Research Projects

Professor: Claudinei Ferreira dos Santos

Line of Research: Functional and Psychophysiological Aspects Associated with Human Performance

JUSTIFICATION: In pursuit of enhanced physical performance, individuals across various sports frequently turn to ergogenic aids. Among the most commonly utilized resources are nutritional ergogenic aids related to delaying muscular fatigue, increasing anaerobic performance, enhancing mental strength, and the ones that assist the processes of muscle gain and fat loss. Alongside the growing competitiveness in sports, there is also an increase in the availability and commercialization of a wide range of ergogenic aids. However, some of these aids lack scientific backing to ensure their effectiveness, particularly due to the vast array of sports modalities and supplementation protocols employed. Notably, running, cycling, and resistance training are highlighted as the most practiced and studied modalities when the objective is to investigate the ergogenic effects of different nutritional resources.

OBJECTIVE: Investigate the effect of different physical exercise protocols combined with different utilization of nutritional ergogenic aids on human performance.

METHODS: Randomized controlled clinical trials will be conducted with healthy adults aged between 18 and 45 years who engage in running, cycling, or resistance training. Different dosages and administration times of caffeine, protein nutritional supplements, creatine, natural juices, and isotonic beverages will be utilized. In conjunction with these administrations, variables related to muscle strength and power, such as peak torque (PT), total work (TW), and muscle fatigue index (FI), will be measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Changes in body composition will be assessed through anthropometric techniques (skinfold measurements) and imaging analysis of different human biological tissues (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or bioelectrical impedance analysis). Aerobic performance will be evaluated by analyzing maximum oxygen consumption (VO₂max) using direct methods (spirometry) and indirect methods (predictive formulas) on a cycle ergometer and programmable electric treadmill. A metabolic gas analyzer will be used for the direct analysis of VO₂max. Following data collection and tabulation, tests will be conducted to verify the normality of the data, followed by statistical inference tests based on the characteristics of the experimental protocols employed.

EXPECTED RESULTS: The various subprojects associated with this larger study will inform professionals in the field of Human Movement Sciences on the effects of different ergogenic aids in conjunction with physical exercise on human performance, thereby contributing to the formulation of evidence-based intervention protocols.

Professor: Raphael Gonçalves de Oliveira

Line of Research: Functional and Psychophysiological Aspects Associated with Human Performance

JUSTIFICATION: IFitness indicators are critical determinants of human performance, influencing the capacity to execute diverse daily tasks with varying degrees of vigor, efficiency, and energy expenditure. Systematic and sustained engagement in physical exercise plays a prominent role in modulating fitness levels, with specific adaptations aligning with the requirements of each exercise modality. Moreover, distinct psychophysiological responses can significantly affect long-term adherence to or discontinuation of exercise regimens, highlighting the importance of investigating how various exercise programs influence these responses. In terms of assessment tools for these fitness indicators, new evaluative possibilities may be developed, while certain existing tools warrant further research to establish their psychometric properties, especially those that offer cost-effective solutions.

OBJECTIVES: Primary – To identify the effects of different exercise modalities and protocols on fitness indicators and psychophysiological responses across various age groups; Secondary – To determine the psychometric properties of accessible and cost-effective measurement instruments for assessing physical fitness indicators.

METHODS: Randomized controlled clinical trials and systematic reviews with meta-analyses will be conducted to identify the acute and chronic effects of different exercise modalities on fitness indicators and psychophysiological variables across age groups. Various fitness indicators will be considered (e.g., cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, flexibility, agility, balance/postural control, strength, power, and muscular endurance), as well as psychophysiological variables (e.g., subjective perception of effort and affective valence). Questionnaires will be used for functional screening and assessment of quality of life. For studies aimed at determining the psychometric properties of new measurement instruments related to physical fitness, gold-standard tools (e.g., isokinetic dynamometer and force platform) will be used as references. In systematic review and meta-analysis studies, database searches with relevant keywords will be systematically performed. In these studies, different exercise modalities will serve as the interventions, while at least one measurement related to fitness indicators or a psychophysiological variable will be required as an outcome. For clinical trial statistics, analysis of covariance with adjustments for baseline data will be applied. The psychometric properties of assessment instruments will be determined through the intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman plotting. Finally, meta-analytic calculations will be performed using the weighted or standardized mean difference between intervention and control groups for the various observable outcomes.

EXPECTED RESULTS: The results are anticipated to enhance understanding of which exercise modalities and protocols are most effective for improving physical fitness indicators across different age groups, thereby impacting human performance. Additionally, this study aims to identify the psychometric properties of new, accessible, and cost-effective measurement instruments for assessing various fitness indicators. The project is also expected to provide insights into the short and long-term effects of physical exercise on psychophysiological responses that influence and impact adherence to different exercise modalities.

Professor: Laís Campos de Oliveira

Line of Research: Functional and Psychophysiological Aspects Associated with Human Performance

JUSTIFICATION: Physical-functional and psychophysiological aspects can be influenced by multiple factors throughout the lifespan. Specific periods, such as pre and postpartum, menopause, and the aging process, typically lead to declines in functional performance due to various factors, including diminished muscle strength and endurance, reduced postural control/balance, and decreased agility. These declines adversely affect the execution of daily tasks and negatively impact the overall life quality. To mitigate these factors, various intervention strategies have been explored, particularly emphasizing physical exercise and the utilization of diverse devices. However, many of these intervention possibilities require further investigation. Additionally, psychophysiological aspects such as self-efficacy, affective valence, and subjective perception of effort can significantly influence observable outcomes, yet few studies have adequately considered these factors. Furthermore, there is a pressing need to develop and validate new technologies that can enhance the functional autonomy of these populations, thereby positively impacting their quality of life.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the effects of various interventions on physical-functional and psychophysiological aspects and to validate new technologies for assessing and managing functional autonomy in diverse populations.

METHODS: Randomized controlled clinical trials will be conducted, alongside systematic reviews with or without meta-analysis. Depending on each specific subproject, physical-functional tests will be performed to identify variables such as muscle strength and endurance; static and dynamic postural balance; range of motion; motor coordination; and agility. Regarding psychophysiological variables, scales will be utilized to assess factors such as self-efficacy, affective valence, subjective perception of effort, among others, depending on the subproject. Functional screening will be conducted through questionnaires aimed at evaluating life quality, sexual health, urinary incontinence, sleep patterns, frailty phenotypes, fear of falling and its incidence, among other factors, as dictated by the subproject. For systematic review studies, searches will consistently be conducted using relevant keywords in specific databases, considering exercise as the exposure variable and physical-functional or psychophysiological variables as outcomes. The validation of new instruments for assessing and managing functional autonomy will be based on the gold-standard instruments as references. The statistical analysis for clinical trials will primarily involve covariance analysis to compare groups with adjustments for baseline data, while the validation of instruments will occur through association measures.

EXPECTED RESULTS: This project aims to contribute new evidence regarding contemporary intervention methods targeting various physical-functional and psychophysiological aspects across diverse populations. Furthermore, it is anticipated that new instruments will be developed to assist in the assessment and management of physical-functional variables that impact the execution of daily activities.

Professor: Carla Cristiane da Silva

Line of Research: Functional and Psychophysiological Aspects Associated with Human Performance

JUSTIFICATION: It is widely recognized that during childhood and adolescence, there is a deficit in the recommended values of health-related physical fitness and human performance. Furthermore, alongside the decline in physical fitness levels among children and adolescents, low scores in motor competence are observed, which is related to proficiency in locomotor and object control skills. This scenario creates a negative feedback loop; that is, low levels of physical fitness exacerbate low levels of motor competence, which, in turn, leads to disengagement from motor activities. Conversely, previous studies have shown that children involved in environments with organized sports and/or recreational activities demonstrated higher levels of physical fitness and motor competence compared to those not engaged in such practices, positively reflecting on various parameters associated with these variables.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of interventions involving physical training, sports activities, and recreational programs on physical performance, motor competence, and immunological and autonomic parameters in children and adolescents.

METHODS: The various subprojects associated with this larger initiative will be conducted through systematic review studies and randomized controlled trials. In the intervention studies, the subjects will always consist of school-aged children of both sexes, aged between 2 and 19 years. Volunteers will undergo assessments at baseline, post-intervention, and during follow-up. Physical growth and body composition indicators will include body mass, height, body mass index, skinfold thickness, and body circumferences measurements. Motor tests will be administered to evaluate physical fitness and to investigate motor competence. Autonomic activity will be assessed through heart rate variability and salivary alpha-amylase levels. The immunological state will be evaluated by analyzing the concentration of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA). Heart rate variability will be measured at rest for 10 minutes in a supine position, with saliva samples collected in a non-stimulated manner. The different intervention protocols associated with this larger project will take place in the physical environment of the schools where the children and adolescents are already enrolled, with weekly frequency and varying durations in each subproject according to specific objectives. Specific physical training sessions, sports activities, and/or recreational programs will be organized, involving locomotor activities (running, jumping, moving), manipulative activities with balls (kicking, throwing, rolling, catching), and stabilizing activities (dynamic balance). The activities will be conducted in a combined manner, allowing children to apply their skills in pre-sport games and recreational activities (tag, relays, circuits). Statistical analyses will primarily consider the interaction between the intervention and control groups over time through repeated measures analysis of variance.

EXPECTED RESULTS: It is anticipated that potential modifications in physical fitness levels and motor competence will be identified, along with their impact on the immunological and autonomic states of children and adolescents. This knowledge will contribute to professional practice regarding selecting activities for this age group. Furthermore, based on observable results, the aim is to develop tools, such as smartphone applications, that can be utilized for monitoring the physical fitness of schoolchildren. These applications will be equipped with specific cut-off points for each test, serving as reference standards for health professionals working with this population.

Professor: Ezequiel Moreira Gonçalves

Line of research: Functional and psychophysiological aspects associated with human performance

JUSTIFICATION: Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is widely used in clinical practice, particularly to assess body composition, hydration status, nutrition and as disease prognosis. Through the assessment of BIA parameters, such as resistance (related to cellular hydration) and reactance (related to membrane integrity), the phase angle can be determined and BIA vector analysis (BIVA) can be performed. Phase angle is widely used as an indicator of cell quality, function and integrity. BIVA, on the other hand, is based on interpreting the data from the resulting vector graph considering the resistance and reactance values. It has been widely used to analyze hydration levels, cell mass and to assess typical changes in body systems during growth and aging processes, as well as the effects of physical exercise and sports on these compartments. Additionally, studies have demonstrated the applicability of BIA to detect muscle injury in sports. Localized BIA measurements in muscle groups allow for practical lesion detection, as BIA is sensitive enough to detect changes in lean tissue hydration as well as cell membrane integrity and structure in a specific area.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship of BIA parameters with performance and health markers in different populations.

METHODS: Randomized and controlled clinical trials, observational and method validation studies will be carried out with athletes of different modalities and healthy individuals, of different age groups and of both sexes. To determine the BIA parameters, a tetrapolar and single frequency device (50kHz) will be used. Performance markers, such as muscle strength and power, will be determined through use of an isokinetic dynamometer, force platform and motor tests; aerobic fitness will be assessed by gas analysis (spirometry) and indirect methods (predictive formulas) in a cycle ergometer. In addition, other physical fitness indicators include: flexibility, speed, agility, balance, anaerobic power (Wingate Test) and body composition (anthropometric measurements, ultrasound, BIA and DXA) and also biochemical markers (lactate, cortisol, C-reactive protein, blood glucose, etc.). Analysis of variance (with adjustments for variables when necessary) will be employed to analyze data from clinical trials. In observational studies, descriptive analysis and linear regression, with validation studies of evaluation instruments being conducted through multivariate linear regression, intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman plotting.

EXPECTED RESULTS: The results of this project should broaden the understanding of the possible relationship between performance indicators and BIA parameters, relating to cell integrity. Checking which sports, modalities and types of physical exercise are most efficient or harmful in cell integrity and hydration. In addition, developing new tools to monitor performance and possible injuries using BIA parameters, with multi-ethnic samples of children, adults and the elderly, with different levels of physical fitness.

Professor: Andreo Fernando Aguiar

Line of research: Functional and psychophysiological aspects associated with human performance

JUSTIFICATION: The ‘human performance’ construct interdependently covers psychophysiological aspects and components of physical fitness related to health (muscle strength/endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility and body composition) and motor performance (power/explosive strength, speed, agility, coordination and balance). Improvement in these components can be obtained through isolated practice of physical exercise or its combination with pharmacological (example: anabolic steroids) and non-pharmacological ergogenic resources, including: sports equipment, psychological techniques, nutritional supplementation, photobiomodulation therapy, among others. However, most aforementioned ergogenic resources do not present scientific confirmation regarding protocol, safety and effectiveness in different populations associated with health and physical performance; in addition, their effects combined with the various types and protocols of physical exercise remain unclear. Thus, additional studies are needed to investigate the impact of different ergogenic resources by themselves, or combined with different models of physical exercise, on the psychophysiological and morphofunctional aspects associated with human performance.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of ergogenic resources, in isolation or associated with physical exercise, on psychophysiological and morphofunctional aspects, associated with human performance.

METHODS: Acute and chronic studies will be carried out, involving young adult (18-65 years) and elderly participants (≥ 65 years) with different levels of physical fitness (trained or untrained). All studies will be pre-approved by the relevant research ethics committee, with clinical trials duly registered on the website https://clinicaltrials.gov/q. The eligibility criteria for sample recruitment, as well as the procedures and experimental protocols for physical exercise (type of test/exercise, equipment, frequency, intensity, volume, etc.) and ergogenic resources (dose, duration, timing, etc.) will be determined according to the needs and characteristics of each study. The dependent variables on this project will be associated with the psychophysiological and morphofunctional aspects of human performance, with an emphasis on improving neuromuscular fitness. The data obtained will be subjected to appropriate statistical analysis, including analysis based on statistical inference and clinical relevance.

EXPECTED RESULTS: In a practical context, it is expected that the results of this project will be able to provide theoretical-practical support for professionals in Human Movement Sciences, who work in human performance improvement programs. In an academic-scientific context, this project should include the training of several undergraduate and graduate students, as well as the dissemination of the work at relevant scientific events and the publication of scientific articles with a high impact factor.

Professor: Antonio Stabelini Neto

Line of research: Preventive and therapeutic aspects of physical activity in chronic diseases

JUSTIFICATION: Physical activity plays an important role in decreasing the size of fat cells, glucose homeostasis, regulating lipids and normalizing blood pressure; it is seen as a prophylactic measure, preventing several conditions and chronic diseases such as: obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, osteoporosis, autoimmune disease and asthma in young age groups. Among these conditions, cardiovascular diseases stand out as the main cause of death, requiring monitoring and early intervention, as a way to reduce cardiometabolic risk. In this sense, there is a need to develop interventions and tools that result in sustained change for healthy behaviors since youth, with the practice of physical activity being one of the most effective means.

OBJECTIVE:

To conduct a longitudinal follow-up and analyze the effects of the interaction between physical activity and sedentary behavior on cardiometabolic risk factors in adolescents, as well as apply intervention programs and develop tools based on behavior change theories.

METHODS: This is a larger project, to which different subprojects will be linked, with a random distribution of volunteers between intervention and control groups, involving the population of children and adolescents, between 10 and 18 years of age, enrolled in the public school system of the cities of the Northern Pioneer Region of Paraná. To measure the practice of physical activity, a digital pedometer will be used, with self-reported data being the basis to evaluate sedentary behavior. The cardiometabolic risk factors evaluated will be: waist circumference; blood pressure; fasting glucose, insulin and triglycerides. Subjects will be evaluated periodically. Regarding intervention programs, they will be developed according to the Theory of Planned Behavior (AJZEN) and the Social Cognitive Theory (BANDURA). To encourage behavior change for an active lifestyle, new technological resources will also be tested, mainly through smartphone applications developed specifically for the subprojects. The general characteristics of the subjects will be presented as mean and standard deviation or median and interquartile range for the numerical variables, and frequency distribution for the categorical variables. The effects of experimental interventions will be analyzed through analysis of variance for repeated measures, considering the factors (control x intervention) and time (pre and post).

EXPECTED RESULTS: The different multidisciplinary interventions and tools developed are expected to reduce the incidence of cardiometabolic risk factors in the investigated subjects. Thus, it is noteworthy that the results obtained from this project can provide valuable information for the positions related to health promotion policies for children and adolescents, in addition to generating technological resources that can be used in these interventions.

Professor: Rui Gonçalves Marques Elias

Line of research: Preventive and therapeutic aspects of physical activity in chronic diseases

JUSTIFICATION: Chronic non-communicable diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, especially cardiometabolic diseases. Risk factors for the development of these diseases have a high prevalence in the global population. In addition to genetic predisposition, the main cause associated with the onset and development of cardiometabolic diseases are risk factors acquired throughout life, such as poor eating habits, lack of physical activity and excess body weight. Such factors can be prevented or modified through changes in lifestyle, and regular systematic practice of physical exercise is one of the most effective actions to combat these conditions, being able to prevent approximately 80% of premature deaths from heart disease and stroke.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze factors associated with cardiometabolic diseases over time, as well as verify the effects of different physical exercise intervention programs on risk factors which lead to the appearance and development of cardiometabolic diseases, in adults.

METHODS: The subprojects linked to this larger project will be carried out with an adult population, of different age groups and of both sexes, randomly distributed between the intervention and control groups. Data will be collected regarding the characterization of the participants, as well as measurements of weight, height, circumferences and percentage of body fat. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels will be measured directly. Blood collection will be performed to identify different variables, such as: total cholesterol rates and fractions, glucose levels while fasting, triglycerides, insulin, tumor necrosis factor dosages, interleukin 6, C-reactive protein and adipokines. Different intervention programs containing physical exercises will be performed, such as: aerobic exercises and combined exercises (including walking and running), activities using body weight and weight lifting. Statistical analyses will involve trajectory analysis, and comparison between experimental and control groups through analysis of variance with repeated measures.

EXPECTED RESULTS: The results of this project should offer subsidies to identify the effectiveness of different physical exercise programs in relation to the prevention and control of cardiometabolic risk factors in the adult population. The most efficient protocols should be made available through smartphone applications, in order to assist professionals who prescribe physical exercises.

Professor: Dartagnan Pinto Guedes

Line of research: Preventive and therapeutic aspects of physical activity in chronic diseases

JUSTIFICATION: Reconciling technological advancements and modernity with the adoption of behaviors aimed at promoting health is one of the great challenges faced by contemporary society. Evidence available in the literature shows that the main causes of morbidities and premature deaths are directly related to modifiable risk behaviors, such as inadequate eating habits, physical inactivity, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, among others. Most risk behaviors start at early ages, especially during adolescence. Consequently, the experimentation and consolidation of risk behaviors in this period of development strongly compromise the health of young people, with serious repercussions throughout life and with little chance of reversing their harm. In this regard, in addition to adolescence being marked by profound physical, cognitive and emotional transformations as a result of the biological maturation process, young people experience a set of stressful situations and sudden changes in conduct, resulting from the interaction between social context, relationship with peers and the environment in which they live, which requires special consideration. Based on the assumption that the promotion of healthy behaviors in young populations can help reduce the onset and development of non-communicable diseases in adulthood, there is a need for valid and reliable data capable of identifying and monitoring health-promoting behaviors in adolescents.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the influence of physical activity, food consumption, screen time and sleep duration on cardiometabolic markers in adolescents.

METHODS: Cross-sectional studies involving adolescent students of both sexes will be performed. Data collection will consider socio demographic data, physical activity, food consumption, screen time, sleep duration, anthropometric measurements, lipid plasma measurements, circulating blood glucose, C-Reactive protein, insulin and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Data will be treated using multivariate (MANOVA) and univariate (ANOVA) analysis of variance. Predictive capabilities, sensitivity, and specificity of health-promoting behaviors to identify presence of metabolic syndrome, compromised C-Reactive protein, and Homa-IR will be defined by ROC curve.

EXPECTED RESULTS: Considering that: (a) the monitoring of behaviors associated with lifestyles in young populations is one of the most significant tasks in the field of public health; (b) the proposition and development of intervention programs regarding the monitoring of health behaviors depend on the existence of information recognized as representative and up to date; (c) difficulties in identifying studies related to health behaviors and their associated factors that may meet the requirements for intervention often requires that health professional use information from casuistry ethnically, socially and culturally distant from their reality; and (d) population surveys carried out periodically can assist in monitoring any changes in indicators associated with health behaviors, thus contributing to assessments of the impact of possible specific health interventions on members of said population. It is believed that the present proposal may offer important information regarding indicators associated with promoting the health of adolescent students, which may significantly contribute to new knowledge in the area, leading to a new option for aiding future studies on the subject, in addition to assisting in intervention actions that favor health promotion/education at a young age.

Professor: Débora Alves Guariglia

Line of research: Preventive and therapeutic aspects of physical activity in chronic diseases

JUSTIFICATION: Chronic diseases are characterized by having one or more of the following characteristics: 1) they are permanent, 2) they leave residual disabilities, 3) they are caused by an irreversible pathological alteration, 4) they require special training for rehabilitation, 5) they require a long period of supervision, observation or care. In this sense, factors such as insufficient physical activity, smoking, unhealthy diet and harmful use of alcohol are understood as the main modifiable risk factors for the development of chronic diseases in Brazil. Thus, understanding the barriers to/facilitators of access to risk factors, monitoring and interventions to modify risk factors are fundamental for improving health in people suffering from chronic diseases.

OBJECTIVES: a) To evaluate the lifestyle in patients with chronic communicable or non-communicable diseases, such as people living with HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and cancer patients; b) To identify barriers/facilitators of lifestyle indicators in people diagnosed with chronic diseases; c) To monitor people living with HIV/AIDS, cancer, hepatitis, among others in the Northern Pioneer Region of Paraná in relation to the practice of physical activity and different health indicators; d) To compare the effect of strategies which modify the lifestyles of people diagnosed with chronic diseases.

METHODS: Through this project, observational studies and clinical trials will be derived to meet the expected objectives. People in treatment of chronic diseases in the region will be invited to volunteer, through announcements in health units which serve this population and distribute medication. Lifestyle and related barriers/enablers will be assessed as primary endpoints. As secondary outcomes, health parameters extracted from medical records, clinical information and the assessment of metabolic syndrome indicators such as abdominal circumference, blood pressure, laboratory tests of glucose levels during fasting, HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides will be evaluated. Regarding the subprojects which involve interventions, the same evaluations will be considered. In this case, interventions should involve face-to-face physical activity programs, educational activities such as lectures, booklets and group dynamics to stimulate healthy behaviors and verify their impact on observable outcomes. Statistical analyses shall consider the model of each subproject, mainly involving association measures in observational studies; and analysis of variance with repeated measures in intervention studies.

EXPECTED RESULTS: The creation of an overview of the health condition and treatment of people with chronic communicable and non-communicable diseases in the Pioneer North region of Paraná, as well as the habits, barriers and facilitators for physical activity. Finally, it is expected that strategies will be developed, which are able to reach people living with chronic diseases, impacting physical activity and health indicators, contributing to better quality of life and treatment conditions for this population.

Professor: Fabrício José Jassi

Line of research: Preventive and therapeutic aspects of physical activity in chronic diseases

JUSTIFICATION: Chronic pain is characterized as a disease in itself, defined as one that lasts beyond the normal tissue healing time, typically being considered a period of three months, resulting in an important risk factor for physical disabilities, sleep disorders and depression, with a consequent negative impact on quality of life. For some time, the recommendations for treatment included rest and physical inactivity, however, current studies have shown that staying active, especially through physical exercise, has great potential as a treatment for this condition, with it necessary to establish the efficacy and safety of interventions more clearly. In addition, it is necessary to establish innovative interventions and protocols within the scope of physical exercise for the treatment of chronic pain.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the effects of different intervention protocols with physical exercises and the impact of physical inactivity in people with chronic pain and its related factors.

METHODS: Systematic review studies, observational studies and randomized controlled clinical trials will be carried out in individuals of different age groups, of both sexes, who suffer from chronic pain. Depending upon the subproject, the following chronic pain conditions will be considered: with specific or nonspecific cause. The evaluations should involve instruments to assess the intensity of pain and disability, in addition to different physical and motor tests. Regarding interventions, the following will be considered, for example: segmental stabilization exercises, multicomponent exercises, in addition to testing new techniques and exercise protocols. Different interventions with physical exercises will be compared against each other, or other techniques typically used to treat chronic pain, such as: conventional physiotherapy, manual therapy and elastic bandage. In observational and systematic review studies, physical inactivity and/or different forms of physical exercise will be considered as exposure variables, with different conditions involving chronic pain as an outcome. Regarding the statistical procedures of the clinical trials, analysis of variance with repeated measures will be mainly used, comparing the intervention and control groups over time. For observational studies, measures of association will be used to verify the impact of exposure variables (e.g., physical activity, physical inactivity, and sedentary behavior) on outcomes of interest (e.g., pain and disability).

EXPECTED RESULTS: This project has the potential to determine the effectiveness and safety of physical exercise programs and the impact of physical inactivity on chronic pain in different populations, in order to contribute to literature on the subject and to decision-making within the scope of professional practice. It will also be able to present innovative possibilities of intervention in people with different conditions of chronic pain, to professionals in the area of physical exercise.

{slider 24-Hour Movement Behavior, physical fitness indicators and mental health in adolescents}

Professor: Géssika Castilho dos Santos

Line of research: Preventive and therapeutic aspects of physical activity in chronic diseases

JUSTIFICATION: Mental health problems currently affect one in seven adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, constituting the leading cause of health-related disability in this age group worldwide. In Brazil, mental disorders are estimated to affect around 17.1% of adolescents. According to Kieling et al. anxiety and depression are ranked as the most common mental disorders in young individuals (10-19 years old). The majority of mental disorders emerge in adolescence, with a peak age of onset of 14.5, this is a critical period of life when many physiological and psychological changes occur, psychological health at this age may be determinant for later periods of life. Some behaviors can play a protective role in relation to adolescent mental health. Previous research has observed that physically active adolescents with less screen time and adequate sleep have better mental health and cognitive function than their peers with inappropriate behaviors. In addition to these 24-hour movement behaviors, numerous studies have found associations between health-related components of physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, and body composition), mental health, and cognitive. Therefore, there is a keen need to identify and monitor 24-hour movement behaviors (physical activity, screen time, and sleep duration) and health-related physical fitness components, as well as, to investigate/promote interventions to promote healthy behaviors and physical fitness result in maintenance and improvement of mental health indicators and cognitive function in adolescents.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the effects of the interaction between physical activity and screen time, sleep duration, and health-related components of physical fitness on indicators of mental health and cognitive function, as well as to investigate the effects of different interventions on these variables in adolescents.

METHODS: Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies will be conducted with adolescents aged 10 to 18 years old, of both sexes. According to each specific subproject, physical activity will be measured using an accelerometer and the PAQ-A (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents);  questionnaire; screen time, sleep duration, and mental health indicators will be assessed using the self-reported method. Cognitive function will be assessed using the domains of memory and inhibitory control. The components of health-related physical fitness will be measured using a battery of tests to identify variables such as cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, and body mass index (BMI). Regarding the interventions, they will be based on the Self-Determination Theory. The data will be treated using generalized linear model and a mixed model.

EXPECTED RESULTS: This project's results are expected to identify and expand our understanding of the impact of different behaviors and components of the APF on the mental health and cognitive function of adolescents, which could contribute significantly to the expansion of new knowledge and future actions in the area.

Professor: Paola Sanches Cella

Line of research: Preventive and therapeutic aspects of physical activity in chronic diseases

JUSTIFICATION: Sarcopenia is characterized by the progressive and generalized loss of muscle strength and mass, while frailty is associated with reduced functional capacity, leading to dependence and a decline in quality of life. Both conditions worsen the prognosis of chronic diseases, extend hospitalization time- with a significant increase in healthcare costs- and elevate the risk of falls, physical disabilities, and mortality. The impact of sarcopenia and frailty is even more pronounced in patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart failure, cancer, and pulmonary diseases, compromising physical functionality and independence. Physical exercise, especially resistance training, emerges as a non-pharmacological intervention and proven efficacy. In addition to promoting muscle hypertrophy, it offers advantages such as low cost, broad applicability, and the absence of adverse effects, making it a potentially important strategy for the prevention and management of sarcopenia. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms involved and applying physical exercise as therapy are crucial to mitigating the impacts of sarcopenia in chronic diseases.

OBJECTIVE: 1) To investigate the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the loss of muscle strength and mass in chronic diseases, and 2) To evaluate the impact of physical exercise on the management of sarcopenia, with a focus on patients’ quality of life and physical function.

METHODS: The project will adopt a translational approach, encompassing preclinical and clinical studies to investigate the effects of physical exercise, particularly resistance training, on the loss of muscle strength and mass associated with chronic diseases. In preclinical study, animals will undergo exercise sessions and will be monitored for muscle strength, body weight, and well-being data. Subsequently, histological, biochemical, and molecular analyses will be conducted. In the clinical study, a group of patients with some chronic disease (diabetes, heart failure, or cancer) will be selected. Exclusion criteria will include medical contraindications to exercise or conditions preventing adherence to the protocol. The patients will participate in a physical exercise program. All patients will be assessed before and after the intervention through measurements of muscle strength, body composition, and functional capacity, as well as quality of life questionnaires and functionality scales.

EXPECTED RESULTS: The project aims to demonstrate the benefits of physical exercise in mitigating the loss of muscle strength and mass associated with chronic diseases, proposing practical recommendations for patients and validating the underlying biological mechanisms through translational models. Additionally, it seeks to futher support practical guidelines for exercise prescription in populations with chronic diseases, aiding healthcare and rehabilitation professionals. On the preclinical front, the findings are expected to contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies, combining physical interventions with potential pharmacological approaches in different contexts of sarcopenia. The project aspires to integrate translational approaches, bridging experimental fundings with clinical applications.