bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of alveolar bone healing after the removal of orthodontic temporary anchorage devices
Authors: Kim Sung‐Jin , Ha Young Don , Kim Eunji , Jang Woowon , Hwang Soonshin , Nguyen Tung , Ko Ching‐Chang , Choi Yoon Jeong , Kim Kyung‐Ho , Chung Chooryung J.
Published: January 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the dynamics of alveolar bone formation and healing pattern after the removal of orthodontic temporary anchorage devices (TADs).

Methods

Miniscrews (N = 32) were inserted into the buccal inter‐radicular alveolar bone in beagle dogs. Afterward, miniscrews were removed at different time points during a 13‐week period and six different in vivo fluorescent markers were injected at 1, 2, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks. Serial changes in bone apposition at the removal and intact control sites were evaluated using μCT, histology, and bone histomorphometry.

Results

Gradual bone apposition at the TAD removal site was noted with bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) reaching the level of the control alveolar bone by 7 weeks. Histologically, newly formed woven bone was detected within the removal site which was distinct from the surrounding pre‐existing alveolar bone at 13 weeks. Accelerated mineral apposition rate (MAR) and bone formation rate (BFR) were noted between 2 and 6 weeks in the removal site (P < 0.05). Although MAR and BFR gradually decreased after its peak at 2‐4 weeks, BFR in the removal site was still higher than the control site at 10‐12 weeks (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Spontaneous bone healing was noted after TAD removal with regional acceleration of MAR and BFR within 2‐6 weeks. However, the removal site was mainly filled with woven bone even after 13 weeks, suggesting a longer healing period is required for the quality of the alveolar bone to reach levels comparable to the surrounding alveolar bone.
The Development of Implicit and Explicit Knowledge of Collocations: A Conceptual Replication and Extension of Sonbul and Schmitt (2013)
Authors: Toomer Mark , Elgort Irina
Published: January 2019

Sonbul and Schmitt (2013) showed that exposure to second language (L2) collocations in reading texts can produce gains in explicit knowledge, but they found no evidence of gains in implicit knowledge. This study is a conceptual replication and extension of Sonbul and Schmitt's research. Sixty‐two advanced English as a second language (ESL) speakers read texts containing repeated occurrences of low‐frequency medical collocations in three sessions over 2 days. The incidental learning treatments included reading only (no typographic enhancement), bolding, and bolding‐plus‐glossing. Collocational knowledge was assessed in tests of explicit knowledge (cued recall, form recognition) and a test of implicit knowledge (primed lexical decision). Repeated exposure to bolded collocations produced greater explicit knowledge than repeated exposure to typographically unenhanced collocations. Evidence of implicit knowledge development was observed in the unenhanced (reading only) treatment but not in the remaining treatments. These results replicated Sonbul and Schmitt's findings for explicit knowledge and extended their findings for implicit knowledge.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded an Open Materials badge. All materials are publicly accessible via the Open Science Framework at https://osf.io/qy2c3. Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.
Protestant Techniques of Care: The Hindu, the Pentecost, and the “Secular”
Authors: Whitmarsh Ian
Published: January 2019

Modern techniques of caring for the self through staying healthy rely on an ethic of choice, often evoking critiques of the (neo)liberal subject. This sense of choice has carried frequently overlooked Protestant commitments from Luther to Kant and Locke to 19th‐century American health reformers, premised on a refusal of ritual, mysticism, and the priest as the source of truth. This article explores how these implicit commitments shape the relation to other religious traditions in countries like Trinidad. Campaigns against chronic disease in Trinidad carried out in public health venues and churches echo multinational health projects in pronouncing, “We all want a healthy life.” The article draws on a Caribbean ironic sense of secularity to analyze the way that the threat to this “want” found in other religious traditions such as Pentecostal healing and Hindu ecstatic practices reveals Protestant commitments masked within a modern global “secular” care of the self.
Population trends for humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) foraging in the Francisco Coloane Coastal‐Marine Protected Area, Magellan Strait, Chile
Authors: Monnahan Cole C. , Acevedo Jorge , Noble Hendrix A. , Gende Scott , Aguayo‐Lobo Anelio , Martinez Francisco
Published: January 2019

In 2003 a feeding aggregation of southeastern Pacific humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) was reported in the Magellan Strait. While Chile established its first marine national park in the Strait to protect humpback whale habitat, fatal ship strikes remain a concern because of overlap with a busy shipping lane. To better understand population risk, we estimated abundance and survival for this population using Bayesian robust‐design mark‐recapture models fit to photographic data from 2004 to 2016. Overall, the model estimated a total of 204 whales (95% CI: 199–210) during the last 12 yr, and 93 (95% CI: 86–100) in the 2016/2017 austral summer. The population grew at 2.3% (CI: 2.1%–3.1%), an annual increase of two whales. Annual survival (including calves) was estimated at 0.892 (CI: 0.871–0.910). Our results corroborate a persistent feeding population, but one that is increasing relatively slowly. Owing to its vulnerability stemming from its small size, coupled with significant overlap with a busy shipping lane, we argue this subpopulation is at significant risk from ship strikes and may be one of the few populations where anthropogenic mortalities could regulate population dynamics. We therefore encourage continued monitoring via photographic mark‐resighting surveys, and analyses explicitly investigating potential population‐level ship strike effects.
24‐hour monitoring of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation events by long‐term high‐resolution impedance manometry in normal volunteers: The “mirror phenomenon”
Authors: He Suyu , Jell Alissa , Hüser Norbert , Kohn Nils , Feussner Hubertus
Published: January 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency and circadian changes in transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs) in normal volunteers using 24‐hour high‐resolution impedance manometry (HRIM).

Methods

Fifteen volunteers underwent HRIM. TLESRs were recorded during the mealtime, 2‐hour postprandial, daytime, and supine periods. The catheter was firmly secured to the nose, and subjects went home, ate normal meals, and continued routine daily activities.

Key Results

Successful recordings were obtained in 11 volunteers. Overall, 1083 TLESRs were documented; the average occurrence was 4.2/h, and the duration was 21.0 ± 5.2 seconds. The majority of the TLESRs occurred during the 2‐hour postprandial (42.7%) and daytime (31.5%) periods, while 10.2% and 15.6% occurred during the mealtime and supine periods, respectively. Eight hundred and eighty‐six (81.8%) TLESRs were associated with reflux. Overall, 25.5% of TLESRs were preceded by partial secondary peristalsis (PSP), while 74.5% were preceded by nothing. Terminating events included primary peristalsis (PP; 40.3%), PSP (42.8%), full secondary peristalsis (FSP; 8.2%), or nothing (8.7%). Both preceding and terminating events periodically changed throughout the four periods. One hundred and twelve (10.3%) TLESRs with both preceding and terminating events of PSP, presenting as a “mirror phenomenon,” were documented. The majority of these TLESRs occurred during the supine (70.5%).

Conclusions & Inferences

Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations are common physiological motor events in normal volunteers; these events have certain circadian rhythms, as do the events that precede and terminate TLESR events. A special “mirror phenomenon” is observed when both the preceding and terminating events are PSP.
Electroacupuncture promotes the gastrointestinal motility of diabetic mice by CNP/NPR‐B‐cGMP and PDE3A‐cGMP signaling
Authors: An Jing , Li YingLi , Song ShuangNing , Liu Shi
Published: January 2019

Background

Electroacupuncture (EA) can promote gastrointestinal (GI) motility of diabetic mice, but the mechanism is not clearly elucidated. Natriuretic peptides (NPs) were related to the diabetes‐induced gut dysfunction of mice, which may be associated with ICC (interstitial cells of cajal). Besides, EA could increase the ICC of diabetic mice. Our aim was to explore whether EA can promote the gut motility by CNP/NPR‐B‐cGMP and PDE3A‐cGMP signaling in diabetic mice, and the relationship between NPs and ICC.

Methods

Wild C57BL/6 male mice were divided into five groups: control group, diabetic mellitus (DM group), diabetic mellitus plus sham EA group (SEA), diabetic mellitus plus low‐frequency EA group (LEA), and diabetic mellitus plus high‐frequency group (HEA). Gastrointestinal motility was assessed by gastric emptying and GI transit test. Immunofluorescence staining was applied to assess the expression level of CNP, NPR‐B, and c‐Kit. Western blot, PCR, and ELISA were used to detect the level of CNP, NPR‐B, PDE2A, PDE3A, c‐Kit, mSCF, and cGMP content. The correlativity between NPR‐B and mSCF was evaluated by Pearson's correlation and linear regression analyses.

Key Results

(a) EA could improve the GI dysfunction of diabetic mice. (b) CNP, NPR‐B, and cGMP contents were decreased, but the level of PDE3A, c‐Kit, and mSCF was increased in the EA groups. (c) There was a negative correlation between NPR‐B and mSCF among the groups.

Conclusions and Inferences

Electroacupuncture promotes the GI function by CNP/NPR‐B‐cGMP and PDE3A‐cGMP signaling in diabetic mice; up‐regulated mSCF/c‐Kit signaling by EA may be mediated partially via down‐regulation of CNP/NPR‐B signaling.
No Reasons to Believe the False
Authors: de Prado Javier González
Published: January 2019

I argue that if there are nondisabled reasons to believep, then there cannot be nondisabled reasons to believe something incompatible withp. I first defend a restricted version of the view, which applies only to situations where the relevant agent has complete evidence. Then, I argue for a generalized version of the view, which holds regardless of the agent's evidence. As a related result, I show that, given plausible assumptions, there cannot be nondisabled reasons to believe something false.
Threats to Common‐Pool Resources and the Importance of Forums: On the Emergence of Cooperation in CPR Problem Settings
Authors: Herzog Laura M. , Ingold Karin
Published: January 2019

This paper focuses on cooperation among organizations in a common‐pool resource (CPR) problem situation. Cooperation is particularly challenging in settings where resource degradation is produced by a variety of different sectors and parts of the population; and where the problem, as well as public responsibilities, transcend borders and jurisdictions. Focusing on transboundary water quality management in the Rhine catchment area, we ask:What drives two actors in a CPR problem situation to cooperate with each other?We argue that the degree of threat to a CPR is an important driver for collective action, and focus on actors’exposure toandperception ofa threat to a CPR. Furthermore, we rely on applications of the ecology of games framework (EGF), taking into account the larger institutional context of CPR management. This allows us to test whether actors’ participation in forums, such as regional and international water body associations, helps to overcome the CPR problem by further enhancing interactions among actors. Based on survey data and applying advanced network statistics (exponential random graph models [ERGM]), we conclude that although problem exposure is one factor that enhances joint cooperation, participation in forums plays an even bigger role for cooperation in a CPR problem setting. Our study contributes to research on cooperation in CPR problem settings, highlights the need to more systematically include the effects that CPR problems have on actors when analyzing CPR problem settings, and stresses the function of forums as triggers for cooperation in CPR problem situations.
Donald Trump, Populism, and the Age of Extremes: Comparing the Personality Traits and Campaigning Styles of Trump and Other Leaders Worldwide
Authors: Nai Alessandro , Martínez i Coma Ferran , Maier Jürgen
Published: January 2019

A common narrative portrays Donald Trump as impetuous and quick to anger, thin skinned, constantly lying, brazen, vulgar, and boasting a grandiose sense of self and his accomplishments. Little systematic evidence exists that this is the case, however. With a novel data set based on expert ratings, we (1) provide systematic empirical evidence about Trump’s personality profile, (2) contrast his profile with 21 other populist leaders and 82 mainstream candidates having competed in recent elections worldwide, and (3) discuss the implications of such an extreme profile in terms of campaigning style and the use of negative and emotional campaigns. Our results illustrate Trump’s off‐the‐charts personality and campaigning style and suggest that even when compared with other abrasive, narcissistic, and confrontational political figures, he stands out as an outlier among the outliers. We conclude by discussing the implications and potential outcomes of such an extreme personality profile for Trump’s policy style and achievements while in office.
Pharyngeal distensibility during expiration is an independent predictor of the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Chen Ning‐Hung , Lin Shih‐Wei , Chuang Li‐Pang , Cistulli Peter A. , Hsieh Meng‐Jer , Kao Kuo‐Chin , Liao Yu‐Fang , Li Li‐Fu , Yang Cheng‐Ta
Published: January 2019

Background and objective

Pharyngeal distensibility and collapsibility reflect the passive properties of tissue in the airway, are an indicator of the ease with which an airway can be deformed and are related to the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). During normal tidal respiration, the collapsibility of the pharynx during expiration is passive without confounding by neuromuscular activation that occurs during inspiration. We evaluated the distensibility and collapsibility of the upper airway in subjects with OSA during wakefulness using sophisticated dynamic computed tomography (CT) imaging. We hypothesized that the dynamic changes of the upper airway during expiration would be related to the severity of OSA.

Methods

Twenty‐three patients with OSA and eight normal subjects underwent simultaneous measurement of respiratory flow and airway calibre using ultrafast CT. The change in pharyngeal cross‐sectional area divided by the change in concomitant flow (as distensibility or collapsibility) was measured and compared across different severities of OSA.

Results

The slope of this relationship between delta area and delta flow during expiration was significantly higher in severe OSA when compared with normal controls and mild–moderate OSA. Differences in airway distensibility or collapsibility between severity groups were significant in expiration but not in inspiration. Distensibility or collapsibility contributed most to the apnoea–hypopnoea index in regression modelling. Age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) were not significant independent predictors.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that airway distensibility during the expiratory phase of awake respiration is correlated with the severity of OSA.
Focus Licensing at the Left Periphery in Japanese Right Dislocation
Authors: Abe Jun
Published: January 2019

In this paper, I argue that there is a designated focus position in theCPlayer in Japanese and that this position is activated only in limited contexts, such as ellipsis contexts. I argue that in fact one of the best cases for such a designated focus position involves Japanese right dislocation. Assuming the biclausal analysis of this construction, which involves ellipsis, I argue that the postverbal phrase occupies the position in theCPlayer designated for a focused phrase. Finally, addressing the question of whether Focus projections can be activated only in root clauses, I investigate what may be called massively pied‐piped cases of Japanese sluicing and demonstrate that Focus projections can be activated by the same types of embedded clauses as Topic projections.
Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of blood cells in black‐shouldered, Brahminy, and black kites
Authors: Salakij Chaleow , Kasorndorkbua Chaiyan , Pornpanom Pornchai , Salakij Jarernsak , Jakthong Pattarapong
Published: January 2019

Background

Black‐shouldered kites (BSK, Elanus caeruleus), Brahminy kites (BrK, Haliastur indus), and black kites (BK, Milvus migrans govinda) are medium‐sized hawks found in Thailand, and little is known about the hematology of these three kite species.

Objective

This study reports basic hematologic values and describes the light microscopic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural characteristics of blood cells in these kites.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 113 healthy kites (50 BSKs, 53 BrKs, and 10 BKs) from January 2012 to December 2017. Complete blood cell counts, cytochemical staining (Sudan black B, peroxidase [PO], periodic acid‐Schiff, α‐naphthyl acetate esterase, and β‐glucuronidase), and transmission electron microscopy were performed using standard methods.

Results

Hematology, morphometry, and cytochemical staining patterns of blood cells were tabulated. BSK erythrocytes were smaller than BrK and BK erythrocytes. Heterophils, the largest granulocytes, were the most prevalent leukocytes in all kites. Cytochemical reactions in blood cells from these three kite species were the same, except that heterophils from BrKs were the only cells positive for PO. The ultrastructure of heterophil and eosinophil granules from the BSKs were similar in their homogeneous electron densities but differed in shape. The eosinophil granules from BrKs and BKs revealed heterogeneous electron densities with central pallor in some granules. Basophils had different granular electron densities, and some granules were electron‐lucent.

Conclusion

The 23 baseline hematologic values and morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural characteristics of all blood cell types in this study provide reference data for future kite healthcare.
Simulated shift work disrupts maternal circadian rhythms and metabolism, and increases gestation length in sheep
Authors: Gatford Kathryn L. , Kennaway David J. , Liu Hong , Kleemann David O. , Kuchel Timothy R , Varcoe Tamara J.
Published: January 2019

Key points

Shift work impairs metabolic health, although its effects during pregnancy are not well understood

We evaluated the effects of a simulated shift work protocol for one‐third, two‐thirds or all of pregnancy on maternal and pregnancy outcomes in sheep.

Simulated shift work changed the timing of activity, disrupted hormonal and cellular rhythms, and impaired maternal glucose tolerance during early pregnancy.

Gestation length was increased in twin pregnancies, whereas singleton lambs were lighter at a given gestational age if mothers were subjected to shift work conditions in the first one‐third of pregnancy.

Exposure to rotating night and day shifts, even if only in early pregnancy, may adversely affect maternal metabolic and pregnancy outcomes.

Shift workers are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity; however, the impact during pregnancy on maternal metabolism is unknown. Using a large animal model, we assessed the impact of simulated shift work (SSW) exposure during pregnancy on maternal circadian rhythms, glucose tolerance and pregnancy outcomes. Following mating, ewes were randomly allocated to a control photoperiod (CON 12 h light, 12 h dark) or to SSW, where the timing of light exposure and food presentation was reversed twice each week for one‐third, two‐thirds or all of pregnancy. Maternal behaviour followed SSW cycles with increased activity during light exposure and feeding. Melatonin rhythms resynchronized within 2 days of the photoperiod shift, whereas peripheral circadian rhythms were arrhythmic. SSW impaired glucose tolerance (+29%, P = 0.019) and increased glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (+32%, P = 0.018) in ewes with a singleton fetus in early but not late gestation. SSW exposure did not alter rates of miscarriage or stillbirth, although it extended gestation length in twin pregnancies (+2.4 days, P = 0.032). Relative to gestational age, birth weight was lower in singleton progeny of SSW than CON ewes (–476 g, P = 0.016). These results have implications for the large number of women currently engaged in shift work, and further studies are required to determine progeny health impacts.
Strength and Ductility Loss of CPVC Pipe Due to Exposure to Primer
Authors: Chen Bingjun , Ben Jar P.-Y. , Mertiny Pierre , Prybysh Robert
Published: January 2019

This paper investigates the influence of primer on mechanical properties and fracture behavior for ring specimens, prepared from the commercial chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe. After immersing the specimens in primer for 30 min, the specimens were dried for eight different periods, ranging from half day to 113 days, and then fractured in tension along the hoop direction. The results suggest that the longer the drying time, the higher the recovered strength. After the longest drying time of 113 days, the primer-affected-zone showed strength recovery up to 63% of the strength for the virgin pipe. However, such a level of recovery cannot be achieved for ductility. The examination of specimens indicated that the exposure to primer created a core–shell structure on the cross section, of which the area ratio was independent of the drying time. It is believed that exposure to primer caused swelling and formed the shell region. The presence of the shell region has two roles in the ductility reduction. One is to provide multiple sites along the border between the shell and the core regions for crack initiation and the other to enhance stress concentration at the crack tip. This paper concludes that exposure to primer in the solvent welding process may reduce ductility of the CPVC pipe, thus affecting its resistance to slow crack growth in long-term applications.
A Simplified Dispersion Compensation Algorithm for the Interpretation of Guided Wave Signals
Authors: Wu Wenjun , Wang Yuemin
Published: January 2019

Due to the multimodal and dispersive characteristics of guided waves, guided wave testing signals are always overlapped and difficult to separate for correct interpretations. To this end, a simplified dispersion compensation algorithm is put forward in this paper. The dispersion elimination is accomplished by compensating the second-order nonlinear phase shift of guided wave signals, which is the cause of the dispersion when narrow band exciting signals are used. This algorithm is easy to implement and has no need of prior knowledge of the guided wave dispersion relationship. Considering that the center frequency, which is a key parameter for this algorithm, is nearly impossible to determine accurately in practical applications, the effect of the center frequency deviation on the algorithm is further studied. Both theoretical analysis and numerical simulation indicate the insensitivity of the algorithm to the deviation of the center frequency, and hence, there is no need to determine the center frequency accurately, facilitating the practical use of the algorithm. Based on this simplified dispersion compensation algorithm and in cooperation with the matching pursuit method, the mode separation is further performed for interpreting of overlapped guided wave signals. Dispersion compensation is first applied to the testing signal with respect to a certain mode which will compress the waveform of the mode while the others still spread. Then, this compressed waveform is separated with the Gabor based matching pursuit method. Both simulation and experiment are designed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Mapping of Intervertebral Disk Annulus Fibrosus Compressive Properties Is Sensitive to Specimen Boundary Conditions
Authors: Duclos Sarah E. , Michalek Arthur J.
Published: January 2019

Predicting the mechanical behavior of the intervertebral disk (IVD) in health and in disease requires accurate spatial mapping of its compressive mechanical properties. Previous studies confirmed that residual strains in the annulus fibrosus (AF) of the IVD, which result from nonuniform extracellular matrix deposition in response to in vivo loads, vary by anatomical regions (anterior, posterior, and lateral) and zones (inner, middle, and outer). We hypothesized that as the AF is composed of a nonlinear, anisotropic, viscoelastic material, the state of residual strain in the transverse plane would influence the apparent values of axial compressive properties. To test this hypothesis, axial creep indentation tests were performed, using a 1.6 mm spherical probe, at nine different anatomical locations on bovine caudal AFs in both the intact (residual strain present) and strain relieved states. The results showed a shift toward increased spatial homogeneity in all measured parameters, particularly instantaneous strain. This shift was not observed in control AFs, which were tested twice in the intact state. Our results confirm that time-dependent axial compressive properties of the AF are sensitive to the state of residual strain in the transverse plane, to a degree that is likely to affect whole disk behavior.
Dynamic Modeling and Response Analysis of a Planar Rigid-Body Mechanism With Clearance
Authors: Xiulong Chen , Shuai Jiang , Yu Deng , Qing Wang
Published: January 2019

In order to understand dynamic responses of planar rigid-body mechanism with clearance, the dynamic model of the mechanism with revolute clearance is proposed and the dynamic analysis is realized. First, the kinematic model of the revolute clearance is built; the amount of penetration depth and relative velocity between the elements of the revolute clearance joint is obtained. Second, Lankarani-Nikravesh (L-N) and the novel nonlinear contact force model are both used to describe the normal contact force of the revolute clearance, and the tangential contact force of the revolute clearance is built by modified Coulomb friction model. Third, the dynamic model of a two degrees-of-freedom (2DOFs) nine bars rigid-body mechanism with a revolute clearance is built by the Lagrange equation. The fourth-order Runge–Kutta method has been utilized to solve the dynamic model. And the effects of different driving speeds of cranks, different clearance values, and different friction coefficients on dynamic response are analyzed. Finally, in order to prove the validity of numerical calculation result, the virtual prototype model of 2DOFs nine bars mechanism with clearance is modeled and its dynamic responses are analyzed by adams software. This research could supply theoretical basis for dynamic modeling, dynamic behaviors analysis, and clearance compensation control of planar rigid-body mechanism with clearance.
Calibration of an Articulated Vehicle Model and Analysis of Friction Model in the Connection Between Two Vehicle Units
Authors: Iwona Adamiec-Wójcik , Łukasz Drąg , Witold Grzegożek , Stanisław Wojciech
Published: January 2019

This paper describes models of dynamics for articulated vehicles (tractor with a semitrailer and a tractor with a trailer). The models are obtained by using joint coordinates and homogenous transformations. Yawing velocities of the vehicle units have been measured during a sharp turn maneuver. The results of experimental measurements are then used to calibrate the mathematical models, which means the parameters of tires for the Dugoff–Uffelman model are chosen in such a way that the results of calculations and measurements are compatible. In order to solve this problem, an optimization method is used. Satisfactory results have been achieved and they are presented in this paper. Further, the model calibrated is used to analyze how the friction in the connections between the tractor and semitrailer, as well as between the dolly and the trailer, influences the motion of the vehicle.
Nonlinearity from stress corrosion cracking as a function of chloride exposure time using the time reversed elastic nonlinearity diagnostic
Authors: Young Sarah M. , Anderson Brian E. , Hogg Stephen M. , Le Bas Pierre-Yves , Remillieux Marcel C.
Published: January 2019

The Time Reversed Elastic Nonlinearity Diagnostic (TREND) has a long history of successful nondestructive detection of cracks in solids using nonlinear indicators. Recent research implemented TREND to find stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in the heat-affected zone adjacent to welds in stainless steel. SCC development around welds is likely to occur due to the temperature and chemical exposure of steel canisters housing spent nuclear fuel. The ideal SCC detection technique would quantify the size and extent of the SCC, rather than just locating it, as TREND has been used for in the past. The current paper explores TREND's ability to detect an assumed increase in SCC over time using 13 samples exposed to a magnesium chloride (MgCl2) bath for different lengths of time. The samples are then scanned with TREND and nonlinearity is quantified for each scan point and each sample. The results suggest that TREND can be used to not only locate SCC in the heat-affected zone, but also track an increase in nonlinearity, and thereby an increase in damage, in samples exposed to the MgCl2 solution for a longer duration.
Developing Athlete Monitoring Systems in Team Sports: Data Analysis and Visualization
Authors: Thornton Heidi R. , Delaney Jace A. , Duthie Grant M. , Dascombe Ben J.
Published: January 2019

In professional team sports, the collection and analysis of athlete-monitoring data are common practice, with the aim of assessing fatigue and subsequent adaptation responses, examining performance potential, and minimizing the risk of injury and/or illness. Athlete-monitoring systems should be underpinned by appropriate data analysis and interpretation, to enable the rapid reporting of simple and scientifically valid feedback. Using the correct scientific and statistical approaches can improve the confidence of decisions made from athlete-monitoring data. However, little research has discussed and proposed an outline of the process involved in the planning, development, analysis, and interpretation of athlete-monitoring systems. This review discusses a range of methods often employed to analyze athlete-monitoring data to facilitate and inform decision-making processes. There is a wide range of analytical methods and tools that practitioners may employ in athlete-monitoring systems, as well as several factors that should be considered when collecting these data, methods of determining meaningful changes, and various data-visualization approaches. Underpinning a successful athlete-monitoring system is the ability of practitioners to communicate and present important information to coaches, ultimately resulting in enhanced athletic performance.
The Effect of Self-Paced and Prescribed Interset Rest Strategies on Performance in Strength Training
Authors: Ibbott Peter , Ball Nick , Welvaert Marijke , Thompson Kevin G.
Published: January 2019

Purpose: To assess pacing strategies using prescribed and self-selected interset rest periods and their influence on performance in strength-trained athletes. Methods: A total of 16 strength-trained male athletes completed 3 randomized heavy strength-training sessions (5 sets and 5 repetitions) with different interset rest periods. The interset rest periods were 3 min (3MIN), 5 min (5MIN), and self-selected (SS). Mechanical (power, velocity, work, and displacement), surface electromyography (sEMG), and subjective (rating of perceived exertion) and readiness-to-lift data were recorded for each set. Results: SS-condition interset rest periods increased from sets 1 to 4 (from 207.52 to 277.71 s; P = .01). No differences in mechanical performance were shown between the different interset rest-period conditions. Power output (210 W; 8.03%) and velocity (0.03 m·s−1; 6.73%) decreased as sets progressed for all conditions (P < .001) from set 1 to set 5. No differences in sEMG activity between conditions were shown; however, vastus medialis sEMG decreased as the sets progressed for each condition (1.75%; P = .005). All conditions showed increases in rating of perceived exertion as sets progressed (set 1 = 6.1, set 5 = 7.9; P < .001). Participants reported greater readiness to lift in the 5MIN condition (7.81) than in the 3MIN (7.09) and SS (7.20) conditions (P < .001). Conclusions: Self-selecting interset rest periods does not significantly change performance compared with 3MIN and 5MIN conditions. Given the opportunity, athletes will vary their interset rest periods to complete multiple sets of heavy strength training. Self-selection of interset rest periods may be a feasible alternative to prescribed interset rest periods.
High Match Load’s Relation to Decreased Well-Being During an Elite Women’s Rugby Sevens Tournament
Authors: Doeven Steven H. , Brink Michel S. , Huijgen Barbara C.H. , de Jong Johan , Lemmink Koen A.P.M.
Published: January 2019

During rugby sevens tournaments, it is crucial to balance match load and recovery to strive for optimal performance. Purpose: To determine changes in well-being, recovery, and neuromuscular performance during and after an elite women’s rugby sevens tournament and assess the influence of match-load indicators. Methods: Twelve elite women rugby sevens players (age = 25.3 [4.1]y, height = 169.0 [4.0] cm, weight = 63.9 [4.9] kg, and body fat = 18.6% [2.7%]) performed 5 matches during a 2-d tournament of the Women’s Rugby Sevens World Series. Perceived well-being (fatigue, sleep quality, general muscle soreness, stress levels, and mood), total quality of recovery, and countermovement-jump flight time were measured on match days 1 and 2, 1 d posttournament, and 2 d posttournament. Total distance; low-, moderate-, and high-intensity running; and physical contacts during matches were derived from global positioning system–based time–motion analysis and video-based notational analysis, respectively. Internal match load was calculated by session rating of perceived exertion and playing time (rating of perceived exertion × duration). Results: Well-being (P < .001), fatigue (P < .001), general muscle soreness (P < .001), stress levels (P < .001), mood (P = .005), and total quality of recovery (P < .001) were significantly impaired after match day 1 and did not return to baseline values until 2 d posttournament. More high-intensity running was related to more fatigue (r = −.60, P = .049) and a larger number of physical contacts with more general muscle soreness (r = −.69, P = .013). Conclusion: Perceived well-being and total quality of recovery were already impaired after match day 1, although performance was maintained. High-intensity running and physical contacts were predominantly related to fatigue and general muscle soreness, respectively.
Factors Affecting the Anthropometric and Physical Characteristics of Elite Academy Rugby League Players: A Multiclub Study
Authors: Dobbin Nick , Highton Jamie , Moss Samantha Louise , Twist Craig
Published: January 2019

Purpose: To investigate the factors affecting the anthropometric and physical characteristics of elite academy rugby league players. Methods: One hundred ninety-seven elite academy rugby league players (age = 17.3 [1.0] y) from 5 Super League clubs completed measures of anthropometric and physical characteristics during a competitive season. The interaction between and influence of contextual factors on characteristics was assessed using linear mixed modeling. Results: All physical characteristics improved during preseason and continued to improve until midseason, whereafter 10-m sprint (η2 = .20 cf .25), countermovement jump (CMJ) (η2 = .28 cf .30), and prone Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery (Yo-Yo IR) test (η2 = .22 cf .54) performance declined. Second (η2 = .17) and third (η2 = .16) -year players were heavier than first-years, whereas third-years had slower 10-m sprint times (η2 = .22). Large positional variability was observed for body mass, 20-m sprint time, medicine-ball throw, CMJ, and prone Yo-Yo IR1. Compared with bottom-ranked teams, top-ranked teams demonstrated superior 20-m (η2 = −.22) and prone Yo-Yo IR1 (η2 = .26) performance, whereas middle-ranked teams reported higher CMJ height (η2 = .26) and prone Yo-Yo IR1 distance (η2 = .20) but slower 20-m sprint times (η2 = .20). Conclusion: These findings offer practitioners who design training programs for academy rugby league players insight into the relationships between anthropometric and physical characteristics and how they are influenced by playing year, league ranking, position, and season phase.
Monitoring Workload in Elite Female Basketball Players During the In-Season Phase: Weekly Fluctuations and Effect of Playing Time
Authors: Paulauskas Henrikas , Kreivyte Rasa , Scanlan Aaron T. , Moreira Alexandre , Siupsinskas Laimonas , Conte Daniele
Published: January 2019

Purpose: To assess the weekly fluctuations in workload and differences in workload according to playing time in elite female basketball players. Methods: A total of 29 female basketball players (mean [SD] age 21 [5] y, stature 181 [7] cm, body mass 71 [7] kg, playing experience 12 [5] y) belonging to the 7 women’s basketball teams competing in the first-division Lithuanian Women’s Basketball League were recruited. Individualized training loads (TLs) and game loads (GLs) were assessed using the session rating of perceived exertion after each training session and game during the entire in-season phase (24 wk). Percentage changes in total weekly TL (weekly TL + GL), weekly TL, weekly GL, chronic workload, acute:chronic workload ratio, training monotony, and training strain were calculated. Mixed linear models were used to assess differences for each dependent variable, with playing time (low vs high) used as fixed factor and subject, week, and team as random factors. Results: The highest changes in total weekly TL, weekly TL, and acute:chronic workload ratio were evident in week 13 (47%, 120%, and 49%, respectively). Chronic workload showed weekly changes ≤10%, whereas monotony and training strain registered highest fluctuations in weeks 17 (34%) and 15 (59%), respectively. A statistically significant difference in GL was evident between players completing low and high playing times (P = .026, moderate), whereas no significant differences (P > .05) were found for all other dependent variables. Conclusions: Coaches of elite women’s basketball teams should monitor weekly changes in workload during the in-season phase to identify weeks that may predispose players to unwanted spikes and adjust player workload according to playing time.
Effects of Protein Intake Beyond Habitual Intakes Associated With Resistance Training on Metabolic Syndrome-Related Parameters, Isokinetic Strength, and Body Composition in Older Women
Authors: Nabuco Hellen C.G. , Tomeleri Crisieli M. , Fernandes Rodrigo R. , Sugihara Junior Paulo , Cavalcante Edilaine F. , Venturini Danielle , Barbosa Décio S. , Silva Analiza M. , Sardinha Luís B. , Cyrino Edilson S.
Published: January 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of protein intake beyond habitual intakes associated with resistance training on metabolic syndrome (MetS)-related parameters, isokinetic strength, and body composition in health older women. A total of 30 older women (68.8 ± 4.3 years) participated in this investigation and were assigned to receive 35 g of whey protein or placebo combined with resistance training, over 12-weeks, three times per week. Blood samples, blood pressure, dietary intake, strength, and body composition were assessed before and after the intervention period. Two-way analysis of variance for repeated measures was applied for comparisons. Both groups improved the skeletal muscle mass, muscular strength, waist circumference, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, glucose, resistance, reactance, and MetS Z-score risk. However, the improvements in skeletal muscle mass, waist circumference, and MetS Z-score risk were significantly greater in protein group when compared with control group. Moreover, protein group significantly decreased %body fat when compared with control group. Higher protein intake combined with resistance training promoted greater improvements in skeletal muscle mass, %body fat, waist circumference, and MetS Z-score risk in older women.
Exploring Early Sport Specialization: Associations With Psychosocial Outcomes
Authors: Waldron Shelby , DeFreese J.D. , Pietrosimone Brian , Register-Mihalik Johna , Barczak Nikki
Published: January 2019

Sport specialization has been linked to multiple negative health related outcomes including increased injury risk and sport attrition, yet a gap remains in our understanding of potential psychological outcomes of early specialization (≤ age 12). The current study evaluated the associations between retrospective athlete reports of sport specialization and both retroactive and current psychological health outcomes. Early specializers reported significantly higher levels of multiple maladaptive psychological outcomes (e.g., global athlete burnout, emotional and physical exhaustion, sport devaluation, amotivation). Overall, findings suggest that specialization environment factors, in addition to the age of specialization, are potentially critical factors in determining health and well-being outcomes. Findings support prominent position statements suggesting early specialization may be associated with increased health risks. Study findings may also inform the development of guidelines and recommendations to aid parents, coaches, and athletes in positively impacting athlete psychosocial outcomes.
High-Risk Lower-Extremity Biomechanics Evaluated in Simulated Soccer-Specific Virtual Environments
Authors: DiCesare Christopher A. , Kiefer Adam W. , Bonnette Scott , Myer Gregory D.
Published: January 2019

Context: Laboratory-based biomechanical analyses of sport-relevant movements such as landing and cutting have classically been used to quantify kinematic and kinetic factors in the context of injury risk, which are then used to inform targeted interventions designed to improve risky movement patterns during sport. However, the noncontextual nature of standard assessments presents challenges for assessing sport-relevant skill transfer. Objective: To examine injury-risk biomechanical differences exhibited by athletes during a jump-landing task performed as part of both a standard biomechanical assessment and a simulated, sport-specific virtual reality (VR)-based assessment. Design: Observational study. Setting: Medical center laboratory. Participants: Twenty-two female adolescent soccer athletes (age = 16.0 [1.4] y, height = 165.6 [4.9] cm, and weight = 60.2 [11.4] kg). Interventions: The landing performance was analyzed for a drop vertical jump task and a VR-based, soccer-specific corner-kick scenario in which the athletes were required to jump to head a virtual soccer ball and land. Main Outcome Measures: Hip, knee, and ankle joint kinematic differences in the frontal and sagittal planes. Results: Athletes exhibited reduced hip and ankle flexion, hip abduction, and frontal plane ankle excursion during landing in realistic sport scenario compared with the standard drop vertical jump task. Conclusion: VR-based assessments can provide a sport-specific context in which to assess biomechanical deficits that predispose athletes for lower-extremity injury and offer a promising approach to better evaluate skill transfer to sport that can guide future injury prevention efforts.
The density effect on superradiance detected by the field suppression of superradiance
Authors: Han Jianing , Maeda H.
Published: January 2019

In this article, the density effect on superradiance is investigated through the field suppression of superradiance. It is shown that increasing density, which increases the number of atoms and leads to a greater macroscopic dipole, causes line broadening. In other words, it is harder to stop superradiance by an external electric field at higher density. The results reported here are essential to the superradiance detection and are critical steps towards creating and controlling ultracold plasma.
Multi-attribute ranking method for identifying key nodes in complex networks based on GRA
Authors: Yang Pingle , Xu Guiqiong , Chen Huiping
Published: January 2019

How to identify key nodes is a challenging and significant research issue in complex networks. Some existing evaluation indicators of node importance have the disadvantages of limited application scope and one-sided evaluation results. This paper takes advantage of multiple centrality measures comprehensively, by regarding the identification of key nodes as a multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problem. Firstly, a new local centrality (NLC) measure is put forward through considering multi-layer neighbor nodes and clustering coefficients. Secondly, combining the grey relational analysis (GRA) method and the susceptible-infectious-recovered (SIR) model, a modified dynamic weighted technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method is proposed. Finally, the effectiveness of the NLC is illustrated by applications to nine actual networks. Furthermore, the experimental results on four actual networks demonstrate that the proposed method can identify key nodes more accurately than the existing weighted TOPSIS method.
Effect of microstructure parameter on the energy product in two-phase permanent magnetic materials
Authors: Alexander Reshma Reba , Joseyphus R. Justin
Published: January 2019

Two-phase permanent magnets with soft and hard magnetic phases are suitable candidates for high energy product permanent magnets. To obtain enhanced energy product, the microstructure has to be optimum and the magnetization and nucleation field has to be as large as possible. The present studies suggest suitable combinations of soft–hard composites that could result in higher energy product. The role of microstructural parameter on the energy product is also presented.