bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of sand-water slurry flow through horizontal pipe using CFD
Authors: Kumar Gopaliya Manoj , Kaushal D.R.
Published: July 2016

The paper presents three-dimensional CFD analysis of two-phase (sand-water) slurry flows through 263 mm diameter pipe in horizontal orientation for mixture velocity range of 3.5-4.7 m/s and efflux concentration range of 9.95-34% with three particle sizes viz. 0.165 mm, 0.29 mm and 0.55 mm with density 2650 kg/m3. RNG k-ε turbulence closure equations with Eulerian multi-phase model is used to simulate various slurry flows. The simulated values of local solid concentration are compared with the experimental data and are found to be in good agreement for all particle sizes. Effects of particle size on various slurry flow parameters such as pressure drop, solid phase velocity distribution, friction factor, granular pressure, turbulent viscosity, turbulent kinetic energy and its dissipation have been analyzed.
Modelling free surface flow with curvilinear streamlines by a non-hydrostatic model
Authors: Zerihun Yebegaeshet T.
Published: July 2016

This study addresses a particular phenomenon in open channel flows for which the basic assumption of hydrostatic pressure distribution is essentially invalid, and expands previous suggestions to flows where streamline curvature is significant. The proposed model incorporates the effects of the vertical curvature of the streamline and steep slope, in making the pressure distribution non-hydrostatic, and overcomes the accuracy problem of the Saint-Venant equations when simulating curvilinear free surface flow problems. Furthermore, the model is demonstrated to be a higher-order one-dimensional model that includes terms accounting for wave-like variations of the free surface on a constant slope channel. Test results of predicted flow surface and pressure profiles for flow in a channel transition from mild to steep slopes, transcritical flow over a short-crested weir and flow with dual free surfaces are compared with experimental data and previous numerical results. A good agreement is attained between the experimental and computed results. The overall simulation results reveal the satisfactory performance of the proposed model in simulating rapidly varied gravity-driven flows with predominant non-hydrostatic pressure distribution effects. This study suggests that a higher-order pressure equation should be used for modelling the pressure distribution of a curvilinear flow in a steeply sloping channel.
Hydraulic characteristics and sediment generation on slope erosion in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area, China
Authors: Qian Feng , Cheng Dongbin , Ding Wenfeng , Huang Jiesheng , Liu Jingjun
Published: July 2016

Hydrological processes play important roles in soil erosion processes of the hillslopes. This study was conducted to investigate the hydrological processes and the associated erosional responses on the purple soil slope. Based on a comprehensive survey of the Wangjiaqiao watershed in the Three Gorges Reservoir, four typical slope gradients (5°, 10°, 15°and 20°) were applied to five rainfall intensities (0.6, 1.1, 1.61, 2.12 and 2.54 mm·min-1). The results showed that both surface and subsurface runoff varied greatly depending on the rainfall intensity and slope gradient. Surface runoff volume was 48.1 to 280.1 times of that for subsurface runoff. The critical slope gradient was about 10°. The sediment yield rate increased with increases in both rainfall intensity and slope gradient, while the effect of rainfall intensity on the sediment yield rate was greater than slope gradient. There was a good linear relationship between sediment yield rate and Reynolds numbers, flow velocity and stream power, while Froude numbers, Darcy-Weisbach and Manning friction coefficients were not good hydraulic indicators of the sediment yield rate of purple soil erosion. Among the three good indicators (Re, v and w), stream power was the best predictor of sediment yield rate (R2 = 0.884). Finally, based on the power regression relationship between sediment yield rate, runoff rate, slope gradient and rainfall intensity, an erosion model was proposed to predict the purple soil erosion (R2 = 0.897). The results can help us to understand the relationship between flow hydraulics and sediment generation of slope erosion and offer useful data for the building of erosion model in purple soil.
Vertical and lateral soil moisture patterns on a Mediterranean karst hillslope
Authors: Canton Yolanda , Rodríguez-Caballero Emilio , Contreras Sergio , Villagarcia Luis , Li Xiao-Yan , Solé-Benet Alberto , Domingo Francisco
Published: July 2016

The need for a better understanding of factors controlling the variability of soil water content (θ) in space and time to adequately predict the movement of water in the soil and in the interphase soil-atmosphere is widely recognised. In this paper, we analyse how soil properties, surface cover and topography influence soil moisture (θ) over karstic lithology in a sub-humid Mediterranean mountain environment. For this analysis we have used 17 months of θ measurements with a high temporal resolution from different positions on a hillslope at the main recharge area of the Campo de Dalías aquifer, in Sierra de Gádor (Almería, SE Spain). Soil properties and surface cover vary depending on the position at the hillslope, and this variability has an important effect on θ. The higher clay content towards the lower position of the hillslope explains the increase of θ downslope at the subsurface horizon throughout the entire period studied. In the surface horizon (0-0.1 m), θ patterns coincide with those found at the subsurface horizon (0.1-0.35 m) during dry periods when the main control is also exerted by the higher percentage of clay that increases downslope and limits water depletion through evaporation. However, in wet periods, the wettest regime is found in the surface horizon at the upper position of the hillslope where plant cover, soil organic matter content, available water, unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (Kunsat) and infiltration rates are higher than in the lower positions. The presence of rock outcrops upslope the θ sampling area, acts as runoff sources, and subsurface flow generation between surface and subsurface horizons also may increase the differences between the upper and the lower positions of the hillslope during wet periods. Both rock and soil cracks and fissures act disconnecting surface water fluxes and reducing run-on to the lower position of the hillslope and thus they affect θ pattern as well as groundwater recharge. Understanding how terrain attributes, ground cover and soil factors interact for controlling θ pattern on karst hillslope is crucial to understand water fluxes in the vadose zone and dominant percolation mechanisms which also contribute to estimate groundwater recharge rates. Therefore, understanding of soil moisture dynamics provides very valuable information for designing rational strategies for the use and management of water resources, which is especially urgent in regions where groundwater supports human consume or key economic activities.
Design of a new hybrid artificial neural network method based on decision trees for calculating the Froude number in rigid rectangular channels
Authors: Ebtehaj Isa , Bonakdari Hossein , Hossein Zaji Amir , Hin Joo Bong Charles , Ab Ghani Aminuddin
Published: July 2016

A vital topic regarding the optimum and economical design of rigid boundary open channels such as sewers and drainage systems is determining the movement of sediment particles. In this study, the incipient motion of sediment is estimated using three datasets from literature, including a wide range of hydraulic parameters. Because existing equations do not consider the effect of sediment bed thickness on incipient motion estimation, this parameter is applied in this study along with the multilayer perceptron (MLP), a hybrid method based on decision trees (DT) (MLP-DT), to estimate incipient motion. According to a comparison with the observed experimental outcome, the proposed method performs well (MARE = 0.048, RMSE = 0.134, SI = 0.06, BIAS = -0.036). The performance of MLP and MLP-DT is compared with that of existing regression-based equations, and significantly higher performance over existing models is observed. Finally, an explicit expression for practical engineering is also provided.
Fungal pathogens and antagonists in root-soil zone in organic and integrated systems of potato production
Authors: Lenc Leszek , Kwaśna Hanna , Jeske Małgorzata , Jończyk Krzysztof , Sadowski Czesław
Published: July 2016

Occurrence of culturable Fungi and Oomycota in root-soil habitat of potato cv. Owacja in organic and integrated production systems at Osiny (northern Poland) was compared in 2008-2010. The densities of both pathogens were significantly greater in the organic system. The eudominant fungal taxa (with frequency > 10% in at least one habitat) included species of Fusarium + Gibberella + Haematonectria, Penicillium, Phoma and Trichoderma. The dominant taxa (with frequency 5-10%) included species from 13 genera. In the rhizoplane, rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil, the total density of potential pathogens was greater in the integrated system, and of potential antagonists in the organic system. Among eudominant and dominant pathogens, Fusarium oxysporum and Gibellulopsis nigrescens occurred at greater density in the integrated system and Haematonectria haematococca and Phoma spp. in the organic system. Among eudominant antagonists, Trichoderma species occurred at greater density in the organic system. The organic system provided more disease suppressive habitat than the integrated system. The occurrence of brown leaf spot and potato blight was however similar in both systems. The mean yield of organic potatoes (24.9 t · ha-1) was higher than the mean organic potato yield in Poland (21.0 t · ha-1) and similar to the mean in other European countries (Germany 25.1 t · ha-1, Great Britain 25.0 t · ha-1). The organic system, based on a 5-year rotation, with narrow-leafed lupin, white mustard and buckwheat as a cover crop, inorganic fertilization based on ground rock phosphate + potassium sulphate, and biological and chemical control of insects and diseases (Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. tenebrionis + copper hydroxide + copper oxychloride), may be recommended for use in central Europe.
Model based decision support system of operating settings for MMAT nozzles
Authors: Fritz Bradley Keith , Czaczyk Zbigniew , Hoffmann Wesley Clint
Published: July 2016

Droplet size, which is affected by nozzle type, nozzle setups and operation, and spray solution, is one of the most critical factors influencing spray performance, environment pollution, food safety, and must be considered as part of any application scenario. Characterizing spray nozzles can be a timely and expensive proposition if the entire operational space (all combinations of spray pressure and orifice size, what influence flow rate) is to be evaluated. This research proposes a structured, experimental design that allows for the development of computational models for droplet size based on any combination of a nozzle’s potential operational settings. The developed droplet size determination model can be used as Decision Support System (DSS) for precise selection of sprayer working parameters to adapt to local field scenarios. Five nozzle types (designs) were evaluated across their complete range of orifice size (flow rate*) and spray pressures using a response surface experimental design. Several of the models showed high level fits of the modeled to the measured data while several did not as a result of the lack of significant effect from either orifice size (flow rate*) or spray pressure. The computational models were integrated into a spreadsheet based user interface for ease of use. The proposed experimental design provides for efficient nozzle evaluations and development of computational models that allow for the determination of droplet size spectrum and spraying classification for any combination of a given nozzle’s operating settings. The proposed DSS will allow for the ready assessment and modification of a sprayers performance based on the operational settings, to ensure the application is made following recommendations in plant protection products (PPP) labels.
Vertical- vs. Horizontal-Oriented Drop Jump Training: Chronic Effects on Explosive Performances of Elite Handball Players
Authors: Dello Iacono Antonio , Martone Domenico , Milic Mirjana , Padulo Johnny
Published: July 2016

Dello Iacono, A, Martone, D, Milic, M, and Padulo, J. Vertical- vs. horizontal-oriented drop jump training: chronic effects on explosive performances of elite handball players. J Strength Cond Res 31(4): 921–931, 2017—This study aimed to assess the chronic effects of vertical drop jump (VDJ)– and horizontal drop jump (HDJ)–based protocols on neuromuscular explosive abilities, such as jumping, sprinting, and changes of direction (COD). Eighteen elite male handball players (age 23.4 ± 4.6 years, height 192.5 ± 3.7 cm, weight 87.8 ± 7.4 kg) were assigned to either VDJ or HDJ group training twice a week for 10 weeks. Participants performed 5–8 sets × 6–10 repetitions of vertical alternate (VDJ) or horizontal alternate (HDJ) 1-leg drop jumps, landing from the top of a platform 25 cm in height. Before and after training, several performance, kinetic, and kinematic variables were assessed. The HDJ led to greater improvement of the sprint time (−8.5% vs. −4%, p ≤ 0.05) and COD performance in comparison with the VDJ (−7.9% vs. −1.1%, p ≤ 0.05), whereas the VDJ caused greater improvement in the vertical jump compared with the HDJ (+8.6% vs. +4.1%, p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, the VDJ regimen compared with the HDJ induced greater changes in the kinetic variables associated with vertical jumping performance, such as peak ground reaction forces (+10.3% vs. +4.3%), relative impulse (+12.4% vs. +5.7%), leg spring stiffness (+17.6% vs. +4.6%), contact time (CT) (−10.1% vs. −1.5%), and reactive strength index (+7.2% vs. +2.1%); all comparisons with p ≤ 0.05. Conversely, the HDJ regimen was able to improve the short-distance and COD performances by increasing the step length (+3.5% vs. +1.5% with p ≤ 0.05) and reducing the CT on COD (−12.1% vs. −2.1% with p ≤ 0.05) more than the VDJ. This investigation showed the crucial role that specific plyometric regimens play in optimizing similar biomechanical featured functional performances, such as jumping, sprinting, and COD.
Is Moderate Intensity Cycling Sufficient to Induce Cardiorespiratory and Biomechanical Modifications of Subsequent Running?
Authors: Walsh Joel A. , Dawber James P. , Lepers Romuald , Brown Marc , Stapley Paul J.
Published: July 2016

Walsh, JA, Dawber, JP, Lepers, R, Brown, M, and Stapley, PJ. Is moderate intensity cycling sufficient to induce cardiorespiratory and biomechanical modifications of subsequent running? J Strength Cond Res 31(4): 1078–1086, 2017—This study sought to determine whether prior moderate intensity cycling is sufficient to influence the cardiorespiratory and biomechanical responses during subsequent running. Cardiorespiratory and biomechanical variables measured after moderate intensity cycling were compared with control running at the same intensity. Eight highly trained, competitive triathletes completed 2 separate exercise tests; (a) a 10-minute control run (no prior cycling) and, (b) a 30-minute transition run (TR) (preceded by 20-minute of variable cadence cycling, i.e., run versus cycle-run). Respiratory, breathing frequency (f
b), heart rate (HR), cost of running (Cr), rate constant, stride length, and stride frequency variables were recorded, normalized, and quantified at the mean response time (MRT), third minute, 10th minute (steady state), and overall for the control run (CR) and TR. Cost of running increased (p ≤ 0.05) at all respective times during the TR. The V̇E/V̇co
2 and respiratory exchange ratio (RER) were significantly (p < 0.01) elevated at the MRT and 10th minute of the TR. Furthermore, overall mean increases were recorded for Cr, V̇E, V̇E/V̇co
2, RER, f
b (p < 0.01), and HR (p ≤ 0.05) during the TR. Rate constant values for oxygen uptake were significantly different between CR and TR (0.48 ± 0.04 vs. 0.89 ± 0.15; p < 0.01). Stride length decreased across all recorded points during the TR (p ≤ 0.05) and stride frequency increased at the MRT and 3 minutes (p < 0.01). The findings suggest that at moderate intensity, prior cycling influences the cardiorespiratory response during subsequent running. Furthermore, prior cycling seems to have a sustained effect on the Cr during subsequent running.
Aerial Rotation Effects on Vertical Jump Performance Among Highly Skilled Collegiate Soccer Players
Authors: Barker Leland A. , Harry John R. , Dufek Janet S. , Mercer John A.
Published: July 2016

Barker, LA, Harry, JR, Dufek, JS, and Mercer, JA. Aerial rotation effects on vertical jump performance among highly skilled collegiate soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 31(4): 932–938, 2017—In soccer matches, jumps involving rotations occur when attempting to head the ball for a shot or pass from set pieces, such as corner kicks, goal kicks, and lob passes. However, the 3-dimensional ground reaction forces used to perform rotational jumping tasks are currently unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare bilateral, 3-dimensional, and ground reaction forces of a standard countermovement jump (CMJ0) with those of a countermovement jump with a 180° rotation (CMJ180) among Division-1 soccer players. Twenty-four participants from the soccer team of the University of Nevada performed 3 trials of CMJ0 and CMJ180. Dependent variables included jump height, downward and upward phase times, vertical (Fz) peak force and net impulse relative to mass, and medial-lateral and anterior-posterior force couple values. Statistical significance was set a priori at α = 0.05. CMJ180 reduced jump height, increased the anterior-posterior force couple in the downward and upward phases, and increased upward peak Fz (p ≤ 0.05). All other variables were not significantly different between groups (p > 0.05). However, we did recognize that downward peak Fz trended lower in the CMJ0 condition (p = 0.059), and upward net impulse trended higher in the CMJ0 condition (p = 0.071). It was concluded that jump height was reduced during the rotational jumping task, and rotation occurred primarily via AP ground reaction forces through the entire countermovement jump. Coaches and athletes may consider additional rotational jumping in their training programs to mediate performance decrements during rotational jump tasks.
Effects of Cold Water Immersion and Contrast Water Therapy for Recovery From Team Sport: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Higgins Trevor R. , Greene David A. , Baker Michael K.
Published: July 2016

Higgins, TR, Greene, DA, Baker, MK. Effects of cold water immersion and contrast water therapy for recovery from team sport: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 31(5): 1443–1460, 2017—To enhance recovery from sport, cold water immersion (CWI) and contrast water therapy (CWT) have become common practice within high level team sport. Initially, athletes relied solely on anecdotal support. As there has been an increase in the volume of research into recovery including a number of general reviews, an opportunity existed to narrow the focus specifically examining the use of hydrotherapy for recovery in team sport. A Boolean logic [AND] keyword search of databases was conducted: SPORTDiscus; AMED; CINAHL; MEDLINE. Data were extracted and the standardized mean differences were calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI). The analysis of pooled data was conducted using a random-effect model, with heterogeneity assessed using I
2. Twenty-three peer reviewed articles (n = 606) met the criteria. Meta-analyses results indicated CWI was beneficial for recovery at 24 hours (countermovement jump: p = 0.05, CI: −0.004 to 0.578; All-out sprint: p = 0.02, −0.056 to 0.801) following team sport. The CWI was beneficial for recovery at 72 hours (fatigue: p = 0.03, CI: 0.061–1.418) and CWT was beneficial for recovery at 48 hours (fatigue: p = 0.04, CI: 0.013–0.942) following team sport. The CWI was beneficial for neuromuscular recovery 24 hours following team sport, whereas CWT was not beneficial for recovery following team sport. In addition, when evaluating accumulated sprinting, CWI was not beneficial for recovery following team sports. In evaluating subjective measures, both CWI (72 hours) and CWT (24 hours) were beneficial for recovery of perceptions of fatigue, following team sport. However neither CWI nor CWT was beneficial for recovery, of perceptions of muscle soreness, following team sport.
Internal and External Match Loads of University-Level Soccer Players: A Comparison Between Methods
Authors: Sparks Martinique , Coetzee Ben , Gabbett Tim J.
Published: July 2016

Sparks, M, Coetzee, B, and Gabbett, TJ. Internal and external match loads of university-level soccer players: a comparison between methods. J Strength Cond Res 31(4): 1072–7077, 2017—The aim of this study was to use individualized intensity zones to compare the external (velocity and player load, PL) and internal loads (heart rate, HR) of a cohort of university-level soccer players. Thirteen soccer players completed a 40-m maximum speed test and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) to determine individualized velocity and HR thresholds. Heart rate values and global positioning system (GPS) data of each player were recorded during 5 league matches. A large (r = 0.46; p ≤ 0.01) correlation was found between time spent in the low-intensity (LI) velocity zone (LIVZ) and the LI HR zone. Similarly, there were moderate (r = 0.25; p ≤ 0.01) to large (r = 0.57; p ≤ 0.01) correlations between the relative and absolute time spent in the moderate-intensity (MI) velocity zone (MIVZ) and the MI HR zone. No significant correlations (p ≤ 0.01) existed between the high-intensity (HI) velocity zones (HIVZ) and the HI HR zone. On the other hand, PL showed significant correlations with all velocity and HR (absolute and relative) variables, with the exception of a nonsignificant correlation between the HI HR variables and PL. To conclude, PL showed good correlations with both velocity and HR zones and therefore may have the potential to serve as a good indicator of both external and internal soccer match loads.
The Physical and Athletic Performance Characteristics of Division I Collegiate Female Soccer Players by Position
Authors: Lockie Robert G. , Moreno Matthew R. , Lazar Adrina , Orjalo Ashley J. , Giuliano Dominic V. , Risso Fabrice G. , Davis DeShaun L. , Crelling Jeff B. , Lockwood John R. , Jalilvand Farzad
Published: July 2016

Lockie, RG, Moreno, MR, Lazar, A, Orjalo, AJ, Giuliano, DV, Risso, FG, Davis, DL, Crelling, JB, Lockwood, JR, and Jalilvand, F. The physical and athletic performance characteristics of Division I collegiate female soccer players by position. J Strength Cond Res 32(2): 334–343, 2018—Playing positions in soccer can exhibit different movement demands during a match, contributing to variations in physical and performance characteristics. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) soccer features different substitution rules when compared to FIFA-sanctioned matches, which could influence each players' characteristics. Therefore, this study determined the athletic performance characteristics of Division I female soccer players. Twenty-six players (3 goalkeepers; 8 defenders; 10 midfielders; 5 forwards) from the same squad completed assessments of: lower-body power (vertical and standing broad jump); linear (0–5, 0–10, 0–30 meter [m] sprint intervals) and change-of-direction (pro-agility shuttle; arrowhead change-of-direction speed test) speed; and soccer-specific fitness (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test [YYIRT] levels 1 and 2). Players were split into position groups, and a Kruskal–Wallis H test with post hoc pairwise analyses (p ≤ 0.05) calculated significant between-group differences. There were no differences in age, height, or body mass between the positions. Midfielders had a faster 0–5 m time compared with the defenders (p = 0.017) and the goalkeepers (p = 0.030). The defenders (p = 0.011) and midfielders (p = 0.013) covered a greater YYIRT2 distance compared with the goalkeepers. There were no other significant between-position differences. Overall, Division I collegiate female players from the same squad demonstrated similar characteristics as measured by soccer-specific performance tests, which could allow for flexibility in position assignments. However, a relatively homogenous squad could also indicate commonality in training prescription, particularly regarding acceleration and high-intensity running. Strength and conditioning coaches may have to consider the specific movement demands of individual positions when training these capacities.
The Effects of the Gaelic Athletic Association 15 Training Program on Neuromuscular Outcomes in Gaelic Football and Hurling Players: A Randomized Cluster Trial
Authors: O'Malley Edwenia , Murphy John C. , McCarthy Persson Ulrik , Gissane Conor , Blake Catherine
Published: July 2016

O'Malley, E, Murphy, JC, McCarthy Persson, U, Gissane, C, and Blake, C. The effects of the Gaelic Athletic Association 15 training program on neuromuscular outcomes in Gaelic football and hurling players: A randomized cluster trial. J Strength Cond Res 31(8): 2119–2130, 2017—Team-based neuromuscular training programs for injury prevention have been tested primarily in female and adolescent athletes in soccer, handball, and basketball with limited research in adult male field sports. This study explored whether the GAA 15, a multifaceted 8-week neuromuscular training program developed by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), could improve risk factors for lower limb injury in male Gaelic footballers and hurlers. Four Gaelic sports collegiate teams were randomized into intervention or control groups. Two teams (n = 41), one football and one hurling, were allocated to the intervention, undertaking a 15 minutes program of neuromuscular training exercises at the start of team training sessions, twice weekly for 8 weeks. Two matched teams (n = 37) acted as controls, participating in usual team training. Lower extremity stability (Y-Balance test [YBT]) and jump-landing technique using the Landing Error Scoring System (LESS) were assessed preintervention and postintervention. There were moderate effect sizes in favor of the intervention for right (d = 0.59) and left (d = 0.69) composite YBT scores, with adjusted mean differences between intervention and control of 3.85 ± 0.91% and 4.34 ± 0.92% for right and left legs, respectively (p < 0.001). There was a greater reduction in the mean LESS score in favor of the intervention group after exercise training (Cohen's d = 0.72, adjusted mean difference 2.49 ± 0.54, p < 0.001). Clinically and statistically significant improvements in dynamic balance and jump-landing technique occurred in collegiate level Gaelic football and hurling players who adopted the GAA 15, when compared with usual training. These findings support application and evaluation of the GAA 15 in other player groups within the Gaelic games playing population.
Comparison of Anthropometry and Lower Limb Power Qualities According to Different Levels and Ranking Position of Competitive Surfers
Authors: Fernandez-Gamboa Iosu , Yanci Javier , Granados Cristina , Camara Jesus
Published: July 2016

Fernandez-Gamboa, I, Yanci, J, Granados, C, and Camara, J. Comparison of anthropometry and lower limb power qualities according to different levels and ranking position of competitive surfers. J Strength Cond Res 31(8): 2231–2237, 2017—The aim of this study was to compare competitive surfers' lower limb power output depending on their competitive level, and to evaluate the association between competition rankings. Twenty competitive surfers were divided according to the competitive level as follows: international (INT) or national (NAT), and competitive ranking (RANK1–50 or RANK51–100). Vertical jump and maximal peak power of the lower limbs were measured. No differences were found between INT and NAT surfers in the anthropometric variables, in the vertical jump, or in lower extremity power; although the NAT group had higher levels on the elasticity index, squat jumps (SJs), and counter movement jumps (CMJs) compared with the INT group. The RANK1–50 group had a lower biceps skinfold (p < 0.01), lower skinfolds in the legs (Front thigh: p ≤ 0.05; medial calf: p < 0.01), lower sum of skinfolds (p ≤ 0.05), higher SJ (p < 0.01), CMJ (p < 0.01), and 15 seconds vertical CMJ (p ≤ 0.05); also, maximal peak power of the right leg (MPPR) and left leg (MPPL) were higher in the RANK1–50 group. Moderate to large significant correlations were obtained between the surfers' ranking position and some skinfolds, the sum of skinfolds, and vertical jump. Results demonstrate that surfers' physical performance seems to be an accurate indicator of ranking positioning, also revealing that vertical jump capacity and anthropometric variables play an important role in their competitive performance, which may be important when considering their power training.
Transient Pulmonary Atelectasis after Ketamine Sedation during Cardiac Catheterization in Spontaneously Breathing Children with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Chaowu Yan , Zhongying Xu , Gejun Zhang , Hong Zheng , Jinglin Jin , Shiguo Li , Jianhua Lv , Haibo Hu , Huijun Song , Shihua Zhao
Published: July 2016

Background: Ketamine is applied widely for sedation during cardiac catheterization in spontaneously breathing children with congenital heart disease (CHD). However, a rare and unreported respiratory complication, transient and reversible atelectasis of lungs (TRAL), was identified.

Purpose: The study was performed to investigate retrospectively the prevalence and clinical characteristics of TRAL after ketamine sedation in pediatric cardiac catheterization.

Methods: Four thousand four hundred and seventy-four sick children were sedated with ketamine, and pediatric cardiac catheterization was carried out under spontaneous breathing. TRAL was detected in 33 children (17 M/16 F, age was 2.1±1.7 years) by retrospective analysis. The clinical and radiographic characteristics were recorded before, during and after TRAL.

Results: In pediatric cardiac catheterization, the prevalence of TRAL was 0.74% after ketamine sedation. TRAL occurred in 23 children with cyanotic CHD, and 10 with acyanotic CHD. All TRALs had common clinical and radiographic features: the diffuse opacity of bilateral lungs developed rapidly (identified under X-ray fluoroscopy), associated with decrease in lung volume, and then the decrease in SpO2 (94.2±9.2% vs. 59.4±2.2%, P<0.05), and heart rates (143.5±14.3 bpm vs. 58.3±9.7 bpm, P<0.05) followed quickly. TRAL was relieved by supportive oxygen in 32 children (23 with face mask, and 9 with endotracheal intubation), and the duration of TRAL was 1.6±0.5 minutes. However, TRAL caused the death of one child.

Conclusions: TRAL is a rare and urgent respiratory complication after ketamine sedation, and the mechanism is unclear. Rapid and diffuse opacity of bilateral lungs is the earliest sign of TRAL in pediatric cardiac catheterization, and the immediate supportive oxygen is crucial.
Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: A Comprehensive Update Review
Authors: Wu Haibo , Fu Dongying
Published: July 2016

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting is characterized as any queasiness, spewing, or regurgitating happening amid the initial 24-48 hours after surgery in inpatients. PONV is a standout amongst the most widely recognized reasons for patient disappointment after anesthesia, with reported rates of 30% in all post-surgical patients and up to 80% in high-chance patients. Also, PONV is frequently appraised in preoperative studies, as the anesthesia result the patient might most want to stay away from. It is in this manner not shocking that patients crosswise over Europe and North America express a high eagerness to pay ($50-$100) to maintain a strategic distance from PONV. While suture dehiscence, yearning of gastric substance, esophageal break, and different genuine difficulties connected with PONV are uncommon, queasiness and heaving is still a disagreeable and very basic postoperative grimness that can defer quiet release from the post-anesthesia care unit and expansion unexpected healing center affirmations in outpatients.
Language analysis in the asylum procedure: a specification of the task in practice
Authors: Cambier-Langeveld Tina
Published: July 2016

There is a general call for more transparency on procedures involving language analysis in the asylum procedure. This article describes some characteristics of the caseload in the Netherlands, presenting insights into the internal and external factors that make reliable performance of language analyses feasible. It is argued that examination of claimed origin (for use in the asylum procedure) is different from determination of origin (for use in the repatriation procedure), and the consequences of this distinction are discussed. Various types of casework are presented, and it is shown how the case-specific hypotheses to be tested help to define the expertise required to perform the analyses. The article contributes to a more thorough understanding of actual practice and the various types of casework encountered in real life, which is considered vital to the development of practical guidelines.
Authorship attribution and feature testing for Chinese short emails
Authors: Zhang Shaomin
Published: July 2016

Features used in English-based authorship attribution demonstrate some constraints when used in authorship attribution of Chinese texts, even though they shed much light on it. Therefore, authorship attribution for short Chinese texts free of handwritten documents will help to promote the progress of legislation in China. This study aims to explore and test some features in pragmatic, discourse semantic and discourse information features for authorship attribution of short Chinese emails, which are representative of communication tools. It is hoped that some effective features can be found for the attribution of short Chinese emails. The texts used in the study include 72 short emails written by six authors. All the possible 57 combinations of the six authors are tested and attributed based on the extracted features. Discriminant analysis is employed, and the results demonstrate significant predictions in all the tests. It is concluded that the extracted features in pragmatics, discourse semantics and discourse information can significantly distinguish short Chinese emails, and the suggested number of suspect authors for authorship attribution of short emails should not exceed five.
Language, marriage migration and the law
Authors: Blackledge Adrian
Published: July 2016

In recent decades one of the most consistent migration routes has been through marriage; that is, where the marriage relationship is the basis of entry rights. From the perspective of government, marriage migration permits the entry of migrants who would not otherwise be admitted. Marriage can pose a fundamental challenge to governments’ attempts to manage migration. This article considers how successive British governments have introduced legislation to limit or prevent marriage migration to the UK. A recent dimension of this legislation has been the introduction of a requirement for candidates for entry, settlement and naturalisation to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in the English language. The article particularly focuses on the introduction of pre-entry English language tests for applicants for marriage visas. The analysis examines the judgment of the High Court in a test case which engaged with the legislation to introduce the pre-entry language requirement.
Individual variation in allophonic processes of /t/ in Standard Southern British English
Authors: Gavaldà Núria
Published: July 2016

Several studies have demonstrated that the analysis of features that show sociolinguistic variation provides important information about speakers and, therefore, they are useful to be considered in forensic contexts (Moosmüller 1997; Loakes and McDougall 2004, 2007, 2010; de Jong et al 2007a and 2007b). The present research analyses the discriminatory potential of three allophonic processes of /t/ that show variation in SSBE: tapping, glottaling and frication. Nine categorical variables that consider these processes were formulated and compared by means of the Chi-square test in a corpus containing real time data from 10 different speakers (five males and five females). Results show that these processes are speaker and context-specific since they exhibit high discriminatory potential only in certain linguistic contexts, where intra-speaker variation is low and inter-speaker variation is high. Therefore, the study presented here highlights the relevance of the analysis of sociolinguistic variation in forensic contexts.
Strength of forensic voice comparison evidence from the acoustics of filled pauses
Authors: Hughes Vincent , Wood Sophie , Foulkes Paul
Published: July 2016

This study investigates the evidential value of filled pauses (FPs, i.e. um, uh) as variables in forensic voice comparison. FPs for 60 young male speakers of standard southern British English were analysed, drawn from Task 1 of the DyViS corpus (Nolan et al. 2009). The following acoustic properties were analysed: midpoint frequencies of the first three formants in the vocalic portion; ‘dynamic’ characterisations of formant trajectories (i.e. quadratic polynomial equations fitted to nine measurement points over the entire vowel); vowel duration; and nasal duration for um. Likelihood ratio (LR) scores were computed using the Multivariate Kernel Density formula (MVKD; Aitken and Lucy, 2004) and converted to calibrated log10 LRs (LLRs) using logistic-regression (Brümmer et al., 2007). System validity was assessed using both equal error rate (EER) and the log LR cost function (Cllr; Brümmer and du Preez, 2006). The system with the best performance combines dynamic measurements of all three formants with vowel and nasal duration for um, achieving an EER of 4.08% and Cllr of 0.12. In terms of general patterns, um consistently outperformed uh. For um, the formant dynamic systems generated better validity than those based on midpoints, presumably reflecting the additional degree of formant movement in um caused by the transition from vowel to nasal. By contrast, midpoints outperformed dynamics for the more monophthongal uh. Further, the addition of duration (vowel or vowel and nasal) consistently improved system performance. The study supports the view that FPs have excellent potential as variables in forensic voice comparison cases.
Reproductive biology of Thamnodynastes hypoconia (Serpentes: Dipsadidae) in Brazilian subtemperate wetlands
Authors: REBELATO MARLUCI M. , PONTES GLÁUCIA M.F. , TOZETTI ALEXANDRO M.
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT This study aimed to describe the reproductive biology of populations of Thamnodynastes hypoconia in subtemperate wetlands based on macroscopic analyses of their gonads. We analyzed 101 specimens from the southernmost regions of Brazil. The males had a greater snout-vent length, but the females reached sexual maturity with a greater body size. The reproductive cycle of the females was seasonal, with secondary vitellogenesis occurring between the winter and spring (May-October). Based on macroscopic analysis of gonads, data suggests that males have a continuous reproductive cycle. Parturition occurs between the late summer and early fall (January-April). The clutch size ranged between 4 and 16 embryos and showed no relationship with the female's body size. The recorded reproductive frequency of T. hypoconia is low (38 %) compared to other phylogenetically related species. Conversely, the studied populations appear to have a high reproductive success because it is an abundant species in the study site.
Description of the last instar larva and new contributions to the knowledge of the pupa of Dasyhelea mediomunda Minaya (Diptera, Culicomorpha, Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: DÍAZ FLORENTINA , ANJOS-SANTOS DANIELLE , FUNES AMPARO , RONDEROS MARÍA M.
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT The fourth instar larva of Dasyhelea mediomunda Minaya is described for the first time and a complete description of the pupa is provided, through use of phase-contrast microscope and scanning electron microscope. Studied specimens were collected in a pond connected to a small wetland "mallin" on the Patagonian steppe, Chubut province, Argentina.
Bioactivities of the ethanol extract from Ageratum fastigiatum branches: antioxidant, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory
Authors: DEL-VECHIO-VIEIRA GLAUCIEMAR , SANTOS BRUNA C.S. , ALVES MARIA SILVANA , ARAÚJO AÍLSON L.A. , YAMAMOTO CÉLIA H. , PINTO MÍRIAM A.O. , KAPLAN MARIA AUXILIADORA C. , SOUSA ORLANDO V.
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT The present study was designed to investigate the antioxidant, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanol extract from Ageratum fastigiatum branches. Phytochemical screening and total phenol and flavonoid contents were determined. The antioxidant activity was assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-pycrilhydrazin (DPPH) and iron reducing power methods. The antinociceptive effect was evaluated using the acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin, hot plate and tail immersion assays; while the carrageenan-induced paw edema and pleurisy tests were performed to examine the anti-inflammatory activity against acute inflammation. The extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, terpenes, sterols and saponins. Expressive levels of total phenols and flavonoids and a promising antioxidant effect were quantified. At the doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, the extract inhibited the writhing, reduced both phases of paw licking time and increased the reaction time on the hot plate. In the tail immersion test, the extract (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) caused a significant inhibition of pain. In these doses, the paw edema, exudate volume and leucocyte mobilization were significantly reduced. These results suggest that A. fastigiatum can be an active source of substances with antioxidant, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities, adding scientific support to the appropriate use in the Brazilian folk medicine.
Biological variables of Hypostomus francisci (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) from Itapecerica River, Minas Gerais State, Brazil
Authors: SALES CAMILA F. , DOMINGOS FABRÍCIO FLÁVIO T. , BRIGHENTI LUDMILA S. , RIBEIRO ROSY I.M.A. , SANTOS HÉLIO B. , THOMÉ RALPH G.
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Herein we determine for the first time the reproduction parameters and population structure of Hypostomus francisci in the Itapecerica River, São Francisco Basin. A total of 250 specimens was captured quarterly between March 2010 and February 2012. Body weight, total length and weight of the gonads were obtained in the laboratory. Gonad samples were submitted to histological and histochemical techniques. Females with spawning capable ovaries were used to determine the fecundity and relative fecundity. Sex ratio with 1:1.01 (female:male) was observed. Males were more numerous than females for individuals smaller than 170 mm, however the number of females was significantly greater for specimens larger than 330 mm. The length-weight relationship estimated for H. francisci indicates negative-allometric growth. Females spawning capable were observed mostly in November-December-January. Two cohorts of oocytes at a determined time evidencing the development type group-synchronic. The eggs reaching 3.4 mm and the fecundity ranged from 312-1,460 oocytes with an average of 585.81 ± 337.43 oocytes per female. The reproductive parameters and population structure of H. francisci from Itapecerica River suggested that this species showed singular reproductive tactics among congeners.
Correlation between infection rate of triatominies and Chagas Disease in Southwest of Bahia, Brazil: a warning sign?
Authors: SILVEIRA ELIEZER A. DA , RIBEIRO ISRAEL S. , AMORIM MIGUEL S. , ROCHA DALVA V. , COUTINHO HELDER S. , FREITAS LEANDRO M. DE , TOMAZI LAIZE , SILVA ROBSON A.A. DA
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Chagas disease, caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi, has a wide distribution in South America, and its main method of control is the elimination of triatomines. It is presented here the geographic distribution and the rate of natural infection by T. cruzi of triatomines collected and evaluated from 2008 to 2013 in southwest of Bahia. Triatomines were captured in the intradomiciliary and peridomiciliary areas of five cities located in the southwest of Bahia state, identified, and analyzed for the presence of trypanosomatids in their feces. During the study period the number of patients suspected for acute Chagas disease was recovered from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). 8966 triatomines were captured and identified as belonging to eight species. Twenty-six presented themselves infected, being Triatoma sordida the most abundant and with the highest percentage of infection by T. cruzi. Tremedal was the city with the highest number of cases of acute Chagas' disease reported to SINAN. All cities showed triatomines infected with T. cruzi, so there is considerable risk of vectorial transmission of Chagas disease in the southwestern Bahia state, evidencing the need for vector transmission control programs and preventive surveillance measures.
Amyloid-β peptide absence in short term effects on kinase activity of energy metabolism in mice hippocampus and cerebral cortex
Authors: IANISKI FRANCINE R. , RECH VIRGINIA C. , NISHIHIRA VIVIAN S.K. , ALVES CATIANE B. , BALDISSERA MATHEUS D. , WILHELM ETHEL A. , LUCHESE CRISTIANE
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Considering that Alzheimer's disease is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease worldwide, we investigated the activities of three key kinases: creatine kinase, pyruvate kinase and adenylate kinase in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex in Alzheimer's disease model. Male adult Swiss mice received amyloid-β or saline. One day after, mice were treated with blank nanocapsules (17 ml/kg) or meloxicam-loaded nanocapsules (5 mg/kg) or free meloxicam (5 mg/kg). Treatments were performed on alternating days, until the end of the experimental protocol. In the fourteenth day, kinases activities were performed. Amyloid-β did not change the kinases activity in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of mice. However, free meloxicam decrease the creatine kinase activity in mitochondrial-rich fraction in the group induced by amyloid-β, but for the cytosolic fraction, it has raised in the activity of pyruvate kinase activity in cerebral cortex. Further, meloxicam-loaded nanocapsules administration reduced adenylate kinase activity in the hippocampus of mice injected by amyloid-β. In conclusion we observed absence in short-term effects in kinases activities of energy metabolism in mice hippocampus and cerebral cortex using amyloid-β peptide model. These findings established the foundation to further study the kinases in phosphoryltransfer network changes observed in the brains of patients post-mortem with Alzheimer's disease.