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Acute effects of squat loading intensity on performance in competitive judo athletes
(Nature Portfolio, 2026) Aydin, Savas; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) is used to acutely improve sport-specific performance, yet the optimal loading strategy for complex combat sports remains unclear. This randomized, counterbalanced crossover study investigated the acute effects of moderate- and maximal-load squat conditioning activities on judo-specific fitness among nationally competitive male judokas. All participants completed three sessions on separate days (>= 48 h apart): a control condition consisting of a standardized judo-specific warm-up only, an 80%-PAPE protocol (warm-up + 6 squats at 80% of 6RM), and a 100%-PAPE protocol (warm-up + 1 squat at 100% 1RM). After a 7-min passive recovery, athletes performed the Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT). Data were analyzed using one-way repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc tests. The 80%-PAPE condition produced the greatest improvements in total throws and the SJFT index, whereas the 100%-PAPE condition did not enhance throw performance but improved 1-min heart rate recovery. These findings indicate that moderate-load PAPE provides a more favorable potentiation-fatigue balance for optimizing judo-specific performance under short recovery periods.
Deep learning for gender estimation using hand radiographs: a comparative evaluation of CNN models
(Bmc, 2025) Ulubaba, Hilal Er; Atik, Ipek; Ciftci, Rukiye; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.
BackgroundAccurate gender estimation plays a crucial role in forensic identification, especially in mass disasters or cases involving fragmented or decomposed remains where traditional skeletal landmarks are unavailable. This study aimed to develop a deep learning-based model for gender classification using hand radiographs, offering a rapid and objective alternative to conventional methods.MethodsWe analyzed 470 left-hand X-ray images from adults aged 18 to 65 years using four convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures: ResNet-18, ResNet-50, InceptionV3, and EfficientNet-B0. Following image preprocessing and data augmentation, models were trained and validated using standard classification metrics: accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. Data augmentation included random rotation, horizontal flipping, and brightness adjustments to enhance model generalization.ResultsAmong the tested models, ResNet-50 achieved the highest classification accuracy (93.2%) with precision of 92.4%, recall of 93.3%, and F1 score of 92.5%. While other models demonstrated acceptable performance, ResNet-50 consistently outperformed them across all metrics. These findings suggest CNNs can reliably extract sexually dimorphic features from hand radiographs.ConclusionsDeep learning approaches, particularly ResNet-50, provide a robust, scalable, and efficient solution for gender prediction from hand X-ray images. This method may serve as a valuable tool in forensic scenarios where speed and reliability are critical. Future research should validate these findings across diverse populations and incorporate explainable AI techniques to enhance interpretability.
Deep Learning for Sex Estimation from Whole-Foot X-Rays: Benchmarking CNNs for Rapid Forensic Identification
(Mdpi, 2025) Ciftci, Rukiye; Atik, Ipek; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Background: Accurate sex estimation is crucial in forensic identification when DNA analysis is impractical or remains are fragmented. Traditional anthropometric approaches often rely on single bone measurements and yield moderate levels of accuracy. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for automated sex estimation using entire foot radiographs, an approach rarely explored. Methods: Digital foot radiographs from 471 adults (238 men, 233 women, aged 18-65 years) without deformities or prior surgery were retrospectively collected at a single tertiary center. Six CNN architectures (AlexNet, ResNet-18, ResNet-50, ShuffleNet, GoogleNet, and InceptionV3) were trained using transfer learning (70/15/15 train-validation-test split, data augmentation). The model performance was assessed using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, and F1-score. Results: InceptionV3 achieved the highest accuracy (97.1%), surpassing previously reported methods (typically 72-89%), with balanced sensitivity (97.5%) and specificity (96.8%). ResNet-50 followed closely (95.7%), whereas simpler networks, such as AlexNet, underperformed (90%). Conclusions: Deep learning applied to whole-foot radiographs delivers state-of-the-art accuracy for sex estimation, enabling rapid, reproducible, and cost-effective forensic identification when DNA analysis is delayed or unavailable, such as in mass disasters or clinical emergency settings.
Effects of combined aerobic exercise and diet on cardiometabolic health in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
(Bmc, 2023) Al-Mhanna, Sameer Badri; Rocha-Rodriguesc, Silvia; Mohamed, Mahaneem; Batrakoulis, Alexios; Aldhahi, Monira I.; Afolabi, Hafeez Abiola; Yagin, Fatma Hilal
Background Lifestyle modifications involving diet and exercise are recommended for patients diagnosed with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The purpose of this review was to systematically evaluate the effects of combined aerobic exercise and diet (AEDT) on various cardiometabolic health-related indicators among individuals with obesity and T2DM.Methodology A comprehensive search of the PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases was conducted for this meta-analysis. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to evaluate eligible studies, and the GRADE tool was used to rate the certainty of evidence. A random-effects model for continuous variables was used, and the results were presented as mean differences or standardised mean differences with 95% confidence intervals.Results A total of 16,129 studies were retrieved; 20 studies were included, and data were extracted from 1,192 participants. The findings revealed significant improvements in body mass index, body weight, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, fasting plasma insulin, glycated hemoglobin, leptin, interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and adiponectin (p < 0.05) compared to the standard treatment (ST) group. No significant differences were observed between the AEDT and ST groups in fat mass, hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. The present findings are based on low- to moderate-quality evidence.Conclusions AEDT may be a critical behavior for holistic cardiometabolic health-related benefits as a contemporary anti-obesity medication due to its significant positive impact on patients with obesity and T2DM. Nevertheless, further robust evidence is necessary to determine whether AEDT is an effective intervention for lowering cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors among individuals with obesity and T2DM.
Enhancing Pulmonary Function in Children with a 4-week Yoga Exercise Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial
(Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications, 2025) Soyler, Mehmet; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Aydin, Engin; Senol, Ilkin; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Background: Yoga is a widely recognized form of aerobic exercise that has gained significant popularity in recent years, with well-documented positive effects on respiratory functions. However, there is a limited body of research investigating the impact of yoga performed for various durations. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the acute and chronic effects of a 4-week hatha yoga (HY) exercise program with different durations (60 min and 30 min) on pulmonary function in sedentary young individuals. Methods: A total of 52 sedentary individuals aged 15-16 years were randomly divided into three groups: 60 min HY group (60 min HY, n = 21), 30 min HY group (30 min HY, n = 15), and control group (CG, n = 16). The 60 mHY and 30 mHY groups underwent a yoga exercise protocol twice a week for 4 weeks, while the participants in the CG were instructed on the physical activity guidelines but did not perform yoga exercises. Pulmonary function profile was assessed using a spirometer device. Results: The forced vital capacity of the groups in the 60 mHY group increased after 4 weeks compared to the 30 mHY and CG groups (P = 0.002, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.10- -0.07). The forced expiratory volume in one second (P < 0.001, 95% CI = -0.03-0.54) improved in the 60 mHY group. Peak expiratory flow was least improved in the CG (P = 0.004, 95% CI =-1.23 to - 0.32). Forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% (FEF25/75) of vital capacity changed the most at 60 mHY (P = 0.004, 95% CI=-1.72 to - 0.49). The forced expiratory time varied with time but did not differ across the groups. Conclusions: A 4-week HY program, particularly with 60-min sessions, significantly improved pulmonary function in sedentary young participants. The findings suggest that the longer the duration of HY, the greater the effects on the pulmonary system, and therefore, we suggest that the effects of yoga programs on different populations should be investigated.
Examining mindfulness and moral disengagement in doping: Perspective of Turkish wrestlers
(Frontiers Media Sa, 2023) Ayyildiz, Erdem; Kayabesler, Hamza; Gulu, Mehmet; Yagin, Fatma Hilal; Aldhahi, Monira I.; Garcia-Grimau, Elena; Al-Mhanna, Sameer Badri
Introduction: Studies related to attitudes toward the use of prohibited substances in Turkish athletes are scarce. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has implemented anti-doping educational policies emphasizing doping-related education in studies conducted among Turkish wrestlers. However, it is still unclear the extent to which the wrestlers comply and adhere to these anti-doping policies. No research has previously examined the effect of anti-doping education on athletes' mindfulness and moral disengagement in doping (MDD). Therefore, the present study has a two-fold objective: first, to examine whether doping-related education (DRE) and the status of being a national athlete (NA) have an effect on athlete mindfulness and MDD. Second, to analyze the relationship between each sub-dimensions of athlete mindfulness: awareness (ASD), judgment (JSD), and refocus (RSD) with MDD.Methods: A total of 409 male wrestlers participated in this study. MANOVA analysis showed that NA and DRE alone have no effect on MDD but have a general effect on mindfulness.Results: The highest effect was on the ASD of being an NA (?(2 )(p)= 0.173). When the interaction effect of NA*DRE was examined, significant difference in MDD (F = 8.218, p = 0.004), ASD (F = 8.476, p = 0.004), JSD (F = 5.844, p = 0.016), and RSD (F = 11.476, p = 0.001) were found. MDD has a weak negative relationship with ASD (r = -0.126) and RSD (r = -0.041) and a weak positive relationship with the JSD sub-dimension (r = 0.140). Those results suggest that being a NA and having received anti-doping education affect moral disengagement in doping and athletes' mindfulness.Discussion: As a conclusion, it is recommended to increase awareness and anti-doping education among national-standard Turkish wrestlers to prevent them from engaging in doping behaviors.
Gonarthrosis related changes in quadriceps muscle architecture and physical function outcomes in women
(Nature Portfolio, 2025) Ciftci, Rukiye; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.
This study aimed to assess the effects of gonarthrosis on quadriceps muscle architecture and fatigue, physical function, and postural balance in women compared with healthy controls. Eighty-one females diagnosed with gonarthrosis (n = 40) and healthy control group (n = 41) aged between 47 and 77 years participated in the study. After demographic data were collected, right and left rectus femoris (RF), vastus intermedius (VI), vastus lateralis (VL) thicknesses and RF pennation angle (PA) were determined using a 2D real-time ultrasound device (USG). RF and VI depths and RF cross-sectional area (CSA) were obtained using ultrasound with the probe positioned in a transverse orientation to the muscle. In addition, the participants underwent the timed up and go test (TUG), 30-sec sit-and-up test (SU30s), and completed the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). The relationship between functional tests and right and left quadriceps muscle architecture parameters was also analyzed. In our study, the right CSA (p < .001, t=- 8.609, ES = 1.92), left VL (p = .020, t= - 2.365, ES = 0.052), and left CSA (p < .001, t=- 10.164, ES = 2.26) were significantly higher in the healthy group. Conversely, TUG (p < .001, t = 4.882, ES = 1.08) and FSS (p < .001, t = 10.362, ES = 2.29) were significantly higher in the gonarthrosis group, while SU30s values were higher in the control group (p < .001, t = - 12.262, ES = 2.73). Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between SU30s and CSA, whereas TUG and FSS showed a positive correlation with CSA (p < .001). According to the results of our study, some morphological losses were observed in the quadriceps muscle architecture of participants with gonarthrosis. Decreases in CSA affect functional performance. Determination of quadriceps muscle architecture in patients with gonarthrosis can be used to predict functional loss.
The insufficiency of recreational exercises in improving cardiovascular fitness: an investigation of ventricular systolic and diastolic parameters and left atrial mechanical functions
(Bmc, 2023) Akgumus, Alkame; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Aydin, Engin; Balun, Ahmet; Car, Bekir; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.
AimThis study aimed to compare the left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic parameters and left atrial (LA) mechanical functions of individuals engaging in recreational sports and resistance exercises on a weekly basis.MethodsA total of 43 male amateur athletes were included in this study, of which 24 performed resistance exercises (REs) (29.70 +/- 8.74 year, weight: 81.70 +/- 12.64 kg, height: 176.05 +/- 7.73 cm, BMI: 27.64 +/- 4.97 kg/m2), and 19 participated in recreational football training and were included in the recreational sports group (31.73 +/- 6.82 year, weight: 86.00 +/- 18.52 kg, height: 178.62 +/- 4.95 cm, BMI: 25.55 +/- 3.42 kg/m2). The exercises were standardized according to the weekly exercise frequency and volume. After recording the participants' demographic information, the LV systolic and diastolic parameters and LA mechanical functions were measured using echocardiography (ECHO) and Tissue Doppler Imaging.ResultsSignificant differences were observed in various cardiac parameters between the recreational sports group (REG) and resistance exercise Group (RSG). Specifically, the left ventricular (LV) diastolic diameter, LV end diastolic volume index (LVEDVi), and stroke volume index were notably higher in the REG compared to the RSG (t = 2.804, p = .010, effect size (ES) = 2.10; t = 3.174, p = .003, ES = 0.98; t = 3.36, p = .002, ES = 1.02, respectively). Notably, the RSG exhibited higher values for LV mass index (LVMi) and isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) than the REG (t = 2.843, p = .007, ES = 0.87; t = 2.517, p = .016, ES = 0.76) in terms of LV systolic and diastolic parameters. Regarding left atrial (LA) mechanics, the REG demonstrated increased LA total emptying volume index, LA maximum volume index, LA volume before systole measured at the onset of the p-wave index, and conduit volume index compared to RSG (t = 2.419, p = .020, ES = 0.75; t = 2.669, p = .011, ES = 0.81; t = 2.111, p = .041, ES = 0.64; t = 2.757, p = .009, ES = 0.84, respectively).ConclusionOur study revealed significant variations in LV and LA functions between REG and RSG. Our data suggest that REs led to substantial cardiac remodeling, altering myocardial structure and function. In contrast, the effect of recreational exercise on cardiac adaptation was less pronounced than that of resistance exercise. Consequently, we propose that individuals engaging in recreational exercise should consider modalities that impose higher cardiovascular demand for more effective cardiac conditioning.
Investigating the Impact of Body Composition Analysis on Quality of Life and Anxiety-Depression in Adult Males with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
(Mdpi, 2025) Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Ciftci, Rukiye; Cicek, Ipek Balikci; Durmaz, Dilber; Deniz, Mine Argali; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Background/Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disorder characterized by systemic manifestations, including altered body composition, reduced quality of life, and psychological distress. Despite its significance, the relationship between body composition parameters and symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, and depression in patients with COPD remains underexplored. This study aimed to examine the association between detailed body composition metrics and quality of life, fatigue, and anxiety and depression symptoms in male patients with COPD compared to healthy controls. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 49 men with COPD and 51 age-matched healthy controls aged 50-80 years. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Pulmonary function, dyspnea, activities of daily living, and psychological status were evaluated using spirometry, the Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, the London Chest Activity of Daily Living Scale (LCADL), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), respectively. Results: Compared to the controls, patients with COPD exhibited significantly lower forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1: 1.1 vs. 2.16 L; p < 0.001), lower fat mass (15.0 vs. 24.3 kg; p < 0.001), and higher muscle mass (53.8 vs. 42.0 kg; p < 0.001). They also reported significantly greater fatigue (Borg scale: 4 vs. 0; p < 0.001), higher anxiety (8 vs. 5; p = 0.006), and depression scores (11 vs. 5; p < 0.001), along with more pronounced limitations in their daily activities. Conclusions: COPD is associated with profound impairments in body composition, physical function, and mental health. Detailed body composition analysis using BIA provides valuable clinical insights and may aid in tailoring individualized interventions to improve quality of life and psychological outcomes in COPD management.
Investigation of Factors Affecting Shuttle Walking Performance at Increased Speed for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
(Mdpi, 2023) Ciftci, Rukiye; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Durmaz, Dilber; Eler, Serdar; Eler, Nebahat; Aldhahi, Monira I.
The aim of this study was to examine the factors affecting the shuttle walking test (SWT) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A total of 29 patients with COPD (the COPD group) and a healthy group (HG) of 34 women aged between 55 and 74 years were included in the study. After the pulmonary function profiles of the participants were assessed, and the SWT was performed. Walking distances, walking speeds, and SWT levels (SWT-L) were determined with the SWT. Before and after the SWT, the heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation level (SPO2), and Borg scale (perceived exertion (BSe) and dyspnea (BSd)) results were analyzed with a paired sample t-test. The dyspnea levels during activity of daily living were determined with the Medical Research Council (MRC) dyspnea scale, and the relationship between MRC dyspnea (MRCD) and walking distance, speed, and SWT-L was tested using multiple linear regression and Pearson correlation analysis. The walking distance, speed, and SWT-L were lower in the COPD group (p < 0.001) than in the HG. The HR values before and after the SWT changed significantly in the COPD group and the HG (p< 0.001), and the effect size was higher in the COPD group. Although the BSe and BSd results before and after the SWT in the COPD group increased significantly (p < 0.001), they did not change in the HG. There was a highly negative correlation between MRCD and walking distance, speed, and SWT-L in the COPD group (p = 0.002, p = 0.000, and p = 0.001, respectively), but no correlation was found in the HG. The results showed that the HR, perceived exertion, and dyspnea levels of women with COPD whose respiratory functions were lower than the HG were significantly affected on the SWT.
Isokinetic knee strength as a predictor of cardiorespiratory responses during loaded aerobic capacity test in elite athletes
(Nature Portfolio, 2025) Car, Bekir; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Atar, Ozdemir; Turkmen, Musa; Eken, Ozgur; Soyler, Mehmet; Aldhahi, Monira I.
This study aimed to investigate the predictive capacity of knee isokinetic strength parameters on cardiorespiratory responses during aerobic capacity test (ACT). It provides novel insights into the interplay between muscular strength and cardiorespiratory function through comparative analyses of loaded and unloaded ACT protocols in elite athletes. Thirty elite modern pentathlon athletes (age: 21.43 +/- 0.77 years) underwent isokinetic knee strength assessments at angular velocities of 60 degrees/s and 240 degrees/s. Cardiorespiratory parameters-average breath volume (ABV), average breath frequency (ABF), auxiliary oxygen density (AOD), and heart rate (HR)-were recorded during the Bruce Protocol conducted under two conditions: unloaded and with a 10 kg loaded vest. Relationships between isokinetic strength metrics and cardiorespiratory parameters were analyzed using linear regression models. There were no significant differences in ABV, ABF, or AOD between loaded and unloaded ACT conditions (p > .05). However, HR was significantly lower during loaded ACT (p < .05). Linear regression revealed that at 60 degrees/s, several knee strength parameters, including peak torque extension (PT-EXT), peak torque flexion (PT-FLX), total work flexion (TW-FLX), average power flexion (AP-FLX), and agonist strength (AGANT), significantly predicted ABV during loaded ACT (R-2 = 0.804, p = .004). A similar pattern was observed at 240 degrees/s, where comparable predictors explained a significant variance in ABV (R-2 = 0.761, p = .012). No significant predictive relationships were identified during unloaded ACT. Isokinetic knee strength parameters significantly predict cardiorespiratory responses during loaded ACT but not during unloaded protocols. These findings suggest that isokinetic strength assessments may be a valuable tool for optimizing ACT prescription and monitoring training adaptations in elite athletes.
Maximizing phonation: impact of inspiratory muscle strengthening on vocal durations and pitch range
(Bmc, 2025) Yilmaz, Coskun; Bostanci, Ozgur; Eken, Ozgur; Alkahtani, Rania; Aldhahi, Monira I.
BackgroundThis study investigated the acute effects of inspiratory muscle warm-up (IWU) on vocal performance in singers. Proper vocal and respiratory warm-up can enhance vocal range, quality, and endurance. The aim was to determine whether IWU improves maximum phonation time and pitch range, contributing to better voice production efficiency (vocal efficiency) and reduced fatigue. Materials and methodsSingers were selected from the Samsun State Opera and the Ballet Directorate (n = 16). This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the acute effects. The singers in the control group (SC = 8) performed only one session of routine voice warm-up, and the experimental group (SE = 8) conducted an inspiratory muscle warm-up (IWU) of 2 sets, 30 times/set at 40% maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) in addition to routine voice warm-up. Subsequently, All participants were then required to perform pre- and post- pulmonary function tests, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), and voice recordings (note high pitch, note low pitch, high pitch durations and low pitch durations sustained with one breath, and maximum phonation duration). ResultsAll pulmonary function and muscle strength parameters improved in the SE group, with the highest increases in MIP (22.9%) and MEP (14.7%). No significant improvements were noted in the SC group (p > 0.05). The Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion showed that the SE group experienced less difficulty with their vocal performance after IWU (-11.6%, p = 0.006), while no significant change was observed in the SC group (p = 0.316). Both warm-up methods used in the study significantly affected the frequencies of high-pitch sounds (SE = 17.8%, SC = 10.9%, p = 0.003); however, the frequency of low-pitch sounds was not significantly affected (p = 0.437). IWU significantly affected the high-pitched note duration (p < 0.001; 32.17%), low-pitched note duration (p < 0.001; 27.11%), and maximum phonation time (p < 0.001; 21%), while routine voice warm-up did not significantly affect any parameter (p > 0.05). ConclusionsThe combination of IWU with the general body and voice warm-up protocol can acutely improve vocal performance in terms of maximum phonation time, phonation times of the highest and lowest pitched sounds in a single breath, and vocal range levels.
Sex-Specific Associations Between 2D:4D Digit Ratio and Physical Fitness in Prepubertal Children: Evidence from Standardized Agility, Strength, and Endurance Assessments
(Mdpi, 2025) Akgul, Fatih; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Ciftci, Rukiye; Eken, Ozgur; Car, Bekir; Sanal, Alperen; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Background: The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) serves as a non-invasive proxy for prenatal androgen exposure. While its relationship with adult athletic ability is well documented, evidence for its association with childhood physical fitness remains inconsistent, and links between 2D:4D and objective fitness measures in prepubertal children are unclear. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 338 prepubertal children (181 girls, 157 boys; aged 5-12 years) underwent precise measurement of right- and left-hand 2D:4D ratios (intra-class correlation coefficient = 0.94). Physical fitness was evaluated using standardized tests: the Illinois agility run, bent-arm hang, and standing long jump. Results: Among boys, higher 2D:4D ratios were modestly associated with prolonged bent-arm hang performance (beta = 0.19, q = 0.04) and shorter Illinois agility times (beta = -0.19, q = 0.04). No significant associations were observed in girls. All effect sizes were small, suggesting subtle, sex-dependent influences rather than robust predictors of performance. Conclusions: These findings indicate that prenatal hormonal environment may exert a limited, sex-specific influence on early physical fitness characteristics. Although biologically informative, the observed associations are insufficient for direct application in talent identification in sports. Longitudinal research incorporating direct hormonal measurements and broader populations is recommended to clarify developmental mechanisms and causal pathways.
Strategic daytime napping enhances agility and lowers perceived exertion but does not improve fatigue resistance in adolescent soccer players
(Nature Portfolio, 2026) Oncu, Mertkan; Eken, Ozgur; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Daytime naps are increasingly adopted by athletes to alleviate subjective fatigue and restore alertness, yet their impact on high-intensity anaerobic tasks remains unclear. Both nap duration and circadian timing may modulate psychomotor readiness, perceived exertion, and fatigue resistance, but evidence from team-sport settings is limited. This study aimed to determine how different daytime nap durations (25 vs. 45 min) influence agility, repeated-sprint performance, and psychophysiological responses-including perceived exertion and mood-in adolescent soccer players. Sixteen competitive male adolescent soccer players (all intermediate chronotypes) completed three randomized, crossover sessions: no nap (N0), 25-min nap (N25), and 45-min nap (N45). Nap compliance was objectively verified by actigraphy. After a 60-min post-nap wake-up period, participants performed the Pro Agility Test and a repeated-sprint ability (RSA) protocol. Psychophysiological outcomes included ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), Hooper Index, visual analogue scales (VAS) for alertness, and Profile of Mood States (POMS). Agility improved in a clear dose-response pattern (N0 = 5.40 +/- 0.34 s; N25 = 5.18 +/- 0.23 s; N45 = 4.98 +/- 0.29 s; p < 0.001, eta p2 = 0.57). RPE was significantly lower after N45 versus N0 (Delta = -1.4; p < 0.01, eta p2 = 0.45). RSA indices showed no overall condition effect, although best sprint time improved after N45 versus N25 (p < 0.01) with greater fatigue accumulation across repeated sprints (p < 0.05). Mood analysis revealed positive associations between fatigue and RPE and negative associations between vigor and RPE, indicating that mood states are associated with perceived exertion. A 45-min early-afternoon nap meaningfully enhanced agility and reduced perceived exertion but did not improve fatigue resistance during repeated sprints. Coaches should weigh the neuromuscular and perceptual benefits of longer naps against potential fatigue trade-offs when designing pre-competition recovery strategies.
The Acute Effects of 25-Versus 60-Minute Naps on Agility and Vertical Jump Performance in Elite Youth Soccer Players: The Role of Individual Chronotype
(Mdpi, 2025) Eken, Ozgur; Oncu, Mertkan; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Bozkurt, Oguzhan; Turkmen, Musa; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Introduction: While napping is recognized as an effective strategy for mitigating insufficient sleep and enhancing athletic recovery, limited research exists on its effects on football players' anaerobic performance, particularly concerning chronotype variations. This study investigated the impact of strategic napping durations on anaerobic performance and agility in football players under the age of 19 (U19), considering individual chronotypes and psychological factors. Methods: Sixteen young football players (age: 17.18 +/- 1.04 years) participated in this crossover randomized controlled study. Participants underwent three conditions: no nap (NoN), 25 min nap (N25), and 60 min nap (N60), with 48 h washout periods between sessions. Performance was assessed using the Countermovement Jump Test (CMJ), Illinois Agility Test, and Illinois Change-of-Direction Test with Ball. Chronotype assessment, sleep quality, and mood states were evaluated using the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Profile of Mood States Questionnaire, respectively. Results: The 60 min nap protocol demonstrated significant improvements in agility performance compared to other conditions, particularly in the Illinois Agility Test and Change-of-Direction Test with Ball. However, no significant differences were observed in CMJ parameters across napping conditions. Chronotype variations showed correlations with agility performance and psychological factors, with evening-type participants displaying different responses to napping interventions compared to morning-type participants. Conclusions: While a 60 min post-lunch nap did not affect anaerobic performance, it positively influenced agility performance in soccer players. Chronotypic differences significantly impacted both agility performance and associated psychological factors. These findings suggest that integrating napping strategies into athletic training programs, while considering individual chronotypic variations, may present opportunities for enhancing specific aspects of athletic performance. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying physiological, psychological, and cognitive mechanisms of these effects.
The efficacy of Air Alert plyometric training program on enhancing biomotor skills in adolescent basketball players
(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2025) Yalcin, Onur; Acak, Mahmut; Kurtoglu, Ahmet; Eken, Ozgur; Bayer, Ramazan; Aldhahi, Monira I.
Background:Basketball is an important sport that utilizes a variety of biomotor skills. Diverse training programs are employed to enhance the biomotor attributes and elevate the performance levels of basketball players. Plyometric training (PT) is frequently used to improve athlete performance. However, different models of PT can yield varying effects on athletic performance.Methods:This study aimed to determine the impact of a PT program named Air Alert on athletes' biomotor skills. Twenty-four basketball players aged 15 to 16 years voluntarily participated in the study. The participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups: the Air Alert plyometric training group (AIR) (n = 12) and the plyometric training group (n = 12). The AIR was trained 3 days a week, while the plyometric training group was trained 2 days a week for 15 weeks. Pre- and posttest measurements of height (cm), body weight (kg), vertical jump, line agility, 20 m sprint, Illinois agility, repeated sprint, and flamingo balance tests were performed for all participants.Results:There were no significant differences in height (cm) (F = 1.035, P = .320, eta p2 = .045), weight (F = 1.735, P = .201, eta p2 = .073), and BMI measurements (F = 1.376, P = .253, eta p2 = .059) within and between groups. However, significant differences were observed between the groups in vertical jump (F = 14.343, P = .001, eta p2 = .395), line agility (F = 75.366, P = .000, eta p2 = .774), 20 m sprint (F = 93.001, P = .000, eta p2 = .809), balance (F = 59.513, P = .000, eta p2 = .730), Illinois agility test (F = 143.243, P = .000, eta p2 = .867), and repeated sprint test (F = 140.986, P = .000, eta p2 = .865).Conclusion:The results of this study indicate that the AIR program is more effective in enhancing the biomotor skills of basketball players than other plyometric training programs. Based on these results, it is recommended that coaches who aim to develop training strategies to enhance athletic performance should consider incorporating an Air Alert program.

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