Search Results (3,444)

Background/Objectives: Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), a pleiotropic cytokine with central and peripheral actions, has been implicated in obesity, insulin resistance, and aging, yet its role in skeletal muscle and cardiometabolic health remains unclear. This study examined skeletal muscle CNTF mRNA expression in relation to adiposity and glucose tolerance in older adults and assessed the effects of six-month weight loss (WL) and aerobic exercise training (AEX) interventions on its expression. Methods: Sixty-seven adults (age, 60.75 ± 7.58) underwent a vastus lateralis muscle biopsy, VO₂max testing, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan, a resting metabolic rate (RMR) and substrate oxidation assessment, and a 3-h oral glucose tolerance test with glucose and insulin area under the curve (AUC) calculation. A subset completed 6 months of either a WL program (n = 21) or a supervised 3 times per week AEX intervention (n = 20). Results: At baseline, skeletal muscle CNTF expression was inversely associated with RMR, fat oxidation, 3-h glucose AUC, and insulin AUC, but not with BMI, percent body fat, or VO₂max. WL reduced body weight, fat mass, glucose AUC, insulin AUC, and basal muscle CNTF expression, whereas AEX increased VO₂max and reduced fat mass without altering body weight, glucose AUC, insulin AUC, or basal CNTF. Insulin-stimulated CNTF expression increased after both WL and AEX, and the intervention-induced change in glucose disposal (M) was positively associated with the change in insulin-stimulated CNTF. Conclusions: In older adults, skeletal muscle CNTF is associated with glucose intolerance but is not associated with body composition or aerobic fitness. Improvements in insulin sensitivity are associated with increases in muscle CNTF during hyperinsulinemia. Further work is needed to determine the mechanism for muscle CNTF change during hyperinsulinemia after weight loss and exercise training, and its role in glucose metabolism and obesity in older adults. Full article

The latest generation of 4D imaging radar demonstrates significant potential in autonomous driving environmental perception, leveraging its capability to provide target elevation data and dense point clouds. This paper introduces a complete method for constructing a multimodal 4D imaging radar dataset for three-dimensional traffic scenes. It illustrates the hardware and software configurations of the data-acquisition vehicle. Methods including multi-sensor coordination, parameter calibration, timestamp synchronization and spatial datum synchronization are proposed. And eight typical three-dimensional traffic scenarios are designed, such as rainy weather environments, dense heterogeneous targets, enclosed tunnels, high-speed cut-in of multiple vehicles, multi-layered stereoscopic structures and edge working condition reproduction. In addition, this paper puts forward a frame-by-frame processing method for high-resolution images and point cloud data collected by the high-definition camera-LiDAR-4D imaging radar collaborative system. A large model-based 3D annotation method for multiple types of targets is proposed, generating a spatio-temporal sequence-optimized four-dimensional annotation sequence, and finally constructs a complete and high-quality multimodal 4D imaging radar dataset for three-dimensional traffic scenes. The results show that the constructed dataset enables the synchronization of timestamps and spatial coordinate systems. The large model can achieve high-precision 3D annotation for the four predefined target types. The dataset contains 11,400 frames of data from high-definition cameras, LiDAR, and 4D imaging radar, with 131,642 labels. This study will provide reliable fundamental support for the training and verification of 4D imaging radar perception algorithms, vehicle decision-making and planning in complex scenarios, and multi-sensor fusion technologies. Full article

The purpose of this study was to examine the independent contribution of aerobic physiological variables to 500 m sprint kayak performance in national-level male athletes. Twenty-four male flatwater kayak athletes completed post-intervention physiological and performance assessments following a 6-week training intervention. Sprint performance was assessed using a 500 m kayak ergometer time trial. Pearson correlation and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were performed after accounting for training-group allocation. Power output at VO₂max (POVO₂max) demonstrated the strongest association with 500 m performance time (r = −0.71, p < 0.001). Hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that training-group allocation explained a small, non-significant proportion of the variance in performance time (R² = 0.082, p = 0.648). The addition of POVO₂max significantly increased the explained variance (R² = 0.708, ΔR² = 0.626, p < 0.001); whereas, VO₂max (ΔR² = 0.012, p = 0.363) and post-exercise blood lactate concentration (ΔR² = 0.004, p = 0.855) did not provide additional explanatory value. These findings indicate that POVO₂max was the strongest independent physiological predictor of 500 m sprint kayak performance after accounting for training-group allocation. Full article

Vanadium dioxide (VO₂), a typical thermochromic material, undergoes a metal–semiconductor transition (MST) near 68 °C, accompanied by lattice distortion and band structure reconstruction, making it an ideal material for smart window applications. However, VO₂ faces several bottlenecks that limit its engineering applications, including a relatively high phase transition temperature, poor color comfort, trade-offs between visible light transmittance and solar modulation efficiency, and inadequate long-term stability. This paper first discusses the structural evolution and mechanisms of the VO₂ phase transition. It then focuses on the three core performance aspects of VO₂-based smart windows: phase transition temperature regulation, color regulation, and optical performance regulation. Furthermore, it systematically reviews the latest research advancements in key technologies, including elemental doping, interfacial strain engineering, micro- and nanostructure engineering, multilayer film design, and inorganic–organic composite modification. Finally, the paper analyzes current challenges in terms of long-term stability, low-temperature flexible fabrication, skin comfort, and environmental friendliness, and discusses optimization pathways and future prospects for the practical application of VO₂-based smart windows. Full article

The aim of this study is to provide an alternative bakery practice by evaluating the effects of cold fermentation (backslopping at 7 and 15 °C) and cold storage (stored at 7 and 15 °C) after backslopping on Type I sourdough characteristics and the technological performance of the corresponding breads. Sourdough characteristics (pH, acidity, and microbial counts), bread quality (texture and color), storage behavior, and volatile compound profiles (VoC) were investigated to compare the extent to which these treatments improve product quality. No significant difference was observed in pH and total titratable acidity among the sourdoughs. However, the fermentation quotient of the cold storage group was higher than that of the cold fermented group. Backslopping at cold fermentation temperatures (7 and 15 °C) caused a significant reduction in lactic acid bacteria counts. Conversely, cold fermentation and cold storage at 15 °C led to a significant increase in yeast counts. From a technological perspective, bread produced with sourdough backslopped at 15 °C exhibited a higher specific volume than breads produced with the other cold-treated sourdoughs. At the end of the storage period, the bread made with cold-backslopped sourdough at 7 °C had the highest hardness value, while others remained similar. Principal component analysis (PCA) of volatile compounds revealed that cold-stored sourdoughs were clustered apart from room-temperature-stored sourdoughs, mainly driven by ethyl hexanoate and hexyl acetate. Heptanoic acid was among the key VOCs contributing to the positioning of breads made with cold-stored sourdoughs in the PCA. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that backslopping and storage at 15 °C offer an industrially relevant production strategy while improving textural properties and VoC profiles. Full article

Physical ability testing is an essential part of police education, as fitness assessments indicate students’ preparedness for police work. Clear documentation and reporting of test protocols and measurement properties are essential for interpreting, evaluating, and comparing the usefulness of different test batteries. Therefore, this scoping review aimed to map the fitness tests used in police education programs internationally, including reporting standards of test protocols, reliability, validity, and sex-based test specificity, thereby providing insight into the physical abilities considered important for police work. The main searches were conducted in the databases CINAHL, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. The database search yielded 1323 articles, of which 92 met the inclusion criteria. An additional nine articles were included through citation and hand searching. Of the 101 studies, 95 used an average of 4–5 general fitness tests, and 29 included work-related police tests. Test protocols were generally well documented across studies. However, only a few studies included in this review assessed test–retest reliability, and only a limited number of studies, whose primary aim was to validate the tests, evaluated test validity. The most commonly used assessments were upper-body and core muscular endurance (60 s push-up, maximum pull-up, and 60 s sit-up tests), upper-body muscular strength (hand-grip test), lower-body power (standing long jump, and vertical jump tests), and aerobic capacity (20 m multistage fitness, 2400 m Cooper, and 12 min Cooper tests. Only 19 studies reported sex-specific performance standards, including differences in test execution, scoring systems, VO_2max estimation, or time limits. The findings indicate that tests of upper-body muscular endurance and strength, lower-body power, and aerobic capacity are among the most frequently measured physical abilities in police education programs internationally, while also highlighting the need for more standardized reporting of test protocols, reliability, and validity. Full article

Rare earth elements (REEs) are increasingly recognized as modulators of male reproductive health. This review presents the first comprehensive and critical analysis of the detrimental and potentially beneficial effects of REEs on male vertebrate reproductive function. In vivo and in vitro studies show that elements, particularly Gadolinium, Lanthanum, and Yttrium, share a toxicological profile characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, endocrine disruption, and impairment of the blood–testis barrier. These mechanisms converge on both somatic and germ cell populations, ultimately compromising spermatogenesis and hormonal balance. Limited epidemiological data in humans are consistent with experimental findings, indicating inverse associations between seminal REE levels and sperm quality. CeO₂ nanoparticles represent an exception, showing dose-dependent duality: although some murine studies describe toxic effects, a broader and more consistent body of evidence indicates their protective action by restoring testicular homeostasis in diabetic models, in rats exposed to pesticides, pharmacological agents or irradiation, and in in vitro-treated spermatozoa. Preliminary data on Yttrium (YO) and Gadolinium (GdVO₄) nanoparticles similarly point to protective effects under pathological conditions, whereas Neodymium and Samarium show reproductive toxicity, including hormonal disruption and impaired sperm quality. Overall, REEs cannot be considered a homogeneous class: some pose reproductive hazards, others show potential biomedical utility. A systematic, mechanistic research framework is needed to resolve these dualities. It should contextualise reproductive risks in relation to the growing environmental and occupational exposure to REEs, while simultaneously exploring the biomedical potential of those elements that exhibit protective profiles. Full article

Background: Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently experience chronic pain, trunk instability, and respiratory dysfunction. This pilot trial investigated the synergistic effects of a combined neuro-orthotic approach (thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) plus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)) versus TLSO alone on pain, trunk control, and respiratory function in chronic incomplete SCI. Methods: Twelve adults with chronic incomplete SCI (T6–T12) were randomized to a combined group (TLSO + TENS) or a control group (TLSO alone) for a four-week intervention. Outcomes included pain (Visual Analogue Scale), trunk control (Trunk Assessment Scale), and respiratory function (tidal volume [VT], respiratory rate [RR], oxygen uptake [VO₂], ventilatory equivalent for oxygen [VE/VO₂], and inspiratory duty cycle [Ti/Ttot]) assessed at three time points (before intervention, immediately after intervention, and after one month). Results: The combined group demonstrated a significant reduction in pain (47.8% vs. 10.4%, p = 0.01) and an improvement in Ti/Ttot (33.3% vs. 4.9%, p = 0.008) compared to the control group. Both groups showed significant improvements in VT and RR over time (p < 0.05), reflecting the biomechanical benefits of TLSO. Conclusions: Integrating TENS with TLSO offers a non-invasive strategy for managing chronic pain and improving respiratory pattern coordination in incomplete SCI. While TLSO optimizes basic ventilatory mechanics, adding TENS significantly enhances neural drive for efficient breathing and pain gating. Future large-scale trials incorporating active task-specific training are needed to restore functional trunk control. Full article

The relationship between composition, structure, and electrical properties is essential for understanding charge transport in vanadate glasses. In this study, the influence of ZnO concentration and thermal treatment on the structure, electrical conductivity, and dielectric relaxation of xZnO–(35 − x)BaO–65V₂O₅ glasses (x = 0–20 mol%) was systematically investigated. Two series of glasses, as-quenched and annealed, were prepared by the melt-quenching technique and characterized by temperature-dependent direct current (DC) conductivity, broadband dielectric spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The DC conductivity exhibited Arrhenius behavior with two thermally activated conduction regions. Annealing reduced the activation energy at higher temperatures, indicating structural relaxation and stabilization of the glass network. Dielectric spectroscopy revealed two distinct relaxation mechanisms over the frequency range of 0.1 Hz–100 kHz, whereas thermal treatment had only a minor influence on the dielectric relaxation behavior. Raman spectra showed that ZnO progressively modifies the vanadate network through the formation of V–O–Zn linkages while preserving the characteristic terminal V=O bonds. Annealing enhanced the short-range structural ordering without altering the fundamental glass structure. Among the investigated compositions, the glass containing 7 mol% ZnO exhibited distinct structural and electrical characteristics, suggesting that this composition corresponds to a transition in the structural organization of the glass network. The combined structural and electrical analyses demonstrate a clear correlation between ZnO-induced structural modifications and the charge transport properties of ZnO–BaO–V₂O₅ glasses. Full article

An integrated hydrometallurgical process for the recovery of vanadium from spent petrochemical catalysts and the production of high-purity ammonium metavanadate (AMV) was developed and experimentally validated. Alkaline leaching of roasted vanadium-bearing catalysts resulted in vanadium extraction of 90%–95%, producing a solution containing 37.0 g/L V₂O₅ together with phosphorus, sulfur, silicon, and molybdenum impurities. Two purification approaches, ion-exchange sorption and magnesium oxide treatment, were evaluated for impurity removal. Sorption using the macro porous anion-exchange resin Biolite 200U provided effective silicon removal but resulted in significant vanadium losses (up to 19.6%) due to co-sorption of vanadium and phosphorus. In contrast, magnesium oxide treatment at 70–80 °C reduced the phosphorus concentration from 0.39 to 0.04 g/L (approximately 90% removal) and completely removed silicon while limiting vanadium losses to less than 2.5%. Following purification, ammonium metavanadate was precipitated using ammonium chloride at a V₂O₅:NH₄Cl molar ratio of 1:2 and pH 8.8–9.0, achieving approximately 99% vanadium recovery. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of single-phase NH₄VO₃ after solution purification, whereas precipitation from untreated solutions resulted in contamination by alumina-bearing phases. The proposed process provides an effective route for producing purified ammonium metavanadate suitable for subsequent conversion into metallurgical-grade V₂O₅. The ultimate goal of the proposed technology is the production of metallurgical-grade ferrovanadium (FeV80). Because AMV is thermally converted to V₂O₅ with a weight loss of approximately 24%–25%, phosphorus and sulfur concentrations in AMV must be maintained below approximately 0.04 wt.% to ensure compliance with the impurity requirements of FeV80 according to GOST 27130-94. Full article

Background/Objectives: Although SARS-CoV-2 infection is usually mild in children, some develop severe respiratory disease (RD) or multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). We evaluated long-term respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function, and cardiopulmonary exercise performance in children recovering from SARS-CoV-2-related RD and MIS-C. Methods: This single-center prospective observational study included children hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2-related RD or MIS-C. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) were performed at a mean follow-up of 22.8 ± 9.8 months after hospitalization and compared between groups. Results: Forty-two children (25 RD, 17 MIS-C) were included. Persistent post-COVID symptoms were reported by 38.1% of participants and were more frequent in the RD group (56.0% vs. 11.8%; p < 0.01), with fatigue being the predominant symptom (p = 0.02). Pulmonary function and CPET parameters were comparable between groups, with no evidence of clinically significant ventilatory limitation or impaired aerobic capacity. VO₂peak did not differ between groups. Multivariable regression identified the breathing reserve index and OUES normalized to body weight as strong positive predictors of aerobic capacity in both groups. Despite differences in follow-up duration, stratified analyses using a 24-month cut-off showed comparable physiological findings. Conclusions: Children demonstrated preserved pulmonary function and exercise capacity nearly two years after hospitalization for severe SARS-CoV-2-related RD or MIS-C. Despite these favorable objective findings, subjective symptoms persisted in a substantial subset of patients, particularly those recovering from RD, suggesting that symptom resolution may lag behind objective physiological recovery. OUES normalized to body weight and the breathing reserve index may serve as complementary markers of aerobic capacity. Full article

Background: Rugby union and rugby league are among the most physically demanding contact team sports, in which playing positions impose distinct physical requirements. The aim of the review was to collect and synthesize available data on positional differences in physical fitness between forwards and backs in adult male rugby players. Methods: The systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 and SWiM guidelines and was prospectively registered in the OSF database (10.17605/OSF.IO/E4Y37). Four electronic databases were searched: PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and Scopus up to June 2026. The search identified 3058 records, which were reduced to 1343 after language and document-type limits and then screened. Eligibility criteria were applied within the PICOs framework. Methodological quality was assessed using JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists and the AXIS tool as a validation instrument. Due to considerable methodological heterogeneity, narrative synthesis with directional meta-synthesis was applied. Results: Thirty-seven studies were included (n > 2000 players; 15 countries; 1996–2025). Forwards achieved higher values of absolute muscular strength and power, body mass, and sprint momentum, whereas backs performed better in sprint tests (10–50 m), maximum sprint velocity, aerobic fitness (VO₂max, Yo-Yo IRTL1), CMJ height, and relative power. Following normalization to body mass, positional differences in strength and power were attenuated or reversed. In the only study that isolated the change in direction deficit, no clear positional difference was observed. Conclusions: Body mass appears to be the principal explanatory factor underlying positional differences in absolute strength and power. Position-specific fitness profiles are observable as early as the U20 category and become more pronounced with increasing competitive level. Strength and conditioning coaches should compare positional groups using body mass normalized ratio or, where justified, allometrically scaled measures rather than absolute values. Full article

Developing efficient photoelectrocatalysts is crucial for advancing sustainable energy solutions to generate green hydrogen, particularly in photoelectrochemical water splitting. This study addresses these limitations by synthesizing and characterizing WO₃/(W)BiVO₄ heterojunctions incorporated with graphitic carbon nitride (C₃N₄). Our approach combines a microwave-assisted synthesis for heterojunction formation with the direct polymerization of C₃N₄, aiming to enhance the charge separation and light absorption. Structural and morphological analyses confirmed the presence of well-defined heterojunctions with homogeneous element distributions, while spectroscopic studies demonstrated enhanced visible light absorption. Our results show the potential of WO₃/(W)BiVO₄/C₃N₄ systems as durable and efficient photoanodes. The further optimization of polymerization conditions and band alignment strategies may unlock greater efficiency, paving the way for more effective solar-driven hydrogen production. Full article

Aluminum alloy 6061 is widely used in the industrial field, but its poor corrosion resistance has a significant impact on the reliability of equipment components. To address the corrosion resistance issue of 6061 aluminum alloy, a novel Ti-Zr-V conversion coating was prepared on its surface in this study, and the conversion parameters were optimized. The morphology, element distribution and content, composition of compounds, and corrosion resistance of the prepared Ti-Zr-V conversion coating were comprehensively analyzed and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, copper sulfate spot test, and electrochemical experiments. The research results showed that the conversion parameters had a significant impact on the corrosion resistance of the conversion coating. The optimal conversion parameters were a pH value of 4.5 and a conversion time of 5 min, with the optimal addition amount of the auxiliary film former NaVO₃ being 0.6 g/L. Under these conditions, the Ti-Zr-V conversion coating prepared was relatively dense, with fewer grooves, the longest spot resistance time, and the best corrosion resistance. Its surface mainly consisted of titanium dioxide, zirconium dioxide, vanadium pentoxide, V₂O₃, aluminum oxide, and a small amount of fluoride compounds. Electrochemical analysis also demonstrated that the corrosion rate of TiZrVCC decreased by approximately 87.12% compared to the aluminum alloy 6061 substrate, providing a theoretical basis and technical support for the further promotion and use of aluminum alloy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Insufficient physical activity among university students is a significant public health concern associated with unfavorable changes in body composition and reduced cardiorespiratory fitness. This study examined whether participation in a 12-week structured running programme was associated with changes in body composition and selected components of health-related physical fitness in physiotherapy students compared with an inactive control group. Methods: A total of 64 physiotherapy students participated in this quasi-experimental study and self-selected into an experimental (n = 22) or control group (n = 42). The experimental group participated in a 12-week structured running programme comprising two supervised running sessions (Monday and Friday) and one brisk walking session (Wednesday) per week. Although brisk walking was incorporated as one weekly aerobic training session, running represented the principal training modality throughout the intervention, whereas the control group did not participate in organized physical activity. Body composition, estimated maximal oxygen uptake (estimated VO₂max), forward-reach flexibility, and standing long jump performance were assessed before and after the intervention. The primary analysis was performed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with post-intervention values as dependent variables, study group as the fixed factor, and baseline values together with sex included as covariates. Statistical significance was interpreted after adjustment for multiple comparisons using the Holm procedure. Results: After adjustment for baseline values and sex, the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements than the control group in body mass (p < 0.001), body fat percentage (p < 0.001), visceral fat rating (p = 0.002), body mass index (p < 0.001), total body water (p = 0.047), estimated VO₂max (p = 0.019), and forward-reach flexibility (p = 0.002). No statistically significant between-group difference was observed for standing long jump performance (p = 0.124). The largest adjusted effect sizes were observed for body mass index and body fat percentage. Conclusions: Participation in a 12-week structured running programme was associated with more favorable changes in body composition, estimated cardiorespiratory fitness, total body water, and forward-reach flexibility compared with the control group. These findings suggest that structured running programmes may warrant further evaluation as a potential university-based health-promotion approach. Full article