bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alpha satellite DNA‐repeat OwlAlp1 forms centromeres in Azara’s owl monkey
Authors: Oizumi Yusuke , Koga Akihiko , Kanoh Junko
Published: May 2019

Centromeres play crucial roles in faithful chromosome segregation and genome integrity. In simian primates, centromeres possess tandem array of alpha satellite DNA (also referred to as alphoid DNA). Average sizes of alpha satellite repeat units vary between species, for example, 171 bp in human and 343–344 bp in many platyrrhini species (New World monkeys). Interestingly, Azara's owl monkey (Aotus azarae), a platyrrhini species, possesses alpha satellite DNA of two distinct unit sizes, OwlAlp1 (185 bp) and OwlAlp2 (344 bp), both of which present as megasatellite DNAs in the genome. It is, however, unknown which repeat sequence is responsible for functional centromere formation. To investigate the localization of centromeres in vivo, we carried out chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay using Azara's owl monkey cells. We found that CENP‐A, a histone H3 variant essential for centromere formation, was enriched at OwlAlp1, but not at OwlAlp2. Moreover, CENP‐A was detected only at constricted regions of chromosomes by immunofluorescent microscopy. In contrast, trimethylation of histone H3‐K9 (H3K9me3), a marker of heterochromatin, was enriched at both OwlAlp1 and OwlAlp2. Our results show that the shorter alpha satellite repeat, OwlAlp1, is selectively used for centromere formation in this monkey.
TRADE POLICY AND MARKET POWER: FIRM‐LEVEL EVIDENCE
Authors: Asprilla Alan , Berman Nicolas , Cadot Olivier , Jaud Mélise
Published: May 2019

This article identifies the effect of trade policy on market power through new data and a new identification strategy. We identify market power by observing how exporting firms price discriminate across markets following variations in bilateral exchange rates. Pricing‐to‐market is prevalent in all countries in our sample, even among small firms, although it is increasing in firm size. More importantly, we find that the effect of nontariff measures (NTMs) is not isomorphic to that of tariffs. Whereas tariffs reduce the market power of foreign firms through rent‐shifting effects, NTMs reinforce the market power of nonexiting firms, domestic and foreign alike.
Preparation and photoelectrochemical properties of CdS quantum dot‐sensitized ZnO nanotube arrays
Authors: Zhao Wenyan , Tian Chuanjin , Luo Penghui , Hao Bianlei , Xie Zhipeng , Fu Wuyou , Yang Haibin
Published: May 2019

CdS/ZnO nanotubes (NTs) arrays were synthesized on a transparent conductive glass (FTO) substrate by hydrothermal method, chemical bath etching and successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method, which were used in semiconductor‐sensitized photoelectrochemical cells (PECs). The crystal structure, morphology and photoelectrochemical conversion properties of different photoanodes were investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), and electrochemical workstation. The results show a heterojunction has been formed between ZnO and CdS QDs. The ZnO NTs and CdS QDs played a remarkable controllability for PEC performances. The photoelectrochemical conversion efficiency of ZnO NTs photoanodes was 3 times that of ZnO nanorods (NRs) arrays photoanodes. After sensitization of CdS quantum dots, the photoelectrochemical conversion efficiency of CdS/ZnO NRs was improved by 7 times and the CdS/ZnO NTs was increased by 4 times. These results demonstrate that the CdS/ZnO core‐shell structure can provide a facile and compatible frame for the potential applications in nanotube‐based solar cells.
Enhanced ROBO4 is mediated by up‐regulation of HIF‐1α/SP1 or reduction in miR‐125b‐5p/miR‐146a‐5p in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Gong Qiaoyun , Xie Jia'nan , Li Ying , Liu Yang , Su Guanfang
Published: May 2019

Retinal cell damage caused by diabetes leads to retinal microvascular injury. Roundabout 4 (ROBO4) is involved in angiogenesis, which varies with the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Here, we explored the transcriptional regulation and microRNA‐mediated modulation of ROBO4 expression and related retinal cell function in DR. A streptozotocin‐induced type I diabetic animal model was established to detect the expression of hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), specificity protein 1 (SP1) and ROBO4. Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells were cultured under hyperglycaemia or hypoxia and used for mechanistic analysis. Furthermore, roles of miR‐125b‐5p and miR‐146a‐5p were evaluated, and their targets were identified using luciferase assays. The cell functions were evaluated by MTS assays, permeability analysis and migration assays. The development of DR increased the levels of HIF‐1α, SP1 and ROBO4 both in the DR model and in hyperglycaemic/hypoxic RPE cells. They were co‐expressed and up‐regulated in diabetic retinas and in RPE cells under hyperglycaemia/hypoxia. Knockdown of HIF‐1α significantly inhibited SP1 and ROBO4, whereas SP1 down‐regulation abolished ROBO4 expression in RPE cells under hyperglycaemia/hypoxia. miR‐125b‐5p and miR‐146a‐5p were down‐regulated by hyperglycaemia and/or hypoxia. Up‐regulation of miRNAs reversed these changes and resulted in recovery of target gene expression. Moreover, luciferase assays confirmed miR‐125b‐5p targeted SP1 and ROBO4, and miR‐146a‐5p targeted HIF‐1α and ROBO4 directly. The decreased cell viability, enhanced permeability, and increased cell migration under DR conditions were mitigated by knockdown of HIF‐1α/SP1/ROBO4 or up‐regulation of miR‐125b‐5p/miR‐146a‐5p. In general, our results identified a novel mechanism that miR‐125b‐5p/miR‐146a‐5p targeting HIF‐1α/SP1‐dependent ROBO4 expression could retard DR progression.
‘The Troika is Dead, Long Live the Domestic Troikas?': The Diffusion of National Fiscal Councils in the European Union
Authors: Tesche Tobias
Published: May 2019

This article shows that the troika institutions – the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund – formed a technocratic consensus about the desirability of establishing national fiscal councils in the European Union (EU). Considerable disagreement existed, however, with regard to their design features. Each institution promoted a distinct mode of indirect governance by ranking national fiscal councils depending on their adopted governance model (agent, trustee or orchestrator). This persuasion, through entrepreneurial benchmarking, constitutes an important mechanism by which member states were nudged to adopt a distinct fiscal council model. Preference heterogeneity among the troika members ultimately prevented the spread of a one‐size‐fits‐all fiscal council in the EU.
The effect of fertilizer‐N on the inter‐specific competition among three wheat aphids under elevated CO2
Authors: Long Wang , Xiao‐Hui Wang , Tong Han , Lei Qian , Li‐Kun Li , Fa‐Jun Chen
Published: May 2019

Increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (ab. CO2) and fertilizer‐nitrogen (ab. N) applications may have marked direct effects on the plant growth of agricultural crops, and in turn affect the higher trophic level of insect herbivores. In this study, the effects of elevated CO2 (i.e., 650 µl/L vs. ambient 400 µl/L) and fertilizer‐N (0, 50, 100, 200 kg/ha) on the population abundances and the inter‐specific competition among three co‐occurring species of wheat aphids, Sitobion avenae, Rhopalosiphum padi and Schizaphis graminum, were studied. The grain weight per ear and the 1,000‐grain weight were generally increased when grown under elevated CO2 and showed a significant effect at the 100 kg/ha (grain weight per ear) and 0, 50 and 100 kg/ha (1,000‐grain weight) N. These two yield indexes increased with increasing fertilizer‐N levels within reasonable limits and reached a maximum at 100 kg/ha. Elevated CO2 combined with fertilizer‐N levels formed complex indirect effects on the three wheat aphids through the wheat crops they fed on. Elevated CO2 significantly decreased the niche overlap index (ab. NOI) between S. avenae and R. padi under 0 and 100 kg/ha and that between R. padi and S. graminum under 0 kg/ha, while significantly increased the three NOIs under 50 kg/ha and that between R. padi and S. graminum under 100 and 200 kg/ha. S. avenae and R. padi had the larger population and stronger competition in low‐N condition (0 and 50 kg/ha), which was harmful to wheat yield and quality when combined with its own poor nutrition. Overall, the 100 kg/ha N level was the best option based on the aphid population, competition and wheat yields. Therefore, the balanced relationship formed among fertilizers, plants and insects under 100 kg/ha N was vital for the interactive ecosystem.
Therapeutic alternatives for addressing pink esthetic complications in single‐tooth implants: A proposal for a clinical decision tree
Authors: Mesquita De Carvalho Paulo F. , Joly Julio C. , Carvalho Da Silva Robert , González‐Martín Oscar
Published: May 2019

Objective

Esthetic complications in implant therapy today represent a clinical challenge, when the aim is to overcome the sequelae and obtain a pleasing result. The current scientific literature about this topic is scarce and often based on case reports and the personal opinions of clinicians.

Clinical considerations

The aim of this article is to introduce a decision tree for diagnosis and treatment of complications, focusing on the pink esthetic of single‐tooth implants and based on three diagnostic pillars (3D implant position, peri‐implant hard‐tissue anatomy, and peri‐implant soft‐tissue anatomy). Different shortcomings have been identified for each of the three diagnostic areas.

Conclusions

Following this tree, the article proposes treatment alternatives including soft‐ and hard‐tissue reconstruction, implant submergence, orthodontic extrusion, and implant extraction in order to help clinicians establish a logical therapeutic sequence.

Clinical Significance

Guidelines for adequate diagnosis and management of single implant‐supported restorations with compromised esthetics is mandatory when attempt to overcome shortcoming in the pink esthetic result.
Indications for β‐Blocker Prescriptions in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Yum Brian , Archambault Alexi , Levitan Emily B. , Dharamdasani Tina , Kneifati‐Hayek Jerard , Hanlon Joseph T. , Diaz Ivan , Maurer Mathew S. , Lachs Mark S. , Safford Monika M. , Goyal Parag
Published: May 2019

OBJECTIVES

To better understand indications for β‐blocker (BB) prescriptions among older adults hospitalized with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

DESIGN/SETTING

Retrospective observational study of hospitalizations derived from the geographically diverse Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke cohort.

PARTICIPANTS

We examined Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years or older with an expert‐adjudicated hospitalization for HFpEF (left ventricular ejection fraction = 50% or greater).

MEASUREMENTS

Discharge medications and indications for BBs were abstracted from medical records.

RESULTS

Of 306 hospitalizations for HFpEF, BBs were prescribed at discharge in 68%. Among hospitalizations resulting in BB prescriptions, 60% had a compelling indication for BB—44% had arrhythmias, and 29% had myocardial infarction (MI) history. Among the 40% with neither indication, 57% had coronary artery disease (CAD) without MI and 38% had hypertension alone (without arrhythmia, MI, or CAD), both clinical scenarios with little supportive evidence of benefit of BBs. Among hospitalizations resulting in BB prescription at discharge, 69% had geriatric conditions (functional limitation, cognitive impairment, hypoalbuminemia, or history of falls). There were no significant differences in the prevalence of geriatric conditions between hospitalizations of individuals with compelling indications for BBs and hospitalizations of individuals with noncompelling indications.

CONCLUSIONS

BBs are commonly prescribed following a hospitalization for HFpEF, even in the absence of compelling indications. This occurs even for hospitalizations of individuals with geriatric conditions, a subpopulation who may be at elevated risk for experiencing harm from BBs.
A meta‐synthesis of how registered nurses make sense of their lived experiences of medication errors
Authors: Athanasakis Efstratios
Published: May 2019

Background

Medication errors are a frequent phenomenon in nursing, as the nurses are primarily responsible for preparation and administration of medications to patients. Little is known about how nurses make sense of their experiences of medication errors as a lived phenomenon.

Objective

To aggregate, synthesise and interpret the qualitative evidence of studies which explored nurses' lived experiences of medication errors.

Method

A meta‐synthesis is presented with thematic analysis by Thomas & Harden (BMC Medical Research Methodology, 8, 2008, 45). Qualitative studies (January 1980–June 2018) retrieved from PubMed, BNI, CINAHL, EMBASE, AMED, PsycINFO, ProQuest, ScienceDirect and Wiley Online Library. The PRISMA flow chart, CASP tool and COREQ checklist are integrated in the meta‐synthesis.

Findings

Eight primary research studies were included with the follow themes: “moral impact,” “emotional impact,” “constructive learning,” “impact on professional registration and employment,” “nurses' coping strategies with the experience,” “patient and family,” “identification of contributing factors to medication errors” and “preventive measures for medication errors.”

Conclusion

The moral and emotional impact of medication errors to nurses was devastating for themselves. Yet, they detected strategies to cope with their error and its consequences and even more translated their experience into a constructive lesson and identified ways to prevent future errors.

Relevance for clinical practice

The meta‐synthesis provides a holistic perspective about how registered nurses made sense of their lived experiences of medication errors. Its findings reveal that the experience has both positive impact and negative impact to the nurses. Its findings should inform mainly the clinical nursing practice, clinical nurses, nurse educators, nurse leaders and policymakers of medication administration.
The primary foundations of followership
Authors: Popper Micha , Castelnovo Omri
Published: May 2019

The phenomenon of followership has been increasingly discussed in recent years, and is analyzed mainly through psychological theories.

In this article followership is discussed from an evolutionary perspective. The main argument is that the origins of followership are rooted in evolutionary foundations and its visible manifestations result from responses to signals sensed as associated with these primary foundations.

Two kinds of signals are the “building blocks” of followership: (1) universal signals, indicating competence and care; (2) symbolic signals, representing group culture. The implications of the suggested approach for a theory of followership are discussed.
Hepatitis E during pregnancy: Maternal and foetal case‐fatality rates and adverse outcomes—A systematic review
Authors: Bergløv Anne , Hallager Sofie , Weis Nina
Published: May 2019

Hepatitis E virus infection during pregnancy can have severe consequences for mother and child, such as vertical transmission, fulminant hepatic failure, even foetal or maternal mortality. The aim of this systematic review is to describe maternal, foetal and neonatal case‐fatality rates as well as the prevalence of adverse outcomes in relation to hepatitis E virus infection during pregnancy. A systematic literature search was performed in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane and CINAHL. Search terms included Pregnant, Women, Maternal, Infant, Foetal, Neonatal and Hepatitis E virus. Data were extracted using predefined data collection forms. All studies were quality assessed, either by the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale or by an adapted assessment scale for cross‐sectional studies. We found 23 eligible studies, all observational, which were included in this systematic review with a total of 1338 cases. The median maternal, foetal and neonatal case‐fatality rates were 26% (IQR 17%‐41%), 33% (IQR 19%‐37%) and 8% (IQR 3%‐20%), respectively. Adverse outcomes such as fulminant hepatic failure, preterm labour, postpartum haemorrhage, low birth weight and vertical transmission were reported. The two studies that reported the highest prevalence of fulminant hepatic failure also reported the highest case‐fatality rates. The median prevalence of fulminant hepatic failure was 45.3%. This systematic review found a high case‐fatality rate among pregnant women infected with hepatitis E virus and a high rate of adverse outcomes among these women and their children. The results from this review mainly apply to hospital settings and symptomatic pregnant women from endemic countries.
Troubles with Theoretical Virtues: Resisting Theoretical Utility Arguments in Metaphysics
Authors: Bueno OtÁvio , Shalkowski Scott A.
Published: May 2019

In this paper we examine theoretical utility arguments in metaphysics. While philosophers claim a procedural continuity with science when using such arguments, we argue that examining famous instances from the history of science expose their fundamental flaws. We find that arguments from theoretical utility invoke considerations that are not truth conducive and that justifications for claims that a theory possesses theoretical virtues often assume the truth of the theory such virtues are supposed to support. We conclude that theoretical utility arguments provide no epistemic grounds for metaphysical inquiry.
Application of sequence stratigraphic concepts to the Upper Cretaceous Tununk Shale Member of the Mancos Shale Formation, south‐central Utah: Parasequence styles in shelfal mudstone strata
Authors: Li Zhiyang , Schieber Juergen
Published: May 2019

Although sequence stratigraphic concepts have been applied extensively to coarse‐grained siliciclastic deposits in nearshore environments, high‐resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis has not been widely applied to mudstone‐dominated sedimentary successions deposited in more distal hemipelagic to pelagic settings. To examine how sequence stratigraphic frameworks can be derived from the facies variability of mudstone‐dominated successions, the Tununk Shale Member of the Mancos Shale Formation in south‐central Utah (USA) was examined in detail through a combination of sedimentological, stratigraphic and petrographic methods. The Tununk Shale accumulated on a storm‐dominated shelf during the second‐order Greenhorn sea‐level cycle. During this eustatic event, the depositional environment of the Tununk Shale shifted laterally from distal middle shelf to outer shelf, then from an outer shelf to an inner shelf environment. At least 49 parasequences can be identified within the Tununk Shale. Each parasequence shows a coarsening‐upward trend via upward increases in silt and sand content, thickness and lateral continuity of laminae/beds, and abundance of storm‐generated sedimentary structures. Variations in bioturbation styles within parasequences are complex, although abrupt changes in bioturbation intensity or diversity commonly occur across parasequence boundaries (i.e. flooding surfaces). Due to changes in depositional environments, dominant sediment supply and bioturbation characteristics, parasequence styles in the Tununk Shale show considerable variability. Based on parasequence stacking patterns, eleven system tracts, four depositional sequences and key sequence stratigraphic surfaces can be identified. The high‐resolution sequence stratigraphic framework of the Tununk Shale reveals a hierarchy of stratal cyclicity. Application of sequence stratigraphic concepts to this thick mudstone‐dominated succession provides important insights into the underlying causes of heterogeneity in these rocks over multiple thickness scales (millimetre‐scale to metre‐scale). The detailed sedimentological characterization of parasequences, system tracts and depositional sequences in the Tununk Shale provides conceptual approaches that can aid the development of high‐resolution sequence stratigraphic frameworks in other ancient shelf mudstone successions.
Entrepreneurial Skills, Technological Progress, and Firm Growth*
Authors: Iza Amaia
Published: May 2019

Using cross‐country establishment‐level data, I show that employment profiles over a firm's life cycle are flatter in fast‐growing economies than in slow‐growing economies. The difference in average employment over the firm's life cycle increases with plant age. I propose a frictionless overlapping‐generations model with exogenous technological progress. Firm productivity also depends on entrepreneurs’ skills. Entrepreneurs can increase their skills over their life cycle, but the growth of the vintage component of younger cohorts’ skills is higher in fast‐growing economies than in slow‐growing economies. This model is able to explain most of the differences observed in the sample between fast‐growing and slow‐growing economies.
Effects of vitamin D supplementation on salivary immune responses during Marine Corps basic training
Authors: Scott Jonathan M. , Kazman Josh B. , Palmer Jeremy , McClung James P. , Gaffney‐Stomberg Erin , Gasier Heath G.
Published: May 2019

Vitamin D's role in regulating immune responses may increase during periods of elevated psychological and physiological stress. Due to the high demands placed on US Marine Corps recruits undergoing 12 weeks of basic military training, we hypothesized that vitamin D status would be related to markers of innate mucosal immunity, and daily vitamin D supplementation would augment immune responses during training. Males (n = 75) and females (n = 74) entering recruit basic training during the summer and winter volunteered to participate in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Subjects received either 1000 IU vitamin D3 + 2000 mg calcium/d (n = 73) or placebo (n = 76) for 12 weeks. Saliva samples were collected pre‐training, during (weeks 4 and 8), and post‐training (week 12) in order to determine salivary SIgA and cathelicidin (indices of mucosal immunity) and α‐amylase (indicator of stress). Initial (baseline) and post‐training serum 25(OH)D levels were measured. Results were as follows: serum 25(OH)D levels were 37% higher in recruits entering training in summer compared with winter. A positive relationship was observed between baseline 25(OH)D levels and SIgA secretion rates (‐SR). When stress levels were high during summer training, baseline 25(OH)D levels contributed to an increase in salivary secretory immunoglobulin A secretion rates (SIgA‐SR) and cathelicidin‐SR, the latter only in males. Vitamin D supplementation contributed to the changes in SIgA‐SR and cathelicidin‐SR, specifically SIgA‐SR was higher in the treatment group. These data highlight the importance of vitamin D and mucosal immune responses during arduous basic military training when stress levels are increased.
Changing beliefs about reformed teaching in science: Experience matters
Authors: Killough Joy K. , Stuessy Carol L.
Published: May 2019

Can participation in a 4‐day workshop change science teachers’ beliefs about reformed science teaching? We observe a significant difference between pre‐ and post‐workshop surveys and explore an unexpected relationship involving teaching experience. Results of this exploratory study indicate a significant correlation between high school science teachers’ years of teaching experience and positive changes in beliefs about reformed teaching practices. Novice teachers hold more reformed beliefs pre‐institute, but post‐institute surveys revealed the two groups, experienced and novice, are statistically indistinguishable. We use our observations of the statistically significant changes in biology teachers’ responses on the Beliefs About Reformed Science Teaching and Learning instrument (BARSTL) to support our claim that a 4‐day Advanced Placement Summer Institute (APSI) in Biology can advance teachers’ beliefs toward more reformed teaching. Furthermore, these findings provided evidence for us to suggest that veteran teachers are more malleable in their beliefs about reformed science teaching than one might expect (AP®, Advanced Placement®, and AP Biology® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this article).
The Influence of Corporate Lobbying on Federal Contracting
Authors: Dusso Aaron , Holyoke Thomas T. , Schatzinger Henrik
Published: May 2019

Objective

Corporations spend significant resources lobbying for billions of dollars in federal procurement contracts, yet this important opportunity to assess the political influence of business has gone unstudied by scholars of business politics. We study it here.

Methods

We approach it by analyzing the influence of direct lobbying of five federal departments, along with data on the lobbying of, and campaign contributions to, members of Congress on patterns of contract awards broken out by congressional districts.

Results

Our analysis reveals that while there are many reasons to expect lobbying Congress to produce valuable contracts, we instead find that it is the direct lobbying of executive branch agencies that is most likely to bring big rewards.

Conclusion

These results highlight the importance of studying corporate political power outside of the legislative branch, suggesting that it is the long‐term relationships that lobbyists build with bureaucrats that yield the most lucrative contracts.
Development of a conditional localization approach to control apicoplast protein trafficking in malaria parasites
Authors: Roberts Aleah D. , Nair Sethu C. , Guerra Alfredo J. , Prigge Sean T.
Published: May 2019

Secretory proteins are of particular importance to apicomplexan parasites and comprise over 15% of the genomes of the human pathogens that cause diseases like malaria, toxoplasmosis and babesiosis as well as other diseases of agricultural significance. Here, we developed an approach that allows us to control the trafficking destination of secretory proteins in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Based on the unique structural requirements of apicoplast transit peptides, we designed three conditional localization domains (CLD1, 2 and 3) that can be used to control protein trafficking via the addition of a cell permeant ligand. Studies comparing the trafficking dynamics of each CLD show that CLD2 has the most optimal trafficking efficiency. To validate this system, we tested whether CLD2 could conditionally localize a biotin ligase called holocarboxylase synthetase 1 (HCS1) without interfering with the function of the enzyme. In a parasite line expressing CLD2‐HCS1, we were able to control protein biotinylation in the apicoplast in a ligand‐dependent manner, demonstrating the full functionality of the CLD tool. We have developed and validated a novel molecular tool that may be used in future studies to help elucidate the function of secretory proteins in malaria parasites.
The Effects on Investment Behavior of Zero Interest Rate Policy—Evidence From a Roulette Experiment
Authors: Conrad Christian A.
Published: May 2019

This paper examines the effects of interest rate cuts on investment behavior. The methodology is to simulate investment decision making under different capital costs. The experiment showed that decreasing interest rates encourage risk-taking. With the decreased interest rate as borrowing costs the risk taking increased weakly but continuously. The risk taking increased strongly when the interest rate reached zero. Thus the experiment showed excessive risk-taking when there were no capital costs. This finding supports the hypothesis that extreme expansive monetary policy with low, zero or negative interest rates encourage financial bubbles and overinvestments or wrong investments in the real economy.
The Relationship between Favouritism Behaviours of Secondary School Administrators and Organizational Commitment of the Teachers
Authors: Dağli Abidin , Akyol Zuhal
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between the favouritism behaviours of secondary school administrators and organizational commitment of teachers. The research population consists of 3403 teachers from 64 secondary schools in the central district of Diyarbakir/Turkey in the academic year of 2016-2017. The data collection instrument was applied to randomly selected 376 teachers from 22 schools. "Favoutism in the School Management Scale", developed by Erdem and Meric (2012) and three dimensional "Organizational Commitment Scale", developed by Meyer, Allen and Smith (1993) and adapted into Turkish by Dağlı, Elçiçek and Han (2017) were used in this research. The arithmetic mean, standard deviation were used in the analysis of data. The relationship between favoritism and organizational commitment behaviour was studied using Spearman Correlation Coefficient. Some important findings obtained in the research can be listed as follows: Teachers participated the overall mean of "Favouritism in the School Management Scale" at "sometimes" level (M=2.86). According to teachers’ perceptions, the dimensions with the highest means are in order; (1) Planning (M=3,121; Sometimes), (2) Coordination (M=2,961; Sometimes), (3) Evaluation (M=2, 368; Sometimes) and (4) Organization (M= 2,936; Sometimes). Teachers participated the overall mean of "Organizational Commitment Scale" at "not sure" level. According to teachers’ perceptions, the dimensions with the highest means related to organizational commitment are in order; (1) Affective commitment (M=3,07; Neutral), (2) Continuance Commitment (M= 2,79; Neutral) and (3) Normative Commitment (M= 2,63; Neutral). In the study, a moderate level of negatively significant relationship was found between favouritism behaviours of school administrators and organizational commitment of teachers. (r = -.359, p < .01). The more favouritism behaviours of school administrators are, the less organizatioal commitment of teachers are.
Football Teams and Levels Supported by University Students
Authors: Karahuseyinoglu M. Fatih
Published: May 2019

Football and its propensity have been spread globally, leading to the division/unification of the masses. The prevalence of football in the world has been a source of many researches.The aim of the study is to determine the football team support levels of the university students and the football teams supported. The research “football team supported by university students and self-defined levels of follow-up (“fanatical”, “team supporter” and “football lover”) are different, based on the basic hypothesis. The opinion poll developed by the researchers for the purpose of the research consisted of five questions. The data transferred to the computer environment, as a result of the percent, frequency and Chi-Square analyses, provided literature support in the light of scientific data and resulted in general conclusions for the purposes of the research.The survey, which was developed by the researcher to test the hypothesis of the research, consisted of five questions aimed at determining the gender, age, class, supported football team and support level. They were asked to determine the level of support they considered appropriate after giving information about team support types such as “football lover”, “team supporter” and “fanatic”. Only their own information is included in the questions. These questions are for the opinions of university students.92) it is high. The data collection tool used in the study is a personal (opinion) data survey, not scale.893 university students attended the study in different departments, 68% of them were male. 40.4% of the participants support Galatasaray, 35.5% support Fenerbahce and 24.1% support Besiktas teams. The university students who define themselves as fanatic (26.4%) are less than those who define football fans (37.5%) and team supporters (36.1%).In a gender-based analysis, it was observed that the ratio of women who define themselves as fanatic was 8.4% in males and 35% in females. Different levels of follow-up between women and men are significant when compared to Chi-square analysis.Among the university students, it was observed that the fans of Galatasaray were more than the others. 28.8% of the Galatasaray, 27.4% of the Besiktas Fenerbahceliler 23% of them identified as fanatic.
Resource Letter TEP-1: Resources for Teaching Environmental Physics
Authors: Forinash Kyle , Whitten Barbara
Published: May 2019

The references in this Resource Letter provide an introduction to global environmental problems from a physics perspective. Books, journal articles, and websites are listed that examine the physics of fossil fuel consumption, renewable energy, nuclear power, biofuels, wind energy, photovoltaics, other solar energy, geothermal energy, energy storage, energy efficiency, energy returned on energy invested (ERORI), energy harvesting, embodied energy, and global warming. Additional references touch on scientific risk, environmental economics, political issues, food supply, water supply, social (gender and race) aspects of pollution, and fairness and equity in global environmental problems.
A low-frequency longitudinal vibration transducer with a helical slot structure
Authors: Bai Jiaai , Zhang Guangbin , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the authors design a longitudinal vibration transducer with a low resonance frequency and a large longitudinal amplitude by carving helical slots on the surface of the hollow cylinder front mass. The resonance frequency of the transducer is calculated by frequency equations obtained from the equivalent circuit of the transducer. A finite element model (FEM) of the transducer is set up, and it is used to compute the admittance and the longitudinal vibration amplitude of the transducer. The influences of the slot number, the width of the slot, the number of spires of the spring, and the helix pitch on the performance of the transducer are analyzed by numerical simulation. The simulation results show that the resonance frequency of the transducer with helical slots is much lower than that of the transducer without slots. A prototype transducer with helical slots is constructed, and the admittance and longitudinal vibration amplitude are measured experimentally. The measured resonance frequency of the transducer is in good agreement with the simulation results. The measured longitudinal vibration amplitude is lower than that computed by the FEM, which may be due to the damping of the materials.
Understanding Injuries in the Gaelic Sport of Camogie: The First National Survey of Self-Reported Worst Injuries
Authors: O’Connor Siobhán , Leahy Róisín , Whyte Enda , O’Donovan Paul , Fortington Lauren
Published: May 2019

Camogie is one of Ireland’s most popular sports, and the full contact nature presents a high potential for injury. This study aims to present the first overview of elite and nonelite camogie injuries by examining adult players’ self-reported worst injuries from one season. At least one injury was sustained by 88.2% of camogie players during the previous season and 60.0% sustained 2+ injuries. Knee and ankle ligaments, hamstring strains and hand/fingers/thumb fractures were key injuries identified, which can lead to substantive health and economic impacts. Further research to establish the mechanism of these injuries is required in order to start shaping potential measures for their prevention.
Greater Association of Relative Thresholds Than Absolute Thresholds With Noncontact Lower-Body Injury in Professional Australian Rules Footballers: Implications for Sprint Monitoring
Authors: O’Connor Fergus , Thornton Heidi R. , Ritchie Dean , Anderson Jay , Bull Lindsay , Rigby Alex , Leonard Zane , Stern Steven , Bartlett Jonathan D.
Published: May 2019

Sprint capacity is an important attribute for team-sport athletes, yet the most appropriate method to analyze it is unclear. Purpose: To examine the relationship between sprint workloads using relative versus absolute thresholds and lower-body soft-tissue and bone-stress injury incidence in professional Australian rules football. Methods: Fifty-three professional Australian rules football athletes’ noncontact soft-tissue and bone-stress lower-body injuries (N = 62) were recorded, and sprint workloads were quantified over ∼18 months using the global positioning system. Sprint volume (m) and exposures (n) were determined using 2 methods: absolute (>24.9 km·h−1) and relative (≥75%, ≥80%, ≥85%, ≥90%, ≥95% of maximal velocity). Relationships between threshold methods and injury incidence were assessed using logistic generalized additive models. Incidence rate ratios and model performances’ area under the curve were reported. Results: Mean (SD) maximal velocity for the group was 31.5 (1.4), range 28.6 to 34.9 km·h−1. In comparing relative and absolute thresholds, 75% maximal velocity equated to ~1.5 km·h−1 below the absolute speed threshold, while 80% and 85% maximal velocity were 0.1 and 1.7 km·h−1 above the absolute speed threshold, respectively. Model area under the curve ranged from 0.48 to 0.61. Very low and very high cumulative sprint loads ≥80% across a 4-week period, when measured relatively, resulted in higher incidence rate ratios (2.54–3.29), than absolute thresholds (1.18–1.58). Discussion: Monitoring sprinting volume relative to an athlete’s maximal velocity should be incorporated into athlete monitoring systems. Specifically, quantifying the distance covered at >80% maximal velocity will ensure greater accuracy in determining sprint workloads and associated injury risk.
Effects of Plyometric Versus Optimum Power Load Training on Components of Physical Fitness in Young Male Soccer Players
Authors: Ribeiro João , Teixeira Luís , Lemos Rui , Teixeira Anderson S. , Moreira Vitor , Silva Pedro , Nakamura Fábio Y.
Published: May 2019

Purpose: The current study aimed to compare the effects of plyometric (PT) versus optimum power load (OPL) training on physical performance of young high-level soccer players. Methods: Athletes were randomly divided into PT (horizontal and vertical drills) and OPL (squat + hip thrust exercises at the load of maximum power output) interventions, applied over 7 weeks during the in-season period. Squat and countermovement jumps, maximal sprint (10 and 30 m), and change of direction (COD; agility t test) were the pretraining and posttraining measured performance variables. Magnitude-based inference was used for within- and between-group comparisons. Results: OPL training induced moderate improvements in vertical squat jump (effect size [ES]: 0.97; 90% confidence interval [CI], 0.32–1.61) and countermovement jump (ES: 1.02; 90% CI, 0.46–1.57), 30-m sprint speed (ES: 1.02; 90% CI, 0.09–1.95), and COD performance (ES: 0.93; 90% CI, 0.50–1.36). After PT training method, vertical squat jump (ES: 1.08; 90% CI, 0.66–1.51) and countermovement jump (ES: 0.62; 90% CI, 0.18–1.06) were moderately increased, while small enhancements were noticed for 30-m sprint speed (ES: 0.21; 90% CI, −0.02 to 0.45) and COD performance (ES: 0.53; 90% CI, 0.24–0.81). The 10-m sprint speed possibly increased after PT intervention (small ES: 0.25; 90% CI, −0.05 to 0.54), but no substantial change (small ES: 0.36; 90% CI, −0.40 to 1.13) was noticed in OPL. For between-group analyses, the COD ability and 30-m sprint performances were possibly (small ES: 0.30; 90% CI, −0.20 to 0.81; Δ = +1.88%) and likely (moderate ES: 0.81; 90% CI, −0.16 to 1.78; Δ = +2.38%) more improved in the OPL than in the PT intervention, respectively. Conclusions: The 2 different training programs improved physical performance outcomes during the in-season period. However, the combination of vertically and horizontally based training exercises (squat + hip thrust) at optimum power zone led to superior gains in COD and 30-m linear sprint performances.
Does Anxiety Affect Neuropsychological Assessment in College Athletes?
Authors: Tomczyk Christopher P. , Shaver George , Hunt Tamerah N.
Published: May 2019

Clinical Scenario:Anxiety is a mental disorder that affects a large portion of the population and may be problematic when evaluating brain injuries such as concussion. The reliance of cognitive testing in concussion protocols call for the examination of potential cognitive alterations commonly seen in athletes with anxiety.Focused Clinical Question:Does anxiety affect neuropsychological assessments in healthy college athletes?Summary of Key Findings:Three studies were included: 1 cross-sectional study and 2 prospective cohort studies. One study examined the effect of a range of psychological issues on concussion baseline testing in college athletes. Another study examined the effect of anxiety on reaction time both before and after sport competition in college-aged athletes. The final study examined the effects of psychosocial issues on reaction time during demanding tasks in college athletes. The first study reported slower simple and complex reaction times in athletes with anxiety. The second study found that athletes with high trait anxiety have slower reaction times both before and after competition. The third study reported that demanding tasks led to increased state anxiety which slowed reaction time. Overall, all 3 studies support the adverse effect anxiety can have on cognitive testing in athletes.Clinical Bottom Line:College athletes who present with anxiety at baseline may be susceptible to decreased performance on neuropsychological assessments.Strength of Recommendation:There is level B evidence that anxiety in healthy college athletes can impact neuropsychological assessments, and level C evidence that anxiety at baseline concussion assessment impacts neuropsychological testing in college athletes.
Effect of Rest Duration Between Static Stretching on Passive Stiffness of Medial Gastrocnemius Muscle In Vivo
Authors: Nakamura Masatoshi , Sato Shigeru , Kiyono Ryosuke , Takahashi Nobushige , Yoshida Tomoichi
Published: May 2019

Context: In clinical and sports settings, static stretching (SS) is usually performed to increase range of motion (ROM) and decrease passive muscle stiffness. Recently, the shear elastic modulus was measured by ultrasonic shear wave elastography as an index of muscle stiffness. Previous studies reported that the shear elastic modulus measured by ultrasound shear wave elastography decreased after SS, and the effects of SS on shear elastic modulus were likely affected by rest duration between sets of SS. Objective: To investigate the acute effects of SS with different rest durations on ROM and shear elastic modulus of gastrocnemius and to clarify whether the rest duration between sets of SS decreases the shear elastic modulus. Design: A randomized, repeated-measures experimental design. Setting: University laboratory. Participants: Sixteen healthy males volunteered to participate in the study (age 21.3 [0.8] y; height 171.8 [5.1] cm; weight 63.1 [4.5] kg). Main Outcome Measures: Each participant underwent 3 different rest interval durations during SS (ie, long rest duration: 90 s; normal rest duration: 30 s; and short rest duration: 10 s). This SS technique was repeated 10 times, thus lasting a total of 300 seconds with different rest durations in each protocol. The dorsiflexion ROM and shear elastic modulus were measured before and after SS. Results: Our results revealed that dorsiflexion ROM and shear elastic modulus were changed after 300-second SS; however, no effects of the rest duration between sets of SS were observed. Conclusions: In terms of decreasing the shear elastic modulus, clinicians and coaches should not focus on the rest duration when SS intervention is performed.
Athletes Play Through Pain—What Does That Mean for Rehabilitation Specialists?
Authors: Barrette Amy , Harman Katherine
Published: May 2019

Context:Pain in sport has been normalized to the point where athletes are expected to ignore pain and remain in the game despite the possible detrimental consequences associated with playing through pain. While rehabilitation specialists may not have an influence on an athlete’s competitive nature or the culture of risk they operate in, understanding the consequences of those factors on an athlete’s physical well-being is definitely in their area of responsibility.Objective:To explore the factors associated with the experiences of subelite athletes who play through pain in gymnastics, rowing, and speed skating.Design:The authors conducted semistructured interviews with subelite athletes, coaches, and rehabilitation specialists. They recruited coach participants through their provincial sport organization. Athletes of the recruited coaches who were recovering from a musculoskeletal injury and training for a major competition were then recruited. They also recruited rehabilitation specialists who were known to treat subelite athletes independently by e-mail.Setting:An observation session was conducted at the athlete’s training facility. Interviews were then conducted either in a room at the university or at a preferred sound-attenuated location suggested by the participant.Participants:The authors studied 5 coaches, 4 subelite athletes, and 3 rehabilitation specialists.Interventions:The authors photographed athletes during a practice shortly before an important competition, and we interviewed all the participants after that competition. Our photographs were used during the interview to stimulate discussion.Results:The participant interviews revealed 3 main themes related to playing through pain. They are:Listening to your body,Decision making,andWho decides.Conclusion:When subelite athletes, striving to be the best in their sport continue to train with the pain of an injury, performance is affected in the short-term and long-term consequences are also possible. Our study provides some insight into the contrasting forces that athletes balance as they decide to continue or to stop.
Reliability and Validity of an Innovative Device for ACL Testing: The Mobil-Aider™
Authors: Gulick Dawn T.
Published: May 2019

Background: Knee disorders prevalence is estimated at more than 50% in a lifetime. There are over 250,000 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries per year in the United States. There are over 175,000 ACL reconstructions annually. This study was a double-blinded design to establish the reliability and validity of a new orthopedic device to measure linear translation of the tibia on the femur (ACL testing). Methods: A Zeiss Smartzoom microscope was used as the gold standard to assess the ability of the Mobil-Aider™ to measure linear translation. Sixty blinded measures were taken with each of 6 different devices. Results: Both the intraclass correlation and the Pearson correlation were .986. The Cronbach alpha reliability analysis was 0.992. Independent 1-sample t tests were performed on the differences between the Mobil-Aider™ and Zeiss values, and were not found to be significant (P = .42); that is, they were the same. Bland–Altman plot and a linear regression revealed no propositional bias. Finally, with 360 measures over 6 devices, the power of this study was calculated to be 100%. Discussion: This data are the first step in establishing reliability and concurrent validity of a new device. As a result of the current data, the Mobil-Aider™ device is deemed a promising orthopedic tool for use in assessing the laxity of the ACL. Additional testing needs to be performed on both healthy and injured knees. Conclusions: There is potential for the Mobil-Aider™ to contribute to the assessment of ACL injuries, but additional human testing is needed.