bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mendelian Randomization using Public Data from Genetic Consortia
Authors: Thompson John R. , Minelli Cosetta , Del Greco M Fabiola
Published: April 2016

Mendelian randomization (MR) is a technique that seeks to establish causation between an exposure and an outcome using observational data. It is an instrumental variable analysis in which genetic variants are used as the instruments. Many consortia have meta-analysed genome-wide associations between variants and specific traits and made their results publicly available. Using such data, it is possible to derive genetic risk scores for one trait and to deduce the association of that same risk score with a second trait. The properties of this approach are investigated by simulation and by evaluating the potentially causal effect of birth weight on adult glucose level. In such analyses, it is important to decide whether one is interested in the risk score based on a set of estimated regression coefficients or the score based on the true underlying coefficients. MR is primarily concerned with the latter. Methods designed for the former question will under-estimate the variance if used for MR. This variance can be corrected but it needs to be done with care to avoid introducing bias. MR based on public data sources is useful and easy to perform, but care must be taken to avoid false precision or bias.
“A rather small genre”: Arabic Works Against Non-Muslim State Officials
Authors: Yarbrough Luke
Published: April 2016

Muslim authors composed a number of polemics against the employment of non-Muslim state officials in thirteenth- and fourteenth-century Egypt and Syria. This essay argues that the majority of these works drew directly or indirectly on a previously unremarked sixth/twelfth century common source. Although the common source cannot yet be securely identified, its existence and influence have significant implications for historians’ understanding of interreligious tensions in late medieval Egypt and Syria and for the
Vicissitudes of a Holy Place: Construction, Destruction and Commemoration of Mashhad Ḥusayn in Ascalon
Authors: Talmon-Heller Daniella , Kedar Benjamin Z. , Reiter Yitzhak
Published: April 2016

This article follows the transmutations of narratives, material structures and rituals focused on Mashhad Ḥusayn. It begins with the alleged discovery of the head of the martyred grandson of the Prophet by the Ismāʿīlī Fāṭimids at the end of the eleventh century in Ascalon, spans the millennium and ends with the recent revival of pilgrimage to the site, dominated by tourists affiliated with the Bohra Dāʾūdiyya. It is based on medieval and modern historical, ethnographical and geographical accounts, hagiography, epigraphy, archaeology, travelers’ and pilgrims’ itineraries, state and military archives, maps, photographs and oral accounts. The establishment of the shrine in Ascalon, the transferal of the relic to Cairo and the visitation of the site under the Sunni Ayyubids, Mamluks and Ottomans are studied in their political and religious contexts. The final part of the article explores the development of a Palestinian popular celebration (
Choice of scalar measure for crystal curvature to image dislocation substructure in terms of discrete orientation data
Authors: Zisman Alexander
Published: April 2016

Starting from Nye’s tensor, alternative characteristics of crystal curvature indicative of dislocation content are considered subject to very low thickness of investigated matter under the free surface and discreteness of orientation sampling. Analysis within the framework of continuum mechanics, undertaken to allow for such conditions peculiar to the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique, has shown the variable part of orientations expressed in a vector form to be most sensitive to lattice defects when projected to the free surface plane. Hence, as verified with EBSD data on a grain junction in a low deformed IF steel, magnitude of the projected field allows one to map plastic strains inhomogeneous within grains whereas divergence of this field distinctly images and quantifies low-angle dislocation boundaries formed at low strains.
Frequency of thyroid status monitoring in the first year of life and predictors for more frequent monitoring in infants with congenital hypothyroidism
Authors: Zdraveska Nikolina , Anastasovska Violeta , Kocova Mirjana
Published: April 2016

The essential role of thyroid hormones for normal brain development during a critical period of life is well established. Neonatal screening programs for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) enable early detection of patients and attainment of euthyroid status as quickly as possible. Adequate and accurate monitoring of thyroid function is necessary. In the study we aimed to determine the periodicity of thyroid function testing in the first year of life (3-month intervals versus <3-month intervals monitoring).

We retrospectively analyzed charts of CH children from Macedonia detected on neonatal screening during a 3-year period (2011–2014). Needs for monthly thyroid monitoring were defined according to the recommendations: a dose change within a month of a previous control, values of T

Monthly thyroid testing was indicated in more than a third of CH patients during the first year of life. Children who needed more frequent monitoring intervals had a higher initial value of TSH (p=0.032) and a lower value of T

Children with severe hypothyroidism at birth are potential candidates for more frequent thyroid monitoring during the first year of life, although the individual patient approach should not be avoided as variations in TSH values are very common.
Anreizeffekte von Studiengebühren in der Hochschulbildung
Authors: Prinz Aloys , Horstkötter André
Published: April 2016

Tuition fees – as they are now possible in the German system of higher education – may change the behaviour of students. To analyse these reactions more rigorously, a microeconomic decision model is constructed. It consists of two periods: in the first one, students invest in their human capital by studying a fixed period of time. The student’s decision problem is to choose between three time-consuming activities: the intensity of study, working in the labour market and enjoying leisure. In the second period, former students are assumed to use their human capital for earning a living by working. The wage they realise depends on the intensity of study in the first period. Incorporating a tuition fee into this model, it is analysed how the allocation of the student´s time between studying, working and leisure will change as well as how the demand for credit will be adjusted.
Originalität durch Unverschämtheit?
Authors: Prinz Aloys
Published: April 2016

The objective of this paper is to understand certain developments in contemporary arts from an economic point of view. The peculiarity of art is its aesthetic quality in combination with its value as an investment object. Accordingly, four segments of the art market may be distinguished: warehouse art, business art, connoisseur art and high art. Because of their high aesthetic quality, only the last two segments of the market are of interest in this paper. On the market for high art, a dominance of investors is to be expected because this art has to please the average taste of investors. The market for connoisseur art will be dominated by an art elite which is merely interested in aesthetic quality. One of the crucial elements of contemporary art is its chutzpah. The economic reason for this is the necessity to attract interest. This aspect of modern art is seen as a common feature of art and marketing. This may explain the alliances between art and enterprises as well as the blur of the boundaries between art, fashion and design.
Mobilterminierung im Wettbewerb
Authors: Kruse Jörn
Published: April 2016

The regulatory agencies found mobile termination to be monopolistic and adopted a policy of ex ante price regulation in recent years. This paper discusses two structural alternatives putting mobile termination under competitive pressure. The first one is the “receiving-party-pays-principle” where mobile termination is a part of the service bundle puchased by the mobile customer. The second is the proposal of a “mobile termination competition”. It turns mobile termination into a specific competitive market and looks like the optimal economic answer to the mobile termination problem. It works on the consumer as well as on the wholesale level.
Auf der Speisekarte der DPAG: Rechtliche oder ökonomische Marktzutrittsschranken?
Authors: Wein Thomas
Published: April 2016

The liberalization of the German Markets for postal services which have been realized with the beginning of 2008 was politically combined with the introduction of minimum wage legislation. This minimum wage increases the labour costs of the competitors without reaching the cost level of the incumbent. The industrial economic analysis shows that the minimum wage is able to prevent market entries. But the minimum wage legislation is under attack by administrative courts and some political parties. Hence, it is possible that the minimum wage for postal services will be shortly abolished. An alternative to the minimum wage could be the using of existing economies of scale and scope by the incumbent to squeeze the competitors out of the market.
A cooperative game theory of town walls
Authors: Wiese Harald
Published: April 2016

This paper is a contribution to economic geography that leans on cooperative game theory. In particular, we envision towns (that are protected by walls) versus countryside where such protection is missing. An extension also provides a basic theory of when trading routes will be protected.
Welchen Einfluss hat das Humankapital auf das Wirtschaftswachstum?
Authors: Nguyen Tristan , Pfleiderer Matthias
Published: April 2016

In the empirical research of economic growth, different kinds of measuring factors (quantitative and qualitative) are used for the measurement of human resources. In this essay, we deal with the question which influence on economic growth the quantitative and qualitative measuring factors of human resources have and whether possible correlations can be proved empirically. Furthermore, the political-economic question is analyzed whether the quantity of education should be increased or measures to improve the education quality should be used. We find out that also non-economic, qualitative factors make an important contribution to the improvement of school education and with that the country’s economic development.
Was sind die richtigen Rentenabschläge? – neue Perspektiven
Authors: Gasche Martin
Published: April 2016

The correct adjustment of pension benefits when postponing retirement is calculated by three „income-oriented“ approaches: the incentive-neutral approach, the budget-neutral approach and as an innovation the return-neutral approach. It turns out, that the three approaches differ just in their underlying discount rate but not in their method of calculation. In addition it can be shown, that the incentive-neutral approach leads to incentive neutrality when the implicit taxation of contributions is equal to the implicit taxation of the early retirement pension. The correct adjustment factors were also calculated for those cases, where the relevant alternative for early retirement is unemployment or not to continue work.

As an alternative to the income-oriented approaches the utility-based approach is presented. In this case the results strongly depend on the underlying utility function and the parametric values. Overall, the statutory adjustment factor of 3,6 % per year tends to be too low applying the income-oriented approaches. Using the utility-based approach, the calculated adjustment rates can be seen as too high or too low, depending on the assumptions on the utility function and the parameter constellation.
Study of surface defects and crystallinity of MWCNTs growth in FCCVD
Authors: Shukrullah Shazia , Mohamed Norani Muti , Shaharun Maizatul Shima , Naz Muhammad Yasin
Published: April 2016

This research investigated the structural growth of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in a double stage horizontal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor. Ethylene was used as a carbon source for nucleation of nanotubes. Ferrocene catalyst weight was varied from 0.1 to 0.2 g to demonstrate the growth of MWCNTs on Si/SiO2/Al2O3 substrate. The obtained data revealed that the weight of the catalyst significantly affects the diameter, crystallinity, alignment and yield of the nanotubes. Lower inner-shell spacing and the ratio of D-Raman peak intensity and G-Raman peak intensity (ID/IG ratio) were obtained with 0.15 g of ferrocene, which was an indication of relatively pure carbon nanotubes (CNTs) growth. Raman spectra also confirmed the highly crystalline and relatively pure CNTs structures with ID/IG ratio of 0.700. TGA data revealed the formation of 97% pure nanotubes with oxidation temperature of 620°C. However, above and below the optimum (0.15 g of ferrocene), some of the grown CNTs were found defective and few black spots were also seen in TEM micrographs.
Investigation of viscoelastic properties and thermal behavior of photocurable epoxy acrylate nanocomposites
Authors: Hadavand Behzad Shirkavand , Hosseini Hossein
Published: April 2016

In this study, the dynamic-mechanical properties and thermal behavior of the nanocomposites of a photocurable epoxy-acrylate resin and CuO nanohybrid were determined. In order to improve the dispersion of CuO nanoparticles and prevention of nanoparticle migration to the surface coating, the surface of commercial nanoparticles was modified by triethoxymethylsilane (TEMS) and vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS) as silane-coupling agents. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) tests were then performed on CuO-filled epoxy-acrylate resins to identify the loading effect on the properties of material. The thermal stability of nanocomposites was affected slightly after incorporation of CuO nanoparticles. DMA studies revealed that filling the CuO nanoparticles into epoxy-acrylate resin can produce a significant enhancement in storage modulus, as well as a shift in the glass transition temperature. The films reinforced with the modified CuO exhibit the most significant enhancements in properties.
Weise Sorge um die Frau auf der „Woche“
Authors: Möst Maria Anna
Published: April 2016

Nachsorge ist Vorsorge. Zu Recht lenkt der Anstieg psychischer Probleme von Müttern im ersten Jahr post partum den Blick auf die häusliche Fürsorge. Da in Deutschland 98 % aller Geburten in Kliniken stattfinden, verdient auch die knappbefristete Sorge um stationäre „Wöchnerinnen“ Beachtung. Auf der Wochenstation, kurz: auf der „Woche“, erleben sie ihre nächste Stufe eines monatelangen Übergangs zur neuen Mutter-Identität. Der Artikel eruiert psychosomatische Erkenntnisse über diese kritische Schwellensituation. Die Gefahr bio-psycho-sozialer Fehlentwicklungen und daraus folgender existentieller Nöte ruft alle relevanten Gesundheitsberufe zur Aufmerksamkeit auf latent zukünftig Gefährdete ebenso wie auf akut von existentiellen Krisen Betroffene. Unbewältigte innere Krisen sind von vorübergehenden postpartalen Turbulenzen zu unterscheiden. Eine weise Sorge zeichnet sich durch die Offenheit für unergründliche Tiefen im perinatal kritischen Erleben aus.
Graded Exposure for Chronic Low Back Pain in Older Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Leonhardt Corinna , Kuss Katrin , Becker Annette , Basler Heinz-Dieter , de Jong Jeroen , Flatau Brigitta , Laekeman Marjan , Mattenklodt Peter , Schuler Matthias , Vlaeyen Johan , Quint Sabine
Published: April 2016

Background and Purpose:

Fear-avoidance beliefs in older adults with chronic low back pain (CLBP) can lead to disability. Graded exposure-based active physical therapy could be an option to enhance physical ability in older patients with CLBP. The purpose of this study was to develop a standardized graded exposure treatment according to the fear-avoidance model of musculoskeletal pain for older patients with CLBP and to examine its effectiveness and feasibility in the German health care system.

Methods:

The study represents a phase I/phase II trial of a complex intervention. Taking a first step into the hierarchy of growing empirical evidence, a prospective 1-factor observational study was conducted with repeated measurements 1 week before and within 2 weeks after the intervention. Three physical therapists, who completed an introductory workshop, provided the treatment in the form of individual therapies. Sixteen participants 65 years or older with CLBP and perceived physical limitations were recruited. Four patient-reported outcome measures and semistructured interviews were conducted. The primary outcome was physical ability measured with the Hanover Functional Ability Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were the numerical pain rating scale, and an age-specific and adapted 11-item short-form of the Patient Anxiety Symptom Scale, the KVS-D 65+, which quantified catastrophizing and avoidance beliefs. Fear of falling was measured with the Falls Efficacy Scale-International. For the analysis, Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired samples and an α level of .05 were chosen. For the qualitative evaluation, semistructured interviews were conducted with the patients and physical therapists explored indicators of feasibility such as demands, acceptability, satisfaction, adaptation needs, and implementation. For content analysis, codes were primarily derived deductively and complemented by inductively derived new themes.

Results:

A significant increase in physical ability after the treatment was observed with an effect size (ES) of 0.95 (P = .008). With regard to secondary outcomes, there was a statistically significant decrease in pain intensity (P = .029) and a reduction in catastrophizing (ES = 0.91; P = .021) and avoidance beliefs (ES = 1.37; P = .001). The interviews revealed good acceptance and satisfaction of the treatment by the patients and physical therapists.

Conclusion:

On the whole, the treatment appears effective and feasible. Apart from the benefits achieved by the participants, the study provides a basis for designing future studies at a higher level of evidence.
Physical and Physiological Responses of Amateur Football Players on Third-Generation Artificial Turf Systems During Simulated Game Situations
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Javier , García-Unanue Jorge , Felipe José L. , Jiménez-Reyes Pedro , Viejo-Romero David , Gómez-López Maite , Hernando Enrique , Burillo Pablo , Gallardo Leonor
Published: April 2016

Sánchez-Sánchez, J, García-Unanue, J, Felipe, JL, Jiménez-Reyes, P, Viejo-Romero, D, Gómez-López, M, Hernando, E, Burillo, P, and Gallardo, L. Physical and physiological responses of amateur football players on third generation artificial turf systems during simulated game situations. J Strength Cond Res 30(11): 3165–3177, 2016—The aim of this study is to evaluate the physical and physiological load imposed on amateur football players in a simulated game situation on different artificial turf systems. For that purpose, 20 football players (21.65 ± 3.10 year old) were monitored with Global Positioning Systems and heart rate bands during 45-minutes games on 4 selected artificial turf systems. The results show more covered distance in high-intensity ranges on the system with lower levels of damping and higher rates of rotational traction (p ≤ 0.05). Likewise, this system of artificial turf demonstrated a high number of sprints (12.65 ± 5.67) and more elevated maximum speed peaks during the last part of the game (28.16 ± 2.90 km·h−1) in contrast to the systems with better damping capacity (p ≤ 0.05). On the other hand, the physiological load was similar across the 4 artificial turf systems (p > 0.05). Finally, the regression analysis demonstrated a significant influence of the mechanical properties of the surface on global distance (15.4%), number (12.6%), and maximum speed (16.6%) of the sprints. To conclude, the mechanical variability of the artificial turf systems resulted in differences in the activity profiles and the players' perceptions during simulated football games.
Change of Direction Deficit: A More Isolated Measure of Change of Direction Performance Than Total 505 Time
Authors: Nimphius Sophia , Callaghan Samuel J. , Spiteri Tania , Lockie Robert G.
Published: April 2016

Nimphius, S, Callaghan, SJ, Spiteri, T, and Lockie, RG. Change of direction deficit: A more isolated measure of change of direction performance than total 505 time. J Strength Cond Res 30 (11): 3024–3032, 2016—Most change of direction (COD) tests use total time to evaluate COD performance. This makes it difficult to identify COD ability because the majority of time is a function of linear running. The COD deficit has been proposed as a practical measure to isolate COD ability independent of sprint speed. This study evaluated relationships between sprint time, 505 time, and COD deficit, and whether the COD deficit identified a different and more isolated measure of COD ability compared with 505 time. Seventeen cricketers performed the 505 for both left and right sides and 30-m sprint tests (with 10-m split time). The COD deficit for both sides was calculated as the difference between average 505 and 10-m time. Correlations were calculated between all variables (p ≤ 0.05). To compare 505 time and COD deficit, z-scores were calculated; the difference in these scores was evaluated for each subject. The COD deficit correlated to 505 (r = 0.74–0.81) but not sprint time (r = −0.11 to 0.10). In contrast, 505 time did correlate with sprint time (r = 0.52–0.70). Five of 17 subjects were classified differently for COD ability when comparing standardized scores for 505 time vs. COD deficit. Most subjects (88–94%) had a meaningful difference between 505 time and COD deficit. Using 505 time to determine COD ability may result in a large amount of replication to linear speed assessments. The COD deficit may be a practical tool to better isolate and identify an athlete's ability to change direction.
Preseason Functional Movement Screen Component Tests Predict Severe Contact Injuries in Professional Rugby Union Players
Authors: Tee Jason C. , Klingbiel Jannie F.G. , Collins Robert , Lambert Mike I. , Coopoo Yoga
Published: April 2016

Tee, JC, Klingbiel, JFG, Collins, R, Lambert, MI, and Coopoo, Y. Preseason Functional Movement Screen component tests predict severe contact injuries in professional rugby union players. J Strength Cond Res 30(11): 3194–3203, 2016—Rugby union is a collision sport with a relatively high risk of injury. The ability of the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) or its component tests to predict the occurrence of severe (≥28 days) injuries in professional players was assessed. Ninety FMS test observations from 62 players across 4 different time periods were compared with severe injuries sustained during 6 months after FMS testing. Mean composite FMS scores were significantly lower in players who sustained severe injury (injured 13.2 ± 1.5 vs. noninjured 14.5 ± 1.4, Effect Size = 0.83, large) because of differences in in-line lunge (ILL) and active straight leg raise scores (ASLR). Receiver-operated characteristic curves and 2 × 2 contingency tables were used to determine that ASLR (cut-off 2/3) was the injury predictor with the greatest sensitivity (0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.79–1.0). Adding the ILL in combination with ASLR (ILL + ASLR) improved the specificity of the injury prediction model (ASLR specificity = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.18–0.43 vs. ASLR + ILL specificity = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.39–0.66, p ≤ 0.05). Further analysis was performed to determine whether FMS tests could predict contact and noncontact injuries. The FMS composite score and various combinations of component tests (deep squat [DS] + ILL, ILL + ASLR, and DS + ILL + ASLR) were all significant predictors of contact injury. The FMS composite score also predicted noncontact injury, but no component test or combination thereof produced a similar result. These findings indicate that low scores on various FMS component tests are risk factors for injury in professional rugby players.
An Analysis of the Pacing Strategies Adopted by Elite Cross-Country Skiers
Authors: Losnegard Thomas , Kjeldsen Kasper , Skattebo Øyvind
Published: April 2016

Losnegard, T, Kjeldsen, K, and Skattebo, Ø. An analysis of the pacing strategies adopted by elite cross-country skiers. J Strength Cond Res 30(11): 3256–3260, 2016—Understanding the pacing strategies used by the most successful skiers may provide insight into the most desirable pacing approach in cross-country (XC) skiing. This study examined the pacing strategies adopted by male and female XC skiers of different performance standards during 10 and 15 km races in World Cup, World Championships, and Olympic events. Analyses were performed on races involving 5 km laps in the men's 15 km (number of races = 22) and the women's 10 km (n = 14) individual start races (classic and freestyle) from season 2002/2003 to season 2013/2014. Final rank and lap times for the 40 top finishers in each race were analyzed. Both sexes demonstrated a positive pacing pattern shown by a decline in velocity from the first to the last lap (men: 6.76 ± 0.43 m·s−1 vs. 6.47 ± 0.46 m·s−1; p < 0.001; women: 6.0 ± 0.47 m·s−1 vs. 5.87 ± 0.53 m·s−1; p < 0.001). For the men, slower skiers (final ranking 21st–30th and 31st–40th) were characterized by a quick start relative to their average velocity, with a greater decrease during the race compared with the fastest skiers (1st–10th) (p = 0.007 and p < 0.001, respectively). For the women, no group differences in pacing strategy were found. In conclusion, this study shows that the pacing strategy indicates the standard of elite male XC skiers. Examining the pacing strategies of the best male performers suggests that lower-performing male skiers should consider a more even pacing strategy to improve their performance.
Assessment of Fatigue and Recovery in Male and Female Athletes After 6 Days of Intensified Strength Training
Authors: Raeder Christian , Wiewelhove Thimo , Simola Rauno Álvaro De Paula , Kellmann Michael , Meyer Tim , Pfeiffer Mark , Ferrauti Alexander
Published: April 2016

Raeder, C, Wiewelhove, T, Simola, RÁDP, Kellmann, M, Meyer, T, Pfeiffer, M, and Ferrauti, A. Assessment of fatigue and recovery in male and female athletes after 6 days of intensified strength training. J Strength Cond Res 30(12): 3412–3427, 2016—This study aimed to analyze changes of neuromuscular, physiological, and perceptual markers for routine assessment of fatigue and recovery in high-resistance strength training. Fourteen male and 9 female athletes participated in a 6-day intensified strength training microcycle (STM) designed to purposefully overreach. Maximal dynamic strength (estimated 1 repetition maximum [1RMest]; criterion measure of fatigue and recovery); maximal voluntary isometric strength (MVIC); countermovement jump (CMJ) height; multiple rebound jump (MRJ) height; jump efficiency (reactive strength index, RSI); muscle contractile properties using tensiomyography including muscle displacement (Dm), delay time (Td), contraction time (Tc), and contraction velocity (V90); serum concentration of creatine kinase (CK); perceived muscle soreness (delayed-onset muscle soreness, DOMS) and perceived recovery (physical performance capability, PPC); and stress (MS) were measured before and after the STM and after 3 days of recovery. After completing the STM, there were significant (p ≤ 0.05) performance decreases in 1RMest (%∆ ± 90% confidence limits, ES = effect size; −7.5 ± 3.5, ES = −0.21), MVIC (−8.2 ± 4.9, ES = −0.24), CMJ (−6.4 ± 2.1, ES = −0.34), MRJ (−10.5 ± 3.3, ES = −0.66), and RSI (−11.2 ± 3.8, ES = −0.73), as well as significantly reduced muscle contractile properties (Dm, −14.5 ± 5.3, ES = −0.60; V90, −15.5 ± 4.9, ES = −0.62). After days of recovery, a significant return to baseline values could be observed in 1RMest (4.3 ± 2.8, ES = 0.12), CMJ (5.2 ± 2.2, ES = 0.28), and MRJ (4.9 ± 3.8, ES = 0.32), whereas RSI (−7.9 ± 4.5, ES = −0.50), Dm (−14.7 ± 4.8, ES = −0.61), and V90 (−15.3 ± 4.7, ES = −0.66) remained significantly reduced. The STM also induced significant changes of large practical relevance in CK, DOMS, PPC, and MS before to after training and after the recovery period. The markers Td and Tc remained unaffected throughout the STM. Moreover, the accuracy of selected markers for assessment of fatigue and recovery in relation to 1RMest derived from a contingency table was inadequate. Correlational analyses also revealed no significant relationships between changes in 1RMest and all analyzed markers. In conclusion, mean changes of performance markers and CK, DOMS, PPC, and MS may be attributed to STM-induced fatigue and subsequent recovery. However, given the insufficient accuracy of markers for differentiation between fatigue and recovery, their potential applicability needs to be confirmed at the individual level.
Strength and Conditioning Practices of University and High School Level Cricket Coaches: A South African Context
Authors: Pote Lee , Christie Candice J.
Published: April 2016

Pote, L and Christie, CJ. Strength and conditioning practices of University and high school level cricket coaches: a South African context. J Strength Cond Res 30(12): 3464–3470, 2016—Although the sport of cricket is well established, the strength and conditioning practices of cricket players are not well known. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the current strength and conditioning practices that coaches implement for South African schoolboy and University level cricket players. An online survey, adapted from previous strength and conditioning questionnaires, was sent to 38 schoolboy and 12 University teams that participated in the top competitions in the country (n = 50). Of these, 24 replied indicating a response rate of 48%. Results indicated that although some forms of conditioning, workload monitoring and injury prevention were being implemented, the correct practices were not being administered. Furthermore, it was identified that most coaches had insufficient qualifications and experience to administer the correct training techniques. It was concluded that coaches require further education so that scientifically based training programs can be implemented. This was deemed particularly necessary for adolescent bowlers who are at an increased risk of injury, specifically in the lower back region.
Functional Movement Screen Factorial Validity and Measurement Invariance Across Sex Among Collegiate Student-Athletes
Authors: Gnacinski Stacy L. , Cornell David J. , Meyer Barbara B. , Arvinen-Barrow Monna , Earl-Boehm Jennifer E.
Published: April 2016

Gnacinski, SL, Cornell, DJ, Meyer, BB, Arvinen-Barrow, M, and Earl-Boehm, JE. Functional Movement Screen factorial validity and measurement invariance across sex among collegiate student-athletes. J Strength Cond Res 30(12): 3388–3395, 2016—The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a screening tool used to evaluate functional movement quality and subsequent musculoskeletal injury risk. Despite recent research on the factorial validity of the FMS, no confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) has been conducted to examine measurement invariance across sex among student-athletes. The primary purpose of the current study was to confirm the factor structure of the FMS measurement model in a collegiate student-athlete population. It was hypothesized that the 1-factor model would demonstrate better model fit than the recently proposed 2-factor model. The secondary purpose of the study was to examine FMS measurement invariance across sex using the previously identified measurement model. It was hypothesized that FMS measurement invariance would hold across sex. Male (n = 88) and female (n = 88) collegiate student-athletes completed FMS screening during the off-season. Factorial validity was examined using CFA procedures, and model parameters were estimated using maximum likelihood estimation. Measurement invariance was examined by comparison of fit indices between hierarchically constrained models. Results revealed support for both the 1- and the 2-factor models; however, the 2-factor model failed to fit the data significantly better than the 1-factor model. Results also indicated that measurement invariance did not hold across sex, indicating that the FMS sum score construct is not measured equivalently in male and female populations. Collectively, results provide evidence for the use of the unidimensional FMS sum score among collegiate student-athletes, yet prompt caution because it relates to the evaluation of sex differences in sum or movement pattern scores.
To Wreck a State
Authors: Benjamin Amy Baker
Published: April 2016

The Responsibility to Protect Doctrine (R2P), a modernized version of the doctrine of Humanitarian Intervention, seemed to gain growing acceptance amongst scholars and statesmen during the first decade of the twenty-first century. When Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi faced an insurgency against his rule in 2011, R2P was deployed as the legal justification for the United Nations’ intervention in Libya via NATO, which resulted in the elimination of the Gaddafi regime. However, in the five years since the intervention, Libya has devolved into a broken and failed state. Its social and economic demise raises the question: Should there be consequences in international law for “wrecking” a state, provided the wrecking is accomplished through the pretextual and fraudulent use of humanitarian concerns? This Article answers this question in the affirmative, and proposes the recognition of a new crime in international law, “aggression-by-pretense,” to be prosecuted at the international level in the International Criminal Court. It explores the key theoretical and practical dimensions of this new crime, moving us past the long and somewhat tired debate over the wisdom of R2P and toward an exploration of the concrete legal consequences that should ensue for the world’s statesmen in the event R2P is abused.
Supreme Court’s Treatment of Drug Detection Dogs Doesn’t Pass the Sniff Test
Authors: Slaughter Matthew
Published: April 2016

The current Supreme Court approach to the nuances involved in drug detection dogs is fundamentally flawed. The Supreme Court has allowed, on the evidentiary front, the introduction of unscientific evidence into law enforcement practices, which allows officers to disregard traditional Fourth Amendment protections. As Justice Souter stated in Illinois v. Cabellas, “[T]he sniff alert does not necessarily signal hidden contraband, and opening the container or enclosed space whose emanations the dog has sensed will not necessarily reveal contraband or any other evidence of crime.”

The Courts classification of drug detection dogs in Caballes as sui generis is unsubstantiated. The Court in Caballes also determined that a dog sniff alone was sufficient to establish probable cause for a physical search inside a vehicle. The Court should revise this treatment and consider alternative proposals. Additionally the Court’s reliance in Florida v. Harris on blanket terms such as “bona fide organization” and “training program” illustrates the Justices’ incomprehension of the complexities involved in such a process. Finally, the Court in Harris inappropriately dismissed the very real financial incentive law enforcement has to maintain detection dogs that over-alert.
Is Preoperative Eosinopenia an Independent Predictor of Early Mortality for Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery?
Authors: Korkmaz Özge , Kaya Hakki , Beton Osman , Zorlu Ali , Göksel Sabahattin , Gül Müslim , İnce İlker , Berkan Öcal , Yılmaz Mehmet Birhan
Published: April 2016

Objective: Coronary artery bypass graft surgery in one of the most effective and widely used methods employed in the treatment of ischemic heart disease, but many factors to various degrees are directly associated with perioperative and postoperative problems. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between preoperative eosinophil count and postoperative mortality in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft operation.
Methods: A total of 241 patients (157 males, 84 females) who underwent isolated on-pump coronary artery bypass graft operation between 2011 and 2013 in two centers were evaluated retrospectively. The mean age of patients was 64 ± 11 years. After the mean 6.2 ± 0.8 month follow-up period,
36 (15%) of the 241 patients experienced cardiovascular death. Patients were classified into two groups as those who survived versus those who died.
Results: Eosinophil levels were lower among the patients who died compared to the patients who survived (0.8 [0-3.8] versus 1.7 [0-9.4] ×1000 cells/mm3; P < .001). Optimal cut-off level of eosinophils for predicting mortality was determined as ≤1.6 ×1000 cells/mm3, with a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 51.0% (area under curve, 0.703; 95% CI, 0.641-0.760).
Conclusion: Eosinopenia was used as the predictor of mortality in pediatric and adult patients in the intensive care units. Eosinopenia after coronary artery bypass graft can be related to the endogenous stress hormones, and insufficiency of the existing cardiac status. Eosinophil levels can assist and facilitate risk stratification for patients with coronary artery bypass graft.
Bankenabwicklung nach dem SAG
Authors: Thole Christoph
Published: April 2016

Mit den Neuregelungen zur Sanierung und Abwicklung von Banken (BRRD, SRM-VO und SAG) ist das Bankeninsolvenzrecht auf eine einheitliche Grundlage gestellt worden. Der praktische Wert der eingeführten Abwicklungsmaßnahmen, insbesondere des sog. bail-in, muss sich indes noch beweisen. Nachdem sich die wissenschaftliche Diskussion bisher auf die grundsätzlichen rechtspolitischen Fragen fokussiert hat, ist es nunmehr an der Zeit, die komplexen Neuregelungen auch in ihren Details stärker zu untersuchen. Der Beitrag unternimmt es, die im SAG vorgesehenen Abwicklungsmaßnahmen vorzustellen und erste konkrete Auslegungs- und Zweifelsfragen der gesetzlichen Regelungen zu identifizieren.
CONTROLLING MICROBIAL GROWTH IN INNOVATIVE DIETARY SUPPLEMENT BASED ON THE BIOMASS OF YEAST YARROWIA LIPOLYTICA
Authors: Białas Wojciech , Czerniak Adrian , Dobrowolska Anna , Wojciechowska Joanna , Grajek WÅodzimierz
Published: April 2016

The growing demand for meat and dairy products necessitates the intensification of the production of feeds containing high-protein components. Yarrowia lipolytica biomass constitutes a rich source of easily digestible proteins and numerous vitamins, which makes it a valuable additive for both liquid and dry feeds. Unfortunately, the liquid products are susceptible to the growth of undesirable microflora. The aim of the presented research was to assess the possibility of using selected chemical substances to stabilize the high-protein liquid products acquired from Yarrowia lipolytica biomass. The research was designed with the use of a statistical method based on mixture designs. Microbiological stability was assessed using the results of culture tests aimed at calculating the total number of mesophilic bacteria, yeasts, molds, and bacteria from the coli and Salmonella sp. groups. Storage tests were performed at temperatures of 4 and 25 °C. Sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate and phosphoric acid were used as preservatives.
The use of preservatives resulted in a significant decrease in the numbers of bacteria during storage. After 30 days of storage, the total number of bacterial cells was 0.95±0.11 and 1.5±0.09 Log10 Cfu ml-1, respectively, for storage tests at temperatures of 4 and 25°C. A product with optimum preservative mixture composition, stored at 4°C, should contain 1297mg l-1 of sodium benzoate and 1203 mg l-1 of phosphoric acid. In the case of products stored at 25°C, the concentration of sodium benzoate and phosphoric acid should be 1307 mg l-1 and 1197 mg l-1, respectively.
Eating in the Absence of Hunger and Weight Gain in Low-income Toddlers
Authors: Asta Katharine , Miller Alison L. , Retzloff Lauren , Rosenblum Katherine , Kaciroti Niko A. , Lumeng Julie C.
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE:

To identify predictors of eating in the absence of hunger (EAH) in low-income toddlers, describe affect during EAH, test EAH as a predictor of body mass index (BMI), and examine the type of food eaten as a predictor of BMI.

METHODS:

EAH, indexed as kilocalories (sweet, salty, and total) of palatable foods consumed after a satiating meal, was measured (n = 209) at ages 21, 27, and 33 months. Child gender, age, race/ethnicity, and previous exposure to the foods; maternal education and depressive symptoms; and family chaos, food insecurity, and structure were obtained via questionnaire. Child and mother BMI were measured. Child affect was coded from videotape. Linear regression was used to examine predictors of EAH and the association of kilocalories consumed and affect with 33 month BMI z-score (BMIz).

RESULTS:

Predictors of greater total kilocalories included the child being a boy (P < .01), being older (P < .001), and greater maternal education (P < .01). Being in the the top quartile of sweet kilocalories consumed at 27 months and showing negative affect at food removal had higher BMIz (β = 0.29 [95% confidence interval 0.10 to 0.48] and β = 0.34 [95% confidence interval, 0.12 to 0.56], respectively).There was no association of salty kilocalories consumed or positive affect with BMIz.

CONCLUSIONS:

There was little evidence that maternal or family characteristics contribute to EAH. EAH for sweet food predicts higher BMIz in toddlerhood. Studies investigating the etiology of EAH and interventions to reduce EAH in early childhood are needed.
A CFD based approach for determination of ammonia concentration profile and flux from poultry houses with natural ventilation
Authors: Osorio Saraz Jairo Alexander , Ferreira Tinôco Ilda de Fátima , Olivera Rocha Keller Sullivan , Barreto Mendes Luciano , Norton Tomas
Published: April 2016

The understanding of concentration and emissions distribution of gases such as ammonia (NH3) in agricultural installations is of growing importance due to its effect on health and productivity of animals and workers. The objective of this study was to use validated Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model as a tool to predict NH3 concentration distribution and mass fluxes in a non-insulated broiler chicken installation with natural ventilation, typically found in subtropical and tropical countries. Results from this study indicated that simulation with CFD can be used to predict NH3 concentration distribution and mass flux inside similar installations with incident winds from different directions of entrance at the lateral opening of the installation. The most direct application of the proposed model would be to help improving the existing buildings and also to help in the conception of new ones, and may also apply the model to help in the development of NH3 emission inventories
Biotransformation of ferulic acid by the phytopathogenic fungi Colletotrichum acutatum and Lasiodiplodia theobromae
Authors: Numpaque Manuel Alejandro , Gil González Jesús Humberto , Durango Restrepo Diego Luis
Published: April 2016

The microbial transformation of ferulic acid (FA) offers a cleaner, more economical alternative for the natural production of flavorings and fragrances. In the present study, the biotransformation of FA using the filamentous phytopathogenic fungi Colletotrichum acutatum and Lasiodiplodia theobromae was researched. Initially, the toxicity of FA against both fungi was evaluated; the FA displayed a moderate toxicity (total inhibition at concentrations ≥ 2000 mg L-1) and apparently a detoxification mechanism was present. Afterwards, the microorganisms were incubated with the substrate at room conditions using a Czapek-Dox culture medium. The results demonstrated that the FA was mainly converted to 4-vinylguaiacol, reaching the highest abundance within the first 48 hours. To a lesser extent, acetovanillone, ethylguaiacol, and vanillin, among others, were produced. Interestingly, the compounds generated in the biotransformation of FA with C. acutatum and L. theobromae have been used as flavorings. Based on the identified metabolites, a possible metabolic pathway was proposed.
Effects of the neurokinin-1 antagonist maropitant on canine gastric emptying assessed by radioscintigraphy and breath test
Authors: Fink Tamara , Failing Klaus , Borsch Christian , Kunz Clemens , Clemence Richard , Savary-Bataille Karine , Neiger Reto , Schmitz Silke
Published: April 2016

Objective: Delayed gastric emptying is a well-recognised phenomenon in a number of canine disease conditions. Only a limited number of drugs have been reported to have some gastrokinetic effect in the dog. The aim of this study was to investigate prokinetic effects of maropitant. Material and methods: In a cross-over study 24 healthy adult Beagle dogs were randomised to receive either maropitant (2 mg/kg q24 h PO), cisapride (1 mg/kg q12 h PO) or placebo (vitamin- B12, 10 μg/dog q24 h PO) for 7 days with a 7-day washout period between treatments. Gastric emptying was measured simultaneously via 99mTechnetium radioscintigraphy and 13C-sodium acetate breath testing for 6 hours post-feeding. The decrease in radioactive counts in the stomach and the increase in 13CO2 concentration in exhaled breath (measured via gas chromatography) were plotted against time. The area under the curve was determined for each test and the time to 25%, 50% and 75% gastric emptying was calculated for each method. Friedman test was used to compare gastric emptying times. Results: With both methods, no difference for gastric emptying times was observed for any treatment. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Neither maropitant nor cisapride were shown to have an effect on gastric emptying in healthy beagles using radioscintigraphy or breath test when compared to placebo. Consequently, neither drug can be recommended as a gastric prokinetic in dogs.
The European Medicines Agency Review of Decitabine (Dacogen) for the Treatment of Adult Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Summary of the Scientific Assessment of the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use
Authors: Nieto Maria , Demolis Pierre , Béhanzin Eliane , Moreau Alexandre , Hudson Ian , Flores Beatriz , Stemplewski Henry , Salmonson Tomas , Gisselbrecht Christian , Bowen David , Pignatti Francesco
Published: April 2016

On September 20, 2012, a marketing authorization valid throughout the European Union (EU) was issued for decitabine for the treatment of adult patients aged 65 years and older with newly diagnosed de novo or secondary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are not candidates for standard induction chemotherapy. Decitabine is a pyrimidine analog incorporated into DNA, where it irreversibly inhibits DNA methyltransferases through covalent adduct formation with the enzyme. The use of decitabine was studied in an open-label, randomized, multicenter phase III study (DACO-016) in patients with newly diagnosed de novo or secondary AML. Decitabine (n = 242) was compared with patient’s choice with physician’s advice (n = 243) of low-dose cytarabine or supportive care alone. The primary endpoint of the study was overall survival. The median overall survival in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population was 7.7 months among patients treated with decitabine compared with 5.0 months for those in the control arm (hazard ratio [HR], 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69–1.04; p = .1079). Mature survival data after an additional year of follow-up were consistent with these results, with a median overall survival of 7.7 months in patients treated with decitabine and 5.0 months in the control arm (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.68–0.99; p = .0373). Secondary endpoints, including response rates, progression-free survival, and event-free survival, were increased in favor of decitabine when compared with control treatment. The most common adverse drug reactions reported during treatment with decitabine are pyrexia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, febrile neutropenia, neutropenia, nausea, and diarrhea. This paper summarizes the scientific review of the application leading to approval of decitabine in the EU. The detailed scientific assessment report and product information (including the summary of product characteristics) for this product are available on the EMA website (http://www.ema.europa.eu).