Abstract: The aim of this study was to characterise postural defects in children aged 10-12 years according to the author’s proposed typology, which was created based on measurements of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis, taking compensatory mechanisms and postural and movement patterns into account. This will allow for more precise diagnosis of postural defects and the selection of individual corrective exercises. Methods: The research included 303 children aged 10-12 years. Measurements were taken using the Diers Formetric III 4D system, determining angles of thoracic kyphosis (42°-55°) and lumbar lordosis (33°-47°). Based on this, nine postural types were identified, encompassing various combinations of shallow, normal and deep kyphosis as well as lordosis. Results: The analysis revealed that only 29% of children had normal body posture, while 71% demonstrated abnormal spinal alignment. The most common finding was flattened thoracic kyphosis, often combined with varying degrees of lumbar lordosis. Each posture type is characterised by specific muscle patterns—lengthened, shortened, hypoactive and hyperactive muscles—which is crucial for individualising therapy and selecting corrective exercises. Conclusions: In the study, it was confirmed that posture in children aged 10-12 is a dynamic phenomenon which is strongly related to the maturation of the neuromuscular system. The nine-type classification revealed a wide variation in postural pattern—only a minority of children demonstrated normal posture, while the vast majority demonstrated the presence of characteristic compensatory mechanisms. The results clearly suggest that postural disturbances are not the result of deviations in individual spinal curvatures, but are a consequence of multi-segment, interconnected changes in the entire postural chain. Changes in kyphosis and lordosis coexist with disturbances in pelvic positioning, hip function, knee extension or flexion strategies, as well as compensations related to the feet, which are often the final result of deficits in core stabilisation. These relationships confirm that posture is an integrated system in which each segment influences consecutive ones. In this context, the nine-type classification has a distinct advantage over traditional assessments which are primarily focused on curvature angles. The new typology allows for the identification of not only structural deformities but, above all, compensatory patterns, the hierarchy of stabilisation mechanisms and disturbances in proximal-distal control. This makes it a more precise clinical tool and better reflects the child's actual postural organisation. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to clarify the evolution of these patterns during the maturation of the antigravity system and determine their significance in treatment planning.

Abstract: The systemic consequences of dermal exposure to cosmetic formulations containing reactive chemical agents are becoming increasingly important, particularly as calcium hypochlorite is now incorporated (often inappropriately) into some organic creams and skin-lightening products. Although valued for its antimicrobial and bleaching properties, the biological impact of calcium hypochlorite on glucose levels, lipid metabolism, antioxidant status and oxidative balance following topical application remains poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of an organic cream formulated with calcium hypochlorite on lipid profile and oxidative stress biomarkers in rabbits. Healthy rabbits were randomly assigned into four groups comprising a control which had topical application of base cream (coconut oil), while the three other groups had topical applications of calcium hypochlorite incorporated coconut oil-organic cream at 0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 mL, over a 28-day period. Blood glucose, liver function parameters [Aspartate Transaminase (AST), Alanine Transaminase (ALT), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Albumin (ALB)], along with antioxidant enzymes [catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH)] and lipid peroxidation measured as malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated using standard biochemical assays. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test, with significance set at p < 0.05. Calcium hypochlorite at all concentrations significantly increased blood glucose, ALT, AST, ALP, ALB and MDA levels, and reduced SOD, CAT and GSH level. In conclusion, these findings revealed that topical exposure to calcium hypochlorite-containing organic cream can disrupt lipid metabolism and compromise redox homeostasis in rabbits. The study underscores the potential systemic risks associated with unregulated hypochlorite-based cosmetic products and highlights the need for strengthened safety oversight in skincare formulations marketed for skin lightening.

Abstract: Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist commonly used in the treatment of hyperprolactinaemia and Parkinson’s disease, but prolonged administration has been linked to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, particularly within the cerebellum. Quercetin, a natural flavonoid with potent antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, may counteract these effects, although its protective role against bromocriptine-induced cerebellar toxicity is not well established. This study evaluated the neurobehavioral, biochemical, and histological effects of quercetin in bromocriptine-treated rats. Sixty adult, male Wistar rats (120–150 g) were randomly assigned into six groups (n = 10). Group A received normal saline; Groups B and C received quercetin-supplemented feed (500 and 1000 mg/kg) for 14 days. Group D was administered bromocriptine (5 mg/kg) during the second 14-day period. Groups E and F received quercetin (500 and 1000 mg/kg) concurrently with bromocriptine. Bromocriptine-treated rats (Group D) exhibited significant reductions in body weight and feed intake, while Groups E and F showed significant recovery. Open-field novelty-induced behaviours were altered in Group D, with significant reductions in line crossing and rearing, whereas these behaviours improved in quercetin-treated groups. Self-grooming increased in Group D but declined significantly in Groups E and F. Biochemical analyses indicated heightened oxidative stress and inflammation in Group D, with increased MDA and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α), and reduced TAC and IL-10. Histological assessment revealed cerebellar neuronal disruption in Group D, while quercetin co-treatment preserved cerebellar architecture. In conclusion, quercetin attenuated bromocriptine-induced behavioural deficits, oxidative damage, inflammation, and cerebellar histopathology, demonstrating promising neuroprotective potential.

Abstract: The anatomy and mechanical strength of aortic valve leaflets are critical determinants of the valve biomechanical behavior and long-term structural integrity. The embryonic de-velopmental period, when valves are forming, is critical in establishing baseline leaflet properties. Yet, final stages of valve development are not well understood. This study employs a parametric approach to model the leaflet anatomy of an HH40 chick embryo aortic valve approximating its native curvature. To perform biomechanical analysis, a pressure profile derived from in-ovo Doppler ultrasound measurements was applied, and an Ogden hyper elastic material model was employed following a sensitivity analysis. To determine the effect of valve anatomy on leaflet tissue deformation and stresses, we changed the leaflet midline curve from its native curvature to a linear profile, and quan-tified biomechanical responses. Our analysis revealed a strong decrease in average leaflet effective stress as its midline curvature was shifted towards a linear profile. However, this reduction in average stress was at the expense of a biomechanical trade-off. The shift induced a progressive localization of stress concentration at the leaflet tips and commis-sures, and a distinct bending deformation mode at the tip under peak load. Moreover, the midline curvature shift had a non-linear impact on function: the valve geometric orifice area (GOA) increased initially with the anatomy shift but then reached a maximum and subsequently decreased. Our findings demonstrate that while the curvature of the leaflet midline modulates tissue stress during valve opening a low-stress anatomy does not align with hemodynamic performance. This work characterizes competing leaflet biomechan-ical responses that shape valve leaflet formation, providing fundamental insights into developmental valve biomechanics.

Abstract: The anatomical variability of the human foot represents a subject of substantial interest, offer-ing valuable insights in anthropological research as well as in clinical practice. The aim of this study is to document anatomical variants of the tarsal bones in the CISC//XXI skeletal sample (21st Century Identified Skeletons Collection), with a particular focus on the prevalence of ac-cessory ossicles. The studied sample consisted of 163 individuals (83 female and 80 males). The prevalence of six accessory tarsal bones was registered (os trigonum, calcaneum secundarium, the accessory navicular bone, os sustentaculum, os vesalianum and os intermetatarseum). A total of 35 individuals (21.4%; 35/163) exhibited at least one accessory ossicle, 13 females (15.7%; 13/83) and 22 males (27.5%; 22/80). The os trigonum and calcaneum secundarium were the most frequently observed accessory bones, respectively in 9.3% (15/162) and 6.9% (11/159) of the in-dividuals. No sex differences were observed. All the accessory bones occurred more frequently unilaterally, and no co-occurrences of accessory bones were observed. These findings are crucial in both the biomedical and anthropological fields, where a detailed knowledge of foot anatomy and its variations is relevant.

Abstract: Training adaptation encompasses not only muscular and metabolic remodeling but also personality‑linked traits such as motivation, self‑regulation, and resilience. This narrative review examines how training load oscillation (TLO)—the deliberate variation of exercise intensity, volume, and substrate availability—may function as a systemic epigenetic stimulus. Fluctuating energetic states reconfigure AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), calcium/calmodulin‑dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and sirtuin‑1 (SIRT1) signaling, influencing DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and microRNA programs governed by peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor‑γ coactivator‑1α (PGC‑1α) and brain‑derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We synthesize evidence linking these molecular adaptations to behavioral consistency and stress tolerance. Building on this literature, we propose a systems model of molecular–behavioral coupling in which TLO entrains phase‑shifted AMPK/SIRT1 and mTOR windows, with CaMKII pulses and a delayed BDNF crest; over time, this rhythm may promote conditions that enable epigenetic resonance, potentially aligning energetic signals with motivational processes. The framework suggests testable predictions (e.g., amplitude‑dependent PGC‑1α demethylation and BDNF promoter acetylation; NR3C1 recalibration with recovery‑weighted cycles) and practical implications for precision training that times nutritional and cognitive inputs to molecular windows. Understanding TLO as an entrainment signal may help integrate physiology and psychology within a coherent strategy for durable performance.

Abstract: Aerobic exercise with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may enhance cognition via cerebro-vascular pathways. We tested whether mild hyperbaric oxygen (HBO; 1.41 atmospheres absolute [ATA], approximately 30% O₂) adds to gains in cognitive processing capacity (throughput) versus normobaric normoxia (1.0 ATA, approximately 21% [20.9%] O₂). Young healthy males (n=16) performed cycling exercise at 60–70% VO₂peak for 60 min, twice weekly, for 4 weeks per environment with a 1-week washout; EPA (2,170 mg·day⁻¹) continued for 8 weeks. An EPA-only control (n=8) was included for supplementary analysis. The primary outcome was throughput (correct·min⁻¹; T1–T4); secondary out-comes were interference indices (I1: stroop interference, I2: reverse-stroop interference). Effects were estimated using linear mixed models [environment, time, environment × time; AR(1), REML] and Hedges’ g_av; accuracy used generalized estimating equations. Throughput improved mainly with time (T1–T2 p<.001; T4 p=.017; T3 p=.055), with no environment or interaction effects. I1/I2 showed no significant change, and one task ex-hibited an accuracy ceiling. Under safe, feasible conditions (≤1.41 ATA), aerobic exercise improved processing capacity (throughput) independently of environmental oxygenation level. The absence of additive effects may be due to the conservative settings used in this study.

Abstract: Aim: To examine whether strength and thigh muscle activation patterns were associated with throwing velocity in a collegiate fast-pitch softball pitcher with national-level experience. Methods: Five female pitchers from a college team in Ontario, Canada, participated for comparison. The team’s top pitcher, recently selected for national team training, was classified as elite; the remaining four were categorized as high-performance. Upper- and lower-body strength was estimated using one-repetition maximum tests. Surface electromyography (EMG) of the rectus femoris (RF) and biceps femoris (BF) was recorded during windmill pitches, while ball velocity was measured with radar. The maximum peak-to-peak RMS EMG signal, as well as timing of activation and inactivation, were analyzed across pitchers. Results: The elite pitcher demonstrated the highest average throwing velocity (59 mph vs. 54 mph) and greater overall strength. She also displayed a distinct three-phase activation pattern of thigh musculature with minimal coactivation, while the high-performance pitchers showed less distinct patterns and greater overlap of RF and BF activity. Conclusion: This case highlights that both superior strength and a distinct thigh activation profile may contribute to higher throwing velocity in elite softball pitchers. Further research integrating EMG with biomechanical video analysis may clarify how neuromuscular coordination supports performance.

Abstract: This study explores the diagnostic complexity and phenotypic variability of congenital thoracoabdominal anomalies in dogs. It focuses on 20 cases, comprising three original cases and 17 cases reviewed from the literature. Most cases exhibited features that overlapped, challenging traditional classification systems. All three original cases presented with thoracoschisis, which was categorized as a bridging anomaly due to its presence within both body wall and sternal defect domains. Cases 1 and 2, which presented with central abdominoschisis and umbilical cord anomalies, were indicative of early embryonic disruption, which is consistent with syndromic conditions such as Cantrell pentalogy. Case 3, featuring right lateral abdominoschisis and a normal umbilical cord, reflects a more localised defect that is likely to have arisen later in development. These findings support the concept of a syndromic continuum and emphasize the need for diagnostic frameworks that integrate anatomical presentation, embryonic timing and cross-species comparisons. The Venn diagram developed in this study can be used as a tool for categorizing and understanding the development of syndromic and non-syndromic phenotypes.

Abstract: Background/Objective: Individuals experiencing long-COVID frequently report or-thostatic intolerance symptoms, which may be linked to autonomic and cardiovascular dysfunction. The active standing test provides a simple, clinically relevant means to assess these impairments. This systematic review aims to determine the use of the ac-tive standing orthostatic stress test in evaluating cardiovascular, autonomic, and res-piratory responses in people experiencing LC. Methods: A systematic search, accord-ing to PRISMA guidelines, was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus for articles published between 2020 and 2025. This study was registered in PROSPERO CRD-42024615872. Studies were included if they used the active standing test, enrolled adults (≥18 years), included both Long-COVID and healthy control groups, used continuous beat-to-beat measurements, and reported physiological out-comes. Risk of bias was assessed using the nine-point Newcastle-Ottawa-Scale. Re-sults: Three studies (216 participants with Long-COVID and 186 controls) met the in-clusion criteria. Across studies, Long-COVID individuals consistently exhibited ele-vated heart rate in both supine and standing positions. However, blood pressure find-ings were more variable: only one study reported 13% of participants met orthostatic hypotension criteria, while another found significant increases in diastolic blood pres-sure during standing. Long-COVID groups also showed reduced heart rate variability compared to controls. Conclusions: Individuals experiencing Long-COVID show ele-vated heart rate and impaired autonomic function during active standing, with sub-group-specific blood pressure changes. These alterations may contribute to dizziness, fatigue, and reduced activity tolerance. Incorporating active standing into clinical as-sessment could aid early identification of autonomic dysfunction and inform rehabili-tation strategies, though more research is urgently needed.

Abstract:

The classical organ-based model of human physiology provides an essential but incomplete framework for understanding whole-body integration. While the nervous and endocrine systems are acknowledged master regulators, they operate upon a continuous physical substrate whose system-level function has been largely overlooked. For centuries, anatomists, physiologists, and clinicians have documented the interstitial spaces—the fluid-filled, matrix-supported regions between cells—as passive conduits and structural supports. Here, we synthesize this vast body of knowledge to propose the Human Interstitial System (HIS). We define the HIS as a fundamental physiological system, characterized by its body-wide continuity and its primary role as a relational matrix that physically and functionally interconnects all discrete anatomical units. We posit that the dynamic architecture of the HIS governs the flow of information, nutrients, and mechanical forces, thereby influencing systemic state emergence. The framework is articulated through four core functions—mediation, filtration, integration, and emergence—and a testable biophysical model based on confined hydrodynamics and wave interference. We propose three decisive, falsifiable experiments to challenge the core tenets of this theory. Establishing the HIS provides a novel paradigm for understanding physiological integration, with profound implications for redefining diseases like fibrosis and developing novel therapeutic strategies.

Abstract: Background: The growing interest in optimizing rowing performance has led to the development of a wide range of ergometer-based tests. However, this diversity has also resulted in a lack of consensus regarding which physiological variables are most predictive of rowing performance. This systematic review aimed to provide an updated synthesis of the main testing protocols used on rowing ergometers and to identify the variables most strongly associated with 2,000-m performance. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, following PRISMA and STROBE guidelines. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria, and methodological quality was assessed accordingly (PROSPERO: CRD420251027702). Results: Thirty studies comprising 787 rowers (566 men, 221 women) across elite (16%), sub-elite (32%), and recreational (56%) levels were analyzed. The 2,000-m test was the most frequently employed protocol (76%), followed by incremental tests (INCR). The 2,000-m test reflects competition performance, whereas INCR are primarily used to assess VO₂max and peak power, the variables most strongly correlated with 2,000-m outcomes. Power at lactate threshold and critical power also showed strong associations with performance, particularly when measured through short, time-efficient protocols that minimize fatigue. Conclusions: VO₂max, peak power output, and critical power (CP) are the variables most consistently associated with 2,000-m ergometer performance, highlighting the value of both maximal and submaximal testing protocols.

Abstract: The persistent explanatory gap between local interactions and global emergence represents a fundamental challenge in complex systems science. While current frameworks successfully describe what components interact and their topological patterns, they lack a physical theory for how interactions are materially mediated and integrated—the crucial mechanism underlying self-organization. We propose the Interstitial Integration Hypothesis (IIH) as a comprehensive mechanistic framework. The IIH identifies the structure, dynamics, and material properties of interstitial spaces—the functional substrates between discrete components—as the physical determinant of system-level function and emergent behavior. Through convergent evidence from quantum physics to social science, we demonstrate that interstitial architecture governs how simple components give rise to complex phenomena through constrained flow and information processing. Crucially, we formulate specific, falsifiable predictions with detailed experimental protocols. This framework not only resolves longstanding puzzles of emergence but also reframes pathologies from fibrosis to social sclerosis as “intersticiopathies”—dysfunctions of interstitial flow—offering a transformative paradigm for engineering resilient systems across disciplines.

Abstract: Bone fractures remain a critical diagnostic challenge in orthopedic medicine, requiring precise and timely interpretation of radiographic images in conjunction with clinical evaluation. This study proposes a multimodal artificial intelligence (AI) framework that integrates a YOLOv8n-based convolutional neural network (CNN) for image analysis with an artificial neural network (ANN) trained on structured clinical data to improve fracture detection and classification. The CNN, trained on annotated X-ray images spanning seven anatomical regions, achieved an overall accuracy of 97.1%, with strong localization and classification performance. Interpretability was enhanced using Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM) to highlight spatial regions of diagnostic relevance. In parallel, the ANN was trained on clinical profiles from 2,873 patients—including demographic, biochemical, and diagnostic parameters—and achieved 96.13% accuracy in binary fracture prediction. To further ensure transparency, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) and Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations (LIME) were employed to quantify the contribution of individual clinical features. Comprehensive evaluation through confusion matrices, per-class performance metrics, and training dynamics confirmed the robustness and generalizability of the proposed system. By combining radiological imaging with clinical data, this framework provides an accurate, interpretable, and scalable solution for AI-assisted fracture diagnosis in orthopedic practice.

Abstract: Background: Surgery for rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) is painful and expensive with 3 months rehabilitation thereafter. Physical therapy has short-term success, but no longer-term studies confirm its permanence. We report the efficacy, safety and mechanism of triangular forearm support (TFS) at a wall, to reduce pain and improve active range of motion in MRI-confirmed RCS. Noteworthy is that several, or even a single repetition of the maneuver gives long term benefits in many cases. Methods: This single-visit randomized controlled crossover trial with intervention group (IG) doing TFS and placebo (CG) group patients had 3 self-rated visual analogue scale (VAS) ratings before performing intervention or sham maneuvers. IG: n = 80; mean age 65.3 and CG: n = 87; mean age 63.8. Difference in age: t = - 0.14854; p = 0.8821; df = 165. Groups held TFS or placebo for 45 seconds, then rated pain in maximal abduction and flexion immediately three times. CG patients then immediately crossed over and performed TFS and underwent three trials of abduction and flexion after doing TFS, as above. Results: averaged each set of 3 trials and summed each case’s change before comparing IC and CG. We took the mean of the differences, not the differences of the means. Abduction: mean immediate post-TFS and post-sham VAS dropped 1.98 and 1.08 points from 6.14 and 5.03 respectively or 32.3% vs. 21%, respectively (p = 0.004). Flexion: baseline IG and CG values: 5.13 and 4.57 immediately dropped 1.08 and .93, 32% and 20.4% lower, respectively (p =.002); (CI: - 0.0317 - 0.0317). Mean 52-month telephone, email or Internet follow-up: Abduction and flexion VAS improvement from initial VAS: 3.2 points (95% CI: 0.13 to 1.71), p = 0.001 and 3.04 points (95% CI 0.54 - 1.73), p <0.001) respectively. VAS values for abduction and flexion were 67.6% and 74.5% below VAS values at study onset. Full abduction/flexion ranges of motion were reported by 31/54 and 32/54 patients. Since follow-up was done remotely, goniometric measurement was impossible. Conclusion: Standing TFS may improve abduction and flexion ROM and reduce pain in RCS.

Abstract: This study examines the implementation and impact of flipped classroom (FC) in anatomy education over two academic years (2023/24 and 2024/25), with a focus on student engagement, study habits and cognitive performance. The FC approach shifts content acquisition to pre-class study and emphasizes active learning during in-person sessions. It was supported by interactive digital tools (H5P® and Wooclap®) and structured assessments designed at varying cognitive levels. Survey data and engagement metrics revealed a significant shift in student behavior over time. In the second year, students dedicated more time to preparation, adopted deeper learning strategies such as structured note-taking and showed reduced procrastination compared to the previous year. Performance on cognitive tasks improved with earlier access to content, particularly for higher-order questions, suggesting that timing and study strategy are critical to learning outcomes. Despite initial resistance to the flipped learning approach, students' preferences evolved with experience, highlighting the importance of gradual adaptation and continuous evaluation. The study also identified institutional and cultural barriers to pedagogical change, emphasizing the need for supportive infrastructure. Overall, the findings demonstrate that, when implemented thoughtfully, FC can enhance student autonomy, engagement and conceptual understanding, offering a valuable framework for modernizing anatomy instruction in veterinary education.

Abstract: Background / Objective: In the isokinetic literature, relatively limited attention has been given to muscles of the wrist. Therefore, the objective of this study was to present an isokinetic profile of these muscles comprising the flexors (F), extensors (E), ulnar (U) and radial (R) deviators. Method: The dominant side F, E, U and R in 40 healthy participants (20 women and 20 men) were tested concentrically and eccentrically, using a single speed of 90°/s. Results: Men were significantly stronger than women in both the concentric and eccentric tests as indicated by both the absolute (Nm) or the bodyweight normalized (Nm/kgbw) representations. However, the bodyweight normalized women/men strength ratio (78.6±8.0%) was significantly higher than the absolute’s (64.1±6.6%). For both the concentric and eccentric effort and irrespective of the representation (absolute or normalized) the U was the strongest muscle group followed successively by F, R and E. This rank order was highly significant statistically. The eccentric/concentric strength ratios: E/CF and E/CU were significantly higher in men than in women with no remarkable inter-sex differences for E/CE and for E/CR. A correlational analysis which included all pairs of the basic isokinetic outcome parameters (e.g., the PM of Fcon) and performed with respect to ‘sex’ using Fisher’s r-to-z transformation, revealed that men had significantly higher overall correlation coefficients compared to women. Conclusions: The uniformity of main findings with respect to both the sex of the participants and the various strength ratios strongly support the validity of the findings. Specifically, the original rank ordering of the wrist muscle can potentially serve as an additional and preliminary guideline for return to normal strength pattern in rehabilitation of the wrist.

Abstract: Chronic kidney disease is closely associated with an increased risk of cardiovas-cular disease. Although kidney transplantation represents the treatment of choice for patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease, it is also linked to significant cardio-vascular risk. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between cardiovascular pathology and oxidative status in kidney transplant recipients, while also assessing the influence of disease etiology and humoral immune response on oxidative imbalance. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted in thirty-six individuals with advanced chronic kidney disease and forty kidney transplant recipients. The enzymatic activities of xan-thine oxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, levels of lipid perox-idation products, oxidized glutathione, and reduced glutathione, were measured by spectrophotometry in plasma and mononuclear and polymorphonuclear leukocytes isolated using Ficoll density gradients. Individual oxidative status was evaluated using an OXYSCORE. Kidney transplantation was associated with a higher incidence of car-diovascular disease and increased levels of both pro-oxidant and antioxidant bi-omarkers. Elevated OXYSCORE values were observed particularly in patients with nephroangiosclerosis, diabetic kidney disease, polycystic kidney disease, and cardio-vascular comorbidities. Additionally, the presence of anti-graft antibodies correlated with higher oxidative scores. These findings suggest that redox status may serve as a potential biomarker for cardiovascular risk in kidney transplant recipients.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: This study investigated the effects of dynamic stability train-ing using inertial water load on lower limb joint moments and postural control during landing and directional changes. Given the high biomechanical demands of transition-ing from the non-dominant to dominant leg, we examined whether perturbation-based training could enhance neuromuscular control and movement efficiency. Methods: Twenty-six healthy males in their 20s were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 13), performing water-filled bag training for 10 weeks, or a control group (n = 13) with no training. Participants completed a landing followed by a 90° cutting maneuver, with joint moments measured via a 3D motion capture system. Analyses were con-ducted for the landing and change-of-direction phases. Results: In the landing phase, group differences were observed in hip, knee, and ankle moments, particularly in the frontal and transverse planes (p < 0.05), but none remained significant after Bonferroni adjustment. The experimental group generally showed lower hip flexion/extension (Hip Moment X) and greater knee and ankle internal/external rotation moments (Knee, Ankle Moment Z). In the cutting phase, only knee abduction/adduction (Knee Moment Y) showed a significant time effect (p = 0.007), not surviving adjustment, with a trend to-ward improved frontal plane control. Conclusions: Ten weeks of water-filled inertial load training improved neuromuscular coordination, shock absorption, and postural control patterns, especially in frontal and transverse planes. Perturbation-based training may be a sport-specific strategy to enhance movement efficiency and reduce lower-limb injury risk during rapid directional changes.

Abstract: Social networking platforms offer promising educational value, particularly for undergraduate students whose daily lives are deeply embedded in online spaces. Yet in most courses, instructional technologies remain limited to institutional learning management systems (LMS), which often do not foster informal interaction or community. This study examined whether supplementing LMS with a Facebook group could enhance academic outcomes and retention in undergraduate Anatomy and Physiology (A&P) courses. Over two semesters, two student cohorts (N = 39) were taught by the same instructor using identical materials; one cohort also used a closed Facebook group for course-related engagement. Students in the Facebook cohort scored significantly higher on mid-semester unit exams (p < .001 to p = .006). Though final course grades were not significantly different (p = .186), regression analysis revealed a 9.4% higher mean final grade among Facebook users. Importantly, the pass rate in the Facebook cohort was 94.7% compared to 45% in the control group, with dropout rates significantly lower (5.3% vs. 55%, p = .001). These findings suggest that incorporating social media into undergraduate science instruction may promote academic success and retention by providing a familiar, collaborative space for active learning and peer support.