bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of long‐term medication adherence in stroke survivors: A multicentre, prospective, longitudinal study
Authors: Yoo Sung‐Hee , Kim Gye‐Gyoung , Kim Sung Reul , Park Man‐Seok , Kim Joon‐Tae , Choi Kang‐Ho , Park Hyun‐Young , Yi Sang‐Hak , Cha Jae‐Kwan , Kim Dae‐Hyun , Nah Hyun‐Wook
Published: August 2022

Background

Although the optimal use of prescribed medications for stroke survivors is critical for preventing secondary stroke, longitudinal observations of the natural course of medication persistence and adherence in Korean stroke survivors are rare. Furthermore, studies are needed to identify strong predictors influencing medication adherence and to determine whether these predictors change over time.

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the longitudinal medication persistence and adherence at 3 months and 1 year after discharge in all stroke patients and to identify predictors of long‐term medication adherence in patients who can self‐medicate.

Design

A multicentre, prospective, longitudinal descriptive study.

Methods

A total of 600 consecutive ischaemic stroke patients were recruited from three stroke centres across Korea, from 1 September, 2017 to 28 February, 2019. Various factors related to medication adherence suggested by the World Health Organisation were investigated through face‐to‐face interviews at each centre during hospitalisation. Medication persistence and adherence were assessed at 3 months and 1 year after discharge using the eight‐item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale through telephone interviews.

Results

Of 537 survivors at 3 months, 526 (98.0%) were persistent and 472 (89.7%) were adherent. Of 493 survivors at 1 year, 477 (96.8%) were persistent and 392 (82.2%) were adherent. Medication belief, income and health literacy were statistically significant predictors of three‐month medication adherence, which predicted one‐year medication adherence with older age and low income.

Conclusions

Among Korean stroke survivors, three‐month and one‐year medication persistence and adherence were relatively good. Medication beliefs and three‐month medication adherence were important and modifiable factors predicting three‐month adherence and one‐year adherence, respectively.

Relevance to clinical practice

To increase long‐term adherence to medication, various strategies are needed to improve beliefs about medication, taking into account the patient's age and level of knowledge. These interventions need to be initiated during hospitalisation to form early medication habits after discharge.
Developmental outcomes in Japanese preschool‐age children conceived through assisted reproductive technology
Authors: Aoki Sayaka , Hashimoto Keiji , Ogawa Kohei , Horikawa Reiko , Sago Haruhiko
Published: August 2022

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the developmental outcomes of Japanese babies conceived through assisted reproductive technology (ART), born at ages 48 and 60 months.

Methods

Data were collected from 725 children in a hospital‐based cohort study conducted in Japan. The children's level of development was assessed using the Kinder Infant Development Scale, a parent‐rated questionnaire that consists of nine developmental domains. We compared the development between children conceived through ART (N = 189) and those conceived naturally (N = 536) by conducting analyses of covariance. For the analyses, we controlled for the effects of maternal age, family income, parental education, and multiple births.

Results

At 48 months, no significant difference was found between children conceived through ART and those conceived naturally, except for the development of receptive language (F(1, 718) = 4.869, p = 0.028)), which was found only for boys. The mean developmental age of receptive language was 60.1 for the children conceived through ART and 57.5 for those conceived naturally. At 60 months, no significant difference was found between children conceived through ART and those conceived naturally, in all domains.

Conclusion

At ages 48 and 60 months, no significant difference was found between the children conceived through ART and those conceived naturally in nine developmental domains, except for boys' receptive language at 48 months.
Pregnancy outcomes after preterm premature rupture of membranes: The Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Hirata Katsuya , Ueda Kimiko , Wada Kazuko , Ikehara Satoyo , Tanigawa Kanami , Kimura Tadashi , Ozono Keiichi , Iso Hiroyasu ,   the Japan Environment and Children's Study Group
Published: August 2022

Aim

To evaluate the pregnancy outcomes of preterm premature rupture of membranes (preterm PROM; PPROM) by gestational age.

Methods

This cohort study analyzed data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study. Pregnancy outcomes were documented using descriptive statistics. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of complications.

Results

Data were collected for 104 062 fetuses, and 99 776 were eligible for inclusion. The incidences of early (18–23 weeks) and late (24–36 weeks) PPROM were 0.1% (n = 102) and 1.2% (n = 1205), respectively. Of the 1307 cases, 66 (5.0%) resulted in miscarriage or stillbirth. Overall, 85.6% (1119/1307) resulted in preterm births, and 9.3% (122/1307) in term births. There was a higher incidence of oligohydramnios (OR 6.82, 95% CI 4.07, 11.4; OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.72, 3.40), intrauterine infection (OR 11.9, 95% CI 7.06, 19.9; OR 4.39, 95% CI 3.01, 6.41), cesarean delivery (OR 3.31, 95% CI 2.32, 4.71; OR 1.34, 95% CI 0.97, 1.85), placental abruption (OR 5.57, 95% CI 2.30, 13.5; OR 5.40, 95% CI 3.58, 8.14), and 5‐min Apgar score <7 (OR 35.3, 95% CI 21.5, 57.9; OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.75, 4.05) for early and late, compared to no, PPROM, respectively. Miscarriage or stillbirth was higher in early (OR 5.84, 95% CI 3.72, 9.15) and lower in late (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.06, 0.68) compared to those without PPROM.

Conclusions

This study described the epidemiology of pregnancy outcomes of early (occurring at the limit of viability) and late PPROM.
The prevalence of and potential risk factors for Developmental Language Disorder at 10 years in the Raine Study
Authors: Calder Samuel D , Brennan‐Jones Christopher G. , Robinson Monique , Whitehouse Andrew , Hill Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

Aim

This study sought to determine the prevalence of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) in Australian school‐aged children and associated potential risk factors for DLD at 10 years.

Methods

This study used a cross‐sectional design to estimate the prevalence of DLD in Generation 2 of the prospective Raine Study. Participants included 1626 children aged 10 years with available language data. Primary outcomes included variables matching diagnostic criteria for DLD. Associations of other potential prenatal and environmental variables were analysed as secondary outcomes.

Results

The prevalence of DLD in this sample was 6.4% (n = 104) at 10 years. This sub‐cohort comprised 33.7% (n = 35) with expressive language deficits, 20.2% (n = 21) with receptive language deficits, and 46.2% (n = 48) with receptive‐expressive deficits. No significant difference in sex distribution was observed (52.9% male, p = 0.799). Children who were exposed to smoke in utero at 18 weeks gestation were at increased risk of DLD at 10 years (OR = 2.56, CI = 1.23–5.35, p = 0.012).

Conclusions

DLD is a relatively prevalent condition in Australian children, even when assessed in middle childhood years. These findings can inform future research priorities, and public health and educational policy which account for the associations with potential risk factors.
Traditional intellectual properties and Yoruba (Ifa) philosophy in South‐West Nigeria: Intellectual property versus traditional protection approach
Authors: Lawal‐Arowolo Ayoyemi , Taiwo Ademola
Published: August 2022

The claim that Ifa is not merely a form of worship has been made by many scholars and remains a controversy. According to them, it is the core of Yoruba philosophy and scientific as well. Nevertheless, there exists art and science of an intellectual orientation regarding the development of Yoruba people. There are artworks, sculptures, incantations (poetry), and performances in Ifa. Divination is based on the binary system linked to science, as well as the process of traditional healing. Indeed, where you have art and science, intellectual property rights (IPRs) are in pursuit. In this case, copyright, patents, and trade secrets. The aim of this article is to examine IPRs in the spiritual world of Ifa and Yoruba philosophy; proposing that spiritual intellectual properties are for an entirely different world with a protection mechanism outside the modern approach of protection, while other forms of traditional intellectual properties outside the realm of the spiritual world requires modern intellectual property protection approach, subsequent to the understanding of the creator or inventor.
Relational legal consciousness and anticorruption: Lava Jato, social media interactions, and the co-production of law's detraction in Brazil (2017–2019)
Authors: de Sa e Silva Fabio
Published: August 2022

Starting in 2014, Brazilian politics was shaken up by the lava jato (LJ) operation, a law-centered anticorruption initiative. LJ unveiled a large corruption scheme in Brazil's national oil company Petrobras, which involved Petrobras directors, political party officials, and large construction companies. LJ was both disruptive and contentious. To some, it started a new chapter in Brazilian history, marked by greater respect for the “rule of law” and a collective “state of mind” concerned with “ending impunity” and building integrity in politics and businesses. To others, it contributed to undermining democracy and the rule of law, paving the way for an autocratic leader—the current Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro. This article sheds further light on those discussions by looking at LJ as a site of “legal consciousness” production. Empirically, the article focuses on conversations generated by lead LJ prosecutors on a major social media platform (Facebook) from 2017 to 2019. Considering this body of data, the article addresses the question: “When prosecutors and ‘the people’ talked about LJ, what did they talk about?” My findings support the more skeptical views of the operation. The exchanges between LJ prosecutors and their Facebook followers supported the co-production of a cultural schema averse to the “rule of law.” These findings have implications for both legal consciousness and anticorruption research.
Procedural justice for all? Legitimacy, just culture and legal anxiety in European civil aviation
Authors: Woodlock John
Published: August 2022

This article presents the results of survey-based research which explores if licensed aircraft maintenance engineers working in Norway, Sweden, and Portugal experience regulated “just culture” as procedural justice-infused processes when occurrence reporting in European Union (EU) civil aviation. Drawing on Tylerian procedural justice theory, the study finds that, perceived procedural justice is more strongly associated with legitimacy (perceived as support for rules and authority) than legal anxiety among the maintenance engineers. Country-based results reveal differences in engineers' legal experiences of occurrence reporting with perceived procedural justice strongest in Sweden and legal anxiety most influential in Portugal. The article contributes with a first exploration of “just culture” as a procedural justice-infused legal intervention to improve compliance to regulated occurrence reporting by negating legal anxiety in a European aviation context.
Preferential catabolism of l‐ vs d‐serine by Proteus mirabilis contributes to pathogenesis and catheter‐associated urinary tract infection
Authors: Brauer Aimee L. , Learman Brian S. , Taddei Steven M. , Deka Namrata , Hunt Benjamin C. , Armbruster Chelsie E.
Published: August 2022

Proteus mirabilis is a common cause of urinary tract infection, especially in catheterized individuals. Amino acids are the predominant nutrient for bacteria during growth in urine, and our prior studies identified several amino acid import and catabolism genes as fitness factors for P. mirabilis catheter‐associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), particularly those for d‐ and l‐serine. In this study, we sought to determine the hierarchy of amino acid utilization by P. mirabilis and to examine the relative importance of d‐ vs l‐serine catabolism for critical steps in CAUTI development and progression. Herein, we show that P. mirabilis preferentially catabolizes l‐serine during growth in human urine, followed by d‐serine, threonine, tyrosine, glutamine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine. Independently disrupting catabolism of either d‐ or l‐serine has minimal impact on in vitro phenotypes while completely disrupting both pathways decreases motility, biofilm formation, and fitness due to perturbation of membrane potential and cell wall biosynthesis. In a mouse model of CAUTI, loss of either serine catabolism system decreased fitness, but disrupting l‐serine catabolism caused a greater fitness defect than disrupting d‐serine catabolism. We, therefore, conclude that the hierarchical utilization of amino acids may be a critical component of P. mirabilis colonization and pathogenesis within the urinary tract.
Medium‐chain fatty acid esters are effective even in azole‐resistant Malassezia pachydermatis
Authors: Koch Christin , Nordzieke Steffen , Grieger Jessica , Mayser Peter
Published: August 2022

Background

Malassezia (M.) pachydermatis as a frequent reason for dermatological consultation in dogs and cats was recently shown to be lipid‐dependent, too. Lipolytic activity is a prerequisite for activating antimicrobial effectivity of fatty acid esters.

Objectives

It was therefore of interest whether it is possible to induce this mechanism in M. pachydermatis and to identify possible differences between minimal and strong lipid‐dependent strains.

Methods

In an agar dilution test, the minimal inhibitory concentrations of six fatty acid esters were determined for seventeen M. pachydermatis strains. GC analysis of parent compounds and liberated fatty acids was used to quantify ester cleavage.

Results

Hydrolysis was observed in all test strains in a homogenous manner but was dependent on the chemical structure. Lowest MICs (500 ppm after 14 days of incubation) were obtained applying glyceryl monocaprylate and 3‐hydroxylpropyl caprylate, while the corresponding esters of undecylenic acid showed nearly twice the value. As shown by GC analysis with the reference strains CBS 1879 and CBS 1892 and 3‐hydroxypropyl caprylate, hydrolysis and caprylic acid formation starts immediately and was dependent on yeast density. Furthermore, nine azole‐resistant strains isolated from dogs with treatment failures showed MIC values comparable to the other strains and no resistance to monohydric fatty acid esters.

Conclusions

Medium‐chain fatty acid esters may represent a new therapeutic option for veterinary use even in azole‐resistant strains. The in vivo verification in M. pachydermatis‐associated dermatitis in dogs and cats will be the next step for the successful development of new therapeutics.
Dancing with the Stars: Does Playing in Elite Tournaments Affect Performance?
Authors: Güner İlhan , Hamidi Sahneh Mehdi
Published: August 2022

This article documents spillover effects using participation in an elite international football tournament as a laboratory. Using a novel dataset from top 5 European football leagues, we find that participation in highly selective UEFA Champions League (UCL) generates large performance gains to participating teams in their domestic leagues. More precisely, UCL participation improves goal difference (goals scored minus goals conceded) by approximately 0.3 goals per game and probability margin (probability of winning minus probability of losing) by approximately 10 percentage points. By investigating causal channels through which participation in the UCL might affect performance, we argue that our results suggest the importance of spillover effects in sports.
Attitudes of optometrists towards artificial intelligence for the diagnosis of retinal disease: A cross‐sectional mail‐out survey
Authors: Ho Sharon , Doig Gordon S. , Ly Angelica
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI)‐based systems have demonstrated great potential in improving the diagnostic accuracy of retinal disease but are yet to achieve widespread acceptance in routine clinical practice. Clinician attitudes are known to influence implementation. Therefore, this study aimed to identify optometrists' attitudes towards the use of AI to assist in diagnosing retinal disease.

Methods

A paper‐based survey was designed to assess general attitudes towards AI in diagnosing retinal disease and motivators/barriers for future use. Two clinical scenarios for using AI were evaluated: (1) at the point of care to obtain a diagnostic recommendation, versus (2) after the consultation to provide a second opinion. Relationships between participant characteristics and attitudes towards AI were explored. The survey was mailed to 252 randomly selected practising optometrists across Australia, with repeat mail‐outs to non‐respondents.

Results

The response rate was 53% (133/252). Respondents' mean (SD) age was 42.7 (13.3) years, and 44.4% (59/133) identified as female, whilst 1.5% (2/133) identified as gender diverse. The mean number of years practising in primary eye care was 18.8 (13.2) years with 64.7% (86/133) working in an independently owned practice.

On average, responding optometrists reported positive attitudes (mean score 4.0 out of 5, SD 0.8) towards using AI as a tool to aid the diagnosis of retinal disease, and would be more likely to use AI if it is proven to increase patient access to healthcare (mean score 4.4 out of 5, SD 0.6). Furthermore, optometrists expressed a statistically significant preference for using AI after the consultation to provide a second opinion rather than during the consultation, at the point‐of‐care (+0.12, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Optometrists have positive attitudes towards the future use of AI as an aid to diagnose retinal disease. Understanding clinician attitudes and preferences for using AI may help maximise its clinical potential and ensure its successful translation into practice.
Feasibility of Computer‐Aided Design in Limb Lengthening Surgery: Surgical Simulation and Guide Plates
Authors: Cheng Kai , Peng Yuanhao , Yan Xiaonan , Wen Xinghua , Ding Huanwen
Published: August 2022

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and utility of computer‐aided design (CAD) in surgical treatment of leg length discrepancy (LLD) using monorail external fixators.

Methods

In the present case series, we retrospectively analyzed seven patients diagnosed with LLD who were surgically treated using a monorail external fixator between June 2018 and August 2020. A personalized surgical emulation of each patient was designed using CAD based on preoperative CT scans to measure limb parameters. Through reverse engineering, a surgical guide plate was then designed to assist with correcting the limb deformity. Patient general information and clinical history, leg length, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), anatomical anterior distal tibial angle (aADTA), and surgical parameters were recorded during the perioperative period. Three months after external fixator removal, distraction‐consolidation time (DCT), healing index (HI), and lower extremity function score (LEFS) were calculated, and statistically analyzed by paired T‐test.

Results

The mean limb lengthening achieved was 6.41 ± 2.54 (range, 3.30–10.54) cm with either varus or valgus correction. The mean operative duration was 151 ± 41.87 (84–217) minutes and mean blood loss was 53.58 ± 22.51(25–87) ml. The mean distraction‐consolidation time was 3.67 ± 1.13 (range, 2.5–6.0) months and mean external fixator duration was 11 ± 2.45 (range, 8–14) months. The mean healing index (HI) was 18.11 ± 3.58 (range, 12.8–22.7) days/cm. Mean LEFS scores improved postoperatively from 32.17 8.57 (range, 24–45) to 61.17 6.68 (range, 50–67) with a significant difference (T = –14.26,P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Simultaneous length and angular correction can be achieved by incorporating CAD into the surgical treatment of patients with LLD, without compromising postoperative lower limb function. CAD demonstrates utility in the surgical treatment of LLD by improving the functionality of monorail external fixators.
The Confucian Ren and Care Debate: Reassessment, Development, and Future Directions
Authors: Li Chenyang
Published: August 2022

It has been three decades since comparative philosophers began to associate the Confucian concept of ren 仁 with contemporary Western care ethics. It would be useful to revisit the issue and to reassess related debates. In this essay, I first contextualize this discourse by tracing the emergence of care as a philosophical concept in the West and explicate the Confucian concept of ren in terms of care as it is formulated in classic texts. Then I respond to challenges, including opposing views from influential care ethicists Nel Noddings and Virginia Held. I also discuss some promising studies to further this discourse.
Sinus augmentation procedure via the lateral window technique—Reducing invasiveness and preventing complications: A narrative review
Authors: Valentini Pascal , Artzi Zvi
Published: August 2022

Sinus augmentation has become an integrated surgical phase in posterior maxillary implant prosthesis reconstruction. Since the residual alveolar bony height usually requires additional volume particularly at this anatomical region, sinus floor augmentation is advocated routinely. Over the years, Implant success rate is proved to be comparable to the one in the pristine bone, which is well documented in the literature. Anatomical aspects as well as surgeon skills are at most importance to achieve predictable outcome. In this narrative review, the different osteotomy techniques, the indications toward 1 or 2‐stage approaches, the control of the Schneiderian membrane integrity as well as the management of intra‐ and post‐operative complications are thoroughly discussed according the current data. In light of the excellent long‐term implant success rate concurrent with the application of contemporary advanced techniques of the sinus augmentation via the lateral wall osteotomy approach, reduce invasiveness and less complication occurrences are well documented. A well‐codified patient selection involving the rhinologist as an integral medical team would be significantly beneficial toward early diagnosis. In‐depth knowledge of the anatomy, execution of a well standardized surgical technique, and understanding the complication etiology and their management are prerequisites for reducing patient morbidity to minimal discomfort and predictable successful outcome.
One size may not fit all: Financial fragmentation and European monetary policies
Authors: Gagnon Marie‐Hélène , Gimet Céline
Published: August 2022

This article investigates the impact of European Central Bank policies on credits considering financial and banking fragmentation. Using European data from the past decade, we estimate SVAR models to analyze the regional impact of conventional and unconventional measures on price and volume indicators of fragmentation. The risk‐taking channel is studied using GVAR models to document the national consequences of this fragmentation. We find that unconventional measures increase credit in peripheral countries. Monetary policies alleviate fragmentation, but mostly in terms of price dispersion rather than credit volume. Finally, unconventional measures imply a rebalancing of European bank assets in favor of foreign currency denominated‐assets.
Identification of the novel HLA‐B*15:625 allele in a Chinese marrow donor
Authors: Qu Zhen , Zhu Yuanyan , Shen Gang , He Mingdi , Li Wangxia
Published: August 2022

A novel HLA allele HLA‐B*15:625 was identified in a Chinese marrow donor.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DRB3*02:179N allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Andreani Marco , Galluccio Tiziana , Blandin Lucie , Visentin Jonathan
Published: August 2022

HLA‐DRB3*02:179N differs from DRB3*02:02:01:02 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 98 in exon 3.
Using the Health Action Process Approach to predict blood donation intentions and return behavior following a vasovagal reaction for whole blood and plasma donors
Authors: Thijsen Amanda , Gemelli Carley N. , Davison Tanya E. , Masser Barbara
Published: August 2022

Background

To inform the development of interventions to retain donors following a vasovagal reaction (VVR), the aim of this study is to use the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) to identify predictors of intentions to re‐donate and actual return behavior among whole blood (WB) and plasma donors who experienced a VVR.

Study Design and Methods

A total of 1136 WB donors (Mage = 32.4 ± 12.5 years; 73.4% female) and 1141 plasma donors (Mage = 36.5 ± 14.4 years; 73.3% female) completed an online survey after experiencing a VVR. Two hierarchical regression analyses were conducted for each donation type. In the first analysis, donation intentions were regressed onto the motivational HAPA constructs and social support. In the second analysis, donor return within 6 months was regressed onto social support, intentions, and the volitional HAPA constructs.

Results

The motivational and social support variables accounted for 47.2% of the variance in intentions to return in WB donors and 15.7% in plasma donors. For both groups, task self‐efficacy, positive and negative outcome expectancies, and social support were significant predictors of intentions to return. Intentions and action planning were significant predictors of donor return in both groups, and recovery self‐efficacy was significant for plasma only.

Conclusion

The HAPA model can provide guidance to blood collection agencies to design phase‐specific and individually‐focused interventions to retain WB and plasma donors following a VVR.
A typology of strategies that recognize, reward, and incentivize blood donation
Authors: Chell Kathleen , Masser Barbara , Davison Tanya E. , Ferguson Eamonn
Published: August 2022

Background

Blood collection agencies (BCAs) worldwide are continuously looking to improve recognition, reward, and incentive (RRI) policies to optimize the recruitment and retention of blood donors. However, given the inconsistent categorization and variety of strategies available, there is a need for a theoretically informed and empirically supported framework to guide RRI research and policy development.

Study Design and Methods

Survey data from 1028 voluntary nonremunerated whole blood and plasma donors in Australia was used to validate a theorized RRI typology based on distinctions between the level of congruency with the act of donating blood (congruent vs. incongruent), visibility of acknowledgment (public vs. private), benefits provided (self vs. other), and likely reinforcement schedule (fixed vs. variable).

Results

A six‐factor solution met all statistical criteria and was most consistent with a priori theoretical underpinnings. The factors were labeled (i) deal promotion, (ii) loyalty program, (iii) BCA token, (iv) health check, (v) charity donation, and (vi) travel compensation.

Discussion

This typology provides researchers with a standardized theoretical and conceptual framework to organize and synthesize findings from the existing literature and help BCAs develop RRI policies that are likely to be successful. We present a future research agenda across and within the RRI strategies.
Training‐induced improvements in knee extensor force accuracy are associated with reduced vastus lateralis motor unit firing variability
Authors: Ely Isabel A. , Jones Eleanor J. , Inns Thomas B. , Dooley Síobhra , Miller Sarah B. J. , Stashuk Daniel W. , Atherton Philip J. , Phillips Bethan E. , Piasecki Mathew
Published: August 2022

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Can bilateral knee extensor force accuracy be improved following 4 weeks of unilateral force accuracy training and are there any subsequent alterations to central and/or peripheral motor unit features?

What is the main finding and its importance?

In the trained limb only, knee extensor force tracking accuracy improved with reduced motor unit firing rate variability in the vastus lateralis, and there was no change to neuromuscular junction transmission instability. Interventional strategies to improve force accuracy may be directed to older/clinical populations where such improvements may aid performance of daily living activities.

Muscle force output during sustained submaximal isometric contractions fluctuates around an average value and is partly influenced by variation in motor unit (MU) firing rates. MU firing rate (FR) variability seemingly reduces following exercise training interventions; however, much less is known with respect to peripheral MU properties. We therefore investigated whether targeted force accuracy training could lead to improved muscle functional capacity and control, in addition to determining any alterations of individual MU features. Ten healthy participants (seven females, three males, 27 ± 6 years, 170 ± 8 cm, 69 ± 16 kg) underwent a 4‐week supervised, unilateral knee extensor force accuracy training intervention. The coefficient of variation for force (FORCECoV) and sinusoidal wave force tracking accuracy (FORCESinu) were determined at 25% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) pre‐ and post‐training. Intramuscular electromyography was utilised to record individual MU potentials from the vastus lateralis (VL) muscles at 25% MVC during sustained contractions, pre‐ and post‐training. Knee extensor muscle strength remained unchanged following training, with no improvements in unilateral leg‐balance. FORCECoV and FORCESinu significantly improved in only the trained knee extensors by ∼13% (P = 0.01) and ∼30% (P < 0.0001), respectively. MU FR variability significantly reduced in the trained VL by ∼16% (n = 8; P = 0.001), with no further alterations to MU FR or neuromuscular junction transmission instability. Our results suggest muscle force control and tracking accuracy is a trainable characteristic in the knee extensors, which is likely explained by the reduction in MU FR variability which was apparent in the trained limb only.
CORTE SUPREMA DE JUSTICIA. SALA DE CASACIÓN CIVIL SC5290-2021. Magistrado ponente: Álvaro Fernando García Restrepo. Radicación N° 11001-31-03-025-2012-00268-01. Diciembre 1° de 2021. (Aprobado en sesión de sala civil del 27 de octubre de 2021).
Authors: Isaza Posse María Cristina
Published: August 2022

La sentencia establece el sentido del artículo 1066 del Código de Comercio en lo tocante con el momento a partir del cual corre el plazo para el pago de la prima, frente a la reforma de la Ley 389 de 1997, reforma que modifica la naturaleza del contrato de seguro pasando de ser solemne a consensual.
El momento de la verdad en el seguro. El siniestro y su verificación
Authors: Ramírez Bernal Maria Sandra
Published: August 2022

El presente trabajo es una revisión de los elementos del contrato de seguros y la identificación del siniestro como un elemento fundamental de la relación jurídica, por lo que se hace una revisión de los principales métodos para la realización adecuada de un ajuste de siniestros.
La responsabilidad civil del productor asesor de seguros. Marco regulatorio aplicable en Argentina
Authors: Compiani María Fabiana
Published: August 2022

Alguna decisión jurisprudencial establece que, cuando se tratara de un seguro de consumo, habría que concluir que la actividad del productor asesor de seguros integra la cadena de responsabilidad objetiva y solidaria de la normativa tuitiva. Este artículo de reflexión se propone demostrar que las obligaciones del productor asesor de seguros no se extienden a garantir el cumplimiento por parte de la aseguradora de las propias obligaciones a su cargo. Ello no impide reconocer que el productor asesor de seguros se encuentra alcanzado por la ley de defensa de los consumidores y usuarios en lo que hace al incumplimiento del deber de información, de consejo o advertencia, en la publicidad de sus servicios o en su participación en prácticas abusivas, entre otras cuestiones. Su responsabilidad civil se enmarca en general en la que cabe a los profesionales no liberales.
Performance Evaluation of Plate Heat Exchanger Using CuO-DI Water Nanofluid
Authors: Panday Nitesh K. , Singh Shailendra N.
Published: August 2022

Experimental and numerical investigations have been carried out for performance evaluation of plate heat exchanger (PHE) using CuO-DI water nanofluid at different volume concentrations of (ϕ = 0, 0.005, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, and 0.07) for the Reynolds number, Re = 71–1350, Prandtl number, Pr = 3.18–13.7, and at fixed inlet temperatures of hot and cold fluids Thi = 60 °C and Tci = 20 °C, respectively. The two main influential thermo-physical properties of the nanofluid, namely, dynamic viscosity and thermal conductivity obtained for various volume fractions at different temperatures, are further utilized for performance analysis of the PHEs. The thermo-hydraulic performance of PHE is evaluated based on the J.F. factor. According to experimental and simulated results, volume concentration, ϕ = 0.03 is found to be the optimum concentration of nanofluids. The individual correlations for Nusselt number, friction factor, dynamic viscosity, and thermal conductivity in terms of nanofluid volume fraction are proposed based on the experimental results.
An Energy-Saving Snake Locomotion Pattern Learned in a Physically Constrained Environment With Online Model-Based Policy Gradient Method
Authors: Liu Yilang , Barati Farimani Amir
Published: August 2022

Snake robots, composed of sequentially connected joint actuators, have recently gained increasing attention in the industrial field, like life detection in narrow space. Such robots can navigate the complex environment via the cooperation of multiple motors located on the backbone. However, controlling the robots in a physically constrained environment is challenging, and conventional control strategies can be energy-inefficient or even fail to navigate to the destination. This work develops a snake locomotion gait policy for energy-efficient control via deep reinforcement learning (DRL). After establishing the environment model, we apply a physics constrained online policy gradient method based on the proximal policy optimization (PPO) objective function of each joint motor parameterized by angular velocity. The DRL agent learns the standard serpenoid curve at each timestep. The policy is updated based on the robot’s observations and estimation of the current states. The robot simulator and task environment are built upon PyBullet. Compared to conventional control strategies, the snake robots controlled by the trained PPO agent can achieve faster movement and a more energy-efficient locomotion gait. This work demonstrates that DRL provides an energy-efficient solution for robot control.
Maldistribution on a Vertical Manifold With Guide Vanes
Authors: Roman Federico
Published: August 2022

Wall-Modeled Large Eddy Simulation (WMLES) has been used to study a subsonic vertical manifolds (VMs) in terms of maldistribution, i.e., how much the flow splitting deviates from an equal flow distribution between the outlets. The analyzed configuration is characterized by a wide-angle plane diffuser and by four outlets and it has been studied at high Reynolds number (Re*=10000, with Re*=u*Dh/ν, where u* is the friction velocity at the inlet, Dh=4A/P is the hydraulic diameter with A the cross-sectional area at the inlet and P the perimeter, ν is the kinematic viscosity). In the basic configuration, a jet flow develops in the diffuser with two stable flow separation regions at the inclined walls, which prevent an equal flow distribution at the outlets, and determine a maldistribution around ε=37%, where ε is a parameter that quantifies the flow rate deviation from an equal distribution. To increase the equal flow distribution between the outlets, guide vanes have been used. A conceptual model to reduce the maldistribution has been developed using the momentum and the mechanical energy conservation laws. The model uses as main parameter the relative distance between the guide vanes, and it allows to minimize ε. Taking advantage of this method, the maldistribution has been reduced from ε=11.20%, for the case of equally distributed guide vanes, to ε=0.32% in the optimized configuration. The methodology is of general use also for hydraulic systems.
Adding Vibration During Varied-Intensity Work Intervals Increases Time Spent Near Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Well-Trained Cyclists
Authors: Duc Sébastien , Urianstad Tomas , Rønnestad Bent R.
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Previous research suggests that the percentage of maximal oxygen uptake attained and the time it is sustained close to maximal oxygen uptake (eg, >90%) can serve as a good criterion to judge the effectiveness of a training stimulus. The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of adding vibration during varied high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions on physiological and neuromuscular responses. Methods: Twelve well-trained cyclists completed a counterbalanced crossover protocol, wherein 2 identical varied HIIT cycling sessions were performed with and without intermittent vibration to the lower-intensity workloads of the work intervals (6 × 5-min work intervals and 2.5-min active recovery). Each 5-minute work interval consisted of 3 blocks of 40 seconds performed at 100% of maximal aerobic power interspersed with 60-second workload performed at a lower power output, equal to the lactate threshold plus 20% of the difference between lactate threshold and maximal aerobic power. Oxygen uptake and electromyographic activity of lower and upper limbs were recorded during all 5-minute work intervals. Results: Adding vibration induced a longer time ≥90% maximal oxygen uptake (11.14 [7.63] vs 8.82 [6.90] min, d = 0.64, P = .048) and an increase in electromyographic activity of lower and upper limbs during the lower-intensity workloads by 20% (16%) and 34% (43%) (d = 1.09 and 0.83; P = .03 and .015), respectively. Conclusion: Adding vibration during a varied HIIT session increases the physiological demand of the cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems, indicating that this approach can be used to optimize the training stimulus of well-trained cyclists.
Perceptual-Motor Abilities of Professional Esports Gamers and Amateurs
Authors: Kim Haneol , Kim Seonjin , Wu Jianhua
Published: August 2022

Esports demands exceptionally fine motor skills. Perceptual-motor abilities such as anticipation, eye–hand coordination, and peripheral perception are essential for esports gamers to achieve high-level performance and win the game. However, the understanding of perceptual-motor ability in professional esports gamers is still limited. The aim of this study was to compare the perceptual-motor skills between professional esports gamers and amateurs. Eight male professional gamers and eight amateurs participated in this study voluntarily and completed three tasks: anticipation timing, eye–hand coordination, and peripheral perception. Results showed that the professional gamers had an earlier and more consistent anticipation timing in the anticipation-timing task than amateurs across four stimulus speeds. The professional gamers displayed a wider visual perception angle than the amateurs in the peripheral perception task. Our results demonstrate that long-time esports training advanced the development of anticipation timing and peripheral perception but might not affect the ability of eye–hand coordination.
Impact of COVID-19 on Well-Being and Physical Activity in Ugandan Children With and Without HIV
Authors: Milad Mina , Karungi Christine , Sattar Abdus , Musiime Victor , Nazzinda Rashidah , McComsey Grace A. , Dirajlal-Fargo Sahera
Published: August 2022

Background: The present study aims to understand the socioeconomic and physical activity impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children living with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV) and without HIV (HIV−) in Kampala (Uganda). Methods: The authors included children aged 10–18 years who filled out questionnaires at baseline (2017–2018, prepandemic) and 2 years later (March 2020–January 2021, pandemic) in an observational cohort study at Joint Clinical Research Centre (Kampala). Physical activity energy expenditure was calculated using a youth compendium from the National Collaborative on Childhood Obesity Research. Descriptive and standard test statistics including Kruskal–Wallis were used. Results: One hundred and ninety-eight children from Kampala Uganda were included prepandemic (101 PHIV and 97 HIV−); 131 (71 PHIV and 60 HIV−) had information collected during the pandemic. At baseline, median and interquartile range age was 13 years (11; 15), and 52% were females. During the pandemic, overall weekly physical activity increased by a median of 854 minutes (interquartile range: 270–1890), and energy expenditures increased by 16% in both PHIV and in HIV− (P < .001 for groups overall prepandemic vs pandemic). Conclusions: The authors found in this Ugandan cohort of children that children engaged in more physical activity. Further research is warranted to understand the long-term effects of the pandemic on children’s well-being.
Quadriceps Function and Athletic Performance in Highly Trained Female Athletes
Authors: Henderson Frederick J. , Sasakabe Wakana , Satoshi Kuwano , Shima Norihiro , Shimokochi Yohei
Published: August 2022

Context: Quadriceps strength is considered a key contributor to performance in various athletic tasks. Yet, past research has reported conflicting results based on population, with little data available in highly trained female athletes. Design: Cross-sectional. Method: To examine how athletic performance relates to quadriceps strength and neural function, we measured the quadriceps maximum voluntary isometric contraction force (MVIC) and rate of force development over 0 to 50 ms (rate of force development [RFD]0−50ms), and various performance measures in 34 highly trained female athletes. Results: Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that the quadriceps variables explained 16 of 21 performance variables (R2 = .08–.36, P ≤ .10). Squat performance related to RFD0−50ms alone (R2 = .17–.20, P < .05; βRFD = 0.41 to 0.45, P < .05) but only MVIC explained the variance in sprinting and vertical jump performance (R2 = .08–.34, P ≤ .10; βMVIC = −0.51 to 0.58, P ≤ .10). The broad jump model included both parameters and their interaction (R2 = .20, P = .08; βRFD = 0.06, P = .76; βMVIC = −0.39, P = .03; βRFD×MVIC = −0.24, P = .10). Conclusion: The contribution of the quadriceps MVIC or RFD0–50ms varies in size and nature depending on the task or leg dominance. While quadriceps are significant contributors to performance, because our models leave most of the variance in performance unexplained, rehabilitation and performance professionals should refrain from interpreting peak athletic performance as a reflection of knee-extensors function in highly trained female athletes.
A Comparison of Motivation and Physical Activity Levels Between a Sport Education Season and a Hybrid Sport Education and Cooperative Learning Season
Authors: Rocamora Irene , Casey Ashley , González-Víllora Sixto , Arias-Palencia Natalia María
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To understand how a season of sport education (SE) and a hybrid SE and cooperative learning season impacted on elementary school students’ physical activity levels and motivation and to examine possible differences according to gender. Method: A total of 97 fourth- to fifth-grade students in four intact classes participated in a 14-lesson handball season. Results: Students in SE had higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels than the hybrid season. When sorted by gender, boys were significantly more active than girls in both interventions. However, students in the hybrid season reported higher levels of motivation than participants in the SE season, especially for intrinsic motivation. Conclusion: The hybridization of models positively affected students’ motivation in PE, while the reverse is true of SE with regard to physical activity levels.
Selection against admixture and gene regulatory divergence in a long-term primate field study
Authors: Vilgalys Tauras P. , Fogel Arielle S. , Anderson Jordan A. , Mututua Raphael S. , Warutere J. Kinyua , Siodi I. Long’ida , Kim Sang Yoon , Voyles Tawni N. , Robinson Jacqueline A. , Wall Jeffrey D. , Archie Elizabeth A. , Alberts Susan C. , Tung Jenny
Published: August 2022

Genetic admixture is central to primate evolution. We combined 50 years of field observations of immigration and group demography with genomic data from ~9 generations of hybrid baboons to investigate the consequences of admixture in the wild. Despite no obvious fitness costs to hybrids, we found signatures of selection against admixture similar to those described for archaic hominins. These patterns were concentrated near genes where ancestry is strongly associated with gene expression. Our analyses also show that introgression is partially predictable across the genome. This study demonstrates the value of integrating genomic and field data for revealing how “genomic signatures of selection” (e.g., reduced introgression in low-recombination regions) manifest in nature; moreover, it underscores the importance of other primates as living models for human evolution.
Synchronous assembly of chiral skeletal single-crystalline microvessels
Authors: Oki Osamu , Yamagishi Hiroshi , Morisaki Yasuhiro , Inoue Ryo , Ogawa Kana , Miki Nanami , Norikane Yasuo , Sato Hiroyasu , Yamamoto Yohei
Published: August 2022

Skeletal or concave polyhedral crystals appear in a variety of synthetic processes and natural environments. However, their morphology, size, and orientation are difficult to control because of their highly kinetic growth character. We report a methodology to achieve synchronous, uniaxial, and stepwise growth of micrometer-scale skeletal single crystals from planar-chiral double-decker molecules. Upon drop-casting of a heated ethanol solution onto a quartz substrate, the molecules spontaneously assemble into standing vessel-shaped single crystals uniaxially and synchronously over the wide area of the substrate, with small size polydispersity. The crystal edge is active even after consumption of the molecules and resumes stereoselective growth with successive feeding. The resultant morphology can be packed into polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon–like microarchitectures and behaves as a microscopic container.