bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SEX DIFFERENCES IN CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW VELOCITY RESPONSES TO EXERCISE IN THE HEAT
Authors: Loacatelli Mr Joao Carlos , Carter Mr Howard H. , Collis Ms Julie , Haynes Mr Andrew , Dechichi Ms Juliene Goncalves Costa , Wigati Ms Kristanti , Criddle Mr Jesse , Naylor Ms Louise H. , Green Mr Daniel John 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION & AIMS
Global warming poses a risk for the development of heat-related physiological impairment, which can be aggravated when exercising in hot conditions. The aim of the present study was to investigate acute effects of exercising in hot conditions on cerebral blood flow velocity and systolic function in healthy individuals and to explore possible sex differences.

METHODS
The experimental condition consisted of walking on a treadmill, at 5km/h and 2% incline, inside a heat chamber at 40°C (50%RH), for 90 minutes. Middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (MCAv) and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS; a sensitive index of systolic function), were assessed at baseline and every 30 minutes by means of transcranial Doppler and speckle-tracking echocardiography, respectively. Data is expressed in delta (Δ) and standard error.

RESULTS
Twenty-six individuals (13♂,13♀ 27.1±1.0yrs, P=0.02) completed the experimental protocol. Both males and females exhibited non-significant increases in MCAv from baseline at 30 minutes (♂Δ=2.55±2.15 P&gt;0.05; ♀Δ=0.54±2.53cm.s-1, P&gt;0.05; interaction P=0.63), followed by significant decreases relative to 30min, at 60min (♂Δ=-4.0±1.23 P=0.04; ♀Δ=-5.41±1.56cm.s-1, P=0.03; interaction P=0.63) and 90 minutes (♂Δ=-6.08±1.37 P&lt;0.01; ♀Δ=-7.39±1.40cm.s-1, P&lt;0.01; interaction P=0.63). In males, there was a significant decrease in GLS from baseline at 30min (Δ=2.44±0.69%, P&lt;0.05), 60 (Δ=2.79±0.73%, P=0.03), and 90 (Δ=3.49±0.89%, P=0.03) minutes; no significant changes were observed in females.

CONCLUSION
Males and females presented similar patterns of change in cerebral blood flow velocity, including significant decreases with prolonged heat exertion. These changes occur in both sexes, despite changes in systolic strain only being apparent in males. These data suggest that sex differences may exist in the regulation of cerebrovascular responses to exercise in the heat in humans.
BRACHIAL, FEMORAL, AND SKIN HAEMODYNAMIC RESPONSES TO WALKING IN HOT CONDITIONS: COMPARISON BETWEEN MALES AND FEMALES
Authors: Dechichi Mrs Juliene , Carter Mr Howard H. , Loacatelli Mr Joao Carlos , Wigati Ms Kristanti , Criddle Mr Jesse , Haynes Mr Andrew , Naylor Ms Louise H. , Green Mr Daniel John 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION & AIMS
Heat exposure induces acute changes in arterial function, but sex differences have not been fully addressed.

METHODS
Participants walked (5km/h; 2% incline) in a climate chamber (42°C;50%RH) for 120mins. Cutaneous microvascular function (laser doppler flowmetry), conduit artery haemodynamics (Doppler ultrasound) and core temperature were measured at baseline, and every 30min.

RESULTS
14♂ and 15♀ completed 120min. At baseline, differences in core temperature (Tc) between males and females were not significant (37.2±0.1 vs 37.0±0.1°C; P=0.06). Across all 5 timepoints, females exhibited larger Tc than males (P=0.019). At baseline, males had larger brachial (3.89±0.11 vs 3.13±0.09mm, P&lt;0.001) and femoral (6.22±0.16 vs 5.29±0.14mm, P=0.001) diameters than females. A significant interaction (P=0.047) indicated that brachial diameter increased more in response to heat exertion than in males, whereas no sex difference was apparent in femoral diameter change. Males and females had similar baseline brachial flows (♂80.1±11.2 vs ♀57.0±7.09ml/min, P=0.087), but males had larger baseline femoral flows (♂263.0±23.9 vs ♀151.5±18.6 ml/min, P=0.010). No sex differences were apparent in the terms of the increases in brachial or femoral flows. Finally, at baseline males and females had similar skin blood flux (♂22.6±2.7 vs ♀18.3±2.9PU), but males demonstrated larger increases during heat exertion (P=0.029).

CONCLUSIONS
Males exhibit larger baseline artery diameters and flows in vessel beds feeding active (femoral) and inactive (brachial) limbs. In response to heat exertion, men and women exhibit similar increases in conduit diameter and flow to active muscle beds (femoral responses). In the inactive forearms, which reflect thermoregulatory responses, females had larger brachial artery diameter changes, but blood flow responses were similar between the sexes and men demonstrated larger increases in skin perfusion. These data indicate that responses to heat exertion differ in the upper and lower limbs, with sex-differences apparent in each of these territories, and at distinct levels of the arterial hierarchy.
REDUCED AEROBIC FITNESS IS ASSOCIATED WITH IMPAIRED CEREBROVASCULAR FUNCTION IN INDIVIDUALS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
Authors: Thomas Dr Hannah , Roberts Tori , Brayner Dr Barbara , Parker Dr Lewan , Keske Prof Michelle , Smith A/Prof Kurt , Way Dr Kimberley 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION & AIMS
Lower aerobic fitness (V̇O2peak) is associated with higher risk of cerebrovascular disease. However, the relationship between V̇O2peak and cerebrovascular function and cerebral blood velocity at rest and during exercise has not been investigated in adults with atrial fibrillation (AF). We aimed to compare resting and exercise cerebral blood velocity responses and cerebrovascular function in individuals with AF to healthy controls.

METHODS
Eight inactive adults either with AF or healthy age-matched controls (AF: n=4, 64±6 years, 50% female; control: n=4, 66±4 years, 75% female) completed a maximal graded exercise test to measure V̇O2peak. Transcranial Doppler was used to measure bilateral middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv). Vascular function was assessed by measuring MCAv increases and time to peak following a 30s hypercapnia stimulus (9% CO2, 21% O2, and balanced nitrogen), and MCAv during aerobic exercise (3-minute stages at 40%, 60% and 80% V̇O2peak). Blood pressure, heart rate and end-tidal gases were collected alongside MCAv.

RESULTS
Compared to controls, individuals with AF (both P&lt;0.01) had higher BMI (AF: 31.8±2.0 kg/m2; control: 27.3±0.6 kg/m2), lower V̇O2peak (AF: 19.9±2.5 mL/kg/min; control: 33.7±5.8 mL/kg/min), and similar blood pressure. Resting right and left MCAv was higher in the AF group (R: 66.6±34.0 cm/s; L: 44.2±10.1 cm/s) compared to the control (R: 36.1±6.7 cm/s; L: 34.9±8.7 cm/s); this was not significant (P=0.121 and 0.258). Right MCAv was higher than left MCAv in individuals with AF but this was not significant (P=0.247). Hypercapnia and exercise induced MCAv and time to peak were similar between groups (P&gt;0.05).

CONCLUSION
Lower V̇O2peak may be associated with increased resting MCAv in individuals with AF. Furthermore, there may be regional disparities in MCAv in individuals with AF. Future studies with larger sample sizes investigating potential mechanisms and volumetric cerebrovascular changes (e.g., vessel diameter, arterial stiffness) in AF are warranted.
PERSPECTIVES OF KIDNEY TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS REGARDING THE BARRIERS AND ENABLERS TO EXERCISE
Authors: Bates Alexander , Shen Yulan , Evans Loreen , Mantilla Christine , Letton Meg , Lambert Assoc Prof Kelly , Arnold Assoc Prof Ria 
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND
Kidney transplant is a second chance at life for people with kidney failure. However, the post-transplant journey is difficult with high rates of complications such as new onset diabetes, steroid induced weight gain and cardiovascular disease. While exercise has the potential to improve quality of life and reduce the susceptibility these complications, kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) report lower levels of exercise and physical activity compared to the general population. Our qualitative study aimed to explore the barriers and enablers to exercise in KTRs.

METHODS
People with a stable kidney transplant treated in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District were invited to participate in the study. Interviews were conducted with n=11 KTRs with an age of 25-74 years, transplant duration of 1-19 years, and comorbidities included hypertension (n=9), cancer (n=4), diabetes (n=3) and dyslipidemia (n=4). Interviews were transcribed then inductively coded and deductively categorised according to the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Model of Behaviour.

RESULTS
KTRs expressed a desire to exercise though barriers specific to transplant were identified. Barriers included a lack of knowledge and specific guidance, physical limitations (e.g. fatigue, illness related to medications or comorbidities, injury or pain), and fear of harming the kidney (e.g. herniation, pain/pulling at surgical site, dehydration, immunocompromised state). Enablers to exercise included already living an active lifestyle, perceived mental benefits, exercise preferences and social support.

CONCLUSIONS
A key finding of this research was a preference from KTRs specific exercise information and guidance after kidney transplant. The findings of this study can be used to inform the development of exercise resources and interventions for KTRs and their health care professionals within the local community and at a greater level.
OPTIMISING THE LADDER RAISE TASK IN THE PHYSICAL APTITUDE TEST FOR FIRE-FIGHTERS
Authors: Parker Bryany , Watsford Prof. Mark , Fullagar Hugh 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION & AIM
Identifying physically capable candidates is a crucial component of recruiting firefighters given the physical demands of the occupation. At the request of a local fire agency, a review of one test item within the physical aptitude testing protocol was undertaken with the aim of this pilot study to compare physical and perceptual performance between the ladder raise task and a suite of surrogate tests to determine suitability for use in recruitment screening.

METHODS
23 participants (unskilled in firefighting) performed the criterion ladder task (‘Ladder’) and three surrogate tasks: stationary constant-tension overhead press (existing test item; ‘Reel’); barbell overhead walk/return (‘Barbell’); overhead modular ladder lift (Modular Under-Running Apparatus (‘MURA’)). The tests were segmented into six components relating to lifting and under-running the device. Task duration, task completion, perceptual and kinetic variables were measured. Pearson’s correlation, OLP regressions and paired t-tests assessed relationships between the Ladder and surrogate tasks.

RESULTS
The Reel most closely reflected the criterion task in component 1 (lifting) for both peak and average forces (dz =-0.11, p=0.920; dz=-0.11, p=0.532 respectively). The MURA and Barbell were most closely aligned to the Ladder in all other objective values with trivial-small differences evident. The MURA was most closely aligned with the Ladder in subjective measures for components-2/5 and components-3/4 including difficulty (dz= -0.41, p=0.133; dz=-0.32, p=0.250, respectively), fatigue (dz= -0.25, p=0.354; dz=-0.10, p=0.796, respectively) and task representation (7.2[1.6]; 7.4[1.6], respectively).

CONCLUSION
The currently used Reel task revealed low construct and content validity. The MURA was shown to be the most appropriate surrogate option for the local fire agency to further investigate for use within recruitment physical testing. Further investigation with a sample of career firefighters should be undertaken to verify face validity at the industry level.
PROMOTING PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY RUNNING FESTIVALS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE - A MODEL FOR MEANINGFUL PARTICIPATION
Authors: Reeves Mr Nathan , Clanchy Dr Kelly , Atkins Mr Toby , Ternes Mr Matt 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS
Community-based walking and running groups have become popular social phenomena in recent years. Integrating individuals with Parkinson’s disease into community-based walking and running events confers multiple socio-biological benefits, but may be problematic for individuals with Parkinson’s disease in the later stages of the disease progression.

METHODS
This research evaluates the participation of a group of individuals with Parkinson’s disease in a long-standing community running festival, the Gold Coast Marathon Festival. Evaluation of participation comprised: 1) description of the activities undertaken by the Exercise Physiologists to ensure the safe and effective participation of the interested parties; and 2) a qualitative evaluation of the participant’s experiences with the event.

RESULTS
Ten adults with Parkinson’s disease (70% male), mean age 69.6 ± 7.8 years (range = 57-79) participated. Time post-diagnosis ranged 1 to 15 years (mean = 6.7 ± 4.4 years). Participants registered to complete one of two distances: 5.7 km (n = 9) or 700 m (n = 1). Activities undertaken by the Exercise Physiologist prior to participating were divided into three themes: participation, safety, and administrative requirements. Participant experiential data was divided into six themes: preparation prior to participating; pre participation planning and organisation; reasons/meaning for choosing to participate; barriers for participating; event recovery; and event suitability. The data collated was triangulated to provide recommendations to facilitate participation in similar events.

CONCLUSION
The results of this study demonstrate that with effective planning and coordination, participation in community-based walking and running events confer physical and mental health benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. However, significant barriers need to be addressed prior to participation to ensure meaningful participation. This paper provides recommendations for practicing Exercise Physiologists who wish to promote participation of their own clients with Parkinson’s disease in similar initiatives.
DOES N-ACETYLCYSTEINE SUPPLEMENTATION DURING AN ALTITUDE TRAINING CAMP ENABLE TRAINING QUALITY AND SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OUTCOMES? A COMPARATIVE CASE STUDY
Authors: Slattery Dr Katie , Sharma Dr Avish , Morris Dr Kirstin 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION & AIMS
Elite athletes regularly incorporate training at altitude into their programs to enhance performance. However, the additional stress of exposure to a hypoxic environment needs to be carefully managed by coaches and sport scientists. Supplementation with antioxidants, such as N-acetylcysteine (NAC) may support the athlete’s immune system to cope with this stress. Preliminary evidence also suggests NAC may further promote haematological adaptations to hypoxia. Combined, the potential health and adaptive benefits of NAC warrant further investigation. Conducting ecologically valid and scientifically robust research in an elite sporting setting can be challenging due to small sample sizes, an inability to experimentally manipulate training, and the inherent complexity of the training environment. To account for these challenges, a comparative case study approach was used.

METHODS
Thirteen swimmers completed a three-week ‘Live-High, Train-High’ camp in Flagstaff, USA (elevation 2,100m). Beginning four days prior to the camp commencing, swimmers where randomly assigned in matched groups to consume NAC (1,200mg per day; n = 6) or a placebo supplement (n = 7) for 14 days. With each athlete defined as a case, fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis was used to examine the configurational effects of attributes (i.e., antioxidant support, sufficient ferritin, maintained body mass) previously associated with successful altitude training camps on physiological and performance outcomes.

RESULTS
NAC was not a solely sufficient or necessary attribute for increased haemoglobin mass. Higher consistency in haemoglobin mass was observed with high training quality. NAC and high training quality contributed to performance improvements.

CONCLUSION
Swimmer responses were highly individual with successful physiological and performance outcomes achieved by some, irrespective of having attributes that can impair adaptation to altitude training. Subjective training quality provided important contextual information. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis is a novel approach in sports science to evaluate the interrelationship of attributes that can impact performance.
THE USE OF OUTCOME MEASURES IN EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY CLINICAL PRACTICE IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Dwyer Mr. Patrick , Pascoe Dr. Deborah 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS
Outcome measure (OM) implementation in clinical settings has become a standard in allied health evidence-based practice over the last 20 years, with their use being encouraged by governing and funding bodies. This study investigated the application of standardised OMs by accredited exercise physiologists (AEPs) in Australia. This study aimed to identify commonly used OMs and explore the barriers and facilitators to OM implementation in AEP clinical practice in Australia.

METHODS
This study utilised a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional, descriptive design to determine the OMs used by AEPs in current clinical practice and investigated trends related to OM use within different AEP demographics and settings. Participants were also asked to identify any barriers and facilitators that affected their use of OMs in clinical practice. The OMs that were most frequently used were identified and the results analysed according to demographic variables, to determine how they influenced OM use in clinical practice.

RESULTS
Eighty-seven OMs were assessed, with 41% ‘never’ used by most participants. A further 48% of the OMs were identified as being underutilised with over 50% of respondents selecting ‘never’ or ‘sometimes’. Only three OMs were used frequently by most respondents. The most common barriers to OM use identified related to a lack of time, knowledge, and limited perceived value from clinicians. These reflect the barriers identified in prior research related to other allied health professions.

CONCLUSIONS
AEPs in Australia experience many of the same barriers to OM use as other allied health disciplines. Currently, the standardised OM resource for AEPs is outdated and underutilised in clinical practice. Updated resources for clinicians in the form of educational seminars and a searchable online database with easy access to evidence-based outcome measures are essential to the promotion of OMs to support evidence-based practice for AEPs.
RESULTS OF THE ECHO-R TRIAL – A PRAGMATIC, TELEHEALTH-DELIVERED EXERCISE INTERVENTION FOR WOMEN WITH RECURRENT OVARIAN CANCER
Authors: Spence Dr Rosa , Creed Melissa , Rye Sheree , Hayes Prof Sandra 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION & AIMS
Wide-spread and equitable uptake of exercise into standard cancer care will require evidence of safety and efficacy across all cancer and treatment types. People with rarer cancers, lower survival prospects, and higher morbidity have been under-represented in exercise oncology trials. The ECHO-R trial for women with recurrent ovarian cancer aimed to address this research gap, evaluating the efficacy of a 6-month telephone-delivered, exercise intervention consistent with ESSA exercise oncology prescription guidelines.

METHODS
50 women scheduled to receive chemotherapy for recurrent ovarian cancer were recruited to the pre-post exercise trial with assessments at baseline and post-intervention (6 months post-baseline). The intervention was delivered via 12 telephone sessions, with the option of five additional study-funded, in-person sessions with a community-based AEP. The intervention had a global target of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity multimodal exercise per week, with actual volume and prescription individualised at each session, dependent on functional capacity, goals, and barriers. Outcomes included feasibility (volume of exercise completed) and harms profile (occurrence of adverse outcomes) of the intervention, changes in patient-reported outcomes (quality of life [QoL; FACT-O], fatigue [FACT-Fatigue] and neurotoxicity [FACT-GOG-NTX]), and objective assessment of aerobic function (6-minute-walk test), muscular endurance (30-second sit-to-stand) and strength (hand grip).

RESULTS
The average volume of exercise completed did not meet the target (median 100 min/week, min: 0; max 527). QoL, fatigue, neurotoxicity, aerobic function, muscular endurance, and strength remained stable between the pre and post-intervention assessments. There were no serious adverse events.

CONCLUSION
Recurrent ovarian cancer is an incurable disease, characterised by declining QoL and physical capacity. Findings from this study suggest that maintenance of QoL and physical function is possible through participation in an exercise intervention, even if exercise targets are not met. Physical activity guidelines may need to reflect this.
EXERCISE TRAINING IMPROVES GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOMS IN PEOPLE WITH A DISORDER OF THE GUT BRAIN INTERACTION (DGBI): SYSTEMIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Bell Miss Katherine , Ferstera Mrs Naomi , Durney Ms Jacinta , Nicol Dr. Jennifer , Holtmann Prof. Gerald , Coombes Prof Jeff 
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION & AIMS
Approximately 40% of the global population has criteria that meets at least one Disorder of the Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI). DGBIs are characterised by the absence of structural abnormalities, with chronic symptoms, such as pain, altered bowel movements, and nausea. Current therapy options focus on treating the major symptoms, which can involve pharmacological and lifestyle advice (diet, exercise, and stress management). The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the efficacy of exercise for improving gastrointestinal symptoms in people with a DGBI.

METHODS
A search of relevant databases was completed in February 2023, for randomised controlled trials that applied an exercise intervention in people with DGBI. Comparator groups included usual care, pharmacological therapy, or diet advice. A pairwise random-effects meta-analysis estimated the standardised mean difference (SMD) (Hedges’ g) between exercise and comparator groups for changes in gastrointestinal symptoms. Risk of bias was analysed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.

RESULTS
Ten studies published between 2004–2023 were included. Participants (n=653) were mostly female 77.6%. Eight studies included participants with irritable bowel syndrome and two included individuals with functional dyspepsia. Exercise interventions lasted an average duration of 8 weeks. The modes included yoga (n=5), low intensity (n=1) and moderate intensity aerobic exercise (n=4). Studies ranged from low to high-risk bias. Meta-analysis showed exercise interventions improved gastrointestinal symptoms (SMD=1.2, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.8; p&lt;0.001). The effect was moderated by the intensity of exercise with moderate intensity aerobic exercise having a significant impact (SMD=1.6, 1.2 to 2.0; p&lt;0.001) not evident with yoga and low intensity exercise interventions (SMD=0.9, -0.01 to 1.7; p=0.053).

CONCLUSION
Exercise interventions in people with DGBIs improve gastrointestinal symptoms. Moderate intensity aerobic exercise is more efficacious than yoga and lower intensity exercise.