bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Integrated Nitrogen Fertilization and Weed Management on Growth and Grain Yield of Sorghum Hybrid CS-200
Authors: Amini Sayed Younus , Nabizada Abdul Qadir , Noorı Mohammad Safar
Published: December 2024

A field experiment was carried out from May 2020 to August 2020 to investigate the impacts of nitrogen (N) fertilization and weed management on enhancing sorghum productivity in Afghanistan. The study included three different weed management practices: W1 (Two hand weeding 25 and 45 days after sowing), W2 (Atrazine + one hand weeding 45 days after sowing) and W3 (Atrazine + Pendimethalin + one hand weeding 45 days after sowing) and four doses of N applications including: N1 (no N application), N2 (50 kg N ha-1), N3 (75 kg N ha-1), and N4 (100 kg N ha-1). The experiment utilized a split plot design with three replications. The findings revealed that two hand weeding performed at 25 and 45 days after sowing (DAS) was the most effective method for managing weeds in sorghum. The N4 treatment resulted in significantly improved growth parameters and yield characteristics, closely followed by N3, with both treatments showing similar results in most observations. The highest seed and Stover yields were also associated with the N4 treatment, followed by N3. Thus, it can be concluded that applying 100 kg N per hectare, combined with weed management techniques either through two hand weeding at 25 and 45 DAS or through chemical management using atrazine and pendimethalin along with one hand weeding at 45 DAS enhances sorghum productivity in the agro-ecological conditions of Takhar province, Afghanistan.
Challenges and Strategies in School Improvement
Authors: Dinler Caner
Published: December 2024

This study examines the experiences of public primary school principals in Istanbul in implementing school improvement strategies, addressing challenges, and assessing the outcomes of their efforts. Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with nine experienced principals, focusing on their activities, challenges, and solutions in fostering educational change. The findings highlight the importance of systematic planning, creating supportive learning environments, and fostering participatory leadership to drive school improvement. Collaborative approaches, involving teachers, parents, and community stakeholders, were emphasized as key to achieving shared goals. Principals faced several challenges, including a lack of organizational culture, resistance to change, excessive administrative demands, inadequate physical conditions, and resource limitations. To address these issues, they employed strategies such as building participatory school cultures, establishing effective communication networks, and leveraging external support from NGOs and municipalities. These efforts not only mitigated immediate barriers but also strengthened stakeholder relationships and promoted a sense of collective ownership. The results indicate significant positive impacts on students, teachers, and parents. School improvement initiatives enhanced student engagement, increased teacher satisfaction, and improved school-community relationships. Principals also reported that their schools became more desirable within their communities, reflecting the broader benefits of their leadership efforts. This study contributes to understanding effective school improvement practices in urban settings and underscores the importance of systemic support and equitable resource allocation. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and educators, emphasizing the need for sustainable strategies to ensure continuous progress in education.
Exploring the Potential Applications of AI in Climate Modeling, Renewable Energy Development, and Disaster Preparedness, While Considering the Ethical Risks
Authors: Sarosh Aafia , Musa Muhammad , Raheem Ijaz , Khalil Muhammad Naveed
Published: December 2024

This research examines the numerous applications of Artificial Intelligence in climate modeling, renewable energy systems, and disaster preparedness in terms of its significant impacts on prediction accuracy, system optimization, and effectiveness in disaster response efforts, especially in Punjab, Pakistan. In order to achieve this, the research adopted a quantitative research design that allowed for the systematic collection of data from 176 participants. This population included diverse groups of policymakers, government officials, and industry stakeholders, and the data was collected through a snowball sampling technique that assisted in reaching an appropriate range of relevant respondents. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires prepared for the study population to respond and analyze the information provided using several statistical tools and techniques such as correlation and regression, and ANOVA. Findings from this analysis clearly show that artificial intelligence has a great deal to do with making efficiency improve in different domains such as in climate modeling, renewable production of energy, and readiness for disaster preparedness depending on professional activities among the subjects' perceptions. Regression also confirmed that there is a very significant correlation between applications of artificial intelligence and stakeholder perceptions within these domains. The results obtained from ANOVA analysis have succeeded in underlining and highlighting major and significant differences that happen to exist in performance when such comparisons are made between different kinds of stakeholder groups. Such results will serve to throw into sharp relief and accentuate the critical importance of artificial intelligence in addressing complex problems in climate and energy, while creating attention to the urgent need for different and tailored policies that appropriately address and respond to divergent and differing perspectives expressed by these various stakeholders. The study concludes by making recommendations on cooperation, responsible AI practices, and investment in AI infrastructure towards sustainable development and climate resilience.
Implemtasi Permainan Kaos Kaki Untuk Meningkatkan Karakter Kemandirian Di TK Negeri Tegal
Authors: Soleha Siti , Husnia Fitri , Imamah Imamah
Published: December 2024

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the educational game “Sock-Dressers” in improving the character of early childhood independence at Tegal State Kindergarten. This game uses a play while learning approach, designed to train children to wear socks independently, which also hones motor skills, decision making, and a sense of responsibility. This study used an experimental method with a pretest-posttest design involving a control group. Data was processed quantitatively through initial and final tests, and followed by observation of children's behavior in the learning process. The results showed a significant increase in the experimental group in the independence score compared to the control group. The large effect size value and high gain score support the effectiveness of this game in building independence. Behavioral observations showed that the experimental group children were more active, took initiative in completing tasks, and had higher self-confidence than the control group. Thus, the “Sock-Dressers” game makes an innovative contribution to the development of early childhood independence and is an effective learning method in supporting children's physical, social-emotional, and cognitive development.
Time for A Change in the Brain Science: Informational Neurophysiology has to Replace Electro-Neurophysiology
Authors:   Retired Independent Researcher, Israel, Diamant Emanuel
Published: December 2024

Informational neurophysiology is a new branch of neuroscience
aimed at studying the mechanisms of brain working. In essence,
it is a modernization of traditional neurophysiology, which in
itself is a field of physiology that deals with the functions of the
nervous system.
Apresentação
Authors: Ferreira Reis Arthur , Siqueira Cordeiro Cecília
Published: December 2024

Foi bastante acertada a escolha de Isabel Lustosa para o título de sua obra dedicada à trajetória de Hipólito José da Costa. Ao referir-se ao seu biografado como “o jornalista que imaginou o Brasil”, a autora não só nos presentou com uma narrativa impecável sobre um dos mais influentes redatores de jornais de sua época, como também nos incitou a pensar como a intelectualidade luso-brasileira imaginava o que viria a ser o Brasil.
A dimensão imaginativa aparece em franco diálogo com os estudos de Benedict Anderson sobre as comunidades políticas imaginadas, intrinsicamente ligadas à noção de pertencimento. Afinal, Hipólito José da Costa passou mais da metade da sua vida fora do Brasil, o que não o impediu de escrever sobre e para o Brasil. Assim como o jornalista exilado em Londres, outras vozes e perspectivas também contribuíram para identificar o que Cecília H. de Salles Oliveira chamou de “tangibilidade da nação” – uma identidade “brasileira” que, lentamente, ia sendo forjada como diversa, embora originária, da portuguesa.
Esse dossiê intentou reunir estudos sobre diferentes vozes da intelectualidade “brasileira” que, sobretudo no século XIX, procurou imaginar o Brasil. Vozes essas que entendemos plurais, incluindo mulheres, afro-americanos, indígenas e outros grupos historicamente silenciados, que a despeito de sua marginalização política e social, também pensaram e forjaram alternativas de futuro para o Brasil. 
Busou-se, portanto, reunir pesquisas que explorassem os debates sobre identidade nacional, filosofia política, literatura, ciência e muito mais. Consideramos tanto as convergências quanto as divergências de pensamento, destacando como essa intelectualidade diversa ajudou a fundar, de maneira complexa e multifacetada, a brasilidade.
Apresentação
Authors: Biato de Azevedo Larissa , Ferreira Ricardo Alexandre
Published: December 2024

Após algum tempo de arrebatadas discussões sobre ser ou não a violência o elemento estrutural da dominação escravista, um grupo de historiadores, composto por brasileiros e por alguns brasilianistas, dedicados à compreensão de diferentes facetas do cotidiano de africanos e descendentes que viveram como escravos na antiga colônia lusa da América e depois no Império do Brasil, empreendeu numerosos estudos marcados por abordagens que privilegiaram análises bastante definidas espaço-temporalmente, nas quais o escravo acabou por assumir, via de regra, um papel preponderante sobre a própria escravidão. Salvo algumas exceções, a documentação cartorial, policial e judiciária relativa aos cativos foi frequentada mais como um meio de se chegar ao dia a dia dos envolvidos do que propriamente para o estudo do aparato estatal que lhe conferia forma e legalidade.
Mais recentemente, no entanto, ao longo das últimas duas décadas, mesmo se considerarmos que os estudos localizados ainda tenham alcançado uma expressão considerável, assistiu-se no Brasil, no Caribe e nos Estados Unidos a um renovado interesse pelas macroabordagens, tanto na publicação de novas pesquisas, quanto na produção de traduções de obras consagradas – que colocaram à disposição de um número mais amplo de interessados questões que ficaram, por algum tempo, relegadas a segundo plano, esquecidas sob a pecha de grandes generalizações de caráter ideológico, economicista ou culturalista. Aos poucos, a história da escravidão moderna vem sendo, no Brasil e no exterior, novamente interpretada à luz de histórias conectadas no espaço americano, na perspectiva atlântica, sob o prisma do império português e no âmbito da própria cultura ocidental.
Colocando-se a um só tempo como tributário e crítico desses amplos movimentos historiográficos, este dossiê temático pretendeu abrir espaço a um conjunto novo e vibrante de estudos que vem articulando o problema da escravidão de africanos e descendentes à construção ou ao funcionamento de instituições que compuseram a Monarquia lusa e o Estado do Império do Brasil entre os séculos XVII e XIX.
Passenger Satisfaction with Service Quality of KTM Komuter Stations at Klang Valley
Authors: James Bernadine anak , Muhamad Ariff Nor Rima , Mohamad Yusof Mohd Shahir
Published: December 2024

Public transportation is one of the facilities available in Malaysia. In order to encourage more people to use public transportation and thereby reduce traffic congestion, effective and efficient public transportation services are essential. Public transportation in Malaysia, including KTM Komuter, has various challenges to operate and is, therefore, unable to provide the level of service that customers desire. This study aims to improve the service quality of KTM Komuter stations in the Klang Valley by proposing areas of concern determined based on the satisfaction of KTM Komuter passengers with the facilities provided. Therefore, five dimensions have been identified based on the SERVQUAL model: Reliability, Assurance, Tangible, Empathy, and Responsiveness. A questionnaire survey was conducted among the passengers of the KTM Komuter at three selected stations: Putra Station, Bank Negara Station, and Kuala Lumpur Station. These stations were selected based on major interchange stations at Klang Valley. The level of satisfaction with the service quality of KTM Komuter stations was then evaluated based on the responses of the 384 respondents on a given 5-point Likert scale. Findings showed that the level of passengers’ satisfaction with Reliability and Tangible is the most needed for improvement. Further, this study highlighted KTM Komuter services that necessary and needed improvement with the support of the Government of Malaysia namely the Ministry of Transport (MOT), Agensi Pengangkutan Awam Darat (SPAD), and Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) management team.
Kaposi’s Sarcoma in The Democratic Republic of Congo: Immunohisto-Chemical Expression and Proliferative Activity in Different Histological Types
Authors: Mulumeoderhwa P  , Chirimwami R  , Marot L  , Fiasse R  , Marbaix E  , Kabamba B
Published: December 2024

In a preceding study, Kaposi sarcoma (KS) associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been found frequent in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). 1.1. Aim To confirm the previous clinical and histological diagnosis of KS in the DRC on specimens of biopsies sent to Belgium by immunohistochemistry. 1.2. Materials and Methods On 142 specimens from patients with the presumed diagnosis of KS in the DRC and 48 specimens from DRC patients with various vascular lesions, identification of the HHV-8 virus with the anti-HHV-8 antibody and of the vascular and lymphatic endothelial cells with the anti-CD31 and anti- D34 antibodies, were performed as well as the determination of the proliferative activity of KS tumor cells by the Ki-67 antibodies.
Characterization and Follow-Up of Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinomas Documented in a Level IV Clinic in Cali-Valle Del Cauca
Authors: Bilicic Ivo Siljic , Salazar Martinez Leslie Melissa , Martínez Muñoz Laura Camila , Barajas Manuel , Gutiérrez Eduardo , Rivas Giovanna , Lizarazo Edwin , Arturo-Terranova Daniela
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Papillary thyroid microcarcinomas are malignant tumors of papillary origin, with a diameter of ≤ 1 cm. They generally have a favorable prognosis, characterized by slow growth, an asymptomatic course, and an overall survival rate of approximately 99% at 10 years. The rates of locoregional progression are typically <5%, while distant metastasis occurs in ≤ 1% of cases Materials and methods: The descriptive observational study, performed in Cali in a level IV clinic between 2018-2023, analyzed 140 patients with Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma (PTMC). Results: Many patients were women aged 40 to 60 years, residing in Cali, and affiliated with the Contributive regime. Most were asymptomatic or presented with thyroid enlargement. Although 14% had a family history of cancer, only 4% had a history of thyroid cancer. Chronic comorbidities were present in 49.3% of cases, and 12% had a history of hypothyroidism. Pathological findings revealed multifocality in 27% of patients, extrathyroidal extension in 5%, and lymphatic metastasis in 19.3%. Treatment primarily consisted of total thyroidectomy (82.1%) and lobectomy (17.9%).
Mode-Group (De)Multiplexer Based on Directional Coupler Formed by Heterogeneous Integrated Waveguides
Authors: Zhang Jiali , Peng Kedi , Ran Jiaqi , Wu Yaomin , Xiao Jiadong , Chen Yujian , Chen Yarou , Xu Ou , Huang Quandong
Published: December 2024

A simple mode-group (de)multiplexer utilizing a co-planar directional coupler formed by heterogeneous waveguides is proposed, which features two few-mode cores with different refractive indices and heights. The proposed device enables the control of mode-group (de)multiplexing between two few-mode cores, i.e., for manipulating both the E21 and E12 modes as a mode group. A three-mode (de)multiplexer is designed and fabricated with polymer materials through multi-step photolithography to demonstrate the proposed methodology, where only the high-order modes couple between two few-mode cores. For E21 mode and E12 mode, A coupling ratio higher than 90.6% and 89.9% is measured of our device within the C-band, ranging from 1530 to 1565 nm. A low polarization state sensitivity is confirmed by modal crosstalk lower than −9.8 dB and −9.5 dB to the E11 mode from E21 mode and E12 mode, respectively. A modal crosstalk lower than −17.8 dB to both the E21 and E12 modes from E11 mode is represented. The proposed mode-group (de)multiplexer can be further developed to manipulate more guide mode groups, and the crosstalks can be further decreased by introducing horizontal and vertical tapers during the fabrication. The device proposed can find application in photonic integrated chips where mode-group manipulations are required.
 
Received: 23 June 2024 | Revised: 14 August 2024 | Accepted: 5 December 2024
 
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to this work.
 
Data Availability Statement
Data are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. 
 
Author Contribution Statement
Jiali Zhang: Formal analysis, Investigation, Data curation, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing, Visualization. Kedi Peng: Software, Writing - review & editing, Visualization. Jiaqi Ran: Writing - review & editing.  Yaomin Wu: Writing - review & editing. Jiadong Xiao: Writing - review & editing.  Yujian Chen: Writing - review & editing.  Yarou Chen: Writing - review & editing. Ou Xu: Validation, Supervision. Quandong Huang: Conceptualization, Methodology, Validation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Resources, Data curation, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing, Visualization, Supervision, Project administration, Funding acquisition.
Gestión de riesgos financieros operacionales en los bancos oficiales de Panamá
Authors: Koo Castillo Romelia
Published: December 2024

El artículo se enfoca en analizar la Caja de Ahorro y el Banco Nacional de Panamá. El Banco Nacional sigue los lineamientos de los Acuerdos 008-2010 y 011-2018 de la Superintendencia de Bancos de Panamá, mientras que la Caja de Ahorro inició su gestión de riesgo operacional en 2006, basándose en los fundamentos de Basilea II y siguiendo los lineamientos del Banco Nacional desde 2012. Se proporciona una visión detallada del enfoque y las prácticas utilizadas por los bancos oficiales de Panamá en la gestión de riesgos operacionales. Los resultados indican que ambos bancos establecen y siguen un proceso estructurado de presentación ante el Comité de Riesgos y la Junta Directiva, implementando planes de acción adaptados a la profundidad del riesgo identificado.
EFECTO DE LA INTERACCIÓN SOCIAL EN LA PRODUCTIVIDAD DE TILAPIA DEL NILO (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Vargas Reynaldo , Grajales-Cedeño Joseph , Ríos-Moreno Alex , Guerra Reggie , Mudarra Richard , Guerra Ivonne
Published: December 2024

El comportamiento representa estrategias del individuo para lidiar con los desafíos ambientales. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar el efecto del estrés social en la consistencia temporal de comportamiento y su relación con bienestar animal y desempeño productivo. El estudio se realizó en la Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Panamá. Se empleó un diseño completamente al azar con dos factores: personalidad animal (proactivo, reactivo, intermedio) y condición de alimentación (alta competencia, baja competencia). Cada tratamiento se evaluó por triplicado. La personalidad animal mostró diferencias significativas en las latencias para el primer intento de escape al final del ensayo (P<0.001). El grupo proactivo mostró mayor peso final, ganancia de peso, tasa de conversión alimenticia y tasa de crecimiento específico que mixtos y reactivos (P<0.001; P<0.001; P<0.001; P<0.001, respectivamente). El porcentaje de individuos con lesión en las aletas fue significativamente diferente de acuerdo con la personalidad animal (P=0.005). Los fenotipos mostraron mayor porcentaje de lesión en la condición de alimentación de alta competencia (P=0.002). En condición de alimentación de alta competencia el grupo proactivo y mixto mostraron mayor porcentaje de lesión de aleta que el grupo reactivo (P<0.001; P<0.001, respectivamente). La selección por personalidad animal mostró diferencias consistentes en el comportamiento al final del ensayo, que no fueron afectadas por la condición de alimentación. Los proactivos mostraron mejor desempeño productivo que mixtos y reactivos. El porcentaje de daño en las aletas refleja que los proactivos fueron más propensos a sufrir lesiones sobre todo en condición de alimentación de alta competencia.
FACTORES NO GENÉTICOS Y HEREDABILIDAD DEL PESO AL DESTETE DE OVINOS PELIBUEY EN CUBA
Authors: Rodríguez Castro Manuel , Suárez Tonco Marco
Published: December 2024

En la última década el crecimiento del inventario del ovino de pelo en Cuba y particularmente el Pelibuey dada su rusticidad y adaptabilidad ha favorecido su expansión a través de todo el país. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue estimar las fuentes de variación genéticas y no genéticas sobre el peso al destete (PD) y la heredabilidad (h2). La unidad empresarial de base (UEB) Genética Siboney se dedica a la producción de animales genéticos variedad de color bermejo. La información estuvo comprendida entre los años de 2013 a 2021 e incluyó 1,314 de PD. El fichero de pedigrí estuvo constituido por 2,053 animales. Se constituyeron 29 grupos de contemporáneas (GC) conformados por la combinación año-bimestre-tipo de parto-sexo. El año y mes de nacimiento, así como el sexo de la cría fueron altamente significativos (P<0,001) para PD, no así el tipo de parto y el número de crías. La muestra analizada tuvo una media de 14.43 ± 3.7 kg, con 89.1 días de edad y una paridad promedio de 1.7 crías al parto. La h2 para efecto directo aditivo fue 0.15±0.08, la materna 0.14±0.04 y la correlación directa-materna -0.19±0.05. Se puede esperar mejora genética para PD y atender los efectos antagónicos con el componente materno
IMPACTO DE LA TECNOLOGÍA BIOFLOC EN EL RECICLAJE DE NUTRIENTES, EL BIENESTAR ANIMAL Y LA SOSTENIBILIDAD DEL ECOSISTEMA
Authors: Bado Merly , Carneiro Javier , Guerra Ivonne
Published: December 2024

La acuicultura representa importantes retos referentes al uso de aguas y la descarga de efluentes contaminantes. Esto conlleva la aplicación de tecnologías que reduzcan el uso de agua, mitiguen los impactos ambientales e incrementen la producción dentro del respecto de bienestar animal.  El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto de la tecnología biofloc en el reciclaje de nutrientes, bienestar animal y sostenibilidad en un cultivo de la tilapia del Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). Se emplearon dos tratamientos por triplicado: TBF= tecnología biofloc y C=sistema tradicional. El tratamiento TBF se preparó durante 14 días previos a la siembra de los peces. Se utilizaron 60 peces por tratamiento (20 por replica) con un peso inicial de 21.68±2.42 gramos y una longitud total de 10.52±1.08 centímetros. El tratamiento TBF mostró valores superiores de sólidos disueltos totales, conductividad eléctrica, amoniaco, nitrito y nitrato (P>0.05). No se observó diferencias entre los tratamientos en las variables de comportamiento, estrés y salud (P>0.05). Los peces en el TBF mostraron una mayor ganancia de peso (P<0.05). El tratamiento TBF disminuyó el consumo de agua y la descarga de aguas residuales (P<0.05). El tratamiento TBF resultó en una alternativa sostenible reduciendo el consumo de agua y la descarga de efluentes a través del reciclaje de nutrientes incrementando el desempeño productivo sin afectaciones a el bienestar animal
IMPACTO DEL MANEJO ANTE MORTEM EN LA INCIDENCIA DE CORTES OSCUROS Y SU EFECTO EN LA CALIDAD DE LA CARNE BOVINA
Authors: Bonilla Pacífico , Guerra Pedro , Melgar Audino , Solís Carlos
Published: December 2024

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue analizar la incidencia de cortes oscuros en carne bovina y su relación con el pH muscular post mortem y cómo afecta la calidad del producto final. Los cortes oscuros son causados por un pH inadecuado en el músculo, lo que provoca un color oscuro y textura seca. Se recolectaron datos de 68 animales de la raza Brahman, procedentes de dos fincas. Las muestras se tomaron 24 horas post mortem en el músculo longissimus dorsi. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó un modelo de regresión simple y cuadrática sin intercepto y el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. La incidencia de cortes oscuros fue del 16.2% (n=11; pH ?5.8) de los cuales nueve animales pertenecían a la finca uno. Se observó una correlación negativa fuerte (P<0.01) entre pH y color, sugiriendo una relación inversa entre ambas. A medida que el pH aumenta, los valores de color disminuyen. También se observó una correlación negativa débil (P<0.05) entre pH y peso de la canal. Es probable que el incremento en pH esté asociado con una disminución en el peso de la canal; sin embargo, la magnitud de esta relación es baja, sugiriendo que otros factores podrían tener una influencia más significativa sobre el peso.
The relationship of psychological well-being with adaptive and maladaptive functioning among older adults in Lithuania
Authors: Sadauskaitė Raimonda , Šimulionienė Roma , Gedutienė Reda
Published: December 2024

Background

The aging of societies highlights the importance of understanding the lives of the elderly. Researchers are interested in iden-tifying factors of psychological well-being associated with age as it is crucial to find out what contributes to a fulfilling life of older people. However, the relationship of psychological well-being with adaptive and maladaptive functioning remains ambiguous. This study aimed to assess this relationship among older adults.

Participants and procedure

The study involved 332 individuals aged 60 to 97, with an average age of 71.93 years, of whom 36.4% were male. A nationally representative sample of older adults was obtained using multistage stratified sampling. The short supplemen-tary scale of the Lithuanian Psychological Well-Being Scale and Older Adult Self Report (OASR/60+) were used.

Results

The hierarchical regression analysis revealed that, even after controlling for other factors of psychological well-being, cer-tain specific problems – namely anxiety/depression, thought problems, and irritability/disinhibition – were significant pre-dictors of psychological well-being.

Conclusions

Our study underscores the importance of targeting specific maladaptive behaviors, such as anxiety, thought problems, and irritability when developing interventions for the elderly. Addressing these issues may enhance their psychological well-being and contribute to successful aging.
Do Parenting Styles Influence Mental Toughness and Sportsmanship in Young Athletes?
A Structural Equation Modelling Approach
Authors: Vega-Díaz Marta , González-García Higinio
Published: December 2024

The goal of this research was to evaluate whether there are relationships between parenting styles, mental toughness, and sportsmanship in athletes. The sample was made up of 201 Spanish adolescent athletes (Mage = 15.30; SD = 1.82; 110 men and 91 women) who completed the Child-Parental Acceptance-Rejection Questionnaire, the Mental Toughness Inventory, and the Spanish version of the Multidimensional Sportsmanship Questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the relationships among the studied variables. The results revealed that maternal and paternal love/affection significantly positively predicted mental toughness. Likewise, the results showed that paternal hostility/aggression and indifference/neglect significantly positively predicted fair play. In conclusion, given the connection between perceived parental education, psychological variables (mental toughness), and sports ethics principles (sportsmanship) of athletes, programs that train athletes' cognitive and axiological skills should not ignore the parental role. Hence, an attempt could be made to encourage athletes to compete when feeling mentally strong and respecting the ethical values of sportsmanship.
Effects of Threshold Pressure Loading Exercises Applied
to Inspiratory Muscles in Taekwondo Athletes
on the Concentration and Utilization of Lactate
Authors: Koç Murat , Sarıtaş Nazmi , Coşkun Betül , Akkurt Soner
Published: December 2024

This study examined the effects of different inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on lactate concentration and utilization during high-intensity exercises. Participants were divided into the following three groups: a chronic inspiratory training group (CRG), an acute inspiratory training group (ARG), and a control group (CG). Participants in the CRG accomplished IMT at an exercise intensity of 60–90% of the maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) with 30 breaths twice a day for 8 weeks, and those in the ARG performed IMT at an intensity of 40–50% of the MIP for approximately 20 min in the pre-training warm-up phase three times a week. Body composition tests, maximum oxygen uptake, anaerobic power tests, and lactate concentrations of participants were evaluated before and after the intervention. Three consecutive anaerobic power tests (Wingate) were performed to observe changes in lactate concentration and utilization during high-intensity exercises. Blood lactate concentrations were measured immediately at the end of each anaerobic power test, after a 75-s rest, and during passive rest at the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 10th, and 15th min of recovery. The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a significant decrease in blood lactate concentration only in the CRG immediately after the first Wingate test, whereas significant differences in the ARG and the CG were observed after the third Wingate test. After the last Wingate test, a significant decrease was observed after 5 min of recovery in the CRG and after 10 and 15 min of passive rest in both training groups. Herein, we conclude that IMT decreases blood lactate concentration after intense exercise and accelerates lactate utilization during recovery.
Validity of Three Commercial Devices for Recording Movement Velocity in the Bulgarian Split Squat
Authors: Chen Zhili , Liao Kaifang , Bishop Chris , Bian Chao , Li Yongming
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to assess the validity of three commercial devices in recording mean velocity (MV) and peak velocity (PV) during a unilateral resistance exercise. Eighteen strength-trained and healthy males performed repetitions of Bulgarian split squats at loads ranging from 40% to 90% of their one-repetition maximum. MV and PV were simultaneously recorded by GymAware, PUSH, My Lift and compared to Vicon for all repetitions. Concurrent validity was assessed through a linear mixed model, as well as mean difference (MD), mean absolute error (MAE) and Hedge’s g effect sizes. GymAware was found to be valid in MV (MD = −0.02 to −0.01 m/s, MAE = 0.02 to 0.03 m/s, g = −0.08 to −0.19) and PV (MD = 0.01 to 0.05 m/s, MAE = 0.05 to 0.07 m/s, g = −0.06 to −0.22) recordings. Significant differences were identified between GymAware, PUSH, My Lift and Vicon for both MV (p < 0.01) and PV (p < 0.01) assessments. Moreover, when comparing MV and PV recorded by PUSH and My Lift to Vicon, larger MD and MAE, and trivial to moderate effects were also evident. Therefore, our findings suggest that GymAware could be an alternative for recording MV and PV during unilateral resistance exercises.
Area per Player in Small-Sided Games to Estimate
the External Load in Elite Youth Soccer Players
Authors: de Dios-Álvarez Vicente , Padrón-Cabo Alexis , Alkain Pello , Rey Ezequiel , Castellano Julen
Published: December 2024

Small-sided games (SSGs) refer to game formats where there are variations in the pitch size, the number of players, and rules as compared to official soccer matches. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between GPS-derived external loads and the SSGs’ area per player (ApP) in elite youth soccer players to identify whether the ApP influenced GPS-derived external load measures to estimate external load variables from SSGs with different densities (i.e., ApP100: the ApP <150 m2·player−1; ApP200: the ApP ranged from 151 to 250; ApP300: the ApP > 251 m2·player−1). A cumulative count of 978 individual observations was undertaken, encompassing 15 diverse SSG configurations. The results showed moderate and large correlations between the ApP and external load measures for both U19 and U16 soccer players. The ApP300 induced higher locomotor activities than the ApP100 and the ApP200. However, the ApP100 showed higher mechanical (accelerations and decelerations) values compared to ApP200 and ApP300 conditions for both age groups. It was found that an ApP of less than 150 m2·player−1 in SSGs did not stimulate enough high-speed distance relative (HSDR), very high-speed distance relative (VHSDR) and sprint distance relative (SDR) compared to official matches in youth soccer players. However, the same ApP overestimated mechanical variables such as total high accelerations and decelerations relative to time (THACCR and THDECR, respectively). The findings of this study have the potential to facilitate the effective management of training loads tailored to specific fitness components of players.
Female Soccer Players’ In-Season Weekly Training Load and Intensity: Comparison between National League’s Top
and Bottom-Half Ranked Teams
Authors: Savolainen Eero Heikki Johannes , Ihalainen Johanna Kaarina , Walker Simon
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to (1) quantify national-level female soccer players’ accumulated microcycle (weekly) training load (accumulated absolute value) and intensity (value relative to duration), (2) investigate possible differences in training load and intensity between teams in the league’s top- and bottom-half. Sixty-three females from six teams in the highest league participated in the study. Participants were divided into top-half (TH, n = 28) and bottom-half (BH, n = 35) groups based on their team’s league ranking. Players’ external and internal training load and intensity were monitored in all on-field training sessions and league matches during a three-week observation period (690 data samples) using the Polar Team Pro system. There were no differences between groups in the number of weekly training sessions or total duration. Accumulated external and internal load were highly similar between groups. Instead, the TH group reached significantly higher values than the BH group in multiple external intensity variables, such as total distance per minute and the number of low-, moderate- and high-intensity accelerations per minute (p = 0.004–0.001). There were no differences in the mean heart rate between groups. The TH group’s training external intensity was also closer to match intensity in multiple variables, such as total distance and the number of low- and moderate-intensity accelerations and decelerations compared to the BH group (p = 0.029–0.001). These findings suggest that more successful teams achieved higher external intensity for the same internal response, and their average external training intensity was closer to match demands. Thus, it seems plausible that TH players had better physical qualities and their training prepared them better for matches than BH.
Effects of On-Court Tennis Training Combined with HIIT versus RST on Aerobic Capacity, Speed, Agility, Jumping Ability, and Internal Loads in Young Tennis Players
Authors: Morais Jorge , Kilit Bulent , Arslan Ersan , Bragada José , Soylu Yusuf , Marinho Daniel
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of on-court tennis training (OTT) combined with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or repeated sprint training (RST) on the physiological, kinematic, kinetic, and perceptual responses of young tennis players. Twenty-four male tennis players (age 13.6 ± 0.3 years) were randomly assigned to either the OTT + HIIT group (n = 12) or the OTT + RST group (n = 12) three times per week for six weeks. Both groups trained for the same total training time with passive rest in each session. A number of physiological, performance and perceptual responses were measured before and after the 6-week training intervention. All variables showed a significant improvement over time, with maximal oxygen uptake showing the greatest improvement (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.97). The 5-m sprint (p = 0.044, η2 = 0.17), repeated sprint ability (p = 0.021, η2 = 0.22), and T-drill agility (p = 0.048, η2 = 0.17) showed a significant group effect. The OTT + RST group had a lower internal training load (better scores), a lower rate of perceived exertion (better scores), and higher scores in the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) at both times compared to the OTT + HITT group. These results demonstrate that OTT + RST appears to be a more effective training approach to improve speed and agility-based performance responses with more enjoyment in young tennis players.
Delayed Effects of Different Velocity Loss-Based Resistance Training on Autonomic Regulation, Sleep Quality
and Muscle Soreness
Authors: Medellín Ruiz Juan Pablo , Abellán-Aynés Oriol , García Diana P. , Martínez-Aranda Luis Manuel
Published: December 2024

Resistance training has been shown to be a stressor factor on the autonomic nervous system, and these changes can be detected by heart rate variability (HRV) analysis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the delayed effects of velocity loss-based resistance training strategies on heart rate variability (HRV), the sleep quality index (SQI) and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Fourteen men performed daily recordings. After a baseline period of 14 days of no training, they performed one session per week of resistance training focused on lower body exercise (squats) based on movement velocity. Three resistance training sessions composed of four sets up to 10%, 20% and 40% of velocity loss were performed each week of the study. Statistically significant changes (p < 0.05) after 24 hours of training were found in DOMS, and HRV variables, specifically in RR intervals (RR), root mean square of successive differences of RR intervals (RMSSD), and the percentage of successive RR intervals that differed by more than 50 ms (pNN50), between 40% of velocity movement loss and the rest of conditions. We can conclude that greater losses of execution velocity may result in greater internal load stimuli according to the autonomic modulation measured by HRV. RR, RMSSD and pNN50 seem to be the most sensitive indicators of HRV to fatigue produced by resistance training. This research opens the door to the study of HRV behavior related to resistance training. New research possibilities are raised by measuring the effect of guiding resistance training by means of HRV behavior.
Quantifying Quadriceps Forces during Running Performed
with and without Infrapatellar Straps
Authors: Zhang Xueying , Ren Weiyan , Wang Xingyue , Yao Jie , Pu Fang
Published: December 2024

Running-related knee injuries are associated with high and repetitive quadriceps contractions. Infrapatellar straps are commonly recommended for the prevention and management of those injuries. The effects of infrapatellar straps have been investigated in terms of quadriceps activations. However, these indexes cannot accurately characterize the quadriceps forces, which directly contribute to knee injuries. This study aimed to quantify quadriceps forces during running performed with and without infrapatellar straps based on OpenSim. Experimental data from 18 healthy participants were recorded using a 10-camera motion capture system and two force plates when they performed running at self-selected speeds with and without infrapatellar straps. OpenSim was used to estimate muscle forces, muscle activity, joint kinematics, and joint kinetics. The use of infrapatellar straps significantly reduced peak quadriceps forces (p < 0.001), accumulated forces of quadriceps (p < 0.001), and peak knee extension moments (p < 0.001). Among the four distinct muscles of the quadriceps, the vastus lateralis contributed the most to the reduction in quadriceps muscle forces. Strapping did not result in a significant change in rectus femoris forces (p > 0.05). The use of infrapatellar straps results in lower vastus muscle forces, and thus could be helpful in managing and preventing running-related knee injuries. However, infrapatellar straps may have little effect in people with an excessively forceful rectus femoris.
Physiological and Neuromuscular Fatigue after 3-Minute Lateral Shuffle Movement at Different Speeds and Distances
Authors: Lyu Mengde , Yin Mingyue , Ding Ling , Tang Renhuan , Chen Zhili , Deng Shengji , Zhong Yuming , Li Zhan , Nassis George , Li Yongming
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to 1) investigate and compare physiological and neuromuscular fatigue after a 3-min lateral shuffle movement (LSM) at different speeds and distances, and 2) examine the relationship between the number of changes of direction (CODs) during LSM and fatigue-related variables. Twenty male college athletes (age: 20.9 ± 1.7 yrs, body mass: 72.8 ± 8.6 kg, body height: 177.9 ± 5.6 cm; mean ± SD) performed six LSM protocols at two speeds (1.8 and 2.0 m/s) and three distances (2.5, 5 and 10 m) in random order and on separate days. The heart rate (HR), blood lactate (BLa) concentration, the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and the countermovement jump (CMJ) were assessed and recorded before and immediately after exercise. Neuromuscular fatigue was assessed with the decline in CMJ performance (CMJdecline). Results showed no interaction effect (speed*distance) for all variables. The distance was a significant factor influencing the HR (F = 12.663, p = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.25), BLa concentration (F = 15.357, p = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.288), CMJdecline (F = 19.496, p = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.339), and the RPE (F = 20.149, p = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.347). Speed was also a significant factor influencing the HR (F = 6.367, p = 0.016, ηp2 = 0.144), BLa concentration (F = 10.292, p = 0.000, ηp2 = 0.213), CMJdecline (F = 9.014, p = 0.005, ηp2 = 0.192), and the RPE (F = 9.539, p = 0.004, ηp2 = 0.201). CODs displayed moderate correlations with BLa concentration (r = 0.331, p < 0.001), CMJdecline (r = –0.415, p < 0.001), and the RPE (r = 0.318, p < 0.001). These results suggest that physiological and neuromuscular fatigue would be greater with higher speed and shorter distance of LSM.
Predicting Throwing Performance with Force-Velocity Mechanical Properties of the Upper Limb
in Experienced Handball Players
Authors: Zhang Qingshan , Gassier Robin , Eymard Noémie , Pommel Félicie , Berthier Philippe , Rahmani Abderrahmane , Hautier Christophe
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the relationship between force-power-velocity (F-P-V) mechanical variables measured during the ballistic bench press throw (BPT), shoulder isokinetic rotation strength, and the throwing velocity in handball players. Twenty-seven experienced male handball players (age: 20.0 ± 3.2 yrs, body height: 180.5 ± 6.3 cm, body mass: 73.9 ± 7.9 kg) volunteered for the investigation. F-P-V mechanical variables (i.e., theoretical maximal force [F0], velocity [V0], power [Pmax]) were obtained during the single-arm BPT and an isokinetic shoulder isokinetic internal rotation test. Throwing performance was assessed for the standing and 3-step throwing velocity. Participants were divided into a “High/Fast” and a “Low/Slow” group considering their throwing performance based on a median split analysis. A strong correlation was found between V0 obtained from the BPT and maximal throwing velocity for standing throwing (r2 = 0.51, f2 = 1.04) and three-step throwing (r2 = 0.46, f2 = 0.85). At the same time, Pmax obtained from the BPT had a weak association with three-step throwing performance (r2 = 0.18, f2 = 0.22). Furthermore, no significant correlation was found between all the mechanical variables obtained from the isokinetic rotation and throwing performance (all p-values > 0.05). The High/Fast group showed that only V0 and Pmax obtained from the ballistic BPT had a small to moderate effect size (ES [0.06 0.23]) compared to the Low/Slow group. This finding indicates the importance of measuring the upper limb F-P-V profile obtained from the BPT in predicting throwing performance. Thus, training programs should focus on F-P-V mechanical properties to design specific training methods to optimize throwing performance in handball players.
How Much Can the Genotype Predict Phenotypical
Power Performance in Elite Male and Female Athletes?
Authors: Reichert Lukas , Hacker Sebastian , Mutz Michael , Raab Markus , Wiese Lena , Krüger Karsten , Zentgraf Karen
Published: December 2024

The role of power performance in elite athletes has been enriched by identifying associations between specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and power performance. To deepen our understanding of this association, the objective of this study was to explore the relationship between the genotype and the phenotype in elite athletes. A total of 278 German national squad athletes (156 males, 122 females) underwent genotyping, and their performance in a countermovement jump test (CMJ) and 10-m sprint was assessed. Genotype distribution was analyzed using Chi-square tests. Spearman correlation was employed to examine associations between selected SNPs (e.g., ACTN3, AGT, HSD17B14, IP6K3, MTRR, UCP2, and VDR) and CMJ and sprint performances. Gender-specific polygenic "Total Genotype Scores" (TGSsig) were calculated. Predictive power of TGSsig on power performance was evaluated using linear regression. TGSsig explained 10% of variance in CMJ and sprint performance in both genders. Among males, correlations were identified between AGT and VDR with the CMJ as well as between IP6K3 and sprint performance (p < 0.05). In females, ACTN3, AGT, and UCP2 exhibited associations with the CMJ, while HSD17B14, MTRR, and UCP2 were correlated with sprint performance (p < 0.05). Significant differences in genotype distribution between genders were observed for DMD and MPRIP. Our findings strengthen the idea of power being partly heritable, however, the genotype only partially, by 10%, determines power performance. The role of the athletes' genotype for individual performance development should be investigated in future longitudinal studies.