Search Results (126)

(1) The beach areas of Galveston, Texas, USA are heavily used for recreational activities and often experience elevated fecal indicator bacteria levels, representing a potential threat to ecosystem services, human health, and tourism-based economies that rely on suitable water quality. (2) During the span of 15 months (March 2022–May 2023), water samples that exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-accepted alternative Beach Action Value (BAV) for enterococci of 104 MPN/100 mL were analyzed via microbial source tracking (MST) through quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays. The Bacteroides HF183 and DogBact as well as the Catellicoccus LeeSeaGull markers were used to detect human, dog, and gull fecal sources, respectively. The qPCR MST data were then utilized in a quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) to assess human health risks. Additionally, samples collected in July and August 2022 were sequenced for 16S rRNA and matched with fecal sources through the Bayesian SourceTracker2 program. (3) Overall, 26% of the 110 samples with enterococci exceedances were positive for at least one of the MST markers. Gull was revealed to be the primary source of identified fecal contamination through qPCR and SourceTracker2. Human contamination was detected at very low levels (<1%), whereas dog contamination was found to co-occur with human contamination through qPCR. QMRA identified Campylobacter from canine sources as being the primary driver for human health risks for contact recreation for both adults and children. (4) These MST results coupled with QMRA provide important insight into water quality in Galveston that can inform future water quality and beach management decisions that prioritize public health risks. Full article

This study provides user-centered insights into how inclusive forest design can support the physical, emotional, and social well-being of older adults. It operationalizes universal design principles in natural settings and confirms their relevance through empirical evidence. With the acceleration of global population aging, adapting forest recreation environments to meet the specific needs of older adults is increasingly urgent. This study investigates how infrastructure influences both participation and emotional well-being among older visitors to forest recreation areas. Data were collected from 446 participants aged 65 and older, using a structured survey distributed through in-person contact and digital snowball sampling. Participants reported their infrastructure preferences and their emotional responses related to forest visits. The findings show that older adults highly value site cleanliness, shaded seating, accessible restrooms, and clear signage. Expectations varied significantly according to health status, age group, and visitation frequency. Emotional well-being was positively associated with both comfort and visit frequency. These results demonstrate how inclusive infrastructure plays a vital role in supporting older adults’ access to and enjoyment of forest environments. The study affirms that universally designed forests not only reduce barriers but also promote psychological health and active aging, contributing to developing more equitable and sustainable nature-based recreation areas. Full article

Background: Pes planus is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, resulting in the entire sole contacting the ground. The biomechanical implications of pes planus on gait have been widely studied; however, research specific to Black African populations, particularly recreational runners, is scarce. Aim: This study aimed to describe the forefoot centre of pressure (CoP) trajectory during the barefoot gait cycle among Black African recreational runners with pes planus. Methods: A prospective explorative and quantitative study design was employed. Participants included Black African male recreational runners aged 18 to 45 years diagnosed with pes planus. A Freemed™ 6050 force plate was used to collect gait data. Statistical analysis included cross-tabulations to identify patterns. Results: This study included 104 male participants across seven weight categories, with the majority in the 70-to-79 kg range (34.6%, n = 36). Most participants with pes planus showed a neutral foot posture (74.0%, n = 77) on the foot posture index 6 (FPI-6) scale. Flexible pes planus (94.2%, n = 98) was much more common than rigid pes planus (5.8%, n = 6). Lateral displacement of the CoP was observed in the right forefoot (90.4%, n = 94) and left forefoot (57.7%, n = 60). Load distribution patterns differed between feet, with the right foot favouring the medial heel, arch, and metatarsal heads, while the left foot favoured the lateral heel, medial heel, and lateral arch. No statistical significance was found in the cross-tabulations, but notable lateral CoP displacement in the forefoot was observed. Conclusions: The findings challenge the traditional view of pes planus causing overpronation and highlight the need for clinicians to reconsider standard diagnostic and management approaches. Further research is needed to explore the implications of these findings for injury prevention and management in this population. Full article

Several studies in the literature have emphasized that public open spaces, such as recreational parks in residential neighborhoods, play a crucial role in enhancing social interaction among residents. As such, access to these parks is a key factor that may influence their use and, in turn, affect the quality of social engagement within the community. Traditional approaches to park accessibility, which focus solely on physical distance, have notable limitations, as proximity alone does not reliably predict park usage. Therefore, physical accessibility should be complemented by assessments of perceived or psychological accessibility. This study is designed to propose a framework for enhancing social interaction through improved access to recreational parks in the residential neighborhoods of the Dammam Metropolitan Area (DMA). It employs a mixed-methods approach comprising two primary methodologies: (1) observational behavioral mapping to identify key influencing factors based on user activities within the selected case study areas, and (2) an end-user questionnaire survey analyzed through inferential statistics, specifically Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), to assess residents’ perceptions of park accessibility and social interaction. The results indicate that adequate park maintenance significantly improves physical accessibility, while elements such as safety are essential for fostering psychological comfort. The ANOVA results yielded an F-value of 4.72 and a p-value of 0.00, confirming a statistically significant effect of the park’s physical features on facilitating social contact among local residents. The study presents a framework that integrates key demographic and social factors influencing park usage, advocating for infrastructure improvements aligned with user perceptions to foster greater community engagement. It highlights that addressing psychological barriers is just as important as making physical enhancements to achieve effective park accessibility. By combining physical design, demographic insights, and user experiences, the framework serves as a practical guide for planning inclusive and socially responsive public spaces. This research contributes to the fields of urban planning, social sustainability, and environmental psychology by offering localized insights and practical tools for implementation. Future research is recommended to further refine urban strategies that promote equitable access to recreational parks, particularly by addressing demographic-specific needs and psychological barriers that influence social interaction in open spaces. Full article

Running socks play an important role in alleviating foot impact and preventing foot injuries. Despite the variety of commercial options, their cushioning effectiveness is not well understood. This study examines three different types of running socks made of bio-based and synthetic textiles. Material testing includes compression, tensile, and shock absorption, while wear tests assess plantar loading in 10 adult recreational runners on a treadmill. Results show that specialized running socks offer superior shock absorption compared to regular running socks, largely due to fabric thickness and weight. Socks made of high-performance bio-composite fibers significantly reduced maximum peak pressure and impulse in the great toe (p < 0.05) and first metatarsal head (p < 0.05) during running. Additionally, ground contact time in the forefoot (p < 0.05) area was significantly lower with specialized running socks. Compared to regular running socks, five-toed running socks can reduce the pressure load on the forefoot area. These findings can guide the design of specialized sockwear for better foot protection and improved sports performance. Full article

It is assumed that horses have a strong herd instinct that cannot be suppressed by any form of social support from humans. The aim of this study was to assess the behaviour and heart rate parameters of horses that received various forms of human support during short-term social isolation. The research material consisted of 12 clinically healthy recreational warmblood mares and geldings. The test was carried out four times. The research test consisted of two parts, which began in the presence of accompanying horses and under conditions of social isolation, with and without support provided by a human (types of contact: tactile, vocal, tactile and vocal). Behavioural observations were carried out on a five-point scale, and the heart rate parameters were measured using Polar ELECTRO OY Kempele (Finland) measuring devices (Polar H9 type) and Polar Ignite2 receivers. Data analysis was carried out using the Polar Flowsync application coupled with the Polar Flow service. It was concluded that social support provided by humans in tactile, vocal, or tactile and vocal forms during the isolation of horses from the herd does not have very significant effects, especially in mares. The geldings respond much more favourably than the mares. In addition, at this point in the research, it can be suggested that vocal support may have the best effects. The more emotionally balanced the horses are, the more pronounced these effects should be. Full article

Reverse engineering (RE) is essential in recreating 3D models of existing manufactured parts. It is widely used for repairing damaged components, improving used parts, and designing new items based on older models. One of the most common methods in RE is photogrammetry, which enables 3D reconstruction by capturing multiple images. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the application of mobile photogrammetry to obtain a 3D model of a train brake pad. The process started with capturing images of objects in a quick and professional manner to ensure visualization of data. This was followed by processing 2D images using Agisoft Metashape 2.2.1 software and Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms to create a precise 3D model. Subsequently, assessment was performed using feasibility in terms of cost, time, and accuracy. The results show that mobile photogrammetry provided an accessible and cost-effective method, alongside maximum contact stress after reducing optimization by approximately 28.42%, with maximum error value measured by the virtual model with the reference value of 0.30 mm (on Metashape) and 0.46 mm (on AI). This suggested that reverse parameterization significantly accelerated computer-aided design (CAD) model reconstruction and reduced the part redesign development cycle. By using photogrammetry and parametric modeling, engineers could accurately analyze and optimize train brake pads, ensuring safety as well as sustainability in railway operations. Additionally, RE and parametric modeling could assist in creating durable, cost-effective alternatives, and predicting appropriate replacements. Full article

The detection of short circuits in a medium-voltage (MV) network is a complex issue due to the way the neutral point works. An additional difficulty is the relatively large load asymmetry. The methods used so far include complex equipment (e.g., a system of voltage transformers) for use mainly in power stations. The detection of short circuits deep in the network is therefore difficult, and this could facilitate the process of fault localization and limit the areas that should be disconnected for the time of fault removal. This article presents the new concept of using a system of capacitive probes as a simple and cheap tool that allows for the detection of a short circuit in an MV network based on the assessment of the zero-voltage component. This component is considered to be one of the basic starting criteria for various types of specialist earth-fault protections. Appropriately placed capacitive probes—through the existence of capacitive coupling with phase conductors—record the voltages of individual phases, including the total resultant voltage, which is the criterion for detecting a short circuit in the system. An important advantage of using such a solution is that capacitive probes allow for voltage measurement and assessment of line asymmetry in a non-contact and, therefore, safe manner. The presented concept has been tested in the laboratory and supported by simulation studies. The modeling of the system was based on the parameters of real structures used in overhead lines, recreated in laboratory conditions. Obtaining positive results of the simulation studies—primarily the appropriate sensitivity of short-circuit detection, confirmed in the laboratory—allows for the creation of a prototype of the device and the commencement of field tests, which will be the subject of further work conducted by the authors. Full article

Marine environment-induced apparatus failures have led to substantial losses in marine engineering. Graphite/copper composites, known for their excellent electrical conductivity and wear resistance, are extensively utilized in various electric contact devices. However, research on the current-carrying friction and wear behavior of graphite/copper composites in marine environments is still limited. This study investigates the effects of mating materials, graphite content (30 wt.% and 45 wt.%), and electric voltage on the friction and wear mechanisms of graphite/copper composites in seawater. The results show that under seawater coupled with electricity, no mass loss was observed in the 30 wt.% graphite composites after friction tests against different counterparts. Electric voltage (3 V) affects the composite’s damage mechanism, inducing delamination wear, arc erosion and accelerating corrosion. Specifically, the electricity factor promotes oxidation recreations while inhibiting chlorine formation. Notably, when the composite is paired with gold-coated copper, it undergoes electrochemical reactions, leading to the formation of needle-like copper oxide. These oxides alter the surface morphology, elevate the mass of worn composites, and raise the friction coefficient of the tribopair to approximately 0.3, an increase from 0.2. Full article

Background: Running is a popular physical activity known for its health benefits but also for a high incidence of lower-limb injuries. This study examined the effects of three biomechanical interventions—cadence adjustments, footwear modifications, and foot orthoses—on plantar pressure distribution and spatiotemporal running parameters. Methods: A quasi-experimental, repeated-measures design was conducted with 23 healthy recreational runners (mean age 25, mean BMI 22.5) who ran at least twice per week. Five conditions were tested: baseline (C0), increased cadence (C1), orthoses (C2), low-drop footwear (C3), and a combination of these (C4). Data were collected on a Zebris treadmill, focusing on rearfoot contact time, peak forces, and stride length. Results: Increasing cadence (C1) reduced rearfoot impact forces (−81.36 N) and led to a shorter stride (−17 cm). Low-drop footwear (C3) decreased rearfoot contact time (−1.89 ms) and peak force (−72.13 N), while shifting pressure toward the midfoot. Orthoses (C2) effectively redistributed plantar pressures reducing rearfoot peak force (−41.31 N) without changing stride length. The combined intervention (C4) yielded the most pronounced reductions in peak forces across the rearfoot (−183.18 N) and forefoot (−139.09 N) and increased midfoot contact time (+5.07 ms). Conclusions: Increasing cadence and low-drop footwear significantly reduced impact forces, improving running efficiency. Orthoses effectively redistributed plantar pressures, supporting individualized injury prevention strategies. These findings suggest that combining cadence adjustments, footwear modifications, and orthoses could enhance injury prevention and running efficiency for recreational runners. Full article

Among the most prominent Hindu festivals is the Rath Yatra, or Festival of Chariots, which is celebrated by parading three brightly decorated chariots containing statues of the deities Jagganath, Subhadra, and Balaram through the streets of a city on brilliantly decorated chariots. Rath Yatra is celebrated throughout India and increasingly throughout the world through such efforts as the Festival of India sponsored by the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), which stops in several prominent locations throughout North America. Within Krishna Consciousness, temple worship is an aesthetically vivid sensory experience in which the various art forms—music, dance, theater, and the visual arts—serve to attach the devotee’s senses to the Divine through worship practices, including darshan—the exchange of gazes, kirtan—the singing of sacred mantras, and lila—the re-creation of the pastimes of divine characters. The festival experience—and the Festival of Chariots in particular—can serve to bring the practices typically associated with temple worship to the public. This article draws on several Rath Yatra events, giving special attention to the annual Rath Yatra parade held in New York City, where devotees parade their deities down Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue, and that held in Los Angeles on Venice Beach. These prominent American Rath Yatras serve as a study of the spiritual necessity of beauty and the spiritual necessity of joy, which are both addressed by the festival experience, as music and vivid visual imagery serve to transform urban space into sacred space by allowing bypassers as well as devotees to come into sensory contact with sacred imagery and sacred sound. Full article

The possibility of reusing the effluent from Cuena’s wastewater treatment plant WWTP is analyzed through the application of two treatments: conventional physical–chemical (coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation and filtration, and disinfection) and advanced oxidation with a combination of hydrogen peroxide/ozone. The results show that neither treatment method independently resolves all the limitations of the effluent for reuse, especially regarding organic matter, nutrients, and turbidity. Therefore, the compatibility of the quality of the treated water quality is evaluated for three potential reuses such as unrestricted urban use, recreational use with primary contact, and agricultural irrigation, referencing EPA and Ecuadorian TULSMA standards. This study highlights the need to establish a legal and regulatory framework for water reuse in Ecuador to enable decision-makers to implement sustainable water reuse practices and manage scarcity effectively. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigated the impacts of a 12-week training program on kinetic parameters during landings in non-professional recreational athletes. Methods: Fifty-seven non-elite recreational athletes performed three unilateral-landing trials from a 30 cm high structure on a force platform. The following outcome measures were analyzed: the ground reaction forces at initial ground contact (PF1) and the highest value (PF2), impulse (change in the moment of force during landing), stabilization time, and ankle and knee accelerations. The ground reaction forces, momentum, and accelerations were evaluated in the vertical, medio-lateral, and anteroposterior axes. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups. The experimental group (EG) underwent a 12-week intervention, three times per week, consisting of various exercises, such as strength, eccentric, proprioceptive, whole-body vibration (WBV), and neuromuscular exercises. After 12 weeks, the same outcome measures were analyzed. Results: The effects of the training program on vertical ground reaction forces were not clear (0.3% and 0.9%, respectively). Medio-lateral (64.8%, d = 0.51) and anteroposterior (43.9%, d = 1.34) forces were probably reduced due to the training program. The stabilization time was also reduced in the experimental group (44.2%). The training program most likely decreased the vertical impulse (47.3%, d = −1.56), whereas the total ankle acceleration increased (18.4%, d = 0.79). Conclusions: The findings reveal significant improvements in neuromuscular control and stability during landings, specifically demonstrating reduced medio-lateral forces, vertical momentum, and acceleration during monopodal landings. This study focuses on the importance of proper landing techniques in minimizing the risk of knee injuries, emphasizing the falling strategy’s role in injury prevention. Full article

The trampoline is a popular piece of sports equipment both for recreational use and for Olympic trampolining as a competitive sport. Maintaining body position during jumps is influenced by sensory inputs (visual, auditory, and somatosensory) and symmetrical muscle activity that help athletes to perform consecutive jumps as vertically as possible. To evaluate the effects of these inputs, 15 male and 15 female students (with an average age of 24.4 years, height of 174.3 cm, and average weight of 69.7 kg) performed 10 consecutive straight jumps under four sensory conditions: (1) looking at the edge of the trampoline, (2) without sight, (3) without hearing, and (4) without hearing or sight. Using insoles with integrated pressure sensors (Pedar^®, novel GmbH, Munich, Germany), the contact forces on the trampoline during the jump were measured separately for the left and right feet. The results showed that the lack of visual input significantly shortened flight times and increased the asymmetry of ground reaction forces between the left and right legs. For example, in the second series without vision, the average normalized force difference between the legs increased by 0.33 G compared to the control condition. An ANOVA revealed significant differences in the ground reaction forces between sensory conditions, with vision playing a key role in maintaining body control. These results provide practical insights for coaches looking to improve jumping performance and address asymmetries during training by focusing on sensory feedback strategies. Full article

Forests are an important component of the natural systems of large cities. Their deficiency limits the proper functioning of these systems and creates a shortage of recreational places for residents needing contact with nature. This can be encountered in Rzeszów, a city in southern Poland with 200,000 inhabitants, which is characterised by the smallest forest area (2.8%) of all province capitals in the country. The natural state of small forest enclaves in this city has not been fully investigated. This has led to incorrect management and nature conservation policies. Therefore, the aim of this research conducted since 2015 was to recognise the potential for conservation and recreational functions using the concept of ecosystem services (ES) and ecosystem disservices (EDS), and to develop recommendations for the optimal use of these areas. This article analyses and compares 14 indicators related to ES and EDS of three out of five larger forest patches in the city. The results of this analysis indicate that the current method for protecting these valuable elements of the natural system does not correspond with their actual conservation potential. The application of the ES and EDS concepts to assess the nature conservation potential allowed us to determine it as high in two forest enclaves where such potential had not been indicated so far, and to identify the highest recreational potential in one of the investigated sites. Full article