bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A narrative review of microbial biofilm in postoperative surgical site infections: clinical presentation and treatment
Authors: Edmiston C. E. , McBain A. J. , Kiernan M. , Leaper D. J.
Published: December 2016

Objective:

The global impact of surgical site infections (SSIs) on health-care systems is considerable: many are related to the formation of a microbial biofilm. Biofilm plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of implantable device-related infections and are also important in persistent postoperative skin and soft tissue wound infections.

Method:

PubMed and OVID databases were searched for relevant articles regarding biofilm-associated infection in surgery, including epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment and management.

Results:

Biofilm-associated infections increase the use of health-care resources, prolong length of stay, increase cost of antibiotic therapy, result in additional surgical revisions and extend rehabilitation after discharge from health care. Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the most common isolates recovered from device-related infections. Early infection occurs within two weeks of implantation and is associated with intraoperative wound contamination; late-onset infections are often occult prolonging recognition by weeks, months and in some cases, years. Biofilm is a physical barrier against antibodies and granulocytic cell populations which may also impede the penetration of antibiotics. The ideal strategy for preventing biofilm-associated SSI is to prevent intraoperative contamination through compliance with effective surgical care bundles. Management of postoperative biofilm-associated infections involves surgical debridement followed by irrigation with antimicrobial agents and removal of infected devices, followed by insertion of antimicrobial adjuncts such as antimicrobial spacers, beads or sutures together with selective therapeutic agents that penetrate the mature biofilm.

Conclusion:

Biofilm-associated infections are a significant source of postoperative morbidity and mortality. Appropriate interventional strategies are warranted to reduce the risk of intraoperative contamination.

Declaration of interest:

The authors have no conflicts.
A novel native collagen dressing with advantageous properties to promote physiological wound healing
Authors: Wiegand C. , Buhren B. A. , Bünemann E. , Schrumpf H. , Homey B. , Frykberg R. G. , Lurie F. , Gerber P. A.
Published: December 2016

Objective:

Chronic hard-to-heal wounds generate high costs and resource use in western health systems and are the focus of intense efforts to improve healing outcomes. Here, we introduce a novel native collagen (90 %):alginate (10 %) wound dressing and compare it with the established oxidised dressings

Method:

Matrices were analysed by atomic force microscopy (AMF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and immunoelectron microscopy for collagen types I, III and V. Viability assays were performed with NIH-3T3 fibroblasts. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) binding was analysed, and the effect of the wound dressings on platelet-derived growth factor B homodimer (PDGF-BB) was investigated.

Results:

Unlike oxidised regenerated cellulose (ORC)/collagen matrix and ovine forestomach matrix (OFM), the three-dimensional structure of the native collagen matrix (NCM) was found to be analogous to intact, native, dermal collagen. Fibroblasts seeded on the NCM showed exponential growth whereas in ORC/collagen matrix or OFM, very low rates of proliferation were observed after 7 days. MMP sequestration was effective and significant in the NCM. In addition, the NCM was able to significantly stabilise PDGF-BB in vitro.

Conclusion:

We hypothesise that the observed microstructure of the NCM allows for an effective binding of MMPs and a stabilisation and protection of growth factors and also promotes the ingrowth of dermal fibroblasts, potentially supporting the re commencement of healing in previously recalcitrant wounds.

Declaration of interest:

This work was supported by BSN Medical, Hamburg, Germany.
Outcomes of acute dermal irritation and sensitisation tests on active dressings for chronic wounds: a comparative study
Authors: Zelga P. J. , Górnicz M. M. , Głuszkiewicz J. M. , Piasecka-Zelga J.
Published: December 2016

Objective:

Chronic, non-healing ulcers are a significant problem in clinical practice. The numerous complications, associated with toxicological and allergic reactions, caused by certain compounds in active dressings have been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the local skin tolerance of active dressings and determine which of them carries a risk of causing local skin reactions.

Method:

We tested six active dressings from different categories (hydrogel dressing, chitosan sponge dressing, silver nanoparticles dressing, dry flax fibres dressing alone and coated with linfix or oilfix) for acute irritation in rabbits and for sensitisation in guinea pigs.

Results:

Only the dry flax fibre dressing showed no irritant and sensitisation effects. The remaining dressings obtained Cumulative Irritation Index from 0.00–0.35 and evoked sensitisation reaction in up to 20 % animals, which according to skin reaction category puts them in the non-to mildly-irritating and sensitising products group.

Conclusion:

Based on the findings, it should be considered that although analysed dressings do not present a serious risk of allergic reactions in humans, only the dry flax fibre dressing can be perceived as having negligible risk.

Declaration of interest

The authors have no conflict of interests.
Impact of optimal anticoagulation therapy on chronic venous ulcer healing in thrombophilic patients with post-thrombotic syndrome
Authors: Hinojosa C. A. , Olivares-Cruz S. , Laparra-Escareno H. , Sanchez-Castro S. , Tamayo-Garcia B. , Anaya-Ayala J. E.
Published: December 2016

Objective:

Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is the long-term sequelae of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). PTS clinical manifestations include chronic leg pain, oedema, lipodermatosclerosis and ulcers. The objective of this study is to determine in patients with documented history of thrombophilias and DVT whether the number of previous thrombotic events and optimal anticoagulation therapy are associated with the time to venous ulcer healing following the start of compression therapy.

Method:

Retrospective analysis performed in thrombophilic patients under the age of 50 years old with chronic venous ulcers secondary to DVT at the wound clinic in the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition ‘Salvador Zubirán ’ in Mexico City. Variables such as the number or episodes of thrombotic events, type of hypercoagulable disorder, optimal anticoagulation therapy with Warfarin monitored by therapeutic International Normalised Ratio (INR) (2–3) and compliance to compression therapy were examined. Patients that underwent superficial or perforator vein interruption or endovascular recanalisation of deep veins were excluded from the study.

Results:

From a database of 29 patients with chronic venous ulcers followed in our clinic from January 1992 to September 2012, only 13 patients (61% female) met the inclusion criteria. Mean age±standard deviation (SD) was 32±12 years old. Of these, seven (54%) patients with suboptimal INR presented with an average of two previous thrombotic events and the remaining six (46%) patients with optimal INR only one event (p=0.28), the mean time to the clinical manifestation of a venous ulcer after the first episode of DVT was 39 months (range: 12–72) for patients with suboptimal INR and 82 months (range: 12–216) for those with optimal anticoagulation therapy (p=0.11). During the mean follow-up period of 52 months, all patients in optimal anticoagulation healed their ulcer; their mean time for wound healing was 44 months (range: 4–102). In the suboptimal INR group, only four healed the ulcers with an mean of 72 months (range: 2–204) (p=0.94).

Conclusion:

There seems to be an association between an optimal anticoagulation therapy with Warfarin monitored by INR and wound healing rates in thrombophilic patients with chronic venous ulcers. Further research is warranted.

Declaration of interest:

The authors have no conflict of interest.
The influenza campaign 2016-2017: the practice nurse's role
Authors: Duncan Deborah , Hayes Sian
Published: December 2016

Winter comes with an inevitable flu epidemic, and practice nurses are at the forefront of attempting to stem it, by encouraging vaccination and educating patients about how the disease can spread. Here Deborah Duncan and Sian Hayes outline what they need to know
Using the Health Belief Model to increase awareness of the intrauterine device as a post coital contraceptive
Authors: Kelsey Sally
Published: December 2016

The copper intrauterine device is a highly effective method of emergency contraception but is little used. Sally Kelsey describes how using the Health Belief Model could increase uptake
Habilidades en Internet de mujeres estudiantes y su relación con la inclusión digital: Nuevas brechas digitales
Authors: Jiménez Cortés Rocío , Vega Caro Luisa , Vico Bosch Alba
Published: December 2016

El objetivo de este trabajo es conocer las habilidades en Internet de las mujeres estudiantes, estableciendo grupos de habilidades más relacionadas con la inclusión digital. Participan en el estudio 215 mujeres estudiantes españolas de 20 a 34 años de edad a través de un proceso de encuesta que incluye escalas validadas para medir las habilidades en Internet y la inclusión digital. Los resultados muestran cuatro perfiles de mujeres estudiantes en función de los tipos de habilidades en Internet y su nivel de desarrollo (principiante “beginner”, intermedio “average”, avanzado “advanced” y especializado en e-administración). Las habilidades para crear y compartir contenidos en redes sociales, así como las habilidades para la e-administración, junto con habilidades para garantizar la privacidad y la seguridad en Internet se relacionan con un grado elevado de inclusión digital en las mujeres estudiantes. Los hallazgos muestran también que las habilidades para la e-administración, y las habilidades para garantizar la seguridad y la privacidad son las que más influyen en la confianza digital. Se observa que, las habilidades para crear contenidos culturalmente relevantes y compartirlos en las redes sociales contribuyen de forma específica a elevar el grado de inclusión digital. Este tipo de habilidades propias de los procesos de inclusión social marcan la diferencia fundamental entre el grupo “avanzado” y el grupo “especializado en e-administración”. Estos resultados permiten plantear propuestas formativas que prioricen tipos de habilidades para mejorar la inclusión digital en otros perfiles de mujeres y superar nuevas brechas digitales.
Creación, visualización e impresión 3D de colecciones online de modelos educativos tridimensionales con tecnologías de bajo coste; Caso práctico del patrimonio fósil marino de Canarias
Authors: Saorin Pérez Jose Luis , Meier Cecile , Ruiz Castillo Carolina , De La Torre-Cantero Jorge , Melián Díaz Dámari , Bonnet De León Alejandro
Published: December 2016

El uso de objetos tangibles (maquetas, réplicas de obras artísticas, fósiles…) en entornos educativos se suele utilizar para mejorar el proceso de aprendizaje. Cuando el conocimiento se difunde a través de entornos virtuales, a veces, se pierde el valor de estos objetos tangibles. Las nuevas tecnologías de bajo coste, permiten solventar este problema, permitiendo a los profesores incluir en sus aulas virtuales el acceso y manipulación de objetos tridimensionales. En este artículo se describe el proceso de creación y divulgación de un contenido educativo tridimensional e interactivo para aprendizaje en un entorno virtual. Como caso práctico se ha trabajado sobre el patrimonio fósil marino canario. Los fósiles se usan como material tangible en la enseñanza de paleontología, sin embargo no están disponibles para el trabajo fuera del aula. En el trabajo descrito en este artículo, se han digitalizado en 3D una selección de 18 fósiles. Los archivos obtenidos están a disposición de los alumnos en un entorno online, permitiendo su descarga, visualización e interacción en dispositivos móviles multitáctiles. Además, si el alumno lo prefiere, puede imprimirlos en 3D. Para finalizar, se ha realizado una experiencia con 70 alumnos universitarios que, después de acceder al repositorio online creado, han contestado a un cuestionario para valorar los materiales diseñados.
Modelo de decisão multicritério para escolha do modo de transporte: um estudo do escoamento da produção de grãos de Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Castro Danilo Medeiros de , Mendes dos Reis João Gilberto , Vendrametto Oduvaldo , Lopes Antônio Carlos Vaz
Published: December 2016

O Brasil é um dos maiores produtores de grãos do mundo. O estado de Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), por exemplo, é o terceiro maior produtor de milho e quinto maior produtor de soja do País. Entretanto, entre suas maiores dificuldades está à de estabelecer um processo logístico adequado para o transporte desses grãos. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar um modelo de decisão multicritério para escolha do modo de transporte mais adequado para os grãos produzidos em Mato Grosso do Sul. Para condução do estudo foram entrevistados oito especialistas em logística do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul e sete representantes de empresas e instituições ligadas ao segmento logístico do agronegócio. Além disso, foi estabelecido um modelo de decisão multicritério utilizando o método da Análise Hierárquica do Processo (AHP), para determinar o modal de transporte que apresenta a melhor relação custo e benefício dos atributos físicos de transporte como: velocidade, confiabilidade, capacidade, disponibilidade e frequência. Os resultados demonstraram que o modal rodoviário apesar de possuir o custo de frete mais alto é a melhor opção para o estado de MS devido aos benefícios criados por esse sistema de transporte.
Recursos estratégicos para a produção enxuta: um estudo de caso no setor de manufatura eletrônica
Authors: De Medeiros Nayara Cardoso , Santos Luciano Costa , Gohr Cláudia Fabiana , Tomé Felipe de Souza
Published: December 2016

Muitas empresas que tentam implementar a produção enxuta falham ao negligenciar o aspecto estratégico envolvido na mudança organizacional que demanda um novo modelo de gestão. Analisando pela ótica da visão baseada em recursos, é necessário identificar os recursos estratégicos que dão suporte para a implementação, de forma a proteger, explorar e desenvolver os recursos que que viabilizam a produção enxuta. Adotando essa perspectiva, este artigo teve o objetivo de analisar a implementação da produção enxuta em uma empresa de manufatura eletrônica, identificando os recursos mais importantes para o processo. A abordagem metodológica utilizada foi o estudo de caso, no qual a entrevista semiestruturada constituiu o principal instrumento de coleta de dados. Foram identificadas 11 práticas de produção enxuta implementadas e 13 recursos de suporte à implementação. De um modo geral, os resultados demonstraram a importância dos recursos intangíveis para a implementação e a manutenção da produção enxuta na empresa, em especial: cultura organizacional, valores e funcionários. De um modo específico, foi possível identificar quais recursos são mais representativos para cada prática enxuta, o que ajuda a melhorar a decisão sobre quais recursos investir de acordo com as prioridades de implementação.
Identificação do relacionamento entre melhoria contínua e a aprendizagem organizacional na indústria de linha branca dos níveis 1º e 2º da cadeia produtiva
Authors: Rodrigues Francisco Wescley Florencio , Alexandre Joao Welliandre Carneiro , Freitas Silvia Maria de , Nunes Fernando Ribeiro de Melo , Turrioni Joao Batista , Rodrigues Maxwell Veras
Published: December 2016

O artigo objetiva identificar relações entre maturidade da melhoria contínua e aprendizagem organizacional na indústria. Analisa a contribuição desses fatores para a eliminação de barreiras que comprometam a qualidade dos processos e produtos em uma cadeia produtiva. A metodologia baseou-se em pesquisa qualitativa realizada em três empresas atuantes na cadeia de eletrodomésticos de linha branca, produtor, fornecedor e seu fornecedor. Aplicaram-se dois questionários nas três empresas pesquisadas, em funcionários com cargos de chefia nas áreas de produção, qualidade e engenharia. O questionário "Guia para Verificação da Melhoria Contínua na Organização", semiestruturado, contendo perguntas abertas e fechadas busca identificar habilidades organizacionais para melhoria contínua, caracterizando a organização quanto ao Sistema de Gestão da Qualidade, evidenciando os diferentes processos de aprendizagem organizacional. O questionário "Diagnóstico do Nível de Excelência Organizacional em Melhoria Contínua", estruturado, contendo perguntas fechadas, visa medir em qual dos 5 níveis de maturidade organizacional em melhoria contínua se encontra cada empresa, detalhando suas habilidades e comportamentos constitutivos. Concluiu-se que a maturidade em melhoria contínua está ligada positivamente à aprendizagem organizacional. As empresas que possuem boas práticas em aprendizagem organizacional se localizam nos melhores níveis de maturidade em melhoria continua.
Influence of isoform-specific Ras lipidation motifs on protein partitioning and dynamics in model membrane systems of various complexity
Authors: Erwin Nelli , Patra Satyajit , Dwivedi Mridula , Weise Katrin , Winter Roland
Published: December 2016

The partitioning of the lipidated signaling proteins N-Ras and K-Ras4B into various membrane systems, ranging from single-component fluid bilayers, binary fluid mixtures, heterogeneous raft model membranes up to complex native-like lipid mixtures (GPMVs) in the absence and presence of integral membrane proteins have been explored in the last decade in a combined chemical-biological and biophysical approach. These studies have revealed pronounced isoform-specific differences regarding the lateral distribution in membranes and formation of protein-rich membrane domains. In this context, we will also discuss the effects of lipid head group structure and charge density on the partitioning behavior of the lipoproteins. Moreover, the dynamic properties of N-Ras and K-Ras4B have been studied in different model membrane systems and native-like crowded milieus. Addition of crowding agents such as Ficoll and its monomeric unit, sucrose, gradually favors clustering of Ras proteins in forming small oligomers in the bulk; only at very high crowder concentrations association is disfavored.
ATP-driven processes of peroxisomal matrix protein import
Authors: Schwerter Daniel P. , Grimm Immanuel , Platta Harald W. , Erdmann Ralf
Published: December 2016

In peroxisomal matrix protein import two processes directly depend on the binding and hydrolysis of ATP, both taking place at the late steps of the peroxisomal import cycle. First, ATP hydrolysis is required to initiate a ubiquitin-transfer cascade to modify the import (co-)receptors. These receptors display a dual localization in the cytosol and at the peroxisomal membrane, whereas only the membrane bound fraction receives the ubiquitin modification. The second ATP-dependent process of the import cycle is carried out by the two AAA+-proteins Pex1p and Pex6p. These ATPases form a heterohexameric complex, which is recruited to the peroxisomal import machinery by the membrane anchor protein Pex15p. The Pex1p/Pex6p complex recognizes the ubiquitinated import receptors, pulls them out of the membrane and releases them into the cytosol. There the deubiquitinated receptors are provided for further rounds of import. ATP binding and hydrolysis are required for Pex1p/Pex6p complex formation and receptor export. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the peroxisomal import cascade. In particular, we will focus on the ATP-dependent processes, which are so far best understood in the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Postural Preparation to Stepping: Coupled Center of Pressure Shifts in the Anterior-Posterior and Medio-Lateral Directions
Authors: Hansen Clint , LaRue Jacques , Do Manh-Cuong , Latash Mark L.
Published: December 2016

We explored changes in the postural preparation to stepping introduced by modifications of the initial coordinates of the center of pressure (COP). We hypothesized that the postural adjustments in the anterior-posterior direction would persist across all initial COP manipulations while the adjustments in the medio-lateral direction would be highly sensitive to the initial COP coordinate. Healthy subjects stood on a force plate, shifted the body weight to one of the initial conditions that spanned the range of COP coordinates in both directions, and initiated a single step or started to walk. No major changes were observed between the stepping and walking conditions. Changes in the initial COP coordinate in the medio-lateral direction led to scaling of the magnitude of the COP shift in that direction prior to stepping accompanied by a nearly proportional change in the COP shift in the anterior-posterior direction. Changes in the initial COP coordinate in the anterior-posterior direction led to scaling of the magnitude of the COP shift in that direction prior to stepping without consistent changes in the COP shift in the medio-lateral direction. We interpret the results as reflecting a neural organization using a small set of referent body configurations for the postural adjustments.
Effects of Fatigue on Throwing Performance in Experienced Team Handball Players
Authors: Nuño Alberto , Chirosa Ignacio J. , van den Tillaar Roland , Guisado Rafael , Martín Ignacio , Martinez Isidoro , Chirosa Luis J.
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of central and peripheral physiological fatigue on throwing accuracy and ball release velocity in team handball. Twenty male subjects (age 24.7 ± 3.9 yrs, body mass 88.5 ± 5.0 kg, body height 1.86 ± 0.05 m, training experience 12.7 ± 3.8 yrs) from one handball team participated in this study. The participants completed four sets of eight laps of a circuit that consisted of specific team handball drills/exercises, with decreasing recovery times between the laps in each set in order to induce physiological fatigue. Duration of the recovery intervals determined the description of the effort made in each set: “light" (80 s recovery between laps), “moderate" (40 s), “hard" (20 s) and “very hard" (10 s). A heart rate, concentration of lactate in blood and the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded. Ball velocity and accuracy were measured after each set and they both decreased during a fatigue protocol. However, accuracy only decreased significantly in the end of the protocol, while ball release was already affected after the first round of the protocol. The results substantiate the initial hypothesis and confirm that both throwing accuracy and ball release velocity decrease significantly as physiological fatigue increases. These variables began to decrease when the fatigue quantification values were high or very high. The findings can be used by coaches to develop training programs to teach players how to identify fatigue thresholds and combat the effects of fatigue through decision-making skills at critical game moments.
The Effects of Modifying the Distance of the Penalty Shot in Water Polo
Authors: Argudo Francisco Manuel , Ruiz-Barquín Roberto , José Borges Pablo
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of changing the distance of the penalty shot in water polo from 4 to 5 m. While a shorter distance made the penalty shot more effective, it also reduced the use of this sanction. A total of 192 matches played in the 2003 and 2007 Water Polo World Championships were recorded. The sample included 278 penalty shots in both tournaments. Notational analysis using a longitudinal correlational and descriptive design was employed to determine whether a longer distance increased the number of sanctioned penalties (81 vs 197) and caused a non-significant decrease in scoring efficiency (7.4%) with significant differences in the relationship between the area and the type of a shot, with less centre and power shots (14.8% vs 7.1%) observed and predominance of bounce shots to the right of the goal posts. The rule change prompted more penalties, produced changes in shot direction as well as the type of a shot, and yielded a decrement of 7.4% in scoring efficiency.
A Comparison of Physical Education Students’ Motivation Using Polish and Turkish Versions of the Academic Motivation Scale
Authors: Ardeńska Agnieszka , Tomik Rajmund , Berber Serkan , Düz Burak , Çivak Barış , Çalişkan Uğur , Ogrodnik Joanna
Published: December 2016

Motivation is an important phenomenon in the realm of education, particularly in the university fields connected with physical education and sport, where it is necessary to accommodate and balance intellectual abilities and physical fitness. The present study tested motivation levels among university students in the fields connected with physical education and sport in Poland and Turkey. It was based on the Self-Determination Theory (Deci and Ryan, 1985), namely intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation and amotivation which impact human behaviour. The Academic Motivation Scale was used (Vallerand et al., 1992). The aims of the study were twofold, first, to crossculturally validate Polish and Turkish versions of the Academic Motivation Scale and second, to identify and compare the motivation to study depending on nationality and gender. Both Polish and Turkish versions of the questionnaire were validated and converted to a four-factorial structure. The findings indicated that Polish and Turkish students’ motivation especially differed in amotivation and intrinsic motivation to know and experience stimulation. Moreover, Turkish female students proved to be at the lowest estimate of amotivation.
The Chronotype of Elite Athletes
Authors: Lastella Michele , Roach Gregory D. , Halson Shona L. , Sargent Charli
Published: December 2016

The aims of this study were (i) to compare the chronotype distribution of elite athletes to a young adult population and (ii) to determine if there was a tendency for athletes to select and/or participate in sports which suited their chronotype. A total of 114 elite athletes from five sports (cricket, cycling, hockey, soccer and triathlon) participated in this study. The participants’ chronotype, sleepiness, sleep satisfaction and sleep quality were determined using the Horne and Östberg Morningness and Eveningness questionnaire, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and questions concerning their sleep satisfaction and quality. All questionnaires were administered during a typical training phase that was not in the lead up to competition and/or post competition. No differences between chronotype group for sleepiness, sleep satisfaction or sleep quality were found. There was a significantly higher proportion of triathletes that were morning and intermediate types compared to the control group χ2 (2) = 7.5, p = 0.02. A significant relationship between sport and chronotype group (χ2(4)=15.9, p = 0.04) was observed, with a higher frequency of morning types involved in sports that required morning training. There was a clear indication that athletes tended to select and pursue sports that suited their chronotype. This was evident by the amount of morning types involved in morning sports. Given that athletes are more likely to pursue and excel in sports which suit their chronotype, it is recommended that coaches consider the athlete’s chronotype during selection processes or if possible design and implement changes to training schedules to either suit the athletes’ chronotype or the timing of an upcoming competition.
Soccer Players Cultural Capital and Its Impact on Migration
Authors: Križaj Jožef , Leskošek Bojan , Vodičar Janez , Topič Mojca Doupona
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this study was to identify factors that constituted the cultural capital among soccer players. We assumed that in the increasingly globalized world of professional soccer, a player’s success would often depend on migrating and adjusting to life in other countries. Willingness to migrate and successful adjustment are tied to player’s previous attitudes and/or behaviours (habitus), significant support from others, including family members, and previous experiences and success in sports and education. Our hypothesised model of the cultural capital was based on the Pierre Bourdieu’s theoretical framework. It consisted of 26 variables related to three sets of factors: soccer experiences, a family context and support, and educational achievements of the players and their parents. The model was tested using a sample of 79 current soccer coaches who also had been players at the elite level. A factor analysis was used to empirically verify the content of the hypothetical model of the soccer players’ cultural capital. Nine latent factors were extracted and together, they accounted for 55.01% of the total model variance. Individual factors obtained showed a sufficient level of substantial connection. The Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.77 confirmed the internal consistency of the operationalised variables in the hypothetical model. In addition, the impact of these aforementioned life dimensions on the migration of soccer players was studied. The results of the binary logistic regression analysis showed that the first factor of the hypothetical model (F1) had 2.2 times and the second factor (F8) had 3.9 times higher odds for migration abroad. Sociocultural findings using this new assessment approach could help create better “success conditions” in the talent development of young players.
First record and phylogenetic position of Myotis indochinensis (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) from China
Authors: Wang Xiaoyun , Guo Weijian , Yu Wenhua , Csorba Gabor , Motokawa Masaharu , Li Fang , Zhang Qiuping , Zhang Changyou , Li Yuchun , Wu Yi
Published: December 2016

, a recently described species from Vietnam, was previously confused with
The biocorona: a challenge for the biomedical application of nanoparticles
Authors: Shannahan Jonathan
Published: December 2016

Formation of the biocorona on the surface of nanoparticles is a significant obstacle for the development of safe and effective nanotechnologies, especially for nanoparticles with biomedical applications. Following introduction into a biological environment, nanoparticles are rapidly coated with biomolecules resulting in formation of the nanoparticle-biocorona. The addition of these biomolecules alters the nanoparticle’s physicochemical characteristics, functionality, biodistribution, and toxicity. To synthesize effective nanotherapeutics and to more fully understand possible toxicity following human exposures, it is necessary to elucidate these interactions between the nanoparticle and the biological media resulting in biocorona formation. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms by which the addition of the biocorona governs nanoparticle-cell interactions is also required. Through elucidating the formation and the biological impact of the biocorona, the field of nanotechnology can reach its full potential. This understanding of the biocorona will ultimately allow for more effective laboratory screening of nanoparticles and enhanced biomedical applications. The importance of the nanoparticle-biocorona has been appreciated for a decade; however, there remain numerous future directions for research which are necessary for study. This perspectives article will summarize the unique challenges presented by the nanoparticle-biocorona and avenues of future needed investigation.
Impact of habitat heterogeneity on the biodiversity and density of the zooplankton community in shallow wetlands (Upo wetlands, South Korea)
Authors: Choi Jong-Yun , Jeong Kwang-Seuk , Kim Seong-Ki , Joo Gea-Jae
Published: December 2016

Macrophytes play a major role in the structuring of aquatic environments, and create diverse microhabitats. Therefore, these plants represent an important factor regulating the zooplankton biomass, taxonomic composition, and distribution in freshwater ecosystems. In the current study, we examined the effects of the structural heterogeneity provided by various macrophytes. We identified four habitat types in this study: (1) open water (without macrophytes), (2) the helophyte zone, (3) the pleustophyte zone, and (4) the mixed vegetation zone (containing pleustophytes, nymphaeids, and elodeids). We tested the hypothesis that complex habitat structures support large zooplankton assemblages. Specifically, we collected zooplankton samples from a total of 119 sampling points in the Upo Wetlands, South Korea, during the spring and autumn of 2009. The largest zooplankton assemblage was found in the mixed macrophyte zone, followed by the helophyte and pleustophyte zones. The pleustophyte zone supported larger zooplankton assemblages during autumn compared to spring. Differences in zooplankton assemblages were considered to be strongly related to seasonal variation in the development and growth of pleustophytes. However, two-way ANOVA revealed that seasons had no significant influence on the zooplankton density and diversity. Instead, different habitat types substantially determined zooplankton characteristics. In conclusion, we demonstrated that wetland areas with high macrophyte species diversity contribute toward higher zooplankton diversity.
How serious are health impacts in one of the most polluted regions of Central Europe?
Authors: Jiřík Vítězslav , Dalecká Andrea , Vašendová Veronika , Janoutová Jana , Janout Vladimír
Published: December 2016

Background:

The long-term exposure to pollutants in ambient air is associated with higher mortality and occurrence of respiratory and cardiopulmonary diseases. The longitudinal cross-section study focuses on the associations between long-term exposures to carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic pollutants and the prevalence and incidence of such specific diseases including immunodeficiencies.

Methods:

The data on health status from industrial and non-industrial regions were obtained from health documentation for a 5-year period from 2007 to 2011 and represent the whole population living in polluted (1,249,323 inhabitants) and unpolluted (631,387 inhabitants) regions. The data on concentrations of PM10, PM2,5, NO2, SO2, benzene and benzo[a]pyrene were collected. The concentrations of pollutants were estimated from measured data by using dispersion models. The average population-weighted concentration of pollutants, which is representative for a defined geographic area and time period from 2007 to 2011, was calculated from the obtained data. The logistic regression and the Mantel-Haenszel χ2 test were used to determine the odds ratios (OR) and p-values for a linear trend. Moreover, the relative risks of mortality and morbidity to specific diseases were calculated according to theoretical dose-response association published by World Health Organization (WHO).

Results:

The probability of incidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchial asthma is statistically significantly higher in the population living in the polluted region compared to the population living in the unpolluted region. The association between long-term exposure to pollutants and the prevalence of immunodeficiency with predominantly antibody defects (D80) was confirmed. The strongest association was found for exposures to particulate matter (PM2,5). The prevalence of immunodeficiency with predominantly antibody defects was also observed in both regions depending on the age of the population and statistically significant difference was only found in the group of adults (20 and over).

Conclusion:

These associations encourage the hypothesis, that the long-term exposure to PM2.5 might cause the activation of cellular immune response. Further research is needed to explore the correlative immunoregulatory mechanism linking PM2.5 (or other pollutants – SO2) and immune cells. Nowadays, it is also believed that these associations are important in the increase of incidence of immune inflammatory response which is proven risk factor for cardiovascular disease (atherosclerotic disease, coronary heart disease and sudden cardiac death). Positive association between long-term exposure and prevalence of bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease might be skewed due to important socio-economic factors (especially smoking).
Plato’s Marionette
Authors: Schofield Malcolm
Published: December 2016

This paper takes a fresh look at the marionette image introduced by Plato in a famous passage of Book I of the
Acute Effects of the Different Intensity of Static Stretching on Flexibility and Isometric Muscle Force
Authors: Kataura Satoshi , Suzuki Shigeyuki , Matsuo Shingo , Hatano Genki , Iwata Masahiro , Yokoi Kazuaki , Tsuchida Wakako , Banno Yasuhiro , Asai Yuji
Published: December 2016

Kataura, S, Suzuki, S, Matsuo, S, Hatano, G, Iwata, M, Yokoi, K, Tsuchida, W, Banno, Y, and Asai, Y. Acute effects of the different intensity of static stretching on flexibility and isometric muscle force. J Strength Cond Res 31(12): 3403–3410, 2017—In various fields, static stretching is commonly performed to improve flexibility, whereas the acute effects of different stretch intensities are unclear. Therefore, we investigated the acute effects of different stretch intensities on flexibility and muscle force. Eighteen healthy participants (9 men and 9 women) performed 180-second static stretches of the right hamstrings at 80, 100, and 120% of maximum tolerable intensity without stretching pain, in random order. The following outcomes were assessed as markers of lower limb function and flexibility: static passive torque (SPT), range of motion (ROM), passive joint (muscle-tendon) stiffness, passive torque (PT) at onset of pain, and isometric muscle force. Static passive torque was significantly decreased after all stretching intensities (p ≤ 0.05). Compared with before stretching at 100 and 120% intensities, ROM and PT were significantly increased after stretching (p ≤ 0.05), and passive stiffness (p = 0.05) and isometric muscle force (p ≤ 0.05) were significantly decreased. In addition, ROM was significantly greater after stretching at 100 and 120% than at 80%, and passive stiffness was significantly lower after 120% than after 80% (p ≤ 0.05). However, all measurements except SPT were unchanged after 80% intensity. There was a weak positive correlation between the intensities of stretching and the relative change for SPT (p ≤ 0.05), a moderate positive correlation with ROM (p ≤ 0.05), and a moderate positive correlation with passive stiffness (p ≤ 0.05). These results indicate that static stretching at greater intensity is more effective for increasing ROM and decreasing passive muscle-tendon stiffness.
The Biomechanical Demands on the Hip During Progressive Stepping Tasks
Authors: Hatfield Gillian L. , Charlton Jesse M. , Cochrane Christopher K. , Hammond Connor A. , Napier Chris , Takacs Judit , Krowchuk Natasha M. , Hunt Michael A.
Published: December 2016

Hatfield, GL, Charlton, JM, Cochrane, CK, Hammond, CA, Napier, C, Takacs, J, Krowchuk, NM, and Hunt, MA. The biomechanical demands on the hip during progressive stepping tasks. J Strength Cond Res 31(12): 3444–3453, 2017—Functional hip strengthening exercises are important components of lower extremity (LE) rehabilitation and include single-leg squats (SLS), step-downs (SD), and step-ups (SU). The biomechanical demand of these tasks is unclear. This repeated-measures study determined hip biomechanical demands in a healthy population. Twenty individuals (10 men, 26.6 ± 5.1 years, 22.1 ± 2.3 kg·m−2) participated. Three-dimensional motion, ground reaction force data, and surface electromyograms (EMG) were recorded during 4 randomly ordered tasks. Outcomes included frontal and sagittal plane hip moment impulses and muscle activity for each task. Repeated measures analysis of variance models (alpha = 0.05) determined between-task differences. Step-down and SLS were most biomechanically demanding, with significantly higher hip flexion and adduction moment impulses, and gluteus medius (GM) and quadriceps activity compared with half step-down (HSD) and SU. No significant difference was found between SD and SLS, indicating minimal difference in demand between the 2 tasks, likely due to kinematic similarities in performance; there were no significant differences in knee or hip sagittal plane angle excursion, or peak pelvic obliquity angle between the 2 tasks. Step-up was least demanding, with the lowest hip flexion and adduction moment impulses and GM, quadriceps, and hamstrings activity. Step-up was least demanding on the hip and would be a good starting task for hip strengthening protocols. Step-down and SLS were most demanding, requiring higher hip moments and muscle activity. These results provide evidence, which may be used in planning of progressive rehabilitation programs for patients with LE pathologies.
Assessing the Effectiveness of the Functional Movement Screen in Predicting Noncontact Injury Rates in Soccer Players
Authors: Smith Paul D. , Hanlon Michael P.
Published: December 2016

Smith, PD, and Hanlon, D. Assessing the effectiveness of the functional movement screen in predicting noncontact injury rates in soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 31(12): 3327–3332, 2017—This study assessed if the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) can accurately predict noncontact injury in adult soccer players when normalizing noncontact injury occurrence against match exposure levels. Senior male players (n = 89) from 5 League of Ireland semiprofessional clubs participated in the study (mean age = 23.2 ± 4.4 years; mean height = 179.5 ± 6.6 cm; mean body mass = 77.5 ± 7.8 kg). Participants performed the FMS during preseason, and their injury occurrence rates and match minutes were tracked throughout 1 season. In total, 66 noncontact injuries were recorded. No significant difference was found in FMS composite scores between players receiving noncontact injuries and players not suffering a noncontact injury (p = 0.96). There was no significant difference in exposure-normalized noncontact injury incidence between those scoring 14 or below and those scoring above 14 on the FMS (0.36 vs. 0.29 non-contact injuries per player per 1,000 match minutes). Players scoring 14 or below on the FMS had an odds ratio of 0.63 (p = 0.45; 95% CI = 0.19–2.07) of receiving a noncontact injury. Despite previous research showing links between low FMS composite scores and subsequent injury, these results suggest that the FMS cannot accurately predict a male soccer player's likelihood of receiving a noncontact injury and that a lower FMS composite score does not significantly increase their noncontact injury incidence rate per 1,000 match minutes. Caution should therefore be used when using the FMS as a predictor of noncontact injury, and pain prevalence during the FMS, previous injuries, and training/match exposure levels should also be taken into account.
A Case for and Against Ketogenic Diets in Athletes
Authors: Kavalek Matthew , Gannon Ryan , Nelson Mike T.
Published: December 2016

THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY GENERALLY ACKNOWLEDGES THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF A KETOGENIC DIET (KD) IN SOME CLINICAL AND/OR MEDICAL POPULATIONS. ALTHOUGH CURRENT EVIDENCE INDICATES ATHLETES RANGING FROM GYMNASTS TO ELITE ULTRAMARATHONERS MAY BENEFIT FROM A KD, MUCH DISAGREEMENT EXISTS REGARDING ITS SOUNDNESS IN ATHLETIC AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE SITUATIONS. THE FOLLOWING COLUMN WILL PRESENT A CASE FOR, AND AGAINST, THE USE OF KD IN ATHLETES. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU. VISIT
NSCA-SCJ.COM
TO WEIGH IN ON THE POINT/COUNTERPOINT QUICK POLL.
Adaptation of Broadband Simple Shear Device for Constant Volume and Stress-Controlled Testing
Authors: Shafiee A. , Stewart J. P. , Venugopal R. , Brandenberg S. J.
Published: December 2016

We adapted an existing digitally controlled simple shear device, originally designed for drained testing with strain-control, to perform constant height testing under strain- or stress-controlled conditions. The re-designed system provided PID control of horizontal displacements or loads coupled with either vertical force or displacement control (for drained and constant-volume testing, respectively). The new system had substantially similar horizontal displacement control capabilities as the previous system. The tracking error under stress-controlled loading depends on amplitude and frequency of the load; however, its value was almost the same as errors in strain-controlled tests for common shear strain/stress amplitudes. High-precision vertical control was achieved during constant height testing in two respects: (1) height change was small (less than 0.05 % of the specimen height for large shear-strain tests), even at high frequencies; and (2) top cap rocking was small, with the vertical displacements due to rocking at the specimen edge being half or less than average changes in specimen height.
Field Measurements and Design Optimization of Diaphragm Walls
Authors: Chen J. , Yang J. , Zhang X. , Wang S. , Ou X.
Published: December 2016

This paper presents field measurements of diaphragm walls. During the study, a typical measurement section was embedded with concrete strain meters to measure the forces on and in the diaphragm walls. This permitted an extensive investigation of the internal force changes in diaphragm walls. Furthermore, the stability of diaphragm walls was evaluated and optimized. The data and design optimization led to the following conclusions: variations in the stresses of diaphragm walls were observed with increases in the excavation depth of foundation pits. The strain data obtained from field measurements allowed the calculation of safety factors for the diaphragm walls, which met national code standards. Therefore, the investigated diaphragm walls were judged to be safe. The variations in the diaphragm walls' internal forces were obtained for use as references in the design and construction of similar projects in the future.
Human SOD1 ALS Mutations in a Drosophila Knock-In Model Cause Severe Phenotypes and Reveal Dosage-Sensitive Gain- and Loss-of-Function Components
Authors: Şahin Aslı , Held Aaron , Bredvik Kirsten , Major Paxton , Achilli Toni-Marie , Kerson Abigail G , Wharton Kristi , Stilwell Geoff , Reenan Robert
Published: December 2016

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is the most common adult-onset motor neuron disease and familial forms can be caused by numerous dominant mutations of the copper-zinc superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene. Substantial efforts have been invested in studying SOD1-ALS transgenic animal models; yet, the molecular mechanisms by which ALS-mutant SOD1 protein acquires toxicity are not well understood. ALS-like phenotypes in animal models are highly dependent on transgene dosage. Thus, issues of whether the ALS-like phenotypes of these models stem from overexpression of mutant alleles or from aspects of the SOD1 mutation itself are not easily deconvolved. To address concerns about levels of mutant SOD1 in disease pathogenesis, we have genetically engineered four human ALS-causing SOD1 point mutations (G37R, H48R, H71Y, and G85R) into the endogenous locus of Drosophila SOD1 (dsod) via ends-out homologous recombination and analyzed the resulting molecular, biochemical, and behavioral phenotypes. Contrary to previous transgenic models, we have recapitulated ALS-like phenotypes without overexpression of the mutant protein. Drosophila carrying homozygous mutations rendering SOD1 protein enzymatically inactive (G85R, H48R, and H71Y) exhibited neurodegeneration, locomotor deficits, and shortened life span. The mutation retaining enzymatic activity (G37R) was phenotypically indistinguishable from controls. While the observed mutant dsod phenotypes were recessive, a gain-of-function component was uncovered through dosage studies and comparisons with age-matched dsod null animals, which failed to show severe locomotor defects or nerve degeneration. We conclude that the Drosophila knock-in model captures important aspects of human SOD1-based ALS and provides a powerful and useful tool for further genetic studies.