Abstract: Low back pain (LBP) represents an immense economic burden, with a lifetime prevalence of up to 84 %. However, conventional diagnostic methods such as MRI or X-rays provide only limited information about the pathogenesis and specific pain-related functional limitations. Wearable inertial sensors (IMU) and electromyography sensors (EMG) offer an expanded spectrum for the targeted identification and diagnosis of LBP. The aim of the study is to evaluate a selective diagnostic series for the subcategorization of functional deficits and their precise assignment to specific functional deficits. Based on a systematic literature review, an objectively measurable functional LBP assessment was defined that tests fatigue resistance, neuromuscular control, lumbopelvic stability, and global trunk musculature. Subsequently, 38 individuals were recruited in a prospective cross-sectional study and divided into three groups: “healthy,” “mild pain,” and “severe pain.” These individuals underwent an assessment. The two pain groups differed significantly from the symptom-free individuals in all previously defined functional levels. In addition, the two pain groups also differed significantly from each other. The functional assessment, which incorporates IMUs and EMG sensors as a central diagnostic element, is so valuable because it can identify causal relationships between mechanical dysfunctions and the underlying neuromuscular cause, thus enabling individualized therapy.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Clinical reasoning is an essential competency for all healthcare practitioners, particularly in the context of neurological rehabilitation, where patient management is complex and multifactorial. This paper proposes a unified framework for clinical reasoning in neurological physiotherapy, integrating the aspects of physical function with the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). Methods: The proposed framework incorporates a biopsychosocial approach, focusing on a patient-centred and goal-oriented methodology that allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s needs across multiple domains, including body functions, activities, and participation. By integrating clinical reasoning theories from various disciplines, this framework seeks to enhance the decision-making process and improve communication among healthcare professionals. Results: The model provides a systematic approach to assessing and addressing deficits in motor control, sensory functions, and other aspects of neurological rehabilitation. This work highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and emphasizes the role of physiotherapists in managing neurological impairments. Conclusions: The Biopsychosocial Reasoning Approach In Neurophysiotherapy (BRAIN) framework aims to improve functional outcomes by offering a more adaptable, multidisciplinary, and evidence-based approach to clinical reasoning in neurological physiotherapy.

Abstract: Backround: Due to the congested competition calendar and the high physical demands of elite basketball, the selection of effective recovery strategies is essential to optimize performance and reduce exercise-induced fatigue and muscle damage. This study aimed to examine the acute effects of different nutritional and physical recovery strategies on exercise performance, muscle damage, and perceived fatigue and exertion in elite basketball players. Method: Fifteen elite male basketball players participated in a randomized crossover trial and completed four recovery conditions: cold-water immersion (CWI), active recovery (ACT), protein–carbohydrate supplementation (SUP), and placebo (PLA). Following a basketball-specific fatigue protocol, creatine kinase, countermovement jump performance, isometric strength, 10 m sprint, and 4 × 10 m shuttle run test were assessed at baseline, immediately post-exercise, and 24 h post-exercise. Perceived fatigue and rate of perceived exertion were measured at baseline, immediately post-exercise, immediately after the recovery intervention, and 24 h post-exercise. Results: The three recovery methods prevented the 24h exercise-induced CK increase observed in the PLA condition (p>0.05). The CWI, SUP and ACT decreased fatigue and RPE immediately after their application (p< 0.05), while the PLA kept them elevated. CWI significantly improved 4x10mSRT time (p=0.027) 24h. Conclusion: Nutritional supplementation and physical recovery strategies effectively attenuated exercise-induced muscle damage and fatigue in elite basketball players. However, CWI demonstrated the most pronounced acute benefits for physical performance recovery.

Abstract: Background: Early childhood represents a key stage for the development of movement behaviors (MV), motor skills (MS), and executive functions (EF). Body Mass Index (BMI), defined according to World Health Organization (WHO) references, may influence these domains early in life. In this context, this cross-sectional observational study aimed to examine the associations between BMI and 24-hour MV, MS, and EF in Tunisian preschool children aged 4 to 5 years. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included 112 Tunisian children aged 4 to 5 years (50 boys, 62 girls), recruited from kindergartens in urban and rural areas. Anthropometric measurements were used to calculate age-specific BMI z-scores and classify children into three BMI categories: below normal, normal, and above normal. 24-hour MV (physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, and sleep) were objectively assessed using accelerometry over five consecutive days. EF (inhibition and working memory) were assessed using standardized cognitive tests, gross MS were evaluated using the Supine Timed Up and Go test (functional mobility), One-Leg Standing Balance test (postural steadiness), Hand Grip Dynamometer (upper body strength), and Standing Long Jump (lower body strength), and fine MS were assessed using the 9-Hole Pegboard Test (dexterity). All tools are validated and standardized for children. Results: Significant differences between BMI categories were observed for anthropometric variables (p < 0.05). In contrast, no significant differences were found for 24-hour MV, adherence to recommendations, EF, or most MS (p > 0.05). Only upper limb strength showed a significant difference (p = 0.035), with children of normal BMI showing slightly higher strength than those with above-normal BMI. Conclusion: In Tunisian preschool children, weight status is primarily associated with differences in physical growth, with no marked relationship to MV, EF, or MS. These findings highlight the importance of universal preventive interventions starting in early childhood.

Abstract: Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a leading global cause of disability with major personal and socioeconomic impact. Limitations of purely biomedical treatment have encouraged a shift toward holistic, biopsychosocial, and evidence-based management. This systematic review examined the effects of holistic, non-surgical interventions on pain, disability, muscle strength, walking balance, and quality of life in adults with LBP. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and HMIC was conducted. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults (≥18 years) receiving holistic interventions including structured exercise, patient education, psychologically informed therapy, manual therapy adjuncts, or multidisciplinary rehabilitation were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality using the PEDro scale. Of 5,326 identified records, 43 RCTs met eligibility criteria. Data were synthesized narratively and through meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines. Results: Forty-three moderate- and high-quality RCTs involving 4,144 participants were included. Holistic interventions consistently reduced pain intensity and functional disability, with meaningful improvements across intervention types. Exercise-based therapies enhanced muscle strength, endurance, and movement function, while balance outcomes improved but varied across studies. Mind–body and psychologically informed interventions (e.g., CBT, mindfulness, yoga) showed strong positive effects on psychosocial outcomes and quality of life. Multimodal programs combining exercise, education, and psychological components produced the most comprehensive and sustained improvements, outperforming single-modality interventions. Thirty-eight RCTs (n = 1,701) contributed to the meta-analysis. Exercise-based interventions significantly reduced pain (MD = –2.45; 95% CI: –3.28 to –1.62). Technology-assisted interventions were also effective (MD = –2.24; 95% CI: –2.52 to –1.97). Manual and complementary therapies produced the largest effect (MD = –2.53; 95% CI: –4.23 to –0.82). Mind–body and psychological interventions showed no statistically significant pooled effect (MD = –0.44; 95% CI: –1.56 to 0.69). Conclusion: Holistic, evidence-based, non-surgical interventions are safe and effective for improving pain, function, and quality of life in adults with LBP. Findings reinforce current international guidelines advocating biopsychosocial, patient-centred care. Clinical practice should emphasize individualized, supervised exercise integrated with psychological strategies and education. Protocol Registration: The review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under the registration number CRD420251166635.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Franz Tappeiner (1816–1902) is often celebrated as a pioneer of alpine medicine and the founder of Tappeiner Promenade in Meran (South Tyrol, Italy). However, his legacy extends far beyond the scenic infrastructure. His multidisciplinary practice anticipated the principles of contemporary rehabilitation, preventive medicine, and climate-sensitive public health. Methods: This historical scientific analysis reinterprets Tappeiner’s writings, institutional engagements, and civic projects through the lens of modern public health frameworks. Drawing on primary materials (e.g., published articles, autobiographical fragments, and commemorative texts) and recent evidence from rehabilitation and environmental health research, these contributions were contextualized. Results: Tappeiner’s early focus on infectious disease prevention (e.g., cholera and tuberculosis) transitioned into a strategic emphasis on recovery and behavioral therapy through environmental design. The walking therapy model of Max Joseph Oertel, locally realized in the Tappeiner Promenade, prefigured modern concepts such as structured green rehabilitation, walkability, and urban-health citizenship. He contributed substantial personal funds to the path’s construction, embedding therapeutic gradients, curating vegetation, and promoting inclusive design to support convalescence. Contemporary research supports the intuition that green, low- to moderate-intensity walking improves cardiometabolic health, psychological well-being, and functional capacity. Moreover, his integrative ethos, merging clinical medicine, civic ethics, and spatial intervention, parallels contemporary eco-social models of public health. Conclusion: Franz Tappeiner’s career exemplifies a still-relevant model of physician leadership that is empirically grounded, socially accountable, and ecologically attuned. His work invites reflection on how medical professionals can shape not only individual care but also urban environments and collective health futures.

Abstract: This systematic review examined the validity and reliability of wearable inertial sensor systems to quantify spatiotemporal gait parameters in post‑stroke adults, a population in which gait asymmetry, altered motor control, and compensatory strategies challenge accurate measurements. Four databases were searched up to December 2025, and studies were included when they assessed concurrent validity or test–retest reliability of wearable derived spatiotemporal parameters against laboratory-based reference systems. Fifteen studies involving a total of 286 participants were analyzed. Spatial parameters as gait speed, cadence, and step and stride length showed consistent good‑to‑excellent agreement with reference instruments and high test–retest reliability. Temporal parameters demonstrated greater heterogeneity, with larger absolute errors, wider limits of agreement, and lower relative agreement, particularly for swing time. Paretic‑side measurements showed reduced between instrument agreement compared to the non‑paretic side, although within‑subject reliability remained moderate to high. No consistent influence of sensor number on measurement accuracy. Overall, wearable inertial sensors provide robust estimates of spatial gait parameters in post‑stroke populations, while temporal outcomes remain limited, likely due to the challenge to detect gait events that arise from stroke-related alterations in gait biomechanics. Taking these findings as a whole suggests that deviations from regular gait biomechanics, whether due to reduced speed particularly at low walking speeds of 0.4 m/s, asymmetry, or to the use of assistive devices, compromise the ability of wearable-based algorithms to accurately identify gait events.

Abstract: Background Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a prevalent overuse injury among recreational cyclists worldwide. Despite its ubiquity, little is known about the lived experiences of people with PFPS, especially in Saudi Arabia, where healthcare and cultural factors may have a special impact on how the condition is managed. The aim of this study is to explore the lived experiences of recreational cyclists with patellofemoral pain syndrome in Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Method: A qualitative, descriptive, phenomenological design was employed. Eleven male recreational cyclists aged 28–44 years diagnosed with PFPS were purposely recruited from Al Madinah Physical Therapy Centre. Female participants were excluded due to cultural constraints in sports participation. The participants consented to participate in the study and to be audio recorded. Data were collected using audio-recorded semi-structured interviews using an interview guide. Data were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed using Atlas.ti version 24. Results: The following themes emerged from our findings: characteristics of patellofemoral pain, functional activities that exacerbate knee pain, psychological and physical effects, coping mechanisms, community and psychosocial constraints, and strategies for managing knee pain. Conclusion: Patellofemoral pain syndrome imposes significant multidimensional burdens on recreational cyclists in Al Madinah, exacerbated by cultural practices. Physiotherapy offers targeted interventions for pain relief, functional restoration, and participation enhancement, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive management programs.

Abstract: Objective: this mixed methods review aimed to identify and evaluate studies that developed and assessed culturally adapted cardiac rehabilitation programmes for ethnic minority patients. Introduction: Ethnic minorities face several barriers when attending cardiac rehabilitation programmes. Culturally sensitive cardiac education programmes exist and provide evidence of their value. There is a need for review-based research to collate current understanding and evaluate the studies and outcomes. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first review providing additional insight into the impact of culturally adapted cardiac rehabilitation programmes on ethnic minority patients. Methods: A convergent segregated mixed methods review was undertaken and reported according to JBI methodology. A systematic search was conducted by two blind reviewers assisted by Covidence© software. Nine electronic databases were searched including; Amed, CINAHL Plus, PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Medline, Scopus, SPORTDiscus and Web of Science from inception to June 2025. Studies were included if they designed interventions for and included adult ethnic minority patients and report on culturally tailored interventions any outcomes related to the tailored cardiac rehabilitation programme. Any type of design was acceptable including mixed methods, qualitative or qualitative. Critical appraisal, narrative synthesis and certainty assessment of evidence was undertaken to summarise findings. Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria (3 qualitative, 2 mixed methods, 1 quantitative). Overall study quality was moderate. Cultural adaptations with moderate confidence in benefits included community collaboration, bilingual or culturally matched staff and single-sex classes. Findings suggest culturally adapted cardiac rehabilitation is received positively, with potential to improve physical, social and mental wellbeing among ethnic patients. Conclusions: Culturally adapted cardiac rehabilitation may support engagement and improve health outcomes for ethnic patients, however further high-quality research is needed to confirm effectiveness and guide service development.

Abstract: Performance differences between female youth handball players selected for national teams and non-selected peers are often linked to strength, speed, and power. This study aimed to compare the conditioning capacities and body composition of national and non-national youth handball players. The sample included 36 female players (17.13 ± 1.75 years), 18 national and 18 position-matched non-national players. Anthropometry, sprint and change of direction ability, vertical jump, upper- and lower- body strength, aerobic capacity, and body composition were assessed using standard tests and bioimpedance analysis. Group differences were assessed using t-tests and Cohen’s d. National team players showed significantly greater jump height (p&lt;0.001, d=1.408), higher relative peak power (p&lt;0.001, d=1.644), and faster 20 m sprint times (p=0.004, d=-1.037). No significant differences were found in body composition or the other measured parameters, although a moderate Yo-Yo IRL1 effect size suggests a potential practical advantage. These results indicate that explosive power and linear speed are key discriminators for youth national-team selection.

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate whether the consumption of low-molecular weight polyphenols (LMWP, Oligonol) affects metabolic status related to fatigue and oxidative stress responses during a maximal exercise test in healthy young men. A blinded, crossover design was employed, con-sisting of a placebo condition, single consumption of LMWP (S-LMWP), and 5-day consumption of LMWP (5-LMWP), with washout intervals of at least two weeks between interventions. Among the volunteers, ten participants who met the criteria were finally enrolled in the study. Exercise performance, fatigue-related metabolic parameters, and oxidative stress markers were measured before and immediately after the maximal exercise test, as well as after a 30-min recovery period. Heart rate and lactate, as key fatigue-related parameters, were additionally assessed for 5 min immediately following the exercise. Exercise performance, and anthropometric parameters were not significantly different among the groups. However, both LMWP groups showed significantly lower blood lactate levels at the 30-min recovery period compared with placebo group. Addi-tionally, malondialdehyde levels which increased immediately after exercise, significantly re-covered toward baseline levels at 30 min in the LMWP groups, particularly in the S-LMWP group. In conclusion, short-term consumption of Oligonol may attenuate exercise-induced fatigue and oxidative stress responses during a maximal exercise test.

Abstract: Exercise is an effective intervention at mitigating many of the sequalae of cancer and its treatments. However, a scarcity of exercise services for cancer survivors remains, highlighting a research-to-practice gap. Accordingly, there is considerable rationale to explore strategies to enhance the implementation of exercise oncology trial findings into clinical practice. Dissemination is the active process of spreading research findings to key stakeholders and is crucial to the implementation of evidence base practice. However, little is known regarding the optimal methods of disseminating results of exercise oncology trials. To this end, this project aimed to explore the viewpoints of stakeholders (patients/ health care professionals (HCPs)/ policy makers/ researchers) on the dissemination of exercise oncology trials. Stakeholders were invited to take part in a one-to-one semi-structured interview exploring their experiences of and preferences for exercise oncology trial dissemination. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a thematic approach. Thirty stakeholders were recruited: patients with a history of cancer (n=14), health care professionals (HCPs) (n=3), researchers (n=10), and policy makers/ health care management (n=3). Median interview length was 14 minutes and 10 seconds (range 8 minutes 16 seconds to 37 minutes and 23 seconds). Three main themes were identified: i) The need for enhanced dissemination strategies, ii) engaging stakeholders throughout the study lifespan is key to facilitating effective dissemination and iii) tools to facilitate closing the research to practice gap. Stakeholders acknowledged that there is limited awareness amongst the public regarding the benefits of exercise across the cancer trajectory, and that accessible and trustworthy information delivered through a variety of mediums to target different stakeholders is required. Stakeholders felt strongly that research outputs need to be targeted to the interests of key stakeholders to aid the integration of evidence into practice, and that buy-in from clinicians is paramount to integrating exercise into usual care. Results of this qualitative study highlight there is a need for more widespread and targeted dissemination of exercise oncology trial results. Stakeholders recommended a comprehensive approach to dissemination to help mitigate the research to practice gap.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Cognicise (multicomponent exercise) and Chlorella (microbial food) improve cognitive function independently. However, their combined effect and underlying mechanisms, including antioxidant capacity and metabolite fluctuations, remains unelucidated. We investigated the effect of multicomponent exercise combined with Chlorella intake on cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults and assessed changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS), free radical scavenging activity, and blood metabolites. Methods: In this double-blind comparative study conducted over 6 months, 16 older adults randomly received either Chlorella (Ex+C group) or a placebo (Ex+P group) alongside performing multicomponent exercise. Cognitive function (memory, attention, executive, and information processing) was assessed using the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology-Functional Assessment Tool. The scavenging activity against various ROS and free radicals was measured, and a comprehensive metabolomic analysis was performed. Results: A significant interaction was observed for information processing function, improving significantly in both groups post-intervention. The Ex+P group showed a significant executive function decline; no such change was observed in the Ex+C group. The Ex+C group exhibited significantly improved OH· scavenging activity post-intervention. Free radical scavenging activity increased in both groups. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant changes in 29 and 25 metabolites in the Ex+C and Ex+P groups, respectively, between before and after the intervention. Conclusions: Combining multicomponent exercise and Chlorella intake may increase metabolites, thereby improving the scavenging activity of ROS and free radicals. This approach can improve information processing ability while preventing the significant executive function decline of exercise alone.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Soccer is a team sport that places significant physical demands on players. Players cover greater distances at higher speeds, and the number of high-intensity movements is increasing. The present study analyzed the locomotor and mechanical variables of Hungarian second division professional soccer players over three seasons (2022/23, 2023/24, 2024/25), using Catapult Vector S7 and processing data from 94 matches. Methods: We included 94 matches in the study (2022/23: N=38; 2023/24: N=29; 2024/25: N=27), in which only the data of players who played the entire matches were analyzed, excluding red card matches. Performance data was collected using Catapult Vector S7 10 Hz GNNS system. Results: The median average distance covered decreased continuously from the 2022/23 season (10.210 m) to the 2024/25 season (9.795 m) (H (2) = 14.14, p&lt;0.001, Rank ε² = 0.152, medium effect size). The median Player Load decreased from 1002 (2022/23 and 2023/24) to 846 in the 2024/25 season (H (2) = 55.64, p&lt;0.001, Rank ε² = 0589, very large effect size). The median acceleration-deceleration effort (Accel + Decel) decreased from 220.8 (2022/23) to 199.0 (2024/25) (H (2) = 26.81, p&lt;0.001, Rank ε² = 0.288, effect size). Conclusion: There was a significant seasonal decrease in match load variables. The most pronounced decrease occurred in the mechanical indicator. These results may provide useful insights into the physical demands of matches.

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to examine the validity of a Garmin wrist-based device for estimating heart rate, energy expenditure, and step count during incremental treadmill exercise in college-aged individuals. Eighteen males and females (mean ± SD age = 23.2 ± 4.9 years) volunteered to complete an incremental treadmill test with the Garmin Vivoactive 4 device and criterion methods (electrocardiogram, indirect calorimetry, and video recording) measuring heart rate, energy expenditure, and step count. Mean absolute percent error (MAPE), simple linear regression, and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess accuracy. Acceptable accuracy was defined as MAPE < 5% for heart rate and < 10% for energy expenditure and step count. Statistical significance was set at α < 0.05. The MAPE (±SD) values were 13.0 (±10.1), 19.1 (±15.0), and 4.6 (±5.3)% for heart rate, energy expenditure, and step count, respectively. The Bland-Altman regression analyses illustrated proportional bias was present for estimations of heart rate (r = 0.591, p < 0.001) and step count (r = 0.516, p = 0.028), but not energy expenditure (r = 0.351, p = 0.153). These findings indicated that the Garmin Vivoactive 4 provided acceptable accuracy metrics for step count, but not heart rate or energy expenditure.

Abstract: Research shows that dual-task balance performance deficits serve as indicators which help predict future falls among elderly people. The research investigated how fallers (people who experienced two or more falls per year) performed compared to non-fallers during single and dual-task balance assessments. The research involved 24 community-dwelling participants between 65 and 80 years old who completed Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) and Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) tests while performing serial-7 subtraction.The study results showed that fallers made more BESS errors (M=18.4±4.2 vs. 11.2±3.1) and their dual-task TUG times were longer (M=14.8±2.1s vs. 11.2±1.5s) than non-fallers. The dual-task performance of fallers showed a significant decline of 25.4% compared to non-fallers who experienced a 12.1% decline (F(1,22)=8.92, p=.007, η²=.29).The research findings indicate that fallers experience more significant cognitive-motor interference which supports dual-process models. The research supports the need for motor-cognitive screening and training programs to prevent falls.

Abstract:

Background Physical activity (PA) is a cornerstone of child and adolescent health, with well-established benefits across physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains. Despite these benefits, global data show persistently low levels of PA among young people. In Nigeria, anecdotal reports and empirical studies suggest a similar decline in PA among school-aged children. This raises concerns about the adequacy of school environments in fostering healthy and active lifestyles among Nigerian youth. The aim of this scoping review is to systematically explore the current evidence on school-based physical activity in Nigerian schools. Methods We will follow a five-step scoping review framework and report the review according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search of academic databases and grey literature will be conducted. A scoping review approach is appropriate given the emerging and interdisciplinary nature of research on school-based physical activity (SBPA) in Nigeria. Result We expect to map the landscape of current research on SBPA in Nigeria, including levels of participation, enablers, and barriers as well as recommendations for improvements. This review is therefore expected to highlight both the promise and the current limitations of SBPA in Nigeria. By synthesizing available evidence, we aim to provide actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and health professionals on how schools can be leveraged to promote physical activity in children and adolescents.

Abstract: Laboratory-based gait analysis using motion capture and force plates remains the gold standard for quantifying ground reaction forces (GRFs) and temporal gait parameters. However, its high cost and limited accessibility restrict routine clinical use. Wearable smart insoles offer a portable alternative, yet require rigorous validation before clinical adoption. This study evaluates the clinical and technical validity of the SuraSole® smart insole, a low-cost pressure sensor–embedded insole, by comparing its GRF and temporal gait measurements with those obtained from a laboratory force plate and 3D motion capture system. Twenty healthy adults completed five walking trials while wearing standardized footwear equipped with SuraSole insoles, with simultaneous force plate and motion capture data collection. Agreement between systems was assessed using Bland–Altman plots and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). SuraSole demonstrated excellent agreement with force plates for GRF across weight acceptance, mid-stance, and push-off (ICCs 0.97–0.99), with mean differences of 15.93 ± 45.90 N, 2.38 ± 23.98 N, and 8.64 ± 40.45 N, respectively. Temporal parameters showed moderate to good reliability (ICCs 0.62–0.81), with limitations likely related to the insole's 20 Hz sampling rate. These findings indicate that SuraSole provides reliable GRF measurement and acceptable portable gait assessment, supporting its potential for use in clinical practice, rehabilitation, and community health monitoring. Future hardware improvements, particularly higher sampling frequency, may enhance temporal accuracy.

Abstract: Introduction: Chronic kidney disease and kidney failure are associated with a decline in physical abilities resulting in severe health-related complications. Physical activities and exercise improve the quality of life of paediatric patients undergoing dialysis. This scoping review aims to evaluate existing literature on the impact of exercise programs on paediatric patients undergoing dialysis in Africa. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases, including CINAHL, EBSCO, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus, was conducted to identify peer-reviewed articles focusing on the effects, impact and benefits of exercises and physical activity programs in paediatric patients undergoing dialysis. The selection process was done by two authors and included importing search results, removing duplicates, screening titles and abstracts based on a criterion, and analysed the reference lists of selected studies to ensure comprehensive coverage. Two peer-reviewed studies were eligible for final review. Results: Two exercise-based intervention studies focused on children receiving dialysis in Egypt, highlighting a narrow regional scope within Africa. The initial study demonstrated significant improvements in health-related quality of life after muscle stretching and isometric exercises. These improvements were particularly evident across multiple dimensions of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. A subsequent study found reductions in psychological distress and positive biochemical changes after four and eight weeks. While there were no significant baseline differences in depression, anxiety, or stress, the exercise regimen showed emerging psychosocial benefits over time. A notable omission was the lack of detail regarding contraindications and precautionary measures. These are essential for informing clinical decision-making and ensuring exercises are both safe. Discussion: The findings underscore the importance of incorporating exercise into the standard care of paediatric patients undergoing dialysis to facilitate better health outcomes. Further research is needed to develop and implement effective exercise interventions tailored to other countries in Africa.

Abstract: The landmine press in a reliable and valid test for assessing upper body push strength. This study developed a markerless, non-contact vision-based system with an enhanced YOLOv8 model and mathematical modeling to measure four kinematic indicators during the concentric phase of the landmine press. By integrating a polarized self-attention mechanism, an improved C3k2 module, and an optimized SPPF structure, the system significantly enhanced detection accuracy and robustness for small targets at both ends of the barbell, achieving an mAP@0.5 of 0.995 on the test set. Agreement validation with the GymAware linear transducer across four loads (20–35 kg) in 247 trials showed strong correlations (r &gt; 0.85) for peak velocity, mean velocity, peak power, and mean power. Although the vision-based method systematically overestimated velocity metrics due to differences in barbell length measurement, the bias was predictable. Moreover, it outperformed GymAware under high-load conditions (35 kg) by avoiding sensor drift and noise. The findings demonstrate that this vision-based system offers a reliable and practical solution for monitoring landmine press kinematics, suitable for both training and scientific research.