bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating micronutrient status assessment into the 2015–2016 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey: A qualitative evaluation
Authors: Rhodes Elizabeth C. , Hennink Monique , Jefferds Maria Elena D. , Williams Anne M. , Suchdev Parminder S. , Mapango Carine , Nyirenda Eunice , Mshali Glory , Tripp Katie
Published: February 2019

Demand for national‐level micronutrient status data continues to grow, yet little is known about the implementation of different approaches for collecting these data. We conducted an evaluation of the process of linking the 2015–2016 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey (MDHS) and 2015–2016 Malawi Micronutrient Survey (MNS). We conducted 24 in‐depth interviews with stakeholders from the Malawi government and international agencies and field staff. Interview questions explored perceptions of what worked and what was challenging during three phases of implementation: preparation; data collection; and data analysis, reporting, and dissemination. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results showed that there was strong government interest to integrate the MDHS and MNS. Perceived benefits included potential cost savings and lower respondent burden. However, government and international agency stakeholders did not view the linkage of the surveys to be a fully integrated approach. The lack of full integration produced challenges throughout implementation, such as complex field logistics and duplication in nutrition indicators assessed and reported. Some stakeholders believed integration was not attainable primarily due to timing. The MDHS and MNS were originally designed as stand‐alone surveys, and planning for each survey was at an advanced stage once the government sought to integrate the surveys. Additionally, the MNS could not be incorporated as a module within the MDHS given the complexity of the MNS data collection and short timeframe for planning. These findings can inform decisions about implementing the next MNS and may be transferable to other countries that are conducting micronutrient surveys to address data gaps.
Baby‐Friendly Community Initiative—From national guidelines to implementation: A multisectoral platform for improving infant and young child feeding practices and integrated health services
Authors: Kavle Justine A. , Ahoya Brenda , Kiige Laura , Mwando Rael , Olwenyi Florence , Straubinger Sarah , Gathi Constance M.
Published: February 2019

The Baby‐Friendly Community Initiative (BFCI) is an extension of the 10th step of the Ten Steps of Successful Breastfeeding and the Baby‐Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) and provides continued breastfeeding support to communities upon facility discharge after birth. BFCI creates a comprehensive support system at the community level through the establishment of mother‐to‐mother and community support groups to improve breastfeeding. The Government of Kenya has prioritized community‐based programming in the country, including the development of the first national BFCI guidelines, which inform national and subnational level implementation. This paper describes the process of BFCI implementation within the Kenyan health system, as well as successes, challenges, and opportunities for integration of BFCI into health and other sectors. In Maternal and Child Survival Program (MCSP) and UNICEF areas, 685 community leaders were oriented to BFCI, 475 health providers trained, 249 support groups established, and 3,065 children 0–12 months of age reached (MCSP only). Though difficult to attribute to our programme, improvements in infant and young child feeding practices were observed from routine health data following the programme, with dramatic declines in prelacteal feeding (19% to 11%) in Kisumu County and (37.6% to 5.1%) in Migori County from 2016 to 2017. Improvements in initiation and exclusive breastfeeding in Migori were also noted—from 85.9% to 89.3% and 75.2% to 92.3%, respectively. Large gains in consumption of iron‐rich complementary foods were also seen (69.6% to 90.0% in Migori, 78% to 90.9% in Kisumu) as well as introduction of complementary foods (42.0–83.3% in Migori). Coverage for BFCI activities varied across counties, from 20% to 60% throughout programme implementation and were largely sustained 3 months postimplementation in Migori, whereas coverage declined in Kisumu. BFCI is a promising platform to integrate into other sectors, such as early child development, agriculture, and water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Root phenotypes for improved nutrient capture: an underexploited opportunity for global agriculture
Authors: Lynch Jonathan P.
Published: February 2019

Nutrient‐efficient crops are a solution to the two grand challenges of modern agriculture: improving food security while reducing environmental impacts. The primary challenges are (1) nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) efficiency; (2) potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) efficiency for acid soils; and (3) iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) efficiency for alkaline soils. Root phenotypes are promising breeding targets for each of these. The Topsoil Foraging ideotype is beneficial for P capture and should also be useful for capture of K, Ca, and Mg in acid soils. The Steep, Cheap, and Deep ideotype for subsoil foraging is beneficial for N and water capture. Fe and Zn capture can be improved by targeting mechanisms of metal mobilization in the rhizosphere. Root hairs and phenes that reduce the metabolic cost of soil exploration should be prioritized in breeding programs. Nutrient‐efficient crops should provide benefits at all input levels. Although our current understanding is sufficient to deploy root phenotypes for improved nutrient capture in crop breeding, this complex topic does not receive the resources it merits in either applied or basic plant biology. Renewed emphasis on these topics is needed in order to develop the nutrient‐efficient crops urgently needed in global agriculture.
Analyses of seven new whole genome sequences of cassava brown streak viruses in Mozambique reveals two distinct clades: evidence for new species
Authors: Amisse J. J. G. , Ndunguru J. , Tairo F. , Ateka E. , Boykin L. M. , Kehoe M. A. , Cossa N. , Rey C. , Sseruwagi P.
Published: February 2019

Cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) caused by Cassava brown streak virus (CBSV) and Uganda cassava brown streak virus (UCBSV) is a major constraint to cassava production in Mozambique. Full genome sequences of CBSD‐associated virus isolates contribute to the understanding of genetic diversity and the development of new diagnostic primers that can be used for early detection of the viruses for sustainable disease management. This study determined seven new whole CBSV genomes from total RNA isolated from cassava leaves with CBSD symptoms collected from Nampula and Zambezia in Mozambique. Phylogenetic analyses of the new genomes with published CBSV and UCBSV sequences in GenBank grouped the CBSV isolates from Mozambique into two distinct clades together with CBSV isolates from Tanzania. Clade 1 and 2 isolates shared low nucleotide (79.1–80.4%) and amino acid (86.5–88.2%) sequence identity. Further, comparisons within the seven new CBSV isolates, and between them and the single published complete CBSV sequence (CBSV_MO_83_FN434436) from Mozambique, revealed nucleotide sequence identities of 79.3–100% and 79.3–98%, respectively, and amino acid identities of 86.7–100% and 86.7–98.8%. In addition, using RDP4, a recombination analysis comprising all CBSV and UCBSV genome sequences from GenBank detect 11 recombination events. Using several comprehensive evolutionary models and statistical programs, it was confirmed that CBSV and UCBSV are distinct virus species, with an additional probable new species (clade 2).
Comparing Urban Citizenship, Sanctuary Cities, Local Bureaucratic Membership, and Regularizations
Authors: Kaufmann David
Published: February 2019

Irregular migrants tend to live in dense urban settings. Cities respond to this phenomenon with a variety of urban immigration and citizenship policies in support of irregular migrants. These urban policies produce a disparity between local inclusion and national exclusion. This article describes and compares such urban policies, namely, urban citizenship, sanctuary cities, local bureaucratic membership, and regularizations. Urban citizenship serves as the normative foundation of these policies because it claims membership for all people who inhabit a city. Regularization programs confer national residency status on irregular migrants. Pro‐immigration actors favor this policy; however, when regularizations are not possible, cities can turn to sanctuary city and local bureaucratic membership policies. It is important for practitioners to comprehend and engage with these types of urban policies since they are likely to travel to cities worldwide.
Active emotion regulation mediates links between shyness and social adjustment in preschool
Authors: Hipson Will E. , Coplan Robert J. , Séguin Daniel G.
Published: February 2019

Shyness is characterized by the experience of heightened fear, anxiety, and social‐evaluative concerns in social situations and is associated with increased risk for social adjustment difficulties. Previous research suggests that shy children have difficulty regulating negative emotions, such as anger and disappointment, which contributes to problems interacting with others. However, it remains unclear precisely which strategies are involved among these associations. Accordingly, the goal of this study was to explore the mediating role of emotion regulation strategies in the links between young children’s shyness and social adjustment at preschool. Participants were 248 preschool children aged 2.5–5 years. Parents rated children’s shyness and emotion regulation strategies in the context of anger and fear. Early childhood educators assessed indices of social adjustment 4 months later. Among the results, active regulation mediated associations between shyness and subsequent prosocial and socially withdrawn behaviors. Child gender further moderated these linkages, such that the model predicting socially withdrawn behavior was stronger among boys. These results expand on our understanding of emotion regulation strategies in shy children’s early socio‐emotional development.
The Politics of Digital Agricultural Technologies: A Preliminary Review
Authors: Rotz Sarah , Duncan Emily , Small Matthew , Botschner Janos , Dara Rozita , Mosby Ian , Reed Mark , Fraser Evan D.G.
Published: February 2019

Digital technologies are being developed and adopted across the agro‐food system, from farm to fork. Within decision‐making spaces, however, little attention is being paid to political factors arising from such technological developments. This review draws from critical social sciences to examine emerging technologies and big data systems in agriculture and assesses some key issues arising in the field. We begin with an introduction and review of the so‐called ‘digital revolution’ and then briefly outline how political economy is effective for understanding major challenges for governing technologies and data systems in agriculture. These challenges include: (1) data ownership and control, (2) the production of technologies and data development, and (3) data security. We then use literature and examples to consider the extent to which the political and economic landscape can be shifted to support greater equity in agriculture, while reflecting on structural challenges and limits. In doing so, we emphasise that while there are significant systemic tensions between digital ag‐tech development and agroecological approaches, we do not see them as mutually exclusive per se. This article intends to provide decision‐makers, practitioners and scholars from a wide range of disciplines with a timely assessment of agro‐food digitalisation that attends to political economic factors. In doing so, this article contributes to policy and decision‐making discussions, which, from our perspective, continue to be rather technocentric in nature while paying little attention to how digital technologies can support agroecological systems specifically.
How can training in care of the dying be improved?
Authors: Gajebasia Sareena , Pearce Jessica , Redman Melody , Johnson Miriam , Finn Gabrielle
Published: February 2019

Background

Care of the dying patient is an intrinsic part of the role of Foundation Year doctors (FYs). This study aimed to explore FYs’ experiences of training and their perceived training needs for their role in care of the dying.

Care of the dying patient is an intrinsic part of the role of Foundation Year doctors

Methods

All FYs in one Foundation school were invited to take part in semi‐structured group or individual interviews. A total of 8 group interviews and 21 individual interviews were conducted with 47 participants. Interview recordings were transcribed verbatim and framework analysis was undertaken.

Findings

Key themes derived from the interviews included FYs’ teaching opportunities regarding care of the dying and their learning methods for this subject matter which included learning from experience, observation, simulation, written guidance and supervision. Areas for further training was another key theme and training needs identified included prescribing, communication, recognising dying, documentation, societal perspective and emotional resilience.

Discussion

FYs’ training experiences in this area vary. This study identifies training needs that can be used to inform both undergraduate and postgraduate curricula.
Effects of long‐term exposure to elevated temperature on Zea mays endosperm development during grain fill
Authors: Boehlein Susan K. , Liu Peng , Webster Ashley , Ribeiro Camila , Suzuki Masaharu , Wu Shan , Guan Jiahn‐Chou , Stewart Jon D. , Tracy William F. , Settles A. Mark , McCarty Donald R. , Koch Karen E. , Hannah Larkin C. , Hennen‐Bierwagen Tracie A. , Myers Alan M.
Published: February 2019

Cereal yields decrease when grain fill proceeds under conditions of prolonged, moderately elevated temperatures. Endosperm‐endogenous processes alter both rate and duration of dry weight gain, but underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Heat effects could be mediated by either abnormal, premature cessation of storage compound deposition or accelerated implementation of normal development. This study used controlled environments to isolate temperature as the sole environmental variable during Zea mays kernel‐fill, from 12 days after pollination to maturity. Plants subjected to elevated day, elevated night temperatures (38°C day, 28°C night (38/28°C])) or elevated day, normal night (38/17°C), were compared with those from controls grown under normal day and night conditions (28/17°C). Progression of change over time in endosperm tissue was followed to dissect contributions at multiple levels, including transcriptome, metabolome, enzyme activities, product accumulation, and tissue ultrastructure. Integrated analyses indicated that the normal developmental program of endosperm is fully executed under prolonged high‐temperature conditions, but at a faster rate. Accelerated development was observed when both day and night temperatures were elevated, but not when daytime temperature alone was increased. Although transcripts for most components of glycolysis and respiration were either upregulated or minimally affected, elevated temperatures decreased abundance of mRNAs related to biosynthesis of starch and storage proteins. Further analysis of 20 central‐metabolic enzymes revealed six activities that were reduced under high‐temperature conditions, indicating candidate roles in the observed reduction of grain dry weight. Nonetheless, a striking overall resilience of grain filling in the face of elevated temperatures can be attributed to acceleration of normal endosperm development.
Hyperexcitability and plasticity induced by sustained hypoxia on rectus abdominis motoneurons
Authors: da Silva Melina P. , Moraes Davi José A. , Bonagamba Leni G.H. , Mecawi André de Souza , Varanda Wamberto A. , Machado Benedito H.
Published: February 2019

Key points

Acute hypoxia induces active expiration in rectus abdominis (RA) muscles in conscious freely moving rats, although its overall contribution is smaller than in internal oblique (IO) muscles.

Tonically active and silent RA motoneurons were identified in in vitro preparations of rat spinal cords.

Sustained hypoxia (SH) increased the synaptic strength and induced morphological changes in tonically active RA motoneurons.

Expiratory RA motoneurons were recorded in the in situ preparation and SH enhanced both the excitability and the synaptic transmission in those firing during the stage 2 expiration.

The present study contributes to a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in SH recruitment of RA motoneurons to induce active expiration in rats.

Rectus abdominis (RA) motoneurons translate the complex respiratory brainstem inputs into effective muscle contractions. Despite their fundamental role in respiration, their functional and morphological properties are not fully understood. In the present study, we investigated for the first time the contribution of RA muscle to active expiration and characterized RA motoneurons regarding their electrical, molecular and morphological profiles in control rats and in rats submitted to sustained hypoxia (SH), which induces chronic recruitment of abdominal muscles. Electromyographic experiments in conscious freely moving control rats and SH rats showed that RA contributes to active expiration induced by acute hypoxia, although its contribution is smaller than in internal oblique muscles. in vitro whole‐cell patch clamp recordings from RA motoneurons revealed two populations of cells: tonically active and silent. SH induced hyperexcitability in the tonically active cells by changing their action potential properties, and EPSCs. Three‐dimensional morphological reconstructions of these cells showed that SH increased the dendritic complexity, stimulated the appearance of dendrite spines, and increased the somatic area and volume. Physiologically identified RA motoneurons, firing in two distinct phases of expiration, were recorded in the brainstem–spinal cord in situ preparation of rats. SH increased the firing frequency and EPSCs of neurons firing during stage 2 expiration. Taken together, our results show that RA motoneurons reconfigure their biophysical properties, morphology and synaptic strength to produce an appropriate expiratory drive in response to SH in rats.
Presenting an Archaeology for Everyone: Changing our approach to publicly funded archaeological investigation in Scotland
Authors: Owen Kirsty , Jones Rebecca
Published: February 2019

We explore the idea of the 'public benefit' of archaeology and argue that our definition of what this means needs to be broadened, so that those that fund and consume archaeological information, and those that currently do not, can better understand the full breadth of its importance and significance.

Archaeological information is relevant to, and in many cases actively contributes to, climate change, the promotion of diversity, the construction of sustainable communities and the appreciation and understanding of place. We will present and discuss some of the range of projects that are currently being supported through Historic Environment Scotland's Archaeology Programme, which is now focused on the delivery of Scotland's Archaeology Strategy. Many of these projects bring together professional archaeologists and members of the public, but how do we get a greater variety of people interested? It will be argued that one of the key roles of a national body is to bridge the gap between people's day-to-day lives and archaeology, making clearer why it is important to everyone. There are clearly challenges inherent in this approach, and we will present these to EAC members for discussion.

We argue that different forms of media can be used to amplify the relevance of archaeological information, and that this could be done more effectively. At present, archaeological information is largely consumed as an academic text-based narrative, hard to understand by the general public, and its relevance to everyday life is rarely clearly conveyed. We are seeking to improve this through better, more relevant, stories and imagery. The scientific endeavours of archaeologists, varying from landscape reconstruction to analysis of ancient diet are often relevant to contemporary issues – this could be better explored and promoted.
Communicating Archaeology: The magic triangle
Authors: Virágos Gábor
Published: February 2019

Needs and interests are two different concepts. Talking about needs, we focus on what would be necessary or ideal to have. This is idealism. Talking about the interests of somebody or a group or a legal entity, we discuss what will happen. This is realism. The two approaches go hand in hand and are yet in opposition to each other.

Communicating archaeological heritage is a complex procedure, equally and simultaneously involving professionals, developers and the public in addition to other stakeholders. Their goals, tools, target audiences and messages are different, but the original subject – the archaeological site and finds – are the same. Approaching this subject from different aspects enables an overview of the communication problems and its complexity in general, presenting the contradictions and conflicts in meeting the needs and interests of the stakeholders.
On the Use of Longitudinal Fins to Enhance the Performance in Rectangular Duct of Solar Air Heaters—A Review
Authors: Sahu Mukesh Kumar , Sharma Manoj , Matheswaran M. M. , Maitra Kinshuk
Published: February 2019

The objective of the present article is to present a detailed review of the research carried out on the use of extended surface in the form of longitudinal fins, with its different shapes, geometries, and attachments on solar air heater (SAH), to improve the thermal performance of conventional SAH duct. The use of extended surface in the scheme of fins placed longitudinally along the air-flow path on the absorber or bottom plate surfaces is an effective method to augment the performance of SAH duct. Various studies have been carried out through employing longitudinal fins for the enhancement in thermal performance of simple SAH duct. Finally, all the details of the literature as a summary, i.e., about fin geometries, systems, and operating parameters for analysis, are compiled together and well tabulated. The investigators used correlations for heat transfer, and friction factor also has been classified and presented in a relevant form in the present article. Finally, an attempt has been made to compare the performances of different finned SAHs by using correlations.
A Comparison of Control Strategies for Disruption Management in Engineering Design for Resilience
Authors: Wu Jiaxin , Wang Pingfeng
Published: February 2019

Managing potential disruptive events at the operating phase of an engineered system therefore improving the system's failure resilience is an importance yet challenging task in engineering design. The resilience of an engineered system can be improved by enhancing the failure restoration capability of the system with appropriate system control strategies. Therefore, control-guided failure restoration is an essential step in engineering design for resilience. Considering different characteristics of disruptive events and their impacts to the performance of a system, effective control strategies for the failure restoration must be selected correspondingly. However, the challenge is to develop generally applicable guiding principles for selecting effective control strategies, thus implementing the control-guided failure restorations. In this paper, a comparison of three commonly used control strategies for dynamic system control is conducted with the focus on the effectiveness of restoring system performance after the system has undergone different major disruptive events. A case study of an electricity transmission system is used to demonstrate the dynamic system modeling and the comparison of three control strategies for disruption management.
Traffic Accident Reconstruction Based on Occupant Trajectories and Trace Identification
Authors: Xiaoyun Zhang , Dongming Zhang , Xiaobo Yang , Xinyi Hou
Published: February 2019

Momentum-based method and multibody method are often used in accident reconstructions. In this paper, a method that combines momentum-based method and multibody method is presented to analyze a real-world accident with occupant ejection. A multibody model is employed as an effective approach to simulate interaction between vehicle and occupants in the postanalysis of a traffic accident. This model can be used to answer questions that which occupant the driver was, when the accident happened, and the vehicle's speed before occupant ejection. Based on the information of the vehicle turn-over location and vehicle speed at the moment of the accident, some unknown parameters of the vehicle before the accident, such as initial speed, acceleration, and vehicle-ground friction coefficient, can be determined. In order to estimate these unknown parameters, a Kriging surrogate model is first constructed for the vehicle movement simulation. The Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation is then employed to infer the unknown parameters based on the Kriging surrogate model. The results show that a high degree of consistency has been achieved between the computer simulation model and the accident on-scene information. In addition, the injury of occupants in simulation agrees well with conclusions of autopsy report.
Influence of Selective Laser Heat Treatment Pattern Position on Geometrical Variation
Authors: Sagar Vaishak Ramesh , Wärmefjord Kristina , Söderberg Rikard
Published: February 2019

Selective laser heat treatment allows local modification of material properties and can have a wide range of applications within the automotive industry. Enhanced formability and strength are possible to achieve. As the process involves selective heating, positioning of the heat treatment pattern in local areas is vital. Pattern positioning is often suggested based on the part design and forming aspects of the material to avoid failures during manufacturing. Along with improving material properties in desired local areas, the process also produces unwanted distortion in the material. Such effects on variation should be considered and minimized. In this paper, the heat treatment pattern is offset from its original position and its effect on geometrical variation is investigated. Boron steel blanks are selectively laser heat treated with a specific heat treatment pattern and then cold formed to the desired shape. Two heat treatment pattern dimensions are examined. Geometrical variation at the blank level and after cold forming, and springback after cold forming are observed. Results show that pattern offsetting increases the effect on geometrical variation. Therefore, correct positioning of the heat treatment pattern is important to minimize its effect on geometrical variation along with enhancement in the material properties. Knowledge from this study will contribute to various stages of the geometry assurance process.
Life table parameters of Iranian population, Tetranychus kanzawai (Acari: Tetranychidae) fed on soybean leaves
Authors: Hassanvand Iman , Jafari Shahriar , Khanjani Masoumeh
Published: February 2019

The effects of six ambient temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 37.5ºC) on life table parameters of Tetranychus kanzawai Kishida (Tetranychidae) were studied under laboratory conditions on soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill). Total immature developmental time of females at the above-mentioned temperatures was 28.55, 16.34, 9.01, 6.96, 5.56 and 5.65 days, respectively. A linear and two nonlinear models of Lactin and SSI were fitted to developmental rate of immature stages of T. kanzawai to predict the developmental rate as a function of temperature, as well as to estimate the thermal constant (k) and critical temperatures. The estimated k for total immature developmental time of females and males was 134.58 and 126.74 DD, respectively. The estimated Topt and Tmax by Lactin model for overall immature stages were 36.20 and 40.70ºC, respectively. Intrinsic optimum temperature (TФ) and T1 (Topt) by SSI model for total immature stages was estimated to be 23.23 and 35.71ºC, respectively. Also the estimated TL and Th of SSI model for overall immature stage were 09.21 and 38.46ºC, respectively. The longest and shortest adult longevity was observed at 15°C (60.63 days), and 37.5°C (7.34 days), respectively. Mated females laid highest and lowest eggs at 25°C (237.96 eggs) and 37.5°C (30.54 eggs), respectively. The rm values ranged from 0.356 day-1 at 30°C to 0.089 day-1at 15°C. The highest value of R0 was 163.55 offspring female-1 at 25°C. The presented information in this study provided new perspective to better management of T. kanzawai on apple trees in Iran.
Characterization of VO2/ferroelectric thin film heterostructures deposited on various complex oxide single crystal substrates
Authors: Petraru Adrian , Droopad Ravi , Kohlstedt Hermann
Published: February 2019

Oxide multilayer heteroepitaxy combining Mott-insulator vanadium dioxide (VO2) films and functional conducting/ferroelectric/dielectric films opens new opportunities in creating functional devices with applicability in the field of nonvolatile memories for neuromorphic devices. The growth of high quality VO2 films is challenging due to the necessity of precise control of the vanadium cation valence state. In this study, the authors report on electrical and structural properties of VO2 thin films deposited on various single crystal oxide substrates commonly used in oxide electronics and on PbZrxTi(1−x)O3/SrRuO3 ferroelectric heterostructures deposited on SrTiO3 and GaScO3 single crystal substrates. The optimized VO2 films exhibit a metal-to-insulator phase transition on all applied substrate/film combinations.
Hydrothermally Modified Corn Starch Ingestion Attenuates Soccer Skill Performance Decrements in the Second Half of a Simulated Soccer Match
Authors: Quinones Manuel D. , Lemon Peter W.R.
Published: February 2019

Hydrothermally modified non-genetically modified organisms corn starch (HMS) ingestion may enhance endurance exercise performance via sparing carbohydrate oxidation. To determine whether similar effects occur with high-intensity intermittent exercise, we investigated the effects of HMS ingestion prior to and at halftime on soccer skill performance and repeated sprint ability during the later stages of a simulated soccer match. In total, 11 male university varsity soccer players (height = 177.7 ± 6.8 cm, body mass = 77.3 ± 7.9 kg, age = 22 ± 3 years, body fat = 12.8 ± 4.9%, and maximal oxygen uptake = 57.1 ± 3.9 ml·kg BM−1·min−1) completed the match with HMS (8% carbohydrate containing a total of 0.7 g·kg BM−1·hr−1; 2.8 kcal·kg BM−1·hr−1) or isoenergetic dextrose. Blood glucose was lower (p < .001) with HMS at 15 min (5.3 vs. 7.7 mmol/L) and 30 min (5.6 vs. 8.3 mmol/L) following ingestion, there were no treatment differences in blood lactate, and the respiratory exchange ratio was lower with HMS at 15 min (0.84 vs. 0.86, p = .003); 30 min (0.83 vs. 0.85, p = .004); and 45 min (0.83 vs. 0.85, p = .007) of the first half. Repeated sprint performance was similar for both treatments (p > .05). Soccer dribbling time was slower with isoenergetic dextrose versus baseline (15.63 vs. 14.43 s, p < .05) but not so with HMS (15.04 vs. 14.43 s, p > .05). Furthermore, during the passing test, penalty time was reduced (4.27 vs. 7.73 s, p = .004) with HMS. During situations where glycogen availability is expected to become limiting, HMS ingestion prematch and at halftime could attenuate the decline in skill performance often seen late in contests.
Barriers and Levels of Physical Activity in Patients With Symptomatic Peripheral Artery Disease: Comparison Between Women and Men
Authors: de Sousa Adilson Santos Andrade , Correia Marilia A. , Farah Breno Quintella , Saes Glauco , Zerati Antônio Eduardo , Puech-Leao Pedro , Wolosker Nelson , Cucato Gabriel G. , Ritti-Dias Raphael M.
Published: February 2019

This cross-sectional study compared physical activity levels and barriers between 212 men and women with symptomatic peripheral artery disease. Physical activity was objectively measured by an accelerometer. Barriers to physical activity were obtained using a validated questionnaire. Women reported higher amounts of light physical activity (p < .001) and lower moderate–vigorous physical activity (p < .001) than men. Women more often reported barriers such as “not having anyone to accompany” (p = .006), “lack of money” (p = .018), “fear of falling or worsening the disease” (p = .010), “lack of security” (p = .015), “not having places to sit when feeling leg pain” (p = .021), and “difficulty in getting to a place to practice physical activity” (p = .015). In conclusion, women with symptomatic peripheral artery disease presented with lower amounts of moderate–vigorous activity and more barriers to activity than men. Strategies to minimize the barriers, including group actives and nonpainful exercises, are recommended for women with peripheral artery disease.
The Effects of Statins on Physical Activity or Physical Fitness Among Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Gadowski Adelle , Owen Alice J. , Curtis Andrea , Nanayakkara Natalie , Heritier Stephane , Misso Marie , Zoungas Sophia
Published: February 2019

This review examines the effects of statins on physical activity and/or fitness, as statins can have adverse muscle effects. A search was done of MEDLINE, Embase, and EBMR databases up to July 2018 for randomized controlled trials comparing statin with placebo or control, measuring physical activity and/or fitness in adults. Sixteen randomized controlled trials (total participants [N] = 2,944) were included, 6 randomized controlled trials contributed data for meta-analysis. Random effects meta-analysis examined differences in physical fitness, maximal exercise time (in seconds) in exercise testing, and maximal heart rate (in beats per minute) between statins and control. No significant difference between statin and control for maximal heart rate (mean difference = 2.8 beats per minute, 95% confidence interval [−7.4, 13.0]; p = .59) nor exercise time (mean difference = 82.8 s, 95% confidence interval [−31.9, 197.4]; p = .516) were seen. There were insufficient studies reporting habitual physical activity to perform a meta-analysis. This review found no evidence for an effect of statins on physical activity or fitness, but data availability is limited.
Personal and Social Environmental Correlates of Square Dancing Habits in Chinese Middle-Aged and Older Adults Living in Communities
Authors: Liao Jing , Chen Sanmei , Chen Sha , Yang Yung-Jen
Published: February 2019

This study aimed to examine personal and social environmental correlates of the physical activity habit of middle-aged and older adults, using Chinese square dancing as a natural exploratory example. Participants were 385 adults aged ≥45 years (93% female), who habitually danced on squares or parks of three old districts of Guangzhou. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify personal, social, psychological, and behavioral correlates of multiyear dance. Old age, high education, sufficient leisure time, and stable social environmental factors were associated with persistent dancing, whereby education (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 1.64, 95% confidence interval [1.05, 2.57]) and social engagement (RRR = 1.66, 95% confidence interval [1.05, 2.63]) showed the largest effects. Participants dancing ≤1 year were least satisfied with their social relationships than their counterparts dancing 1–5 years (RRR = 0.68) or over 5 years (RRR = 0.58). Physical activity promotion for older adults should adapt from culturally appropriate group activities and leverage community social resources to encourage voluntary participation, particularly for low-educated older women.
Higher Cardiorespiratory Fitness Is Associated With Better Verbal Generativity in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Frost Natalie , Weinborn Michael , Gignac Gilles E. , Markovic Shaun , Rainey-Smith Stephanie R. , Sohrabi Hamid R. , Martins Ralph N. , Peiffer Jeremiah J. , Brown Belinda M.
Published: February 2019

Objectives: To examine the associations between physical activity duration and intensity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and executive function in older adults. Methods: Data from 99 cognitively normal adults (age = 69.10 ± 5.1 years; n = 54 females) were used in the current study. Physical activity (intensity and duration) was measured with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and fitness was measured by analysis of maximal aerobic capacity, VO2peak. Executive function was measured comprehensively, including measures of Shifting, Updating, Inhibition, Generativity, and Nonverbal Reasoning. Results: Higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness were associated with better performance on Generativity (B = .55; 95% confidence interval [.15, .97]). No significant associations were found between self-reported physical activity intensity/duration and executive functions. Discussion: To our knowledge, this study is the first to identify an association between fitness and Generativity. Associations between physical activity duration and intensity and executive function requires further study, using objective physical activity measures and longitudinal observations.
Effects of 12 Weeks of Tai Chi Intervention in Patients With Chronic Ankle Instability: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cruz-Díaz David , Kim Kyung-Min , Hita-Contreras Fidel , Bergamin Marco , Aibar-Almazán Agustin , Martínez-Amat Antonio
Published: February 2019

Context: Tai Chi is a physical activity modality which is widely practiced over the world. The effectiveness of Tai Chi on postural control and balance has been described in older population, but until recently there are no studies that include patients with chronic ankle instability. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of 12 weeks of Tai Chi intervention on dynamic balance and self-reported instability in patients with chronic ankle instability. Study Design: A randomized controlled trial was carried out. Setting: University physical therapy facility. Participants: Fifty-two participants were allocated to an intervention group (n = 26) based on Tai Chi training or a control group (n = 26) who received no intervention. Intervention: The participants completed 12 weeks of Tai Chi intervention (1 h session/2 times per week) or no intervention in the control group. Main Outcome Measures: Outcome measures included postural control and self-reported instability feeling assessed by the Star Excursion Balance Test and the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool, respectively. Results: There was observed significant improvement in all Star Excursion Balance Test reach distances (anterior [F = 6.26, P < .01]; posteromedial [F = 9.58, P < .01], and posterolateral [F = 8.42, P < .01]) in the Tai Chi group with no change in the control group (P < .01). The intervention group demonstrated significant improvement on self-reported instability feeling assessed by the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool questionnaire (F = 21.36, P < .01). Conclusion: The obtained results suggested that 12 weeks of Tai Chi intervention have positive effects on postural control and self-reported instability feeling in patients with chronic ankle instability.
Concurrent Validity of a Commercial Wireless Trunk Triaxial Accelerometer System for Gait Analysis
Authors: De Ridder Roel , Lebleu Julien , Willems Tine , De Blaiser Cedric , Detrembleur Christine , Roosen Philip
Published: February 2019

Context: Wearable sensor devices have notable advantages, such as cost-effectiveness, easy to use, and real-time feedback. Wirelessness ensures full-body motion, which is required during movement in a challenging environment such as during sports. Research on the reliability and validity of commercially available systems, however, is indispensable. Objective: To confirm the test–retest reliability and concurrent validity of a commercially available body-worn sensor—BTS G-WALK® sensor system—for spatiotemporal gait parameters with the GAITRite® walkway system as golden standard. Design: Reliability and concurrent validity study. Setting: Laboratory setting. Participants: Thirty healthy subjects. Main Outcome Measures: Spatiotemporal parameters: speed, cadence, stride length, stride duration, stance duration, swing duration, double support, and single support. Results: In terms of test–retest reliability of the BTS G-WALK® sensor system, intraclass correlation coefficient values for both the spatial and temporal parameters were excellent between consecutive measurements on the same day with intraclass correlation coefficient values ranging from .85 to .99. In terms of validity, intraclass correlation coefficient values between measurement systems showed excellent levels of agreement for speed, cadence, stride length, and stride duration (range = .88–.97), and showed poor to moderate levels of agreement (range = .12–.47) for single/double support and swing/stance duration. Bland–Altman plots showed overall percentage bias values equal to or smaller than 3% with limits of agreement ≤15% (speed, cadence, stride length, stride duration, swing duration, and stance duration). Only for single and double support, the limits of agreement were higher with, respectively, −15.4% to 19.5% and −48.0% to 51.4%. Conclusion: The BTS G-WALK® sensor system is reliable for all measured spatiotemporal parameters. In terms of validity, excellent concurrent validity was shown for speed, cadence, stride length, and stride duration. Cautious interpretation is necessary for temporal parameters based on final foot contact (stance, swing, and single/double support time).
Rehabilitation Exercises for the Gluteus Medius Muscle Segments: An Electromyography Study
Authors: Moore Damien , Pizzari Tania , McClelland Jodie , Semciw Adam I.
Published: February 2019

Context: Many different rehabilitation exercises have been recommended in the literature to target the gluteus medius (GMed) muscle based mainly on single-electrode, surface electromyography (EMG) measures. With the GMed consisting of 3 structurally and functionally independent segments, there is uncertainty on whether these exercises will target the individual segments effectively. Objective: To measure individual GMed segmental activity during 6 common, lower-limb rehabilitation exercises in healthy young adults, and determine if there are significant differences between the exercises for each segment. Method: With fine-wire EMG electrodes inserted into the anterior, middle, and posterior segments of the GMed muscle, 10 healthy young adults performed 6 common, lower-limb rehabilitation exercises. Main Outcome Measures: Recorded EMG activity was normalized, then reported and compared with median activity for each of the GMed segments across the 6 exercises. Results: For the anterior GMed segment, high activity was recorded for the single-leg squat (48% maximum voluntary isometric contraction [MVIC]), the single-leg bridge (44% MVIC), and the resisted hip abduction–extension exercise (41% MVIC). No exercises recorded high activity for the middle GMed segment, but for the posterior GMed segment very high activity was recorded by the resisted hip abduction–extension exercise (69% MVIC), and high activity was generated by the single-leg squat (48% MVIC) and side-lie hip abduction (43% MVIC). For each of the GMed segments, there were significant differences (P < .05) in the median EMG activity levels between some of the exercises and the side-lie clam with large effect sizes favoring these exercises over the side-lie clam. Conclusions: Open-chain hip abduction and single-limb support exercises appear to be effective options for recruiting the individual GMed segments with selection dependent on individual requirements. However, the side-lie clam does not appear to be effective at recruiting the GMed segments, particularly the anterior and middle segments.
Helping Preservice Teachers Learn to Negotiate Sociopolitical Relationships Through a Physical Education Teacher Education Outdoor Education Experience
Authors: Jacobs Jenn M. , Richards K. Andrew R. , Wahl-Alexander Zach , Ressler James D.
Published: February 2019

Physical education teacher education programs are tasked with preparing students for a teaching career in a field that possesses inherent challenges. Purpose: The current study, designed as a descriptive case study, examined how an outdoor education field experience can facilitate important learning for preservice teachers about navigating sociopolitical relationships among colleagues and the greater school community. Method: Interviews were conducted with 13 preservice physical educators and the course instructor, in addition to field observations. Results: An outdoor education experience that includes opportunities to interface with and reflect on working with various stakeholders can help preservice teachers learn to navigate sociopolitics and persist through challenges. Discussion/Conclusion: Despite challenges, the nontraditional and intensive nature of the field experience, as well as the positive relationships developed with students, compelled the preservice teachers to find effective ways to collaborate and manage teaching roles.
In-Service Teachers’ and Educational Assistants’ Professional Development Experiences for Inclusive Physical Education
Authors: Morrison Hayley , Gleddie Doug
Published: February 2019

Purpose: The objective of this study was to understand and learn about in-service teachers’ and educational assistants’ professional development (PD) experiences for inclusive physical education (IPE), individually and collaboratively.Method: Using a multiple case study design and hermeneutic inquiry, the experiences of three teachers and three educational assistants were investigated. Data sources included semistructured interviews, focus groups, observations, and researcher reflective journals.Results: The practitioners’ experiences with PD for IPE revealed the following major themes: (a) it is just not there: IPE-PD is rare, (b) taking initiative: maximizing consultants as IPE-PD, and (c) together we are better: desire for collaborative IPE-PD.Discussion/Conclusions: PD for IPE needs to be developed and implemented for teachers and educational assistants working as an instructional team together.Engaging these practitioners in collaborative IPE-PD can support their learning and the teaching of IPE and acts as a starting point to form communities of practice in IPE.
Evaluation of the Aptima HCV Quant Dx Assay Using Serum and Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Weber Jenna , Sahoo Malaya K. , Taylor Nathaniel , Shi Run-Zhang , Pinsky Benjamin A.
Published: February 2019

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA quantitation is the primary method by which active HCV infections are identified and the response to direct-acting antiviral therapy is monitored. This study describes the evaluation of the Aptima HCV Quant Dx assay (Aptima HCV) performed on the Panther system.