bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative diagnostic test accuracy of post-esophagectomy water-soluble computed tomography and fluoroscopic swallow studies: A meta-analysis
Authors: Murray Timothy E , Morrin Martina
Published: March 2018

Aims: Both fluoroscopic water-soluble contrast swallow (FWSCS) and CT water-soluble contrast swallow (CTWSCS) are widely performed as a routine in the post-esophagectomy patient to assess for anastomotic leak. Several prospective studies have compared FWSCS and CTWSCS; however, no synthesis of the data exists. Materials and Methods: Systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies comparing FWSCS and CTWSCS in the adult patient following esophagectomy for malignancy was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Results: Three diagnostic test accuracy studies met the inclusion criteria, directly comparing FWSCS and CTWSCS in 185 patients. FWSCS demonstrated high specificity (98%), but low sensitivity (64%). CTWSCS can be categorized as normal, mediastinal gas without contrast leak, or leakage of oral contrast. Visible leakage of oral contrast demonstrated high specificity (98%) but low sensitivity (56%). The presence of mediastinal gas increased sensitivity (84%), but reduced specificity (85%). The higher sensitivity of CTWSCS over FWSCS failed to reach significance (P = 0.125). Conclusion: CTWSCS shares the high specificity of FWSCS. Its higher sensitivity increases its utility as a rule-out test in the postoperative period. Additional factors that may influence decision-making are described.
Portal vein thrombosis after donor liver biopsy: Case report
Authors: Bashir Shahnawaz , Mittal Kartik , Khisti Rohit , Yadav Ankusha , Mukund Amar , Pamecha Viniyendra
Published: March 2018

Percutaneous plugged liver biopsy is a safe procedure with a low complication rate. Portal vein thrombosis has not been reported after percutaneous liver biopsy in the literature. We present a case of portal vein thrombosis after percutaneous plugged liver biopsy in a voluntary liver donor, which was subsequently treated with catheter-directed percutaneous transhepatic thrombolysis. In future, healthy patients undergoing liver biopsies are expected to increase for donor evaluation. More refinements of technique and hardware in the future may further decrease the rate of complications. However, if they occur, they need to be recognized and managed at the earliest.
Primary presentation of Jeune’s syndrome as gastric motility disorder in an infant: A case report
Authors: Katyan Amit , Grover Shabnam Bhandari , Rajani Heena , Bagga Deepak , Antil Neha
Published: March 2018

We report a case of a 4-week-old female neonate with Jeune’s asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy (JATD) and coexistent situs anomaly, primarily presenting as gastric motility disorder. The child presented with abdominal distension and nonbilious vomiting since birth with failure to thrive. However, skeletal survey revealed JATD. Upper gastrointestinal contrast study showed situs inversus with delayed gastric emptying. Pyloric biopsy and intraoperative antro-duodenal manometry confirmed association of gastric motility disorder. Awareness of the unusual possibility of primary presentation of Jeune syndrome as gastric motility disorder will improve the management approach in such infants.
Brown fat necrosis with calcifications in the newborn: Risk factors, radiographic findings, and clinical course
Authors: Golden Eleza T , Dickson Paula , Simoneaux Stephen
Published: March 2018

Objective: To describe the radiographic appearance of subclinical calcified brown fat necrosis and the associated clinical and laboratory findings. Materials and Methods: Picture Archiving and Communications Sytem (PACS) was searched using keywords “soft tissue calcification” and “chest.” The clinical record was searched for prior cardiac surgery, bypass, Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygentation (ECMO) and prostaglandin use. Age when calcifications were first detected, location, resolution, and associated laboratory abnormalities were recorded. Results: Nine patients were identified. None had skin lesions. All patients had congenital heart disease and had experienced cardiac/respiratory arrest and/or severe hypotension 1–6 weeks before soft tissue calcifications occurred. Calcifications resolved by 9 weeks to 5 months in 3 patients. The remaining were either deceased or lacked follow-up imaging. Renal ultrasound was performed in all but 1 patient. Nephrocalcinosis was only seen in 1 patient. Conclusion: Brown fat necrosis is subclinical, diagnosed on plain film, and likely self-limited. It occurs in term and preterm infants who have undergone significant systemic stress and carries a poor prognosis.
Population structure and phylogenetic analysis of laboratory rabbits in Taiwan based on microsatellite markers
Authors: Lai Fang-Yu , Ding Shih-Torng , Tu Po-An , Chen R.S. , Lin Der-Yuh , Lin En-Cheng , Wang Pei-Hwa
Published: March 2018

Laboratory rabbits used in Taiwan are primarily supplied by the Livestock Research Institute (LRI) and the Animal Drugs Inspection Branch (ADIB) of the Animal Health Research Institute. An analysis of the genetic characteristics and structure of these populations would thus be a fundamental step in building a long-term management programme for maintaining stable animal quality and preserving the genetic variation among the populations. In this study, DNA samples were isolated from founders of 5 populations: New Zealand White rabbits (NZW) and Japanese White rabbits (JPN) from the ADIB, NZW and Rex rabbits (REX) from the LRI, and NZW from a private rabbit breeding farm in Ban Ciao (BC). A set of microsatellite markers, 18 in total, was designed for genetic analysis. The average values for the allele number (Na), effective number of alleles (Ne), observed heterozygosity (Ho), expected heterozygosity (HE), and Wright’s fixation index (FIS) were 5.50, 2.437, 0.442, 0.568 and 0.232, respectively. These results revealed that this set of microsatellite markers has high diversity and that the major local populations have a tendency toward inbreeding. At the same time, analysis of molecular variance results showed that the laboratory rabbits used in Taiwan have maintained a high level of within-population genetic differentiation (83%). The genetic differentiation among clusters was moderate (FST=0.18), and Bayesian cluster analysis showed that the most likely number of groups was 4 (K=4). Principal component analysis (PCA) also showed 4 divergent clusters. The LRI and BC NZW populations were not separated when K=4 was used in a Structure software analysis and were also hard to split until principal component 3 in PCA. The individual unrooted phylogenetic tree showed that the 5 populations were separated, except that some individuals from the LRI NZW population overlapped with the ADIB NZW and BC NZW populations. As such, in order to counteract the reduced FIS (0.232) and maximise heterozygosity, the 3 NZW populations could be interbred or have new genes introduced into them. The set of microsatellite markers used herein was useful for studying the relationships and genetic diversities among these rabbit populations of Taiwan. Based on the resulting data, rabbit farms in Taiwan could select parental stocks for planned mating in the future as part of strategies to preserve and restore the rational breeding of laboratory rabbits.
Dielectric characterization of vegetation at L-band using an open-ended coaxial probe
Authors: Mavrovic Alex , Roy Alexandre , Royer Alain , Bilal Filali , Boone François , Pappas Christoforos , Oliver Sonnentag
Published: March 2018

Abstract. Decoupling the integrated microwave signal originating from soil and vegetation remains a challenge for all microwave remote sensing applications. To improve satellite and airborne microwave data products in forest environments, a precise and reliable estimation of the relative permittivity (𝜺 = 𝜺’ – i 𝜺’’) of the trees is required. We developed an open-ended coaxial probe suitable for in situ permittivity measurements of tree trunks at L-band wavelengths (1–2 GHz). The probe is characterized by uncertainties under 3.3 % for a broad range of permittivities, [2–40] for 𝜺’ and [0.1–20] for 𝜺’’. We quantified the complex number describing the permittivity of seven different tree species in both frozen and thawed states: black spruce, larch, red spruce, balsam fir, red pine, aspen and black cherry. Variability in permittivity is substantial, and can range up to 300 % for some species. Our results show that the permittivity of wood is linked to the freeze/thaw state of the vegetation and that even short winter thaw events lead to an increase in vegetation permittivity. The open-ended coaxial probe proved to be precise enough to capture the diurnal cycle of water storage inside the trunk over the growing season.
Extending seasonal predictability of Yangtze River summer floods
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Yuan Xing
Published: March 2018

Abstract. Extreme pluvial floods across China's Yangtze River basin in the summer of 2016 was strongly connected with intense atmospheric moisture transport, and resulted in vast loss of properties after a strong El Niño winter. Predicting such extreme floods in advance is essential for hazard mitigation, but the flood forecast skill is relatively low due to the limited predictability of summer precipitation. By using a perfect model assumption, here we show that atmospheric moisture flux has a higher potential predictability than precipitation over the Yangtze River at seasonal time scales. The predictability of precipitation and moisture are higher in post-El Niño summers than those in post-La Niñas, especially for flooding events. As compared with extreme precipitation, the potential detectability of extreme moisture increases by 20 % in post-El Niño summers, which suggests that atmospheric moisture could be crucial for early warning of Yangtze River summer floods.
Knowledge Workers Job Performance: An examination of Career Values, Perceived Organizational Support and Career Satisfaction
Authors: Bhatti Muhammad Awais , Juhari Ariff Syah , Piaralal Shishi Kumar , Piaralal Niriender Kumar
Published: March 2018

Knowledge workers help organizations improve productivity and gain competitive advantage in the market. Since organizations have realized the importance of knowledge workers in organizational development, management has been focusing on the knowledge workers’ job performance, which ultimately improves the organizational performance. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mediating effects of the knowledge workers’ career satisfaction among career values, perceived organizational support and job performance. In this regard, data was collected from 284 knowledge workers working in Saudi Arabian organizations and it was analyzed using regression and Sobel test. The result of the analysis explain that career satisfaction play a key role in knowledge workers’ job performance, and work as mediator between career values, perceived organizational support and the knowledge workers’ job performance. The findings of this study will be helpful for top management and HR professionals to manage the knowledge workers’ job performance. Furthermore, the mediating role of career satisfaction contribute to the body of knowledge and offer future researchers opportunities to investigate other factors, which influence career satisfaction of knowledge workers. This study also discussed some limitations which could be an avenue for future research. Research on Saudi Arabian knowledge workers has never been done before. Therefore, this study explores the effects of career values, perceived organizational support and career satisfaction on Saudi Arabian knowledge workers’ job performance.
Information Content of Earnings Opacity on Firm Value
Authors: Camara Omar
Published: March 2018

This study use a panel data set of balance sheet and income statement of US firms within manufacturing and services industries for the period 1987-2015 to examine the impact of two dimensions of earnings opacity on firm value – earnings aggressiveness (i.e. measured by accounting accruals) and earnings smoothing (i.e. measured by the correlation between accruals and operating cash flows). Specifically, the paper investigate if earnings opacity affects equity markets and if there is a differential effect of earnings opacity on equity markets across manufacturing and services industries. Information asymmetry in contract theory and economics expound on the positive role of information in averting price disequilibrium in the capital markets and a potential capital market failures due to an imbalance in accessing information. A capital market sufficiently characterized by efficiency and informational symmetry is expected to embody distinctive qualities in facilitating accurate interpretation of market relevant information and a subsequent timely re-evaluation of prior equity valuations. The empirical results of these panel data tests, after controlling for key influencers on equity price, shows that on average, an increase in earnings opacity is linked to an increase in market value for firms within the manufacturing industry. In contrast, the results shows that on average, an increase in earnings opacity leads to a decrease in market value for firms within the services industry. Furthermore, the results suggest that firms utilize both dimensions of earnings opacity in a sustained manner as implied by the coefficients on time-trend and the interaction of time-trend and earnings opacity.
From JTS to Riverside Church: The Relationship Between Torah min Hashamayim and Heschel's Political Activism
Authors: Cohen Aryeh
Published: March 2018

This article argues that the impetus for Abraham Joshua Heschel's activism, contra Heschel himself, is found in the first part of his magnum opus—Torah min Hashamayim be-Aspaclarya shel HaDorot. It will argue that Heschel's activism is a religious solution to a theological problem, a problem which is spelled out as the tension between Rabbi Ishmael and Rabbi Akiva. Heschel describes God as suffering with Israel. This suffering (according to Rabbi Akiva) is an instance of the partnership between God and Israel. It will further suggest that this is a uniquely Heschelian model of what Oscar Romero, referred to as the transfiguration. Finally, it argues that Romero's transfiguration theology can help illuminate a part of Heschel's framing of Heavenly Torah which has largely gone unnoticed or has been ignored.
Diagnosing Soil and Coconut Root Existence in Lontang Plantation of Manado City
Authors: Tamod Zetly Estefanus , Kumolontang Wisje , Kaunang Djony
Published: March 2018

Province of North Sulawesi has been known as wave palm area (coconut). One of the plantations (coconut) potential become the farmer’s income and Locally-Generated Revenue (LGR). Therefore, it is important to maximize the soil function and root system of coconut. This research was aimed to diagnose a soil and coconut root existence in Lontang Plantation of Manado City. Soil observations were carried out on a single stretch of coconut plantations owned by community. The observation was done through the soil profile at a spacing of <1 m; 3 m and 5 m from the main tree of the coconut. The results showed that decreasing of C-Organic content in 1 m depth was not followed by enhancement of soil content weight, because C-Organic has spread equally in middle state and into the depth of >1 m on 3 and 5 m spacing profile from the main tree which categorized as low. Existence of total root length (Lrv) and dry root weight (Drv) shows that deeper soil will be more reduced of the root Lrv and Drv values along with the organic material in the bottom layer (> 1 m) lower than above it. The highest Lrv and Drv average value is located on the depth of 0 – 60 cm.  Specrol existence on 1 - 3 m spacing profile have showed many soft roots which grow on these spacing. The soft root has a roles to absorb nutrient and water for the plant and direct contact with the soil.
Integrated Nutrient Management of an Acid Paddy Soil in Karang Tanjung Village, Padang Ratu, Central Lampung
Authors: Kasno Antonius , Irawan Irawan , Husnain Husnain , Rochayati Sri
Published: March 2018

Balanced fertilization is the key factor to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of fertilization.The dosage of inorganic fertilizers applied can be determined based on the nutrient status of P, K and rice productivity. The research aims to improve balance fertilization that combines inorganic fertilizers, which is set up based on soil nutrient status, and organic fertilizers. The research was conducted in Karang Tanjung Village, Padang Ratu District, Central Lampung, in the dry season of 2009 until 2012. An experimental plot of one hectare was set up in the farmer’s paddy fields. Generally, the plot for every treatment was owned by two or more farmers. The treatments consisted of the dose of fertilizer applications for lowland rice, namely (1) dose of fertilizers based on farmer practice, (2) dose of fertilizers proposed by Petrokimia, (3) 75% of fertilizer dose that was set up based on soil analysis plus straw compost, and (4) 75% of inorganic fertilizer combined with manure and biofertilizer. At the fourth growing season, each plot was applied with 100% inorganic fertilizer (NPK fertilizer). The results showed that the limiting factor of the soil used in the current study is the content of organic-C, N, K, and CEC. The compost of rice straw used as organic matter in the current study contains higher organic-C and total-N in comparison to manure. Organic matter application in the form of straw compost or manure can reduce 25% of NPK application, while the production of rice remains high. Fertilization on paddy soils based on soil nutrient status can improve fertilization efficiency. Rice production in the treatment of 100% NPK is similar to that in the fertilization treatments based on farmer practice and Petrokima rate. Keywords: Nutrient management, acid soil, fertilization efficiency
Improvement of Latex Quality Using Locally-Produced Organic Fertilizer from Rubber Processing Sewage Sludges
Authors: Riwandi Riwandi , Prasetyo Prasetyo , Hasanudin Hasanudin , Cahyadinata Indra , Munawar Ali , Doni Rachma
Published: March 2018

Most of rubber plants in Indonesia are cultivated in highly-weathered soils; therefore, their annual productions are relatively low with the low quality of latex. The aim of this reseach was to increase the latex quality from a rubber plantation grown on low fertility soils by applying a locally-produced organic fertilizer (LOF) to the soils. This research consisted of two steps, i.e. LOF production and a field fertilization experiment. The LOF was made mainly from waste of a latex processing industry. The field fertilization experiment was conducted to assess the effects of LOF additions to the soils on the latex quality. The field experiment was performed using a randomized complete block design with 6 LOF levels, 4 levels of land slopes, and 5 rubber trees in each block, resulting in 120 rubber trees. The LOF levels were 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 kg tree-1. The LOF contained 17.35% organic-C, 1.14% total-N, 0.53 ppm available-P, and 1.21 cmol (+)kg-1 exchangeable-K, with slightly alkaline pH (pH 8.0). The soil has low fertility status as indicated by the low amounts of total-N and exchangeable base cations (K, Na, and Mg), and very acid pH (pH 4.5). Indicators of latex quality comprising of blockage index, ash-, impurity- and dry rubber-content, and N, P, K contents in the rubber leaves were measured. Although there were no significant differences in most observed latex properties due to LOF addition, their values tended to be higher when the rubber trees were fertilized with LOF. Apparently N and K contents in the rubber leaves are better correlated to the latex properties compared to the P content.
A hypertension control quality improvement pilot program: Experiences and blood pressure outcomes from physician practices
Authors: Khan Tamkeen , Yang Jianing , Barkowski Laken , Tapper Beth , Lubomski Lisa , Daniel Donna , Wozniak Gregory
Published: March 2018

Improving Health Outcomes: Blood Pressure (IHO: BP) was a Quality Improvement (QI) pilot program developed by the American Medical Association (AMA) and Johns Hopkins Medicine aimed at helping physicians and their care teams better manage patients with uncontrolled hypertension. The pilot study was conducted at 10 ambulatory practice sites between October 2013 and November 2014 in which the initiative was to devise a framework and intervention strategies for improving hypertension control. The program included evidence-based tools and materials to support the Measure Accurately, Act Rapidly, and Partner with Patients (M.A.P.) framework, interactive components with coaching support and peer-to-peer learning opportunities, and a measurement system supported by health technology, all intended to aid blood pressure management. This paper captures the learnings from the engagement, experiences, and satisfaction of care teams from the IHO: BP pilot that were used to adjust, reassess, and refine components of the QI program. Overall, participation in the IHO: BP pilot was associated with an increase in BP control rates from a mean of 69% to 75% (p < .05) for 3 of the 10 practices. Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure was reduced in 8 of 10 practices by a mean of 12.5 mmHg/6.5 mmHg (p < .05). Furthermore, evaluation of participant experiences indicated that 75% of the respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with the initiative. The results from this study include components of the pilot that participants indicated were most helpful and were used to generate useful information for hypertension QI efforts that were later scaled and spread to subsequent initiatives.
The effect of supportive nursing intervention on burden and coping strategies of cargivers of children with cancer
Authors: Hassan Ghada Ahmed , Ibrahim Hanady Shaaban
Published: March 2018

Background and objective: Cancer is a serious health problem. Children with cancer are in particular need of support and care due to its complications followed by chemotherapy. These children should be cared for at home by family caregivers, and this places great mental and physical burden on caregivers. Therefore, appropriate and effective nursing interventions are essential in order to decrease burden and improve their coping pattern. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of supportive nursing intervention on the burden of care and coping pattern in caregivers of children with cancer.Methods: Research design: A Quasi-study pre, immediately after, and 1 month after the intervention was used to test the study hypothesis and fulfill the aim of the study. Setting: The study was conducted at outpatient clinic in Specialized Pediatric Hospital at Benha City. Subjects: Sixty caregivers for children with cancer was chosen through convenient sampling method and divided by using table of random numbers into two groups, study and control group. Caregivers of the study group attended seven nursing intervention sessions. Tools: The tools used were (1) An inertviewing questionnaire which include two part; sociodemoghaphic date and medical history for child and thier caregivers (2) Zarit Burden Scale (3) Coping Health Inventory for caregivers parents (CHIP).Results: During the study period, burden decreased in the study group and increased in the control group. Mean burden of care score before, immediately after, and 1 month after the intervention was 42.2, 33.7, and 25.6, respectively, in the study group and 44.2, 46.1, and 48.5, respectively, in the control group. In addition, the mean burden score in the study group significantly decreased in comparison with the control group (p < .001). Also, coping strategies increased in the study group and decreased in the control group. Mean coping pattern score before, immediately after, and 1 month after the intervention was 32.8, 47.5, 53.6, respectively, in the study group and 34.7, 30.7 and 26.2, respectively, in the control group. In addition, the mean coping pattern score in the study group significantly improved in comparison with the control group (p < .001).Conclusions: The supportaive nursing intervention can decrease burden in caregivers of children with cancer and consequently improve their methods of coping.
Qozloq Route (Astrabad to Shahrud) Impact on Economic Developments of the Region (Safavid Course)
Authors: Nadim Mustafa , Zahedi Ghorbanali
Published: March 2018

The Qozloq Route was one of the branches of the famous Silk Road in the northeast of Iran, which linked two important and strategic regions of Shahrud and Astrabad. This road constituted rough and smooth paths and was the passage of different nations with different goals. In this context, various cultures have also been published and exchanged in line with the trade of various goods.The presence of different caravansaries around the road indicates its importance and prosperity in the Safavid course, but with all of this, there is little information available on the importance of this route in the existing travel books and historical books. Despite all the inadequacies, in this research, with the descriptive-analytical approach based on the research data, it is concluded that the Qozloq Route has been of great importance in the Safavid course, strategically, and in term of the publication of the culture and prosperity of the economy, and the dynamism of development and awareness.
Electrochemical behaviour of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxytiophene) modified glassy carbon electrodes after overoxidation − the influence of the substrate on the charge transfer resistance
Authors: Zalka Dora , Vesztergom Soma , Ujvári Mária , Láng Gyözö
Published: March 2018

Time dependence of the electrochemical impedance of an overoxidized glassy carbon|poly(3,4-ethylenedioxytiophene) (PEDOT)|0.1 mol·dm-3 sulfuric acid (aq.) elec­trode has been investigated. To follow the changes occurring at the film/substrate interface after the overoxidation procedure, successive impedance measurements were carried out. Although the system is intrinsically nonstationary, the charge transfer resis­tance (Rct) cor­res­ponding to different time instants could be determined by using the so-called 4-dimensional analysis method. The same post-experimental mathematic­cal/ana­lytical procedure could be used also for the estimation of the charge transfer resistance corresponding to the time instant just after overoxidation of the PEDOT film. The increase of the charge transfer resistance of the overoxidized system with respect to that of the pristine electrode suggests that during overoxidation the electrochemical activity of the film decreases and the charge transfer process at the metal/film interface beco­mes more hindered. After the overoxidation procedure, when the electrode potential was held in the “stability region” (at E = 0.4 V vs. SSCE in the present case) the Rct decre­ased continuously with experiment time to a value somewhat higher than that of the pristine electrode. By comparing the properties of the GC|PEDOT|0.1 M H2SO4 and the Au|PEDOT|0.1 M H2SO4 electrodes a possible mechanistic explanation for the observed behavior has been proposed. This is based on the assumption that in the case of the GC|PEDOT|0.1 M H2SO4 electrode two processes may occur simultaneously during the impedance measurements: (a) reduction of the oxidized surface of the GC substrate, including the reduction of the oxygen-containing surface functionalities and (b) read­sorption of the polymer chains (polymer chain ends) on the surface.
A Functional Model of Team Leadership for Sport
Authors: Coleman Jeff Coleman , Tenenbaum Gershon Tenenbaum
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to propose and examine a new leadership framework, the Team Leadership Model
for Sport. Specifi cally, the aim was to examine a functional leadership paradigm in sport where full range of leadership
behaviors by the coach and by the collective athletes infl uence team cohesion, and thereby increase the likelihood
of team goal achievement. Data were utilized from 518 NCAA Division I-III athletes from 36 softball teams and
13 baseball teams. The participants completed the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (Avolio & Bass, 2004), the
Team Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (Avolio & Bass, 1996), the Group Environment Questionnaire (Carron,
Brawley, & Widmeyer, 1985), and the Team Outcome Questionnaire that was developed for this study. Structural
equation modeling indicated that the original hypothesized model did not fi t the data, but an acceptable alternative
model was established, which included transformational leadership and two transactional leadership variables
infl uencing perceptions of cohesion. Transformational leadership had a signifi cant positive path to cohesion,
which in turn had a signifi cant positive path to goal achievement. We discuss a potentially fruitful direction in the
examination of team leadership, within which the fi rst step involves a closer examination of measurement of coach
leadership, shared athlete leadership, and cohesion.
Keywords: transformational, cohesion, shared leadership, baseball, softball
Priority of theoretical preparation for cyclic sports (on the material of examination
of sportsmans and trainers)
Authors: Bohuslavska Viktoria
Published: March 2018

The article presents the results of a survey of qualifi ed athletes and trainers for the priority of the use of various
means of theoretical training in the process of multi-year sport improvement in cyclic sports. The survey was attended
by 146 qualifi ed athletes and 82 trainers from sports such as rowing, swimming, track and fi eld (running and
walking), and ski races. The following research methods were used in the work: theoretical analysis and generalization
of literary sources, studying of documentary materials, analysis of personal data, methods of mathematical statistics.
It has been established that the need to apply such theoretical training materials as collections of scientifi c
articles, study aids, monographs, electronic and audio books, lectures, pedagogical testing, Internet search services
increases with each subsequent stage of preparation of athletes. In contrast, the signifi cance of the use of posters,
drawings, brochures, animations, documentaries and feature fi lms, games and practical events is reduced with increasing
athletic athleticism. At the same time, the most eff ective means of theoretical training, the majority of respondents
note the use of search services Internet and the latest technical means of training at all stages of training.
Political determinants of the participation of the romanian representation
in the XXIII Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 1984
Authors: Słoniewski Michał Artur
Published: March 2018

The fact that Romania did not obey the decision of the party authorities of the Soviet Union and other socialist
countries has until today caused many controversial opinions and speculations. This fact is often quoted, also in
academic discussions, as an example of unique heroism and independence of the Romanian authorities from the
Soviet political domination. It is known that the sole decision-maker in this case was Romania’s famous “red dictator”,
Nicolae Ceaușescu. His long-year rule led the Romanian society to extreme poverty, even for the standards
of the socialist countries. However, this did not stop him from conducting a relatively independent and expensive
foreign policy and presenting himself as a leader of international importance. For a long time presidents and prime
ministers of Western countries confi rmed his belief, sparing no praises or various honours, hoping for a political
schism among the countries of the Warsaw Pact. For many years it allowed Ceaușescu to achieve his propaganda
objectives in the international arena.
The situation was similar with the participation of the representation of Romania in the XXIII Olympic Games in Los
Angeles. However, it was only a short-term episode in the political confrontation between the East and the West. Also
in this case Ceaușescu received substantial fi nancial support from the United States, IOC and the Olympic Organising
Committee (LAOOC). However, he was not to enjoy this success for long. After a few more years of his dictatorship-like
rule he was sentenced to death by a court decision and executed by a fi ring squad together with his wife Elena.
Report from participation in the 14th World Congress of the International Society of Sport
Psychology on 10–14 June 2017 in Seville
Authors: Blecharz Jan
Published: March 2018

The International Society of Sport Psychology is one
of the largest and oldest associations of this type in the
world. The conferences organized every four years always
assemble scientists and practitioners from around the
world who deal with both sports psychology as well as
related fi elds, such as health psychology.
The Evaluation Of Quality Of Life Of Relatives Caring For Patients With Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: ODABAŞ Faruk Ömer , Uca Ali Ulvi
Published: March 2018

Objective:
To evaluate quality of life (QoL) of relatives taking care of patients with idiopathic
Parkinson’s disease (IDP).Methods:
Sixty patients with IPD and 60 patients’ relatives were included into the
study, and 50 healthy individuals consisted of the controls. In the study
group, the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS)scores and the
Hoehn-Yahr Scale (HYS) stages were determined. Depression levels of the IPD
patient’s relatives and the controls were measured using the Beck Depression
Inventory (BDI), while pain and fatigue levels were found via the Visual
Analogue Scale (VAS), and QoL was assessed with shorth form-36 (SF-36). Findings: When
the relatives of patients with IPD were compared with the controls, a
statistically significance was found between pain, fatigue and depression
levels and SF-36 physical and mental component scores. While a positive
correlation was observed between patient’s UPDRS scores, and relatives’ BDI,
pain and fatigue levels, a negative correlation was found between SF-36
component and SF-36 physical component scores in these groups. Conclusions:
Decreasing QoL significantly, IPD is a disorder affecting considerably both
patients and their relatives’ lives and not only patients but also their
relatives are influenced from the condition on a large scale. As the disease
progresses, the influence becomes defined and an increase is seen in clinical
findings while a decrease is witnessed in QoL of IPD patients and their
relatives.
Punishment and Satisfaction In Aquinas’s Account of the Atonement
Authors: Breiner Nikolaus ,   The Society of Christian Philosophers
Published: March 2018

According to Eleonore Stump, Thomas Aquinas rejects a “popular” (roughly, penal substitutionary) account of the atonement. For Stump’s Aquinas, God does not require satisfaction or punishment for human sin, and the function of satisfaction is remedial, not juridical or penal. Naturally, then, Aquinas does not, on this reading, see Christ’s passion as having saving effect in virtue of Christ substitutionally bearing the punishment for human sin that divine justice requires. I argue that Stump is incorrect. For Aquinas, divine justice does require satisfaction; satisfaction involves punishment ( poena) and has a penal function; and one way Christ’s death has saving effect is in virtue of his satisfying that requirement on people’s behalf. Christ saves by “paying our debt,” bearing in the place of humans the penalty or punishment required by divine justice. My argument implies that Aquinas’s account of satisfaction in the atonement significantly resembles key aspects of Stump’s “popular account”—and of the Penal Substitution Theory it represents.
Ege Denizinin Detaylı Bir Düğüm Haritasının Kullanılarak Genetik Algoritma İle En Kısa Yol Sonuçlarının Elde Edilmesi
Authors: İNAN Timur , BABA Ahmet Fevzi
Published: March 2018

Genetik
algoritma, evrimsel bir algoritma olup, en sık kullanılan problem çözümleme
algoritmalarından biridir. En kısa yol bulma problemi ise denizcilik,
havacılık, savunma ve yük taşımacılığı gibi önemli alanlarda çokça çalışılan
bir konudur. Çalışma genetik algoritmanın en kısa yol probleminde
kullanılmasını işlemektedir. Ege denizi kıyısında bulunan limanların arasındaki
en kısa yolun bulunmasında genetik algoritma kullanılmıştır. Çalışmayı farklı
yapan kısımlar; limanların ve düğümlerin gerçek harita üzerinde ve gerçek
koordinatlara göre kayıt altına alınmış olması ve düğüm haritasının büyük
ölçekli olmasıdır. Çalışma aslında dinamik olarak seyir planlaması yapabilecek
bir sistemin parçası olup detaylı bir düğüm haritasının ortaya çıkarılmasının
nedeni budur. Bu çalışmada genetik algoritmanın en kısa yol probleminin
çözümünde gerçek koordinatlar ve limanlar kullanılarak yapılması problemin
özgünlüğüdür.
National REDD+ outcompetes gold and logging: the potential of cleaning profit chains.
Authors: Overman Han , Cummings Anthony R , Luzar Jeffrey B , Fragoso José MV
Published: March 2018

While the potential contribution of a nationally implemented program for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) to developing countries’ budgets remains as yet obscure, two general concerns are that REDD+ will i) incentivize land grabbing and ii) remain financially uncompetitive against current commercial forest uses. However, based on data from Guyana’s, United Nations-approved, Forest Reference Emission Level (FREL) submission and national documents, we found that i) national REDD+ appears not to place value on forest, but financial penalties on forest damage, and ii) would be competitive when viewed from the perspective of the owner of the natural resources (national society), even against high value commodities such as gold and timber (the country’s main emission drivers), and at an intermediate US$5 carbon price. Hidden by the latter is a very skewed sharing of net revenue between the state and private sector supply chains (~1:99). Weak law enforcement, common across the tropics, enhances skewed sharing, and linked political leverage likely undermines any plans that would interfere with private income streams, including rural development, land tenure and conservation plans. We suggest that government or electorate pressure towards more equitable revenue sharing, i.e. ‘cleaning profit chains’, would both be justified and worthwhile, and unlikely to produce job losses. Investing this homegrown finance in better management and law enforcement of finite natural resources (under REDD+, including forests) could return significant REDD+ income while mitigating climate change and aiding rights of forest-dependent livelihoods. Along with cleaning supply chains and moving commodities out of natural forest areas, assessing and cleaning private profit chains may more generally be a promising approach for REDD+ and climate mitigation goals, along with its many associated social and environmental co-benefits.
Effect of Changing Patterns and Requirements of Endoscopic Training in Surgical Residency
Authors: Subhas Gokulakkrishna , Mugwisi Takunda , Mittal Vijay K.
Published: March 2018

This study aimed at looking at the effect of changing patterns and requirements of endoscopic training in surgical residency. Recognizing the increasing role of endoscopy, the minimum required scope number was increased to 85 (including at least 35 esophagogastroduodenoscopies (EGD) and 50 colonoscopies) for graduates completing their program in June 2009. The purpose of our study was to see how this new requirement affected the endoscopic performance of residents. A retrospective study was done examining the performance of residents, based on data from the national Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) logs from 1990–2010. For graduating residents, we compared data for various procedures from 1990–2008 to 2009–2010. For colonoscopies, the average increased from 32 to 63. Increases were also found in their chief year, from 7 to 18.8. For EGD, the average increased from 25 to 34. In their chief year, the average more than doubled from 4.4 to 9.7. There were no increases for other endoscopic procedures such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), bronchoscopies, and cystoscopies between the 2 time periods. When an increased requirement for endoscopy was instituted by the ACGME, there was an increase in the number of colonoscopies and EGD performed by the graduating residents, although there was no difference in the numbers of other scopes (e.g., cystoscopes, bronchoscopes, and ERCP) for the same time period.
Limited Bilateral Advancement of the Sternocostal Head of Pectoralis Major for Sternal Reconstruction: Preserving the Axillary Fold
Authors: Rozen Warren M. , Teo Ken G. W. , Sivarajah Gausihi , Acosta Rafael
Published: March 2018

The introduction of well-vascularized flaps for infected sternotomy wound reconstruction has improved mortality rates dramatically. Multiple variations of the pectoralis major flap have been described in this context. However, unresolved limitations of this flap include poor cosmesis and problematic coverage of the inferior third of the sternotomy wound. We describe an approach to address these issues. The humeral attachments are preserved and bilateral muscles are advanced in a limited fashion. The left sternocostal head is advanced medially and rotated anticlockwise, using this portion to fill the upper half of the sternum while the caudal portion of the right pectoralis muscle is used as a turnover flap at the lower half of the wound. In all 25 patients, the anterior axillary fold was preserved bilaterally and the infection completely resolved. Complications included 3 cases of hematoma, 2 cases of coagulopathy, and 1 late bone sequestrum (aseptic). Although the study had a limited sample size, we had a high rate of success and few complications. With the preservation of bilateral axillary folds, good cosmesis, and adequate wound coverage, we recommend this modification of the pectoralis major flap in even complicated cases of mediastinitis.
Genome Editing in Neuroepithelial Stem Cells to Generate Human Neurons with High Adenosine-Releasing Capacity
Authors: Poppe Daniel , Doerr Jonas , Schneider Marion , Wilkens Ruven , Steinbeck Julius A. , Ladewig Julia , Tam Allison , Paschon David E. , Gregory Philip D. , Reik Andreas , Müller Christa E. , Koch Philipp , Brüstle Oliver
Published: March 2018

As a powerful regulator of cellular homeostasis and metabolism, adenosine is involved in diverse neurological processes including pain, cognition, and memory. Altered adenosine homeostasis has also been associated with several diseases such as depression, schizophrenia, or epilepsy. Based on its protective properties, adenosine has been considered as a potential therapeutic agent for various brain disorders. Since systemic application of adenosine is hampered by serious side effects such as vasodilatation and cardiac suppression, recent studies aim at improving local delivery by depots, pumps, or cell-based applications. Here, we report on the characterization of adenosine-releasing human embryonic stem cell-derived neuroepithelial stem cells (long-term self-renewing neuroepithelial stem [lt-NES] cells) generated by zinc finger nuclease (ZFN)-mediated knockout of the adenosine kinase (ADK) gene. ADK-deficient lt-NES cells and their differentiated neuronal and astroglial progeny exhibit substantially elevated release of adenosine compared to control cells. Importantly, extensive adenosine release could be triggered by excitation of differentiated neuronal cultures, suggesting a potential activity-dependent regulation of adenosine supply. Thus, ZFN-modified neural stem cells might serve as a useful vehicle for the activity-dependent local therapeutic delivery of adenosine into the central nervous system.
The role of suboptimal mitochondrial function in vulnerability to post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Preston Graeme , Kirdar Faisal , Kozicz Tamas
Published: March 2018

Post‐traumatic stress disorder remains the most significant psychiatric condition associated with exposure to a traumatic event, though rates of traumatic event exposure far outstrip incidence of PTSD. Mitochondrial dysfunction and suboptimal mitochondrial function have been increasingly implicated in several psychopathologies, and recent genetic studies have similarly suggested a pathogenic role of mitochondria in PTSD. Mitochondria play a central role in several physiologic processes underlying PTSD symptomatology, including abnormal fear learning, brain network activation, synaptic plasticity, steroidogenesis, and inflammation. Here we outline several potential mechanisms by which inherited (genetic) or acquired (environmental) mitochondrial dysfunction or suboptimal mitochondrial function, may contribute to PTSD symptomatology and increase susceptibility to PTSD. The proposed pathogenic role of mitochondria in the pathophysiology of PTSD has important implications for prevention and therapy, as antidepressants commonly prescribed for patients with PTSD have been shown to inhibit mitochondrial function, while alternative therapies shown to improve mitochondrial function may prove more efficacious.
Pregnancy management and outcome in patients with four different tetrahydrobiopterin disorders
Authors: Kuseyri O. , Weissbach A. , Bruggemann N. , Klein C. , Giżewska M. , Karall D. , Scholl‐Bürgi S. , Romanowska H. , Krzywińska‐Zdeb E. , Monavari A. A. , Knerr I. , Yapıcı Z. , Leuzzi V. , Opladen T.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Inborn errors of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) biosynthesis or recycling are a group of very rare neurometabolic diseases. Following growing awareness and improved availability of drug treatment the number of patients with BH4 disorders reaching adulthood is constantly increasing. Pregnancy care of patients with these disorders is therefore a new challenge for clinicians.

Methods

This retrospective study summarises for the first time clinical and biochemical monitoring data of 16 pregnancies in seven women with different disorders of BH4 metabolism and evaluates treatment regimens before and during pregnancy in relation to the obstetrical outcome and paediatric follow‐up.

Results

Worsening of pre‐existing neurological symptoms or occurrence of new symptoms during pregnancy was not observed in most of the cases. Treatment regimens remained mostly unchanged. Pregnancies were not complicated by disease‐specific features. Organ abnormalities, miscarriage, prematurity, IUGR and chromosomal changes were occasionally reported, without showing any association with the standard drug treatment for BH4 deficiencies.

Conclusion

Although our data on 16 pregnancies in seven patients did not present any association of standard drug treatment with an increased rate of pregnancy complications, abnormal obstetrical or paediatric outcome, an intensive clinical and biochemical supervision by a multidisciplinary team before, during and after the pregnancy in any BH4 deficiency is essential since available data on pregnancies in patients with BH4 deficiencies is limited.