Volume 9, Issue 1

Published Online: August 15, 2025

Preface

Editorial

Ivan Neil Gomez

The State of the Journal 2025

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.001

Article 1 | Development of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards LGBT in Healthcare Questionnaire (KAP-LHQ)

Rod Charlie Delos Reyes, Erlyn Sana

Background: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals continue to experience health disparities related to discrimination and health professional inadequacies despite increasing social acceptance of the LGBT community in society. Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning the healthcare of LGBT individuals among healthcare professionals can enable gender-affirming healthcare for the LGBT community. However, there is a need for a culturally relevant and updated tool to describe healthcare professionals' interactions with the LGBT community. Objectives: The objective of this study is to describe the development of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards LGBT in Healthcare Questionnaire (KAP-LHQ) and demonstrate its content and face validity. Methods: The KAP-LHQ was developed using a two-phase process. Phase 1 involved the generation of items through a literature review and discussions among the authors Phase two included the evaluation of its content and face validity. Content validity was determined by six experts using the Content Validity Index, while ten healthcare professionals evaluated the tool for face validity. Results: The KAP-LHQ demonstrated good content and face validity. Content validity indices were high. Item-Level CVI (I-CVI) ranges from 0.83 to 1.00 for the items under the Knowledge section and has a Scale-Level CVI (S-CVI) of 0.97. The Attitude section items scored an I-CVI of 0.83 to 1.00 and a S-CVI of 0.99, while most of the Practices section items scored an I-CVI of 1.00 with an overall S-CVI of 0.94. One item was omitted on the final version for having an I-CVI of 0.67. Face validity of the final questionnaire across parameters has a median of 4 out of 4, reflecting the appropriateness, comprehensibility, and relevance of the questionnaire. Conclusion: The KAP-LHQ appears to be a valid tool that has the potential for assessing the KAP of health professions to improve training and increasese healthcare outcomes for the LGBT community. Using the tool on a larger population can firmly establish its efficacy, further validity, and even reliability

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.002

Article 2 | Evaluating the Feasibility of a Motion Capture And SEMG Protocol for High-Speed Running Analysis2

Reil Vinard Espino, Consuelo G. Suarez, Lewis Ingram, Jazzmine Gale Flores, Masayoshi Kubo

Background: Feasibility studies are a necessary first step in assessing the practicality of methods and procedures used in a more extensive study. Others emphasize that feasibility studies aim to test the practical aspects of a future study and use the results to inform modifications that can enhance the study design and increase the chances of success in the more extensive study. Before conducting the main study, we rigorously refined data collection procedures based on the best available evidence, informed by the scoping review, expert consultation, and pilot testing. Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed research methodology and to identify and address potential challenges associated with data collection. The specific objective is to determine the intra-rater reliability in determining MVIC, which is part of the procedure in the sEMG protocol. Methods: This study is composed of two phases: (Phase 1) a pragmatic pilot study using an experienced biomechanist to refine the protocol. Thorough preparation, including a dry run and expert review, preceded the pilot study. (Phase 2) a preliminary testing phase to evaluate the protocol and to assess the intra-rater reliability of the MVIC used in the sEMG protocol. A high speed treadmill, Nexus software, Vicon and Delsys sEMG systems were used to capture kinematic and muscle activity data during high-speed running, enabling a comprehensive biomechanical analysis. Results: The final protocol underwent a feasibility and acceptability assessment based on five pre-defined metrics: recruitment efficacy, optimization of data acquisition methodologies, data integrity and completeness, procedural tolerability, and resource allocation efficiency. Pilot testing anomalies and their respective corrective actions were systematically documented. Furthermore, the intra-rater reliability of the maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) measurement exhibited a range from moderate to excellent, as determined by statistical analysis. Conclusion: This study successfully demonstrated the feasibility and practicality of our research methods. We evaluated all identified parameters and completed the assessments on schedule. The feasibility study proved valuable in identifying and addressing challenges encountered during data collection, such as equipment malfunctions and logistical hurdles. The study also demonstrated a moderate to excellent intra-rater reliability of MVIC assessment.

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.003

Article 3 | Perspectives of Filipino Families for youth with disability on school-to-work preparedness in Metro Manila, Philippines

Nikka Karla Santos, Maria Ruby Fariñas, Charlize Jacquelinn Abenir, Cristian Bueno, Jemiah Coyoca, Johanna Beatrice Hallare, Clarice Diane Ocampo, Krista Ryanne Palabrica, Rona Lou Santiago

Background: Youth with disabilities (YWDs) in countries like the Philippines face substantial employment barriers. While school-to-work (STW) transition programs and strong family support are crucial for their success, family involvement in planning is often insufficient. Objectives: This study aims to explore the perspectives of families of YWDs on STW transition in the Philippines and the differences in perspectives among families from varying socioeconomic backgrounds. Methods: This exploratory-descriptive qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews with seven primary caregivers of YWDs in Metro Manila, representing diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Thematic analysis was employed. Results: Three key themes emerged. First, families underscored the value of education in shaping STW transition outcomes, emphasizing its role in building literacy and practical life skills and highlighting the need for improved school support and educator training. Second, significant challenges in accessing support and transition services were reported, with financial constraints in obtaining government aid being a major hurdle regardless of socioeconomic status. Finally, caregivers stressed the family's vital role in transitioning YWDs for adulthood and work, particularly in fostering independence, nurturing strengths, and developing relevant skills for future employment. Conclusion: This study explored the Filipino families' shared perspectives on STW transition, highlighting the value of education, challenges in accessing support, and the family's role in the transition process. It emphasized the need for accessible and inclusive transition services addressing socioeconomic and cultural factors affecting YWDs and their families. Enhanced stakeholder collaboration is crucial in creating comprehensive and culturally relevant STW services that promote successful workforce integration of YWDs.

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.004

Article 4 | Comparison of Acute Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Response Between Neuromuscular and Metabolic Training in Collegiate High-Intensity Intermittent Sport Athletes: A Pilot Study Protocol

Kris Anthony Agarao, Edwin Dwight De Mesa, Ivan Neil Gomez, Angelica Phoebe Rane Mendinueto, Aaron Miguel Ng, Beatrice Therese Agustin, Michael Kaleb Kim, Sophia Anne Baetiong, Reiniel Christian Rafael, Jayemarie Gene Taguibao

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) is a common tool for assessing autonomic nervous system activity and monitoring training load in athletes. However, limited research has explored how HRV responds to different forms of resistance training, particularly in high-intensity intermittent sports like basketball and football. Objective: This study aims to compare the acute HRV responses between neuromuscular and metabolic training in collegiate athletes involved in high-intensity intermittent sports. Study Design: A comparative cross-sectional study with a quasi-experimental crossover design will be employed. Methods: Collegiate athletes will be randomly assigned to undergo both neuromuscular and metabolic training sessions with a one-week wash-out period in between. HRV data will be recorded using the Polar H10 chest strap during each session. Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics will summarize salient participant characteristics and HRV measurements. Inferential analysis will use paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests based on normality, assessed via the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. All statistical analyses will be conducted using the IBM SPSS (ver.25) with a confidence interval set. at 95% and a critical α equal to 0.05. Expected Results: Neuromuscular training is expected to elicit higher low-frequency (LF) power and an increased LF/HF ratio, reflecting greater sympathetic activation, while metabolic training is expected to show lower LF power and a decreased LF/HF ratio, indicating a more balanced autonomic response. These findings will offer insights into the differential autonomic impacts of these training modalities.

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.005

Article 5 | Investigating the Influence of Neurobiofeedback Intervention on Heart Rate Variability vis-à-vis Recovery of UAAP Collegiate Basketball and Football Athletes: A Pilot Study Protocol

Raymond Kenneth Ramos, Luis Serafin Cosep, Ivan Neil Gomez, Enzo Edward Pesayco, Lyssa Laurelle De Guzman, Gabrielle Angel Goco, Vince Nolan Velasquez, Renee Lou Penafiel, Yuan Ira Christopher Lava, Jairus Villasis

Background: Recovery is essential for high-intensity intermittent sports athletes to achieve optimal performance. Heart rate variability (HRV) serves as a marker of the autonomic nervous system, which also measures the parasympathetic regulation that facilitates recovery. Neurofeedback (NBF) intervention, combined with deep breathing and mental imagery, presented positive results in facilitating parasympathetic reactivation. However, limited studies exist in investigating the influence of the NBF intervention on HRV parameters and recovery, specifically in high-intensity intermittent sports athletes. Objective: This pilot study aims to investigate the effects and influence of neurobiofeedback intervention on recovery via the use of HRV of UAAP Collegiate Basketball and Football Athletes. Study Design: The research will be done with a Quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest study design. Methodology: Participants will undergo a neurobiofeedback intervention following neuromuscular and metabolic training. Data is collected with a Polar H10 HRM Chest Strap connected to an Elite HRV monitoring application and will be analyzed by Kubios HRV software. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics will be computed for participant characteristics. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test (p > 0.05) will assess normality. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVAs will examine NBF effects across exercise types, with Bonferroni-corrected pairwise comparisons and trend analysis for the main effects and non-significant but clinically relevant patterns. All analyses will be done using SPSS v25. Expected Results: It is expected that the neurobiofeedback intervention will have an effect and influence by eliciting a lower LF/HF ratio and SD1/SD2, suggesting a facilitated reactivation of the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting recovery after undergoing neuromuscular or metabolic training..

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.006

Article 6 | Exploring the Multifaceted Relationship Between Walking and Chronic Low Back Pain in Adults: Perceptions, Experiences, Barriers, Facilitators, Behaviors, and Motivations – A Systematic Review and Meta-aggregation Protocol

Valentin Dones III, Donald Manlapaz, Hans Paolo Alarde, Moira Aleah Francess Dulnuan, Rudolph Kyle Elefante, Janna Crystal Koa, Viktoria Nicole Mendoza, Adriel Quinones

Background: Walking is widely recognized for its benefits in pain management, disability reduction, and psychological well-being, primarily due to its cost-effectiveness and accessibility. However, comprehensive qualitative insights into the full extent of its benefits remain insufficient. Chronic low back pain (CLBP) significantly impairs daily activities, requiring a multifaceted intervention approach, as advocated by the Biopsychosocial (BPS) model and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework. Objectives: This systematic review aims to evaluate the perceptions and experiences related to walking among adults suffering from CLBP, understand the barriers and facilitators influencing walking behaviors, analyze behavioral patterns, and examine internal motivators for walking. Methods: This systematic review will include both published and unpublished qualitative studies with participants aged >18 with CLBP persisting > 3 months, where walking is utilized as the primary or secondary intervention. Databases, including PubMed, EBSCO Host, Science Direct, ProQuest, MEDLINE, Epistemonikos, Cochrane Database, and Web of Science, will be searched without language or year restrictions. The screening will involve an independent dual review of the title/abstract and full texts, followed by a critical appraisal. Data extraction and synthesis will employ a meta-aggregation approach, with findings assessed via the ConQual approach. Expected Results: Synthesized findings will guide evidence-based practice. Recommendations will provide actionable insights to address gaps in qualitative research on walking, promoting a holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024509069.

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.007

Article 7 | Weight Control Practices of Philippine National Wushu Sanda Athletes: A Study Protocol

Karen Leslie Lee-Pineda, Karen Anne Alejo, Paolo Rafael Santamaria Abela, Matthew Aguado, Ana Katrina Ambal, Marco Sebastian Atos, Miguel Angelo Castillo Balankig, Sean Brix Cuison, Ethaniel Tichangco Encarnacion

Background: Combat sports are intense and physically demanding, and healthy weight control practices are necessary to ensure a safe and fair competition for all athletes involved. Objective: The study will determine the dietary and non-dietary weight control practices of Philippine National Wushu Sanda athletes. It will also aim to explore the perceived effects of these practices on performance and well-being. Methodology: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews will be used to gain insights into the athletes' experiences, habits, and practices regarding their weight control practices. The semi-structured questionnaire will focus on daily food intake, weight control practices, and their effects on performance and well-being. Thematic data analysis will be used to analyze the data. Expected Results: Weight control practices of Wushu Sanda Athletes vary depending on the training phase. Both dietary practices, such as water intake, skipping meals, and food choices, and non-dietary practices, such as intense training and sweat suits, are expected to be observed to achieve their desired weight. These practices are anticipated to have been influenced by their coaches and senior athletes, having both positive and negative effects on the athlete’s physical, mental, and psychological well-being.

https://doi.org/10.36413/pjahs.0901.008

The Philippine Journal of Allied health Sciences [ISSN: 1908-5044] is an Open Access, peer reviewed journal published by the University of Santo Tomas-College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Manila, Philippines.

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