Proper Fit Research Articles

Prevalence and predictors of infected diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and DFU-related osteomyelitis amongst industrial workers wearing occupational safety footwear

Professionals like deep-miners and factory-workers wear specialized safety-shoes to protect against occupational hazards (OF). The risk factors, clinico-microbiologic profile and complications of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) in these professionals remain unexplored. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted to describe the unique clinico-microbiologic profile of DFU in those wearing occupational-footwear (OF) and find risk factors for DFU related osteomyelitis in them. Of 331 DFU cases seen over 5 years, those wearing OF (n = 107, 68 underground-miners and 39 steel-factory-workers) had high prevalence of forefoot-DFU (81.3%), dorsal-DFU ( 58.9%), recurrent-DFU (31.8%) and of polymicrobial infections (16.8%). Those with osteomyelitis in the OF group ( n = 53) were younger (53.3 vs. 57, p = 0.02), had higher prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (41.5% vs. 24.1%), past-amputation (28.3% vs. 11.1%), higher SINBAD scores, and were also less likely to change occupational-footwear at < = 6-month-interval (22.6% vs. 55.6%) than those without osteomyelitis (p < 0.05 for all). Increasing age, history of past amputation, CRP and reduced frequency of changing the OF were significant positive risk factors for osteomyelitis. OF change at < = 6-month-interval had a protective effect against osteomyelitis (OR : 0.21, C.I 0.07–0.54, p = 0.002) as well as for recurrence (OR : 15, C.I.: 0.04–0.46, p = 0.002) of DFU. Existing national standards for OF manufacturing and regulations regarding their use in India are inadequate and must be made more stringent for professionals with diabetes, especially those at high risk for DFU like the elderly, history of past amputation or those with LOPS. They need detailed foot-measurements for proper fit, should wear OF always at their work-place and change OF frequently for adequate against DFU-related osteomyelitis as also, recurrent DFU.

Association Between Physical Fitness and Cardiovascular Health in Chilean Schoolchildren from the Metropolitan Region.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases increasingly impact youth, with early development of risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and inadequate nutrient intake. Proper nutrient intake and physical fitness are vital for reducing these risks, especially in pediatric populations. This study explores the connection between physical fitness, metabolic risk, and nutrient status among 1656 Chilean schoolchildren from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Methods: Anthropometric measures included weight, height, skinfold thickness, waist circumference, and blood pressure. Physical fitness was assessed via handgrip strength, standing long jump, and a six-minute walk test. Nutrient intake was also evaluated, and a composite metabolic risk score was calculated based on waist circumference, skinfolds, and blood pressure. Results: Boys consistently outperformed girls in physical fitness tests, including grip strength and horizontal jump, with differences becoming more pronounced in higher grades and Tanner stages. Girls exhibited higher subcutaneous fat levels and obesity prevalence during later grades, highlighting gender-specific patterns in body composition. Better physical fitness was associated with lower waist circumference, skinfold thickness, and metabolic risk scores. A moderate correlation between aerobic fitness (distance/height) and blood pressure (r = 0.27, p = 0.01) was observed. Z-Score MR analysis revealed that students in the lowest fitness tertile exhibited significantly higher cardiovascular risk profiles compared to their fitter peers. Conclusions: Physical fitness plays a critical role in reducing cardiovascular risk in children. The findings underscore the importance of promoting gender- and age-specific interventions that include both aerobic and strength-based physical activities. Comprehensive school programs focusing on nutrition and physical activity are essential to mitigating cardiovascular risk and promoting long-term health outcomes. Future longitudinal studies are recommended to establish causal relationships and evaluate the impact of targeted interventions.

Sensitivity Analysis on the Impact of Input Parameters on Seismic Hazard Results: A Case Study of Central America

We present a sensitivity analysis on the impact of input parameters and methods used on the results of a probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA). The accurate estimation of the parameters in recurrence models (declustering and fitting methods), along with the selection of scaling relationships for determining maximum magnitude and the selection of ground motion models (GMMs), enhance control over epistemic uncertainties when constructing the logic tree, minimizing final calculation errors and producing credible results for the study region. This study focuses on Central America, utilizing recent data from seismic, geological, and geophysical studies to improve uncertainty analyses through classic statistical methods. The results demonstrate that proper fitting of the recurrence model can stabilize acceleration variations regardless of the declustering method or b-value fitting method used. Regarding scaling relationships, their low impact on the final results is noted, provided the models are tailored to the tectonic regime under study. Finally, it is shown that the GMM contributes the most variability to seismic hazard results; therefore, their selection should be conditioned on calibration with observed data through residual analysis where region-specific models are not available.

New model to predict thermomagnetic properties of nanostructured magnetic compounds

The development of new materials showing the magneto-caloric effect (MCE) requires fast and reliable characterization methods. For this purpose, a phenomenological model developed by M. A. Hamad has proven to be a useful tool to predict the magnetocaloric properties (the isothermal magnetic entropy change, ΔSM, the magnetization-related change of the specific heat, ΔCP,H, and the relative cooling power, RCP) via calculation from magnetization measurements as a function of temperature, M(T). However, fitting the M(T) data is difficult for broad, smoothed-out transition curves which are often observed for material systems such as core-shell nanoparticles, nanowires, nanowire fabrics or nanoparticle hybrid materials. Thus, in this contribution we present a different approach enabling proper fitting of such magnetization data via the use of an asymmetric Boltzmann sigmoid function, which provides a clear physical background and enables to properly describe the broad and smoothed out transitions of nanomaterials. As examples for our procedure, we present fits to M(T) curves of polycrystalline, bulk La0.67Ba0.33MnO3 as well as La1-xSrxMnO3 (x= 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) and La0.7Ca0.3MnO3 nanostructured materials from various authors.

Volumetric drag coefficients for generic urban configurations: Insights from canopy flow analysis

Alternative drag approaches for representing unresolved buildings were proposed in literature for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of macroscopic urban airflow. As a contribution, the present work derives the volumetric drag coefficient (Cd*) through canopy drag and velocity analysis and provides appropriate correlations for Cd*against urban morphological parameters. A total of 72 cases across various urban configurations are investigated, categorized by building typology, horizontal layout, height variability, and plan area density (λp, from 0.0625 to 0.57). Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) simulations with periodic boundary conditions are performed to model fully developed flows. Results for the normalized drag force and superficial velocity and their relations with λp are evaluated. Subsequent evaluation of the profiles for the sectional coefficients (Cd*(Z)) reveals four distinct types with variations in uniform-height cases and combinations in varying-height cases. A throughout correlations analysis, facilitated by data transformation, identifies the straightforward relations between Cd* and frontal area density (λf) and tortuosity (τ). The followed stepwise regression provides a recommended formula for Cd*, demonstrating a proper fit with the simulated values. These findings facilitate the understanding and appropriate estimation of Cd* and Cd*(Z), promoting the application of macroscopic turbulence models, for neighborhood-scale wind and air quality studies.

A Novel Breast-Volume Self-Measurement Method with Improved Convenient and Accuracy

Breast volume is crucial for ensuring proper bra fit and comfort, significantly influencing women’s physiological and psychological well-being. This study aims to develop a novel method for breast-volume self-measurement, allowing women to accurately assess their breast volume without specialized equipment. We employed a geometric approximation of the breast as a combination of a partial elliptical cone and an irregular partial ellipsoid, leading to the formulation of a new volume equation. The method was validated against established standards, including the specimen drainage method and 3D scanning techniques. The findings revealed that our self-measurement approach achieved a relative error of only 3.8%, outperforming the 4.8% of 3D scanning and the 86.3% associated with traditional breast-volume equations. This innovative self-measurement technique enhances accuracy and serves as a practical solution for health and nutritional assessments, alongside body image evaluations. Its user-friendly nature positions it as a valuable tool for women’s health, particularly in personal fitness and ergonomic design.

The Role of Hearing Aids in Improving Dual-Task Gait Performance in Older Adults With Presbycusis: A Cognitive and Motor Analysis.

Cognitive decline is a common challenge faced by older individuals with presbycusis; their performance on dual-task (DT) activities is generally lower compared to those without hearing loss. However, the influence of hearing aids on nonauditory cognitive decline in this population remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effect of hearing aids on nonauditory DT performance in older adults with presbycusis. This study included older people with presbycusis who used hearing aids (P&HA group), those with presbycusis who did not use hearing aids (PoHA group), and a control group of healthy adults. Forward and backward digit span tests and timed up and go test (TUG) were administered to all individuals. TUG and motor and cognitive (forward and backward digit span) tasks were applied simultaneously to evaluate the participants' DT performance. The study comprised 60 individuals with presbycusis (19 females, 41 males; mean age: 73.23±6.49years) and 30 healthy adults (15 females, 15 males; mean age: 35.93±8.57years). Healthy adults performed better than the P&HA and PoHA groups in all the administered tests (p<0.05). There was a moderate negative relationship between the severity of hearing loss and the forward and backward digit span test performances (p<0.05). The P&HA group performed better than the PoHA group on the DT cognitive forward and backward digit span tests. The use of hearing aids and their proper fitting are important not only for improving communication skills and reducing listening effort but also for supporting nonauditory cognitive functions, minimizing the risk of falls during DT activities, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

Footwear and Foot Health: Unveiling the Role of Proper Shoe Fit in Preventing Podiatric Issues and Enhancing Well-Being

Background: The appropriate choice of footwear is crucial for foot health, yet its impact on different populations and medical conditions remains understudied. This review explores the effect of shoe fit on the prevention of podiatric disorders and overall well-being. Methods: The research included major academic databases such as MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, Scopus, and PEDro, using specific keywords. A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, encompassing studies on shoe fit across diverse populations and conditions. Medical databases and grey literature were also included. Results: Five studies were included, covering topics such as footwear advice for women over 50, the effect of shoes in preventing calluses under the metatarsals, the effectiveness of a shoe-related intervention for gout patients, and the impact of custom-fitted shoes on physical activity in children with Down syndrome. Results showed that well-fitting shoes can prevent callus formation, but the efficacy of custom-fitted shoes for increasing physical activity requires further research. Conclusions: The choice of appropriate footwear should not be solely based on aesthetic considerations but rather on the specific needs of each individual. Physicians should consider providing advice on appropriate shoe characteristics as a primary intervention

Evaluation of Child Anthropometries in Relation to Modern Vehicle Seat and Booster Dimensions.

This study compared modern vehicle and booster geometries with relevant child anthropometries. Vehicle geometries (seat length, seat pan height, shoulder belt outlet height, and roof height) were obtained for 275 center and outboard rear seating positions of US vehicles (MY 2009-2022). Measurements of 85 US boosters (pan height and pan length) and anthropometries of 80 US children between 4-14yo (seated height, thigh length, leg length, and seated shoulder height) were also collected. Comparisons were made between vehicles, boosters, and child anthropometries. Average vehicle seat lengths exceeded child thigh lengths (+9.5cm). Only 16.4% of seating positions had seat lengths less than the child thigh length mean+1SD. Even for children at least 145cm, only 18.8% had thigh lengths greater than the average vehicle seat length. Child thigh lengths were more comparable with average booster seat pan lengths for all multi-mode and high-back designs (-2.0cm) and low-back boosters (+3.1cm). The average observed booster pan height (9.9cm) would help most children achieve seated shoulder heights similar to the Hybrid III 5th percentile Female ATD. Compared to vehicle seats, booster geometries were more compatible with child thigh lengths and assist children in achieving seated shoulder heights more comparable to the vehicle restraint system. This emphasizes the continued need for shorter vehicle seat cushion lengths for these occupants and the need to educate caregivers and promote booster recommendations which highlight the importance of achieving proper belt fit and avoiding slouched postures, even for children greater than 8 years and/or 145cm.

Plasma volume response patterns and a physiologic model of ultrafiltration in hemodialysis.

Ultrafiltration (UF) is an essential process of restoring fluid homeostasis during hemodialysis (HD). Fluid shifts across the extracellular compartments during UF, predominantly across the capillary interface and between the macro- and microcirculation. A mismatch between UF and transcapillary fluid transport can lead to hemodynamic instability leading to cardiac morbidity. We wished to study intradialytic fluid transport characteristics and their variation during UF to identify factors that govern variability in transcapillary fluid movement in HD. Twenty-two patients undergoing stable HD sessions were studied to measure and monitor absolute blood and plasma volume throughout UF. A computational mathematical model of predicted plasma volume decay during UF was analyzed with respect to the intradialytic real-time data profile. Pre- and post-dialysis fluid status was assessed using multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy. Serum electrolytes, osmolality, and total protein concentration were measured pre- and post-dialysis and during the intradialytic phase. Two distinct profiles of PV responses were detected. 60% of the patients presented plasma volume decline, characterized by a high percentage of volume decrease during the first hour, and a subsequent slower decrease with early rebound. The model was modified to achieve a proper fit of these volume profiles, assuming time-dependent changes in selected parameters governing the refilling flow. Although the modified model could more accurately fit the data, the new parameter values often fell outside of a physiologically acceptable range, suggesting that other factors not included in the classic description of transcapillary fluid transport might be the cause of the observed patterns.

The Study of the Mechanical Strength of Polypropylene Filter Material for the Production of Disposable Respirators

Atmospheric air, which is a natural resource, significantly affects the health and disease level of the population [1, 2], as well as the quality of the environment [3, 4]. However, as a result of anthropogenic activity, the environmental condition of the air has a tendency of constant deterioration [5, 6]. The main anthropogenic source of atmospheric pollution is large industrial conglomerates, which include motor vehicles [7, 8]. Chemical pollution of the air on a global scale leads to the greenhouse effect, the appearance of acid rain [9, 10] and pollution of aquifers [11, 12], and as a result, an increase in diseases [13], pandemics [14]. The goal of the study is to investigate the relationship between the mechanical characteristics of polypropylene filter material and their deformation under external forces for stretching and determine the safe period of use of disposable respirators. Four types of samples have been used for experimental research. Operational properties were determined by three indicators: elongation from applied force, penetration coefficient by a test aerosol of paraffin oil, and air flow resistance in accordance with the requirements of the DSTU EN 149:2017 standard. The dependence of relative elongation on tensile force has been established for samples of Eleflen and Meltblown materials with an additional layer of coarse fiber material and without an additional layer. It has been shown that the presence of an additional layer increases the tensile force of the filter material sample by 1.5 times. It has been found that the longitudinal fibers of the filter material samples withstand 15 % more external force applied for stretching, allowing manufacturers to ensure the proper fit of respirator structural elements, which ensures a longer service life. Research results show that an additional layer of material increases the strength indicators of the main filter layer by 3 times. Scientific novelty lies in determining the relationship between the mechanical characteristics of polypropylene filter material for the production of disposable protective respirators and their protective properties and deformation under external forces by stretching. The practical value involves in determining the penetration coefficient, which ensures the appropriate protective efficiency of the respirator within the range of 0 to 10% elongation. The presence of an additional layer of coarse fiber material allows increasing this value based on the properties of the filter material (fiber thickness, packing density).

Non-surgical Treatment of Verrucous Hyperplasia on Amputation Stump: A Case Report and Literature Review

Verrucous hyperplasia is a wart-like lesion that can develop on amputation stumps, often due to poor-fitting prostheses, venous stasis, friction, and bacterial infections. While surgical excision is sometimes necessary for intractable cases, many instances can be managed non-surgically. We present the case of a 35-year-old male with a slowly growing verrucous plaque on his amputated stump that had caused repeated infections. His prosthesis was loose, allowing the stump to hang loosely inside the socket. After histological confirmation of verrucous hyperplasia, he was advised to change his prosthesis and use compression bandaging. Over 5 months, the lesion resolved without surgery. Early recognition and non-surgical management, including proper prosthetic fit, compression, and hygiene, can often successfully treat verrucous hyperplasia of amputation stumps. This avoids the need for excision in many cases. Patients and clinicians should be aware of this condition and the importance of prosthetic fit and limb care to prevent and treat it.

Development of a footwear sizing system for diabetic feet

The number of diabetic patients is increasing rapidly who have vulnerable feet and might be easily affected by different adversities. Since there is no available footwear sizing system for diabetic patients, manufacturers produce diabetic footwear of different sizes and fittings based on other available footwear sizing systems, which may result in inappropriate fitting. To get footwear with proper fittings, diabetic patients may go for customized or bespoke footwear based on their foot conditions, which is very costly. This study attempts to explore the foot complications of diabetic patients and categorize their feet to create a new sizing system using foot measurements from 102 male diabetic patients based on three dimensions of human feet, namely foot length, ball girth, and instep circumference. K-means data clustering is followed to categorize the data into three broad groups, namely small, medium, and large groups for footwear sizing. The developed footwear sizing system uses a sizing interval of 8 mm and a fitting interval of 6 mm. This study suggests a total of 11 sizes along with 24 different fittings for the footwear manufacturers for producing diabetic footwear. This newly developed footwear sizing system has a total of 79.41 % coverage where there are 10, 10, and 4 fittings in the small, medium, and large groups, respectively. The proposed footwear sizing system can help footwear manufacturers understand the proper size and fit of diabetic patients’ feet so that they can make appropriate footwear for diabetic patients economically.

High-resolution Elemental Abundance Measurements of Cool JWST Planet Hosts Using AutoSpecFit: An Application to the Sub-Neptune K2-18b’s Host M Dwarf

We present an in-depth, high-resolution spectroscopic analysis of the M dwarf K2-18, which hosts a sub-Neptune exoplanet in its habitable zone. We show our technique to accurately normalize the observed spectrum, which is crucial for a proper spectral fitting. We also introduce a new automatic, line-by-line, model-fitting code, AutoSpecFit, which performs an iterative χ 2 minimization process to measure individual elemental abundances of cool dwarfs. We apply this code to the star K2-18, and measure the abundance of 10 elements: C, O, Na, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Sc, Ti, and Fe. We find these abundances to be moderately supersolar, except for Fe, with a slightly subsolar abundance. The accuracy of the inferred abundances is limited by the systematic errors due to uncertain stellar parameters. We also derive the abundance ratios associated with several planet-building elements such as Al/Mg, Ca/Mg, Fe/Mg, and (a solar-like) C/O = 0.568 ± 0.026, which can be used to constrain the chemical composition and the formation location of the exoplanet. On the other hand, the planet K2-18 b has attracted considerable interest, given the JWST measurements of its atmospheric composition. Early JWST studies reveal an unusual chemistry for the atmosphere of this planet, which is unlikely to be driven by formation in a disk of unusual composition. The comparison between the chemical abundances of K2-18 b from future JWST analyses and those of the host star can provide fundamental insights into the formation of this planetary system.

Investigation of changes in the cumulative number of magnetic anomalies before and after earthquakes using satellite data

Iran is always at risk of destructive earthquakes due to its location on the Alpine-Himalayan seismic belt. Many significant earthquakes have occurred there so far, which have caused a lot of financial and human losses. The plateau consists of a composite system of collision-oblique transpressive fold-and-thrust mountain belts with active reverse and strike-slip faulting, range-and-basin terrains, active subduction zones, recent volcanic activity, variable crust thicknesses and rigidity, and relatively stable aseismic blocks of different dimensions with low.topographic relief and nearly flat areas., as a result, attention to earthquakes and research in its various fields is necessary and inevitable in Iran. This study investigated Iran’s earthquakes from 2014 to 2021 with a magnitude above 5.5. A total of 30 earthquakes were investigated, of which 21 cases were considered due to solar activities and the simultaneous occurrence of some earthquakes. For this purpose, Swarm Alpha and Swarm Charlie satellite data belonging to the European Space Agency have been used vector magnetic field of all the paths that passed near the place of the earthquake was used between two months before the occurrence and one month after it. First, by performing the first stage of processing for the paths that are close to the earthquake in terms of time, the vivid anomalies caused by the event are identified in the y component of the magnetic field. Then, using these anomalies, a threshold value for the standard deviation is defined for each event so that the anomalies with a higher standard deviation than this threshold value are examined and analyzed. Finally, the occurrence of the studied earthquakes was predicted by fitting the sigmoid function to the cumulative number of anomalies. Because the sigmoid function is not a dynamic function, at the same time, a cubic function has been used to estimate the critical time of the system so that when the sigmoid function cannot fit the data, the cubic function can do this. A first-order curve has also been used to show the proper fit of the data with the sigmoid and cubic functions. And also, C-factor has been used to show the strong compatibility of sigmoid and cubic functions with the cumulative number of anomalies. In the last stage, an analysis has been done under the title of “Confutation analysis” in such a way that the said algorithm is applied to the areas where the earthquake did not occur, and it is expected that the cumulative number of anomalies drawn, will be closer to the linear state than when the earthquake occurred. Using the existing database, 90% of the occurrence of earthquakes studied in this study, pre-indication abnormalities are observed a few hours to a month before the incidence of earthquakes.Also, a Confutation analysis was performed on three cases of earthquakes to show that the obtained results were not random and the change in the cumulative number of magnetic anomalies could be caused by the earthquake.

Comparative Evaluation of Two Different Preparation Designs and Materials on the Fracture Resistance of Laminate Veneers: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction Laminate veneers are thin porcelain or composite resin shells bonded to the front of teeth for cosmetic enhancement. The design of the tooth preparation is crucial; it involves minimal enamel removal to ensure a proper fit and strong bond. This careful preparation increases the veneers' fracture resistance by preserving tooth structure and evenly distributing stress, ensuring durability and natural appearance. Aim Our aim was to determine the fracture resistance of two preparation designs with two different materials for the fabrication of laminate veneers. Materials and methods An in vitro study was conducted on 40 laminate veneers divided into two groups based on the material used: Group 1 (Cerec Tessera (Dentsply Sirona, Charlotte, NC, USA)) and Group 2 (Upcera, Shenzhen, China). Each group was further divided into two sub-groups based on tooth preparation designs: butt joint and feather edge. The fracture resistance of these veneers following thermocycling was determined, and the mode of fracture was evaluated using a stereomicroscope. Results Feather edge preparation with Cerec Tessera laminate veneer restoration demonstrated the highest fracture resistance at 111.5 N, followed by butt joint preparation with Cerec Tessera laminate veneer restoration, which showed a fracture resistance of 90.8 N. The study identified laminate fractures as the most common type of fracture observed in the veneer restorations, followed by cement interface fractures. Conclusion The study suggests that the feather edge preparation design contributed to higher fracture resistance compared to the butt joint design. This finding aligns with the idea that modifying the preparation design can have a significant impact on the overall strength and durability of veneer restorations. The use of Cerec Tessera, especially in combination with the feather edge design, yielded the maximum fracture resistance.

Pinpointing prime structural attributes of potential MMP-2 inhibitors comprising alkyl/arylsulfonyl pyrrolidine scaffold: a ligand-based molecular modelling approach validated by molecular dynamics simulation analysis

ABSTRACT MMP-2 overexpression is strongly related to several diseases including cancer. However, none of the MMP-2 inhibitors have been marketed as drug candidates due to various adverse effects. Here, a set of sulphonyl pyrrolidines was subjected to validation of molecular modelling followed by binding mode analysis to explore the crucial structural features required for the discovery of promising MMP-2 inhibitors. This study revealed the importance of hydroxamate as a potential zinc-binding group compared to the esters. Importantly, hydrophobic and sterical substituents were found favourable at the terminal aryl moiety attached to the sulphonyl group. The binding interaction study revealed that the S1′ pocket of MMP-2 similar to ‘a basketball passing through a hoop’ allows the aryl moiety for proper fitting and interaction at the active site to execute potential MMP-2 inhibition. Again, the sulphonyl pyrrolidine moiety can be a good fragment necessary for MMP-2 inhibition. Moreover, some novel MMP-2 inhibitors were also reported. They showed the significance of the 3rd position substitution of the pyrrolidine ring to produce interaction inside S2′ pocket. The current study can assist in the design and development of potential MMP-2 inhibitors as effective drug candidates for the management of several diseases including cancers in the future.

JWST Imaging of the Closest Globular Clusters. II. Discovery of Brown Dwarfs in NGC 6397 and Measurement of Age from the Brown Dwarf Cooling Sequence, Using SANDee—A New Grid of Model Isochrones across the Hydrogen-burning Limit

Globular clusters contain vast repositories of metal-poor stars that represent some of the oldest stellar generations in the Universe. The archaeological footprint of early Galactic evolution may be retained in the measurable properties of globular clusters, such as their ages, mass functions, and chemical abundances. Until recently, all photometric studies of globular clusters were restricted to stellar members. Now, the sensitivity of JWST can extend this analysis to the substellar regime. If detected in sufficient numbers, brown dwarf members can provide tight constraints on the properties of their parent population. We present SANDee—a new grid of stellar models that accurately represent the color–magnitude diagrams of globular clusters across the hydrogen-burning limit at a wide range of metallicities. Using JWST NIRCam photometry and the new models, we identify three brown dwarfs in the globular cluster NGC 6397 with T eff = 1300–1800 K, confirmed by both proper motion and model fitting. We use the observed luminosities of discovered brown dwarfs to obtain the first age estimate of a globular cluster from its substellar cooling sequence: 13.4 ± 3.3 Gyr. We also derive the local mass function of the cluster across the hydrogen-burning limit and find it to be top heavy, suggesting extensive dynamical evolution. We expect that the constraints on both age and mass function of NGC 6397 derived in this work can be greatly improved by a second epoch of NIRCam imaging in the same field.

Foot Dimension among Indian Population: A Pilot Study

Foot anthropometry involves measuring the dimensions and shapes of the human foot, crucial for designing footwear that improves athletic performance and reduces the risk of injuries by offering adequate support and matching natural biomechanics. This study aimed to gather foot anthropometric data from both males and females and compare foot dimensions between the two to develop specific footwear. A total of 204 male and female volunteers, with an average age of 28.20 ± 12.95 years, participated in the study, and 15-foot measurements were taken using 3D foot scanner equipment. All data was analyzed using SPSS software version 26. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare differences between the right and left feet of males and females. Significant differences were found in various measurements of the left feet, including 'foot length', 'foot width', 'heel circumference', 'toe circumference', 'waist circumference', 'ankle circumference', 'thumb height', 'toe width', 'heel center width', 'lateral malleolus length', 'medial malleolus length', 'Spherion height', and 'instep circumference'; however, no significant difference was observed in 'foot arch height'. This study also showed that all parameters differed significantly between the right and left feet in both males and females. The Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA test revealed no significant difference in ‘foot arch height’ between males and females, but thumb height did show a significant difference between the left and right feet of females. These precise anthropometric measurements are crucial for ensuring the proper fit of footwear, insights into this variability, allow makers to make footwear that accommodates a wide range of users enhancing control, stability, and response during daily activity. Different activity requires different leg movements and support, and precise foot anthropometry can help customize footwear to meet the unique requirements of each activity.

Assessing Helmet Fit for Varsity Ice Hockey Athletes: A Field Intervention Study

Background: Protective equipment is at the forefront of the discussion on reducing sports-related concussions, with the role of helmets being equivocal. Data suggest that modern helmets are not entirely protective against concussions, and ill-fitting helmets may contribute to concussions with longer-lasting symptoms. Helmet fit can be assessed via a checklist, but its application outside of youth sport is lacking. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess helmet fit and the effect of feedback for a men’s (n=22) and a women’s (n=20) university varsity ice hockey team across a season. Methods: This field intervention study used a 12-item helmet fit checklist which was divided into five categories, defining “proper fit” as meeting all criteria of the stability and size categories. Players’ concussion histories and helmet fit knowledge were assessed using a survey. Results: The number of properly fitting helmets for males increased from 23% to 77% over the season, while remaining consistent at 50% for females. For males, 73% had an increase in overall checklist scores and 27% saw no change; 45% of females had an increase, 5% saw no change, and 50% decreased. Reported female (85%) concussion rate was double that of males (41%), but perceived knowledge of helmet fit (male=36%, female=30%) and actual knowledge (male=77%, female=85%) were similar. Conclusions: Feedback only had a positive effect on helmet fit for males across the season, potentially due to helmet style differences for females. Improvements to checklist criteria and scoring would increase the effectiveness of assessing fit for multiple helmet styles.