Search Results (282)

Background: A post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) can acutely improve explosive actions, but its time course may be influenced by individual strength levels. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the performance responses following three PAPE protocols, considering the strength level as a modulating factor in trained high jump athletes. Methods: Twenty-one male high jumpers (Tier 3) were divided into stronger (SG, n = 10) and weaker (WG, n = 11) groups based on the median load (80 kg) lifted at 0.8 m/s in a velocity-based half-squat test. The participants completed three squat-based PAPE protocols (velocity loss thresholds of 5%, 10%, and 15%) in a randomized, double-blind crossover design. Their performance in a 10 m sprint (S10) and a countermovement jump (CMJ) was assessed at baseline and 0, 4, 8, and 12 min post-intervention. Results: No significant three-way interactions were observed for the S10 or CMJ performance (p > 0.05). The absolute CMJ performance was consistently higher in the SG across all the time points (p < 0.001, d = 1.25, large), with significant peak values observed at 4 min post-activation. However, both groups exhibited transient improvements in their S10 and CMJ performance that were statistically significant (p < 0.05) and of a large magnitude (d = 1.93–3.15), observed at 4 and/or 8 min post-activation, which subsequently declined by 12 min. Conclusions: The strength level modulates both the time course and the magnitude of the PAPE. Stronger athletes responded better to both less and more demanding protocols (5% to 15% velocity loss thresholds) with a 4–8 min recovery, whereas weaker athletes benefited mainly from less demanding stimuli (5% velocity loss thresholds), provided that the recovery was sufficient (≈4 min) to allow potentiation to emerge. However, with more demanding protocols (15% velocity loss thresholds), a longer recovery period (≈8 min) appears necessary. Full article

We previously demonstrated lipid nanoparticle-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to disrupt the gene encoding cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (Cypor), combined with transient administration of acetaminophen (APAP), to repopulate the liver with healthy hepatocytes and rescue a phenylketonuria mouse model. This study aimed to investigate electroporation-mediated delivery of Cypor-targeting CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoproteins into wild-type hepatocytes, combined with liver engraftment under APAP treatment, as an in vivo selection approach in a mouse model of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (Ldlr^−/−). Electroporation provides higher delivery efficiency compared to lipid nanoparticles. We observed engraftment levels up to 13% engraftment of electroporated Cypor-deficient hepatocytes with indels in the liver of Ldlr^−/− mice after transient APAP administration, while negligible engraftment was observed in no-APAP controls (mean 9% and 2%, respectively, p = 0.0121). The engraftment of Cypor-deficient Ldlr^+/+ hepatocytes was associated with reductions in LDL-cholesterol (18%) and triglycerides (52%) compared to the untransplanted control Ldlr^−/− mice fed a Western diet for 5 weeks, but offered no protection from the development of diet-induced aortic root atherosclerosis or liver steatosis. While biochemical markers for liver damage normalized after discontinuation of APAP, we observed persistent lipid accumulation in the liver of Ldlr^−/− mice grafted with Cypor-deficient Ldlr^+/+ hepatocytes, likely stemming from the impact of Cypor deficiency on cholesterol clearance. Therefore, the combination of CRISPR-Cas9-mediated Cypor knockdown to induce clonal expansion of gene-edited hepatocytes using transient APAP administration is not a viable therapeutic strategy for familial hypercholesterolemia due to the essential role of Cypor in cholesterol metabolism. Unlike findings from phenylketonuria mouse model studies, the loss of Cypor function could not be compensated by unedited native hepatocytes in Ldlr^−/− mice. Collectively, our results demonstrate that electroporation is a viable and informative approach for evaluating gene editing strategies for the treatment of inherited metabolic diseases that affect the liver. Our electroporation procedure revealed that a one-size-fits-all gene editing strategy may not be universally applicable for treating inherited metabolic liver disorders. Tailored gene editing and selection strategies may be needed for different liver disorders. Full article

Rolling Bearings are crucial components for induction motors and generators in electric vehicles (EVs), as their performance considerably influences the system’s operational reliability and safety. However, the commercial greases used for bearing lubrication in EV motors pose a detrimental impact on the environment. In addition, they are ineffective in mitigating the effect of electric discharges on rolling surfaces leading to premature bearing failures. This study investigates the viability of a developed eco-friendly grease from palm olein as the base oil and glycerol monostearate as the thickener, enhanced with conductive multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for EV motor bearings prone to electrical currents. Chemical–physical, tribological, and electrical tests were conducted on the developed grease samples without and with MWCNTs at 1 wt.%, 2 wt.%. and 3 wt.% concentrations and results were compared to lithium and sodium greases. Palm grease samples demonstrated a lower EDM voltage range reaching 1.0–2.2 V in case of 3 wt.% MWCNTs blends, indicating better electrical conductivity and protecting the bearing surfaces from electric-related faults. These findings were further confirmed using vibrations measurement and SEM-EDX analysis of the electrically worn bearings. Bearings lubricated with palm grease blends exhibited lower vibration levels. Palm grease with 2 wt.% MWCNTs reduced vibration amplitudes by 28.4% (vertical) and 32.3% (horizontal). Analysis of bearing damaged surfaces revealed enhanced damaged surface morphology for MWCNT-enhanced palm grease as compared to surface lubricated by commercial greases. The results of this work indicate that the proposed bio-grease is a promising candidate for future application in the field of next-generation electric mobility systems. Full article

Lychee (Lychee chinensis Sonn.) is a tropical fruit highly appreciated for its vivid red color, sweet flavor, and nutritional properties. However, it is highly perishable, with postharvest losses often due to oxidative browning and dehydration. This study evaluated the organic olive oil coating (OC), a natural lipidic system with the potential to act as a precursor for organogel development, combined with polyamide/polyethylene (PA/PE) packaging under passive modified atmosphere. Fruits were harvested at commercial maturity and divided into two groups: OC-treated and untreated control (CTR). Both groups were stored at 5 ± 1 °C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity and analyzed on days 0, 3, 6, and 9. The OC-treated fruits showed significantly better retention of physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory qualities. The coating reduced oxidative stress and enzymatic browning, preserving color and firmness. The PA/PE packaging regulated gas exchange, lowering oxygen levels and delaying respiration and ripening. As a result, OC fruits had lower weight loss, a slower increase in browning index and maturity index, and better visual and sensory scores than the CTR group. This dual strategy proved effective in extending shelf life while maintaining the fruit’s appearance, flavor, and nutritional value. It represents a sustainable and natural approach to enhancing the postharvest stability of lychee. Full article

Background: Post-activation potentiation enhancement (PAPE) is a physiological phenomenon that results in an acute improvement in muscular performance following a resistance training protocol, whose effects have been widely studied. However, due to methodological challenges in matching training stimuli, the results comparing the PAPE effect of strength training with flywheel or free-weight systems show inconsistencies in the literature. Since mean-propulsive velocity (MPV) is the most used parameter for monitoring free-weight intensity in real time, the aim of the study was to analyze the PAPE effect of a resistance training bout using free-weight and flywheel devices, matching intensities through MPV. Methods: Thirty physically active subjects participated in this crossover study, which aimed to compare the PAPE effect between a three-set, six-repetition half-squat exercise with free-weight and flywheel devices. Training intensity was matched in both groups through MPV. Vertical jump and sprint tests were conducted pre- and 4 min post-intervention. Results: There was no group x time interaction for the jump and sprint (p > 0.05). Vertical jump decreased post-exercise (p < 0.001). Conclusions: When training intensity in free-weight and flywheel devices is matched through MPV, the acute performance alterations will be similarly matched, with no PAPE benefits observed at least 4 min post-exercise. Full article

Low-load conditioning activity with blood flow restriction has been addressed as an efficient method to enhance an individual’s performance during their main exercise activity. However, the optimal degree of blood flow restriction remains unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the acute effects of low-load conditioning activity with different degrees of blood flow restriction on muscle strength, power, and perceived exertion. Twenty recreationally trained men (20.9 ± 2.3 years) participated in a randomized crossover design including three conditions: control, low-load blood flow restriction at 50%, and 75% of total arterial occlusion pressure. Participants performed squats (three sets of ten reps) followed by isokinetic assessments of the knee flexor and extensor performance at 7 and 10-min post-exercise. The session rating of perceived exertion (SRPE) was recorded 30 min after each session. No significant effects were observed for condition, time, or their interaction on peak torque, total work, or average power (p < 0.05). However, SRPE was significantly higher in the 75% BFR condition compared to both the 50% BFR and control conditions (p < 0.05), with no difference between the 50% BFR and control. These findings suggest that low-load conditioning activity with blood flow restriction does not acutely enhance neuromuscular performance. However, a higher degree of restriction increases perceived exertion. Full article

Cobboldia elephantis (Oestridae: Gasterophilinae) is an obligate parasite of the alimentary tract of the Asian elephant, causing gastric myiasis. Current knowledge of its first instar larval morphology has been limited to observations under light microscopy, significantly constraining our understanding of morphological evolution within the genus Cobboldia and the broader subfamily Gasterophilinae. In this study, we provided ultrastructural and three-dimensional characterizations of C. elephantis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) based on newly hatched first instar larvae. Features of the first instar larva of C. elephantis, which are either unique or shared with C. loxodontis Brauer, 1896, include (i) three pairs of mouthhooks, (ii) posterior spiracles bearing peristigmatic tufts, (iii) anal division with two spine-clusters and a row of elongated spines, and (iv) a planed, button-like sensilla and a sensillum placodeum. We also compared the first instar larval morphology of C. elephantis with that of Cobboldia loxodontis, Gyrostigma rhinocerontis (Owen, 1830), Gasterophilus pecorum (Fabricius, 1794), Portschinskia magnifica Pleske, 1926, and Oestrus ovis Linnaeus, 1758. Species of Gasterophilinae share several unique features of the first instar larva, including (i) an anal division composed of three subdivisions, (ii) spiracular slits on the posterior spiracles, and (iii) conserved positioning of thoracic sensilla. These findings fill a key gap in our knowledge of C. elephantis larval morphology and suggest that these distinctive structures play a role in adaptation to its parasitic lifestyle. Full article

Background: Although the difficulty level of figure skating programs has increased in the last two decades, particularly at the junior level, trends in performance have not been reported. This retrospective observational study investigated performance development trends among the top five junior figure skaters competing at international levels in both the ladies’ and men’s singles disciplines from 2005 to 2020. Data from 160 junior single ladies and 160 junior single men were analyzed. The focus was on the progression of technical elements—particularly jumps—and their potential correlation with injury risk. It was hypothesized that younger athletes are increasingly performing jumps with more revolutions, thereby enhancing overall competition standards. Materials and Methods: Using data from the Junior World Championships and Junior Grand Prix Finals, linear regression analysis and one-way ANOVA were conducted to track the frequency of double, triple, and quadruple jumps, as well as trends in age development among athletes in the singles categories from 2005 to 2020. Results: The results indicate a significant increase in the execution of higher-revolution jumps among junior athletes. Between 2005 and 2012, the frequency of double jumps declined across all events, with the most pronounced reductions observed in the Ladies’ Junior World Championships (Δ = 0.216, p = 0.004, d = 1.64) and the Men’s Junior World Championships (Δ = 0.500, p = 0.001, d = 1.82). From 2005 to 2011, the frequencies of triple and quadruple jumps increased, while double jumps remained stable or showed only slight increases. Triple jumps showed slight downward trends (e.g., R² = 0.0202 at the Men’s Junior World Championships). Although still rare, the frequency of quadruple jumps has shown a consistent upward trend across multiple competitions. Between 2000 and 2009, all four events exhibited declining age trends, with decreases ranging from −0.029 to −0.078 years of age per year. In the subsequent decade (2010–2020), when averaged across all events, the observed difference slope (Δ = 0.014) indicated a continued decline in athlete age. Conclusions: In summary, increases in more difficult jumps were found, with simultaneous decreases in less difficult jumps. As jump complexity rises, a parallel increase in sport-specific injury incidence can be anticipated, highlighting the need for proactive strategies for injury prevention and athlete well-being. Full article

The widespread use of mineral cutting fluids in metalworking poses challenges due to their poor wettability, toxicity, and non-biodegradability. This study explores cactus oil-based nanofluids as sustainable alternatives for metal cutting applications. Samples of cactus oil are prepared in plain form and with 0.025 wt.%, 0.05 wt.%, and 0.1 wt.% activated carbon nanoparticles (ACNPs) from recycled plastic waste. Plain cactus oil exhibited a 34% improvement in wettability over commercial soluble oil, further enhanced by 60% with 0.05 wt.% ACNPs. Cactus oil displayed consistent Newtonian behavior with a high viscosity index (283), outperforming mineral-based cutting fluid in thermal stability. The addition of ACNPs enhanced the dynamic viscosity by 108–130% across the temperature range of 40–100 °C. The presence of nano-additives reduced the friction coefficient in the boundary lubrication zone by a maximum reduction of 32% for CO2 compared to plain cactus oil. The physical and rheological results translated directly to the observed improvements in surface finish and tool wear during machining operations on H13 steel. Cactus oil with 0.05 wt.% ACNP outperformed conventional fluids, reducing surface roughness by 35% and flank wear by 57% compared to dry. This work establishes cactus oil-based nanofluids as a sustainable alternative, combining recycled waste-derived additives and non-edible feedstock for greener manufacturing. Full article

(1) Background: Limited research has examined elastic resistance preconditioning effects on post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) using the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) as an intensity indicator. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the application of RPE to the elastic resistance push-press (ERPP) exercise performed at maximum velocity for its effects on PAPE. (2) Methods: Twenty-four trained, healthy young adults participated in this study and performed both a conventional warm-up and a warm-up combined with six repetitions of an elastic resistance push-press (ERPP) at 85% 1RM/RPE of the first repetition (RPE-1) of 6 out of 10. The pre-post variables assessed were push-ups, a countermovement jump (CMJ), and 10 and 20 m sprints. A repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted. Additionally, between-subject variability was adjusted for individual performance. (3) Results: In the push-up, a significant improvement (p ≤ 0.05) of 20.41% in mean propulsive velocity was observed among the less strong participants. A medium effect size improvement (d = 0.47; p = 0.13) was observed in CMJ performance (7.93%) among the less strong participants. Significant improvements were noted in sprint performance over 10 m (8.07%) and 20 m (6.23%) in the ERPP group compared with the standard warm-up, particularly in the less strong participants. The stronger participants exhibited no significant changes in either variable. (4) Conclusions: We concluded that ERPP effectively induced PAPE in the less strong participants. Additionally, RPE-1 is proposed as a tool to monitor intensity in elastic band resistance to induce PAPE. Full article

Background: In recent decades, there has been a notable rise in the prevalence of caesarean sections, which has been accompanied by a concomitant increase in the incidence of long-term complications, including the occurrence of isthmocele. This anatomical alteration has been associated with symptoms such as abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), chronic pelvic pain, and secondary infertility. On the other hand, chronic endometritis (CE), characterised by the infiltration of plasma cells into the endometrium, is also associated with infertility and repeated implantation failures. Given the coincidence of symptoms between these two conditions, the question arises as to whether there is an association between isthmocele and CE. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to examine the association between isthmocele and CE and to assess its potential clinical implications. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL up to February 2025. The inclusion criteria were studies involving histopathological findings in isthmocele. The results of the meta-analysis incorporated observational studies and trials to evaluate the prevalence of CE in women with isthmocele, as well as the odds ratios (OR) for CE in isthmocele compared to women without isthmocele, and for CE in isthmocele with AUB compared to women without AUB. Results: A total of seven studies were included in the systematic review, comprising 976 women in the systematic review and 876 women in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of CE in women with an isthmocele was 40% (95% CI: 24–58%). Here, the risk of CE was threefold higher in the presence of an isthmocele as compared to its absence (OR = 3.01; 95% CI: 1.02–9.03). Furthermore, the risk of CE was further increased in women with AUB and isthmocele compared to those without AUB (OR = 6.33, 95% CI: 1.94–20.67). Conclusions: CE and isthmocele are both under-diagnosed and poorly understood conditions. The high prevalence of CE in isthmocele indicates a substantial clinical burden. Specifically, women with AUB and isthmocele exhibit a six-fold higher risk of developing CE. These results underscore the importance of recognising isthmocele as a significant risk factor for CE, particularly in women presenting with isthmocele-associated AUB. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to develop targeted interventions for the prevention and management of CE in this population. Full article

Metalworking fluids (MWFs) are crucial in the manufacturing industry, playing a key role in facilitating various production processes. As each machining operation comes with distinct requirements, the properties of the MWFs have to be tailored to meet these specific demands. Understanding the properties of different MWFs is fundamental for optimizing processes and improving performance. This study centered on characterizing the thermal behavior of various cutting oils and water-based cutting fluids over a wide temperature range and sheds light on the specific tribological behavior. The results indicate that water-based fluids exhibit significant shear-thinning behavior, whereas cutting oils maintain nearly Newtonian properties. In terms of frictional performance, cutting oils generally provide better lubrication at higher temperatures, particularly in mixed and full-fluid film regimes, while water-based fluids demonstrate greater friction stability across a wider range of conditions. Among the tested fluids, water-based formulations showed a phase transition from solid to liquid near 0 °C due to their high water content, whereas only a few cutting oils exhibited a similar behavior. Additionally, the thermal conductivity and heat capacity of water-based fluids were substantially higher than those of the cutting oils, contributing to more efficient heat dissipation during machining. These findings, along with the reported data, intend to guide future researchers and industry in selecting the most appropriate cutting fluids for their specific applications and provide valuable input for computational models simulating the influence of MWFs in the primary and secondary shear zones between cutting tools and the workpiece/chiplet. Full article

Introduction: Orbitocerebral mucormycosis, caused by Apophysomyces, is a rare infection, usually occurring in tropical and subtropical climates, with a high mortality rate. We report a case of orbitocerebral mucormycosis caused by A. elegans in a person living with HIV (PLWHIV) from Africa alongside a systematic literature review updating current diagnostic and treatment strategies for orbitocerebral mucormycosis caused by Apophysomyces. Methods: The presented case was treated in our hospital for polytrauma following a motor vehicle accident (MVA) with aggressive surgical debridement and therapy with liposomal Amphotericin B (AMB). We evaluated clinical presentation, imaging, surgery, and postoperative outcomes. A systematic review of English or German language articles (published between 1985 and 2025) was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Articles describing patients with mucormycosis due to Apophysomyces were summarized. Quantitative values for relevant parameters that indicated a reduction in mortality and morbidity were obtained. Results: The systematic search initially identified 452 publications, from which 79 studies were retrieved. Seventeen publications comprising 21 cases were included, along with one additional case from our institution, for a total of 22 rhino-orbito-cerebral infections caused by the genus Apophysomyces. Apophysomyces elegans (A. elegans) was the most frequently isolated species (n = 17), followed by A. variabilis (n = 4) and A. ossiformis (n = 1); A. trapeziformis was not reported. The majority of patients were male (72.7%), with a mean age of 40.7 ± 15.9 years. Trauma (27.3%) and diabetes mellitus (18.2%) were the most common underlying risk factors, with SARS-CoV-2 infection identified in 13.6% of cases. Conclusion: Mucormycosis due to Apophysomyces is a rare but potentially devastating condition. Based on our experience and the literature, we suggest that the early diagnosis of Apophysomyces treated with liposomal AMB and aggressive surgical debridement is essential to reduce morbidity and mortality. Full article

Background: Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols are increasingly being used to acutely boost strength and power in resistance training. The objective of this systematic review was to determine how PAPE interventions influence barbell velocity in the bench press among trained individuals and address the following research question: which conditioning activities (CAs), rest intervals, and loading strategies most effectively enhance bench press velocity parameters under PAPE conditions? Methods: This systematic review, conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, searched PubMed, Scopus, SpringerNature, EBSCO, and Web of Science up to 31 January 2025 for studies involving healthy adults (18–50 years) that employed bench press or related conditioning activities intended to induce PAPE, and assessed barbell velocity (peak or mean). From pool of 111 records, 7 studies (total n = 125 males, 23–29 years old, ≥2-year training experience) met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of included studies was moderate (5/10 on the PEDro scale). Results: Submaximal loads (70–80% 1RM) applied for one to three short sets, with rest periods of around four to five minutes, frequently improved peak velocity (by up to 7%) and peak power (by up to 15.9%). Conversely, heavier loads (>85% 1RM) and insufficient rest tended to offset these benefits due to fatigue. Blood flow restriction or ischemic preconditioning strategies produced positive velocity outcomes mainly at lower loads (20–50% 1RM). Conclusions: These findings suggest that PAPE interventions can enhance bench press barbell velocity in trained individuals. Effectiveness, however, depends on training status, volume, load intensity, and recovery intervals. Future randomized controlled trials with larger samples, standardized reporting, and the inclusion of female athletes are recommended to refine and generalize PAPE applications for upper-body strength and power development. Full article

Objective: The aim of physiotherapy interventions for palliative care patients is to relieve pain, promote active movement and thereby improve quality of life and wellbeing. Physiotherapy is an important adjunct to medical and pharmacological treatments. The aim of this study is to identify the specific challenges, self-perceptions and therapeutic approaches of physiotherapists working in palliative care. Methods: An online survey of German physiotherapists was conducted using a 22-question questionnaire. The quantitative data were analysed descriptively (frequencies and percentages), and the qualitative responses were reviewed and grouped thematically. Results: A total of 450 valid responses were evaluated, of which 349 respondents worked in palliative care. The most common treatments for palliative care patients are respiratory therapy (85.8%), general physiotherapy measures (82.4%) and massages (72.9%). The analysis of the free-text responses identified five topics representing the work and challenges of physiotherapists in palliative care. A key issue identified is that the standard 20 min therapy session covered by health insurance is often insufficient to meet the individual needs and daily conditions of each patient. Physiotherapists with no previous experience of palliative care patients often require additional training and often feel inadequately prepared to work effectively with this patient population without appropriate further training. Many physiotherapists believe that they are involved in treatment too late. In addition, other healthcare professionals may not fully recognise the scope of their expertise. Conclusions: Physiotherapy in palliative care requires sensitivity, adaptability and sufficient time. Further training and early involvement are necessary to better address patients’ needs and harness the therapeutic potential of physiotherapists. Full article