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This paper presents Multi-view Leap2 Hand Pose Dataset (ML2HP Dataset), a new dataset for hand pose recognition, captured using a multi-view recording setup with two Leap Motion Controller 2 devices. This dataset encompasses a diverse range of hand poses, recorded from different angles to ensure comprehensive coverage. The dataset includes real images with the associated precise and automatic hand properties, such as landmark coordinates, velocities, orientations, and finger widths. This dataset has been meticulously designed and curated to maintain a balance in terms of subjects, hand poses, and the usage of right or left hand, ensuring fairness and parity. The content includes 714,000 instances from 21 subjects of 17 different hand poses (including real images and 247 associated hand properties). The multi-view setup is necessary to mitigate hand occlusion phenomena, ensuring continuous tracking and pose estimation required in real human-computer interaction applications. This dataset contributes to advancing the field of multimodal hand pose recognition by providing a valuable resource for developing advanced artificial intelligence human computer interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Highlights: A blade-coated composite paste, composed of a compressible 3D carbon skeleton, PEDOT:PSS, and CNTs, can naturally dry to form a porous electrode on paper with a micro- and nano-structured surface. The all-paper pressure sensor demonstrated an ultrahigh sensitivity of 1014 kPa−1, a wide responsive range up to 300 kPa, and an ultralow operating voltage of 0.01 V. The sensor showcased superior detection capability, ranging from subtle wrist pulses and robust finger taps to large-area spatial force. Flexible and wearable pressure sensors hold immense promise for health monitoring, covering disease detection and postoperative rehabilitation. Developing pressure sensors with high sensitivity, wide detection range, and cost-effectiveness is paramount. By leveraging paper for its sustainability, biocompatibility, and inherent porous structure, herein, a solution-processed all-paper resistive pressure sensor is designed with outstanding performance. A ternary composite paste, comprising a compressible 3D carbon skeleton, conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate), and cohesive carbon nanotubes, is blade-coated on paper and naturally dried to form the porous composite electrode with hierachical micro- and nano-structured surface. Combined with screen-printed Cu electrodes in submillimeter finger widths on rough paper, this creates a multiscale hierarchical contact interface between electrodes, significantly enhancing sensitivity (1014 kPa−1) and expanding the detection range (up to 300 kPa) of as-resulted all-paper pressure sensor with low detection limit and power consumption. Its versatility ranges from subtle wrist pulses, robust finger taps, to large-area spatial force detection, highlighting its intricate submillimeter-micrometer-nanometer hierarchical interface and nanometer porosity in the composite electrode. Ultimately, this all-paper resistive pressure sensor, with its superior sensing capabilities, large-scale fabrication potential, and cost-effectiveness, paves the way for next-generation wearable electronics, ushering in an era of advanced, sustainable technological solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immiscible displacement of a wetting fluid by a non-wetting fluid in rough fractures is crucial in many subsurface applications. Hydrodynamic-scale modeling of such drainage flows is challenging due to the complex interaction between the forces at play, the intricate geometry, and the required modeling of moving contact lines. In addition, a remaining critical open question is to what extent not resolving the films of wetting fluid deposited on fracture walls degrades numerical predictions. We address this question by solving the Navier–Stokes equations, employing the volume-of-fluid method to capture fluid–fluid interfaces and considering numerical meshes that result in either resolved films (RF) or unresolved films (UF) in the simulations. The numerical model, implemented in OpenFOAM, is validated in the classical Saffman–Taylor (ST) viscous instability configuration using the original ST experimental measurements; at capillary numbers (Ca) larger than 10 − 3 , UF simulations overpredict ST finger widths. We then address two synthetic fracture geometries: one with sinusoidally varying apertures and one with stochastic geometric properties typical of geological fractures. Predictions of RF and UF simulations are compared quantitatively for Ca ranging between 10 − 5 and 10 − 3 . Wetting film thicknesses follow a power law of Ca similar to Bretherton's law. RF and UF approaches both predict similar invasion patterns, but the latter underestimates interfacial lengths and macroscopic pressure drops, as compared to RF simulations, while overpredicting invading fluid saturations and breakthrough times. These discrepancies increase with Ca, whereas the disordered nature of the geological fracture tends to limit them. For C a < 10 − 5 , the discrepancies are negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) and acceleration from wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs) during single-leg drop landing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Twenty-six participants, 42.4 ± 5.3 weeks after ACLR, performed three single-leg drop landing trials bilaterally. The peak VGRF was assessed using a force plate. The resultant acceleration was calculated using IMUs attached to the shank, thigh, and lumbar region. Univariate regression analysis was performed to examine the linear relationship between the VGRF and resultant acceleration. The limb symmetry index (LSI) of the VGRF was linearly associated with the LSI of the resultant accelerations at the shank, thigh, and lumbar sensors (R2 = 0.166, p = 0.039; R2 = 0.525, p < 0.001; and R2 = 0.250, p = 0.009, respectively). In the involved limb, only the resultant acceleration at the thigh was a significant predictor of VGRF (R2 = 0.490, p < 0.001), whereas in the uninvolved limb, the resultant accelerations at the shank, thigh, and lumbar sensors were significant predictors of VGRF (R2 = 0.245, p = 0.010; R2 = 0.684, p < 0.001; and R2 = 0.412, p < 0.001, respectively). Caution may be required when using IMUs to predict VGRF asymmetry because the coefficient of determination for predicting VGRF is lower in the involved limb than in the uninvolved limb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competitive alpine skiing requires a high level of physical fitness to perform sport-specific manoeuvres and to minimise the risk of injury. The aim of this study was to establish reference values for the maximal anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSAmax) of the individual hamstrings (HAM) and quadriceps (QUAD) muscles as well as for the maximal voluntary torque (MVT) during knee flexion (KF) and knee extension (KE) of female and male elite competitive alpine skiers. Ultrasound and dynamometer data were obtained from a largely overlapping but not identical dataset. The ultrasound data were collected from 33 elite alpine skiers (20 women and 13 men), and the dynamometer data were collected from 35 elite alpine skiers (20 women and 15 men). Compared with female skiers, male skiers presented a significantly greater ACSAmax in the biceps femoris short head (BFsh), biceps femoris long head (BFlh), and semitendinosus (ST) muscles, as well as in the entire HAM muscle group. The ACSAmax of the semimembranosus (SM) did not differ significantly between the two sexes. Compared with female skiers, male skiers presented significantly greater ACSAmax values in the vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris (RF), vastus medialis (VM) and entire QUAD muscle groups. At VI, there was no significant difference in the ACSAmax between the two sexes. Compared with male skiers, female skiers had a significantly greater proportional SM ACSAmax. In terms of MVT, male skiers presented greater absolute and relative values than females did. There were no differences in the MVT/ACSAmax between the sexes. Neither the HAM/QUAD ACSAmax ratio nor the KF/KE MVT ratio differed between the sexes. The present study provides normative values for the muscle size and strength of the HAM and QUAD muscles of elite competitive alpine skiers. These values can be used as benchmarks for youth alpine skiers striving for the elite level. An interesting finding of the present study was that female skiers had a greater proportional ACSAmax of the SM, as this may be relevant in anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention given the function of tibia internal rotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skills necessary to perform diagnostic perineural anesthesia in equids belongs to one of the Day One Competences of a veterinarian, so every veterinary graduate should be able to perform them correctly. For logistical, hygienic and ethical reasons, practical exercises on cadaver limbs are not accessible to all students. Two equine distal limb simulators were developed and evaluated as an additional instructional tool to train the required skills. Both simulators were designed and built with an integrated success control, with Simulator I (S1) designed to be a simplified anatomical model and Simulator II (S2), a more realistic model. The simulators were tested by 68 students in the 5th year who were divided into two groups. Thirty-four students received a training session using the simplified anatomical model (S1) and the other 34 students one on cadaver limbs, the usual instructional tool. The practical learning success of both groups was validated using S2. Additionally, data on self-efficacy were collected. The results show that the two groups did not differ significantly in their practical learning success, whereas self-efficacy of both groups increased significantly after the sessions. An evaluation performed by 7 veterinarians and 49 students of the 5th year indicate that the simulators are suitable for teaching perineural anesthesia in the equine distal limb. However, S2 could be more realistic. The simulators will be used as a supplement to exercises on cadaver limbs to enable all students to practice perineural anesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biosensors are transforming point-of-care diagnostics by simplifying the detection process and enabling rapid, accurate testing. This study introduces a novel, reusable biosensor designed for direct viral RNA detection from unfiltered saliva, targeting SARS-CoV-2. Unlike conventional methods requiring filtration, our biosensor leverages a unique electrode design that prevents interference from saliva debris, allowing precise measurements. The biosensor is based on electrochemical principles, employing oligonucleotide probes immobilized on a hydrophobic-coated electrode, which prevents air bubbles and salt crystal formation. During validation, the biosensor demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 100%, accurately identifying SARS-CoV-2 in saliva samples without false positives or negatives. Cross-validation with RT-qPCR, the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnostics, confirmed the reliability of our device. The biosensor's performance was tested on 60 participants, yielding 12 true positive results and 48 true negatives, aligning perfectly with RT-qPCR outcomes. This reusable, easy-to-use biosensor offers significant potential for point-of-care applications in various healthcare settings, providing a fast, efficient, and cost-effective method for detecting viral infections such as COVID-19. Its robust design, minimal sample preparation requirements, and multiple-use capability mark a significant advancement in biosensing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and imaging outcomes of a domestically produced orthopedic surgical robot for total knee arthroplasty and to explore its applicability in patients with varying degrees of deformity. Methods: This study retrospectively included 120 patients who underwent TKA at our hospital between February 2023 and June 2024. The patients were divided into a control group (conventional TKA surgery) and an observation group (robot-assisted TKA surgery), with 60 patients in each group. Based on different lower extremity alignment angles, each group was further subdivided into mild deformities (Hip knee ankle angle (HKA angle)deviation < 10°) and significant deformities (HKA angle deviation ≥ 10°). Preoperative and postoperative HKA angles, range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, and Knee Society (AKS) scores were recorded for both groups. Postoperative measurements included the posterior tibial slope angle (PSA), femoral coronal component angle (FFC), tibial coronal component angle (FTC), and femoral sagittal component angle (LFC), as well as the incidence of abnormal values for each angle, which were analyzed statistically. Results: The operation time in the observation group was longer than that in the control group, but intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the observation group (P < 0.05). Postoperatively, the differences in the HKA and PSA angles and the incidence of abnormal values were significantly better in the robot-assisted group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The other indicators did not significantly differ between the two groups. (P > 0.05). For patients with mild preoperative deformities, those in the robot-assisted group had significantly better postoperative HKA angle deviations and rates of postoperative HKA angle outliers than those in the conventional group. For patients with significant deformities, the robot-assisted group presented greater postoperative HKA and PSA angle deviations than the control group; the postoperative HKA and PSA angle outlier rates were significantly lower in the robot-assisted group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The TINAVI robotic system demonstrated superior safety and efficacy in TKA surgery. Compared with conventional TKA, the robot-assisted system achieved significantly better outcomes regarding prosthesis implantation accuracy and lower extremity alignment, with a particular advantage in patients with severe limb alignment deformities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The postpartum period is marked by numerous physical changes, often leading to pelvic floor disorders (PFD) such as urinary incontinence (UI) and diastasis recti abdominis (DRA). This study aimed to assess the occurrence of UI and DRA in postpartum women and evaluate the effectiveness of physiotherapy in managing UI and DRA. Methods: A total of 396 women, between the 3rd and 5th postpartum day, were randomized into three groups: control (GrCon), online exercise group (GrOnl), and supervised group (GrSup). GrCon received only education, whereas GrOnl and GrSup had three sessions with exercises with physiotherapist—online or supervised. Data were collected through questionnaires, ICIQ FLUTS, body posture assessments, and DRA measurements. Results: The results showed a significant reduction in UI and DRA symptoms across all groups, with the GrSup group showing the greatest improvement. UI symptoms decreased from 49% during pregnancy to 36.9% postpartum, with GrSup women reporting fewer urological complaints compared to the GrOnl and GrCon groups (p < 0.001). DRA incidence dropped from 76.2% in the early postpartum days to 23.4% at six weeks, with GrSup showing the lowest rates (9.8%). Notably, supervised physiotherapy resulted in a higher frequency (94.7%) and correct performance of PFME (72.2%) compared to the online and control groups. Conclusions: The study concludes that supervised physiotherapy is more effective than online sessions in managing postpartum UI and DRA, emphasizing the importance of guided exercise for better outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High elbow varus torque during baseball pitching has been identified as a potential cause of ulnar collateral ligament injury in baseball pitchers. In general, elbow varus torque increases as ball velocity increases across pitchers. However, studies incorporating within-subject analyses report that not all professional pitchers have a positive relationship between elbow varus torque and ball velocity (T-V relationship). It remains unknown whether collegiate pitchers show the same trend as professionals in their T-V relationships. The current study investigated the T-V relationship of collegiate pitchers focusing on both across and within pitchers. Division 1 collegiate pitchers (n = 81) were assessed for elbow torque and ball velocity during pitching. Both across- and within-pitcher T-V relationships were significant (p < 0.05) using linear regression. However, more variance in elbow varus torque was explained using the within-pitcher relationship (R2 = 0.29) than the across-pitcher relationship (R2 = 0.05). Of the 81 pitchers, nearly half (n = 39) had significant T-V relationships, while the other half (n = 42) did not. Our findings indicate that the T-V relationship should be assessed on an individual basis as T-V is pitcher-specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal models are valuable tools for studying the underlying mechanisms of and potential treatments for intervertebral disc diseases. In this review, we discuss the advantages and limitations of animal models of disc diseases, focusing on lumbar spinal stenosis, disc herniation, and degeneration, as well as future research directions. The advantages of animal models are that they enable controlled experiments, long-term monitoring to study the natural history of the disease, and the testing of potential treatments. However, they also have limitations, including species differences, ethical concerns, a lack of standardized protocols, and short lifespans. Therefore, ongoing research focuses on improving animal model standardization and incorporating advanced imaging and noninvasive techniques, genetic models, and biomechanical analyses to overcome these limitations. These future directions hold potential for improving our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of disc diseases and for developing new treatments. Overall, although animal models can provide valuable insights into pathophysiology and potential treatments for disc diseases, their limitations should be carefully considered when interpreting findings from animal studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Temporary artery ligation or compression is commonly used to reduce intraoperative blood loss in various surgeries, including uterine procedures. In head and neck surgery, the external carotid artery (ECA) typically branches into eight vessels, supplying most of the head and neck except for the brain. Severe and uncontrolled bleeding can occur if these branches are inadvertently damaged during surgery. However, limited research exists on temporary arterial ligation during head and neck surgeries. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of temporary ECA restriction and internal maxillary artery (IMA) ligation on minimizing intraoperative blood loss during head and neck surgery. Methods: This study involved 25 patients with terminal-stage maxillary tumors who underwent total maxillectomy. The effectiveness of IMA ligation and ECA restriction using a Rummel tourniquet in controlling intraoperative bleeding was compared. Results: The average blood loss was significantly lower in the ECA restriction (467 mL) and IMA ligation (461 mL) groups than in the control group (794 mL). However, no significant difference was observed between the IMA ligation and ECA restriction methods. Conclusions: Overall, our results suggest that either method is effective; however, ECA restriction is preferred for tumors involving the infratemporal fossa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engaging muscle groups in proper order is an essential skill for human motor tasks such as welding, contributing to musculoskeletal health and task performance. However, learning the correct muscle engagement strategy for a dedicated human motion task like welding can be challenging due to the difficulty of acquiring the implicit information and carrying it over to novice trainees, which is becoming the bottleneck of workforce training. This paper proposes to monitor and model the implicit muscle engagement strategies using surface electromyographic (sEMG) sensors and provide real-time feedback to novice trainees via vibrotactile devices according to the muscle engagement models. The differences between expert trainers' and novice trainees' muscle engagement strategies are processed to control the vibrotactile patterns and magnitudes. A human-subject experiment (N=25) was performed to validate the system design in welding training. Our results, which demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed method in capturing motor control patterns and improving motor skill learning, provide a strong foundation for its application in real-world training scenarios. Furthermore, it was found that providing haptic feedback according to muscle engagement was more effective than visual feedback, especially in force control. It was also noticed that haptic feedback could alleviate the reliance on external feedback compared with visual feedback. This paper presented a novel method and its implementation for welding training, contributing to innovative training methods for the workforce and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients seek second facelifts either due to dissatisfaction with the primary procedure or years later after continued face and neck aging following successful first surgery. Previous surgical anatomical disruption, deformity of tension and vector, scar formation and skin excision compounded by the proliferation of historical energy-based skin treatments, thread lift procedures, and injectables make revision rhytidectomy a complex process of causal identification and surgical repair. Patients seeking revision due to dissatisfaction with a primary procedure, or worse visible deformity, have a heightened sense of anxiety which necessitates accurate diagnosis, careful examination, comprehensive documentation, and confidence in any planned secondary intervention as well as conservative expectation management. This article outlines the author's approach to identify the challenges posed and successfully perform secondary and revision rhytidectomy using a modified extended deep plane approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Excessive hip adduction and internal rotation are abnormal movements that may lead to the onset and progression of patellofemoral pain. Previous studies have reported that lower dynamic frontal plane hip joint stiffness in the gait of women is associated with the magnitude of hip adduction and internal rotation angles. However, the factors contributing to the lack of dynamic frontal plane hip joint stiffness in the gait of young women are unclear. This study aims to investigate the factors affecting dynamic frontal plane hip joint stiffness during the weight-acceptance phase of the gait of healthy young women. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: This study included 30 healthy women between the ages of 18 and 30 years. The pelvic width/femur length ratio was calculated by dividing the pelvic width by the femur length. Data on hip kinematics and kinetics and activation of the gluteus maximus and medius, tensor fasciae latae, and adductor longus muscles during gait were collected using a motion capture system, force plates, and surface electromyography. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine the extent to which each independent factor affected dynamic frontal plane hip joint stiffness. Results: In healthy young women, decreased dynamic frontal plane hip joint stiffness was associated with decreased muscle activity of the gluteus maximus during the gait, as well as greater pelvic width/femur length ratio. Conclusions: Women with a relatively great pelvic width relative to femur length may have more difficulty in producing dynamic frontal plane hip joint stiffness. However, increasing the muscle activity of the gluteus maximus may contribute to increased dynamic frontal plane hip joint stiffness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents Multi-view Leap2 Hand Pose Dataset (ML2HP Dataset), a new dataset for hand pose recognition, captured using a multi-view recording setup with two Leap Motion Controller 2 devices. This dataset encompasses a diverse range of hand poses, recorded from different angles to ensure comprehensive coverage. The dataset includes real images with the associated precise and automatic hand properties, such as landmark coordinates, velocities, orientations, and finger widths. This dataset has been meticulously designed and curated to maintain a balance in terms of subjects, hand poses, and the usage of right or left hand, ensuring fairness and parity. The content includes 714,000 instances from 21 subjects of 17 different hand poses (including real images and 247 associated hand properties). The multi-view setup is necessary to mitigate hand occlusion phenomena, ensuring continuous tracking and pose estimation required in real human-computer interaction applications. This dataset contributes to advancing the field of multimodal hand pose recognition by providing a valuable resource for developing advanced artificial intelligence human computer interfaces.

The gravity-driven flow in an unsaturated porous medium remains one of the most important unsolved problems in multiphase flow. Sometimes a diffusion-like flow with a uniform wetting front, known as stable flow, is observed, but, at other times, the flow is unstable with distinct preferential pathways. The formation of an unstable wetting front in a porous medium depends on many factors, including the type of porous medium, the initial saturation, and the applied infiltration rate. As the infiltration rate increases, the wetting front first transitions from stable to unstable at low infiltration rates and then from unstable to stable at high infiltration rates. We propose a governing equation and its discretized form, the semi-continuum model, to describe this significant non-monotonic transition. We show that the semi-continuum model is able to capture the influx dependence together with the correct finger width and spacing. Moreover, we demonstrate that the instability of the wetting front is closely related to the saturation overshoot in one dimension. Finally, we show that the flow can still be preferential even when the porous medium is completely wetted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the neuromuscular control mechanism and quantifying the fatigue response during bench press exercise is important references to prescribe an appropriate exercise program. However, current literature struggles to provide a concrete conclusion on the changes of intermuscular EMG-EMG coupling between synergistic and antagonist muscles during the exercise. Thus, the current study was designed to reveal fatigue-related changes of intermuscular EMG-EMG coupling during bench press exercise. Methods: Thirty-one healthy male participants performed a bench press exercise on the Smith machine at 60% One Repetition Maximum (1RM) workload to exhaustion, while surface electromyographic signals (sEMG) were collected from triceps brachii (TB), biceps brachii (BB), anterior deltoid (AD), posterior deltoid (PD), and pectoralis major (PM). Surface EMG signals were divided into the first half and second half of the bench press exercise. Phase synchronization index (PSI) was calculated between sEMG of synergistic muscle pairs AD-TB, AD-PM and antagonist muscle pairs BB-TB, AD-PD. Results: EMG power of TB, AD, PD, PM muscles in alpha (8–12 Hz) frequency band and EMG power of each muscle in beta (15–35 Hz), and gamma (35–60 Hz) frequency bands were all increased during the second half of contraction compared with the first half of contraction. PSI of gamma frequency band was significantly decreased in BB-TB muscle pair while EMG-EMG coupling of AD-TB in gamma frequency band was significantly increased during the second half of contraction compared to the first half of contraction. Conclusions: The results indicated a decrease of interconnection between synchronized cortical neurons and the motoneuron pool of BB and TB, and an increase of interconnection between AD-TB muscles during fatiguing bench press exercise at 60% 1RM workload. The changes of intermuscular coupling may be related to the supraspinal modulations to compensate for the decrease of muscle force as well as a result of unbalanced changes of agonist and antagonist muscle contractility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relation between the structure of the silver network electrodes and the properties of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells is systemically investigated. The Ag network electrode is deposited onto an Al:ZnO (AZO) thin film, employing a self‐forming cracked template. Precise control over the cracked template's structure is achieved through careful adjustment of temperature and humidity. The Ag network electrodes with different coverage areas and network densities are systemically applied to the CIGS solar cells. It is revealed that predominant fill factor (FF) is influenced by the figure of merit of transparent conducting electrodes, rather than sheet resistance, particularly when the coverage area falls within the range of 1.3–5%. Furthermore, a higher network density corresponds to an enhanced FF when the coverage areas of the Ag networks are similar. When utilizing a thinner AZO film, CIGS solar cells with a surface area of 1.0609 cm2 exhibit a notable performance improvement, with efficiency increasing from 10.48% to 11.63%. This enhancement is primarily attributed to the increase in FF from 45% to 65%. These findings underscore the considerable potential for reducing the thickness of the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) in CIGS modules with implications for practical applications in photovoltaic technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The mechanism of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury during pitching is excessive elbow varus torque (EVT). The EVT–ball velocity (T-V) relationship allows concurrent assessment of player performance and UCL injury risk. Modifiable physical capacities may underlie individual variation seen in the T-V relationship. Purpose: To identify physical performance characteristics that impact the T-V relationship during pitching. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: A total of 87 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I pitchers participated. Pitching collection involved measurement of EVT and ball velocity during 5 maximal effort fastballs thrown to a catcher. Physical measures collected were the following: shoulder and hip passive range of motion (ROM) and strength, shoulder rate of torque development (RTD), grip strength, and lumbopelvic stability. Physical measures were entered into univariate linear mixed models with ball velocity as a covariate to predict EVT. Variable reduction for multivariate models involved selection of physical measures based on random forest–derived variable importance and univariate relationship significance, rendering a 27-variable pool. Multivariate linear mixed models predicting EVT, adjusting for physical measures and other physical characteristics, were then created using backward elimination. Results: In univariate analysis, for every 1 m/s (2.2 mph) increase in ball velocity, the mean EVT increased by 1.51 Nċm (95% CI, 0.66-2.37 Nċm; P =.001). In univariate analysis, hip abduction strength symmetry and bilateral lumbopelvic stability significantly increased EVT, while dominant-shoulder ROM, scaption RTD symmetry, and hip ROM significantly decreased EVT. Variables that increased EVT while controlling for ball velocity in the final model include grip strength symmetry, lead-leg lumbopelvic stability, and bodyweight. Increased dominant-shoulder internal rotation (IR) strength, dominant-shoulder flexion ROM, and scaption strength asymmetry decreased EVT as ball velocity increased. Conclusion: Several modifiable physical measures affected EVT in the univariate analysis. In our final model, when controlling for ball velocity, EVT increased with increased grip strength symmetry, lead-leg lumbopelvic stability, and bodyweight and decreased with increased dominant-shoulder IR strength, dominant-shoulder flexion ROM, and scaption strength asymmetry. Clinical Relevance: Defining the individual and multivariate effects of these physical capacities on EVT contextualizes their role in the T-V relationship and helps identify access points through which coaches and clinicians can optimize a pitcher's T-V relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transparent heaters are gaining significant attention for applications such as antifog glass, smart windows, and smart farm greenhouses. A transparent heater basically consists of transparent conducting materials that serve as a heating area and contact pad electrode to apply power. To fabricate a transparent heater, materials with excellent light transmittance and low sheet resistance are required. Among various transparent conducting materials, such as Indium Tin Oxide (ITO), carbon nanotube (CNT), graphene, and silver nanowires (AgNWs), AgNWs are particularly favored due to their good electrical, optical, and mechanical properties. However, in order to improve the heating characteristics of transparent heaters, research is essential not only on improving the properties of transparent conducting materials but also on the design of contact pad electrodes that can uniformly improve current distribution. Here, we explore various shapes of contact pad electrodes for AgNW-based transparent heaters to improve current distribution. Shapes such as line, spot, twisted, and parallel-type contact pad electrodes are designed and investigated to optimize overall heating characteristics. We analyze the heating properties of these transparent heaters with various contact pad electrodes, demonstrating how their specific shape and size affect heating characteristics and uniformity. We also investigate the optimal shape of the contact pad electrode to minimize transmission loss through UV-VIS spectroscopy. As a result, we confirm that the shape of the contact pad electrode was important for simultaneously achieving high heating characteristics of 120 °C, good heating uniformity, and over 80% transparency in an AgNW-based transparent heater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the effect of acupressure on pain and postpartum comfort following a cesarean section. The study was conducted with 60 women who underwent cesarean delivery. The participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. In the intervention group, acupressure was applied to the LI4, SP6, and P6 points for 15 minutes at the 2nd and 4th hours after the cesarean section. In the control group, acupressure was not applied and only routine nursing care was given. Data was collected using a personal information form, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Postpartum Comfort Questionnaire (PCQ). Acupressure application was applied to the intervention group at the 2nd and 4th hour after cesarean section. All data collection forms were filled out by women in the intervention group before starting acupressure application at 2 hours after cesarean section. VAS was filled out again after acupressure application at 2 hours. VAS was filled out before and after acupressure application at 4 hours after cesarean section. PSQ was filled out in both groups before discharge. In the study, the intervention group's 2nd (3.03 ± 1.24, p <.001) and 4th (4.06 ± 1.22, p <.001) hour posttest VAS scores were lower and PCQ posttest scores (140.6 ± 9.01, p <.001) were higher than the control group. The results indicate that acupressure intervention applied to points LI4, SP6, and P6 was a useful nonpharmacological treatment for postpartum pain and comfort for the study group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article presents insights into acoustic interactions with semiconductors, exploring a continuum from electron dynamics to exciton behavior while highlighting recent developments in organic material systems. Various aspects of acoustic interactions, encompassing the manipulation of electrons and their transport mechanisms for applications in the fields of acoustoelectric and acousto-optics, explored by studying surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices integrated with inorganic and organic semiconductors, are presented here. SAWs are guided waves propagating along a piezoelectric material surface, inducing acoustic strain and piezoelectric fields within a semiconductor upon contact. These fields create a dragging force, transferring energy and momentum into the semiconductor, which manipulate and transport charge carriers, thereby generating an acoustoelectric current. Furthermore, SAW can influence exciton dynamics via type-II as well as type-I band-edge modulations, leading to alterations in their spatial distribution, causing transport of electron–hole pairs as distinct charge carrier packets and as bound pairs, respectively, along the SAW path. This paper explores advancements in these phenomena, shedding light on innovative applications and, especially, novel insights into the dynamic interplay between acoustics and organic semiconductor physics. The review concludes by outlining challenges and prospects in the field of SAW and semiconductor interactions, providing a roadmap for future research endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chaetotaxy of the external pedipalp femur and distal ventral pedipalp movable finger was studied in 120 species, 69 genera and 17 families of scorpions. Setation was generally denser in the 'Buthus' group, a major arid-adapted buthid lineage distributed across Palearctic deserts. On the external femur, macrosetae formed a prominent cluster, the 'distal external macrosetal cluster' (DEMC); on the distal ventral movable finger they formed a dense patch, the 'distal ventral macrosetal cluster' (DVMC). In other buthids and non-buthids, the DEMC and DVMC were mostly absent, except in a few arid-adapted genera. Relative setation densities of DEMC and DVMC in different species depended strongly on size, being denser in larger species and sparser in smaller species, while absolute density varied only weakly with size (mean spacing of setae -200 μm in DEMC, -40 μm in DVMC). Ontogenetic variation followed similar trends. Multivariate morphometric analyses revealed taxonomic differences in setation patterns. The 'Buthus' group, other buthids, and non-buthids, were partially separable according to their spatial profiles of setation. In the 'Buthus' group, major genera were separable by spatial and density profiles of setation. In buthids, there were taxonomic differences in external femoral trichobothriotaxy. The 'Buthus' and Tityus' groups were largely separable by proximodistal positioning of trichobothrium e1. Relative setation densities of DEMC and DVMC were positively correlated, in that species with dense DEMCs also tended to have dense DVMCs. In the buthid Olivierus martensii, DEMC and DVMC were observed to brush the median ocelli during sponge-bathing. In all examined buthids, the DEMC was located where it would contact the ipsilateral median ocellus during femoral articulation. Both DEMC and DVMC may assist in the ocular grooming of desert buthids, by removing sand and dust from surfaces of the median ocelli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pelvic floor responds to changes in trunk pressure, elevating during low‐pressure exhale and descending during high‐pressure exhale. Voicing occurs during exhalation, spanning low‐to‐high trunk‐pressure, yet it is unknown how voicing affects the pelvic floor. The aim of this study was to quantify pelvic floor response to voicing and identify if there are differences for women with stress urinary incontinence. We hypothesized that shouting would cause pelvic floor descent, with greater magnitude for incontinent women. Sixty women (38 incontinent, 22 continent) performed four voicing tasks (counting to "4" in speaking/shouting/low‐pitch/high‐pitch voice) while transperineal ultrasound measured changes in pelvic floor morphology. ANOVA compared variance of responses to voicing and t‐tests compared groups. Bladder neck height shortened, levator plate length increased and levator plate angle decreased more during shouting compared to speaking; consistent with pelvic floor straining. There were no differences for high versus low pitch‐voicing and small group differences based on continence status. Voicing causes pelvic floor muscles to strain, with greater strain during shouting. Changing vocal pitch does not affect pelvic floor morphology and incontinent women had slight differences from continent women. Voicing may be a safe way to lengthen the pelvic floor without provoking incontinence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a circadian rhythm-based intermittent fasting intervention that has been used to treat obesity. However, the efficacy and safety of TRE for fat loss have not been comprehensively examined and the influences of TRE characteristics on such effects are unknown. This systematic review and meta-analysis comprehensively characterized the efficacy and safety of TRE for fat loss in adults with overweight and obese, and it explored the influence of TRE characteristics on this effect. Methods: A search strategy based on the PICOS principle was used to find relevant publications in seven databases. The outcomes were body composition, anthropometric indicators, and blood lipid metrics. Twenty publications (20 studies) with 1288 participants, covering the period from 2020 to 2024, were included. Results: Compared to the control group, TRE safely and significantly reduced body fat percentage, fat mass, lean mass, body mass, BMI, and waist circumference (MDpooled = −2.14 cm, 95% CI = −2.88~−1.40, p < 0.001), and increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (MDpooled = 2.70, 95% CI = 0.17~5.22, p = 0.037), but it did not alter the total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides (MDpooled = −1.09~1.20 mg/dL, 95% CI −4.31~5.47, p > 0.05). Subgroup analyses showed that TRE only or TRE-caloric restriction with an eating window of 6 to 8 h may be appropriate for losing body fat and overall weight. Conclusions: This work provides moderate to high evidence that TRE is a promising dietary strategy for fat loss. Although it may potentially reduce lean mass and increase LDL, these effects do not pose significant safety concerns. This trial was registered with PROSPERO as CRD42023406329. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the correlation between electromyography (EMG) activity and vehicle motion during double lane change driving. This study measured five vehicle motions: the steering wheel angle, steering wheel torque, lateral acceleration, roll angle, and yaw velocity. The EMG activity for 19 muscles and vehicle motions was applied for envelope detection. There was a significantly high positive correlation between muscles (mean correlation coefficient) for sternocleidomastoid (0.62) and biceps brachii (0.71) and vehicle motions for steering wheel angle, steering wheel torque, lateral acceleration, and yaw velocity, but a negative correlation between the muscles for middle deltoid (−0.75) and triceps brachii long head (−0.78) and these vehicle motions. The ANOVA test was used to analyze statistically significant differences in the main and interaction effects of muscle and vehicle speed. The mean absolute correlation coefficient exhibited an increasing trend with the increasing vehicle speed for the muscles (increasing rate%): upper trapezius (30.5%), pectoralis major sternal (38.7%), serratus anterior (13.3%), and biceps brachii (11.0%). The mean absolute correlation coefficient showed a decreasing trend with increasing vehicle speed for the masseter (−9.6%), sternocleidomastoid (−12.9%), middle deltoid (−5.5%), posterior deltoid (−20.0%), pectoralis major clavicular (−13.4%), and triceps brachii long head (−6.3%). The sternocleidomastoid muscle may decrease with increasing vehicle speed as the neck rotation decreases. As shoulder stabilizers, the upper trapezius, pectoralis major sternal, and serratus anterior muscles are considered to play a primary role in maintaining body balance. This study suggests that the primary muscles reflecting vehicle motions include the sternocleidomastoid, deltoid, upper trapezius, pectoralis major sternal, serratus anterior, biceps, and triceps muscles under real driving conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite advancements in cancer treatment, chemotherapy side effects significantly impact patients both physically and emotionally. While pharmacological treatments can mitigate these side effects, they may trigger additional side effects, exacerbating the overall discomfort experienced by patients; moreover, psychological factors influencing physical symptoms are beyond the reach of pharmacological interventions. Nonpharmacological interventions, however, offer the potential for complementary or alternative solutions. Objectives: This review aims to offer a comprehensive analysis of the literature on the effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions in managing the physical side effects of chemotherapy. Methods: This review, based on a search of PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases, identified 46 relevant studies. It categorizes interventions and evaluates their effectiveness in managing common chemotherapy side effects (fatigue, nausea, pain, diarrhea, and constipation). Results: Guided imagery, tailored exercises, and Qigong show promise in reducing fatigue, while interventions like yoga and cognitive-behavioral approaches address nausea and vomiting. Pain benefits result from guided imagery and educational interventions. Limited evidence exists for diarrhea and constipation interventions, necessitating further research. Conclusions: This review offers provisional conclusions, emphasizing the potential of integrating evidence-based nonpharmacological approaches alongside pharmacological interventions to enhance patient outcomes and reduce chemotherapy-induced side effects, considering factors such as accessibility, safety, customization, and adaptability in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-film lithium niobate is an attractive material for RF acoustic devices because of its high electromechanical coupling. However, due to the large coupling and the high anisotropy, thin-film lithium niobate resonators are prone to accidental resonances called spurious modes. These modes compromise the frequency response of the resonators, limiting their use in filter and oscillator applications. In this work, we present a novel method of spurious mode suppression through a special edge treatment etch process. Two thin-film lithium niobate resonators were fabricated, one with smooth sidewalls and one with the edge treatment. It was found that the edge-treated resonators show a weaker spurious mode response. This is potentially a new way to mitigate spurious resonances, a major issue in lithium niobate Lamb wave devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Botulinum toxin can be used for various purposes to enhance neck aesthetics, addressing concerns such as platysmal bands, optimizing the cervicomental angle, preventing worsening of horizontal neckline and decolletage lines during aging, submandibular gland hypertrophy, and hypertrophied superior trapezius muscle. Understanding the anatomy of muscles such as the trapezius, platysma, and submandibular gland is crucial for achieving desirable outcomes with botulinum toxin administration. Techniques for injecting botulinum toxin into these muscles are discussed, emphasizing safety and efficacy. Specific injection points and methods are detailed for treating platysmal bands, optimizing the cervicomental angle, addressing submandibular gland hypertrophy, and managing hypertrophied superior trapezius muscle. Careful consideration of anatomical landmarks and potential complications is essential for successful botulinum toxin injections in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The field of traditional medicine encompasses a wide range of knowledge, skills, and practices that are deeply rooted in the theories, beliefs, and experiences of different cultures. The research aimed to identify traditional medicinal plants used in Guraferda District and assess the threats they face. Method: A total of 96 individuals, 80 males and 16 females, were interviewed to gather ethnobotanical data. Statistical tests like independent t tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 to compare informant groups. Result: The study found 81 medicinal plant species in the district from 71 genera and 38 families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae families having the most species. Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for medicine. Significant differences in plant knowledge were observed across genders, age groups, education levels, and experiences. The highest ICF value was for Dermal and Cutaneous ailments, and Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich and Bidens pilosa L. had the highest fidelity levels. Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of traditional medicinal plants in treating ailments but noted threats like overharvesting, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the availability of these plants for future generations. Further research is needed to explore their potential for modern medicine and develop sustainable use strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report demonstrates the use of a video laryngoscope to aid in the incision and drainage of a peritonsillar abscess in a 30-year-old male. This technique, which has not been widely discussed in the literature, provided enhanced visualization, overcoming challenges like poor access due to trismus and poor lighting. The video laryngoscope improved safety, offered clearer guidance, and provided valuable teaching opportunities, particularly for less experienced physicians and residents. This case contributes to the literature by illustrating how the video laryngoscope can function as both a therapeutic tool and an educational resource, improving the management of peritonsillar abscesses and potentially reducing complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]