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- The Paradox of Consumption: Material Happiness vs. Environmental ImpactPublication . Ramos, Ricardo; Rodrigues, Maria José; Rodrigues, IsildaThis article analysesthe correlation between consumerism and happiness, investigating whether owning more material goods contributes to increasing happiness levels. The research addresses the issue of the ecological footprint since the consumerist lifestyle contributes significantly to increasing environmental impact. The methodology adopted is quantitative, using a questionnaire to collect the data. The data was statistically analysedto identify patterns, correlations,and possible differences between the groups, consideringvariables such as age, monthly income, gender,and the region of the planet where the participants lived most of their lives. The results show that monthly income does not influence happiness,and that young people are concerned about the environment. However, thoseaged18 to 24 are the ones who acquire more goods for the sake of status, especially males. They tendto prioritisepersonal relationships over material achievementsas they get older. This work will contribute to the discussion on the role of consumerism in contemporary society, reflecting not only on the implications for individual happiness but also for global sustainability
- Machine learning prediction of adolescent obesity using physical fitness dataPublication . Sampaio, Tatiana; Encarnação, Samuel; Amaro, Bruna; Ribeiro, Joana; Branquinho, Luís; Monteiro, António M.; Teixeira, José Eduardo; Hattabi, Soukaina; Sortwell, Andrew; Leite, Luciano Bernardes; Malheiro, Alexandra; Rodrigues, Pedro M.; Beat Knechtle; Flores, Pedro Miguel; Forte, PedroThe escalating prevalence of obesity among adolescents has emerged as a critical global public health challenge. Machine learning techniques have been used to predict obesity in adolescents. This study aimed to develop and validate a robust obesity prediction model for adolescents using this hybrid approach, leveraging data from a diverse cross-sectional population-based study. The hybrid method combines statistical inference with non-linear machine learning to enhance prediction accuracy. Physical fitness data were collected from the FITescola® tests. Multiple tests were employed to evaluate physical fitness. Multiple Poisson's multiple regression method was applied to identify the most predictive variables set of the adolescent's body mass index (BMI) classification. The model's goodness-of-fit statistics indicate a strong fit, with a log-likelihood of 8068.6 and a Pseudo R-squared value of 0.8853, where the aerobic fitness (AF), upper limb strength (ULS) and lower limb flexibility (LLF) presented an inverse association with the adolescent's BMI. In contrast the adolescent's core strength presented a positive association with their body mass. The random forest regression showed that an average of 35 repetition on the yo-yo test predicted a healthy BMI percentile [predBMIperc = 0.31]. In addition, the model presented good validity [MAE = 0.36, MSE = 0.20, RMSE = 0.45, R2 = 0.54]. The model's strong fit and accurate random forest regression's predictions suggest that physical fitness components, such as aerobic fitness, upper limb strength, lower limb power, and core strength, play a significant role in obesity risk among adolescents.
- Combined nandrolone and resistance training induced cardiac remodelling and oxidative stress despite enhanced cardiomyocyte contractilityPublication . Moraes, Alexa Alves de; Suarez, Pedro Zavagli; Quintão, Arthur Eduardo de Carvalho; Fontes, Beatriz Lana; Costa, Sebastião Felipe Ferreira; Rocha, Carolina Camargos; Soares, Leôncio Lopes; Leite, Luciano Bernardes; Oliveira, Leandro Licursi; Reis, Emily Correna Carlo; Oliveira, Edilamar Menezes de; Forte, Pedro; Natali, Antônio José; Carneiro-Júnior, Miguel AraújoNandrolone decanoate (ND) is widely used by individuals engaged in resistance training (RT), yet their combined effects on cardiac function remain unclear. Objective To investigate the effects of RT and ND on cardiac structure and function, cellular contractility, Ca-2 (+) -handling protein expression, and redox balance in rats. Methods Thirty-two male Wistar rats were assigned to four groups: control (C), trained (C-T), ND (N), and trained ND (N-T). Animals received ND or saline for eight weeks, and RT was performed 3 x /week. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography, and isolated cardiomyocytes from the left and right ventricles (LV and RV) were evaluated for contractile function. Protein expression of Ca-2 (+) -handling regulators and oxidative stress markers was quantified. Results N-T increased LV and RV diameters by 25% and 33%, septal thickness by 41.7%, and reduced ejection fraction by 12.3% compared to N (p < 0.05). LV cardiomyocytes increased width by 29% and volume by 23% in N-T versus C-T (p <= 0.04). In LV, N-T showed greater contraction amplitude and velocity at 5 Hz (p = 0.04) and increased relaxation velocity at 1, 3, and 5 Hz (p < 0.01), with shorter time to peak contraction and 50% relaxation at 1 Hz versus N (p = 0.04). In RV, N-T increased contraction amplitude and velocity at 1 and 5 Hz, reduced time to peak at 1 and 3 Hz, shortened relaxation time at 1 Hz, and showed higher relaxation velocity than N and C-T (p < 0.02). Molecular analyses revealed reduced RyR2 expression (25% in LV and 9% in RV) and a 41% decrease in LV phospholamban in N-T versus C-T (p < 0.05). N-T also exhibited higher LV malondialdehyde compared to C-T (p = 0.03). Conclusion ND combined with RT induced adverse cardiac remodeling and impaired ventricular function, despite enhanced cardiomyocyte contractility, and intensified molecular and oxidative disturbances, indicating a maladaptive cardiac response. This is the first study to demonstrate regional differences in contractility and redox balance of isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes under ND plus RT.
- Optimization and Validation of the SBSE–HPLC–FLD Method for the Determination of Priority Pollutants PAHs in Several Water MatricesPublication . Fernandes-Lage, Eduardo; Alves, Maria José; Moura, Cosme; Garcia, JulianaPolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are priority pollutants in drinking and environmental waters. Their mutagenic/carcinogenic potential and ng.L-1 limits demand methods that are both sensitive and practical. We report a rapid, solvent-sparing workflow coupling stir-bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) to HPLC with fluorescence detection (FLD) for simultaneous determination of six PAHs (fluoranthene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benzo[a]pyrene, benzo[ghi]perylene, indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene) in drinking water, groundwater, and surface water. SBSE conditions were optimized, and isocratic RP-HPLC achieved baseline resolution within a 26-min cycle using similar to 39 mL solvent (similar to 20 samples day - 1). Validation under ISO/IEC 17,025 showed linear calibration (r >= 0.99941), limits of detection of 0.4-1.8 ng.L-1, and matrix-verified LOQs of 1.5-10.9 ng.L-1. Trueness and precision met predefined criteria across matrices (recoveries 63.3-109.9%; within-laboratory reproducibility <= 25% RSD), with expanded uncertainties U(k = 2) <= 47.1%. Performance satisfies EU Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184 requirements for benzo[a]pyrene and the regulated PAH sum. By attaining sub-10 ng.L-1 LOQs with FLD alone and documenting a complete uncertainty budget, this procedure offers a cost-effective alternative to LC-MS/MS for routine compliance and surveillance. The validated SBSE-HPLC-FLD protocol is fit-for-purpose for regulatory laboratories and environmental services requiring sensitive, robust, and scalable PAH determination across diverse water matrices.
- Athletes’ origin trends in participation and performance of master runners in the New York City marathon (1999–2024): a sex- and age-group analysisPublication . Duric, Sasa; Villiger, Elias; Andrade, Marilia Santos; Leite, Luciano Bernardes; Forte, Pedro; Chlíbková, Daniela; Nikolaidis, Pantelis Theo; Weiss, Katja; Rosemann, Thomas; Knechtle, BeatIt is well known that the fastest elite marathon runners come from East African countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya. However, to date, there is no information available on the origin of the fastest age group (master) marathoners. This study aimed to determine the countries of origin of the fastest age group marathoners who have participated in the 'New York City Marathon' over the past several decades. Race data from 1,009,839 runners (626,183 male and 383,656 female finishers) who completed the 'New York City Marathon' between 1999 and 2024 were analyzed. Participants were categorized into five-year age groups: <20, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, and 75 + years. The data were stratified by sex (male and female) and country of origin. The dataset was organized into five performance-based subgroups: (i) the entire dataset, including all finishers by age group and nationality; (ii) the top 100 finishers per age group; (iii) the top 30 finishers per age group; (iv) the top 10 finishers per age group; and (v) the top individual from each country within each age group. Regression analyses were conducted to explore demographic predictors of marathon performance. Participation generally increased over the study period, with temporary declines during the COVID-19 pandemic; male participation consistently outnumbered female participation, the 40-44 years age group was the most represented for both sexes, and participation was lowest in the youngest (< 20 years) and oldest (75 + years) age groups. Crucially, analyses focusing on the fastest age-group marathoners revealed clear nationality-based performance patterns. In younger adult age groups (20-39 years), the fastest average race times were predominantly achieved by female and male runners from Kenya and Ethiopia. The < 20 years age category showed comparatively stronger performances from European runners, including those from Poland, Switzerland and Italy. In the 50 years and older age groups, the best average times were increasingly recorded by runners from the United States of America, Japan, Germany and Switzerland. This shift highlights a regional transition in peak marathon performance with increasing age, from East African to European, North American, and East Asian dominance.
- Pacing of the first and only female finisher in the world's longest triathlon: The 2024 Triple Deca ultra triathlonPublication . Duric, Sasa; Andrade, Marilia Santos; Leite, Luciano Bernardes; Forte, Pedro; Nikolaidis, Pantelis Theo; Cuk, Ivan; Weiss, Katja; Rosemann, Thomas; Knechtle, BeatPacing in triathlon has been analyzed for distances up to 60 long-distance triathlons in 60 days in men. However, no study has examined pacing in a female ultra-endurance triathlete in a multi-day triathlon exceeding 10 days. Thus, this case study analyzes the pacing of the first and only woman to complete 30 long-distance triathlons in 30 days. Methods: Lap times for swimming, cycling, and running, including transitions, were collected from race results. The athlete tracked each discipline daily using a Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar, recording average and maximum heart rates and energy expenditure. The coefficient of variation and second-order polynomial regression were calculated for average pace, split, and total times. Repeated measures ANOVA tested interactions in pace performance across 10-day phases and intra-discipline daily pacing variations. Multivariate regression examined physiological parameters' impact on pacing. Results: The female triathlete maintained a relatively even pacing strategy throughout the race, with a decrease in cycling speed and an increase in running speed. Cycling showed the strongest and significant correlation with total race time (r = 0.810; p < 0.001), while running (r = 0.347; p = 0.119) and swimming (r = -0.312; p = 0.165) displayed non-significant associations. The pace varied within the disciplines, with cycling becoming slower and running faster in the last quarter of the race. Energy expenditure, maximum and average heart rate were significant predictors for cycling (R-2 = 0.538; p < 0.001), while only average heart rate was the best predictor for running performance (R-2 = 0.450; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Tactical considerations most likely influenced pacing, particularly in cycling and running. Future research should further explore pacing strategies in ultra-endurance events.
- The Norseman Xtreme Triathlon: A narrative review of current scientific evidence on performance, physiology, and health risksPublication . Knechtle, Beat; Andrade, Marilia Santos; Leite, Luciano Bernardes; Forte, Pedro; Nikolaidis, Pantelis Theo; Chlibkova, Daniela; Weiss, Katja; Rosemann, Thomas; Duric, SasaThe 'Norseman Xtreme Triathlon', held annually in Norway, is considered one of the world's most challenging triathlons, surpassing the traditional IRONMAN (R)-distance in terms of difficulty. This narrative review aims to summarize the current scientific evidence to support athletes and coaches in preparation for this event.MethodsWe conducted a narrative review to summarize the current scientific literature on the 'Norseman Xtreme Triathlon'. A structured search was conducted in two major databases-PubMed and Scopus-using free-text terms related to 'Norseman Xtreme Triathlon'. The search included articles published up to the end of November 2025, without language restrictions. After removing duplicates and unrelated articles based on title and abstract screening, 16 relevant publications were included for analysis.ResultsOver the years, the number of female and male finishers increased, the men-to-women ratio decreased, and both split and overall race times decreased. Most athletes competing in the 'Norseman Xtreme Triathlon' came from Norway, and Norwegian athletes achieved the most podiums. The race affects different organ systems and biomarkers, with increased values of WBC, CK, NT-proBNP, CRP and AST returning to pre-race levels within hours or days. Due to the cold environment, athletes appeared to be at risk of developing hypothermia and swimming-induced pulmonary edema (SIPE) during swimming and both exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) and exercise-induced arterial hypoxemia (EIAH) after the race.ConclusionsParticular care is needed in preparing for the cold water and general cold environment during cycling and running. The specific nutritional demands, the aspects of pre-race preparation (e.g. training, experience), post-race recovery trajectories, hormonal profiles, or psychological responses of the 'Norseman Xtreme Triathlon' remain underexplored and represent an important area for future research.
- Impact of physical exercise interventions on functional fitness in older adultsPublication . Chen, Cheng; Freire, Cristiana; Fu, Zhiyang; Teixeira, Inês; Adegas, Matilde; Gomes, Rafael; Rabaçal, Ricardo; Silva, Sara; Malheiro, Alexandra; Leite, Luciano Bernardes; Reis, António; Monteiro, António M.; Yang, Jing; Xiaolin, Yao; Forte, PedroAging is associated with a decline in functional fitness, compromising the autonomy of older adults. This systematic review evaluated recent randomized clinical trials (2015–2024) on the effects of physical exercise in individuals aged ≥65 years. Ninety-five studies were included, showing that multicomponent programs, resistance training, and supervised protocols improved muscular strength, mobility, balance, gait speed, and body composition. Interventions lasting more than 12 weeks with high adherence yielded more favorable outcomes. Effects on cognitive function were inconsistent. Structured exercises tailored to the capacities of older adults are effective strategies to promote functional independence and healthy aging, although study heterogeneity limits some conclusions.
- Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Probiotic StrainsPublication . Caliman-Sturdza, Olga Adriana; Vaz, Josiana A.; Lupaescu, Ancuta Veronica; Lobiuc, Andrei; Bran, Codruta; Gheorghita, Roxana ElenaThis review highlights the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of probiotics and their complex health-related impacts. The main health areas targeted are gastrointestinal inflammation, neuroinflammation, systemic metabolic disorders, and liver conditions. Probiotics work mechanistically to regulate key inflammatory pathways by suppressing nuclear factor (NF-κb) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and activating antioxidant defenses through nuclear erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2). They stimulate anti-inflammatory cytokines (including interleukin 10 (IL-10) and inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), partly through the regulation of T cells. Probiotics also produce antioxidant metabolites (e.g., exopolysaccharides and short-chain fatty acids), which enhance the host’s resistance to oxidative stress. Supplementation with probiotics improves intestinal inflammation and oxidative injury in gut disorders. Clinical trials suggest that probiotic supplements may reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, while improving cognitive or behavioral outcomes in neurodegenerative disorders. Overall, this review underscores that probiotics have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects within the gut–brain axis and across various organ systems, supporting their use as valuable adjunctive therapies for inflammatory and oxidative stress-related conditions. It further emphasizes that additional mechanistic research and controlled clinical trials are essential to translate these findings into the most effective therapeutic strategies.
- The loading impact of training and match-play on non-contact muscle injuries in elite male soccer players. A seasonal analysisPublication . Morgans, Ryland; Oliveira, Rafael Franco Soares; Mandorino, Mauro; Zmijewski, Piotr; Ryan, Ben; Modric, Toni; Teixeira, José Eduardo; Moreira, AlexandreThis study investigated the relationship between acute and chronic training load metrics and non-contact muscle injuries in elite soccer players employing a novel statistical approach. A retrospective analysis was conducted during the 2020/21 season on 30 senior outfield players from an English Premier League club. Global Positioning System (GPS) technology monitored total distance, high-speed running (HSR) distance (5.5-7 m/s), sprint distance (> 7 m/s), and peak speed during training sessions and matches. A total of 42 injuries were documented, with an incidence of 8.94 injuries per 1000 hours, although only 12 non-contact muscle injuries were included in the analysis that occurred at 2.5 per 1000 hours of exposure. Acute (7-day) and chronic (28-day) training loads were examined, and data preprocessing addressed missing values and multicollinearity. To address class imbalance, the dataset was balanced using the Synthetic Minority Over-Sampling Technique (SMOTE) prior to logistic regression. Four significant predictors were retained: acute HSR (beta =-0.175, p < 0.001), acute sprint distance (beta =-0.613, p < 0.001), acute peak speed (beta = 1.101, p < 0.001), and chronic total distance (beta = 2.234, p < 0.001). The model demonstrated excellent discriminative ability with an AUC-ROC of 0.80. The results showed that higher acute volumes of HSR and sprint distance serve as protective factors against non-contact muscle injuries, whereas an increase in acute peak speed and chronic total distance significantly elevates injury risk. These findings underscore the importance of regular exposure to HSR to enhance injury resilience, while excessive load and peak speed may contribute to neuromuscular fatigue and overload.