bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A reliable technique for karyotyping mouse oocytes prepared by a gradual fixation/air-drying method followed by multicolour FISH
Authors: Hino Toshiaki , Kusakabe Hirokazu
Published: December 2023

Chromosome segregation errors during oocyte meiosis increase with age and lead to aneuploidy; hence, the mechanism has been studied extensively. The mouse is the most widely used experimental animal for this purpose. However, the lack of a reliable and efficient technique for karyotyping mouse oocytes has limited comprehensive studies of chromosome-specific segregation errors in this animal model. Here, we developed a novel karyotyping technique for mouse oocytes by applying multicolour fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) to chromosome slides prepared by a gradual fixation/air-drying method, which is best suited to avoid rupture of oocyte membrane and artificial loss of chromosomes. The success rate of karyotyping meiosis I and II oocytes was about 30%, which improved to over 90% when the oocytes were ‘flattened’ during fixation and the chromosome specimens were denatured at 4°C. When this technique was applied to the karyotyping of meiosis II oocytes from aged female mice and from young female mice injected with colchicine, more than 80% of the oocytes were successfully karyotyped and the number of chromosomes was identified on all aberrant chromosomes. In conclusion, our technique allows for the efficient and reliable karyotyping of mouse oocytes.
COVID-19 and older people’s wellbeing in northern KwaZulu-Natal – the importance of relationships
Authors: Manyaapelo Thabang , Edwards Anita , Mpanza Nondumiso , Nxumalo Samukelisiwe , Nxumalo Zama , Gumede Ntombizonke , Ngwenya Nothando , Seeley Janet
Published: December 2023

Background The COVID-19 pandemic and the non-pharmacological prevention methods have affected the wellbeing of older people. In this paper we focus on the wellbeing, and vulnerability, of older people in rural northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa during the first year of the pandemic. Methods We conducted monthly in-depth interviews for up to four months with 26 people aged 60 years and older. A total of 87 interviews were conducted by telephone, because of restrictions on face-to-face contact, and digitally recorded. After transcription and translation, the data were coded thematically, with analysis guided by a wellbeing theoretical framework. Results Having access to food, to healthcare and to somewhere they felt safe to stay, was essential for everyone. For many managing expenses became more of a struggle as adult children who had lost their source of employment came home to stay. However, despite the shortages of money, the importance of relationships, whether they are familial or the close community of neighbours, was highlighted in the accounts of many participants. Older people not only got help with day-to-day life from others, but also found solace in the company of others. The sense of community, from family and neighbours, helped to ease some of the stress experienced because of the lockdowns. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the virus impacted the wellbeing of older adults in rural KwaZulu-Natal. Our findings show how the importance of relationships with family and friends contributed to nurturing wellbeing for older people.
Stockpiling at the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Empirical Analysis of National Prescription Drug Sales and Prices
Authors: Park Minje , Carson Anita L. , Fox Erin R. , Conti Rena M.
Published: December 2023

At the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, hospitals experienced a demand surge for COVID-19–related medical care while simultaneously struggling to source prescription drugs needed to manage COVID-19 patients. This is worrisome as shortfalls in the supply of essential drugs can negatively impact patient outcomes. The popular press reporting on these challenges suggests that they are caused by supply chain disruptions. However, rigorous research on the relationship between the pandemic and prescription drug supply is limited. To address this gap, we leverage a quasi-experimental design and IQVIA’s National Sales Perspectives™ data from 2018 to 2020. We focus on prescription drugs indicated for the management of COVID-19 patients and a set of control drugs (i.e., drugs not used for COVID-19). We find that in the early phases of the pandemic, hospitals stockpiled prescription drugs indicated for the management of COVID-19, making this behavior an under-recognized cause of the sourcing challenges. The sales volume of drugs indicated for COVID-19 management was concentrated in the first two months of the pandemic, after which sales decreased significantly despite a nationwide increase in COVID-19–related hospitalizations. We investigate another potential cause of stockpiling: expected price increases. Counter to concerns of price gouging, we find little evidence of price inflation for these drugs. An implication for drug manufacturers is that orders due to stockpiling by downstream buyers early on in a pandemic may need to be discounted when predicting future demand. Our results have implications for drug suppliers, hospitals, and policymakers interested in improving medical product supply chain resilience.

This paper was accepted by Stefan Scholtes, healthcare management.

Funding: R. M. Conti was supported by the National Science Foundation (Grant 1123649-463157) and the Sloan Foundation.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.04150 .
Strategies to facilitate upscaling midwifery practice in South African public maternity units
Authors: James Sindiwe , Wibbelink Margreet , Thomson Ann
Published: December 2023

Background/Aims

Various models have been proposed to reduce rates of maternal mortality, aimed at addressing the diverse range of causes. Many of these models focus on using midwifery practice to achieve these goals. The aim of this study was to develop strategies to facilitate upscaling midwifery practice in South African public maternity units.

Methods

A mixed-methods sequential exploratory research design was implemented using purposive sampling of midwives and postpartum women. Qualitative data were collected from 11 midwives and 11 postnatal women in the Eastern Cape province, while quantitative data were gathered from 314 midwives from across five South African provinces. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and a self-developed questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data. Qualitative data were analysed thematically.

Results

The participants were committed to their work but barriers to practice were a cause of concern. Two strategies for woman-centered care were developed based on the challenges reported by midwives. To assist with up-scaling of midwifery clinical practice in South Africa, the strategies recommended providing an enabling work environment where midwives could be empowered to provide woman-centred care and women were empowered to receive this care and be educated in self-care practices.

Conclusions

The work environment for midwives in South African public maternity units is, at times, not of an acceptable standard because of concerns related to regulation and training. Recognition of midwifery practice as an autonomous profession will facilitate woman-centred practice.
ECG of the month
Authors: Bloe Charles
Published: December 2023

In this issue's ECG of the month, Charles Bloe presents the case of an 80-year-old female patient who presented with severe chest pain that radiated into her arms and jaw.
Performance Enhancement via XPM Suppression in a Linear all-PM Mode-locked Fiber Oscillator
Authors: Edelmann Marvin , Hua Yi , Pergament Mikhail , Kaertner Franz
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate strong performance enhancement of an all polarization-maintaining fiber oscillator mode-locked using a linear self-stabilized fiber interferometer via suppression of cross-phase modulation (XPM). Numerical simulations reveal that XPM significantly affects the saturable absorber dynamics resulting in strong distortions of the mode-locked steady-states and output pulse quality. For experimental verification, we construct an oscillator with XPM suppression, employing an intra-cavity YVO4 crystal to obtain a differential walk-off effect, and compare its characteristics with a reference oscillator in standard configuration. It is shown, that XPM suppression not only lowers the mode-locking threshold by more than 45%, but further results in improved pulse quality at the output ports and reduced nonlinear loss in the artificial saturable absorber.
The role of playgrounds in the development of children’s fundamental movement skills: A scoping review
Authors: Pawlowski Charlotte Skau , Madsen Cathrine Damsbo , Toftager Mette , Amholt Thea Toft , Schipperijn Jasper
Published: December 2023

Fundamental movement skills (FMS) are the basic skills children should develop but are low in children from high-income countries. Literature indicates that playgrounds can play an important role challenging children’s balance, agility, and coordination. However, knowledge on the influence of playgrounds on children’s FMS development is fragmented. The aim of the present scoping review was to create an overview of all research that is relevant when studying the influence of unstructured playground play on children’s FMS. Four electronic databases (Scopus, Web of Science, SportDiscus, and PsycInfo) were searched systematically in May 2022 and October 2023 following the PRISMA guidelines, leading to a final set of 14 publications meeting the inclusion criteria. The results of these publications indicate that it is important to design playgrounds with various features targeting balance, climbing, throwing, and catching to provide opportunities for children to enhance each FMS (i.e., stability, locomotor skills, and object control skills). Also, spreading features over a large area of the playground seems to ensure ample space per child, stimulate children to use locomotor skills by moving to and from features, and to play active games without equipment. Possibly, also natural play settings develop children’s FMS. These findings, however, should be read with caution. More experimental studies using objective and standardized FMS tests are needed in this research field for a more robust conclusion.
Investigating the use and awareness of artificial sweeteners among diabetic patients in Bangladesh
Authors: Shil Aparna , Zhang Jufen , Chichger Havovi
Published: December 2023

Background

As with many countries around the world, the incidence of diabetes in Bangladesh is increasing significantly. Whilst there is controversy in the field regarding the health impact of artificial sweeteners in Western communities, the link between sweetener consumption and awareness in Bangladesh has not been established.

Methods

In the present study, 260 diabetic patients completed a questionnaire survey to investigate the use and awareness of sweeteners and how this links to demographics and potential co-morbidities.

Results

Findings show that daily artificial sweetener consumption is significantly associated with hypertension but not other co-morbidities such as kidney disease or obesity. We further demonstrate that there is limited checking of artificial sweeteners in food or drink products by participants. the rurality of diabetic participants was found to significantly correlates with lower awareness of any health impact of artificial sweeteners.

Conclusions

The findings from this study demonstrate that there is a need to increase the awareness of artificial sweetener use in diabetic patients in Bangladesh. Combined with a more robust understanding of the health impact of artificial sweeteners, these findings suggest that there is potential to improve outcomes for diabetic patients by improving this awareness.
Steve McQueen and Béla Tarr: Exploring a whatever communality on the dance floor
Authors: Chroman Britten
Published: December 2023

This article explores two very different cinematic dance scenes. Each scene, a snapshot of bodies in motion, fleeting communities, indifferent, for a moment, to whatever exists beyond the dance floor. ‘Silly Games’, from Steve McQueen’s Lovers Rock and ‘Dance in the Bar’, from Béla Tarr’s Sátántangó offer sites to explore the materiality of bodies in motion and the relation between individual and community. Analysing these two dance scenes with Jacques Rancière’s exposition of Béla Tarr and Gorgio Agamben’s idea of whatever singularity unwinds an assemblage of bodies engaged in a whatever communality, a relation modulated by desire that retains individuality as it partakes in the communal. Thinking with Donna Haraway poses the question of how this whatever communality, expressed in Tarr’s and McQueen’s dance scenes, might act as a model for extending the notion of singularity and community beyond the boundaries of human social relations. What follows in this article is less of a perfectly tied-up argument and more of an experimental place to work out ideas about how cinematic snapshots of bodies on the dance floor can help further thinking in terms of configurations of communities of desire. In its communal gathering of singular gestures of desire and freedom, dance affords a way of being together that holds together collectivity while retaining individuality.
Development features of pericarp of Couroupita guianensis Aubl. (Lecythidaceae)
Authors: Vasekha N. D. , Bobrov A. V. , Mikhaylova A. A. , Zdravchev N. S. , Iovlev P. S.
Published: December 2023

At present, there is a paucity of works dedicated to carpological investigations of Couroupita guianensis Aubl. In order to identify structural features, particularly those related to fruit histogenesis and determination of its histogenetic type, we examined the anatomical and morphological characteristics of the fruit of C. guianensis at different stages of development. The observed structure of the pericarp allows for the identification of a specialized morphogenetic type of amphicarp, which has not been previously reported in other representatives of Magnoliophyta. The sclerenchymatous zones are localized in the outer and middle zones of the mesocarp. The morphological and anatomical features of the fruit indicate a discrepancy between the structure of the pericarp and the contemporary method of C. guianensis dissemination. It is hypothesized that the fruit is endozoochorous, although among the present-day fauna of South America, there are no animals capable of breaking the integrity of the powerful bony structure of the fruit, which is represented by the internal sclerenchymatous zone. Apparently, C. guianensis lost its potential disseminators after the late Quaternary extinction of megafauna. As hypothetical disseminators, some representatives of the families Megatheriidae, Nothrotheriidae, Gomphotheriidae, Mammutidae, and Toxodontidae could be suggested. Based on our investigations, we can conclude that the fruit of C. guianensis currently illustrates an evolutionary anachronism of dissemination.
The influence of climatic factors on the vegetative development of introduced Pinus pumila (Pall.) Regel at the Polar-Alpine Botanical Garden-Institute
Authors: Zykova P. S. , Goncharova O. A.
Published: December 2023

The article describes the vegetative development of introduced Pinus pumila (Pall.) Regel that grow in the experimental area of the Polar-Alpine Botanical Garden and Institute (the surroundings of the town Apatity). It gives the generalized over several years dates of the beginning of the main vegetative phenophases, the duration of the lateral shoot linear growth and needles, the sum of active and effective temperatures above 5 and 10 °C. To identify interrelations between phenodates and climatic factors, a correlation analysis was carried out (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used). The sum of effective temperatures above 10 °C and the sum of precipitation varies greatly from year to year. Medium, strong and very strong correlations were found between: the dates of the beginning of various phenophases and the dates of a stable transition through 0, 5, 10 °C; sums of active and effective temperatures; average temperature and air humidity for 5, 10 and 30 days before the beginning of the phenophase; the date of isolation of а wintering apical bud in the last growing season and the environmental conditions preceding its isolation. The length of shoots and needles was measured for 2016-2021. Significant correlations between the length of shoots and needles and phenodates and selected climatic factors were not found.
Morphological structure of variety populations of Clarkia unguiculata Lindl. in the south of Western Siberia
Authors: Koroleva E. V. , Zibina A. A.
Published: December 2023

Clarkia unguiculata Lindl. - ornamental-flowering, annual, Californian crop - promising for landscaping in the south of Western Siberia. Decorativeness is determined by its morphobiological traits and adaptive properties. The aim of the work was to evaluate stratification variability of morphological structure of C. unguiculata Lindl. shoots in cultivated populations to improve the methodology of its breeding and seed production in the south of Western Siberia. Cultivated varieties Clarkia different producers were evaluated: C. unguiculata ‘Coral Reefs’ (Novosibirsk State Agricultural University), C. unguiculata ‘Albina’ and ‘Purpurnaya’ (LLC “Group of Companies “Gavrish”); C. unguiculata ‘Rubinovaya’ (Agrofirm Seeds of Altai LLC); C. unguiculata ‘Sakura’ (JSC “APK “ Russky Ogorod”). The study of biometric parameters and stratification variability of shoots was carried out on 10-20 test samples. In C. unguiculata plants 3 stratification of shoots were clearly distinguished: upper (main stem and the first two shoots of the second order), middle and lower (including seed shoots). A high correlation between peduncle productivity and linear brush size was found (r = 0.93). The total number of pedicels ranged from 32-50 per generative individual (CV = 20 %). The number of pedicels of the fourth (CV = 91,6 %) and fifth (CV = 64,2 %) orders was the most variable. The basiton type of branching was observed in the Cultivated varieties: C. unguiculata ‘Coral Reefs’, C. unguiculata ‘Sakura’ and C. unguiculata ‘Ruby’, while the acroton type was observed in the Cultivated varieties C. unguiculata ‘Albina’ and C. unguiculata ‘Purpurea’. Clustering of cultivated populations by the degree of development and productivity of flower stalks of different orders, by measuring Euclidean distances revealed 2 main clusters: the first included, characterized by high floral productivity original, variety Coral Reefs, registered 25.11.2022 in the State Variety Commission of the Russian Federation, and the second all the remaining cultivated populations: C. unguiculata ‘Rubinovaya’ with a minimum degree of flower productivity, C. unguiculata ‘Albina’ and C. unguiculata ‘Purpurnaya’ with average and C. unguiculata ‘Sakura’ above average. As a result, it was possible to identify important quantitative traits: the total number of peduncles per individual, linear size of the brush and the number of flowers on the peduncle. All cultivated populations are sources of a complex of breeding significant quantitative, morphobiological traits. The cultivated population of Clarkia unguiculata ‘Coral Reefs’ is recommended for landscaping the south of Western Siberia and other regions of Russia.
Germination biology of Hedysarum grandiflorum (Fabaceae) seeds under laboratory conditions
Authors: Lebedeva A. A. , Bakulin S. D. , Karasyova T. A. , Safronova I. A.
Published: December 2023

Germination biology of Hedysarum grandiflorum seeds research was conducted using seed material collected in one wild and one cultivated population growing in Rostov region and included an identification of seed laboratory germination degree, seed hardness, endogenic infection degree, and seed pathogens composition. A combinational dormancy type combining physical and non-deep physiological dormancy was identified in Hedysarum seeds. Stably high germination rates under laboratory conditions was demonstrated if mechanical scarification is used whereas efficiency of sulfuric acid treatment varies it relation to seeds harvest year and retention period. A proportion of hard seeds of H. grandiflorum is confirmed to increase during first three month of dry storage and then slowly decrease. A degree of Hedysarum seeds endogenic infection revealed is higher in wild population compared with seed material from cultivated plants. Micromycetes - facultative parasites and saprotrophs prevail among seed pathogens regarding their species diversity, and bacterial pathogens quantitatively.
Application of expert systems for identification of vegetation classes in South Siberia
Authors: Sinkovskiy E. K. , Chupina I. S. , Korolyuk A. Yu. , Dulepova N. A.
Published: December 2023

Due to the increase in the volume of primary factual data geobotanists have faced the problem of processing huge selection of geobotanical material. With the development of information methods, specialists have more tools to optimize their activities, one of which are expert systems that can successfully solve the problem of classification. An expert system was developed in 2020 by European researchers to identify habitat types in the EUNIS system. The aim of our work is to create our own expert system, based on the functionality proposed by European specialists, which allows to determine whether geobotanical descriptions belong to vegetation classes of the floristic classification. Classification of about 10000 descriptions of high-mountainous vegetation of the Altai-Sayan mountain region, vegetation of Novosibirsk region and Altai region as well as steppe and psammophytic vegetation of Transbaikalia by the Braun-Blanquet method using the expert system has been performed. The script written by us has shown its efficiency, allowing us to determine correctly the syntaxonomic affiliation of about 90 % of the descriptions. About 10 % of the data are either classified incorrectly or are not assigned by the system to any of the higher units under consideration, which is due to the uncertainty of diagnostic species within poorly studied classes, as well as to the non-obviousness of assignment to one or another class of transitional communities. To demonstrate the work of the expert system, a number of classes were mapped, showing their geographic distribution and latitudinal-zonal confinement, as well as the relationship between plant community types and ecological factors.
A Transesophageal Cardiovascular Intervention
Authors: Loch Alexander , Teoh Victoria Wen Yeng , Hilmi Ida Normiha
Published: December 2023

Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided transesophageal pericardiocentesis was performed for a posteriorly located effusion not amenable to transthoracic drainage in a 58-year-old woman with a history of recurrent breast adenocarcinoma who presented with dyspnea. The patient had a pericardial effusion that resulted in cardiac tamponade. Transthoracic pericardiocentesis was unsuitable because of the posterior location of the effusion. Pericardiocentesis via the transesophageal route was performed. The pericardial sac was punctured with a 19-gauge needle, and 245 mL of pericardial fluid were aspirated, resulting in the resolution of the tamponade physiology. Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided transesophageal drainage is a novel and promising therapeutic option for posteriorly located pericardial effusions.
Enhancing heat transfer in tube heat exchanger containing water/Cu nanofluid by using turbulator
Authors: Long Zhiqiang , Zhang Buqing , Liu Guoqing , Wu Zhengxin , Yan Qiang
Published: December 2023

In the current essay, the numerical investigation of heat transfer in an exchanger containing nanofluid with Cu nanoparticles in the presence of a new inserter is carried out. The equations governing the turbulent fluid flow have been solved utilizing single-phase models with the aid of the finite volume method in ANSYS-FLUENT software using the k-ε turbulence model for the Re number ranging from 4000 to 8000. Furthermore, the influence of Reynolds number, nanoparticle volume fraction, and geometric characteristics of turbulator on the friction factor and Nusselt number have been scrutinized. Outcomes reveal that the newly introduced inserter performs well and increases the Nusselt number by roughly 34–54 times and the friction coefficient by approximately 1.8–3.2 times compared to the smooth tube. It is also observed that a 2 % increase in the nanoparticles volume fraction has resulted in a rise in the Nusselt number by around 92 %. To attain the optimal performance of the presented turbulator, the longitudinal distance between the inserters is recommended as S/D = 5.27, for which Performance evaluation criteria values in the range of 3.01–9.23 in the Reynolds range under investigation are acquired.
Integral transforms involving a generalized k-Bessel function
Authors: Khammash Ghazi S. , Salim Tariq O. , Aydi Hassen , Khattab Noor N. , Park Choonkil
Published: December 2023

The main goal of this study was to look into some new integral transformations that are associated with a generalized

k

k

-Bessel function. Integral formulas for the generalized

k

k

-Bessel function have been established using the Laplace transform, Euler transform, Whittaker transform, and

k

k

-transforms. The results presented here have the potential to be helpful, and some special cases of corollaries are explicitly demonstrated.
Examining the design characteristics of a dual-material gate all-around tunnel FET for use in biosensing applications
Authors: Senthil Preethi , Nanjappan Vijayalakshmi
Published: December 2023

An inventive analytical model for a dual material gate-all-around tunnel FET with possible applications in biosensors is described in this study. The semiconductor device considered in this study has a gate-all-around configuration built with two distinct materials. Short-channel effects are avoided with the help of the surrounding gate to achieve flexibility. A breakthrough dual-material design with a nanocavity has been developed to render it viable for biosensing applications. To figure out Poisson’s equation and to derive its surface potential, the Finite Differentiation Method is used in this work. The electric field, subthreshold swing, drain current, and threshold voltage of the suggested structure are then determined using this potential. Furthermore, the device’s biosensor sensitivity is examined and the results are verified by two-dimensional TCAD simulations.
The Relationship Between Mental Fatigue and Shooting Performance Over the Course of a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Basketball Season
Authors: Daub Bryce D. , McLean Blake D. , Heishman Aaron D. , Peak Keldon M. , Coutts Aaron J.
Published: December 2023

Daub, BD, McLean, BD, Heishman, AD, Peak, KM, and Coutts, AJ. The relationship between mental fatigue and shooting performance over the course of a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I basketball season. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 334–341, 2024—The aim of this investigation was to examine the presence of mental fatigue and concurrent changes in shooting performance across various experimental weeks throughout a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) basketball season. Fifteen elite male NCAA Division I collegiate basketball players (age 20.2 ± 1.2 years, height 199.3 ± 7.1 cm, and body mass 93.1 ± 8.6 kg) volunteered for this study. Mental fatigue and basketball shooting performance was evaluated at 4 timepoints with varying seasonal demands: high game volume (GAME), high academic load (ACADEMIC), no games and no academic load (PRACTICE), and standard number of games and academic requirements (TYPICAL). Subjective mental fatigue increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) from Pre to Post brief psychomotor vigilance test (PVT-B) measurements at the end of the ACADEMIC week (p = 0.002, d = 1.51) and from beginning to end of the ACADEMIC week (p < 0.001, d = 2.21). Ratings of mental effort were significantly increased during the ACADEMIC week (p < 0.001, d = 1.67). Recovery stress questionnaire (REST-Q) showed significant differences between week GAME and ACADEMIC with an increase in Social Stress (p = 0.001, d = 0.84), Fatigue (p = 0.021, d = 1.12), Disturbed Breaks (p = 0.024, d = 0.57), and Emotional Exhaustion (p = 0.035, d = 0.75). Lower shooting performance was observed during the ACADEMIC week from Pre to Post (p = 0.009, d = 0.35) and higher scores Pre to Post in the TYPICAL week (p = 0.008, d = 0.25). Basketball shooting performance was significantly reduced after increased levels of mental fatigue stemming from added academic stress. In addition, an increase in sport-specific training or games had no effect on subsequent basketball shooting performance. Special consideration should be given by coaches around examination periods because the existence of academic stressors can influence basketball shooting performance.
Prediction of One Repetition Maximum in Free-Weight Back Squat Using a Mixed Approach: The Combination of the Individual Load-Velocity Profile and Generalized Equations
Authors: Fitas Afonso , Santos Paulo , Gomes Miguel , Pezarat-Correia Pedro , Schoenfeld Brad J. , Mendonca Goncalo V.
Published: December 2023

Fitas, A, Santos, P, Gomes, M, Pezarat-Correia, P, Schoenfeld, BJ, and Mendonca, GV. Prediction of one repetition maximum in free-weight back squat using a mixed approach: the combination of the individual load-velocity profile and generalized equations. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 228–235, 2024—We aimed to develop a mixed methods approach for 1 repetition maximum (1RM) prediction based on the development of generalized equations and the individual load-velocity profile (LVP), and to explore the validity of such equations for 1RM prediction. Fifty-seven young men volunteered to participate. The submaximal load-velocity relationship was obtained for the free-weight parallel back squat. The estimated load at 0 velocity (LD0) was used as a single predictor, and in combination with the slope of the individual LVP, to develop equations predictive of 1RM. Prediction accuracy was determined through the mean absolute percent error and Bland-Altman plots. LD0 was predictive of 1RM (p < 0.0001), explaining 70.2% of its variance. Adding the slope of the LVP to the model increased the prediction power of 1RM to 84.4% (p < 0.0001). The absolute percent error between actual and predicted 1RM was lower for the predictions combining LD0 and slope (6.9 vs. 9.6%). The mean difference between actual and estimated 1RM was nearly zero and showed heteroscedasticity for the LD0 model, but not for the combined model. The limits of agreement error were of 31.9 and 23.5 kg for LD0 and LD0 combined with slope, respectively. In conclusion, the slope of the individual LVP adds predictive value to LD0 in 1RM estimation on a group level and avoids error trends in the estimation of 1RM over the entire spectrum of muscle strength. However, the use of mixed methods does not reach acceptable accuracy for 1RM prediction of the free-weight back squat on an individual basis.
Effects of Two Different Low-Volume Resistance Training Programs Applied During the Off-Season Period on the Speed-Power Performance of Elite Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Loturco Irineu , Nunes Renan F. H. , Lampert Rodrigo R. , Silva Rodrigo L. P. , Hespanhol Jefferson E. , Novack Luiz F. , Conde Juan H. S. , Pereira Lucas A. , McGuigan Michael R.
Published: December 2023

Loturco, I, Nunes, RFH, Lampert, RR, Silva, RLP, Hespanhol, JE, Novack, LF, Conde, JHS, Pereira, LA, and McGuigan, MR. Effects of two different low-volume resistance training programs applied during the off-season period on the speed-power performance of elite youth soccer players. . J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in the speed-power performance of elite youth soccer players submitted to 2 different low-volume resistance training programs during the off-season period. Twenty under-17 players were randomly allocated to “traditional nonballistic” or “ballistic training” groups. Countermovement jump (CMJ), 20-m sprinting speed, and half-squat (HS) power tests were performed after the final match of the season (pretesting session) and at the beginning of the subsequent season (post-testing session), after 4 weeks of detraining. Between-group differences were assessed using a 2-way ANOVA with repeated measures followed by the Tukey's post hoc test. Performance variations were individually analyzed with the use of the “true changes” calculation. At post-tests, CMJ height and HS power remained unchanged (p > 0.05) but similar and significant improvements in sprint speed were observed in both groups (p < 0.05). However, notably, a larger number of players in the ballistic group exhibited “true changes” in HS power (i.e., 55 vs. 33%, compared with the traditional group, respectively). In conclusion, either low-volume ballistic or traditional resistance training schemes were able to increase sprint speed and maintain power output during a short interseason break in youth soccer players. Despite this apparent similarity, at the individual level, ballistic movements were more efficient at improving lower-body power. Practitioners can use the strategies described here to improve the sprint and power performance of soccer players during short periods of soccer-specific training cessation.
Unilateral and Bilateral Isokinetic Leg Extensions Exhibit No Differences in Neuromuscular Excitation Under Maximal and Fatiguing Conditions
Authors: Anders John Paul V. , Neltner Tyler J. , Smith Robert W. , Arnett Jocelyn E. , Housh Terry J. , Schmidt Richard J. , Johnson Glen O.
Published: December 2023

Anders, JPV, Neltner, TJ, Smith, RW, Arnett, JE, Housh, TJ, Schmidt, RJ, and Johnson, GO. Unilateral and bilateral isokinetic leg extensions exhibit no differences in neuromuscular activation under maximal and fatiguing conditions. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): 474–480, 2024—The bilateral deficit is a phenomenon where force production during a bilateral (BL) muscle action is less than the sum of force produced when the muscle action is performed unilaterally (UL) with both limbs. The purpose of this study was to compare peak force, electromyographic (EMG) amplitude (AMP), and mean power frequency (MPF) of the nondominant leg between UL and BL isokinetic leg extensions. Eleven recreationally trained men (mean ± SD; age = 20.8 ± 1.7 years; body mass = 84.0 ± 16.2 kg; height = 179.3 ± 7.2 cm) volunteered to participate in this study. The 2 test visits included UL and BL maximal isokinetic leg extensions at 180°·second−1 followed by a fatiguing task of either 50 UL or 25 UL followed immediately by 25 BL (ULBL) maximal, isokinetic leg extensions at 180°·second−1, in random order on separate days. The results demonstrated a significant (p = 0.015,

= 0.460) bilateral deficit in force (UL = 56.29 ± 11.20 kg; BL = 50.32 ± 7.35 kg; d = 0.63; 95% CI [1.42, 10.52]) but no significant bilateral deficit in EMG AMP (p = 0.892,

= 0.002). The peak force during the fatiguing task demonstrated a significant main effect for repetition (p < 0.001,

= 0.943) characterized by a reduced peak force from repetitions 20–50. Similarly, EMG MPF demonstrated a significant main effect for repetition (p < 0.001,

= 0.702) characterized by a reduced EMG MPF from repetitions 35–50. There were no significant effects (p = 0.102–0.387,

= 0.096–0.203) for EMG AMP. These findings suggested that the bilateral deficit was not associated with a neuromuscular deficit and UL muscle actions may be used to potentiate force production of subsequent BL muscle actions.
Validity and Reliability of the FlightScope Mevo+ Launch Monitor for Assessing Golf Performance
Authors: Brennan Alex , Murray Andrew , Coughlan Daniel , Mountjoy Margo , Wells Jack , Ehlert Alex , Xu Jiaqing , Broadie Mark , Turner Anthony , Bishop Chris
Published: December 2023

Brennan, A, Murray, A, Coughlan, D, Mountjoy, M, Wells, J, Ehlert, A, Xu, J, Broadie, M, Turner, A, and Bishop, C. Validity and reliability of the FlightScope Mevo+ launch monitor for assessing golf performance. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—The purpose of this study was to (a) assess the validity of the FlightScope Mevo+ against the TrackMan 4 and (b) determine the within-session reliability of both launch monitor systems when using a driver and a 6-iron. Twenty-nine youth golfers, with a minimum of 3 years of playing experience, volunteered for this study. All golfers completed 10 shots with a 6-iron and a driver, with 8 metrics concurrently monitored from both launch monitor systems in an indoor biomechanics laboratory. For both clubs, Pearson's r values ranged from small to near perfect (r range = 0.254–0.985), with the strongest relationships evident for clubhead speed (CHS) and ball speed (r ≥ 0.92). Bland-Altman plots showed almost perfect levels of agreement between devices for smash factor (mean bias ≤−0.016; 95% CI: −0.112, 0.079), whereas the poorest levels of agreement was for spin rate (mean bias ≤1,238; 95% CI: −2,628, 5,103). From a reliability standpoint, the TrackMan showed intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranging from moderate to excellent (ICC = 0.60–0.99) and coefficient of variation (CV) values ranged from good to poor (CV = 1.31–230.22%). For the Mevo+ device, ICC data ranged from poor to excellent (ICC = −0.22 to 0.99) and CV values ranged from good to poor (CV = 1.46–72.70%). Importantly, both devices showed similar trends, with the strongest reliability consistently evident for CHS, ball speed, carry distance, and smash factor. Finally, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were evident between devices for spin rate (driver: d = 1.27; 6-iron: d = 0.90), launch angle (driver: d = 0.54), and attack angle (driver: d = −0.51). Collectively, these findings suggest that the FlightScope Mevo+ launch monitor is both valid and reliable when monitoring CHS, ball speed, carry distance, and smash factor. However, additional variables such as spin rate, launch angle, attack angle, and spin axis exhibit substantially greater variation compared with the TrackMan 4, suggesting that practitioners may wish to be cautious when providing golfers with feedback relating to these metrics.
Physical Exercise–Induced DNA Methylation in Disease-Related Genes in Healthy Adults—A Systematic Review With Bioinformatic Analysis
Authors: Vasileva Fidanka , Hristovski Robert , Font-Lladó Raquel , Georgiev Georgi , Sacot Arnau , López-Ros Víctor , Calleja-González Julio , Barretina-Ginesta Jordi , López-Bermejo Abel , Prats-Puig Anna
Published: December 2023

Vasileva, F, Hristovski, R, Font-Lladó, R, Georgiev, G, Sacot, A, López-Ros, V, Calleja-González, J, Barretina-Ginesta, J, López-Bermejo, A, and Prats-Puig, A. Physical exercise-induced DNA methylation in disease-related genes in healthy adults—A systematic review with bioinformatic analysis. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 384–393, 2024—This study aimed to systematically review the existing literature regarding physical exercise (PE) and DNA methylation (DNAm) in healthy adults. Specific goals were to (a) identify differently methylated genes (DMGs) after PE intervention, their imprinting status, chromosome and genomic location, function, and related diseases; and (b) to screen for core genes and identify methylation changes of the core genes that can be modified by PE intervention. Our search identified 2,869 articles from which 8 were finally included. We identified 1851 DMGs (p < 0.05) after PE intervention, although 45 of them were imprinted. Aerobic exercise (AE) seems to induce more DNA hypermethylation rather than hypomethylation, whereas anaerobic exercise (AN) seems to induce more DNA hypomethylation rather than hypermethylation. Aerobic exercise induced highest % of methylation changes on chromosome 6, whereas AN and mixed type (MT) on chromosome 1. Mixed type induced higher % of methylation changes close to transcription start site in comparison to AE and AN. After PE intervention, DMGs were mainly involved in fat metabolism, cell growth, and neuronal differentiation, whereas diseases regulated by those genes were mainly chronic diseases (metabolic, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative). Finally, 19 core genes were identified among DMGs, all related to protein metabolism. In conclusion, our findings may shed some light on the mechanisms explaining PE-induced health benefits such as the potential role that PE-induced DNAm may have in disease prevention and disease treatment.
Effects of HMB on Endurance Performance in a Healthy Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fernández-Landa Julen , Todorovic Nikola , Santibañez-Gutierrez Asier , Ostojic Sergej M. , Calleja-González Julio , Sekulic Djordje , Mielgo-Ayuso Juan
Published: December 2023

Fernández-Landa, J, Todorovic, N, Santibañez-Gutierrez, A, Ostojic, SM, Calleja-González, J, Sekulic, D, and Mielgo-Ayuso, J. Effects of HMB on endurance performance in a healthy population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) has been used extensively as a dietary supplement for athletes and physically active people. However, the ergogenic effect of HMB supplementation on endurance performance is still unclear. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) aimed to assess HMB supplementation on endurance performance and V̇O2 max. This SRMA followed PRISMA guidelines. Three electronic databases were searched (PubMed/Medline, Web of Science [WOS], and Scopus) from inception until April 3, 2023. In this SRMA, human experimental trials, controlled with a placebo group, assessing the effect of HMB supplementation on endurance performance in a healthy population were included. The quality of the studies was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. The study protocol was registered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Review (PROSPERO): CRD42022341790. Eleven studies involving 279 participants met the inclusion criteria. The results displayed a significant improvement on endurance performance (pooled standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.58 [0.28–0.87]) and V̇O2 max (pooled SMD = 0.58 [0.21–0.95]) after HMB ingestion. Moreover, after the exclusion of the studies not evenly distributed around the base of the funnel plot, the results continued to be significantly positive in endurance performance (pooled SMD = 0.38 [0.22–0.53]) and V̇O2 max (pooled SMD = 0.25 [0.09–0.42]). In conclusion, HMB (3 g·d−1) ingestion during 2–12 weeks significantly improves endurance performance and V̇O2 max.
The Effect of Daily Heart Rate Workloads on Preseason, Midseason, and Postseason Oxygen Consumption in Division I Basketball
Authors: Howard Mason , Sanders Gabriel J. , Kollock Roger O. , Peacock Corey A. , Freire Raul
Published: December 2023

Howard, M, Sanders, GJ, Kollock, RO, Peacock, CA, and Freire, R. The effect of daily heart rate workloads on preseason, midseason, and postseason oxygen consumption in Division I basketball. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—Basketball is a dynamic sport, requiring athletes to elicit a high-level of physical, tactical, technical, and psychological attributes and athletes must possess a robustly trained aerobic energy system. There is no research to assess how objectively measured training loads throughout a season influence aerobic capacity. The following study was a retrospective analysis of an NCAA Division I women’s basketball team throughout a 5-month (23-week) competitive season. Data were sorted into season half totals and maximal oxygen consumption was recorded before, at the midway point and within 1-week postseason. Twelve athletes were monitored during each practice, pregame shoot around, scrimmage, and game for a total of 1,378 recorded sessions with a valid heart rate–based wearable microsensor (Polar Team Pro) during the season. There was a main effect of time for V̇O2max throughout the season (p < 0.001). Post hoc analysis revealed there was a significant increase in V̇O2max from preseason to postseason (p < 0.001). Interestingly, there were significant (p ≤ 0.001 for all) decreases from the first half to the second half of the season for training load, and time allocated to HRZone1–4, but no difference in time for the most intense zone, HRzone5. Conclusion: Oxygen consumption significantly increased 7.5% from preseason to postseason despite a reduction in overall work. The only training intensity that was not different from the first half to second half of the season was time in the highest heart rate intensity zone ≥85% of HRmax.
FAKTOR TERAPEUTIK KAUNSELING KELOMPOK DALAM MENINGKATKAN KESEJAHTERAAN KENDIRI
Authors: Abdul Rashid Abdul Aziz  , Muhammad Nubli Abdul Wahab  , Mohd Ropizam Mohd Zainun  , Nor Hamizah Ab Razak  , Norizan Yusof  , Rezki Perdani Sawai
Published: December 2023

Kaunselor berperanan dan bertanggungjawab dalam usaha mengembangkan segala potensi yang ada pada diri setiap klien. Kemahiran kaunseling dalam perhubungan terapeutik antara kaunselor dan klien adalah sangat penting dalam mendorong perubahan diri klien. Justeru, kajian ini bertujuan meneroka elemen terapeutik dalam kaunseling kelompok yang dapat meningkatkan kesejahteraan kendiri. Kajian ini menggunakan kaedah kajian kualitatif menerusi analisis kandungan terhadap artikel-artikel yang telah diterbitkan dalam pangkalan data seperti Scopus, Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) dan Science Direct. Sebanyak 45 artikel telah dipilih. Kajian ini telah mendapati bahawa terdapat lima faktor utama terapeutik yang membawa kepada kesejahteraan diri termasuklah sikap altruisme dan membantu, kemahiran insaniah, katarsis jiwa, kejeleketan kelompok dan pengkayaan maklumat serta nilai. Kesimpulannya, kajian ini secara langsung dapat meningkatkan kesedaran dalam kalangan kaunselor berkenaan pelaksanaan kaunseling kelompok yang perlu mengambil kira elemen terapeutik sebagai faktor yang dapat meningkatkan keberkesanan pelaksanaannya.
Counselors play a role and are responsible for developing all the potential that exists in each client. Counseling skills in the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and the client are very important in encouraging the client's self-change. Therefore, this study aims to explore therapeutic elements in group counselling that can improve the well-being of the involved clients. This study used qualitative research methods through content analysis of articles that have been published in databases such as Scopus, Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) and Science Direct. A total of 45 articles were selected. This study has found that there are five main therapeutic factors that lead to personal well-being including altruism and helping skills, soft skills, soul catharsis, group cohesiveness and enrichment of information and values. In conclusion, this study directly increases awareness among counselors regarding the implementation of group counseling that needs to take into account the therapeutic element as a factor that can increase the effectiveness of its implementation.