To evaluate the time course of EMG frequency changes during a three-minute maximal effort cycling test (3MT) session and to examine which parameter between mean (MNF) and median (MDF) frequency is more suitable for evaluation of changes in neuromuscular function throughout a 3MT. Eighteen recreationally-active men volunteered to participate in this study. Maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) was...

This report presents the design procedure of a buck converter, which converts a 22V∼32V DC input voltage to a 15V DC output, under a resistive load variation from 1.5Ω to 4.5Ω. Detailed analysis and simulation results, as well as electrical and thermal device specifications are provided. A voltage-mode PI controller is designed to stabilize the averaged system under input and load variations. T...

There is very little information about the effect of inspiratory muscle training on inspiratory flow (V'I) and thus on power output (PO) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this study we aimed to evaluate the changes induced by training on the determinants of PO. Thirty one patients with severe COPD were randomly divided into: Group 1, trained with 30% maximal insp...

This paper investigates the dynamic impacts of cotton marketing reforms on farm output in rural Zambia. Following liberalization and the elimination of the Zambian cotton marketing board, the sector developed an outgrower scheme whereby cotton firms provided credit, access to inputs and output markets, and technical assistance to the farmers. There are two distinctive phases of the reforms: a f...

UNLABELLED The rating of perceived exertion (RPE) normally grows as a scalar function of relative competitive distance, suggesting that it may translate between the brain and body relative to managing fatigue during time-trial exercise. In nonstandard pacing situations, a reciprocal relationship between RPE and power output (PO) would be predicted. PURPOSE To determine whether PO would decrea...

This study examined the effects of progressive exercise to fatigue in normoxia (N) on muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) cycling and whether alterations in SR Ca(2+) cycling are related to the blunted peak mechanical power output (PO(peak)) and peak oxygen consumption (Vo(2 peak)) observed during progressive exercise in hypoxia (H). Nine untrained men (20.7 +/- 0.42 yr) performed progres...

In order to plan manipulation of an object by pushing, a robot must have a model of the geometry and the friction properties of the object. This paper presents an approach to estimating the relevant friction parameters by performing experimental pushes and observing the resultant motion. Recognition of objects based on their friction parameters is also explored.

fair, and valid test. The flaw in selection may be that it is impossible to reconcile the need for the recruitment process to fill all the training posts every year, and ensure that all these recruits pass the MRCGP examination within their 3 years of training. Any worries that the MRCGP examination is not a good test of competence needs to be addressed by the Royal College of General Practitio...