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Physical activity levels during skilled nursing facility (SNF) rehabilitation fall far below what is needed for successful community living and to prevent adverse events. This feasibility study's purpose was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of an intervention designed to improve physical activity in patients admitted to SNFs for short-term rehabilitation. High-Intensity Rehabilitation plus Mobility combined a high-intensity (i.e., high weight, low repetition), progressive (increasing in difficulty over time), and functional resistance rehabilitation intervention with a behavioral economics-based physical activity program. The behavioral economics component included five mobility sessions/week with structured goal setting, gamification, and loss aversion (the idea that people are more likely to change a behavior in response to a potential loss over a potential gain). SNF physical therapists, occupational therapists, and a mobility coach implemented the High-Intensity Rehabilitation plus Mobility protocol with older Veterans (n = 18) from a single SNF. Participants demonstrated high adherence to the mobility protocol and were highly satisfied with their rehabilitation. Treatment fidelity scores for clinicians were ≥95%. We did not observe a hypothesized 40% improvement in step counts or time spent upright. However, High-Intensity Rehabilitation plus Mobility participants made clinically important improvements in short physical performance battery scores and gait speed from admission to discharge that were qualitatively similar to or slightly higher than historical cohorts from the same SNF that had received usual care or high-intensity rehabilitation alone. These results suggest a structured physical activity program can be feasibly combined with high-intensity rehabilitation for SNF residents following a hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To culturally adapt and validate the Italian version of the Shoulder Instability—Return to Sport after Injury (SI-RSI-I) scale. Methods: The SI-RSI-I was developed by adapting the Anterior Cruciate Ligament—Return to Sport Index—Italian version and replacing the term "knee" with "shoulder." Subsequently, it underwent validation following COSMIN recommendations. The study involved athletic participants who experienced SI. They completed the SI-RSI-I together with other measurement instruments: Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index, Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic Score, EuroQol-5D-5L, and Numeric Pain Rating Scale. The following psychometric properties were investigated: structural validity, internal consistency, test–retest reliability, measurement error, and construct validity. Results: The study included 101 participants (age mean [SD] 28.5 [7.4] y; 83 males, 18 females). The SI-RSI-I showed a single-factor structure, excellent internal consistency (α =.935), and excellent test–retest reliability (ICC =.926; 95% CI,.853–.964). The standard error of measurement was 6.1 points, and the minimal detectable change was 17.0 points. Furthermore, SI-RSI-I demonstrated moderate to strong correlations with all reference scales, confirming 8 out of 9 (88.0%) hypotheses, thus establishing satisfactory construct validity. Conclusion: The SI-RSI-I has demonstrated robust internal consistency, reliability, validity, and feasibility as a valuable scale for assessing psychological readiness to return to sport in Italian athletes with SI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Horizontal hops can provide insight into how athletes can tolerate high-intensity single-leg stretch loads and are commonly used in athlete monitoring and injury management. Variables like flight, contact, and total time provide valuable diagnostic information to sports science professionals. However, gold-standard assessment tools (eg, 3-dimensional motion capture, force plates) require monetary and technological resources. Therefore, we used a tablet and free software to determine the between-rater, within-rater, and test–retest variability of the temporal events of multiple horizontal hop tests. Design: Reliability study. Methods: Nine healthy males (20.8 [1.3] y, 71.4 [9.8] kg, 171.7 [4.5] cm) across various university sports teams and clubs volunteered and performed several triple (3-Hop) and quintuple (5-Hop) horizontal hops over 3 testing sessions. Six raters detected temporal events from video to determine between-rater variability, while a single rater quantified within-session and test–retest variability. The temporal variables of flight time, ground contact time for each individual hop, and the total time of each hoping series were determined. The consistency of measures was interpreted using the coefficient of variation and interclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Results: Good to excellent between-rater consistency was observed for all hops (ICC =.85–1.00). Absolute (coefficient of variation ≤ 2.0%) and relative consistency (ICC =.98–1.00) was excellent. Test–retest variability showed acceptable levels of absolute consistency (coefficient of variation ≤ 8.7%) and good to excellent consistency in 10/16 variables (ICC =.81–.93), especially those later in the hopping cycle. Conclusions: A tablet and free digitizing software are reliable in detecting temporal events during multiple horizontal hops, which could have exciting implications for power diagnostics and return-to-play decisions. Therefore, rehabilitation and performance professionals can confidently utilize the highly accessible equipment from this study to track multiple hop performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: To stabilize the humeral head within the glenoid fossa during arm elevation, the rotator cuff muscles may contribute through internal and external rotation. The main purpose of the current study was to compare the acromiohumeral distance between athletes with primary subacromial impingement syndrome who received progressive resistance exercises consisting of either shoulder internal or external rotation. Design: A randomized and controlled clinical study. Methods: Thirty athletes with primary subacromial impingement syndrome were enrolled and randomly divided into 2 experimental groups. The progressive resistance exercise protocol in experimental group I comprised shoulder internal rotation, while in experimental group II consisted of shoulder external rotation. The experimental groups worked out 3 days a week for 6 weeks. The experimental groups were compared with the control group consisting of 15 healthy athletes. The acromiohumeral distance was measured before and after the intervention using an ultrasound machine under the passive and active across no arm elevation and 45°of arm elevation. Results: The acromiohumeral distance significantly increased in both experimental groups under the passive and active arm positions following the intervention (P <.001), with no significant differences detected between the experimental groups (P >.665). The paired comparisons of the acromiohumeral distance discrepancy indicated a significant difference between the control group and each experimental group under the active and passive arm positions (P <.001), while no significant difference was observed between the experimental groups (P >.999). Conclusions: The present study revealed, for the first time, that both progressive resistance exercise protocols involving either the shoulder internal or the external rotation increased the acromiohumeral distance in individuals with primary subacromial impingement syndrome and improved associated pain and disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different whitening toothpastes on color change and alteration in enamel surface roughness and microhardness compared to a conventional toothpaste. Method and materials: Fifty bovine incisors were selected, cleaned, and stored before being divided into five groups: a conventional toothpaste group and three whitening toothpaste groups containing different abrasive agents: silica, hydrogen peroxide, and activated charcoal. Specimens underwent simulated brushing, staining with black tea solution, and subsequent analyses of color, surface roughness, and microhardness. Statistical analysis was performed using three-way ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc tests (P < .05). Results: The results showed that the color analysis revealed similar whitening potential among all toothpastes. They showed significant differences in surface roughness (P < .001) and microhardness (P < .001) after simulated brushing. While all toothpastes caused a decrease in microhardness, the charcoal-based toothpaste showed a significant increase in surface roughness compared to the initial condition. Conclusion: All toothpastes demonstrated whitening capability. Surface roughness changed after brushing with activated charcoal-based whitening toothpaste, but final roughness was similar across all groups. Whitening toothpastes led to a decrease in enamel microhardness, with similar final performance across all toothpastes analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research interest in thriving at work has burgeoned over the past decades, but little is known about how human resource (HR) practices affect employees' thriving at work. Drawing upon self‐determination theory and person‐organization fit theory, we developed and tested a moderated mediation model to explain how fun HR practices influence employees' thriving at work. The results of two studies, a scenario experiment (N = 164) and a time‐lagged survey (N = 253), supported our hypotheses. Specifically, the findings revealed that fun HR practices relates positively to employees' thriving at work. Autonomous motivation partially mediates the abovementioned relationship. Furthermore, fun HR practices translate into higher autonomous motivation and subsequent thriving at work for employees with higher preference for workplace fun. Our research contributes to the existing literature by identifying fun HR practices as an antecedent of thriving at work and revealing the psychological mechanisms through which fun HR practices affect employees' thriving at work. The practical implications, limitations, and future research avenues are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The persistence and the recurrence of posterior medial knee pain (PKP) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hamstring tendon graft are often overlooked during rehabilitation. Design: Cross-sectional observational study. Methods: The study aimed (1) to evaluate the prevalence of these types of PKP before 4 months post-ACLR, (2) to measure their consequences on the knee flexors strength, and (3) to evaluate the role of the type of ACLR. From a cohort of patients operated on with hamstring tendon procedures, the persistent and the recurrent PKP were sought at 4 months post-ACLR. The evolution of isokinetic muscle strength recovery in PKP subjects was compared with those of nonpainful subjects. The functional deficit was measured at 6/7 months post-ACLR by a hop test. Results: Three hundred seventeen subjects (25.8 [6.0] y) were included. At 4 months post-ACLR, 2 populations were identified based on the recurrent onset of PKP (PKP+, n = 40) or the absence of knee pain (PKP−, n = 277). The prevalence of PKP was 8.3%. At the fourth month post-ACLR, the PKP+ group had a higher flexor strength deficit compared with the PKP− group (limb symmetry index at 60°/s: 67.2% [12.4%] vs 84.3% [12.6%]; P <.05). At 6/7 months, the loss of strength persisted (limb symmetry index at 60°/s: 82.3% [13.4%] vs 87.7% [12.8%]; P <.05). The hop test deficit was comparable, and no difference was shown according to the type of graft. Conclusions: Persistent and recurrent PKP during the rehabilitation period were not uncommon and were associated with a worsening of flexors strength loss on the ACLR side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbohydrate (CHO) supplementation during endurance exercise can improve performance. However, it is unclear whether low glycemic index (GI) CHO leads to differential ergogenic and metabolic effects compared with a standard high GI CHO. This study investigated the ergogenic and metabolic effects of CHO supplementation with distinct GIs, namely, (a) trehalose (30 g/hr), (b) isomaltulose (30 g/hr), (c) maltodextrin (60 g/hr), and (d) placebo (water). In this double-blind, crossover, counterbalanced, placebo-controlled study, 13 male cyclists cycled a total of 100 min at varied exercise intensity (i.e., 10-min stages at 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 W/kg; repeated three times plus two 5-min stages at 1.0 W/kg before and after the protocol), followed by a 20-min time trial on four separated occasions. Blood glucose and lactate (every 20 min), heart rate, and ratings of perceived exertion were collected throughout, and muscle biopsies were taken before and immediately after exercise. The results showed that trehalose improved time-trial performance compared with placebo (total work done 302 ± 39 vs. 287 ± 48 kJ; p =.01), with no other differences between sessions (all p ≥.07). Throughout the 100-min protocol, blood glucose was higher with maltodextrin compared with the other supplements at all time points (all p <.05). Heart rate, ratings of perceived exertion, muscle glycogen content, blood glucose, and lactate were not different between conditions when considering the 20-min time trial (all p >.05). Trehalose supplementation throughout endurance exercise improved cycling performance and appears to be an appropriate CHO source for exercise tasks up to 2 hr. No ergogenic superiority between the different types of CHO was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been an increase in the use of commercially available multi-ingredient preworkout supplements (MIPS); however, there are inconsistencies regarding the efficacy of MIPS in resistance-trained women. Purpose: To determine the effect of varying doses of MIPS compared with caffeine only (C) and a placebo (PL) on resistance-training performance in trained women. Methods: Ten women (21.5 [2.3] y) completed 1-repetition-maximum tests at baseline for leg press and bench press. A within-group, double-blind, and randomized design was used to assign supplement drinks (ie, PL, C, MIPS half scoop [MIPS-H], and MIPS full scoop [MIPS-F]). Repetitions to failure were assessed at 75% and 80% to 85% of 1-repetition maximum for bench and leg press, respectively. Total performance volume was calculated as load × sets × repetitions for each session. Data were analyzed using a 1-way repeated-measures analysis of variance and reported as means and SDs. Results: There were no differences in repetitions to failure for bench press (PL: 14.4 [3.2] repetitions, C: 14.4 [2.9] repetitions, MIPS-H: 14.2 [2.6] repetitions, MIPS-F: 15.1 [3.1] repetitions; P =.54) or leg press (PL: 13.9 [7.8] repetitions, C: 10.8 [5.9] repetitions, MIPS-H: 13.1 [7.1] repetitions, MIPS-F: 12.4 [10.7] repetitions; P =.44). Furthermore, there were no differences in total performance volume across supplements for bench press (PL: 911.2 [212.8] kg, C: 910.7 [205.5] kg, MIPS-H: 913.6 [249.3] kg, MIPS-F: 951.6 [289.6] kg; P =.39) or leg press (PL: 4318.4 [1633.6] kg, C: 3730.0 [1032.5] kg, MIPS-H: 4223.0 [1630.0] kg, MIPS-F: 4085.5 [2098.3] kg; P =.34). Conclusions: Overall, our findings suggest that caffeine and MIPS do not provide ergogenic benefits for resistance-trained women in delaying muscular failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of continuous perioperative clopidogrel treatment on the osseointegration of titanium implants. Materials and Methods: A total of 32 New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided between two groups: a clopidogrel group (n = 16) and a control group (n = 16). For 1 week prior to the surgical placement of a titanium implant in their medial femoral condyle, rabbits in the clopidogrel group received 3 mg/kg of clopidogrel daily, and the control group received only the vehicle. This treatment was continued for another 6 weeks postoperatively. At 6 weeks, the rabbits were euthanized and postmortem histologic and histomorphometric evaluation of the implants was performed. Results: The surgical procedures and postoperative period were uneventful and well tolerated by all animals without any surgical wound dehiscence, signs of infection, or other complication. No implant failure was observed in any of the groups. Histomorphometric analysis showed that bone-to-implant contact (BIC) was 48.77% for the clopidogrel group and 34.65% for the control group, with statistically significant difference between them (P < .001). Moreover, clopidogrel group had significantly greater bone tissue density (40.52% vs 28.74%, respectively; P <.001) and mean trabecular thickness (284.7 μm vs 180.7 μm, respectively; P < .001) in proximity to the implant surface than the control group, while the mean trabecular number had no difference between groups (1.56 vs 1.60, respectively; P = .961). Conclusions: The present study showed that continuous clopidogrel treatment does not negatively affect osseointegration, but rather promotes it in terms of BIC and bone density around the titanium implants. Further studies on the effect of the P2Y12 receptor and its antagonists on peri-implant bone homeostasis may provide useful information or applications for long-term success of dental implant therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In general, COVID-19-related adaptations that transitioned in-person assessments and interventions to a virtual format were not routinely evaluated. We aimed to conduct a process evaluation to examine the impact of COVID-19-related adaptations on a behavior change intervention designed to increase exercise adherence among Veterans with mobility difficulty. We used secondary data from a nonrandomized study to complete a process evaluation examining the intervention's reach, recruitment, fidelity, dose delivered by physical therapists, and the dose received by the 14 participating Veterans. The physical therapist delivered 95% (133/140) of the study's 10 sessions. Sessions with the lowest delivery dose included Sessions 1 and 10 (86%; n = 12/14). The elements with the lowest dose received included using an exercise journal and developing a postintervention plan (86%; n = 12/14). Our COVID-19 adaptations allowed us to provide our intervention to the majority (67%) of eligible participants without a negative impact on fidelity, dose delivered, or dose received. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although running traditionally relies on critical speed (CS) as an indicator of critical intensity, portable inertial measurement units offer a potential solution for estimating running mechanical power to assess critical power (CP) in runners. The purpose of this study was to determine whether CS and CP differ when assessed using the Stryd device, a portable inertial measurement unit, and if 2 running bouts are sufficient to determine CS and CP. Methods: On an outdoor running track, 10 trained runners ( V ˙ O 2 max , 59.0 [4.2] mL·kg−1·min−1) performed 3 running time trials (TT) between 1200 and 4400 m on separate days. CS and CP were derived from 2-parameter hyperbolic speed–time and power–time models, respectively, using 2 (CS2TT and CP2TT) and 3 (CS3TT and CP3TT) TTs. Subsequently, runners performed constant-intensity running for 800 m at their calculated CS3TT and CP3TT. Results: Running at the calculated CS3TT speed (3.88 [0.44] m·s−1) elicited an average Stryd running power (271 [28] W) not different from the calculated CP3TT (270 [28]; P =.940; d = 0.02), with excellent agreement between the 2 values (intraclass correlation coefficient =.980). The CS2TT (3.97 [0.42] m·s−1) was not higher than CS3TT (3.89 [0.44] m·s−1; P =.178; d = 0.46); however, CP2TT (278 [29] W) was greater than CP3TT (P =.041; d = 0.75). Conclusion: The running intensities at CS and CP were similar, supporting the use of running power (Stryd) as a metric of aerobic fitness and exercise prescription, and 2 trials provided a reasonable, albeit higher, estimate of CS and CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to a financial crisis, many organizations adjust their pay systems to reduce labor costs. In this research, we focus on the use of delayed pay (the postponement of employees' contractual compensation) and examine its effect on employee voluntary turnover outcomes. In a field study (Study 1) with data collected from the executive managers of 129 Chinese hotels experiencing a financial crisis caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), we find a positive relationship between delayed pay and the voluntary turnover rate at the organizational level. In addition, this relationship becomes weaker when delayed pay consists of a larger proportion of pay‐for‐performance (PFP). We then conduct an experiment (Study 2) to extend our theoretical framework to the individual level, establish causality, and examine the underlying mechanism. The results show that the perceived negative instrumentality of stay (i.e., expected economic losses associated with staying in an organization) explains why individuals intend to leave organizations adopting delayed base pay but not delayed PFP. We further replicate these findings in a critical incident technique study (Study 3). We also discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contributes to the diversity literature by probing whether diversity papers are cited as frequently as nondiversity papers in management and industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology journals. Based on the stigma‐by‐association theory, I argue that as a result of their association with minority groups, diversity papers may be devalued and thus "othered" by scholars. Using a citation analysis of 46,930 papers published in 29 peer‐reviewed management and I/O psychology journals, I present empirical evidence in Study 1 that diversity papers were cited significantly less frequently than nondiversity papers. The authors' gender and institutional prestige, journal tier and domain, and year of publication were not moderators. In Study 2, I used a scenario experiment to demonstrate the stigma‐by‐association effect. The authors' gender demonstrated a significant moderating effect in this experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increasing body of research on algorithmic management (AM), but the field lacks measurement tools to capture workers' experiences of this phenomenon. Based on existing literature, we developed and validated the algorithmic management questionnaire (AMQ) to measure the perceptions of workers regarding their level of exposure to AM. Across three samples (overall n = 1332 gig workers), we show the content, factorial, discriminant, convergent, and predictive validity of the scale. The final 20‐item scale assesses workers' perceived level of exposure to algorithmic: monitoring, goal setting, scheduling, performance rating, and compensation. These dimensions formed a higher order construct assessing overall exposure to algorithmic management, which was found to be, as expected, negatively related to the work characteristics of job autonomy and job complexity and, indirectly, to work engagement. Supplementary analyses revealed that perceptions of exposure to AM reflect the objective presence of AM dimensions beyond individual variations in exposure. Overall, the results suggest the suitability of the AMQ to assess workers' perceived exposure to algorithmic management, which paves the way for further research on the impacts of these rapidly accelerating systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A retrospective chart review was conducted of CBCT images captured between November 2019 and April 2021 on patients who underwent dental implant placement and had a periodontal charting. The buccal and lingual bone thickness around the implants was measured as an average of three measurements taken from the buccal and lingual aspects of implants. Implants with peri-implantitis were placed in Group 1, and implants with peri-implant mucositis or good peri-implant health were placed in Group 2. Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare the differences between the bone thicknesses of the groups. In total, 93 CBCT radiographs were screened, and 15 CBCT images with both an implant and corresponding periodontal charting were analyzed. Of the 15 implants examined, 5 presented with peri-implantitis (33%), 1 with peri-implant mucositis, and 9 with good peri-implant health. Within the limitations of this study, buccal bone thickness averaging ≥ 1.10 mm or midlingual probing depths ≥ 3.4 mm correlates with a more favorable peri-implant response. Larger studies are needed to substantiate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the effects of graded hypoxia during exhaustive intermittent cycling on subsequent rapid and maximal torque-production capacity. Methods: Fifteen well-trained cyclists repeated intermittent cycling bouts (15 s at 30% of anaerobic power reserve; rest = 45 s) until exhaustion at sea level (FiO2 ∼0.21/end-exercise arterial oxygen saturation ∼96%), moderate hypoxia (FiO2 ∼0.16/∼90%), and severe hypoxia (FiO2 ∼0.12/∼79%). Rapid (rate of torque development [RTD]) and maximal isometric torque-production capacities of the knee extensors were assessed at baseline (visit 1) and exhaustion (visits 2–4). Results: Exercise capacity decreased with hypoxia severity (39 [30], 22 [13], and 13 [6] cycle efforts in sea level, moderate hypoxia, and severe hypoxia, respectively; P =.002). Changes in maximal-voluntary-contraction torque between baseline and postexercise in all conditions were not statistically significant (pooled values: −2.6% [5.7%]; P =.162). Peak RTD measured postexercise was reduced below baseline in all conditions (–21.5% [5.1%]; P ≤.015). Compared with baseline, absolute RTD values were lower at 0- to 30-millisecond (–35.1% [5.3%], P ≤.020), 0- to 50-millisecond (–40.0% [3.9%], P ≤.002), 0- to 100-millisecond (–30.7% [3.7%], P ≤.001), and 0- to 200-millisecond (–18.1% [2.4%], P ≤.004) time intervals in all conditions. Conclusions: Exhaustive intermittent cycling induces substantial yet comparable impairments in RTD of knee extensors between normoxia and moderate to severe hypoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe individual training characteristics, racing strategies, and periodization in preparation for the Tour de France in 2 world-class road cyclists finishing in the top 5 of the general classification. Methods: Week‐by‐week power meter training and racing data of 2 (A and B) road cyclists (age: 29 and 23 y; maximum oxygen consumption: 83 and 81 mL·min−1·kg−1; and relative 20‐min record power output: 6.9 and 6.5 W·kg−1) in the preparation phase (December–July/August) leading up to the Tour de France were retrospectively analyzed. Weekly volume and intensity distribution in power zones were considered. Results: Cyclists A and B completed 46 and 19 races, 22.5 (6.3) and 18.2 (5.1) h·wk−1, with a pyramidal intensity distribution of 81.0%–13.3%–5.7%, and 88.8%–7.9%–3.3% in zone 1–zone 2–zone 3. Cyclist B spent 14 days at altitude. Increased high-intensity volume and polarization index occurred during race weeks. During periods without racing, training intensity progressively increased. Strength training was performed during November and December but not during the following months. During tapering, total exercise volume and time at high intensity decreased. Conclusion: These data provide novel insights into the periodization of world-class road cyclists in advance of a top 5 placing in the Tour de France general classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To develop a questionnaire for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients undergoing physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE) and to evaluate its content validity, structural validity, and reliability. Methodology: Seven PSSE treatment experts checked the content validity of the Patient's Perception of Scoliosis-Specific Physiotherapy Questionnaire (Physio-IS). For each Physio-IS item, the content validity indexes must be ≥ 90%. Regarding structural validity and reliability 52 adolescents (ages 10–17) with AIS completed the questionnaire. Structural validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis. Reliability was verified through internal consistency. Results: Physio-IS content was validated in three evaluation rounds, obtaining 100% expert agreement. About structural validity we identified four domains (cumulative explained variance = 68.2%): (1) specific knowledge (seven questions on understanding their scoliosis condition); (2) social repercussion (five questions about social relationship implications); (3) pain (two questions about scoliosis-associated pain); and (4) associated concern (apprehension/expectations regarding the future). The Physio-IS demonstrated very good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.76–0.92). Conclusion: The Physio-IS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing AIS patients undergoing PSSE and helping physiotherapists identify aspects requiring more attention, thus facilitating intervention strategies, as knowing the patient's perception of their condition or treatment is fundamental to AIS treatment success. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILIATION: Physio-IS is an innovative tool in the treatment of Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Physio-IS is a valid and reliable tool for the assessment of adolescents with AIS undergoing phyisiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE). The specific questionnaire can contribute to physiotherapeutic treatment decisions, allowing the physical therapist to see the patient as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Valued living (acting in accordance with personal values) is associated with better outcomes after acquired brain injury (ABI), but its measurement using the Valued Living Questionnaire (VLQ) may not be valid due to comprehension errors relating to structure and content. We aimed to modify the VLQ to improve its accessibility and evaluate construct validity and reliability in an ABI cohort. Materials and methods: Adaptations made in the VLQ – Comprehension Support version (VLQ-CS) used established communication support methods and addressed common comprehension errors. 103 community-dwelling participants (34% female; mean age 52.17, range 19–79) with ABI (66% stroke, 16% TBI, 18% other) completed the VLQ-CS, and measures of convergent (valued living, mood, wellbeing, psychological inflexibility) and divergent validity (subjective memory). Test-retest reliability was evaluated with repeated administrations 6–8 weeks apart for a subset of participants (n = 44), using Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICCs). Results: Convergent validity was supported; VLQ-CS scores were positively correlated with measures of valued living (r=.60–.65) and wellbeing (r=.64–.67), and negatively correlated with depression (r=-0.56–.58), anxiety (r=-0.35–.38) and psychological inflexibility (r=-0.37–.41). Divergent validity was marginal (r=-0.29). Test-retest reliability was good for the VLQ-CS Composite score (ICC=.80). Conclusions: The VLQ-CS shows promise as a valid, reliable measure of valued living post-ABI. Future research should extend to neurotypical and other clinical populations. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Valued living or values-based action is associated with better functional and psychosocial outcomes after acquired brain injury (ABI) and is therefore an important target for intervention. Measurement of valued living needs to be clear, easily understood, and relevant for people with cognitive and communication impairments associated with ABI and other conditions. The Valued Living Questionnaire – Comprehension Support version (VLQ-CS) was developed to optimise accessibility and reduce comprehension errors. The VLQ-CS is valid, reliable and fit-for-purpose as a measure of valued living for people with ABI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People typically enhance their online personas by sharing favourable personal information. Nevertheless, sharing of unfavourable information about oneself still occurs and is essential in some online contexts (e.g. allowing negative reviews). It remains unclear why people reveal potentially damaging information. We conducted an online experiment ($N = 462$ N = 462) to explore the effects of feedback properties and individual characteristics on online information sharing in two contexts (social and socioeconomic) where personal ratings are essential. We allowed users to conceal their personal rating if it dropped below a threshold. The context was the primary determinant of the threshold users chose. Control availability and feedback content triggered additional considerations and caused some users to change their (non)disclosure choices. However, many users relied on their priors (experience, assumptions) rather than on new information. Our findings show how people may fail to identify the impact of nondisclosure, which may signal undesirable information to others. These findings challenge the reliance on holding users solely accountable for their 'informedness' vis-à-vis disclosure of their personal information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous gamification research has explored intrinsic motivation, goal setting, and performance separately. This study bridges the gap by investigating how gamification affects intrinsic motivation and task performance, especially with varying goal difficulty levels. To address these research questions, the literature review delves into three key inquiries: (1) Are external interventions capable of affecting intrinsic motivation? (2) Gamification of PMS: Does it matter? (3) Does combining goal setting with gamification make sense? The study employs an experimental framework utilising a between-subjects design of 2 × 3. Participants are drawn from the IT sector, and they are divided into groups exposed to gamification (experimental) and those not exposed to it (control). Additionally, the study investigates the moderating role of goal difficulty by classifying participants into categories of easy, difficult, and impossible goals. The findings of this study emphasize that goals should be challenging but still achievable for gamification to effectively fulfil its intended purpose. These findings integrate the concepts of goal setting and intrinsic motivation to provide a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of gamification. The study's implications for practical application and potential avenues for future research are also explored and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To develop and psychometrically evaluate a questionnaire to assess attitudes towards invisible gender‐based violence (Q‐AIGV). Background: Invisible gender‐based violence is defined as discriminatory attitudes and beliefs towards women that are culturally accepted and normalised in society. Methodology: This is a cross‐sectional descriptive observational study. The development of the initial version of the questionnaire, a pilot study (N = 63) and a final validation study (N = 1264) were carried out. Reliability, validity, stability and readability were tested. Results: Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the Q‐AIGV is composed of 15 items distributed in three factors. Known‐groups analysis detected significant differences in two groups with different characteristics (age and relationship duration). Criterion validity indicated the existence of a moderate and significant correlation (r = 0.469; p < 0.001) between the mean score of the Q‐AIGV and the 'Scale of Attitudes towards Gender‐based Violence'. The Q‐AIGV's content validity index (CVI‐t = 0.96) and internal consistency (α = 0.906) were excellent. Conclusion: The Q‐AIGV showed very good results for reliability, validity, stability and readability. This suggests that the Q‐AIGV could be a good tool for assessing attitudes towards invisible gender‐based violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) disrupts oxygen transport due to the abnormal shape and rigidity of red blood cells, leading to hemolysis. Hemolysis, a major co-morbidity in SCD, is indicated by elevated levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Arginine depletion, which is essential for nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, contributes to various complications in SCD. L-arginine supplementation may increase NO levels and reduce oxidative stress. Research on its benefits in SCD, which is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, is limited. This study evaluates the effect of arginine supplementation on LDH levels in patients with steady state SCD. Methods: In a retrospective study, we evaluated the effect of arginine supplementation on LDH levels in a cohort of 31 patients. We divided the study into three phases: pre-HU treatment, HU treatment, and combined HU and arginine supplementation. Results: The cohort had a median age of 12 years, ranging from 2 to 43 years. Throughout all three phases of the study, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were consistently above the established normal ranges, with elevations of 216.7%, 220.3% and 176.6% above the normative values for baseline, Phase 1 (HU) and Phase 2 (HU + Arg), respectively. Specifically, LDH levels were 649.7 ± 364.2 U/L in Baseline Phase, 661.6 ± 367 U/L in Phase 1, and 529.9 ± 346.3 U/L in Phase 2. When comparing these discrete study intervals, it is noteworthy that LDH levels were significantly lower in Phase 2 compared to the previous phases (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Preliminary findings revealed a significant lower LDH levels among sickle cell patients receiving combined arginine supplementation and hydroxyurea (HU). Although these findings are promising, their credibility and applicability require further and more extensive research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic wounds present a major health challenge for patients and put considerable financial burdens on healthcare systems all over the world. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop and implement wound management strategies that enhance health-related quality of life, while effectively reducing costs for this patient population. Autologous punch grafting is emerging as a promising treatment to address these needs. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility for implementing autologous punch grafting technique in individuals with difficult-to-heal wounds. A feasibility study was conducted using an uncontrolled, non-randomised pre-post intervention design. The results indicated that autologous punch grafting technique can be effectively performed for chronic leg wounds in primary care by trained personnel. This method enhances patients' quality of life, reduces pain and promotes wound healing progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In diagnosing chronic orthopedic implant infections culture of sonicate represents a supplement to tissue cultures. However, the extent to which biofilm forms on implant surfaces and the degree of dislodgement of bacteria by sonication remains unclear. In this in vivo study using a low bacterial inoculum, we aimed to determine whether a variable effect of sonication could be observed in a standardized in vivo model. Materials and Methods: Seven Wistar rats underwent surgery with intramuscular implantation of two bone xenograft implants, each containing two steel plates. The grafts were inoculated with approximately 500 colony forming units (CFU) of Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 35984. After 20 days the rats were sacrificed, and the steel plates were removed from the bone grafts. Epifluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to visualize biofilm formation and dislodgement on the plate surfaces. In addition to cultures of sonicate, a quantitative S. epidermidis specific PCR was developed for enumeration of bacteria. Results: A chronic, low-grade implant infection was successfully established, with all animals remaining in good health. All infected bone graft implants yielded abundant growth of S. epidermidis, with a median of 3.25 (1.6–4.6) × 10⁷ CFU per/graft. We were unable to distinguish infected plates from negative controls using epifluorescence microscopy. On infected plates small colonies of staphylococci were identified by SEM. The number of bacteria detected in the sonicate was low with 500 (100–2400) CFU/plate and 475 (140–1821) copies/plate by qPCR. The difference in area covered by fluorescent material before and after sonication was 10.1 (5.7–12.3) %, p = 0.018. Conclusion: Despite the pronounced infection in the surrounding tissue, only few bacteria were detected on the surface of the steel implants. This is evident from the minimal findings by SEM before sonication, as well as the very low CFU counts and DNA copies in the sonicate. Sonication did not show variable effectiveness, indicating it is a valuable addition to, but not a replacement for biopsy cultures in cases of implant-associated infections with low-virulence microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To develop an empathy scale to measure the empathy in nurses. Materials and methods: The sample of the study were collected between March and May in 2023 from 720 nurses working in private and state hospitals in İstanbul. Both exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were carried out. IBM SPSS and AMOS were utilized for statistical analyses. Results: KMO and Bartlett's test values of scale showed that the dataset was convenient for factor analyses (KMO = 0.94, Chi-Square = 9683.89, df = 595). In exploratory factor analysis, the 16 items comprising scale were distributed in three subscales. The confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the scale was in sufficient model fit. Cronbach's alpha of the total scale was 0.91. Conclusion: Empathy scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool to evaluate the empathy levels of nurses in three subscales: Emotional Empathy, Cognitive Empathy and Compassionate Empathy. The scale is a valuable tool for quality nursing care and contributes to the definition of strategies that advance the quality of nursing care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical-surgical nursing is one of the core courses in general nursing, through which nursing students acquire skills for clinical practice. Medical-surgical nurses work in diverse clinical areas and specialisations to deliver the highest quality care with a view to preserving life, improving health status, and maintaining client health throughout their lifetimes by using an appropriate skill that is better acquired from school through appropriate teaching methods. Hence the need to choose a suitable teaching method to educate the would-be nurses. This study examined the differential efficacy of lecture and demonstration methods for teaching medical-surgical nursing courses in BUTH Ogbomoso with a view to improving the academic performance of nursing students in medical-surgical nursing courses. An experimental research method was used; stratified random sampling was employed to select seventy participants; a pretest was conducted, followed by intervention, and then a post-test. Frequency distribution table, pie chart, bar charts, means, two-tail ANOVA, and t-test were used to analyse the result. Findings revealed that there was a significant difference in the mean score between the two studied groups with a P value of 0.000 < 0.05. It is therefore recommended that medical-surgical nursing educators should not only use the lecture method but employ the demonstration method in teaching medical-surgical nursing. There is a need to equip skill laboratories in the nursing institution for learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biological hazards are one of the most common threats that operating room personnel face. The present study was conducted to develop and test the psychometric properties of a scale for measuring operating room nurses' exposure to biological hazards. Methods: This study is a methodological research that was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, a pool of items was developed after an extensive literature review. In the second stage, the scale's validity and reliability were tested. The validity of the scale was assessed in terms of face validity, content validity, and construct validity. To determine the scale's reliability, the researchers evaluated internal consistency and stability. Results: The initial version of the exposure to biological hazards scale consisted of 75 items. After assessing face validity, 16 items were eliminated, and one item was added following an evaluation of content validity. In evaluation the construct validity of the scale, three factors were identified that accounted for 66.61% of the variance. The internal consistency of the scale was confirmed with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.88. Additionally, the split-half correlation coefficient was found to be 0.92, and an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.96 confirmed the stability of the scale. Conclusion: The results of the study show that the developed scale has satisfactory reliability and validity. Nursing managers can use it to assess operating room nurses' exposure to biological hazards in the workplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Penicillin allergy documentation in the electronic health record (EHR) lacks detail with regard to type of reaction, history of reaction, and other tolerated β-lactams. Because of concern for penicillin allergy cross-reactivity with cefazolin, patients with a reported penicillin allergy are frequently prescribed suboptimal preoperative antibiotics, which have been associated with negative patient outcomes, including increased risk of surgical site infection. The purpose of this study was to increase preoperative use of cefazolin via improvement to the documentation of penicillin allergies in the EHR. Methods This single-center, quasi-experimental quality improvement study compared patients with a self-reported penicillin allergy admitted for select elective surgeries before and after implementation of a penicillin allergy questionnaire. The primary outcome was receipt of cefazolin for surgical prophylaxis. Secondary outcomes were the proportion of patients with detailed penicillin allergy documentation, the proportion of patients with surgical site infections occurring within 30 days of surgery, and the proportion of patients who received the full antibiotic dose before the first surgical incision. Results A total of 100 patients were included in the preintervention group, while 85 patients were included in the postintervention group. Cefazolin use was higher in the postintervention group (13.0% vs 41.2%; P < 0.001). The postintervention group also had a larger proportion of patients with detailed allergy documentation (2.0% vs 50.6%; P < 0.001) and who received the full preoperative antibiotic dose before the first incision (25.0% vs 48.2%; P = 0.001). There was no statistical difference between the groups in the incidence of surgical site infection at 30 days after surgery (3.0% vs 1.2%; P = 0.63). Conclusion Preoperative cefazolin use was higher in patients with a reported penicillin allergy after implementation of a penicillin allergy questionnaire and EHR documentation tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging, the use of tracers increases radioactive exposure for longitudinal evaluations and in radiosensitive populations such as pediatrics. However, reducing injected PET activity potentially leads to an unfavorable compromise between radiation exposure and image quality, causing lower signal-to-noise ratios and degraded images. Deep learning-based denoising approaches can be employed to recover low count PET image signals: nonetheless, most of these methods rely on structural or anatomic guidance from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and fails to effectively preserve global spatial features in denoised PET images, without impacting signal-to-noise ratios. Methods: In this study, we developed a novel PET only deep learning framework, the Self-SiMilARiTy-Aware Generative Adversarial Framework (SMART), which leverages Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and a self-similarity-aware attention mechanism for denoising [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET images. This study employs a combination of prospective and retrospective datasets in its design. In total, 114 subjects were included in the study, comprising 34 patients who underwent 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose PET (FDG) PET imaging for drug-resistant epilepsy, 10 patients for frontotemporal dementia indications, and 70 healthy volunteers. To effectively denoise PET images without anatomical details from MRI, a self-similarity attention mechanism (SSAB) was devised. which learned the distinctive structural and pathological features. These SSAB-enhanced features were subsequently applied to the SMART GAN algorithm and trained to denoise the low-count PET images using the standard dose PET image acquired from each individual participant as reference. The trained GAN algorithm was evaluated using image quality measures including structural similarity index measure (SSIM), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), normalized root mean square (NRMSE), Fréchet inception distance (FID), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Results: In comparison to the standard-dose, SMART-PET had on average a SSIM of 0.984 ± 0.007, PSNR of 38.126 ± 2.631 dB, NRMSE of 0.091 ± 0.028, FID of 0.455 ± 0.065, SNR of 0.002 ± 0.001, and CNR of 0.011 ± 0.011. Regions of interest measurements obtained with datasets decimated down to 10% of the original counts, showed a deviation of less than 1.4% when compared to the ground-truth values. Discussion: In general, SMART-PET shows promise in reducing noise in PET images and can synthesize diagnostic quality images with a 90% reduction in standard of care injected activity. These results make it a potential candidate for clinical applications in radiosensitive populations and for longitudinal neurological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This evaluation examines the impacts of Exhale to Inhale's trauma-informed yoga (TIY) on stress, somatic complaints, and self-efficacy among female survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and affiliated staff in community-based domestic violence agencies. A two-phase study design was employed, the first of which collected data from in-person group classes and the second from remotely taught classes due to COVID-19 safety restrictions. Collected over 3 years, 526 female survivors (n = 361) and staff (n = 165) from 66 domestic violence agencies completed surveys revealing improved stress, somatic complaints, and self-efficacy following a single TIY session. TIY serves as a capacity-building intervention that is suitable and adaptable for survivors of IPV and the staff at domestic violence agencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Frailty is associated with increased susceptibility to medication-related harm, highlighting the importance of medication review for frail older adults. Community pharmacists are increasingly involved in the initiation of medication reviews. Yet, current frailty measurement methods are impractical in this setting. Alternative approaches, leveraging routinely collected data, are needed. Objective: To develop a frailty screening tool utilising routine electronic pharmacy records. Methods: Community-dwelling older adults (≥ 70 years) using ≥ 5 chronic medications were recruited in 196 Belgian community pharmacies. Frailty was assessed using SHARE-FI75+ (based on Fried's frailty phenotype). Model development was on the basis of a two-stage approach using multivariable logistic regression with split-sample internal validation. Stage 1 considered only electronic pharmacy record variables, while stage 2 also included other variables that can easily be collected in the community pharmacy. Model performance was evaluated for discrimination, calibration and predictive accuracy. Results: We recruited 875 participants [mean ± standard deviation (SD) age 79.3 ± 5.9 years], with 14.8% identified as frail. At stage 1, the frailty screening model included age, sex, reimbursement level of medical expenses, number of chronic medications and medication-derived comorbidities (anxiety, congestive heart failure, hypertension) [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69–0.85; sensitivity 78.0%; specificity 60.1%]. At stage 2, additional information on difficulties with basic activities of daily living or pharmacist's intuitive frailty assessment further improved the model (AUC 0.81, 95% CI 0.74–0.88 and AUC 0.82, 95% CI 0.75–0.89, respectively). Conclusions: We developed a screening tool for frailty using data from electronic pharmacy records. This tool offers the opportunity for frailty screening in community pharmacy and to identify individuals that may benefit the most from medication review. External validation is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling plays a vital role in regulating cellular metabolism and energy throughout the body. Ethanol and cocaine both reduce AMPK activity in addiction‐related brain regions. Though AMPK activation has been found to reduce cocaine seeking, its role in harmful drinking and alcohol use disorder (AUD) progression remains unclear. We asked whether metformin, a first‐line type 2 diabetes medication that targets AMPK, can reduce binge‐like ethanol intake in inbred High Drinking in the Dark Line‐1 (iHDID‐1) mice, a genetic risk model for drinking to intoxication. We then determined whether metformin altered ethanol clearance in iHDID‐1 mice. Next, we tested whether metformin and/or ethanol altered AMPK signaling in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a brain region critically important for harmful drinking. Methods: We measured the effects of metformin [0 or 250 mg/kg; intraperitoneal injection (i.p.)] on binge‐like ethanol intake in separate acute (Experiment 1) and chronic (Experiment 3A) drinking studies (n = 6–8 iHDID‐1 mice/sex/treatment/experiment). The effect of metformin (0 or 250 mg/kg) on ethanol (2.0 g/kg, i.p.) clearance was tested in iHDID‐1 mice (Experiment 2; n = 7–9/sex/treatment). Lastly, we measured NAc AMPK and phosphorylated AMPK (pAMPK) levels in response to chronic ethanol (or water) drinking (n = 6 iHDID‐1 mice/sex/treatment/fluid type; Experiment 3B) and an intoxicating dose of ethanol (2.0 g/kg; i.p.; Experiment 4). Results: Metformin reduced binge‐like ethanol drinking intake in acute and chronic studies in both male and female iHDID‐1 mice (p's < 0.05). We found no significant changes in ethanol clearance in response to metformin. Moreover, no differences in AMPK or pAMPK levels in the NAc were observed with either ethanol or metformin. Conclusions: These findings provide early support for the repurposing of metformin, an affordable and safe diabetes medication, to reduce harmful ethanol intake and lay a foundation for testing its efficacy to treat individuals with AUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: "Feeling fat", the somatic experience of being overweight not fully explained by objective body weight, is considered to be an eating pathology maintenance factor. The traditional clinical understanding of "feeling fat" is based on the body displacement hypothesis, which suggests that negative emotions are projected onto the body and experienced as "feeling fat" in lieu of adaptive emotion regulation. A more recent theory suggests that "feeling fat" occurs in response to thought‐shape fusion (TSF), a cognitive distortion in response to the imagined consumption of perceived fattening food. The present experimental study compared the roles of these two proposed mechanisms of "feeling fat" using self‐report and psychophysiological measures. Method: Eighty‐two women (41 with binge eating, 41 control participants) self‐reported "feeling fat" and had their heart rate variability (HRV), a physiological index of emotion regulation, measured before and after imagined inductions. Participants imagined either a personalized negative affective experience or consuming a preferred, so‐called 'fattening' food. Results: The TSF induction increased self‐reports of "feeling fat" among participants with binge eating but not among control women. The negative affect induction did not increase self‐reported "feeling fat" in either group. HRV did not significantly change in response to either induction for either group. Discussion: TSF may be a more potent precursor to "feeling fat" than negative affect for individuals with binge eating. This may suggest new treatment directions, such as cognitive defusion from TSF when patients experience "feeling fat." The utility of HRV in monitoring "feeling fat" is questionable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the adaptations in muscular strength, power, and landing forces of young female volleyball players enrolled in two experimental programs: one using smaller formats of the game (SFG) and the other using larger formats of the game (LFG), with a third group serving as a control. This study employed a randomized controlled design, with an 8-week intervention period and pre- and post-intervention evaluations. Fifty-six trained/developmental participants (age: 14.7 ± 0.5 years) voluntarily participated in this study. Each experimental group received additional training twice a week. The SFG group participated in 2v2 and 3v3 formats on smaller courts (covering 2/6 of the court's available zones) with a regular net, while the LFG group played in 4v4 and 5v5 formats on larger courts (covering 4/6 of the court's available zones). Assessments were conducted using force platforms and included the following tests: (i) isometric mid-thigh pull test (IMTP), measuring peak force; (ii) squat jump test (SJ), measuring peak force; (iii) countermovement jump test (CMJ), measuring peak power and landing force; and (iv) drop jump test (DJT), measuring the reactive strength index. Significant differences emerged post-intervention across all outcomes (p < 0.05). The SFG exhibited significantly greater IMTP peak force compared to both the LFG (p = 0.012) and control groups (p = 0.035). Additionally, the SFG showed significantly greater SJ peak force than the LFG (p = 0.036) and control groups (p = 0.023). Regarding CMJ peak power, significantly higher values were observed in the SFG compared to the LFG (p = 0.042) and control groups (p = 0.046). Moreover, the SFG had significantly lower CMJ peak landing force than both the LFG (p = 0.049) and control groups (p = 0.046). Finally, RSI was significantly higher in the SFG than in the LFG (p = 0.046) and control groups (p = 0.036). This study highlights the significant benefits of incorporating 2v2 and 3v3 SFG formats to enhance muscular strength, power, and landing forces in young female volleyball players, contrasting with less effective outcomes observed with 4v4 and 5v5 LFG formats, suggesting potential neuromuscular advantages crucial for improving volleyball performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motor imagery (MI) or post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) have shown acute benefits for sports performance. The aim of the present study was to investigate the cumulative effects of MI and PAPE when combined within a warm-up routine. Ten men boxers participated in this study. They underwent four experimental sessions composed of a standardized warm-up followed by 1) maximal leg press extensions (CONTROL-PAPE), 2) mental imagery of force and sprint tasks (CONTROL-MI), 3) maximal leg press extensions followed by mental imagery of force and sprint tasks (PAPE-MI) and 4) mental imagery of force and sprint tasks followed by then maximal leg press extensions (MI-PAPE). Post-tests consisted of boxing reaction time, average and maximal boxing force, maximal handgrip strength, repeated sprint ability and the NASA-TLX fatigue questionnaire. No difference was obtained between PAPE-MI and MI-PAPE for the different measurements. Compared to CONTROL-PAPE and CONTROL-MI, both the PAPE-MI and MI-PAPE significantly enhanced boxing average force (P < 0.05) and repeated sprint ability (P < 0.01). Compared to CONTROL-PAPE, both the PAPE-MI and MI-PAPE increased boxing reaction time (P < 0.05), PAPE-MI increased the handgrip strength (P < 0.05) and MI-PAPE increased boxing maximal force (P < 0.01). Compared to CONTROL-MI, both the PAPE-MI and MI-PAPE increased boxing maximal force (P < 0.001), handgrip strength (0 < 0.01) and MI-PAPE increased boxing reaction time (P < 0.05). The NASA-TLX questionnaire was not affected by the warm-up modalities (P = 0.442). Combining PAPE-MI and MI-PAPE protocols within the warm-up produced cumulative positive effects on acute muscular performance without increasing subjective fatigue. PAPE-MI and MI-PAPE are both interesting modalities for optimizing warm-up routines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Preventing functional disability benefits the quality of life of older adults and mitigates the economic burden of an aging society. However, the most effective physical performance tests and optimal cut points for identifying older adults at risk of functional disability remain unclear, and Japan lacks physical function‐based assessment tools. We aimed to identify the physical performance tests related to functional disability and to develop a predictive test battery for it. Methods: We included 975 older adults (mean 72.8 ± 5.2 years, 55.4% women) in Kasama City, Japan. Functional disability was defined as certification of care level 2 or above based on the long‐term care insurance system. Cox proportional hazards analysis examined the association between physical performance tests and incident functional disability. Results: During a mean follow‐up of 8.6 years (maximum 14 years), 236 participants (24.2%) developed functional disability. After adjusting for covariates, higher performances in grip strength, single‐leg balance with eyes open (SLB), timed up‐and‐go (TUG), five‐repetition sit‐to‐stand (5‐STS), and 5‐m habitual walk were significantly associated with a lower risk of functional disability. In a stepwise model, SLB, TUG, and 5‐STS were key predictors of functional disability. Receiver operating characteristic analysis determined optimal cut points of 32.6/32.7 s for SLB, 6.5/6.6 s for TUG, and 7.8/7.9 s for 5‐STS. We developed a predictive battery combining these cut points (area under the curve = 0.78). Conclusions: The developed battery of physical performance tests predicts future functional disability and is useful for screening older adults at high risk. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1343–1349. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) inducibility with burst pacing (BP) after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been reported to be associated with AF recurrence. In contrast, the relevance of inducibility and recurrence after cryoablation (CRA) is unclear. Methods: We investigated 367 patients undergoing initial ablation for paroxysmal AF (RFA: 174, CRA: 193). Propensity score matching was conducted, retaining 134 patients in each group. Following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), the inducibility by BP was tested. Inductions at 250 ppm were defined as low‐frequency burst pacing (LFBP) positive, and those at 300 ppm were classified as medium‐frequency burst pacing (MFBP) positive. They were followed for 600 days. Results: Forty‐eight patients (18%) had AF recurrence. There was no significant difference in the recurrence rate between RFA and CRA (17% vs. 19%, Log‐rank p = 0.79). In RFA, significant differences were observed for both LFBP (Log‐rank p < 0.001) and MFBP (Log‐rank p < 0.001). In contrast, in CRA, there were no significant differences for either LFBP (Log‐rank p = 0.39) or MFBP (Log‐rank p = 0.19). Multivariable analysis revealed that LFBP‐positive (hazards ratio [HR] = 5.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.41–13.7, p < 0.001) was an independent predictor for recurrence with RFA. Acute reconnection (HR = 2.73, 95% CI 1.13–6.56, p = 0.025) was an independent predictor for recurrence with CRA. Conclusion: The inducibility by BP after RFA predicted recurrence at both low and medium frequencies. LFBP‐positive was an independent predictor of recurrence in multivariable analysis. In contrast, the inducibility by BP after CRA was not a predictor of recurrence. Trail Registration: This study did not require clinical trial registration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive research has supported the positive effects of music on exercise performance and enjoyment. However, the extent literature does not fully examine the effect of music presentation timing on exercise experience. Therefore, this experimental study tests the effects of music presentation timing on perceived exertion, attention, and emotional state during aerobic exercise. Researchers randomly assigned 43 participants to either a control or one of two experimental groups. In the first experimental group, participants listened to music throughout the entire exercise while participants in the second experimental group began listening to music when they reached or exceed RPE 11. Participants completed a modified Balke and Ware exercise test while reporting their HR, RPE, and attention every minute. Results indicated a significant time point by music group interaction on RPE, with no-music resulting in significantly higher RPEs than music-throughout or delayed-music at exercise completion, but not before. Similarly, a time point by music group interaction indicated that participants' attention in the no-music group was more associative than participants in the music-throughout or delayed-music groups at exercise completion. These changes did not have a significant effect on affective response. These results replicated previous research on music during exercise but did not find evidence for further dissociation and reduction of RPE with delayed-music stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Finite element (FE) models have emerged as a powerful method to study biomechanical complexities of velopharyngeal (VP) function. However, existing models have overlooked the active contributions of the lateral pharyngeal wall (LPW) in VP closure. This study aimed to develop and validate a more comprehensive FE model of VP closure to include the superior pharyngeal constrictor (SPC) muscle within the LPW as an active component of VP closure. Method: The geometry of the velum and the lateral and posterior pharyngeal walls with biomechanical activation governed by the levator veli palatini (LVP) and SPC muscles were incorporated into an FE model of VP closure. Differing muscle activations were employed to identify the impact of anatomic contributions from the SPC muscle, LVP muscle, and/or velum for achieving VP closure. The model was validated against normative magnetic resonance imaging data at rest and during speech production. Results: A highly accurate and validated biomechanical model of VP function was developed. Differing combinations and activation of muscles within the LPW and velum provided insight into the relationship between muscle activation and closure patterns, with objective quantification of anatomic change necessary to achieve VP closure. Conclusions: This model is the first to include the anatomic properties and active contributions of the LPW and SPC muscle for achieving VP closure. Now validated, this method can be utilized to build robust, comprehensive models to understand VP dysfunction. This represents an important advancement in patient-specific modeling of VP function and provides a foundation to support development of computational tools to meet clinical demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocean Climate lectures included the need for more depth regarding what was taught. So lecturers need lecture equipment so that the material is conveyed effectively. This study aims to design prediction-argument-based Ocean Climate lectures to increase the reflective thinking of prospective physics teacher students to solve issues or problems that develop in society. The Mixed Methods method applied in this study is an embedded experimental type. The priority of this research is the quantitative experimental method and the supporting qualitative data. The number of students in the high N-gain category is because students can understand the material or master the concept well. Meanwhile, seven students are in the medium N-gain category because these students have yet to be able to relate material concepts by explaining their argument. Based on the results and discussion above, prediction-argumentation-based ocean climate lectures are effectively used to improve the reflective thinking skills of pre-service teachers. The prediction-argumentation-based ocean climate lecture model has characteristics, namely prioritizing predictive abilities and argumentation abilities, to equip students with reflective thinking skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Detailed quantifications of the environmental footprint of operations that include surgery, anaesthesia, and engineering are rare. We examined all such aspects to find the greenhouse gas emissions of an operation. Methods: We undertook a life cycle assessment of 10 patients undergoing total knee replacements, collecting data for all surgical equipment, energy requirements for cleaning, and operating room energy use. Data for anaesthesia were sourced from our prior study. We used life cycle assessment software to convert inputs of energy and material use into outputs in kg CO2e emissions, using Monte Carlo analyses with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The average carbon footprint was 131.7 kg CO2e, (95% confidence interval: 117.7–148.5 kg CO2e); surgery was foremost (104/131.7 kg CO2e, 80%), with lesser contributions from anaesthesia (15.0/131.7 kg CO2e, 11%), and engineering (11.9/131.7 kg CO2e, 9%). The main surgical sources of greenhouse gas emissions were: energy used to disinfect and steam sterilise reusable equipment (43.4/131.7 kg CO2e, 33%), single-use equipment (34.2/131.7 kg CO2e, 26%), with polypropylene alone 13.7/131.7 kg CO2e (11%), and the knee prosthesis 19.6 kg CO2e (15%). For energy use, the main contributors were: gas heating (6.7 kg CO2e) and heating, cooling, and fans (4 kg CO2e). Conclusions: The carbon footprint of a total knee replacement was equivalent to driving 914 km in a standard 2022 Australian car, with surgery contributing 80%. Such data provide guidance in reducing an operation's carbon footprint through prudent equipment use, more efficient steam sterilisation with renewable electricity, and reduced single-use waste. What is known about the topic? The environmental footprint of health care itself is important. Carbon footprinting of surgical operations are becoming more common, although detailed analyses are rare. What does this paper add? The carbon footprint of a total knee replacement was 132 kg CO2e, i.e. the equivalent of driving >900 km in a typical 2022 Australian car. Orthopaedic surgery itself contributed to 80% of the emissions, with anaesthesia and operating room energy use contributing 10% each to the total carbon footprint. What are the implications for practitioners? By replacing single-use with reusable equipment, and by using 100% renewable energy for decontamination, the greenhouse gas emissions for a total knee replacement can become negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Age-friendly community initiatives (AFCIs) have gained recognition as essential responses to the needs of aging populations. Despite their growing significance, there is a notable lack of effective measurement tools to assess the planning, implementation, and sustainability of AFCIs. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a survey tool for evaluating AFCIs. Research Design and Methods A sequential exploratory mixed-method design was used in 2 phases. First, we identified key themes from interviews with AFCI leads to generate AFCI survey items and regional workshops. Then, we conducted a pilot of the survey and assessed its measurement properties. Results Thematic analysis of interviews with 68 key informants from 58 AFCIs revealed 4 main themes: AFCI priorities, enablers, challenges, and benefits. These themes, combined with feedback from AFCI stakeholders at the regional workshops and an AFCI conference, informed the development and refinement of a reliable and valid AFCI survey in 2019, supported by a high Cronbach's alpha value (α = 0.881). Steps were identified to maintain and sustain the AFCI survey over time. Discussion and Implications The survey accommodates AFCIs' diverse demographics, governance structures, and priorities with a standardized and flexible approach for effective measurement. This research contributes to the academic understanding of AFCIs and aids community leaders and policy-makers in planning, implementing, and evaluating AFCIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescents with psychiatric disorders may struggle with medication adherence and this can lead to ineffective treatment. Subjective factors, such as attitudes, beliefs, experiences, have a greater impact on adherence in adolescents than objective factors. To better understand these subjective attitudes, self-evaluation rating scales should be developed. The study aimed to develop two scales - Pediatric Medication Adherence Scale (PMAS) and Pediatric Attitudes toward Medication Scale (PAMS) - to assess adherence and attitudes toward medication for pediatric patients and their parents. Total of 288 pediatric patients (67% female) between the ages of 12–18 (mean [standard deviation] age of 15.25 [1.59] years) with psychiatric disorders and 255 parents (83.53% mothers) were administered the scales. The validity of the scales was evaluated through the content validity index and explanatory factor analyses. To evaluate reliability, Cronbach's alpha, and test-retest methods were utilized. The validity and reliability of the PMAS (9 questions for patients, 6 questions for parents) and PAMS (18 questions for patients, 20 questions for parents), Cronbach's alpha values and intraclass correlation coefficients were found above 0.7 for each scale and showed well establishment for this particular population. Analysis revealed that anxiety scores had a greater impact on total attitude scores than necessity scores (p < 0.05). Parent and patient adherence scores were similar, and negative parental attitudes toward medication were associated with lower patient adherence. The present study represents a novel attempt to design a medication adherence and attitude questionnaire for adolescents with psychiatric disorders, along with a parental version. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Music is one of the most powerful mediators of awareness enhancement and respiration control. Although the timing (phase) control between music and respiration is important, few studies have focused on this. This study investigated the phasic relationship between melodic sound and respiration (PRSR) using a device that controls the PRSR. The interaction between music and respiration was realised in the phase by setting the template of the respiration pattern, called the 'target phase', which served as a guideline for coordinating the melodic phrase and respiration. In this experiment, we modelled six PRSR conditions by changing the start of the target phase. Participants were made to listen to cyclic melodies under the six PRSR conditions to examine the effect on their respiration interval. To modify the individual differences between participants, we realigned the PRSR conditions for each participant based on the error size between the respiration and target phases. We found a significant difference in the respiration intervals between the six realigned PRSR conditions, indicating the impact of the PRSR on the respiration rate and our effective control of PRSR. Our findings will help promote digital emotion regulation in the future, especially when using respiration as an input of feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physiotherapists who will practice in direct access model of care must acquire the required competencies to ensure adequate and safe patient care. There is no set of required competencies for French physiotherapists. Objective: To develop a consensus on a minimum set of competencies that French physiotherapists should acquire to practice in direct access to primary care with patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Methods: The survey was conducted by 1) definition of an initial set of competencies based on a scoping review up to September 2021, 2) implementation of a two-round Delphi survey from October 2021 to January 2022 to obtain consensus on the domains and competencies required in the French context, and 3) consultation at group meeting on February 2022 to finalize and validate the final set of competencies. Results: Five domains and 52 competencies were identified from the scoping review. Twenty health-care professionals' experts (i.e. family physicians, emergency physicians, and physiotherapists) and two health-care users took part in the Delphi survey. A consensus was reached on 27 required competencies grouped within five domains. Conclusion: A consensus-based, contemporary set of competencies required for direct access practice with patients with musculoskeletal disorders has been identified that may contribute to the update of entry-level and lifelong learning curricula for French physiotherapists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effects of pelvic tilt control using visual biofeedback on gluteus maximus (GM), multifidus (MF), and hamstring (HAM) muscle activities during bridge exercises involving anterior pelvic tilt (APT), neutral pelvic tilt (NPT), and posterior pelvic tilt (PPT) were investigated. Methods: Twenty-five healthy participants were included (mean age, 24.6 ± 1.9 years). Visual biofeedback was used for the participants to self-control pelvic tilt during the bridge exercises. Pelvic tilt controls were performed in a random order (APT vs. NPT vs. PPT) following 30 minutes education program. GM, MF, and HAM muscle activities were measured by surface electromyography. One-way repeated analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc test were used. Result: GM and MF muscle activities significantly differed among the different pelvic tilting controls (APT vs. NPT vs. PPT) (p <.017). GM muscle activity during the exercise involving PPT was significantly higher than that involving APT and NPT (p <.017). In contrast, MF muscle activity during the exercise involving PPT was significantly lower than that involving APT (p <.017). In addition, the GM/Right MF, GM/Left MF, and GM/HAM muscle activity ratios during the exercise involving PPT were significantly greater than those involving APT and NPT (p <.017). Conclusions: The bridge exercise involving PPT using visual biofeedback can be recommended as a home exercise to selectively improve the muscle activity of the GM and the muscle activity ratio of the GM/HAM and GM/MF. This information may be valuable for clinicians seeking exercise programs to target specific muscles effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although there has been some amount of research into the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, most studies have not fully demonstrated its benefits. In addition, PRP formulations containing different concentrations of leukocytes have not been directly compared for rotator cuff repair. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this article was to determine whether arthroscopic rotator cuff repair combined with PRP injection, either leukocyte-rich PRP (LR-PRP) or leukocyte-poor PRP (LP-PRP), is superior to the control. The null hypothesis was that the addition of any PRP formulation would not result in outcomes superior to the control group. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: Patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears who underwent arthroscopic repair were assessed for eligibility. The included patients were randomized to 3 treatment groups: the LR-PRP, LP-PRP, and standard-care control groups. After the rotator cuff suture was fixed firmly, different groups of liquid PRP preparations prepared by centrifugation were injected into the tendon-to-bone interface. The functional outcomes were assessed using the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) score, the Constant score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, the visual analog scale for pain during sleep and activity, and active range of motion at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. In addition, the visual analog scale score was obtained at weeks 2 and 6. Postoperative structural integrity was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging at 12 months using the Sugaya classification. Type III was considered partial retear, and types IV and V were considered complete retears. The safety of surgery was compared by the incidence of complications. The main analyses were performed in accordance with the intention-to-treat principle. Results: Of 150 patients initially randomized, the functional outcomes in 142 (46 LR-PRP, 47 LP-PRP, 49 control) and the structural integrity in 133 (40 LR-PRP, 46 LP-PRP, 47 control) were analyzed. There was no significant difference in the primary outcome of the UCLA score among the 3 groups (P =.169). The trends in functional outcomes and range of motion were similar for the 3 groups, with no significant differences among the groups at 12 months. However, within 6 months after surgery, the ASES score was better in the LR-PRP group than in the control group (3 months: 85.8 ± 4.1 vs 81.6 ± 8.7; P =.011; 6 months: 90.0 ± 5.4 vs 86.2 ± 6.8; P =.003). At 12 months after surgery, the overall retear rate, including partial and complete retears, was 8%. There were no significant differences in the rates of overall retear (P =.755) or complete retear (P =.633) among the 3 groups. The only surgical complication was postoperative stiffness, which occurred in 3% of patients, and the incidence did not significantly differ among the groups (P =.790). Conclusion: The study did not reveal that shoulders treated with the LR-PRP or LP-PRP formulations had any superior functional or structural outcomes at 12 months compared with those of the control group. However, LR-PRP may offer better ASES scores than the control group up to 6 months after surgery, and its clinical benefit remains to be proven. Registration: ChiCTR2100045039 (Chinese Clinical Trial Register). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to develop a new instrument (The Lean Management Scale for Nursing Services in Hospitals‐ LMS‐N) to evaluate the lean levels of nursing services in hospitals and to evaluate its psychometric properties. Method: A three‐phase construct was used to develop this scale and to determine its psychometric properties: (1) creating the item pool, (2) preliminarily evaluating items and (3) evaluating psychometric properties. This methodological study evaluated the scale's face, content and construct validities, internal consistency, and temporal stability. The psychometric properties of the scale were tested with a total of 695 nurses in different sample groups. Data were collected between 18 November 2020 and 15 May 2021. Results: The scale's content validity index was 0.75. According to principal component analysis, the scale included 22 items and five subdimensions, and the total variance was 60.32%. In confirmatory factor analysis, the fit indices were good or acceptable for this construct. Its internal consistency was good or acceptable according to reliability analysis. Test–retest showed that the scale had temporal stability. Conclusion: Lean Management Scale in Nursing Services in Hospitals is a valid and reliable tool that can evaluate the level of leanness of nursing services. It provides a comprehensive evaluation with five subdimensions: management support, visual stock management, work environment layout, preventive notification system and waste detection. Summary Statement: What is already known about this topic? Lean management is to support nurses in gaining more control over their duties, increasing work efficiency, and reducing waste.Using a valid and reliable measurement tool that includes the lean management concept is a critical step to improve non–value‐added activities and irregular working conditions in nursing services and to increase the quality of service and care provided by nurses. What does this paper add? The Lean Management Scale for Nursing Services in Hospitals (LMS‐N) is a valid and reliable tool that can be used for evaluating the level of lean of nursing services in hospitals. The implications of this paper The LMS‐N can be used to evaluate the leanness level of nursing services in hospitals.With the LMS‐N, accurate and consistent data can be obtained to determine what leads to waste and non–value‐added activities in nursing facilitating better management of nurses' working time.The data obtained with LMS‐N can guide nurse managers in determining the strategies to be followed to make the necessary improvements that can ensure lean nursing services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]