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15 pages, 692 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Divide Between Patients’ and Physicians’ Perceptions of Adult-Onset Still’s Disease Cases: Insights from the PRO-AOSD Survey
by Norbert Blank, Ioana Andreica, Jürgen Rech, Zekayi Sözen and Eugen Feist
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(19), 7034; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14197034 - 4 Oct 2025
Viewed by 175
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aims to report and compare data from the PRO-AOSD (patient-reported outcomes adult-onset Still’s disease) survey in patients with AOSD from the perspective of patients and their treating physicians. Methods: PRO-AOSD comprised blinded patient and physician surveys. The surveys [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aims to report and compare data from the PRO-AOSD (patient-reported outcomes adult-onset Still’s disease) survey in patients with AOSD from the perspective of patients and their treating physicians. Methods: PRO-AOSD comprised blinded patient and physician surveys. The surveys were designed to assess perceived symptoms and physical impairment. Outcomes reported here include patient demographics; physicians’ assessment of the patient’s health state; physician-reported laboratory findings; pain; disease activity; symptoms; physicians’ treatment goals; and the impact of lifestyle factors on disease improvement. Results: Adult patients with AOSD were recruited from 19 centers in Germany. A total of 124 patients were included, with 74 (59.7%) females; the mean age was 45.5 years. The mean time from first symptom to diagnosis was 2 years, and the mean time was 7 years from diagnosis to survey completion (N = 123). Of 107 patients, most (81.3%) had inactive disease defined by CRP levels. At the time of the survey, around two-thirds of patients were receiving biologic therapy, with 84.1% (69/82) reporting an improvement in symptoms. Many patients had previously received antibiotics (47.6% [n = 58] and 30.4% [n = 37], per patient and physician reports, respectively). Persistent symptoms were reported more frequently by patients than by physicians, including back pain (39.5%), fatigue and weakness (38.7%), and joint inflammation (27.4%). Physicians classified 35.5% of patients as symptom-free. Patients reported exercise as having a positive impact on symptoms (52.4%), while stress (74.2%) and sleep deprivation (62.9%) were reported to worsen symptoms. Targeting systemic manifestations, such as the absence of fever (58.1%, n = 72), was considered the most important treatment goal by physicians. Conclusions: Data from PRO-AOSD highlight distinct differences between patients’ and physicians’ interpretations of the same cases of AOSD. Prior presentation: These data were presented at the German Congress of Rheumatology (DGRh; 30 August–2 September 2023; Leipzig, Germany). Full article
31 pages, 3755 KB  
Article
Perception Evaluation and Optimization Strategies of Pedestrian Space in Beijing Fayuan Temple Historic and Cultural District
by Qin Li, Yanwei Li, Qiuyu Li, Shaomin Peng, Yijun Liu and Wenlong Li
Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3574; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193574 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 236
Abstract
With the rapid development of urbanization and tourism in China, increasing attention has been paid to the protection and utilization of historical and cultural heritage, while tourists’ demands for travel experiences have gradually shifted towards in-depth cultural perception. This paper selects Beijing Fayuan [...] Read more.
With the rapid development of urbanization and tourism in China, increasing attention has been paid to the protection and utilization of historical and cultural heritage, while tourists’ demands for travel experiences have gradually shifted towards in-depth cultural perception. This paper selects Beijing Fayuan Temple Historic and Cultural District as the research case, and adopts methods such as the LDA (Latent Dirichlet Allocation) topic model, collection and analysis of online text data, and field research to explore the current situation of pedestrian space in Fayuan Temple District and its optimization strategies from the perspective of tourists’ perception. The study found that the dimensions of tourists’ perception of the pedestrian space in Fayuan Temple District mainly include six aspects: historical buildings and relics, tour modes and transportation, natural landscapes and environment, historical figures and culture, residents’ life and activities, and tourists’ experiences and visits. By integrating online text data, questionnaire surveys, and on-site behavioral observations, the study constructed a “physical environment-cultural experience-behavioral network” three-dimensional IPA (Importance–Possession Analysis) evaluation model, and analyzed and evaluated the high-frequency perception elements in tourists’ spontaneous evaluations. Based on the current situation evaluation of the pedestrian space in Fayuan Temple District, this paper puts forward optimization strategies for the perception of pedestrian space from the aspects of block space, transportation usage, landscape ecology, digital technology, and cultural symbol translation. It aims to promote the high-quality development of historical blocks by improving and optimizing the pedestrian space, and achieve the dual goals of cultural inheritance and utilization of tourism resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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23 pages, 1980 KB  
Review
Multi-Perspective: Research Progress of Probiotics on Waste Gas Treatment and Conversion
by Yingte Song, Ruitao Cai, Chuyang Wei, Huilian Xu and Xiaoyong Liu
Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8642; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198642 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 221
Abstract
The acceleration of industrialization and urbanization have led to the increasingly serious problem of waste gas pollution. Pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia (NH3), formaldehyde (HCHO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2 [...] Read more.
The acceleration of industrialization and urbanization have led to the increasingly serious problem of waste gas pollution. Pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia (NH3), formaldehyde (HCHO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emitted from industrial production, transportation, and agricultural activities have posed a major threat to the ecological environment and public health. Although traditional physical and chemical treatment methods can partially reduce the concentration of pollutants, they face three core bottlenecks of high cost, high energy consumption, and secondary pollution, and it is urgent to develop sustainable alternative technologies. In this context, probiotic waste gas treatment technology has become an emerging research hotspot due to its environmental friendliness, low energy consumption characteristics, and resource conversion potential. Based on the databases of PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library, this paper systematically searched the literature published from 2014 to 2024 according to the predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria (such as research topic relevance, experimental data integrity, language in English, etc.). A total of 71 high-quality studies were selected from more than 600 studies for review. By integrating three perspectives (basic theory perspective, environmental application perspective, and waste gas treatment facility perspective), the metabolic mechanism, functional strain characteristics, engineering application status, and cost-effectiveness of probiotics in waste gas bioconversion were systematically analyzed. The main conclusions include the following: probiotics achieve efficient degradation and recycling of waste gas pollutants through specific enzyme catalysis, and compound flora and intelligent regulation can significantly improve the stability and adaptability of the system. This technology has shown good environmental and economic benefits in multi-industry waste gas treatment, but it still faces challenges such as complex waste gas adaptability and long-term operational stability. This review aims to provide useful theoretical support for the optimization and large-scale application of probiotic waste gas treatment technology, promote the transformation of waste gas treatment from ‘end treatment’ to ‘green transformation’, and ultimately serve the realization of sustainable development goals. Full article
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17 pages, 2560 KB  
Article
Integrating Child-Friendly Green Spaces into Post-Disaster Recovery: Psychological, Physical, and Educational Sustainability Impact on Children’s Well-Being
by Dewi Rezalini Anwar and Gehan Selim
Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8495; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188495 - 22 Sep 2025
Viewed by 559
Abstract
This study reviews the role of Child-Friendly Green Spaces (CFGS) in supporting children’s psychological, physical, and educational recovery following natural disasters. The main research question guiding this review is the following: how do CFGS contribute to holistic child well-being and resilience in disaster-affected [...] Read more.
This study reviews the role of Child-Friendly Green Spaces (CFGS) in supporting children’s psychological, physical, and educational recovery following natural disasters. The main research question guiding this review is the following: how do CFGS contribute to holistic child well-being and resilience in disaster-affected contexts, and what barriers and strategies influence their effective integration into recovery frameworks? Employing a rigorous literature review methodology, we synthesized interdisciplinary evidence from environmental psychology, urban planning, public health, and education, encompassing studies published between 2000 and 2024. Findings demonstrate that CFGS significantly reduce trauma-related symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress, promotes physical health through active play, and foster educational engagement by improving concentration, attendance, and informal learning opportunities. Furthermore, CFGS contribute directly to multiple Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Despite these advantages, CFGS are often overlooked in formal disaster recovery planning due to prioritization of immediate relief, financial and logistical challenges, and socio-cultural factors. To address these challenges, this study proposes a participatory, culturally sensitive framework for CFGS implementation, which integrates inclusive design, multi-sector collaboration, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Grounded in theoretical perspectives such as the Biophilia Hypothesis, Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, and restorative environments, CFGS are reframed as critical infrastructures for children’s holistic recovery and resilience. The findings underscore the urgent need to embed CFGS within disaster recovery and urban planning policies to promote child-centered, sustainable community development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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14 pages, 522 KB  
Protocol
Designing, Developing, and Evaluating a Stakeholder-Informed Mobile App to Promote Physical Activity in Children
by Olga Papale, Emanuel Festino, Lamprini Papargyri, Cristina Cortis and Andrea Fusco
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(9), 1460; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22091460 - 20 Sep 2025
Viewed by 753
Abstract
Background: Prolonged sedentary behavior and associated obesity are recognized risk factors for poor health across the lifespan. Globally, data show that many children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 significantly increased their sedentary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic, failing to meet recommended [...] Read more.
Background: Prolonged sedentary behavior and associated obesity are recognized risk factors for poor health across the lifespan. Globally, data show that many children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 significantly increased their sedentary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic, failing to meet recommended physical activity levels and reporting increased smartphone use. While mobile devices and video games have been traditionally linked to physical inactivity, formats like exergaming, which combine gameplay with gross motor activity, offer potential to promote physical activity. However, many digital health tools for children are developed without incorporating feedback from key stakeholders and end-users (e.g., children, teachers, and guardians). Therefore, this paper, within the Walk around the Earth (E-Walk) project, describes a prospective study that aims (1) to identify the most influential factors or characteristics affecting engagement with and usability of a mobile application promoting physical activity among primary school students; (2) to develop a mobile application for children based on the identified factors and characteristics. Methods: This project will use a group concept mapping approach to identify the most influential features/factors/characteristics affecting engagement with and usability of an app. By involving primary stakeholders (e.g., children, teachers, guardians, and physical activity experts), the project seeks to align the app’s features with primary end-user needs and motivations. Following the app’s development, its effectiveness in increasing physical activity levels and reducing sedentary behaviors will be evaluated through a mixed-method design, incorporating anthropometric data, validated physical activity questionnaires (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)), and engagement metrics. Conclusions: The E-Walk project integrates participatory design with educational content and activity-based challenges, representing a multidimensional strategy for promoting health and learning in primary school students. Ultimately, this study contributes to the development of user-informed digital interventions that support sustainable behavioral changes, in line with broader goals of child well-being and digital health promotion. Full article
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20 pages, 698 KB  
Case Report
Sibling Participation in Occupational Therapy for Children with Physical Disabilities: A Case Report
by Laura M. Zagacki, Lisa A. Chiarello, Robert J. Palisano and Rebecca G. Lieberman-Betz
Disabilities 2025, 5(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities5030079 - 14 Sep 2025
Viewed by 513
Abstract
This case report describes the implementation of participation-based occupational therapy for children with physical disabilities and their siblings in two families. Case 1 was a girl with myelomeningocele spina bifida and her brother, and case 2 was a boy with cerebral palsy and [...] Read more.
This case report describes the implementation of participation-based occupational therapy for children with physical disabilities and their siblings in two families. Case 1 was a girl with myelomeningocele spina bifida and her brother, and case 2 was a boy with cerebral palsy and his sister. Goals targeted joint participation in play. The Sibling Participation in Occupational Therapy (SPOT) approach adapted the Collaborative Process for Action Plans to Achieve Children’s Participation Goals in order to assess goal-related factors and develop actionable steps to achieve the goal. Corresponding interventions addressing performance skills differed across cases and related to all children’s ages, interests, and functional abilities. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) measured sibling dyad’s achievement of their family’s goal, and participants completed an experiential questionnaire. Parent COPM ratings demonstrated a meaningful increase in performance and satisfaction, and the therapist and parent ratings of the GAS met or exceeded expected achievement. Parents and sibling dyads reported positive experiences in SPOT. The outcomes support the use of a participation-based approach inclusive of siblings that is consistent with family-centered practice to facilitate participation in meaningful joint sibling activities with families who have a child with a physical disability. Full article
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15 pages, 498 KB  
Article
Revitalizing Dementia Care: Empowering Lives Through Personalized Exercise and Advanced Technologies
by Anamarija Kejžar, Vlado Dimovski, Francesco Miele, Vojko Strojnik, Katri Maria Turunen and Simon Colnar
Healthcare 2025, 13(18), 2294; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13182294 - 13 Sep 2025
Viewed by 454
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The known benefits of sport and exercise for people with dementia (PwD) and their caregivers mean that physical activity could be prioritized over pharmacological treatment. Research suggests that physical activity not only enhances the overall wellbeing of PwD, but also improves [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The known benefits of sport and exercise for people with dementia (PwD) and their caregivers mean that physical activity could be prioritized over pharmacological treatment. Research suggests that physical activity not only enhances the overall wellbeing of PwD, but also improves the relationships and wellbeing of their caregivers. The text examines the importance of physical activity for PwD and explores whether certain types of exercise, as well as modern tools like information and communication technology (ICT) and artificial intelligence (AI), are particularly suitable for this population given their different living environments, such as at home or in institutions. Methods: The study employed a qualitative design, conducting three focus groups (N = 17) in Slovenia with three distinct participant groups: informal caregivers (N = 6), physiotherapists in care homes (N = 7), and people diagnosed with dementia (N = 4). Data collection involved structured focus group discussions guided by key questions on types of exercise, challenges faced, and potential ICT and AI applications. Descriptive statistics including frequencies, means and standard deviations were used to summarize demographic data of respondents. Given the qualitative nature of the focus groups the emphasis was on thematic content analysis to identify common themes and insights supported by descriptive summaries to contextualize the findings. Results: The results suggest that regular physical activity tailored to an individual’s existing lifestyle and abilities can be essential for improving the quality of life of PwD. Although ICT and AI play an important role in promoting and monitoring regular physical activity and a sense of safety, the use of ICT and AI tools are still the exception, not the rule. Key barriers include inadequate awareness of existing solutions, cognitive decline, physical limitations, safety concerns, and limited access to appropriate programs. The study highlights the unused potential of ICT and AI for overcoming these barriers and offers solutions like personalized exercise—which refers to a physical activity program that is tailored to an individual’s specific needs, abilities, preferences, and goals—tracking, adaptive programs, and AI-driven virtual assistants that promote safety and encourage regular physical activity. Full article
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19 pages, 346 KB  
Article
Health-Related Quality of Life and Dietary Supplement Use in Physically Active People and Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Walter Sapuppo, Davide Giacconi, Antonietta Monda, Antonietta Messina, Daniele Saccenti, Claudia Maria Mineo, Maria Casillo, Salvatore Allocca, Giovanni Michelini, Regina Gregori Grgič, Vincenzo Monda, Jacopo Lamanna, Mattia Ferro, Girolamo Di Maio, Marcellino Monda and Marco La Marra
Sports 2025, 13(9), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13090321 - 11 Sep 2025
Viewed by 694
Abstract
The use of dietary supplements is widespread among athletes and physically active individuals, yet their impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) remains insufficiently understood. This study investigated the associations between supplement use, physical activity patterns, and HRQoL in a heterogeneous sample of [...] Read more.
The use of dietary supplements is widespread among athletes and physically active individuals, yet their impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) remains insufficiently understood. This study investigated the associations between supplement use, physical activity patterns, and HRQoL in a heterogeneous sample of 537 adults engaged in sports at amateur, professional, or recreational levels. Participants completed an online survey assessing demographics, supplement use, physical activity habits, and quality of life using the SF-36 questionnaire. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and independent-samples t-tests to explore relationships between supplement use, body mass index (BMI), motivational variables, and HRQoL outcomes. Results indicated that 46.7% of participants reported consuming at least one supplement or substance, with an average of 1.91 products. The primary motivations included performance enhancement (30.7%) and combined performance and aesthetic goals (12.1%). A significant association emerged between supplement use and the consistency of physical activity over time, as well as the individual’s motivation for engaging in exercise. Participants who maintained stable activity levels and those driven by performance or competitive motives were more likely to use supplements. In contrast, individuals exercising primarily for physical and psychological health were less likely to report supplement use. When comparing HRQoL scores, supplement users showed significantly lower levels of impairment due to emotional issues (RE), social functioning (SF), and bodily pain (BP). Among these variables, only Bodily Pain presented a small effect size, suggesting a meaningful difference between users and non-users. These findings highlight that while supplements are commonly used in athletic contexts, their association with improved quality of life is limited, and may even reflect attempts to manage physical discomfort. Further research is needed to clarify the directionality of these relationships and inform safe and evidence-based consumption. Full article
32 pages, 6543 KB  
Article
Synergy of Information in Multimodal Internet of Things Systems—Discovering the Impact of Daily Behaviour Routines on Physical Activity Level
by Mohsen Shirali, Zahra Ahmadi, Jose Luis Bayo-Monton, Zoe Valero-Ramon and Carlos Fernandez-Llatas
Sensors 2025, 25(18), 5619; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25185619 - 9 Sep 2025
Viewed by 507
Abstract
Background and Objective: The intricate connection between daily behaviours and health necessitates robust monitoring, particularly with the advent of Internet of Things (IoT) systems. This study introduces an innovative approach that exploits the synergy of information from various IoT sources to assess the [...] Read more.
Background and Objective: The intricate connection between daily behaviours and health necessitates robust monitoring, particularly with the advent of Internet of Things (IoT) systems. This study introduces an innovative approach that exploits the synergy of information from various IoT sources to assess the alignment of behavioural routines with health guidelines. The goal is to improve the readability of behaviour models and provide actionable insights for healthcare professionals. Method: We integrate data from ambient sensors, smartphones, and wearable devices to acquire daily behavioural routines by employing process mining (PM) techniques to generate interpretable behaviour models. These routines are grouped according to compliance with health guidelines, and a clustering method is used to identify similarities in behaviours and key characteristics within each cluster. Results: Applied to an elderly care case study, our approach categorised days into three physical activity levels (Insufficient, Sufficient, Desirable) based on daily step thresholds. The integration of multi-source data revealed behavioural variations not detectable through single-source monitoring. We demonstrated that the proposed visualisations in calendar and timeline views aid health experts in understanding patient behaviours, enabling longitudinal monitoring and clearer interpretation of behavioural trends and precise interventions. Notably, the approach facilitates early detection of behaviour changes during contextual events (e.g., COVID-19 lockdown and Ramadan), which are available in our dataset. Conclusions: By enhancing interpretability and linking behaviour to health guidelines, this work signifies a promising path for behavioural analysis and discovering variations to empower smart healthcare, offering insights into patient health, personalised interventions, and healthier routines through continuous monitoring with IoT-driven data analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue IoT and Sensor Technologies for Healthcare)
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6 pages, 1077 KB  
Proceeding Paper
Advancing Effective Climate Change Education by Using Remote Sensing Technologies: Leveraging the Research Infrastructure of the LAP/AUTh in Greece
by Konstantinos Michailidis, Katerina Garane, Chrysanthi Topaloglou and Dimitris Balis
Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 35(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025035003 - 8 Sep 2025
Viewed by 3507
Abstract
Raising awareness and understanding of climate change among younger generations is crucial for building a sustainable future. The Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics (LAP) within the School of Physics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) supports this goal by developing innovative educational activities [...] Read more.
Raising awareness and understanding of climate change among younger generations is crucial for building a sustainable future. The Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics (LAP) within the School of Physics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) supports this goal by developing innovative educational activities centered on atmospheric processes and climate science. Drawing on its expertise in atmospheric monitoring and remote sensing, LAP makes complex scientific concepts accessible to school students through interactive workshops, hands-on experiments, and data-driven projects using real-time environmental measurements. By integrating research-grade tools and open-access satellite data from ESA, NASA, and EUMETSAT, LAP bridges academic research and public understanding. These activities foster critical thinking, environmental responsibility, and student engagement with real-world climate monitoring practices. Moreover, LAP contributes to the ACTRIS network, offering high-quality data and expertise at both national and European levels. Through these efforts, LAP serves as a hub for climate education, turning awareness into action and inspiring future climate-conscious citizens. Full article
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13 pages, 935 KB  
Article
Personalized Physical Exercise Program Among Adolescent Girls: A Pilot Study
by Peter Petrovics, Balazs Sebesi, Zsolt Szekeres, Eszter Szabados and Anita Pálfi
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(3), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10030341 - 6 Sep 2025
Viewed by 680
Abstract
Objectives: Adolescence is a pivotal stage of development characterized by significant physical, psychological, and social changes. Establishing healthy lifestyle habits during this period is crucial for long-term health and the prevention of chronic diseases. Despite this, global trends show a marked decline in [...] Read more.
Objectives: Adolescence is a pivotal stage of development characterized by significant physical, psychological, and social changes. Establishing healthy lifestyle habits during this period is crucial for long-term health and the prevention of chronic diseases. Despite this, global trends show a marked decline in physical activity among adolescents, particularly girls, who are more susceptible to sedentary behaviors. One potential site for intervention to eliminate physical inactivity at the population level is the school educational setting during childhood. Traditional school-based physical exercise programs often adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, which may not address the diverse needs and interests of students, leading to reduced motivation and participation. Personalized physical exercise programs, tailored to individual capabilities and preferences, offer a promising alternative to enhance physical fitness and foster lifelong engagement in physical activity. Methods: A total of 170 Hungarian high school girls (mean age ≈ 15.3 years) were randomly assigned to either a personalized physical exercise group or a control group following the standard curriculum. The intervention spanned two academic years and consisted of five traditional gym classes per week (control group) or three traditional and two individually tailored classes with cardiorespiratory and resistance training per week (intervention group), each lasting 45–60 min. Individual goals were set based on baseline assessments, emphasizing self-referenced progress. Results: The personalized physical exercise group showed significant improvements in body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, maximum oxygen uptake capacity (VO2max), muscular strength, and flexibility (p < 0.05), while the control group exhibited minimal or negative changes. Conclusions: The personalized physical exercise program has been shown to be more effective in achieving higher cardiorespiratory performance and favorable body composition among adolescent girls than a traditional school physical education class, highlighting its potential role in school settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Physiology of Training—2nd Edition)
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22 pages, 1446 KB  
Review
Adaptations in Mitochondrial Function Induced by Exercise: A Therapeutic Route for Treatment-Resistant Depression
by Arnulfo Ramos-Jiménez, Mariazel Rubio-Valles, Javier A. Ramos-Hernández, Everardo González-Rodríguez and Verónica Moreno-Brito
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8697; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178697 - 6 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1496
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression (TRD), connecting oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and reduced neuroplasticity. Physical exercise induces specific mitochondrial changes linked to improvements in mental health. The aim of this paper was [...] Read more.
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression (TRD), connecting oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and reduced neuroplasticity. Physical exercise induces specific mitochondrial changes linked to improvements in mental health. The aim of this paper was to examine emerging evidence regarding the effects of physical exercise on mitochondrial function and treatment-resistant depression, highlighting the clinical importance of the use of mitochondrial biomarkers to personalize exercise prescriptions for patients with depression, particularly those who cannot tolerate standard treatments. Physical exercise improves mitochondrial function, enhances biogenesis and neuroplasticity, and decreases oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Essential signaling pathways, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, AMP-activated protein kinase, active peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α, and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase, support these effects. Most studies have concentrated on the impact of low- and moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on general health. However, new evidence suggests that resistance exercise and high-intensity interval training also promote healthy mitochondrial adaptations, although the specific exercise intensity required to achieve this goal remains to be determined. There is strong evidence that exercise is an effective treatment for MDD, particularly for TRD, by promoting specific mitochondrial adaptations. However, key gaps remain in our understanding of the optimal exercise dose and which patient subgroups are most likely to benefit from it (Graphical Abstract). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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14 pages, 1204 KB  
Article
Fatigue in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: Links to Muscle Function, Hypoxia, and Hypertension
by Anna F. Sheptulina, Adel A. Yafarova, Elvira M. Mamutova and Oxana M. Drapkina
Healthcare 2025, 13(17), 2206; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13172206 - 3 Sep 2025
Viewed by 556
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Fatigue is the most common systemic manifestation of chronic liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Fatigue not only adversely affects quality of life in MASLD patients but also complicates the attainment of therapeutic goals and contributes to a worse [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Fatigue is the most common systemic manifestation of chronic liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Fatigue not only adversely affects quality of life in MASLD patients but also complicates the attainment of therapeutic goals and contributes to a worse prognosis. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between clinically significant fatigue and laboratory parameters reflecting systemic inflammation, liver function, body composition, muscle strength, and blood pressure in patients with MASLD. Methods: A total of 154 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of MASLD were enrolled in this study. All participants underwent anthropometric assessment, laboratory testing, abdominal ultrasonography, and point shear-wave elastography. Muscle strength was evaluated using handgrip strength (GS) measurement and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (5TSTS). Skeletal muscle mass (SMM) was quantified using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Fatigue was evaluated using the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), with scores ≥ 22 indicating clinically significant fatigue. Results: Patients with FAS scores ≥ 22 exhibited significantly lower hemoglobin levels (p = 0.004) and erythrocyte counts (p = 0.011), along with a significantly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR; p = 0.002) and C-reactive protein level (CRP; p = 0.007). Furthermore, MASLD patients with FAS scores ≥ 22 demonstrated significantly reduced relative grip strength (p = 0.012) and took longer to complete the 5TSTS (p = 0.011). Additionally, these patients had higher maximum systolic and diastolic blood pressure values compared to those with FAS scores < 22 (p = 0.028 and p = 0.019, respectively). Conclusions: These findings underscore the multifactorial nature of fatigue in MASLD and highlight the need for a comprehensive management strategy. Such a strategy should include dietary modification, increased physical activity, targeted treatment of systemic manifestations of MASLD, and appropriate management of comorbidities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Public Health and Preventive Medicine)
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24 pages, 649 KB  
Article
And Then, There Were None: The Nexus of Agricultural Labor, Migration, and Food Insecurity in Rural and Urban Settings in the United States
by Beatrice Fenelon Pierre, Tracy Anne Irani and Joy Fatokun
Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7906; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177906 - 2 Sep 2025
Viewed by 604
Abstract
By 2030, the world population is projected to reach approximately 9.7 billion. One of the core objectives of the global sustainable development goals (SDGs), adopted from the 1996 World Food Summit, is to eradicate hunger by that time, meaning ensuring food security for [...] Read more.
By 2030, the world population is projected to reach approximately 9.7 billion. One of the core objectives of the global sustainable development goals (SDGs), adopted from the 1996 World Food Summit, is to eradicate hunger by that time, meaning ensuring food security for all. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) defines food security as follows: “Food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.” Conceptually, it is posited that food security can be understood as a nexus of four elements: Food security = Availability + Access + Utilization + Stability of a food system. This study focused specifically on the food availability component of food security. It addresses a critical gap in the existing literature: the limited understanding of the role farmworkers and their families play in sustaining food systems. Specifically, it explores how the children of Haitian farmworkers in the United States perceive agricultural labor through the lens of their family’s experiences, including their personal willingness to engage in it and their advocacy for others to pursue such work. Although qualitative in nature, this study employed the Political Economy of the Food System, also referred to as Agrifood Systems Theory or the Political Ecology of Food Systems, as its guiding theoretical framework, as it aligns closely with the study’s objectives. The data were collected between December 2022 and June 2023. The sample consisted of eight young adults (ages 18 to 29), all of Haitian descent. Overall, the findings indicated that participants commonly reported feeling a sense of inferiority and a lack of interest in and respect for farmwork as a profession during their upbringing, particularly in comparison to peers from non-farmworker households and those outside of their immediate communities. This sense of inferiority was attributed to several factors, including their upbringing, the inherent vulnerability associated with farm work, and the long-term physical toll agricultural work had on both themselves and their parents. The study’s findings carry important implications for practitioners, scholars, policymakers, and all stakeholders involved in achieving food security. They underscore the urgent need to reform labor policies and improve the conditions surrounding farm work, making it a more appealing, dignified, desirable, and sustainable occupation in the face of a growing world population. Full article
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Article
Sedentary Behavior, Physical Inactivity, and the Prevalence of Hypertension, Diabetes, and Obesity During COVID-19 in Brazil
by Jeferson Roberto Collevatti dos Anjos, Igor Massari Correia, Chimenny Auluã Lascas Cardoso de Moraes, Jéssica Fernanda Corrêa Cordeiro, Atila Alexandre Trapé, Jorge Mota, Dalmo Roberto Lopes Machado and André Pereira dos Santos
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(9), 1367; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22091367 - 30 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Objectives: To analyze, across the periods before, during, and after the implementation of Social Isolation and Distancing Measures (IMDIS): (a) changes in the prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs), stratified by age group in the Brazilian population; and (b) the association between physical [...] Read more.
Objectives: To analyze, across the periods before, during, and after the implementation of Social Isolation and Distancing Measures (IMDIS): (a) changes in the prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs), stratified by age group in the Brazilian population; and (b) the association between physical inactivity (PI), insufficient moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sedentary behavior (SB) with the occurrence of these conditions. This cross-sectional study used data from VIGITEL (Brazil’s Surveillance System of Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey), an annual population-based telephone survey conducted across the country. Data were collected in 2019, 2021, and 2023, with a total sample size of 101,226 participants. Arterial hypertension (AH) and diabetes mellitus (DM) were self-reported, and obesity (OB) was diagnosed using body mass index. PI, insufficient MVPA, and SB were identified via VIGITEL indicators. Chi-square tests assessed differences in prevalence overall and by age group. Logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) for associations between demographic variables, behavioral factors, and the studied periods. The prevalence of AH and DM was highest among individuals over 60 years, reaching 61% after IMDIS, a period when OB also peaked across all age groups. Individuals aged 30–59 and those over 60 had higher odds of AH, DM, and OB across all periods. Female participants had higher ORs for AH and DM both before and after IMDIS. PI and insufficient MVPA were associated with increased odds of AH, DM, and OB in all periods, while SB significantly elevated the OR for OB at all time points. After IMDIS, there was an increase in the prevalence of AH, DM, and OB among older adults and younger individuals. PI, insufficient MVPA, SB, and advanced age were all associated with a greater likelihood of NCDs at every stage of the study. The high post-IMDIS rates of AH, DM, and OB highlight the need for urgent public health strategies. Low-cost programs, such as live videos and online group sessions, should be included in national physical activity guidelines. These initiatives are affordable, aligned with WHO goals, and reduce PI in IMDIS scenarios. Incorporating them into Academia da Saúde and Agita Brasil strengthens NCD prevention and increases the resilience of the health system for future health crises. Full article
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