bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on the life-cycle of Uvulifer iruvettiensis sp. nov. (Digenea: Diplostomidae)
Authors: Subair K. , Brinesh R. , Janardanan K.
Published: February 2013

The life-cycle stages of a new species of Uvulifer, U. iruvettiensis sp. nov. infecting the white-throated kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis (Linnaeus) in Kerala, India are described. The new species is described in detail, and compared with its related species. The furcocercous cercariae emerged from the planorbid snail Indoplanorbis exustus (Deshayes). Metacercariae were found below the skin of tadpoles of Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (Schneider). H. smyrnensis became infected when fed on tadpoles containing infective metacercariae. Pre-patent period is 10 days. Successive stages in the development of metacercariae and adults were followed in the laboratory.
An analytical approach for optimal design of heat sinks under forced convection
Authors: Miguel Antonio
Published: February 2013

Saving energy is just as important as generating energy. In this paper, we seek an optimized structure that achieves a certain level of heat transfer rate under a minimum pumping power to drive the fluid stream. Constraints are specified by the flow regime (laminar and turbulent), admissible boundary conditions on the walls (prescribed temperature and constant heat flux), and design standards. The study will help designers with more effective basic tools for the conceptual design of system and in establishing proper operating procedures.
Usage Effects on the Cognitive Routinization of Chinese Resultative Verbs
Authors: Wang Ben Pin-Yun
Published: February 2013

The present study adopts a corpus-oriented usage-based approach to the grammar of Chinese resultative verbs. Zooming in on a specific class of V-kai constructions, this paper aims to elucidate the effect of frequency in actual usage events on shaping the linguistic representations of resultative verbs. Specifically, it will be argued that while high token frequency results in more lexicalized V-kai complex verbs, high type frequency gives rise to more schematized V-kai constructions. The routinized patterns pertinent to V-kai resultative verbs varying in their extent of specificity and generality accordingly serve as a representative illustration of the continuum between lexicon and grammar that characterizes a usage-based conception of language.
Evaluating the coordination of motor abilities in Greco-Roman wrestlers by computer testing
Authors: Gierczuk Dariusz , Ljach Włodzimierz
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate, by using a number of selected criteria, the accuracy of Vienna Test System (VST) computer tests used in wrestling to evaluate motor skill development.

Methods

Fifteen 16–17-year-old students from the SMS Sports School in Radom, Poland, who had been practising Greco-Roman wrestling for a period of 3 to 6 years took part in a VTS-based examination that measured coordination of motor abilities (CMA). Test reliability and validity were evaluated on the basis of thirty test scores characterising six abilities that define motor coordination. Reliability was defined by performing the tests twice (test/retest) over a period of three-to-five days. The validity of the selected scores was established with the help of three different criteria.

Results

Thirteen out of the thirty CMA scores under investigation demonstrated sufficient coefficients of reliability. The CMA tests assessing quick reaction time, frequency of movements, partial spatial orientation, movement adaptability and movement coupling fulfilled the assumed criterion. In most cases, the coefficients of validity were not lower than 0.3. The highest validity level was demonstrated by scores measuring movement coupling, complex reaction time, spatial orientation and movement adaptability, while the lowest one was found in simple reactions and frequency of movements.

Conclusions

The obtained reliability and validity coefficients of the scores based on complex reaction, partial spatial orientation, movement adaptability and movement coupling confirm the usefulness of these specific tests in diagnosing CMA in wrestlers, as they meet the demands of sports metrology.
Strength parameters in judo athletes: an approach using hand dominance and weight categories
Authors: Detanico Daniele , Arins Francimara Budal , Pupo Juliano Dal , Santos Saray Giovana Dos
Published: February 2013

Purpose

This study aimed to relate strength parameters of the judogi pull test and countermovement jump (CMJ), and body fat with body mass and to compare strength parameters in the judogi pull test between the dominant and non-dominant hands.

Methods

Eighteen male judokas took part in this study. The following parameters were analysed: maximal force (Fmax), time to maximal force (TFmax), rate of force development (RFD) and rate of peak force decrement (RPFD) of the dominant and nondominant hands during the pull test. Jump height (Hmax), power, Fmax, peak velocity (PV) and RFD in the CMJ were also measured. A t-test and Pearson’s correlation were used.

Results

Fmax (absolute and relative) and RFD were greater for the dominant hand, whereas RFPD was greater for the non-dominant hand during the pull test. There was a significant correlation only between absolute Fmax and body mass (r = 0.51) in the pull test. For the CMJ, relative power (r = –0.57), Hmax (r = –0.49) and PV (r = –0.53) were negatively correlated with body mass, while absolute Fmax (r = 0.84) and power (r = 0.69) were positively correlated with body mass. A significant correlation between body mass and body fat (r = 0.88) was found.

Conclusions

There are differences in maximal and explosive force and the rate of peak force decrement between the dominant and non-dominant hand. Absolute values of power and maximal force increased according to body mass (and, therefore, a higher weight category); however jump performance decreased with an increase in body mass (weight category).
Hip and shoulder kinematics during initial sled acceleration in luging – a case study
Authors: Fedotova Veronika , Pilipiv Viktor
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The start is treated as one of the most important technical elements in all sliding sports, as it is the only phase when athletes can actively contribute to increasing sled velocity. Nevertheless, start kinematics in luging have seldom been addressed in literature. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyse hip and shoulder movement of lugers during one of the essential start phases – the pull and push-off from the start handles – to further understanding of the velocity development process at its initial stage.

Methods

Three experienced female lugers volunteered to take part in the case study. A number of start attempts were filmed and analysed using a motion tracking method.

Results

The study found that an athlete and the sled do not move as a whole rigid system, and a hip movement relative to the sled was found to exist. The study participants used two techniques for achieving high sled velocity: by initially pulling on the start handles with a powerful back extension, and sliding the hips forward on the sled in an attempt to increase forward momentum; a combination of both techniques might provide increased performance. Athletes featured two weaknesses in terms of where horizontal sled velocity was lost – at the end of the initial pull on the handles and during the final moment of the push-off from the handles. The latter was previously believed to be another option at gaining increased sled horizontal velocity.

Conclusions

As found in the results, athletes have at least two possibilities of increasing horizontal sled velocity. Hip movement relative to the sled appeared to be important for gains in velocity. Additional studies that analyse larger pulls are necessary for understanding the role of hip and sled relative movement in start technique and its impact on increasing initial velocity.
Investigation of localised pressure applied to specific sites on the lateral aspect of the foot’s dorsum by the upper parts of footwear during sports specific movements
Authors: Greenhalgh Andrew , Sinclair Jonathan , Chockalingam Nachiappan
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Localised peak pressure linked to overuse injuries has been documented extensively at the plantar surface during human locomotion. There is however a paucity of research investigating pressure applied to non-plantar regions of the foot during movement. This study investigates the magnitudes of peak pressures applied to the lateral side of the 5th metatarsal head (5MTH) and calcaneus (CC) by the uppers of footwear during sports movements.

Method

A plantar pressure measuring system was adapted to fit into a sock covering the lateral aspect of the L5MTH and LCC. Six male participants (26.7 ± 2.4 years, 75.2 ± 5.5 kg) performed ten trials each of starting, stopping, sprinting, cutting and sidestepping at self-selected velocities, whilst wearing the pressure measuring device. Repeated measures ANOVA’s were used to examine differences between peak pressures at different aspects of the lateral side of the dorsum of the foot.

Results

The results indicate significant differences (p < 0.05) between peak pressures at the LCC compared to the L5MTH. Significant differences in peak pressure at the L5MTH were also found between movement strategies. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were reported at the LCC between different movements.

Conclusions

The results identify a need for athletes pre-disposed to injuries in the uppers of the feet to consider the possible influence of footwear on the magnitudes of peak pressures applied to the lateral side of the dorsum of their feet.
Influence of hypoxia training on the aerobic capacity of an elite race walker
Authors: Maciejczyk Marcin , Sudoł Grzegorz , Szyguła Zbigniew
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of a combination of two different hypoxic training models (“live high-train high” and “live high-train low” with the use of a hypoxic tent) on the aerobic capacity of a elite race walker preparing for the 2009 IAAF World Championships.

Methods

Evaluation of VO2max and the second ventilatory threshold was performed three times: 1) after four weeks training without hypoxic conditions, 2) after 28 days training in normoxia and sleeping for 8 h/day in a hypoxic tent (normobaric hypoxia, simulated hypoxia at 2133 m above sea level) and 3) after 26 days of classical altitude training at a moderate altitude of about 1800 m ASL (hypobaric hypoxia). The hematological parameters of the athlete’s blood (hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, and erythrocytes and reticulocytes counts) were also measured after each stage.

Results

After training in normoxia and sleeping in a hypoxic tent the ventilatory threshold was noted at a higher work intensity and featured an improvement in his hematological parameters, although VO2max was unchanged (compared to training without hypoxia). After classical altitude training a higher level of VO2max was observed (with a ventilatory threshold level similar to the level after training in normobaric hypoxia), but the hematological indices were lower than the levels observed before starting hypoxic training.

Conclusions

The combination of two methods of hypoxic training improved the aerobic capacity of the test subject, but an improvement in the analyzed hematological indicators was observed only after LH + TL training. After training in LH + TH these indicators were lower in comparison to the levels prior hypoxic training. The changes in the hematological indices after hypoxic training did not seem to have a significant influence on aerobic capacity; the observed improvements in physical performance may result from other factors.
Athletes’ perception of parental support and its influence on sports accomplishments – a retrospective study
Authors: Siekańska Małgorzata
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of family environmental factors on student athletes featuring different levels of sports accomplishment: 1) a low level – no significant achievements (N = 46), 2) a medium level – significant achievements at a regional level (N = 86) and 3) a high level – significant achievements at national and/or international level (N = 33).

Methods

The participants were administered a demographic survey and the Athletes’ Family Environment Questionnaire (AFEQ).

Results

One-way ANOVA found that the high achievers’ families differ from the medium- and low-level achievers in five (out of nine) of the studied family environment factors: children as an important value in family life, sport as an important value in family life, parents’ involvement in their child’s sports career, the overall genetic-environmental conditioning of their child’s talent and passion for sports, as well as parents living through their child’s involvement in sports.

Conclusions

Such factors as parents’ involvement in their child’s sports career and parents living through their child’s involvement in sports are especially interesting for researchers. On one hand, these factors can be beneficial (providing instrumental support, spectatorship), but on the other hand, they can have adverse effects such as a child quitting sports, experiencing burnout or have a higher risk of injury. From a practical perspective, the family environment may be the most accessible as well as the most important of the socio-environmental dimensions of young athletes.
Phylogenetic Position Of The Monogenean Malayanodiscoides Bihamuli Lim Et Furtado, 1986 Inferred From Sequence And Secondary Structure Of 28S Rdna
Authors: Chaudhary Anshu , Shanker Singh Hridaya
Published: February 2013

The present study is a brief description of the morphology and molecular phylogeny of Malayanodiscoides bihamuli Lim and Furtado, 1986 infecting gill filaments of fish Notopterus chitala (Hamilton). The phylogenetic study was made of M. bihamuli and closely related taxa using DNA sequence data obtained from 28S rDNA region. Morphology as well as molecular phylogeny strongly supports the establishment of genus Malayanodiscoides and also demonstrates its close relationship with other genera of class Monogenea. In addition, the 28S secondary structure model was predicted and found to serve as a useful tool for reconstruction of optimal alignment and can be used as an additional source of data incorporating structural parameters of molecules for the study of phylogeny. Application of the secondary 28S structure data allows a more resolved and realistic picture of relationships. Results also demonstrate the phylogenetic utility of the 28S sequence secondary structure data for inferences at higher taxonomic levels.
Data On The Distribution Of Selected Soricomorpha And Rodentia Species In Poland
Authors: Banaszek Agata , Chętnicki Włodzimierz , Fedyk Stanisław , Jadwiszczak Katarzyna A. , Mirski Paweł
Published: February 2013

We present current data on the occurrence of four Soricomorpha and 15 Rodentia species. The mammals were collected during trapping of common shrews and yellow-necked mice for chromosomal research and the common hamsters for phylogeography and genetic variability research. The maps of species occurrence were created in ArcGIS and each map is accompanied by the list of localities with geographic coordinates and year of capture.
Parameters determination of a conceptual rainfall-runoff model for a small catchment in Carpathians
Authors: Karabová Beata , Sikorska Anna E. , Banasik Kazimierz , Kohnová Silvia
Published: February 2013

Parameters determination of a conceptual rainfall-runoff model for a small catchment in Carpathians. One of the most important tasks in hydrology is to simulate and forecast hydrologic processes and variables. To achieve this, various linear and nonlinear hydrologic models were developed. One of the most commonly applied rainfall-runoff models is the Nash’s model of the Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (IUH) (Nash, 1957) used jointly with the CN-NRCS method. Within this paper, the Nash’s model was applied to a small forested basin (Vištucký Creek, Slovakia) to reconstruct rainfall-runoff events based on the recorded precipitation. The Vištucký Creek catchment, located in the Little Carpathians, is a part of the flood protection management of regional sites in the Little Carpathians. Therefore, the object of this paper is, first, to determine the parameters of a conceptual rainfall-runoff model for the Vištucký creek catchment, second, to analyse how the selected characteristics of the model depend on the rainfall characteristics, and third, to compare obtained results with a similar study of Sikorska and Banasik (2010). The computer programme developed at the Dept. of Water Engineering (WULS-SGGW) was used to obtain the rainfall-runoff characteristics based on the Nash´s model. The derived characteristics were parameters of the Nash’s model (N, k, lag time) and rainfall-runoff characteristics (sum of total and effective precipitation, rainfall duration, runoff coefficient, time to IUH peak, value of IUH peak, goodness of fit). A relatively small effective precipitation from the rainfall events was derived. For the purpose of the analysis, a correlation between the lag time (and k parameter) and the sum of the total and effective precipitation was used. The use of the conceptual rainfall-runoff model (Nash´s model) for the small catchment in Carpathians was proved to give satisfactory results. The rainfall characteristics derived in this study are comparable to the results obtained by Spál et. al (2011), who used the same catchment in their analysis. Interestingly, our analysis indicated that there is a correlation between the rainfall duration and the lag time, what is opposite to the compared results of Sikorska and Banasik (2010).
Kinematic Pattern of the Drag-Flick: a Case Study
Authors: Gómez María , López De Subijana Cristina , Antonio Raquel , Navarro Enrique
Published: February 2013

The drag-flick is more efficient than hits or pushes when a penalty corner situation is in effect in field hockey.
Previous research has studied the biomechanical pattern of the drag-flick, trying to find the cues for an optimal
performance. On the other hand, some other studies have examined the most effective visual pick-up of relevant
information in shots and goalkeeper anticipation. The aim of this study was to analyse the individual differences in the
drag-flick pattern in order to provide relevant information for goalkeepers. One female skilled drag-flicker participated
in the study. A VICON optoelectronic system (Oxford Metrics, Oxford, UK) was used to capture the drag-flicks with
six cameras. The results showed that the main significant differences between right and left shots (p<0.05) in the stick
angles, stick minimum angular velocity and front foot-ball distance were when the front foot heel contacted the floor
(T1) and at the minimum velocity of the stick, before the dragging action (T3). The findings showed that the most
relevant information might be picked up at the ball-and-stick location before the dragging action.
The Effect of Warm-Up and Cool-Down Exercise on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness in the Quadriceps Muscle: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Olsen Olav , Sjøhaug Mona , Van Beekvelt Mireille , Mork Paul Jarle
Published: February 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of warm-up and cool-down exercise on delayed onset
of muscle soreness at the distal and central parts of rectus femoris following leg resistance exercise. Thirty-six
volunteers (21 women, 15 men) were randomly assigned to the warm-up (20 min ergometer cycling prior to the
resistance exercise), cool-down (20 min cycling after the resistance exercise), or control group performing resistance
exercise only. The resistance exercise consisted of front lunges (10x5 repetitions/sets) with external loading of 40%
(women) and 50% (men) of body mass. Primary outcomes were pressure pain threshold along rectus femoris and
maximal isometric knee extension force. Data were recorded before the resistance exercise and on the two consecutive
days. Pressure pain threshold at the central muscle belly was significantly reduced for the control group on both day 2
and 3 (p≤0.003) but not for the warm-up group (p≥0.21). For the cool-down group, pressure pain threshold at the
central muscle belly was significantly reduced on day 2 (p≤0.005) and was also lower compared to the warm-up group
(p=0.025). Force was significantly reduced on day 2 and 3 for all groups (p<0.001). This study indicates that aerobic
warm-up exercise performed prior to resistance exercise may prevent muscle soreness at the central but not distal
muscle regions, but it does not prevent loss of muscle force.
The Role of Aerobic and Anaerobic Training Programs on CD34+ Stem Cells and Chosen Physiological Variables
Authors: Shalaby Mohammed Nader , Saad Mohammed , Akar Samy , Reda Mubarak Abdelreda Ali , Shalgham Ahmed
Published: February 2013

Exercise is one of the most powerful non-pharmacological strategies, which can affect nearly all cells and
organs in the body. Changes in the behavior of adult stem cells have been shown to occur in response to exercise.
Exercise may act on regenerative potential of tissues by altering the ability to generate new stem cells and differentiated
cells that are able to carry out tissue specific functions. The purpose of this study was to reveal the role of aerobic and
anaerobic training programs on CD34+ Stem Cells and chosen physiological variables. Twenty healthy male athletes
aged 18-24 years were recruited for this study. Healthy low active males and BMI matched participants (n=10) aged
20-22 years were recruited as controls. Aerobic and anaerobic training programs for 12 weeks were conducted.
VO2max pulse observation was carried out using the Astrand Rhyming protocol. RBCs, WBCs, HB and hematocrit
were estimated using a coulter counter, lactate by the Accusport apparatus, CD34+ stem cells by flow cytometry.
VO2max was increased significantly in case of the aerobic training program compared to anaerobic one (62±2.2
ml/kg/min vs. 54±2.1 ml/kg/min). Haemotological values increased significantly in the anaerobic program when
compared to the aerobic one, RBCs (5.3±0.3 and 4.9±0.2 mln/ul), WBCs (6.6±0.5 and 6.1±0.4 thous/ul), HB (15.4±0.4
and 14.2±0.5 g/de), Hematocrit (4.6±1.2 and 4.4±1.1 %), CD34+ stem cells count increased significantly in case of the
anaerobic program compared to the aerobic (251.6±21.64 and 130±14.61) and sedentary one (172±24.10). These
findings suggest that anaerobic training programs provoke better adaptation to exercise and stem cell counts may differ
between trained and sedentary subjects. Circulating immature cells are likely to be involved in angiogenesis and repair
process, both mechanisms being associated with strenuous exercise. Knowledge of the physiological effects of training on
stem cells might be of potential clinical use.
The Relationship Between the Yo-Yo Tests, Anaerobic Performance and Aerobic Performance in Young Soccer Players
Authors: Karakoç Barış , Akalan Cengiz , Alemdaroğlu Utku , Arslan Erşan
Published: February 2013

The purposes of this study were to determine the relationship between performance in the Yo-Yo intermittent
recovery test level 1 (YIRT1), the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 2 (YIRT2) and the Yo-Yo endurance test
(continuous) (YET) with maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and Wingate anaerobic performance (WaNT) test results
in young soccer players (age 15.00 ± 0.0 years, body height 176.3 ± 4.2 cm and body mass 68.1 ± 3.6 kg). An
ergospirometry device was used during the treadmill test (TRT) to determine VO2max. At the end of the study,
significant differences were found between the Yo-Yo tests and TRT in terms of HRmax (TRT = 195,92, YIRT1 =
197,83, YIRT2 = 198,5 YET = 198) (p > 0.05). While there were moderate correlations between VO2max and YIRT 1-2
performances (respectively, r = 0.56, r = 0.53), there was only a weak relationship between VO2max and YET
performance (r = 0.43) (distance covered). There were also moderate significant negative correlations between
performance in the YIRT2 and peak power measured in the WaNT (r = -0.55), although there were no significant
correlations between performance in the three tests and average power. A moderate negative correlation was found
between performance in the YIRT2 and Fatigue index (FI) (r = -0,66). In conclusion, the YIRT2 may be a more suitable
field test for determining both aerobic and anaerobic performance in soccer players.
The Role of Situational Variables in Analysing Physical Performance in Soccer
Authors: Lago-Peñas Carlos
Published: February 2013

Performance analysis in sport is used to investigate the performance of teams and players across different
sports. Research within this area, especially when focussing on the determinants of success, has grown rapidly in the
last few years. During this time, the role of a new concept, ‘situational variables’ has emerged. This term includes the
different game and situational conditions that may influence performance at a behavioural level. Given that soccer is
dominated by strategic factors, it is reasonable to suggest that situational variables of match status (i.e. whether the
team is winning, losing or drawing), quality of opposition (strong or weak), and match location (i.e. playing at home or
away) may somehow influence the teams´ and players´ activities. These situational variables need to be analyzed in
depth to understand their influence in team sports. The aim of this article was to examine the independent and
interactive effects of situational variables on physical performance in elite soccer. The view that professional soccer
players regulate their physical efforts according to the specific demands of individual matches and periods of the game is
offered. In support of this argument results from recent studies are presented. Implications of this perspective for match
analyst and coaches for evaluating performance are also considered.
Game Analysis of Olympic, World and European Championships in Men’s Handball
Authors: Bilge Murat
Published: February 2013

The development of men’s handball was analyzed using data from the Olympic, World and European
Championships held within the last eight years. The most obvious change, especially within these last nine
tournaments, was that men’s handball was played more dynamically and rapidly, both in attack and defense, especially
by European teams. The first aim of this study was to conduct a technical analysis of current handball and to determine
factors related to success in this sport discipline. The second aim was to compare the data of European Championships
with other tournaments, considering the success of European teams in Men’s World Handball. The technical variables
used to compare the tournaments included: the average number of attacks, the efficiency of attacks, the efficiency of goal
throws, fast break goals per game, the efficiency of fast breaks, the efficiency of the goalkeeper, saves by the goalkeeper
per game, number of turnovers per game, and the efficiency of position throws (wing, pivot, back court, break-through,
fast break, and 7-meter). This technical analysis used cumulative statistics from the European Handball Federation and
International Handball Federation. ANOVA revealed significant differences between the first eight teams in the
European Championships and their counterparts in the other two tournaments (Olympics and World Championships)
in terms of several technical variables. The results showed that the efficiency of fast break, pivot position and back court
players affected the ranking in favor of the European teams in significant international tournaments.
Swimming Speed of The Breaststroke Kick
Authors: Strzała Marek , Krężałek Piotr , Kaca Marcin , Głąb Grzegorz , Ostrowski Andrzej , Stanula Arkadiusz , Tyka Aleksander
Published: February 2013

The breaststroke kick is responsible for a considerable portion of the forward propulsion in breaststroke
swimming. The aim of this study was to measure selected anthropometric variables and functional properties of a
swimmer’s body: length of body parts; functional range of motion in the leg joints and anaerobic power of the lower
limbs. Chosen kinematic variables useful in the evaluation of swimming performance in the breaststroke kick were
evaluated. In the present research, swimming speed using breaststroke kicks depended to the largest extent on anaerobic
endurance (0.46, p < 0.05 partial correlations with age control). In addition, knee external rotation and swimming
technique index had an impact on swimming speed and kick length (both partial correlations with age control 0.35, p <
0.08). A kinematic analysis of the breaststroke kick hip displacement compatible with horizontal body displacement was
significantly negatively correlated with foot slip in the water opposite to body displacement (partial correlations: with
leg length control -0.43, p < 0.05; with shank length control -0.45, p < 0.05, respectively). Present research and
measurements of selected body properties, physical endurance and kinematic movement analysis may help in making a
precise determination of an athlete’s talent for breaststroke swimming.
The Relationship Between Body Composition, Anaerobic Performance and Sprint Ability of Amputee Soccer Players
Authors: Özkan Ali , Kayıhan Gürhan , Köklü Yusuf , Ergun Nevin , Koz Mitat , Ersöz Gülfem , Dellal Alexandre
Published: February 2013

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between body composition, anaerobic
performance and sprint performance of amputee soccer players. Fifteen amputee soccer players participated in this study
voluntarily. Subjects’ height, body weight, body mass index, body fat percentage (Jackson and Pollock formula) and
somatotype characteristics (Heath-Carter system) were determined. The sprint performance at 10m, 20m and 30m was
evaluated, whereas the counter movement jump (CMJ), relative CMJ (RCMJ), squat jump (SJ) and relative SJ (RSJ)
tests were used for the determination of anaerobic performance. The results of the Pearson Product Moment correlation
analysis indicated that body composition was significantly correlated with CMJ and SJ (p < 0.01), on the other hand, no
measure of body composition was significantly related to the other component (p > 0.05). A significant correlation was
found between CMJ, RCMJ, SJ, 10 m, 20 m and 30 m sprint performance (p < 0.05); whereas, in contrast, no measure
of body composition was significantly related to the 10 m, 20 m and 30 m sprint performance (p > 0.05). In conclusion,
the findings of the present study indicated that sprint performance was described as an essential factor in anaerobic
performance whereas body composition and somatotype play a determinant role in anaerobic and sprint performance in
amputee soccer players.
Temperature and humidity conditions of Macocha Abyss
Authors: Litschmann Tomáš , Rožnovský Jaroslav , Středa Tomáš , Středová Hana , Hebelka Jiří
Published: February 2013

The paper deals with the evaluation of temperature and humidity measurements in the vertical profile of Macocha Abyss (Moravian Karst, South Moravia, Czech Republic). The measuring profile on a rock wall is made up of seven HOBO-PRO sensors. Two other meteorological stations are installed at the bottom and near the upper edge of the abyss. The evaluation was designed separately for warm season (June 1, 2008 to August 31, 2008) and cold season (November 1, 2008 to February 28, 2009). In the warm season, distribution of inverse temperatures dominated in the abyss. Temperature differences between the bottom of the abyss and its upper edge reached about 10 ◦ C. At the bottom of the abyss, the minimum temperatures proved to be higher than at its upper edge and in its vicinity. Thermal circulation is evident to the depth of about 60 m. The highest temperatures were observed in the deeper layers of the abyss in the warm period at around 10 a.m. of Central European Summer Time. Towards the upper edge of the abyss, the hour of daily maximum temperature shifts to 2 to 4 p.m. In the cold season, the minimum temperature was observed between 6 and 7 a.m. of Central European Time. A decrease in the accumulation of cold air (cold-air pool formation) was not found in the lower floors of the abyss. This phenomenon does not occur even during clear nights. The depth of 60 m from the upper edge of the area maintains a high relative humidity (above 95%) in the warm season. However, humidity decreases from this depth towards the top of the abyss. In the cold season, the whole abyss is filled with air with relative humidity of 90 to 95%.
Selected agroclimatic characteristics of climatic regions of the Czech Republic
Authors: Kohut Mojmír , Chuchma Filip , Hora Petr
Published: February 2013

The current division of the Czech Republic into climatic regions was carried out according to basic criteria which meet the assumption of similar conditions for growth and development of agricultural crops. Ten climatic regions in the Czech Republic were labelled with numbers 0 (VT, very hot) to 9 (CH, cold). In this paper we have utilized selected agro-climatic characteristics for these climatic regions, which were not considered in the original classification. Evaluation was performed according to the daily interval of agro-meteorological model AVISO with the use of technical series of meteorological elements of a regular network of 789 grid points (10×10 km) for the period of 1961-2010.
Carbonate complexes underlying Flysch belt and subsurface Neogene volcanic in the NE part of Slovakia – a potential for geothermal energy and raw materials
Authors: Kucharič Ľudovít , Bezák Vladimír , Majcin Dušan , Vozár Ján
Published: February 2013

A positive gravity anomaly was observed in the Flysch belt realm. Based on this fact and available geological knowledge we suppose that the source of gravity anomaly might be carbonate rocks lying perhaps in the footwall of Flysch sediments. The carbonates belong perhaps to the Penninic crust cover (a part of Klippen belt), or to lower structural stage of the Flysch belt. Besides this it is interpreted more volume of Neogene subvolcanic bodies in the frame of the Flysch belt based on the results of the newest magnetic measurements in the NE part of Slovakia (Kucharič et. al., in press). These are accompanied by increasing heat flow and hydrothermal alteration within neighbouring rocks what may eventuate into creation of raw materials. These two factors - carbonates and subvolcanic bodies - are important items for appraisal of new perspective in this area not only from hydrocarbon occurrences point of view (a primary intend within this area) but also for enhancement of geothermal potential of Slovak Republic and opening possibilities for prognosis of raw material occurrences as well.
Application of Artificial Neural Networks for estimating index floods
Authors: Šimor Viliam , Hlavčová Kamila , Kohnová Silvia , Szolgay Ján
Published: February 2013

This article presents an application of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and multiple regression models for estimating mean annual maximum discharge (index flood) at ungauged sites. Both approaches were tested for 145 small basins in Slovakia in areas ranging from 20 to 300 km2. Using the objective clustering method, the catchments were divided into ten homogeneous pooling groups; for each pooling group, mutually independent predictors (catchment characteristics) were selected for both models. The neural network was applied as a simple multilayer perceptron with one hidden layer and with a back propagation learning algorithm. Hyperbolic tangents were used as an activation function in the hidden layer. Estimating index floods by the multiple regression models were based on deriving relationships between the index floods and catchment predictors. The efficiencies of both approaches were tested by the Nash-Sutcliffe and a correlation coefficients. The results showed the comparative applicability of both models with slightly better results for the index floods achieved using the ANNs methodology.
Calculation of temperature distribution and rheological properties of the lithosphere along transect I in the Western Carpathians
Authors: Dérerová Jana , Kohút Igor , Bielik Miroslav , Bošanský Marián , Porubčanová Barbara
Published: February 2013

Using the 2D integrated modelling method, we calculated the temperature model of the lithosphere along transect I passing through theWestern Carpathians. Based on the extrapolation of failure criteria, lithology and calculated temperature distribution, we derived the rheology model of the lithosphere in the area. Our results indicate clearly that the strength decreases from the Bohemian Massif via the Western Carpathians to the Pannonian Basin. The largest strength can be observed within the upper crust on the boundary between the upper and lower crust. This phenomenon is typical for all studied tectonic units: the Bohemian Massif, the Western Carpathians and the Pannonian Basin. These results suggest mostly rigid deformation in the upper crust of the units. By contrast, the lower crust in the Bohemian Massif and the Western Carpathians reflects significantly lower strength, while in the Pannonian Basin the strength is the smallest. In all tectonic units the strength within the uppermost mantle (lower lithosphere) disappears. It can be suggested that the ductile deformation dominates in this part of the lithosphere.
Supply Side Wage Determinants: Overview of Empirical Literature
Authors: Balcar Jiří
Published: February 2013

The list of variables included in wage models has been extended substantially since 1974 when Mincer published his model containing years of schooling and quadratic function of potential experience. This paper provides an overview of the variables most often employed in wage equations, including results from their estimations. Education, experience, particular skills, psychological traits, beauty and health, social capital, characteristics potentially connected with discrimination, individual’s household characteristics and social, cultural and economic background the individual was exposed to during childhood and adolescence, all these are aggregated fields of interest which are discussed in detail. The paper is concluded by the outline of the probable development of research on wage determinants.
Structure, Conduct and Performance of Indian Banking Sector
Authors: Mishra Pulak , Sahoo Deepti
Published: February 2013

In the context of initiation of economic reforms in general and changes in policies and regulations of the banking sector in particular, the present paper attempts to examine the structure-conduct-performance relationships in Indian banking sector. It is observed that there have been changes in the market structure of Indian banking sector, conducts of the banks and their performance in the post-reform era, especially during the last decade, though the changes have not been significant in every aspect. Using a panel dataset of 59 banks operating in India during 1999-2000 to 2008-2009 and applying the two-stage least squares (2SLS) method of estimation, the paper finds that there exist strong inter-linkages amongst structure of the market, banks’ conduct and their financial performance. While market share of a bank depends directly on its market size, asset base, selling efforts, and past financial performance, its selling efforts vary directly with market share, asset base, and past financial performance. On the other hand, returns on assets of a bank vary directly with its market share, but inversely with its asset base and selling efforts. The regression results essentially suggest for multidirectional and dynamic SCP relationships in Indian banking sector. It is also found that the nature of ownership has significant influence on market share, selling efforts and financial performance of the banks. As compared to the nationalised banks, market share of the private banks (both domestic and foreign) is found to be lower. But private banks make greater selling efforts and have better financial performance vis-à-vis their public sector counterparts
Numerical Analysis of the Effects of Wind on Building Structures
Authors: Šimiček Jozef , Hubová Olga
Published: February 2013

The paper deals with the theoretical foundations of laminar and turbulent fluid flows ina boundary layer and the effects of wind on constructions. The application sectiondescribes the flow of compressible Newtonian fluid as a system of partial differentialequations (the Navier-Stokes equation) and solves these equations using FEM at each timestep. Simplifying a 3D task to a plane problem and ignoring vorticity allows for theformulation of a wind flow on an open terrain and the effects of wind on a barrier. Twoapproaches to the numerical solution of wind flows are presented: one involves the Fluentcommercial program to obtain the velocity field and pressure at a constant wind speed inan inlet region, and the other approach involves the development of the SIXIS specificsoftware program for the purpose of this thesis, which modifies the wind velocity profileaccording to EN 1994-1-4. The results obtained - velocity fields around obstacles and thewind pressure coefficients on a barrier are processed and compared in a table.
Assessment of The Uncertainties of a Conceptual Hydrologic Model By Using Artificially Generated Flows
Authors: Valent Peter , Szolgay Ján , Riverso Carlo
Published: February 2013

Most of the studies that assess the performance of various calibration techniques have todeal with a certain amount of uncertainty in the calibration data. In this study we testedHBV model calibration procedures in hypothetically ideal conditions under the assumptionof no errors in the measured data. This was achieved by creating an artificial time seriesof the flows created by the HBV model using the parameters obtained from calibrating themeasured flows. The artificial flows were then used to replace the original flows in thecalibration data, which was then used for testing how calibration procedures can reproduceknown model parameters. The results showed that in performing one hundred independentcalibration runs of the HBV model, we did not manage to obtain parameters that werealmost identical to those used to create the artificial flow data without a certain degree ofuncertainty. Although the calibration procedure of the model works properly froma practical point of view, it can be regarded as a demonstration of the equifinality principle,since several parameter sets were obtained which led to equally acceptable or behaviouralrepresentations of the observed flows. The study demonstrated that this concept forassessing how uncertain hydrological predictions can be applied in the further developmentof a model or the choice of calibration method using artificially generated data.
Assessing the Use of Sunken Lanes for Water Retention in a Landscape
Authors: Zlatuška Karel
Published: February 2013

Newly-designed structures and landscaping elements are often used for flood protection.This article assesses the use of existing sunken lanes for retaining water in a landscape andthe sedimentation of washed-off soil. The article also describes ways how to preserve or, atleast minimally disrupt, existing biotopes and landscape segments. Geodetic data from onespecific sunken lane in South Moravia in the Czech Republic were transferred to a digitalterrain model; 9 models were subsequently generated, each with a different longitudinalsunken lane bed slope. Retention dams consisting of gabions were placed in them. Thenumber of dams, the volume of structures made of steel gabions, and the retention areavolume behind the dams were determined for each model specifically. It was determinedthat the number of dams, as well as their total volume, increased with the averagelongitudinal slope of the sunken lane bed. It was also discovered that the retention volumeremained almost the same, as it only very slightly decreases with an increasing longitudinalslope.
Numerical Integration of Abruptly Unsteady Flows in an Open Channel
Authors: Samia Boudjellal , Ali Fourar , Fouzi Abdessemed
Published: February 2013

Unsteady flows in channels and rivers combine a number of very complex naturalphenomena, particularly phenomena related to the wave propagation caused by gravity orfloods. The free surface flows relative to flows are regulated by the dynamic equilibrium ofthe forces of gravity, inertia and friction (Hervouet, 2003).In this present research study thefocus is primarily on the dynamic behavior of flows in an open channel, which occurs afterthe opening of a partition in the case of an enlargement and finally an abrupt drop. Thenumerical integration of the governing hyperbolic partial differential equations allowed usto better understand the phenomenon studied in the three cases cited above. Solving theseequations could be realized by using a FORTRAN calculation program that we developed.
Best friend's and family members’ smoking habits and parental divorce during childhood are associated with smoking in adulthood
Authors: Broms Ulla , Koskenvuo Karoliina , Sillanmäki Lauri H. , Mattila Kari J. , Koskenvuo Markku
Published: February 2013

Aims

Smoking initiation during childhood or adolescence is strongly associated with friends’ smoking. Likewise, adverse living conditions increase the likelihood of future deviant behaviour. We examine whether smoking by a best friend and family members during school years as well as adverse childhood experiences are associated with smoking in adulthood.

Data and Design

We have analysed the responses of Finnish working-aged respondents in 1998 (N=25901) and 2003 (N=20773) to questions on the smoking status of friends and family members during school years as well as their answers on a six-item scale of childhood adversities. A case-control study design was used to compare current cigarette smokers (1998 and 2003) to non-smokers (1998 and 2003).

Results

If a best friend during school years was a smoker, the subject s odds ratio (OR) of being a smoker in adulthood was 4.43 among females and 3.91 among males compared to those with a non-smoking best friend in multivariate models adjusted for smoking by family members during school years and by six childhood adversities. These associations did not differ by age. Smoking in adulthood was associated with childhood adversities, most strongly with parental divorce or separation during the subjects’ school years.

Conclusion

Smoking by a best friend and parental divorce or separation during school years appears to be a strong factor of smoking in later life.
“They must be 18 years old ... really”. Alcohol debut discourses at parent meetings within alcohol prevention programmes in school
Authors: Henriksen Øystein
Published: February 2013

Aims

This article analyses how parents discuss norms of youth alcohol debut at meetings of alcohol prevention programmes in schools. The focus is on how different ways of argumentation can help to deal with dilemmas between what parents perceive to be the right age of debut, what they describe as common, and what they consider is possible to realise.

Methods and Data

The data mainly consists of audio recordings of conversations at parent meetings arranged by an alcohol prevention programme in the eighth grade at four schools in four different locations in Norway. The study takes its inspiration from discourse analysis.

Results

The analysis identifies three different patterns of parent discussions about alcohol debut. This information is used to construct three discourses of norms for alcohol debut, namely, a traditional discourse, a discourse of modern upbringing and a discourse of legalisation. Both the traditional opinions, which centre on the significance of the confirmation age, and the modern individualised norms are challenged by arguments for an 18-year limit in these discussions.

Conclusion

The legal age limit of 18 years seemed implicitly or explicitly to be a strong resource of argumentation for formulating common norms for alcohol debut. In the parents’ discussions, too, the consensus seems to be moving towards the 18-year age limit.