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Purpose: Heart failure is a global health concern and associated with poor health-related quality of life and increased mortality. There is a disproportionate burden on patients and health systems in low- and middle-income countries. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimates the health-related quality of life of people with heart failure in low- and middle-income countries. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies from January 2012 to November 2022 using the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus and JBI EBP database. Study screening, quality appraisal and data extraction were conducted using JBI methodology. A random-effects model was used to perform the meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. All statistical analyses were done in STATA version 17. Results: A total of 33 studies with 5612 participants were included in this review. The Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) and the Short-Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36) were the most used instruments across 19 and 8 studies, respectively. The pooled mean MLHFQ and SF-36 scores using the random-effects model were 46.08 (95% CI 35.06, 57.10) and 41.23 (95% CI 36.63, 45.83), respectively. In a subgroup analysis using both instruments, the highest health-related quality-of-life scores occurred in studies with inpatient participants. Conclusion: The overall health-related quality of life of people with heart failure in low- and middle-income countries is poor. Strategies should be strategically developed to improve the health-related quality of life of people with heart failure in these countries. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42022377781. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The torso muscles play important roles in longitudinal rotation between the upper and lower torso on land but demands on these muscles at different swimming speeds and their role in torso twist in front crawl remains unclear. We aimed to compare torso muscle activity at different front crawl speeds and to assess the relationships between torso muscle activity and torso twist. Three-dimensional kinematics and torso muscle EMG data were collected from 15 male swimmers during middle-distance and sprint front crawl. Internal oblique, external oblique, and rectus abdominis, but not erector spinae, activities were greater at sprint than middle-distance pace. Sprint swimmers are likely to benefit from focusing training on the abdominal muscles. Cross-correlation peak coefficients between muscle activity and torso twist occurred with 517–775 and 400–600 ms lag at middle-distance and sprint paces (respectively). These lags are beyond the torso muscle electromechanical delay (~220 ms) and are too long for these muscles to produce movement changes. Further, peak coefficients coincided with both positive and negative shifts, indicating that muscle activity did not always precede kinematic changes. The torso muscles are therefore likely to play a greater role in maintaining stability and controlling posture in front crawl than producing torso twist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart failure is a challenging public health problem associated with poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Data on the quality of life of people with heart failure are limited in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the HRQoL and its influencing factors in people with heart failure in Ethiopia. A hospital-based, cross-sectional study design was conducted in the cardiac outpatient clinics of two tertiary-level hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were collected from people with heart failure who met the inclusion criteria using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The HRQoL was measured using the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). A multiple linear regression model was fitted to identify factors that influenced HRQoL. All statistical analyses were conducted using STATA version 17 software. A total of 383 people with heart failure participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 55 years. The MLHFQ score was 48.03±19.73, and 54% of participants had poor HRQoL. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that age (β= 0.12, 95% CI 0.11, 0.28), diabetes mellitus comorbidity (β= 4.47, 95% CI 1.41, 7.54), social support score (β= − 1.48, 95% CI − 1.93, − 1.03), and depression score (β = 1.74, 95% CI 1.52, 1.96) were significant factors influencing overall HRQoL (p < 0.05). This study found that people in Ethiopia with heart failure had poor HRQoL, influenced by several factors. The findings can help health professionals identify appropriate interventions to improve the HRQoL of people with heart failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Heart failure is a growing public health concern around the world. People with heart failure have a high symptom burden, such as depression, which affects health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to estimate the pooled prevalence of depression and evaluate its association with HRQoL among people with heart failure in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology. Electronic databases such as MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus and JBI EBP were searched to identify relevant studies published from January 2012 to August 2022. The methodological quality of each article was assessed using relevant JBI critical appraisal instruments. A random-effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence of depression. Heterogeneity across the studies was investigated using Cochrane's Q test and I2 statistic. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines 2020 were followed for reporting the results. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA version 17 software. Results: After screening, a total of 21 eligible articles with 5074 participants with heart failure were included in this review. The pooled prevalence of depression among people with heart failure in LMICs was 51.5% (95% CI = 39.7, 63.3%, I2 = 99.00%). Subgroup analysis revealed, the highest prevalence in studies whose participants were in-patients, and from the Middle East and North Africa, and studies utilizing Becks Depression Inventory (BDI). Depression was positively associated with HRQoL. Conclusion: This review revealed that almost half of all people with heart failure in low- and middle-income countries have comorbid depression. People with heart failure and depressive symptoms had poor HRQoL. Therefore, early screening of depression is critical for improving HRQoL in this population. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42022361759. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: From retrospective research, it is believed that children who predominantly spend their time shod have poorer foot strength and performance than those who are predominantly barefoot. Children's foot motion has been shown to be adversely affected by standard school shoes; however, the long-term effect of moderate minimalist shoes on foot strength, muscle structure and balance in children is unknown.Research Question: Does wearing moderate minimalist shoes, compared to stiff shoes, benefit a child's foot strength, muscle structure and performance over time?Methods: Seventy healthy children (9-12 yr) were randomly assigned to wear standard (control), or minimalist shoes (experimental) at school, for nine months. Cross-sectional areas (CSA) of Abductor Hallucis (AH) and Flexor Digitorum Brevis (FDB) muscles, and toe flexor strength (TFS) of hallux and lesser toes separately, were primary outcome measures. Single leg balance (SLB), Y-balance test (YBT) and standing long jump (SLJ) were secondary outcome measures. Pre- and post-intervention measurements were analysed for between group differences with ANCOVA.Results: Minimalist shoes resulted in moderate but statistically non-significant increases in muscle CSA (AH η2p =.04, FDB η2p =.05) and TFS (hallux η2p =.05, lesser toes η2p =.04). Significant moderate to large improvements in YBT in the experimental group were found in the postero-medial (P = .04, η2p =.07) and postero-lateral (P = .01, η2p =.10) directions. YBT (anterior, postero-medial and postero-lateral) was correlated with hallux TFS (R =.29,.27 and.33 respectively), lesser toes TFS (R =.28,.35 and.38 respectively) and SLJ (R =.30,.39 and.57 respectively). CSA of FDB was correlated with SLJ (R =.34) and SLB (R =.42).Significance: Wearing moderate minimalist shoes long-term improves balance in children. TFS is correlated with better balance and SLJ. Moderate minimalist school shoes are recommended for children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross‐country eventing is one of the highest‐risk sporting activities for serious injury outcomes. This study investigated relationships between fall characteristics and high‐risk falls at jumps in cross‐country eventing. A video analysis protocol was systematically developed to analyze 87 video recordings of high‐risk rider falls; defined as when the rider's head impacted the ground and/or where there was potential horse impact with the rider. Falls were classified according to competition type, jump type, horse‐related, and rider‐related factors. At least one high‐risk fall characteristic was observed in 45 of 87 examined falls. Multivariable best subsets regression identified five independent variables explaining 38.4% of the variance in the number of high‐risk falls. Increased likelihood of high‐risk falls was associated with continuation of horse direction or speed upon rider ground impact, higher jump approach speed, changes in rider body posture upon landing, rider air jacket usage, and reduced rider fall time. The Eventing Fall Assessment Instrument (EFAI) video analysis protocol (attached as supplementary material) facilitated systematic examination of multiple characteristics associated with high‐risk falls and identified likely influential characteristics. Based on EFAI and subsequent data analyses, findings suggest optimized approach speed for correct striding and take‐off; jump design to enable run‐out; and rider training could help reduce the occurrence of high‐risk falls. Air jacket usage and their design characteristics warrant further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stronger toe flexor muscles improve performance outcomes in children, including balance, sprinting, jumping and side stepping. Toe flexor strength (TFS) is recommended as part of the clinical assessment of foot function in children. Fixed dynamometry, rather than handheld, is the gold standard of measurement; however, it can be prohibitively costly. No fixed dynamometer reliability studies on toe flexion have been conducted in children to date.Research Questions: Does the novel fixed hand-held dynamometer (HHD) protocol provide reliable intra-rater and test-retest measurements of toe flexor strength in children aged 10 to 12?Methods: Two trials were recorded from 14 healthy children (10-12 years), 7-14 days apart by the same rater. A Lafayette HHD (model 01163) measured peak force. The HHD was secured in a mobile custom mould below a step with a strap, which secured the foot of the participant. The receptor pads of the HHD were level with the upper surface of the step, maintaining neutral toe joints at rest. The participant was seated on an adjustable stool to ensure the hip, knee and ankle were each at 90° flexion, with the testing foot flat on the upper surface of the step. The averages of three maximal five second efforts were used for data analysis using a two-way mixed effects model with repeated measures ANOVA (intraclass correlation coefficient ICC 3,3). Standard error of measurement (SEM) was calculated to determine the absolute between trial variability.Results: The novel fixed HHD protocol provided excellent test-retest reliability with small measurement error for hallux (ICC 3,3 = 0.93, 95 % CI 0.78-0.98, SEM = 4.31 N) and lesser toe flexor strength testing (ICC 3,3 = 0.96, 95 % CI 0.87-0.99, SEM = 1.86 N).Significance: The fixed HHD protocol described in this study has excellent reliability for the test-retest evaluation of children's toe flexor strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry-land strength training is a common component of swimming programs; however, its efficacy is contentious. A common criticism of dry-land strength training for swimming is a lack of specificity. An understanding of movement patterns in swimming can enable dry-land strength training programs to be developed to elicit adaptations that transfer to improvements in swimming performance. This study aimed to quantify the range and velocity of hip roll, shoulder roll, and torso twist (produced by differences in the relative angle between shoulder roll and hip roll) in front crawl at different swimming speeds. Longitudinal torso kinematics was compared between sprint and 400-m pace front crawl using 3D kinematics of 13 elite Scottish front crawl specialists. The range (sprint: 78.1°; 400 m: 61.3°) and velocity of torso twist (sprint: 166.3°·s; 400 m: 96.9°·s) were greater at sprint than 400-m pace. These differences were attributed to reductions in hip roll (sprint: 36.8°; 400 m: 49.9°) without corresponding reductions in shoulder roll (sprint: 97.7°; 400 m: 101.6°) when subjects swam faster. Shoulder roll velocity (sprint: 190.9°·s; 400 m: 139.2°·s) and hip roll velocity (sprint: 75.5°·s; 400 m: 69.1°·s) were greater at sprint than 400-m pace due to a higher stroke frequency at sprint pace (sprint: 0.95 strokes·s; 400 m: 0.70 strokes·s). These findings imply that torques acting to rotate the upper torso and the lower torso are greater at sprint than 400-m pace. Dry-land strength training specificity can be improved by designing exercises that challenge the torso muscles to reproduce the torques required to generate the longitudinal kinematics in front crawl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The burden of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) on the Australian health system is growing. Efforts to reverse this trend have not been successful. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of a targeted asynchronous web based e‐learning module on general practice nurses' behavioural intentions in relation to opportunistic screening practices for people at risk of CKD. Design: Double blinded pre‐post interventional randomised control design. Methods: Participants were nurses working in general practice settings in Australia. Participants were randomised to a knowledge based active control or targeted behavioural based intervention which were delivered using asynchronous e‐learning modules. The intervention was designed to influence the behavioural constructs of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB): attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control (PBC). Results: Of the 420 participants, we analysed the primary and secondary outcomes for 212 (50.47%) who had complete follow up data. There were no significant differences (p 0.424, [d] 0.04) in behavioural intention between the intervention and control groups at follow‐up, when controlling for baseline values. However, regression models assessing the relationship between the change in the TPB constructs and behavioural intention at follow‐up for all participants, regardless of study arm, demonstrated a significant change in intention to initiate a kidney health check. Although these changes could not be attributed to the effect of the intervention. Attitude (r2 = 0.3525, p 0.0004) and PBC (r2 = 0.3510, p 0.0005) models accounted for approximately 35% of the explained variance in behavioural intentions and social norm (r2 = 0.3297, p 0.0171) accounted for approximately 33% of the variance. When all TPB constructs were included in the model, 37% of the variance in intention was explained. Conclusion: A targeted behavioural online intervention was no more effective than a knowledge based online program to improve primary health care nurses' intention to initiate a kidney health check in people at risk of chronic kidney disease. Relevance to clinical practice: Collaborative efforts are required by all staff working in general practice to develop models of care to improve screening practices for chronic kidney disease. Future research should focus on interventions that improve collaboration between health care professionals in the primary care setting and public health campaigns to increase awareness of risks of CKD and the importance of screening in the primary care setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Task-specific auditory training can improve sensorimotor processing times of the auditory reaction time (RT). The majority of competitive swimmers do not conduct habitual start training with the electronic horn used to commence a race. We examined the effect of four week dive training interventions on RT and block time (BT) of 10 male adolescent swimmers (age 14.0 ± 1.4 years): dive training with auditory components (speaker and electronic horn) (n = 5) and dive training without auditory components (n = 5). Auditory stimulus dive training significantly reduced swimming start RT, compared with dive training without auditory components (p < 0.01), with a group mean RT reduction of 13 ± 9 ms. Four of the five swimmers that received auditory stimulus training showed medium to large effect size reductions in RT (d = 0.74; 1.32; 1.40; 1.81). No significant changes to swimmers' BTs were evident in either dive training intervention. The adolescent swimmers' results were compared against six male elite swimmers (age 19.8 ± 1.0 years). The elite swimmers had significantly shorter BTs (p < 0.05) but no significant difference in RTs. Auditory stimulus dive training should be explored further as a mechanism for improving swimming start performance in elite swimmers who have pre-established optimal BTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

National and international guidelines recommend opportunistic screening for chronic kidney disease to allow for early detection and management. Despite these guidelines, screening for chronic kidney disease in general practice settings is often suboptimal. This paper reports the results of a study that evaluated: (a) the effect of an asynchronous web-based e-learning module on general practice nurses' knowledge about chronic kidney disease risk factors and screening practices; and (b) general practice nurses' perceived satisfaction with the e-learning module. Changes in chronic kidney disease knowledge were assessed using a pre-test and post-test evaluative design, and satisfaction scores were measured on completion of the module. Participants' baseline knowledge scores were poor, with mean pre-test scores of 3.77 (s.d. 1.66) out of 10. Post-test scores revealed a significant improvement (mean difference 1.81, (95% CI: 1.53 – 2.09), P < 0.01); however, overall final scores remained inadequate. Participants highly rated their satisfaction with the design of the module. Our results suggest that an asynchronous web-based e-learning module can improve general practice nurses' knowledge about chronic kidney disease risk factors and screening practice. Efforts are required to increase practice nurses' access to educational opportunities designed to improve knowledge in this area with the aim of increasing opportunistic screening for chronic kidney disease in the general practice setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives: This study aimed to identify and describe the experience of parents of children diagnosed with early onset scoliosis living in Australia. Background: Chronic childhood disease has a major impact on health‐related quality of life. Caring for a child with a chronic illness is well documented but the specific experiences of parents who care for children with early onset scoliosis, a rare but devastating illness, has not been explored. Numerous studies have described the interrelated psychological, financial, social, physical and logistical factors that impact the experience of the caregiver role with various diseases, but in the case of early onset scoliosis, limited studies have been conducted about the parental experience. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used. A snowball sampling technique assisted in the recruitment. Parents invited to the study included mothers, fathers and guardians. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed thematically. Data collection complied with the Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research guidelines. Findings: Twelve mothers of children with early onset scoliosis were interviewed, as only mothers consented to participate. Four major themes emerged: emotional rollercoaster ride, a lack of resources, money talks and pervasive burden. Factors that impacted on the participants’ ability to confront, manage and endure caring for a child with early onset scoliosis emerged from the data. Conclusion: The findings suggest there are multiple factors that influence the experience of mothers’ caring for a child with early onset scoliosis. The recognition and appropriate management of these factors by healthcare professionals have the potential to improve the quality of life of parents who care for a child with early onset scoliosis. Relevance to clinical practice: Healthcare professionals have first‐line contact with parents of children with early onset scoliosis and are well placed to provide parents with evidence‐based education and increased support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active drag force in swimming can be calculated from a function of five different variables: swim velocity, tow velocity, belt force, power output and exponent of velocity. The accuracy of the drag force value is dependent on the accuracy of each variable, and on the contribution of each variable to drag estimation. To calculate uncertainty in drag value, first the derivatives of the active drag equation with respect to each variable were obtained. Second, these were multiplied by the uncertainty of that variable. Twelve national age and open level swimmers were recruited to complete four free swimming and five active drag trials. The uncertainties for the free and the tow swim velocities, and for the belt force, contributed approximately 5–6% and 2–3% error, respectively, in calculation of drag. The result of the uncertainty of the velocity exponent (1.8–2.6) indicated a contribution of about 6% error in active drag. The contribution of unequal power output showed that if a power changed 7.5% between conditions, it would lead to about 30% error in calculated drag. Consequently, if a swimmer did not maintain constant power output between conditions, there would be substantial errors in the calculation of active drag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) may offer an ecologically valid, reliable, and practical method for biomechanical performance analysis. With such potential in mind, Part 1 of this study examined the accuracy of IMUs gyroscopes with an optical system (Cortex 3.3). A calibration formula standardised the IMUs angular velocity output with the optical system. The percentage differences between the two measures = 0.5% (p < 0.05), suggest IMU’s efficacy for application. In Part 2, the aim was to examine and understand how dive flight angular velocity time series plots change and increase according to dive degree of difficulty. With IMUs attached to three competitive divers performing forward somersault dives, dive flight kinematics were assessed. Biomechanically, a 4½ tuck somersault dive differed to lower degree of difficulty dives in terms of: (1) a rotational delay immediately after takeoff (to gain greater vertical translation); (2) increased total time of flight; (3) greater muscle effort to resist increased centrifugal forces produced by the increased angular velocity (1,090 °/s); and (4) greater eccentric control during deceleration allow a safe and vertical entry into the water. IMUs can be effectively utilised and integrated into contexts such as springboard diving for performance analysis and optimisation purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E-learning involves the transfer of skills and knowledge via technology so that learners can access meaningful and authentic educational materials. While learner engagement is important, in the context of healthcare education, pedagogy must not be sacrificed for edu-tainment style instructional design. Consequently, health professional educators need to be competent in the use of current web-based educational technologies so that learners are able to access relevant and engaging e-learning materials without restriction. The increasing popularity of asynchronous e-learning programs developed for use outside of formal education institutions has made this need more relevant. In these contexts, educators must balance design and functionality to deliver relevant, cost-effective, sustainable, and accessible programs that overcome scheduling and geographic barriers for learners. This paper presents 10 guiding design principles and their application in the development of an e-learning program for general practice nurses focused on behavior change. Consideration of these principles will assist educators to develop high quality, pedagogically sound, engaging, and interactive e-learning resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reliability of active drag values was examined using a method that compared free swim speed with measurements taken by towing swimmers slightly faster than their maximum swim speed, while allowing their intra-stroke speed fluctuations. Twelve national age and open level swimmers were tested on two alternate days (Day 1 and Day 2). All participants completed four maximum swim speed, three passive drag and five active drag trials on each of the days. The reliability was determined using within-participant intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) within each day and between the days. The ICCs for Day 1 and Day 2 were 0.82 and 0.85, respectively, while the comparison of the mean active drag values between days was 0.93. The data showed that the assisted towing method (ATM) with fluctuating speed was only moderately reliable within a single test. However, this method was more reliable when using the average value of active drag from both days (ICC = 0.93). This study identified that the ATM method with fluctuating speed had moderate reliability within-participant trials on values in a single day but high reliability for the average active drag values across different days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The contemporary health workforce has a professional responsibility to maintain competency in practice. However, some difficulties exist with access to ongoing professional development opportunities, particularly for staff in rural and remote areas and those not enrolled in a formal programme of study. E-learning is at the nexus of overcoming these challenges. The benefits of e-learning have been reported in terms of increased accessibility to education, improved self-efficacy, knowledge generation, cost effectiveness, learner flexibility and interactivity. What is less clear, is whether improved self-efficacy or knowledge gained through e-learning influences healthcare professional behaviour or skill development, whether these changes are sustained, and whether these changes improve patient outcomes. Objective To identify, appraise and synthesise the best available evidence for the effectiveness of e-learning programmes on health care professional behaviour and patient outcomes. Design A systematic review of randomised controlled trials was conducted to assess the effectiveness of e-learning programmes on clinician behaviour and patient outcomes. Electronic databases including CINAHL, Embase, ERIC, MEDLINE, Mosby's Index, Scopus and Cochrane – CENTRAL were searched in July 2014 and again in July 2015. Quality assessment and data extraction Studies were reviewed and data extracted by two independent reviewers using the Joanna Briggs Institute standardised critical appraisal and data extraction instruments. Data synthesis Seven trials met the inclusion criteria for the analysis. Due to substantial instructional design, subject matter, study population, and methodological variation between the identified studies, statistical pooling was not possible and a meta-analysis could not be performed. Consequently, the findings of this systematic review are presented as a narrative review. Results The results suggest that e-learning was at least as effective as traditional learning approaches, and superior to no instruction at all in improving health care professional behaviour. There was variation in behavioural outcomes depending on the skill being taught, and the learning approach utilised. No papers were identified that reported the effectiveness of an e-learning programme on patient outcomes. Conclusion This review found insufficient evidence regarding the effectiveness of e-learning on healthcare professional behaviour or patient outcomes, consequently further research in this area is warranted. Future randomised controlled trials should adhere to the CONSORT reporting guidelines in order to improve the quality of reporting, to allow evaluation of the effectiveness of e-learning programmes on healthcare professional behaviour and patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this paper is to generalise Alex Rennet's proof of the non-axiomatizability of the class of pseudo-o-minimal structures. Rennet showed that if is an expansion of the language of ordered fields and is the class of pseudo-o-minimal -structures (-structures elementarily equivalent to an ultraproduct of o-minimal structures) then is not computably axiomatizable. We give a general version of this theorem, and apply it to several classes of structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Although it could be perceived that there is extensive research on the impact attenuation characteristics of shoes, the approach and findings of researchers in this area are varied. This review aimed to clarify the effect of shoes on impact attenuation to the foot and lower leg and was limited to those studies that compared the shoe condition(s) with barefoot. A systematic search of the literature yielded 26 studies that investigated vertical ground reaction force, axial tibial acceleration, loading rate and local plantar pressures. Meta-analyses of the effect of shoes on each variable during walking and running were performed using the inverse variance technique. Variables were collected at their peak or at the impact transient, but when grouped together as previous comparisons have done, shoes reduced local plantar pressure and tibial acceleration, but did not affect vertical force or loading rate for walking. During running, shoes reduced tibial acceleration but did not affect loading rate or vertical force. Further meta-analyses were performed, isolating shoe type and when the measurements were collected. Athletic shoes reduced peak vertical force during walking, but increased vertical force at the impact transient and no change occurred for the other variables. During running, athletic shoes reduced loading rate but did not affect vertical force. The range of variables examined and variety of measurements used appears to be a reason for the discrepancies across the literature. The impact attenuating effect of shoes has potentially both adverse and beneficial effects depending on the variable and activity under investigation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sonification can allow us to connect sound and/or music via data to the environment; in another sense, by "displaying" data through sound, sonification participates in creating our acoustic environment. The authors consider here the significance of certain aspects of this relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Springboard diving training is often focused upon skill repetition to establish movement accuracy, stability and consistency. Within-participant study designs provide the ability to understand how individuals create these skills under different movement strategies. IMUs measured angular velocity time-series data of two athletes performing multiple repetitions of forward 3½ somersault pike dives. Functional Principal Component Analyses (fPCA) were performed to examine individual movement structure and variability. The first five fPC's represented approximately 98% of the variability in angular velocity for both divers. To determine the relative importance of angular velocity variability, Pearson's correlations for pairwise comparisons were used to assess the relationship between fPC scores and discrete performance variables during takeoff, flight and entry. Divers exhibited a different number and types of significant correlations (International = 4; National = 11). Only one correlation was common for both divers; higher angular velocity during Initial Flight and/or Somersault phases resulted in more vertically aligned entry posture (International: fPC1 r = −0.761, p < 0.05; National: fPC3 r = −0.796, p < 0.01). Findings identify individualised angular velocity time-series structure and kinematic performance variables (International = angular; National = linear) that can be used by coaching/sport science teams to optimisation performance success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article treats the use of sonification in Percy Military Training Hospital's intensive care unit, through an interview with Anaesthetist Professor Bruno Debien. It starts with a description of the environment completed by some technical information concerning the equipment. This is followed by a commented transcription of the interview with Bruno Debien and concludes with reflections on the nature of audio alarms and their relation to different modes of listening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a set of resistance exercise performed until exhaustion, the relationship between intensity and the number of repetitions can be affected by lifting speed, with faster speeds producing higher numbers. The hypothesized mechanisms include enhanced utilization of the stretch-shortening cycle. This study investigated muscle activations under varying speeds and intensities during bench press using surface electromyography (EMG) to suggest further mechanisms for the above finding. Thirteen weight-trained men (21.7 ± 3.6-year-old) performed bench press until fatigue under five intensities (40-80% 1RM), and four speeds (slow 5.6-s/repetition, medium 2.8-s/repetition, fast 1.9-s/repetition, and ballistic maximum speed). Surface EMG was recorded from the pectoralis, deltoid, and triceps for root-mean-square amplitude and median frequency. EMG amplitudes were greater for faster and heavier conditions before fatigue. Faster conditions, however, produced a significant fall in amplitude during the final concentric phase compared to slower movements. After fatigue, EMG amplitude increased, with the speed effect being maintained. The intensity effect on amplitude either disappeared or remained similar, depending on the muscles. Median frequencies before fatigue were similar among speeds and intensities. The fall in frequency after fatigue was similar across speeds, but greater for lighter intensities. It was concluded that reduced muscle activation during the final concentric phase in faster conditions allowed a better muscle pump, explaining the increased repetition numbers. Fatigue levels are likely to have been similar across speeds, but greater for lower intensities. An incomplete rise in EMG amplitude after fatigue for lower intensities could imply an increased contribution of central fatigue or neuromuscular transmission failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-fidelity hemodialysis simulation program has been introduced and evaluated in a Far North Queensland dialysis unit. This program engages and challenges hemodialysis staff across the learning continuum. It provides a realistic, safe, and controlled learning environment for nurses to develop essential hemodialysis competencies while posing no threat to patient safety. This teaching method combined with clinical experience is a positive step forward in meeting future educational needs of the renal workforce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme is vital to our aerobic universe. Heme cellular content is finely tuned through an exquisite control of synthesis and degradation. Heme deficiency is deleterious to cells, whereas excess heme is toxic. Most of the cellular heme serves as the prosthetic moiety of functionally diverse hemoproteins, including cytochromes P450 (P450s). In the liver, P450s are its major consumers, with >50% of hepatic heme committed to their synthesis. Prosthetic heme is the sine qua non of P450 catalytic biotransformation of both endo- and xenobiotics. This well-recognized functional role notwithstanding, heme also regulates P450 protein synthesis, assembly, repair, and disposal. These less well-appreciated aspects are reviewed herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A literary criticism of the novels "Brighton Rock" and "The Heart of the Matter" by Graham Greene is presented. The plots of the stories are explored through Greene's beliefs about the Catholic faith, sin, and redemption. Comments from critics Roger Sharrock, Ian Ker, and Nathan Scott are provided. Themes of despair and Christian eschatology are also explored.

The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of managing interdialytic weight gain for individuals on hemodialysis. A qualitative design was used to elicit patients' stories with some participants using images to support their story telling. Data were analyzed using an iterative theming process. Themes that arose from preliminary data analysis include magnitude of loss, constant struggle, and transition to acceptance. Transition to acceptance is not a linear progression to understanding and compliance but a multifaceted, tortuous struggle unique to individuals and largely dependent upon support, belief in a life worth living, and willingness to engage in surveillance and maintenance of behavior. Appreciating the impact and meaning of fluid restriction for individuals on hemodialysis will assist health professionals to identify support strategies that facilitate healthy fluid gain behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of anthropometric differences in shank to thigh length ratio upon timing and magnitude of joint power production during the drive phase of the rowing stroke was investigated in 14 elite male rowers. Rowers were tested on the RowPerfect ergometer which was instrumented at the handle and foot stretcher to measure force generation, and a nine segment inverse dynamics model used to calculate the rower's joint and overall power production. Rowers were divided into two groups according to relative shank thigh ratio. Time to half lumbar power generation was significantly earlier in shorter shank rowers (p = 0.028) compared to longer shank rowers, who showed no lumbar power generation during the same period of the drive phase. Rowers with a relatively shorter shank demonstrated earlier lumbar power generation during the drive phase resulting from restricted rotation of the pelvic segment requiring increased lumbar extension in these rowers. Earlier lumbar power generation and extension did not appear to directly affect performance measures of the short shank group, and so can be attributed to a technical adaptation developed to maximise rowing performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2008, Jerome Joy initiated the 'Networked Music & SoundArt Timeline' (NMSAT)—a monitor on the history of networked music and sound. The Timeline is maintained by the NMSAT Development Committee, consisting primarily of researchers and artists from partner institutions. The team is complemented by a pool of authors and editors contributing to Locus Sonus's projects (such as, for instance, members of WLP - World Listening Project) and individuals who are part of other collaborative projects. The Committee has two major objectives: to amend and expand the existing database comprised currently of more than 2,000 entries and approximately 550 reference articles (NMSAT v.1.090319, March 2009); and to support the online technical and editorial development of the project. This article describes the current state of the timeline and the way in which it has been structured, as well as its evolution towards an open resource database accessible through a variety of specialized interfaces. NMSAT is part of the Locus Sonus research program and provides an essential historical backbone to practice-based artistic research and the exploration of developing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eccentric exercise (EE), a common type of muscular activity whereby muscles lengthen and contract simultaneously, is associated with higher levels of force but may also evoke muscle damage. We investigated the hypothesis that unaccustomed EE might impair muscle oxygenation and muscle blood flow in healthy adults. Ten healthy males performed a bout of 70 maximal eccentric contractions of the elbow flexors. Before and after EE on day 1 and over the next 6 days, maximum voluntary isometric torque (MVT), serum creatine kinase (CK), and the changes in muscle oxygen saturation, blood flow, and oxygen uptake (using near-infrared spectroscopy) within the biceps brachii were assessed. MVT decreased, whereas muscle soreness and CK increased after EE (p < 0.05). Mean resting oxygen saturation increased by 22% after acute EE, and remained elevated by 5%-9% for the following 6 days. During isometric contractions, significant decreases were observed in oxygen desaturation and re-saturation kinetics after EE and these declines were also significantly prevalent over the following 6 days. Both muscle blood flow and oxygen uptake increased significantly after acute EE, but recovered on the next day. This study revealed some prolonged alterations in muscle oxygenation at rest and during exercise after EE, which might be due to a decrease in muscle oxygen consumption, an increase in oxygen delivery, and (or) a combination of both. However, both oxygen consumption and blood flow recovered within 24 h after the eccentric exercise session, and therefore, the reason(s) for the changes in tissue oxygen saturation remain unknown. L’exercice pliométrique (EE) est une action musculaire couramment employée qui fait travailler les muscles en alternance d’étirement et de contraction. Au cours de cette action, la tension musculaire produite est généralement élevée et peut causer des lésions musculaires. Nous émettons l’hypothèse selon laquelle un EE inhabituel nuit à la circulation musculaire et à l’oxygénation du muscle chez des adultes en bonne santé. Dix hommes en bonne santé exécutent 70 actions pliométriques maximales des fléchisseurs du coude. Avant et après EE au jour 1, on évalue tout comme au cours des 6 jours suivants le moment de force maximale isométrique volontaire (MVT), la concentration sérique de créatine kinase (CK), les variations de la saturation du muscle en oxygène, le débit sanguin et la consommation d’oxygène (au moyen de la technique de spectroscopie dans le proche infrarouge) du biceps brachial. Après EE, le MVT diminue et la douleur musculaire de même que la concentration de CK augmentent (p < 0,05). Immédiatement après EE, la saturation en oxygène du muscle au repos augmente de 22 % et demeure 5 à 9 % plus élevée au cours des 6 jours suivants. Au cours des actions isométriques accomplies après EE, on observe des diminutions significatives au plan de la cinétique de désaturation et de resaturation du muscle en oxygène ; ces diminutions demeurent significativement prévalentes au cours des 6 jours suivants. Immédiatement après un EE, on observe une augmentation significative du débit sanguin musculaire et de la consommation d’oxygène, mais le jour suivant, les valeurs sont de retour à la normale. Cette étude révèle des variations prolongées de l’oxygénation du muscle au repos et au cours d’un exercice réalisé après EE probablement attribuable à la diminution de la consommation d’oxygène du muscle, à l’augmentation du transport de l’oxygène ou à une combinaison des deux. Néanmoins, le débit sanguin musculaire et la consommation d’oxygène du muscle reviennent à des valeurs normales en moins de 24 h après la séance d’exercices pliométriques ; on ne connait donc pas encore les causes des variations de la saturation tissulaire en oxygène. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in muscle oxygenation and blood flow within vastus lateralis after an exhaustive session of downhill walking (DW). Nine healthy males performed 40-min DW on a treadmill with a gradient of −25% and at walking velocity of 6·4 km h−1. To increase the likelihood that DW would induce muscle damage, subjects were loaded with 5% of their body weight carried in a back pack. Before and after DW exercise on day 1 and over the next 4 days, maximum voluntary contractions (MVCs), subjects’ perception of muscle soreness (SOR), plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity and myoglobin (Mb) concentrations, and muscle oxygenation (using near infrared spectroscopy; NIRS) within vastus lateralis were assessed. Repeated-measuresanova revealed that MVC decreased while SOR and Mb concentration increase significantly ( P<0·05) after DW, consistent with its effectiveness to evoke muscle damage. Resting tissue oxygen saturation increased immediately after DW, but recovered within 24 h. During isometric contractions at 30%, 50% and 80% of MVC, oxygen desaturation and re-saturation kinetics became significantly faster than pre-exercise values. The possible mechanism responsible for these changes might be increased resting muscle oxygen utilization after muscle damage because of an increased requirement for aerobic energy-demanding repair processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that attempts to determine whether strenuous eccentric exercise may result in muscle damage. In this study, 10 healthy men performed a session of 70 maximal eccentric exercise elbow flexion contractions. Results proposed that vigorous eccentric exercise would impair myoelectric activity of the biceps brachii.

We investigated the hypothesis that a session of maximal concentric contraction exercise (CE) might impair muscle oxygenation and muscle blood flow. Ten healthy males performed a single bout of 70 maximal elbow flexion CE. Before and after CE on day 1 and over the next two days, maximum voluntary isometric torque (MVT), plasma creatine kinase activity (CK), serum myoglobin, elbow joint range of motion (ROM), subjects' perception of muscle soreness (SOR), and muscle oxygenation kinetics (using near infrared spectroscopy; NIRS) within biceps brachii were assessed. MVT and ROM decreased while SOR increased significantly after CE (p<0.05), but recovered within the next day. There were not any significant changes in CK or myoglobin. Resting muscle oxygen saturation, oxyhaemoglobin and muscle oxygen uptake increased, and deoxyhaemoglobin decreased significantly after acute CE, and recovered by day 2. Although the changes in NIRS-derived variables were not significant in most conditions during isometric contractions of different intensities (i.e. 30%, 50% and 80% of MVT), there was a consistent pattern of change for those variables (i.e. decreasing immediately after CE, recovering on day 2 and increasing on day 3). Interestingly, the pattern of change in NIRS parameters mirrored CE-induced changes of MVT. In conclusion, concentric exercise did not produce prolonged changes in muscle oxygenation. The changes observed in NIRS-derived variables under resting condition may reflect an excess post exercise oxygen consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of movement velocity on the relationship between loading intensity and the number of repetitions of bench press. Thirteen healthy men (age = 21.7 ± 1.0 years; weight = 76.8 ± 2.5 kg; 1 repetition maximum [1RM] = 99.5 ± 6.0 kg), who were involved in regular weight training, voluntarily participated in the experiment. Subjects performed bench presses on a Smith machine at 5 different intensities (40-80% 1RM), repeated for 4 velocity conditions (slow: 0.15 ± 0.03 m·s-1; medium: 0.32 ± 0.07 m·s-1; fast: 0.52 ± 0.12 m·s-1; ballistic: maximum velocity), which were randomly assigned over 5 experimental sessions after a 1RM test. Velocity significantly changed the relationship between intensity (%1RM) and the number of reps performed (p < 0.001), with faster velocities producing a higher number of reps. A significant interaction between intensity and velocity meant that velocity had a much greater effect on repetitions at lower intensities. These results suggest that the benefits of using a stretch-shortening cycle during faster movements outweigh the associated disadvantages from the force-velocity relationship. The practical applications of this study are that, when trainees are assigned a resistance training with specific RM values, the lifted intensity (%1RM) or weights will not be consistent unless velocity is controlled during training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to explore relationships among constants used in musculo-skeletal models predicting torque generated about the knee by the quadriceps muscles. A model was developed and matched to data collected from individuals with spinal cord injury performing quadriceps contractions evoked using neuromuscular electrical stimulation. After fitting tendon slack lengths to the quadriceps muscles, the model was able to accurately match experimentally measured knee extension torques using previously reported values for the moment arm–knee angle and force–velocity relationships. Fitting new constants to these relationships did not improve the match between measured and modelled knee extension torques. There was significant interaction between variables used within the model. Using a narrower active force–length relationship for the muscles required the model to have smaller moment arms about the knee to accurately match measured torque across the full range of motion. Reduced moment arms, however, lowered the model''s linear velocity of muscle shortening for each angular velocity of the knee, requiring different constants within the force–velocity relationship to predict the appropriate amount of torque decline. The present study demonstrates that, when a model does not fit the observed data, it is difficult to determine exactly which components are responsible because of the interdependent nature of parameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Small regional communities are having widely different experiences of globalisation but many share dependent relations with corporations and governments. Those which are under threat are often finding themselves dependent on their own resources, including the leadership of local people. This article compares the interpretations of change and the experiences of local leaders in two geographically and historically diverse situations. It finds that despite such diversity, there are similarities of experience. It concludes with some consideration given to state policy regarding community leadership, tempering a view that leadership can provide solutions to regional decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic engineering could result in a dramatic transformation of the forest products industry, increasing corporate economic power and concentrating timber production in those regions most suited to industrial-scale tree plantations. We briefly review arguments in favor of and in opposition to genetic engineering in forestry, and describe the constellation of forces promoting this technology. We then examine possible social consequences with specific reference to the pulp and paper industry in the southeastern United States. This study is exploratory in nature, forecasting possible consequences of a development that has not yet taken place. We suggest that the consequences are potentially far-reaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to determine the influence of an 8-over spell on cricket fast bowling technique and performance (speed and accuracy), and to establish the relationship of selected physical capacities with technique and performance during an 8-over spell. Fourteen first-grade fast bowlers with a mean age of 23 years participated in the study. Physical capacities assessed were abdominal strength, trunk stability, selected girth and skinfold measures. During the delivery stride, bowlers were filmed from an overhead and lateral perspective (50 Hz) to obtain two-dimensional data for transverse plane shoulder alignment and sagittal plane knee joint angle respectively. Ball speed was measured by a radar gun and accuracy by the impact point of each delivery on a zoned scoring target at the batter's stumps. Shoulder counter-rotation did not change significantly between overs 2 and 8 for all bowlers, but was significantly related to a more front-on shoulder orientation at back foot impact. When the front-on fast bowlers (n = 5) were isolated for analysis, shoulder counter-rotation increased significantly between overs 2 and 8. Ball speed remained constant while accuracy showed some non-significant variation during the spell. Shoulder counter-rotation was significantly related to accuracy scores during the second half of the 8-over spell. Chest girth and composition and body composition were significantly related to ball release speed at various times during the spell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2019, the World Health Organization urged a global shift towards recovery‐focused practices in mental health care. In Western nations, this transition often prioritised individualism over collectivism. In contrast, collectivist societies prioritise recovery through community and social support. This study explored mental health recovery from the perspectives of consumers, carers and registered nurses in a mainly collectivist society (Saudi Arabia) using a qualitative exploratory descriptive design. Sixteen consumers, ten carers and eight registered nurses participated in online semi‐structured interviews. Inductive thematic analysis was employed to analyse English‐translated versions of the 34 interviews. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies 32‐item checklist were used. The study found that recovery was perceived as a process of transforming towards living a meaningful life of goals and values supported by trusted people who share moments of comfort and empowerment. A unique finding was the 'bond of recovery' a collectivist value that aid consumers' community integration in society. Saudi consumers' experiences of recovery were similar to consumers' movement narratives of recovery. Future research should establish a recovery‐focused educational program that incorporates our findings into a recovery‐oriented approach. This will facilitate providing a collaborative care between consumers, carers and nurses that centres around consumers' recovery goals and values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports our findings on the interconnection of gender and work among married men and women on the Great Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland, an isolated, fishing region dependent on primary production on the periphery of advanced capitalism. We explore the extent to which household reproduction is structured by gender through detailed analysis of the unpaid domestic labour activities of married men and women. We demonstrate that married men and women participate in dramatically different ways in house construction and other household subsistence tasks. We also show that neither the presence of children in the home nor the employment of wives outside the home leads to significant changes in men's responsibility for domestic tasks. In contrast with some other analyses of rural Newfoundland, our research suggests that more macro cultural and economic changes underway in the region have not fundamentally altered the sexual division of labour associated with traditional household organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suggests the use of fascism as a solution to social crisis in a capitalist society. Details on the practice of fascism in Italy and Germany; Discussion on authoritative populism as incipient fascism; Transition from authoritarian populism to fascism; Context in which a fascist solution to crisis emerges.

Sustainable development refers to an inherently precarious situation in which growth is thought to be enduring, while also compatible with what a finite resource can support. In Newfoundland the fishery has proved unsustainable. The paper examines the circumstances underlying the collapse of the cod fishery in 1992 which gave rise to widespread unemployment throughout the region. It suggests that sustainable development based on fisheries resources is too insecure for the people of regions that depend on them, but this does not mean that a fishery cannot be sustained at some level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 1960s, East European agriculture has been undergoing a second revolutionary experience as attempts are being made to 'industrialize' production and to build new complex organizational structures consistent with social and economic goals Theories of class relations in this contemporary agriculture usually recognize the intelligentsia stratum and the classes of state agricultural workers and co-operative farmers or peasants Here 1 attempt a more refined analysis Particular occupational categories will be assessed according to (i) legal ownership of productive property and (ii) the scope of their control over the processes of production 1 shall argue that the intelligentsia must be divided into a dominant state bureaucratic elite and new middle classes of managers and technocratic specialists While a substantial convergence between the classes of co-operative peasants and state farm workers has taken place, it is important to recognize the new class of skilled technical workers. Also, the continued significance of the private plot complicates the class situation of the worker's household in that this private activity is often the source of a substantial part of household income The paper concludes with some speculative analysis on the processes of social change in state socialism [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present the German Democratic Republic (GDR) or East Germany is the world's most prosperous socialist state. Its achievements in the sphere of material production have been based on central planning and control by the Socialist Unity Party or Sozialistische Einheitspartei Deutschland (SED), which dominates the state apparatus. Theoretically, there is much to be learned about the tensions and contradictions of bureaucratically directed social change from the experience of the GDR. The structure of vertical integration is only possible with the introduction of industrial methods of production, extensive co-operative relations, and complex planning and management techniques. The functional model of society, in more or less sophisticated form, is attractive to those who have established political control in that it plays down internal conflict and presents an image of component parts working together in the pursuit of common goals. Although they apply a conflict model to other systems, both the SED leaders and academics in the GDR describe their own society in terms of gradual evolution and specialization of activities, which are integrated in a non-antagonistic way.

Alabama's forest products industry plays a dominant role in the state's rural economy. Examination of how access to employment opportunities is distributed provides insight into how the benefits of this industry are distributed. Based on a combination of available secondary data and semi-structured interviews with management and workers in the pulp and paper sector of Alabama's forest products industry, a clear picture of segmented labor markets emerges in which structural and cultural factors determine access to certain jobs. The evolution of these highly segmented labor markets is traced from deep roots in racial discrimination to contemporary efforts in support of affirmative anion. Increased use of sub-contracting in logging, hauling, and mill work represents the must recent change affecting the structure of labor markets associated with the production of pulp and paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on RoadMusic, which offers solution to the problem of the music played in the car, as it plays the music generated by the car itself, as the vibration of the car is on the road. It states that modern computers allow processing and outputting information at the same speed as it enters at reasonable cost. It mentions that the sound produced by the computer used in RoadMusic is synthetic and it is a deliberate effort made.

The author reflects on data sonification, which is increasing in the field of art and music, and composers are abandoning human decision making and fixed scores for variation derived from incoming data. It states that the aim of the research group, Locus Sonus, is to increase knowledge in the domain of audio art. It mentions that the human brain listens to music or electric probing of the Elephant fish, and simultaneously eliminates the more practical aspects of sonification.