scholarly journals The Variation in the Stoichiometric Characteristics of the Leaves and Roots of Karst Shrubs

Forests ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (7) ◽  
pp. 852
Author(s):  
Zhigang Zou ◽  
Fuping Zeng ◽  
Zhaoxia Zeng ◽  
Hu Du ◽  
Hui Tang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Influencing Factors ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Distribution Patterns ◽  
N:P Ratio ◽  
Guangxi Province ◽  
Karst Areas ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Leaves And Roots ◽  
C:P Ratios ◽  
Huanjiang County

Currently, vegetation restoration is being implemented in the ecologically fragile karst areas in southwest China; however, the stoichiometry of the dominant shrubs and their relationship with the environmental factors in the degraded habitats is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the stoichiometry of C, N, and P, their internal correlations, and influencing factors in 23 shrub species in the Huanjiang County in northwest Guangxi Province, China. We found that the mean contents of C, N and P in leaves were higher than those in roots. In addition, the N:P ratio in the leaves was significantly higher than that in the roots, but the opposite was observed for the C:N and C:P ratios. Except for Leaf C and Root C, significant positive or negative correlations were observed across the stoichiometry of the shrub leaves and roots. A factor analysis of variance demonstrated that the differences across species had higher explanatory power than the topography and soil nutrients in terms of the shrub leaf and root stoichiometry. Hence, our results can improve the understanding of the distribution patterns of these vital elements, as well as of the interactions and influencing factors in the different organs of the karst shrubs.

Explanation Plus Prediction—The Logical Focus of Project Management Research

2021 ◽  
pp. 875697282199994
Author(s):  
Joseph F. Hair ◽  
Marko Sarstedt
Keyword(s):  
Project Management ◽  
Statistical Models ◽  
Predictive Power ◽  
Mean Absolute Error ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Absolute Error ◽  
Model Parameters ◽  
Mean Square ◽  
Management Research ◽  
The Mean

Most project management research focuses almost exclusively on explanatory analyses. Evaluation of the explanatory power of statistical models is generally based on F-type statistics and the R 2 metric, followed by an assessment of the model parameters (e.g., beta coefficients) in terms of their significance, size, and direction. However, these measures are not indicative of a model’s predictive power, which is central for deriving managerial recommendations. We recommend that project management researchers routinely use additional metrics, such as the mean absolute error or the root mean square error, to accurately quantify their statistical models’ predictive power.

scholarly journals Stress-Distribution Pattern Across the Glenohumeral Joint in Collegiate and Professional Baseball Players: A Computed Tomography Osteoabsorptiometry Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (6) ◽  
pp. 232596712110091
Author(s):  
Kyosuke Numaguchi ◽  
Daisuke Momma ◽  
Yuki Matsui ◽  
Masashi Yokota ◽  
Jun Oohinata ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Bone Density ◽  
Stress Distribution ◽  
Glenohumeral Joint ◽  
Distribution Patterns ◽  
Joint Surface ◽  
Baseball Players ◽  
Articular Surfaces ◽  
Head Surface ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Dominant Side

Background: The influence of long-term loading conditions on the articular surfaces of the glenohumeral joint can be determined by measuring stress-distribution patterns. Long-term pitching activity changes the stress distribution across the glenohumeral joint surface; however, the influence of competitive level on stress-distribution patterns remains unclear. Purpose: To use computed tomography (CT) osteoabsorptiometry (CTOAM) to evaluate the distribution of subchondral bone density across the glenohumeral joint in collegiate and professional baseball players as well as to determine the effects of pitching activity on the articular surfaces. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: We evaluated 73 shoulders in 50 baseball players. CT imaging data were obtained from the dominant-side shoulder of 12 professional pitchers (PP group) and 15 professional fielders (PF group). CT imaging data were also obtained from both shoulders of 12 asymptomatic collegiate pitchers (CP group) and 11 collegiate fielders (CF group). The pattern of distribution of subchondral bone density across the articular surfaces of each glenohumeral joint was assessed by CTOAM. As a measure of bone density, the mean Hounsfield units (HU) were obtained for each joint surface, and the absolute values of the dominant shoulder were compared for each group. Results: Stress-distribution patterns over the articular surfaces differed between the dominant and nondominant sides in the CP group as well as between both collegiate groups versus the PP group. In the CP group, the mean HU of the humeral head surface were greater on the nondominant versus dominant side ( P = .035). On the dominant side, the mean HU of the humeral head surface and glenoid were greater in the CP versus the PP group ( P = .001 and .027, respectively). Conclusion: Stress distribution on the articular surface of the glenohumeral joint was affected by pitching ability and competitive level. Our analysis indicates that the traction force on the glenohumeral joint surface might be greater than compression force during pitching. Clinical Relevance: The present findings suggest that pitching activity results in low stress to the articular surfaces of the glenohumeral joint. This supports the notion that mechanical conditions play a crucial role in the etiology of disorders specific to pitching activity.

scholarly journals Conservation implications of the temporal and spatial distribution of Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus in Crete

2002 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 269-280 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stavros Xirouchakis ◽  
Manolis Nikolakakis
Keyword(s):  
Distribution Patterns ◽  
High Mountains ◽  
Temporal And Spatial Distribution ◽  
Gypaetus Barbatus ◽  
Conservation Implications ◽  
Bearded Vulture ◽  
Nesting Sites ◽  
Domestic Livestock ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Temporal And Spatial

We carried out a four-year (1995-1999) survey on the foraging and breeding distribution of Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus on the island of Crete. The age classes of all birds sighted were systematically recorded and data on seasonal distribution patterns were collected; 262 observations were made covering an area of about 4,000 km2, at altitudes ranging from 200 m to 2,450 m a.s.l (mean 1,100 m). Adult birds were distributed evenly throughout the island while young birds avoided active territories and were mostly sighted at the periphery of the high mountains. The species depended almost entirely on domestic livestock herded into and away from the mountains seasonally, with birds foraging in the uplands (> 1,200 m a.s.l.) from early May to late October and frequenting midland pastures (600-1,200 m a.s.l.) for the rest of the year. The mean altitude of nesting sites was 750 m (range = 280-1,450 m), with 80% of nests positioned below the 1,000 m contour. Bearded Vultures are more vulnerable to human-induced mortality within their breeding territories and on midland pastures in winter than in the upland areas in summer.

scholarly journals Hospitalization Expenses and Influencing Factors for Inpatients with Ischemic Heart Disease in Iran: A Retrospective Study

Health Scope ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol In Press (In Press) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maryam Shirvani Shiri ◽  
Sara Emamgholipour ◽  
Rajabali Daroudi ◽  
Maryam Tatary ◽  
Zohreh Kazemi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Heart Disease ◽  
Ischemic Heart Disease ◽  
Influencing Factors ◽  
Financial Burden ◽  
First Grade ◽  
Ischemic Heart ◽  
Icu Admission ◽  
Medical Supplies ◽  
Hospitalization Costs ◽  
The Mean

Background: Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide and in Iran, which imposes a heavy financial burden both on patient’s family and society. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the direct medical costs of inpatients with IHD and its influencing factors in Iran in 2020. Methods: The sample of this cross-sectional study included 41,357 patients with IHD selected from the hospital information system (HIS) of the Iran Health Insurance Organization from August 23, 2019, to June 20, 2020. The study used the claims data of these patients, which included their demographics, length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) admission, hospital accreditation grade, hospital ownership type, and patient discharge status. The multiple linear regression model was employed to evaluate the relationship between hospitalization costs and the associated factors. All statistical tests were conducted at the significance level of P < 0.05 using the R 3.6.3 software. Results: The mean age of patients was 63.95 ± 12.63 years old, and most of them were male (54.4%). The mean hospitalization cost per patient and per day was 586.42 ± 472.51 USD and 103.64 ± 100.29 USD, respectively. Moreover, the mean LOS was 4.92 days. Drugs and consumable medical supplies, as well as nursing and hoteling services, had the highest shares of hospitalization costs (29.54% and 29.4%, respectively). The hospitalization costs of patients with IHD were higher among men (β = 1.24), age 61 - 70 years (β = 1.38), LOS ≥ 5 (β = 2.92), ICU admission (β = 1.62), Iranian health fund (β = 1.21), and private hospitals (β = 1.91). Top-grade and first-grade hospitals had higher costs compared to grade 2 (β = 0.67), grade 3 (β = 0.35), and grade 4 (β = 0.72) hospitals. Deceased patients had also higher costs than patients with complete recovery (β = 0.63), relative recovery (β = 0.59), follow-up (β = 0.51), transfer to other medical centers (β = 0.44), and discharge against medical advice (DAMA) (β = 0.62). Conclusions: According to the results, shortening the LOS and controlling the high costs of drugs and consumable medical supplies are among the main strategies to reduce high hospitalization costs.

scholarly journals Mediating Effect of Acceptance Action in relationship between Diabetes Self-Stigma and Quality of Life in People with Diabetes in Korea

2021 ◽  
Vol 28 (3) ◽  
pp. 384-394
Author(s):  
Kawoun Seo
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Mediating Effect ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Mediating Effects ◽  
Descriptive Research ◽  
Patients With Diabetes ◽  
The Mean ◽  
The Relationship

Purpose: This study was done to investigate the mediating effects of acceptance action on the relationship between diabetes self-stigma and quality of life in diabetes patients.Methods: For this study a descriptive research approach was used. Patients (237) with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus from a doctor of endocrinology were included. Data collection was done from March 26, to March 28, 2020. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis, and hierarchecal multiple regression.Results: The mean scores for diabetes self-stigma, acceptance action and quality of life were 2.67±0.71, 4.12±0.38, and 3.26±0.48, respectively. Acceptance action was found to partial mediate the relationship between diabetes self-stigma and quality of life (z=-4.20, p<.001), and its explanatory power was 17.6%.Conclusion: To improve the quality of life among patients with diabetes in diabetes self-stigma situations, it is necessary to improve their acceptance action and develop step-by-step and differentiated acceptance action enhancement programs through multidisciplinary collaboration.

scholarly journals Spatial-Temporal Pattern and Its Influencing Factors on Urban Tourism Competitiveness in City Agglomerations Across the Guanzhong Plain

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (23) ◽  
pp. 6743
Author(s):  
Jia Wan ◽  
Junping Yan ◽  
Xiaomeng Wang ◽  
Ziqiang Liu ◽  
Hui Wang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cluster Analysis ◽  
Influencing Factors ◽  
Temporal Pattern ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Urban Tourism ◽  
Ecological Environment ◽  
Single Factor ◽  
Tourism Resources ◽  
High Level ◽  
Environment Condition

Strengthening research on urban tourism competitiveness is vital in evaluating the current situation and potential of urban tourism, maintaining the sustainable development of the tourism economy and assisting in the regional macro decision making. In this study, an index system evaluation of urban tourism competitiveness in city agglomerations across the Guanzhong Plain is established by collecting cross-section data from the years 2017 and 2010. The entropy value method is adopted to determine the index weight. Cluster analysis is performed and the spatial-temporal pattern and evolution laws of urban tourism competitiveness among city agglomerations in the Guanzhong Plain are analyzed and the geographic detector utilized to discuss the influencing factors. Results show that the spatial gradient difference of urban tourism competitiveness of agglomerations in the Guanzhong Plain is significant. In 2010, it presented the characteristic of ‘the high and middle levels having a zonal distribution from east to west, and the low level was distributed along the north and south wings’. In 2017, the characteristic of ‘polarization’ became highly prominent, that is, the scope of high-level and low-level cities expanded and the scope of medium-level cities decreased. Urban tourism competitiveness in city agglomerations across the Guanzhong Plain exhibited a trend of ‘strengthening in the east, weakening in the west’. The competitiveness of resources and management shifted aggressively and supporting factors competitiveness underwent a slight change. The urban tourism competitiveness of city agglomerations in the Guanzhong Plain is generally low, while the urban tourism competitiveness of Xi’an had an absolute advantage in city agglomerations of the Guanzhong Plain. According to the cluster analysis results, resources and management competitiveness, supporting factors competitiveness, demand conditions competitiveness, situational conditions competitiveness and urban tourism competitiveness of Xi’an in 2010 and 2017 were all at an extremely high level, which was relatively higher than the index values of other cities in the city agglomerations of the Guanzhong Plain. Tourism resources, service support capacity, infrastructure support capacity, tourism income scale, tourism reception scale and economic development power are the core influencing factors of urban tourism competitiveness among city agglomerations in the Guanzhong Plain. The single factor explanatory power of destination management indicates a downward trend while the single factor explanatory power of the ecological environment condition shows an upward trend. Tourism resources are the leading interactive factor of urban tourism competitiveness, and destination management and ecological environment condition are the most significant indicators for the collaborative effect.

scholarly journals Exploring Spatial and Temporal Connection Patterns among the Districts in Chongqing Based on Highway Passenger Flow

2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 27 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yang Huang ◽  
Kaifang Shi ◽  
Huiming Zong ◽  
Tinggang Zhou ◽  
Jingwei Shen
Keyword(s):  
Influencing Factors ◽  
Infrared Imaging ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Remote Sensing Data ◽  
Enhancement Effect ◽  
Area Index ◽  
Interaction Detection ◽  
Passenger Flow ◽  
Nighttime Light ◽  
Light Area

Investigating regional connections and their influencing factors from the perspective of “flow” space is one of the foundations of promoting regional development. In this article, the data we used includes actual highway passenger flow data, National Polar-orbiting Partnership/Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (NPP/VIIRS) nighttime light remote sensing data, and socioeconomic data. We analyzed the spatial distribution pattern, connection intensity and spatial autocorrelation of highway passenger flow in Chongqing during the working day, weekend and May Day and revealed the influencing factors by means of a geographic detector. Three key conclusions resulted from this research. First, highway passenger flow in Chongqing districts exhibits spatial agglomeration that is clearly higher in western Chongqing than in eastern Chongqing and forms an obviously dual-core “star” structure, with the main urban area and Wanzhou serving as the core. Second, a factor detector notes that the nighttime light area index (0.9251, 0.9512, 0.9541) has the strongest explanatory power for the spatial differentiation of passenger traffic in Chongqing districts, which is the key factor. Third, interaction detection shows that the interaction between the two factors displays an enhancement effect at different times. The nighttime light area index shows the strongest explanatory power under the synergy of tourist attractions, which are 0.9850, 0.9903 and 0.9908. But the per capita GDP and highway mileage have the most obvious enhancement effect after interaction (0.9544, 0.9661, 0.9652). Therefore, in future planning and development, we should pay attention to cooperation and exchanges between districts and use the nighttime light area index as an important reference factor to provide a scientific basis for the construction of public transport and economic construction in Chongqing.

Lung function and surfactant distribution in saline-lavaged sheep given instilled vs. nebulized surfactant

1993 ◽  
Vol 74 (3) ◽  
pp. 1256-1264 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. F. Lewis ◽  
B. Tabor ◽  
M. Ikegami ◽  
A. H. Jobe ◽  
M. Joseph ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mechanical Ventilation ◽  
Lung Function ◽  
Static Pressure ◽  
Distribution Patterns ◽  
Lung Lavage ◽  
Mean Value ◽  
Exogenous Surfactant ◽  
Delivery Methods ◽  
Maximal Pressure ◽  
The Mean

Adult sheep (35 +/- 3 kg) underwent saline lung lavage and 1.5 h of mechanical ventilation to induce acute lung injury. Animals received 100 mg lipid/kg body wt of tracheally instilled surfactant (Inst Surf) or either nebulized surfactant (Neb Surf) or nebulized saline (Neb Saline) and were killed 3 h later. Inst Surf and Neb Surf groups had significant improvements in oxygenation (P < 0.01) and peak inspiratory pressures (PIP) (P < 0.05) compared with pretreatment values. Improvements in oxygenation and PIP for Inst Surf animals were significantly greater than for Neb Surf animals (P < 0.05). Volumes of maximal pressure of quasi-static pressure-volume curves measured at the time the animals were killed were significantly greater for Inst Surf and Neb Surf animals than for animals given Neb Saline (P < 0.05). Alveolar recovery of exogenous surfactant was 100 times greater for Inst Surf animals (1,732 +/- 70 mg) than for Neb Surf animals (15.3 +/- 2.9 mg) at the time they were killed. Although there were no differences in exogenous surfactant distribution patterns at the lobar level between the two surfactant-treated groups, distribution histograms calculated for 10-g lung pieces revealed the Neb Surf animals had significantly more pieces within 25% of the mean value of 1.0 (42.7 +/- 6.9%) than did Inst Surf animals (20.8 +/- 5.5%) (P < 0.01). Exogenous surfactant therapy improved lung function with significantly different quantities of surfactant deposited in lung tissue for the two delivery methods evaluated.

scholarly journals Patterns, determinants and models of woody plant diversity in China

2010 ◽  
Vol 278 (1715) ◽  
pp. 2122-2132 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhiheng Wang ◽  
Jingyun Fang ◽  
Zhiyao Tang ◽  
Xin Lin
Keyword(s):  
Species Richness ◽  
Woody Plants ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Explanatory Power ◽  
Woody Species ◽  
Tropical Species ◽  
Controversial Issues ◽  
Strongly Correlated ◽  
Distribution Maps ◽  
The Mean

What determines large-scale patterns of species richness remains one of the most controversial issues in ecology. Using the distribution maps of 11 405 woody species in China, we compared the effects of habitat heterogeneity, human activities and different aspects of climate, particularly environmental energy, water–energy dynamics and winter frost, and explored how biogeographic affinities (tropical versus temperate) influence richness–climate relationships. We found that the species richness of trees, shrubs, lianas and all woody plants strongly correlated with each other, and more strongly correlated with the species richness of tropical affinity than with that of temperate affinity. The mean temperature of the coldest quarter was the strongest predictor of species richness, and its explanatory power for species richness was significantly higher for tropical affinity than for temperate affinity. These results suggest that the patterns of woody species richness mainly result from the increasing intensity of frost filtering for tropical species from the equator/lowlands towards the poles/highlands, and hence support the freezing-tolerance hypothesis. A model based on these results was developed, which explained 76–85% of species richness variation in China, and reasonably predicted the species richness of woody plants in North America and the Northern Hemisphere.

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