Physical Attributes Research Articles

Advanced cement composites: Investigating the role of graphene quantum dots in improving thermal and mechanical performance

The investigation of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) at very small nano- and atomic sizes is a novel approach in the fields of structural cement, concrete, and ceramic materials, which have not been thoroughly explored. This study investigates the comparative effects of two variations of GQDs, Qdl and Qdp, against a control mixture to assess the potential of graphene derivatives in enhancing thermal and mechanical properties of cement composites. The research presents their influences across a wide range of attributes, including flowability, bulk density, permeable voids, water absorption, compressive strength, flexural strength, surface temperature, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, specific heat capacity, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) isotherm, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and microstructural characteristics. The empirical data underscore the superior freshness, physical, mechanical, and thermal attributes of GQDs-infused cement composites. Notably, the composites with 0.3 % Qdl show 20.8 % and 50 % increases in compressive and flexural strengths, respectively. On the other hand, the composites with 1.2 % Qdp show significant improvements in both compressive and flexural strengths, being 40 % and 108 % stronger than the control, respectively. Additionally, the thermal properties of the composites exhibit a proportional enhancement with increasing GQDs content. Microstructural analyses reveal a nano-bridging mechanism well-uniformly facilitated by the secondary nucleation and crystallization of calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) gel. This investigation offers innovative insights into the incorporation of GQDs in cement composites, highlighting their potential to create highly conductive structural cement and ceramic.

Mapping aboveground biomass in Indonesian lowland forests using GEDI and hierarchical models

Spaceborne lidar (light detection and ranging) instruments such as the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) provide a unique opportunity for global forest inventory by generating broad-scale measurements sensitive to the vertical arrangement of plant matter as a supplement to in situ measurements. Lidar measurables are not directly relatable to most physical attributes of interest, including biomass, and therefore must be related through statistical models. Further, GEDI observations are not spatially complete, necessitating methods to convert the incomplete samples to predictions of area averages/totals. Such methods can face challenges in equatorial and persistently cloudy areas, such as Indonesia, where the density of quality observations is diminished. We developed and implemented a hierarchical model to produce gap-free maps of aboveground biomass density (AGBD) at various resolutions within the lowlands of Jambi province, Indonesia. A biomass model was trained between local field plots and a metric from GEDI waveforms simulated with coincident airborne laser scanning (ALS) data. After selecting a locally suitable ground-finding algorithm setting, we trained an error model depicting the discrepancies between the simulated and GEDI-observed waveforms. Finally, a geostatistical model was used to model the spatial distribution of the on-orbit GEDI observations. These three models were nested into a single hierarchical model, relating the spatial distribution of GEDI observations to field-measured AGBD. The model allows spatially complete predictions at arbitrary resolutions while accounting for uncertainties at each stage of the relationship. The model uncertainties were low relative to the predicted biomass, with a median relative standard deviation of 8% at the 1 km resolution and 26% at the 100 m resolution. The spatially consistent information on AGBD provided by our model is beneficial in support of sustainable forest management, carbon sequestration initiatives and the mitigation of climate change. This is particularly relevant in a dynamic tropical landscape like Jambi, Indonesia in order to understand the impacts of land-use transformations from forests to cash crops like oil palm and rubber. More generally, we advocate for the use of hierarchical models as a framework to account for multiple stages of relationships between field and sensor data and to provide reliable uncertainty audits for final predictions.

Fabrication of a versatile and efficient ultraviolet blocking biodegradable composite film consisting of Tara gum/PVA/Riceberry phenolics reinforced with biogenic riceberry phenolic-rich extract-nano‑silver

The demand for UV-protective and biodegradable packaging materials has been increasing with greater awareness about environmental sustainability and human safety. In this work, the effect of incorporating riceberry phenolic extract (RPE) as well as combined RPE and green synthesized biogenic nano‑silver (RPE-NS, into Tara gum/PVA (TP)-based matrix was evaluated on the physical, mechanical, functional, biocompatible and biodegradable attributes of the resultant composite films. Integration of RPE (2 wt%) and RPE-NS (0.8 wt%) resulted in nanocomposite (TP/RPE-NS) film with improved physical properties relative to the plain TP and TP/RPE films. The TP/RPE-NS film displayed a compact structure and homogenous distribution of the nano‑silver. Increased molecular interactions, crystallinity and thickness was also observed for the nanocomposite film. Compared to plain TP film, TP/RPE-NS film exhibited improved water vapor barrier properties and surface hydrophobicity due to the extract and nanoparticles. The tensile strength and elongation-at-break of TP/RPE-NS were markedly higher (41.76 MPa and 37.40 %) compared to that of plain TP film (36.07 MPa and 20.80 %). Whereas TP/RPE film provided good UV protection (UPF value of 31.85) compared to the minimal protection by TP film (UPF value of 2.72), combination of RPE/RPE-NS ensured that TP/RPE-NS availed an excellent UV-barrier performance (UPF value of 61.09). Furthermore, TP/RPE-NS film exhibited significant antioxidant activity relative to TP film. Besides, all TP-based films were found to be compatible with rat erythrocytes and biodegradable. Taken together, these findings indicate that TP/RPE-NS holds good potential for the development of UV-protective and biodegradable packaging material.

Meningkatkan Place Attachment: Mengungkap Pengaruh Urban Park Value, Flow Experience, Eudaimonic Satisfaction, dan Hedonic Satisfaction

The aim of this research is to examine the influence of urban park value and flow experience on place attachment. This quantitative research uses a survey method with a total of 100 respondents. The data analysis technique is through multiple linear regression using SPSS version 25 and the online Sobel test. The results show that physical attributes have an indirect positive effect on place attachment through eudaimonic satisfaction; scenery has a direct positive effect on place attachment; and, flow experience has no effect on place attachment. The research results are useful for managers of the objects being assessed and similar green open space industries regarding designing relevant strategies to improve the quality of place attachments.

A Hierarchical Matrix Factorization-Based Method for Intelligent Industrial Fault Diagnosis.

Data-driven fault diagnosis, identifying abnormality causes using collected industrial data, is one of the challenging tasks for intelligent industry safety management. It is worth noting that practical industrial data are usually related to a mixture of several physical attributes, such as the operating environment, product quality and working conditions. However, the traditional models may not be sufficient to leverage the coherent information for diagnostic performance enhancement, due to their shallow architecture. This paper presents a hierarchical matrix factorization (HMF) that relies on a succession of matrix factoring to find an efficient representation of industrial data for fault diagnosis. Specifically, HMF consecutively decomposes data into several hierarchies. The intermediate hierarchies play the role of analysis operators which automatically learn implicit characteristics of industrial data; the final hierarchy outputs high-level and discriminative features. Furthermore, HMF is also extended in a nonlinear manner by introducing activation functions, referred as NHMF, to deal with nonlinearities in practical industrial processes. The applications of HMF and NHMF to fault diagnosis are evaluated by the multiple-phase flow process. The experimental results show that our models achieve competitive performance against the considered shallow and deep models, consuming less computing time than deep models.

Superionic iron hydride shapes ultralow-velocity zones at Earth’s core–mantle boundary

Seismological studies have exposed numerous ultralow velocity zones (ULVZs) exhibiting extraordinary physical attributes at Earth's core-mantle boundary, yet their compositions and origins remain controversial. Water-iron reaction can generate unique phases under lowermost-mantle conditions and likely plays a crucial role in forming ULVZs. Through first-principles molecular dynamic simulations with machine learning techniques, we determine that iron hydride, the product of water-iron reaction, is stable as a superionic phase at the core-mantle boundary. This superionic iron hydride has much slower velocities and a higher density than the ambient mantle under lowermost-mantle conditions. Accumulation of iron hydride, created through either a chemical reaction between subducted water and iron or solidification of core material entrained in the lower mantle by convection, can explain the seismic observations of ULVZs particularly those associated with subduction. This work suggests that water may have a substantial role in creating seismic heterogeneities at the core-mantle boundary.

Home boundaries: a socio-spatial analysis of Cairo’s housing market. Using justified plan graph (JPG) theory

Purpose This paper aims to define the socio-spatial considerations of apartment users in Cairo, during their decision-making process. It provides a set of socio-spatial guidelines for professional architecture designers that are based on regionalist sociological theories and the evaluation of participant responses. These guidelines can also help users choose better plan configurations or make socially conscious adjustments as formal residential interiors in Egypt are not arranged based on social interaction at home or the cultural specificity of the region. On the other hand, users have little clue about choosing better plan configurations for sustainable social relationships. Moreover, the private housing sector has mostly neglected the social boundaries that traditionally shaped home interiors. This is because the designers focus on physical attributes to satisfy market demand and economic aspects. Design/methodology/approach The research reviewed past literature on the impact of different home arrangements relative to inhabitant and social relationships. Simultaneously, preliminary open-ended sorting surveys were undertaken at the Cityscape 2020 exhibition. Based on the results, a comprehensive online survey was developed to map the socio-spatial preferences of users. Finally, a sample of 150 apartment plans was analyzed by using the justified plan graph (JPG) theory to reveal the most common arrangements in the speculative market, measuring unit depth. Findings The findings of this study will benefit the following: practitioners, including architects and real estate developers, will be able to learn about end-user preferences and offer better products (residential units). Designers can rely on a reference that visualizes recommended home arrangements in the form of justified graphs. This research will expose the academic theories that currently shape residential plans and those that are overlooked and need to be applied. Academics, on the other hand, will learn about the market, and the extent of the influence of architectural theory. Originality/value The value of this paper lies in the gathering of theoretical recommendations on traditional home arrangements and investigating the preferences of both professionals and laypeople when choosing between apartments. The open-ended study in this research will test its efficiency in the Egyptian context and serve as a reference for future social studies. It highlights the importance of cultural adequacy and how to design homes related to local residents’ natural lifestyle, by doing so, people will be able to overview the options available in the market and how to manipulate their own houses to control or encourage different social interactions.

Sociodemographic Data and Work-Related Musculoskeletal Symptoms in the Metal Polishing Industry: A Case Study in Central Portugal

The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders is a red flag in industries and is considered an occupational health issue that affects the operator’s well-being, safety, and health. This study contributes to understanding the impact of Industry 5.0 on the workforce and emphasizes the importance of promoting a safe and healthy working environment. Thus, it focuses on the assessment of anthropometric characteristics and work-related musculoskeletal symptoms in a real industrial environment, specifically in the metal polishing sector of a metallurgical industry in Portugal. The research collected data on physical attributes, health status, and musculoskeletal symptoms using the Portuguese version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and incorporated sociodemographic data, including age, gender, and professional status, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the active workforce. The results were analyzed by gender and age clusters and revealed a prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, particularly in the spinal column and upper limbs, with a significant impact on the ability to perform work tasks. The need for preventive measures and ergonomic interventions to minimize the high predominance of musculoskeletal symptoms in Portuguese industries is also highlighted to improve the working conditions and enhance the well-being and health of operators.

Pyridazine Derivatives: Molecular Docking, ADMET Prediction, and Synthesis for Antihypertensive Activity.

The drug discovery and development domain has witnessed remarkable advancements due to the integration of computational methods, particularly Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD). Discovering and creating new drugs involves structural modifications to enhance their effectiveness and physical attributes. This frequently includes employing semisynthetic techniques to investigate structure-activity relationships thoroughly. Noticeable progress in molecular biology, computational chemistry, combinatorial chemistry, and highthroughput screening is steering transformative changes in the pharmaceutical industry. High blood pressure or hypertension, a significant health issue, elevates the chances of heart, kidney, and brain complications, among other health concerns. It's a leading cause of untimely mortality globally. Therefore, it is important to search for new antihypertensive compounds that have fewer side effects and higher therapeutic activity. Following molecular docking of the pyridazine derivatives, compounds were subjected to In-silico ADMET analysis. Subsequently, a low molecular weight compound was synthesized. Among the synthesized compounds characterization procedures include TLC, FT-IR, 1HNMR, and LC-MS techniques. Compound 8 exhibited the most favorable molecular docking results with alpha A1 and beta 1 adrenergic receptors. Compounds 3, 5, and 6 fulfilled the essential ADMET criteria. Subsequently, Compounds 3, 4, and 5 underwent additional synthesis and characterization procedures, including TLC, FT-IR, 1H-NMR, and LC-MS techniques. Similar behavior was observed in compounds 6, 8, 10, and 11, all violating Pfizer's 3/75 rules in terms of TPAS. Hydrazinolysis of these b-benzoyl propionic acids produced pyridazine, which was utilized in synthesizing pyridazine derivatives. TLC, FT-IR, 1HNMR, and LCMS have characterized the compounds.

Sustainable route for silica preparation from silica fume

ABSTRACT Silica fume (SF) is a major voluminous and bulky by-product of the ferrosilicon industry, and its disposal poses a significant environmental concern. To address this issue, a sustainable approach was employed to transform SF into silica powder using a precipitation method. The process involved calcination, acid precipitation, aging, and drying, utilising industrial by-products such as silica fume and calcium oxide. Various parameters, including hydrochloric acid concentration, water bath temperature, aging pH, aging temperature, and aging time, were systematically investigated to optimise the properties of the resulting silica product. The physical and chemical attributes of the processed silica were thoroughly examined using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), laser particle size analysis, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) absorption tests. Under optimal conditions (hydrochloric acid concentration of 20%, water bath temperature of 90℃, aging pH 3-4, aging temperature of 90℃, and aging time of 8 hours), the resulting silica product achieved a purity of 98.5866%, a DBP absorption value of 2.85 mL/g, and a particle size of 6.07 µm, meeting national industry standards. This environmentally benign and cost-efficient synthesis route offers a practical solution for large-scale production.

Investigation of the structural, mechanical, anisotropic, thermal conductivity, electronic, and phonon properties of RhTiZ(Z: As, sb) half heusler compounds under high pressure: A DFT study

This investigation delves into the effects of pressure on the structural, elastic, thermal conductivity, anisotropy, electronic, and phonon properties of the RhTiZ (Z: As, Sb) compound, characterized by a half-Heusler structure, employing the first-principles method. Parameters such as lattice constant, volume, density, bulk modulus, the first derivative of the bulk modulus, and energy were meticulously scrutinized at zero pressure, drawing comparisons with theoretical and experimental data and existing literature. Throughout all pressure values, RhTiZ (Z: As, Sb) compounds exhibit robust structural stability, meeting the stringent criteria outlined by Born, with no discernible signs of instability even under heightened pressure conditions. The compound showcases ductile characteristics based on the Pugh ratio (G/B), Cauchy pressure (C12–C44, C″), and Poisson ratio (λ) criteria. Employing the VESTA program, anisotropic properties were comprehensively assessed in three dimensions, considering the influence of pressure. In terms of electronic properties, the compound maintains its semiconducting nature, resiliently preserving this trait amidst variations in pressure. The absence of negative frequencies in the phonon distribution curve serves as a testament to the dynamic stability inherent in the compound. Finally, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted to delineate the repercussions of pressure on both the physical and electronic attributes of the RhTiZ (Z: As, Sb) compound, which holds promise for applications in thermal insulation materials.

Rational Design of Mesoporous ZnFe2O4@g-C3N4Heterojunctions for Environmental Remediation and Hydrogen Evolution.

Mesoporous catalysts with a high specific surface area, accessible pore structures, and appropriate band edges are desirable for optimal charge transfer across the interfaces, suppress electron-hole recombination, and promote redox reactions at the active sites. The present study demonstrates the rational design of mesoporous ZnFe2O4@g-C3N4magnetic nanocomposites (MNCs) with different pore sizes and pore volumes following a combination of facile thermal itching and thermal impregnation methods. The MNCs preserve the structural, morphological, and physical attributes of their counterparts while ensuring their effectiveness and superior catalytic capabilities. The morphological analysis confirms the successful grafting and confinement of ZnFe2O4 nanoparticleswith the polymeric g-C3N4 nanosheets to form heterojunctions with numerous interfaces. The MNCs possess uniformly distributed small mesopores (pore size <4 nm), ample active sites, and a high specific surface area of 62.50 m2/g. The mesoporous ZnFe2O4@g-C3N4notably improve hydrogen evolution rate and methylene bluedye degradation. The optimal loading weight of ZnFe2O4 is 20%, in which the MNCs display the highest hydrogen evolution rate of 1752 µmolg-1h-1 and photo-Fenton dye degradation rate constants of 0.147 min-1, upon solar-light illumination. Furthermore, the photocatalysts demonstrate recyclability over five consecutive cycles, confirming their stability, while easy separation using a simple magnet underscores practical utility.

Anthropometric characteristics and Somatotypes in Elite Pro Kabaddi League Players

Introduction: Kabaddi players exhibit diverse body compositions that vary by playing position. Understanding these traits provides valuable insights into their physical profiles and performance potential. The study aimed to examine the anthropometric characteristics and somatotypes of elite professional Indian Kabaddi players and to evaluate the differences in anthropometric traits between defenders and raiders. Method: Twenty male elite Kabaddi players (raiders n = 9, and defenders n = 11) part of the Haryana Steelers pre-season squad during Season-10, participated in the study. Anthropometric measurements included body mass, stature, 8 skinfold sites, 3 girths, and 2 breadths. Somatotypes, body fat percentage, fat mass, and lean body mass were calculated for each participant. Descriptive statistics were used to estimate the basic functional status of the athletes. Independent samples t test was used to test for significant differences between raiders and defenders. Results: Significant differences were found between raiders and defenders across seven out of thirty-six variables. Raiders had higher mean values for height [t (18) = 2.71, p = 0.01], leg length [t (18) = 2.20, p = 0.04], height-weight ratio [t (18) = 2.79, p = 0.01], and ectomorph component [t (18) = 2.50, p = 0.02]. In contrast, defenders had significantly higher values for supraspinale skinfolds [t (18) = -2.17, p = 0.04], arm span to height ratio [t (18) = -2.53, p = 0.02], and mesomorph component [t (18) = -2.33, p = 0.03]. The 95% confidence intervals for these differences showed substantial variability across the examined parameters. Conclusion: The study reveals anthropometric and somatotype differences between raiders and defenders in elite Indian Kabaddi players, emphasizing the need for position-specific training programs. These findings provide valuable insights into the physical attributes associated with each position, aiding coaches in optimizing player development and positional assignment while emphasizing the importance of individual variability in training programs.

Two novel carbon allotropes with exceptional properties as superhard materials

Scientific researchers are always working to study carbon allotropes, which are considered significant objectives. In this study, we identified two novel high-pressure carbon materials, named C14-c and C14-p, respectively, both of which demonstrate excellent performance across several physical parameters. At the same time, we proved their stability in dynamics and mechanics by calculating their phonon spectrum and elastic constants, and determined some of their physical attributes using formula calculations. Ultimately, we conducted research and performed calculations on the pertinent physical characteristics of the structure. As a result, we reached the conclusion that the band gap at 0 pressure for both structures is 3.75 eV and 3.89 eV, respectively, indicating that they are both insulators. Their enthalpy values are somewhat greater than that of diamond, but lower than the enthalpy values of the majority of known carbon allotropes. With a hardness of 81 GPa, these materials outperform many carbon structures and are considered typical superhard materials, but they do not quite approach the hardness of diamond. Their Young's modulus is anisotropic, but is isotropic on certain crystallographic planes. The thermal conductivity at room temperature is 1.725 W/cmK−1 and 1.730 W/cmK−1, respectively, both of which greater than that of diamond, illustrating that they have promising characteristics as semiconductor materials under certain high-pressure conditions.

Geospatial interpolation and hydro-geochemical characterization of alluvial aquifers in the Thal Desert, Punjab, Pakistan.

This study seeks to assess the hydrogeochemical characteristics of groundwater in the southern part of Thal Desert of Pakistan. The primary focus lies in identifying potential sources of contamination and evaluating their impact on groundwater and the ecosystem. Groundwater samples were collected from diverse sources including shallow hand pumps, tubewells, and dug wells, with depths ranging from 11 to 28 m. A comprehensive analysis was performed to scrutinize the physical, chemical, and microbial attributes of the samples. Utilizing visual aids like the Piper, Durov, and Gibbs diagrams, as well as Pearson correlation, scatter plots, Schoeller diagrams, and pie charts, the study evaluated the groundwater quality and its suitability for consumption. Results indicate that mineral infiltration from rainfall, domestic waste, and industrial effluents significantly affects groundwater quality, leading to widespread salinity. Weathering processes and ion exchange were identified as key factors contributing to elevate levels of bicarbonates, sodium, magnesium, and chloride ions. Employing the Water Quality Index (WQI) on 40 groundwater samples, findings reveal that 52.5% of samples demonstrated poor to not suitable quality, with 27.5% categorized as poor, 2.5% as very poor, and 22.5% not suitable consumption. Conversely, 47.5% of samples showcased good to excellent quality, with 25% rated as good and 22.5% as excellent. These findings provide valuable insights for hydrogeologists to develop appropriate strategies for water treatment and address any concerns related to groundwater quality.

Integrating importance- performance analysis into transboundary natural resource management of water trails: Case study at the Chattahoochee river national recreation area water trail in Atlanta, GA (USA)

Despite growth in National Water Trail designations year after year along with paddlesports popularity, there is little research on water trail users' experiences within transboundary managed water trail systems. Specifically, there is a lack of evidence regarding which experiential attributes paddlers' find important and how these transboundary zones perform on those attributes. This is problematic because the entities managing transboundary water trail zones do not know if there are common attributes that are important to all water trail users and if they are providing satisfactory water-based recreational experiences based on these expectations. With this gap in mind, this research integrates the domain of Transboundary Natural Resource Management for National Water Trail Systems with the analytical method of Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) to explicitly compare paddlers’ perceptions (n = 360) of 12 water trail attributes between two different management zones (city park vs. federal National Park Service) of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Water Trail in Atlanta, GA (USA). Results revealed that paddlers within both management zones place high importance on the biophysical attribute of water quality yet are equally dissatisfied with the performance of water quality, a reported decades long issue for the Chattahoochee River. Additionally, paddlers within the National Park Service zone expressed greater dissatisfaction with the lack opportunities available for quiet spaces and paddling in undeveloped areas. Results also indicated that water trail visitors had various levels of expectations and perceptions of river setting attributes that differed by management zones. A focused understanding of how physical, social, and managerial attributes of National Water Trails are perceived by recreational users (e.g., paddlers) aids transboundary natural resource efforts in collaborative decision making to better balance river conservation and recreation management for the future sustainability of National Water Trails. Management implications•The increasing popularity of river-based recreation and National Water Trail Systems spanning multiple jurisdictional zones justifies the need to proactively discuss transboundary visitor use management and collaboration across resource management entities (e.g., federal, municipal, private, state, etc.).•Importance-Performance Analyses (IPA) are a cost-effective and relatively intuitive method for managers across multiple jurisdictions to collaboratively manage the satisfactory performance of recreational setting attributes, while also allowing visitors to express their opinions and perspectives on current and future managerial elements.•Managers can gain a stronger understanding of the process to evaluate river setting indicators through analytical methods (e.g., IPA) that may save them time and money, as well as provide a logical decision-making pathway to prioritizing action within the Interagency Visitor Use Management Framework (IVUMF) for parks, rivers, and other protected areas.

Physical and chemical properties of green chili pepper during storage in response to pre- and post-harvest application of moringa leaf extract

ABSTRACT The primary challenge encountered by marketers of green chili peppers is the rapid post-harvest deterioration. The application of pre- and post-harvest moringa leaf extract (MLE) is an effective approach to preserving the quality of fruits after being harvested. This study aimed to assess the effect of MLE application at pre- and post-harvest periods on physical and chemical properties of green chili during storage. For this purpose, a completely randomized design was arranged with nine replications. Pre-harvest MLE (seed soaking + foliar spraying with MLE) treatment showed a similar response to the control. Meanwhile, post-harvest MLE application on fruit by dipping method had better results on L*, a*, weight loss, firmness, and vitamin C after 7 d of storage compared to the control. These results suggested that post-harvest MLE application was more effective in prolonging the self-life of green chili, particularly in maintaining the physical attributes.

Enhancing physical attributes and performance in badminton players: efficacy of backward walking training on treadmill

BackgroundBadminton, a dynamic sport, demands players to display exceptional physical attributes such as agility, core stability, and reaction time. Backward walking training on a treadmill has garnered attention for its potential to enhance physical attributes and optimize performance in athletes while minimizing the risk of injuries.ObjectiveBy investigating the efficacy of this novel approach, we aim to provide valuable insights to optimize training regimens and contribute to the advancement of sports science in badminton.MethodologySixty-four participants were randomized into a control group (n = 32) and an experimental group (n = 32). The control group received routine exercise training, while the experimental group received routine exercise training along with additional backward walking training on the treadmill. Pre- and post-intervention measurements were taken for core stability using the Plank test, balance using the Star Excursion Balance test, reaction time using the 6-point footwork test, and agility using the Illinois Agility test.ResultsThe results showed that the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in core stability (p < 0.001), balance (p < 0.001), reaction time (p < 0.05), and agility (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. The backward walking training proved to be effective in enhancing these physical attributes in badminton players.ConclusionIncorporating backward walking exercises into the training regimen of badminton players may contribute to their overall performance.

Changes in quality attributes of coconut water treated with UV-radiation and nisin during cold storage: Kinetics modelling and shelf-life prediction

Exploring the innovative combination of UV radiation and nisin treatment for enhancing the shelf life and quality of coconut water (CW) offers promising avenues for sustainable beverage processing. This study investigated the effects of UV radiation, nisin, and their combined treatments on the physical and microbiological attributes of coconut water during 20 days of refrigerated storage. The study also aimed to develop mathematical models for tracking changes in coconut water's quality parameters during refrigerated storage and determining its shelf life by integrating quality and microbial metrics. The results revealed that the cold storage period has significant impacts on the physical and microbiological characteristics of coconut water. The combination of UV radiation and nisin resulted in microbiologically stable coconut water, with populations remaining below 106 CFU/mL, for up to 20 days of cold storage. Moreover, a decline in pH over time, particularly in UV and nisin-treated samples, indicated increased acidity by only 15%. Colour analysis showed shifts towards darker and redder hues, accompanied by increases in a*-values. Conversely, b*-values increased in most samples, except for pasteurized coconut water. Additionally, a consistent decrease in antioxidant activity, total phenolic compound, and total flavonoid content was observed in the samples treated with the combination of UV radiation and nisin during storage period, with averages of 50%, 18%, and 20%, respectively. The zero-order model accurately represented most coconut water's properties, exhibiting R2 value of ≥0.85, and the derived reaction rate constants used to predict shelf life. Integration of UV and nisin treatment significantly extended the projected shelf life of coconut water compared to control (untreated CW sample) and individual treatments except thermal treatment, with shelf-life extensions of up to 19.5 days, highlighting the potential of this combination to enhance coconut water's shelf life while maintaining its safety.

Size-dependent effects of dams on river ecosystems and implications for dam removal outcomes.

Understanding the relationship between a dam's size and its ecological effects is important for prioritization of river restoration efforts based on dam removal. Although much is known about the effects of large storage dams, this information may not be applicable to small dams, which represent the vast majority of dams being considered for removal. To better understand how dam effects vary with size, we conducted a multidisciplinary study of the downstream effect of dams on a range of ecological characteristics including geomorphology, water chemistry, periphyton, riparian vegetation, benthic macroinvertebrates, and fish. We related dam size variables to the downstream-upstream fractional difference in measured ecological characteristics for 16 dams in the mid-Atlantic region ranging from 0.9 to 57 m high, with hydraulic residence times (HRTs) ranging from 30 min to 1.5 years. For a range of physical attributes, larger dams had larger effects. For example, the water surface width below dams was greater below large dams. By contrast, there was no effect of dam size on sediment grain size, though the fraction of fine-grained bed material was lower below dams independently of dam size. Larger dams tended to reduce water quality more, with decreased downstream dissolved oxygen and increased temperature. Larger dams decreased inorganic nutrients (N, P, Si), but increased particulate nutrients (N, P) in downstream reaches. Aquatic organisms tended to have greater dissimilarity in species composition below larger dams (for fish and periphyton), lower taxonomic diversity (for macroinvertebrates), and greater pollution tolerance (for periphyton and macroinvertebrates). Plants responded differently below large and small dams, with fewer invasive species below large dams, but more below small dams. Overall, these results demonstrate that larger dams have much greater impact on the ecosystem components we measured, and hence their removal has the greatest potential for restoring river ecosystems.