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Keywords = running-related injury

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14 pages, 452 KB  
Article
Levels of Susceptibility to Exercise Dependence and Mood States in Street Runners
by Anderson Ricardo Malmonge Barbosa Luciano, Flávia Marchesi Ciniciato, Danilo Malmonge Barbosa Luciano, Ercizio Lucas Biazus, Vinicius Barroso Hirota, Elias De França, Marcelo Rodrigues da Cunha and Carlos Eduardo Lopes Verardi
Sports 2026, 14(8), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports14080335 - 4 Aug 2026
Viewed by 591
Abstract
The regular practice of physical exercise is often associated with promoting benefits for practitioners. In recent decades, street running has become popular worldwide, with most participants being recreational runners who engage in the activity primarily to promote health, well-being, leisure, and quality of [...] Read more.
The regular practice of physical exercise is often associated with promoting benefits for practitioners. In recent decades, street running has become popular worldwide, with most participants being recreational runners who engage in the activity primarily to promote health, well-being, leisure, and quality of life, although some also participate with competitive goals. Among the psychological aspects related to exercise, studies have shown that some individuals may become susceptible to “exercise dependence,” a condition in which exercise takes a central role in a person’s life. As a result, individuals may exhibit characteristics such as excessive training, injuries; weight control issues, withdrawal symptoms when unable to exercise and even problems in social relationships when exercise is exclusively prioritized. Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate and analyze levels of susceptibility to running dependence and its relationship with exercise volume and mood states (tension, depression, anger, vigor, fatigue, and mental confusion). Methods: This was a quantitative cross-sectional study involving 761 regular Brazilian runners (59.8% male and 40.2% female) who consented to participate and answered the Sociodemographic Questionnaire, the Escala de Dependência de Corrida (EDC), a Brazilian Portuguese adaptation of the Negative Addiction Scale (NAS), and the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS). The analysis plan was conducted through descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, median, 1st and 3rd quartiles, interquartile range, and 95% confidence intervals) and inferential statistics (Spearman’s Correlation and Kruskal–Wallis Test). In all tests, the significance level adopted was p < 0.05. Results: The sample was divided into three groups of susceptibility to exercise dependence: low (37.6%), moderate (36.4%), and high (26%). Scores indicative of greater susceptibility to exercise dependence showed positive correlations with running practice volume (years of experience, weekly training frequency, weekly training duration, and weekly mileage), as well as with vigor. Although a statistically significant correlation was also observed for tension, its magnitude was trivial (rs = 0.080). Comparisons using the Kruskal–Wallis test showed that higher susceptibility levels were associated with greater running volumes and higher raw vigor scores, whereas no significant group differences were observed for the remaining mood states. Conclusions: Higher susceptibility to exercise dependence was associated with greater running volume and higher raw vigor scores. No consistent associations were observed with negative mood states, except for a trivial correlation with tension. These findings suggest that greater susceptibility to exercise dependence among runners was primarily associated with higher raw vigor scores rather than with broader alterations in mood states. Full article
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27 pages, 18242 KB  
Article
Ferroptosis Inducers Combined with Copper Ionophores Aggravate Lung Cancer-Related Fatigue via GSH Depletion and FKBP5-Associated Impairment of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling
by Ming Chen, Ying Pang, Yi He, Yunan Ma and Lili Tang
Cells 2026, 15(15), 1394; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15151394 - 31 Jul 2026
Viewed by 180
Abstract
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) remains difficult to manage, and the impact of metal ion-regulated cell death on peripheral fatigue during anticancer therapy is unclear. Here, we investigated whether ferroptosis inducers (FINs) potentiate copper ionophore (CIN)-triggered cuproptosis in skeletal muscle and aggravate lung cancer-related fatigue [...] Read more.
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) remains difficult to manage, and the impact of metal ion-regulated cell death on peripheral fatigue during anticancer therapy is unclear. Here, we investigated whether ferroptosis inducers (FINs) potentiate copper ionophore (CIN)-triggered cuproptosis in skeletal muscle and aggravate lung cancer-related fatigue (LCaRF), and evaluated redox-based interventions. LCaRF cellular models were established using C2C12 exposed to LLC/M109 tumor-conditioned supernatants and treated with FINs (sorafenib/erastin) plus CIN + CuCl2 (CIN–Cu + FINs). Cell viability, lipid peroxidation, DLAT aggregation (cuproptosis hallmark), copper/glutathione (GSH), mitochondrial function, and FKBP5/Nrf2–HO-1 signaling were assessed with pharmacologic and genetic modulation. An orthotopic lung cancer mouse model underwent wheel-running, tail suspension, and open-field testing with tetrathiomolybdate (TTM) or hydrogen as interventions. FINs sensitized C2C12 cells to CIN–Cu cytotoxicity and increased DLAT aggregation; copper chelation with TTM attenuated these effects. FINs depleted GSH and amplified mitochondrial dysfunction/ROS; exogenous GSH or hydrogen reduced DLAT aggregation and restored mitochondrial indices. FKBP5 was markedly upregulated by CIN–Cu + FINs and linked to suppressed antioxidant defense (Nrf2/HO-1). In vivo, CIN–Cu + FIN treatment exacerbated fatigue-like behaviors, while TTM or hydrogen partially improved performance. FIN–CIN combinations may aggravate skeletal muscle injury and fatigue-like phenotypes in LCaRF models by promoting cuproptosis via GSH depletion and FKBP5/Nrf2-HO-1 dysregulation. Full article
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16 pages, 2881 KB  
Article
Are the Forces and Lower Limb Kinematics Displayed During Running Associated with Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome? A Case-Control and Case Study
by Joshua P. M. Mattock, Julie R. Steele and Karen J. Mickle
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2026, 11(2), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk11020214 - 28 May 2026
Viewed by 545
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this paper is to determine whether leg kinematics and the normal force generated during the stance phase of running differed between (i) long-distance runners with medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) or (ii) long-distance runners who were asymptomatic at [...] Read more.
Objectives: The aim of this paper is to determine whether leg kinematics and the normal force generated during the stance phase of running differed between (i) long-distance runners with medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) or (ii) long-distance runners who were asymptomatic at baseline testing but developed MTSS compared to asymptomatic control participants. Methods: Lower-limb kinematics, normalised stance-phase forces and spatiotemporal outcome variables were compared between the limbs of MTSS symptomatic long-distance runners (n = 11) and matched asymptomatic controls (n = 11). Outcome variables were also compared between the limbs of long-distance runners who were asymptomatic at baseline but developed MTSS (n = 4) compared to asymptomatic control limbs. Results: In the case-control comparison, MTSS symptomatic participants demonstrated slower running speeds but no differences in stance-phase normal forces or kinematics compared to asymptomatic controls. In the case study, participants who developed MTSS during the study displayed substantially lower normal forces, less plantar flexion and a more vertical tibia than the asymptomatic controls. Conclusions: The slower running speeds observed among the MTSS symptomatic participants may be pain-related or reflect reduced plantar flexor propulsive capacity. The development of MTSS by Participants 1 and 2, despite lower normal forces and plantar flexion compared with asymptomatic controls, suggests that the tibial load tolerance may vary among individuals. Furthermore, the peak stance-phase force appears to have limited utility as a standalone screening tool for MTSS injury risk. Finally, further prospective research is required to investigate plantar flexor function, propulsive force capacity and the risk of MTSS development to substantiate these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Gait Analysis and Lower Limb Movement Mechanics)
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20 pages, 2465 KB  
Article
Assessment of Xsens Motion Trackers’ Accuracy to Measure Induced Vibrations During Endurance Running
by Chiara Martina, Andrea Appiani and Diego Scaccabarozzi
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2026, 11(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk11010082 - 18 Feb 2026
Viewed by 1934
Abstract
Background: Research on vibrations induced by running has gained significant attention due to its implications for athletes’ performance, injury prevention, and overall well-being. Distance running exposes the body to repetitive impulsive forces, causing significant vibrations to travel through physiological systems and biomechanical structures. [...] Read more.
Background: Research on vibrations induced by running has gained significant attention due to its implications for athletes’ performance, injury prevention, and overall well-being. Distance running exposes the body to repetitive impulsive forces, causing significant vibrations to travel through physiological systems and biomechanical structures. These vibrations increase fatigue and the risk of injury. Although it has gained importance, research on induced vibration during running and wearable equipment for monitoring is scarce. This study aims to evaluate the performance of a measurement system for monitoring the acceleration levels of induced vibrations during long-distance running, exploring the capability of non-invasive wearable devices to characterise vibration transmissibility and exposure. Moreover, a preliminary quantitative assessment of induced vibration levels for an indoor testing scenario is given. Methods: Metrological characterisation of Xsens Motion Trackers Awinda (MTw), off-the-shelf inertial magnetic motion trackers, was performed by measuring the sensors’ frequency bandwidth in a controlled environment, providing logarithmic sweep sine excitations at different levels (2 g, 5 g, 7 g, where g is meant to be the gravitational acceleration). A testing protocol for indoor testing was derived from the literature, allowing characterisation of the sensors’ behaviour in terms of vibration transmissibility and exposure detection in the intended application. Time domain and frequency domain analyses were conducted by following the ISO 2631 standard guideline for vibration exposure assessment, and measurement uncertainty was defined, either for the dynamic correction of the sensors’ frequency behaviour or for the computed time and frequency domain metrics. In this framework, a treadmill-based test was conducted. The aim was to evaluate the Xsens sensors’ performance in measuring vibration dose exposure and transmissibility. Three MTws were placed on the subject’s right tibia, back, and forehead using elastic bands. A 25-year-old female amateur runner completed a series of tests consisting of walking for 1 min at 3.5 km/h (instrumentation setup), followed by running at two speeds (8 km/h and 11 km/h) for 2–4 min per trial, with 5 min rest periods between tests. Conclusions: The tested measurement system showed promising results due to its capability to assess vibration exposure during sports activities, but dynamic correction was found to be mandatory for accurate vibration level assessment. The main outcome of this study is a method for characterising the accelerometers embedded in the proposed devices, along with an analysis strategy for future testing campaigns. Thanks to the portability of IMUs (inertial measurement units), this approach enables the evaluation of induced vibrations during in-field running measurements. Full article
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28 pages, 1218 KB  
Systematic Review
Lower-Limb Biomechanical Adaptations to Exercise-Induced Fatigue During Running: A Systematic Review of Injury-Relevant Mechanical Changes
by Prashant Kumar Choudhary, Suchishrava Choudhary, Sohom Saha, Yajuvendra Singh Rajpoot, Vasile-Cătălin Ciocan, Voinea Nicolae-Lucian, Silviu-Ioan Pavel and Constantin Șufaru
Life 2026, 16(2), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16020272 - 4 Feb 2026
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2120
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Exercise-induced fatigue is a fundamental component of running performance and training, yet it is also implicated in altered movement mechanics and increased injury risk. While numerous studies have examined fatigue-related biomechanical changes during running, findings remain fragmented across biomechanical domains and fatigue [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Exercise-induced fatigue is a fundamental component of running performance and training, yet it is also implicated in altered movement mechanics and increased injury risk. While numerous studies have examined fatigue-related biomechanical changes during running, findings remain fragmented across biomechanical domains and fatigue modalities. The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize contemporary evidence on the effects of fatigue on lower-limb biomechanics during running and to interpret the potential injury relevance of these adaptations. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for original empirical studies published between January 2010 and December 2025. Eligible studies involved human participants performing running or running-related tasks, applied an explicit fatigue protocol, and reported quantitative lower-limb biomechanical outcomes. Study selection followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Data extraction included participant characteristics, fatigue protocols, biomechanical measures, instrumentation, and key findings. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB-2) tool. Due to substantial methodological heterogeneity, findings were synthesized narratively. Results: Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. Across studies, fatigue consistently altered spatiotemporal parameters, joint kinematic and kinetic variables, spring-mass behavior, impact loading, coordination variability, neuromuscular output, and inter-limb symmetry. Common adaptations included increased ground contact time, reduced ankle joint power and stiffness, increased joint range of motion, elevated impact loading, and greater movement variability. These changes reflected reduced mechanical efficiency and a redistribution of mechanical load from distal to proximal joints, particularly toward the knee and hip. Similar fatigue-related biomechanical patterns were observed in both laboratory-based and real-world endurance running conditions. Conclusions: Exercise-induced fatigue produces systematic and injury-relevant alterations in lower-limb biomechanics during running. These adaptations may preserve short-term performance but create mechanical conditions associated with increased susceptibility to overuse and non-contact injuries. Integrating fatigue-aware biomechanical assessment, neuromuscular conditioning, and individualized load management strategies may help mitigate adverse fatigue-related adaptations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)
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11 pages, 723 KB  
Article
Exploration of Achilles Tendon Loading Symmetry in Female Recreational Runners
by Thomas W. Kernozek, C. Nathan Vannatta, Kaelyn C. Wagner, Kellie Hierl, Sidney Smith and Drew Rutherford
Biomechanics 2026, 6(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics6010009 - 9 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1522
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Running is associated with increased Achilles Tendon (AT) loading and cross-sectional area (CSA). Achilles tendinopathy is a common unilateral injury. Differences in AT loading variables between dominant and non-dominant lower extremities while running have not been characterized. This study examined the AT [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Running is associated with increased Achilles Tendon (AT) loading and cross-sectional area (CSA). Achilles tendinopathy is a common unilateral injury. Differences in AT loading variables between dominant and non-dominant lower extremities while running have not been characterized. This study examined the AT loading variables between dominant and non-dominant lower extremities in healthy recreational runners. Methods: Twenty-four females ran at 3.3 m/s (11.88 km/hr) on an instrumented treadmill. Achilles Tendon CSA (AT-CSA) was measured from ultrasound images. Kinematic and kinetic data were used as input into a musculoskeletal model. Paired t-tests examined inter-limb differences in peak vertical ground reaction force, Achilles Tendon-related loading variables (AT force, AT-CSA, AT stress), total gastrocnemius force, soleus force, foot strike angle, and stance time. Results: No differences were shown between dominant and non-dominant lower extremities in stance time, vertical ground reaction force, gastrocnemius and soleus force, AT force, AT-CSA, or AT stress. Foot strike angle was different between limbs (p = 0.015); however, the absolute difference was about 2°. Conclusions: These data indicated that AT loading was similar between dominant and non-dominant lower extremities in healthy female recreational runners. While some asymmetry can be expected during a bilateral task such as running, runners displayed differences in AT force and stress less than 18%. These data may assist clinicians in the assessment and management of runners recovering from AT tendinopathy. Full article
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14 pages, 502 KB  
Article
Stride Mechanics and Strength Analysis of Lower Limbs in Runners with Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome vs. Asymptomatic Runners
by Estélio Henrique Martin Dantas, Ronald Bispo Barreto, Miguel Angel Narvaez Silva, Marcos Antonio Almeida-Santos, Guido Belli and Luca Russo
Biomechanics 2025, 5(4), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5040106 - 17 Dec 2025
Viewed by 2039
Abstract
Background: Street running has seen rapid growth due to its health benefits and accessibility, leading to a simultaneous rise in running-related injuries, particularly among recreational and professional street runners. Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS) is a common injury affecting up to 15% of [...] Read more.
Background: Street running has seen rapid growth due to its health benefits and accessibility, leading to a simultaneous rise in running-related injuries, particularly among recreational and professional street runners. Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS) is a common injury affecting up to 15% of athletes and posing significant risks to runners of all levels of participation. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the strength and kinematic differences in the lower limbs of runners diagnosed with MTSS compared to asymptomatic runners. Methods: A total of 56 participants were divided into an MTSS group (27 runners) and a healthy control group (29 runners). Participants were evaluated for demographics, physical activity level, pain threshold using algometry, and running kinematics obtained through high-resolution 2D video analysis with Kinovea software. Lower-limb muscle strength was measured using an isometric Lafayette® digital dynamometer. Results: Although there were no significant differences in age or anthropometric measures, MTSS runners exhibited lower initial (∆% = 10.6%, p = 0.002) and intermediate (∆% = 8.7%, p = 0.026) running speeds. Pain assessment revealed significant lower pain thresholds in the MTSS group. Kinematic analysis identified greater foot-strike angles (left foot: ∆% = 31.9%, p = 0.004; right foot: ∆% = 25.9%, p = 0.0049) at initial speeds in MTSS runners, while other parameters like medial calcaneus rotation, push-off angles, and support time did not differ significantly. Additionally, MTSS runners demonstrated reduced strength in the quadriceps femoris (QF—Left QF: ∆% = −28.5%, p = 0.0049; Right QF: ∆% = −28.2%, p = 0.003). Conclusions: MTSS appears to affect female and male runners. MTSS may be attributed to a weaker quadriceps strength, higher heel contact angles during foot strike, or both, suggesting that interventions focusing on the improvement of these factors may be beneficial in preventing and treating MTSS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gait and Posture Biomechanics)
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16 pages, 1321 KB  
Article
Fatigue-Related Biomechanical Changes During a Half-Marathon Under Field Conditions Assessed Using Inertial Measurement Units
by Christian Mitschke, Tobias Heß, Thomas L. Milani and Pierre Kiesewetter
Biomechanics 2025, 5(4), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5040101 - 3 Dec 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2224
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Running is one of the most popular physical activities worldwide and have been widely studied in relation to performance and injury prevention. In addition to measurements conducted under standardized laboratory conditions, inertial measurement units (IMUs) allow for the assessment of biomechanical [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Running is one of the most popular physical activities worldwide and have been widely studied in relation to performance and injury prevention. In addition to measurements conducted under standardized laboratory conditions, inertial measurement units (IMUs) allow for the assessment of biomechanical parameters in real-world settings—particularly during endurance runs. The aim of this study was to investigate how running a half-marathon under field conditions affects exertion and various biomechanical parameters, as measured using IMUs. Methods: Twenty runners completed a half-marathon on a flat, even-surfaced walkway at a self-selected, constant pace corresponding to a brisk training run. In addition to lower limb biomechanics, heart rate (HR) and ratings of perceived exertion (REP) were also recorded. Results: A significant increase in both HR and RPE was observed toward the end of the half-marathon, indicating the presence of fatigue during the later stages of the run. The biomechanical results further demonstrate that this fatigue was associated with increased peak tibial acceleration, peak angular velocity in the sagittal plane of the foot, and peak rearfoot eversion velocity, while foot strike angle, stride frequency, and stride length remained unchanged. Furthermore, a progressive increase in ground contact time and a decrease in flight time were observed over the course of the run, resulting in an increased duty factor. Conclusions: These findings highlight the value of IMU-based assessments for detecting fatigue-related biomechanical changes during prolonged runs in real-world conditions, which may contribute to early identification of overload and inform injury prevention strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inertial Sensor Assessment of Human Movement)
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15 pages, 422 KB  
Systematic Review
Mini-Basketball for Preschool and School-Aged Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
by Daniel González-Devesa, Rui Zhou, Markel Rico-González and Carlos D. Gómez-Carmona
Healthcare 2025, 13(22), 2861; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13222861 - 11 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1342
Abstract
Background: Although the participation of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in team sports presents challenges, group-based physical activities could offer specific benefits for their core symptoms. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to analyze the benefits of mini-basketball for children [...] Read more.
Background: Although the participation of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in team sports presents challenges, group-based physical activities could offer specific benefits for their core symptoms. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to analyze the benefits of mini-basketball for children with ASD. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251144800). Four databases (Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, PubMed, and Scopus) were searched to select randomized controlled trials reporting the effects of mini-basketball interventions on children with ASD from their inception to August 2025. Results: Eight randomized controlled trials involving 436 participants (aged 3–12 years, 87.3% male) met the inclusion criteria. All studies were conducted in China using 12-week interventions (40–45 min, 2–5 days/week at moderate intensity). The quality was rated as good in two studies and fair in six. Five studies assessed social responsiveness, with four showing significant pre–post reductions in the experimental groups and all demonstrating superior outcomes versus those of the controls. One study reported significant reductions in repetitive behaviors, self-injurious behaviors, and restricted behaviors compared to that of the controls. Joint attention improvements were observed through eye-tracking measures, with increased fixation counts, shorter time to first fixation, and more accurate gaze shifts. Physical fitness benefits included improved shuttle run times and standing long jump performance. Finally, one study demonstrated better inhibition control and improvements in sleep quality, including increased sleep duration and efficiency. Conclusions: Mini-basketball interventions can improve social responsiveness and related outcomes in children with ASD. These findings support mini-basketball as a feasible, safe, and effective intervention that could be integrated with existing therapeutic approaches. Full article
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28 pages, 3143 KB  
Article
Week-by-Week Predictive Value of External Load Ratios on Injury Risk in Professional Soccer: A Logistic Regression and ROC Curve Analysis Approach
by Andreas Fousekis, Konstantinos Fousekis, Georgios Fousekis, Gregory Bizas, Sotiris Vino, Gerasimos Paraskevopoulos, Georgios Gounelas, Panagiotis Konomaras, Yiannis Michailidis, Andreas Stafylidis, Athanasios Mandroukas, Nikolaos Koutlianos, Iosif Gavriilidis and Thomas Metaxas
Medicina 2025, 61(11), 1954; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61111954 - 30 Oct 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3978
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the week-by-week predictive value of Acute:Chronic Workload Ratios (ACWRs) for non-contact injury risk in professional soccer players. Materials and Methods: A cohort of 40 elite players was monitored using GPS over two competitive [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the week-by-week predictive value of Acute:Chronic Workload Ratios (ACWRs) for non-contact injury risk in professional soccer players. Materials and Methods: A cohort of 40 elite players was monitored using GPS over two competitive seasons. Binomial logistic regression and ROC curve analyses were performed on ACWR metrics—including total distance, moderate-to high-speed running, sprinting, acceleration, and deceleration—during the four weeks prior to injury (W4 to W1). p-values were further adjusted for multiple comparisons using the false discovery rate (FDR) correction (q < 0.05). Results: Significant predictive models emerged mainly for ACWR metrics related to moderate-speed running (15–20 km/h), sprinting (>25 km/h), and acceleration/deceleration. The ACWR for 15–20 km/h (DSR15–20) demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy, particularly in Week 3 (AUC = 0.811, p = 0.004). Sprinting (DSR>25) was also significantly associated with injury occurrence across Weeks 1–4 (AUC = 0.709–0.755, p = 0.011–0.024). Acceleration (ACC) and deceleration (DEC) metrics showed significant associations prior to correction—ACC in Weeks 3–4 (AUC = 0.737–0.755, p = 0.020–0.026) and DEC in Weeks 3–4 (AUC = 0.720–0.741, p = 0.029–0.043)—but these associations did not retain significance following FDR adjustment (q = 0.052–0.086). In contrast, total distance (ACWR TD) and high-speed running (20–25 km/h) were weaker predictors, reaching only marginal or nonsignificant levels (e.g., Week 3, AUC = 0.675, p = 0.054). After FDR correction, only DSR15–20 and DSR>25 remained statistically significant (q < 0.05), confirming them as robust predictors of non-contact injury risk. Multivariable models adjusted for age and playing position confirmed these findings, with DSR15–20 and DSR>25 retaining their predictive value independent of confounding factors. Injury risk thresholds were established through Estimated Marginal Means (EMMs), defining the “Sweet Spot” and “Danger Zone” for each metric, whereas the “Low Load” zone was treated as exploratory. Conclusions: This weekly ACWR monitoring approach enables practical injury risk profiling, helping training staff optimize load management and minimize non-contact injury risk in elite soccer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sports Medicine and Sports Traumatology)
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19 pages, 5892 KB  
Article
The Immediate Effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Pain and Function in Female Runners with Patellofemoral Pain
by Seong Chan Cho and Young Kyun Kim
Medicina 2025, 61(11), 1912; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61111912 - 24 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2329
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is the most prevalent running-related injury due to underlying biomechanical factors, particularly among female runners. Although instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a popular therapeutic technique, the optimal application site for the short-and long-term outcomes of [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is the most prevalent running-related injury due to underlying biomechanical factors, particularly among female runners. Although instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a popular therapeutic technique, the optimal application site for the short-and long-term outcomes of PFP has not been well established. This aim of this study was to compare the immediate and short-term (1-week) effects of a single IASTM treatment applied to the hip and knee versus the knee alone on running-related pain. Range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, and functional performance were also assessed to compare change between the two treatment conditions. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight female runners with PFP were randomly assigned to either the Hip and Knee (HK) group (n = 14) or the knee-only (K) group (n = 14). The HK group received a 7-min IASTM treatment targeting the quadriceps, patella, iliotibial band (ITB), and gluteus medius, whereas the K group received a 3-min treatment targeting the quadriceps and patella. Visual analog scale (VAS), hip adduction ROM, hip abduction/external rotation strength, and step-down test scores were measured at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and 1 week later. Results: Running-related pain significantly decreased in both groups (main effect of time, p < 0.001) from baseline (HK: 5.49 ± 2.14 [95% CI: 4.78–6.68]; K: 5.30 ± 1.45 [95% CI: 4.69–5.91]) to week 1 (HK: 1.30 ± 1.08 [95%CI: 0.69–1.90]; K: 1.57 ± 1.20 [95%CI: 0.93–2.21]). However, no significant difference was found between the groups. Significant improvement was also observed in hip adduction ROM (p < 0.001), hip abduction strength (p = 0.02), step-down pain (p < 0.001), and patellofemoral function (p < 0.001) immediately after the intervention, which was sustained at the 1-week follow-up. However, no significant difference was found between the groups. Also, hip external rotation strength showed no significant change over time or between groups (p = 0.737). Conclusions: A single IASTM session effectively reduced pain and improved function in female runners with PFP. However, the hip treatment did not show a significant additional benefit compared with knee treatment alone. IASTM can provide immediate and short-term relief of pain and functional limitations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Injuries: Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation)
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13 pages, 388 KB  
Article
Efficacy and Safety of Valproic Acid Transition Regimens from Intravenous to Oral Administration in Epileptic Patients: A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study
by Liying Chen, Yiting Zhou, Jing Zhang, Lisan Zhang and Guodong Lou
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(20), 7442; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14207442 - 21 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1749
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of valproic acid (VPA) transition regimens (from intravenous to oral tablets) for anti-seizure treatment. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on inpatients treated with intravenous VPA and oral tablets for epilepsy [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of valproic acid (VPA) transition regimens (from intravenous to oral tablets) for anti-seizure treatment. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on inpatients treated with intravenous VPA and oral tablets for epilepsy at the Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, affiliated with Zhejiang University, between January 2022 and December 2023. Various transition strategies from VPA injections to tablets were examined, and the efficacy and safety of different transition strategies were analyzed. Results: A total of 164 inpatients receiving VPA transition therapy were included in this study, which was divided into three groups based on the transition timing: the 0 h group, the 0–48 h group, and the >48 h group. Regarding VPA dosage, the median daily dose of intravenous VPA was separately 1076.50 mg/day, 1200 mg/day and 1438 mg/day in the 0 h group, 0–48 h group, and the >48 h group. During transition, the daily doses of VPA were significantly higher than that before and after the transition. After completely switching to oral administration, they were all decreased to 1000 mg/day. Moreover, a significant difference regarding the clinical efficacy was observed among the three groups. The >48 h group showed the highest rate of clinical efficacy, which was significantly greater than that of the 0 h group and 0–48 h group. Although there was no statistical significance detected regarding the average blood serum concentrations among the three groups; notably, a higher proportion of patients in the >48 h group (19.35%) had blood concentrations exceeding the desired therapeutic window compared with the 0–48 h group (8.06%) and 0 h group (0%). Adverse events included 30 cases in the 0 h group, 42 in the 0–48 h group, and 67 in the >48 h group, with statistically significant differences in hemoglobin reduction, headache/dizziness, and liver injury. No significant differences were found in digestive and skin-related reactions. Conclusions: The results suggest that the >48 h transition regimen may show some advantages in efficacy but also increases the risk of adverse reactions significantly. Therefore, it is recommended to complete the intravenous-to-oral switch carefully with blood drug concentrations strictly monitored. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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16 pages, 311 KB  
Article
Hamstring Strength and Architectural Properties Are Associated with Running Biomechanics
by Nicholas Ripley, Christopher Bramah, Paul Comfort and John McMahon
Muscles 2025, 4(4), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/muscles4040044 - 13 Oct 2025
Viewed by 4058
Abstract
Applied muscular strain and hamstring strain capacity have a joint interaction on hamstring strain injury (HSI) with modifiable risk factors frequently assessed. However, to date there is limited observations on the interaction between these factors. The purpose of the present study was to [...] Read more.
Applied muscular strain and hamstring strain capacity have a joint interaction on hamstring strain injury (HSI) with modifiable risk factors frequently assessed. However, to date there is limited observations on the interaction between these factors. The purpose of the present study was to observe if spatiotemporal characteristics, running kinematics and muscle activation were related to modifiable risk factors of HSI. Twenty-two competitive team sport athletes (24.7 ± 4.3 years, 1.82 ± 0.07 m, 84.9 ± 8.5 kg) participated whereby the Bicep femoris long head (BFLH) fascicle length assessed via ultrasound and isokinetic eccentric hamstring strength was assessed. With running assessment performed at 18 km/h, capturing running kinematics and muscle activation. Multiple linear regressions were used to examine the relationship of running kinematics and muscle activation on the modifiable risk factors of HSI on. The overall model (F2,19) was statistically significant for both relative eccentric hamstring strength (F = 23.58, p < 0.001) and BFLH fascicle length (F = 18.87, p < 0.001) highlighting spatiotemporal characteristics, running kinematics and hamstring activation were found to be significantly related to the modifiable risk factors. There is a complex interrelationship between running mechanics and hamstring muscle properties, with the potential of either cause or consequence association. Full article
20 pages, 6534 KB  
Systematic Review
Acute Kidney Injury Biomarkers in Marathon Runners: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Daniel-Corneliu Leucuța, Loredana-Ioana Trif, Oana Almășan, Ștefan Lucian Popa and Abdulrahman Ismaiel
Medicina 2025, 61(10), 1775; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61101775 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 2540
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The objectives of this review were as follows: to measure changes in renal biomarker levels before, immediately after, and 24 h post-marathon; to identify promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of acute kidney injury; and to describe the temporal patterns [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The objectives of this review were as follows: to measure changes in renal biomarker levels before, immediately after, and 24 h post-marathon; to identify promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of acute kidney injury; and to describe the temporal patterns of biomarker dynamics in relation to the marathon. Materials and Methods: Studies of marathon runners reporting AKI-related biomarkers were included. Four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and LILACS) were searched. Data on study design, participant characteristics, and biomarker values (pre-, post-, and 24 h post-race) were extracted, and a random effects meta-analysis was performed. Risk of bias was assessed with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute pre–post tool. Results: The study showed significant increases in most biomarkers immediately after the marathon compared to baseline values. The largest increases were observed in Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases-2* Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein-7 (TIMP-2*IGFBP), copeptin, urinary Liver-type Fatty Acid Binding Protein (L-FABP), urinary Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1), IGFBP-7, urinary Chitinase 3-like Protein 1 (YKL-40), and TIMP-2, suggesting that these biomarkers are promising candidates for future research. Several patterns of biomarker evolution were observed: some increased without decreasing even at 24 h after the marathon; others increased post-marathon and decreased at 24 h while remaining above baseline; some increased after the marathon and then fell below baseline at 24 h. Conclusions: Marathon running causes significant increases in kidney injury biomarkers, with different patterns of evolution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sports Medicine and Sports Traumatology)
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22 pages, 7050 KB  
Article
Designing for Special Neurological Conditions: Architecture Design Criteria for Anti-Misophonia and Anti-ADHD Spaces for Enhanced User Experience
by Yomna K. Abdallah
Architecture 2025, 5(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/architecture5040085 - 23 Sep 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3715
Abstract
ADHD and misophonia are developmental neurological disorders that are currently increasing in prevalence due to excessive acoustic and visual pollution. ADHD, which is characterized by a lack of attention and excessive impulsive hyperactivity, and misophonia, which is hypersensitivity to sounds accompanied by a [...] Read more.
ADHD and misophonia are developmental neurological disorders that are currently increasing in prevalence due to excessive acoustic and visual pollution. ADHD, which is characterized by a lack of attention and excessive impulsive hyperactivity, and misophonia, which is hypersensitivity to sounds accompanied by a severe emotional and psychological reaction, are both affected by the user’s spatial environment to a great extent. Spatial design can contribute to increasing or decreasing these unfavorable sensory triggers that affect individuals with ADHD and/or Misophonia. However, the role of architectural spatial design as a therapeutic approach to alleviate the symptoms of Misophonia and ADHD has never been proposed before in the literature, despite its accumulative and chronic effects on the user’s experience in everyday life in terms of well-being and productivity. Therefore, the current work discusses this problem of neglecting the potential effect of architectural spatial design on alleviating Misophonia and ADHD. Thus, the objective of the current work is to propose customized architectural spatial design as a therapeutic approach to alleviate Misophonia and ADHD through adopting the compatible architectural trends of minimal and metaphysical architecture. The methodology of the current work includes a theoretical proposal of this customized architectural spatial design for alleviating these two special neurological conditions. This includes introducing and analyzing these two neurological conditions and their relation to and interaction with architectural spatial design, analyzing minimal and metaphysical architectural trends employed in the proposed therapeutic architectural design, and then proposing augmented and virtual reality as auxiliary add-ons to the architectural spatial design to boost its therapeutic effect. Minimal architecture achieves the “no emotion” criteria through reduced forms, patterns, and colors and adopts simple geometry and natural materials to reduce sensory stressors or stimuli, in order to alleviate the loss of attention and distraction prevalent in those with ADHD, as well as allowing the employment of acoustic materials to achieve acoustic comfort and noise blockage for Misophonia relief. Metaphysical architecture leads the hierarchy of sensory experience through the symbolistic, dynamic, and enigmatic composition of forms and colors, which enhance the spatial analysis and cognitive capacities of the inhabitants. Meanwhile, the use of customized virtual and augmented reality environments is an effective add-on to minimal and metaphysical architectural spaces thanks to its proven therapeutic effect in alleviating various neurological disorders and injuries. At this level of intervention, VR/AR can be used as an add-on to minimal-architecture design, to simulate varied scenarios, as minimal design offers a clean canvas for simulating these varied virtual environments. The other option is to build these customized VR/AR scenarios around a specific architectural element as an add-on metaphysical architecture design to lead the sensory experience and enable the user to detach from the physical constraints of the space. AI-generated designs were used as a proof of concept for the proposed customized architectural spatial design following minimal and metaphysical architecture, as well as to provide AR and VR scenarios as add-on architecture to enhance the therapeutic effect of these architectural spaces for Misophonia and ADHD patients. Furthermore, the validity of VR/AR as a therapeutic approach, alongside the customized architectural design, was discussed, and it was concluded that this study proves the need for extended clinical studies on its efficiency in the long run, which will be conducted in the future. Full article
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