bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Support needs of parents with intellectual disabilities: Systematic review on the perceptions of parents and professionals
Authors: Koolen Joyce , van Oorsouw Wietske , Verharen Lisbeth , Embregts Petri
Published: March 2019

This review aimed to examine the perceptions of parents, professionals and informal network members regarding support needs of parents with intellectual disabilities (ID). In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, five databases were systematically searched and 19 qualitative studies were reviewed using thematic analyses. No data were available on the perceptions of the informal social network. Data on parents and professionals were categorized in four themes (type of support, sources of support, conditions of successful support and characteristics of support members). Data from professionals did not refer to emotional support needs or to the potential support of volunteers, friends and neighbours. Data from parents indicated a preference to be treated as ‘full’ parents, whereas professionals tended to focus on disabilities of parents. Results and implications contribute to insights into support needs of parents with ID from different perspectives and may help identify new entry points to improve future interventions and working alliances.
Research review on coaches' perceptions regarding the teaching strategies experienced in coach education programs
Authors: Ciampolini Vitor , Milistetd Michel , Rynne Steven B , Brasil Vinicius Zeilmann , do Nascimento Juarez Vieira
Published: March 2019

Using a learner-centered perspective underpinned by a constructivist view of learning, the aim of this research was to analyze the scientific articles published from 2009 to 2016 concerning sports coaches' perceptions on the teaching strategies experienced in coach education programs. The search for articles took place across six databases: PUBMED, SCOPUS, Web of Science, PyscNET, ERIC, and SPORTDiscus. Two peer-reviewed journals related to sports coaching that were not indexed in the aforementioned databases at the time of the review were also screened. A total of 1937 articles were initially found with 17 eventually deemed appropriate for incorporation into the review after applying the established exclusion criteria. Three themes related to interactive, reflective, and assessment activities were generated from an inductive thematic analysis conducted on the coaches' quotes extracted from the reviewed articles. In general, it was revealed that coaches mostly held positive perceptions of situations and experiences that positioned them at the center of the learning process through interaction and reflection. Suggestions are discussed to address coaches' negative perceptions on the assessment strategies experienced and to improve the integration of learner-centered approaches in coach education initiatives.
Revisiting Rosa Luxemburg’s internationalism
Authors: O’Brien Robert
Published: March 2019

In an era where internationalism is on the retreat in the Western world, a modified version of Rosa Luxemburg’s thinking about internationalism can serve as a useful guide for those concerned about relations between peoples in different countries. Luxemburg contributes to existing internationalist, cosmopolitan and transnational approaches by offering a unique set of answers to questions about the appropriate ethics, political project and tools to be adopted. Her ethical stance of the universal worth of all people was informed both by a deep sense of empathy and her theoretical analysis of capitalism. She believed that citizens had a duty to hold their governments accountable for foreign policy and that the world formed a single system and community. The political project was one of radical transformation and equality. European nations faced the option of transforming into more egalitarian and peaceful societies or descending into barbarism. Central to this transformation was a constant struggle against militarism and imperialism. Key tools for transformation included mass mobilisation, vibrant democratic debate and revolutionary reform of the political system. Problematic aspects of Luxemburg’s internationalism that require revision include her insensitivity to the importance of national identity and Eurocentrism.
Modelling wing wake and tail aerodynamics of a flapping-wing micro aerial vehicle
Authors: Armanini SF , Caetano JV , de Visser CC , Pavel MD , de Croon GCHE , Mulder M
Published: March 2019

Despite significant interest in tailless flapping-wing micro aerial vehicle designs, tailed configurations are often favoured, as they offer many benefits, such as static stability and a simpler control strategy, separating wing and tail control. However, the tail aerodynamics are highly complex due to the interaction between the unsteady wing wake and tail, which is generally not modelled explicitly. We propose an approach to model the flapping-wing wake and hence the tail aerodynamics of a tailed flapping-wing robot. First, the wake is modelled as a periodic function depending on wing flap phase and position with respect to the wings. The wake model is constructed out of six low-order sub-models representing the mean, amplitude and phase of the tangential and vertical velocity components. The parameters in each sub-model are estimated from stereo-particle image velocimetry measurements using an identification method based on multivariate simplex splines. The computed model represents the measured wake with high accuracy, is computationally manageable and is applicable to a range of different tail geometries. The wake model is then used within a quasi-steady aerodynamic model, and combined with the effect of free-stream velocity, to estimate the forces produced by the tail. The results provide a basis for further modelling, simulation and design work, and yield insight into the role of the tail and its interaction with the wing wake in flapping-wing vehicles. It was found that due to the effect of the wing wake, the velocity seen by the tail is of a similar magnitude as the free stream and that the tail is most effective at 50–70% of its span.
Positioning of longest axis of the radial head in neutral forearm rotation
Authors: Deschrijver Miguel , Lamquet Simon , Planckaert Guillaume , Vermue Hannes , De Wilde Lieven , Van Tongel Alexander
Published: March 2019

Introduction

The radial head has an ellipsoid shape so that a longest and a shortest axis can be defined. The aim of this study is to evaluate the position of the longest axis of the radial head (LARH) in relation to proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ) and to the forearm in neutral position using 3D computed tomography (CT).

Materials and methods

3D CT reconstructions of the distal humerus, the radius and the ulna of 27 healthy volunteers (average age 27.65 ± 9.25; 24 males, 3 females) were created. First an evaluation of the elliptic form of the radial head and the location of its longest axis was performed. Next, three planes were defined: the PRUJ plane, the forearm plane and a neutral plane. Based on the angle between the forearm plane and the neutral plane, the rotation of the scanned forearm was measured. Taking this rotation into account, the position of the LARH compared to PRUJ plane and forearm plane in neutral position is recalculated.

Results

The shape of the radial head is determined to be non-circular based on this study population (p < .001). In neutral position, the angle between the LARH and the forearm plane is 5.28° (SD: 15.09) and between the LARH and the PRUJ is 33.46° (SD: 13.91).

Conclusions

The position of the LARH is found to be approximately perpendicular to the forearm plane when the forearm is in neutral position and perpendicular to the PRUJ plane when the forearm is on average in 30° of pronation.
Deforestation May Trigger Black-and-Chestnut Eagle (Spizaetus isidori) Predation on Domestic Fowl
Authors: Restrepo-Cardona Juan Sebastián , Márquez César , Echeverry-Galvis María Ángela , Vargas Félix Hernán , Sánchez-Bellaizá Diana M. , Renjifo Luis Miguel
Published: March 2019

In anthropogenically transformed habitats, some birds of prey feed on domestic animals, triggering conflict between people and predators. To manage this conflict, it is important to understand the ecological circumstances associated with the predation of domestic animals. We studied variation in the diet of the endangered Black-and-chestnut Eagle ( Spizaetus isidori) in four different Andean landscapes in Colombia. We analyzed 261 prey items brought to five S. isidori nests during the period when the nestlings were being raised. Domestic fowl are relatively frequent prey in the diet of S. isidori in three of the four localities studied (frequency: 9.3%–36%), representing 12.2% to 37.1% of the total biomass of prey consumed. In terms of biomass, in Ciudad Bolívar, Jardín, and Campohermoso, the sites with the greatest forest cover, mammals were the most important prey in the diet of S. isidori, while in Gachalá, the most deforested site, domestic fowl were the most important prey. We recommend that forest cover be maintained and increased to provide habitat for wild prey in the breeding territories of S. isidori using the landscape management tools best suited to the specific socioecological contexts of this eagle’s territories. We also suggest that the management of domestic fowl under controlled conditions or the use of some deterrent be examined as strategies to mitigate or prevent conflict between people and S. isidori. Socioecological research and educational programs should be carried out to increase the public’s understanding of this eagle and its benefits to the ecosystem.
Lest We Forget: The Effect of War Commemorations on Regret, Positive Moral Emotions, and Support for War
Authors: Watkins Hanne M. , Bastian Brock
Published: March 2019

Why do societies commemorate war? The persistence of war commemorations suggests they serve a purpose in society. We examine one possibility: Commemorating past sacrifices may serve an “inspirational” function, by evoking pride and gratitude for soldiers’ actions and promoting a willingness to endure future sacrifices for the group. We contrast this with the (popularly espoused) “preventative” function, whereby commemorations decrease support for war by evoking regret. Drawing on one correlational study ( N = 500) and two experimental studies ( N = 600, 621) with U.S. residents, we show that although war commemorations inconsistently induce regret for the country’s actions, they consistently elicit emotions such as pride and admiration in response to the costly sacrifice of soldiers. While war commemorations neither increased nor decreased support for war directly, the inspirational account received greater support overall. We discuss implications of these findings in light of the ubiquity of war commemorations.
The Red Blanket: A dance of animacy
Authors: MacRae Christina
Published: March 2019

This article will focus in on one short play spell in the outdoor space of a classroom of 2-year-olds. Using the medium of video as data, it explores the way that children’s bodies are caught up in what Ingold calls a ‘dance of animacy’, when bodies and matter encounter each other. I will deploy the figure of the ‘post-human’ child to challenge a conception of play whose outcome is a child’s mastery – of self and of the world. Instead, I would like to propose that play is a way of being of the world. This re-conceptualising of play comes through a much closer attention to the moving body as it encounters the world, looking at points of contact where bodies and matter animate each other. By playing with film data in slow motion, I will put Manning’s notion of the minor gesture to work, as a way to resist more normative accounts of play, where play is coupled to cognitive and social stages of development.
Access-Awareness-Agency (AAA) Model of Music-Based Social-Emotional Competence (MuSEC)
Authors: Saarikallio Suvi
Published: March 2019

Social–emotional competence (SEC) is a set of psychological resources, highly relevant for adaptive growth and wellbeing. Music has been argued to support social–emotional skills, yet there is little theoretical consensus about the underlying impact mechanisms and the special nature of music as a medium for SEC. This article presents a theoretical model of music-based SEC that combines research from general SEC models with music-specific literature from music psychology, music education, music therapy, and music for health and wellbeing. The proposed access-awareness-agency (AAA) model defines music-based social–emotional competence (MuSEC) as interplay of embodied access, reflective awareness, and sense of agency. These three components are defined as the core competencies that music in particular facilitates; competencies that underlie and explain further competence in behaviors ranging from affective self-regulation to social interaction. The article elaborates these MuSEC components and their potential connections to particular equivalents in general SEC and proposes hypotheses for empirically testing the model. The model offers a novel, integrative SEC-based perspective for advancing theoretical coherence in the growing field of music as social–emotional wellbeing and growth.
Safety Culture and Attitudes Among Spine Professionals: Results of an International Survey
Authors: Gadjradj Pravesh S. , Harhangi Biswadjiet S.
Published: March 2019

Study Design:

International survey.

Objective:

A positive safety culture has been linked to better surgical outcomes, less hospital costs and less patient harm and severity-adjusted mortality, making safety attitudes relevant for society and both patient and health care provider. The aim of the current study is to assess attitudes toward safety culture among spinal care professionals.

Methods:

An online survey was distributed to members of AOSpine International in 2016. The survey consisted out of 3 parts: (1) demographics, (2) the Safety Attitude Questionnaire (SAQ), and (3) expectations of responsibility for improving the safety culture. The SAQ measured job satisfaction, teamwork, and safety climate, perceptions of management, stress recognition, and working conditions. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with safety attitudes.

Results:

A total of 356 respondents replied. The SAQ showed that respondents in Africa have a significant lower score (odds ratio [OR] 0.19, P < .05) on working conditions, compared with spine professionals in Asia. Respondents in North America had the highest odds of having a higher score (OR 4.04, P < .05) compared with respondents in Asia. Gender, continent, occupation, tenure, and the number of employees in the clinic were not associated with the dimensions of safety culture ( P > .05). The majority expected the surgeon to be mainly responsible for improving the safety culture in the operating room and at management level.

Conclusions:

There was a lot of variety among different respondents worldwide albeit respondents in Africa scored significantly lower on working conditions, compared with spine professionals in Asia and North America, suggesting that wealthier countries have better working conditions which may lead toward better safety attitudes. Closer collaboration between hospital management and clinicians seems to be a target for improvement in safety culture. Furthermore, to show clinical relevance in this field, studies correlating safety attitudes with outcomes after spine surgery are warranted.
Exploring the Opportunities of the Emojis in Brand Communication: The Case of the Beer Industry
Authors: Casado-Molina Ana María , Rojas-de Gracia María Mercedes , Alarcón-Urbistondo Pilar , Romero-Charneco María
Published: March 2019

This study shows that emojis are a significant element in brand communications, which still requires attention from researchers. Specifically, it describes the use of emojis by the four companies with the largest audiences on Twitter in the Spanish beer industry. Through a correspondence analysis, we found that those emojis were not a mere occasional resource within a message but rather a differentiating element for brand positioning. Likewise, we analyzed the existing relationship between the way in which they were used and the engagement generated. In this regard, we concluded that communications using emojis aimed at customer service and care, as well as those used in positive contexts and for emphasis, were the ones related to higher user engagement. We discuss herein the practical implications of these findings for businesses.
Contribution of Ambedkar in India’s Federal Finance System
Authors: Laxman Manjula
Published: March 2019

Ambedkar was a multifaceted personality who made deep impression on the social-political-economic life of India of his times. Ambedkar provided valuable guidance on the socio-political-economic platform in colonial India and independent India as well; yet economists have generally ignored his contributions to India. In this context, this article examines his significant role in federal finance, which is an important branch of economics and makes an effort to understand and evaluate the process of its development and his contribution to it. He had played a major role in a newborn country like India. He had been one of the contributors to the Constitution of India and had contributed towards the development of the federal finance system in independent India. His main insistence on the federal finance system was for economic welfare of the people with the establishment of such an economic system from the local to centre levels, which could progressively raise their economic level without jeopardizing their interests.
Social Work and Social Policy Practice: Imperatives for Political Engagement
Authors: Pawar Manohar
Published: March 2019

This article discusses why and how social workers need to engage in social policy practice and how such engagement necessitates political action. The local conditions relating to health, education, housing, employment, gender equality and socioeconomic infrastructure in majority of communities in the Asia Pacific region are largely neglected by professional social workers. To make a difference in those communities and to do justice to their own professional values and principles, social workers need to engage in policy practice in several ways. They may also need to re-examine the profession’s non-political and non-religious neutral stand. It argues that to facilitate their necessary political engagement, social workers need to understand and work with local politics and power structures. Such a stand calls for new thinking and altering some aspects of the nature of social work education and practice in the region.
Gasless laparoendoscopic single-site surgery with intraoperative autologous blood transfusion for management of ectopic pregnancy with significant hemoperitoneum: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Takeda Akihiro , Tsuge Shiori , Shibata Mayu , Shinone Sanae , Nakamura Hiromi
Published: March 2019

Background

With advances in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, earlier detection of ectopic pregnancy with minimal symptoms makes laparoscopic management more common. However, if diagnostic delay occurs, significant hemoperitoneum associated with ectopic pregnancy is still a potentially life-threatening condition, which presents a therapeutic challenge especially when minimally invasive surgical approach is a significant concern. Herein, retrospective observational study in 18 consecutive cases of ectopic pregnancy with significant hemoperitoneum ≥ 800 mL was performed to assess the feasibility and efficacy of gasless laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) surgery with intraoperative autologous blood cell salvage and donation for management.

Results

At triage, median shock index was 0.95, median hemoglobin value was 6.5 g/dL, and median serum β-hCG value was 13,651 U/L. Surgical diagnosis included 7 ampullary (including 5 abortions and 2 ruptures), 5 ruptured isthmic (including 1 heterotopic pregnancy in remnant tube after salpingectomy and 1 remnant tube pregnancy after salpingo-oophorectomy), 4 ruptured interstitial (including 1 case after salpingectomy), and 2 ruptured ovarian pregnancies. Among these cases, 16 cases were successfully managed by LESS surgery, while, in 2 cases with interstitial pregnancy, conversion to multi-port laparoscopic surgery along with transfusion of bank blood were required. Laparotomic conversion was not experienced. Surgical procedures in 16 cases successfully completed by LESS surgery with intraoperative autologous blood transfusion included unilateral salpingectomy for 7 ampullary and 5 isthmic pregnancies, cornuotomy and cornual resection for each 1 case with interstitial pregnancy, and unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and partial ovarian resection for each 1 case with ovarian pregnancy. Median surgical duration was 57.5 min, median amounts of salvaged peritoneal blood were 950 mL (range 800–2000 mL), and median amounts of transfused autologous blood were 540 mL (range 450–1300 mL). Major complications associated with LESS surgery and intraoperative autologous blood transfusion were not experienced.

Conclusion

Gasless LESS surgery with intraoperative autologous blood transfusion is a feasible minimally invasive surgical option with avoidance to use homologous blood for management of selected cases of ectopic pregnancy even with significant hemoperitoneum.
Sonic hedgehog expression in the postnatal brain
Authors: Rivell Aileen , Petralia Ronald S. , Wang Ya-Xian , Clawson Ellie , Moehl Keelin , Mattson Mark P. , Yao Pamela J.
Published: March 2019

Beyond its role in patterning the neural tube during embryogenesis, additional functions of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) in post-embryonic and mature brains have been coming into focus. However, the question of the abundance of endogenous Shh – the ligand of the signaling pathway – and its changes over time in post-embryonic and mature brains are less well understood. Here we find that while the amounts of Shh transcript and protein in rat brains are nearly undetectable at birth, they increase continuously during postnatal development and remain at readily detectable levels in young adults. This developmental age-associated increase in Shh levels is also seen in hippocampal neurons grown in culture, in which very young neurons produce minimal amounts of Shh protein but, as neurons grow and form synapses, the amounts of Shh increase significantly. Using immunolabeling with antibodies to different residues of Shh, we observed that the N-terminal fragment and the C-terminal fragment of Shh are present in hippocampal neurons; and that these two Shh forms co-exist in most compartments of the neuron. Our findings provide a better understanding of Shh expression in the brain, laying the ground for further comprehending the biogenesis of Shh protein in the young mature brain and neurons.
NIK–IKK complex interaction controls NF-κB-dependent inflammatory activation of endothelium in response to LTβR ligation
Authors: Kucharzewska Paulina , Maracle Chrissta X. , Jeucken Kim C. M. , van Hamburg Jan Piet , Israelsson Elisabeth , Furber Mark , Tas Sander W. , Olsson Henric K.
Published: March 2019

NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK; also known as MAP3K14) is a central regulator of non-canonical NF-κB signaling in response to stimulation of TNF receptor superfamily members, such as the lymphotoxin-β receptor (LTβR), and is implicated in pathological angiogenesis associated with chronic inflammation and cancer. Here, we identify a previously unrecognized role of the LTβR–NIK axis during inflammatory activation of human endothelial cells (ECs). Engagement of LTβR-triggered canonical and non-canonical NF-κB signaling promoted expression of inflammatory mediators and adhesion molecules, and increased immune cell adhesion to ECs. Sustained LTβR-induced inflammatory activation of ECs was NIK dependent, but independent of p100, indicating that the non-canonical arm of NF-κB is not involved. Instead, prolonged activation of canonical NF-κB signaling, through the interaction of NIK with IκB kinase α and β (also known as CHUK and IKBKB, respectively), was required for the inflammatory response. Endothelial inflammatory activation induced by synovial fluid from rheumatoid arthritis patients was significantly reduced by NIK knockdown, suggesting that NIK-mediated alternative activation of canonical NF-κB signaling is a key driver of pathological inflammatory activation of ECs. Targeting NIK could thus provide a novel approach for treating chronic inflammatory diseases.
NHX-type Na+(K+)/H+ antiporters are required for TGN/EE trafficking and endosomal ion homeostasis in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Dragwidge Jonathan Michael , Scholl Stefan , Schumacher Karin , Gendall Anthony Richard
Published: March 2019

The regulation of ion and pH homeostasis of endomembrane organelles is critical for functional protein trafficking, sorting and modification in eukaryotic cells. pH homeostasis is maintained through the activity of vacuolar H+-ATPases (V-ATPases) pumping protons (H+) into the endomembrane lumen, and counter-action by cation/proton exchangers, such as the NHX family of Na+(K+)/H+ exchangers. In plants, V-ATPase activity at the trans-Golgi network/early endosome (TGN/EE) is important for secretory and endocytic trafficking; however, the role of the endosomal antiporters NHX5 and NHX6 in endomembrane trafficking is unclear. Here we show through genetic, pharmacological and live-cell imaging approaches that double knockout of NHX5 and NHX6 results in the impairment of endosome motility and protein recycling at the TGN/EE, but not in the secretion of integral membrane proteins. Furthermore, we report that nhx5 nhx6 mutants are partially insensitive to osmotic swelling of TGN/EE induced by the monovalent cation ionophore monensin, and to late endosomal swelling by the phosphatidylinositol 3/4-kinase inhibitor wortmannin, demonstrating that NHX5 and NHX6 function to regulate the luminal cation composition of endosomes.
DSS-induced damage to basement membranes is repaired by matrix replacement and crosslinking
Authors: Howard Angela M. , LaFever Kimberly S. , Fenix Aidan M. , Scurrah Cherie' R. , Lau Ken S. , Burnette Dylan T. , Bhave Gautam , Ferrell Nicholas , Page-McCaw Andrea
Published: March 2019

Basement membranes are an ancient form of animal extracellular matrix. As important structural and functional components of tissues, basement membranes are subject to environmental damage and must be repaired while maintaining functions. Little is known about how basement membranes get repaired. This paucity stems from a lack of suitable in vivo models for analyzing such repair. Here, we show that dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) directly damages the gut basement membrane when fed to adult Drosophila. DSS becomes incorporated into the basement membrane, promoting its expansion while decreasing its stiffness, which causes morphological changes to the underlying muscles. Remarkably, two days after withdrawal of DSS, the basement membrane is repaired by all measures of analysis. We used this new damage model to determine that repair requires collagen crosslinking and replacement of damaged components. Genetic and biochemical evidence indicates that crosslinking is required to stabilize the newly incorporated repaired Collagen IV rather than to stabilize the damaged Collagen IV. These results suggest that basement membranes are surprisingly dynamic.
Root mass may affect soil water infiltration more strongly than the incorporated residue
Authors: Oda Masato , Rasyid Burhanuddin , Omae Hide
Published: March 2019

Crop residue incorporation increases stable soil pores and soil water infiltration and reduces surface water runoff and soil erosion. However, few studies have examined the relationship between crop residue incorporation and water infiltration. A previous study showed that water infiltration increases depending on the quantity of applied wheat straw. In this study, we examined whether the relationship is applicable to different crop residues in a crop rotation. We grew corn, rose grass, and okra in crop rotation under plastic film houses and measured the water infiltration rate at the time of ridge making. A strong correlation was found between the quantity of applied residue and the soil water infiltration rate (r = 0.953), although there are outliers in the case of no prior crop. However, aboveground biomass of the prior crop showed a stronger correlation with water infiltration rate (r = 0.965), without outliers. Previous studies have revealed the exponential relation between plant root mass and soil erosion. Our data also show a positive relationship between resistance to erosion and root mass when assuming that aboveground biomass is proportional to the underground biomass. The result also showed that the effect of the prior crop root mass disappears within the next crop period. Our results indicate that maintaining a large root biomass is crucial for reducing soil erosion.
Application of genus Cassia in the treatment of Constipation: A systematic review
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Shahzad
Published: March 2019

Purpose:  Role of genus cassia in the treatment of Constipation

Methods: Methodological analysis, systematic review, and meta-analysis of identified studies using RevMan

Result and Discussion: Cassia fistula was partially effected in treating constipation however there is a need for improvement in the protocol of studies to reduce biases. These results were only limited to one species so it cannot be generalized among all species of Cassia.

Conclusion: Cassia fistula is partially effective in reducing the pain and consistency of stool during constipation among children.
Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy with marsupialization of the lacrimal sac.
Authors: Celis-Aguilar Erika , Castro-Urquizo Angel , Escobar-Aispuro Lucero , Alarid-Coronel José , Villanueva-Ramos Nadia , Hernández-Castillo Eugenia Nemiliztli , Solórzano-Barrón Vicente , Perdomo-Martinez Rómulo
Published: March 2019

Objective: To analyze the efficacy of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) with marsupialization of the lacrimal sac compared with other techniques of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy.

Material and methods: Clinical chart review. Patients with lacrimal sac pathologies and endoscopic DCR with or without marsupialization of the lacrimal sac were included from 2011 to 2015. The outcome measurements were absence of ocular symptoms and permeability of the lacrimal sac.

Results: A total of 24 patients were evaluated, 17 women and 7 men, average age was 47 years.  Seven patients underwent DCR with marsupialization, 17 patients underwent other endoscopic techniques. Average follow-up was 18 months. The efficacy (absence of symptoms and permeability of the lacrimal sac) of the DCR technique with marsupialization was 71%, without significant difference compared to other techniques (p = 0.686).

Conclusion: Similar results were found in the different types of endoscopic DCR techniques. More studies are needed to corroborate our results.
Safety and efficacy of Azithromycin in prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ahmed Almegdad , Koko Abubaker , Abdelsalam Ahmed , Hilali Awab , Elsheikh Mohamed
Published: March 2019

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) causes a major burden in terms of deaths and hospitalizations worldwide; it is associated with progressive lung function loss, and frequent exacerbations. Administration of macrolides has been considered beneficial in reducing the frequency of COPD exacerbations. The aim of this study is to assess the safety and efficacy of long-term administration of Azithromycin for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods: An extensive search was conducted on SCOPUS, and PubMed databases, CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov clinical trial registers for randomized clinical trials conducted on COPD patients and administered Azithromycin for more than two weeks. The selected studies underwent assessment for the risk of bias. We conducted random-effect model meta-analysis for the frequency of acute exacerbations during follow-up as a primary outcome.

Results: Out of 1021 screened records, 3 RCTs (Randomized controlled trials) involving 1264 patients were included in the final analysis. The pooled data of all 3 trials showed that administration of Azithromycin reduced the frequency of acute exacerbation of COPD [risk ratio (RR) = 0.69; 95% CI 0.53, 0.91, p = 0.01]. Subgroup analysis indicated that 500 mg Azithromycin [risk ratio (RR) =0.65; 95% CI 0.53-0.79, p=0.01] was found to be more beneficial than 250 mg Azithromycin [risk ratio (RR) = 0.60; 95% CI 0.27-1.33, p=0.21] in reducing acute exacerbation rate, however due to many limitations the analysis of the dosage was not conclusive.

Conclusion: Long-term Azithromycin administration for COPD patients is statistically not associated with increased risk of developing adverse events; in addition, it might be effective in reducing the frequency of acute exacerbations of COPD. However, dosage and duration of Azithromycin administration analysis was not conclusive and thus more RCTs are needed in these areas.
Calculation Methodology of Geometrical Dimensions for Noise-Protective Automotive Screens
Authors: Тупов Владимир , Tupov Vladimir , Дудьев Т. , Dud'ev T.
Published: March 2019

To determine the projected screen’s optimal dimensions has been proposed a calculation method allowing assay an automotive noise entering the area, protected by this screen. In engineering calculations the noise screen is often considered as infinitely extended, so that the sound diffraction on its side edges and the noise from the parts which are not covered by the screen are ignored. The proposed complex approach in the screens design allows assay the levels of noise emanating from the parts of transport stream, covered and uncovered by the screen. Thus, the designer, in case of exceeding the set values by the noise level, can estimate from where the loudest noise comes: from the top of the screen or from its sides, including the noise from the road traffic parts which are not covered by the screen, both from the right and left sides of it. From here is emerged the possibility to rationally vary the screen’s geometric dimensions, increasing its height, or extending it in one or another direction. As a result of such design, the screen’s optimal basic geometrical dimensions are determined in terms of providing the necessary noise level in the protected area. This allows reduce the design time and economic costs for the construction of screens.
Influence of the different types and parameters of the physical exercise on seminal quality: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Muñoz Víctor , Gargallo Pedro , Juesas Álvaro , Flández Jorge , Calatayud Joaquín , Colado Juan C.
Published: March 2019

The positive importance of physical activity properly prescribed in terms of intensity and volume on a variety of metabolic, musculoskeletal, cognitive and other disorders is widely known. The increasing epidemiology of infertility is due to the changes in lifestyle habits, such as inappropriate diets or the radiations from new-generation electrical devices. There are not many informative evidences regarding either infertility causes and effects, or the exercise role in reversing its symptoms. In order to obtain and summarize the most relevant information about the influence of the different training types and parameters in the semen quality criteria, a descriptive literature review without temporal restriction of WOS, PubMed and Scholar data bases has been conducted. The study produced the following results; whilst a high intensity and prolonged volume training produce a drop in the gonadal hormone concentrations and the antioxidant levels and, therefore, in the sperm quality, moderate exercise reverts these effects and could potentially influence a possible optimization of the sperm generating processes.

Key words: Training, male infertility, gonadal hormones, seminal oxidative stress, sperm quality.
Protective Parents, Democratic Parents and Support to Physical Activity and Sport
Authors: González-García Higinio , Pelegrín Muñoz Antonia , Carballo Crespo José Luis
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study is to determine if parental education styles influence on parents support in sport of athletes. The sample consisted of 374 athletes and physical practitioners. In order to measure the different variables were used, an ad hoc Sociodemographic questionnaire, the Oviedo Scale of Infrequency Response (INF-OV) and the Self- Assessment Multifactorial Childhood Adjustment Test (TAMAI). The results showed significant differences in: care education close to mother protectionism (p<.05), mother personalized education (p<.01), father personalized-assistance education (p<.01) and father protectionism (p<.01), in favour of athletes who felt support from parents. On the other hand, mother restriction (p<.01) and father restriction obtained significant differences, in favour of athletes who did not feel support in the practice of physical activity and sport. The regression analysis showed that care education close to mother protectionism (p<.05) and father personalized assistance education (p<.05), are linked with perceived greater support in sport. On the other hand, higher levels of mother restriction (p<.05) and father restriction (p<.05) are related to perceiving less support in the practice of physical activity and sport. It was concluded that athletes who perceived support for physical activity, obtained higher levels of care education close to mother protectionism, mother personalized education, father personalized education and father protectionism.

Key words: parents, athletes, collaboration, sport career, education.
School and Sport as “Epistemicic Ludic” in the Abya Yala Cultures
Authors: Moreno Doña Alberto , Hortigüela Alcalá David , Carter-Thuillier Bastian
Published: March 2019

The aim of this research is to analyze the relationship between school, play and sport, from a sociocultural, critical and decolonial positioning. In order to do so, it exposes itself to the idea of epistemicide, understood as the way in which modern epistemology destroys its own cultural components and knowledge and imposes Eurocentric criteria in the way of understanding and practicing play and sport. The analysis is divided into three sections. The first shows how the western school has broken into Latin American educational processes. The second section focuses on how the conception of sport has disrupted the playful processes inherent in educational processes. In the third, the interaction between the apparent educational chaos and the playful aspects is considered.

Key words: epistemicide; sport; game; Abya Yala; Eurocentrism.
eSports and conventional sports: ethical and pedagogical issues derived from corporal participation
Authors: Chiva-Bartoll Oscar , Pallarès-Piquer Marc , Isidori Emanuele Isidori
Published: March 2019

We are witnessing a new phenomenon problematically related to sports: eSports or electronic sports. In 2013 more than 71 million people watched competitive matches of eSports. In 2016 they generated a global market of over 490 million euros. Due to the important dimension that this phenomenon has acquired, the objective of the article is to make a hermeneutic analysis of the eSports in order to delimit their main differences with the conventional sport. Consequently, this conceptual analysis will allow us to discriminate the ethical and pedagogical problematization of the eSports. Particularly, the paper approaches the contrast among the concepts of eSports, games and sports, focusing on the model and meaning of the corporal participation that each one implies. In essence, it follows that eSports and sports are not the same thing. Despite the appearances and similarities, there is an intrinsic feature that differentiates eSports from sports: the meaning of corporal participation.

Key words: game, body, sportsmanship, hermeneutics, pedagogy, electronic sport.
Increasing rates of surgical treatment for paediatric tibial shaft fractures: A national database study from between 2000 and 2012
Authors: Kleiner J E. , Raducha J E. , Cruz A. I.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Tibia fractures are the third most common long bone fracture in children. Because of the remodelling potential of the tibial diaphysis, nonoperative treatment has historically been advocated for most tibial shaft fractures in children. The purpose of this study was to estimate the rate of surgical treatment of tibial shaft fractures over time and identify demographic factors associated with surgical treatment, utilizing a large, publicly available, national database.

Methods

The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids’ Inpatient Database was evaluated for the years between 2000 and 2012. Tibial shaft fractures and surgically treated patients were identified using International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification codes. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine variables associated with a greater proportion of surgical treatment. Statistical analyses were performed utilizing SAS statistical software v.9.4. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

In all, 24 166 tibial shaft fracture admissions were identified, with 15 621 (64.7%) treated surgically. The percentage of patients receiving surgery to treat tibial shaft fractures increased from 57.3% in 2000 to 74.3% in 2012 (p < 0.001). Multivariable regression showed that increasing age was associated with increased rate of surgical treatment (p < 0.001). The greatest increase in surgical treatment was seen in children aged five to nine years, increasing from 23.0% in 2000 to 46.2% in 2012.

Conclusion

The rate of operative treatment of paediatric tibial shaft fractures increased over time. The largest increase was seen in children aged five to nine years. Increased proportion of surgical treatment was associated with older age, concurrent femur fracture and non-Medicaid insurance status.

Level of Evidence

Level III - Retrospective comparative study
Eggshell Crack Detection and Egg Classification Using Resonance and Support Vector Machine Methods
Authors: Cheng Ching-Wei , Feng Pei-Hsuan , Xie Jun-Hong , Weng Yu-Kai
Published: March 2019

Abstract. Cracks in eggshells not only affect the egg preservation time but also reduce the success rate for the end-processed products. This study was based on the theory of resonant inspection (RI). The use of the support vector machine (SVM) method as a means of more accurate eggshell crack detection was evaluated. The results revealed that comparing the resonant frequency and amplitude by using a microphone as a sensor allowed non-cracked eggs to be distinguished from cracked eggs. The characteristic frequency of a non-cracked egg was between 4130 and 5500 Hz, and its amplitude was between 0.16 and 0.20 V. The spectrum of a cracked egg was fuzzy, with no obvious characteristic frequency, and the maximum amplitude was approximately 0.06 V. The identification accuracy was 99% and 98% for the SVM training set and testing set, respectively. These results prove that the resonance detection method is effective for identifying eggs with cracked shells. Keywords: Eggshells, Resonant inspection, Fast Fourier transform, Support vector machine.
Optimum Feature Subset for Optimizing Crop Yield Prediction Using Filter and Wrapper Approaches
Authors: Maya Gopal P. S. , Bhargavi R
Published: March 2019

Abstract. In agriculture, crop yield prediction is critical. Crop yield depends on various features which can be categorized as geographical, climatic, and biological. Geographical features consist of cultivable land in hectares, canal length to cover the cultivable land, number of tanks and tube wells available for irrigation. Climatic features consist of rainfall, temperature, and radiation. Biological features consist of seeds, minerals, and nutrients. In total, 15 features were considered for this study to understand features impact on paddy crop yield for all seasons of each year. For selecting vital features, five filter and wrapper approaches were applied. For predicting accuracy of features selection algorithm, Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) model was used. The RMSE, MAE, R, and RRMSE metrics were used to evaluate the performance of feature selection algorithms. Data used for the analysis was drawn from secondary sources of state Agriculture Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, India, for over 30 years. Seventy-five percent of data was used for training and 25% was used for testing. Low computational time was also considered for the selection of best feature subset. Outcome of all feature selection algorithms have given similar results in the RMSE, RRMSE, R, and MAE values. The adjusted R2 value was used to find the optimum feature subset despite all the deviations. The evaluation of the dataset used in this work shows that total area of cultivation, number of tanks and open wells used for irrigation, length of canals used for irrigation, and average maximum temperature during the season of the crop are the best features for better crop yield prediction on the study area. The MLR gives 85% of model accuracy for the selected features with low computational time. Keywords: Feature selection algorithm, Model validation, Multiple linear regression, Performance metrics.
Fabrication and testing of various sandwich composites
Authors: NAVEEN R.
Published: March 2019

Industries like aerospace, civil construction and automation uses the sandwich composites widely due to their high strength at low weight. The face sheets and core of the composites play a vital role in the properties of composites. The mechanical properties of these types of structures depend on the application and under various environmental conditions. Most of the sandwich composites will fail due to debonding and core crushing. In this research, three types of sandwich structures like bamboo, V-Board and metal type are tested and characterized for mechanical properties. The sandwich composites are tested by 3-point bending and UTM test to identify several mechanical properties like tensile strength, Young’s modulus, fracture, etc. The results show that the bamboo type sandwich composites have high strength and low weight as compared to other composites.
Missile Grid Fins Analysis using Computational Fluid Dynamics: A Systematic Review
Authors: SHARMA Nayhel , KUMAR Rakesh
Published: March 2019

Grid Fins are unconventional control surfaces, consisting of cells in an outer frame. Uniqueness of Grid Fins is that they are aligned parallel to the direction of air flow. The orientation of these fins results in aerodynamic demerits such as choking of flow inside the cells and thereby resulting in increased drag forces. Both experimental and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) studies have been employed in negating these effects. This paper reviews the work done by various authors to overcome the anomalies using CFD approach. This paper also discusses the measures to overcome these anomalies. The paper presents an insight and step by step guidelines for CFD simulations right from the pre-processing to the post-processing.
Validation of a helicopter turbulence model on PUMA 330 dynamics
Authors: STEFANESCU Irina-Beatrice , AFLOARE Andreea-Irina , IONITA Achim
Published: March 2019

Aircraft and algorithms used in automated flight control are always designed for calm atmospheric conditions; therefore, testing their behaviour in realistic atmospheric conditions implies the necessity for efficient turbulence models. The present paper tests the behaviour of a helicopter in turbulent atmospheric conditions, using two different, complex models and a mathematically derived CETI-type turbulence model, specific to the PUMA 330 helicopter.