bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The study of droplet deformation and droplet volume fraction in an aero-engine bearing chamber
Authors: Fang Long , Chen Guoding
Published: May 2018

Inside an aero-engine bearing chamber, the shape, velocity, and temperature of each droplet shed from roller elements keep changing under the actions of the rotating airflow. Research on droplet deformation, droplet motion, and droplet volume fraction is fundamental to the understanding of the complex two-phase flow in an aero-engine bearing chamber. In this paper, the modified Taylor analogy breakup model, equations of temperature and motion are established to obtain the size, temperature, and velocity of a deformed droplet. Subsequently, a method is presented to solve for the droplet volume fraction in a bearing chamber based on the size and motion parameters of deformed droplets. In the end, a simplified bearing chamber experimental setup has been constructed. Comparisons between the experimental results and theoretical calculations show a good match based upon the research analogy used. The research work in this paper can provide theoretical foundations for the analyses of heat exchange and lubrication in bearing chambers. This also has great significance in realizing the rigorous design required for the lubrication system of an aero-engine.
Numerical simulation of aerodynamic characteristics and heating for grid fin missiles
Authors: Liu Yuanchun , Xia Zhi-xun , Liu Jun
Published: May 2018

A grid fin is an unconventional missile control surface comprising an outer frame supporting an inner grid of lifting surfaces. Although the topic of grid fin aerodynamics has been studied by many researchers, only a few have considered aerodynamic heating, generating a high-quality structured grid that remains to be a difficult task. An effective method of grid partition and an aerodynamic prediction method to simulate the viscous flow fields of grid-fin configurations at supersonic Mach numbers have been developed. Multi-block and H-O-type grid treatments are developed for complex grid fin configurations. The viscous flow over a tail-controlled missile with grid fins at a Mach number of 2.5 and several angles of attack is calculated using computational fluid dynamics. Additionally, the heat flux distribution of grid fins is investigated, and the effects of shock wave interaction on heat flux are analyzed. The numerical results show good agreement with the measured data, and confirm that this method is an effective way to numerically simulate viscous grid fin flow fields. Furthermore, the aerodynamic heating results show that, because the peak heat flux on the shock wave interaction region is lower than that on the leading edge of the grid fin, it does not affect the thermal protection of the grid fin.
A fuzzy-based dynamic inversion controller with application to vibration control of vehicle suspension system subjected to uncertainties
Authors: Nguyen Sy Dzung , Lam Bao Danh , Nguyen Quoc Hung , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: May 2018

Uncertainty or the model error always exists in depicting technique systems. In many cases, the model error is implicitly the time-varying tendency such as in the semi-active railway vehicle suspensions using magneto-rheological damper, where the hysteretic response and time varying of physical parameter value of the magneto-rheological fluid due to system temperature variation are inherent features. To exploit well these systems, a becomingly compensative and adaptive mechanism needs to be set up to deal with both uncertainty and external disturbance. In this study, a new fuzzy-based dynamic inversion controller for semi-active railway vehicle suspensions using magneto-rheological dampers subjected to uncertainty and external disturbance is proposed. The fuzzy-based dynamic inversion controller faces uncertainty and disturbance individually. Regarding external disturbance, a disturbance observer is designed to estimate the compensative quantity. While for the model error influence, a combination of the inference ability of an adaptive fuzzy system and the competence to reach and keep the system stability states of sliding mode control is established via a model so-called fuzzy sliding mode control. First, an optimal sliding mode controller is designed, which is then used as a framework for building the adaptive fuzzy system. Based on Lyaponov theory, adaptive update law for the adaptive fuzzy system is discovered to adjust the sliding mode control adaptive to the system status. Surveys via quarter and half train-car vehicle suspension models including a real system of semi-active railway vehicle suspensions using magneto-rheological damper have been performed, which reflected the positive ability of the proposed method to stamp out vibration.
Microbial Profile and Dental Caries in Cleft Lip and Palate Babies Between 0 and 3 Years Old
Authors: Durhan Müesser Ahu , Topcuoglu Nursen , Kulekci Guven , Ozgentas Ege , Tanboga Ilknur
Published: May 2018

Objective:

The aim of this study was to examine the microbiological changes in newborn babies with cleft lip palate from birth up to age 3 and to correlate them with their caries levels and mothers’ microbiological data and to compare with normal infants.

Basic Research Design:

Prospective.

Settings:

Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry Clinic, and Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Education and Research Hospital New Born Clinic.

Patients/Participants:

Cleft lip palate (n = 21) and healthy (n = 13) newborns and their mothers.

Material and Methods:

Intraoral samples were taken from babies in each group at least 3 times over the 3 years. Saliva samples of the mothers were collected just after the birth of the babies and examined microbiologically. Dental caries was noted as either present or absent.

Results:

The most frequent microorganisms were candida, found at birth (n = 9, 42%) in cleft palate with or without cleft lip (CP±L) group. The number of babies infected with Lactobacilli were found to be significantly higher in the CP±L group than in the control group at birth ( P = .029) and after eruption of the first primary tooth ( P = .030). Mutans Streptococci were found in 10% of babies with CP±L at birth. Initial caries was identified in 20% of the babies with an oral cleft compared with 0% of the controls after eruption of the first primary incisors.

Conclusion:

The results show that the CP±L babies must be considered as a group with an increased caries risk.
Fluid Dynamics Inside the Brain Barrier: Current Concept of Interstitial Flow, Glymphatic Flow, and Cerebrospinal Fluid Circulation in the Brain
Authors: Nakada Tsutomu , Kwee Ingrid L.
Published: May 2018

The discovery of the water specific channel, aquaporin, and abundant expression of its isoform, aquaporin-4 (AQP-4), on astrocyte endfeet brought about significant advancements in the understanding of brain fluid dynamics. The brain is protected by barriers preventing free access of systemic fluid. The same barrier system, however, also isolates brain interstitial fluid from the hydro-dynamic effect of the systemic circulation. The systolic force of the heart, an essential factor for proper systemic interstitial fluid circulation, cannot be propagated to the interstitial fluid compartment of the brain. Without a proper alternative mechanism, brain interstitial fluid would stay stagnant. Water influx into the peri-capillary Virchow-Robin space (VRS) through the astrocyte AQP-4 system compensates for this hydrodynamic shortage essential for interstitial flow, introducing the condition virtually identical to systemic circulation, which by virtue of its fenestrated capillaries creates appropriate interstitial fluid motion. Interstitial flow in peri-arterial VRS constitutes an essential part of the clearance system for β-amyloid, whereas interstitial flow in peri-venous VRS creates bulk interstitial fluid flow, which, together with the choroid plexus, creates the necessary ventricular cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume for proper CSF circulation.
Design and experiments of weeding teleoperated robot spectral sensor for winter rape and weed identification
Authors: Tao Tao , Wu Shu , Li Lin , Li Jinyang , Bao Sheng , Wei Xinhua
Published: May 2018

The objective of this research was to eliminate the influence of environmental stray light on the measured spectral reflectance in a spectral sensor system used on a weeding teleoperated robot for rape fields. The system mainly consists of a light source, signal acquisition, and data processing. In this study, optical modulation technology and discrete Fourier transform method were used to carry out experiments based on four characteristic wavelengths. The results show that the experimental system can obtain a stable reflectivity value no matter whether the stray light changes slowly or dramatically in the field environment. Furthermore, the calibration equation of spectral reflectance was obtained by curve fitting based on a FieldSpec3 portable spectrometer. The determination coefficients are all close to 1, and the root-mean-square errors are small. Through verification experiments, the results show that the average measurement error is less than 5%. Hence, this proposed method would be very helpful in improving the accuracy and efficiency of the spectral reflectance measurement, which in turn provides a theoretical basis for weed identification during in-field weeding by teleoperated robots.
Diagnostic value of CD56 immunohistochemistry in thyroid lesions
Authors: Pyo Jung-Soo , Kim Dong-Hoon , Yang Jungho
Published: May 2018

Purpose:

The present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic roles of CD56 immunohistochemistry in differentiating various thyroid lesions.

Methods:

A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the rate of loss of CD56 immunohistochemistry expression from 13 eligible studies regarding various thyroid lesions, including papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular carcinoma, and follicular adenoma. To confirm the value of CD56 immunohistochemistry in differentiating various thyroid lesions, a diagnostic test accuracy review was conducted.

Results:

An 87.8%, 79.1%, 11.9%, 25.5%, and 19.6% loss of CD56 immunohistochemistry expression was identified in papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular carcinoma, follicular adenoma, benign follicular nodule, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, respectively. In the normal thyroid tissue, the rate of loss of CD56 expression was 1.6%. Classical, follicular, diffuse sclerosing, tall cell, and encapsulated variants of papillary thyroid carcinoma showed an 88.4%, 75.3%, 97.2%, 91.7%, and 91.7% loss of CD56 expression, respectively. In the comparison between the follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma and follicular adenoma, the pooled sensitivity and specificity of CD56 immunohistochemistry was 0.82 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.70, 0.90) and 0.94 (95% CI 0.83, 0.99), respectively. The diagnostic odds ratio and the area under curve on summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 51.43 (95% CI 5.83, 453.88) and 0.9387, respectively.

Conclusion:

Collectively, these results indicate that the rate of loss of CD56 immunohistochemistry expression was significantly higher in malignant tumors, such as papillary thyroid carcinoma and follicular carcinoma, than in follicular adenoma, benign follicular nodule, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. As such, CD56 immunohistochemistry can be useful in differentiating follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma from follicular adenoma.
Changes in biochemical tests in pregnancy and their clinical significance
Authors: Teasdale Stephanie , Morton Adam
Published: May 2018

Interpretation of laboratory investigations relies on reference intervals. Physiological changes in pregnancy may result in significant changes in normal values for many biochemical assays, and as such results may be misinterpreted as abnormal or mask a pathological state.

The aims of this review are as follows:

1. To review the major physiological changes in biochemical tests in normal pregnancy.

2. To outline where these physiological changes are important in interpreting laboratory investigations in pregnancy.

3. To document the most common causes of abnormalities in biochemical tests in pregnancy, as well as important pregnancy-specific causes.
Skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation function in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension: in vivo and in vitro study
Authors: Sithamparanathan Sasiharan , Rocha Mariana C. , Parikh Jehill D. , Rygiel Karolina A. , Falkous Gavin , Grady John P. , Hollingsworth Kieren G. , Trenell Michael I. , Taylor Robert W. , Turnbull Doug M. , Gorman Gráinne S. , Corris Paul A.
Published: May 2018

Mitochondrial dysfunction within the pulmonary vessels has been shown to contribute to the pathology of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). We investigated the hypothesis of whether impaired exercise capacity observed in IPAH patients is in part due to primary mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) dysfunction in skeletal muscle. This could lead to potentially new avenues of treatment beyond targeting the pulmonary vessels. Nine clinically stable participants with IPAH underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing, in vivo and in vitro assessment of mitochondrial function by 31P‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P‐MRS) and laboratory muscle biopsy analysis. 31P‐MRS showed abnormal skeletal muscle bioenergetics with prolonged recovery times of phosphocreatine and abnormal muscle pH handling. Histochemistry and quadruple immunofluorescence performed on muscle biopsies showed normal function and subunit protein abundance of the complexes within the OXPHOS system. Our findings suggest that there is no primary mitochondrial OXPHOS dysfunction but raises the possibility of impaired oxygen delivery to the mitochondria affecting skeletal muscle bioenergetics during exercise.
Outlining and dictating scientific manuscripts is a useful method for health researchers: A focus group interview
Authors: Andresen Kristoffer , Laursen Jannie , Rosenberg Jacob
Published: May 2018

Background:

Young researchers may experience difficulties when writing scientific articles for publication in biomedical journals. Various methods may facilitate the writing process including outlining the paper before the actual writing and using dictation instead of writing the first draft. The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences and difficulties for young, experienced researchers when writing articles using a detailed outline and dictation of the first draft.

Methods:

We used qualitative focus group interviews and the study was reported according to the COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research guideline. Participants were sampled from a group of researchers participating in a writing retreat/course. The interviews were recorded on a digital recorder and transcribed. The text was analyzed according to content analysis and coded and condensed into themes and subthemes. Groups of participants were added until data saturation was reached.

Results:

A total of 14 researchers participated (9 women and 5 men). Their clinical experience was median (range) of 6 (1–11) years since graduation from medical school. Two themes arose during the analyses of the data: “Process guidance with the outline as the map” and “arrival at dictation.” The outline was used in the preparation phase leading up to the day of dictation and was used in collaboration with co-authors and supervisors. The participants found it to be a useful tool for preparing the manuscript and dictating their initial first full draft.

Conclusion:

Experienced young researchers found beneficial effects of using a structured outline to prepare for dictation of scientific articles. The outline was a tool that would develop in close collaboration with co-authors and mentors. With dictation, a full first draft of a manuscript can be produced in a few hours. Participants positively evaluated this structured and reproducible way of producing scientific articles.
Does Experiencing a Crash Make All the Difference? An Experiment on the Depression Babies Hypothesis
Authors: Safford Amanda , Sundali James , Guerrero Federico
Published: May 2018

Do people who lived through the depression take fewer financial risks because of the negative returns experienced? More generally, what is the importance of historical return streams on current investment decisions? This experiment tests this experience hypothesis and finds that subjects who experience a great crash hold, on average, 6% less of their assets in stocks than subjects who did not experience the crash, after controlling for gender, employment status, and financial literacy. Our results suggest that subjects who experience a significant market crash have lower and more volatile beliefs regarding future stock returns. Furthermore, we find that experiencing a crash causes a significant difference in the overall belief distributions between the two groups, with the crash cohort holding more realistic beliefs about future stock market returns.
Humhandara and hujaya: Virginity, Culture, and Gender Inequalities Among Adolescents in Zimbabwe
Authors: Matswetu Vimbai Sharon , Bhana Deevia
Published: May 2018

Given the significance of gender and cultural norms in producing meanings about sexuality, we address the ways in which rural adolescents in Zimbabwe, aged between 16 and 19 years old, give meaning to virginity and the social processes through which it is produced. We are interested in the ways in which cultural norms are produced and ways in which sexual double standards operate in producing sexuality and girls’ subordination. We argue that while adolescents are not simply dupes of cultural norms, they actively invest in and use virginity as a marker of status. Integral to adolescent experience of and ideals around virginity, there is a significant ambivalence where girls’ virginity is expected, whereas the same is unexpected for young adolescent men. We show that conformity with, rather than resistance to, cultural norms may contradictorily and simultaneously subordinate and empower young women. Choosing to maintain virginity can be seen as an autonomous decision especially when girls position educational aspirations as key to virginity status in order to gain some control over their lives. However, this choice might not simply be about autonomy but occurs in a cultural context where patriarchal values had already made it an obligation. Dominant discourses around virginity and cultural norms stand in direct contradiction to adolescent sexual well-being, albeit with contradictions. Attention to cultural processes through which relations of power are manifest is important in safeguarding young people’s sexual health especially in the context of HIV.
SOAR as a Mediator of the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Collaboration Among Professionals Working in Teams: Implications for Entrepreneurial Teams
Authors: Cole Matthew L. , Cox John D. , Stavros Jacqueline M.
Published: May 2018

A majority of ventures are started by entrepreneurial teams rather than individuals. More than half of team-based new venture failures are believed to be due to problems with the entrepreneurial team. Collaboration among entrepreneurial team members is important for increasing the likelihood of successful venture outcomes. We investigated collaboration in professionals working in teams using survey methodology. Results found a framework for collaborative dialogue, SOAR (strengths, opportunities, aspirations, and results), mediates the relationship between emotional intelligence and team collaboration. We discuss practical recommendations to increase the strength of the relationship between emotional intelligence and collaboration to increase entrepreneurial team performance. For example, behavioral coaches are recommended to use dialogical exercises to help team members develop emotional intelligence competencies of awareness and regulation of emtions in self and others. Entrepreneurs are recommended to create teams that build on member strengths and aspirations, and identify opportunities for achieving measurable positive results.
Socioeconomic Dynamism and the Growth of Baby Factories in Nigeria
Authors: Alabi Oluwatobi Joseph
Published: May 2018

Illegally breeding babies for marketing purposes otherwise known as “infant commodification” is increasing in Nigeria. This menace is a vice that threatens the lives and wellbeing of babies, young girls, and women. This article investigates through an in-depth review of scholarly publication and media coverages the factors that have contributed to the emergence and growth of the illicit industry in Nigeria. It examines the role of cultural beliefs, social attitudes, and norms as well as the harsh economic conditions of the nation as factors playing pivotal roles in the continual growth of baby farming in Nigeria. Some of these sociocultural factors are social stigmatization of pregnancy outside wedlock, stigmatization of adopted children, and the importance attached to fertility and the demonization of childlessness. The article draws on Emile Durkheim anomie theory and Chambers dimensions of poverty to explain how breakdown within the nation’s socioeconomic structure has a concomitant impact in breading social vices. It concludes by recommending that there is a need to jettison stigmatizing sociocultural beliefs within the nation’s social fabrics. Responsive attitude toward family reproductive issues should be encouraged and finally the activities of health care providers, operators of nongovernmental organizations taking custody of babies and young girls be properly monitored. As well, stringent punishment be meted out to apprehended operators of these baby farms to serve as deterrent to others.
Pedicle Screws Loosening in Patients With Degenerative Diseases of the Lumbar Spine: Potential Risk Factors and Relative Contribution
Authors: Bokov Andrey , Bulkin Anatoliy , Aleynik Alexander , Kutlaeva Marina , Mlyavykh Sergey
Published: May 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

To determine risk factors that may affect the rate of pedicle screws loosening in patients with degenerative diseases of the lumbar spine.

Methods:

A total of 250 patients with a low-grade spondylolisthesis and lumbar instability associated with degenerative diseases were enrolled. Preoperatively patients underwent computed tomography (CT) and cancellous bone radiodensity of a vertebral body was measured in Hounsfield units (HU). Pedicle screw fixation was used to treat patients either with a posterior fusion only or in combination with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), and direct lateral interbody fusion (D-LIF). Minimal follow-up period accounted for 18 months. Cases with screw loosening were registered assessing association with risk factors using logistic regression.

Results:

The rate of screw loosening was in positive correlation with the number fused levels and decreasing bone radiodensity. Fusion with a greater load-bearing surface cage was associated with the decrease in rate of pedicle screws loosening. Incomplete reduction in case of spondylolisthesis, bilateral facet joints removal, and laminectomy performed without anterior support favored pedicle screws loosening development. The estimated model classifies correctly 79% of cases with the specificity and sensitivity accounting for 87% and 66% respectively.

Conclusions:

The decreasing bone radiodensity in Hounsfield units has a considerable correlation with the rate of pedicle screws loosening. On the other hand, the length of fixation and applied surgical technique including fusion type also have a significant impact on complication rate. Spinal instrumentations should be planned by taking into account all potential risk factors and not characteristics relevant to bone quality assessment alone.
Thyroid Abscess: Challenges in Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Yedla Niharika , Pirela Daniela , Manzano Alex , Tuda Claudio , Lo Presti Saberio
Published: May 2018

Thyroid abscess is an uncommon infectious pathology. The thyroid is highly resistant to infection due to high iodine content, capsular encasement, and rich vascularity. Acute suppurative thyroiditis represents <1% of thyroid diseases that could potentially become a life-threatening endocrine emergency. A 48-year-old woman with AIDS presented with 3 days of fever, tender neck swelling, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Apart from leukocytosis, initial laboratory values including thyroid function tests were normal. The initial plain computed tomography scan of the neck and ultrasound scan of the neck were inconclusive as well. By day 4, she worsened, and on repeat computed tomography scan of the neck with contrast, multiloculated abscesses in the thyroid and retro pharynx were seen, which needed emergent drainage. Acute suppurative thyroiditis, a rare disease, occurs in patients with either preexisting disorders of the thyroid or in the immunocompromised. The most common pathogen is Staphylococcus aureus. In our case, we highlight the fact that initial imaging may be negative in the early stages of acute suppurative thyroiditis and lead to an erroneous diagnosis of subacute thyroiditis. There are less than 5 cases of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus suppurative thyroiditis reported.
High-Dose DHA Has More Profound Effects on LDL-Related Features Than High-Dose EPA: The ComparED Study
Authors: Allaire Janie , Vors Cécile , Tremblay André J , Marin Johanne , Charest Amélie , Tchernof André , Couture Patrick , Lamarche Benoît
Published: May 2018

Context

Supplementation with high-dose docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) increases serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations more than high-dose eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The mechanisms underlying this difference are unknown.

Objective

To examine the phenotypic change in LDL and mechanisms responsible for the differential LDL-C response to EPA and DHA supplementation in men and women at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Design, Setting, Participants, and Intervention

In a double-blind, controlled, crossover study, 48 men and 106 women with abdominal obesity and subclinical inflammation were randomized to a sequence of three treatment phases: phase 1, 2.7 g/d of EPA; phase 2, 2.7 g/d of DHA; and phase 3, 3 g/d of corn oil. All supplements were provided as three 1-g capsules for a total of 3 g/d. The 10-week treatment phases were separated by a 9-week washout period.

Main Outcome Measure

In vivo kinetics of apolipoprotein (apo)B100-containing lipoproteins were assessed using primed-constant infusion of deuterated leucine at the end of each treatment in a subset of participants (n = 19).

Results

Compared with EPA, DHA increased LDL-C concentrations (+3.3%; P = 0.038) and mean LDL particle size (+0.7 Å; P < 0.001) and reduced the proportion of small LDL (−3.2%; P < 0.01). Both EPA and DHA decreased proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 concentrations similarly (−18.2% vs −25.0%; P < 0.0001 vs control). Compared with EPA, DHA supplementation increased both the LDL apoB100 fractional catabolic rate (+11.4%; P = 0.008) and the production rate (+9.4%; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

The results of the present study have shown that supplementation with high-dose DHA increases LDL turnover and contributes to larger LDL particles compared with EPA.
El ’68 más allá de las Primaveras Boreales: Representaciones en la esfera pública de los estudiantes universitarios brasileiros en acción
Authors: Hernández Huerta José Luis
Published: May 2018

Los movimientos estudiantiles que a escala planetaria se desarrollaron durante el ’68 tuvieron un considerable impacto en Brasil, donde se revelaron como uno de los grupos sociales a la vanguardia de la resistencia cívica frente a la dictadura y de la modernización del sistema universitario. En este artículo se estudian las representaciones en la esfera pública de los estudiantes universitarios brasileiros en acción construida y diseminada por la prensa diaria. Se presta atención a (1) las motivaciones, los reclamos y las aspiraciones de la juventud universitaria, (2) su capacidad de movilización social, integración de actores políticos alternativos y negociación con el Estado, (3) los espacios, tiempos e intensidades de sus acciones, y (4) las narrativas generadas por la prensa diaria a partir de los testimonios, opiniones e intereses de sí, de sus protagonistas y del resto de actores sociales implicados en la cuestión estudiantil. El recorte temporal seleccionado está delimitado por la Misa del Séptimo Día, que marcó el final de los sucesos de Calabouço, y la Passeata dos Cem Mil, que puede considerarse el horizonte de sucesos que derivaron en el AI-5. La fuente principal ha sido Correio do Povo, representativo de los sectores liberal-conservadores del sur de Brasil.
Impact of living mulches on the physical properties of Planosol in monocropped maize cultivation
Authors: Romaneckas Kęstutis , Adamavičienė Aida , Šarauskis Egidijus , Kriaučiūnienė Zita , Marks Marek , Vaitauskienė Kristina
Published: May 2018

The complex mutual interactions between soil properties and plants in high-biodiversity mono-cropping agro ecosystems have not been widely investigated. For this purpose, during 2009-2011, a stationary field experiment was conducted at the Experimental Station of the Aleksandras Stulginskis University to establish the effect of a multi-component agrocenose (maize, living mulch, weeds) on the physical properties of the soil. Spring oilseed rape, white mustard, spring barley, Italian ryegrass, black medic, Persian clover and red clover were sown as living mulch into maize inter-rows. The stability of >1.0 mm aggregates increased between the beginning and end of the maize vegetative period in almost all of the crops containing living mulch. The greatest competition for moisture content between the inter-crops and maize was observed at the beginning of the vegetative period because of living mulches of long growing seasons using the most moisture. In many cases, the shear strength of the soil was significantly reduced by the living mulch in the middle of summer, when it covered the maize inter-rows. These findings show that the monocropping of maize with living mulch stabilises or improves the physical characteristics of the soil, highlighting its potential for sustainable maize growing.
Organizational challenges and leaders’ coping strategies: a qualitative study of Swedish military staff organization
Authors: Alvinius Aida , Ohlsson Alicia , Larsson Gerry
Published: May 2018

Numerous societal change processes such as globalization, professionalization and social and technical acceleration have challenged military organizations. The aims of this study were to (1) gain a deeper understanding of coping strategies used by the military leaders at the strategic level to manage everyday organizational demands and (2) relate these strategies to multidisciplinary models of organizational challenges. Owing to an insufficiently developed base of research, an inductive approach was used. Interviews were performed with 23 Swedish brigadier generals and colonels. Five coping strategies were found for handling the negative organizational aspects: repair work, catching up, reproducing, using formal and informal strategies and managing loyalties. The theoretical concepts of narcissistic, anorectic and greedy organizations were used as a framework when interpreting the inductively generated coping strategies. It was suggested that the specific connection found between individual-level coping strategies and theoretically framed organizational challenges is new. The results of this study are discussed theoretically and may be valuable in educational settings when evaluating the working conditions and performance of high-level officers.
Use of Visual Feedback During Jump-Squat Training Aids Improvement in Sport-Specific Tests in Athletes
Authors: Vanderka Marián , Bezák Anton , Longová Katarína , Krčmár Matúš , Walker Simon
Published: May 2018

Vanderka, M, Bezák, A, Longová, K, Krčmár, M, and Walker, S. Use of visual feedback during jump-squat training aids improvement in sport-specific tests in athletes. J Strength Cond Res 34(8): 2250–2257, 2020—This study investigated the effects of instantaneous performance feedback during the jump-squat exercise over a 6-week training period. Twenty-five strength-trained athletes were randomly divided into an instant feedback (n = 13, half-squat 3-repetition maximum (3RM)/body mass = 2.38 ± 0.19) or a nonfeedback (n = 12, half-squat 3RM/body mass = 2.03 ± 0.44) group. Both groups performed the same training program (3 × week), consisting of 4 sets of 8 repetitions (weeks 1–3) and 8 sets of 4 repetitions (weeks 4–6) using a barbell with a load that maximized the average concentric power output (Pmax) of each athlete. Subjects in the instant feedback group were given real-time data after each repetition. Pre-, mid-, and post-training testing consisted of maximum 20-, 30-, and 50-m running speed, 3RM back half-squat load, Pmax and the load that maximized average concentric power output (Pmax load), countermovement jump (CMJ), and squat jump (SJ) height. Results revealed that the feedback group significantly improved all selected tests vs. nonfeedback (time × group interaction, p < 0.01). Significant improvements after training for 20, 30, 50 m, 3RM load, Pmax load, CMJ, and SJ were observed in the feedback group only (p < 0.01). Training without instant feedback did not lead to significant performance improvements; this group actually demonstrated significant decreases in SJ and Pmax (W) and Pmax load (p < 0.05). The results of this study indicate that the use of instant feedback during jump-squat training in athletes was beneficial for improving multiple performance tasks over 6 weeks of training. Instant feedback is an important element of power training to maximize adaptations when training strength-trained athletes.
Speed Demands of Women's Rugby Sevens Match Play
Authors: Misseldine Nicole D. , Blagrove Richard C. , Goodwin Jon E.
Published: May 2018

Misseldine, ND, Blagrove, RC, and Goodwin, JE. Speed demands of women's rugby sevens match play. J Strength Cond Res 35(1): 183–189, 2021—The purpose of this study was to quantify the running speed demands of elite female rugby sevens match play, both absolute and relative to maximal ability, and determine the importance of maximal velocity running to performance. Individual maximal running velocity (Vmax) was established for 12 professional female rugby sevens athletes before the collection of global positioning system data during all 6 games of an international tournament. The subjective importance of each maximal velocity running effort was established using visual analogue scale ratings of video clips by coaches. Differences in velocity demands between backs and forwards were analyzed using a one-way multivariate analysis of variance, and differences in “sprint” distance using the typical-standard and female-adjusted sprint thresholds were compared using a paired-samples t-test. The mean peak velocity reached per game by all players was 90.6 ± 7.9% Vmax. Players covered 1,556 ± 233 m per game, with “sprinting” representing 6 ± 4% of this total distance using the typical-standard “sprint” threshold (5.6 m·s−1), but a significantly (p < 0.001) greater 12 ± 4% using the female-adjusted threshold (4.7 m·s−1). Despite similar total distances, backs reached significantly (p < 0.05) greater peak running velocity and covered more distance at sprint, >75% Vmax and >90% Vmax speeds when compared to forwards. More than half of the running efforts peaking at ≥90% Vmax were considered very influential to game outcomes. These findings suggest that maximal velocity running is important to female rugby sevens performance, and that high-speed demands are different for backs and forwards. Furthermore, the typical-standard sprint thresholds significantly underestimate the true running demands of female rugby sevens.
Activation of the Gluteus Maximus During Performance of the Back Squat, Split Squat, and Barbell Hip Thrust and the Relationship With Maximal Sprinting
Authors: Williams Michael J. , Gibson Neil V. , Sorbie Graeme G. , Ugbolue Ukadike C. , Brouner James , Easton Chris
Published: May 2018

Williams, MJ, Gibson, N, Sorbie, GG, Ugbolue, UC, Brouner, J, and Easton, C. Activation of the gluteus maximus during performance of the back squat, split squat, and barbell hip thrust and the relationship with maximal sprinting. J Strength Cond Res 35(1): 16–24, 2021—The purpose of this research was to compare muscle activation of the gluteus maximus and ground reaction force between the barbell hip thrust, back squat, and split squat and to determine the relationship between these outcomes and vertical and horizontal forces during maximal sprinting. Twelve, male, team sport athletes (age, 25.0 ± 4.0 years; stature, 184.1 ± 6.0 cm; body mass, 82.2 ± 7.9 kg) performed separate movements of the 3 strength exercises at a load equivalent to their individual 3 repetition maximum. The ground reaction force was measured using force plates and the electromyography (EMG) activity of the upper and lower gluteus maximus and was recorded in each leg and expressed as percentage of the maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). Subjects then completed a single sprint on a nonmotorized treadmill for the assessment of maximal velocity and horizontal and vertical forces. Although ground reaction force was lower, peak EMG activity in the gluteus maximus was higher in the hip thrust than in the back squat (p = 0.024; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4–56% MVIC) and split squat (p = 0.016; 95% CI = 6–58% MVIC). Peak sprint velocity correlated with both anterior-posterior horizontal force (r = 0.72) and peak ground reaction force during the barbell hip thrust (r = 0.69) but no other variables. The increased activation of gluteus maximus during the barbell hip thrust and the relationship with maximal running speed suggests that this movement may be optimal for training this muscle group in comparison to the back squat and split squat.
Comparison Between Full-Body vs. Split-Body Resistance Exercise on the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Immunometabolic Response
Authors: Lira Fabio S. , Conrado de Freitas Marcelo , Gerosa-Neto Jose , Cholewa Jason M. , Rossi Fabrício E.
Published: May 2018

Lira, FS, Conrado de Freitas, M, Gerosa-Neto, J, Cholewa, JM, and Rossi, FE. Comparison between full-body vs. split-body resistance exercise on the brain-derived neurotrophic factor immunometabolic response. J Strength Cond Res 34(11): 3094–3102, 2020—Intense aerobic exercise seems to increase serum concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in conjunction with increasing lactate; however, less is known about the BDNF response to differing resistance exercise protocols. We hypothesized that full-body (FB) resistance exercise will elicit a greater increase in serum BDNF and lactate compared with split-body resistance exercise. Twelve recreationally resistance-trained men (age = 25.3 ± 5.9 years) performed 3 randomized trials of 18 sets of exercise: upper-body (UB), lower-body (LB), and FB conditions. Serum BDNF levels were assessed at rest, immediately Post-exercise, Post-1 hour, and Post-2 hours during recovery. Lactate concentration was evaluated at rest, after 9 sets, Post-exercise, Post-5, Post-10, and Post-30 minutes during recovery. In addition, interleukin (IL-6 and IL-10) and the IL-6/IL-10 ratio were calculated. Lactate concentration and total volume were greater in the FB condition compared with LB and UB (p < 0.05). For BDNF, effect sizes were largest in the LB (1.4), followed by the FB (0.75), and moderate to UB (0.33), although no significant differences were observed between conditions. There was a statistically significant relationship between lactate and BDNF only for LB condition (rho = 0.72; p = 0.013). There were a greater IL-10 Post-1 hour for FB condition compared with UB and LB (p < 0.001), and lower IL-6/IL-10 ratio in FB compared with UB (p < 0.001). Lower body induced a great BDNF response, and FB resistance exercise elicited a greater increase of serum cytokines than UB in trained men. We speculate that the volume of work performed by larger muscles has a larger influence on BDNF than overall volume.
Increased Short-Term and Mid-Term Major Complications Were Observed in Elderly Patients with Renal Dysfunction after Surgical Ventricular Restoration
Authors: Xu Fei , Song Yangwu , Feng Wei , Li Xuan , Du Junzhe
Published: May 2018

Background: This study was conducted to explore the impact of renal dysfunction on short-term and mid-term outcomes in elderly patients.Methods: Patients over 65 years of age receiving surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) were included in the study. They were stratified through estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), with a cutoff point of 60 mL/min/1.73m2. Risk-adjusted analysis, including propensity score matching, was carried out to compare short-term and mid-term outcomes between the two groups of patients.Results: From January 1999 to December 2015, a total of 280 elderly patients underwent SVR. Of the patients, 79 had eGFR lower than 60 mL/min/1.73m2 and were considered to have renal dysfunction. Mortality was higher in the renal dysfunction group than the normal renal function group, with marginal significance (adjusted P value = .06). The need for mechanical supports (adjusted P value = .04) was higher in the renal dysfunction group. Hemofiltration (adjusted P value < .01) and requirements for transfusion (adjusted P value = .03) were significantly higher in the renal dysfunction group than in the group with normal renal function. The presence of renal dysfunction was associated with higher risk of major adverse cerebro-cardiovascular events (MACCE) than normal renal function (HR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.34 - 4.08, P = .003).Conclusion: Compared to patients with normal renal function, elderly SVR patients with renal failure have a higher incidence of short-term mechanical support, mid-term mortality, and MACCE events.
New records of Gerrhonotus parvus Knight & Scudday, 1985 (Squamata, Anguidae) in the state of Coahuila, México
Authors: Banda-Leal Javier , Lazcano David , Barriga-Vallejo Carlos , Nevárez-de los Reyes Manuel
Published: May 2018

We document the first records of Gerrhonotus parvus in the state of Coahuila, México. From March 2012 to March 2017, 6 males and 2 females were found in pine forest and submontane scrubland plant communities in the Sierra de Zapalinamé Natural Protected Area, which is located in the municipalities of Saltillo and Arteaga. These records extend the known distribution of the species 28–44 km west of the nearest occurrences in the state of Nuevo León.
Theyyam, The Dancing Gods
Authors: Pereira Filipe
Published: May 2018

The cult of the Theyyams is exclusive to the north of Kerala, southwest India, and consists of a deity assuming a living form through a ritual performance. The main characteristic of this cult is that the performer is supposed to be transformed into the divinity, it is not merely a representation but a living god or goddess that is present to the believers, and everybody behaves according to that assumption.The main type of ceremony with the participation of Theyyams is the kaliyattam, a “danced story”, which happens during a festival organized annually in a village or family temple. The performers belong to the lower castes or tribes of the traditional social stratification system.The documentary follows Rajesh Peruvannan, a Theyyam performer, in the process of transformation into the condition of a living god.
Tokyo Pengyou
Authors: Coates Jamie
Published: May 2018

This ethnographic film follows a young Chinese musician's struggles in Japan, demonstrating how emergent socialities and convivialities form through playful scenarios and the interplay of digital and analogue worlds. It explores how desire, disappointment and creativity shape young Chinese people's social bonds while living abroad, revealing the complicated nature of friendship in migration contexts. Based on long-term fieldwork in Tokyo's unofficial Chinatown, Ikebukuro, the film also serves as a reflection on the role of friendship in anthropological research.
The Impact of Social Ties, Trust, and Adoption on Intention in Sharing Travel Information on Social Network Sites
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Kim Namhyun
Published: May 2018

This study aims to investigate the structural relationship among social ties, trust, adoption, and intention in sharing travel information in social network sites (SNS). Four hypotheses were developed based on social capital theory in order to examine the travel information sharing model, which emphasizes structural social capital - bonding and bridging social capital - on SNS. The hypotheses were tested with a sample of 448 travelers who had used SNS for trip plans or sharing travel information. Partial least square (PLS) path modeling was employed to analyze collected data. The results suggested that bonding social capital (strong ties) positively affected all four trust factors while bridging social capital (weak ties) positively affected three trust factors, with the exception of integrity. Only two trust factors, competence and predictability, positively affected information adoption and intention to share travel information on SNS. The theoretical and practical implications for social media marketing are discussed.
The Lived Experiences of Leisure Participants: A Hermeneutic Approach to the Experience of Visiting an Art Museum
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Kim So-Hye , Kim Chul-Won
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to explore how museum visitors as leisure participants signify their leisure experiences and how the meanings of their visits evolve from the interpretivist perspective. Participants were those who, after appreciating the “FANTasia: East Asia Feminism” exhibition at the Seoul Museum of Art, perceived the exhibition primarily attuned to delivering educational messages to them. The data obtained through unstructured multiple interviews were analyzed based on the “hermeneutic circle” methodology that emphasizes the connectivity between each participant’s narrative and that of the whole. Themes that emerged were “being panicked/being bored,” “being in the flow/being alienated,” and “self-expression/ self-denial,” which were mutually intertwined. The findings are discussed in terms of the lived meaning of subjectivity and the hermeneutic circle through which the interconnectivity among the three themes was understood.
Hava Kuvvetleri Komutanlığı Malzeme İhtiyaç Planlaması Tedarik Tavsiye Listesinin ÇKKV Yöntemleri İle Analizi
Authors: ARIKAN Feyzan , YAĞLI Uğur
Published: May 2018

Öz Hava Kuvvetleri Komutanlığı’nın

envanterindeki silah sistemlerini istenilen yerde ve miktarda faal olarak

bulundurabilmesi; gerek barış zamanında düşman tehdit unsurları üzerinde

caydırıcı olabilmesi açısından, gerekse kriz ve savaş zamanlarında etkin savunma

yapabilmesi açısından kritik öneme sahiptir. Bu nedenle, silah sistemlerinin

bakım ve arıza durumlarında kullanılan malzemeler için tedarik planlanmasının

etkin şekilde yapılması zaruridir. Hava Kuvvetleri Komutanlığı, Malzeme İhtiyaç

Planlaması (MİP) için bir Karar Destek Sistemi (KDS) kullanmaktadır. KDS’nin

oluşturduğu ihtiyaç listesi karar verici uzman personelce incelenmekte ve uygun

görülen malzemeler için tedarik kararı verilmektedir. Bu çalışmada, en doğru

tedarik kararının verilebilmesi için MİP sonuçlarının önem derecesine göre

sıralanarak karar vericilere inceleme faaliyetinde yol gösterecek bilimsel bir

yaklaşım sunmak amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda, Çok Kriterli Karar Verme

(ÇKKV) yöntemlerinden Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal

Solution (TOPSIS) ve Analitik Hiyerarşi Prosesi (AHP) bütünleşik olarak

kullanılmıştır. Sunulan yaklaşımın, geleneksel yöntem ile göz ardı edilen

birçok malzemenin çok daha öncelikli olarak incelenmesine, olası birçok parça

bekler olayı önlemeye ve kıt kaynakların verimli kullanılmasına katkı sunduğu,  sıralama

sonuçların kriter bazında analizi ve sonuçların kullanıcı tedarik kararları

karşılaştırılması ile tespit edilmiştir.

Anahtar Kelimeler: Kurumsal Kaynak Planlama,

KKP, Malzeme İhtiyaç Planlaması, MİP, Karar destek sistemi,  Çok kriterli karar verme, ÇKKV, AHP, TOPSIS.