bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insight into the tectonostratigraphy of the historic Kefalonia island (Greece): a reflection seismic survey
Authors: Zappalá Samuel , Malehmir Alireza , Kranis Haralambos , Apostolopoulos George , Papadopoulou Myrto
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Kefalonia island, in front of the Greek west coast, is placed in a peculiar tectonic setting characterized by a transition from an oceanic subduction contact to a continental collision. This tectonic setting results in strong tectonic activities and seismicity in the area making the island a testbed for geological, geophysical, and archeological studies. To improve the subsurface knowledge and shed light in the top 100s of meters, we acquired three seismic profiles in the isthmus connecting the main part of the island to the Paliki peninsula, in the Thinia valley, where the presence of a possible channel has been disputed to make Paliki the Homer’s Ithaca (home of Odysseus). A total of approximately 3.5 km of seismic data was acquired using 5 m receiver and shot spacing and a 25 kg accelerated weight-drop as the main source. The sharp topographic changes and morphological features of the valley made the survey challenging, limiting the spread, precluding uniform shot points, and resulting in strongly crooked profiles. The acquired data, however, show visible reflections with variable quality down to 0.5 s and occasionally to 1 s. First-break traveltime tomography and 3D reflection traveltime modelling were performed to complement the seismic reflection processing work together with lithological columns from three boreholes present along the profiles. Results show a low-velocity zone with no reflectivity from the surface to approximately 100 m depth probably related to the presence of loose material, under which two main east-dipping reflections are imaged. With the help of surface geology and tectonic history of the valley, we interpret these features as the same lithological boundary displaced by three highly east-dipping thrust/reverse faults probably part of the Hellenide thrusts. These findings further constrain the local recent tectonic history and thus, the long-debated presence of an historic water channel in the valley.
Regional scale shear wave velocity profiles for ground response analyses uncertainties evaluations – the Piedmont Region (NW Italy) Database
Authors: Comina Cesare , Adinolfi Guido Maria , Bertok Carlo , Bertea Andrea , Giraud Vittorio , Pieruccini Pierluigi
Published: December 2024

Abstract. The prediction of earthquake ground motions, and consequent seismic hazard of a specific area of study, is usually based on ground response evaluations of a statistical representative sample of possible soil and rock profiles. With this aim shear wave velocity (Vs) properties of the profiles are of paramount importance, given that uncertainty in this parameter play a major role in ground motion prediction and in its variability. Usually, stochastic procedures are adopted to model this uncertainty, and several stochastic approaches have been developed. These approaches should be however calibrated on detailed geological-geomorphological information and specific Vs profiles databases. Within this context the present paper is aimed to provide a new extensive database of Vs profiles over the Piedmont Region (NW Italy). These data are obtained through a specific workflow developed for their evaluation at the regional scale merging the information of specific geological-geomorphological modelling and devoted geophysical data collection. The obtained database (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13685087) could be used as the basis of Vs randomization approaches also in different geological contexts and results from the specific data analyses performed could be adopted as reference for similar materials in analogous geological contexts.
The Paleochrono-1.1 probabilistic model to derive a common age model for several paleoclimatic sites using absolute and relative dating constraints
Authors: Parrenin Frédéric , Bouchet Marie , Buizert Christo , Capron Emilie , Corrick Ellen , Drysdale Russell , Kawamura Kenji , Landais Amaëlle , Mulvaney Robert , Oyabu Ikumi , Rasmussen Sune Olander
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Past climate and environmental changes can be reconstructed using paleoclimate archives such as ice cores, lake and marine sediment cores, speleothems, tree rings, and corals. The dating of these natural archives is crucial for deciphering the temporal sequence of events and rates of change during past climate changes. It is also essential to provide quantified estimates of the absolute and relative errors associated with the inferred chronologies. However, this task is complex since it involves combining different dating approaches at different paleoclimatic sites and often on different types of archives. Here we present Paleochrono-1.1, a new probabilistic model to derive a common and optimized chronology for several paleoclimatic sites with potentially different types of archives. Paleochrono-1.1 is based on the inversion of an archiving model: a varying deposition rate (also named growth rate, sedimentation rate or accumulation rate) and also (for ice cores) a lock-in depth of air (since, in the absence of significant surface melt, the air is trapped in the ice at about 50–120 m below the surface) and a thinning function (since glacier ice undergoes flow). Paleochrono-1.1 integrates several types of chronological information: prior knowledge of the archiving process, independently dated horizons, depth intervals of known duration, undated stratigraphic links between records, and (for ice cores) Δdepth observations (depth differences between events recorded synchronously in the gas and solid phases of a certain core). The optimization is formulated as a least-squares problem, assuming that all probability densities are near-Gaussian and that the model is nearly linear in the vicinity of the best solution. Paleochrono-1.1 is the successor of IceChrono, which produces common and optimized chronologies for ice cores. Paleochrono-1.1 outperforms IceChrono in terms of computational efficiency, ease of use and accuracy. We demonstrate the ability of Paleochrono-1.1 in an experiment involving only the MSL speleothem in Hulu Cave (China), and we compare the resulting age model with the Speleothem Isotope Synthesis and Analysis version 2 (SISALv2) age models. We then demonstrate the multi-archive capabilities of Paleochrono in a new ice-core–speleothem dating experiment, which combines the Antarctic Ice Core Chronology 2023 dating experiment, based on records from five polar ice cores, with data from two speleothems from Hulu Cave, dated using uranium / thorium radiometric techniques. We analyze the performance of Paleochrono-1.1 in terms of computing time and memory usage in various dating experiments. Paleochrono-1.1 is freely available under the open-source MIT License.
Return period of high-dimensional compound events. Part I: Conceptual framework
Authors: del Jesus Manuel , Urrea Méndez Diego , Gomez Rave Dina Vanessa
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Natural hazards like floods and droughts result from the complex interplay of multiple physical processes across various spatial and temporal scales. Traditional univariate analyses fall short in capturing the devastating impacts of compound events—where multiple drivers interact, often leading to more severe outcomes. This study expands on existing methodologies to quantify compound events by introducing a robust framework that integrates hydrological, statistical, and machine learning techniques. We propose a novel approach for defining the critical layer associated with multivariate return periods in higher-dimensional spaces, addressing the challenges in modeling interactions beyond two or three variables. This research not only enhances the understanding of compound events but also provides practical tools for their analysis, offering significant implications for climate risk assessment and environmental management. A forthcoming second paper will demonstrate the practical application of this methodology, focusing on calculating the multivariate return period in five dimensions for rainfall dependencies across different locations.
Return period of high-dimensional compound events. Part II: Analysis of spatially-variable precipitation
Authors: Urrea Méndez Diego , del Jesus Manuel , Gomez Rave Dina Vanessa
Published: December 2024

Abstract. This study introduces a comprehensive framework for modeling compound precipitation events, with a focus on handling zero intermittency in rainfall data. By expanding the existing methodologies to a five-dimensional approach and applying the joint return period (JRP) concept using both Gaussian copulas and R-vines with Gaussian, extreme value, and t-Student copulas, we offer a more accurate understanding of these complex events. A key contribution of this study is the proposal of a model that calculates the multivariate return period in five dimensions, surpassing the commonly used bivariate approach, and considers the dependence of precipitation events across multiple sites, accounting for both lower and upper tail dependencies. The comparison of dependency structures in the generated samples shows that the R-vine structure with extreme value copulas in a multivariate mixed model is particularly effective at capturing the spatial dependence in the data. Our findings emphasize that an inappropriate choice of copulas can lead to either overestimation or underestimation of design events with defined return periods, with significant implications for risk management.
Multifractal analysis of wind turbine power and rainfall from an operational wind farm – Part 1: Wind turbine power and the associated biases
Authors: Jose Jerry , Gires Auguste , Roustan Yelva , Schnorenberger Ernani , Tchiguirinskaia Ioulia , Schertzer Daniel
Published: December 2024

Abstract. The inherent variability in atmospheric fields, which extends over a wide range of temporal and spatial scales, is also transferred to energy fields extracted from them. In the specific case of wind power generation, this can be seen in the theoretical power available for extraction and the empirical power produced by turbines. To model and analyse them, it is important to quantify their variability, intermittency, and correlations with other interacting fields across scales. To understand the uncertainties involved in power production, power outputs from four 2 MW turbines are analysed (from an operational wind farm at Pay d'Othe, 110 km south-east of Paris, France) using the scale-invariant framework of universal multifractals (UM). Their scaling properties were compared with power available at the same location from simultaneously measured wind velocity. While statistically analysing the turbine output, the rated power acts like an upper threshold that results in biased estimators. This is identified and quantified here using the theoretical framework of UM and validated using numerical simulations. Understanding the effect of instrumental thresholds in statistical analysis is important in retrieving actual fields and modelling them, more so in wind power production, where the uncertainties due to turbulence are already a leading challenge. This is expanded in Part 2, where the influence of rainfall on power production is studied across scales using UM and joint multifractals.
Dynamically downscaled seasonal ocean forecasts for North American east coast ecosystems
Authors: Ross Andrew C. , Stock Charles A. , Koul Vimal , Delworth Thomas L. , Lu Feiyu , Wittenberg Andrew , Alexander Michael A.
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Using a 1/12° regional model of the Northwest Atlantic Ocean (MOM6-NWA12), we downscale an ensemble of retrospective seasonal forecasts from a 1° global forecast model. To evaluate whether downscaling improved the forecast skill for surface temperature and salinity and bottom temperature, the global and downscaled forecasts are compared with each other and with a reference forecast of persistence using anomaly correlation. Both sets of forecasts are also evaluated on the basis of mean bias and ensemble spread. We find that downscaling significantly improved the forecast skill for monthly sea surface temperature anomalies in the Northeast US Large Marine Ecosystem, a region that global models have historically struggled to skillfully predict. The downscaled sea surface temperature (SST) predictions for this region were also more skillful than the persistence baseline across most initialization months and lead times. Although some of the SST prediction skill in this region stems from the recent rapid warming trend, prediction skill above persistence is generally maintained after removing the contribution of the trend, and patterns of skill suggestive of predictable processes are also preserved. While downscaling mainly improved the SST anomaly prediction skill in the Northeast US region, it improved bottom temperature and sea surface salinity anomaly skill across many of the marine ecosystems along the North American east coast. Although improvements in anomaly prediction via downscaling were ubiquitous, the effects of downscaling on prediction bias were mixed. Downscaling generally reduced the mean surface salinity biases found in the global model, particularly in regions with sharp salinity gradients (the Northern Gulf of Mexico and the Northeast US). In some cases, however, downscaling amplified the surface and bottom temperature biases found in the global predictions. We discuss several processes that are better resolved in the regional model and contribute to the improved skill, including the autumn reemergence of temperature anomalies and advection of water masses by coastal currents. Overall, the results show that a downscaled high-resolution model can produce improved seasonal forecast skill by representing fine-scale processes that drive predictability.
Assessing the impact of future altimeter constellations in the Met Office global ocean forecasting system
Authors: King Robert R. , Martin Matthew J. , Gaultier Lucile , Waters Jennifer , Ubelmann Clément , Donlon Craig
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Satellite altimeter measurements of sea surface height (SSH) are a crucial component of current operational ocean forecasting systems. The launch of the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) wide-swath altimeter (WiSA) mission is bringing a step change in our observing capacity with 2D mesoscale structures now able to be observed over the global ocean. Proposals are now being considered for the make-up of the future altimeter constellation. In this study we use Observing System Simulation Experiments (OSSEs) to compare the impact of additional altimeter observations from two proposed future satellite constellations. We focus on the expected impact on the Met Office operational ocean analysis and forecasting system of assimilating an observation network including either 12 nadir altimeters or 2 wide-swath altimeters. Here we show that an altimeter constellation of 12 nadir altimeters produces greater reductions in the errors for SSH, surface currents, temperature, and salinity fields compared to a constellation of 2 wide-swath altimeters. The impact is greatest in the dynamic western boundary current (WBC) regions where the nadir altimeters can reduce the SSH RMS (root-mean-square) error by half, while the wide-swath altimeter only reduces this by one-quarter. A comparison of the spatial scales resolved in daily SSH fields also highlights the superiority of the nadir constellation in our forecasting system. We also highlight the detrimental impact spatially correlated errors could have on the immediate use of wide-swath altimeter observations. However, we still achieve promising impacts from the assimilation of wide-swath altimetry, and work is ongoing to develop improved methods to account for spatially correlated observation errors within our data assimilation scheme.
Partículas discursivas y subtitulación: una aproximación experimental con eyetracking
Authors: Nadal Sanchís Laura , Bove Antonella
Published: December 2024

Las partículas discursivas guían al lector en la deducción de inferencias. Como se ha demostrado experimentalmente estas unidades reducen la subdeterminación lingüística de los textos y limitan los costes de procesamiento. Sin embargo, en la traducción de subtítulos a menudo se tildan las partículas discursivas como elementos superficiales de los cuales es posible prescindir ante las constricciones espacio-temporales. Esta contribución presenta un estudio de caso con eyetracking que obliga a reconsiderar el papel de estas unidades procedimentales en la subtitulación de textos semiplanificados en español. El estudio presenta los datos de 20 hablantes nativos de italiano que visualizaron una entrevista en español subtitulada en esta misma lengua en dos versiones, con presencia de partículas discursivas y en ausencia de estas.
El viaje al mundo de los muertos en la Odisea de Javier Negrete: tradición clásica y contemporánea
Authors: Linares Sánchez Jorge Juan
Published: December 2024

En el presente artículo se estudia la reinterpretación del viaje al Hades en la Odisea (2019) de Javier Negrete. Se realiza un análisis literario de los personajes, lugares y motivos característicos del tema en la novela y se comparan con elementos similares en obras del mundo antiguo. Además del hipotexto principal, la Nékyia de Homero, y de la influyente catábasis en la Eneida de Virgilio, se tendrán en consideración otras manifestaciones del tema a lo largo de la historia de la literatura occidental, así como las restantes obras del autor y otras creaciones de la cultura contemporánea. La reelaboración de Javier Negrete otorga una nueva profundidad al episodio homérico al fusionar referentes de distintas épocas y géneros.
Enhanced Carbonization of Sawdust and Leather Waste for Fuel Use in Pyrolysis Pilot Furnace: A Taguchi Experimental Design Approach
Authors: Andriamanampisoa Tsiry Angelos , Andriamanampisoa Nivonirina Eva , Chaplin Harry , ANDRIANARISON Edouard
Published: December 2024

Pyrolysis furnaces are an efficient means of carbonizing biomass, yielding biochar, and facilitating organic waste recovery. This study aimed to refine the carbonization process of biomass waste by employing the Taguchi method to assess the influence of biomass type (sawdust and leather waste), furnace filling rate (33% and 100%), and fuel type (cardboard waste and plastic waste) on carbonization yields. Four trials were conducted, with each factor systematically varied, and the results were analyzed using an L4(2^3) design replicated thrice. The parameters evaluated included gross, net, and weighted mass yields; energy yield; technological yield; and the characteristics of the resultant coals. Taguchi analysis revealed that fuel type, notably cardboard waste, exhibited the most significant impact on all yields studied, followed by a filling rate of 100%, favoring most outcomes. In comparison, a 0.196 m3 pilot pyrolysis furnace carbonizing sawdust and leather waste demonstrated superior average mass yields of 47.8% and weighted mass yields of 44.4% compared with traditional charcoal pits, yielding 26% and 25.8%, respectively. Sawdust charcoal exhibited superior energy quality, boasting a higher percentage of fixed carbon and elevated Lower Calorific Value, with 85% of energy yield with a standard deviation of 3.5%, in contrast with 70.9% of energy yield and a higher standard deviation of 7.8% for leather waste. While the findings showcase promise, further exploration into alternative biomass types, comprehensive modeling of the entire process within the pyrolysis pilot furnace, and an assessment of large-scale profitability remain imperative.
The Effect of Shoulder Position on Hand Grip Strength among University Students
Authors: Bashir Babar , Ashfaq Arooj , Altaf Maryam
Published: December 2024

Hand grip-strength evaluation is an important variable for assessment of upper extremity deformities. Many studies have observed hand grip-strength in different positions and postures but no importance on further resulting positions that are being utilized in our clinical setups.
Facilities Available for Cerebral Palsy Children in Different Health Care Setups of Lahore
Authors: Hamid Muhammad Faizan , Afzal M. Waqar , Chughtai Arslan Saleem , Ahmed Khalil
Published: December 2024

Multiple medical conditions including childhood disability with sensory and cognitive impairment is known as Cerebral Palsy (CP). It is one of the major diseases among children.
Association of Low Back Pain with Piriformis Muscle Tightness in University Students
Authors: Mubashir Muhammad , Arif M. Asim , Chughtai Arslan Saleem , Noureen Ayesha
Published: December 2024

Pain in the Lower Back Region is a common concern, inuencing up to 90% of population eventually in their lifetime, up to 50% have more than one episode. This condition causes more disability worldwide than any other ailment. Piriformis Syndrome (PS) is the leading cause of Low Back Pain that results from tightness of piriformis muscle. Prolonged sitting position is the foremost cause of piriformis tightness in sedentary population that may eventually leads to PS and LBP.
Prevalence and Intensity of Neck Pain in Sewing Machine Operators
Authors: Hassan Raza Muhammad Kumail , Khalid Maham , Javed Muhammad Asbar
Published: December 2024

During the past decades musculoskeletal disorders have been progressively common throughout the world.
Frequency of Sacroiliac Joint Pain Among the Health Care Professionals
Authors: Ashfaq Anam , Ahmed Umair , Kausar Hafiza Nazia
Published: December 2024

Prolong standing is the cause that can affect the sacroiliac joint most. Lower back surgery, tr auma ti c hi s tory, r epe titive tr auma , degenerative changes and infiammation are the causes of sacroiliac joint pain (SJP).
Awareness of Physical Therapy Services among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Different Hospitals of Lahore
Authors: Chaudary Muhadsa , Batool Sana , Mustansar Alishba , Arif Saima
Published: December 2024

It is a common perception that Pakistani women do not have awareness about importance of Physical Therapy (PT) during pregnancy which may lead to serious feto-maternal consequiences.
Frequency of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Disorders among Architects of Lahore
Authors: Sadiq Muhammad Umar , Waqas Muhammad Sharif , Asim Hafiz Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Objective:To determine the frequency of common upperlimb musculoskeletal problems in architectures.
Methodology:The sample size was 138. A cross sectionalsurvey was conducted among architects ofLahore, convenient sampling technique wasused. Architects community in Lahore like NCAwere included. Study duration was 6 monthsafter the approval of synopsis was completed in 6months. Inclusion Criteria was architectsworking more than a year in the field. Bothgenders are equally inclusive. Age 24 plus.Exclusion Criteria was participants havingsystemic disorders. Having neurologicalconditions and recent trauma. A modifiedNordiac questionnaire and upper extremityfunctional index was used. Questionnaire wasdistributed among the population who wereselected according to the inclusion criteria. Aconsent form was  filled by the participant.
Results: The results shown that 65.9% respondents hadneck pain, 49.3% respondents had wrist andhand pain, 37.7% respondents had pain in theupper back and 27% respondents had pain inshoulder and 20.3% respondents had pain inelbow in the last 12 months .
Conclusion: In this cross sectional survey of 138 participant's
architects had found to have the neck (65.9%)and wrist/hand (49.3%) pain frequencies whichare affecting their functional efciencies. Theresults suggest more scope is to be cover in thefuture.
Prevalence and Intensity of Neck Pain in Sewing Machine operators
Authors: Hassan Raza Muhammad Kumail , Khalid Maham , Javed Muhammad Asbar , Naseer Rizmi
Published: December 2024

Abstract:During the past decades musculoskeletaldisorders have been progressively commonthroughout the world.
Objective: To determine the prevalence, and intensity ofneck pain in tailors.Methodology:Cross sectional descriptive study was conductedin Leather Coordinator Factory, Sahiwal andAhmad Kurta Collection, Lahore over a period of4 months. Only sewing machine operators agedbetween 20-60 years were included. ModifiedNordic Questionnaire was used to collect dataand chi-square test was used to nd associationbetween the variables of hypothesis.Results:Results revealed that among one hundred andninety one (191) participants that were recruitedfor neck pain, fifty six percent (56%) participantswere suffering from this ailment and forty fourpercent (44%) were not having pain in the neckregion due to sewing. Eighty four percent 84%participants were suffering from mild neck painand 16% participants were suffering frommoderate pain. Association was found betweenneck pain and gender of respondents (p-value=0.00).Conclusion: It was concluded that prevalence of neck painwas 56% in sewing machine operators. 84%participants were suffering from mild pain. There was association present between neck pain and gender of the participants.
Frequency of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Swimmers
Authors: Farooqi Azka , Ahmad Umair , Najeeb Mahwish , Perveen Ishrat
Published: December 2024

Swimming is a standout amongst the most wellknown games. Our country is encompassed by water and swimming is one of our awesome interests. Work related musculoskeletal disorders arise in many occupations; swimmers perform repetitive and challenging movements which make them susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders. They need to be evaluated for betterunderstanding their demands.Objective: To determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in young swimmers Methods: Among The Study Swimmers 2(2.4) were havingneck pain, 16(18.8%) were having right shoulder pain during last 12 months, 4(4.7%) were having left shoulder pain, 10(11.8%) were having one or both shoulder pain, 3(3.5%) were having right elbow pain, 1(1.2%) were having left elbow pain, 2(2.4%) were having left wrist/hand pain, 4(4.7%) were having right wrist/hand pain, 5(5.9%) were having one and both wrist/handpain, 22(25.9%) were having upper back pain, 2 6 ( 3 0 . 6 % ) w e r e h a v i n g l o w e r b a c k pain/discomfort, 17(20.0%) were having one or both hips/thighs pain, 16(18.8) were having one or both knees pain, 10(11.8%) were having one or both ankles/feetpain. Conclusions: This study concludes that swimmers are at mild to moderate risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders due to their nature of exercise. Among swimmers shoulder, wrist/hand, knee and back pain was associated with gender.
Frequency and Reoccurrence of Ankle Sprain in Young Male Athletes of University of Lahore
Authors: Nisa Zaib-un , Zaheer Anna , Jafri Munam Raza , Waqas Muhammad , Kaur Jaspreet , Naseer Rizmi
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, ankle sprain is a common injury among athlete which may cause disabilities, functional limitations and limited participation in sports related events. Objective: To find out the frequency and reoccurrence of ankle sprain among young male athletes of the University of Lahore Methods:  A cross sectional survey was conducted by using self-made questionnaire validated by pilot study to check the frequency and reoccurrence of ankle sprain in 80 young male athletes of University of Lahore. Collected data was statistically calculated by SPSS version 21.0. Results: The study showed that among 80 participants only 38 (47.5%) suffered ankle sprain and 42 (52.5%) never experienced ankle sprain. Among 38 athletes who had he injury, 20(52.6%) suffered injury in 2016.The one-time reoccurrence of ankle sprain among participants was 36.8%, twice reoccurrences was present among 36.8%, three times among 21.1%, four times among 2.6% and five times in 2.6% in population Conclusions: This study concluded that frequency of ankle sprain in athletes of university of Lahore wasmoderate and reoccurrence rate of ankle sprain was high among athletes.
Assessment of Physical Disability Using Barthel Index Scale Among Elderly of Rural Area
Authors: Fatima Aiza , Sharif Faiza , Hanif Kamran , Bhutto Mazhar Ali , Sultan Kashif Ali , Javaid Muhammad Iqbal
Published: December 2024

The fitness of the elderly will be a central inconvenience characterizing the fitness status of a populace. There is more noteworthy need to investigate their substantial/physical handicap perspective. The objective was to evaluate the personal satisfaction of physically handicapped human by methods for utilizing Barthel Index (BI). The Barthel Scale is an ordinal scale used to gauge in general execution in exercises of every/day by day exercises (ADL). Methods: In this cross sectional study data was collected from different hospitals and clinics of Lahore division. Barthel index scale questionnaire was used in this study and the data was then analyzed using SPSS 21. Results: One hundred and ninety two sample size of affected person had been selected in the study from specific hospitals and clinics to determine the assessment of physical/functional disability by using Barthel Index. As our study indicates the people of rural region are more bodily/physically disabled 68.2% with the mean age of 65.5 years.Conclusions: Physical Inability had influenced social support and it is major area of concern. More healthservices to be provided to elderly.
Association between Body Mass Index and Cardiorespiratory Fitness among Healthy Children of 8-14 Years of Age
Authors: Basit Tehreem , Asif Tooba , Noreen Ayesha
Published: December 2024

Background: Cardio-respiratory fitness is the total capacity of circulatory and respiratory systems to supply oxygen to the skeletal muscles during a physical activity and that can be bothered by increased or decreased weight due to effects of BMI.
Objective: To determine the effect of Body Mass Index on cardio respiratory fitness in children of 8nto 14 years in Lahore.
Methods: A total of 121 children aged 8 to 14 were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Participants were randomly chosen from Lahore's urban region. The 20-meter shuttle run test was used to determine cardio - respiratory fitness. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using the formula i.e., BMI = weight (kg)/height (m)2. Height and weight were measured using standard criteria. The participants were divided into four groups based on their BMI (underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese). The link between BMI and cardio-respiratory fitness has been discovered.
Results: Children who were underweight, overweight, or obese had decreased cardio respiratory fitness, hence BMI was found to be negatively correlated with cardio respiratory fitness. The statistically significant results were found with gender and BMI groups of underweight and normal while non-significant with overweight and obese.
Conclusion: Cardio respiratory function is associated with increased and decreased body mass. Interventions addressing these important effects of physical fitness in this particular population should be implemented.
Patient Satisfaction and Level of Functional Mobility after Physical Therapy Intervention of Chronic Neck Pain among Office Workers
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad , Khan Abdullah , Qasim Noreen , Ahmad Bushra
Published: December 2024

Background: Work related musculoskeletal disorders are quite common among office workers in which neck pain has been seen among many officials.
Objective: The study aimed to investigate chronic neck pain among office workers
Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted on office worker with chronic neck pain. Non probability Convenient Sampling was used. Data was collected from different workplaces from different hospitals regarding chronic neck issues will fulfill from NDI Questionnaire and Visual analogue scale use to check the pain after exercise.
Results: In this study total 104 participants took part in this survey the patient experienced improves in all measured outcomes, with a relief of neck pain and disability. Similarly, neck-related disability (NDI scores) decreased by 50% after the intervention. Clinically meaningful improvements in physical impairment measures also were observed.
Conclusions: This study found that majority of patients were satisfied with physiotherapy treatment and they reported no or less pain and also more functionally mobile after physical therapy intervention.
PREVALENCE OF SACROILIAC JOINT DYSFUNCTION AMONG FEMALES IN LAHORE: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Zahra Aiman , Arslan Asadullah , Ahmad Ashfaq , Muhammad Shaher Bano , Asghar Marya
Published: December 2024

Background: For the past many decades, the sacroiliac joint has become a topic of concern in the literature. The sacroiliac joint dysfunction is generally acknowledged as a primary cause of low back pain. It is more common among females. The load-bearing surfaces in the SI joint, effects of pregnancy, a sedentary lifestyle, or the prolong standing position in which the sacrum is more horizontal, are thought to be associated with a higher rate of sacroiliac joint dysfuntion in females.
Objectives: This study aimed to find out the prevalence of sacroiliac joint dysfuntion and risk factors among females in Lahore, Pakistan.
Methods: The study population included 167 females with low back pain from different hospitals in Lahore. The study design was descriptive cross-sectional. Five cluster tests were performed on the subjects for confirmation of SI joint dysfunction. To assess the level of pain in the patients affected with SI joint dysfuntion, Oswestry Low Back Pain and Disability questionnaire was used.
Results: Out of 167 females, 78 (46.71%) were experiencing sacroiliac pain. The dysfunction was more common in married young ladies (58.68%). The patients with compression test (61.68%) and thigh thrust test (50.30%), out of 5 cluster tests were positive.
Conclusion: It was concluded that the prevalence of sacroiliac joint dysfunction among females in Lahore is 46.71 % and it was significantly more common among married females
The patients with SIJ had a moderate level of pain.
FREQUENCY OF NECK AND BACK FUNCTIONAL DISABILITY AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS RELATED TO USAGE OF ELECTRONIC GADGETS DURING COVID-19 QUARANTINE
Authors: Arshad Sidra
Published: December 2024

Objective: To find out the frequency of neck and back functional disability among university students related to usage of electronic gadgets during COVID-19 quarantine.
Methodology: A cross sectional study was carried out on 187 Participants, completed within 3 months. Data was collected from university students of University of Lahore, University of Central Punjab, University of Management and Technology and University of South Asia. In collection of data one online self-structured questionnaire and two scales i-e. Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results: During COVID-19 quarantine 39.6% participants had low back disability and 82.9% had neck disability due to usage of electronic gadgets. The association between usage electronic gadgets with low back disability is not significant and the association between usage electronic gadgets with neck disability is significant.
Conclusion: Few numbers of participants were suffering from back disability and majority of the students had neck disability and causing functional limitations due to usage of electronic gadgets.
PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATION OF LOW BACK PAIN IN ADOLESCENTS DUE TO GAMING
Authors: Muzaffar Bilal , Khalid Rudaba , Qasim Noreen
Published: December 2024

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the risk of low back pain in adolescent gamers.
Methodology: It was a cross sectional observational study. Data were collected from adolescent professional mobile gamers. Study was completed within 6 months. Sample was collected by non-probability convenient sampling technique. Inclusion criteria was: ages between 14-19 years, both males and females, professional mobile gamers and duration > 8 hours. A Performa with validated questionnaire; Oswestry Low Back Pain scale was used
Results: Out of 100 participants mean age was 20 with S. D± 21.10914. 70 were males and 30 were females. 10 participants were those who had no pain, 26 with mild pain, 36 with moderate pain, 20 with fairly severe pain and 8 were with severe pain. 27 were those who were able to look self-normal, 30 were able to look self-normal but caused extra pain, 27 were painfully slow and careful. 11 needed some help but manage most of their personal care and 5 needed help every day in most aspects of self-care.
Conclusion: The outcomes showed a high predominance of musculoskeletal agony and a high measure of time spent utilizing electronic gadgets. There is an association between mobile games and oswestry low back pain questionnaire. (P-value .004)
RISK FACTORS OF NOCTURNAL LEG CRAMPS AMONG THE GENERAL POPULATION
Authors: Farid Muhammad Badar , Ahmad Bushra , -ul-ain Qurat
Published: December 2024

Background: Nocturnal leg muscle cramping is a repeated complaint from patients most commonly in the elderly age and all age groups heard by the doctors. Such as calf muscles i.e., soleus, gastrocnemius, or sole of the foot small intrinsic muscles.
Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the risk factors of nocturnal leg cramps among women and men.
Methods: It was a cross-sectional observational study in which 175 working males and females from general population of Lahore were gathered. Data were collected from participants between 20 to 65 years old through non-probability convenient technique. A Self-administered Questionnaire was used as study tool.
Results: The result exhibited that there is a positive direct correlation risk factors of nocturnal leg cramps in males and females. The statistically insignificant (p=0.082) effect of nocturnal leg cramps among women and men, means that there is an association between these variables.
Conclusion: The study shows a direct interactive association between risk factors of nocturnal leg cramps among women and men. Prolonged standing at work may be a more important risk factor for nocturnal leg cramps than biological differences among women and men.
PREVALENCE OF HEEL SPUR IN TEACHERS
Authors: Nawaz Allah , Khan Ushnah , Zaheer Anna , Shahzadi Arooj
Published: December 2024

Background: Calcaneal heel spur is a typical foot problem that impairs 15–20% of the community and can affect people of all ages. Heel spur cause pain during walking and prolong standing. Calcaneal spurs' pathogenesis is poorly known. Heel spurs are found in around half of all individuals with plantar fasciitis.
Objective: The objective of this study was to find out the prevalence of heel spurs in teachers.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in university teachers. The data were collected after the approval from ethical committee and the sample size was 141. The teachers who are teaching from minimum three years and have age between 25 to 35 years were included in this study. While the teachers with any foot trauma or history of recent fall, diabetes mellitus from 5 years, osteoporosis, or any musculoskeletal disorder involving lower extremity were excluded. Data were collected by self-administered questionnaire and radiographs. Descriptive analysis using SPSS version 26.0 to find results.
Results: Overall prevalence came out as 79 (56%) teachers indicate heel spurs and 62 (44%) indicate no heel spur. In sample of 141, 79 (56%) indicate heel spurs whereas 57 (40%) were 41-45 years age group,
Conclusions: The finding of this study showed that prolong standing can be the cause of foot pain and cause changes. Participants indicate foot pain due to heel spurs.
ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS ABOUT RESEARCH IN PHYSICAL THERAPY AMONG UNDERGRADUATES AND POSTGRADUATES OF LAHORE, PAKISTAN
Authors: Shazal Nayab , Zaheer Gulnaz , Nazir Shazal , Arshad Hafiz Sheraz
Published: December 2024

Background: In Pakistan, physiotherapy is among the neglected health professions mainly due to fewer resources and requiring much research. Research has gained much acceptance in physiotherapy, but as there is little data available, the attitudes, knowledge, and behaviour of physiotherapists towards research should be assessed.
Objective: To determine the attitude and perception of Physical Therapy Undergraduates and Post-graduates towards research and Evidence-Based Practice.
Materials and Methods: It was an observational cross-sectional study on 246 subjects. Inclusion criteria were undergraduate students between 18-30 years and postgraduate physiotherapy students with MS/MPHIL in any significant subject relevant to Physical Therapy with two years of experience.
Results: Out of 246 participants, 65 (26%) were males and 182 (74%) were females, The mean age of participants was 24.4±2.25. Both Undergraduates (56.5%) and post-graduates (43.5%) were included in the study. The results showed that out of 246 participants, 146 (59.3%) had necessary knowledge about research, 214 (87%) had a positive perception about research and 195 (79.2%) had a positive attitude towards research and intended to regularly participate in the research process.
Conclusion: This study concludes that most undergraduates and postgraduates of physical therapy have a positive attitude towards research, and about half have the necessary knowledge of evidence-based practice; undergraduates and postgraduates presented similar results. Most of them desired to participate in research in the future regularly.
FREQUENCY OF ANTERO POSTERIOR PELVIC TILT IN POSTPARTUM PATIENT OF CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN
Authors: Saif Hiba
Published: December 2024

Background: In postpartum patients with low back aches, postural changes have been visible to keep them away from pain. In case of continual low back ache, those modifications adaptively might also adjust muscles strength and body mechanics, which lead to adaptations in the role of pelvic anterior superior and posterior superior iliac spines. It may cause an exaggerated or decreased attitude of pelvic inclination. However, the frequency of this phenomenon is not acknowledged.
 Material and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data using the Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, and goniometer from a conveniently selected sample of 190 postpartum females with low back pain visiting Sir Gangaram Hospital, LGH, and Mayo Hospital in Lahore. After collection, data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 21.
Results: Mean age of participants was 31.29±5.4, with a mean BMI of 24.29±3.4. On average, the pain score was 3.98 ±3.1. About 41.1% had anterior pelvic tilt, 25.8% had posterior pelvic tilt, and 33.2% were neutral. The angle of inclination had a mean of 29.68 ±10.23 degrees.
Conclusion: Pelvic tilt was frequent (41.1%) in postpartum patients with chronic lower backache. There was a substantial correlation between pain and pelvic tilt for the postpartum low back pain patient.
FREQUENCY OF CALF AND HAMSTRING TIGHTNESS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH FUNCTIONAL DISABILITY IN PATIENTS WITH LUMBAR RADICULOPATHY
Authors: Shafiq Iqra , Khan Muhammad Abdullah
Published: December 2024

Background: Radicular pain is primarily due to the vertebra's impingement, inflammation, or nerve compression. It refers to a pathological process that involves the lumbar roots that cause symptoms of radicular pain in the lower extremity of the human body.
Objective: To determine the frequency of calf and hamstring tightness and its association with functional disability in patients with lumbar radiculopathy
Methodology: The study was conducted among 149 patients at the Mansoorah Hospital and Nawaz Sharif Social Security Hospital in Lahore on conveniently sampled patients. Inclusion criteria were an age limit of 20-50 years, both genders, patients with lumbar radiculopathy, and chronic low back pain. An active knee extension test was performed to check the hamstring muscle tightness, and a calf muscle tightness test was performed to evaluate the tightness of the calf muscle. 
Results: Mean age of the sample was 38.36±12.74 years. Out of the total, 44.3% of participants had hamstring muscle tightness, 38.9% had calf muscle tightness, and 36.91% had a functional disability. Hamstring tightness was not associated with the functional disability of patients (p=0.901), but calf muscle tightness had a significant association with the functional disability of patients(p=0.008). 
Conclusion: About 44.30% of patients with lumbar radiculopathy had hamstring tightness, and 38.9% had calf muscle tightness. Hamstring tightness is not associated with the functional disability of patients, but calf muscle tightness has a significant correlation.
EFFECTS OF SENSORIMOTOR RETRAINING IN ADDITION TO CONVENTIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY ON PAIN, INVOLUNTARY CONTRACTIONS AND CRAMPS IN FOCAL HAND DYSTONIA PATIENTS: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Abbas Asma , Sharif Zarqa
Published: December 2024

Retraining the brain to move more effectively is one approach to addressing movement dysfunction caused by task-specific focal hand dystonia.
Objective: to compare the effects of sensorimotor retraining with conventional physical therapy on pain, involuntary contractions and cramps in focal hand dystonia patients
Material and Methods: it was a randomized controlled trial conducted on 34 patients, equally divided into the sensorimotor retraining and the conventional groups. The study was completed in nine months after the approval of synopsis from ethical committee. The patients included were of both genders, aged 18 to 40 years, diagnosed with focal hand dystonia independently by two neurologists and handwriting score of four on the fahn-tolosa-marin tremor rating scale. The outcomes were assessed for pain, involuntary movements and cramps. The continuous variables were presented as mean and standard deviation. The categorical variables were presented as frequency and percentage.
Results: The results showed mean and standard deviation for pain at baseline, at weeks 6 and 12 found to be 6.06±0.75 3±0.79 and 1.12±1.11, while in the conventional group, 6.12±0.93, 4.53±1.07 and 2.82±1.24. For the dystonia scale at baseline, at weeks 6 and 12 found to be 6.06±0.75, 3±0.79 and 1.12±1.11 in the experimental group, while in another group, 63.47±1.81, 70.41±2.5 and 77.06±3. Fahn-Tolosa-Marin grades at baseline, at weeks 6 and 12 found to be 2.76±0.66, 1.71±0.59, 1.24±0.66 in the experimental group and 2.53±0.62, 2.06±0.24 and 1.71±0.47 in the conventional group, for visual analogue scale cramps at baseline, week 6 and 12 it found to be 70±5.66, 60.29±5.88 and 49.65±5.90 in the experimental group and 70.29±5.81, 63.35±5.96 and 55.24±6.12 in other groups respectively. There was a significant difference in all post-interventional assessments in favour of the experimental group (p-value<0.000) except for dystonia and visual analogue scale cramps at intermediate evaluation (p=.0701 and 0.142).
Conclusion: This study concluded that there was a significant improvement in pain and involuntary movements, while dystonia and cramping improved equally in both groups without a significant difference at week 6. However, there was a significant improvement in pain, dystonia, involuntary movement and cramping score at week 12.