bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting Bankruptcy Risk in The contexts of Credit Risk Management - A Case Study on Wholesale Food Industry in Poland
Authors: Balina Rafal
Published: June 2018

The aim of the article was to identify the key factors influencing the increase in the risk of bankruptcy of companies from wholesale food industry in Poland. In addition, the research aimed to identifying the most effective method of forecasting the risk of bankruptcy of enterprises in the examined industry in the context of risk management in banks. The research showed that three key indicators determining the financial situation of the enterprise were the key for the analyzed industry: ratio of own equity and the revenue from sale; difference between the quick liquidity indicator for the industry and for the company and dynamics of company’s short term liabilities. These variables point to the areas of activity of companies from wholesale food industry, to which banks should pay special attention during the credit risk assessment process.
Development of a stable corporate bankruptcy classification model: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Chen Hong Long
Published: June 2018

This study constructs a corporate bankruptcy classification model with greater prediction accuracy that can be applied to a wide cross-section of industrial sectors. In Taiwan, development of a bankruptcy classification model for any one industry is difficult because of the small number of bankrupt companies per sector from it. Instead of using industry-relative ratios to stabilize the financial data, this study proposes an approach that combines financial ratio analysis and confirmatory factor analysis with logistic-regression analysis to estimate the probability of financial failure for public corporations. First, Mann-Whitney tests reveal a significant difference in the mean values of bankrupt and nonbankrupt companies for 41 financial ratios. Second, based on these financial ratios, a mathematical modeling procedure is used to develop bankruptcy classification model. Finally, validation of the bankruptcy model is by out-of-sample Type I accuracy, Type II accuracy, and overall correct classification rates. The research results suggest that the proposed modeling approach appears to be robust and relatively insensitive to differential industry effects and time variations.
Having Good Friends is a Good Thing: The Effects of Peers and Superstars on Performance in Swimming Competitions
Authors: Jane Wen-jhan , Yao Jia-Ling , Wang Jye-Shyan
Published: June 2018

By exploiting an unusually rich panel data set from the National Database of Student Athletes, this article addresses the issue of peer effects and superstar effects on performance in multi-stage swimming competitions. Four key findings are presented. First, the evidence from relay teams supports a positive inter-team peer effect from competitors in a male relay race, but a negative inter-team peer effect from competitors in a female relay race. Second, the evidence from both female and male relay teams shows that there exists a positive intra-team peer effect from teammates. In our estimations for female relay races, a foolish teammate does more harm (+3.11 seconds) than a brilliant opponent does good (+0.55 seconds) in the estimation of the Heckman Selection Model based on panel data. Third, a male team with average-quality swimmers performs better than a team with dispersed-quality swimmers. Fourth, for the super-team effects in these tournaments, on average, the female relay teams’ (/male relay teams’) times are approximately 2.85(/2.09) seconds faster/slower when the previous year’s winning team participates.
Forecasting Czech GDP using Bayesian dynamic model averaging
Authors: Karel Tomáš , Hebák Petr
Published: June 2018

Forecasting future path of macroeconomic aggregates has become crucial for monetary and fiscal policymakers. Using Czech data, the aim of this paper is to demonstrate the benefits of the Bayesian dynamic averaging and Bayesian Vector Autoregressive Models (BVAR) in forecasting real GDP growth. Estimation of richly parameterized VARs often leads to unstable estimates and inaccurate forecasts in models with many variables. Bayesian inference and proper choice of informative priors offers an effective solution to this problem by shrinking the variance of model parameters. Bayesian dynamic model averaging (DMA) then makes it possible to account for model uncertainty by combining predictive abilities of many competing VAR models considered by a researcher. Since forecasting performance of individual models may vary over time, the DMA can adapt their weights in dynamic and optimal way. It is shown that the application of DMA leads to substantial forecasting gains in forecasting Czech real GDP.
The Determinant of Success in Basic Economics Courses Taught by the Department of Economics at the University of Economics in Prague
Authors: Mirvald Michal , Tománková Martina
Published: June 2018

In comparison with other basic courses at the University of Economics in Prague there are basic economics courses taught by the Department of Economics that regularly show higher fail rates, specifically more than 35 %. A standard evaluation should be done in time and shall use different methods. Using quantitative methods, our analysis tries to identify key determinants of students’ success. The data were obtained via a questionnaire during the last lectures in the winter semester of 2016/17 and in the winter semester of 2017/18. As opposed to existing studies, we also consider variables that weren’t previously possible to observe, such as the use of IT technologies during lectures and studying from materials in electronic form.
Tratamiento de obesidad con liraglutide en un paciente con Síndrome de Prader-Willi: reporte de caso
Authors: Cadena-Obando Diego Andrés , Molina-Ayala Mario Antonio , Ferreira-Hermosillo Aldo
Published: June 2018

Introducción: El síndrome de Prader Willi (SPW) es una de las principales causas de obesidad sindrómica, causado por deleciones en el cromosoma 15q11-q13. Está caracterizado por hipotonía neonatal, dificultad para la alimentación con peso bajo al nacer y posterior desarrollo de hiperfagia, alteraciones de la conducta y obesidad. Caso clínico: Presentamos el caso de un paciente con SPW que logró disminución y control de peso mediante el uso de liraglutide, terapia nutricional y actividad física. Discusión: El tratamiento de la obesidad en los pacientes con SPW es complicado y requiere un adecuado manejo dietético aunado a terapia psicológica y en caso de persistencia del descontrol del apetito, el uso de medicamentos como metformina o los análogos de GLP-1.
Estudo de filas e análise qualitativa do desempenho de um restaurante universitário
Authors: Da Silva Guabiroba Ricardo César , Soares Paggioro Penna Guilherme , Lima Silva Caroline , Da Silva Lima Amanda Cristina
Published: June 2018

Verificar o desempenho de operações em serviço pode auxiliar na indicação de oportunidades de melhoria dessas operações. Neste contexto, o presente artigo tem o objetivo de verificar em uma escala de 0% a 100% o nível de serviço de uma operação de produção (restaurante universitário) segundo cinco objetivos de desempenho: qualidade do serviço, qualidade do produto, flexibilidade do produto, custo do produto e desempenho do sistema de filas. Para alcançar o objetivo proposto, estruturou-se um procedimento composto por quatro etapas. Essas etapas envolvem (1) a definição do local de aplicação e suas características, (2) a coleta de dados quantitativos em campo e definição das características operacionais da fila, (3) a definição e a coleta de dados qualitativos em campo e tabulação desses dados, além da (4) análise dos dados qualitativos e características operacionais da fila. De um modo geral, a qualidade do serviço, a qualidade do produto e a flexibilidade do produto se destacaram com baixo nível de insatisfação. No caso do desempenho do sistema de filas, há oportunidade de melhoria, pois o tempo real médio de espera é superior ao tempo que os respondentes acham adequado para esperar na fila. Outro ponto de melhoria é o custo do produto, com redução ideal deste valor em 33%, segundo os respondentes.
A importância da implantação do Escritório de Projetos: estudo de caso de uma organização de médio porte
Authors: De Miranda e Silva Correia Christiane , Moreira Cláudia Márcia , Maia Muniz Reynaldo
Published: June 2018

A implementação de um PMO (Project Management Office) é um fator de sucesso para muitas organizações. O presente artigo tem como objetivo levantar pontos a serem analisados durante a implantação do PMO e como esta pode influenciar na tomada de decisões dos projetos da organização. As informações obtidas sobre o PMO foram levantadas por meio de revisão de literatura e estudo de caso de uma organização de médio porte. Para que seja eficiente, o PMO deve ser bem implementado, observar a realidade da organização e possuir o total apoio da alta direção.
Um modelo de controle para o processo de montagem de bens de produção utilizando a modelagem de processos
Authors: Belo Torres Jose
Published: June 2018

As organizações cada vez mais necessitam de novas formas de agir, que permitam a elas se tornarem diferentes e, portanto, conseguirem uma vantagem competitiva em relação aos seus concorrentes. Os modelos de processos são muito utilizados em sistemas automatizados em que dados de determinados equipamentos, como vazão e temperatura, por exemplo, são recuperados e tratados de forma automática. Assim, um modelo que possibilite o desenvolvimento de um ambiente de modelagem de processos para simular e controlar o processo operacional de uma organização é proposto. O modelo foi dividido em três camadas. Na primeira camada, encontram-se os modelos de processos e na terceira camada, os processos operacionais de uma organização. Já a segunda camada é responsável pela integração das camadas primeira e terceira por meio das tecnologias de comunicação e da informação. Para validação do modelo, foram desenvolvidos: um ambiente computacional para modelagem de processos para camada um; um modelo de processo de montagem com componentes de automação como Controlador Lógico Programável – CLP e sensores para terceira camada; e um programa de recuperação de dados de ocorrência de eventos, como entrada e saída de um item de produção em um recurso, utilizando o software SCADA Elipse desenvolvedor para segunda camada.
Proposta metodológica para desenvolvimento de cenários prospectivos para sucessão em empresas familiares de pequeno porte
Authors: Oliveira de Araujo Fernando , Hoffmann Luana , Domingues Pizzolato Nélio
Published: June 2018

As empresas familiares representam contingente significativo do número de organizações econômicas formalmente constituídas, tanto no Brasil, como no mundo. No sentido de contribuir para a longevidade dessas organizações, a incorporação de uma agenda relacionada a como conduzir a sucessão geracional deve ser objeto de reflexão dos sócios-proprietários, dada a sua relevância tanto para o negócio, quanto para as famílias. Em termos de fundamentação, o presente estudo analisa e sistematiza a literatura científica relacionada ao processo sucessório e às empresas familiares. Já sob a perspectiva metodológica, o estudo se inspira nos principais modelos existentes na literatura técnico-científica relacionada à análise prospectiva de cenários, tendo, como principal produto, o desenvolvimento de uma proposta metodológica para a criação de cenários do processo sucessório em empresas familiares de pequeno porte.
Desafios na implantação de um sistema de logística reversa de embalagens: estudo de caso em uma varejista de materiais para a construção civil
Authors: Da Conceição Lira Dayane , Ferreira dos Santos Neto José , Moreira da Silva Ricardo
Published: June 2018

As indagações referentes à logística reversa têm ganhado atenção à medida que um conjunto de fatores de ordem estratégica, competitiva, econômica e ecológica ganham importância no contexto atual, pois apresenta soluções ou alternativas que corroboram com a ampliação da vida útil das embalagens no direcionamento para reciclagem, e que colaborem com ações sociais que visem a promoção da sustentabilidade. O objetivo principal do artigo foi analisar os desafios enfrentados na implantação de um programa de logística reversa de embalagens em uma empresa varejista de materiais de construção. Quanto aos procedimentos técnicos, foi realizada uma pesquisa de campo considerando-se como amostra não probabilística intencional uma empresa varejista localizada em João Pessoa-PB. A coleta de dados deu-se por meio da observação participativa, entrevistas não estruturadas e questionários fechados. As principais variáveis analisadas foram: Envolvimento de lideranças das empresas; A aceitação do programa de logística reversa pelas empresas clientes; Armazenagem dos materiais; Manuseio e transporte; Vendas, custo e geração de valor; impactos nas rotinas da empresa implantadora. Apresentou-se algumas dificuldades, onde se destaca a falta de comprometimento das construtoras e seus funcionários na segregação dos produtos. No entanto, evidenciou-se melhorias nas relações interorganizacionais devido ao envolvimento de gestores no programa de logística reversa.
A mediação da capabilidade de entrega na relação entre compartilhamento de informações e desempenho operacional nas cadeias de suprimentos do setor de bens de capital
Authors: Domenek Antonio Carlos , Giro Moori Roberto
Published: June 2018

Este estudo teve por objetivo verificar a influência da capabilidade de entrega na relação entre o compartilhamento de informações e o desempenho operacional das empresas do setor de bens de capital. Para este fim, a pesquisa foi dividida em duas etapas. Na primeira etapa foram realizadas entrevistas espontâneas com dez representantes, entre diretores, gerentes e coordenadores, de empresas do setor de bens de capital. Na segunda etapa foi realizada uma pesquisa descritiva com 68 empresas utilizando-se um instrumento de coleta de dados, construído a partir do referencial teórico e da entrevista espontânea. Nesta fase, utilizou-se a estatística descritiva, a análise fatorial e a modelagem de equações estruturais. Os resultados mostraram que existiu uma relação positiva e não significante entre o compartilhamento de informações e o desempenho operacional, positiva e significante entre o compartilhamento de informações e as capabilidades operacionais e entre as capabilidades operacionais e o desempenho operacional. Os resultados apontaram que a capabilidade de entrega, nas empresas pesquisadas, atua como mediadora da relação entre o compartilhamento de informações e o desempenho operacional. Por fim, sugere-se o prosseguimento desta pesquisa com a ampliação da amostra, a replicação em outros setores e a inclusão de outras práticas colaborativas.
Análise da adoção de práticas lean em empresas brasileiras: um estudo exploratório
Authors: Affonso Neto Annibal , Lima Rui M. , Lima Pereira Afonso Paulo Sergio , Da Silva Neli Terezinha
Published: June 2018

O presente artigo investiga a adoção da Produção Enxuta em empresas brasileiras a partir das premissas do Lean Manufacturing Model. O trabalho foi desenvolvido considerando o construto Produção Enxuta por intermédio de 65 (sessenta e cinco) variáveis que caracterizam o Lean agrupadas em 8 (oito) dimensões de análise: custos, controle de produção, fluxo contínuo, setup, nivelamento e balanceamento da produção, autonomação de processos, padronização das operações e pessoas. O estágio da adoção do lean nas empresas foi identificado a partir do levantamento com diretores, gerentes, supervisores, engenheiros encarregados e analistas. Para o estudo, foi utilizado um instrumento de coleta de dados do tipo questionário estruturado não disfarçado com assertivas contemplando diversos aspectos do modelo Lean. O grau de concordância com a assertiva era assinalado com a utilização da escala resultante de uma combinação da escala Staepel com a escala Likert com 10 (dez) pontos. Os dados obtidos foram analisados com o uso da estatística descritiva.
Modelagem do processo de movimentação de bens permanentes entre unidades de órgãos públicos
Authors: Moreira de Lemos Raísa , Cordeiro Freitas Frederico , Vasconcelos Silva Simone , Sardinha Cordeiro Morais Alline , E Silva Neto Romeu
Published: June 2018

Destaques: O artigo propõe um processo simples, mas eficiente, de se desfazer de bens permanentes que estão ociosos. Propõe a execução do processo com técnicas de qualidade. Utiliza ferramentas de modelagem de negócios. Preza pela sustentabilidade.Objetivo: O trabalho atual tem objetivo propor o processo de desfazimento, mais especificamente movimentação, de bens entre unidades de um órgão público, a fim de que recursos que estão ociosos em uma unidade possam ser reaproveitados por outra, preservando recursos financeiros, gerando economia nos cofres públicos, economia de espaço físico e contribuindo para o caráter sustentável da instituição.Metodologia: Para identificar os problemas neste processo é utilizado o método de qualidade MASP (Método de Análise e Solução de Problemas). Após os problemas serem identificados, será proposta uma modelagem do processo utilizando o Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN), então, será proposto e mensurado um indicador de sustentabilidade decorrente da execução do processo, como forma de validação de sucesso da modelagem proposta.Resultados: Como resultado, tem-se um modelo de processo a ser utilizado nas execuções de movimentação de bens, o qual gerou economia de recursos, reutilização de bens e imagem sustentável positiva para a organização.Limitações da investigação: As dificuldades encontradas são a nível de envolvimento humano, onde há necessidade de mudança cultural para execução de novos procedimentos, já que o levantamento principal e iniciativa para a execução desse processo depende de pessoas.Implicações práticas: O estudo contribui apresentando o passo-a-passo prático e simples que as organizações devem seguir para dar finalidade a itens que não são utilizados.Originalidade: Além de o artigo propor uma solução para o problema de acúmulo de bens em organizações públicas, ele ainda mede o sucesso da execução ressaltando o lado sustentável de tal processo.
Planejamento estratégico organizacional: reflexões a partir da utilização das matrizes SWOT e GUT em uma Associação de Catadores de Materiais Recicláveis
Authors: Machado Alves Jean Carlos , Molica de Mendonça Fabrício , Medeiros Veloso Letícia Helena , De Magalhães Guilherme Henrique
Published: June 2018

O trabalho teve como objetivo aplicar as matrizes SWOT e GUT na Associação de Materiais Recicláveis do Município de João Monlevade- MG para analisar sua situação atual e estabelecer prioridades em relação aos principais problemas levantados, de modo a servir de insumos para a construção de um planejamento estratégico. Para tanto, utilizou-se as matrizes SWOT e GUT, que são ferramentas que promovem o diagnóstico do ambiente organizacional, priorizando algumas ações estratégicas que ampliam a possibilidade de sucesso da organização, tanto no presente como no futuro. Quanto aos procedimentos metodológicos, o estudo fundamenta-se em pesquisas bibliográficas e documentais, pesquisa-ação, acompanhamento das atividades diárias da associação, participação nas reuniões internas e externas dos associados e/ou parceiros da organização, diálogo com os catadores, acompanhamento e análise do programa da coleta seletiva implantada. Observa-se que a aplicação das matrizes SWOT e GUT colabora para o reconhecimento de características que inviabilizam a sustentabilidade, produtividade, fidelização dos clientes, vantagem competitiva, entre outras, tão importantes quanto as destacadas. O resultado da pesquisa apresenta fatores que auxiliaram na edificação de novas fases e ações de curto, médio e/ou longo prazo na associação, de modo a tentar garantir sucesso e sustentabilidade.
Mapa de riscos em cooperativas de catadores de materiais recicláveis no Município de Campina Grande-PB
Authors: Alves de Souza Jeová , Martins Maria Fatima
Published: June 2018

O objetivo do presente artigo é avaliar os riscos físicos, biológicos, químicos, ergonômicos e de acidentes de trabalho em cooperativas de catadores de materiais recicláveis no Município de Campina Grande – PB, por meio da elaboração de um Mapa de Riscos. Quanto à metodologia, trata-se de um estudo de múltiplos casos, classificado como descritivo, qualitativo e de observação não participante. Para coleta de dados foi realizada pesquisa documental, visita in loco com check list dos possíveis riscos, registros fotográficos e entrevistas com os cooperados das cooperativas envolvidos com a catação, seleção e manuseio de materiais recicláveis, expostos a diversos riscos no ambiente de trabalho. O mapeamento dos riscos tomou como base o Mapa de Risco, considerando os riscos biológicos, químicos, ergonômicos, físicos e de acidente de trabalho, a partir do trabalho de Schneider et Gervanutti (2014). Os resultados evidenciam que a realização do armazenamento dos materiais recicláveis e as técnicas operacionais utilizadas para a compactação, seleção e estocagem geram situações de risco contínuo à ocorrência de acidentes, principalmente pela ausência de utilização de equipamentos de proteção específicos para cada operação. Além disso, a precariedade no ambiente de trabalho também potencializa os riscos operacionais inerentes ao processamento e estocagem desses materiais, aumentando as possibilidades de acidentes que podem comprometer a saúde e a produtividade dos trabalhadores nas cooperativas estudadas.
Propostas de redesenho de processos e o papel das equipes organizacionais: uma análise da produção científica à luz da bibliometria
Authors: Andrade Longaray André , Zepka Pereira Jr Errol Fernando , Munhoz Paulo Roberto , Gonçalves Tondolo Vilmar
Published: June 2018

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo caracterizar a produção científica no que tange à temática do papel desempenhado pelas equipes organizacionais em programas de redesenho de processos. Metodologicamente, o estudo enquadra-se como de natureza exploratória, adotando-se a revisão bibliográfica dos artigos publicados nas bases de dados Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science e Google Scholar. O período de análise foi o compreendido entre os anos de 2006 e 2016. A técnica da bibliometria foi empregada para o exame dos artigos selecionados. Foram realizados os estudos de produção, autoria, conteúdo e referências dos artigos da amostra. Como alguns dos resultados, constatou-se a quantidade limitada de artigos publicados sobre o relacionamento dos projetos de redesenho de processos com suas equipes organizacionais, assim como a identificação de novas possibilidades de pesquisa no âmbito dessa temática.
Planejamento Estratégico de TIC: uma proposta utilizando conceitos do SCRUM
Authors: Peterson Guimarães Ronny , Araújo de Souza Júnior Armando
Published: June 2018

O uso da tecnologia da informação e comunicação (TIC) como vetor estratégico nas organizações e as constantes mudanças no ambiente interno e externo aumentaram a necessidade de um planejamento dedicado para essa área. Este artigo tem como objetivo propor um modelo de planejamento estratégico de tecnologia da informação e comunicação (PETIC) utilizando conceitos do framework Scrum. É uma pesquisa qualitativa, realizada a partir de um estudo de caso que utilizou a observação no Centro de Tecnologia da Informação e Comunicação (CTIC) da Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM) e a pesquisa documental nos artefatos gerados durante seu processo de elaboração e execução do planejamento estratégico TIC para o período de 2016-2017. A proposta adiciona ao processo de PETIC elementos de agilidade, foco no alinhamento estratégico, redução de desperdícios, melhoria da comunicação, planejamento colaborativo e participativo, conceito de produção puxada, monitoramento contínuo, melhoria contínua de qualidade e artefatos que possibilitam um rastreamento de todo o processo de planejamento.
Influence of Movement Quality on Heart Rate While Performing the Dance-Specific Aerobic Fitness Test (DAFT) in Preprofessional Contemporary Dancers
Authors: Tiemens Annemiek , van Rijn Rogier M , Wyon Matthew A , Redding Emma , Stubbe Janine H
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVES: To explore whether movement quality has influence on heart rate (HR) frequency during the dance-specific aerobic fitness test (DAFT). METHODS: Thirteen contemporary university dance students (age 19 ± 1.46 yrs) underwent two trials performing the DAFT while wearing
a Polar HR monitor (Kempele, Finland). During the first trial, dancers were asked to perform the movements as if they were performing on stage, whereas during the second trial, standardized verbal instructions were given to reduce the quality of movement (e.g., no need to perform technically
correct pliés). The variables measured at each trial were HR for all five stages of the DAFT and HR recovery (1 and 2 min after finishing the DAFT), movement quality (MQ) score, and rate of perceived exertion score (RPE). RESULTS: There were significant differences in HR between Trial
1 and Trial 2. For all stages and the resting period, HR was lower during Trial 2 (p<0.001). Also, the RPE score was significantly lower and the MQ score was significantly higher, indicating a poorer performance, during Trial 2 (both p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that DAFT
performance with lower movement quality elicits lower HR frequency and RPE during the DAFT. We recommend that specific instructions be given to participants about executing the movement sequence during the DAFT before testing commences. Also, movement quality must be taken into account when
interpreting HR results from the DAFT in order to distinguish if a dancer’s low HR results from good aerobic fitness or from poor performance of the movement sequence.
Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Classical Piano Students at Tertiary Institutions in Malaysia: Proportion and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Ling Chia-Ying , Loo Fung-Chiat , Hamedon Titi R
Published: June 2018

Musicians are prone to performance injuries due to the nature of musical practice, and classical pianists are among the groups at high risk for playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs). With the growing number of classical pianists in Malaysia, this study aimed to investigate
the proportion of PRMDs occurring among classical piano students in tertiary institutions in Malaysia. Associations between gender, practice habits, diet, sports involvement, and PRMD were investigated. A survey was conducted among classical piano students (n=192) at tertiary institutions
of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Results showed that 35.8% (n=68) students reported having PRMD. The shoulder was the most commonly affected body site, followed by the arm, finger, and wrist. Pain, fatigue, and stiffness were the most cited symptoms by those who suffered from a PRMD. Chi-square
analysis showed a significant relationship between the occurrence of PRMD and practice hours (p=0.031), the habit of taking breaks during practice (p=0.045), physical cool-down exercises (p=0.037), and special diet (p=0.007). Multivariate logistic regression analyses confirmed the independent
correlation between PRMDs and the lack of taking a break during practice, physical cool-down exercises, and special diet. Because PRMDs are reported at various severity levels, this study should increase awareness of PRMD among classical piano students and encourage injury prevention in musicians
in the future to ensure long-lasting music careers.
Neuromuscular Re-Education Programs for Musicians with Focal Hand Dystonia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Enke Ashley M , Poskey Gail A
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of neuromuscular re-education programs on reducing abnormal movements during instrument play in musicians with focal hand dystonia (FHD). METHODS: A systematic literature search of published articles
was performed. Databases searched included MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, OTseeker, and the Cochrane Library. Additional articles were identified from reference lists. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were independently assessed by the two coauthors for eligibility and quality of methods. Study
data were summarized in a critical appraisal chart. RESULTS: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria for review, including 1 non-randomized two-group study, 6 single-group repeated measures studies, and 2 single-subject studies. The studied neuromuscular re-education programs included constraint-induced
therapy plus motor control retraining, sensory motor retuning, learning- based sensorimotor training, and slow-down exercise. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this review indicate there is moderate evidence to support the effectiveness of neuromuscular re-education programs on reducing abnormal
movements during instrument play in musicians with FHD. However, additional research should evaluate the effectiveness of neuromuscular re-education programs using reliable and valid outcome measures, as well as study methods which provide higher levels of evidence.
Bone Mineral Density in Collegiate Dance Majors Compared to Healthy Controls
Authors: Farnell Gregory S , Williams Valerie J , Bogda Bristin
Published: June 2018

INTRODUCTION: The bone mineral density (BMD) status of dancers is currently unknown. Some research indicates that female dancers have no difference or higher BMD than non-dancers. Other evidence indicates they have lower BMD, predisposing them to osteoporosis and fractures later in
life. These differences among studies may be due to differences in dancer type, age, level, and lack of control of confounding variables. Few studies have been completed on college-level dancers. PURPOSE: To evaluate BMD in female college-level dance majors. METHODS: 20 female multi-genre
collegiate dance majors and 12 female non-dancer control subjects participated in the study. Each participant underwent three consecutive dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scans to determine BMD of the total body, dual femurs, and lumbar spine. Statistical analysis was completed by an independent
samples t-test. RESULTS: The lumbar spine demonstrated a significant difference between groups (p=0.011), with dancers showing greater BMD (1.32±0.10 vs 1.21±0.12 g/cm2). There was no significant difference between groups for total body or dual femur BMD (p=0.104 and 0.175, respectively).
CONCLUSION: College-level dancers may have higher BMD of their lumbar spine than non-dancers, but not in other areas. This area may have increased BMD due to loading from dance activity and warrants further investigation.
Hamstring Flexibility Is Not Correlated with Isokinetic Knee Muscle Strength in Female Modern Dancers
Authors: Agopyan Ani
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate bilateral isokinetic knee extensor and flexor muscle strength relative to hamstring flexibility in female modern dancers. METHODS: 20 trained university-level female modern dance students (mean age 23.8±3.8 yrs) volunteered for the study. Concentric isokinetic
peak torque (PT, in Nm), peak torque % of body weight (PT%BW, in Nm/kg), and total work (TW, in J) of the knee extensor and flexor muscles for each leg were measured with a dynamometer at a velocity of 60, 180, and 300°/s. Hamstring flexibility of both limbs was assessed by a goniometer
with the subjects in a supine position using the active straight leg raise (SLR) test. Participants were divided into flexible (n=10) and highly flexible (n=10) groups based on their hamstring flexibility. RESULTS: The flexible and highly flexible groups had significant differences (p≤0.05)
for the right (flexible, 119.7±4.3°; highly flexible, 137.7±2.6°) and left active SLR tests (flexible, 120.6±5.3°; highly flexible, 138.3±4.5°). No significant differences were found between the flexible and highly flexible dancers for concentric
knee extensor and flexor muscle strength in all selected parameters (p≤0.05). There were also no significant correlations between flexibility and bilateral PT, PT%BW, and TW scores (60, 180, and 300°/s) of dancers at the concentric contraction (p≤0.05). CONCLUSION: These findings
indicate that hamstring flexibility (for both the flexible and highly flexible groups) is not correlated with knee strength and has no impact on torque and work production during maximal concentric isokinetic knee muscle action in university-level female modern dancers.
Resistance Training for Professional String Musicians: A Prospective Intervention Study
Authors: Lundborg Bertil , Grooten Wilhelmus JA
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: Many professional musicians report performance- related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs). Evidence shows that resistance training programs are preventive for musculoskeletal disorders, but only a few studies have been performed among musicians. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this
study was to evaluate whether a functional resistance training program can increase isometric back endurance and isometric strength in the neck, shoulder, and wrist for professional string musicians and affect their perceived performance during instrumental play, as well as their muscle and
joint mobility and the occurrence and intensity of pain. METHODS: 24 professional string musicians from three Swedish symphony orchestras participated in the study, performing individually designed exercise sessions twice a week over an 11-week period. Isometric strength and isometric back
endurance were measured pre- and postintervention with a hand-held dynamometer and the Biering-Sorensen test, respectively. A web-based questionnaire was used for assessing perceived performance during instrumental play, as well as mobility and occurrence and intensity of pain. RESULTS: After
the training period, the group showed an 11% to 19% increase in isometric strength for neck and upper extremities and 25% improved isometric endurance in back extensors (p<0.05). Moreover, 29% to 59% of the group showed improvements in mobility, performance during instrumental play, and
PRMDs, although these improvements did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: This functional resistance training program seems to be a non-harmful and advantageous exercise method for professional string musicians, but randomized and controlled studies are needed to confirm the
results.
A Tenuous Pas de Deux: Examining University Dancers’ Access to and Satisfaction with Healthcare Delivery
Authors: Wang Tina J , Russell Jeffrey A
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: Dance is a rigorous art form and athletic activity accompanied by a high injury rate. The purpose of this study was to gather injury and healthcare availability information from university dancers to better understand dancers’ access to professional medical attention
and their satisfaction with the medical advice they receive. METHODS: An author-designed online questionnaire about dance-related injury (DRI), access to healthcare, and satisfaction with healthcare was distributed to dancers at 102 American post-secondary institutions in 2 states that offer
programs in dance; 211 dancers completed the survey. RESULTS: 75% of dancers reported seeking healthcare advice from dance teachers. A majority (55%) who visited healthcare professionals for a DRI disclosed negative experiences; the top reasons stemmed from the professionals’ not understanding
dancers (70%), providing unhelpful advice (43%), or not spending enough time in the healthcare consultation (33%). Of dancers who reported positive experiences, they most commonly discovered the provider by word-of-mouth (89%) or through the provider’s affiliation with their institution
(41%). CONCLUSION: Dancers tend to access healthcare when it is available to them but find the lack of relevant and applicable advice from healthcare practitioners the biggest contributors to their negative experience with the healthcare system. When confronted with DRIs, dancers tend to seek
advice from their dance instructors. To ensure proper evaluation, instructors should refer dancers to licensed healthcare providers, and dance medicine practitioners should make themselves known to dancers through both formal and informal networks.
General Health Status, Music Performance Anxiety, and Coping Methods of Musicians Working in Turkish State Symphony Orchestras: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Topoğlu Onur , Karagulle Derya
Published: June 2018

AIMS: This study assessed the general health, music performance anxiety (MPA), and coping methods of musicians working in six state orchestras in Turkey. METHODS: All musicians working in the state symphony orchestras (n=384) were invited to participate in the study. In face-to-face
interviews, the authors administered a questionnaire, which consisted of five sections: sociodemographic information, history of musical performance, health status, general health questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), and MPA scale. Mann-Whitney U-test, Student’s t-test, and Spearman’s correlation
test were used to analyze the questionnaire data. RESULTS: The 220 musicians who participated included 121 (55%) males and 99 (45%) females, with a mean age of 42.4±11.3 yrs. For musculoskeletal symptoms, 87.6% reported at least one symptom with the most common being pain. For general
health status, the GHQ-12 showed 64% of musicians were at low risk, 18.7% at moderate risk, and 17.3% at high risk in terms of mental health. The prevalence of MPA before or during performance was 81.8%, and 60% of musicians stated that performance anxiety negatively affected their performances.
CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that musicians working in Turkish state symphony orchestras encounter numerous health problems (tinnitus, hearing loss, musculoskeletal symptoms, etc.) due to their profession. No specific health support is provided, especially education and health service provision.
Popular Musician Responses to Mental Health Treatment
Authors: Berg Lloyd , King Benjamin , Koenig Jessica , McRoberts Roger L
Published: June 2018

OBJECTIVE: Popular (i.e., nonclassical) musicians have higher rates of mental health disorders and mental health service utilization than the general population. Little is known, however, about how popular musicians perceive mental health interventions in terms of overall satisfaction
and therapeutic benefit. METHODS: An online client satisfaction survey was sent to all musicians and family members who received mental health services through a nonprofit mental health organization in Austin, Texas, between July 2014 and June 2015 (n=628). RESULTS: 260 individuals (41.4%)
responded to the survey, of whom 94% (n=244) were musicians. A majority of musician respondents were male (60%) and white (82%). 87% received counseling, 32% received psychiatric medication treatment, and 8% received addiction recovery services. 97% of musicians (205/211) rated their counselor
as ‘very good’ or ‘excellent,’ 88% (64/79) rated their psychiatric providers as ‘very good’ or ‘excellent,’ and 94% (17/19) rated their addiction recovery specialists as ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’ (nonsignificant between
all categories, p>0.05). 89% of musicians receiving counseling, 84% receiving psychiatric medication treatment, and 95% receiving addiction recovery services agreed or strongly agreed that their symptoms and overall functioning improved as a result of their treatment (nonsignificant between
all categories, p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Popular musicians express strong provider satisfaction and overall benefit when mental health interventions are accessible, affordable, and delivered by professionals familiar with their concerns. More research is needed to understand the unique psychosocial
stresses popular musicians face to inform treatment planning for this high-risk, underserved population.
Effects of an Education and Prevention Course for University Music Students on Their Body Awareness and Attitude Toward Health and Prevention
Authors: Árnason Kári , Briem Kristín , Árnason Árni
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: Studies show a high cumulative prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among musicians. Increased emphasis is needed on studying the effectiveness of education and prevention courses in music schools. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects on music students of an education
and prevention course on body awareness and their attitude toward health and prevention. METHODS: 23 music students participated in this prospective descriptive comparative study, with 13 students taking the course and serving as a prevention education group (PG) and 10 students serving as
a comparison group (CG). The course met once weekly for 2 semesters and included lectures and practical sessions. Before and after the course, participants answered a questionnaire about their level of physical activity, warm-up exercises prior to musical performance, health-promoting activities,
and subjective body awareness during musical performance and during activities of daily living (ADL). RESULTS: Over the 9-month study period, the PG group increased, and the CG lessened, the amount of warm-up prior to music performance, showing a significant group difference after the course
(p=0.036). Significant interactions were seen for subjective body awareness scores (between groups over time) during practice (p=0.026) and during ADLs (p=0.004), as the PG group had greater positive change over time. No group differences were found in students’ subjective rating of
body awareness during live performance. CONCLUSIONS: Participation in a prevention and education course may be beneficial for music students due to improved subjective body awareness and attitude toward prevention strategies.
The analysis of contexts of coping with stress, experienced by social welfare professionals: experience of Lithuania and Scandinavian countries
Authors: Alifanovienė Daiva , Šapelytė Odeta , Gerulaitis Darius
Published: June 2018

The article deals with stress and coping with the stress experienced by social welfare professionals in different social and cultural context. The comparison of inter-professional stressogenity shows that the greatest stress is experienced by the representatives of social sphere professions. The main aim of the article is to disclose the contexts of possibilities for coping with stress experienced by social welfare professionals in Lithuania and Scandinavian countries. Specialists’ (N=12) experience was analysed employing the qualitative data collection method (semi-structured written interview), using  open-ended questions according to assessment areas foreseen by the researchers. Reconstructing the context of coping with stress experienced by specialists of social welfare professions of these countries, certain differences showed up: Lithuanian social welfare professionals use the most affordable ways for stress coping in the intrapersonal (physical and emotional) area. Due to a more favourable socio-economic situation in the country, Scandinavian informants have a wider range of stress management possibilities in terms of affordability, content and choice.
Preferential Flow in Vertisolic Soils with and without Organic Amendments
Authors: Ali Genevieve , Macrae Merrin , Walker Matthew , Laing Janelle , Lobb David
Published: June 2018

Core Ideas

Matrix flow and macropore flow interact in Vertisols via lateral infiltration.

Maximum water infiltration depths are greater in Vertisols with hog manure.

Manure does not affect the mobilization of old soil water via macropore flow.

Preferential flow has different agronomic and environmental effects in various soils. The objectives of this study were (i) to quantify matrix and preferential flow and (ii) to assess the effect of organic amendments on flow dynamics in agricultural Vertisols. Dye tracing and isotopic analysis were used to infer soil water infiltration and mixing on two plots: one treatment (with liquid hog manure) and one control. Results showed infiltration depths reaching 64 cm for the treatment plot and 45 cm for the control. For both plots, matrix flow was only observed in the top 10 cm, whereas preferential flow extended beyond the tillage depth. Dye traces provided evidence of lateral infiltration across macropore–matrix boundaries, while post‐experiment soil water averaged δ2H = −15.1‰ and δ18O = −118.9‰, hinting at old water mobilization via macropore flow. The potential impacts of these results on chemical transport should be validated across different soils and environmental conditions.
Zinc Dependent Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors in Cancer Therapeutics: Recent Update
Authors: Sultana Faria , Manasa Kesari Lakshmi , Shaik Siddiq Pasha , Bonam Srinivasa Reddy , Kamal Ahmed
Published: June 2018

Background:

Histone deacetylases (HDAC) are an important class of enzymes that
play a pivotal role in epigenetic regulation of gene expression that modifies the terminal of
core histones leading to remodelling of chromatin topology and thereby controlling gene expression.
HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) counter this action and can result in hyperacetylation of
histones, thereby inducing an array of cellular consequences such as activation of apoptotic
pathways, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell cycle arrest and autophagy.
Hence, there is a growing interest in the potential clinical use of HDAC inhibitors as a new
class of targeted cancer therapeutics.

Methodology and Result:

Several research articles spanning between 2016 and 2017 were
reviewed in this article and presently offer critical insights into the important strategies such
as structure-based rational drug design, multi-parameter lead optimization methodologies,
relevant SAR studies and biology of various class of HDAC inhibitors, such as hydroxamic
acids, benzamides, cyclic peptides, aliphatic acids, summarising the clinical trials and results
of various combination drug therapy till date.

Conclusion:

This review will provide a platform to the synthetic chemists and biologists to
cater the needs of both molecular targeted therapy and combination drug therapy to design
and synthesize safe and selective HDAC inhibitors in cancer therapeutics.
Cholesterol Subfraction Analysis in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Kidawa Michal , Gluba-Brzózka Anna , Zielinska Marzenna , Franczyk Beata , Banach Maciej , Rysz Jacek
Published: June 2018

Background: There is a close relationship between lipid metabolism disorders and atherosclerosis.
Guidelines focus on lowering Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. However,
it should be kept in mind that LDL and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) consist of subfractions
which can affect the progression of atherosclerosis.

Objective: We assessed the concentration of LDL and HDL subfractions in patients with Acute Coronary
Syndromes (ACS). The influence of the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus on LDL and HDL
subfractions was also analyzed.

Methods: The study group consisted of 127 patients (62 men, 65 women) with ACS. All patients had
coronary angiography and coronary angioplasty and stenting when necessary. Medical history was collected
during 12 months of follow-up. HDL and LDL subfraction distribution was measured using
Lipoprint (Quantimetrix).

Results: No differences in LDL nor HDL subfractions were observed between ST-Segment Elevation
Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) and
unstable angina (UA) patients. However, those with restenosis and the necessity of repeated revascularization
had higher levels of intermediate-density lipoprotein C (IDL-C) (p=0.055) and LDL3 (p=0.048)
as compared with the patients without, while the level of IDL A (IDLA) was lower than in the latter
group (p=0.036). In diabetic patients, the percentage share of HDL10 and small-dense HDL was significantly
higher while the share of HDL1 (small-dense) (p=0.028), HDL4 (intermediate density) (p=0.052)
and HDL5 (intermediate density) (p=0.060) were lower than in patients without DM.

Conclusion: Patients with multi-vessel CAD disease had higher levels of LDL3 subfraction and IDL-C
and a lower proportion of IDLA.