bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Age of pubertal events among school girls in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Irewole-Ojo Folakemi O. , Senbanjo Idowu O. , Oduwole Abiola O. , Njokanma Olisamedua F. 
Published: February 2018

Abstract

Background:
Globally, there is a secular trend towards the reduced age for sexual maturity and menarche. This study aimed to determine the current age and factors associated with attainment of various stages of puberty in Nigerian girls.

Methods:
This study was a cross-sectional study involving 800 girls aged 6–15 years. The subjects were selected by stratified random sampling method from schools in Oshodi Local Government Area, Lagos State. They were interviewed and a physical examination was carried out to classify them into the various Tanner stages of breast and pubic hair maturational stages.

Results:
The median age of girls at first stage of breast maturation (B2), first stage of pubic hair development (PH2) and at menarche were 9.0, 9.0 and 12.0 years, respectively. Breast development was significantly related to normal nutritional status (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 4.5, p<0.001), overweight (AOR 40.2, p<0.001), obesity (AOR 154.2, p<0.001) and upper social class (AOR 15.7, p<0.031). Pubic hair development was significantly related only to overweight (AOR 4.7, p<0.007) and obesity (AOR 15.7, p<0.001) while achievement of menarche was significantly related to overweight (AOR 0.1, p=0.005), obesity (AOR 0.1, p=0.0009), high social class (AOR 4.7, p<0.001) and being a member of the Hausa tribe (AOR 35.8, p<0.029).

Conclusions:
There is decline in age of pubertal maturation of girls in Nigeria and the major contributory factors appear to be overweight and obesity. These findings are consistent with the pattern in developed countries.
Pricing barrier options in the Heston model using the Heath–Platen estimator
Authors: Coskun Sema , Korn Ralf 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Both barrier options and the Heston stochastic volatility model are omnipresent in real-life applications of financial mathematics.
In this paper, we apply the Heath–Platen (HP) estimator (as first introduced by Heath and Platen in [12]) to price barrier options in the Heston model setting as an alternative to conventional Monte Carlo methods and PDE based methods.
We demonstrate the superior performance of the HP estimator via numerical examples and explain this performance by a detailed look at the underlying theoretical concept of the HP estimator.
Die Weiterentwicklung des deutschen Akkreditierungssystems nach dem Beschluss des Bundesverfassungsgerichts
Authors: Pietsch Eva 
Published: February 2018

Zusammenfassung
Nach dem Beschluss des Bundesverfassungsgerichts, in dem die nordrhein-westfälischen Regelungen der Akkreditierungspflicht als nicht verfassungsgemäß erklärt wurden, gilt es, das Akkreditierungssystem zukünftig rechtssicher auszugestalten. Der Artikel erläutert die Rechtsgrundlagen und Eckpunkte des neuen deutschen Akkreditierungssystems anhand des Studienakkreditierungsstaatsvertrags vom 12.06.2017 und der Musterrechtsverordnung (KMK-Beschluss) vom 07.12.2017. Am Ende gibt die Verfasserin einen Ausblick auf mögliche Änderungen für gesundheitsbezogene Studiengänge.
The effects of interventions implemented during a rehabilitation camp on changes in motor skills parameters and body mass in patients with simple obesity
Authors: Świst Agata , Graff Krzysztof , Chałubińska Dorota , Zielińska Aleksandra , Łukaszewska Anna 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Introduction:According to the latest UNICEF report, Polish children put on weight at the highest pacein Europe. The number of overweight children has doubled in the last decade. The aim of the work was to assess the effects of kinesiotherapy implemented during a 3-week rehabilitationcamp on changes in motor skills parameters measured on the Leonardo dynamometric platform (Novotec Medical) and on body mass in patients with simple obesity. Materialand methods:The study group included 32 children and youth aged 7-16 with simple obesity who underwent an exercise programme during a 3-week rehabilitation camp. The subjects were examined twice, i.e. at the beginning and at the end of the camp. The control group consisted of 70 healthy children within the same age range who were examined once. Body mass and body height were measured and the BMI was calculated (taking into account centile charts) for all the study participants. Motor skills were assessed on the basis of avertical jump performed on the Leonardo GRFP (GroundReaction Force Platform). The following data were registered: jump velocity, maximum jump height, strength, power, power with reference to body mass and the Esslinger Fitness Index (EFI). Daily kinesiotherapy included exercises in the form of circuit training and water exercises. All the patients participated in meetings with a dietician and a clinical psychologist. Results:Statistically significant reduction in body mass after a 3-week rehabilitation camp was noted in 27 patients with simple obesity (84.1%) (p<0.05). Motor parameters did not improve significantly. Conclusions:Regular physical activity resulted in weight loss only. However, physical activity did not bring about positive changes in motor parameters.
A method of hand motor control assessment in patients with post-stroke spasticity
Authors: Zwolińska Jolanta , Drużbicki Mariusz , Perenc Lidia , Kwolek Andrzej 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Introduction: In order to assess hand spasticity in post-stroke patients, it is necessary to apply an objective and sensitive method which allows for characterising motor control. It is significant due to the necessity to monitor the effects of the therapeutic process according to the requirements of Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM). The aim of the study was to assess the usefulness of the measurement of pressure generated during a maximal palmar grasp and after its release for evaluating the level of hand motor control in poststroke patients compared to subjective scales. Material and methods: In order to characterise motor control, a numerical indicator calculated on the basis of the measurements of pressure generated during a maximal palmar grasp and after its release was suggested. To perform the measurements, 12 poststroke patients with hemiparesis were included in the study. In the research, the level of hand paresis was assessed with Brunnström Approach, the intensity of spasticity was graded with Modified Ashworth Scale, while hand motor function was classified with Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA). Pressure generated during a palmar grasp and after its release as well as palm area were measured with the use of a photometric method. The assessment was made twice, i.e. on the day of admission to the in-patient rehabilitation ward and after a three-week hospital treatment. Results: In the second measurement, a slight decrease in paresis intensity according to Brunnström Approach and lower intensity of spasticity according to Ashworth Scale were noted. A higher number of points in the FMA scale was observed. The values of the suggested indicator changed; however, in no case were these changes statistically significant. Conclusions: 1. Compared to other subjective scales, the usefulness of the measurement of pressure generated during a maximal palmar grasp and after its release for assessing the level of hand motor control in post-stroke patients was not confirmed. 2. The usefulness of the recommended method of spastic hand motor control assessment needs to be verified in further research carried out according to EBM requirements.
Potential for the Use of Biomass as a Prospective Renewable Energy Source
Authors: Gejguš Mirko , Aschbacher Christine , Sablik Jozef 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
This article defines biomass as a prospective renewable energy source, defining the main arguments of this claim. The potential for the use of biomass as an energy source is examined on the basis of calculations of cost analysis, analysis of availability of this energy source and its applicability under SR conditions.
Implementation Process of 5S for a Company in Real Life - Problems, Solutions, Successes
Authors: Czifra György 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Developed in Japan, 5S is a system of organizing workplace for efficiency, effectiveness and safety. Is 5s important? The answer is: “YES”, because the implementation is about empowering employees to control their work area and create an environment where they want to work every day. It is a program that only works with grass roots level engagement. With commitment to safety, we are equally committed to 5S to ensure a safe place to work. It enabled us to indicate where waste was occurring and thus improve the work area sustainably. We recognized real problems, found solutions and ultimately we were successful in our endeavors. Throughout different companies, various words of similar meaning are used. No matter what specific words are used to identify the steps in 5S, the purpose remains the same: create a clean, organized and efficient work environment.
Myelodysplastic syndrome with myelofibrosis in a 12-year-old patient – A case report
Authors: Oltean Andreea , Chincesan Mihaela Ioana , Marginean Oana , Horvath Emoke 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Myelodysplastic syndromes are a heterogeneous group of clonal disorders characterized by peripheral blood cytopenia and normal or hypercellular bone marrow with dysplasia in more than one blood cell lineage, unfavorable prognosis, and lack of response to treatment. We present the case of a 12-year-old male patient who was referred to the Hematology and Oncology Department of Pediatric Clinic I Târgu- Mures in May 2016, with splenomegaly and pancytopenia. The osteomedullary biopsy revealed myelofibrosis, discrete dysplasia of the myeloid series and megakaryocytes, blasts CD34+ approximately 10%, which led to the diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome with myelofibrosis. The myeloid precursors indicated a high risk of transformation into acute myeloid leukemia, so chemotherapy associated with corticosteroids was started, leading to slight improvements. Although myelodysplastic syndrome associated with myelofibrosis is rare at this age, despite the treatment and favorable progression in the case presented, in the absence of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation the prognosis remains unfavorable.
What are the similarities and differences between healthy people with and without pain?
Authors: Baldwin Jennifer N. , McKay Marnee J. , Burns Joshua , Hiller Claire E. , Nightingale Elizabeth J. , Moloney Niamh 
Published: February 2018

Abstract

Background and aims:
Knowledge of pain characteristics among the healthy population or among people with minimal pain-related disability could hold important insights to inform clinical practice and research. This study investigated pain prevalence among healthy individuals and compared psychosocial and physical characteristics between adults with and without pain.

Methods:
Data were from 1,000 self-reported healthy participants aged 3–101 years (1,000 Norms Project). Single-item questions assessed recent bodily pain (“none” to “very severe”) and chronic pain (pain every day for 3 months in the previous 6 months). Assessment of Quality of Life (AQoL) instrument, New Generalised Self-Efficacy Scale, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, 6-min walk test, 30-s chair stand and timed up-and-down stairs tests were compared between adults with and without pain.

Results:
Seventy-two percent of adults and 49% of children had experienced recent pain, although most rated their pain as mild (80% and 87%, respectively). Adults with recent pain were more likely to be overweight/obese and report sleep difficulties, and had lower self-efficacy, AQoL mental super dimension scores and sit-to-stand performance, compared to adults with no pain (p<0.05). Effect sizes were modest (Cohen’s d=0.16–0.39), therefore unlikely clinically significant. Chronic pain was reported by 15% of adults and 3% of children. Adults with chronic pain were older, more likely to be overweight/obese, and had lower AQoL mental super dimension scores, 6-min walk, sit-to-stand and stair-climbing performance (p<0.05). Again, effect sizes were modest (Cohen’s d=0.25–0.40).

Conclusions:
Mild pain is common among healthy individuals. Adults who consider themselves healthy but experience pain (recent/chronic) display slightly lower mental health and physical performance, although these differences are unlikely clinically significant.

Implications:
These findings emphasise the importance of assessing pain-related disability in addition to prevalence when considering the disease burden of pain. Early assessment of broader health and lifestyle risk factors in clinical practice is emphasised. Avenues for future research include examination of whether lower mental health and physical performance represent risk factors for future pain and whether physical activity levels, sleep and self-efficacy are protective against chronic pain-related disability.
Endermologie New Aproach in the Medicine Treatment
Authors: Mezencevová Viktória , Torok Jozef , Czánová Tatiana , Zajac Ján 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Using the effect of mechanical forces affecting cellular response in the treatment of post-traumatic, postoperative, post-imlantation conditions through the application of Endermologie®- mechanotransduction represents a revolutionary solution in tissue-rehabilitation and positive target tissue influencing, with faster regeneration (1). Endermologie® is a noninvasive, painless, natural method of treatments of all connective tissue transformations, muscle and circulation pathologies. The aim of our study is investigation and explanation the mechanism of action by observing the physiological effects of Endermologie® based on human studies. The paper is focused on monitoring of possitive effect tissue regeneration using endermologie as a tools mechanostimulation improvements of systems integridy and health improvement.
Distribution Functions for Subsequences of Generalized Van Der Corput Sequences
Authors: Lertchoosakul Poj , Haddley Alena , Nair Radhakrishnan , Weber Michel 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
For an integer b > 1 let (φb(n))n≥0 denote the van der Corput sequence base in b in [0, 1). Answering a question of O. Strauch, C. Aistleitner and M. Hofer showed that the distribution function of (φb(n), φb(n + 1), . . . , φb(n + s − 1))n≥0 on [0, 1)s exists and is a copula. The first and third authors of the present paper showed that this phenomenon extends to a broad class of subsequences of the van der Corput sequence. In this result we extend this paper still further and show that this phenomenon is also true for more general numeration systems based on the beta expansion of W. Parry and A. Rényi.
Notes on the Distribution of Roots Modulo a Prime of a Polynomial
Authors: Kitaoka Yoshiyuki 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Let f(x) be a monic polynomial in Z[x] with roots α1, . . ., αn. We point out the importance of linear relations among 1, α1, . . . , αn over rationals with respect to the distribution of local roots of f modulo a prime. We formulate it as a conjectural uniform distribution in some sense, which elucidates data in previous papers.
Diagnostic Criteria for Identification of Microtus s. l. Species (Rodentia, Arvicolidae) of the Ukrainian Carpathians
Authors: Barkaszi Zoltán 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
The present paper deals with the issues of diagnostics of morphologically similar vole species (Microtus s. l.) common in the fauna of the Ukrainian Carpathians. Three groups of characters have been analysed: external traits (linear body dimensions, coloration features, etc.), morphological and anatomical features of the skull (size of its structures, form of certain bones and sutures, etc.), and morphology of molar teeth (number and form of enamel lobes and triangles). The analysis of museum specimens of voles collected in the region of the Ukrainian Carpathians has shown that external and cranial non-metric characters allow reliable identification to genus level, while for species diagnostics it is necessary to use a complex of characters including structural features of molars and dimensions of skull structures. The height and width of the braincase have the largest diagnostic value among cranial characters for the sibling species complex Terricola subterraneus–Terricola tatricus, while for the pair of morphologically similar species Microtus agrestis–Microtus arvalis such value have the upper molars length, condylobasal length, and braincase height. The most significant, revised and newly described, diagnostic characters have been generalized into an identification key, especially convenient for use during work with collection materials.
Effects of Foam Rolling on Range of Motion, Peak Torque, Muscle Activation, and the Hamstrings-to-Quadriceps Strength Ratios
Authors: Madoni Samantha N. , Costa Pablo B. , Coburn Jared W. , Galpin Andrew J. 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Madoni, SN, Costa, PB, Coburn, JW, and Galpin, AJ. Effects of foam rolling on range of motion, peak torque, muscle activation, and the hamstrings-to-quadriceps strength ratios. J Strength Cond Res 32(7): 1821–1830, 2018—To examine the effects of foam rolling (FR) on range of motion (ROM), peak torque (PT), hamstrings-to-quadriceps (H:Q) ratios, and muscle activation. Twenty-two recreationally active women (mean age ± SD = 21.55 ± 1.82 years, 161.91 ± 6.58 cm, 61.47 ± 10.54 kg) volunteered for this study. Participants performed pre- and posttests analyzing PT and surface electromyography (EMG) of their dominant limb, completing maximal knee extension and flexion at 3 different velocities. Participants foam rolled the hamstrings muscles or sat for the control condition between the pre- and posttests. Hamstrings ROM increased in the FR condition from (mean ± SE) 123.23 ± 3.49 to 126.41 ± 3.62° (p < 0.001) and decreased in the control condition from 118.82 ± 4.25 to 117.95 ± 4.29° (p = 0.013). Concentric hamstrings PT and conventional H:Q ratios decreased after both conditions, with smaller decreases after FR (p ≤ 0.05). No significant changes were found for eccentric hamstrings PT, eccentric hamstrings EMG, or functional H:Q ratios (p > 0.05). Foam rolling resulted in greater changes in hamstrings ROM without creating a deficit in PT or muscle activation when compared with the control group. When compared with other methods of stretching, FR may be beneficial in increasing ROM without decreasing functional H:Q ratios.
Anthropometric and Physiological Characteristics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Athletes
Authors: Øvretveit Karsten 
Published: February 2018

AbstractØvretveit, K. Anthropometric and physiological characteristics of Brazilian jiu-jitsu athletes.J Strength Cond Res32(4): 997–1004, 2018—The aim of this study was to describe anthropometric and physiological characteristics of Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) athletes. For this purpose, 42 male athletes were recruited from one of the largest BJJ academies in central Norway. The subjects were 32 ± 6 (SD) years old, 181.9 ± 7.2 cm tall, had a body mass (mb) of 85.7 ± 10.6 kg, and 5.5 ± 3.7 years of BJJ training experience. The subjects underwent segmental multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis of body composition (BIA), direct measurements of pulmonary function and maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max), assessments of 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in the parallel squat and paused bench press, and one set of pronated-grip pull-ups to muscular failure. The average body fat percentage (BF) was 12.9 ± 5.3%. The subjects achieved a V̇o2max of 50.6 ± 4.6 mL·kg−1·min−1. Absolute squat 1RM (113.2 ± 20.4 kg) was significantly higher than bench press 1RM (87.6 ± 16.5 kg) (p< 0.001). The mean number of pull-ups achieved was 9 ± 4. These characteristics were generally independent of rank, training experience, weekly training volume, competition volume, and style preference. Additional strength training was associated with improved bench press performance (p< 0.05). Beyond that, additional strength and/or conditioning training had no apparent relationship with any variable (p> 0.05). This study provides novel insight into the fitness levels of BJJ athletes. These findings indicate the degree of exercise response to BJJ training and are applicable in athlete assessment and exercise prescription in this population.
Anthropometric and Athletic Performance Combine Test Results Among Positions Within Grade Levels of High School–Aged American Football Players
Authors: Leutzinger Todd J. , Gillen Zachary M. , Miramonti Amelia M. , McKay Brianna D. , Mendez Alegra I. , Cramer Joel T. 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Leutzinger, TJ, Gillen, ZM, Miramonti, AM, McKay, BD, Mendez, AI, and Cramer, JT. Anthropometric and athletic performance combine test results among positions within grade levels of high school–aged American football players. J Strength Cond Res 32(5): 1288–1296, 2018—The purpose of this study was to investigate differences among player positions at 3 grade levels in elite, collegiate-prospective American football players. Participants' data (n = 7,160) were analyzed for this study (mean height [Ht] ± SD = 178 ± 7 cm, mass [Bm] = 86 ± 19 kg). Data were obtained from 12 different high school American football recruiting combines hosted by Zybek Sports (Boulder, Colorado). Eight 2-way (9 × 3) mixed factorial analysis of variances {position (defensive back [DB], defensive end, defensive lineman, linebacker, offensive lineman [OL], quarterback, running back, tight end, and wide receiver [WR]) × grade (freshmen, sophomores, and juniors)} were used to test for differences among the mean test scores for each combine measure (Ht, Bm, 40-yard [40 yd] dash, proagility [PA] drill, L-cone [LC] drill, vertical jump [VJ], and broad jump [BJ]). There were position-related differences (p ≤ 0.05) for Ht, 40 yd dash, and BJ, within each grade level and for Bm, PA, LC, and VJ independent of grade level. Generally, the results showed that OL were the tallest, weighed the most, and exhibited the lowest performance scores among positions. Running backs were the shortest, whereas DBs and WRs weighed the least and exhibited the highest performance scores among positions. These results demonstrate the value of classifying high school–aged American football players according to their specific position rather than categorical groupings such as “line” vs. “skill” vs. “big skill” when evaluating anthropometric and athletic performance combine test results.
Development of Processing Map and Constitutive Relationship for Thermomechanical Processing of Aluminum Alloy AA2014
Authors: Narayana Murty S. V. S. , Sarkar Aditya , Ramesh Narayanan P. 
Published: February 2018

Abstract
Isothermal hot compression tests were performed on aluminum alloy 2014 (AA2014) to study the evolution of microstructure over a wide range of temperatures (300°C–500°C) and strain rates (0.001–100 s−1). The true stress–true strain curves obtained at all deformation temperatures and strain rates showed gradual flow softening, which is typical of a dynamic recovery-type material such as aluminum. Processing maps that delineate the stable and unstable regions during hot working were developed and validated by comparing the microstructures recorded in the deformed specimens. Optimum processing conditions (temperature &gt; 450°C, strain rate &lt; 0.1 s−1) for the hot deformation of AA2014 were proposed based on contour maps of efficiency of power dissipation and strain-rate sensitivity parameter. The activation energy value (Qavg) for the hot working of AA2014 was calculated to be 181 kJ/mol−1. Finally, the constitutive equation for the hot working of AA2014 was established.