bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between self-efficacy and instructional practice of in-service soft disciplines, hard disciplines and EFL teachers
Authors: Khanshan Shabnam Kurosh , Yousefi Mohammad Hosssein
Published: February 2020

The present study aimed at investigating the relationship between teachers’ self-efficacy perceptions and their instructional practices. The mediatory role of the teachers’ occupational characteristics such as their disciplines was also examined. For this purpose, a total of 70 teachers from the soft science, hard science and English language teaching (ELT) disciplines were compared. This study was situated within a mixed-methods design in which questionnaires as well as observation and semi-structured interviews were used to measure the efficacy-teaching practice. Results of Pearson correlation coefficients revealed that the self-efficacy of soft science and hard science teachers was significantly correlated with their teaching practice, with the ELT teachers’ efficacy-teaching relation not reaching a statistical significance. Results obtained from the observation and interviews further explained the teachers’ practices and the challenges that they faced in their classroom practices. Findings are discussed in light of both individual and societal perspective, offering important implications for the classrooms.
Angle- and azimuth-domain common-image gathers by reverse time migration for 3D elastic isotropic media
Authors: Khaksar Zabihollah , McMechan George A.
Published: February 2020

A 2D algorithm for angle-domain common-image gather (CIG) calculation is extended and modified to produce 3D elastic angle and azimuth CIGs. The elastic seismic data are propagated with the elastic particle displacement wave equation, and then the PP-reflected and PS-converted waves are separated by divergence and curl calculations during application of the excitation-time imaging condition. The incident angles and azimuths are calculated using source propagation directions and the reflector normals. The source propagation direction vector is computed as the spatial gradient of the incident 3C P-wavefield. The vector normal to the reflector is calculated using the Hilbert transform. Ordering the migrated images with respect to incident angles for a fixed azimuth bin, or with respect to azimuths for a fixed incident angle bin, creates angle- or azimuth-domain CIGs, respectively. Sorting the azimuth gathers by the incident angle bins causes a shift to a greater depth for too-high migration velocity and to a smaller depth for too-low migration velocity. For the sorted incident angle gathers, the velocity-dependent depth moveout is within the angle gathers and across the azimuth gathers. This method is compared with three other 3D CIG algorithms with respect to the number of calculations and their disk storage and RAM requirements; it is three to six orders of magnitude faster and requires two to three orders of magnitude less disk space. The method is successfully tested with data for a modified part of the SEG/EAGE overthrust model.
Safety of Influenza Vaccine in Patients With Cancer Receiving Pembrolizumab
Authors: Failing Jarrett J. , Ho Thanh P. , Yadav Siddhartha , Majithia Neil , Riaz Irbaz Bin , Shin John Y. , Schenk Erin L. , Xie Hao
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE:

There is a concern that influenza vaccination could increase the incidence of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in patients with cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. The aim of our study was to determine the safety of influenza vaccination in this patient population.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

We retrospectively identified patients who received at least 1 dose of pembrolizumab during any influenza season from September 2014 to August 2017 and reviewed medical records for irAEs. The primary endpoint was the incidence of irAEs. We used multivariable logistic regression and cumulative incidence curve with competing risks for comparison.

RESULTS:

Among 162 patients with cancer included in this study, 70 patients (43.2%) received at least 1 influenza vaccination. The vaccinated group was significantly older ( P = .002) and received more cycles of pembrolizumab ( P = .006). The incidence of any grade irAEs in the vaccinated group trended toward being lower (25.7% v 40.2%; P = .07) compared with the nonvaccinated group. Influenza vaccination was independently associated with fewer irAEs, with an odds ratio of 0.4 (95% CI, 0.2 to 0.9; P = .03) in multivariable analyses. The vaccinated group was less likely to have irAEs compared with the nonvaccinated group (24.7% v 34.4% at 12 months; P = .05), with death as a competing risk. The median irAE-free duration in the vaccinated group was longer than the nonvaccinated group (not reached v 28 months; P = .037).

CONCLUSION:

Influenza vaccination in patients with cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy was not associated with increased irAEs. This supports the safety of influenza vaccination in this patient population.
Gender Differences in Faculty Rank and Leadership Positions Among Hematologists and Oncologists in the United States
Authors: Riaz Irbaz Bin , Siddiqi Rabbia , Zahid Umar , Durani Urshila , Fatima Kaneez , Sipra Qurat-ul-Ain Riaz , Raina Ammad I. , Farooq Muhammad Zain , Chamberlain Alanna M. , Wang Zhen , Go Ronald S. , Marshall Ariela L. , Khosa Faisal
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE:

Gender disparity persists in academic medicine. Female faculty are underrepresented in leadership positions and have lower research output. We studied gender differences in faculty rank and departmental leadership and contributing factors among academic hematologists and oncologists in the United States.

METHODS:

For clinical faculty at 146 hematology or oncology fellowship programs listed in the Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database, we collected data on demographics, academic rank, and research output using the Doximity and Scopus databases. We compared unadjusted characteristics of men and women by using 2-sided t tests and χ2 tests where appropriate. To predict probability of full professorship or leadership position among men versus women, we performed multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for clinical experience in years, number of publications, h-index, clinical trial investigator status, National Institutes of Health funding, and workplace ranking (top 20 v not).

RESULTS:

Two thousand one hundred sixty academic hematologists and oncologists were included. Women composed 21.9% (n = 142) of full professors, 35.7% (n = 169) of associate professors, and 45.4% (n = 415) of assistant professors. Thirty percent (n = 70) of departmental leaders were women. Female faculty, compared with male faculty, had a lower mean h-index (12.1 v 20.9, respectively; P < .001) and fewer years of professional experience since fellowship (10 v 16 years, respectively; P < .001). After adjusting for duration of clinical experience, academic productivity, and workplace ranking, the odds of obtaining professorship (odds ratio [OR], 1.05; 95% CI, 0.71 to 1.57; P = .85) or divisional leadership (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.20 to 1.58; P = .28) for female physicians were not different compared with male physicians.

CONCLUSION:

Gender disparity exists in senior ranks of academic hematology and oncology; however, gender is not a significant predictor in achieving professorship or department leadership position.
Quantification of T Cell Binding Polyclonal Rabbit Anti-thymocyte Globulin in Human Plasma with Liquid Chromatography Tandem-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Amrani Mohsin El , Admiraal Rick , Willaert Lobke , Ebskamp-van Raaij Lysette J. C. , Lacna Amelia M. , Hack C. Erik , Huitema Alwin D. R. , Nierkens Stefan , van Maarseveen Erik M.
Published: February 2020

The addition of rabbit anti-human thymocyte globulin (ATG) to the conditioning regimen prior to allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation has significantly reduced the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and graft failure. However, ATG has a small therapeutic window. Overexposure of ATG post-HCT hampers T cell immune reconstitution and has been associated with increased relapse rates and viral reactivations, whereas underexposure has been associated with an increased incidence of GvHD, both of which lead to increased mortality. Therapeutic drug monitoring of T cell binding ATG plasma levels provides a means to optimize dosing for patients at high risk for graft failure to ensure timely T cell immune reconstitution and subsequently increase survival chances. This manuscript describes the first liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to quantify the pharmacologically active fraction of polyclonal ATG in plasma. This was achieved through immunoaffinity purification of active ATG from plasma with Jurkat T cells. After the binding and washing, samples were eluted, denatured, and trypsin-digested. Signature peptides originating from the IgG constant chain were measured with LC-MS/MS. Critical method parameters were optimized, and the method was successfully validated following European Medicines Agency (EMA) guidelines. The method covered the therapeutic range of ATG and was validated at a lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) of 1 AU/mL with an overall CV and bias of 11.8% and − 2.5%, respectively. In conclusion, we developed a LC-MS/MS-based method to quantify active polyclonal rabbit ATG in human plasma. We suggest that this novel assay can be used to monitor and optimize dosing of ATG in clinical practice.
Distribution of Body Hair in Young Australian Women and Associations With Serum Androgen Concentrations
Authors: Skiba Marina A , Bell Robin J , Islam Rakibul M , Karim Md Nazmul , Davis Susan R
Published: February 2020

Context

An important element of the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome is hyperandrogenism.

Objective

To determine the distribution of modified Ferriman-Gallwey (mF-G) scores, as a measure of facial and body hair growth, and associations between the mF-G scores and serum androgen concentrations, including 11-oxygenated androgens.

Design

Cross-sectional study of non-health-care-seeking women, aged 18 to 39 years, recruited from the eastern states of Australia from November 2016 to July 2017.

Participants and measurements

Participants provided an mF-G self-assessment that corresponded to their appearance when not using treatment for excess hair. Androgens were measured in 710 women by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

The distribution of the mF-G scores was right-skewed. The median (range) mF-G score of all participants (73.1% Caucasian) was 5 (0–36). The mF-G scores were negatively associated with age (rs = 0.124; P < 0.0001) and positively associated with body mass index (BMI) (rs = 0.073; P < 0.0001). Only androstenedione remained significantly associated with mF-G scores when controlling for age and BMI. Cluster analysis identified 2 groups with mF-G score of < 10 and ≥ 10. Repeating the cluster analysis using the combined vector of mF-G score and androstenedione returned a similar cluster structure, and again separated the 2 groups at a mF-G score < 10 versus ≥ 10.

Conclusions

A self-assessed mF-G score ≥ 10 is indicative of excess body hair. Androstenedione, as well as testosterone, should be measured when hyperandrogenism is being evaluated. The lack of association between mF-G scores and the 11-oxygenated androgens highlights the need for a better understanding of these steroids.
Lipid Emulsion Restoration of Myocardial Contractions After Bupivacaine-Induced Asystole In Vitro: A Benefit of Long- and Medium-Chain Triglyceride Over Long-Chain Triglyceride
Authors: Kim Hyun Joo , Kim Hyun Soo , Jung Ja Rang , Kim Ha Yan , Lynch Carl , Park Wyun Kon
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND:

The relative efficacies of a long- and medium-chain triglyceride (LCT/MCT) emulsion and an LCT emulsion for treatment of bupivacaine (BPV)-induced cardiac toxicity are poorly defined.

METHODS:

After inducing asystole by BPV, varied concentrations (1%–12%) of either LCT/MCT (Lipofundin; B. Braun, Melsungen, Germany) or LCT emulsion (Intralipid; Fresenius Kabi, Upsala, Sweden) were applied to observe the recovery of stimulated contractile responses and contractile forces in either a recirculating or washout condition for 60 minutes, using guinea pig papillary muscles. The recirculation condition was used to demonstrate BPV binding by lipid emulsion. The washout condition was used to determine whether the time-dependent recovery of contraction is due to their metabolic enhancement. Oxfenicine, an inhibitor of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I in heart mitochondria, was used to evaluate the effect of each lipid emulsion on mitochondrial metabolic inhibition by BPV. To examine the effect of the lipid emulsion alone on contractility, either lipid emulsion was examined. BPV concentrations in solution and myocardial tissues were measured.

RESULTS:

In the recirculating condition, LCT/MCT emulsions (2%–12%) restored regular stimulated contractile responses in all muscles. Eight percent and 12% LCT/MCT emulsions led to complete recovery of contractile forces after 30 minutes. Meanwhile, LCT emulsions (4%–12%) did not restore regular stimulated contractile responses in some muscles (6, 3, and 2 in 9 muscles each in 4%, 8%, and 12% emulsions, respectively). Partial recovery, approximately 60%, of contractile forces was observed with 8% and 12% LCT emulsions. In the washout experiments, after asystole, LCT/MCT emulsions (1%–12%) restored contractility to baseline levels earlier and greater than LCT emulsion. Partial recovery, approximately 60%, was observed with a high concentration of LCT emulsion (12%). In the oxfenicine-pretreated group, the contractile recovery was enhanced with LCT/MCT emulsion but showed no change with LCT emulsion. Contractile depression by 40% was observed with high concentrations of LCT emulsion alone (8% and 12%), whereas no depression or enhanced contraction was observed with LCT/MCT emulsion (1%–12%) alone. Both types of lipid emulsions (2%–12%) caused concentration-related reductions of tissue BPV levels; LCT/MCT emulsions reduced tissue BPV levels slightly greater than LCT emulsion in a recirculating condition.

CONCLUSIONS:

An LCT/MCT emulsion was more beneficial than an LCT emulsion in terms of local anesthetic-binding and metabolic enhancement for treating acute BPV toxicity. The metabolic benefit of MCT, combined with the local anesthetic-binding effect of LCT, in an LCT/MCT emulsion may improve contractile function better than an LCT emulsion in an isolated in vitro animal myocardium model.
Exposure to General Anesthesia for Cesarean Delivery and Odds of Severe Postpartum Depression Requiring Hospitalization
Authors: Guglielminotti Jean , Li Guohua
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND:

Previous research suggests that, compared with regional anesthesia, general anesthesia is associated with increased odds of postoperative depressive disorders. No study has specifically evaluated the possible protective effect of neuraxial anesthesia for cesarean delivery on maternal mental health compared with general anesthesia. This exploratory study was designed to test the hypothesis that general anesthesia for cesarean delivery is associated with increased odds of severe postpartum depression (PPD) requiring hospitalization compared with neuraxial anesthesia.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study included cesarean delivery cases performed in New York State hospitals between January 2006 and December 2013. Exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) having >1 cesarean delivery during the study period; (2) residing outside of New York State; (3) having a general anesthetic for other surgery or delivery in the previous year or in the year after the index case. The primary outcome was the occurrence of PPD, and the secondary outcomes were: (1) the composite of suicidal ideation or self-inflicted injury (ie, suicidality); (2) anxiety disorders; and (3) posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD). Primary and secondary outcomes were identified during the delivery hospitalization and up to 1 year after delivery. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of adverse psychiatric outcomes associated with general anesthesia were estimated using propensity score matching.

RESULTS:

Of the 428,204 cesarean delivery cases included, 34,356 had general anesthesia (8.0%). Severe PPD requiring hospitalization was recorded in 1158 women (2.7/1000; 95% CI, 2.5–2.9); of them, 60% were identified during readmission, with a median of 164 days after discharge. Relative to neuraxial anesthesia, general anesthesia in cesarean delivery was associated with a 54% increased odds of PPD (aOR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.21–1.95) and a 91% increased odds of suicidal ideation or self-inflicted injury (aOR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.12–3.25). There was insufficient evidence in these data that general anesthesia was associated with anxiety disorders (aOR, 1.37; 95% CI, 0.97–1.95) or PTSD (aOR, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.50–4.47).

CONCLUSIONS:

General anesthesia for cesarean delivery is associated with increased odds of severe PPD requiring hospitalization, suicidal ideation, and self-inflicted injury. If confirmed, these preliminary findings underscore the need to avoid the use of general anesthesia for cesarean delivery whenever possible, and to provide mental health screening, counseling, and other follow-up services to obstetric patients exposed to general anesthesia.
Regional Anesthesia in Cardiac Surgery: An Overview of Fascial Plane Chest Wall Blocks
Authors: Kelava Marta , Alfirevic Andrej , Bustamante Sergio , Hargrave Jennifer , Marciniak Donn
Published: February 2020

Optimal analgesia is an integral part of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs designed to improve patients’ perioperative experience and outcomes. Regional anesthetic techniques in a form of various fascial plane chest wall blocks are an important adjunct to the optimal postoperative analgesia in cardiac surgery. The most common application of fascial plane chest wall blocks has been for minimally invasive cardiac surgical procedures. An abundance of case reports has been described in the anesthesia literature and reports appear promising, yet higher-level safety and efficacy evidence is lacking. Those providing anesthesia for minimally invasive cardiac procedures should become familiar with fascial plane anatomy and block techniques to be able to provide enhanced postsurgical analgesia and facilitate faster functional recovery and earlier discharge. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of contemporary fascial plane chest wall blocks used for analgesia in cardiothoracic surgery. Specifically, we focus on relevant anatomic considerations and technical descriptions including pectoralis I and II, serratus anterior, pectointercostal fascial, transverse thoracic muscle, and erector spine plane blocks. In addition, we provide a summary of reported local anesthetic doses used for these blocks and a current state of the literature investigating their efficacy, duration, and comparisons with standard practices. Finally, we hope to stimulate further research with a focus on delineating mechanisms of action of novel emerging blocks, appropriate dosing regimens, and subsequent analysis of their effect on patient outcomes.
Analysis of ants’ rescue behavior reveals heritable specialization for first responders
Authors: Andras Jason P. , Hollis Karen L. , Carter Kristyn A. , Couldwell Genevieve , Nowbahari Elise
Published: February 2020

In colonies of Cataglyphis cursor ants, a single queen mates with multiple males, creating the foundation for heritable behavioral specializations. A novel and unique candidate for such specializations is rescue behavior, a precisely delivered form of altruism in which workers attempt to release trapped nestmates and which relies on short-term memory of previous actions to increase its efficiency. Consistent with task specialization, not all individuals participate; instead, some individuals move away from the victim, which gives rescuers unrestricted access. Using a bioassay to identify rescuers and non-rescuers, coupled with paternity assignment via polymorphic microsatellite markers, we not only show that rescue behavior is heritable, with 34% of the variation explained by paternity, but also establish that rescue, heretofore overlooked in analyses of division of labor, is a true specialization, an ant version of first responders. Moreover, this specialization emerges as early as 5 days of age, and the frequency of rescuers remains constant across ants’ age ranges. The extremely broad range of these ants’ heritable polyethism provides further support for the critical role of polyandry in increasing the efficiency of colony structure and, in turn, reproductive success.
Rapid adaptive evolution of scale-eating kinematics to a novel ecological niche
Authors: St. John Michelle E. , Holzman Roi , Martin Christopher H.
Published: February 2020

The origins of novel trophic specialization, in which organisms begin to exploit novel resources for the first time, may be explained by shifts in behavior such as foraging preferences or feeding kinematics. One way to investigate behavioral mechanisms underlying ecological novelty is by comparing prey capture kinematics among species. We investigated the contribution of kinematics to the origins of a novel ecological niche for scale-eating within a microendemic adaptive radiation of pupfishes on San Salvador Island, Bahamas. We compared prey capture kinematics across three species of pupfish while consuming shrimp and scales in the lab, and found that scale-eating pupfish exhibited peak gape sizes twice as large as other species, but also attacked prey with a more obtuse angle between their lower jaw and suspensorium. We then investigated how this variation in feeding kinematics could explain scale-biting performance by measuring bite size (surface area removed) from standardized gelatin cubes. We found that a combination of larger peak gape and more obtuse lower jaw and suspensorium angles resulted in approximately 40% more surface area removed per strike, indicating that scale-eaters may reside on a performance optimum for scale-biting. To test whether feeding performance could contribute to reproductive isolation between species, we also measured F1 hybrids and found that their kinematics and performance more closely resembled generalists, suggesting that F1 hybrids may have low fitness in the scale-eating niche. Ultimately, our results suggest that the evolution of strike kinematics in this radiation is an adaptation to the novel niche of scale-eating.
A sense of place: Pink salmon use a magnetic map for orientation
Authors: Putman Nathan F. , Williams Chase R. , Gallagher Evan P. , Dittman Andrew H.
Published: February 2020

The use of “map-like” information from Earth's magnetic field for orientation has been shown in diverse taxa, but questions remain regarding the function of such maps. We used a “magnetic displacement” experiment to demonstrate that juvenile pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) use magnetic cues to orient. The experiment was designed to simultaneously explore whether their magnetic map is used to direct fish (i) homeward, (ii) toward the center of their broad oceanic range, or (iii) along their oceanic migratory route. The headings adopted by these navigationally naïve fish coincided remarkably well with the direction of the juveniles’ migration inferred from historical tagging and catch data. This suggests that the large-scale movements of pink salmon across the North Pacific may be driven largely by their innate use of geomagnetic map cues. Key aspects of the oceanic ecology of pink salmon and other marine migrants might therefore be predicted from magnetic displacement experiments.
Canting Antiferromagnetic Spin-Order (TN = 102 K) in a Monomer Mott Insulator (ET)Ag4(CN)5 with a Diamond Spin-Lattice
Authors: Otsuka Akihiro , Shimizu Yasuhiro , Saito Gunzi , Maesato Mitsuhiko , Kiswandhi Andhika , Hiramatsu Takaaki , Yoshida Yukihiro , Yamochi Hideki , Tsuchiizu Masahisa , Nakamura Yuto , Kishida Hideo , Ito Hiroshi
Published: February 2020

The ET•+ molecules in a charge-transfer salt (ET)Ag4(CN)5 form a three-dimensional diamond spin-lattice with S = 1/2 (ET: bis(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene), where a geometrical spin-frustration is expected when an appropriate spin interaction is realized. A metallic nature has been proposed for this salt based on both band calculation and electron paramagnetic resonance measurements. We studied the crystal and band structures, optical spectra, resistivity, magnetic, and NMR measurements and found the salt to be a three-dimensional monomer Mott insulator with a resistivity of 1.8 × 102 Ω cm at room temperature (// c), though the calculated band structure showed a Dirac-like semimetallic dispersion. 1H NMR and magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal an antiferromagnetic spin ordering at TN = 102 K, above which characteristic temperature insensitive behaviors of T1−1 and spin susceptibility are observed. A weak ferromagnetism is detected below TN with a spin canting angle of ∼0.01°, possibly arising from a Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction due to a lowering of the crystal symmetry. This is the first example of a weak ferromagnetic three-dimensional diamond spin-lattice among the organic charge-transfer solids.
Establishing a Global Standard for Wearable Devices in Sport and Fitness: Perspectives from the New England Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine Members
Authors: Ash Garrett I. , Stults-Kolehmainen Matthew , Busa Michael A. , Gregory Robert , Garber Carol Ewing , Liu Jason , Gerstein Mark , Casajus José Antonio , Gonzalez-Aguero Alex , Constantinou Demitri , Geistlinger Michael , Guppy Fergus M. , Pigozzi Fabio , Pitsiladis Yannis P.
Published: February 2020

The recent explosion of wearable technology and the associated concerns prompted the International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS) to create a quality assurance standard for wearable devices, which provides commissioned testing of marketing claims and endorsement of commercial wearables that test favorably. An open forum as announced in the conference advertising was held at the Annual Meeting of the New England Regional Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine (NEACSM) November 7 to 8, 2019, in Providence, Rhode Island, USA for attending NEACSM members to voice their input on the process. Herein, we report the proceedings. The round table participants perceived the quality assurance standard to be important, but identified some practical process challenges that included the broad scope and complexity of the device universe, the need for a multiphase testing pathway, and the associated fees for product evaluation. The participants also supported the evaluation of device data analysis, behavioral influences, and user experience in the overall evaluation. Looking forward, the FIMS quality assurance standard faces the challenge of balancing these broader perspectives with practical constraints of budget, facilities, time, and human resources.
Musculoskeletal Preparticipation Physical Evaluation—Does it Lead to Decreased Musculoskeletal Morbidity?
Authors: Andujo Victor D. , Fletcher Ian E. , McGrew Christopher
Published: February 2020

A preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE) is a requirement that many athletes must complete before participating in organized sports. Currently, the traditional musculoskeletal (MSK) portion of the PPE lacks robust evidence to support its ability to accurately predict those at greater risk for MSK injury. Functional movement testing has garnered attention for potential use in the PPE having shown some promise for greater sensitivity at identifying those at greater risk for MSK injury. Despite the widespread use of MSK PPE screening to identify athletes at greater risk for MSK injury, there is no significant evidence demonstrating that subsequent interventions result in decreased MSK injury.
Shifting Focus: A Clinician's Guide to Understanding Neuroplasticity for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rehabilitation
Authors: Faltus John , Criss Cody Ryan , Grooms Dustin Robert
Published: February 2020

Neuroplasticity after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury has lingering effects throughout rehabilitation and can influence reinjury risk upon returning to sport if not addressed. Various neural compensatory strategies have been identified following ACL injury, which appear to not be rectified with typical therapy. Thus, further consideration is warranted, addressing the neurophysiologic and neurocognitive aspects of injury when developing a rehabilitation program. Integration of external focus of control strategies, neurocognition, motor planning, unanticipated sensory processing, and load management provide an efficient and effective method for improving motor learning and control throughout the rehabilitation process. Rehabilitation exercises that incorporate unique sports-specific challenges can target the visual processing and anticipatory reaction components of motor control to reduce motor errors that increase injury risk when returning to activity. The neurocognitive demands of returning to sport of efficient decision making and motor patterning amid a rapidly changing competitive environment require novel and clinically implemental strategies.
Active Drag as a Criterion for Evidence-based Classification in Para Swimming
Authors: PAYTON CARL , HOGARTH LUKE , BURKETT BRENDAN , VAN DE VLIET PETER , LEWIS SANDRA , OH YIM-TAEK
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Paralympic classification should provide athletes with an equitable starting point for competition by minimizing the impact their impairment has on the outcome of the event. As swimming is an event conducted in water, the ability to overcome drag (active and passive) is an important performance determinant. It is plausible that the ability to do this is affected by the type and severity of the physical impairment, but the current World Para Swimming classification system does not objectively account for this component. The aim of this study was to quantify active and passive drag in Para swimmers and evaluate the strength of association between these measures and type of physical impairment, swimming performance, and sport class.

Methods

Seventy-two highly trained Para swimmers from sport classes S1 to S10 and 14 highly trained nondisabled swimmers were towed by a motorized winch while the towing force was recorded. Passive drag was measured with the arms held by the side; active drag was determined during freestyle swimming using an assisted towing method.

Results

Active and passive drag were higher in Para swimmers with central motor and neuromuscular impairments than for nondisabled swimmers and were associated with severity of swim-specific impairment (sport class) and maximal freestyle performance in these swimmers (r = −0.40 to −0.50, P ≤ 0.02). Para swimmers with anthropometric impairments showed similar active and passive drag to nondisabled swimmers, and between swimmers from different sport classes.

Conclusions

Para swimmers with central motor and neuromuscular impairments are predisposed to high active drag during freestyle swimming that impacts on their performance. It is recommended that drag measures be considered in revised classification for these swimmers, but not for those with anthropometric impairments.
Effects of Exercise Training on Anxious–Depressive-like Behavior in Alzheimer Rat
Authors: WU CHONGYUN , YANG LUODAN , LI YONG , DONG YAN , YANG BAOCHENG , TUCKER LORELEI DONOVAN , ZONG XUEMEI , ZHANG QUANGUANG
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the effects of treadmill training on anxious–depressive-like behaviors of transgenic Alzheimer rats in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and provided evidence of exercise in alleviating fear-avoidance behavior deficits.

Methods

Male 2-month-old TgF344-AD and wild-type rats were divided into wild-type (n= 9), AD (n= 8), and AD + treadmill exercise (Exe) groups (n= 12). After 8 months of exercise, the passive avoidance test, Barnes maze task, novel object recognition test, and object location test were used to measure learning and memory function. The open-field test, elevated plus maze, sucrose preference test, and forced swim test were conducted to determine the anxious–depressive-like behavior of AD rats. Immunofluorescence staining, Western blot analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis, and related assay kits were used to measure inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, amyloid-β production, and tau hyperphosphorylation.

Results

Behavioral tests revealed that 12-month-old animals did not show any spatial learning and memory deficits but did display anxious–depressive-like behavior (open field, center time:P= 0.008; center entries:P= 0.009; line crossings:P= 0.001). However, long-term exercise significantly inhibited anxious–depressive-like behavior in AD rats (center time:P= 0.016; center entries:P= 0.004; line crossings:P= 0.033). In addition, these animals displayed increased amyloid-β deposition, tau hyperphosphorylation, microgliosis, inflammatory cytokines release, and oxidative damage, which were attenuated significantly by long-term exercise training.

Conclusion

Long-term exercise training alleviated anxious–depressive-like behavior and improved fear-avoidance behavior in transgenic AD rats, supporting exercise training as an effective approach to prevent anxiety, depression, and fear-avoidance behavior deficits in the early stages of AD pathogenesis.
O uso de proteinados e percepção de efeitos adversos por acadêmicos do Curso de Educação Física
Authors: Santos Sandra Oliveira , Khouri Adibe Georges , Silva Karitta Ribeiro , Mendes Ana Paula Santos , Felipe Jéssika Soares Nolêto
Published: February 2020

Objetivo: analisar o uso de proteinados por um grupo de acadêmicos do Curso de Educação Física de uma instituição de ensino Superior e a percepção dos participantes quanto aos possíveis efeitos adversos. Métodos: aplicou-se um questionário semiestruturado, com a colaboração de 90 acadêmicos do Curso de Educação Física, que frequentavam a área de esportes da instituição. Resultados: no que diz respeito ao consumo dos suplementos proteinados, observa-se que 34 dos participantes (37,8%) fazem o uso de suplementos e 56 não utilizam (62,2%). A indicação dos suplementos proteicos ocorreu por nutricionistas (52,9%) seguidos daqueles que o fizeram por iniciativa própria (23,5%); houve, também, a resposta de indicação do uso do produto pelo personal trainner (17,6%) e professor de Educação Física (5,9%). Conclusões: o uso de suplementos proteicos para ganho de massa muscular é uma prática que está, a cada dia, sendo intensificada por praticantes de atividades físicas e vem associado ao marketing popularizado desses produtos que não necessariamente se faz de forma apropriada. Segundo a Resolução CFN 390/2006, que regulamenta a prescrição de alimentos ou suplementos destinados aos atletas, restringe-se ao profissional médico e nutricionista. Fazendo, assim, ilegítima a indicação de suplementos proteinados por profissionais de educação física e demais profissionais da área da saúde. Embora não representasse o maior número de participantes, essa pesquisa ainda demonstra que há uso descomedido dos proteinados, mesmo por acadêmicos do Curso de Educação Física, nos últimos períodos de suas formações.
Supplier Centrality and Auditing Priority in Socially Responsible Supply Chains
Authors: Chen Jiayu , Qi Anyan , Dawande Milind
Published: February 2020

Problem definition: A key question in socially responsible supply networks is as follows: When firms audit some, but not all, of their respective suppliers, how do the degree centralities of the suppliers (i.e., the number of firms to which they supply) affect their auditing priority from the viewpoint of the firms? To investigate, we consider an assembly network consisting of two firms and three suppliers; each firm has one independent supplier that uniquely supplies to that firm and one common supplier that supplies to both. Academic/practical relevance: Most supply networks are characterized by firms that source from multiple suppliers and suppliers that serve multiple firms, thus resulting in suppliers who differ in their degree centrality. In such networks, any negative publicity from suppliers’ noncompliance with socially responsible practices—for example, employment of child labor, unsafe working conditions, and excessive pollution—can significantly damage the reputation of the buying firms. To mitigate this impact, firms preemptively audit suppliers although resource and time considerations typically restrict the number of suppliers a firm can audit. Consequently, it becomes important to understand the impact of the degree centralities of the suppliers on the priority with which firms audit them. Methodology: Game-theoretic analysis. Results: Downstream competition between the firms drives them away from auditing the supplier with higher centrality, that is, the common supplier, in equilibrium, despite the fact that auditing this supplier is better for the aggregate profit of the firms. We show that this inefficiency is corrected when the firms cooperate (via a stable coalition) to jointly audit the suppliers and share the auditing cost in a fair manner. We also identify conditions under which joint auditing improves social welfare. Managerial implications: We have two main messages: (i) individual incentives can lead firms to deprioritize the auditing of structurally important suppliers, which is inefficient; (ii) the practice of joint auditing can correct this inefficiency.
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE APPLICATION OF LEARNING MODELS DEVICE NETWORK APPLICATION INITIATIVE FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY SKILLS INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
Authors: Purnadi Purnadi , Kuat Tri , Santosa Budi
Published: February 2020

Competence of Vocational High School (VHS) students can be qualified, if students have competence in accordance with industry needs. The synchronization of the curriculum with the industry is absolutely necessary, so the school is not left behind by the development of the business world and the industrial world. The development of learning model should always be updated or done curriculum innovation, so that schools can synergize with DUDI. This study aims to (1) to know the implementation of the Device Network Application Initiative learning model, (2) to know the advantages and disadvantages of applying the Device Network Application Initiative learning model, (3) to know the effectiveness of the learning model of the Device Network Application Initiative for the Department of Technology and Information. The learning model of the Device Network Application Initiative (DNA Initiative) (the DNA curriculum) is the application of industrial curriculum to VHS education. Model innovation. The business world and the industrial world (dunia usaha dunia industry/DUDI) are more confident with students who get their learning materials of industry standard. This study uses a qualitative method. The research was conducted by observation, interview and documentation. Data analysis techniques using descriptive analysis techniques. Secondary data in the form of documentation is used to support the research. Focus Group Discussion by presenting DUDI, curriculum experts, industrial class managers, user / user graduates, teachers and testimonials, concluded that the implementation of the Device Network Application Initiative learning model for vocational students is very effective andappropriate. The contribution to schools is the implementation of process concept that schools are industrial environments or industrial replicas.
SPROUTING SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL WORKFORCE THROUGH TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN SOUTH-SOUTH, NIGERIA
Authors: Oviawe Jane Itohan , Ehirheme Pauline E.
Published: February 2020

The call for continuous creation of industrial and technological workforce cannot be overlooked, in view of the fact that it will boost the sustainable industrial and technological development of any nation. A vital programme that can bring into being requisite workforce for sustainable industrial and technological development is Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET). To this end, this study investigated the strategies for sprouting sustainable industrial and technological workforce through TVET in Nigeria using the descriptive survey research design. The study was guided with two research questions and two hypotheses. The sample was made up of 300 respondents comprising of 154 TVET Lecturers from Universities and 146 TVET industry-based workers in South-South Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria, who were selected using simple random and convenience sampling techniques respectively. The instrument used for data collection was a 69-item questionnaire which was validated by three experts. The reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach Alpha and a reliability coefficient of .86 was obtained. Mean and standard deviations statistics were used to answer the research questions, whereas t-test statistic was used to test the null hypotheses at .05 level of significance. The findings of this study revealed that TVET programmes had some policy-related challenges; and TVET institutions-workplace collaboration is a possible strategy for sprouting sustainable industrial and technological workforce in Nigeria. Thus, among others, it was recommended that firm TVET policy document be set-up by government and all stakeholders to appropriately synchronize TVET programmes towards sprouting sustainable industrial and technological workforce in Nigeria.
Digitalization of Municipalities Through Ecosystem Collaboration
Authors: Chang Hans , Mikalsen Katrine Selnes , Nesse Per Jonny , Erdal Olai Bendik
Published: February 2020

Emerging technologies combined with new ways of doing business provides a series of new possibilities, but also significant challenges. In this paper, we study how municipalities can realize value from digitalization through ecosystem collaboration. We analyze 26 digitalization strategies representing 58 municipalities in Norway to get an overlook of the current landscape. In addition in-depth interviews are done in 5 municipalities to discover cross-case similarities and patterns. Our findings highlight important strategic measures related to different types of value for the majority of municipal digitalization approaches. We find experimental Internet of Things pilots, ecosystem collaboration and innovative approaches among the municipalities that are further ahead other municipalities in the digitalization process. The results are analyzed and discussed towards recent literature and similar international research on comparable municipalities.
International Comparison of Vocational Rehabilitation for Persons With Spinal Cord Injury: Systems, Practices, and Barriers
Authors: Roels Ellen H. , Reneman Michiel F. , New Peter W. , Kiekens Carlotte , Van Roey Lot , Townson Andrea , Scivoletto Giorgio , Smith Eimear , Eriks-Hoogland Inge , Staubli Stefan , Post Marcel W.M.
Published: February 2020

Background: Employment rates among people with spinal cord injury or spinal cord disease (SCI/D) show considerable variation across countries. One factor to explain this variation is differences in vocational rehabilitation (VR) systems. International comparative studies on VR however are nonexistent. Objectives: To describe and compare VR systems and practices and barriers for return to work in the rehabilitation of persons with SCI/D in multiple countries. Methods: A survey including clinical case examples was developed and completed by medical and VR experts from SCI/D rehabilitation centers in seven countries between April and August 2017. Results: Location (rehabilitation center vs community), timing (around admission, toward discharge, or after discharge from clinical rehabilitation), and funding (eg, insurance, rehabilitation center, employer, or community) of VR practices differ. Social security services vary greatly. The age and preinjury occupation of the patient influences the content of VR in some countries. Barriers encountered during VR were similar. No participant mentioned lack of interest in VR among team members as a barrier, but all mentioned lack of education of the team on VR as a barrier. Other frequently mentioned barriers were fatigue of the patient (86%), lack of confidence of the patient in his/her ability to work (86%), a gap in the team's knowledge of business/legal aspects (86%), and inadequate transportation/accessibility (86%). Conclusion: VR systems and practices, but not barriers, differ among centers. The variability in VR systems and social security services should be considered when comparing VR study results.
The regulation of oxygen to low concentrations in marine oxygen-minimum zones
Authors: Canfield Don E. , Kraft Beate , Löscher Carolin R. , Boyle Richard A. , Thamdrup Bo , Stewart Frank J.
Published: February 2020

The Bay of Bengal hosts persistent, measurable, but sub-micromolar, concentrations of oxygen in its oxygen-minimum zone (OMZ). Such low-oxygen conditions are not necessarily rare in the global ocean and seem also to characterize the OMZ of the Pescadero Basin in the Gulf of California,
as well as the outer edges of otherwise anoxic OMZs, such as can be found, for example, in the Eastern Tropical North Pacific. We show here that biological controls on oxygen consumption are required to allow the semistable persistence of low-oxygen conditions in OMZ settings; otherwise, only
small changes in physical mixing or rates of primary production would drive the OMZ between anoxic and oxic states with potentially large swings in oxygen concentration. We propose that two controls are active: an oxygen-dependent control on oxygen respiration and an oxygen inhibition of denitrification.
These controls, working alone and together, can generate low-oxygen concentrations over a wide variability in ocean mixing parameters. More broadly, we discuss the oxygen regulation of organic matter cycling and N2 production in OMZ settings. Modern biogeochemical models of nitrogen
and oxygen cycling in OMZ settings do contain some of the parameterizations that we explore here. However, these models have not been applied to understanding the persistence of low, but measurable, concentrations of oxygen in settings like the Bay of Bengal, nor have they been applied to
understanding what biological/physical processes control the transition from a weakly oxygenated state to a “functionally” anoxic state with implications for nitrogen cycling. Therefore, we believe that the approach here illuminates the relationship between oxygen and the biogeochemical
cycling of carbon and nitrogen in settings like the Bay of Bengal. Furthermore, we believe that our results could further inform large-scale ocean models seeking to explore how global warming might influence the spread of low-oxygen waters, influencing the cycles of oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen
in OMZ settings.
Optical pulling forces and their applications
Authors: Li Hang , Cao Yongyin , Zhou Lei-Ming , Xu Xiaohao , Zhu Tongtong , Shi Yuzhi , Qiu Cheng-Wei , Ding Weiqiang
Published: February 2020

Optical manipulations utilizing the mechanical effect of light have been indispensable in various disciplines. Among those various manipulations, optical pulling has emerged recently as an attractive notion and captivated the popular imagination, not only because it constitutes a rich family of counterintuitive phenomena compared with traditional manipulations but also due to the profound physics underneath and potential applications. Beginning with a general introduction to optical forces, related theories, and methods, we review the progresses achieved in optical pulling forces using different mechanisms and configurations. Similar pulling forces in other forms of waves, including acoustic, water, and quantum matter waves, are also integrated. More importantly, we also include the progresses in counterintuitive left-handed optical torque and lateral optical force as the extensions of the pulling force. As a new manipulation degree of freedom, optical pulling force and related effects have potential applications in remote mass transportation, optical rotating, and optical sorting. They may also stimulate the investigations of counterintuitive phenomena in other forms of waves.