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Truck collisions with vulnerable road users (VRUs) are infrequent, but often severe or fatal. While research has investigated factors contributing to safety and collisions, a synthesis of human-related contributors remains missing. This scoping review follows PRISMA guidelines to synthesise studies on the effects of human factors on truck-VRU safety. With a focus on human factors related to pedestrians, cyclists, and truck drivers, five scientific databases were searched and 3,414 records were screened. Twenty-four articles met the inclusion criteria. Most were published after 2015, indicating a limited but growing focus on human factors affecting truck-VRU safety. Half of the studies analysed police collision reports, while others used qualitative data collection methods, like questionnaires and focus groups, or human subject experiments. Compared to passenger-vehicle literature, notably fewer behavioural studies were identified, highlighting a need for further behavioural human factors studies of truck-VRU interactions. Sociodemographic and vision-related factors were most frequently investigated and found to significantly affect collision occurrence and severity. Driving and cycling experience and training, and road user distractions were examined less, albeit being important. This review bridges a literature gap by focusing on human characteristics, states, decisions, and errors affecting truck-VRU safety, offering insights for road-user-centred mitigation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare acute physiological responses during the W prime (W´) balance training model (W´BAL-INT) with performance in the critical power test (CPTest). Additionally, the study sought to determine the extent of neuromuscular and metabolic fatigue associated with severe and extreme intensity domains. Fourteen road master cyclists (13 male, 1 female) completed graded incremental exercise tests to determine their maximum oxygen uptake and 12-, 7- and 3-min maximal efforts to assess CP and W´ (CPTest). Additionally, they participated in a reconstitutive intermittent training session following the W´BAL-INT model. Physiological responses including oxygen uptake (V̇O2), the heart rate (HR), blood lactate (BLa¯) concentration, and perceptual responses (RPE), were measured and compared to CPTest performance data. The W´BAL-INT induced steady-state physiological responses in V̇O2mean (F = 0.76, p = 0.655) and absolute HR, relative HR and HRCP (F = 0.70, p = 0.704; F = 1.11, p = 0.359; F = 1.70, p = 0.095, respectively) comparable to CPTest. During the 3-min work intervals in the training session, V̇O2 was stable and similar to V̇O2peak (54.2 ± 6.7 to 59.3 ± 4.9 ml·kg-1·min-1) in the CPTest. Furthermore, 4-min rest intervals facilitated recovery up to moderate fatigue levels (80-100% of W´ balance). HR responses were sensitive to interval intensity and accumulated time. Meanwhile, BLa¯ responses and the RPE increased fatigue development during W´BAL-INT. The W´BAL-INT training model generates consistent physiological responses in mean oxygen kinetics, the percentage of CP and the HR, similar to those observed during the CPTest. However, different physiological responses were observed in peak oxygen kinetics and W´ energy balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strong relationships exist between sprint cycling torque and isometric mid‐thigh pull (IMTP) force production at one timepoint; however, the relationships between the changes in these measures following a training period are not well understood. Accordingly, this study examined the relationships in the changes of sprint cycling torque and IMTP force following six‐weeks of sprint cycling and resistance training performed by strength‐trained novice cyclists (n = 14). Cycling power, cadence, torque and IMTP force (Peak force [PF]/torque, average and peak rate of force/torque development [RFD/RTD], and RFD/RTD from 0 to 100 ms and 0–200 ms) were assessed before and after training. Training consisted of three resistance and three sprint cycling sessions per week. Training resulted in improvements in IMTP PF (13.1%) and RFD measures (23.7%–32.5%), cycling absolute (10.7%) and relative (10.5%) peak power, peak torque (11.7%) and RTD measures (27.9%–56.7%). Strong‐to‐very strong relationships were observed between cycling torque and IMTP force measures pre‐ (r = 0.57–0.84; p < 0.05) and post‐training (r = 0.63–0.87; p < 0.05), but no relationship (p > 0.05) existed between training‐induced changes in cycling torque and IMTP force. Divergent training‐induced changes in sprint cycling torque and IMTP force indicate that these measures assess distinct neuromuscular attributes. Training‐induced changes in IMTP force are not indicative of training‐induced changes in sprint cycling torque. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical training in heat or hypoxia can improve physical performance. The purpose of this parallel group study was to investigate the concurrent effect of training performed simultaneously in heat (31 °C) and hypoxia (FIO2 = 14.4%) on anaerobic capacity in young men. For the study, 80 non-trained men were recruited and divided into 5 groups (16 participants per group): control, non-training (CTRL); training in normoxia and thermoneutral conditions (NT: 21 °C, FIO2 = 20.95%); training in normoxia and heat (H: 31 °C, FIO2 = 20.95%); training in hypoxia and thermoneutral conditions (IHT: 21 °C, FIO2 = 14.4%), and training in hypoxia and heat (IHT + H: 31 °C, FIO2 = 14.4%). Before and after physical training, the participants performed the Wingate Test, in which peak power and mean power were measured. Physical training lasted 4 weeks and the participants exercised 3 times a week for 60 min, performing interval training. Only the IHT and IHT + H groups showed significant increases in absolute peak power (p < 0.001, ES = 0.36 and p = 0.02, ES = 0.26, respectively). There were no significant changes (p = 0.18) after training in mean power. Hypoxia appeared to be an environmental factor that significantly improved peak power, but not mean power. Heat, added to hypoxia, did not increase cycling anaerobic power. Also, training only in heat did not significantly affect anaerobic power. The inclusion of heat and/or hypoxia in training did not induce negative effects, i.e., a reduction in peak and mean power as measured in the Wingate Test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Performing obstetric ultrasound scans is challenging for inexperienced operators; therefore, the prenatal screening artificial intelligence system (PSAIS) software was developed to provide real‐time feedback and guidance for trainees during their scanning procedures. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential benefits of utilizing such an artificial intelligence system to enhance the efficiency of obstetric ultrasound training in acquiring and interpreting standard basic views. Methods: A prospective, single‐center randomized controlled study was conducted at The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen University. From September 2022 to April 2023, residents with no prior obstetric ultrasound experience were recruited and assigned randomly to either a PSAIS‐assisted training group or a conventional training group. Each trainee underwent a four‐cycle practical scan training program, performing 20 scans in each cycle on pregnant volunteers at 18–32 gestational weeks, focusing on acquiring and interpreting standard basic views. At the end of each cycle, a test scan evaluated trainees' ability to obtain standard ultrasound views without PSAIS assistance, and image quality was rated by both the trainees themselves and an expert (in a blinded manner). The primary outcome was the number of training cycles required for each trainee to meet a certain standard of proficiency (i.e. end‐of‐cycle test scored by the expert at ≥ 80%). Secondary outcomes included the expert ratings of the image quality in each trainee's end‐of‐cycle test and the discordance between ratings by trainees and the expert. Results: In total, 32 residents and 1809 pregnant women (2720 scans) were recruited for the study. The PSAIS‐assisted trainee group required significantly fewer training cycles compared with the non‐PSAIS‐assisted group to meet quality requirements (P = 0.037). Based on the expert ratings of image quality, the PSAIS‐assisted training group exhibited superior ability in acquiring standard imaging views compared with the conventional training group in the third (P = 0.012) and fourth (P < 0.001) cycles. In both groups, the discordance between trainees' ratings of the quality of their own images and the expert's ratings decreased with increasing training time. A statistically significant difference in overall trainee–expert rating discordance between the two groups emerged at the end of the first training cycle and remained at every cycle thereafter (P < 0.013). Conclusion: By assisting inexperienced trainees in obtaining and interpreting standard basic obstetric scanning views, the use of artificial intelligence‐assisted systems has the potential to improve training effectiveness. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dialogue policy is responsible to select the next appropriate action from the current dialogue state to accomplish the user goal efficiently. Present commercial task-oriented dialogue systems are mostly rule-based; thus, they are not easily scalable to adapt multiple domains. To design an adaptive dialogue policy, user feedback is an essential parameter. Recently, deep reinforcement learning algorithms have been popularly applied to such problems. However, managing large state-action space is time consuming and computationally expensive. Additionally, it requires good quality and a reliable user simulator to train the dialogue policy which takes additional design efforts. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to improve the performance of dialogue policy by accelerating the training process by using imitation learning for deep reinforcement learning. We utilized proximal policy optimization (PPO) algorithm to model dialogue policy using a large-scale multi-domain tourist dataset MultiWOZ2.1. We observed a remarkable performance of dialogue policy with 91.8% task success rate, and an approximate 50% decrease in the average number of turns required to complete tasks without using user simulator in the early phase of training cycles. This approach is expected to help researchers to design computationally efficient and scalable dialogue agents by avoiding training from scratch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nine cyclists (age: 26 ± 5 years, height: 168 ± 5 cm and mass 58.5 ± 4.5 kg) were observed using continuous glucose monitoring devices throughout a training camp. Interstitial glucose [iG] data were captured via the Abbott libre sense biosensor (Abbott Laboratories) and paired with the Supersapiens software (TT1 Products Inc.). [iG] data were split into time ranges, that is, overall (24‐hourly), day‐time (06:00–23:59), night‐time (00:00–05:59) and exercise. [iG] data were stratified into percentage of time, below range ([TBR] < 70 mg/dl), in range ([TIR] 70–140 mg/dl) and above range ([TAR] ≥ 141 mg/dl). Differences in diurnal and nocturnal data were analysed via repeated measures analysis of variance and paired t‐tests where appropriate. p‐value of ≤0.05 was accepted as significant. Riders spent an average of 3 ± 1% TAR, 93 ± 2% TIR and 8 ± 3% TBR. Mean 24 h [iG] was 93 ± 2 mg/dl with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 18 ± 1%. Mean (day: 95 ± 3 vs. night: 86 ± 3 mg/dl and p < 0.001) and CV (day: 18 ± 1 vs. night: 9 ± 1% and p < 0.001) in [iG] were higher during the day‐time hours. TAR was greater during the day (day: 3 ± 1 vs. night: 0 ± 0% and p < 0.001) but TBR and TIR were similar. Glucose levels below the clinical range may have implications for those without diabetes and warrants further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare different intensities of aerobic exercise for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in terms of glycemic control, pain relief, and functional outcomes. Methods: A prospective randomized open-label parallel multicenter clinical trial conducted at two hospitals in Shanghai and Sichuan that included 228 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Enrollment occurred between January 2021 and February 2023, and follow-up was completed in September 2023. Participants were randomized to threshold training/high-intensive stationary cycling training (n=76), intensive endurance/moderate-intensive stationary cycling training (n=77), and regular rehabilitation programs (n=75). The primary outcome at the 6-month follow-up was the HbA1c level. Key secondary outcomes included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscale of pain and quality of life. Results: Of 228 patients, 212 (93%) completed the trial. The mean adjusted (sex, baseline BMI, and baseline outcome measures) HbA1c level at the 6-month follow-up decreased significantly in the high-intensive training group compared with other groups (high-intensity group vs. control group; difference, 0.51%, 95% confidence interval, 0.05% to 1.15%). Mean KOOS subscales of pain and quality of life were statistically significantly different between the control group and moderate-intensity or high-intensity groups, but no statistical differences were noted between the different intensities of aerobic exercise. Patients in all groups achieved a greater reduction in BMI but no significant differences were observed between groups. Conclusion: In KOA and T2DM patients, high-intensity stationary cycling can significantly improve glycemic control compared with moderate-intensity and regular rehabilitation programs. However, high-intensity stationary cycling does not exert a superior effect on pain relief and functional improvement for KOA compared with moderate-intensity and regular rehabilitation programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries are the most widely used as energy storage devices in electric mobility applications. However, due to complex electrochemical processes of battery degradation, it is challenging to predict accurately the battery end-of-life (EOL) to ensure their reliability, safety, and extended usage. In this context, the introduction of machine learning techniques can provide relevant solutions based on data collection and analysis. Indeed, we compared in this study the prediction performance of numerous machine learning approaches that predict if the battery EOL bypasses a predefined threshold. Based on the variation of different indicators during the first several hundred cycles, such as charge and discharge capacity, internal resistance, and energy efficiency, extensive numerical tests have been executed and compared in terms of accuracy score, precision score, recall score, etc. All the studied machine learning approaches are trained and validated using an open-access database of 124 commercial lithium iron phosphate/graphite cells cycled under different fast-charging conditions. As a result, the classification prediction performance score reached up to 98.74% depending on the percentage of data and cycles used for training and validation as well as the predefined EOL threshold. The comparative results can be used to improve the existing health-aware energy management strategy by taking the state-of-health (SOH) of batteries into consideration. Overall, the presented research findings are relevant to battery system reliability and safety engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although aerobic exercises such as cycling and swimming are increasingly being recommended in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), their effect on gait and balance parameters is unclear. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of cycling training on balance and spatio-temporal gait parameters in children with DMD. Ambulant children (age range: 6.17–11.33 years) were randomly divided into two groups: home-based exercise training applied in the control group (n = 12) while 12 weeks of supervised submaximal lower extremity cycling training in addition to home-based exercise training performed in the study group (n = 11). Gait and balance parameters were evaluated using the GAITRite electronic walkway system and the Bertec Balance Check Screener™, respectively. Assessments were applied before and after 12 weeks of training. The mean ages of the children in the study and control groups were 8.20 (SD:1.34) and 8.86 (SD:1.30) years, consecutively (p > 0.05). Considering the baseline values, the balance and spatio-temporal gait parameters of the children were similar except for the antero-posterior postural sway on the perturbed surface with eyes open (p > 0.05). There was a significant time x group interaction effect in favor of the study group for the antero-posterior postural sway of children on the normal surface with eyes open (F (1,58) = 12.62, p = 0.002). It was found that the antero-posterior postural sway on the normal surface with eyes open was improved in the study group within group comparison (F (1,10) = 8.50, p = 0.015). The study showed that both the cycling and the home-based exercise training groups may maintain gait and balance parameters during the study. Adding a cycling training to the rehabilitation program can also provide additional contribution to improve antero-posterior balance. • Cycling training has protective effects on gait in children with DMD. • Home-based exercise training stabilized gait and balance parameters for 12 weeks. • Cycling training can be an additional option for improving antero-posterior balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is unknown whether activity-based physical therapy (ABPT) modalities that mobilize the paralyzed limbs improve bone integrity at the highly fracture-prone epiphyseal regions of the distal femur and proximal tibia following severe spinal cord injury (SCI). In this study, 4-mo-old skeletally mature littermate-matched male Sprague-Dawley rats received either SHAM surgery or severe contusion SCI. At 1 wk postsurgery, SCI rats were stratified to undergo no-ABPT, two 20-min bouts/day of quadrupedal bodyweight-supported treadmill training (qBWSTT), or hindlimb passive isokinetic bicycle (cycle) training, 5 days/wk for another 3 wk. We assessed locomotor recovery and plantar flexor muscle mass, tracked cancellous and cortical bone microstructure at the distal femoral and proximal tibial epiphyses using in vivo microcomputed tomography (microCT), and evaluated bone turnover at the tibial epiphysis with histomorphometry. All SCI animals displayed persistent hindlimb paralysis and pervasive muscle atrophy. Over the initial 2 wk, which included 1 wk of no exercise and 1 wk of ABPT acclimation, a similar magnitude of bone loss developed in all SCI groups. Thereafter, cancellous bone loss and cortical bone decrements increased in the SCI no-ABPT group. qBWSTT attenuated this trabecular bone loss but did not prevent the ongoing cortical bone deficits. In comparison, twice-daily cycle training increased the number and activity of osteoblasts versus other SCI groups and restored all bone microstructural parameters to SHAM levels at both epiphyseal sites. These data indicate that a novel passive isokinetic cycle training regimen reversed cancellous and cortical bone deterioration at key epiphyseal sites after experimental SCI via osteoblast-mediated bone anabolic mechanisms, independent of locomotor recovery or increased muscle mass. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: This study was the first to assess how quadrupedal bodyweight-supported treadmill training or passive isokinetic bicycle (cycle) training impacts bone recovery at the distal femoral and proximal tibial epiphyses in a rat model of severe contusion spinal cord injury. Our results demonstrate that passive isokinetic cycle training completely restored cancellous and cortical bone microstructural parameters at these sites via osteoblast-mediated bone anabolic actions, independent of locomotor recovery or increased plantar flexor muscle mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Animal and human studies have shown that exposure to hypoxia can increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein transcription and reduce systematic inflammatory cytokine response. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the acute and chronic effects of intermittent hypoxic-hyperoxic exposure (IHHE) prior to aerobic exercise on BDNF, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) blood levels in geriatric patients. Patients and Methods: Twenty-five geriatric patients (83.1 ± 5.0 yrs, 71.1 ± 10.0 kg, 1.8 ± 0.9 m) participated in a placebo-controlled, single-blinded trial and were randomly assigned to either an intervention (IG) or control group (CG) performing an aerobic cycling training (17 sessions, 20 min⋅session-1, 3 sessions⋅week-1). Prior to aerobic cycling exercise, the IG was additionally exposed to IHHE for 30 min, whereas the CG received continuous normoxic air. Blood samples were taken immediately before (pre-exercise) and 10 min (post-exercise) after the first session as well as 48 h (post-training) after the last session to determine serum (BDNFS) and plasma BDNF (BDNFP), IL-6, and CRP levels. Intervention effects were analyzed using a 2 x 2 analysis of covariance with repeated measures. Results were interpreted based on effect sizes with a medium effect considered as meaningful (ηp² ≥ 0.06, d ≥ 0.5). Results: CRP was moderately higher (d = 0.51) in the CG compared to the IG at baseline. IHHE had no acute effect on BDNFS (ηp² = 0.01), BDNFP (ηp² < 0.01), BDNF serum/plasma-ratio (ηp² < 0.01), IL-6 (ηp² < 0.01), or CRP (ηp² = 0.04). After the 6-week intervention, an interaction was found for BDNF serum/plasma-ratio (ηp² = 0.06) but not for BDNFS (ηp² = 0.04), BDNFP (ηp² < 0.01), IL-6 (ηp² < 0.01), or CRP (ηp² < 0.01). BDNF serum/plasma-ratio increased from pre-exercise to post-training (d = 0.67) in the CG compared to the IG (d = 0.51). A main effect of time was found for BDNFP (ηp² = 0.09) but not for BDNFS (ηp² = 0.02). Within-group post-hoc analyses revealed a training-related reduction in BDNFP in the IG and CG by 46.1% (d = 0.73) and 24.7% (d = 0.57), respectively. Conclusion: The addition of 30 min IHHE prior to 20 min aerobic cycling seems not to be effective to increase BDNFS and BDNFP or to reduce IL-6 and CRP levels in geriatric patients after a 6-week intervention. The study was retrospectively registered at drks.de (DRKS-ID: DRKS00025130). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Studies on injury prevention programs are lacking for triathletes. The aim of the present study was to describe the results of a holistic (injury) training prevention program (HITP), based on training load control and strength training, in elite triathletes. (2) Methods: The study was conducted over 2021–2023 and involved 18 males and 10 females from the same training group. The HITP itself included various methods of fatigue monitoring, strength training focused on the prevention of overuse injuries (OIs), cycling skills training, and recovery strategies. The total number and type of injuries that were sustained, subsequent training/competition absence time, and injury incidence were determined. (3) Results: Twenty-four injuries were recorded over all three seasons, i.e., 0.65 injuries per 1000 h of training and competition exposure. Fourteen injuries were traumatic injuries (TIs) and ten were OIs. Of the OIs, four were of minimal severity, two were mild, three were moderate, and one was severe (accounting for 1–3, 4–7, 8–28, and >28 days of training absenteeism, respectively). A total of 46.4% of the participants did not present any type of injury and 71,4% did not incur any OIs. Average absenteeism was 17.3 days per injury. (4) Conclusions: The HITP design and implementation resulted in low OI and severe injury incidence. Due to their unpredictable nature, the number of TIs was not reduced. The TIs were suffered more frequently by men. Women are more likely to suffer from OIs, so it is particularly important to prevent OIs in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep learning is applied to many complex tasks in the field of wireless communication, such as modulation recognition of spectrum waveforms, because of its convenience and efficiency. This leads to the problem of a malicious third party using a deep learning model to easily recognize the modulation format of the transmitted waveform. Some existing works address this problem directly using the concept of adversarial examples in the computer vision field without fully considering the characteristics of the waveform transmission in the physical world. Therefore, we propose two low‐interception waveforms (LIWs) generation methods, the LIW and ULIW algorithms, which can reduce the probability of the modulation being recognized by a third party without affecting the reliable communication of the friendly party. Among them, ULIW improves LIW algorithm by simulating channel noise during training cycle, and substantially reduces the perturbation magnitude while maintaining low interception accuracy. Our LIW and ULIW exhibit significant low‐interception performance in both numerical simulations and hardware experiments. Key Points: Define the low‐interception question, and give the mathematical model, application scenarios, and evaluation criteriaPropose the ULIW algorithm based on our LIW algorithm, which substantially reduces perturbation while maintaining low interception accuracyVerify the low‐interception performance of LIW and ULIW in both the digital and physical worlds [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examined the repeated bout effect of two resistance training bouts on cycling efficiency and performance. Methods: Ten male resistance-untrained cyclists (age 38 ± 13 years; height 180.4 ± 7.0 cm; weight 80.1 ± 10.1; kg; VO2max 51.0 ± 7.6 ml.kg−1.min−1) undertook two resistance training bouts at six-repetition maximum. Blood creatine kinase (CK), delayed-onset of muscle soreness (DOMS), counter-movement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), submaximal cycling and time-trial performance were examined prior to (Tbase), 24 (T24) and 48 (T48) h post each resistance training bout. Results: There were significantly lower values for DOMS (p = 0.027) after Bout 2 than Bout 1. No differences were found between bouts for CK, CMJ, SJ and submaximal cycling performance. However, jump height (CMJ and SJ) submaximal cycling measures (ventilation and perceived exertion) were impaired at T24 and T48 compared to Tbase (p < 0.05). Net efficiency during submaximal cycling improved at Bout 2 (23.8 ± 1.2) than Bout 1 (24.3 ± 1.0%). There were no changes in cycling time-trial performance, although segmental differences in cadence were observed between bouts and time (i.e. Tbase vs T24 vs T48; p < 0.05). Conclusion: Cyclists improved their cycling efficiency from Bout 1 to Bout 2 possibly due to the repeated bout effect. However, cyclists maintained their cycling completion times during exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) in both resistance training bouts, possibly by altering their cycling strategies. Thus, cyclists should consider EIMD symptomatology after resistance training bouts, particularly for cycling-specific technical sessions, regardless of the repeated bout effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Biofeedback Training in normoxic and normobaric hypoxic conditions on reaction times in judo athletes. Material and methods: The participants in the experimental group underwent thetha/beta1 training under simulated hypoxic conditions in a laboratory equipped with a normobaric hypoxia generation system (LOS-HYP1/3NU, Lowoxygen Systems, Germany), at a simulated altitude of 2500m above sea level (FiO2 = 15.5%). Each cycle of the study consisted of 15 training sessions. The training sessions lasted for 20 minutes, with 4 sets of 4 minutes each and a 1-minute break in between. In the initial phase, participants underwent EEG biofeedback training every other day. The control group followed the same frequency and duration of EEG biofeedback training sessions as the experimental group and demonstrated an identical pattern, but under normoxia conditions. Results: The results indicated significant differences in Theta/Beta ratio values after the 5th, 11th, and 15th training sessions between the hypoxia and normoxia groups. Moreover, theta/beta1 protocol in normobaric hypoxic conditions statistically significantly improved their complex reaction times after each training cycle compared to the control group in normoxia conditions. Conclusions: The findings indicate that neurofeedback training in normobaric hypoxia conditions may considerably enhance reaction skills, particularly complex reactions, in a sports context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is some evidence for temperature-dependent stimulation of mitochondrial biogenesis; however, the role of elevated muscle temperature during exercise in mitochondrial adaptation to training has not been studied in humans in vivo. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of elevating muscle temperature during exercise in temperate conditions through the application of mild, local heat stress on mitochondrial adaptations to endurance training. Eight endurance-trained males undertook 3 weeks of supervised cycling training, during which mild (~ 40 °C) heat stress was applied locally to the upper-leg musculature of one leg during all training sessions (HEAT), with the contralateral leg serving as the non-heated, exercising control (CON). Vastus lateralis microbiopsies were obtained from both legs before and after the training period. Training-induced increases in complex I (fold-change, 1.24 ± 0.33 vs. 1.01 ± 0.49, P = 0.029) and II (fold-change, 1.24 ± 0.33 vs. 1.01 ± 0.49, P = 0.029) activities were significantly larger in HEAT than CON. No significant effects of training, or interactions between local heat stress application and training, were observed for complex I–V or HSP70 protein expressions. Our data provides partial evidence to support the hypothesis that elevating local muscle temperature during exercise augments training-induced adaptations to mitochondrial enzyme activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the effects of a 5-week continuous cycling training intervention on electromyographic amplitude (EMGRMS)- and mechanomyographic amplitude (MMGRMS)-torque relationships of the vastus lateralis (VL) during a prolonged contraction. Methods: Twenty-four sedentary, young adults performed maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) and a prolonged isometric trapezoidal contraction at the same absolute 40% MVC for the knee extensors before (PRE) and after training (POSTABS). Individual b- (slopes) and a-terms (y-intercepts) were calculated from the log-transformed electromyographic amplitude (EMGRMS)- and mechanomyographic amplitude (MMGRMS)-torque relationships during the increasing and decreasing segments of the trapezoid. EMGRMS and MMGRMS was normalized for the 45-s steady torque segment. Results: At PRE, b-terms for the EMGRMS-torque relationships during the linearly decreasing segment were greater than the increasing segment (p <.001), and decreased from PRE to POSTABS (p =.027). a-terms were greater during the linearly increasing than decreasing segment at PRE, while the a-terms for the linearly decreasing segment increased from PRE to POSTABS (p =.027). For the MMGRMS-torque relationships, b-terms during the linearly decreasing segment decreased from PRE to POSTABS (p =.013), while a-terms increased from PRE to POSTABS when collapsed across segments (p =.022). Steady torque EMGRMS increased for POSTABS (p <.001). Conclusion: Although cycling training increased aerobic endurance, incorporating resistance training may benefit athletes/individuals as the alterations in neuromuscular parameters post-training suggest a greater neural cost (EMGRMS) and mechanical output (MMGRMS) to complete the same pre-training fatiguing contraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our aim was to develop and validate separate whole body sweat rate prediction equations for moderate to high-intensity outdoor cycling and running, using simple measured or estimated activity and environmental inputs. Across two collection sites in Australia, 182 outdoor running trials and 158 outdoor cycling trials were completed at a wet-bulb globe temperature ranging from ∼15°C to ∼29°C, with ∼60-min whole body sweat rates measured in each trial. Data were randomly separated into model development (running: 120; cycling: 100 trials) and validation groups (running: 62; cycling: 58 trials), enabling proprietary prediction models to be developed and then validated. Running and cycling models were also developed and tested when locally measured environmental conditions were substituted with participants' subjective ratings for black globe temperature, wind speed, and humidity. The mean absolute error for predicted sweating rate was 0.03 and 0.02 L·h−1 for running and cycling models, respectively. The 95% confidence intervals for running (+0.44 and −0.38 L·h−1) and cycling (+0.45 and −0.42 L·h−1) were within acceptable limits for an equivalent change in total body mass over 3 h of ±2%. The individual variance in observed sweating described by the predictive models was 77% and 60% for running and cycling, respectively. Substituting measured environmental variables with subjective assessments of climatic characteristics reduced the variation in observed sweating described by the running model by up to ∼25%, but only by ∼2% for the cycling model. These prediction models are publicly accessible (https://sweatratecalculator.com) and can guide individualized hydration management in advance of outdoor running and cycling. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: We report the development and validation of new proprietary whole body sweat rate prediction models for outdoor running and outdoor cycling using simple activity and environmental inputs. Separate sweat rate models were also developed and tested for situations where all four environmental parameters are not available, and some must be subsequently estimated by the user via a simple rating scale. All models are freely accessible through an online calculator: https://sweatratecalculator.com. These models, via the online calculator, will enable individualized hydration management for training or recreational cycling or running in an outdoor environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid perovskites have attracted enormous attention in the next generation resistive switching (RS) memristor for the artificial synapses, owing to their ambipolar charge transport, long diffusion length, and tunable visible bandgap. However, the variable switch, limited reproducibility, and poor endurance are the obstacles to the practical application of the perovskite memristors. Herein, we reported a multilevel RS nonvolatile memory based on a 3D trigonal HC(NH2)2PbI3 (α‐FAPbI3) perovskite layer modified by 1‐cyanobutyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([CNBmim]Cl) and sandwiched between ITO and Au electrodes (Au/[CNBmim]Cl/α‐FAPbI3/SnO2/ITO). In contrast to the bare memristor with failure switching from low resistance state (LRS) to high resistance state (HRS), the memristor device based on the α‐FAPbI3 modified with [CNBmim]Cl (Target device) shows the retention time over 104 s with On/Off ratio (>102) and endurance up to 550 cycles. The stable RS cycle benefits from the accelerated electrons de‐trapping from the reduced defects and fast charge separation in the interface of α‐FAPbI3/electrode, leading to the rupture of conductive filaments and transition of LRS to HRS. As a two‐terminal analog synaptic device, the target device can realize random handwritten digit recognition with an impressive accuracy of 89.3% on the condition of low learning phases (500 training cycles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) accounts for about 10–15% of all diagnosed hematologic malignancies and about 1–2% of all cancer cases. Approximately 80–90% of MM patients develop bone disease and the changes rarely regress. It is only possible to stop or slow their progression. A major role in bone destruction in MM is attributed to the Wnt signaling pathway, and its action can be modified by various types of interventions including training and diet. Therefore, the aim of this project was to evaluate the effects of a Nordic Walking (NW) training cycle and intermittent fasting (IF) on the levels of selected bone turnover markers associated with the Wnt pathway in patients with MM. Materials and methods: Results from 35 patients divided into training (NW and IF NW) and non-training (IF and control) groups were included in the analysis. A 6-week training cycle involving 60 min workouts 3 times a week was conducted. Body mass and composition as well as the levels of vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus, beta2-microglobulin, and albumin were examined before and after the completion of the training cycle. Markers of bone turnover were also determined: sclerostin (SOST), Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK-1), osteoprotegrin (OPG), osteopontin (OPN), and Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b). Results: There was no negative effect of IF or combined training and fasting on the nutritional status of the patients (the level of albumins was unchanged). Both training groups showed an increase in serum concentrations of the active metabolite of vitamin D (IF NW and NW: p = 0.001 and p = 0.022, respectively). The change in the concentration of this vitamin negatively correlated with the concentration of TRACP 5b (r = −0.413, p = 0.014). Evaluating the concentrations of markers related to bone turnover, a reduction in the concentrations of SOST (time: p = 0.026, time vs. group: p = 0.033) and TRACP 5b (time: p < 0.001, time vs. group p < 0.001) was indicated. Conclusions: The obtained results allow one to indicate the training with the poles as a safe and beneficial form of physical activity that should be recommended to patients suffering from MM. However, the results obtained in the present study are not sufficient to show the beneficial effect of IF applied without trainings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a hybrid centralized training and decentralized execution neural network architecture with deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to complete the multi-agent path-finding simulation. In the training of physical robots, collisions and other unintended accidents are very likely to occur in multi-agent cases, so it is required to train the networks within a deep deterministic policy gradient for the virtual environment of the simulator. The simple particle multi-agent simulator designed by OpenAI (Sacramento, CA, USA) for training platforms can easily obtain the state information of the environment. The overall system of the training cycle is designed with a self-designed reward function and is completed through a progressive learning approach from a simple to a complex environment. Finally, we carried out and presented the experiments of multi-agent path-finding simulations. The proposed methodology is better than the multi-agent model-based policy optimization (MAMBPO) and model-free multi-agent soft actor–critic models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The solution of the classification problem (including graphical data) based on the use of modular neural networks and modified machine learning methods with reinforcement for the synthesis of neuromodels that are characterized by a high level of accuracy is considered. The object of research is the process of synthesizing modular neural networks based on machine learning methods with reinforcement. Objective is to develop a method for synthesizing modular neural networks based on machine learning methods with reinforcement, for constructing high-precision neuromodels for solving classification problems. Method. A method for synthesizing modular neural networks based on a reinforcement machine learning approach is proposed. At the beginning, after initializing a system of modular neural networks built on the bottom-up principle, input data is provided – a training set of data from the sample and a hyperparameter to select the size of each module. The result of this method is a trained system of modular neural networks. The process starts with a single supergroup that contains all the categories of the data set. Then the network size is selected. The output matrix is softmax, similar to the trained network. After that, the average probability of softmax is used as a similarity indicator for group categories. If new child supergroups are formed, the module learns to classify between new supergroups. The training cycle of modular neural network modules is repeated until the training modules of all supergroups are completed. This method allows you to improve the accuracy of the resulting model. Results. The developed method is implemented and investigated on the example of neuromodel synthesis based on a modular neural network for image classification, which can later be used as a model for technical diagnostics. Using the developed method significantly reduces the resource intensity of setting up hyperparameters. Conclusions. The conducted experiments confirmed the operability of the proposed method of neuromodel synthesis for image classification and allow us to recommend it for use in practice in the synthesis of modular neural networks as a basis for classification models for further automation of tasks of technical diagnostics and image recognition using big data. Prospects for further research may lie in using the parallel capacities of GPU-based computing systems to organize directly modular neural networks based on them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This observational study aimed to analyze external training load in highly trained female football players, comparing starters and non-starters across various cycle lengths and training days. Method: External training load [duration, total distance [TD], high-speed running distance [HSRD], sprint distance [SpD], and acceleration- and deceleration distance [AccDecdist] from 100 female football players (22.3 ± 3.7 years of age) in the Norwegian premier division were collected over two seasons using STATSports APEX. This resulted in a final dataset totaling 10498 observations after multiple imputation of missing data. Microcycle length was categorized based on the number of days between matches (2 to 7 days apart), while training days were categorized relative to match day (MD, MD+1, MD+2, MD-5, MD-4, MD-3, MD-2, MD-1). Linear mixed modeling was used to assess differences between days, and starters vs. non-starters. Results: In longer cycle lengths (5–7 days between matches), the middle of the week (usually MD-4 or MD-3) consistently exhibited the highest external training load (~21–79% of MD TD, MD HSRD, MD SpD, and MD AccDecdist); though, with the exception of duration (~108–120% of MD duration), it remained lower than MD. External training load was lowest on MD+2 and MD-1 (~1–37% of MD TD, MD HSRD, MD SpD, MD AccDecdist, and ~73–88% of MD peak speed). Non-starters displayed higher loads (~137–400% of starter TD, HSRD, SpD, AccDecdist) on MD+2 in cycles with 3 to 7 days between matches, with non-significant differences (~76–116%) on other training days. Conclusion: Loading patterns resemble a pyramid or skewed pyramid during longer cycle lengths (5–7 days), with higher training loads towards the middle compared to the start and the end of the cycle. Non-starters displayed slightly higher loads on MD+2, with no significant load differentiation from MD-5 onwards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The limited capacity of typical materials to resist stress loading, which affects their mechanical performance, is one of the most formidable challenges in materials science. Here, we propose a bone-inspired stress-gaining concept of converting typically destructive stress into a favorable factor to substantially enhance the mechanical properties of elastomers. The concept was realized by a molecular design of dynamic poly(oxime-urethanes) network with mesophase domains. During external loading, the mesophase domains in the condensed state were aligned into more ordered domains, and the dynamic oxime-urethane bonds served as the dynamic molecular locks disassociating and reorganizing to facilitate and fix the mesophase domains. Consequently, the tensile modulus and strength were enhanced by 1744 and 49.3 times after four cycles of mechanical training, respectively. This study creates a molecular concept with stress-gaining properties induced by repeated mechanical stress loading and will inspire a series of innovative materials for diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine differences in oxygen consumption ( V ˙ O2), ventilation ( V ˙ E), excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), energy expenditure (EE), and blood lactate concentration (BLa) between reduced exertion high-intensity interval training (REHIT) performed on the cycle- and rowing ergometer. Methods: Fourteen active participants (age = 27 ± 7 yr) initially completed two assessments of maximal oxygen uptake. On two subsequent days, participants completed REHIT requiring three 20 s "all-out" sprints on the cycle-(REHIT-CE) and rowing ergometer (REHIT-RE), followed by 60 min rest during which gas exchange data and BLa were measured. Results: During exercise, V ˙ O2 increased significantly in response to REHIT-CE (0.21 ± 0.04 L/min vs. 1.34 ± 0.37 L/min, p < 0.001) and REHIT-RE (0.23 ± 0.05 L/min vs. 1.57 ± 0.47 L/min, p < 0.001) compared to rest, and V ˙ O2 remained elevated at 15, 30, and 45 min post-exercise in REHIT-CE (p < 0.001). However, V ˙ O2 was only elevated 15 min after REHIT-RE (0.23 ± 0.05 L/min vs. 0.40 ± 0.11 L/min, p < 0.001). V ˙ O2 (1.57 ± 0.47 L/min vs. 1.34 ± 0.37 L/min, p = 0.003) and EE (94.98 ± 29.60 kcal vs. 82.05 ± 22.85 kcal, p < 0.001) were significantly greater during REHIT-RE versus REHIT-CE. EPOC was significantly greater after REHIT-CE versus REHIT-RE (6.69 ± 2.18 L vs. 5.52 ± 1.67 L, p = 0.009). BLa was ~ twofold higher in response to REHIT-CE vs. REHIT-RE (11.11 ± 2.43 vs. 7.0 ± 2.4, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Rowing-based REHIT elicits greater oxygen consumption and EE during exercise, yet lower EPOC and BLa. Whether rowing-based REHIT augments reductions in fat loss remains to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Endogenous CEST signal usually has low specificity due to contaminations from the magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) and other labile protons with overlapping or close Larmor frequencies. We propose to improve CEST signal specificity with adjustment of rotation and saturation effects (AROSE). Methods: The AROSE approach measures the difference between CEST signals acquired with the same average irradiation power but largely different duty cycles, for example, a continuous wave or a high duty cycle pulse train versus a low duty cycle pulse train with a flip angle φ. Simulation, phantom, and in vivo rodent studies were performed to evaluate the characteristics of the AROSEφ signal. Results: Simulation and experimental results show that AROSE2π is a low‐pass filter that can suppress fast exchanging processes (e.g., >3000 s−1), whereas AROSEπ is a band‐pass filter suppressing both fast and slow exchange (e.g., <30 s−1) rates. For other φ angles, the sensitivity and the exchange‐rate filtering effect of AROSEφ falls between AROSEπ and AROSE2π. AROSE can also minimize MTC and improve the Larmor frequency selectivity of the CEST signal. The linewidth of the AROSE1.5π spectrum is about 60% to 65% when compared to the CEST spectrum measured by continuous wave. Depending on the needs of an application, the sensitivity, exchange‐rate filtering, and Larmor frequency selectivity can be adjusted by varying the flip angle, duty cycle, and average irradiation power. Conclusion: Compared to conventional CEST signals, AROSE can minimize MTC and improve exchange rate filtering and Larmor frequency specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the potential benefits of combining physical and cognitive training interventions for haemodialysis (HD) patients. HD patients often experience a decline in functional capacity and quality of life, and physical exercise has been studied as a way to mitigate this decline. Cognitive training has also been proposed as a potential intervention to address cognitive decline in HD patients. The study aimed to determine the impact of combined physical and cognitive intradialytic training on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), mental fatigue, frailty, and quality of life. The study involved 32 HD patients and found that the intervention led to preserved levels of BDNF, improved mental fatigue, decreased frailty, and increased quality of life compared to standard care. However, the study had limitations, including a small sample size and lack of an active control group. Further research is needed to confirm these findings in a larger sample. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) as a training-intensity prescription has been extensively used by athletes and coaches. However, individual variability in the physiological response to exercise prescribed using RPE has not been investigated. Methods: Twenty well-trained competitive cyclists (male = 18, female = 2, maximum oxygen consumption = 55.07 [11.06] mL·kg−1·min−1) completed 3 exercise trials each consisting of 9 randomized self-paced exercise bouts of either 1, 4, or 8 minutes at RPEs of 9, 13, and 17. Within-athlete variability (WAV) and between-athletes variability (BAV) in power and physiological responses were calculated using the coefficient of variation. Total variability was calculated as the ratio of WAV to BAV. Results: Increased RPEs were associated with higher power, heart rate, work, volume of expired oxygen (VO2), volume of expired carbon dioxide (VCO2), minute ventilation (VE), deoxyhemoglobin (ΔHHb) (P <.001), and lower tissue saturation index (ΔTSI%) and ΔO2Hb (oxyhaemoglobin; P <.001). At an RPE of 9, shorter durations resulted in lower VO2 (P <.05) and decreased ΔTSI%, and the ΔHHb increased as the duration increased (P <.05). At an RPE of 13, shorter durations resulted in lower VO2, VE, and percentage of maximum oxygen consumption (P <.001), as well as higher power, heart rate, ΔHHb (P <.001), and ΔTSI% (P <.05). At an RPE of 17, power (P <.001) and ΔTSI% (P <.05) increased as duration decreased. As intensity and duration increased, WAV and BAV in power, work, heart rate, VO2, VCO2, and VE decreased, and WAV and BAV in near-infrared spectroscopy increased. Conclusions: Self-paced intensity prescriptions of high effort and long duration result in the greatest consistency on both a within- and between-athletes basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies of single exercise on core symptoms and executive function in adolescents with ADHD. Methods: Four databases were searched for studies of the effects of single exercise on core symptoms and executive functioning in adolescents with ADHD. Results: Thirteen studies were included, and a single session of exercise had small effect-size improvements in core symptoms and executive function in adolescents with ADHD: 10 to 13 year olds in the early adolescent–elementary school years and 18 to 24 year olds in the late adolescent–college years. Moderate-intensity continuous training, high-intensity interval training, single sessions of less than 30 minutes, and single sessions of 30 minutes and more significantly improved cycling training, attention, inhibition, substance use, and pre-study abstinence. Conclusions: A single session of exercise had an overall ameliorative effect on core symptoms and executive function in adolescents with ADHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cycling workload is an essential factor in practical cycling training. Saddle height is the most studied topic in bike fitting, but the results are controversial. This study aims to investigate the effects of workload and saddle height on the activation level and coordination of the lower limb muscles during cycling. Methods: Eighteen healthy male participants with recreational cycling experience performed 15 × 2-min constant cadence cycling at five saddle heights of 95%, 97%, 100%, 103%, and 105% of greater trochanter height (GTH) and three cycling workloads of 25%, 50%, and 75% of functional threshold power (FTP). The EMG signals of the rectus femoris (RF), tibialis anterior (TA), biceps femoris (BF), and medial gastrocnemius (MG) of the right lower limb were collected throughout the experiment. Results: Greater muscle activation was observed for the RF and BF at a higher cycling workload, whereas no differences were observed for the TA and MG. The MG showed intensified muscle activation as the saddle height increased. The mean and maximum amplitudes of the EMG signals of the MG increased by 56.24% and 57.24% at the 25% FTP workload, 102.71% and 126.95% at the 50% FTP workload, and 84.27% and 53.81% at the 75% FTP workload, respectively, when the saddle height increased from 95 to 100% of the GTH. The muscle activation level of the RF was minimal at 100% GTH saddle height. The onset and offset timing revealed few significant differences across cycling conditions. Conclusions: Muscle activation of the RF and BF was affected by cycling workload, while that of the MG was affected by saddle height. The 100% GTH is probably the appropriate saddle height for most cyclists. There was little statistical difference in muscle activation duration, which might be related to the small workload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study freeze-drying and oven-drying (at 50 and 65 °C) were applied for the preparation of dried pumpkin waste. The effect of drying methods on physical properties (moisture content, water activity, hygroscopicity, water solubility, bulk and tapped density, flowability and colour), content of bioactive compounds (carotenoids and phenolics) and antioxidant activity were investigated. Also, the influence of one-year storage at -20 °C on the bioactive compounds content and the antioxidant activity of dried pumpkin waste was examined. Results indicated that drying method showed a significant impact on the investigated characteristics. Bioactive compounds content and antioxidant activity by DPPH test of freeze-dried were higher than of oven-dried pumpkin waste, while higher antioxidant activity in reducing power assay was determined by oven-dried pumpkin waste. An artificial neural network model was developed, for the anticipation of antioxidant activity according to bioactive compounds content (phenolics and carotenoids), in oven-dried (at 50 and 65 °C) and in freeze-dried pumpkin waste after one-year storage. These models showed good prediction properties (the r² value during training cycle for output variables was 0.999). It was demonstrated that pumpkin waste is potentially an important source of bioactive compounds, which can be used after extraction in suitable forms in the development of functional food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Cardiac dysfunction accompanies acute ischemic stroke and affects the effective implementation of early rehabilitation interventions. There is a lack of reference hemodynamic data on cardiac function in the subacute phase of ischemic stroke. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to identify appropriate cardiac parameters for exercise training utilizing a pilot study. METHODS: We used a transthoracic electrical bioimpedance non-invasive cardiac output measurement (NICOM) device to monitor cardiac function in real time for two groups [i.e., subacute ischemic stroke inpatients group (n = 10) and healthy control group (n = 11)] using a cycling exercise experiment. The parameters of both groups were compared to highlight the cardiac dysfunction in the subacute phase in patients with ischemic stroke. RESULTS: We considered stroke volume index (SVI) and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRi) as the primary outcomes, and there was significant intragroup difference (stroke group: P < 0.001; control group: P < 0.001, using one-way ANOVA) and significant intergroup difference at each individual time segment (P < 0.01, using independent t -test). Among the secondary outcomes, i.e., cardiac index (CI), ejection fraction (EF), end-diastolic volume (EDV), and cardiac contraction index (CTI), we found significant intergroup differences in CI, EF, and CTI scores (P < 0.01, using independent t -test). Significant interaction with respect to time and group were seen only in the SVRi and CI scores (P < 0.01, using two-way ANOVA). There was no significant inter- or intra-group differences in EDV scores. CONCLUSION: SVRI, SVI, and CI values highlight cardiac dysfunction in stroke patients the most. At the same time, these parameters suggest that cardiac dysfunction in stroke patients may be closely related to the increased peripheral vascular resistance caused by infarction and the limitation of myocardial systolic function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adequate endurance is a critical element of success in football, both at professional and amateur levels. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness of training based on a modified wave (repeating) periodization model on the endurance of players aged 12-16 at the RKS Raków Academy in 2018-2022. Material and Method: The analysis involved football players aged 12 to 16 with 4-8 years of training experience, involved in a program called "wave periodization". Two tests were performed each year, one in June (Test A) and the other one in December (Test B). Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS) and Velocity Intermittent Fitness Test (VIFT) indicators were measured using the Intermittent Fitness Test 30-15 by M. Buchheit. Results: Tests conducted after a 6-month training cycle in subsequent years statistically significantly increased the MAS (Z = 14.45; p < 0.001) and VIFT (Z = 13.11; p < 0.001) values. The importance of MAS (F = 206.31; p < 0.001) and VIFT (F = 209.11; p < 0.001) increased in both tests in subsequent years of training. The player's position on the pitch does not correlate with the results of endurance tests. However, there is a relationship between players' age and endurance. Conclusions: The training based on the wave periodization model significantly increased the endurance of the RKS Raków Częstochowa Academy players. The research shows that in each year between 2018 and 2022, the training intervention increased the tested players' MAS and VIFT values. The tested players' position on the pitch does not correlate with the results of endurance tests. The recorded positive correlation between age and endurance confirms the current knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generating synthetic data is a promising solution to the challenge of limited training data for industrial deep learning applications. However, training on synthetic data and testing on real-world data creates a sim-to-real domain gap. Research has shown that the combination of synthetic and real images leads to better results than those that are generated using only one source of data. In this work, the generation of synthetic training images via physics-based rendering is combined with deep active learning for an industrial object detection task to iteratively improve model performance over time. Our experimental results show that synthetic images improve model performance, especially at the beginning of the model's life cycle with limited training data. Furthermore, our implemented hybrid query strategy selects diverse and informative new training images in each active learning cycle, which outperforms random sampling. In conclusion, this work presents a workflow to train and iteratively improve object detection models with a small number of real-world images, leading to data-efficient and cost-effective computer vision models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Trabajo Social is the property of Universidad Nacional de Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Spanish Journal of Comparative Education / Revista Española de Educación Comparada is the property of Editorial UNED and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this work, we present a blockchain-based federated learning (FL) framework that aims achieving high system efficiency while simultaneously addressing issues relating to data sparsity and the disclosure of private information. It is more efficient to build a number of smaller clusters rather than one big cluster for multiple networks. Blockchain-based FL is carried out in each cluster, with the model changes being compiled at the end of the process. Following that, the accumulated updates are swapped across the clusters, which, in practise, improves the updates that are accessible for each cluster. When compared to the extensive interactions that take place in blockchain-based FL, cluster-based FL only sends a limited number of aggregated updates across a substantial distance. This is in contrast to the extensive interactions that take place in blockchain-based FL. In order to conduct an analysis of our system, we have implemented the prototypes of both cluster and blockchain-based FL models. The findings of the experiments show that cluster-based FL model raise the accuracy goes upto 72.6%, and goes down to 11%. The loss goes upto 3.6 and goes down to 0.8. In addition, cluster-based FL model has the potential to hasten the convergence of the model, provided that the same quantity of data is input into it. The reason for this is due to the fact that during a training cycle, cluster-based FL model combines the computational resources of many different clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arm cycling is used for cardiorespiratory rehabilitation but its therapeutic effects on the neural control of the trunk after spinal cord injury (SCI) remain unclear. We investigated the effects of single session of arm cycling on corticospinal excitability, and the feasibility of home-based arm cycling exercise training on volitional control of the erector spinae (ES) in individuals with incomplete SCI. Using transcranial magnetic stimulation, we assessed motor evoked potentials (MEPs) in the ES before and after 30 min of arm cycling in 15 individuals with SCI and 15 able-bodied controls (Experiment 1). Both groups showed increased ES MEP size after the arm cycling. The participants with SCI subsequently underwent a 6-week home-based arm cycling exercise training (Experiment 2). MEP amplitudes and activity of the ES, and movements of the trunk during reaching, self-initiated rapid shoulder flexion, and predicted external perturbation tasks were measured. After the training, individuals with SCI reached further and improved trajectory of the trunk during the rapid shoulder flexion task, accompanied by increased ES activity and MEP amplitudes. Exercise adherence was excellent. We demonstrate preserved corticospinal drive after a single arm cycling session and the effects of home-based arm cycling exercise training on trunk function in individuals with SCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present research was to investigate the variation in the anthropometric characteristics and the isokinetic muscle strength of elite female team sport players during a season (29–36 weeks). Three groups of female athletes that consisted of soccer (n = 19; age, 23.2 ± 4.3 years), basketball (n = 26, 21.1 ± 5.4 years) and handball players (n = 26, 21.1 ± 4.2 years) underwent anthropometric and isokinetic measurements at the beginning of the preparation period, in the middle and at the end of the competitive season. Isokinetic peak torque values of the hamstrings (H) and quadriceps (Q), as well as the conventional strength ratios of H:Q, were tested on an isokinetic dynamometer at angular velocities of 60, 180 and 300°·s−1. Body weight, lean body mass and body fat of all groups decreased from the first to the third testing session (p < 0.05). Isokinetic peak torque gradually increased during the three measurements (p < 0.05). The soccer players had lower body weight and body fat compared to the basketball and handball players (p < 0.05). Isokinetic peak torque in knee flexion did not show any difference between the sports at any angular velocity or knee movement (flexion and extension), with an exception of the 180°·s−1. The improvement observed for all athletes can be attributed to the training programs that collectively characterize these team sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assessed the training, work and Life Stress demands of a mixed gender group of 48 top amateur short-distance triathletes using an online retrospective epidemiological survey and the Life Events Survey for Collegiate Athletes. On superficial inspection, these mainly masters athletes appeared to undergo all the types of training that are recommended for the aging athlete. However, there were significant scheduling differences between their weekday vs. their weekend training, suggesting that age-groupers' outside sports commitments may affect their training efficacy. The triathletes claimed to periodize, to obtain feedback on and to modify their training plans when appropriate—and some evidence of this was obtained. Over the year preceding the ITU World Age-Group Championships, they averaged 53%, 33% and 14% of their combined swim, cycle and run training time, respectively, within intensity zones 1, 2 and 3. Although the triathletes specifically stated that their training was focused on preparation for the ITU World Age-Group Championships, the way that they modified their training in the month before the event suggested that this aim was not necessarily achieved. Sports-related stress accounted for most—42.0 ± 26.7%—of their total Life Stress over the preceding year (vs. 12.7 ± 18.6% for Relationship-, 31.3 ± 25.9% for Personal- and 14.0 ± 21.1% for Career-related Stress). It affected most athletes, and was overwhelmingly negative, when it related to failure to attain athletic goal(s), to injury and/or to illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) on performance, oxygen uptake (VO2) kinetics, and lower limb muscle oxygenation during three successive time-to-exhaustions (TTEs) in cyclists. This was a double-blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled trial study. Sixteen cyclists (~23 years) with a cycling training volume of ~460 km/week volunteered for this study. In the first session, cyclists performed a maximal incremental test to determine maximal oxygen uptake and maximal power output (POMAX). In the following sessions, cyclists performed three consecutive TTEs at POMAX. Before each test, PBMT (135 J/thigh) or a placebo (PLA) was applied to both thighs. VO2 amplitude, O2 deficit, time delay, oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb), deoxyhemoglobin (HHb), and total hemoglobin (tHb) were measured during tests on the right vastus lateralis. The PBMT applied before three successive TTE increased performance of the first and second TTE (~10–12%) tests, speed of VO2 and HHb kinetics during the first test, and increased peripheral muscle oxygenation (increase in HHb and tHb) in the first and second exhaustion tests. However, the PBMT effects were attenuated in the third TTE, as performance and all the other outcomes were similar to the ones from the PLA intervention. In summary, PBMT application increased the first and second successive TTEs, speed of VO2, and muscle oxygenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large ornithopod dinosaur footprints have been confirmed on all continents except Antarctica since the 19th century. However, oversplitting problems in ichnotaxa have historically been observed in these footprints. To address these issues and distinguish between validated ichnotaxa, this study employed convolutional neural network-based Xception transfer learning to automatically classify ornithopod dinosaur tracks. The machine learning model was trained for 162 epochs (i.e., the number of full cycles of all training data through the model) using 274 data images, excluding horizontally flipped images. The trained model accuracy was 96.36%, and the validation accuracy was 92.59%. We demonstrate the performance of the machine learning model using footprint illustrations that are not included in the training dataset. These results show that the machine learning model developed in this study can properly classify footprint illustration data for large ornithopod dinosaurs. However, the quality of footprint illustration data (or images) inherently affects the performance of our machine learning model, which performs better on well-preserved footprints. In addition, because the developed machine-learning model is a typical supervised learning model, it is not possible to introduce a new label or class. Although this study used illustrations rather than photos or 3D data, it is the first application of machine-learning techniques at the academic level for verifying the ichnotaxonic assignments of large ornithopod dinosaur footprints. Furthermore, the machine learning model will likely aid researchers to classify the large ornithopod dinosaur footprint ichnotaxa, thereby safeguarding against the oversplitting problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction To support soldier readiness and mitigate the mental health consequences of deployments, Army regulation mandates soldiers to receive Deployment Cycle Resilience Training (DCRT) throughout their deployment cycle. A recent evaluation revealed several issues with the existing version that threatened the relevancy and usefulness of the training. The present article details the systematic approach taken by the Research Transition Office at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research to revise the DCRT curriculum and presents the revision updates that are now included in DCRT version 3. Method Curriculum developers (n  = 2) with subject matter expertise relevant to the project followed an iterative process that was critical to the efficacy of the revisions. Developers used the existing DCRT modules as the curriculum framework and utilized several materials to inform the revisions to include Army doctrine, data from the quality improvement evaluation conducted by the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, and the current research related to the deployment cycle, resilience, and behavior change. Internal and external stakeholders (n  = 31) provided iterative feedback to ensure each of the six modules met DCRT revision objectives. Results The revised DCRT curriculum was implemented in August 2021. The resulting revisions included an increase in inclusivity, an emphasis on growth opportunities, an integrative approach to the deployment cycle phases, and greater practical application. Additionally, the curriculum incorporates best practices found to enhance the delivery of resilience-based psychoeducational interventions, specifically within high-risk occupational settings like the military. Conclusions The revisions outlined in this article enhance the training quality and potential effectiveness of DCRT, which can positively influence soldier and family readiness and mission success. Furthermore, the deliberate and iterative curriculum revision process can serve as a guide to other curriculum development projects, specifically within the military context. Implementation considerations and potential limitations are provided, and future directions are discussed to include the ongoing evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic malignancy originating from clonal plasma cell proliferation within the bone marrow, predominantly affecting older individuals. While anemia serves as a diagnostic criterion for MM, it often ameliorates upon achieving disease remission. Iron metabolism parameters have emerged as potential prognostic indicators in MM. Notably, physical exercise has been established to influence iron metabolism. This study aimed to assess alterations in serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin concentrations, as well as leukocyte gene expression, in MM patients undergoing a six-week cycle of Nordic walking training. Thirty patients divided into an exercise group (NW, n = 15, mean age 63.1 ± 8.4 years) and a control group (CG, n = 15, mean age: 63.5 ± 3.6 years) completed the study protocol. Blood samples were collected at baseline, after three and six weeks of training, and after nine weeks. Serum ferritin, transferrin, and iron concentrations were measured, along with the leukocyte expression of genes. Additionally, serum oxidative damage marker levels were determined. Following the Nordic walking training cycle, a declining trend in serum ferritin concentrations was observed. Intracellular mRNA levels of genes associated with iron metabolism were positively influenced by the training regimen, indicating the potential impact of this physical activity on gene expression and ferritin concentrations. Although positive trends were noted, extended training periods might be requisite for significant changes. To conclude, moderate-intensity exercise induces favorable shifts in the analyzed parameters among MM patients, potentially influencing disease progression. Consequently, Nordic walking training is a safe recommendation for MM patients, though sustained training beyond six weeks could be necessary for notable effects on iron metabolism factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass plays a vital role in several fields, making its accurate detection crucial. Proper detection prevents misjudgments, reduces noise from reflections, and ensures optimal performance in other computer vision tasks. However, the prevalent usage of glass in daily applications poses unique challenges for computer vision. This study introduces a novel convolutional attention glass segmentation network (CAGNet) predicated on a transformer architecture customized for image glass detection. Based on the foundation of our prior study, CAGNet minimizes the number of training cycles and iterations, resulting in enhanced performance and efficiency. CAGNet is built upon the strategic design and integration of two types of convolutional attention mechanisms coupled with a transformer head applied for comprehensive feature analysis and fusion. To further augment segmentation precision, the network incorporates a custom edge-weighting scheme to optimize glass detection within images. Comparative studies and rigorous testing demonstrate that CAGNet outperforms several leading methodologies in glass detection, exhibiting robustness across a diverse range of conditions. Specifically, the IOU metric improves by 0.26% compared to that in our previous study and presents a 0.92% enhancement over those of other state-of-the-art methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]