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Massuça LM, Santos V, Monteiro L. Establishing Reference Data for Fitness Assessment of Law Enforcement Officers Using a Qualitative Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11091253. [PMID: 37174794 PMCID: PMC10178348 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11091253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical fitness tests are a standard means of evaluating the competence of police officers. This qualitative review aims (i) to document, compare, and examine the reference values available in the current literature regarding fitness tests for Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs), and (ii) to define reference values for the most used fitness tests to assess and predict police officer performance. A total of 1879 records were collected for review from two major literature databases, PubMed and ScienceDirect. After applying our exclusion criteria, a total of 19 studies were considered. All studies demonstrated acceptable methodological quality in fitness assessment, and the most used components were muscle strength, muscular endurance, muscle power, aerobic and anaerobic capacity, flexibility, and agility. This review provides (i) a methodological definition for the physical fitness assessment that helps select the most used fitness tests, (ii) a standardised methodology for establishing reference data for fitness tests appropriate for LEOs; and (iii) aggregate reference values for selected fitness tests. This may improve selection and retention procedures, considering that this group performs its duties in an environment and under conditions that differ from those of other occupational groups. Complementarily, this qualitative review also provides a foundation for developing effective interventions to improve each aspect of fitness testing for police officers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Miguel Massuça
- ICPOL Research Centre, Higher Institute of Police Sciences and Internal Security, 1300-352 Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDEFES, Universidade Lusófona, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
- CIFI2D, Faculty of Sport, Universidade do Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- First Responder Research Laboratory, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Vanessa Santos
- First Responder Research Laboratory, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
- Exercise and Health Laboratory, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, 1495-751 Cruz Quebrada, Portugal
- KinesioLab, Research Unit in Human Movement Analysis, Instituto Piaget, 2805-059 Almada, Portugal
| | - Luís Monteiro
- ICPOL Research Centre, Higher Institute of Police Sciences and Internal Security, 1300-352 Lisbon, Portugal
- CIDEFES, Universidade Lusófona, 1749-024 Lisbon, Portugal
- First Responder Research Laboratory, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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Lockie R, Dawes JJ, Sakura T, Schram B, Orr RM. Relationships Between Physical Fitness Assessment Measures and a Workplace Task-Specific Physical Assessment Among Police Officers: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Strength Cond Res 2023; 37:678-683. [PMID: 35836316 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Lockie, R, Dawes, JJ, Sakura, T, Schram, B, and Orr, RM. Relationships between physical fitness assessment measures and a workplace task-specific physical assessment among police officers: a retrospective cohort study. J Strength Cond Res 37(3): 678-683, 2023-Police officers are required to perform physically demanding occupational tasks and, as such, require an adequate level of fitness. The aim of this study was to investigate relationships between a physical fitness assessment test (PAT) and a task-specific physical competency test (PCT). Retrospective data for 307 police trainees who completed the PAT and the PCT were provided. The PAT comprised a 2.4-km run, vertical jump, push-ups, and grip strength measures. The PCT, a single timed event, consisted of 10 occupational specific tasks (e.g., trailer push, wall climb, window climb through), which were completed within a 400-m obstacle course. Pearson's correlations were used to investigate relationships between the PAT and the PCT. Linear regression analyses were conducted to determine whether PAT predicted PCT performance. All PAT measures significantly correlated with PCT performance with the strength of the correlations ranging from moderate (vertical jump; r = -0.420, p < 0.01) to strong (2.4 km run; r = 0.639, p < 0.01). The highest predictive relationship was observed with 2.4-km run ( r2 = 0.409), and the lowest predictive relationship was observed with the vertical jump ( r2 = 0.177). The results of this study highlight the importance of aerobic capacity (2.4 km run), muscular endurance (push-ups), strength (grip strength), and power (vertical jump) for successful performance during the PCT. These physical attributes should be developed in new police trainees before attending recruit training if viable and form part of any return-to-work reconditioning frameworks for both police trainees and officers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Lockie
- Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - J Jay Dawes
- School of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Takato Sakura
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond Institute of Health and Sport, Bond University, Robina, Australia ; and
| | - Benjamin Schram
- School of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, Australia
| | - Robin M Orr
- School of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, Australia
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Janković D, Čvorović A, Dopsaj M, Prćić I, Kukić F. Effects of the Task Complexity on the Single Movement Response Time of Upper and Lower Limbs in Police Officers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148695. [PMID: 35886550 PMCID: PMC9321739 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Police officers occasionally encounter belligerents resisting or even physically assaulting them without or with objects. The self-defense or legal utilization of use of force to disable the offender from harming an officer or others may depend on a single movement speed of hands and legs. This study investigated the effects of task complexity on a single movement response time of the upper and lower limbs in police officers. The sample consisted of 32 male police officers aged between 23 and 50 years. They performed a single movement as fast as possible with their upper and lower limb in three incrementally more complex tasks. In the first task, participants acted on a light signal and with their dominant limb they had to turn off the signal as fast as possible. In the second task, on the light signal, participants could turn off the light with free choice of the upper limb in a hand task or lower limb in a leg task. In the third task, participants had to turn the light off with the right limb if the light turned red and with the left limb if the light turned blue. The BlazePod device was used to assess the movement response time. The results show that there was a significant effect of task complexity on the single movement response time of the hand (F = 24.5, p < 0.001) and leg (F = 46.2, p < 0.001). The training of police officers should utilize specific and situational tasks to improve movement response time by improving the redundancy in decision-making processes during work-specific tasks of different complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunja Janković
- Abu Dhabi Police, Police Sports Education Center, Abu Dhabi 253, United Arab Emirates; (D.J.); (A.Č.)
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, 11030 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.D.); (I.P.)
| | - Aleksandar Čvorović
- Abu Dhabi Police, Police Sports Education Center, Abu Dhabi 253, United Arab Emirates; (D.J.); (A.Č.)
| | - Milivoj Dopsaj
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, 11030 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.D.); (I.P.)
- Institute of Sport, Tourism and Service, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia
| | - Iva Prćić
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, 11030 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.D.); (I.P.)
- Institute of Medical Research, Belgrade University, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Filip Kukić
- Abu Dhabi Police, Police Sports Education Center, Abu Dhabi 253, United Arab Emirates; (D.J.); (A.Č.)
- Correspondence:
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Orr RM, Lockie R, Milligan G, Lim C, Dawes J. Use of Physical Fitness Assessments in Tactical Populations. Strength Cond J 2022. [DOI: 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Giuliani-Dewig HK, Kerr ZY, Register-Mihalik JK, Mota JA, Ryan ED. Factors Associated with the Willingness to Perform a Physical Employment Standard in Probation Officers. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2022; 54:330-336. [PMID: 34559720 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined worker characteristics and behaviors and the perceived importance of job-related tasks associated with the willingness to perform a proposed probation officer physical ability test (PROPAT). METHODS North Carolina probation officers (N = 1213, 46.2% female, 39.8 ± 10.1 yr, 30.7 ± 6.6 kg·m-2) completed a survey including demographics, health history, and job-related tasks. A multivariable logistic regression model estimated the odds of being willing to perform the PROPAT. Adjusted odds ratios (ORadjusted) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated, with those excluding 1.00 deemed statistically significant. RESULTS The majority (72%) of probation officers were willing to perform the PROPAT. Being male (compared with female) (ORadjusted = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.12-2.02) and having moderate (ORadjusted = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.10-2.08) and high physical activity status (ORadjusted = 2.89, 95% CI = 1.97-4.28) (compared with low) increased the odds of being willing to perform the PROPAT. Additionally, reporting a greater importance of tasks, including running to pursue a suspect (TASKRUN, 1-unit increase, ORadjusted = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.10-1.43) and dragging an unresisting person (TASKDRAG, 1-unit increase, ORadjusted = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.01-1.32), increased the odds of being willing to perform the PROPAT. Increasing age (1-yr increase, ORadjusted = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.94-0.98), class II (ORadjusted = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.28-0.71) and class III obesity (compared with normal weight, ORadjusted = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.32-0.93), and a previous musculoskeletal injury (ORadjusted = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.35-0.93) all decreased the odds of being willing to perform the PROPAT. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest being older, previously injured, obese (body mass index ≥ 35 kg·m-2), and less active is associated with being less willing to participate in the PROPAT, whereas males and reporting a higher importance of the TASKRUN and TASKDRAG activities is associated with being more willing to participate in the PROPAT. Departments can use these findings to identify feasible strategies (e.g., education and physical training) to improve the implementation of physical employment standards.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jacob A Mota
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
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Schram B, Orr R, Hinton B, Pope R, Norris G. The effects of body armour on the power development and agility of police officers. ERGONOMICS 2019; 62:1349-1356. [PMID: 31343395 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2019.1648878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A study was conducted in which 11 police officers wore one of three different types of Individual Light Armour Vests (ILAV), or normal station wear, for an entire day while completing power and agility-based tasks including a vertical jump (VJ), agility test, 20 m sprint and counter movement jump (CMJ). Despite all three ILAVs being significantly (p < .05) heavier than normal station wear, there were no significant differences between any of the ILAVs in VJ, time to complete the agility test, 20 m sprint time, peak force, velocity, power and jump distance in the CMJ. There was a significantly (p < .05) higher mean force produced in the CMJ while wearing all three ILAVs. The ILAV's investigated do not appear to be heavy enough to significantly affect the power or agility of police officers. The utilisation of ILAVs by police officers does not appear to hinder policing tasks that involve agility or power development. Practitioner summary: The addition of the extra load of military-styled body armour is known to decrease performance and mobility. When compared to normal station wear, the wearing of three different ILAV types used in policing do not appear to be heavy enough to affect the power or agility of police officers. Abbreviations: ILAV: individual light armour vest; VJ: vertical jump; CMJ: counter movement jump; N: normal station wear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Schram
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University , Gold Coast , Australia
| | - Robin Orr
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University , Gold Coast , Australia
| | - Ben Hinton
- Health and Fitness Unit, New South Wales Police Force , Sydney , Australia
| | - Rodney Pope
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University , Gold Coast , Australia
- School of Community Health, Charles Sturt University , Albury , Australia
| | - Geoff Norris
- Occupational Safety and Skills Command, New South Wales Police Force , Sydney , Australia
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Age-related influence on physical fitness and individual on-duty task performance of Portuguese male non-elite police officers. Biol Sport 2019; 36:163-170. [PMID: 31223194 PMCID: PMC6561224 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2019.83506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
(a) to analyse the effect of age on physical fitness (PF) and on-duty task (ODT) performance of male police officers (PO); (b) to analyse the relationship between PF and ODT performance of male PO; and (c) to identify the set of PF attributes which better predicts the ODT performance of male PO. A total of 97 Portuguese male non-elite PO (Public Security Police) took part in this cross-sectional study. Participants were allocated to four age categories (20-29, 30-39, 40-49, and >49 years old), and performed fourteen PF evaluations and one on-duty task simulation test (ODT-ST). MANOVA, partial correlations and multiple linear regression analysis were used. We observed (a) a significant decrease of performance with aging (PF attributes, partial eta-squared=0.763; total time on ODT-ST, partial eta-squared=0.498); (b) significant positive associations between body mass index and fat mass with total time on ODT-ST; (c) a significant negative association between standing broad jump (SBJ), sit-up, push-up, bench-press ratio and aerobic capacity with total time on ODT-ST; and (d) that SBJ, abdominal muscular endurance and aerobic capacity were significant predictors of total time on ODT-ST (R2=0.983). PF attributes and ODT performance of Portuguese male non-elite PO decrease significantly with aging. To prevent the observed decrease of performance it seems advisable to implement regular strength and conditioning programmes, which should include muscular power, core strength and aerobic fitness development, to maintain physical capacity and occupational duties.
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Mona GG, Chimbari MJ, Hongoro C. A systematic review on occupational hazards, injuries and diseases among police officers worldwide: Policy implications for the South African Police Service. J Occup Med Toxicol 2019; 14:2. [PMID: 30679940 PMCID: PMC6341669 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-018-0221-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Occupational hazards, injuries and diseases are a major concern among police officers, including in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is limited locally relevant literature for guiding policy for the South African Police Service (SAPS). The purpose of this review was to describe the occupational hazards, injuries and diseases affecting police officers worldwide, in order to benchmark policy implications for the SAPS. Methods We conducted a systematic review of studies using Google Scholar, PubMed and Scopus. Results A total of 36 studies were included in this review. Six revealed that police officers’ exposure to accident hazards may lead to acute or chronic injuries such as sprains, fractures or even fatalities. These hazards may occur during driving, patrol or riot control. There were two studies, which confirmed physical hazards such as noise induced hearing loss (NIHL), due to exposure to high levels of noise. Three studies on chemical hazards revealed that exposure to high concentrations of carbon dioxide and general air pollution was associated with cancer, while physical exposure to other chemical substances was linked to dermatitis. Four studies on biological hazards demonstrated potential exposure to blood borne diseases from needle stick injuries (NSIs) or cuts from contaminated objects. One study on ergonomic hazards showed that musculoskeletal disorders can result from driving long distances and lifting heavy objects. There were 15 studies that indicated psychological hazards such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as stress. Moreover, four studies were conducted on organizational hazards including burnout, negative workplace exposure and other factors. Conclusions This review outlined the global impact of occupational hazards, injuries and diseases in the police force. It served as a benchmark for understanding the policy implications for South Africa, where there is paucity of studies on occupational health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gift Gugu Mona
- 1College of Health Sciences, George Campbell Building, Mazisi Kunene Road, Howard College Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P.O Box X7, Congella, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal 4013 South Africa
| | - Moses John Chimbari
- 1College of Health Sciences, George Campbell Building, Mazisi Kunene Road, Howard College Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P.O Box X7, Congella, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal 4013 South Africa
| | - Charles Hongoro
- Research Use and Impact Assessment, Human Sciences Research Council Building, 134 Pretorius Street, Pretoria, 0083 South Africa
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Bohman T, Tegern M, Halvarsson A, Broman L, Larsson H. Reliability and agreement of the IsoKai isokinetic lift test - A test used for admission to the Swedish Armed Forces. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0209419. [PMID: 30566536 PMCID: PMC6300333 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was performed to evaluate the reliability and agreement of the IsoKai isokinetic lift test as it is currently administered in admission to the Swedish Armed Forces. The study included an intrarater (n = 534) and interrater reliability sample (n = 137), of Swedish male conscripts who performed the test on two test occasions about two hours apart. Two-to-four lifts were performed at each occasion, and the highest mean (IsoKaiMF) and peak force (IsoKaiPF) produced (N) were used for evaluation. All intraclass coefficients showed excellent reliability. The interrater analyses resulted in intraclass coefficients of 0.942 (95% CI; 0.920–0.959) and 0.858 (95% CI; 0.806–0.896) for the IsoKaiMF and IsoKaiPF, respectively, while the corresponding coefficients for the intrarater analyses were 0.935 (95% CI; 0.923–0.946) and 0.865 (95% CI; 0.842–0.886). Agreement, the capability of a test to detect changes, was assessed by the standard error of measurement (SEM/SEM%) and the smallest real difference (SRD/SRD%). These estimate indicated that it is possible to achieve measurements relevant to use in real practice with the IsoKai isokinetic lift test. Bland and Altman analyses revealed no systematic errors in either sample. Based on these findings, the IsoKai isokinetic lift test is suggested to be a highly reliable test for maximal dynamic muscular strength. The test could be of use in selection procedures in order to accurately evaluate maximal dynamic muscular strength, and for evaluating longitudinal changes in strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Bohman
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Matthias Tegern
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Halvarsson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Allied Health Professionals Function, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lisbet Broman
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helena Larsson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Swedish Armed Forces, Headquarters, Medical Services, Stockholm, Sweden
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Marins EF, Cabistany L, Farias C, Dawes J, Del Vecchio FB. Effects of Personal Protective Equipment on Metabolism and Performance During an Occupational Physical Ability Test for Federal Highway Police Officers. J Strength Cond Res 2018; 34:1093-1102. [PMID: 30507731 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Marins, EF, Cabistany, L, Farias, CB, Dawes, J, and Del Vecchio, FB. Effects of personal protective equipment on metabolism and performance during an Occupational Physical Ability Test for Federal Highway Police officers. J Strength Cond Res 34(4): 1093-1102, 2020-Federal Highway Police (FHP) officers perform their duties while wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). Given the need for officers to wear PPE, it is important to understand the effects this additional load can have on occupational performance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of load carriage on physiological, perceptual, and performance responses during an Occupational Physical Ability Test (OPAT). Thirteen male FHP officers completed an OPAT with PPE (WPPE, load = 12.0 kg) and without PPE (NPPE, load = 5.2 kg) in 2 separate sessions in a randomized and counterbalanced order. Metabolic responses (heart rate [HR] and its variability, and blood lactate concentration [Lac]), perceptual (rating of perceived exertion [RPE]), and OPAT performance were measured. Paired t and Wilcoxon tests were used to identify differences between conditions, and 2-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc was performed to analyze the results of Lac between the conditions. Occupational Physical Ability Test completion time was significantly greater in the WPPE condition compared with the NPPE condition (125.9 ± 13.8 vs. 118.3 ± 11 seconds, p < 0.01). Lac after the OPAT was higher in the NPPE condition compared with the WPPE (respectively 11.7 ± 2.7 vs. 9.6 ± 1.5 mmol·L, p < 0.05). The HRmax (NPPE = 180.5 ± 8.9 vs. WPPE = 178.3 ± 6.6 b·min, p = 0.44) and RPE (NPPE = 8.6 ± 0.8 vs. WPPE = 8.7 ± 1.0, p = 0.77) were not different between conditions. Personal protective equipment reduces performance in specific occupational circuit, changing Lac but without affecting HR and RPE. Strength and conditioning programs for FHP should aim to reduce the negative impact of additional load associate with wearing PPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Frio Marins
- Upper School of Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil.,Department of Federal Highway Police, Brasília, Brazil; and
| | - Leo Cabistany
- Upper School of Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Charles Farias
- Upper School of Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Jay Dawes
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colorado
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Bohman T, Tegern M, Halvarsson A, Broman L, Larsson H. Concurrent validity of an isokinetic lift test used for admission to the Swedish Armed Forces. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207054. [PMID: 30399188 PMCID: PMC6219807 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the concurrent validity of the IsoKai isokinetic lift test peak force (IsoKaiPeak) in comparison to a submaximal 5-10RM deadlift test (5-10RMDL), and to develop an equation for converting the IsoKaiPeak in Newton (N) to an estimated 1RM (1RMest) deadlift load in kilograms (kg). The participants included 28 males and 16 female employees in the Swedish Armed Forces (20–59 years). Each participant conducted the IsoKai lift test, followed by the 5-10RMDL test at one occasion. The Pearson′s correlation coefficient, with a 95% confidence interval was calculated to evaluate the validity between the IsoKaiPeak and the 1RMest deadlift load derived from the 5-10RMDL test. Univariate and multivariable linear regressions were used to derive the equation for calculating the 1RMest deadlift load based on the IsoKaiPeak. The IsoKaiPeak showed good- to-excellent correlation with the 1RMest deadlift weight with a correlation coefficient of 0.84 (0.72–0.91) for the total sample, and 0.65 (0.37–0.83) and 0.81 (0.53–0.93) in males and females, respectively. The final equation, 1RMest deadlift weight (kg) = -51.63 + (0.08 x IsoKaiPeak) + (2.28 x BMI), explained 72% (adjusted R2 = 0.72) of the total variance in the 1RMest, and had a standard error of the estimate (SEE) of 16.57 kg. In conclusion, the IsoKai isokinetic lift test could be considered a highly valid measure of maximal dynamic muscular strength in comparison to the 5-10RMDL. The equation can be used to convert the IsoKai lift test (N) results to an 1RMest deadlift load (kg), but with consideration of the relative large SEE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Bohman
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Matthias Tegern
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Halvarsson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Allied Health Professionals Function, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lisbet Broman
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helena Larsson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Physiotherapy, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Swedish Armed Forces, Headquarters, Medical Services, Stockholm, Sweden
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12
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Dawes JJ, Lindsay K, Bero J, Elder C, Kornhauser C, Holmes R. Physical Fitness Characteristics of High vs. Low Performers on an Occupationally Specific Physical Agility Test for Patrol Officers. J Strength Cond Res 2017; 31:2808-2815. [PMID: 28658087 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/24/2024]
Abstract
Law enforcement agencies frequently use physical ability tests (PATs) as a method of evaluating occupational performance. These tests are designed to replicate essential occupational tasks frequently performed by officers in the field. The purpose of this study was to determine whether significant relationships exist between the selected physical fitness tests and PAT performance and to determine which of these tests best differentiates between high and low PAT performers. Full-time highway patrol officers (n = 495) submitted self-reported anthropometric data (mean age = 39.6 + 7.7 years) along with fitness assessments taken from their organization's yearly fitness tests. All subjects completed a series of field-based fitness tests, as well as an occupationally specific PAT. Results of the study indicated that the selected tests accounted for almost 69% of the total variance on PAT performance. Overall, the 20-m meter multistage fitness test, 1-minute sit-up performance, and vertical jump height best predicted PAT performance. Furthermore, it was revealed that high performers were significantly more fit in all measures of dynamic fitness when compared with lower performers. No significant differences were discovered in static strength between groups. Strength and conditioning specialists should focus on developing aerobic capacity, trunk muscular endurance, and whole-body anaerobic power to improve PAT and occupational performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jay Dawes
- 1Department of Health Sciences, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, Colorado; and 2Colorado State Highway Patrol, Training Academy, Lakewood, Colorado
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Boschman JS, Hulshof CTJ, Frings-Dresen MHW, Sluiter JK. Job-specific mandatory medical examinations for the police force. Occup Med (Lond) 2017; 67:469-476. [PMID: 28898969 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqx094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mandatory medical examinations (MMEs) of workers should be based on the health and safety requirements that are needed for effectively performing the relevant work. For police personnel in the Netherlands, no job-specific MME exists that takes the specific tasks and duties into account. Aims To provide the Dutch National Police with a knowledge base for job-specific MMEs for police personnel that will lead to equitable decisions from an occupational health perspective about who can perform police duties. Methods We used a stepwise mixed-methods approach in which we included interviews with employees and experts and a review of the national and international literature. We determined the job demands for the various police jobs, determined which were regarded as specific job demands and formulated the matching health requirements as specific as possible for each occupation. Results A total of 21 specific job demands were considered relevant in different police jobs. These included biomechanical, physiological, physical, emotional, psychological/cognitive and sensory job demands. We formulated both police-generic and job-specific health requirements based on the specific job demands. Two examples are presented: bike patrol and criminal investigation. Conclusions Our study substantiated the need for job-specific MMEs for police personnel. We found specific job demands that differed substantially for various police jobs. The corresponding health requirements were partly police-generic, and partly job-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Boschman
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C T J Hulshof
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M H W Frings-Dresen
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J K Sluiter
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Santos MMA, Souza ELD, Barroso BIDL. Análise sobre a percepção de policiais militares sobre o conforto do colete balístico. FISIOTERAPIA E PESQUISA 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-2950/16629324022017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO O policial militar é submetido a condições fatigantes em seu turno de trabalho, que podem comprometer a qualidade de sua vida, saúde e bem-estar físico e psicológico. Apesar desses fatores, pouca atenção é dada aos riscos ocupacionais dessa profissão. Este estudo teve como objetivo dar uma maior ênfase à promoção de saúde e prevenção de doenças do policial militar e avaliar o conforto desses profissionais em relação ao colete balístico e suas possíveis associações com quadros de fadiga e de dor. A pesquisa foi realizada a partir de um questionário estruturado com questões relacionadas ao conforto em relação ao uso do colete balístico, à dor e à fadiga no fim do turno de trabalho. A amostra foi composta de 29 policiais militares do sexo masculino. Os resultados mostraram associação entre o grau de desconforto geral e nas atividades ocupacionais e o peso do colete (correlação de Spearman igual a 0,697 e 0,7091, respectivamente). Houve queixas relacionadas à dor na região lombar e fadiga no fim do turno de trabalho. Os policiais militares demonstraram insatisfação em relação ao conforto com o colete balístico e queixas de fadiga e dor.
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Kenny GP, Groeller H, McGinn R, Flouris AD. Age, human performance, and physical employment standards. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2016; 41:S92-S107. [DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2015-0483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The proportion of older workers has increased substantially in recent years, with over 25% of the Canadian labour force aged ≥55 years. Along with chronological age comes age-related declines in functional capacity associated with impairments to the cardiorespiratory and muscular systems. As a result, older workers are reported to exhibit reductions in work output and in the ability to perform and/or sustain the required effort when performing work tasks. However, research has presented some conflicting views on the consequences of aging in the workforce, as physically demanding occupations can be associated with improved or maintained physical function. Furthermore, the current methods for evaluating physical function in older workers often lack specificity and relevance to the actual work tasks, leading to an underestimation of physical capacity in the older worker. Nevertheless, industry often lacks the appropriate information and/or tools to accommodate the aging workforce, particularly in the context of physical employment standards. Ultimately, if appropriate workplace strategies and work performance standards are adopted to optimize the strengths and protect against the vulnerability of the aging workers, they can perform as effectively as their younger counterparts. Our aim in this review is to evaluate the impact of different individual (including physiological decline, chronic disease, lifestyle, and physical activity) and occupational (including shift work, sleep deprivation, and cold/heat exposure) factors on the physical decline of older workers, and therefore the risk of work-related injuries or illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen P. Kenny
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Herbert Groeller
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Ryan McGinn
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Andreas D. Flouris
- Human Environmental Physiological Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
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Beck AQ, Clasey JL, Yates JW, Koebke NC, Palmer TG, Abel MG. Relationship of Physical Fitness Measures vs. Occupational Physical Ability in Campus Law Enforcement Officers. J Strength Cond Res 2016. [PMID: 26203741 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000000863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Law enforcement officers (LEOs) on university campuses are required to perform a variety of physical occupational tasks. Identifying which physical fitness characteristics are associated with these occupational tasks will assist in the development of appropriate exercise programs and physical fitness assessments. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify physical fitness and demographic characteristics that were correlated with occupational tasks commonly performed by campus LEOs. The occupational assessment was conducted using an Officer Physical Ability Test (OPAT), which simulated a foot chase of a suspect. Sixteen male LEOs (age: 33.1 ± 8.7 years; body mass: 87.2 ± 11.2 kg; height: 179.0 ± 7.9 cm) performed the OPAT. A battery of physical fitness tests were used to assess aerobic capacity, muscular endurance, strength, power, flexibility, agility, and body composition. Bivariate correlations were performed to identify significant (p ≤ 0.05) correlations between physical fitness characteristics and OPAT time. The officers' age was significantly correlated to the majority of OPAT tasks, physical fitness, and anthropometric assessments. Therefore, partial correlations were used to control for the confounding effects of age. After controlling for the officers' age, the overall OPAT time was significantly correlated with agility (r = 0.57) and aerobic endurance (r = -0.65). Furthermore, push-up, curl-up, body mass, waist circumference, and abdominal circumference were significantly correlated to individual OPAT tasks. In conclusion, exercise programs and fitness assessments should be used for campus LEOs that address a variety of physical fitness characteristics associated with occupational performance. In addition, exercise programs should focus on body composition management and fitness for older LEOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Q Beck
- 1Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky; and 2School of Human Services, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Lagestad P, van den Tillaar R. A comparison of training and physical performance of police students at the start and the end of three-year police education. J Strength Cond Res 2015; 28:1394-400. [PMID: 24755870 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000000273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose was to compare male and female police students exercise and physical performances at the beginning and the end of a 3-year police education. Two hundred thirty-five subjects answered the survey about exercise and 85 subjects (58 men: age = 23.7 ± 2.8 years, body mass = 82.1 ± 7.8 kg, height = 1.83 ± 0.06 m; 27 women: age = 24.9 ± 3.1 years, body mass = 66 ± 8.5 kg, height = 1.70 ± 0.09 m) participated in the 4 physical exercises (bench press, pull-ups, standing long jump, and 3,000-m run). It was found that the priority of maximum strength training increased (p < 0.001), whereas the priority of endurance and sprint training decreased during the 3-year period, with no differences between gender (p ≥ 0.28). The performances in the strength-related physical tests, bench press, and pull-ups also increased in the same period. These changes were the same for both genders. Findings showed a discrepancy between what is reported as necessary physical skills in police work and what actually is trained during the police education. This discrepancy was caused by the large focus upon maximal strength in the physical examination program in the police education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pål Lagestad
- Department of Teacher Education, Nord-Trøndelag University College, Levanger, Norway
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Dempsey PC, Handcock PJ, Rehrer NJ. Impact of police body armour and equipment on mobility. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2013; 44:957-961. [PMID: 23668780 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2013.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2012] [Revised: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/16/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Body armour is used widely by law enforcement and other agencies but has received mixed reviews. This study examined the influence of stab resistant body armour (SRBA) and mandated accessories on physiological responses to, and the performance of, simulated mobility tasks. Fifty-two males (37 ± 9.2 yr, 180.7 ± 6.1 cm, 90.2 ± 11.6 kg, VO2max 50 ± 8.5 ml kg(-1) min(-1), BMI 27.6 ± 3.1, mean ± SD) completed a running VO2max test and task familiarisation. Two experimental sessions were completed (≥4 days in between) in a randomised counterbalanced order, one while wearing SRBA and appointments (loaded) and one without additional load (unloaded). During each session participants performed five mobility tasks: a balance task, an acceleration task that simulated exiting a vehicle, chin-ups, a grappling task, and a manoeuvrability task. A 5-min treadmill run (zero-incline at 13 km·h(-1), running start) was then completed. One min after the run the five mobility tasks were repeated. There was a significant decrease in performance during all tasks with loading (p < 0.001). Participants were off-balance longer; slower to complete the acceleration, grapple and mobility tasks; completed fewer chin-ups; and had greater physiological cost (↑ %HRmax, ↑ %VO2max, ↑ RER) and perceptual effort (↑ RPE) during the 5-min run. Mean performance decreases ranged from 13 to 42% while loaded, with further decreases of 6-16% noted after the 5-min run. Unloaded task performance was no different between phases. Wearing SRBA and appointments significantly reduced mobility during key task elements and resulted in greater physiological effort. These findings could have consequences for optimal function in the working environment and therefore officer and public safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paddy C Dempsey
- School of Physical Education, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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Dempsey PC, Handcock PJ, Rehrer NJ. Body armour: the effect of load, exercise and distraction on landing forces. J Sports Sci 2013; 32:301-6. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2013.823226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Jackson CA, Wilson D. The Gender-Neutral Timed Obstacle Course: a valid test of police fitness? Occup Med (Lond) 2013; 63:479-84. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqt102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Plat MJ, Frings-Dresen MHW, Sluiter JK. A systematic review of job-specific workers' health surveillance activities for fire-fighting, ambulance, police and military personnel. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2011; 84:839-57. [PMID: 21318608 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-011-0614-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2010] [Accepted: 01/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Some occupations have tasks and activities that require monitoring safety and health aspects of the job; examples of such occupations are emergency services personnel and military personnel. The two objectives of this systematic review were to describe (1) the existing job-specific workers' health surveillance (WHS) activities and (2) the effectiveness of job-specific WHS interventions with respect to work functioning, for selected jobs. METHODS The search strategy systematically searched the PubMed, PsycINFO and OSH-update databases. The search strategy consisted of several synonyms of the job titles of interest, combined with synonyms for workers' health surveillance. The methodological quality was checked. RESULTS At least one study was found for each of the following occupations fire fighters, ambulance personnel, police personnel and military personnel. For the first objective, 24 studies described several job-specific WHS activities aimed at aspects of psychological, 'physical' (energetic, biomechanical and balance), sense-related, environmental exposure or cardiovascular requirements. The seven studies found for the second objective measured different outcomes related to work functioning. The methodological quality of the interventions varied, but with the exception of one study, all scored over 55% of the maximum score. Six studies showed effectiveness on at least some of the defined outcomes. The studies described several job-specific interventions: a trauma resilience training, healthy lifestyle promotion, physical readiness training, respiratory muscle training, endurance and resistance training, a physical exercise programme and comparing vaccines. CONCLUSIONS Several examples of job-specific WHS activities were found for the four occupations. Compared to studies focusing on physical tasks, a few studies were found that focus on psychological tasks. Effectiveness studies for job-specific WHS interventions were scarce, although their results were promising. We recommend studying job-specific WHS in effectiveness studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Plat
- Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22700, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Burdorf A. Research in occupational medicine in The Netherlands: responsiveness to societal needs. Occup Med (Lond) 2010; 60:242-4. [PMID: 20511261 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqq076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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