bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Overlooked Fragment of Parmenides in Proclus?
Authors: Kurfess Christopher
Published: December 2017

I propose that a quotation appearing in Proclus’ commentary on Plato’s Timaeus, and attributed by Proclus to Parmenides, preserves an independent fragment of Parmenides’ poem. Because the verses quoted share language familiar from other Parmenidean and Empedoclean lines, scholars have regarded Proclus’ quotation as a conflation of lines by Parmenides and Empedocles, but when due allowance is made for the repetitiousness of Parmenides’ poetry and for Empedocles’ borrowings from Parmenides, there is no reason to assume any confusion on Proclus’ part.
Empty Negations and Existential Import in Aristotle
Authors: Corkum Phil
Published: December 2017

Aristotle draws what are, by our lights, two unusual relationships between predication and existence. First, true universal affirmations carry existential import. If ‘All humans are mortal’ is true, for example, then at least one human exists. And secondly, although affirmations with empty terms in subject position are all false, empty negations are all true: if ‘Socrates’ lacks a referent, then both ‘Socrates is well’ and ‘Socrates is ill’ are false but both ‘Socrates is not well’ and ‘Socrates is not ill’ are true. In this paper, I conjecture that for Aristotle predications have mereological truth conditions: for example, ‘Socrates is pale’ is true just in case Socrates is a part of the mereological sum of pale things. The existential import of universal affirmations and the semantic profile of empty negations follow from this mereological semantics.
Reading “the exotic” and Organising the Production of Knowledge: al-Tanūkhī on Indians and Their Elephants
Authors: Bray Julia
Published: December 2017

Al-Muḥassin ibn ʿAlī al-Tanūkhī (327–384/939–994) included a number of items about Indian elephants and Indians in his compilations of stories and anecdotes Nishwār al-muḥāḍara (“The table-talk of a Mesopotamian judge”) and al-Faraj baʿda al-shidda (“Deliverance follows adversity”), both of which approach the organisation of knowledge in novel ways and on a new scale. This paper lists the items, summarises their contents, and explains al-Tanūkhī’s interest in elephants in the light of an autobiographical narrative. It then surveys the ethnology of his Indian stories, which are often told by sailors or merchants, and compares them in content and style with the sailors’ tales in Akhbār al-Ṣīn wa-l-Hind (“Accounts of China and India”), with al-Bīrūnī’s observations in Mā li-l-Hind (“India”), and with an alleged shift from factuality to fabulation said to be taking place at around this time, which is exemplified by ʿAjāʾib al-Hind (“The Wonders of India”). Close reading shows how al-Tanūkhī’s portrayal of elephants as rational agents of divine providence is managed, and how exotic humans are proved to play their part in God’s plan like any others. Al-Tanūkhī’s response to “the exotic” leads us to question it as a category of enquiry in the light not only of cultural studies but also of its content and of the multiple Arabic literary fields to which apparent exotica may belong. The significance of the organisation of Faraj and Nishwār is reassessed. We conclude that al-Tanūkhī’s purpose in composing the works was not to impart facts as such, exotic or otherwise, or cultural judgements, but to teach people how to read stories properly so as to understand the kind of truth they convey, an endeavour which may be compared to his contemporary al-Āmidī’s systematic approach to training his readers to become critical readers of poetry.
What Wasn’t an Encyclopaedia in the Fourth Islamic Century?
Authors: Weaver James
Published: December 2017

The usefulness of the term “encyclopaedia” in the study of pre-modern Arabic and Islamic literature has been the subject of some discussion over the last decade. The main concern has been that it is applied to a wide range of texts and text-types in a vague and inflationary manner, leaving the intended meaning unclear in any given case. Although there is much merit to this criticism, the discipline also knows of more systematic usages. This paper surveys some of these, arguing that although the label “encyclopaedia” indeed has its disadvantages, the analytical concepts and categories lying behind a usage are of greater importance than the choice of term itself. In light of these arguments, some of the most prominent scholarly usages of encyclopaedia and encyclopaedism in regard to the fourth Islamic century/tenth century CE are assessed.
Systematizing the Description of Arabic: The Case of Ibn al-Sarrāj
Authors: Ghersetti Antonella
Published: December 2017

This paper will focus on the Arabic grammatical tradition and, in particular, on the new arrangement, in the 4th/10th c., of grammatical matters already elaborated in the first centuries of Islam. With this aim in mind we will take into consideration two representative grammatical treatises of the 8th c. and the 10th c.: Sībawayh’s Kitāb and Ibn al-Sarrāj’s al-Uṣūl fī l-naḥw, which both represent watershed moments in the history of the Arabic grammatical tradition. Abū Bakr ibn al-Sarrāj’s philosophical training is obvious in the way he approaches the subject through the precise description of single items and in the laboured logic of the subdivision of his treatises. He follows the principle of “comprehensive subdivisions” (taqāsīm) borrowed from the logic he had studied under the direction of al-Fārābī. Ibn al-Sarrāj’s method of organizing and introducing linguistic matters will be contrasted with the approach of the father of Arabic grammar, Sībawayh, who wrote – two centuries earlier – the most comprehensive description of Arabic.
gegenrede im gar gebrast (248,2)
Authors: Schumacher Frauke
Published: December 2017

One of the characteristic features of Wolfram’s ›Parzival‹ is the narrative technique of temporarily holding back information. Based on Genette’s theory of narrative levels as well as Scheffel’s thoughts on self-reflexivity of literature and Weber’s definition of analytical narration, this paper tries to show that many of the narratives and speeches produced by characters in the novel mirror this narrative technique. Furthermore, it asks about explanations and intentions that are related to these narratives and speeches, about their (potential) effects on the protagonists and the audience, and about conclusions that can be drawn with regard to the poetological concept of the novel.
Ein faux pas
Authors: Beck Wolfgang
Published: December 2017

Amongst the rustic aggressions in Neidhart’s songs, the rape of Friderun’s Mirror is the one which has most attracted the attention of scholars. However, the act of an unnamed man treading on the skirt of his female dancing partner in Winter Song 33 is indicated by Neidhart himself as far more serious. This vestimentary scene represents an attack on the fragile order of the Minnesang.
Design of a secure remote management module for a software-operated medical device
Authors: Burnik Urban , Dobravec Štefan , Meža Marko
Published: December 2017

Software-based medical devices need to be maintained throughout their entire life cycle. The efficiency of after-sales maintenance can be improved by managing medical systems remotely. This paper presents how to design the remote access function extensions in order to prevent risks imposed by uncontrolled remote access. A thorough analysis of standards and legislation requirements regarding safe operation and risk management of medical devices is presented. Based on the formal requirements, a multi-layer machine design solution is proposed that eliminates remote connectivity risks by strict separation of regular device functionalities from remote management service, deploys encrypted communication links and uses digital signatures to prevent mishandling of software images. The proposed system may also be used as an efficient version update of the existing medical device designs.
A topical review on hybrid quasi-ceramic coatings for corrosion protection
Authors: Tiwari Atul
Published: December 2017

A set of unique properties can be derived by a proper combination of organic and inorganic segments in a coating composition. The synthesis of such hybrid coatings is a challenging task due to that a number of variable parameters need to be optimized to achieve the desired results. Similar to the copolymerization of macromolecular segments in a common solvent, sol–gel chemistry could provide a viable alternate for the development of single-phase coating composition. The coating derived through sol–gel and wet chemistry displays homogenous physical and chemical characteristics. A large variety of chemical moieties containing labile functional groups are available for the development of new coating compositions. This article briefly reviews such studies that are reported in majority of the academic sector.
CO2 absorption in flat membrane microstructured contactors of different wettability using aqueous solution of NaOH
Authors: Constantinou Achilleas , Barrass Simon , Gavriilidis Asterios
Published: December 2017

CO2 absorption in solutions of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was performed in three membrane/mesh microstructured contactors: a single-channel polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane contactor, a nickel mesh contactor and an eight-channel PTFE membrane contactor. A membrane/mesh was used to achieve gas/liquid mass transfer without dispersion of one phase within the other. The PTFE membrane consisted of a pure PTFE layer 20 μm thick laminated onto a polypropylene (PP) layer of 80 μm thickness. The pure PTFE layer contained pores of ~0.5 to 5 μm diameter and was hydrophobic, while the PP layer consisted of rectangular openings of 0.8 mm×0.324 mm and was hydrophilic. The nickel mesh was 25 μm thick and contained pores of 25 μm diameter and was hydrophilic. Experiments were performed with a 2 m NaOH solution and an inlet feed of 20 vol % CO2/N2 gas mixture. Numerical simulations matched reasonably well the experimental data. CO2 removal efficiency increased by increasing the NaOH concentration, the gas residence time and the exchange area between gas and liquid. Higher removal of CO2 was achieved when the PP was in the gas side rather than in the liquid side, due to lower mass transfer resistance of the gas phase. For the same reason, CO2 removal efficiency was higher for the eight-channel PTFE contactor compared to the nickel mesh contactor. Average CO2 flux was higher for the eight-channel contactor (8×10−3 mol/min·cm2 with PP on the gas side) compared to the nickel mesh contactor (3×10−3 mol/min·cm2) for the same gas and liquid residence times. The eight-channel PTFE membrane contactor removed around 72% of CO2 in 1.2 s gas residence time, demonstrating the potential for CO2 absorption using flat membrane contactors.
Culture and law: The cultural impact on islamic legal statements and its implications for translation
Authors: Alwazna Rafat Y.
Published: December 2017

Certain linguistic and cultural problems often emerge in legal translation due to a particular clash between two different legal systems and legal cultures. Islamic legal culture, as any other legal culture, is replete with terms and statements, which are deemed an important part of legal Arabic and therefore Islamic jurisprudence. In other words, such Islamic cultural legal terms and statements can never be legally interpreted unless the translator is fully acquainted with Islamic Law and Islamic legal culture. The present paper argues that Islamic legal culture has considerable impact on Islamic statements such that these statements may acquire a legal meaning which may not be comprehended by the target reader, particularly if he/she is not acquainted with Islamic Law and its legal culture. Consequently, the translator should play a substantial role in clarifying the cultural impact on these statements to the target reader so that he/she may comprehend the intended legal meaning.
Testing deformation hypotheses by constraints on a time series of geodetic observations
Authors: Velsink Hiddo
Published: December 2017

In geodetic deformation analysis observations are used to identify form and size changes of a geodetic network, representing objects on the earth’s surface. The network points are monitored, often continuously, because of suspected deformations. A deformation may affect many points during many epochs. The problem is that the best description of the deformation is, in general, unknown. To find it, different hypothesised deformation models have to be tested systematically for agreement with the observations. The tests have to be capable of stating with a certain probability the size of detectable deformations, and to be datum invariant. A statistical criterion is needed to find the best deformation model. Existing methods do not fulfil these requirements. Here we propose a method that formulates the different hypotheses as sets of constraints on the parameters of a least-squares adjustment model. The constraints can relate to subsets of epochs and to subsets of points, thus combining time series analysis and congruence model analysis. The constraints are formulated as nonstochastic observations in an adjustment model of observation equations. This gives an easy way to test the constraints and to get a quality description. The proposed method aims at providing a good discriminating method to find the best description of a deformation. The method is expected to improve the quality of geodetic deformation analysis. We demonstrate the method with an elaborate example.
The Making of Hittite Imperial Landscapes: Territoriality and Balance of Power in South-Central Anatolia during the Late Bronze Age
Authors: Matessi Alvise
Published: December 2017

Aim of the present work is to offer an understanding of the mechanisms informing the making and reproduction of the Hittite Empire (17th-13th BCE) in its diachronic evolution. The analysis focuses on South-Central Anatolia, an area of intense core-periphery interactions within the scope of the Hittite domain and, therefore, of great informative potential about the manifold trajectories of imperial action. Through the combinatory investigation of archaeological and textual data able to account for long- to short-term variables of social change, I will show that South-Central Anatolia evolved from being a loose agglomerate of city-hinterland nuclei into a provincial system. The region thus acquired a pivotal role in the balance of power thanks to its centrality in the communication network, and it became the stage for eventful political revolutions, as well as a new core for Hittite political dynamics. The picture of Hittite imperialism emerging, thus, is that of a set of multi-causal and multi-directional processes, not predicated on the sole centrifugal hegemonic expansion of the empire.
Variable Selection in Causal Inference using a Simultaneous Penalization Method
Authors: Ertefaie Ashkan , Asgharian Masoud , Stephens David A.
Published: December 2017

In the causal adjustment setting, variable selection techniques based only on the outcome or only on the treatment allocation model can result in the omission of confounders and hence may lead to bias, or the inclusion of spurious variables and hence cause variance inflation, in estimation of the treatment effect. We propose a variable selection method using a penalized objective function that is based on both the outcome and treatment assignment models. The proposed method facilitates confounder selection in high-dimensional settings. We show that under some mild conditions our method attains the oracle property. The selected variables are used to form a doubly robust regression estimator of the treatment effect. Using the proposed method we analyze a set of data on economic growth and study the effect of life expectancy as a measure of population health on the average growth rate of gross domestic product per capita.
Regular dessins uniquely determined by a nilpotent automorphism group
Authors: Wang Na-Er , Nedela Roman , Hu Kan
Published: December 2017

It is well known that the automorphism group of a regular dessin is a two-generator finite group, and the isomorphism classes of regular dessins with automorphism groups isomorphic to a given finite group G are in one-to-one correspondence with the orbits of the action of

Aut
⁢

(
G
)

{{\mathrm{Aut}}(G)}

on the ordered generating pairs of G. If there is only one orbit, then up to isomorphism the regular dessin is uniquely determined by the group G and it is called uniquely regular. In this paper we investigate the classification of uniquely regular dessins with a nilpotent automorphism group. The problem is reduced to the classification of finite maximally automorphic p-groups G, i.e., the order of the automorphism group of G attains Hall’s upper bound. Maximally automorphic p-groups of nilpotency class three are classified.
UV-Vis and CIELAB Based Chemometric Characterization of Manihot esculenta Carotenoid Contents
Authors: Afonso Telma , Moresco Rodolfo , Uarrota Virgilio G. , Navarro Bruno Bachiega , Nunes Eduardo da C. , Maraschin Marcelo , Rocha Miguel
Published: December 2017

Vitamin A deficiency is a prevalent health problem in many areas of the world, where cassava genotypes with high pro-vitamin A content have been identified as a strategy to address this issue. In this study, we found a positive correlation between the color of the root pulp and the total carotenoid contents and, importantly, showed how CIELAB color measurements can be used as a non-destructive and fast technique to quantify the amount of carotenoids in cassava root samples, as opposed to traditional methods. We trained several machine learning models using UV-visible spectrophotometry data, CIELAB data and a low-level data fusion of the two. Best performance models were obtained for the total carotenoids contents calculated using the UV-visible dataset as input, with R2 values above 90 %. Using CIELAB and fusion data, values around 60 % and above 90 % were found. Importantly, these results demonstrated how data fusion can lead to a better model performance for prediction when comparing to the use of a single data source. Considering all these findings, the use of colorimetric data associated with UV-visible and HPLC data through statistical and machine learning methods is a reliable way of predicting the content of total carotenoids in cassava root samples.
Error estimates for the simplified iteratively regularized Gauss–Newton method in Banach spaces under a Morozov-type stopping rule
Authors: Mahale Pallavi , Dixit Sharad Kumar
Published: December 2017

Jin Qinian and Min Zhong [10] considered an iteratively regularized Gauss–Newton method in Banach spaces to find a stable approximate solution of the nonlinear ill-posed operator equation.
They have considered a Morozov-type stopping rule (Rule 1) as one of the criterion to stop the iterations and studied the convergence analysis of the method.
However, no error estimates have been obtained for this case.
In this paper, we consider a modified variant of the method, namely, the simplified Gauss–Newton method under both an a priori as well as a Morozov-type stopping rule.
In both cases, we obtain order optimal error estimates under Hölder-type approximate source conditions.
An example of a parameter identification problem for which the method can be implemented is discussed in the paper.
Identification of mathematical model of bacteria population under the antibiotic influence
Authors: Serovajsky Simon , Nurseitov Daniyar , Kabanikhin Sergey , Azimov Anvar , Ilin Alexandr , Islamov Rinat
Published: December 2017

This work is devoted to the identification of a mathematical model of bacteria population under the antibiotic influence, based on the solution of the corresponding inverse problems. These problems are solved by the gradient method, genetic algorithm and Nelder–Mead method. Calculations are made using model and real data.
Perfect codes in power graphs of finite groups
Authors: Ma Xuanlong , Fu Ruiqin , Lu Xuefei , Guo Mengxia , Zhao Zhiqin
Published: December 2017

The power graph of a finite group is the graph whose vertex set is the group, two distinct elements being adjacent if one is a power of the other. The enhanced power graph of a finite group is the graph whose vertex set consists of all elements of the group, in which two vertices are adjacent if they generate a cyclic subgroup. In this paper, we give a complete description of finite groups with enhanced power graphs admitting a perfect code. In addition, we describe all groups in the following two classes of finite groups: the class of groups with power graphs admitting a total perfect code, and the class of groups with enhanced power graphs admitting a total perfect code. Furthermore, we characterize several families of finite groups with power graphs admitting a perfect code, and several other families of finite groups with power graphs which do not admit perfect codes.
Crystal structure of 1-(4-((benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yloxy)methyl)phenethyl)-4-(3-chlorophenyl) piperazin-1-ium chloride, C26H28Cl2N2O3
Authors: Chen Hong , Jia Hui-Xia , Xu Qi-Tai
Published: December 2017

C26H28Cl2N2O3, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 13.422(3) Å, b = 7.0011(14) Å, c = 26.249(5) Å, β = 101.06(3)°, V = 2420.8(9) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0516, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1370, T = 296 K.
Crossover design in transcranial direct current stimulation studies on motor learning: potential pitfalls and difficulties in interpretation of findings
Authors: Biabani Mana , Farrell Michael , Zoghi Maryam , Egan Gary , Jaberzadeh Shapour
Published: December 2017

Crossover designs are used by a high proportion of studies investigating the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on motor learning. These designs necessitate attention to aspects of data collection and analysis to take account of design-related confounds including order, carryover, and period effects. In this systematic review, we appraised the method sections of crossover-designed tDCS studies of motor learning and discussed the strategies adopted to address these factors. A systematic search of 10 databases was performed and 19 research papers, including 21 experimental studies, were identified. Potential risks of bias were addressed in all of the studies, however, not in a rigorous and structured manner. In the data collection phase, unclear methods of randomization, various lengths of washout period, and inconsistency in the counteracting period effect can be observed. In the analytical procedures, the stratification by sequence group was often ignored, and data were treated as if it belongs to a simple repeated-measures design. An inappropriate use of crossover design can seriously affect the findings and therefore the conclusions drawn from tDCS studies on motor learning. The results indicate a pressing need for the development of detailed guidelines for this type of studies to benefit from the advantages of a crossover design.
Mechanisms of action of intravenous immunoglobulin in septic encephalopathy
Authors: Esen Figen , Ozcan Perihan Ergin , Tuzun Erdem , Boone M. Dustin
Published: December 2017

Acute brain dysfunction associated with sepsis is a serious complication that results in morbidity and mortality. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment is known to alleviate behavioral deficits in the experimentally induced model of sepsis. To delineate the mechanisms by which IVIg treatment prevents neuronal dysfunction, an array of immunological and apoptosis markers was investigated. Our results suggest that IVIgG and IgGAM administration ameliorates neuronal dysfunction and behavioral deficits by reducing apoptotic cell death and glial cell proliferation. IgGAM treatment might suppress classical complement pathway by reducing C5a activity and proapoptotic NF-κB and Bax expressions, thereby, inhibiting major inflammation and apoptosis cascades. Future animal model experiments performed with specific C5aR and NF-κB agonists/antagonists or C5aR-deficient mice might more robustly disclose the significance of these pathways. C5a, C5aR, and NF-κB, which were shown to be the key molecules in brain injury pathogenesis in sepsis, might also be utilized as potential targets for future treatment trials of septic encephalopathy.
A cross-disciplinary corpus-based study on English and Chinese native speakers’ use of first-person pronouns in academic English writing
Authors: Xia Gao
Published: December 2017

This paper reports on a study that comparatively investigated the differences and similarities in the use of first-person pronouns by English and Chinese native speakers (ENSs and CNSs) in their academic English writing. Using a corpus comprising journal research articles (RAs) from the fields of Physics, Computer Science, Linguistics and Management written by ENSs and CNSs, I present data to reveal that (i) the use of first-person pronouns in Physics is more frequent than that in other disciplines for both ENSs and CNSs; (ii) there are no consistent ENS/CNS frequency differences in first-person pronoun usage across the four disciplines; (iii) the plural first-person pronounweis used more often than the single formIin single-authored RAs, particularly so for CNSs; and (iv) the distribution patterns ofwevary greatly in different RA sections. These findings may have implications for the teaching of academic writing, as well as for cross-cultural understanding among academics.
Heterocycles [h]-fused onto 4-oxoquinoline-3-carboxylic acid. Part XII: synthesis of 5-fluoro-7-oxodihydo[1,3,4]thiadiazino [5,6-h]quinoline-8-carboxylic acid and ester
Authors: El-Abadelah Mustafa M. , Abadleh Mohammed M. , Awwadi Firas F. , Sabri Salim S. , Voelter Wolfgang
Published: December 2017

Direct interaction of dithizone with 7-chloro-6- fluoro-8-nitro-4-oxoquinoline-3-carboxylic acid or with its ester delivered the corresponding novel 1,3,4-thiadiazino [5,6-h]quinoline 3-carboxylic acid, or its ester which was then hydrolyzed to the respective acid. Structures of the latter tricyclic hybrids were deduced from analytical and spectral data and confirmed by single crystal X-ray structure determination of the ester derivative. The free acid showed moderate activity againstStaphylococcus aureuswith a MIC value of 25 μg mL−1.
Influence of Local Environment on Inner Shell Excitation Spectra, Studied by Electron and X-ray Spectroscopy and Spectromicroscopy
Authors: Hitchcock Adam P.
Published: December 2017

Inner shell excitation spectroscopy is a local probe of the unoccupied electronic structure in the immediate vicinity of the core excited atom. As such, one might expect the inner shell spectrum of a given unit (a molecular fragment or a repeat unit of a solid) to be largely independent of where that unit is located. This is often an implicit assumption in spectral analysis and analytical applications. However, there are situations where inner shell excitation spectra exhibit significant sensitivity to their local environment. Here I categorize the ways in which inner shell spectra are affected by their local environment, and give examples from a career dedicated to developing a better understanding of inner shell excitation spectroscopy, its experimental techniques, and applications.
Green Synthesis of CoFe2O4 and Investigation of its Catalytic Efficiency for Degradation of Dyes in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Saeed Muhammad , Mansha Asim , Hamayun Muhammad , Ahmad Aziz , Ulhaq Atta , Ashfaq Muhammad
Published: December 2017

The catalytic wet oxidation is one the methods used for elimination of dyes from aqueous medium in which various metal based materials can be used as heterogeneous catalysts. Bimetallic oxides as heterogeneous catalysts have gained much attention as bimetallization improve the catalytic properties of the resulting particles. The biosynthetic green method is the most viable and simple method for synthesis of bimetallic oxides nanoparticles. Here, we report the green synthesis of CoFe2O4 particles using Azadirachata indica leaves extract as reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized particles were characterized using X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The synthesized CoFe2O4 particles were tested as a catalyst for mineralization of rhodamine B and methylene blue dyes in the presence of hydrogen peroxide in aqueous media. More than 95% dyes degraded in 120 min. The reaction kinetics was described in terms of Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanism which suggests that molecules of dye and hydrogen peroxide adsorbed surface of CoFe2O4 and then react together.
The Association Between Body Adiposity Measures, Postural Balance, Fear of Falling, and Fall Risk in Older Community-Dwelling Women
Authors: Neri Silvia Gonçalves Ricci , Gadelha André Bonadias , de David Ana Cristina , Ferreira Aparecido Pimentel , Safons Marisete Peralta , Tiedemann Anne , Lima Ricardo M.
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose:

Recent investigations demonstrate an association between obesity and the propensity of older adults to fall. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between body adiposity measures, postural balance, fear of falling, and risk of falls in older women.

Methods:

One hundred forty-seven volunteers took part in this cross-sectional study. Participants underwent body composition assessment using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and had body mass index, waist circumference (WC), and body adiposity index measured. Postural balance was assessed using a force platform, while fear of falling and risk of falls were, respectively, evaluated by the Falls Efficacy Scale—International and the QuickScreen Clinical Falls Risk Assessment.

Results and Discussion:

All adiposity measures were correlated to at least 1 postural stability parameter and to fear of falling (ρ= 0.163, P < .05 to r = 0.337, P < .001); however, WC was the index most strongly correlated to risk of falls (ρ= 0.325; P < .001). When obesity was classified using WC, it was observed that compared with nonobese individuals (n = 51), obese individuals (n = 96) exhibited greater center of pressure displacement in the anteroposterior and mediolateral axes, especially during conditions with feet apart (P < .05). The obese group also exhibited an increased fear of falling (28.04 vs 24.59; P = .002) and had a higher proportion of individuals with increased fall risk (72% vs 35%; P < .001).

Conclusion:

In summary, adiposity measures are associated with risk of falls in older women, which might be mediated by reduced postural balance and increased fear of falling. Among these indices, WC, an easy and low-cost assessment, demonstrated the strongest association with falls-related outcomes.
Validity and Responsiveness to Change of the 30-Second Chair-Stand Test in Older Adults Admitted to an Emergency Department
Authors: Bruun Inge Hansen , Mogensen Christian B. , Nørgaard Birgitte , Schiøttz-Christensen Berit , Maribo Thomas
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose:

Few physical performance measurement tools are validated for acutely admitted older adults, and for this reason we aimed to examine the validity and responsiveness to change of the 30-second Chair-Stand Test (30s-CST) used to assess physical performance in older adults admitted to a short-stay unit in an emergency department.

Methods:

Construct validity of the 30s-CST, using 8 as a cutoff point for dependency in activities of daily living, was examined using 207 patients. Self-reported information on everyday activities was obtained by asking patients about need for help in bathing, dressing, cooking, cleaning, and shopping. Concurrent validity of the 30s-CST compared with the de Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI) on physical performance of acutely admitted older adults was examined with 156 patients. The analysis of concurrent validity included the entire DEMMI and 2 subsets of DEMMI: “DEMMI walking” and “DEMMI dynamic balance.” The responsiveness to change in the 30s-CST compared with DEMMI was examined with 117 patients. All patients were classified as having either low physical performance (30s-CST ≤8) or high physical performance (30s-CST >8); these groups were used in the analysis of validity and responsiveness to change.

Results and Discussion:

Regarding construct validity using 8 as a cutoff point, the study showed a significant difference between patients with low physical performance compared with patients with high physical performance. Moreover, a decrease in the 30s-CST was followed by an increase in the need for help with everyday activities. There was a significant association between the 30s-CST and DEMMI (r= 0.72); for every extra repetition in the 30s-CST, the DEMMI score increased by 4.9. There was a significant association between the 30s-CST and the 2 subsets “DEMMI walking” and “DEMMI dynamic balance”; yet, a pronounced floor effect was found in the subsets. The analysis demonstrated a very wide prediction interval, indicating that DEMMI has a better responsiveness to change than the 30s-CST, especially in older adults with low physical performance. However, the 30s-CST is easier and faster to use than DEMMI.

Conclusion:

This study found a significant difference in the patients' need for help with everyday activities when comparing low and high physical performance groups. The concurrent validity of the 30s-CST was acceptable in assessing physical performance in older adults at the time of admission; the 30s-CST is thus a tool that is easy to use in older adults with acute disease. In contrast, based on very wide prediction intervals, DEMMI demonstrated better responsiveness to change than the 30s-CST, especially in older adults with low physical performance.
Meta-analytic and Scoping Study on Strength Training in People With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Manca Andrea , Dvir Zeevi , Deriu Franca
Published: December 2017

Manca, A, Dvir, Z, and Deriu, F. Meta-analytic and scoping study on strength training in people with multiple sclerosis. J Strength Cond Res 33(3): 874–889, 2019—Aim of the study was to determine a pooled estimate of effect on muscle strength and functional capacity induced by strength training in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Five databases and 2 public registries were searched from inception to May 2017. Indexing terms used were: “multiple sclerosis,” “resistance training,” and “strength training.” After title/abstract screening, 2 independent reviewers evaluated the studies' eligibility, which were retained if PwMS were randomly assigned to strength training or to a no intervention group. Of the 1,467 items retrieved, 30 randomized controlled trials formed the initial database with 11 trials (426 subjects) entering the final meta-analysis. The quality of the included studies was assessed by the PEDro scale and the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool. All meta-analyses were conducted using a random effects model. After interventions, PwMS increased strength by 23.1% (confidence interval [CI] 11.8–34.4; +12.1 N; CI 4.5–19.8; p = 0.002; n = 366 subjects) at a small-to-moderate effect size (0.37; CI 0.2–0.6). Walking speed increased by 16.3 ± 10.7% (p = 0.0002; effect size 0.54; n = 275 subjects), distance covered in the 2-minute walking test by 6.7 ± 6.4% (p = 0.04; effect size 0.50; n = 111 subjects). People with MS respond to resistance training with consistent strength gains. Methodological inconsistencies among studies and inadequate reporting of the findings limited a comprehensive determination of the impact of strength improvements on patient functioning, except for walking performance which seemed significantly improved. Methodological steps and scoping lines are provided to establish a common platform for future trials.
Lower-Limb Stiffness and Maximal Sprint Speed in 11–16-Year-Old Boys
Authors: Meyers Robert W. , Moeskops Sylvia , Oliver Jon L. , Hughes Michael G. , Cronin John B. , Lloyd Rhodri S.
Published: December 2017

Meyers, RW, Moeskops, S, Oliver, JL, Hughes, MG, Cronin, JB, and Lloyd, RS. Lower-limb stiffness and maximal sprint speed in 11–16-year-old boys. J Strength Cond Res 33(7): 1987–1995, 2019—The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between vertical stiffness, leg stiffness, and maximal sprint speed in a large cohort of 11–16-year-old boys. Three-hundred thirty-six boys undertook a 30-m sprint test using a floor-level optical measurement system, positioned in the final 15-m section. Measures of speed, step length, step frequency, contact time, and flight time were directly measured while force, displacement, vertical stiffness, and leg stiffness, were modeled from contact and flight times, from the 2 fastest consecutive steps for each participant over 2 trials. All force, displacement, and stiffness variables were significantly correlated with maximal sprint speed (p ≤ 0.05). Relative vertical stiffness had a very large (r > 0.7) relationship with sprint speed, whereas vertical center of mass displacement, absolute vertical stiffness, relative peak force, and maximal leg spring displacement had large (r > 0.5) relationships. Relative vertical stiffness and relative peak force did not significantly change with advancing age (p > 0.05), but together with maximal leg spring displacement accounted for 96% of the variance in maximal speed. It seems that relative vertical stiffness and relative peak force are important determinants of sprint speed in boys aged 11–16 years, but are qualities that may need to be trained because of no apparent increases from natural development. Practitioners may wish to use training modalities such as plyometrics and resistance training to enable adaptation to these qualities because of their importance as predictors of speed in youth.
Mechanisms Behind Blood Flow–Restricted Training and its Effect Toward Muscle Growth
Authors: Hwang Paul S. , Willoughby Darryn S.
Published: December 2017

Hwang, P and Willoughby, DS. Mechanisms behind blood flow–restricted training and its effect toward muscle growth. J Strength Cond Res 33(7S): S167–S179, 2019—It is widely established throughout the literature that skeletal muscle can induce hypertrophic adaptations after progressive overload of moderate-to-high-intensity resistance training. However, there has recently been a growing body of research that shows that the combination of blood flow–restricted (BFR) training with low-intensity resistance exercise can induce similar gains in muscular strength and hypertrophic adaptations. The implementation of external pressure cuffs over the most proximal position of the limb extremities with the occlusion of venous outflow of blood distal to the occlusion site defines the BFR training protocol. There are various mechanisms through which BFR training may cause the stimulations for skeletal muscle hypertrophy and increases in strength. These may include increases in hormonal concentrations, increases within the components of the intracellular signaling pathways for muscle protein synthesis such as the mTOR pathway, increases within biomarkers denoting satellite cell activity and apparent patterns in fiber type recruitment. There have also been scientific findings demonstrating hypertrophic effects within both BFR limbs and non-BFR muscles during BFR training programs. The purpose behind this critical review will be to provide a comprehensive discussion on relevant literature that can help elucidate the potential underlying mechanisms leading to hypertrophic adaptations after BFR training programs. This review will also explicate the various findings within the literature that focalizes on both BFR limb and non-BFR muscle hypertrophy after bouts of BFR training. Furthermore, this critical review will also address the various needs for future research in the many components underlying the novel modality of BFR training.
Positional Demands and Physical Activity Profiles of Netball
Authors: van Gogh Mikah J. , Wallace Lee K. , Coutts Aaron J.
Published: December 2017

van Gogh, MJ, Wallace, LK, and Coutts, AJ. Positional demands and physical activity profiles of netball. J Strength Cond Res 34(5): 1422–1430, 2020—The aim of this study was to examine the activity profiles and physiological demands of netball. Eleven representative youth netball players participated in this study. Global positioning system, heart rate, and accelerometer data were collected during 8 competitive matches. Sport-specific skills were analyzed using notational methods. The main findings were that players traveled less distance during a match than previously reported. The center covered significantly greater distances than the other positions (p < 0.001). The goal shooter and goal keeper covered the least distance and endured lower accelerometer loads than other positions (p < 0.001). Very low levels of very high-speed running and sprint efforts were observed across all positions. The proportion of time spent in the high (>85% maximum heart rate [HRmax]) HR zone ranged from 7.0 to 62.6%, highlighting a high variation in cardiovascular demands between each position. The center and goal attack had the greatest cardiovascular demands spending significantly more time in the high (>85% HRmax) HR zone (p < 0.001). The goal shooter and goal keeper spent significantly more time in the low (<70% HRmax) HR zone (p < 0.001). Players in attacking positions were shown to pass/catch significantly more players than in defending positions (p < 0.001). Players in defending positions had higher number of deflections and intercepts compared with players in attacking positions (p < 0.001). These findings reveal significant positional differences in activity profiles and movement demands in netball. These data can be used to refine position-specific training practice and guide tactical strategies during competition.
Maturity Status as a Determinant of the Relationships Between Conditioning Qualities and Preplanned Agility in Young Handball Athletes
Authors: Hammami Raouf , Sekulic Damir , Selmi Mohamed Amin , Fadhloun Mourad , Spasic Miodrag , Uljevic Ognjen , Chaouachi Anis
Published: December 2017

Hammami, R, Sekulic, D, Selmi, MA, Fadhloun, M, Spasic, M, Uljevic, O, and Chaouachi, A. Maturity status as a determinant of the relationships between conditioning qualities and preplanned agility in young handball athletes. J Strength Cond Res 32(8): 2302–2313, 2018—Studies performed thus far have not accounted for the potential influence of maturity on determinants of preplanned agility. This study aimed to examine how determinants of preplanned agility are affected by the period of peak height velocity (PHV) regarding the anthropometrics and conditioning qualities in young handball players. The sample comprised 56 handball players (male; 12–14 years of age), allocated into 2 groups according to their biological age of maturity: Pre-PHV (N = 34) and Post-PHV (N = 22). Players were evaluated on handball-specific tests of preplanned agility (CODAT and T-HALF). Predictors included anthropometrics, sprinting, horizontal and vertical jumps, and reactive strength index (RSI). The reliability of the tests was appropriate (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.87–0.95; coefficient of variation: 4.4–5.8%). In the Pre-PHV group, 67% variance of the T-HALF accounted for horizontal countermovement jump (β: −0.83, p < 0.01), 20-m sprint (β: 0.91, p < 0.01), and body mass (β: 0.19, p = 0.02). In the Post-PHV group, 80% of the T-HALF variance was explained, with a significant influence of 20-m sprint (β: 0.52, p < 0.01), RSI (β: −0.24, p = 0.04), and standing long jump (β: −0.57, p = 0.03). In the Pre-PHV group, 45% of the CODAT variance accounted for the partial influence of body fat percentage (β: 0.44, p = 0.04) and a 20-m sprint (β: 0.74, p < 0.01). In the Post-PHV group, the predictors accounted for 79% of the CODAT variance, with a significant influence of the RSI (β: −0.26, p = 0.04) and a 10-m sprint (β: 0.87, p = 0.03). Our results reinforce the need for differential strength and conditioning programs aimed at improving the preplanned agility of young athletes who differ in maturity status.
Detailed Dendritic Excitatory/Inhibitory Balance through Heterosynaptic Spike-Timing-Dependent Plasticity
Authors: Hiratani Naoki , Fukai Tomoki
Published: December 2017

The balance between excitatory and inhibitory inputs is a key feature of cortical dynamics. Such a balance is arguably preserved in dendritic branches, yet its underlying mechanism and functional roles remain unknown. In this study, we developed computational models of heterosynaptic spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) to show that the excitatory/inhibitory balance in dendritic branches is robustly achieved through heterosynaptic interactions between excitatory and inhibitory synapses. The model reproduces key features of experimental heterosynaptic STDP well, and provides analytical insights. Furthermore, heterosynaptic STDP explains how the maturation of inhibitory neurons modulates the selectivity of excitatory neurons for binocular matching in the critical period plasticity. The model also provides an alternative explanation for the potential mechanism underlying the somatic detailed balance that is commonly associated with inhibitory STDP. Our results propose heterosynaptic STDP as a critical factor in synaptic organization and the resultant dendritic computation.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTRecent experimental studies reveal that relative differences in spike timings experienced among neighboring glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses on a dendritic branch significantly influences changes in the efficiency of these synapses. This heterosynaptic form of spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) is potentially important for shaping the synaptic organization and computation of neurons, but its functional role remains elusive. Through computational modeling at the parameter regime where previous experimental results are well reproduced, we show that heterosynaptic plasticity serves to finely balance excitatory and inhibitory inputs on the dendrite. Our results suggest a principle of GABA-driven neural circuit formation.