bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Treatment With Tenofovir Alafenamide for Chronic Hepatitis B Results in High Rates of Viral Suppression and Favorable Renal and Bone Safety
Authors: Chan Henry L.Y. , Buti Maria , Lim Young-Suk , Agarwal Kosh , Marcellin Patrick , Brunetto Maurizia , Chuang Wan-Long , Janssen Harry L.A. , Fung Scott , Izumi Namiki , Abdurakhmanov Dzhamal , Jabłkowski Maciej , Celen Mustafa K. , Ma Xiaoli , Caruntu Florin , Flaherty John F. , Abramov Frida , Wang Hongyuan , Camus Gregory , Osinusi Anu , Pan Calvin Q. , Shalimar  , Seto Wai-Kay , Gane Edward ,   on behalf of the GS-US-320-0110 and GS-US-320-0108 investigators
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION:

The results from 2 phase 3 studies, through 2 years, in chronic hepatitis B infection showed tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) had similar efficacy to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) with superior renal and bone safety. We report updated results through 5 years.

METHODS:

Patients with HBeAg-negative or HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B infection with or without compensated cirrhosis were randomized (2:1) to TAF 25 mg or TDF 300 mg once daily in double-blind (DB) fashion for up to 3 years, followed by open-label (OL) TAF up to 8 years. Efficacy (antiviral, biochemical, and serologic), resistance (deep sequencing of polymerase/reverse transcriptase and phenotyping), and safety, including renal and bone parameters, were evaluated by pooled analyses.

RESULTS:

Of 1,298 randomized and treated patients, 866 receiving TAF (DB and OL) and 432 receiving TDF with rollover to OL TAF at year 2 (n = 180; TDF→TAF3y) or year 3 (n = 202; TDF→TAF2y) were included. Fifty (4%) TDF patients who discontinued during DB were excluded. At year 5, 85%, 83%, and 90% achieved HBV DNA <29 IU/mL (missing = failure) in the TAF, TDF→TAF3y, and TDF→TAF2y groups, respectively; no patient developed TAF or TDF resistance. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate (by using Cockcroft-Gault) declined <2.5 mL/min, and mean declines of <1% in hip and spine bone mineral density were seen at year 5 in the TAF group; patients in the TDF→TAF groups had improvements in these parameters at year 5 after switching to OL TAF.

DISCUSSION:

Long-term TAF treatment resulted in high rates of viral suppression, no resistance, and favorable renal and bone safety.
Navigating parental rights: A study of Virginia’s model policies on transgender student treatment
Authors: Hornbeck Dustin
Published: October 2023

In this study, I explore the discourse surrounding parental rights in U.S. public schools, with Virginia as a focal point. Analyzing two sets of model policies regarding the treatment of transgender students—one established under a Democratic governor and another implemented following the election of a Republican candidate championing parental rights—this research employs qualitative content analysis to gain insight into the contemporary parental rights movement in educational settings. Five key themes emerged: 1. Reliance on expert opinions; 2. Variation in depth and breadth of information within policies; 3. Transgender student inclusion in policies; 4.  Student and parent focus imbalance; and 5. Adherence to legal intent. The findings indicate a shift in emphasis from addressing gender identity concerns to prioritizing parental rights, with ramifications for the broader political landscape. This research enriches the ongoing dialogue on the role of parents in education and the consequences of the conservative parental rights movement for educational policy.
Violence Against Women in Politics – a Study in Poland
Authors: Kijewska Barbara
Published: October 2023

The increase in women’s participation in political life in recent decades has resulted in research explaining how women’s presence (or absence) changes the form, nature and content of politics. However, a gender perspective is still lacking, especially in the relationship between political participation and violence. Violence against women in politics is increasingly recognised around the world as a significant barrier to women’s participation in political life. The aim of the research is to find out whether politically active women are more exposed to violence (physical, psychological, symbolic, sexual, economic) than politically active men and whether violence against politicians is related to belonging to a political party. The research conducted among Polish politicians (n-88) confirms that both women and men who are politically active experience violence. However, women are more often attacked psychologically, symbolically and sexually. Politicians acting under the banner of a party are much more likely to experience violence than non-partisan politicians. Physical violence is very rare, and the level of experiencing violence in all its forms decreases with age.
The Demise of the Left Parties in Israel: From Party Identification to a Negative Partisanship
Authors: Levy Mordechai
Published: October 2023

The left parties are the oldest political institutions in Israel. They were founded before the establishment of the State and were the dominant political force in its first decades. However, since the 1990s, there has been a consistent decline in their power, to the point where, in the last Knesset elections held in 2022, the left parties barely passed the threshold. This article explains the decline of the left parties and attempts to answer where the voters went. A combination of several local and global events that occurred in recent years caused the left parties to distance themselves from the narrative of Zionist Socialism characterizing them and to adopt a new narrative, which less inspires identification of Jewish voters. The article’s main argument is that the voters did not disappear but only changed their political behavior from a state of party identification and voting for the left parties to a state of political opposition and voting against the rightist parties. To illustrate the pattern of behavior, voting data for the Knesset in two communities with different demographic characteristics are presented: Kibbutz Mizra, a socialist commune identified with left voters, and Beit-Shean, a town that is a stronghold of rightist voters. The conclusion is that the way for the left parties to return to dominance is through reintegrating the Jewish identity with the values of justice and equality.
Prefatoryin silicostudies andin vitroinsecticidal effect ofNigella sativa(L.) essential oil and its active compound (carvacrol) against theCallosobruchus maculatusadults (Fab), a major pest of chickpea
Authors: Zouirech Otmane , El Moussaoui Abdelfattah , Saghrouchni Hamza , Gaafar Abdel-Rhman Z. , Nafidi Hiba-Allah , Bourhia Mohammed , Khallouki Farid , Lyoussi Badiaa , Derwich Elhoussine
Published: October 2023

To help discover a reasonable and eco-friendly insecticide, we undertook a study on the insecticidal potential of carvacrol and essential oils extracted by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus from the plant speciesNigella sativaseeds essential oils ofNigella sativa(EONS) onCallosobruchus maculatusadults. Several tests including contact toxicity, repellent effect, topical contact test, and inhalation effect were conducted. Adults ofC. maculatushave been exposed to the toxic effects of different concentrations of these essential oils as well as with carvacrol. The results obtained showed that both EONS and carvacrol exhibited a moderate repellent effect (class II) onC.maculatusadults. EONS showed the highest toxicity by inhalation test, with an LD50of 13.386 and an LD95of 33.186 μL/cm2, compared to carvacrol (LD50= 21.509 and LD95= 38.877 μL/cm2). The EONS by contact test exhibited more toxic effects, with an LD50of 23.350 µL/100 g and an LD95of 45.315 µL/100 g, compared to carvacrol (LD50= 27.853 µL/100 g and LD95= 45.184 µL/100 g). For the topical contact test results, carvacrol was more toxic, with an LD50of 3.915 and an LD95of 7.696 µL/mL, compared to EONS (LD50= 14.509 and LD95= 25.516 µL/mL). The high toxicity of EONS can be explained by the presence of 25.8% ofo-cymene, 8.53% of cyclofenchene, and 7.71% of beta-pinene, as well as 4.6% of carvacrol, in its chemical composition. Unmitigatedly, these data suggest that the essential oils ofN. sativamay present a raw material for the development of new bio-insecticidal products againstC. maculatus, one of the main pests of stored foodstuffs.
Running across the mind or across the park: does speech about physical and metaphorical motion go hand in hand?
Authors: Lewandowski Wojciech , Özçalışkan Şeyda
Published: October 2023

Expression of physical motion (e.g.,man runs by) shows systematic variability not only between language types (i.e., inter-typological) but also within a language type (i.e., intra-typological). In this study, we asked whether the patterns of variability extend to metaphorical motion events (e.g.,time runs by). Our analysis of randomly selected 450 physical motion (150/language) and 450 metaphorical motion (150/language) event descriptions from written texts originally produced by German, Polish, and Spanish authors showed strong inter-typological differences in the expression of both event types. German and Polish speakers differed from Spanish speakers in how they packaged manner and path components of a motion event; they also differed in how extensively they expressed each component in their lexicalization of motion. The strong inter-typological differences were accompanied by more modest intra-typological variability: Polish and German writers differed in their packaging and lexicalization of manner and path components of metaphorical—butnotphysical—motion events. Our results provide evidence for robust inter-typological differences evident in the expression of both physical and metaphorical motion, along with less robust intra-typological differences, largely evident in the expression of metaphorical motion. Our study thus highlights event type as an important factor in determining crosslinguistic variation in motion expression.
Influence of process parameters on ageing and free vibration characteristics of fiber-reinforced polymer composites by fusion filament fabrication process
Authors: Karupaiah Vigneshwaran , Narayanan Venkateshwaran
Published: October 2023

Fused filament fabrication is a promising additive manufacturing technology and an alternative to traditional processes for the fabrication of polymer and fiber-reinforced polymer composites. In this work, the effects of process parameters such as layer thickness, infill density, and infill pattern on the ageing and free vibration characteristics of three-dimensional printed composites were investigated. It was observed that the water absorption rate is higher in acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) printed specimens compared to carbon fiber reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (CF/ABS) specimens due to the effect of carbon fiber which acts as a strong hydrophobic material. The free vibration characteristic of the printed composite specimen is found as per American Society for Testing Materials standards. From the results, it is found that the 5 % addition of carbon fiber, hexagonal pattern, and 0.30 mm layer thickness show an increase in the vibration behaviour of the composites compared to the specimen printed without reinforcement. Experimental modal analysis was carried out on a cantilever beam-like sample and revealed that the addition of fiber has enhanced natural frequencies and damping ratio.
Crystal structure of diethyl 1,9-bis(4-fluorophenyl)-4,6-diphenylhexahydro-3H-2,7,3,5-(epimethanetriyliminomethanetriyl)cyclopenta [b]pyridine-3,7(2H)-dicarboxylate, C40H36F2N2O4
Authors: Zhang Zi-Ang , Li Jun-Xiang , Lu Sen-Bao , Li Peng
Published: October 2023

C40H36F2N2O4, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 9.8180(16) Å, b = 19.355(3) Å, c = 17.930(3) Å, β = 102.353(3)°, V = 3328.3(9) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt
(F) = 0.0564, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1866, T = 296(2) K.
Fetuin A and fetuin B as an indicator of liver fibrosis in hepatitis B
Authors: Şenol Arzu , Özer Balin Şafak , Aşçı Toraman Zülal
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic characteristics of fetuin A and fetuin B in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and HBe Ag-negative chronic infection (HCI) and the relationship between the levels of these proteins and fibrosis in CHB.

Methods

In this study, we examined 98 patients with CHB, 58 with HCI and 42 control groups. Fetuin A and B levels were determined via ELISA.

Results

Serum fetuin A and B levels were significantly higher in the control group than the hepatitis B cases (p=0.001). No significant difference in fetuin A and B levels between patients in the CHB and HCI. In the CHB, fetuin A level was significantly lower in patients with significant fibrosis than those with mild fibrosis (p=0.007). Fetuin B was lower in patients with significant fibrosis than in with mild fibrosis; however, this difference was not significant. In predicting the absence of significant fibrosis, the area under the curve was estimated as 0.855 for fetuin A and 0.866 for fetuin B using the ROC curve.

Conclusions

Fetuin A and B were lower in CHB and HCI compared to the control group and there was no difference between the two groups suggests that these proteins may be effective in the pathogenesis of hepatitis B-induced liver damage. Fetuin A and B, which are found to be lower in patients with significant fibrosis in CHB, can be used as non-invasive markers in the early detection of fibrosis and in the follow-up of progression to significant fibrosis.
Highlighting non-covalent interactions to molecular structure, electronic and vibrational spectra in a new hybrid organic-inorganic cobalt complex: synthesis, experimental and computational study
Authors: Tahenti Meriam , ISSAOUI Noureddine , Roisnel Thierry , Kazachenko Aleksandr S. , Iramain Maximiliano A. , Brandan Silvia Antonia , Al-Dossary Omar , Kazachenko Anna S. , Marouani Houda
Published: October 2023

In this study, a novel hybrid organic-inorganic compound, 4-(ammoniummethyl)pyridinium tetracholoraobaltate(II) monohydrate, with non-centrosymmetric properties have been synthesized and characterized by several techniques of powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, infrared IR and UV–Visible spectroscopies, and calorimetric (DSC) and the thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. The crystallization of this hybrid compound was found in a monoclinic system with a P21 space group. Additionally, the optimized structures of cation, anion and compound by using hybrid B3LYP method with 6-311++G(d,p) and 6-31+G(d) basis sets shown good correlations with the experimental data and the complete vibrational assignments and force constants are reported for three species. The surface morphology and the micrographs were checked by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The UV–Visible absorption spectrum has been used to study the optical properties and the energy gap of our compound. Hirshfeld surface (HS) analysis associated matched up with 2D fingerprint plots were used to confirm the existence of intermolecular and non-covalent interactions in the compound and confirmed by several topological approaches: Quantum Theory of Atom-in-Molecules (QTAIM), reduced density gradient (RDG) and molecular electrostatic potential surface (MEP). The frontier molecular orbitals HOMO and LUMO have been investigated for chemical reactivity and kinetic stability.
Effects of Upper-Body and Lower-Body Conditioning Activities on Postactivation Performance Enhancement During Sprinting and Jumping Tasks in Female Soccer Players
Authors: Santos da Silva Vinicius , Nakamura Fábio Yuzo , Gantois Petrus , Nogueira Gouveia João Nuno , Peña Javier , Beato Marco , Abade Eduardo
Published: October 2023

Santos da Silva, V, Nakamura, FY, Gantois, P, Nogueira Gouveia, JN, Peña, J, Beato, M, and Abade, E. Effects of upper-body and lower-body conditioning activities on postactivation performance enhancement during sprinting and jumping tasks in female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 342–349, 2024—This study aimed to investigate the postactivation performance enhancement (PAPE) effects of “specific” (half-back squat) and “nonspecific” (bench press) conditioning activities on sprinting and jumping performances in female soccer players. Fourteen players (mean ± SD: age = 22.3 ± 4.0 years; body mass = 60.2 ± 7.8 kg; height = 164.1 ± 4.2 cm) competing at national level (first League) participated in this within-subject crossover study. The players performed a warm-up protocol including 3 sets of 3 repetitions of half-back-squat or bench press exercises at 90% 1RM or a warm-up protocol without lifting weights (i.e., control condition). Forty-meter shuttle sprints (20 + 20 m with change of direction [COD-180°]), countermovement jump (CMJ), and horizontal jump (HJ) performances were recorded 6 minutes after the conditioning activities protocols or the control condition. Nonsignificant large positive effects were found for the HJ after the half-back-squat (ES = 1.68; p > 0.05) and bench press (ES = 1.68; p > 0.05) protocols. Although nonsignificant, HJ changes (Δ = 0.07 m) were greater than the smallest worthwhile change (0.02 m) and standard error of measurement (0.03 m) after both conditioning activities. Moreover, no significant changes were found for sprint and CMJ performance after neither half-back-squat nor bench press protocols (p > 0.05). In conclusion, both specific and nonspecific conditioning activities using heavy loads (i.e., 90% 1RM) may be suitable to enhance individual HJ. Finally, both conditioning activities are potentially ineffective for increasing sprint and CMJ performance in the context of this study.
Effects of 56-Kilogram Kettlebell Swing Endpoint on Total Body Mechanics
Authors: Ross James A. , Keogh Justin W. L. , Lorenzen Christian , Lake Jason
Published: October 2023

Ross, JA, Keogh, JWL, Lorenzen, C, and Lake, J. Effects of 56-kilogram kettlebell swing endpoint on total body mechanics. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—In the past 2 decades, kettlebell training popularity has increased and the range of kettlebells has expanded to 2–92 kg. However, commercially available kettlebells above 56 kg have 12 kg increments, so alternatives to load are required to provide a suitable way of increasing training stimulus until the athlete is strong enough for a load increase. This study aimed to determine the differences in the force plate–derived biomechanical characteristics of heavy kettlebell swings to 3 different heights, as altering the height of the kettlebell swing may be one way to alter the mechanical demands with the same kettlebell mass. Fifteen resistance-trained men performed the kettlebell swing to acromion process height (AH), acromion process height + 20% (AH+20), and acromion process height—20% (AH-20). Swing height significantly affected vertical braking and propulsion phase net impulse and displacement, vertical braking velocity, and braking and propulsion work but not braking and propulsion duration. Altering kettlebell swing trajectory endpoint is a method to regress/progress the demands of kettlebell training. Coaches may be able to alter the acute demands and likely chronic adaptations of kettlebell training by prescribing different swing heights and kettlebell masses to their athletes.
Discrete Hamstring: Quadriceps Strength Ratios Do Not Represent Angle-Specific Ratios in Premier League Soccer Players
Authors: Lunn David E. , Nicholson Gareth , Cooke Mark , Crespo Rubén , Robinson Tom , Price Rob J. , Walker Josh
Published: October 2023

Lunn, DE, Nicholson, G, Cooke, M, Crespo, R, Robinson, T, Price, RJ, and Walker, J. Discrete hamstring: quadriceps strength ratios do not represent angle-specific ratios in Premier League soccer players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—This study compared angle-specific hamstring:quadriceps (H:Q) ratios with their discrete counterparts during strength testing in professional male soccer players. Twenty-seven professional English Premier League soccer players were recruited for this study (age: 22 ± 4 years; stature: 1.81 ± 0.08 m; body mass: 74.7 ± 6.5 kg). Isokinetic testing of the knee flexors and extensors was conducted concentrically at two angular velocities (60° and 240°·s−1) and eccentrically (for the knee flexors only) at 30°·s−1. Conventional H:Q ratio was calculated as the ratio between peak joint moment in the flexors and extensors at 60°·s−1. Functional H:Q ratio was calculated as the peak joint moment in the flexors during the eccentric condition and the extensors at 240°·s−1. Discrete conventional and functional H:Q ratios were 0.56 ± 0.06 and 1.28 ± 0.22, respectively. The residual differences between discrete values and angle-specific residual values were 13.60 ± 6.56% when normalized to the magnitude of the discrete value. For the functional ratios, the normalized residual was 21.72 ± 5.61%. Therefore, neither discrete ratio was representative of angle-specific ratios, although the conventional ratio had lower error overall. Therefore, practitioners should consider H:Q ratio throughout the full isokinetic range of motion, not just the discrete ratio calculated from peak joint moments, when designing and implementing training programs or monitoring injury risk, recovery from injury, and readiness to return to play.
Changes in Body Composition and Athletic Performance in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Female Field Hockey Athletes Throughout a Competitive Season
Authors: Summer Luanna C. , Cheng Ryan , Moran Jay T. , Lee Michael , Belanger Anthony J. , Taylor Walter L. , Gardner Elizabeth C.
Published: October 2023

Summer, LC, Cheng, R, Moran, JT, Lee, M, Belanger, AJ, TaylorIV, WL, and Gardner, EC. Changes in body composition and athletic performance in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I female field hockey athletes throughout a competitive season. J Strength Cond Res 38(1): 146–152, 2024—The purposes of this study were (a) to analyze the changes in total and regional body composition measurements in a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I female field hockey team throughout a 17-game competitive season using dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA); (b) to examine improvements, if any, in athletic performance measures after a season; and (c) to report on the relationship between these body composition changes and changes in athletic performance. Preseason and postseason dual-energy DXA and performance data from the 2019–2020 season were retrospectively identified for 20 field players (forwards, midfielders, and defenders). Body composition data included total and regional fat mass, lean mass, and body fat percentage, whereas athletic performance measures included the vertical jump, 10-yard dash, and pro-agility (5-10-5) shuttle run. All variables were quantitative and analyzed using paired t-tests or its nonparametric equivalent and an alpha level of p < 0.05 was used to determine significance. After a competitive season, athletes had significant decreases in fat mass and increases in lean mass in their arms, legs, trunks, gynoids, and total body measurements. Android fat mass and body fat percentage also decreased. Athletes performed significantly better on the pro-agility shuttle run at the end of the season, but no significant differences were observed in other performance metrics. Moderate correlations were observed between changes in body composition (total fat mass and total lean mass) and changes in athletic performance. Our study provides a novel, longitudinal assessment of body composition and athletic performance for elite female field hockey athletes that will help trainers and coaches better understand how these variables change throughout a season and allow them to better prepare their players for competitive success.
Combining Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Heart Rate Variability Derived Thresholds to Estimate the Critical Intensity of Exercise
Authors: Fleitas-Paniagua Pablo R. , de Almeida Azevedo Rafael , Trpcic Mackenzie , Murias Juan M. , Rogers Bruce
Published: October 2023

Fleitas-Paniagua, PR, de Almeida Azevedo, R, Trpcic, M, Murias, JM, and Rogers, B. Combining near-infrared spectroscopy and heart rate variability derived thresholds to estimate the critical intensity of exercise. J Strength Cond Res 38(1): e16–e24, 2024—Critical intensity determination often requires costly tools and several testing sessions. Alternative approaches display relatively large individual variation. Therefore, simpler estimations with improved precision are needed. This study evaluated whether averaging the heart rate (HR) and oxygen uptake (V̇O2) responses associated with the muscle deoxyhemoglobin concentration breakpoint ([HHb]BP) and the heart rate variability (HRV) given by the detrended fluctuation analysis second threshold (HRVT2) during ramp incremental (RI) test improved the accuracy of identifying the HR and V̇O2 at the respiratory compensation point (RCP). Ten female and 11 male recreationally trained subjects performed a 15 W·minute−1 RI test. Gas exchange, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and RR interval were recorded to assess the RCP, [HHb]BP, and HRVT2. Heart rate (mean ± SD: 158 ± 14, 156 ± 13, 160 ± 14 and, 158 ± 12 bpm) and V̇O2 (3.08 ± 0.69, 2.98 ± 0.58, 3.06 ± 0.65, and 3.02 ± 0.60 L·minute−1) at the RCP, [HHb]BP, HRVT2, and HRVT2&[HHb]BP average (H&HAv), respectively, were not significantly different (p > 0.05). The linear relationship between H&HAv and RCP was higher compared with the relationship between [HHb]BP vs RCP and HRVT2 vs RCP for both HR (r = 0.85; r = 0.73; r = 0.79, p > 0.05) and V̇O2 (r = 0.94; r = 0.93; r = 0.91, p > 0.05). Intraclass correlation between RCP, [HHb]BP, HRVT2, and H&HAV was 0.93 for V̇O2 and 0.79 for HR. The [HHb]BP and the HRVT2 independently provided V̇O2 and HR responses that strongly agreed with those at the RCP. Combining [HHb]BP and the HRVT2 resulted in estimations of the V̇O2 and HR at the RCP that displayed smaller variability compared with each modality alone.
Strength and Power Thresholds to Identify High and Low Linear Sprint Speed Performers in Collegiate American Football Players
Authors: Philipp Nicolas M. , Crawford Derek A. , Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Fry Andrew C.
Published: October 2023

Philipp, NM, Crawford, DA, Cabarkapa, D, and Fry, AC. Strength and power thresholds to identify high and low linear sprint speed performers in collegiate American football players. J Strength Cond Res 38(1): 74–79, 2024—Lower-body strength and power are commonly measured performance qualities across a number of sports. In recent years, more attention has been given to relationships, primarily between lower-body strength and linear speed performance. While still limited, evidence is in agreement that lower-body strength positively contributes to linear speed performance. However, what is less well understood is if there comes a point in an athlete's development, at which, further working on increasing maximal strength may not fully compliment additional gains in speed performance. Within this study, authors aimed to provide practitioners with lower-body strength and power thresholds that can discriminate between slow and fast performers, within a group of collegiate American football players. The sample was further divided into a high-body and low-body weight group, and authors hypothesized that by using logistic regression, supplemented with receiver operator curve analyses, optimal cut-off points (i.e., relative lower-body strength thresholds) that are able to significantly discriminate between slow and fast linear speed performers may be identified. Findings indicate that optimal cut-off scores differed between the groups of athletes, as well as the lower body strength and power tests. All models were able to significantly distinguish between slower and faster performers, and area under the curve values ranged from 0.695 to 0.903. Although thresholds will likely vary based on factors such as sex, training age, and sport, findings from this investigation may be used to benchmark athletes and to further individualize training aimed at improving linear speed performance.
The Interunit Reliability of Global Navigation Satellite Systems Apex (STATSports) Metrics During a Standardized Intermittent Running Activity
Authors: Beato Marco , Wren Cion , de Keijzer Kevin L.
Published: October 2023

Beato, M, Wren, C, and de Keijzer, KL. The interunit reliability of global navigation satellite systems Apex (STATSports) metrics during a standardized intermittent running activity. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e49–e55, 2024—This study aimed to evaluate the interunit reliability of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) STATSports Apex metrics and to assess which metrics can be used by practitioners for the monitoring of short-distance intermittent running activities. Fifty-four male soccer players were enrolled (age = 20.7 ± 1.9 years, body mass = 73.2 ± 9.5 kg, and height = 1.76 ± 0.07 m) in this observational study. 10-Hz GNSS Apex (STATSports, Northern Ireland, Newry) units recorded total distance, high speed running (HSR), accelerations, decelerations, peak speed, average metabolic power, metabolic distance, dynamic stress load (DSL), relative distance, and speed intensity. The standardized intermitted running protocol used was a Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 1. This study reported that Apex interunit analysis did not show any significant difference (delta difference and 95% confidence interval [CIs]) in total distance = 2.6 (−2.6; 7.9) m, HSR = 3.2 (−0.2; 6.8) m, accelerations = 0.09 (−0.9; 1.1), decelerations = 0.3 (−0.4; 1.1), peak speed = 0.02 (−0.03; 0.07) m·s−1, average metabolic power = 0.01 (−0.02; 0.04) W·kg−1, metabolic distance = 0.9 (−6.2; 8.0) m, DSL = 2.8 (−5.6; 10.7) au, relative distance = 0.14 (−0.19; 0.47) m·min−1, and speed intensity = 0.21 (−0.21; 0.64) au. All metrics presented a delta d between trivial to small. The interunit intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was good or excellent for all metrics, with the exception of DSL, which was considered questionable. In conclusion, this study reports that all the metrics analysis in this study presents a low interunit bias and high reliability (ICC), with the exception of DSL.
Acute Effect of Dynamic and Gluteal Resistance Exercise Warm-up Protocols on Jump Landing Mechanics in College-Aged Females
Authors: Rauseo Matthew L. , Feairheller Deborah L. , LaRoche Dain P. , Cook Summer B.
Published: October 2023

Rauseo, ML, Feairheller, DL, LaRoche, DP, and Cook, SB. Acute effect of dynamic and gluteal resistance exercise warm-up protocols on lower-extremity jump landing mechanics in college-aged females. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 259–265, 2024—Inadequate neuromuscular control of the femur by the gluteal musculature is associated with noncontact and overuse injuries to the knee. Acute bouts of resistance exercises targeting the gluteal musculature can be prescribed as part of a warm-up protocol with the goal of improving subsequent neuromuscular control and performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect that a warm-up protocol including moderate-intensity gluteal resistance exercises (GRE) has on single leg jump landing biomechanics. Seventeen healthy, college-aged, recreationally active females (mean ± SD; age = 21.4 ± 1.9 years; height = 166.9 ± 5.7 cm; body mass = 62.5 ± 7.4 kg) performed 3 single leg hop trials per leg after completing no warm-up (CON), a dynamic warm-up (DWU), and a dynamic warm-up with gluteal resistance exercises (DWU + GRE) across 3 laboratory visits. Lower extremity kinetic and kinematic variables were assessed during single leg hops from the point of initial foot contact to deepest knee flexion. Biomechanical differences between dominant and nondominant limb landings were also assessed. Dominant limb hip internal rotation angle after DWU + GRE (2.03 ± 9.92°) was significantly greater (p ≤ 0.05) compared with CON (−3.36 ± 7.74°). Peak knee adduction moment (56.8%), peak knee flexion angle (5.7%), and peak knee external rotation angle (17.0%) were significantly greater (p ≤ 0.017) in the dominant limb, compared with the nondominant limb, across warm-up protocols. The combined DWU + GRE warm-up protocol did not have a substantial impact on landing biomechanics. Clinicians prescribing GRE before activity should not expect significant changes in movement patterns after a single bout.
Sex Differences in Test-Retest Reliability of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy During Postocclusive Reactive Hyperemia of the Vastus Lateralis
Authors: Shoemaker Marni E. , Smith Cory M. , Gillen Zachary M. , Cramer Joel T.
Published: October 2023

Shoemaker, ME, Smith, CM, Gillen, ZM, and Cramer, JT. Sex differences in test-retest reliability of near-infrared spectroscopy during postocclusive reactive hyperemia of the vastus lateralis. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e40–e48, 2024—The purpose of this study was to determine test-retest reliability for vascular reactivity measures and ranges for normalization of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) variables from the vastus lateralis using postocclusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) procedure in male subjects, female subjects, and combined. Concentrations of oxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) + myoglobin (Mb) (O2Hb) and deoxygenated Hb + Mb (HHb) to derive total Hb + Mb (THb), difference in Hb + Mb signal (Hbdiff), and muscle tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) from the vastus lateralis were measured during the PORH in 12 male subjects (age: 23.17 ± 1.77 years; stature: 180.88 ± 4.59 cm; and mass: 81.47 ± 9.68 kg) and 10 female subjects (age: 23.80 ± 2.07 years; stature: 165.95 ± 4.92 cm; and mass: 70.93 ± 10.55 kg) on 2 separate days. Adipose tissue thickness at the NIRS site was measured with ultrasonography. There were no significant differences between the mean values from visit 1 to visit 2 (p > 0.076–0.985). In the composite sample, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 0.35 to 0.91 and 4.74 to 39.18%, respectively. In male subjects, ICC and CV values ranged from 0.57 to 0.89 and 2.44 to 28.55%, respectively. In female subjects, ICC and CV values ranged from −0.05 to 0.75 and 7.83 to 61.19%, respectively. Although NIRS variables were overall reliable during PORH, when separated by sex, reliability in male subjects generally increased, whereas female subjects were not reliable, suggesting adipose tissue thickness may be a contributing factor. Understanding sex differences in reliability is important when using this technique for normalization or examining vascular reactivity during athletic performance. With greater utilization of NIRS monitoring in athletes to examine training adaptations, it is important for practitioners to understand the capabilities and potential limitations of the tool.
Fat-Free Mass Index in a Large Sample of National Collegiate Athletic Association Men and Women Athletes From a Variety of Sports
Authors: Magee Meghan K. , Fields Jennifer B. , Jagim Andrew R. , Jones Margaret T.
Published: October 2023

Magee, MK, Fields, JB, Jagim, AR, and Jones, MT. Fat-free mass index in a large sample of National Collegiate Athletic Association men and women athletes from a variety of sports. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 311–317, 2024—Fat-free mass index (FFMI) can be used to categorize fat-free mass (FFM) relative to height. Normative values have been established in a variety of sports, as has suggested lower and upper thresholds of FFMI. However, FFMI has not been reported in a large sample of athletes, representing both sexes and multiple sport types. The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in FFMI and establish normative values across a large sample of collegiate sports. A total of 1,961 athletes (men: n = 596, 10 sports; women: n = 1,365, 8 sports) participated. Height and mass were measured using a stadiometer and calibrated digital scale, respectively. Fat-free mass was assessed with air displacement plethysmography and used to calculate FFMI. Kruskal-Wallis test and one-way analysis of variance evaluated differences in FFMI in women's and men's sports, respectively. When collapsed across sport type and stratified by sex, men had a higher FFMI (21.5 ± 1.9 kg·m−2 vs. 17.9 ± 1.8 kg·m−2; p < 0.001). Differences occurred in FFMI across sport. In women, basketball athletes had the highest FFMI (18.9 kg·m−2) and highest 99th percentile for FFMI, whereas rowers had the lowest (16.9 kg·m−2). In men, throwers had the highest FFMI (25.7 kg·m−2) and highest 99th percentile, whereas volleyball athletes had the lowest (19.9 kg·m−2). Differences in FFMI may be attributable to dietary habits and physiological demands of respective sports. These results can provide information relative to differences in FFMI values across sports. In addition, sport-specific normative values can be used as benchmarks and targets for training, nutrition, and goal setting.
Influence of Maturation and Determinants of Repeated-Sprint Ability in Youth Basketball Players
Authors: Gonzalo-Skok Oliver , Bishop Chris
Published: October 2023

Gonzalo-Skok, O, and Bishop, C. Influence of maturation and determinants of repeated-sprint ability in youth basketball players. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 325–333, 2024—The main aims of the current study were (a) to determine the main predictors of general and specific repeated-sprint ability (RSA) tests, (b) to analyze the relationships between RSA tests and independent measures of physical performance, (c) to examine whether between-age differences exist, and (d) to assess whether maturation affects those mentioned above in young basketball players. Thirty-five young (U-14 to U-16), highly trained basketball players performed a linear sprint test (5, 10, and 25 m), an incremental running test, and 2 repeated-sprint tests (general [RSG]: 6 × 25 m; specific [RSS]: 6 × 5 + 5 m with a 45° change of direction and 20 seconds of passive recovery in both tests). Anthropometric variables were measured and used to calculate age at peak height velocity (APHV), which was used to determine maturation. The main determinants of RSA tests were aerobic performance and linear sprinting for RSS (R
2 = 0.84) and adding the percentage of body fat for RSG (R
2 = 0.94). Almost perfect relationships (r = 0.93–0.99) were found between all RSA variables (i.e., the best [RSGb and RSSb] and mean time [RSGm and RSSm]). As age increased, performance in RSA was evident, as shown by improved best and mean scores. When APHV was controlled for, no significant differences were apparent in the comparison from U-14 and U-16 in 25 m, RSGb, and RSGm. By contrast, significant differences (p < 0.05) were still evident with APHV controlled between U-14 and U-16 in 5 m, 10 m, RSSb, and RSSm. In conclusion, maturation positively affects linear sprinting and linear RSA performance, whereas specific (multidirectional) RSA seems to be related to other factors.
miR-218 Promotes Dopaminergic Differentiation and Controls Neuron Excitability and Neurotransmitter Release through the Regulation of a Synaptic-Related Genes Network
Authors: Pulcrano Salvatore , De Gregorio Roberto , De Sanctis Claudia , Volpicelli Floriana , Piscitelli Rosa Maria , Speranza Luisa , Perrone-Capano Carla , di Porzio Umberto , Caiazzo Massimiliano , Martini Alessandro , Giacomet Cecilia , Medina Diego , Awatramani Rajeshwar , Viggiano Davide , Federici Mauro , Mercuri Nicola B. , Guatteo Ezia , Bellenchi Gian Carlo
Published: October 2023

In the brain, microRNAs (miRNAs) are believed to play a role in orchestrating synaptic plasticity at a higher level by acting as an additional mechanism of translational regulation, alongside the mRNA/polysome system. Despite extensive research, our understanding of the specific contribution of individual miRNA to the function of dopaminergic neurons (DAn) remains limited. By performing a dopaminergic-specific miRNA screening, we have identified miR-218 as a critical regulator of DAn activity in male and female mice. We have found that miR-218 is specifically expressed in mesencephalic DAn and is able to promote dopaminergic differentiation of embryonic stem cells and functional maturation of transdifferentiated induced DA neurons. Midbrain-specific deletion of both genes encoding for miR-218 (referred to as miR-218-1 and mir218-2) affects the expression of a cluster of synaptic-related mRNAs and alters the intrinsic excitability of DAn, as it increases instantaneous frequencies of evoked action potentials, reduces rheobase current, affects the ionic current underlying the action potential after hyperpolarization phase, and reduces dopamine efflux in response to a single electrical stimulus. Our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the involvement of miR-218 in the dopaminergic system and highlight its role as a modulator of dopaminergic transmission.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTIn the past decade, several miRNAs have emerged as potential regulators of synapse activity through the modulation of specific gene expression. Among these, we have identified a dopaminergic-specific miRNA, miR-218, which is able to promote dopaminergic differentiation and regulates the translation of an entire cluster of synapse related mRNAs. Deletion of miR-218 has notable effects on dopamine release and alters the intrinsic excitability of dopaminergic neurons, indicating a direct control of dopaminergic activity by miR-218.
Hypersensitivity to Distractors in Fragile X Syndrome from Loss of Modulation of Cortical VIP Interneurons
Authors: Rahmatullah Noorhan , Schmitt Lauren M. , De Stefano Lisa , Post Sam , Robledo Jessica , Chaudhari Gunvant , Pedapati Ernest , Erickson Craig , Portera-Cailliau Carlos , Goel Anubhuti
Published: October 2023

Attention deficit is one of the most prominent and disabling symptoms in Fragile X syndrome (FXS). Hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli contributes to attention difficulties by overwhelming and/or distracting affected individuals, which disrupts activities of daily living at home and learning at school. We find that auditory or visual distractors selectively impair visual discrimination performance in humans and mice with FXS but not in typically developing controls. In both species, males and females were examined. Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) neurons were significantly modulated by incorrect responses in the poststimulus period during early distractor trials in WT mice, consistent with their known role as error signals. Strikingly, however, VIP cells fromFmr1−/−mice showed little modulation in error trials, and this correlated with their poor performance on the distractor task. Thus, VIP interneurons and their reduced modulatory influence on pyramidal cells could be a potential therapeutic target for attentional difficulties in FXS.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTSensory hypersensitivity, impulsivity, and persistent inattention are among the most consistent clinical features of FXS, all of which impede daily functioning and create barriers to learning. However, the neural mechanisms underlying sensory over-reactivity remain elusive. To overcome a significant challenge in translational FXS research we demonstrate a compelling alignment of sensory over-reactivity in both humans with FXS andFmr1−/−mice (the principal animal model of FXS) using a novel analogous distractor task. Two-photon microscopy in mice revealed that lack of modulation by VIP cells contributes to susceptibility to distractors. Implementing research efforts we describe here can help identify dysfunctional neural mechanisms associated not only with sensory issues but broader impairments, including those in learning and cognition.
Critical-like Brain Dynamics in a Continuum from Second- to First-Order Phase Transition
Authors: Wang Sheng H. , Siebenhühner Felix , Arnulfo Gabriele , Myrov Vladislav , Nobili Lino , Breakspear Michael , Palva Satu , Palva J. Matias
Published: October 2023

The classic brain criticality hypothesis postulates that the brain benefits from operating near a continuous second-order phase transition. Slow feedback regulation of neuronal activity could, however, lead to a discontinuous first-order transition and thereby bistable activity. Observations of bistability in awake brain activity have nonetheless remained scarce and its functional significance unclear. Moreover, there is no empirical evidence to support the hypothesis that the human brain could flexibly operate near either a first- or second-order phase transition despite such a continuum being common in models. Here, using computational modeling, we found bistable synchronization dynamics to emerge through elevated positive feedback and occur exclusively in a regimen of critical-like dynamics. We then assessed bistabilityin vivowith resting-state MEG in healthy adults (7 females, 11 males) and stereo-electroencephalography in epilepsy patients (28 females, 36 males). This analysis revealed that a large fraction of the neocortices exhibited varying degrees of bistability in neuronal oscillations from 3 to 200 Hz. In line with our modeling results, the neuronal bistability was positively correlated with classic assessment of brain criticality across narrow-band frequencies. Excessive bistability was predictive of epileptic pathophysiology in the patients, whereas moderate bistability was positively correlated with task performance in the healthy subjects. These empirical findings thus reveal the human brain as a one-of-a-kind complex system that exhibits critical-like dynamics in a continuum between continuous and discontinuous phase transitions.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTIn the model, while synchrony per se was controlled by connectivity, increasing positive local feedback led to gradually emerging bistable synchrony with scale-free dynamics, suggesting a continuum between second- and first-order phase transitions in synchrony dynamics inside a critical-like regimen. In resting-state MEG and SEEG, bistability of ongoing neuronal oscillations was pervasive across brain areas and frequency bands and was observed only with concurring critical-like dynamics as the modeling predicted. As evidence for functional relevance, moderate bistability was positively correlated with executive functioning in the healthy subjects, and excessive bistability was associated with epileptic pathophysiology. These findings show that critical-like neuronal dynamicsin vivoinvolves both continuous and discontinuous phase transitions in a frequency-, neuroanatomy-, and state-dependent manner.
From Conic to Cylindrical Map Projections
Authors: Lapaine Miljenko
Published: October 2023

In books and textbooks on map projections, cylindrical, conic and azimuthal projections are usually considered separately. It is sometimes mentioned that cylindrical and azimuthal projections can be interpreted as limiting cases of conic, but this is rarely proven. The goal of this article is to show in a rigorous and systematic way how to generally approach solving the problem of transition from a conic to a corresponding cylindrical projection. This article points to the fact that J. H. Lambert showed as early as 1772 that a conformal cylindrical projection is created from a conformal conic projection. Following his idea, this paper shows that not only conformal, but also equal-area and equidistant cylindrical projections can be derived from corresponding conic map projections. Although it seems that the paper deals with quite well known and intuitive property of conic projections, it will also show that the transition from the conic to the corresponding cylindrical projection is not always possible.