bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Elastic Solution of a Radial Heterogeneous Cylinder Subjected to Non-Uniform Distributed Normal and Tangential Loads
Authors: Zhang Wen
Published: June 2018

This paper presents an investigation of a cylinder with material attributes that vary arbitrarily in the radial direction under non-uniformly distributed normal and tangential pressures. A stress and displacement solution method for plane strain on a radial heterogeneous cylinder with inner and outer surfaces subjected to uneven normal and tangential pressures under two types of contact conditions (i.e., complete contact and smooth contact) is proposed based on the theory of elastic mechanics. In addition, a group of linear equations is derived, through which the analytical solution of a radial heterogeneous cylinder under a non-uniform load can be obtained. The validity of the analytical solution is verified by comparing it with the results of a numerical simulation. This research shows that the solution is more convenient and universal than traditional methods and can provide a theoretical basis for the stress state analysis, stability evaluation, and structure design of heterogeneous cylindrical structures, all of which have great significance in practical engineering.
LncRNA LOXL1-AS1 Promotes the Proliferation and Metastasis of Medulloblastoma by Activating the PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Gao Ran , Zhang Rui , Zhang Cuicui , Liang Yingwu , Tang Weining
Published: June 2018

Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor of childhood, with great potential to metastasize. However, the mechanisms of how medulloblastoma develops and progresses remain to be elucidated. The present study assessed the role of long noncoding RNA LOXL1-AS1 (lncRNA LOXL1-AS1) in the cell proliferation and metastasis in human medulloblastoma. It was initially found that LOXL1-AS1 was significantly overexpressed in clinical medulloblastoma tissues compared with the adjacent noncancerous tissues. LOXL1-AS1 was also highly expressed in medulloblastoma at advanced stages and differentially expressed in a series of medulloblastoma cell lines. Knockdown of LOXL1-AS1 using shRNAs significantly inhibited cell viability and colony formation capacities in D283 and D341 cells. Moreover, the cell proportion in the S phase was significantly increased, while the cell proportion in the G2/M phase was decreased after knockdown of LOXL1-AS1 in D283 cells and D341 cells. Cell cycle arrest led to eventual cell apoptosis by LOXL1-AS1 knockdown. Moreover, in a xenograft model of human medulloblastoma, knockdown of LOXL1-AS1 significantly inhibited tumor growth and promoted tumor cell apoptosis. In addition, knockdown of LOXL1-AS1 inhibited cell migration and reversed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Western blot analysis further revealed that knockdown of LOXL1-AS1 decreased the phosphorylated levels of PI3K and AKT without affecting their total protein levels. These results suggest that LncRNA LOXL1-AS1 promoted the proliferation and metastasis of medulloblastoma by activating the PI3K-AKT pathway, providing evidence that knockdown of LncRNA LOXL1-AS1 might be a potential therapeutic strategy against medulloblastoma.
A Crash Surrogate Metric considering Traffic Flow Dynamics in a Motorway Corridor
Authors: Wang Xu , Liu Kai
Published: June 2018

We proposed a new crash surrogate metric, i.e., the maximum disturbance that a car following scenario can accommodate, to represent potential crash risks with a simple closed form. The metric is developed in consideration of traffic flow dynamics. Then, we compared its performance in predicting the rear-end crash risks for motorway on-ramps with other two surrogate measures (time to collision and aggregated crash index). To this end, a one-lane on-ramp of Pacific Motorway, Australia, was selected for this case study. Due to the lack of crash data on the study site, historical crash counts were merged according to levels of service (LOS) and then converted into crash rates. In this study, we used the societal risk index to represent the crash surrogate indicators and built relationships with crash rates. The final results show that (1) the proposed metric and aggregated crash index are superior to the time to collision in predicting the rear-end crash risks for on-ramps; (2) they have a relatively similar performance, but due to the simple calculation, the proposed metric is more applicable to some real-world cases compared with the aggregated crash index.
Experimental Study on the Escape Velocity of Miners during Mine Fire Periods
Authors: Ruixin Zhang , Rongshan Nie , Hongze Zhao , Yanqiang Fan
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study is to accurately calculate the escape velocity of miners under different roadway conditions during mine fire periods. The experiment to examine escape velocity was carried out in the roadway of the Mu Chengjian Coal Mine. In the experiment, the relationships between the miner escape velocity and the inclination of the roadway, the area of the accessible section of the roadway, and the average wind velocity of the roadway were obtained through single factor analysis, and two multiple regression equations of the escape velocity were developed through multivariable linear regression analysis. The escape velocities of the miners were then predicted, and the error was analyzed with multiple regression equations. The experimental results show that the miner escape velocity decreases with an increase in the absolute value of the inclination of the roadway and increases with an increase of the accessible section area of the roadway and the average wind velocity of the roadway. In addition, the multiple regression equations have the strongest significance if the independent variables are the inclination of the roadway, the accessible section area of the roadway, and the type of roadway, and the contribution rate of the inclination of the roadway to the escape velocity is the highest. The predicted results calculated by the multiple regression equations are close to the experimental data, and the prediction errors are less than 10%. Consequently, we conclude that the multiple regression equations can be used to predict the miner escape velocity during periods of mine fires.
Bacterial Profile and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of the Isolates from Stethoscope, Thermometer, and Inanimate Surfaces of Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Worku Teshale , Derseh Dejene , Kumalo Abera
Published: June 2018

Background. Nosocomial infections occur among patients during their stay in hospitals. The severity of infection depends on the characteristics of microorganisms with a high risk of being acquired when the environment is contaminated. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are emerging rapidly around the globe creating a serious threat. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2016–February 2017 at Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia. Samples were collected from the equipment and hospital surfaces. The isolated bacteria were checked for susceptibility by the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method following the standards of CLSI 2014. Health professionals and sanitary team members were included in the study which assessed the disinfection practice of objects from which samples were taken. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results. A total of 201 swab samples were taken, and most bacteria were recovered from thermometer and floor consisting of 21.6% S. aureus, 19.3% CoNS, 15.9% E. coli, 14.8% Klebsiella species, 11.4% P. aeruginosa, 10.2% Proteus species, and 6.8% Serratia species. The most multidrug resistant organisms were S. aureus (79%), Klebsiella species (53.8%), CoNS (47%), and Proteus species (44.4%). Only 6.45% of health professionals disinfect their stethoscope consistently. Conclusion. S. aureus, CoNS, and E. coli were the predominant isolates. Most isolates showed highest susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and least to ampicillin and penicillin. There is no regular sanitation and disinfection of hospital equipment and surfaces.
Temperature Effects on Nonlinear Vibration Behaviors of Euler‐Bernoulli Beams with Different Boundary Conditions
Authors: Zhao Yaobing , Huang Chaohui
Published: June 2018

This paper is concerned with temperature effects on the modeling and vibration characteristics of Euler‐Bernoulli beams with symmetric and nonsymmetric boundary conditions. It is assumed that in the considered model the temperature increases/decreases instantly, and the temperature variation is uniformly distributed along the length and the cross‐section. By using the extended Hamilton’s principle, the mathematical model which takes into account thermal and mechanical loadings, represented by partial differential equations (PDEs), is established. The PDEs of the planar motion are discretized to a set of second‐order ordinary differential equations by using the Galerkin method. As to three different boundary conditions, eigenvalue analyses are performed to obtain the close‐form eigenvalue solutions. First four natural frequencies with thermal effects are investigated. By using the Lindstedt‐Poincaré method and multiple scales method, the approximate solutions of the nonlinear free and forced vibrations (primary, super, and subharmonic resonances) are obtained. The influences of temperature variations on response amplitudes, the localisation of the resonance zones, and the stability of the steady‐state solutions are investigated, through examining frequency response curves and excitation response curves. Numerical results show that response amplitudes, the number and the stability of nontrivial solutions, and the hardening‐spring characteristics are all closely related to temperature changes. As to temperature effects on vibration behaviors of structures, different boundary conditions should be paid more attention.
Dynamic Decoupling Control Optimization for a Small-Scale Unmanned Helicopter
Authors: Ma Rui , Ding Li , Wu Hongtao
Published: June 2018

This article presents design and optimization results from an implementation of a novel disturbance decoupling control strategy for a small-scale unmanned helicopter. Such a strategy is based on the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) method. It offers an appealing alternative to existing control approaches for helicopters by combining decoupling and disturbance rejection without a detailed plant dynamics. The tuning of the control system is formulated as a function optimization problem to capture various design considerations. In comparison with several different iterative search algorithms, an artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm is selected to obtain the optimal control parameters. For a fair comparison of control performance, a well-designed LQG controller is also optimized by the proposed method. Comparison results from an attitude tracking simulation against wind disturbance show the significant advantages of the proposed optimization control for this control application.
Distribution of Collagen I, III, and IV and Laminin in the Human Liver during Prenatal Development
Authors: Jović Marko , Nikolić Ivan , Todorović Vera , Petrović Aleksandar , Petrović Vladimir , Mojsilović Marijola , Denčić Tijana
Published: June 2018

In the absence of systematized data on the extracellular matrix components during prenatal liver development, the present study aimed to investigate the time of appearance and distribution of collagen types I, III, and IV and laminin. The study material included embryonic and fetal livers, aged 7–37 weeks, categorized into 3 trimesters. The material was stained using hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemistry methods for the identification of collagen I, III, and IV and laminin. Collagen I was detected near the end of the first trimester in the capsules and walls of interlobular veins. As the liver matures, collagen I is increasingly abundant in the capsules, portal area connective tissues, arterial walls, interlobular veins, sinusoids, and central veins. Collagen III and collagen IV appear in the middle of the first trimester in the capsules, portal areas, and walls of central veins, as well as the sinusoids particularly. In trimesters 2 and 3, these collagens are increasingly present in all the structures, but collagen IV is also present in nerve fibers. Laminin is sporadically present adjacent to the sinusoids in trimester 1, while in trimesters 2 and 3 this protein commonly appears in the walls of arteries and interlobular veins, in the basal membrane of bile ducts, and in nerve fibers. The contents of collagen I, III, and IV increase during prenatal development in the liver capsule, arterial and vein walls, sinusoids, and portal area. Laminin expression is consistent with that of the collagens with the exception that, within lobules, laminin disappears with liver maturation.
The Role of YKL-40 in Predicting Resistance to Docetaxel Chemotherapy in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Darr Christopher , Krafft Ulrich , Hadaschik Boris , Tschirdewahn Stephan , Sevcenco Sabina , Csizmarik Anita , Nyirady Peter , Küronya Zsófia , Reis Henning , Maj-Hes Agnieszka , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Kramer Gero , Szarvas Tibor
Published: June 2018

Introduction: High baseline YKL-40 serum levels are associated with drug resistance in several solid tumours. However, their role in predicting docetaxel (DOC) resistance in prostate cancer (PCa) is unknown. Methods: Pre-treatment serum levels of YKL-40 and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were analyzed in 109 castration-resistant prostate cancer patients who underwent DOC-therapy. Responsive patients were retreated by repeated series of DOC. Results were compared with the clinical parameters as well as overall (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS). Results: YKL-40 but not PSA serum levels were significantly higher in patients with baseline resistance to DOC (p = 0.035). Higher YKL-40 and PSA levels were detected in patients with bone metastasis (p = 0.032; p = 0.010) and in those who were not pre-treated with radical prostatectomy (p = 0.011, p = 0.008). High YKL-40 levels were associated with shorter OS (p = 0.037) and DSS (p = 0.017) in patients who received DOC in the first-line setting. In multivariable analysis, ECOG performance status (p = 0.009), presence of any metastases (p = 0.016) and high PSA levels (p = 0.005) remained independent predictors for DSS. Conclusions: YKL-40 may help to identify patients with baseline resistance to DOC and therefore may help to optimize treatment decisions. In accordance, high pre-treatment YKL-40 serum levels were associated with shorter OS and DSS in patients who received DOC as first-line therapy.
MiR-592 Promotes Gastric Cancer Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion Through the PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathways by Targeting Spry2
Authors: He Yu , Ge Yugang , Jiang Mingkun , Zhou Jundong , Luo Dakui , Fan Hao , Shi Liang , Lin Linling , Yang Li
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most prevalent digestive malignancies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in multiple cellular processes, including oncogenesis, and miR-592 itself participates in many malignancies; however, its role in GC remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression and molecular mechanisms of miR-592 in GC. Methods: Quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed to determine the expression of miR-592 and its putative targets in human tissues and cell lines. Proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8, population doubling time, colony formation, Transwell, and wound-healing assays in transfected GC cells in vitro. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to determine whether miR-592 could directly bind its target. A tumorigenesis assay was used to study whether miR-592 affected GC growth in vivo. Proteins involved in signaling pathways and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) were detected with western blot. Results: The ectopic expression of miR-592 promoted GC proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and facilitated tumorigenesis in vivo. Spry2 was a direct target of miR-592 and Spry2 overexpression partially counteracted the effects of miR-592. miR-592 induced the EMT and promoted its progression in GC via the PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways by inhibiting Spry2. Conclusions: Overexpression of miR-592 promotes GC proliferation, migration, and invasion and induces the EMT via the PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways by inhibiting Spry2, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for GC.
LncRNA PCGEM1 Induces Ovarian Carcinoma Tumorigenesis and Progression Through RhoA Pathway
Authors: Chen Shuo , Wang Li-li , Sun Kai-xuan , Liu Yao , Guan Xue , Zong Zhi-hong , Zhao Yang
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Prostate cancer gene expression marker 1 (PCGEM1) is a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and is well known as a promoter in prostate cancer and osteoarthritis synoviocytes. However, the role PCGEM1 plays in epithelial ovarian cancer is unknown. Methods: PCGEM1 expression was examined in epithelial ovarian cancer and normal ovarian tissues using reverse transcription–PCR. Ovarian cancer cell phenotypes and genotypes were examined after PCGEM1 overexpression or downregulation in vitro; besides, the effects of PCGEM1 overexpression was also examined in vivo. Results: PCGEM1 expression level was higher in epithelial ovarian cancer tissues than in normal ovarian tissues and was positively associated with differentiation (Well vs. Mod/Poor). Upregulation of PCGEM1 induced cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, but decreased cell apoptosis through upregulating RhoA, YAP (Yes-associated protein), MMP2 (matrix metalloproteinase 2), Bcl-xL, and P70S6K expression; while PCGEM1 downregulation had the opposite effect. The nude mouse xenograft assay demonstrated that PCGEM1 overexpression promoted tumor growth. Furthermore, silencing RhoA expression reversed the effect of PCGEM1 and significantly inhibited RhoA, YAP, MMP2, Bcl-xL, and P70S6K protein expression. Conclusion: In conclusion, we suggest that PCGEM1 may be an inducer in epithelial ovarian cancer tumorigenesis and progression by upregulating RhoA and the subsequent expression of YAP, P70S6K, MMP2, and Bcl-xL.
MicroRNA-142-3p Induces Atherosclerosis-Associated Endothelial Cell Apoptosis by Directly Targeting Rictor
Authors: Qin Bing , Shu Yaqing , Long Ling , Li Haiyan , Men Xuejiao , Feng Li , Yang Huan , Lu Zhengqi
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Atherosclerosis, a multifactorial chronic disease, is the main cause of death and impairment in the world. Endothelial cells (ECs) apoptosis plays a crucial role in the onset and development of atherosclerosis, whereas the underlying molecular mechanisms are unclear. MicroRNA-142-3p (miR-142-3p) is a well-defined tumor suppressor in several types of cancer, while the role of miR-142-3p in ECs apoptosis and the development of atherosclerosis has yet to be elucidated. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the role of miR-142-3p in ECs apoptosis during atherosclerosis and the underlying mechanism. Methods: Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). The expression level of miR-142-3p was detected using qRT-PCR. Apoptosis was determined via flow cytometry and Caspase-3 activity assay. Prediction of the binding between miR-142-3p and 3’-UTR of Rictor mRNA was performed by bioinformatics analyses and confirmed by a dual luciferase reporter assay. The effects of miR-142-3p on endothelial apoptosis and atherosclerosis were further analyzed in an in vivo model using ApoE-/- mice fed with high-fat diet (HFD). Results: MiR-142-3p expression was substantially up-regulated during the ox-LDL-elicited apoptosis in HAECs. Forced expression of miR-142-3p exacerbated apoptosis in ECs whereas inhibition of miR-142-3p could partly alleviate apoptotic cell death mediated by ox-LDL. Further analysis identified Rictor as a direct target of miR-142-3p, and Rictor knockdown abolished the anti-apoptotic effect of miR-142-3p inhibitor. Moreover, the Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) signaling pathway was found to mediate the beneficial effect of miR-142-3p inhibitor on endothelial apoptosis. Finally, systemic treatment with miR-142-3p antagomir attenuated endothelial apoptosis and retarded the progression of atherosclerosis in the aorta of ApoE-/- mice. Conclusions: Down-regulation of miR-142-3p inhibited ECs apoptosis and atherosclerotic development by up-regulating the expression of Rictor and activating the Akt/eNOS signaling pathway. This indicates that miR-142-3p may be a potential target for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
Genistein Enhances or Reduces Glycosaminoglycan Quantity in a Cell Type-Specific Manner
Authors: Lan Ying , Li Xiulian , Liu Xuebo , Hao Cui , Song Ni , Ren Sumei , Wang Wei , Feng Ningchuan , Zhang Lijuan
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Genistein is a natural isoflavone enriched in soybeans. It has beneficial effects for patients with mucopolysaccharidose type III through inhibiting glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis. However, other studies indicate that genistein does not always inhibit glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis. Methods: To understand the underlying molecular mechanisms, CHOK1, CHO3.1, CHO3.3, and HCT116 cells were treated with genistein and the monosaccharide compositions and quantity of all glycans from the cell lysate were measured after thorough acid hydrolysis followed by HPLC analysis. In addition, the glycosaminoglycan disaccharide compositions were obtained by stable isotope labeling coupled with LC/MS analysis. Results: Genistein treatment reduced the amount of glycans but increased the amount of glycosaminoglycans in HCT116 cells. In contrast, genistein treatment reduced both glycan and glycosaminoglycan quantities in CHOK1, CHO3.1, and CHO3.3 cells in addition to differential changes in glycosaminoglycan disaccharide compositions. Conclusion: Genistein treatment reduced overall glycan quantity but glycosaminoglycan quantities were either increased or decreased in a cell type-dependent manner.
OCT1-Mediated Metformin Uptake Regulates Pancreatic Stellate Cell Activity
Authors: Wu Chunhua , Qiu Shanhu , Zhu Xiangyun , Lin Hao , Li Ling
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: Metformin treatment is reported to be associated with a lower incidence of and mortality from pancreatic cancer (PC) in type 2 diabetes patients. Activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are key stroma cells responsible for pancreatic fibrogenesis and PC progression. However, little research is about the influence of metformin on PSCs. Given the potential beneficial effects of metformin on PC, pancreatic tumour stroma is an important target for new therapeutics. We observed the effects of metformin on PSCs. We investigated the effects of metformin on human PSCs proliferation and the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Methods: Cells were cultured with different concentrations of metformin (0-10 mmol/L). Cell proliferation was determined by immunofluorescence staining for nuclear Ki67 labelling. ECM production was studied by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence microscopy. Adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK), an important regulatory molecule responsible for metformin action, and the organic cation transporter member 1 (OCT1), which is believed to be the most important transporter for the pharmacological action of metformin, were investigated for their possible involvements in metformin-induced proliferation and ECM production. Results: Our results showed that metformin inhibited PSCs proliferation and decreased the production of ECM proteins by activation of AMPK phosphorylation. Silencing of OCT1 expression resulted in a reduction in the effects of metformin on PSCs activity. Conclusions: Collectively, the data indicate that OCT1 may contribute to uptake metformin and regulate PSCs activity. OCT1 is a target of metformin in regulating PSCs activity.
Substrate oxidation pattern during cardiorespiratory exercise prescribed by different methods
Authors: Marquezi Marcelo Luis , Uzunian Marco Antonio , Gimenez Roberto , Souza Maurício Teodoro de
Published: June 2018

O Colégio Americano de Medicina Esportiva recomenda intensidades de 55 a 70% da freqüência cardíaca de reserva (FCrs) para prescrição do exercício de resistência cardiorespiratória (ECr) objetivando a alteração da composição corporal. Entretanto, vários estudos verificaram que a oxidação de lipídeos (LIPox) máxima está diretamente relacionada ao primeiro limiar anaeróbio (LAn1) e ocorre em intensidades por volta de 60% da frequência cardíaca máxima (FCmax) e 55% do consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2 max). O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar e comparar as taxas de oxidação de substratos resultantes do ECr prescrito pelos métodos dos limiares anaeróbios ventilatórios (método “direto”, mDR) e da reserva da frequência cardíaca (método “indireto”, mIND). Sete indivíduos ativos não treinados foram submetidos a 60min de ECr nas intensidades do LAn1 e 55% da FCrs para determinação das taxas de oxidação de lipídeos (LIP) e carboidratos (CHO) por calorimetria indireta, após jejum noturno de 8h seguido de ingestão de maltodextrina (2g/kg, solução a 6%) 30min antes do início da atividade. Nossos resultados demonstraram que os métodos de prescrição promoveram padrões distintos de LIPox (0,23 ± 0,01 e 0,10 ± 0,01 g/min; mDR e mIND, respectivamente; p < 0,05); como conseqüência, a contribuição relativa de LIP para o dispêndio calórico durante a sessão mDR foi aproximadamente 1,8 vezes maior em comparação a mIND (25,9 ± 0,9 e 14,6 ± 1,0 %; mDR e mIND, respectivamente; p < 0,05). Apesar da prescrição por método da reserva da frequência cardíaca subestimar a LIPox, este método indicou para uma aplicabilidade que se aproxima dos critérios cientificamente preconizados, o que para uma indicação de intensidade em situações de campo poderá acarretar em menor margem de erros
High frequency of concurrent feedback slows the learning of a serial motor skill
Authors: Beltrão Natália Barros , Meira Junior Cássio Miranda , Cattuzzo Maria Teresa , Santos Juliette Noadya Costa , Tani Go
Published: June 2018

Esse estudo investigou o efeito de diferentes frequências de feedback concorrente (FC) na eficiência, aquisição e transferência de uma tarefa de rastreamento serial. Quarenta e três adultos jovens de ambos os sexos foram divididos em três grupos: frequência de 100% (G100), 50% (G50) e 0% (G0). Eles praticaram uma tarefa de rastrear e tocar seis sensores em resposta ao acendimento sequencial de seis estímulos luminosos. O desempenho foi medido pelo número de blocos de tentativas necessário para reconhecer a sequência, e pelo total de sequências corretas e/ou antecipadas. Análise de variância mostrou que o G0 precisou de menos blocos que o G100 para o alcance do critério de aquisição. Embora não tenha havido efeito das diferentes frequências de FC no número de respostas corretas e antecipadas, observou-se que executar a tarefa com alta frequência de FC retardou a aquisição da habilidade.
Transcultural adaptation of the Sports Facilities Management Questionnaire of Peiro, Martinez-Tur and Tordera
Authors: Amaral Cacilda Mendes dos Santos , Bastos Flávia Da Cunha
Published: June 2018

O objetivo deste artigo é a realização de adaptação transcultural do questionário Gestão de Instalações esportivas desenvolvido por Peiró, Martinez-Tur e Tordera com intuito de contribuir com a área de gestão do esporte oferecendo um novo instrumento para abordagem da temática gestão de instalações esportivas. O método utilizado para a realização da adaptação transcultural deu-se pelo seguimento de 5 estágios: tradução, síntese, retrotradução, revisão por comitê de experts e pré-teste. A tradução de original em espanhol para o português foi realizada por duas tradutoras independentes, a síntese foi conduzida por uma das pesquisadoras. A retrotradução foi realizada por um terceiro tradutor, que realizou a tradução da versão obtida após a síntese do português para o espanhol, o mesmo não teve contato com o questionário original ou com as versões das traduções realizadas. Comparou-se o original, a versão síntese das traduções e a versão de retrotradução. O comitê de experts avaliou a versão do questionário no que diz respeito às equivalências semântica, idiomática, cultural e conceitual. Foi conduzido posteriormente pré-teste com gestores de instalações esportivas a fim de verificar a clareza das informações do questionário. Não foram verificadas diferenças significativas entre o original, as traduções e a versão de retrotradução do questionário. O comitê de experts, após avaliação do questionário sugeriu algumas alterações para adequação do texto e nenhum item do questionário foi excluído. No pré-teste não foi indicada qualquer dificuldade na utilização do instrumento, sendo relatado o tempo médio de 16 minutos para responder o questionário. Diante dos resultados, parece ser satisfatório e viável a utilização do instrumento. Recomendam-se novos estudos para se verificar a aplicabilidade do questionário, assim como a validação do instrumento.
Effects of Repeated Binge Drinking on Blood Pressure Levels and Other Cardiovascular Health Metrics in Young Adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2011‐2014
Authors: Piano Mariann R. , Burke Larisa , Kang Minkyung , Phillips Shane A.
Published: June 2018

Background

Binge drinking prevalence rates are highest in young adults; however, little is known about the effects of binge drinking on blood pressure (
BP
) and other cardiovascular health metrics in individuals between 18 and 45 years of age. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of regular binge drinking on
BP
, lipid and glucose levels and to determine if there were differences in these associations between men and women.

Methods and Results

We analyzed data from NHANES (the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) for men and women 18 to 45 years old who were non–binge drinkers, binge drank 1 to 12 times, or binge drank >12 times in the past year. After controlling for diet and physical activity, both categories of men binge drinkers compared with non–binge drinkers had higher systolic
BP
(121.8 and 119.0 mm Hg versus 117.5 mm Hg) and total cholesterol (215.5 and 217.9 mg/dL versus 207.8 mg/dL) values. There were no effects of binge drinking on systolic
BP
or total cholesterol in women. Binge drinking in men and women was associated with higher high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol values. The effects of binge drinking on glucose parameters in men and women were variable.

Conclusions

Compared with young adult women, repeated binge drinking in men was associated with an elevated systolic
BP
, and greater frequency of binge drinking in men was associated with a more unfavorable lipid profile. In young adults with elevated systolic
BP
, practitioners should consider the possible role of binge drinking and address the importance of reducing alcohol intake as an important cardiovascular risk reduction strategy.
Bringing Ethics to Wild Lives: Shaping Public Policy for Barred and Northern Spotted Owls
Authors: Lynn William S.
Published: June 2018

Ethics reviews are not part of environmental policy or wildlife management in the United States. This changed when, for the first time, theUSFish and Wildlife Service conducted such a review with respect to the barred and northern spotted owls. Spotted owls are endangered throughout their range by a variety of anthropogenic and natural forces. The interspecific competition between barred and spotted owls is a key factor second only to habitat destruction. A proposed lethal experiment to remove barred owls raised ethical concerns among wildlife agencies, citizens, and advocacy groups. Seeking to better understand these concerns, the Service created the Barred Owl Stakeholder Group. Using an innovative method and instrument in the form of an ethics-based policy dialogue and an ethics brief, the stakeholder group explored the ethical dimensions of the removal experiment. This process holds lessons for how public policy can bring ethics to bear on wild lives.
Residual effect of zinc applied to rice on zinc nutrition of succeeding wheat crop inoculated with zinc solubilizing microbial consortium
Authors: Vaid Sachin Kumar , Srivastava Prakash Chandra , Pachauri Satya Pratap , Sharma Anita , Rawat Deepa , Mathpal Bhupendra , Shankhadhar Shailesh Chandra , Shukla Arvind Kumar
Published: June 2018

Large scale deficiency of Zn results in low crops yields and the problem of Zn malnutrition in humans and livestock. To economize crop production on Zn deficient soils, two-year field experiments were undertaken with two wheat varieties to evaluate the performance of seed inoculation with a consortium of three bacterial strains in combination with varying doses of Zn fertilizer applied to 1 year rice crop on yields, Zn concentration and Zn uptake of wheat. Seed coating of wheat with bacterial consortium significantly increased grain yields, Zn concentration and uptake in grains and straw and total Zn uptake over the control. It also helped to increase the apparent recoveries of soil applied Zn fertilizer to 1 year rice by succeeding wheat crops and DTPA extractable Zn in soil after 2 year wheat in comparison to the control. Seed inoculation in combination with low dosage of Zn also significantly decreased phytic acid: Zn ratio but increased methionine concentration in wheat grains.
Studies in Chinese Tettigoniidae: Recent discoveries of Meconematinae katydids from Xizang,China (Tettigoniidae: Meconematinae)
Authors: WANG HANQIANG , LIU XIANWEI
Published: June 2018

In this work, we describe one new genus and 4 new species from Xizang, China: Allogrigoriora carinata gen & sp. nov., Nigrimacula beybienkoi sp. nov., Sinoxizicus carinatus sp. nov. and Tamdaora curvicerca sp. nov. Besides the new taxa, 3 new combinations [Grigoriora cheni (Bey-Bienko, 1955) comb. nov.; Grigoriora kweichowensis (Tinkham, 1944) comb. nov.; Nefateratura bifurcata (Liu & Bi, 1994) comb nov.] are also changed. All the specimens are deposited in Shanghai Entomological Museum, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Antarctic and New Zealand Byblisoides (Amphipoda: Ampeliscidae) with a key to the world species
Authors: PEART RACHAEL A.
Published: June 2018

The family Ampeliscidae is a species diverse family ranging from shallow waters to over 4000 m depth. Within this family, however, one genus, Byblisoides has few species and is generally found in deep water. The conservative morphology of other species of Byblisoides is also evident in the new species described here. This study extends the known species composition of the genus from seven species to nine. A key to world species is updated.
The Association of Biomarkers of Inflammation and Extracellular Matrix Degradation With the Risk of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: The ARIC Study
Authors: Tang Weihong , Yao Lu , Hoogeveen Ron C. , Alonso Alvaro , Couper David J. , Lutsey Pamela L. , Steenson Carol C. , Guan Weihua , Hunter David W. , Lederle Frank A. , Folsom Aaron R.
Published: June 2018

Animal and human laboratory studies suggest that the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) involves inflammation and degradation and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. This study prospectively assessed the association between biomarkers for these mechanisms and the presence of AAA during 24 years of follow-up in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. The ARIC prospectively identified clinically diagnosed AAAs in 15 792 men and women from baseline in 1987 to 1989 to 2011 using hospital discharge codes and death records. Additional asymptomatic AAAs were detected by an abdominal ultrasound scan in 2011 to 2013. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, MMP-9, interleukin 6 (IL-6), N-terminal propeptide of Type III procollagen (PIIINP), and osteopontin were measured in blood samples collected between 1987 and 1992 in participants with AAA (544 clinically diagnosed AAAs and 72 ultrasound-detected AAAs) and a random sample of 723 participants selected from baseline and matched with AAAs by age, race and sex. Higher concentrations of MMP-9 and IL-6 were associated with future risk of clinically diagnosed AAA (hazard ratios [95% confidence intervals]: 1.55 [1.22-1.97] and 1.87 [1.48-2.35], respectively, comparing highest versus lowest tertiles) after multivariable adjustment ( P for trend < .001). Matrix metalloproteinase-9 was also associated with ultrasound-detected AAA. In conclusion, blood concentrations of MMP-9 and IL-6 measured in middle age predicted the risk of AAA during 24 years of follow-up.
A View From the Top: Superintendents’ Perceptions of Mental Health Supports in Rural School Districts
Authors: O’Malley Meagan , Wendt Staci J. , Pate Christina
Published: June 2018

Purpose: A chasm exists between the expanding mental health needs of school-aged youth and the school resources available to address them. Education agencies must efficiently allocate their limited resources by adopting innovative public health models. The need for these effective approaches is acute in rural regions, where resources tend to be scarce. This mixed-methods study of school superintendents illuminates key opportunities to optimize access to care for students struggling with mental health needs in rural communities. Method: Superintendents serving rural California school districts were targeted for a web-based, mixed response–type, 53-item survey designed to examine their perceptions across three school mental health–related categories: (a) strengths and gaps in community ethos and district infrastructure, (b) school personnel groups’ knowledge and skills, and (c) predominant barriers. Of the targeted respondents, 16.7% completed the survey ( N = 62). Quantitative data were analyzed using a series of descriptive analyses and paired-sample t tests. Qualitative data were analyzed using a constant comparative method with an open-coding approach. Findings and Implications: Budget constraints and access to trained school-based and community-based mental health personnel are the most frequently cited barriers to addressing mental health in schools. Knowledge and skills related to mental health are perceived to be more pronounced in district and school leadership than in other personnel groups, including staff typically responsible for providing mental health services, such as school psychologists. Our findings suggest a need to improve superintendent knowledge of innovative public health models for delivering mental health services within the constraints of rural school district settings.
Interaction force between magnetic field and ferromagnetic target: analytical, numerical and experimental study
Authors: Neri Paolo
Published: June 2018

In this study, an analytical model and a finite element (FE) model were developed in order to study the force produced by a permanent magnet on a ferromagnetic target. The study was aimed at estimating the magnetic action in order to design an excitation device for vibration tests. The dynamic analysis of rotating structures as compressors’ bladed wheels requires a solicitation that reflects the operational conditions. If the component is made of ferromagnetic material, it is possible to use magnetic fields for the excitation. The present paper reports the interaction between planar parallel surfaces, first studied analytically and numerically, and the results were compared with experimental results. Then the interaction between sloping surfaces was analyzed, allowing an analytical boundary loss model to be developed. Finally, the FE model was improved to study the interaction between double curvature surfaces. A comparison with experimental results measured on an actual bladed wheel was performed.
Full-strain range characteristics of the Poisson’s ratio for coated biaxial warp-knitted fabrics under bias tensile loading
Authors: Chen Jianwen , Zhou Han , Chen Wujun , Wang Mingyang , Zhao Bing , Sun Weiwei
Published: June 2018

It is undeniable that full-strain range characteristics of Poisson’s ratios on the behaviors of a fabric composite are crucial. However, there have been relatively few papers devoted to this subject. In this study, tensile tests of seven bias angles with a 15° increment are conducted on a typical coated biaxial warp-knitted fabric (BWKF) to estimate the Poisson’s ratios in full-strain range. By utilizing the digital image correlation technique, experimental results are processed, and detailed responses of strain contours and Poisson’s ratios are determined for specific strain states. Then, two typical types, that is recession and peak types, of the Poisson’s ratio strain curves are proposed and their characteristics evolving with the strain, bias angle and stress state are discussed. Results show that characteristics of Poisson’s ratios and strain contours vary noticeably with the yarn orientations, strain and stress levels. As the strain increases, the Poisson’s ratio of peak type first ascends markedly, and then descends moderately after arriving at a peak, generating three distinct stages: the ascending, peak and post-peak stages; in contrast, the recession type only experiences a downward trend, resulting in two characteristic stages: the recession and stable stages. In addition, there is an M-shaped relationship between the Poisson’s ratio and bias angle, with a local valley at 45°, which is not consistent with results in previous works. This investigation could provide new insights into the orientation dependence, Poisson effect and warp–weft interaction mechanism of BWKFs.
The Career Advancement of Military Veterans in Recent Cohorts of the U.S. Executive Branch
Authors: Johnson Tim , Walker Robert W.
Published: June 2018

To measure the effect of veterans’ preference on U.S. federal workforce quality, researchers have assessed whether military veterans advance in their federal careers at a different rate than nonveterans. This research, however, has produced mixed results. In research concerning recent employee cohorts, nonveterans outpace veterans’ advancement, implying that veterans’ preference lessens employee quality. In older cohorts, veterans and nonveterans advance comparably. The latter research, however, controls for employees’ entry positions, whereas research concerning recent cohorts does not do so, thus inhibiting direct comparison of results. To facilitate such comparisons, we controlled for veterans’ and nonveterans’ entry positions in a study of career advancement among all white-collar, U.S. executive branch workers entering employment from 1992 to 2013. In these recent cohorts, we find roughly equivalent rates of career advancement among veterans and nonveterans when controlling for entry positions. This finding holds when using grade or pay increases as measures of advancement.
Controlled Currency Regime and Pricing of Exchange Rate Risk: Evidence From China
Authors: Hua Xiuping , Huang Wei , Jiang Ying
Published: June 2018

Extant research finds that exchange rate pegs do little to reduce firms’ exposure to exchange rate risk in emerging markets. We study whether exchange rate risk exposures under a pegged/controlled floating currency regime can be priced in asset returns using unique data on exchange rate regime changes in China. As the only currency in the basket of International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Special Drawing Rights that is not fully market-driven for its exchange rate formation, the Chinese RMB (renminbi) offers an ideal case to study the pricing of exchange rate risk in pegged and controlled floating regimes. We find a negative stock market reaction to the announcement of changes from a pegged exchange rate to a controlled floating regime, suggesting a negative stock valuation effect of expectation of increased exchange rate exposure to currency appreciation. Under the managed floating exchange rate regime, the volatilities of accounting performance measures are significantly greater for the companies with stronger exposure to foreign-exchange rate risk. More importantly, foreign-exchange rate risk is priced in equity returns under the controlled floating regime but not under the strictly pegged regime. Furthermore, the pricing is stronger for firms with higher sensitivity to economic channels transmitting the exchange rate risk exposure to risk premiums. Overall, our results suggest that currency hedging for a multinational corporation with foreign-exchange exposure is warranted under a controlled floating currency regime.
Energy drinks, caffeine, junk food, breakfast, depression and academic attainment of secondary school students
Authors: Smith Andrew P , Richards Gareth
Published: June 2018

Background:

Energy drinks are widely consumed, and concerns have been raised about possible negative outcomes.

Aims:

The aim of the present research was to examine associations between consumption of energy drinks, caffeine and junk food, and academic attainment in a sample of UK secondary school students.

Methods:

A total of 3071 students agreed to participate in the study; 2677 completed the survey on one occasion (52.4% female, 47.6% male; approximately 20% of the sample from each school year) and 1660 (49.6% female, 50.4% male) completed the survey a second time, approximately six months later. The academic attainment measure was based on Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 grades for Maths and English.

Results:

In the cross-sectional analyses, logistic regressions showed that consumption of energy drinks was associated with a greater likelihood of being in the low academic achievement group. This was not found for other sources of caffeine. The effect of energy drinks was still significant when demographic, academic and health/lifestyle variables were covaried. However, inclusion of an unhealthy diet variable (junk food) removed the significant effect of energy drinks. Similar observations were made in the longitudinal study, with the poorer attainment of those who consumed energy drinks reflecting breakfast omission and depression.

Discussion:

The present findings indicate that consumption of energy drinks is associated with an increased likelihood of poor academic attainment that reflects energy drink consumption being part of an unhealthy diet or being associated with skipping breakfast rather than a more specific effect, such as being a source of caffeine. Although the current study extends previous research by utilising a longitudinal design, intervention studies are now required to better answer questions relating to causality and direction of effect.
Sensitivity of wind turbine airfoil sections to geometry variations inherent in modular blades
Authors: Brown Kenneth , Molinaro Nicholas , Meyers Timothy , Borgoltz Aurélien , Devenport William , Luedke Jonathan , Pesetsky David
Published: June 2018

In the ongoing work to increase the efficiency of large-scale, horizontal-axis wind turbines, the modular blade concept has been proposed. This article works toward quantifying the aerodynamic performance of modular blades, whose baseline profile remains unchanged from conventional blades but which are susceptible to a larger degree of variation in both manufacturing tolerances and fabrication materials, by examining the effects of offsets in the leading edge and the use of a tensioned membrane-fabric as a flow surface over the aft. Wind tunnel tests were performed on modified DU00-W-212 and DU91-W2-250 sections and included standard pressure measurements, as well as surface deflection measurements of the fabric. For the case of offsets near the nose of the profile, the offsets produce up to 17% decrease in [Formula: see text]. For the case of fabric in the aft of the model, the [Formula: see text] variations are strongly dependent on the spanwise location of the measurement.