Search Results (29)

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of a 24-week low-load, low-volume resistance training (RT) program combined with plyometric exercises on the physical performance of U-15 male soccer players. Thirty-two young soccer players were divided into a strength training group (STG) and a control group (CG). The STG added two RT sessions per week—using moderate loads (45–60% 1RM) and a low number of repetitions per set—combined with plyometrics to their regular soccer training, while the CG continued with only the field soccer training. Performance assessments (a running sprint test, a countermovement jump, and a progressive loading test in a full squat exercise) were conducted before and after each of three 8-week periods. Significant ‘time × group’ interaction in favor of STG was observed for T20 (p < 0.05), CMJ (p < 0.001), and all variables (p < 0.001) assessed during the full squat exercise. Significant changes between groups were observed in T10 (Post 1 and Post 3, p < 0.05), CMJ (Post 1, Post 2, and Post 3, p < 0.05–0.001), and all strength variables (Post 1, Post 2, and Post 3, p < 0.05–0.001). The findings of this study suggest that a training program based on weightlifting with light loads for a few repetitions per set combined with jumps and sprint exercises, in addition to regular soccer training, induces greater and earlier improvements in strength and sport-related actions (jumping and sprinting), compared with only field soccer training. Coaches and strength-conditioning coaches should consider using RT with low loads and low volume and performing each repetition as fast as possible as an effective stimulus to improve physical performance in key match-determining actions efficiently. Full article

Among the threats capable of causing disasters, earthquakes and hurricanes are those that most significantly impact the structures of buildings. This collaboration between UFRJ (Brazil) and UA (Portugal) aims to develop a house model that is both earthquake- and hurricane-resistant, within a specific range of magnitude to be determined, utilizing straightforward, affordable, and eco-friendly construction methods. SHS-Multirisk was developed under two phases. The first one carried out the design of the SHS-Multirisk 1.0 house model and the second phase comprised the preliminary conception of the SHS-Multirisk 2.0 architecture integrated with structural panels. This paper focuses on presenting the comprehensive research, development, and innovation (R&D&I) process of compressed earth block-reinforced masonry panels and the preliminary evaluation of their technical feasibility to be applied in SHS-Multirisk 2.0 house models. The steps of the process were explored in detail throughout process implementation, which revealed successive multi- and interdisciplinary challenges. Full article

In the context of climate change, it becomes of utmost importance to limit the negative impact of industrial activities on carbon emissions, water stress, biodiversity loss, and natural resources depletion. Whether we consider the situation from a product-centered perspective (life cycle, R&D&I process, tools, methods, design, production, etc.) or from a human-centered perspective (habits, practices, fixation, strategic orientations, emotional sensitivity, etc.), coming years will represent a formidable upheaval for companies. To support this transition, various tools assessing products’ impact have been developed over the past decade. They aim at guiding decision makers, integrating new criteria to assess project success, and promoting the development and industrialization of solutions answering pressing environmental issues. If assessment is a key factor of success, it has become clear that processes and practices also need to evolve for practitioners to properly integrate sustainable requirements from the initial stages of their project. In that context, biomimicry, the approach aimed at taking nature as a model to support the design of more sustainable solutions, has been the center of growing interest. However, no integrated methods exist in the cosmetics sector to assess if a product is properly developed through biomimicry. This missing framework led to difficulties for cosmetic companies to support eco-design through biomimicry. In this article, we present a method called Biomim’Index developed by L’Oréal research and innovation sustainable development team to address three objectives: (i) to characterize cosmetic technologies according to whether they are based on bioinspiration, biomimetics or biomimicry; (ii) to guide the project’s leaders to identify key steps to improve existing cosmetic technologies through biomimicry; and (iii) to support the integration of biomimicry as an operational approach towards the development of new sustainable cosmetic technologies. This method, focusing on the problem-driven biomimetic approach is based on a combination of procedural requirements from the biomimetics TC288 18458:2015 ISO norm and environmental design requirements from L’Oréal for the Future (L4TF) commitments. Results present a proof of concept to outline the method’s efficiency and limits to support innovative eco-designed projects and value cosmetic technologies designed through biomimicry. Full article

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common, multifactorial disorder of the ocular surface. Although DED can affect individuals at any age, its prevalence, clinical manifestations, underlying mechanisms, and optimal management strategies differ considerably across the lifespan. In children, symptoms are frequently associated with atopy and allergic disorders and environmental factors, whereas in young adults, digital device usage and contact lens wear are the predominant contributors. In older adults, systemic diseases and polypharmacy significantly elevate the risk of DED. Across all age groups, tear film instability, decreased tear production, and chronic inflammation are central pathogenic features. Key tear biomarkers, such as pro-inflammatory cytokines, have been widely linked to disease development. Cathepsin S and tumor necrosis factor-alpha have recently been implicated in age-related DED. A nuanced understanding of these age-related differences is crucial for improving diagnostic accuracy and tailoring interventions to specific patient populations. This review synthesizes current evidence on DED across age groups, focusing on prevalence, risk factors, pathophysiology, molecular mechanisms, coexisting conditions, biomarkers, and treatment options. Finally, it highlights critical unmet clinical needs in the management of age-related DED. Full article

Soccer is an intermittent sport characterized by periods of high intensity interspersed with varying levels of recovery. During the game, soccer players are required to perform numerous determinant actions, such as accelerations, decelerations, pace and directional changes, jumps, and strikes, which demand high levels of strength, speed, endurance, and mobility. This review aims to examine the current scientific evidence on velocity-based training (VBT) in order to assess its role in optimizing key actions in soccer players and to provide practical applications for its implementation. A narrative review of the scientific literature was conducted, focusing on velocity-based resistance training and its application in soccer, identifying relevant studies on its effectiveness in improving specific physical capacities and sports performance. Velocity-based resistance training is an effective strategy for enhancing key skills such as linear sprints, vertical jumps, and direction changes. Additionally, this methodology allows for the real-time adjustment of training loads, optimizing outcomes and minimizing muscle fatigue. Velocity-based resistance training represents an innovative and practical tool for soccer coaches and strength and conditioning professionals. Its application can contribute to optimizing physical performance, reducing injury risks, and improving sport-specific capabilities. Full article

The European Union aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, prioritizing energy efficiency particularly in the building sector. Despite significant policies, such as the EU Green Deal and Renovation Wave initiative, the rate of deep energy renovations remains insufficient, with only 0.2% annually versus the 3% required. Multiple barriers hinder the progress of deep energy renovations (DERs), including fragmentation among stakeholders, the limited coordination of RDI (Research, Development, and Innovation) efforts, and a lack of systemic approaches. The objective of this paper is to illustrate a holistic methodological approach for enhancing the DER market uptake based on transition pathways theory (TPT) and is designed to drive structural evolution in DER markets aimed at overcoming their main current constraints. To this end, five key transition pathways are outlined—namely institutionalization, clusterization, capitalization, digitalization, and exploitation—and are conceived for fostering coordination, integration, promotion, and efficient scaling of innovations along the whole DER value chain. This approach was tested in seven EU building market ecosystems under the H2020 re-MODULEES project, aimed at developing a market activation platform conceived as a digital enabler for next-generation One-Stop Shops (OSSs). This project yielded practical evidence on the potentiality of the TPT frame to strengthen and empower local ecosystems through stakeholders’ engagement and cooperation. The findings suggest that the TPT-based approach tested in re-MODULEES can effectively address structural challenges in diverse DER renovation markets, and for this reason, it may be also tested and extended in other ecosystems across Europe in order to be validated as a strategic approach at the EU level for facilitating the transition to low-carbon buildings. Full article

Currently, the administration of innovation and technology, and the execution of technological projects (in this case, mechatronic projects) is, for all types of organizations, a challenge that requires the use of the creativity and initiative of its professionals, investing or implementing processes, machines, products, and services in such a way that inventions, designs, and prototypes provide solutions to environmental problems and facilitate society. Therefore, in innovation projects, it should be considered that it corresponds not only to the application of new technologies, but also to the generation of an outcome that is useful for the objective, quantifiable, and productive segment, as applied to mechatronic projects. Therefore, it is necessary and relevant to carry out a process of orderly development in the following phases: identification of need, ideation, development, construction, and verification of the final solution of these mechatronic projects. The above is turned towards a comprehensive design process around the academy, which for the purposes of this research takes place at the Universidad Autónoma del Caribe, which, according to the indicators of technological development and innovation, is positioned among the top ten positions at a national level (over 350 measured universities) in the DTI-Sapiens ranking, published every two years since 2017 by the consulting firm Sapiens Research and recognized by the international IREG Observatory. The Unit Department for the Administration and Execution of Technological Projects and Innovation: A Case Applied to Mechatronic Projects aims to achieve a balanced technological offer in the universe of R&D&I projects in mechatronics, among economic and social scientific values. In this way, it will be possible to consolidate links with the socioeconomic environment for the transfer of existing knowledge in HEIs, its exploitation by stakeholders, and the increase in the development of R&D&I projects, strengthening capacities in the UEES relationship for the transfer of know-how to companies. Full article

This study explores how higher education institutions (HEIs) can foster the relevance of education for sustainable development (ESD) and strategic human resource development for a holistic sustainability transformation. Sharing a case example, it discusses how sustainable and responsible research, development and innovation (RDI) competences can be recognised, described and acknowledged to support the contextualised application of ESD and human resource development in one HEI of the INVEST university alliance and its stakeholders. It compares education professionals’ and stakeholders’ views on current and future competence needs and investigates inter-organisational competence development practices. The methodology encompasses a qualitative and interpretive case study based on focus group interviews. The results on the current sustainable competences indicated that HEI and stakeholder respondents identified disciplinary competences as the most important competence cluster followed by systems-thinking, strategies-thinking and integration competences. Although HEIs and stakeholders jointly regard disciplinary competences as most critical for the future, they have considerably different perspectives on the megatrends influencing these needs and the overall spectrum of the required competences. This study provides methodological means for contextualising sustainability competences and enhancing stakeholder-informed competence development. The results may serve as a point of reference for aligning higher education curricula and human resource development with ESD for more sustainable higher education. Full article

Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is the most common allergic eye disorder. Antiallergic eyedrops are the first line of pharmacological treatment. However, the application of antiallergic eyedrops can potentially alter tear homeostasis and affect the ocular surface, which may result in iatrogenic diseases such as dye eye disease (DED). Long-term treatment of AC with eyedrops containing preservatives and other components may increase the risk of DED and ocular surface damage. Here, we examined 20 clinical trials published during the past ten years with antihistamine ophthalmic formulations in the treatment of AC, to evaluate the extent of evidence about their safety and tolerability. Remarkably, we find that most trials lack an evaluation of the critical ocular surface parameters, such as tear film break-up time, tear volume, corneal and conjunctival damage, and inflammation, to properly assess the state of the ocular surface state after prolonged treatment. There is a need to increase awareness of the use of specific formulations that do not increase the risk of iatrogenic DED. Full article

This study aimed to analyze the intra-device agreement of a new linear position transducer (Vitruve, VT) and the inter-device agreement with a previously validated linear velocity transducer (T-Force System, TF) in different range of velocities. A group of 50 healthy, physically active men performed a progressive loading test during a bench press (BP) and full-squat (SQ) exercise with a simultaneous recording of two VT and one TF devices. The mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and peak of velocity (PV) were recorded for subsequent analysis. A set of statistics was used to determine the degree of agreement (Intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC], Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient [CCC], mean square deviation [MSD], and variance of the difference between measurements [VMD]) and the error magnitude (standard error of measurement [SEM], smallest detectable change [SDC], and maximum errors [ME]) between devices. The established velocity ranges were as follows: >1.20 m·s⁻¹; 1.20–0.95 m·s⁻¹; 0.95–0.70 m·s⁻¹; 0.70–0.45 m·s⁻¹; ≤0.45 m·s⁻¹ for BP; and >1.50 m·s⁻¹; 1.50–1.25 m·s⁻¹; 1.25–1.00 m·s⁻¹; 1.00–0.75 m·s⁻¹; and ≤0.75 m·s⁻¹ for SQ. For the MPV, the VT system showed high intra- and inter-device agreement and moderate error magnitude with pooled data in both exercises. However, the level of agreement decreased (ICC: 0.790–0.996; CCC: 0.663–0.992) and the error increased (ME: 2.8–13.4% 1RM; SEM: 0.035–0.01 m·s⁻¹) as the velocity range increased. For the PV, the magnitude of error was very high in both exercises. In conclusion, our results suggest that the VT system should only be used at MPVs below 0.45 m·s⁻¹ for BP and 0.75 m·s⁻¹ for SQ in order to obtain an accurate and reliable measurement, preferably using the MPV variable instead of the PV. Therefore, it appears that the VT system may not be appropriate for objectively monitoring resistance training and assessing strength performance along the entire spectrum of load-velocity curve. Full article

Intercropping to integrate cover crops with fruit trees in the Brazilian Cerrado is an innovative strategy for creating a more sustainable food system. This agricultural practice contributes to maintaining soil quality and improves fruits’ chemical and technological properties, such as those of Eugenia dysenterica (Mart.) DC. (cagaita). Given the significant fruit production potential of the Brazilian Cerrado, this study aimed to investigate the impact of an intercropping system involving cagaita trees and various cover crops, specifically Calopogonium mucunoides Desv. (CA), Crotalaria juncea (CR), Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet (LA), brachiaria (Brachiaria decumbens L.) + nitrogen source (urea) (BRN), and brachiaria (Brachiaria decumbens L.) (BR), on the chemical composition, technological properties, and morphological characteristics of cagaita fruits. Treatments involving leguminous cover crops (CA, LA, and CR) significantly increased nitrogen (N) levels in cagaita fruits, comparable to those observed with the BRN treatment. However, the treatment utilizing BR resulted in the highest levels of macrominerals (Ca, Mg, and K), which are essential for meeting the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) and demonstrated a notable positive impact on pulp yield (>78%). Additionally, the antioxidant potential and phenolic content were the highest in the BR, CA, and LA treatments, with the lowest levels recorded for the CR treatment. This study underscores the importance of sustainable agricultural practices in the Brazilian Cerrado, demonstrating their potential to enhance the nutritional quality (both micro and macronutrients), technological properties, and overall development of Eugenia dysenterica DC. fruits, thereby adding value to food and contributing to a more resilient and productive food system. Full article

This study investigates the determinants of non-hydro renewable energy (NHRE) consumption across 31 provincial regions in China, spanning from 2015 to 2022. Utilizing fixed effects and moderating effects, the research analyzes the impacts of research and development intensity (RDI), urbanization (UR), and human capital (HC) on NHRE consumption (NHREC). Additionally, the moderating roles of industrial structure (IS) and tax (TA) are examined, along with control variables such as informationization and economic development. The findings reveal that increased RDI significantly boosts NHREC by enhancing technological advancements. UR also positively affects NHREC, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions, while HC provides a skilled workforce that drives renewable energy projects. However, the study identifies that concentrated industrial structures and high taxes can negatively moderate these positive impacts, highlighting the complex interplay of these factors. Policy recommendations include creating “Renewable Energy Innovation Hubs” in underdeveloped regions to attract startups and researchers, developing “Solar Cities” with mandated solar panels on all buildings, and introducing a “Carbon Offset Lottery” to incentivize investments in renewable energy. Full article

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two velocity-based resistance training (RT) programs using moderate loads (45–60% 1RM) but different magnitudes of velocity loss (VL) limits (10% vs. 30%) on the changes in physical performance in young soccer players. Twenty young soccer players were randomly allocated into two groups: VL10% (n = 10) and VL30% (n = 10). All participants were assessed before and after the 8-week RT program (twice a week) involving the following tests: 20 m running sprint (T20), countermovement jump (CMJ), kicking a ball (KB), and progressive loading test in the full squat (SQ) exercise. The RT program was conducted using only the SQ exercise and movement velocity was monitored in all repetitions. Significant ‘time × group’ interaction (p < 0.05) was observed for sprint performance, KB and 1RM in the SQ exercise in favor of VL10%. No significant changes between groups at post-test were observed. The VL10% resulted in significant (p < 0.05–0.001) intra-group changes in all variables analyzed, except for KB, whereas VL30% only showed significant (p < 0.05) performance increments in a sprint test and 1RM in the SQ exercise. The percentage of change and the intra-group’s effect size were of greater magnitude for VL10% in all variables analyzed compared to VL30%. In conclusion, our results suggest that, for non-trained young soccer players, squat training with low to moderate relative loads and 10%VL is sufficient to elicit significant increases in muscle strength and sport-specific actions compared to 30%VL in the set. Full article

The role of research and development (R&D) in economic growth has been intensively promoted by scholars and policy-makers of the last decades, emphasizing its impact on technological innovation, intensive and sustainable growth and economic revival. The R&D sector is considered a main driver in the fight against chronic underdevelopment, regional disparities, isolation and lack of socio-economic perspectives. Although the steady economic growth of Romania in the last 15 years continues to converge with the European Union’s average, the regional disparities persisted and even deepened, the country still being considered a modest innovator, and resources allocated to research and innovation are far below the European level. In this paper, we aim to identify the existence, direction and duration of the relationship between economic growth, expenditure and employment in the R&D sector. We applied the Johansen cointegration test, the VECM model and Granger causality both at the county and component region levels during the 1995–2021 period. The results of our research reveal the consistency of these bidirectional relationships at the regional and sub-regional levels, especially in the long run. We also emphasize the importance of economic growth in supporting public and private efforts for R&D: the regions that can allocate more resources to research, development and innovation (RD&I) will benefit from the more reliable and long-run-oriented economic growth. Full article