Physical Tests Research Articles

Use of the International IFOMPT Cervical Framework to inform clinical reasoning in postgraduate level physiotherapy students: a qualitative study using think aloud methodology

BackgroundVascular pathologies of the head and neck are rare but can present as musculoskeletal problems. The International Federation of Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT) Cervical Framework (Framework) aims to assist evidence-based clinical reasoning for safe assessment and management of the cervical spine considering potential for vascular pathology. Clinical reasoning is critical to physiotherapy, and developing high-level clinical reasoning is a priority for postgraduate (post-licensure) educational programs.ObjectiveTo explore the influence of the Framework on clinical reasoning processes in postgraduate physiotherapy students.MethodsQualitative case study design using think aloud methodology and interpretive description, informed by COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research. Participants were postgraduate musculoskeletal physiotherapy students who learned about the Framework through standardized delivery. Two cervical spine cases explored clinical reasoning processes. Coding and analysis of transcripts were guided by Elstein’s diagnostic reasoning components and the Postgraduate Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Practice model. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis (inductive and deductive) for individuals and then across participants, enabling analysis of key steps in clinical reasoning processes and use of the Framework. Trustworthiness was enhanced with multiple strategies (e.g., second researcher challenged codes).ResultsFor all participants (n = 8), the Framework supported clinical reasoning using primarily hypothetico-deductive processes. It informed vascular hypothesis generation in the patient history and testing the vascular hypothesis through patient history questions and selection of physical examination tests, to inform clarity and support for diagnosis and management. Most participant’s clinical reasoning processes were characterized by high-level features (e.g., prioritization), however there was a continuum of proficiency. Clinical reasoning processes were informed by deep knowledge of the Framework integrated with a breadth of wider knowledge and supported by a range of personal characteristics (e.g., reflection).ConclusionsFindings support use of the Framework as an educational resource in postgraduate physiotherapy programs to inform clinical reasoning processes for safe and effective assessment and management of cervical spine presentations considering potential for vascular pathology. Individualized approaches may be required to support students, owing to a continuum of clinical reasoning proficiency. Future research is required to explore use of the Framework to inform clinical reasoning processes in learners at different levels.

The effects of dietary nitrate ingestion on physical performance tests in 50–65 years old postmenopausal women: A pilot randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and crossover study

Background & AimsThe post-menopausal period represents a noteworthy stage in a woman's life characterized by hormonal shifts that can influence diverse biological processes encompassing energy metabolism and physical performance. NO3- effects on physical performance in 50-65 years old postmenopausal women after short-term supplementation remain unknown. MethodsThis is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. After two sessions in non-consecutive days of familiarization tests, fifteen post-menopausal women aged between 50 and 65 were enrolled in this study. The trial consisted of two eight-day arms: a) NO3- -70 mL of beetroot juice (BRJ) with ˜400 mg of NO3-, and b) placebo (PLA) –70 mL of BRJ NO3- depleted. Both interventions were obtained from the same manufacturer’s product, presenting the same organoleptic properties. After this period, five physical performance tests (handgrip strength, arm curl, sit-to-stand, agility and dynamic balance and 6-minute walk test (6MWT)) were applied. ResultsFourteen participants completed all experimental protocols, including a minimum seven-day washout period between protocols. NO2− plasma concentrations were consistently elevated in the NO3- condition at 0.41(0.40) μM compared to the PLA at 0.18(0.18) μM (p<0.001). The 6MWT showed higher values in BRJ with NO3- condition (19.60 meters [95%CI: 1.33 to 37.88]; p=0.038), while the other physical performance tests did not show significant difference between conditions (p>0.05). ConclusionsOur findings suggest benefits in the physical performance of activities with longer durations, indicating that the adaptation caused by ingestion of NO3- may be related to the cardiorespiratory capacity.

The relationship between dietary pattern and physical activity combinations to physical performance in 85+ Japanese population: a cross-sectional study from the TOOTH study

Background: Physical performance is a major contributor to frailty and sarcopenia. Healthier behaviour (diet and physical activity (PA)) are important, but the applicability of the evidence should be carefully discussed in the general older population and the population aged 85 years and older (85+ population). Evidence in the 85+ population is rare and there are no studies focusing on the healthier behaviours.Methods: Data (n = 519) from the Tokyo Oldest Old survey on Total Health study were used. From each validated questionnaire in this age group, the dietary patterns (DPs) was identified, and the PA was estimated. Physical performance tests included grip strength, timed up-and-go test, and chair standing, which are important for assessing frailty or sarcopenia. Linear regression models were used to examine the relationship between the combination of DP and PA to physical performance.Results: DPs identified 'Various plant foods' (DP1), 'Fish and mushrooms' (DP2), and 'Cooked rice and miso soup' (DP3) were identified. The median PAI was 9.0 METs × h/week. Based on the characteristics of the combination of DP and PA with unhealthy behaviour as the reference group, all combinations were significantly associated with all physical performance tests if both achieved. However, it was observed that some combinations were not significantly associated with DP or PA alone.Conclusions: Healthy behaviours (both diet and PA) are important for physical performance in the 85+ population. The association of PA in the 85+ population may vary depending on the dietary status of the individual.

Assessment Methods and their Effectiveness in Evaluating Physical Fitness in School Settings

Forming a vital contribution to the development of health conditions for individuals during school years, physical fitness tests and interventions in school environments are among such aspects. This general research article focuses on physical fitness assessment and brings together a humongous literature base. As sample of the study varied cohort from different contributors: from different schools, students , teachers and administrators. By means of stratified random sampling. The study begins with a baseline evaluation of fitness in the participants using both standardized tests recommended by Williams &amp; Lacy, as well as self-report surveys derived from Vanhees et al This preliminary phase acts exactly like how much physically active that samples are currently at this point during their lifetime. This study provides an overall view of the physical fitness tests and interventions that have been conducted in various school systems. To establish the pre and post-intervention performances of cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength flexibility as well body composition were measured using standardized fitness tests. Application of appropriate interventions led to significant improvements in various components of fitness. In addition, self-reported physical activity questionnaires and wearable activity tracker data offer insight into behavioral changes among participants observed via frequency duration and intensity levels. Collectively, the findings discussed above provide insight into assessment measures which promote physical fitness in students and puts light on implications for teachers, school administrators as well as research community.

Development of physical model test system for fault-slip induced rockburst in underground coal mining

A complex geological environment with faults can be encountered in the process of coal mining. Fault activation can cause instantaneous structure slipping, releasing a significant amount of elastic strain energy during underground coal mining. This would trigger strong rockburst disasters. To understand the occurrence of fault-slip induced rockbursts, we developed a physical model test system for fault-slip induced rockbursts in coal mine drifts. The boundary energy storage (BES) loading apparatus and bottom rapid retraction (BRR) apparatus are designed to realize energy compensation and continuous boundary stress transfer of the surrounding rocks for instantaneous fault slip, as well as to provide space for the potential fault slip. Taking the typical fault-slip induced rockburst in the Xinjulong Coal Mine, China, as the background, we conducted a model test using the test system. The deformation and stress in the rock surrounding the drift and the support unit force during fault slip are analyzed. The deformation and failure characteristics and dynamic responses of drifts under fault-slip induced rockbursts are obtained. The test results illustrate the rationality and effectiveness of the test system. Finally, corresponding recommendations and prospects are proposed based on our findings.

An invisible, robust copyright protection method for DNN-generated content

Wide deployment of deep neural networks (DNNs) based applications (e.g., style transfer, cartoonish), stimulating the need for copyright protection of such application’s production. Though some traditional visible copyright techniques exist, they often introduce undesired artifacts and compromise the aesthetic quality of the images. In this paper, we propose a novel invisible, robust copyright protection method, which is composed of two networks: the copyright encoder and the copyright decoder. The former projects the copyright information to the invisible perturbation with the drive of both the input of images and copyright information, thereby adding it to the image and yielding encoded images. The copyright decoder extracts copyright information from encoded images. Moreover, a robustness module is integrated to enhance the decoder’s ability to decipher images against various distortions encountered on social media platforms. Furthermore, the loss function is intricately designed, taking into account both feature space and color space, to guarantee the quality of encoded and decoded copyright images. Extensively objective and subjective experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Additionally, the physical test is conducted by posting the encoded images to social media (e.g., Weibo and Twitter) and downloading them to verify the feasibility of the proposed method in practice.

Three-dimensional mechanical characteristics analysis of double-shoulder tool joint under complex loads

Taking a new type of special threaded drill pipe joint as the research object, a 3D nonlinear finite element model of the double-shoulder tool joint (DSJ) including the engage and retract groove structure is established by considering the factors of structural asymmetry and contact of each engaging surface. ABAQUS/Explicit finite element method (FEM) is used to study the stress and contact pressure distribution characteristics of the critical structure of DSJ under complex loads. The accuracy of the finite element model was verified by combining with the physical test, and the connection strength and sealing performance of DSJ are evaluated. The results show that the stress concentration occurs at the key structure of DSJ under the make-up torque. The geometry size and structural discontinuity at the transition fillet of the double-shoulder structure have a significant effect on the stress and contact pressure distribution on the shoulder. Under axial tension, the stress level and stress concentration area of the whole joint and the key structure change, especially in the thread section. The sealing performance on the shoulder decreases significant, while that of the thread section increases slightly. The test results are consistent with the finite element simulation results, and this joint shows good mechanical properties, which can meet the design requirements of drilling tool manufacturers and provide data support for its optimal design and application.

EXERCISE &amp; CANCER PROGRAM: A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH TO PROVIDE PRESCRIPTIVE EXERCISE OUTSIDE OF THE CLINICAL HEALTHCARE SETTING

CASE SETTING This study implemented a standardized exercise program for oncology patients in the Latrobe Valley region of Gippsland, Australia, aiming to assess its potential transferability to other regions. This was undertaken due to a lack of structured services available in Gippsland, limiting patient access to these programs, in which patients having to travel up to 2 hours for treatment in Melbourne. TREATMENT Implementation of a standardized exercise program for oncology patients, developed by a multidisciplinary team of exercise physiologists, oncology health professionals, and leisure centre fitness professionals. Exercise Physiologists conducted initial assessments and patients were placed in either individual, group exercise sessions and/or home-based programs. RESULTS The program demonstrated significant improvements in both physical and psychological well-being. The program has received 73 referrals, of which 48 participants completed initial assessments with an Exercise Physiologist. Of the remaining 25 participants, 2 were discharged to other services due to their location outside the program’s jurisdiction, 18 withdrew or did not attend their appointments, and 5 are currently on the waitlist for assessment. At the time of data collection, 17 participants had completed their reassessments.100% of participants improved on at least one physical test, and all participants improved on one of their subjective measures (fatigue, depression, anxiety, self-worth). Additionally, participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the program’s psycho-social support and the benefits of exercising outside a healthcare setting. REFLECTIONS/LEARNINGS This program successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration between healthcare services and leisure centres in delivering sustainable exercise programs for oncology patients outside of the healthcare setting. It also highlighted the value of providing both physical and psycho-social support, with the inclusion of care coordinators significantly reducing burdens on health services. The program’s success suggests strong potential for transferability to other regions.

EXERCISE AND CANCER PROGRAM: A PRESCRIPTIVE EXERCISE PROGRAM IN A NON-CLINICAL SETTING

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIMS This study aimed to establish a low-cost, sustainable exercise program for cancer patients in Gippsland, Australia, where access to such programs was previously limited. By developing and implementing a collaborative program, the program aimed to improve the physical and psycho-social well-being of cancer patients while reducing burden on healthcare services. METHODS Collaboration between Latrobe Community Health Service, Morwell Leisure Centre, and Gippsland Integrated Cancer Service led to the development of a prescriptive exercise program to provide cancer survivors a sustainable cost-effective exercise and cancer program in a community leisure centre. Exercise physiologists provided initial assessments, in which clients allocated to group-based, one-on-one, or home-based exercise sessions. RESULTS After 12 weeks in the program, 100% of participants that had a reassessment improved on at least one physical test and all improved on a subjective measure like fatigue, depression, or self-worth. On average, they saw a 14.88% increase in leg strength, a 12.70% increase in grip strength, and a 16.65% increase in aerobic fitness. Additionally, they reported an average decrease in anxiety (10.96%), depression (1.59%), fatigue (6.09%), and reported illness symptoms (5.24%). Overall, participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the benefits of the program’s psycho-social support and the opportunity to exercise outside a healthcare setting. CONCLUSION Collaboration between healthcare and leisure centres can provide sustainable and cost-effective exercise programs for cancer patients, improving physical and psycho-social well-being while reducing healthcare burden. Participants valued the support, social interaction, and sense of belonging provided by the program.

OPTIMISING THE LADDER RAISE TASK IN THE PHYSICAL APTITUDE TEST FOR FIRE-FIGHTERS

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIM Identifying physically capable candidates is a crucial component of recruiting firefighters given the physical demands of the occupation. At the request of a local fire agency, a review of one test item within the physical aptitude testing protocol was undertaken with the aim of this pilot study to compare physical and perceptual performance between the ladder raise task and a suite of surrogate tests to determine suitability for use in recruitment screening. METHODS 23 participants (unskilled in firefighting) performed the criterion ladder task (‘Ladder’) and three surrogate tasks: stationary constant-tension overhead press (existing test item; ‘Reel’); barbell overhead walk/return (‘Barbell’); overhead modular ladder lift (Modular Under-Running Apparatus (‘MURA’)). The tests were segmented into six components relating to lifting and under-running the device. Task duration, task completion, perceptual and kinetic variables were measured. Pearson’s correlation, OLP regressions and paired t-tests assessed relationships between the Ladder and surrogate tasks. RESULTS The Reel most closely reflected the criterion task in component 1 (lifting) for both peak and average forces (dz =-0.11, p=0.920; dz=-0.11, p=0.532 respectively). The MURA and Barbell were most closely aligned to the Ladder in all other objective values with trivial-small differences evident. The MURA was most closely aligned with the Ladder in subjective measures for components-2/5 and components-3/4 including difficulty (dz= -0.41, p=0.133; dz=-0.32, p=0.250, respectively), fatigue (dz= -0.25, p=0.354; dz=-0.10, p=0.796, respectively) and task representation (7.2[1.6]; 7.4[1.6], respectively). CONCLUSION The currently used Reel task revealed low construct and content validity. The MURA was shown to be the most appropriate surrogate option for the local fire agency to further investigate for use within recruitment physical testing. Further investigation with a sample of career firefighters should be undertaken to verify face validity at the industry level.

Stiffening patterns for freeform composite shell structures

This paper investigates innovative approaches for enhancing the structural integrity of form-found shell structures with a focus on rib-based reinforcements. It discusses the significance of ribs in enhancing stability and addressing the sensitivity of form-found structures to various loads. Traditional methods such as increasing shell thickness or introducing supports often compromise efficiency and aesthetics. A more intelligent approach involves reinforcing the shell with ribs and advanced materials. Diverse rib patterns are presented, including geometric, biomimetic, and topological optimization-inspired designs, each adhering to a 50% volume constraint, when compared to the original shell. Physical testing and numerical simulations demonstrate that these rib patterns significantly increase stiffness and buckling resistance. The findings presented in the paper suggest that combining form-finding methodologies with well-designed rib patterns can create sustainable and resilient structures, contributing to a reduction in both the consumption of materials and the environmental impact of these structures.

Constitutive modeling structural behaviors of Shanghai deep clay

The rapid development of underground engineering requires a comprehensive understanding of deep soils. Existing study about the deformation and strength behaviors of Shanghai clay is mostly focused on shallow soft clay (generally within 30 m depth), while counterpart for deep clay is needed. This work investigates the physical properties and mechanical behaviors of Shanghai deep clay (block samples of layer (8) obtained at a depth of around 50 m), via conducting a series laboratory tests including physical property tests, onedimensional consolidation tests and undrained triaxial compression tests, performing constitutive modelling. The results show: (1) Shanghai layer (8) clay can be classified as a low-plasticity silty clay, and the void ratio measured in the laboratory of the block samples is larger than remoulded samples; (2) The clay is a normally consolidated clay, and the block samples show greater compressibility and stronger initial structure; (3) The block samples show contraction behaviors in the undrained triaxial compression tests; (4) The structural behaviors is well captured by structural bounding surface model.

Experimental investigation on the characteristics of seepage failure of landslide dams with strongly permeable zones

Landslide dams are formed by river blockages caused by landslides or other slope instability bodies. They exhibit loose structure, poor stability and strong permeability. Large water head caused by water-level increase can trigger seepage deformation of soil and influence the stability of landslide dams, possibly leading to dam breach and catastrophic damage. Various landslide dam structures also result in differences in seepage characteristics. In this study, multiple physical model tests for seepage failure of landslide dams with strongly permeable zones were designed. The influence of the location and gradation of the strongly permeable zones on the seepage of landslide dams was studied. The characteristics and modes of seepage failure of landslide dams with strongly permeable zones were analysed. The experimental results showed that the cyclic evolution failure of piping and downstream slope collapse was an essential failure mode for the seepage-induced failure of landslide dams with strongly permeable zones. Compared with the strongly permeable zone at the bottom of a landslide dam, the piping caused by seepage evidently promoted the slope erosion of the dam with the strongly permeable zone in the middle. As the permeability coefficient of strongly permeable zones increased, piping was faster and easier to form, and piping failure, slope erosion, and slope collapse were more severe. The seepage failure of landslide dams mainly included the emergence of seepage water, piping, slope erosion, and downstream slope collapse. Piping was caused by the erosion and migration of some fine particles of soil in seepage channels in the dam. When the flow drag force could overcome the resistance force among the soil particles, some fine particles and even large particles on the downstream slope surface were continuously eroded. This study provides new insights into the evolution process and breach mechanisms for the seepage-induced failure of landslide dams with strongly permeable zones.

How We Interpret Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome?

Platelets play an important role in hemostasis, and a low platelet count usually increases the risk of bleeding. Conditions in which thrombosis occurs despite low platelet counts are referred to as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome, including heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, antiphospholipid syndrome, thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), and disseminated intravascular coagulation. TMA includes thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and atypical HUS. Patients with these pathologies present with thrombosis and consumptive thrombocytopenia associated with the activation of platelets and the coagulation system. Treatment varies from disease to disease, and many diseases have direct impacts on mortality and organ prognosis if therapeutic interventions are not promptly implemented. Underlying diseases and the results of physical examinations and general laboratory tests as part of a thorough workup for patients should promptly lead to therapeutic intervention before definitive diagnosis. For some diseases, the diagnosis and initial treatment must proceed in parallel. Utilization of not only laboratory tests but also various scoring systems is important for validating therapeutic interventions based on clinical information.

PHYSICAL AND TECHNICAL ATTRIBUTES ASSOCIATED ON-WATER ROWING PERFORMANCE IN JUNIOR AND ELITE ROWERS

INTRODUCTION &amp; AIMS On-water rowing performance consists of the integration of both physical and technical attributes. The aims of this exploratory study were to describe key physical and technical variables for elite and junior rowers and to examine the associations and predictive capacity of these variables with on-water rowing performance outcomes. METHODS Twenty-eight junior (16 females, 16 ± 0.8 years and 12 males, 17 ± 0.7 years) and 24 elite rowers (12 females, 24 ± 2.7 years and 12 males, 27 ± 2.6 years) volunteered to participate in the study. Participants completed an on-water single sculling biomechanics assessment combined with a series of physical, strength and power tests conducted in a high-performance training facility. RESULTS Descriptive analysis identified differences between junior and elite rowers separated by sex in several physical and on-water characteristics. Elite men and women were superior in mean gate force, distance per stroke and recovery distance compared to junior groups (P&amp;lt;0.0.17). Large correlations (P&amp;lt;0.01) were found between anthropometry, strength and power assessments with the on-water measures of catch angle, mean gate force, recovery distance and boat speed. Differences in ROM and flexibility attributes did not distinguish between elite and junior rowers, with other factors potentially involved. CONCLUSION This unique exploratory study combined a comprehensive physical assessment with an on-water single sculling biomechanical assessment to explore the interaction of physical attributes with on-water rowing technical variables. This battery of testing with world class athletes represents an excellent level of ecological validity for the assessment of rowers pertinent to on-water performance. The results provide a descriptive dataset of physical and technical characteristics for elite and junior rowers, of both sexes, which may be useful when evaluating the status of development rowers and to gauge the possibility of achieving further success in the sport.

Optimization of the potting design using an approach for load path optimized designs of sandwich structures

AbstractIn sandwich structures, mass can be reduced or mechanical properties increased if the challenging local load distribution can be improved. Through numerical optimizations, novel designs can be determined and investigated in physical and virtual tests. This paper presents an approach for load path-optimized design of sandwich structures and novel design concepts. The approach is applied to the design concept of honeycombs filled with potting compound. Due to the shown transferability to higher structural levels, it can be used as a basis for the design optimization of any sandwich structure.

Implications of alcohol use for aging-associated skeletal muscle dysfunction

Background: Alcohol use decreases skeletal muscle (SKM) strength and function. Alcohol use is disproportionately on the rise among older individuals, with 25% engaging in heavy drinking and 11% reporting binge drinking. The significant increase in life expectancy in the United States leads us to predict that alcohol use will be an important factor exacerbating SKM function in chronological aging, increasing the risk of poor physical performance and frailty. The objective of the study was to assess the impact of recent alcohol use on measures of physical performance and on muscle differentiation and bioenergetic capacity among people over the age of 60. Methods: We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study. Sedentary people over the age of 60 years were recruited from the Greater New Orleans Area. Participants were assessed for physical performance and vastus lateralis muscle biopsies taken for biochemical analysis. Recent alcohol misuse was defined as phosphatidyl ethanol (PEth), a biomarker of alcohol use, levels &gt;20 ng/ml. Results: Preliminary analysis of data from 13 participants (PEth&gt; 20 ng/ml, n=5) showed no differences in hand grip strength (Means± SD-31.08±9.8 and 33.17±8.4 kg respectively), 30-sec sit to stand test (10.5± 1.8 and 10.6± 3.9 number respectively), and Timed up and go Test (13.5± 2.6 and 11.4± 3.1 seconds respectively) among participants with PEth &lt; 20 ng/ml compared to those with PEth &gt;20ng/ml. Data collected from myotubes derived from myoblasts isolated from SKM biopsies from participants with PEth &gt;20 ng/ml showed increased proton leak (indicator of poor mitochondrial bioenergetic health) and lower myotube density (p=0.06, Cohen’s d = 1.9) compared to myotubes from participants with PEth &lt;20 ng/ml. Conclusions: Preliminary analysis indicates that recent alcohol use dysregulates muscle bioenergetic and differentiation capacity that are not associated with significant differences in physical performance tests. Ongoing analysis will identify confounding factors, and whether cumulative lifetime alcohol use contributes more significantly to physical performance and frailty measures among older people. R21AA030869, Pilot funding Department of Physiology LSUHSC-NO, P60AA009803. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Pre-Exercise And Acute Movement-Evoked Pain Trajectories During A 24-Week Outdoor Walking Program For Knee Osteoarthritis (Walk)

ObjectivesExploring (1) pre-exercise and acute movement-evoked pain (AMEP) during an outdoor walking program in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA); and (2) comparing baseline physical performance and AMEP flares initiated by walking between participants with either a higher or lower attendance rate. MethodsIndividuals with knee OA were prescribed a 24-week walking program, including one unsupervised walk and two supervised walk classes per week. Participants self-reported knee pain on a numerical rating scale (NRS;0-10) before and after each supervised class. Mixed-effects models were used to investigate trajectories over time for pre-exercise pain and AMEP change (post- minus pre-exercise pain; positive value indicates flare-up). Baseline physical performance (6 tests) and AMEP flares were compared between participants with higher (attending ≥70% of supervised classes) and lower attendance rates. ResultsOf 24 participants commencing the program, 7 (29%) withdrew. Over 24 weeks, pre-exercise pain improved by 1.20 NRS (95% CI -1.41 to -0.99), with estimated largest per class improvements during the first 8 weeks (-0.05 (-0.06 to -0.03) and plateauing around 20-weeks. The AMEP was estimated to improve by 0.19 NRS (95% CI -0.38 to -0.004) over 24-weeks, with improvements plateauing around 12-weeks. Participants with lower attendance (n=11) scored poorer on all physical performance tests and experienced a slight increase in AMEP during the first two weeks of the program. ConclusionsParticipants improved in pre-exercise pain and AMEP in the first 20 and 12 weeks, respectively. Despite supervision, physical performance and AMEP flares may have contributed to lower attendance. Trial registration number12618001097235

Arching effect in slopes under excavation: Classification and features

Classifying excavation-induced slopes considering the arching effect and understating the features are crucial for determining the appropriate designs for excavation, assessing the long-term behaviors of excavations, and identifying potential failure modes. The objective of this study is to establish a classification system for excavation-induced slopes and to identify the features and applications of each slope. A series of physical model tests were carried out to investigate the deformation and failure behaviors of slope under different conditions. Assisted with the monitoring of earth pressure cells, digital and high-speed cameras, the deformation and failure characteristics were analyzed through particle image velocimetry (PIV) analysis. The results show that the slope models can be separated into three types: “shear plane arching” slope; “partial arching” slope; and approaching “full arching” slope. During the prefailure process, unyield zone ratio decreases from “shear plane arching” slope to “particle arching” slope to approaching “full arching” slope, while the yield zone ratio and interaction zone ratio increase. In the postfailure, the “full arching” slope can create higher initial kinetic energy. The classification and features of the excavation-induced slopes helps to supply engineers with the information for guiding the operation at sites.

The effect of rest duration on the physical and chemical quality of Brahman-Cross beef

Brahman Cross (BX) cattle are cattle produced by crossing Brahman cattle with European cattle. Brahman Cross is one of the beef cattle that has high productivity, resistance to high temperatures, resistance to relatively dry tropical environments, and good meat quality. This study was carried out to determine the effect of rest duration on the physical and chemical quality of Brahman Cross cattle on pH, water holding capacity, as well as fat and protein content of meat. The research was conducted at Mabar RPH Medan City. Meat physical and chemical tests were carried out at the Food Chemistry Analysis Laboratory, University of North Sumatera. Furthermore, this study used 48 Brahman Cross cattle and was designed with a statistical T-test consisting of 2 variables and 24 replications. The research treatment consisted of 24 Brahman Cross cattle without rest (0 hours), and 24 Brahman Cross cattle rested for 24 hours. The results showed that the duration of 0 hour rest and 24 hours rest before slaughter had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the pH and protein content, but had a significant effect (P>0.05) on water holding capacity and fat content.