bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of utilizing UHPFRC in beam-column joints with different patterns of transverse reinforcement
Authors: Abdo Ayman , Mohamed Heba A. , Ryad Talaat , Ahmed Sayed
Published: April 2023

This research studies and assesses the possibility of employing UHPFRC in exterior beam-column joints (BCJs). Eight specimens with various concrete material characteristics and steel reinforcing details are cast and examined under repeated loads. Normal concrete with seismic reinforcing details is used as a control specimen. For certain specimens, UHPC, UHPFRC with 1% steel fiber, and UHPFRC with 2% steel fiber are poured into all BCJs, and others are poured into the critical zone only. The consequences of removing stirrups from the joint were studied. All specimens' crack patterns, hysteresis and envelope curves, ductility factor, stiffness degradation‎, and energy dissipation are assessed and corresponded to the control sample. The results demonstrate that  UHPFRC strengthened the joint, prevented crack development and extension and the shear failure in the joint, and formed the plastic hinge in the beams. UHPFRC outperforms normal concrete with seismic reinforcing details and UHPC without steel fiber in bearing capacity, ductility, stiffness, and energy dissipation. UHPFRC with 1% steel fiber enhanced joint behavior, while UHPFRC with 2% steel fiber was better. Casting the whole sample with UHPFRC achieved very little improvement. The presence of stirrups in the UHPFRC beam-column joint has little effect on its properties. It is more economical to casting UHPFRC in the joint zone only and reduce or eliminate these stirrups in the case of UHPFRC
Evaluating the Safety and the Effect of Blast Loading on the Shotcrete together with lattice girder Support of Tunnels
Authors: Basaligheh Farnoosh , Tabar Hamidreza Karimi , Nikkhah Majid
Published: April 2023

Damage to tunnels caused by explosions may damage the support structure and the stability. This damage is due to either blasting the working face for drilling progress or an explosion inside the tunnel. The present study investigates the dynamic parameters resulting from the blasting pattern on the temporary support structure of the tunnel considered as a lattice girder and shotcrete equivalent cross-section. For this purpose, LS-DYNA finite element software was used to assess the dynamic response of the structure to the vibration of the blasting-induced explosion. The peak particle velocity (PPV) was considered to evaluate the safety of the tunnel under dynamic loads. According to the results of this study, by exceeding the velocity of 0.9 m/s in the elements, some levels of destruction will occur. Regarding the elements of the temporary support structure of the tunnel, it is found that the damage occurs near the face and 2 m from the tunnel.
Impact behavior of gravity cast AlSi10Mg alloy: Effect of hot isostatic pressing and innovative high pressure T6 heat treatment
Authors: Girelli Luca , Giovagnoli Maverick , Tocci Marialaura , Fortini Annalisa , Gelfi Marcello , Merlin Mattia , Pola Annalisa
Published: April 2023

In the present study the impact behavior of gravity casting AlSi10Mg alloy was evaluated with an instrumented Charpy pendulum. The effect of hot isostatic pressing, also followed by a T6 treatment, was analyzed in comparison with samples in the as-cast, annealed and T6 conditions. Furthermore, the effect of the innovative high-pressure T6 was investigated. It was found that the hot isostatic pressing is able to ensure densification of the alloy with an increase in both hardness and energy absorbed during impact. The T6 treatment performed at atmospheric pressure after the hot isostatic pressing is able to increase hardness and peak force. At the same time, the innovative high-pressure T6 is able to ensure similar results than those of hot isostatic pressing followed by T6, leading to a significant decrease in the treatment duration and costs and reducing the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process.
Bibliometric analysis of holographic data storage literature
Authors: Kumar K. , Parameswaran R.
Published: April 2023

Objectives.Snapshots of data can be stored in a holographic medium at varying depths. Data can be written via a spiral data channel in spinning holographic media in the form of circular disks like CDs or DVDs. This data is then read by shining a reference beam through the refraction following writing. However, holographic storage is distinct from CD/DVD media in the sense that information is encoded in all three dimensions. Two-dimensional data is written using a single laser beam that spirals around the material. Prototype holographic storage solutions use minuscule cones formed by individual snapshots or pages to store one million pixels. As compared with magnetic disks and tapes, which have a finite lifespan of 50 years at most, the longevity and dependability of optical media storage is advantageous for long-term archiving. Holographic technology allows for the portability of data-intensive media such as broadcast or high-definition video. However, the shelf life of holographic media remains low due to its sensitivity to light. The primary goals of most storage devices are more storage space and faster data transport. Holographic storage devices have the potential to outperform traditional optical storage devices both in terms of capacity and performance. The present paper aims to evaluate the current international research trends in Holographic Data Storage (HDS) and produce a graphical mapping of co-authorship and countries.

Methods.The major outputs of the dataset were authors, document type, publication, institution, nation, and citations. After exporting 1052 data sources,HistCitesoftware was used to analyze the citations; visualization mapping was carried out usingVOSviewersoftware and R programming language for the analysis of the authorcountry-title association on Holographic Storage Devices.

Results.The most prominent authors, papers, journals, organizations, and nations in the field of HDS were identified inHistCite. Then, four clusters were investigated usingVOSviewerbased on author keywords, citation collaboration networks among different organizations, countries, and the HDS co-authorship network.

Conclusions.During the study period from 2000–2020 (21 years), 4636 authors contributed to 1052 publications. The highest number of publications was in 2009, with a linear adjustment ofR2 = 0.0136. The most prolific author, Lee J., published 3.14% of the articles on this subject. In terms of country distribution, Japan took first-place ranking, claiming 16.54% of the total number of articles. The “holographic” keyword was used in 62.55% of the articles.
Models and methods for analyzing complex networks and social network structures
Authors: Perova Juю P. , Grigoriev V. P. , Zhukov D. O.
Published: April 2023

Objectives. The study aimed to investigate contemporary models, methods, and tools used for analyzing complex social network structures, both on the basis of ready-made solutions in the form of services and software, as well as proprietary applications developed using the Python programming language. Such studies make it possible not only to predict the dynamics of social processes (changes in social attitudes), but also to identify trends in socioeconomic development by monitoring users’ opinions on important economic and social issues, both at the level of individual territorial entities (for example, districts, settlements of small towns, etc.) and wider regions.

Methods. Dynamic models and stochastic dynamics analysis methods, which take into account the possibility of self-organization and the presence of memory, are used along with user deanonymization methods and recommendation systems, as well as statistical methods for analyzing profiles in social networks. Numerical modeling methods for analyzing complex networks and processes occurring in them are considered and described in detail. Special attention is paid to data processing in complex network structures using the Python language and its various available libraries.

Results. The specifics of the tasks to be solved in the study of complex network structures and their interdisciplinarity associated with the use of methods of system analysis are described in terms of the theory of complex networks, text analytics, and computational linguistics. In particular, the dynamic models of processes observed in complex social network systems, as well as the structural characteristics of such networks and their relationship with the observed dynamic processes including using the theory of constructing dynamic graphs are studied. The use of neural networks to predict the evolution of dynamic processes and structure of complex social systems is investigated. When creating models describing the observed processes, attention is focused on the use of computational linguistics methods to extract knowledge from text messages of users of social networks.

Conclusions. Network analysis can be used to structure models of interaction between social units: people, collectives, organizations, etc. Compared with other methods, the network approach has the undeniable advantage of operating with data at different levels of research to ensure its continuity. Since communication in social networks almost entirely consists of text messages and various publications, almost all relevant studies use textual analysis methods in conjunction with machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies. Of these, convolutional neural networks demonstrated the best results. However, the use of support vector and decision tree methods should also be mentioned, since these contributed considerably to accuracy. In addition, statistical methods are used to compile data samples and analyze obtained results.
Improving the efficiency of an optical-to-terahertz converter using sapphire fibers
Authors: Zenchenko N. V. , Lavrukhin D. V. , Glinskiy I. A. , Ponomarev D. S.
Published: April 2023

Objectives. The study aims to improve the efficiency of a large-area photoconductive terahertz (THz) emitter based on an optical-to-terahertz converter (OTC) having a radiating area of 0.3 × 0.3 mm2 for generating high-power THz radiation by using an array of close-packed profiled sapphire fibers having a diameter in the range of 100–300 μm as focusing optics.

Methods. As a photoconductive substrate, we used a semi-infinite LT-GaAs layer (low-temperature grown GaAs; GaAs layer grown by molecular beam epitaxy at a low growth temperature). Additional Si3N4 and Al2O3 layers are intended for reducing leakage currents in the OTC and reducing the reflection of the laser pump pulse from the air/semiconductor interface (Fresnel losses), respectively, at a gap width of 10 μm. For forming the antenna electrodes and feed strips, the Ti/Au metal system was used. The simulation was carried out by the finite element method in the COMSOL Multiphysics environment.

Results. The use of a profiled sapphire fiber whose diameter has been optimized with respect to the gap parameters to significantly increase the concentration of charge carriers in the immediate vicinity of the electrodes of an OTC is demonstrated. The integrated efficiency of a large-area photoconductive THz emitter was determined taking into account the microstrip topology of the array with a characteristic size of feed strips proportional to the gap width in the OTC and with the upper (masking) metal layer. The maximum localization of the electromagnetic field in close proximity to the edges of electrodes at the “fiber–semiconductor” interface is achieved with a profiled sapphire fiber diameter of 220 μm.

Conclusions. By optimizing the diameter of the sapphire fiber, the possibility of improving the localization of incident electromagnetic waves in close proximity to the edges of the OTC electrodes by ~40 times compared to the case without fiber, as well as increasing the overall efficiency of a large-area emitter by up to ~7–10 times, was demonstrated.
Methodological features of the analysis of the fractal dimension of the heart rate
Authors: Bykova M. O. , Balandin V. A.
Published: April 2023

Objectives. The aim of the present work is to determine the fractal dimension parameter calculated for a sequence of R–R intervals in order to identify the boundaries of its change for healthy and sick patients, as well as the possibility of its use as an additional factor in the detection of cardiac pathology.

Methods. In order to determine the fractal dimension parameter, the Hurst-, Barrow-, minimum coverage area-, and Higuchi methods are used. For assessing the stationarity of a number of electrocardiography (ECG) intervals, a standard method is used to compare arithmetic averages and variances from samples of the total data array of ECG intervals. To identify differences in fractal dimensions of healthy and sick patients, this parameter was ranked. Using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov two-sample criterion, the difference between the distribution laws in the samples for healthy and sick patients is shown.

Results. Among the considered methods for calculating the fractal dimension, the Higuchi method demonstrates the smallest data spread between healthy patients. By ranking the calculated fractional dimension values, it was possible to identify the difference between this parameter for healthy and sick patients. The difference in the distribution of fractal dimension of healthy and sick patients is shown to be statistically significant for the coverage and Higuchi methods. At the same time, when using the traditional Hurst method, there is no reason to reject the null hypothesis that two groups of patients belong to the same general population.

Conclusions. Based on the obtained data, the difference between the fractal dimension indicators of the duration of R–R intervals of healthy and sick patients is shown to be statistically significant when using the Higuchi method. The fractal dimensions of healthy and sick patients can be effectively distinguished by ranking samples. The results of the research substantiate prospects for further studies aimed at using fractal characteristics of the heart rhythm to identify abnormalities of the latter, which can serve as an additional factor in determining heart pathologies.
Robust neural network filtering in the tasks of building intelligent interfaces
Authors: Vasiliev A. V. , Melnikov A. O. , Lesko S. A.
Published: April 2023

Objectives.In recent years, there has been growing scientific interest in the creation of intelligent interfaces for computer control based on biometric data, such as electromyography signals (EMGs), which can be used to classify human hand gestures to form the basis for organizing an intuitive human-computer interface. However, problems arising when using EMG signals for this purpose include the presence of nonlinear noise in the signal and the significant influence of individual human characteristics. The aim of the present study is to investigate the possibility of using neural networks to filter individual components of the EMG signal.

Methods.Mathematical signal processing techniques are used along with machine learning methods.

Results.The overview of the literature on the topic of EMG signal processing is carried out. The concept of intelligent processing of biological signals is proposed. The signal filtering model using a convolutional neural network structure based on Python 3, TensorFlow and Keras technologies was developed. Results of an experiment carried out on an EMG data set to filter individual signal components are presented and discussed.

Conclusions.The possibility of using artificial neural networks to identify and suppress individual human characteristics in biological signals is demonstrated. When training the network, the main emphasis was placed on individual features by testing the network on data received from subjects not involved in the learning process. The achieved average 5% reduction in individual noise will help to avoid retraining of the network when classifying EMG signals, as well as improving the accuracy of gesture classification for new users.
Optimization of spline parameters in approximation of multivalued functions
Authors: Karpov D. A. , Struchenkov V. I.
Published: April 2023

Objectives. Methods for spline approximation of a sequence of points in a plane are increasingly used in various disciplines. A spline is defined as a single-valued function consisting of a known number of repeating elements, of which the most widely used are polynomials. When designing the routes of linear structures, it is necessary to consider a problem with an unknown number of elements. An algorithm implemented for solving this problem when designing a longitudinal profile was published earlier. Here, since the spline elements comprise circular arcs conjugated by line segments, the spline is a single-valued function. However, when designing a route plan, the spline is generally a multivalued function. Therefore, the previously developed algorithm is unsuitable for solving this problem, even if the same spline elements are used. The aim of this work is to generalize the obtained results to the case of approximation of multivalued functions while considering various features involved in designing the routes of linear structures. The first stage of this work consisted in determining the number of elements of the approximating spline using dynamic programming. In the present paper, the next stage of solving this problem is carried out.

Methods. The spline parameters were optimized using a new mathematical model in the form of a modified Lagrange function and a special nonlinear programming algorithm. In this case, it is possible to analytically calculate the derivatives of the objective function with respect to the spline parameters in the absence of its analytical expression. Results. A mathematical model and algorithm were developed to optimize the parameters of a spline as a multivalued function consisting of circular arcs conjugated by line segments. The initial approximation is the spline obtained at the first stage.

Conclusions. The previously proposed two-stage spline approximation scheme for an unknown number of spline elements is also suitable for approximating multivalued functions given by a sequence of points in a plane, in particular, for designing a plan of routes for linear structures.
Incorporating sustainable marketing in the new product development process: evidence from companies operating in Poland
Authors: Brzustewicz Paweł
Published: April 2023

The main aim of this paper is to assess the scope of the implementation of the concept of sustainable marketing in the new product development process in companies operating in Poland. A quantitative study was carried out on a randomly selected group of the most innovative companies operating in Poland, in which the method of an online survey was used. The results of the study indicate that at each stage of the new product development process, there are areas where the surveyed companies showed high activity in the use of sustainable marketing and those where these activities were undertaken by only a small percentage of companies or not at all. The study contributes to the existing literature by presenting the role of sustainable marketing in the new product development process.
Pentachlorophenol degradation in the heterogeneous catalytic o zonation process using Al2O3as a catalyst agent
Authors: Qutob Mutaz , AlMajali Dua’a , F. Varouqa Ibrahim. , A.KA. Al-Btoush Mohammed , Rawashdeh Taiseer , Sora Omari Sora
Published: April 2023

In this study, the catalytic ozonation of pentachlorophenol (PCP) in the presence of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and the formation of byproducts during ozonation has been studied. Results showed that catalytic ozonation in the presence of Al2O3 can substantially enhance PCP degradation efficiency compared with the using only ozonation process. The influences of several environmental parameters including pH of the solution, initial PCP concentration, dosage of Al2O3 and dissolved ozone concentration were also investigated. The highest degradation efficiency of PCP was achieved at conditions: pH 8, 1.87 g/LAl2O3, and 0.49 g/L dissolved ozone concentration. The catalytic activity of Al2O3 was linked to highly hydroxylase surface. The surface hydroxyl groups on Al2O3 were the active places during catalytic ozonation. According to the drastic changes in the color of solution during ozonation this study and results of some previous researches, formation of the intermediate reaction products during ozonation was verified. Free chloride ion released, which was favored at slightly alkaline solution, was also followed in catalytic ozonation process.
Management of agricultural products according to value chain in Yen Binh District, Yen Bai Province
Authors:   Hung Vuong University, Phu Tho Province, Vietnam, Nguyen Son Cao , Ngo Dat Sy ,   Institute of Agricultural Market and Institution Research, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam, Le Cuong Van ,   Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Hung Vuong University, Phu Tho Province, Vietnam, Pham Thuy Thai ,   Hung Vuong University, Phu Tho Province, Vietnam
Published: April 2023

Based on primary and secondary data collected from interviews with 63 local officials and relevant stakeholders, this study analyzes the management of agricultural products according to the value chain in Yen Binh district, Yen Bai province. The results show that the management of agricultural products through the value chain have initially contributed to the increase of agricultural production's value; the crucial products of the district have been developed into a large-scale production zone; increasing the efficiency of agricultural cooperative models and households’ income. However, there are some limitations in the district: most of the households are small scale and scattered; business organization in the local agricultural sector is lowly efficient; the capacity of state management for the agricultural value chain model is inadequate. The authors proposes a number of solutions to improve the efficiency of agricultural product management according to the value chain, including: Developing an overall strategy and improving the policy system for agricultural product development according to the value chain; Improving the quality of agricultural products in line with the value chain at all stages; Developing linkage models between actors participating in agricultural value chains; Building brand and developing market for agricultural products; Improving the infrastructure system for the development of value chains of agricultural products; Ensuring the harmonization of value chain actors’ interests in the development of agricultural products.
Measuring tourism value chains through tourist satisfaction in Vietnam
Authors:   Faculty of Business Administration, University of Economics and Law, VNUHCM, Vietnam, Nguyen Hai Quang
Published: April 2023

The tourism value chain plays an important role in sustainable tourism development because it makes identifying the important tourism services possible in order to create the value chain for tourists. This study is conducted to identify the basic elements of the tourism value chain and measure their impact on tourist satisfaction, thereby evaluating the effectiveness of the tourism value chain in Vietnam. Hypotheses are tested from the estimation of coefficients in the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and multigroup analysis with survey data from 540 domestic tourists in Vietnam. The results of data analysis have confirmed that services such as transport, accommodation, catering and recreation, entertainment are key components of the value chain that tour operators provide for tourists; the tourism value chain provided by tour operators is more valuable than the service provided directly by basic tourism service providers. However, significant differential impact of tourism services on satisfaction among tourist groups was not found. These findings are the basis for promoting cooperation between tour operators and basic tourism service providers to create tourism products with more value for tourists.
Evaluating the reliability and validity of the measurement model of employer attractiveness
Authors:   University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, Cao Viet Quoc , Le Uyen PhuongNguyen ,   University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Long Thanh ,   Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City
Published: April 2023

Employer attractiveness is an important concept that has attracted the attention of many scholars in the fields of human resource management and organizational behavior over the years. Several studies have been conducted in order to develop and activate conceptual connotations. Since it was first published in 2005 by Berthon, Ewing & Hah (2005), many authors have expanded and measured the scale under many different aspects. Inheriting from Reis, Braga & Trullen (2017), we have tested the model of measuring employer attractiveness with the addition of the authenticity component of the workplace. This study was designed through two phases to assess the reliability and validity of the employer's attractiveness scale with an updated and expanded version of Reis et al. (2017). In phase 1, a study with a sample of 204 employees working in different enterprises aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the components in the scale. In stage 2, the scale continues to be evaluated through a specific situation (survey samples are collected at a media company) to evaluate and compare the reliability and validity of the components when applying the scale to a hypothetical real-world situation. The results of the two-phase study show that the components of the employer’s attractiveness scale are reliable and valid.
Factors affecting scientific research capacity of lecturers at non-public universities in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors:   School of Management, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Ngo Quang Huan , Vuong Quoc Hung ,   School of Management, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Dang Huu Phuc ,   School of Management, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Published: April 2023

In the current context, the scientific research capacity of lecturers is an important measurement to evaluate the training quality of educational institutions. Researching the faculty's scientific research capacity is an urgent need, helping the school to rapidly develop training quality. This assessment helps to improve the quality, contributes to strengthen the reputation and attracts more students in the future. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of these factors on the scientific research capacity of lecturers at non-public universities in Ho Chi Minh City. The study was conducted based on a combination of qualitative research methods (table research, expert interviews and group discussions) and quantitative research methods (based on SPSS statistical software to analyze data) together with the survey method as a convenient method. The result from 252 lecturers shows that there are four factors that strongly influence research capacity including (1) Working environment, (2) Perception, (3) Motivation, (4) Personal capacity. Thereby, this study presents the implications for university leaders to have more policies to promote the scientific research capacity of lecturers. Besides, the limitations of the topic and orientation for further research are also indicated.
Comparing Eating Behaviors, Parental Feeding Practice, and Body Mass Index Among Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Typically Developing Children
Authors:   Department of Psychiatry, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Addiction Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran., Farnia Samaneh , Alaghband Rad Javad ,   Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Shahrivar Zahra ,   Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objective: This study compared children's eating behaviors, body mass index, and parents' feeding practices between typically developing (TD) children and children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Materials & Methods: In this descriptive study, 95 children with ADHD and 95 TD children aged 6 to 11 years were studied. The Conner's parents rating scale, the comprehensive feeding practice questionnaire, and the child eating behavior questionnaire were completed for both groups. In addition, both groups' weight and body mass index were measured and calculated. Clinical interviews and the Kiddie Schedule were held for both groups. The obtained data were analyzed by the independent t test and the Chi-square test in SPSS software, version 19.0, at a significance level of less than 0.05. Results: The two groups showed no significant differences in demographic characteristics and feeding practices. The parents in the two groups were similar in all study variables except for emotional control and monitoring over feeding practice. The correlation between body mass index and child eating behavior scores showed significant relationships with food disorder (r=-0.281, P=0.006), enjoyment of food (r=0.295, P=0.004), and food responsiveness/emotional binge (r=0.288, P=0.005).According to the stepwise regression, the predictors of body mass index were weight restraints and food disorder in the ADHD group and health restraints in the control group. Conclusion: This study found no significant differences between TD children and ADHD children regarding weight, body mass index, eating behavior, or parental feeding practice. Further research is needed to evaluate related variables, such as physical activity and birth weight.
Investigating the Role of Illness Perception as a Mediator Between Personality Variables and Quality of Life (QoL) in Patients With Heart Attack, A Cross-sectional Study
Authors:   Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran., Kheirabadi Gholamreza , Bagherian Sararoudi Reza ,   Department of Health Psychology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,   Behavioral Sciences Research Center, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran., Talebi Sodeh ,   Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran., Khodadadi Farinaz ,   Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,   Behavioral Sciences Research Center, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objective: The perception of illness can affect a person’s mental health and ability to cope with illnesses. Meanwhile, personality traits can affect an individual’s lifestyle and quality of life (QoL). This study aims to investigate the role of illness perception as a mediator between personality variables and QoL in patients with a heart attack. Materials & Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 193 patients with a heart attack at least 6 to 12 months before the study. The patients were selected via the available sampling method from the cardiovascular clinics of Shahid Chamran, Al-Zahra, and Khurshid hospitals in Isfahan City, Iran. The participants were evaluated using the scale of disease perception, the QoL questionnaire, and the 5-factor personality questionnaire. The data were analyzed by the path analysis method. Results: In this study, 128(66.32%) participants were male and 66(33.68%) were female, with an mean age of 61.4±10.7 years. In the personality dimensions, a significant relationship was observed between neuroticism and disease perception (RW=0.561, P=0.002); however, other personality dimensions had no significant relationship with disease perception. Disease perception had a significant and negative relationship with the quality of life (RW=-0.219, P=0.010). Two dimensions of extraversion (RW=0.755, P=0.000) and agreement (RW=-0.516, P=0.015) had a significant relationship with QoL. Conclusion: The results showed that personality variables independently affect the QoL, and only the features of anger, hostility, and worry in the form of neurotic dimensions have a negative effect on the QoL with a strong effect on the perception of the disease.
Investigating the Dignity of Patients Under Palliative Care and Affecting Factors on Patients: A Narrative Review
Authors:   Department of Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Nasibeh Sari, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran., Alizadeh Zahra , Araghian Fereshteh ,   Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Addiction Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran., Jafari Hedayat ,   Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Center, Addiction Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objective: Palliative care has been introduced as a strategy to improve the quality of life (QoL) of patients with incurable diseases and their families. One of the crucial points in palliative care is respect for human dignity. Therefore, this study aims to review the dignity of patients under palliative care along with its impact on patients. Materials & Methods: In the current narrative review, Persian studies were searched in Persian language databases, such as SID and Magiran, with the keywords, patient dignity, and palliative care from April 2012 to May 2022. To search for studies in English, the keywords of patient dignity and palliative care were used in PubMed and Cochrane databases from June 2010 to May 2022. Meanwhile, the search was conducted in the Google Scholar database in Persian and English along with a manual search in Google. After searching the databases, 106 articles were selected and by applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria and removing duplicates, 8 articles were examined. Results: The results of the study showed that out of 8 articles, 1 article was in Iran and 5 articles were qualitative studies. Individual, care, and communication factors are effective in maintaining patients’ dignity. Conclusion: Maintaining human dignity is one of the critical needs of a person under palliative care. Hence, the healthcare staff should consider treatments based on human dignity and perform their professional tasks deservedly according to the factors affecting the creation of dignity.
Effect of Sport Shoe Weight on Gait Kinetics in Athletes With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction During Walking
Authors:   Department of Sports Management and Biomechanics, Faculty of Education Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran., Jafarnezhadgero AmirAli , Piran Hamlabadi Milad ,   Department of Sports Management and Biomechanics, Faculty of Education Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran., Naderpour Masomeh ,   Department of Sports Management and Biomechanics, Faculty of Education Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran., Khodabakhsh Dizaj Majid ,   Department of Sports Management and Biomechanics, Faculty of Education Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims Different shoe weights affect the gait mechanics. Some dynamic changes or adjustments induced by anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction can be assessed through the analysis of the ground reaction forces (GRFs). This study aims to determine the effect of sports shoe weight on gait kinetics in athletes with ACL reconstruction. Methods Twenty healthy men and 20 athletes with ACL reconstruction volunteered to participate in this study. Each participant performed three walking trials with shoes having light (weight: 150±18 g), moderate (300±18 g), and heavy (450±18 g) weights in a randomized order. The GRFs were analyzed during shod walking. Results The GRF component at vertical direction during the heel contact phase changed significantly during the use of shoes with different weights (P=0.001). In addition, the GRF at vertical direction during the push-off phase and GRF at mediolateral direction during the push-off phase increased significantly (P=0.023 and 0.014, respectively). Conclusion The biomechanics of lower limbs and the GRFs are significantly different when using light and heavy shoes during the heal contact and push-off phases of walking.
The Effect of a Fall Proof Training on Balance and Fear of Falling in Older Women
Authors:   Department of Exercise Physiology and Corrective Exercises, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran., Nasab Firouzjah Ebrahim Mohammad Ali , Farnian Leila ,   Department of Sport injury and Corrective Exercises, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims Balance deficiency is one of the risk factors for falls, injury or even death of the elderly. This study aimed to investigate The Effect of a Fall Proof training on balance and fear of falling in older women was conducted. Methods This study was a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design. Thirty elderly women aged 60-70 years were selected as available for the sample. Subjects were randomly divided into control (n=15) and experimental (n=15) groups. To assess static and dynamic balance, Sharpend Romberg test and time up and go test and to assess fear of falling the fear of falling questionnaire were used. Exercises were performed for 8 weeks, three sessions per week and each session for 60 minutes by experimental group, while the control group did not do any exercise. Analysis of covariance and paired t-test were used to analyze the data Results The results of this study showed that a period of Fall Prof Training significantly increased static (P=0.01) and dynamic balance (P=0.01) and a significant decrease in fear of falling (P=0.01) In the experimental group compared to the control group. Conclusion Due to the weak balance and high fear of falling in the elderly, based on the findings of this study, we can use fall proof exercises in elderly rehabilitation and exercise.
Effect of Offloading Plantar Pressure on Peak Pressure in Ten Plantar Regions and Gait Speed in Men With Diabetes and Active Diabetic Foot Ulcers, and Healthy Men
Authors:   Department of Medical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran., Jafarzadeh Mohsen , Tavakoli Golpayegani Ali ,   Department of Biomedical Engineering, Research Center of Technology and Engineering, Standard Research Institute, Karaj, Iran,   Graduate School of Health, University of Technology of Sydney, Sydney, Australia., Tabatabai Ghomsheh Farhad ,   Pediatric Neurorehabilitation Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims Diabetes is associated with dysfunction and damage in various organs due to abnormal pressure on ten plantar regions. This study aims to compare the effect of offloading plantar pressure on peak pressure of ten plantar regions and gait speed in men with diabetes and active diabetic foot ulcers, and healthy men. Methods This is a causal-comparative study. Participants were 30 healthy men, 30 diabetic men and 30 men with active diabetic foot ulcers who needed no leg amputation according to their physicians. Sampling was done using random and convenience methods. Diabetic foot ulcers were classified based on the Meggitt-Wagner classification criteria, according to which grade 1 indicates grade 1 indicates a superficial ulcer and was used as a criterion for selecting people with diabetic foot ulcers. Plantar pressure variables were recorded using RSscan software (RSscan International, Belgium; 0.5×0.5×0.02 m, 4363 sensors) at a sampling frequency of 300 Hz and the gait speed was measured using a digital stopwatch. Correct walking considered as the full impact of the foot on the middle of the foot scan machine. Data were analyzed using independent t-test in SPSS software, version 24. Results The peak pressure in the metatarsal 3 (P<0.001), metatarsal 4 (P= 0.020), medial heel (P= 0.004) and lateral heel (P= 0.007) in the diabetic foot ulcer group significantly increased compared to the diabetic group. In addition, the peak pressure in the medial heel (P= 0.013) and lateral heel (P= 0.019) in the diabetic group significantly decreased compared to the healthy group. Conclusion Men with diabetic foot ulcers are more exposed to abnormal peak pressures in different plantar regions, which can cause irreversible clinical injuries. Diabetic men have a lower gait speed than healthy men which can be important in their rehabilitation.
Effect of Pilates Exercises on Stable and Unstable Surfaces on the Functional Balance and Core Stability of Older Women
Authors:   Department of corrective exercises and sport injuries, university of Guilan, Rasht, Iran, Jamalzad Fallah Azita , Shamsi Majelan Ali ,   Department of Corrective Exercises and Sport Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran., Sedaghati Parisa ,   Department of Corrective Exercises and Sport Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims Balance disorders and frequent falling are the important problems in the elderly, which is directly related to changes in their body structure and function. Many studies have been conducted to find new and safe ways to improve the balance of the elderly. This study aims to compare the effects of Pilates exercises on stable and unstable surfaces on the functional balance and core stability of older women. Methods In this quasi-experimental study, the study population includes all older women living in private nursing homes, in Rasht, Iran. Of these, 36 women aged 60-75 years were selected by a convenience sampling method and randomly assigned to three groups of control, Pilates on stable surface, and Pilates on unstable surface. The variables were assessed using the Fullerton advanced balance test, timed up & go test, and the McGill core endurance test. Experimental groups performed Pilates exercises for 8 weeks, while the control group performed their routine daily activities. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance, t-test and Bonferroni’s post hoc test. The significance level was set at 0.05. Results There was a significant difference between the experimental and control groups; however, there was no significant difference between the experimental groups performed exercises on stable and unstable levels (P>0.05) Conclusion It is recommended to use Pilates exercises on stable or unstable surfaces for older women, especially residents of nursing homes with low mobility, to achieve their personal autonomy.
Effects of Six Weeks of Modified and Standard Nordic Hamstring Exercises on Electromyography of Hamstring, Hip And Trunk Muscles and Sprint Performance in Young Male Football Players
Authors:   Department of sport injuries and corrective exercises , Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Science, Shahid Bahonar University, Kerman, Iran, Farahbakhsh Milad , Daneshjoo Abdolhamid ,   Department of Sports Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Shahid Bahonar University, Kerman, Iran, Sahebozamani Mansour ,   Department of Sports Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Shahid Bahonar University, Kerman, Iran, Nikooie Rohollah ,   Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Shahid Bahonar University, Kerman, Iran
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims hamstring injury is the most common injury in football. Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) is one of the best hamstring injury prevention strategies. This study was aims to compare the effect of six weeks of standard NHE and modified NHE on electromyography of hamstring, hip and trunk muscles and sprint performance in young male football players Methods In this study, participants were 26 male football players in Kerman, Iran who were selected using purposeful and convenience sampling methods and randomly divided into two groups of NHE (Age: 16.31±0.51 years, Height: 173.08±5.15 cm, weight: 59.85±5.71 kg) and modified NHE (Age: 16.41±0.54 years, Height: 173±6.84 cm, weigh: 64.20±8.76 kg). Sprint performance was measured by the 20-meter sprint test, and muscles activity was measured by electromyography. Repeated-measure analysis of variance was used for data analysis. Results In the modified NHE group, there was a significant difference between the pretest and posttest phases in the electrical activity of biceps femoris (P=0.001), semitendinosus (P=0.001), gluteus maximus (P=0.016) and erector spinae muscles (P=0.001). In the NHE group, although the activity of muscles increased by 13% in the biceps femoris, 11% in the Semitendinosus, 9% in the gluteus maximus and 4% in erector spinae muscles, the difference was significant only in the biceps femoris (P=0.001) and Semitendinosus (P=0.024). The results also showed a significant difference between the two groups in electrical activity of biceps femoris (P=0.021), semitendinosus (P=0.046) and erector spinae muscles (P=0.039). Conclusion Both standard and modified NHE are effective in preventing hamstring injury by increasing the electrical activity of the Biceps femoris and Semitendinosus, but the modified NHE is more effective in prevention of injury by changing the parameters of NHE and increasing the training load.
Comparing the Timing of Electromyographic Activity of Selected Lumbar-Pelvic Muscles During a Cross-cutting Maneuver in Football Players With Athletic Groin Pain and Healthy Peers
Authors:   Department of Biomechanics and Sports Technology, Sport Science Research Institute, Tehran, Iran., Shirzad Araghi Elham ,   Department of Corrective Exercise and Sport Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran., Naserpour Hamidreza ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sports Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran., Khaleghi Tazji Mehdi ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sports Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran., Letafatkar Amir ,   Department of Biomechanics and Sports Injuries, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Science, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims Athletic groin pain (AGP) is one of the most common injuries among athletes. It causes the use of compensatory mechanisms to adjust pain and affects lumbar-pelvic and hip movements, which leads to prolonging the pain healing process. This study aims to compare the timing of electromyographic activity in selected lumbar-pelvic muscles during a cross-cutting maneuver in football players with AGP and healthy peers. Methods In this quasi-experimental study, 28 football players in the second division league of Iran participated in two groups of control (n=14) and AGP (n=14). The timing of electromyography activity in the gluteus medius, adductor longus, rectus abdominis, multifidus, and transverse abdominis/internal oblique during a cross-cutting maneuver was recorded bilaterally with a one-minute interval since the time of foot-ground contact in two groups. Results The time for the onset of activity in the gluteus medius muscle in the dominant foot (P=0.033) and in the multifidus muscle in the opposite foot (P= 0.023) for the AGP group was significantly delayed in compared to the control group; however, the rectus abdominis muscle in the dominant foot was activated significantly earlier and before the heel contact with the ground (P=0.001). Conclusion It seems that AGP changes the timing of electromyographic muscle activity in football players. These changes and compensatory mechanisms may put the athletes at the potential risk of lower limb injuries. It is recommended to find solutions to reduce the effects of AGP and the resulting changes.