bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hamstrings mechanical properties profiling in football players of different competitive levels and positions after a repeated sprint protocol
Authors: Pimenta Ricardo , Antunes Hugo , Bruno Paula , Veloso A. P. 
Published: January 2024

Purpose: This study compares the average speed, knee flexor peak torque and shear modulus of the hamstrings after a repeated sprint task, in football players of different competitive levels and playing positions.Methods: Fifty-four football field players without hamstring strain injury history participated, 15 being categorized as professional (2nd league) and 39 as semi-professional (17 in 3rd and 22 in 4th league). Muscle shear modulus was assessed using ultrasound-based shear wave elastography at rest and at 20% of maximal voluntary isometric effort before and immediately after the repeated sprint protocol.Results: No significant differences were seen in average sprint speed between competitive levels (p = 0.07; η2p = 0.28) and positions (p = 0.052; η2p = 0.29). Moreover, the sprint fatigue index showed no significant differences between competitive levels (p = 0.14; η2p = 0.08) and playing positions (p = 0.89; η2p = 0.05). No significant differences were observed in hamstring shear modulus changes between competitive levels (p = 0.94; η2p = 0.03) and positions (p = 0.92; η2p = 0.03). Peak torque changes also showed non-significant association with competitive levels (p = 0.46; η2p = 0.03) and positions (p = 0.60; η2p = 0.02).Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the average sprint speed performance parameter and mechanical parameters are not able to distinguish football players of different competitive levels and positions.
“Chamber #8” – a holistic approach of high-throughput non-destructive assessment of plant roots
Authors: Claussen Joelle , Wittenberg Thomas , Uhlmann Norman , Gerth Stefan 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionIn the past years, it has been observed that the breeding of plants has become more challenging, as the visible difference in phenotypic data is much smaller than decades ago. With the ongoing climate change, it is necessary to breed crops that can cope with shifting climatic conditions. To select good breeding candidates for the future, phenotypic experiments can be conducted under climate-controlled conditions. Above-ground traits can be assessed with different optical sensors, but for the root growth, access to non-destructively measured traits is much more challenging. Even though MRI or CT imaging techniques have been established in the past years, they rely on an adequate infrastructure for the automatic handling of the pots as well as the controlled climate.MethodsTo address both challenges simultaneously, the non-destructive imaging of plant roots combined with a highly automated and standardized mid-throughput approach, we developed a workflow and an integrated scanning facility to study root growth. Our “chamber #8” contains a climate chamber, a material flow control, an irrigation system, an X-ray system, a database for automatic data collection, and post-processing. The goals of this approach are to reduce the human interaction with the various components of the facility to a minimum on one hand, and to automate and standardize the complete process from plant care via measurements to root trait calculation on the other. The user receives standardized phenotypic traits and properties that were collected objectively.ResultsThe proposed holistic approach allows us to study root growth of plants in a field-like substrate non-destructively over a defined period and to calculate phenotypic traits of root architecture. For different crops, genotypic differences can be observed in response to climatic conditions which have already been applied to a wide variety of root structures, such as potatoes, cassava, or corn.DiscussionIt enables breeders and scientists non-destructive access to root traits. Additionally, due to the non-destructive nature of X-ray computed tomography, the analysis of time series for root growing experiments is possible and enables the observation of kinetic traits. Furthermore, using this automation scheme for simultaneously controlled plant breeding and non-destructive testing reduces the involvement of human resources.
Impact of physical activity on executive functions: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Zhao Guoguo , Sun Kaihong , Fu Jian , Li Zhe , Liu Dongbin , Tian Xin , Yang Jiehui , Zhang Qiushi 
Published: January 2024

ObjectiveTo provide both empirical support and a theoretical framework for systematically improving and optimizing the cognitive capabilities of college students through physical activity, while considering the mediating and regulating impacts of self-efficacy and negative emotion.MethodsThe study employed an overall random sampling method, examining 500 college students from five universities in Jiangsu Province using the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), Adult Executive Function Scale (ADEXI), Positive and Negative Emotion Scale (PANAS), and General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES).ResultsThe findings indicated that the average age of the participants was 18.41 ± 0.73 years, encompassing 215 male students (43%), and 185 female students (57%). Engagement in physical activity was significantly and positively correlated with executive function (β = 0.246, p &lt; 0.01), inversely associated with negative emotion (β = −0.137, p &lt; 0.01), and demonstrated a significant positive predictive impact on self-efficacy (β = 0.183, p &lt; 0.01). Self-efficacy was observed to partially mediate the relationship between executive function and physical activity. In addition, negative mood was identified as playing a partial mediating and modifying role in the relationship between executive function and physical activity.ConclusionIncreasing college students’ daily physical activity participation not only benefits their executive function, self-efficacy, and confidence levels but also exerts a limited positive impact on negative mood, with the potential to regulate the intensity of negative emotion.
The role of interpersonal coordination dynamics in alliance rupture and repair processes in psychotherapy—A systematic review
Authors: Høgenhaug S. S. , Kongerslev M. T. , Kjaersdam Telléus G. 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionThe purpose of this systematic review is to expand our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms of the alliance in psychotherapy. This is done by examining the association between alliance rupture and repair processes and interpersonal coordination dynamics.MethodA systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines was conducted, aimed at papers investigating the association between alliance rupture and repair episodes and different behavioral modalities (i.e., physiology, movement) in the psychotherapeutic interaction. Seventeen studies were included for full text-analysis.ResultsThe results indicate that rupture and repair episodes were associated with interpersonal coordination dynamics. Different modalities (movement, heart rate, and vocalization) were found to serve as markers for alliance rupture and repair events. Facial expressions, physiological arousal, vocalization, and behavior were found to play important roles in the therapeutic interaction in relation to mutual emotion regulation, empathic response, safety, trust, and meaning-making.DiscussionLimitations of this review are discussed, including the great methodological variation and selection bias observed in the reviewed studies. Recommendations for future research in this area are presented. Overall, interpersonal coordination dynamics was found to have the potential to help identify and manage alliance ruptures and foster repairs in the therapeutic interaction, which has high potential for future clinical work and training.
Values and physical activity among sports science students in France and China: a transcultural analysis
Authors: Liang Yan , Rascle Olivier , Hanel Paul H. P. , Yang Jian , Souchon Nicolas 
Published: January 2024

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between values and physical activity in France (a Western European individualistic country) and in China (an East Asian collectivist country).MethodSix hundred and twenty-seven sport science students in France (N = 308, Mage = 18.99, SD = 1.64) and China (N = 319, Mage = 20.44, SD = 1.09) completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire long version and the Portrait Values Questionnaire.ResultsIn both France and China, moderated regression analysis revealed that hedonism positively/negatively predicted physical activity, while security-societal, security-personal, and conformity-rules values negatively predicted physical activity. In contrast, stimulation and universalism-nature values positively predicted physical activity only in France. In China, benevolence and benevolence-care positively predicted physical activity, while power dominance negatively predicted physical activity. Additionally, we found evidence of measurement invariance of the value questionnaire.Discussion and conclusionOur findings add to the literature by showing that the value–behavior link is partly the same across countries and partly different. Further, our findings show that for certain populations, the previously established hierarchy of human values does not replicate.
Regional variation in NAFLD prevalence and risk factors among people living with HIV in Europe: a meta-analysis
Authors: Jin Dachuan , Jin Shunqin , Zhou Tao , Cui Zhongfeng , Guo Baoqiang , Li Guangming , Zhang Chunming 
Published: January 2024

Background and AimEurope faces an elevated risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among people living with HIV (PLWH), contributing to the region’s highest global burden of NAFLD. However, the prevalence of NAFLD across various European countries and regions remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with NAFLD among PLWH across European countries.MethodsA systematic search was conducted across four databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Data on the prevalence of NAFLD, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and fibrosis, as well as the associated risk factors, were collected among PLWH in Europe.ResultsThirty-six studies from 13 European nations were included. The prevalence of NAFLD, NASH, and fibrosis were 42% (95%CI 37–48), 35% (95%CI 21–50) and 13% (95%CI 10–15), respectively. Male gender, BMI, waist circumference, Diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, ALT, AST, and years on antiretroviral therapy (ART) were found to be risk factors for NAFLD. High BMI and triglycerides were associated with NASH. Patients with high BMI and triglycerides are at increased risk of significant liver fibrosis.ConclusionThe high prevalence of NAFLD, NASH, and fibrosis among PLWH in Europe highlights the need for early screening, intervention, and increased research focus on adolescents living with HIV. Furthermore, the significant variations observed between countries and regions underscore the influence of related risk factors.
Impact of floor covering on wheelchair rugby players: analysis of rolling performance
Authors: Vigié O. , Faupin A. , Ngo M-A. , Fauvet C. , Pradon D. 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionDespite the increased interest in indoor wheelchair sports in many countries, research on the effect of floor coverings on sports performance is limited. Currently, there are no specific guidelines for covering characteristics for wheelchair sports, whether for competitive or recreational purposes. This study aimed to determine the impact of floor coverings on the biomechanical parameters of manual wheelchair propulsion for wheelchair rugby practice.MethodsTen wheelchair rugby players performed 6 maximum-velocity sprints over 20 meters, with a 20-second recovery time between sprints, on 3 different coverings, using their personal sports wheelchairs. The coverings were: wood parquet, Gerflor TX System Endurance®, and a plastic synthetic covering (balatum). Performance and propulsion technique variables were collected using inertial measurement units (265 Hz, Kinvent, France). Additionally, rolling resistance quantification tests were conducted on each covering.ResultsRolling resistance was lowest on the wood parquet, with an average value of 3.98 ± 0.97 N. Best sprint performance was achieved on the wood parquet. The fatigue index on the parquet was significantly lower than on the balatum (p &lt; 0.05).DiscussionOur results highlight that floor surface influences both performance and propulsion technique variables. Therefore, we recommend performing wheelchair rugby training on wood parquet to optimize performance. It is also important to consider the impact of different coverings on sprint performance when organizing player rotations to maintain a high level of competition during tournaments.
Uroprotective and pain-relieving effect of dietary supplementation with micronized palmitoyl-glucosamine and hesperidin in a chronic model of cyclophosphamide-induced cystitis
Authors: Gugliandolo Enrico , Franco Gianluca Antonio , Marino Ylenia , Peritore Alessio Filippo , Impellizzeri Daniela , Cordaro Marika , Siracusa Rosalba , Fusco Roberta , D’Amico Ramona , Macrì Francesco , Di Paola Rosanna , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Crupi Rosalia 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionFeline idiopathic cystitis is a common, chronic-relapsing disorder of the lower urinary tract. In addition to environmental modification/enrichment, long-term and safe treatment targeting specific pathophysiological changes may be of help. In this context, effective dietary interventions hold clinical promise. Palmitoyl-glucosamine (PGA) and hesperidin (HSP) are safe and authorized feed ingredients for animal nutrition under European regulations.MethodsThe current study aimed to investigate whether a 3:1 mixture of micronized PGA and HSP could represent a novel mechanism-oriented approach to chronic cystitis management. A newly validated rat model of cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced chronic cystitis was used (40 mg/kg, three intraperitoneal injections every 3rd day). Animals were randomized to orally receive either vehicle or PGA-HSP at a low (72 + 24 mg/kg) or high (doubled) dose for 13 days, starting 3 days before the chronic CYP protocol, with mesna (2-mercaptoethane-sulfonate) being used as a reference drug.ResultsHigher PGA-HSP dose was effective at relieving chronic visceral pain, as measured by mechanical allodynia test (von Frey test). The severity of cystitis was also significantly improved, as shown by the reduced sonographic thickening of the bladder wall, as well as the decrease in edema, bleeding and bladder to body weight ratio compared to the vehicle treated group. A significant decrease of MPO activity, MDA level and fibrosis at Masson’s trichrome staining was also observed in animals administered PGA-HSP in comparison to vehicle treated ones. The CYP-induced increase in bladder mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was also significantly counteracted by the study mixture. Moreover, CYP-induced bladder mast cell accumulation and releasability were significantly decreased by PGA-HSP (even at the low dose), as determined by metachromatic staining, chymase and tryptase immunostaining as well as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for histamine and 5-hydoxytriptamine.DiscussionPGA-HSP is able to block CYP-induced decrease of tight junction proteins, claudin-1 and occludin, thus preserving the urothelial bladder function. Finally, neuroinflammatory changes were investigated, showing that dietary supplementation with PGA-HSP prevented the activation of neurons and non-neuronal cells (i.e., microglia, astrocytes and mast cells) at the spinal level, and counteracted CYP-induced increase of spinal mRNA encoding for pro-inflammatory cytokines. Altogether, the present findings confirm the uroprotective and pain-relieving effect of PGA-HSP and pave the way to potential and relevant clinical applications of the study supplement in feline idiopathic cystitis.
Supratentorial meningeal melanocytoma mimicking meningioma: case report and literature review
Authors: Ferreira de Araújo Mayle Gomes , Almondes Santana Lemos Luiz Euripedes , Negromonte Guerra Pedro Lucas , Marcia dos Santos Lima Didjurgeit Fernanda , Batista Cezar Auricelio , Faquini Igor Vilela , Cirne de Azevedo Filho Hildo Rocha 
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Primary melanocytic tumors originating from CNS melanocytes are rare, with a low incidence of 0.7 cases per 10 million annually. This study focuses on primary leptomeningeal melanocytomas, emphasizing their epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and diagnostic challenges. Despite their infrequency, these tumors warrant attention due to their unique features and potential for local recurrence.Case Report: A 32-year-old female presented with syncope and seizures, leading to the discovery of two left-sided supratentorial lesions initially misidentified as convexity meningiomas. Detailed imaging suggested meningioma-like features, but intraoperative findings revealed unexpected hyperpigmented lesions. Histopathological examination, supported by immunohistochemistry, confirmed primary leptomeningeal melanocytoma. The surgical approach and subsequent management are discussed.Discussion: The discussion emphasizes challenges in diagnosing primary leptomeningeal melanocytomas. Treatment debates, especially regarding adjuvant radiotherapy, are explored. Recurrence risks stress the importance of vigilant follow-up, advocating for complete surgical resection as the primary approach. The rarity of supratentorial cases adds complexity to diagnosis, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach. Insights from this case contribute to understanding and managing primary leptomeningeal melanocytomas, addressing challenges in differentiation from more common tumors and prompting ongoing research for refined diagnostics and optimized treatments.Conclusion: This study contributes insights into primary leptomeningeal melanocytomas, highlighting their rarity in supratentorial regions. The case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating clinical, radiological, and histopathological expertise for accurate diagnosis and tailored management. Ongoing research is crucial to refine treatment strategies, enhance prognostic precision, and improve outcomes for individuals with this uncommon CNS neoplasm.
Quorum Quenching Nanofibers for Anti-Biofouling Applications
Authors: Taiswa Amos , Andriolo Jessica M. , Hailer M. Katie , Skinner Jack L. 
Published: January 2024

Biofilms, complex microbial communities, adept at forming on diverse surfaces within environments, such as membrane technologies, ship hulls, medical devices, and clinical infections, pose persistent challenges. While various biofilm prevention methods, including antimicrobial coatings, physical barriers, and bacteriophage utilization, have been devised for engineered systems, their efficacy fluctuates based on application type and microbial species. Consequently, there remains a pressing need for the development of highly targeted and efficient biofilm control strategies tailored to specific applications remains a pressing need. In our investigation, we disrupt microbial cell-to-cell communication in Pseudomonas aeruginosa through the application of anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS) furanone C-30 molecules. The incorporation of these molecules onto electrospun surfaces yielded substantial reductions of 69% in petri dish assays and 58% on mixed cellulose ester (MCE) membranes in a dead-end nanofiltration system, showcasing the potent anti-biofouling impact. Notably, the functionalization of MCE surfaces with anti-QS molecules resulted in a remarkable 16.7% improvement in filtration output. These findings underscore the potential of this targeted approach to mitigate biofilm formation, offering a technical foundation for advancing tailored strategies in the ongoing pursuit of effective and application-specific biofilm control measures.
Building Strong International VET Networks
Authors: Puscus Karol , Romero-Otálora Carlos 
Published: January 2024

International Vocational Education and Training networks - VET - are essential platforms for global collaboration, addressing complex societal challenges and promoting sustainable development. This paper focuses on their role of the German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (referred to as AHKs in German, short for “Auslandshandelskammern”) within the Y-Mas project, which aims to tackle these challenges through education and training. Key to the effectiveness of international VET networks are diverse organizations and institutions working together towards shared goals. The Association of AHKs is a crucial player in this regard. Based in Germany, the AHKs bridge the gap between German companies and their foreign counterparts, promoting and supporting the establishment of VET networks. Their comprehensive services, including market research, trade promotion, and networking opportunities, facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange. This paper adopts a research methodology comprising a literature review on international VET networks and qualitative case studies involving four German organizations operating in Latin America. The findings highlight the important contributions of these networks in fostering cross-cultural dialogue, facilitating partnerships, and disseminating innovative practices. International VET networks are instrumental in promoting global cooperation and addressing diverse challenges in vocational education and training. By leveraging the expertise and resources of various stakeholders, these networks enhance the quality and relevance of vocational education, benefiting individuals, businesses, and societies.
Effect of Company Size and Profitability on Audit Delay
Authors: Bramasto Ari , Adrian Muhamad Iqbal , Hendaryan Dudi , Khadzartsenya Siti 
Published: January 2024

This study is a quantitative study, which aims to determine: 1) The magnitude of the influence of Company Size on Audit delay on Property and Real Estate sector companies in Indonesia, 2) The magnitude of the effect of Profitability on Audit delay on Property and Real Estate sector companies in Indonesia, and 3) The influence of Company Size and Profitability simultaneously affects audit delays on Property and Real Estate sector companies in Indonesia. The sampling technique used is non-probability sampling with the purposive sampling method, so that 19 companies were obtained for 5 years with a total of 95 analysis units. The tests carried out in this study include descriptive statistics, validity tests, reliability tests, classical assumption tests (normality tests, heteroskedasticity tests and, multicolonierity tests), multiple linear regression tests, correlation coefficient tests, determination coefficient tests, t tests, and f tests processed using the help of SPSS (Statistical Product and Service Solutions) software for Windows version 26. The results of this study show that 1) Company Size affects audit delays in property and real estate sector companies in Indonesia. 2) Profitability affects audit delays in property and real estate sector companies in Indonesia. 3) Company Size and Profitability simultaneously affect audit delays in property and real estate sector companies in Indonesia.