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Lock-in amplifiers, used in several experimental physics applications, are instruments performing quadrature demodulation, which is useful when signals are affected by much noise. Generally, commercially-available lock-in amplifiers are very accurate, but expensive, especially if their operating range includes radiofrequencies. In many applications, high precision is not necessary for the measurements, but it is preferable to have low-cost, low-weight, compactness and a user-friendly graphical unit interface. In this paper, we describe a new fully-digital low-frequency lock-in amplifier developed at ENEA C.R. Frascati Laboratories for photoluminescence experiments based on an innovative low-cost architecture and processing algorithms. The hardware, firmware and software developed for the whole photoluminescence measurement set-up is presented. The present lock-in was first characterized with synthetic electrical sine wave signals and white noise. A dynamic reserve of 43 dB and a noise figure in the range of 25–44 dB were estimated. These results show compatibility with several measurement applications, such as photoluminescence, and the adequacy of the resolutions with respect to the hardware costs. Finally, preliminary results of photoluminescence measurements are presented.

Brazil is the largest global consumer of pesticides and this practice has resulted in countless cases of intoxications that cause illness and deaths to workers, significant expenses to the public health system and disastrous environmental consequences. The work had as general objective: to evaluate the effects of the use of pesticides on the health of rural workers in terms of intoxication through the assessment of the erythrocyte and plasma cholinesterase biomarkers. This is a cross-sectional, analytical study, comparing the Group (1) of rural workers directly exposed to pesticides and the Group (2) of users of the Family Health Programs (PSF), in the municipalities of Capitólio and Pimenta - Minas Gerais, Brazil, not directly exposed to pesticides for the intoxication outcome identified by the analysis of biomarkers. Altogether 140 employees made up the studied sample. Our results demonstrate that life habits and health conditions have a strong relationship with symptoms found in individuals who have been exposed to pesticides.

A roda de conversa foi concebida como produto educacional durante uma pesquisa sobre o Movimento Estudantil na Educação Profissional e Tecnológica (EPT) e escolhida como proposta de produto educacional, porque valoriza as experiências e constrói conhecimentos a partir da observação crítica da realidade em que os sujeitos participantes estão inseridos por meio do diálogo, contribuindo para uma educação crítica e emancipadora. A coleta de dados se deu por meio de observação, entrevistas, escritos produzidos pelos gremistas e questionário. A análise dos dados foi feita numa perspectiva temática. O produto educacional é um roteiro para a roda de conversa denominada “Expressões do Movimento Estudantil Secundarista”. A proposta visou promover a construção e a reconstrução de significados entre os participantes em torno do Movimento Estudantil. Como resultado, constatou-se que os jovens o valorizam como um espaço educativo e de diálogo, capaz de contribuir para a escola e para a formação crítica.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the biggest health crises in the world and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is significant measures to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. However, PPE needs to be used properly by healthcare professionals. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the use of PPE among Brazilian health professionals and associated factors during a period of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out from October to December 2020. For data collection, the respondent-driven sampling technique was used, adapted for social media, with a link to an online survey form. RESULTS: The study considered 12,086 Brazilian health professionals. Most (69%) used PPE recommended for the care of patients with suspected or diagnosed COVID-19. Factors associated with the use of PPE were: working in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or in a field hospital, receiving training, being provided with sufficient, high-quality PPE by the workplace and being an odontologist compared to nursing professionals. For procedures that generate aerosols in the context of COVID-19, 54.1% of them used the recommended PPE, the associated factors were: being married or in a stable relationship compared to a single/divorced professional, working in an ICU, being offered training, providing sufficient, high-quality PPE, and being an odontologist compared to nursing professionals. CONCLUSIONS: For the care of patients with COVID-19, 69% of health professionals used PPE properly, and several factors interfered with the use of this equipment.

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory dermatitis, with a predilection for the anogenital area. In later stages, lichen sclerosus may develop into widespread scarring, and occasionally leading to severe introital stenosis and urinary retention. Our video is aimed at presenting a case of surgical management of lichen sclerosus-related introital stenosis determining urinary retention.An 82-year-old woman was evaluated for almost complete urinary retention, with concomitant continuous enuretic urinary leakage all day and night and recurrent urinary tract infection symptoms. The gynecological evaluation demonstrated a complete introital obliteration, without obvious communications for urine passing. After proper informed consent, the patient was admitted for vulvo-perineoplasty.The featured procedure was completed in 25 min and blood loss was negligible. No surgical complications were observed. On postoperative day 1, the patient was successfully discharged home with topical steroid treatment. Histological examination confirmed typical features of lichen sclerosus pathology. At follow-up visits the patient was asymptomatic and examination confirmed persistence of introital patency.The featured video shows a vulvo-perineoplasty performed in a patient with lichen sclerosus-related complete introital obliteration and urinary retention. The procedure was successful in obtaining anatomical repair and relieving urinary symptoms.

The fabrication of polyolefin thermoplastic elastomers (P-TPEs) with superior robustness (high strength and high toughness) is challenging. Integrating dynamic (reversible) noncovalent cross-links into P-TPEs may solve the trade-off between strength and toughness and permanent (irreversible) cross-linking and elasticity. Here, we report a two-step synthesis of P-TPEs that contain flexible polymer chains and different thiol branches (less than 2.0 mol %) that cross-link the polymer chains through dynamic hydrogen bonding. The cross-linked polymers exhibit negligible hysteresis after being circularly stretched 10 times at low strain, that is, few dynamic H-bonds break per cycle and delocalize the stress concentration to withstand load and delay premature fracture. At large deformation, the polymers dissipate vast stress energy by the sacrificial H-bond scission: the H-bonds break and reform to prevent failure and to dictate simultaneously high fracture strength (? up to 10.2 MPa) and high toughness (UT up to 22.6 MJ/m3). Meanwhile, the resultant materials present low stiffness (E ? 2.5 MPa), good extensibility (? > 600%), and elastic recovery of 90% even at 680% strain. The cross-linked polyolefins are readily (re)processable, and tensile and elastic properties are largely recovered after being remolded at least twice.

Background The putative Ergothioneine Transporter, SLC22A4/OCTN1, is expressed in the intestine and monocytes/macrophages, and its widely represented missense variant L503F (0.4 Minor Allele Frequency in Caucasians) has been found to be associated with Crohn’s disease, sporadic colorectal cancer in early age and ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. The leucine-to-phenylalanine substitution at amino acid 503 affects OCTN1 capacity to transport ergothioneine, acetylcholine and likely other substrates of endogenous or microbial origin; however, whether this defect contributes to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathogenesis, and the mechanistic underpinnings, remain elusive. Methods In order to gain mechanistic insight on the role of SLC22A4 in IBD, we first analyzed primary monocytes from healthy donors and UC patients of varying OCTN1 genotypes. Then we stably knocked down or overexpressed OCTN1 and its disease-associated variant in the monocytic cell line THP-1. Finally, we compared wild-type and OCTN1 knockout C57BL/6 mice in a chemical colitis paradigm in vivo. Results Primary adherent monocytes from healthy donors homozygous for the IBD-associated allele (TT) displayed a significant enhancement of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) response to peptidoglycan (PGN) compared to the other genotypes. Likewise, cells from UC patients bearing the 503F variant released more IL-1β in response to live bacteria and displayed reduced expression of autophagy markers (e.g. p62, LC3), compared to patients negative for the variant. In agreement with these findings, OCTN1-deficient THP-1 macrophages secreted reduced amounts of IL-1β when challenged in vitro with PGN or live bacteria. Most relevant, THP1 cells engineered to overexpress the 503F variant of OCTN1 displayed a much stronger IL-1β response to muramyl dipeptide and PGN challenge, compared to cells transduced with the “wild type” transporter. Also consistent with a role for OCTN1 variants in inflammatory cascades relevant to IBD, in vivo studies revealed milder DSS-induced colitis in OCTN1 knockout mice compared to wild-type animals, both at the peak of disease severity and at the end of the recovery period. Conclusion Collectively our initial evidence supports the view that OCTN1 may have a causative role in IBD via deranged bacterial sensing and cytokine production, with 503F likely behaving as a gain-of-function variant. Thus, targeting OCTN1 variant may provide unprecedented opportunities for the personalized treatment of IBD patients and a better understanding of disease pathogenesis.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-28T19:48:19Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01 Purpose: Identifying the magnitude of ball rotation is critical to reduce response time, aiming to improve table tennis performance. This study analyzed the influence of auditory and visual information on the perception accuracy and counterattack performance of table tennis players. Methods: Twenty-two high-level table tennis players (22.5 ± 6.1 years, 71.2 ± 9.8 kg, 173.5 ± 7.7 cm) performed two tasks. In the first task, the athletes analyzed audio and video files of the forehand movement on a computer screen with auditory, visual, and combined information and, as soon as possible, chose the ball spin type on a keyboard: fast (spinning ball forward at 140 rotations per second (rotations/s); medium (105 rotations/s); slow (84 rotations/s); or flat hit (70 rotations/s). In the second task, the athletes performed 80 counterattacks (forehand movement) at the table on a target (68x38 cm) with and without auditory information. Results: Friedman’s ANOVA revealed a significant effect of condition for perception accuracy (p

Objetivos: Os objetivos do presente estudo foram descrever e comparar variáveis antropométricas e o desempenho em testes motores entre as posições de jogo, e testar a correlação entre estas variáveis em jogadores de handebol adultos. Métodos: Participaram do estudo 23 jogadores (20,78 ± 3,83 anos), sendo subdivididos por posição em armadores (n = 9), pontas (n = 9) e pivôs (n = 5). Foram realizadas duas baterias de avaliações, com 72 h de intervalo entre elas, e analisados na primeira bateria variáveis antropométricas (estatura, massa corporal, massa magra, massa gorda, e percentual de gordura), e o desempenho nos testes squat jump, counter movement jump e salto horizontal, e na segunda o desempenho nos testes sprint de 10 m e teste-T. Resultados: Os pivôs apresentaram maior massa corporal, massa gorda e percentual de gordura em comparação aos armadores e pontas, sendo pivôs e armadores os jogadores de maior estatura da equipe (p < 0,05). O desempenho no teste-T dos pivôs foi menor em comparação aos de armadores. Foram encontradas correlações entre maior massa gorda com menor desempenho em teste-T, squat jump, counter movement jump e salto horizontal, e entre maior percentual de gordura com menor desempenho em teste-T, squat jump e counter movement jump. Conclusão: As características antropométricas e o desempenho motor variam em função da posição de jogo. Além disso, foram evidenciadas correlações moderadas entre maiores índices de gordura e menor desempenho em testes de agilidade e salto vertical e horizontal.

This article is the work of a qualitative research, which objetive is to unveil the experiences of the students from the Integrated techinical course to the high school of one of the Federal Institute of Sao Paulo Campus, in matters of the student's mental health. This proposal originated an educational product: a continuous teacher's formation about the student's mental health in the context of the Professional and Tecnological Education. The instruments used to gatter the data were focal groups and online questionaries. For the researched students, the social relationship between students and institution, between students and teachers, generates sorrow. For the teachers it is an individual matter: of the student and their personal condition that precede school. The students’ psychic suffering is attached to the conditions given due social inequalities throughout school.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-05-01T11:39:08Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01 Purpose: The current study examined the possible relationships between one-off single night sleep metrics and subsequent kicking performance in a youth soccer context. Methods: Twenty-eight under-17 academy players (15.9 ± 0.8 years-old) completed a kick testing protocol consisting in 20 attempts, 18 m from the goal and against a goalkeeper. Four digital video cameras (240 Hz) allowed to determine 3-D approach run, lower limb and ball velocities. Two additional cameras (60 Hz) were used to calculate 2-D mean radial error, bivariate variable error and accuracy. Over 24 h prior to testing, players were monitored by wrist actigraphy to determine their sleep indices. Self-reported sleep quality, sleepiness and chronotype scale scores (Horne and Östberg morningness-eveningness questionnaire) were also collected immediately before kicking experiment. Results: Multiple linear regressions indicated that wake up time and chronotype contributed to 40% of mean radial error. Self-reported sleep quality influenced respectively on 19% and 24% of accuracy and bivariate variable error variances. Taken together self-reported sleep quality and wake up time explained 33% of accuracy (all p 0.05). Conclusion: One-off sleep measures showed some sensitivity to acutely detect inter-individual oscillations in kicking performance. Low perceived sleep quality, later wake up time and a chronotype toward evening preference seem either related to immediately subsequent worst ability of ball placement when kicking. Monitoring sleep-wake transition and perceived sleep quality may be important to help prevent acute performance declines in targeting the goal during kick attempts from the edge of penalty area. Human Movement Research Laboratory (MOVI-LAB) School of Sciences Graduate Program in Movement Sciences Department of Physical Education São Paulo State University (UNESP) Appleton Institute for Behavioural Science Central Queensland University LaBioCoM Biomechanics and Motor Control Laboratory EEFERP School of Physical Education and Sport of Ribeirão Preto USP University of São Paulo Human Movement Research Laboratory (MOVI-LAB) School of Sciences Graduate Program in Movement Sciences Department of Physical Education São Paulo State University (UNESP)

BACKGROUND: Nursing professionals are on the front line of health systems in Brazil as well as worldwide. Studies on the work ability of nursing professionals are especially relevant as care demands increase and health care workforce shortages are expected. As the population of Brazil ages, the need for nursing care will increase. OBJECTIVE: To identify levels and predictors of work ability among Brazilian nursing professionals. METHODS: A cross-sectional study with 267 nursing professionals (72 nurses and 195 nursing technicians and nursing auxiliary) from public emergency and urgent care units was conducted. Measures included the following: Work Ability Index; Questionnaire of Socio-demographics, Lifestyle and Work and Health Aspects; and Violence at Work questionnaire. Generalized linear regression and Poisson models were used for data analysis. RESULTS: The mean work ability was 40.4 (range: 22 to 49). Almost 79.6% (n = 211) of participants reported good or excellent work ability, and 20.4% (n = 54) reported moderate or poor work ability. Better perceptions of health and job satisfaction, absence of health issues (past 15 days), lower stress levels, and having a partner were associated with better work ability. Victims of workplace violence were less likely to have good or excellent work ability than non-victims (prevalence ratio = 0.80; 95% CI 0.72 to 0.90). Professionals with cumulative experiences of workplace violence were less likely to report better work ability. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of good or excellent work ability was 79.6%. Our findings indicate that the following factors are predictors of work ability: self-reported perception of health, health issues in the last 15 days, workplace violence, job satisfaction, stress, and marital status.

Intestinal bacterial communities participate in gut homeostasis and are recognized as crucial in bowel inflammation and colorectal cancer (CRC).

Background: Small-sided games (SSGs) are drill-based and constrained exercises designed to promote a technical/tactical and physiological/physical stimulus on players while preserving some dynamics of the real game. However, as a dynamic game, they can offer some variability making the prediction of the stimulus hardest for the coach. Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the between-session and within-player variability of heart rates and locomotor responses of young male soccer players in 3v3 and 5v5 small-sided game formats. Methods: This study followed a repeated-measures study design. Twenty soccer players were enrolled in a study design in which the SSG formats 3v3 and 5v5 were performed consecutively across four days. Twenty under-17 male youth soccer players (16.8 ± 0.4 years old) voluntarily participated in this study. Participants were monitored using a Polar Team Pro for measuring the heart rate mean and maximum, distances covered at different speed thresholds, and peak speed. Results: Between-players variability revealed that maximum heart rate was the outcome with a smaller coefficient of variation (3v3 format: 3.1% to 11.1%; 5v5 format: 6.6% to 15.2%), while the distance covered at Z5 (3v3 format: 82.5% to 289.8%; 5v5 format: 94.0% to 221.1%). The repeated measures ANOVA revealed that the four games tested were different in the within-player variability considering the maximum heart rate (p = 0.032), total distance (p < 0.001), and distances at zone 1, 2, and 5 of speed (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The smaller small-sided game tested promotes greater within-player variability in locomotor demands while promoting smaller within-player variability heart rate responses. Possibly, 5v5 is more recommended to stabilize the locomotor demands, while the 3v3 is recommended to stabilize the heart rate stimulus.

PE_PGRS proteins ofMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) constitute a large family of complex modular proteins whose role is still unclear. Among those, we have previously shown, using the heterologous expression inMycobacterium smegmatis, that PE_PGRS3 containing a unique arginine-rich C-terminal domain, promotes adhesion to host cells. In this study, we investigate the role of PE_PGRS3 and its C-terminal domain directly inMtbusing functional deletion mutants. The results obtained here show that PE_PGRS3 is localized on the mycobacterial cell wall and its arginine-rich C-terminal region protrudes from the mycobacterial membrane and mediatesMtbentry into epithelial cells. Most importantly, this positively charged helical domain specifically binds phosphorylated phosphatidylinositols and cardiolipin, whereas it is unable to bind other phospholipids. Interestingly, administration of cardiolipin and phosphatidylinositol but no other phospholipids was able to turn-off expression ofpe_pgrs3 activated by phosphate starvation conditions. These findings suggest that PE_PGRS3 has the key role to serve as a bridge between mycobacteria and host cells by interacting with specific host phospholipids and extracting them from host cells, for their direct integration or as a source of phosphate, during phases of TB pathogenesis whenMtbis short of phosphate supply.

Healthcare organizations using Lean Management have the potential to decrease the number of errors, reduce wait time and increase productivity. The aim of this review is to assess the literature with regard to the use and efficacy of Lean thinking and Lean methodologies within a Department of Nuclear Medicine. Several health departments have adopted lean thinking as a consistent approach to quality improvement. We considered studies that demonstrated improvements across a variety of outcomes: the common factor was the aim to improve services to the patient. Lean methodology was selected because it is widely used in the healthcare environment and many Lean tools (VSM, one-piece flow, 5S, spaghetti diagram, A3, cell design, SMED) were analyzed for different processes. Many Lean studies have resulted in shortened queuing time, in cost-saving, in reducing defects, in increasing patient volume and in increasing staff and patient safety and satisfaction. Lean tools have the potential to reduce error and costs and improve quality. Because Radiology and Nuclear Medicine departments are similar concerning patient processes, they have plenty of potentials to benefit from systematic Lean adoption. We believe these principles can be applied to other health care delivery areas.

Recent evidence suggests that pancreatic inflammation plays a pivotal role in the occurrence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy but few data are available for distal pancreatectomy (DP). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of early biochemical markers on the occurrence of CR-POPF after DP.Clinical and laboratory data for 432 consecutive DP patients were reviewed. Serum amylase was evaluated on postoperative day (POD) 1, and drain fluid amylase (DFA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were evaluated on POD 2 and 3. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were performed for all biochemical markers and an area under the curve (AUC) was computed. Multivariable regression analyses to identify the factors associated with CR-POPF and severe postoperative morbidity (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3) were performed.At 90 days after surgery, CR-POPF occurred in 155 (36%) patients, severe complications in 66 (15%) patients. ROC curve analyses showed that DFA on POD2 had the largest AUC (0.753, p 0.001), followed by serum amylase on POD 1 (0.651, p 0.001), serum CRP on POD3 (0.644, p 0.001), and CRP change between POD 2 and POD 3 (0.644, p 0.001). Multivariable analysis identified male gender (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.36-3.86; p = 0.002), DFA ≥ 1500 U/L on POD2 (OR 4.63, 95% CI 2.72-7.89; p 0.001), serum amylase ≥ 100 U/L on POD 1 (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.01-2.93; p = 0.046), and CRP increase by at least 25 mg/L on POD 3 compared to the previous day (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.11-3.21; p = 0.019) as independent predictors of CR-POPF, yielding a valid regression model (AUC 0.765, 95% CI 0.714-0.816, p 0.001).Postoperative serum amylase and CRP trajectory represent useful early biochemical markers for CR-POPF in addition to DFA. Our findings suggest that these laboratory tests should be incorporated into clinical practice to aid postoperative patient and drain management.

The objective of this study was to analyze evidence of the clinical and microbiological benefits of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) adjunctive to scaling and root planing (SRP) in smokers with periodontitis. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were included, through an electronic search in PubMed/MEDLINE, LILACS, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for articles published in English until December 2022. The quality of the studies was assessed using the JADAD scale and the risk of bias was estimated using the Cochrane Collaboration assessment tool. Of the 175 relevant articles, eight RCTs were included. Of these, seven reported clinical results and five microbiological results, with a follow-up time of 3–6 months. A meta-analysis was performed for the probing depth (PD) reduction and clinical attachment level (CAL) gain at 3 and 6 months. The weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were counted for the PD and CAL. The overall effect for the PD reduction at 3 and 6 months (WMD = −0.80, 95% CI = −1.44 to −0.17, p = 0.01; WMD = −1.35, 95% CI = −2.23 to −0.46, p = 0.003) was in favor of aPDT. The CAL gain (WMD = 0.79, 95% CI = −1.24 to −0.35, p = 0.0005) was statistically significant at 6 months, in favor of aPDT. In these RCTs, aPDT was unable to demonstrate efficacy in reducing the microbial species associated with periodontitis. aPDT as an adjuvant to SRP improves the PD reduction and CAL gain more effectively than only SRP. RCTs are needed to establish standardized protocols with longer follow-up times in order to provide more results on aPDT adjunctive to SRP in smokers with periodontitis.

Introduction Fluorine-18 (18F) Fluciclovine (anti-1-amino-3-18F-fluorocyclobutane- 1-carboxylic acid [FACBC]) is a synthetic amino acid labeled with 18F, currently used as PET radiopharmaceutical to investigating prostate cancer, namely in the recurrent setting. Fluciclovine is transported to cell membranes by amino acid transporters, such as LAT1 and ASCT2. The upregulation of LAT-1 and ASCT2 activities is typical of prostate cancer but is also present in other pathological conditions such as non-prostatic neoplasms (e.g., lung cancer) and in benign inflammatory process (e.g., benign prostatic hyperplasia, chronic prostatitis, high-grade prostatic hyperplasia intraepithelial). Methods In this short essay we present a retrospective FACBC PET/CT analysis consisting of a selection of the five most relevant cases of patients referred in our centre to FACBC PET/CT for prostate cancer, with concomitant FACBC uptake in sites atyipical for prostate cancer. Results These five selected cases demonstrate FACBC uptake at the level of the pancreatic head, adrenal incidentalomas, pulmonary nodules, mediastinal lymph nodes and neoformative tissue of the rectal wall. Discussion Clinical cases selected in this pictorial essay have demonstrated that Fluciclovine is not an exclusive and specific radiotracer for prostate cancer and, therefore, can induce misdiagnosis. In fact, incidental benign and malignant uptake might occur and should be further evaluated with clinical correlation or other imaging.

This study investigated the effect of the partial substitution of Ti by Mg on the La2Ti2O7 perovskite-type structure towards improvements in the selective results of OCM reactions. The LaTi1−xMgxO3+δ catalysts were prepared with x = 0, 0.25 and 0.50 according to a polymer complexing method. XPS analysis showed a surface reconstruction with Mg addition, increasing the formation of oxygen vacancies in the interface formed by La–O–Mg and with an Mg-enriched surface compared to bulk compositions. DRIFTS results presented spectra more restricted to mono- and bidentate carbonate bands with the Mg load increasing, which significantly influence the OCM reaction. Differences in the M–O bonding force were demonstrated by XPS, FTIR, and Raman analysis, which result in the change of the catalyst basicity with the Mg addition. The M–O bond force constants (k) were calculated and showed a linear correlation with C2 selectivity. The catalytic results showed that methane conversion and C2 selectivity increased as a function of the Mg amount. Changes in the reaction conditions confirmed that both CH4/O2 feed ratio and reaction temperature are important parameters for the OCM reaction. The best catalytic reaction conditions were WHSV = 30 000 mL gcat−1 h−1, CH4/O2 = 8 and T = 800 °C for LaTi0.5Mg0.5O3 (LTMO-50) catalyst, which achieved 51.4% C2 selectivity. The catalyst remained thermally stable under such conditions even after 24 h of reaction, which has proven the advantage of Mg substitution in this catalyst structure.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-28T19:40:19Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01 Purpose. This study aimed to investigate the effects of match location, quality of opposition, match outcome, and playing position on internal load (IL), external load (EL), and interpersonal interactions in professional soccer players. Also, the relationships between load parameters and interpersonal interactions were measured. Methods. Fourteen matches from 16 Brazilian professional players were analysed. IL was obtained through the rating of perceived exertion. EL was quantified with the Global Positioning System (e.g., high-intensity running [HIR]). Interpersonal interactions were measured by network analysis using completed passes between teammates (n = 2845). Results. Higher values of match IL and HIR were observed in home vs. away matches (p = 0.02). Players presented greater running outputs and number of networks that a player controlled in matches against strong vs. weak opponents (p < 0.05). When the players won the matches, higher running demands and proximity to the teammates (i.e., closeness centrality) were demonstrated than when they drew or lost (p < 0.05). Reduced values of IL, EL, and closeness centrality were observed in the forwards compared with the other positions (p < 0.05). The distance covered per minute in HIR was large and associated with closeness centrality and eigenvector (r = 0.55; p < 0.001). Conclusions. The results indicate that load parameters and interpersonal interactions are influenced by the considered independent variables. Botafogo Football Club S/A School of Sport and Leisure Polytechnic Institute of Viana Do Castelo Instituto de Telecomunicações Delegação da Covilhã Human Movement Research Laboratory São Paulo State University University of São Paulo Laboratory of Applied Biomechanics Sports Sciences Department State University of Londrina Federal University of Espírito Santo Human Movement Research Laboratory São Paulo State University

A number of reviews have collated information on the impact of warming-up, physical exertion and recovery strategies on physical, subjective and physiological markers in soccer players yet none have solely analyzed their potential effects on components of kicking performance. To systematically analyse the influence of warm-up, exercise and/or recovery-related strategies on kicking performance in male soccer players and provide a critical appraisal on research paradigm related to kicking testing constraints and data acquisition methods. A systematic literature search was performed (until July 2020) in PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, Scopus and ProQuest. Studies in male soccer populations, which included the effects of warm-up routines, physical exercise and/or recovery-related interventions, reported on comparisons pre–post or between experimental conditions and that computed at least one measure of kicking kinematics and/or performance were considered. Methodological quality and risk of bias were determined for the included studies. Constraints related to kicking testing and data acquisition methods were also summarized and discussed. Altogether, 52 studies were included. Of these, 10 examined the respective effects of a warm-up, 34 physical exercise, and 21 recovery-related strategies. The results of eight studies showed that lower limb kinematics, kicking accuracy or ball velocity were improved following warm-ups involving dynamic but not static stretching. Declines in ball velocity occurred notably following intermittent endurance or graded until exhaustion exercise (three studies in both cases) without inclusion of any ball skills. In contrast, conflicting evidence in five studies was observed regarding ball velocity following intermittent endurance exercise interspersed with execution of ball skills. Kicking accuracy was less frequently affected by physical exercise (remained stable across 14 of 19 studies). One investigation indicated that consumption of a carbohydrate beverage pre- and mid-exercise demonstrated benefits in counteracting the potentially deleterious consequences of exercise on ball velocity, while four studies reported conflicting results regarding kicking accuracy. Most evidence synthesized for the interventions demonstrated moderate level (77%) and unclear-to-high risk of bias in at least one item evaluated (98%). The main limitations identified across studies were kicks generally performed over short distances (50%), in the absence of opposition (96%), and following experimental instructions which did not concomitantly consider velocity and accuracy (62%). Also, notational-based metrics were predominantly used to obtain accuracy outcomes (54%). The results from this review can help inform future research and practical interventions in an attempt to measure and optimise soccer kicking performance. However, given the risk of bias and a relative lack of strong evidence, caution is required when applying some of the current findings in practice. PROSPERO ID: CRD42018096942.

This editorial presented four articles published in special edition of Brazilian Journal of Motor Behavior titled Cognitivist and ecological approaches to sports skills acquisition, development and assessment.

Poly-[(

While the clinical impact of COVID-19 on adults has been massive, the majority of children develop pauci-symptomatic or even asymptomatic infection and only a minority of the latter develop a fatal outcome. The reasons of such differences are not yet established. We examined cytokines in sera and Th and B cell subpopulations in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 40 children (

Distal pancreatectomy is burdened by a high rate of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF). The presence of a fistula-related abdominal collection often requires additional treatment such as antibiotics, percutaneous drainage, and endoscopic drainage thus prolonging patient recovery. Aim of this study was to describe the management of abdominal collections related to CR-POPF and identify variables associated with the need for invasive procedures.A retrospective review of clinical data for patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy between 2015 and 2020 was conducted. All postoperative CT-scan imaging performed for clinical signs related to POPF was reviewed. The main outcome of the study was the need for procedural management (percutaneous or endoscopic) of CR-POPF-related fluid collections at 90 days after surgery. A multivariate regression analysis was adopted to analyze factors influencing procedural management of the collection.Five hundred sixteen patients were included in the study. Laparoscopic resection was performed in 290 patients (56%). At 90 days after surgery, CR-POPF occurred in 207 (40.1%) patients. A symptomatic collection related to fistula was observed in 130 patients (25.2%). Factors associated with fluid collections were increased body mass index (BMI) (25.5 versus 24, p = 0.001) and intraoperative blood loss (median of 250 versus 200 ml, p 0.001). Procedural management was required in 70 patients (13.6%); 52 patients required interventional radiology and 18 endoscopic drainage. At multivariate analysis, risk factors for invasive procedures were the following CT-scan parameters: fluid collection diameter greater than 5 cm (OR 6.366, 95%CI 2.29-17.66, p = 0.001), presence of blood in the fluid collection (OR 10.618, 95%CI 1.94-58.09, p = 0.006), and enhancement of its walls (OR 4.073, 95%CI 1.22-13.57, p = 0.022).CR-POPF-related fluid collections affect about a quarter of patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy. CT-scan provides important information which can guide the management of the collection in a "step-up" fashion.

Objetivo: identificar as evidências relacionadas aos riscos de exposição ao SARS-CoV-2 em profissionais de saúde e as intervenções adotadas. Método: revisão sistemática de literatura em oito bases de dados científicas e três repositórios de literatura cinzenta. Resultados: 26 estudos identificaram como fator de risco: escassez, uso inadequado ou reuso de equipamentos individuais; baixa adesão às medidas de precaução; atuação em terapia intensiva e setores COVID-19; longa permanência em ambiente de trabalho fechado; compartilhamento de espaços para alimentação sem uso de máscara e distanciamento; baixo conhecimento e despreparo para atendimento à doença. 12 estudos identificaram como intervenções: programas de vigilância em saúde com detecção precoce, diagnóstico e afastamento precoce; organização de fluxos de atendimento; triagem dupla; telemedicina; limitação de visitas; criação de setores exclusivos para atendimento à COVID-19; capacitações e treinamentos com ferramentas virtuais e simulação. Conclusão: além do risco de infecção, fatores individuais, psicossociais e organizacionais tornaram o ambiente de trabalho em saúde inseguro. Intervenções devem ser adotadas para mitigar os riscos e diminuir a morbimortalidade dos profissionais.

Repeated high-intensity running (RHIR) exercise is known to affect central and peripheral functioning. Declines in RHIR performance are exacerbated by environmental heat stress. Accordingly, the use of post-exercise cooling strategies (COOL) is recommended as it may assist recovery. The present study aimed to investigate, in a hot environment (> 30ºC), the effects of local COOL following RHIR on indices of soccer kicking movement and performance in youth soccer. Fifteen academy under-17 players (16.27 ± 0.86 years-old; all post-PHV), acting as their own controls, participated. In #Experiment 1, players completed an all-out RHIR protocol (10 × 30 m bouts interspersed with 30 s intervals). In #Experiment 2, the same players performed the same running protocol under two conditions, 1) 5 minutes of COOL where ice packs were applied to the quadriceps and hamstrings regions and, 2) a control condition involving only passive resting. In both experiments, perceptual measures [ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), pain and recovery], thigh temperature and kick-derived video kinematics (hip, knee, ankle and foot) and performance (ball speed and placement) were collected at baseline and post exercise and intervention. In the first experiment, RHIR led to moderate-to-large increases (p < 0.03) in RPE (d = 4.08), ankle eversion/inversion angle (d = 0.78) and mean radial error (d = 1.50) and small-to-large decreases (p < 0.04) in recovery (d = -1.83) and average/peak ball speeds (d = -0.42–-0.36). In the second experiment RPE (p < 0.01; Kendall’s W = 0.30) and mean radial error (p = 0.057; η2 = 0.234) increased only post-control. Significant small declines in ball speed were also observed only post-control (p < 0.05; d = 0.35). Post-intervention CMfoot velocity was moderately faster in COOL as compared to control (p = 0.04; d = 0.60). RHIR acutely impaired kicking movement, ball speed and placement in youth soccer players. However, a short period of local cryotherapy may be beneficial in counteracting declines in indices of kicking performance in hot environment.Trial registration number#RBR-8prx2m - ReBEC Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry

BACKGROUND: The burnout syndrome can be avoided and/or have its signs and symptoms reduced by knowing the five associated factors that help identify the health and working conditions of the professors of graduate programs. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the factors associated with burnout among faculty members of graduate stricto sensu programs. DESIGN AND SETTING: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 585 faculty members of Graduate Programs in Language Teaching and Linguistics in Brazil. METHODS: Data were collected through an online questionnaire. The outcomes were the dimensions of burnout and its related factors identified through multiple templates of logistic regression. RESULTS: Faculty members with increased chances of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization mentioned the use of medications due to labor activities. The negative influence of pace and intensity of work, thoughts about quitting the program, and having to produce three or more scientific articles were associated with higher chances of emotional exhaustion, while having to achieve nine hours per week in undergraduate programs was related to reduced personal accomplishment. Having a conjugal relationship, satisfaction with health and work, post-doctoral degree, autonomy, and good interpersonal relationships with faculty members of the program reduced the chances of emotional exhaustion. Reduced chances of depersonalization occurred among those who were satisfied with work, had good interpersonal relationships with advisees and faculty members, and received productivity funding. CONCLUSION: Sociodemographic, health, and occupational factors related to the dimensions of burnout were identified.

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T02:47:57Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-01-01 Aim: The main purpose of the study was to investigate kicking kinematics and performance in young-trained soccer players according to age, playing status, and biological maturity.Methods: Youth male soccer players (N = 105) from five age groups (under-11, under-13, under-15, under-17, and under-20) were evaluated. Four digital video cameras (300 Hz) captured the participants’ lower extremity and ball kinematics during penalty kick trials using dominant limb.Results: It was possible to identify non-linear differences in angular joint kinematics (displacement and velocity) of hip, knee and ankle across age-groups. Kicked ball speed and lower extremity mechanical factors discriminated among under-15 players with distinct status (e.g., ball speed and foot-to-ball speed ratio: starters > non-starters and non-participating substitutes; effect size = 1.05 to 1.49 [large]). Estimated maturity offset was not correlated with performance outputs in any age-group (r = −0.28 to 0.39; P > 0.05).Conclusion: We conclude that from ages ~10 to 19 years, differences in kicking kinematics and performance vary across time in youth players. Transition phase between under-13 to under-15 appears the most sensible period for powerful instep kick performance development. Kicking speed in youth soccer is discriminated according to player status, but not estimated biological maturity. LaBioCoM Biomechanics and Motor Control Laboratory School of Physical Education and Sport Campus Ribeirão Preto University of São Paulo FMRP Faculty of Medicine at Ribeirão Preto University of São Paulo MOVI-LAB Human Movement Research Laboratory School of Sciences Physical Education Department UNESP São Paulo State University Laboratory of Neuromechanics Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences of Serres Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Department of Sports Center of Physical Education and Sports (CEFD) Federal University of Espírito Santo LIB Laboratory of Instrumentation for Biomechanics FEF Faculty of Physical Education UNICAMP MOVI-LAB Human Movement Research Laboratory School of Sciences Physical Education Department UNESP São Paulo State University

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T10:15:02Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-01-01 The study aimed to verify possible associations between game-play running performance and outcomes derived from fitness (running) tests in female futsal players. Sixteen women professional elite futsal players from a 1 stdivision league team (19.2±2 years-old, 4.3±2.1 years of experience) participated. Firstly, a graded incremental treadmill test was adopted to determine maximal oxygen uptake (VO 2max). Following 72 h of laboratory protocol, players were asked to perform a repeated-sprint test on a court (8×40 m with two 180° change-of-directions). Twenty-four hours after, players participated in a one-off friendly game (two 20-min half-times). A computerized automatic image recognition software (DVIDEOW; 30 Hz) allowed to determine game running performance variables. Fatigue index and best time in the court test and VO 2maxand its attached speed derived from laboratory-based test showed significant moderate-to-moderately high correlations (r=- 0.59-0.76; p

Neste artigo, realiza-se uma contextualização acerca da concepção do Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Barcelona (MACBA), enfatizando-se a gestão de Manuel Borja-Villel (1998-2008) como diretor, em que foram realizadas experimentações institucionais que visaram a aproximar o Museu, a cidade e a comunidade. Em seguida, é analisada a gestão de seu sucessor, Bartomeu Marí (2008-2015), a fim de verificarmos, a respeito da construção de uma “cultura institucional”, a proposição dessas experimentações institucionais no museu. Avalia-se, por um lado, a possibilidade de que a sustentação de proposições desse tipo esteja ancorada em figuras de diretores específicos. De outro, cabe questionarmos se as estruturas internas à instituição poderiam determinar e cercear a autonomia dos diretores em casos de eventuais conflitos de interesses.

The aim of this study was to systematically review the current literature that has investigated the relationships between anthropometric and physical fitness characteristics and match-play running ...

As normas regulamentadoras oferecem diretrizes às empresas para execução do trabalho, inclusive para a área de segurança. O objetivo foi descrever fatores de risco psicossocial percebidos por trabalhadores atuantes em espaços confinados. Estudo qualitativo, conduzido por meio de entrevistas com 50 trabalhadores. Os dados foram processados, segundo classificação hierárquica descendente, pelo software Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires. O modelo de gestão de riscos psicossociais, identificou cinco dimensões de risco distribuídas nas categorias de contexto e conteúdo do trabalho: relacionamento interpessoal (29,58%), planejamento de tarefas (23,50%), papel na organização (17,83%), interface casa-trabalho (15,10%) e carga e ritmo de trabalho (13,97%). Os fatores de risco identificados, na perspectiva dos trabalhadores, possibilitam a revisão de práticas de avaliação psicossocial, gestão e o avanço no conhecimento científico, importantes para subsidiar tomadas de decisão para o cuidado à saúde mental de profissionais atuantes em espaços confinados. Las normas de reglamentación contienen lineamientos de ejecución de trabajo para las empresas, incluso para el área de seguridad. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los factores de riesgo psicosocial percibidos por los trabajadores que actúan en espacios confinados. Este estudio es cualitativo, en que se aplicaron entrevistas a 50 trabajadores. Los datos fueron procesados, según la clasificación jerárquica descendiente, por el programa Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires. El modelo de gestión de riesgos psicosociales identificó cinco dimensiones de riesgo, distribuidas en las categorías de contexto y contenido del trabajo: relación interpersonal (29,58%); planificación de tareas (23,5%); papel en la organización (17,83%); interface casa-trabajo (15,1%); y carga y ritmo de trabajo (13,97%). Los factores de riesgo identificados por los trabajadores posibilitan la revisión de prácticas de evaluación psicosocial, gestión y avance en el conocimiento científico, importantes elementos para repensar la toma de decisión en la atención a la salud mental de profesionales que actúan en espacios confinados. The recommendation of standards for companies supports the safety of workers. This study aimed to describe the psychosocial risk factors perceived by personnel that work in confined spaces. Qualitative study, conducted via interviews with 50 employees. Data were processed using the Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires software, with a descending hierarchical classification. The psychosocial risk management model identified five risk dimensions and described the interface between the categories of work context and content: interpersonal relationships (29.58%), task planning (23.50%), role in the organization (17.83%), home-work interface (15.10%), and workload and work pace (13.97%). The risk factors identified from the workers’' perspective allow reviewing psychosocial assessment, management practices, and the advancement of scientific knowledge, essential to rethink current legislation and mental health care for professionals that work in confined spaces.

Respiratory tract infections represent the main cause of death from infectious diseases worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 infection (i.e. COVID-19) added to the existing global burden of respiratory tract infections, including tuberculosis. Among nanomaterials for fabric functionalization, graphene, in combination with hydrophobic molecules such as phytochemicals, represents a promising low-cost alternative to antibiotics. In this work, we used graphene and curcumin to create fabric coatings on cotton and polyester for the production of personal protective equipment resistant to infective agents. These coatings ensure the trapping of microorganisms via interaction with SARS-CoV-2 or mycobacteria surface and inhibit microbial infections.

Graphene Oxide has been proposed as a potential adjuvant to develop improved anti-TB treatment, thanks to its activity in entrapping mycobacteria in the extracellular compartment limiting their entry in macrophages. Indeed, when administered together with linezolid, Graphene Oxide significantly enhanced bacterial killing due to the increased production of Reactive Oxygen Species. In this work, we evaluated Graphene Oxide toxicity and its anti-mycobacterial activity on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Our data show that Graphene Oxide, different to what is observed in macrophages, does not support the clearance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in human immune primary cells, probably due to the toxic effects of the nano-material on monocytes and CD4+ lymphocytes, which we measured by cytometry. These findings highlight the need to test GO and other carbon-based nanomaterials in relevant in vitro models to assess the cytotoxic activity while measuring antimicrobial potential.

Even though Everolimus has been investigated in a phase II randomized trial as a host-directed therapy (HDT) to treat tuberculosis (TB), an oncological patient treated with Everolimus for a neuroendocrine pancreatic neoplasia developed active TB twice and a non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection in a year and a half time span. To investigate this interesting case, we isolated and genotypically characterized the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) clinical strain from the patient and tested the effect of Everolimus on its viability in an axenic culture and in a peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMCs) infection model. To exclude strain-specific resistance, we tested the activity of Everolimus against Mtb strains of ancient and modern lineages. Furthermore, we investigated the Everolimus effect on ROS production and autophagy modulation during Mtb infection. Everolimus did not have a direct effect on mycobacteria viability and a negligible effect during Mtb infection in host cells, although it stimulated autophagy and ROS production. Despite being a biologically plausible HDT against TB, Everolimus does not exert a direct or indirect activity on Mtb. This case underlines the need for a careful approach to drug repurposing and implementation and the importance of pre-clinical experimental studies.

O Pantanal e considerado uma das maiores areas umidas no interior do continente Sul-Americano e, ao passar por ciclos anuais de inundacao, sua extensa area e colonizada por especies adaptadas aos diversos ambientes, que variam desde terrestres, sazonalmente alagados e aquaticos. Considerando que as variaveis pedologicas, geomorfologicas e o regime hidrico influenciam diretamente no desenvolvimento da comunidade vegetal, este estudo investigou os primeiros 20 cm do solo como fator de diferenciacao de fitofisionomias nas unidades da paisagem do Pantanal do Abobral, estado do Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Foram coletadas amostras simples (0-20 cm) de solo, com cinco repeticoes, em cada unidade de paisagem (Geoambientes), realizando-se analises fisicas e quimicas. Na Cordilheira, ambiente levemente elevado e livre de inundacao, ha presenca de solo naturalmente fertil e basico, que suporta o estabelecimento de floresta semidecidua com sub-bosque. Na planicie de inundacao, no Corixo, ha presenca de mata ciliar sobre solo com caracteristicas redutoras; na Lagoa Intermitente a constante saturacao hidrica favorece vegetacao tolerante a inundacao e macrofitas aquaticas; enquanto o Campo com Cambara, porcao sazonalmente alagada, apresentou a menor fertilidade natural, sendo recoberto por gramineas e processo inicial de colonizacao por Vochysia divergens (Myrtales, Vochysiaceae). O estudo demonstrou que as descontinuidades da paisagem e nas formacoes vegetais sao correlacionadas as caracteristicas fisicas e quimicas dos solos, provando serem um dos principais estratificadores do ambiente, ao lado do nivel do lencol freatico, sempre proximo a superficie, caracteristica marcante do Pantanal. EDAPHIC GRADIENT AND PHYTOPHYSIOGNOMIES OF PANTANAL DO ABOBRAL, BRAZIL. Pantanal is considered one of the largest wetlands inside South America continent. Through the seasonally flood cycles, Pantanal landscape changes in terrestrial, seasonally flooded and aquatic environments, and is colonized by aquatic and terrestrial species. Pedological and geomorphological factors, as well as the water table fluctuation, directly determine plants communities. Thus, this paper investigated the upper soil layer (depth 0-20 cm) as a phytophysiognomies differentiation factor inside Pantanal do Abobral, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Soil samples were collected (0-20 cm), in replicates of five, in each of four different landscape units (here called Geoenvironments) and analyzed for physical and chemical properties. At Cordilheira, slightly higher landscape unit and non-flooded area, occurs natural fertile and basic soil, which supports semi deciduous forest with scrub woodland. At seasonally flooded Geoenvironments, Corixo (periodic river channel) reported riparian forest over soil with reduction characteristics; Lagoa Intermitente (periodic lake) is frequently flooded and colonized by flood tolerant vegetation and macrophytes; and Campo com Cambara, natural grassland periodically waterlogged, had lower fertility and initial colonization by Vochysia divergens (Myrtales, Vochysiaceae). The present study showed that the Pantanal do Abobral discontinuous landscape and vegetation are correlated to superficial edaphic characteristics, proving that soil, is one of the main environmental stratification factors, together with water table, always close to the surface, a striking feature of Pantanal.

A análise de jogo é caracterizada pelo estudo do treino e da competição, de modo a quantificar e qualificar a efetividade das suas ações, em todos os seus aspectos (e.g., tático-técnico-físico). É usada frequentemente em esportes coletivos para obtenção de informações objetivas sobre o desempenho dos jogadores e equipes, podendo auxiliar os treinadores no planejamento de sessões de treinamento mais representativas das demandas reais do jogo. Diversos fatores podem interferir no desempenho de uma equipe ou jogador, tais como as denominadas “variáveis contextuais”. O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar os efeitos do mando de jogo, nível competitivo e resultado momentâneo sobre o pico de demanda física em jogos do Campeonato Catarinense e Copa do Brasil de 2021. Os dados de desempenho da corrida em jogo foram monitorados em 22 jogadores profissionais de futebol da categoria masculina durante duas competições: 1ª Divisão do Campeonato Catarinense de 2021, 1ª e 2ª Fase da Copa do Brasil de 2021. Os resultados encontrados mostram que os jogos realizados fora de casa apresentaram maior pico de distância total percorrida em comparação aos jogos em casa (p < 0,05). Em relação ao nível competitivo, não foram observadas diferenças significantes (p > 0,05). Nas análises dos resultados momentâneos, verificou-se que quando a equipe analisada estava ganhando a partida, os resultados de pico de distância total percorrida foram menores em comparação à quando a equipe estava perdendo. Conclui-se que partidas fora de casa e quando o resultado momentâneo é a derrota, promovem maiores exigências físicas aos jogadores. Os treinadores, portanto, podem usar essas informações para prescrever sessões de treinamento mais eficazes que contemplem as exigências reais do jogo.

Companies that work in the decommissioning of platforms need tools to make smarter and informed business decisions, manage and analyse business data, increase the security of workers and operate under strict environmental protection regulations. INSURE aims at assessing the feasibility of a new service to support the decommissioning of offshore installations by means of technological innovation made available throughout each process’ step. In order to accomplish this, the project gathers high-impact Italian companies bringing together the best applicable technological and scientific know-how. INSURE foresees to combine these know-hows and create a novel tool at the service of the industry to promote a better and safer approach to the operations. Targets of the INSURE project are improving workers’ safety, enhancing environmental monitorings, increasing operations’ efficiency, reducing operational costs, offering a route for future sustainability. Project targets can be achieved through the realisation of an augmented virtual reality platform (AVRP) that will be operated in support of the decommissioning process where the data acquired/transmitted by a plurality of sensors will converge. A fleet control tool integrates information from sensors installed on autonomous aerial and underwater vehicles making use of the Global Satellite Navigation Systems (GSNS) and Satellite Communications (SatCom). The convergence of top-notch technologies (augmented/virtual reality, 3D, robotics, sensors, 5G and Satellite services), together with a cloud of infrastructure, enables a fast and complete access to real-time data at very high resolution. The proposal aims to bring the actual data and information access from the Internet of Things to the Internet of Knowledge paradigm. Confrontation with national and international possible end-users produced a set of user requirements guiding the design of a feasibility study for the realisation of one specific product. The study also includes the evaluation of economic, non-economic viability and possible regulatory constraints to its realisation. The INSURE feasibility study creates the intellectual background for the further step of the process: the realisation and development of a pilot project tailored for the purpose. This combined use of novel technologies represents an innovative integrated approach applied to the management of offshore structures undergoing decommissioning or reconfiguration for other purposes. In addition, it also involves the promotion of sustainable opportunities for commercial, social and educational exploitation of areas and assets (including, for example, the ambit of eco-tourism, renewable energies, carbon capture and storage).

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Background: Velocity and acceleration have been highlighted as the most critical variables in soccer. However, there is a consensus gap in defining different levels of effort. Aim: The purpose of this systematic review is to identify if it is a consensus in those articles that proposed a threshold to establish (i) movement intensity at different velocities using tracking systems and (ii) accelerations using inertial measurement units, classifying the justification methods. Method: A systematic review of Cochrane Library, EBSCO, PubMed, Scielo, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: Of the 1983 studies initially identified, 39 were thoroughly reviewed, and their outcome measures were extracted and analyzed. Conclusion: The 40-m maximal linear sprint and physical fitness tests are the most commonly used methods to generate speed and acceleration thresholds in soccer. However, there is substantial heterogeneity in locomotor test procedures and workload zones established from these performance data. Studies diverged when considering the use of individualized thresholds. The low sampling rate (≤ 10 Hz) in the publications calculating acceleration and deceleration demands should also be interpreted cautiously. The present study collected evidence to help professionals process and interpret external load data. More interventional work is needed to confirm the value of fitness-based individualizations.