackground: Low back pain (LBP) is considered the leading cause of inactivity and lost employment time. It can be extremely difficult to treat as most conventional therapies have poor success rates. People with LBP need to be made more aware of the diverse and economical treatments available in order to save on expenses and diminish stress. Patients and healthcare professionals have many choices when deciding on the best plan of care; however, it is often difficult to determine which option is best. Objectives: The purpose of this systematic review was to determine if aerobic exercises play a role in reducing pain in the low back. Methods: A computerized electronic search was performed using CINAHL, Medline, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials with key words including low back pain or lumbar pain combined with aerobic and exercise. Inclusion criteria consisted of studies that were randomized controlled trials or controlled clinical trials, peer reviewed, published in the English language, identified low back pain as the primary concern, and identified aerobic exercises as one of the treatment options. Results: The initial search of the database revealed a total of 40 studies. Hand searching of the references had also revealed an additional 7. Of those 47 studies, 13 were selected as potentially meeting the inclusion criteria. Ultimately, 10 studies were retained for the final results of the systematic review. Conclusion: The evaluations provided evidence to suggest that aerobic exercise has positive effects on subjects with LBP. Aerobic exercise encourages strength, flexibility, and muscular endurance. This outcome has also shown to promote levels of activity, leaving the subject feeling better both physically and mentally.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFH0004174, ucf:44847
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004174

Title: TEST-RETEST RELIABILITY OF NONINVASIVE AMBULATORY IMPEDANCE CARDIOGRAPHY DURING AEROBIC EXERCISE.
Creator: Germain, Benjamin, Cassisi, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Impedance cardiography is an important tool in determining a person's hemodynamic properties. The makers obtained through thoracic impedance have been shown to be of great importance when monitoring critical care patients. Technological developments have made this process noninvasive and ambulatory, opening up new possibilities for potential use. A study was conducted by remotely monitoring healthy subjects (n=5), who performed an 8-minute mild-to-moderate aerobic exercise protocol, followed...
Show moreImpedance cardiography is an important tool in determining a person's hemodynamic properties. The makers obtained through thoracic impedance have been shown to be of great importance when monitoring critical care patients. Technological developments have made this process noninvasive and ambulatory, opening up new possibilities for potential use. A study was conducted by remotely monitoring healthy subjects (n=5), who performed an 8-minute mild-to-moderate aerobic exercise protocol, followed up by a four minute cognitive stress test. Testing was conducted onsite at Kennedy Space Center in association with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration using the MW1000A (MindWare Technologies LTD, Gahanna, OH) ambulatory impedance cardiography monitoring (ICG) device. The current study was conducted in order to establish the test-retest reliability of the ICG during aerobic exercise and cognitive stress across a 2 week period. For the purpose of this study Heart Rate (HR), Left Ventricular Ejection Time (LVET) Stroke Volume (SV), Cardiac Output (CO), and Pre-Ejection Period (PEP) were acquired and analyzed during three phases. The phases were, walking on a level treadmill, walking at incline, and an at rest mental arithmetic stress test. Testing has shown that the MW1000A device can provide accurate ambulatory impedance cardiography monitoring with no significant difference between testing intervals. The simple application of electrodes makes this device easy to use and requires little training. Its non-invasive properties render employing ICG both a simple and effective means of determining the hemodynamic properties of a subject.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFH0004160, ucf:44834
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004160

Title: THE EFFECTS OF A SINGLE EXERCISE BOUT ON PLASMA LEPTIN CONCENTRATION IN OBESE MALES.
Creator: Kyriazis, George, Angelopoulos, Theodore, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Recent findings suggest that leptin may be regulated in response to abrupt changes in energy homeostasis. Therefore, it is conceivable that transient changes in energy balance induced by exercise may also regulate leptin synthesis and secretion. As such, we hypothesized that acute increases energy expenditure (i.e. exercise), may regulate leptin concentrations in obese individuals. Fifteen healthy obese males underwent either a single exercise session of moderate intensity (58.4 % ± 4.0 of...
Show moreRecent findings suggest that leptin may be regulated in response to abrupt changes in energy homeostasis. Therefore, it is conceivable that transient changes in energy balance induced by exercise may also regulate leptin synthesis and secretion. As such, we hypothesized that acute increases energy expenditure (i.e. exercise), may regulate leptin concentrations in obese individuals. Fifteen healthy obese males underwent either a single exercise session of moderate intensity (58.4 % ± 4.0 of VO2max) for 60 min (n=8), or served as controls (n=7). The exercise session elicited an energy expenditure of 567±80 Kcal. No significant changes in plasma leptin (pre 23.5± 30.2; post 24.3± 34.3; 24h-post 34.9± 66.6; 48h-post 33.8±64.0 ng/ml), or insulin levels (pre 16.1± 9.2 vs. post 8.1± 9.1; 24h-post 14.3± 9.9; 48h-post 13.8± 10.2 ?U/ml) were detected immediately after the intervention. Baseline plasma leptin levels were positively correlated with BMI (r=0.65; p<0.01), body weight (r=0.64; p<0.01), % body fat (r=0.90; p<0.01) and were negatively correlated with VO2max (r=-0.82; p<0.01). The results of the present study suggest that acute exercise of moderate intensity and duration may not affect leptin concentration.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000508, ucf:46459
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000508

Title: An Exploratory Study of Physiologic Responses to a Passive Exercise Intervention in Mechanically-ventilated Critically Ill Adults.
Creator: Amidei, Christina, Sole, Mary, Byers, Jacqueline, Covelli, Maureen, Smith, Gerald, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Muscle weakness is the most common and persistent problem after a critical illness. Early mobilization of the critically ill patient, beginning with passive exercise and progressing to ambulation, may mitigate muscle effects of the critical illness. However, mobilization may produce adverse effects, especially early in the illness when risk for physiologic deterioration is common. If safe, introducing a mobility intervention early in the illness may facilitate ventilator weaning, shorten...
Show moreMuscle weakness is the most common and persistent problem after a critical illness. Early mobilization of the critically ill patient, beginning with passive exercise and progressing to ambulation, may mitigate muscle effects of the critical illness. However, mobilization may produce adverse effects, especially early in the illness when risk for physiologic deterioration is common. If safe, introducing a mobility intervention early in the illness may facilitate ventilator weaning, shorten intensive care unit and hospitals stays, and improve functional status and quality of life for mechanically ventilated critically ill patients. The aim of this study was assess the cardiopulmonary and inflammatory responses to an early standardized passive exercise protocol (PEP) in mechanically ventilated critically ill patients. Using a quasi-experimental within-subjects repeated measures design, mechanically ventilated critically ill adults who were physiologically stable received a single standardized PEP within 72 hours of intubation. The PEP consisted of 20 minutes of bilateral passive leg movement delivered by continuous passive motion machines at a rate of 20 repetitions per minute, from 5-75 degrees, to simulate very slow walking. Physiologic parameters evaluated included heart rate (HR), mean blood pressure (MBP), oxygen saturation, and cytokine levels (IL-6 and IL-10), obtained before, during, and after the intervention. The Behavioral Pain Scale (BPS), administered before, during and after the intervention was used as a measure of participant comfort. The study sample was comprised of 18 (60%) males and 12 (40%) females, with a mean age of 56.5 years (SD 16.9 years), who were primarily Caucasian (N=18, 64%). Mean APACHE II scores for the sample were 23.8 (SD 6.2) with a mean predicted death rate of 48.8 (SD 19.8), indicating moderate mortality risk related to illness severity. Number of comorbidities ranged from 1-10 (X=4). All participants completed the intervention with no adverse events. Using repeated measures analysis of variance (rmANOVA), no significant differences were found in HR, MBP, or oxygen saturation at any of the four time points in comparison to baseline. BPS scores were significantly reduced (F(2.43, 70.42)=4.08, p=.02) at 5 and 10 minutes after the PEP was started, and were sustained at 20 minutes and for one hour after the PEP was completed. IL-6 was significantly reduced (F(1.60, 43.1)=4.351, p=.03) at the end of the intervention but not at the end of the final rest period. IL-10 values were not significantly different at any of the three time points, but IL-6 to IL-10 ratios did decrease significantly (F(1.61, 43.38)=3.42, p=.05) at the end of the PEP and again after a 60 minute rest period. Passive leg exercise was well tolerated by study participants. HR, MBP, and oxygen saturation were maintained within order set-specified ranges during and for one hour after activity, and patient comfort improved during and after the intervention. A downward trend in HR was noted in participants, which is contrary to usual HR response during exercise, and may represent clinical improvement in this population related to reduction in pain. Reduction of mean IL-6 values at the end of the PEP, but not after the rest period, suggests that the PEP was responsible for the initial IL-6 improvement. Improvement of IL-6 to IL-10 ratios from the end of the PEP to the end of the final rest period suggests that IL-10, although non-significant, may have had some effect, indicating that IL-10 increases may occur later than the time period of study.Passive exercise can be used as an approach to facilitating mobilization in mechanically ventilated critically ill adults until they are ready to participate in more active exercise. It could be that more frequent and aggressive exercise, such as passive cycling at faster rates, four times daily, will be tolerated in this population. While the understanding of clinical significance of cytokine profiles in critically ill patients is still evolving, cytokine levels may be useful in explaining benefits of mobilization in this population. Further study is required to replicate the impact of passive exercise on pain, and it may represent a novel approach to pain management in critically ill patients.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004350, ucf:49424
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004350

$A Diffraction Model for Prediction of Radar Signal Attention by a Rocket Exhaust Plume$

Title: A Diffraction Model for Prediction of Radar Signal Attention by a Rocket Exhaust Plume.
Creator: Sphar, Douglas Harrison, Mathews, B.E., Engineering
Abstract / Description: Florida Technological University College of Engineering Thesis; This report documents the development of a method of estimating the signal attenuation induced by a rocket exhaust plume. The method is applicable to the early system design phase of high energy solid propellant rockets that produce highly ionized exhaust plumes. The method is based on the premise that when a plume is highly ionized, observed signal levels can be explained by assuming the signal propagates around the plume. A...
Show moreFlorida Technological University College of Engineering Thesis; This report documents the development of a method of estimating the signal attenuation induced by a rocket exhaust plume. The method is applicable to the early system design phase of high energy solid propellant rockets that produce highly ionized exhaust plumes. The method is based on the premise that when a plume is highly ionized, observed signal levels can be explained by assuming the signal propagates around the plume. A simple diffraction at a straight edge model is developed and compared to measured data. The report also provides an overview of exhaust plume electromagnetics and surveys prediction techniques.
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Date Issued: 1972
Identifier: CFR0003481, ucf:53035
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFR0003481

Title: A Senior Water Aerobics Class as a Subculture.
Creator: Halbert, Sarah, Grauerholz, Elizabeth, Anthony, Amanda, Sikorska, Elzbieta, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Although previous research has focused on subcultures among deviant groups, very little research has been conducted on older adults' subcultures or subcultures within exercise settings. Given the lack of research on older and non-deviant groups, the current research study was designed to reveal how a senior water aerobics exercise class is indeed a subculture and provide a rich description of this understudied and unappreciated subculture. Data collection took place at a water aerobics...
Show moreAlthough previous research has focused on subcultures among deviant groups, very little research has been conducted on older adults' subcultures or subcultures within exercise settings. Given the lack of research on older and non-deviant groups, the current research study was designed to reveal how a senior water aerobics exercise class is indeed a subculture and provide a rich description of this understudied and unappreciated subculture. Data collection took place at a water aerobics exercise class at a health club in Central Florida. In the first phase of data collection, ethnographic observations were utilized to identify the social processes in the pool setting. In the second phase of data collection, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 seniors to provide a rich description of a water aerobics subculture. Using a constructivist grounded theory approach, the results revealed that the water aerobics class resembles a subculture with distinctive norms, social roles and rituals. Based on these findings, this study concludes that groups such as water aerobics classes may influence seniors' self-esteem, wellbeing and transition into late adulthood.
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005179, ucf:50668
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005179

Title: EFFECTS OF SIMULTANEOUS EXERCISE AND SPEECH TASKS ON THE PERCEPTION OF EFFORT AND VOCAL MEASURES IN AEROBIC INSTRUCTURS.
Creator: Koblick, Heather, Hoffman-Ruddy, Bari, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of voice production and perception of dyspnea in aerobic instructors during simultaneous tasks of exercise and speech production. The study aimed to document changes that occur during four conditions: 1) voice production without exercise and no use of amplification; 2) voice production without exercise and the use of amplification; 3) voice production during exercise without the use of amplification; 4) voice production during exercise...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of voice production and perception of dyspnea in aerobic instructors during simultaneous tasks of exercise and speech production. The study aimed to document changes that occur during four conditions: 1) voice production without exercise and no use of amplification; 2) voice production without exercise and the use of amplification; 3) voice production during exercise without the use of amplification; 4) voice production during exercise with the use of amplification. Participants included ten aerobic instructors (two male and eight female). The dependent variables included vocal intensity, average fundamental frequency (F0), noise-to-harmonic ratio (NHR), jitter percent (jitt %), shimmer percent (shim %), and participants' self-perception of dyspnea. The results indicated that speech alone, whether it was with or without amplification, had no effect on the sensation of dyspnea. However, when combining speech with exercise, the speech task became increasingly difficult, even more so without the use of amplification. Exercise was observed to inhibit vocal loudness levels as vocal intensity measures were lowest in the conditions with exercise with the use of amplification. Increases in F0 occurred in conditions involving exercise without the use of amplification. Moreover, four participants in various conditions exhibited frequencies that diverged from their gender's normal range. Participants' NHR increased during periods of exercise, however no participants were found to have NHR measures outside the normal range. Four participants were found to have moderate laryngeal pathology that was hemorrhagic in nature. Findings suggest that traditional treatment protocols may need to be modified beyond hygienic approaches in order to address both the respiratory and laryngeal work-loads that are encountered in this population and others involving similar occupational tasks.
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Date Issued: 2004
Identifier: CFE0000274, ucf:46234
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000274

Title: TRULY ACCOMPLISHED: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF MOTIVATION AND SOCIAL INFLUENCE.
Creator: Tucker, Carly, Fritzsche, Barbara, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the motivation of individuals to use Truly Accomplished (TA) as a fitness intervention, with or without a social support component. All participants utilized the TA Software as a fitness intervention and received weekly feedback on their progress. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to either participate in the regular TA process or a modified TA process with the addition of a social support component in the form of a social media group....
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the motivation of individuals to use Truly Accomplished (TA) as a fitness intervention, with or without a social support component. All participants utilized the TA Software as a fitness intervention and received weekly feedback on their progress. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to either participate in the regular TA process or a modified TA process with the addition of a social support component in the form of a social media group. Participants in the modified condition posted weekly to a Facebook group page about successes and obstacles they faced and gave feedback to their peers. It was hypothesized that participants, regardless of condition, would show fitness gains in the 6-week study. Also, with the added social support component to TA, participants were expected to have higher levels of self-determination in relation to the three psychological needs (i.e. autonomy, relatedness, and competence) and higher levels of perceived social support. A between-subjects deign was used to measure overall effectiveness, changes in fitness performance (plank, push-ups, wall-sit, step-test) and body composition (BMI, percent body fat), perceived social support, levels of psychological needs satisfaction as it relates to the three basic needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness), and satisfaction with TA. No significant differences were found between conditions for satisfaction with TA, levels of perceived social support, or levels of psychological needs satisfaction post-intervention. However, a significant increase was found regardless of condition in terms of autonomy and guidance. A significant increase was shown in both the plank and modified push-up post-intervention measure, regardless of condition. Finally, the condition with the added social support had a significantly higher overall effectiveness gain than the condition with no added social support. The practical and theoretical implications of the results are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004782, ucf:45389
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004782

Title: Persistence of Physical Activity Among Veterans.
Creator: Davis, Jean, Edwards, Joellen, Loerzel, Victoria, Weiss, Josie, Kehinde, Julius, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The global burden of disease is staggering in terms of financial costs and human suffering. The general public is aware that physical activity is healthy, although the fact that physical activity can treat and reverse diseases, reduce the risk of cancers, prevent many chronic diseases, stave off cognitive decline, and contribute to quality longevity is less well known. Healthcare practitioners and policymakers are impeded in efforts to support physical activity due to the lack of knowledge of...
Show moreThe global burden of disease is staggering in terms of financial costs and human suffering. The general public is aware that physical activity is healthy, although the fact that physical activity can treat and reverse diseases, reduce the risk of cancers, prevent many chronic diseases, stave off cognitive decline, and contribute to quality longevity is less well known. Healthcare practitioners and policymakers are impeded in efforts to support physical activity due to the lack of knowledge of factors associated with physical activity persistence. The purpose of this dissertation was to determine these factors and identify which predict persistent physical activity among veterans to inform future programs and policies to support physical activity for health. The theorized influence of physical activity habit is addressed in the initial dissertation manuscript. Habits being more difficult to lapse from than to continue made them suitable for investigation to address the knowledge gap identified when no reports of long-term physical activity habits were found. Veterans provided an ideal population to study long-term physical activity habits with, as research indicates that veterans likely formed physical activity habits through recurrent physical activity required to meet the fitness requirements of active duty service. This led to the research reported in the second manuscript. The research was based on theory, literature review, and input from veterans. The integrated theory of health behavior change informed the predictor variables investigated. The explanatory and predictive cross-sectional study of community-dwelling veterans used the web survey method to answer questions of which factors were associated with sufficient or insufficient physical activity among veterans, and which factors were predictive. Recruitment of veterans occurred through Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk(&)#174;) and linked veterans to the survey on Qualtrics(&)#174;. Findings revealed direct associations of exercise self-regulation, social support for exercise, and some service-related and other demographic factors with sufficient or insufficient physical activity. Qualtrics(&)#174; allowed for the presentation of survey questions in a variety of formats. To determine the best format for survey items, a state of the knowledge review was conducted. This review is presented in the final dissertation manuscript. Implications for future research, health education, clinical practice, and health policy are identified. It is expected that the knowledge gained in this study will inform future Veterans Affairs programs, provider practices, public health initiatives, and health care policies to support physical activity practices for healthy longevity.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007886, ucf:52783
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007886

Title: Effects of an Acute High-Volume Isokinetic Intervention on Inflammatory and Strength Changes: Influence of Age.
Creator: Gordon, Joseph, Hoffman, Jay, Stout, Jeffrey, Fukuda, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a high volume isokinetic intervention on lower body strength and inflammation, as well as markers of muscle damage in the subsequent 48 hours between younger and middle-aged men. METHODS: 19 healthy, recreationally trained men were randomly assigned to two groups, younger adults (YA: 21.8 (&)#177; 2.0 y; 90.7 (&)#177; 11.6 kg; 21.5 (&)#177; 4.1 % body fat), or middle-aged adults (MA: 47.0 (&)#177; 4.4 y; 96.0 (&)#177; 21.5; 24.8...
Show morePURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a high volume isokinetic intervention on lower body strength and inflammation, as well as markers of muscle damage in the subsequent 48 hours between younger and middle-aged men. METHODS: 19 healthy, recreationally trained men were randomly assigned to two groups, younger adults (YA: 21.8 (&)#177; 2.0 y; 90.7 (&)#177; 11.6 kg; 21.5 (&)#177; 4.1 % body fat), or middle-aged adults (MA: 47.0 (&)#177; 4.4 y; 96.0 (&)#177; 21.5; 24.8 (&)#177; 6.3 % body fat). Both groups reported to the human performance laboratory (HPL) on four separate occasions. On the first visit (D1), anthropometric assessment, as well as a familiarization session with the isokinetic dynamometer, was performed. A muscle damaging protocol (HVP) was performed on the second visit (D2) consisting of 8 sets of 10 repetitions at 60(&)deg;(&)#183;sec-1 on the isokinetic dynamometer. An assessment protocol (AP) was performed to assess performance decrements between the YA and MA groups. For this protocol, a maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) was performed, as well as 3 isokinetic kicks at 2 different speeds (240(&)deg;(&)#183;sec-1 and 60(&)deg;(&)#183;sec-1). For the MVIC, values for peak torque (PKT), average torque (AVGT), rate of torque development at 100 ms (RTD100), and 200 ms (RTD200) were recorded. For the isokinetic kicks at 240(&)deg;(&)#183;sec-1 (ISK240) and 60(&)deg;(&)#183;sec-1 (ISK60), values were also recorded for peak torque (PKT), average torque (AVGT), as well as peak power (PP), and average power (AVGP). The AP was performed before the HVP (BL), immediately after the HVP (IP), 120 minutes after the HVP (120P), as well as one (24H) and two (48H) days following the HVP. Blood draws were also taken at BL, IP, 24H, and 48H, as well as 30 minutes (30P), and 60 minutes (60P) following the HVP to assess circulating levels of creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin (Mb), c-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Ultrasound assessment was also performed at BL and IP as well to assess changes in muscle morphology as a result of the intervention. Performance, blood, and ultrasound markers were analyzed using a repeated measures ANOVA to observe between group comparisons for all of the outcome variables. RESULTS: There were no group differences observed for isometric or isokinetic peak torque or average torque, nor were there differences in isokinetic peak power or average power between the two groups as a result of the intervention. There were, however, differences in the pattern for rate of torque development at 100 ms and 200 ms between the two groups. RTD 100 was decreased at IP and 48H in YA, with MA showing decreases at IP, but also 120P and 24H unlike YA. RTD200 was decreased at all time points in YA, while MA was decreased at IP, 24H, and 48H, but not 120P. For markers of muscle damage and inflammation, there were no differences in the response of Mb, CK, CRP, or IL-6 between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Age does not appear to be a driving factor in the inflammatory or muscle damage response from a high volume isokinetic intervention. Though changes in peak torque and average torque from a high volume isokinetic intervention do not seem to differ between younger and middle-aged adults, the rate of torque production at 100ms and 200ms is different between groups. This suggests that while recovery to average or maximal strength after an exercise bout may not be affected greatly by age, the rate of neuromuscular recovery from exercise may be primarily affected by other factors such as training status.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006594, ucf:51259
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006594

Title: Intramuscular TNF-alpha signaling in response to resistance exercise and recovery in untrained males.
Creator: Townsend, Jeremy, Stout, Jeffrey, Hoffman, Jay, Fukuda, David, Roberts, Michael, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: INTRODUCTION: The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-??) signaling cascade is responsible for mediating stress-activated catabolic effects of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-?) downstream of the TNF receptor (TNFR1). NF-?? transcription factor remains inhibited in the cytosol of the muscle and can be stimulated for translocation and transcription by a variety of external stimuli, most notably by pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, currently there is a gap in the literature...
Show moreINTRODUCTION: The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-??) signaling cascade is responsible for mediating stress-activated catabolic effects of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-?) downstream of the TNF receptor (TNFR1). NF-?? transcription factor remains inhibited in the cytosol of the muscle and can be stimulated for translocation and transcription by a variety of external stimuli, most notably by pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, currently there is a gap in the literature with regard to the time course effect of NF-?? signaling following acute resistance exercise in humans. PURPOSE: To observe the effects of an acute lower-body resistance exercise protocol and subsequent recovery on intramuscular NF- ?? signaling. METHODS: Twenty-eight untrained males were assigned to either a control (CON; n=11) or exercise group (EX; n=17) and completed a lower-body resistance exercise protocol consisting of the back squat, leg press, and leg extension exercises. Skeletal muscle microbiopsies were obtained from the vastus lateralis pre-exercise (PRE), 1-hour (1HR), 5-hour (5HR), and 48-hours (48HR) post-resistance exercise. Multiplex signaling assay kits (EMD Millipore, Billerica, MA, USA) were used to quantify the total protein (TNFR1, c-Myc) or phosphorylation status of proteins (IKKa/b, NF- ??, IkB) specific to apoptotic signaling pathways using MAGPIX(&)#174; (Luminex, Austin, TX, USA). Repeated measures ANOVA analysis was used to determine the effects of the exercise bout on intramuscular signaling at each timepoint. Additionally, change scores were analyzed by magnitude based inferences to determine a mechanistic interpretation. RESULTS: Repeated measures ANOVA indicated a trend for a two way interaction between the EX and CON Group (p=0.064). Magnitude based inferences revealed a (")Very Likely(") increase in total c-Myc from PRE-5H and a (")Likely(") increase in IkB phosphorylation from PRE-5H. CONCLUSION: Results indicate that c-Myc transcription factor and phosphorylation of IkB are elevated following acute intense resistance exercise in untrained males. These data suggest that NF- ?? signaling plays a role in ribosome biogenesis and skeletal muscle regeneration following resistance exercise in young untrained males.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006191, ucf:51089
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006191

Title: The Effects of 6-weeks of Resistance Training on the Neuromuscular Fatigue Threshold in Older Adults.
Creator: Emerson, Nadia, Stout, Jeffrey, Hoffman, Jay, Fragala, Maren, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Age-related deficits in muscle mass, strength, and function place an increased burden of work on existing skeletal muscle and may lead to early onset of neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) during activities of daily living. Resistance exercise (RE) is the proven method for improving neuromuscular function in healthy older adults. PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of 6 weeks of RE on the NMF threshold as well as strength and functional performance in older adults. METHODS: Twenty-four older adults...
Show moreAge-related deficits in muscle mass, strength, and function place an increased burden of work on existing skeletal muscle and may lead to early onset of neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) during activities of daily living. Resistance exercise (RE) is the proven method for improving neuromuscular function in healthy older adults. PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of 6 weeks of RE on the NMF threshold as well as strength and functional performance in older adults. METHODS: Twenty-four older adults were randomly assigned to 6 weeks of RE (EXE; n = 12; age 72 (&)#177; 6.3 y; BMI 28.4 kg/m2) or control (CONT; n = 12; age 70.3 (&)#177; 5.6 y; BMI 27.6 kg/m2). Body fat percent (BF%), lean mass (LM), and fat mass (FM) were measured using DEXA and participants performed a discontinuous cycle ergometer test, physical working capacity at fatigue threshold (PWCFT), to determine the onset of NMF. Functional performance was assessed by time to complete 5 chair rises (CHAIR) and walk an 8-foot course (WALK). Lower body strength was assessed by predicted 1-RM leg extension (1RM). Two-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA; time [PRE, POST] x group [EXE and CONT]) and magnitude based inferences were used to compare dependent variables. RESULTS: RE significantly increased 1RM (35%; p = 0.001) and CHAIR (20%; p = 0.047). RE had a likely beneficial effect on WALK (15%) and a possibly beneficial effect on PWCFT (14%). There were no significant changes to LM or FM, however, women in EXE significantly decreased BF% (p = 0.020). CONCLUSION: Results suggest that RE improves measures of strength and functional performance and possibly the onset of NMF in older adults.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004679, ucf:49876
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004679

Title: Effect of Acute L-Alanyl-L-Glutamine (Sustamine) and Electrolyte Ingestion on Cognitive Function, Multiple Object Tracking and Reaction Time Following Prolonged Exercise.
Creator: Pruna, Gabriel, Hoffman, Jay, Stout, Jeffrey, Fragala, Maren, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Changes in physiological function occurring during a body water deficit may result in significant decrements in performance, cognitive function and fine motor control during exercise. This may be due to the magnitude of the body water deficit. Rehydration strategies are important to prevent these deleterious effects in performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the changes before and after prolonged exercise of an alanine-glutamine dipeptide (AG) on cognitive function and reaction...
Show moreChanges in physiological function occurring during a body water deficit may result in significant decrements in performance, cognitive function and fine motor control during exercise. This may be due to the magnitude of the body water deficit. Rehydration strategies are important to prevent these deleterious effects in performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the changes before and after prolonged exercise of an alanine-glutamine dipeptide (AG) on cognitive function and reaction time.Twelve male endurance-trained runners (age: 23.5 (&)#177; 3.7 y; height: 175.5 (&)#177; 5.4 cm; weight: 70.7 (&)#177; 7.6 kg) participated in this study. Participants were asked to run on a treadmill at 70% of their predetermined VO2max for 1 h and then run at 90% of VO2max until volitional exhaustion on four separate days (T1-T4). T1 was a dehydration trial and T2-T4 were all different hydration modalities (electrolyte drink, electrolyte drink with a low dose of AG, electrolyte drink with a high dose of AG, respectively) where the participants drank 250 mL every 15 min. Before and after each hour run, cognitive function and reaction tests were administered. Hopkins Magnitude Based Inferences were used to analyze cognitive function and reaction time data.Results showed that physical reaction time was likely faster for the low dose trial than the high dose trial. Dehydration had a possible negative effect on the number of hits in 60-sec compared to both the low and high dose trials. Comparisons between only the electrolyte drink and the high dose ingestion appeared to be possibly negative. Analysis of lower body quickness indicates that performance in both the low and high dose trials were likely improved (decreased) in comparison to the dehydration trial. Multiple object tracking analysis indicated a possible greater performance for dehydration and low dose compared to only the electrolyte drink, while there was a likely greater performance in multiple object tracking for the high dose trial compared to consumption of the electrolyte drink only. The serial subtraction test was possibly greater in the electrolyte drink trial compared to dehydration.Rehydration with the alanine-glutamine dipeptide during an hour run at a submaximal intensity appears to maintain or enhance subsequent visual reaction time in both upper and lower body activities compared to a no hydration trial. The combination of the alanine-glutamine dipeptide may have enhanced fluid and electrolyte absorption from the gut and possibly into skeletal tissue to maintain neuromuscular performance.
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005233, ucf:50583
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005233

Title: ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS OF PARTICIPATION FOR AN EXERCISE PROGRAM FOR UNDERSERVED, OLDER, AFRICAN-AMERICAN FEMALES.
Creator: Meinert, Marina, Garcia, Jeanette, Valdes, Anna, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Physical activity (PA) is beneficial to people of all ages and ethnicities. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of multiple chronic diseases, improve mood and sleep and allows your body to function better overall (CDC, 2018). However, populations that are more vulnerable to adverse health risks may benefit more than others from regular physical activity. This study was designed to identify the motivating factors for physical activity in a sample of older, African-American women of...
Show morePhysical activity (PA) is beneficial to people of all ages and ethnicities. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of multiple chronic diseases, improve mood and sleep and allows your body to function better overall (CDC, 2018). However, populations that are more vulnerable to adverse health risks may benefit more than others from regular physical activity. This study was designed to identify the motivating factors for physical activity in a sample of older, African-American women of lower socioeconomic status (SES). This particular subgroup was chosen because of their increased risk of obesity and cardiovascular disease due to unhealthy lifestyle factors, specifically low levels of PA. (CDC, 2017). A secondary aim of this study was to determine the essential components necessary to create a successful PA program within this population. By determining the feasibility and acceptability of a PA program to target this specific population, further PA programs can be designed to promote adoption and sustainability of PA in this high-risk population. This study consisted of 8 African-American women of lower SES at an average age of 65 and average BMI of 32 kg/m^2 . The participants volunteered to participate in an 8-week exercise program for this study. The exercise class lasted 45 minutes and consisted of light aerobics, weight training, and mobility/flexibility exercises. After the 8 weeks, the participants were given questionnaires, surveys and participated in a focus group to collect data about their experiences. The Hebni staff and exercise instructors observed that there was 100% attendance and compliance throughout the 8 weeks. They also noted that the participants had positive attitudes and stayed actively engaged throughout the classes. After reviewing the data, it was noted that the necessary components to a successful exercise program for this population was a sense of community, cultural considerations, a community and familiar setting, and a reliable and open-minded instructor. The data showed that 100% of the participants continued participating in PA outside of the program and felt less stressed after exercising. This study is unique and important in that it looks at physical activity and its motivating factors in this population versus the ample research that focuses on why this population is sedentary but offers no solution to the problem.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFH2000429, ucf:45785
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000429

Title: EFFECTS OF A MODIFIED JUDO PROGRAM ON PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS IN TYPICALLY DEVELOPING AND CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY.
Creator: Tomey, Keanu L., Garcia, Jeanette M., Fukuda, David H., University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a modified judo training program on psychosocial health in both typically developing (TD) and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using a mixed-methods approach. METHODS: The sample consisted of 5 children with ASD and 5 TD children (age=8-11yrs) who participated in 10 sessions of a modified judo program during their typical physical education time for school. Psychosocial factors (enjoyment, perceived competence,...
Show morePURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a modified judo training program on psychosocial health in both typically developing (TD) and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using a mixed-methods approach. METHODS: The sample consisted of 5 children with ASD and 5 TD children (age=8-11yrs) who participated in 10 sessions of a modified judo program during their typical physical education time for school. Psychosocial factors (enjoyment, perceived competence, benefits of PA) were assessed at baseline and post intervention, with completion of all measures dependent upon the level of comfort expressed by the participant. At the end of the program, children took part in focus group discussions centered around their experience with the program, while key school staff participated in semi-structured interviews based on their observations of the program. All focus group discussions and interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. RESULTS: Quantitative results for pre and post psychosocial measures showed no significant differences existed between PA self-efficacy (p=.99), PA enjoyment (p=.6), and barriers to PA (p=.27). Qualitative results revealed that the majority of the participants found the program to be enjoyable, with partner centered activities being particularly fun. Suggestions for improvement included increasing the duration and frequency of the judo classes. All children reported a desire to continue participating in the judo classes. Findings from staff interviews indicated that school staff observed improvements in psychosocial health and behavior both immediately following a judo class, and throughout the intervention period. Increased self-confidence was mentioned by all participating school staff members. CONCLUSION: Despite the lack of significant quantitative findings, psychosocial benefits were observed in both TD children and children with ASD, with all participants reporting their desire to continue with the program. Future studies should examine the psychosocial benefits in a judo-training program in larger sample of children over longer durations.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFH2000252, ucf:46017
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000252

Title: EFFECTIVENESS OF CARDIAC REHABILITATION: SECONDARY PREVENTION INCREASES FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY IN POST-MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION PATIENTS.
Creator: Badillo, Kristin, Fisher, Thomas, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to discern the effectiveness of Cardiac Rehabilitation/ Secondary Prevention Programs (CR/ SPPs) by evaluating increased functional capacity in the form of MET (metabolic equivalent) scores post-myocardial infarction (MI) or heart attack. The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) survey is administered as part of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for participation in the Secondary Prevention Program. Criterion for the research included patients 65 and older,...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to discern the effectiveness of Cardiac Rehabilitation/ Secondary Prevention Programs (CR/ SPPs) by evaluating increased functional capacity in the form of MET (metabolic equivalent) scores post-myocardial infarction (MI) or heart attack. The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) survey is administered as part of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for participation in the Secondary Prevention Program. Criterion for the research included patients 65 and older, with a history of one myocardial infarction, and had completed all 36 sessions of CR. The scores from 11 SPP surveys were analyzed and compared in three time increments from sessions 1-18 (initial, or"pre"), sessions 19-36 ("pan"), and sessions 1-36 ("post"). A total of 11 (n=11) surveys were collected and analyzed at The Computing and Statistical Technology Laboratory in Education (CASTLE) in the Teaching Academy on UCF Main Campus. Results from the data showed mean MET scores of 6.21 at session 1, 7.59 at session 18, and 8.15 at session 36. The mean changes over time represented in METs were 1.38 (1), .56 (18), and 1.93 (36). Percent changes over time were 27% (1), 8% (18), and 36% (36). This study showed increased functional capacity over time and will improve program design in terms of frequency and duration.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004770, ucf:45339
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004770

Title: THE PERFORMANCE OF HEALTH? MOTIVATIONS BEHIND UNIVERSITY STUDENTS' DECISIONS TO WEAR ATHLETIC ATTIRE.
Creator: Payne, Shannon, Mishtal, Joanna, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: "Athleisure" is a relatively new term to the American lexicon, a portmanteau used to describe athletic clothing used for leisure purposes. Recent studies show a disconnect between consumers' desire to purchase athletic attire and the percentage of Americans considered "active to a healthy level and beyond." While athletic wear sales skyrocket, reported levels of inactivity have slowly increased in recent years. These trends indicate a phenomenon in which consumers prioritize ownership of...
Show more"Athleisure" is a relatively new term to the American lexicon, a portmanteau used to describe athletic clothing used for leisure purposes. Recent studies show a disconnect between consumers' desire to purchase athletic attire and the percentage of Americans considered "active to a healthy level and beyond." While athletic wear sales skyrocket, reported levels of inactivity have slowly increased in recent years. These trends indicate a phenomenon in which consumers prioritize ownership of athletic wear over athletics. In this research, I set out to answer the following research questions: How do university students interpret and understand the purchase and wearing of athletic clothes, in the absence of athletic activity; and is a student's decision to wear athletic clothing for nonathletic activity associated with a symbolic performance of a healthy lifestyle? In order to answer these questions, I focused on a set of UCF students between 18 and 24 years of age who wore athletic attire as leisure attire and exercised less than three times a week. My data collection included participant observation, literature review, semi-structured interviews, and a focus group. I conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 UCF students who fit my inclusion criteria. Based on recurring narratives, I invited interview participants back to hold a focus group in which three students ultimately participated. In analyzing these data, I found that college students consider athletic attire suitable for a variety of casual situations, and therefore did not conflate wearing athletic attire with participating in athletic activity or the appearance of a healthy lifestyle. Further, research participants used age- and gender-based stereotypes when making judgments about their peers' habits regarding athletic activity and wearing athletic attire. These findings are important because they demonstrate how the boundary between public and private attire can change over time, how discourses of consumption outweigh discourses of personal responsibility, and how dress is a gendered experience.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004855, ucf:45469
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004855

Title: WHEN PEOPLE WORKING IN AN OFFICE DON'T WANT TO WORKOUT: AN EXPLORATION OF CORPORATE BENEFIT USE AND CORRELATES TO THE BIG FIVE MODEL OF PERSONALITY.
Creator: Harris, Dominique T, Fritzsche, Barbara, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Many corporate offices now offer fitness benefits to their employees. Evidence shows that corporate fitness programs are linked to decreased tardiness, absenteeism, and reduced healthcare costs. These programs also help address the growing obesity crisis threatening one in every three American adults. However, many employees do not participate in corporate fitness plans in spite of the convenience many programs offer. Thus, I wished to explore the personality and lifestyle factors that...
Show moreMany corporate offices now offer fitness benefits to their employees. Evidence shows that corporate fitness programs are linked to decreased tardiness, absenteeism, and reduced healthcare costs. These programs also help address the growing obesity crisis threatening one in every three American adults. However, many employees do not participate in corporate fitness plans in spite of the convenience many programs offer. Thus, I wished to explore the personality and lifestyle factors that contribute to older (age 25+) employees' exercise habits, their use of corporate benefits and correlates to the Big Five model of Personality along with other personality measures. I gathered 94 participants aged 25 and above, who work full-time (at least 32+ hours per week).I had my participants report their demographic information and take a survey through Qualtrics and Amazon Mechanical Turk analyzing their exercise habits and use of corporate benefits. Based on my findings, the Big 5 facet that correlated with corporate benefit use the most was immoderation. Other factors that correlated included Externally Controlled Motivation, Autonomous Motivation, and Perceived Competence. Furthermore, participants were able to share tips for how to improve corporate benefit use. The study could have benefitted from a larger sample size and observation-based reporting, however overall it serves as a good indicator of traits that make a person more inclined to participate in exercise programs and poses suggestions for the improvement of said programs.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFH2000101, ucf:45518
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000101

Title: Getting The Work Out of Workouts: Evaluating the Effectiveness and Outcomes of a Physical Exercise Motivational Intervention For Older Workers.
Creator: Sholar-Fetherlin, Brandon, Fritzsche, Barbara, Smither, Janan, Wang, Wei, Fragala, Maren, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: To mitigate their estimated $300 billion in annual health-related losses, many companies have instituted workplace wellness initiatives designed to promote physical activity among their employees, improving the overall health of their workforce. Though middle-aged and older workers may potentially enjoy the greatest physical, stress and cognitive benefits from regular exercise, workplace wellness programs have been less successful in attracting such employees. This study developed and tested...
Show moreTo mitigate their estimated $300 billion in annual health-related losses, many companies have instituted workplace wellness initiatives designed to promote physical activity among their employees, improving the overall health of their workforce. Though middle-aged and older workers may potentially enjoy the greatest physical, stress and cognitive benefits from regular exercise, workplace wellness programs have been less successful in attracting such employees. This study developed and tested a 6-week exercise motivation intervention designed to meet the needs of sedentary, older working adults and to determine what non-physical benefits might result from increased levels of physical exercise. The intervention, based primarily on Self-Determination Theory, included feedback on individually-made, realistic, process-specific exercise goals that and provided guidance from knowledgeable exercise professionals in addition to support group of socially-similar individuals to aid in coping and adherence. The intervention was built and delivered entirely online to fit better with the sample's considerable time demands. The motivational intervention was delivered to a sample of 30 mostly-older working adults and was successful in significantly improving activity levels and overall affect while decreasing stress. No significant differences were detected in measures of personal resources, work engagement, work effort and task performance. The implications and recommendations for future research are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006660, ucf:51235
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006660

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