bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A autoavaliação da aprendizagem de inglês como língua estrangeira em um ambiente tandem a distância
Authors: Cavalari Suzi Marques Spatti
Published: April 2011

Este trabalho visa discutir as características do processo de autoavaliação da aprendizagem de inglês como língua estrangeira em um contexto tandem a distancia. Trata-se, mais especificamente, da apresentação de uma pesquisa na qual se analisam os dados coletados no ambiente teletandem (TELLES, 2005) por uma brasileira (aprendiz de inglês), durante suas interações via chat com dois parceiros norteamericanos (aprendizes de português). A análise enfoca as metas e estratégias de aprendizagem em relação aos parâmetros e critérios adotados pela brasileira em seu processo de autoavaliação.
Avaliação da proporção facial vertical: relação entre as alturas tegumentar e esquelética
Authors: Costa Márcia Cristina Cunha , Barbosa Marcelo de Castellucci e , Bittencourt Marcos Alan Vieira
Published: April 2011

OBJETIVO: determinar a relação entre as alturas faciais obtidas na avaliação do tegumento e do esqueleto subjacente, na análise da proporção facial vertical, na região anterior. MÉTODOS: foram utilizadas 24 radiografias cefalométricas de perfil e 48 fotografias da face, sendo 24 de perfil e 24 frontais, pertencentes a 24 indivíduos brasileiros, 7 do sexo masculino e 17 do feminino, na faixa etária de 19 a 38 anos. Foram realizados traçados cefalométricos e, sobre esses, obtidas medidas lineares, segundo as análises preconizadas por Schudy, Wylie e Johnson e Thompson e Brodie. Sobre as fotografias faciais, foram demarcados os pontos glabela, subnasal e mento, o que permitiu a medição das distâncias lineares entre os mesmos. Os dados obtidos foram, então, tratados estatisticamente. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÕES: encontrou-se correlação positiva entre as avaliações do tegumento e do esqueleto subjacente, com base nas análises de Schudy (r=0,619, p<0,001), Wylie e Johnson (r=0,595, p<0,002) e Thompson e Brodie (r=0,630, p<0,001), embora, individualmente, algumas discordâncias tenham sido identificadas, devido à variabilidade em espessura nos tecidos moles.
Retração rápida de caninos
Authors: Ribeiro Paulo Renato Carvalho , Fernandes Sérgio Henrique Casarim , Oliveira Gustavo Saggioro
Published: April 2011

INTRODUÇÃO: a retração rápida de caninos por distração do ligamento periodontal é uma técnica de movimentação dentária que permite o fechamento de espaço da extração de primeiros pré-molares em um intervalo de duas ou três semanas, proporcionando uma redução significativa no tempo do tratamento ortodôntico. OBJETIVO: apresentar modificações propostas na técnica cirúrgica original e no posicionamento dos distratores. CONCLUSÕES: a retração rápida de caninos é uma técnica que proporciona uma redução significativa no tempo de tratamento ortodôntico. A modificação na técnica cirúrgica proporcionou maior velocidade e segurança ao ato cirúrgico. O distrator posicionado por palatina, no mínimo, proporcionou a preservação da tábua óssea vestibular e evitou a vestibularização dos caninos.
The Benefit of the Neutropenic Diet: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Jubelirer Steven J.
Published: April 2011

There really should not be a debate about the use of neutropenic diet for cancer patients. Its usefulness has never been scientifically proven. However, neutropenic diets remain in place in many institutions even though their usefulness is controversial. Neutropenic diets were once thought to be important in protecting patients from having to succumb to infection from neutropenia while undergoing chemotherapy. Although food may contain harmful organisms and research has shown that bacterial translocation is possible, recent studies have been unable to obtain significant differences between placebo and intervention groups. The dietetic challenges neutropenic patients struggle with include decreased quality of life, malnutrition, gastrointestinal side effects, food aversion, and impaired cell-mediated immunity from vitamin deficiency. Unanswered questions in regard to the neutropenic diet include the following: (a) which food should be included; (b) which food preparation techniques improve patient compliance; (c) which patient populations benefit most; and (d) when should such a diet be initiated. Without scientific evidence, the best advice for neutropenic patients is to follow food safety guidelines as indicated by government entities.
The effect of oxidation on structural and electrical properties of single wall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Markovic Zoran , Perusko Davor , Tosic Dragana , Romcevic Nebojsa , Dramicanin Miroslav , Nikolic Zoran , Markovic Todorovic
Published: April 2011

Single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) represent an important group of
nanomaterials with attractive electrical, chemical, and mechanical
properties. In this work we have investigated the structural, optical and
electrical properties of single wall carbon nanotube films deposited on
copper substrate and then transferred to polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The
properties of deposited films were varied by changing different parameters:
substrate temperature, deposition time and electric field strength. Atomic
force microscopy (AFM) has been used to study the deposition process of SWCNT
films on copper substrate. AFM analysis has shown that sodium dodecyl sulfate
(SDS) micellas were deposited on copper substrate before carbon nanotubes
because of their higher mobility. Raman spectroscopy revealed that SWCNTs
deposited at elevated temperatures are oxidized. FTIR results showed that
COOH groups and Cu2O were generated during electrophoretic process. The SWCNT
films were transferred to PMMA substrate and they achieved a sheet resistance
of 360 ?/sq with 79% transparency at 550 nm wavelength and a strong adhesion
to the substrate. The main reasons for higher values of sheet resistances of
SWCNT thin films compared to those of other authors are oxidation of carbon
nanotubes during electrophoresis and the presence of used surfactans in
carbon matrix of deposited films.
Woody plant willow in function of river water protection
Authors: Babincev Ljiljana , Rajakovic Ljubinka , Budimir Milana , Peric-Grujic Aleksandra , Sejmanovic Dragana
Published: April 2011

Coastal area surrounding the river Ibar, in the area between cities of
Kosovska Mitrovica and Leposavic in the north of Kosovo and Metohija, is
occupied with seven industrial waste dumps. These dumps were all part of the
exploitation and flotation refinement of raw mineral materials, metallurgic
refinement of concentrates, chemical industry, industrial refinement and
energetic facilities of Trepca industrial complex. The existing waste dumps,
both active and inactive, are of heterogenic chemical composition. Its impact
on the river water is shown by the content of heavy metals found in it.
Removal of lead, cadmium and zinc would be economically unrewarding,
regardless of the technology used. Wooden plant that prevails in this area is
white willow. This work is focused on the removal of heavy metals (Pb, Cd and
Zn) from the water of the river Ibar using white willow. Roots of the willow
are cultivated using the method of water cultures in an individual solution
of heavy metals and river water sample. The preparation of the samples for
analysis was performed by burning the herbal material and dissolving ashes in
the appropriate acids. The concentrations of metals were determined by the
stripping analysis. In the investigated heavy metal solutions the biomass
increase is 25.6% in lead solution, 27.3% in cadmium and 30.7% in zinc
solution. The increase of biomass in nutritional solution, without the heavy
metals, is 32.4% and in river water sample 27.5%. The coefficient of
bioaccumulation in solutions with heavy metals is 1.6% in lead solution, 1.9%
in cadmium and 2.2% in zinc solution. Heavy metals accumulation is 18.74 ?g
of lead, 20.09 ?g of cadmium and 22.89 ?g of zinc. The coefficient of
bioaccumulation of the water samples, that contained 44.83 ?g/dm3 of lead,
29.21 ?g/dm3 of cadmium and 434.00 ?g/dm3 of zinc, during the period of 45
days, was 30.3% for lead, 53.4% for cadmium and 3.9% for zinc. The
concentrations of accumulated metals from the river water are 19.01 ?g of
lead, 21.85 ?g of cadmium and 23.96 ?g of zinc in grams dry matter. The
obtained results indicate that the willow can contribute to the
decontamination of moderately contaminated river water from Pb, Cd and Zn.
Taking a Step Away from Modernity: Reconsidering the New Sociology of Childhood
Authors: Prout Alan
Published: April 2011

This article explores the conditions under which the sociology of childhood was created, suggests some of the problems encountered in this effort and points to some possible remedies. It is argued that the construction of a sociology of childhood entailed a double task. First, space had to be created for childhood within sociological discourse. Second, the increasing complexity and ambiguity of childhood as a contemporary, destabilized phenomenon had to be confronted. It is argued that, whilst a space for childhood has been created, this was accomplished largely in terms of modernist sociology, a discourse that was increasingly unable to deal adequately with the destabilized world of late modernity. An important aspect of this problem is apparent in the reproduction within the sociology of childhood of the dichotomized oppositions that characterize modernist sociology. Three of these oppositions (agency and structure, nature and culture, being and becoming) are explored. It is suggested that moving the sociology of childhood beyond the grip of such modernist thinking entails developing a strategy for ‘including the excluded middle’. Inter alia this may necessitate greater attention to the interdisciplinarity and the hybridity of childhood; being symmetrical about how childhoods are constructed; attending to the networks, flows and mediations of its production, and the co-construction of generational relations.
A Culture of Protection: The Establishment of a Sex Offenders' Register in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Annie Hau-Nung
Published: April 2011

Child sex abuse is an issue that raises much social concern, and in some societies a sex offenders' register is used as a key measure to combat this problem. Drawing heavily upon a discourse of child protection, the Law Reform Commission of Hong Kong has recently suggested that such a mechanism should be implemented in Hong Kong. This article examines how the protection of children has in this case overridden the interests of other social groups and processes, whilst not necessarily reducing risks faced by children. What this proposal would achieve, however, is a false sense of control and security for both parents and policy makers. An effective response to child sexual abuse must include community education and rehabilitation provision for offenders, and must avoid over-reliance on ‘protection-oriented’ measures such as a sex offenders' register.
Data Truncation Bias, Loss Firms, and Accounting Anomalies
Authors: Teoh Siew Hong , Zhang Yinglei
Published: April 2011

Ex post trimming of extreme returns observations that are not data errors causes spurious inferences in tests of market efficiency and behavioral explanations for anomalies. Trimming causes a downward truncation bias in estimated mean returns that is stronger in ex ante subsamples with more loss firms and in which return distributions are more right-skewed. There is an asymmetric U-shaped relation between return right-skewness and loss frequency across deciles of negative return predictors (Accruals, ΔNOA, and NOA), and a downward sloping relationship for positive return predictors (CFO and FCF). Consequently, a least-trimmed square (LTS) 1 percent deletion of returns induces a spurious inverted-U-shaped relation between returns and negative predictors, and an exaggerated positive relation for positive predictors. Thus, the resulting trimmed relations do not reject behavioral explanations for these anomalies. Trimming also induces a spurious loss anomaly. These findings highlight that in return prediction studies, observations should not be deleted based upon the values of the dependent variable, only based upon clearly identified data errors.
What Makes Conference Calls Useful? The Information Content of Managers' Presentations and Analysts' Discussion Sessions
Authors: Matsumoto Dawn , Pronk Maarten , Roelofsen Erik
Published: April 2011

Conference calls held in conjunction with an earnings release have become increasingly common in recent years, yet there is little evidence regarding the reasons that these calls are incrementally informative over the accompanying press release. Using a sample of more than 10,000 conference-call transcripts, we examine the information content of both segments of the call—the presentation and the discussion segment. We find that both segments have incremental information content over the accompanying press release. However, discussion periods are relatively more informative than presentation periods, and this greater information content is positively associated with analyst following. We also find that managers provide increased disclosures during the presentation segment when firm performance is poor, but relatively more information is released during discussion periods in these circumstances. Overall, our results are consistent with the notion that active analyst involvement in conference calls increases the information content of the calls, particularly when firm performance is poor.
Modeling Discretionary Accrual Reversal and the Balance Sheet as an Earnings Management Constraint
Authors: Baber William R , Kang Sok-Hyon , Li Ying
Published: April 2011

This study presents conceptual and empirical analyses of discretionary accrual reversal in the earnings management context. We specifically focus on the extent that income-increasing (decreasing) discretionary accruals initiated in a prior period reverse to become income-decreasing (increasing) accruals in the current period. The analysis suggests that the extent that such reversals constrain the ability to manage toward earnings objectives depends on both the magnitude of past accrual-based earnings management and the reversal speed of past discretionary accruals. To demonstrate the empirical implications of the analysis, we consider discretionary accrual reversal speed as an additional determinant of the balance sheet constraint on earnings management (Barton and Simko 2002). We show that, conditional on the magnitude of net operating asset overstatement, the probability of achieving quarterly earnings forecasts varies inversely with reversal speed.
Spillover Effects in Subjective Performance Evaluation: Bias and the Asymmetric Influence of Controllability
Authors: Bol Jasmijn C. , Smith Steven D.
Published: April 2011

We examine how subjective performance evaluations are influenced by the level and controllability of an accompanying measure of a separate performance dimension. In our experiment, supervisors evaluate the office administration performance of a hypothetical subordinate. We find that supervisors' subjective evaluations are directionally influenced by an accompanying objective measure of sales performance, even after excluding participants who perceive informativeness across measures. Consistent with concerns for fairness and motivation, we also find an asymmetric uncontrollability effect—supervisors' evaluations are higher when an uncontrollable factor decreases the subordinate's sales (i.e., they compensate for bad luck), but are not lower when the uncontrollable factor increases the subordinate's sales (i.e., they do not punish for good luck). This evidence suggests that supervisors use discretion provided to evaluate performance on one task to adjust for perceived deficiencies in the evaluation of performance on other tasks. Our study integrates theories of cognitive bias and motivation, highlighting the need to consider the potentially interactive effects of different performance measures in multi-task settings.
Financial Reporting Quality and Investment Efficiency of Private Firms in Emerging Markets
Authors: Chen Feng , Hope Ole-Kristian , Li Qingyuan , Wang Xin
Published: April 2011

Prior research shows that financial reporting quality (FRQ) is positively related to investment efficiency for large U.S. publicly traded companies. We examine the role of FRQ in private firms from emerging markets, a setting in which extant research suggests that FRQ would be less conducive to the mitigation of investment inefficiencies. Earlier studies show that private firms have lower FRQ, presumably because of lower market demand for public information. Prior research also shows that FRQ is lower in countries with low investor protection, bank-oriented financial systems, and stronger conformity between tax and financial reporting rules. Using firm-level data from the World Bank, our empirical evidence suggests that FRQ positively affects investment efficiency. We further find that the relation between FRQ and investment efficiency is increasing in bank financing and decreasing in incentives to minimize earnings for tax purposes. Such a connection between tax-minimization incentives and the informational role of earnings has often been asserted in the literature. We provide explicit evidence in this regard.
Monitoring by Auditors: The Case of Public Housing Authorities
Authors: Grein Barbara Murray , Tate Stefanie L.
Published: April 2011

We take advantage of the unique reporting requirements of nonprofit public housing authorities (PHAs) to study the effect of audits on financial information both generally and when there are management incentives to misreport financial data. There is little prior research on the effect of audit adjustments in nonprofit settings and conflicting research on how auditors react to management's incentives to misreport. We identify potential financial statement areas at risk of manipulation based on incentives specific to public housing authorities. Using pre- and post-audit financial data for almost 3,600 PHAs across seven years, we find that auditors make economically and statistically significant adjustments to PHA financial statements. In addition, we find evidence that audits appear to reduce potential management bias, particularly to reduce risks of overstatement. Overall, audits appear to matter in this nonprofit, low-litigation risk setting where there is a large concentration of non-Big 4 auditors.
Nobiletin Attenuates VLDL Overproduction, Dyslipidemia, and Atherosclerosis in Mice With Diet-Induced Insulin Resistance
Authors: Mulvihill Erin E. , Assini Julia M. , Lee Justin K. , Allister Emma M. , Sutherland Brian G. , Koppes Julie B. , Sawyez Cynthia G. , Edwards Jane Y. , Telford Dawn E. , Charbonneau Alexandre , St-Pierre Philippe , Marette André , Huff Murray W.
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

Increased plasma concentrations of apolipoprotein B100 often present in patients with insulin resistance and confer increased risk for the development of atherosclerosis. Naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds including flavonoids have antiatherogenic properties. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of the polymethoxylated flavonoid nobiletin on lipoprotein secretion in cultured human hepatoma cells (HepG2) and in a mouse model of insulin resistance and atherosclerosis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Lipoprotein secretion was determined in HepG2 cells incubated with nobiletin or insulin. mRNA abundance was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR, and Western blotting was used to demonstrate activation of cell signaling pathways. In LDL receptor–deficient mice (Ldlr−/−) fed a Western diet supplemented with nobiletin, metabolic parameters, gene expression, fatty acid oxidation, glucose homeostasis, and energy expenditure were documented. Atherosclerosis was quantitated by histological analysis.

RESULTS

In HepG2 cells, activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase-extracellular signal–related kinase signaling by nobiletin or insulin increased LDLR and decreased MTP and DGAT1/2 mRNA, resulting in marked inhibition of apoB100 secretion. Nobiletin, unlike insulin, did not induce phosphorylation of the insulin receptor or insulin receptor substrate-1 and did not stimulate lipogenesis. In fat-fed Ldlr−/− mice, nobiletin attenuated dyslipidemia through a reduction in VLDL-triglyceride (TG) secretion. Nobiletin prevented hepatic TG accumulation, increased expression of Pgc1α and Cpt1α, and enhanced fatty acid β-oxidation. Nobiletin did not activate any peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor (PPAR), indicating that the metabolic effects were PPAR independent. Nobiletin increased hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance and dramatically attenuated atherosclerosis in the aortic sinus.

CONCLUSIONS

Nobiletin provides insight into treatments for dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis associated with insulin-resistant states.
Adaptation and Validation of the Steen Happiness Index into Polish
Authors: Kaczmarek Lukasz , Stanko-Kaczmarek Maja , Dombrowski Stephan
Published: April 2011

Adaptation and Validation of the Steen Happiness Index into Polish

Authentic happiness is a construct comprising 3 factors: pleasure, engagement, and meaning (Seligman, Parks, & Steen, 2005). Three studies involving altogether 464 participants adapted and validated the authentic happiness measure Steen Happiness Index (SHI; Seligman, Steen, Park, & Peterson, 2005) into Polish. In Study 1 the Polish version of the scale was developed and its convergence with the original SHI was assessed using bilingual response method, r = .98, p < .001. In Study 2 cluster analysis confirmed the theoretical profiles of happiness, testing the proposed 3-factor structure of the scale, χ2 (116) = 180.62, GFI = .95, CFI=.97, SRMR = .04, RMSEA = .04, RMSEA 90% CI [.25 - .45]. Test-retest reliability (Study 3) yielded satisfactory results, rtt = .87, p < .01. This is the first study providing empirical support for the structural validity of the authentic happiness construct. It also shows the cross-cultural generality of the construct. We discuss some practical applications of the scale.
Superficial and systemic diagnosis of family
Authors: Świętochowski Waldemar
Published: April 2011

Superficial and systemic diagnosis of family

The distinction between two types of diagnosis of family was inspired by the concept of surface and source features of personality by R.B. Cattell. By means of existing psychological questionnaires we can only know the surface of consciously available mental phenomena. The same is true in the diagnosis of family. The McMaster model of family, systemic in its assumptions, developed research tools giving access only to the surface of the phenomena. Although they are divided into certain thematic categories they do not reveal what is really important in the family system. In this article, the author, after a detailed discussion of one of the tests based on the McMaster theoretical model, is attempting to identify the source features (here: unavailable for conscious cognition) of the family, hereinafter called systemic traits. In this research the exploration factor analysis was used. Three perspectives of the opinion of the family were maintained (like in the Family Assessment Measure). Factor analysis allowed identification of three factors for each perspective of the family assessment. Confirmative analysis proved a satisfactory match (using RMSEA, GFI and AGFI statistics). The accuracy of the identified systemic model was then tested by a confirmation study (confirmative factor analysis using Amos from SPSS). The authors also prepared a provisional questionnaire for measuring these systemic traits of the family. The tool proved to be promising and the work worth continuing. Incidentally, it turned out that the characteristics of the family system are relatively independent of personality traits of family members.
The structure and regulative function of the cognitive styles: a new theory
Authors: Nosal Czeslaw
Published: April 2011

The structure and regulative function of the cognitive styles: a new theory

The organization of human cognitive styles can be described as a kind of functional system or as an holon. In this framework it is possible to propose a new theoretical base for classifying the primary cognitive styles. The fundamental theoretical thesis is that for all styles there is one common mechanism of forming and scanning the perceptual and memory field induced by the situation, and by the differences in the manner of carrying out the processes of field scanning /codes interfering depend on the range of conceptual equivalency and cognitive control of behavior. In the functional describing of the basic set of cognitive styles we must take into account three elements of the chain: neurobiological modules ® organization of cognitive holon ® behavioral manifestation of styles.
Cross-Education and contralateral irradiation
Authors: Panzer Stefan , Schinowski David , Kohle Daniel
Published: April 2011

Cross-Education and contralateral irradiation

Cross-Education is characterized as the improvement in strength of the contralateral homologous muscle after unilateral practice. One potential mechanism to explain this phenomenon is that a unilateral maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) induces an involuntary irradiation of the contralateral homologous muscles. The purpose of the present two studies was to determine if contralateral irradiation is a potential mechanism to explain effects of cross-education. Contralateral irradiation was measured as the EMG co-activation in the homologous unpracticed arm. In Study 1 a unilateral dynamic extension/flexion arm movement was used to activate the triceps. The results indicated that unilateral practice induced a contralateral co-activation on the unpracticed arm. The same result can be reported for an isometric contraction (Study 2). The two studies provided empirical evidence that unilateral MVC did induce an involuntary muscle co-activity on the contralateral homologous muscles with increasing practice time in one testing session.
Morphological characteristics of young elite paddlers
Authors: Alacid Fernando , Marfell-Jones Michael , López-Miñarro Pedro , Martínez Ignacio , Muyor José
Published: April 2011

Morphological characteristics of young elite paddlers

The aims of this study were to describe kinanthropometric characteristics of elite male and female young paddlers and to compare their proportionality with Olympic paddlers. One hundred and eighty seven young elite sprint paddlers (124 males and 63 females), aged 13 and 14 years, were assessed using a battery of 31 anthropometric dimensions. Somatotypes, Phantom Z-scores and corrected girths were calculated. Comparison between the 13 and 14 year old paddlers showed that 14 year old males had greater height, body weight, sitting height, arm span and upper body lengths, breadths and girths than their 13 year old counterparts, whereas 14 year old female paddlers only differed significantly from the 13 year olds in biacromial breadth and corrected arm girth. Mean somatotypes of male paddlers were best described as balanced mesomorphs, while female paddlers were centrals. Olympic paddlers had higher proportional dimensions in upper body girths, and biacromial breadth in both genders. The data provided in this study could be used as a guideline for talent identification in sprint canoeing and kayaking.
Children's Step Counts on Weekend, Physical Education, and Non-Physical Education Days
Authors: Brusseau Timothy , Kulinna Pamela , Tudor-Locke Catrine , van der Mars Hans , Darst Paul
Published: April 2011

Children's Step Counts on Weekend, Physical Education, and Non-Physical Education Days

There have been well-documented increases in overweight and obese children, sedentary lifestyles, and increased prevalence of a hypokinetic disease over the past 20 years. Thus understanding the physical activity patterns of children is essential for developing effective interventions. Little evidence exists that illustrates the contribution of weekend, physical education, and non-physical education days to overall physical activity patterns of children. The purpose of the study was to examine differences in pedometer-determined physical activity patterns of fourth and fifth grade children during weekend, physical education and non-physical education days. Three hundred and sixty-three children (8-11 years old) from six Southwestern USA elementary schools participated by wearing pedometers (Yamax Digiwalker SW-200) for seven consecutive days. Children recorded their steps at arrival to school and when they woke up and went to bed on weekend days. During weekdays, the fourth and fifth grade children averaged 13,196 ± 3,334 and 11,295 ± 3,168 steps/day for boys and girls, respectively. This is compared to a weekend average of 7,660 ± 4,647steps/day (boys) and 7,317 ± 4,062 steps/day (girls). Children were significantly more active on physical education days, averaging 12,979 steps/day (14,197 ± 4,697 steps/day for boys and 12,058 ± 3,772 steps/day for girls),compared to non-physical education school days, when they accumulated 11,809 steps/day (12,788 ± 3,600 steps/day for boys and 11,047 ± 3,382 steps/day for girls). Based on the findings in this study, children and youth are more active during school days than on weekend days. Furthermore, children are more active on physical education days than non-physical education days. These findings suggest that increased physical activity programming and interventions during weekend days may be needed to increase physical activity. The expansion of school-based physical education across more school days may also serve to increase children's physical activity during the school week.
Competitive Anxiety and Coping Strategies in Young Martial Arts and Track and Field Athletes
Authors: Radochoński Mieczysław , Cynarski Wojciech , Perenc Lidia , Siorek-Maślanka Lucyna
Published: April 2011

Competitive Anxiety and Coping Strategies in Young Martial Arts and Track and Field Athletes

This study is an examination of the relationship between competitive anxiety and coping strategies in young athletes. Sixty karatekas and 72 track and field athletes were the subjects of the study. The age of the athletes ranged between 18 and 25 years. All had been practicing their sports for 6-8 years. The research instruments employed are the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) and the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS).

Results show that martial arts athletes reported a significantly higher level of self-confidence and lower levels of cognitive and somatic anxiety compared to track and field athletes. The two groups also differed in regard to the use of coping strategies in stressful situations. For example, the karate athletes used more effective strategies such as task-oriented coping. In the next step of the study, the subjects were divided into two groups according to the level of performance (i.e. "winners" and "losers"). The "losers exhibited higher levels of anxiety, both cognitive and somatic, than "winners". They also had higher scores on less effective coping subscales, e.g. emotion-oriented and avoidance-oriented.

There is a significant interdependence between anxiety and level of performance in competitive stress situations. Future research should also consider the possible mediating role of other psychological factors, such as personality traits.
Academic Self-Efficacy of Turkish Physical Education and Sport School Students
Authors: Ünlü Hüseyin , Kalemoğlu Yaprak
Published: April 2011

Academic Self-Efficacy of Turkish Physical Education and Sport School Students

This study investigated the academic self-efficacy of physical education and sport school students. The research group consisted of 518 students. The research data was collected following the "Academic Self Efficacy Scale" principle. Results indicated that physical education and sport school students obtained high academic self efficacy scores. While no significant difference was observed with regard to gender, class level and sport branches with gender, a significant difference was observed when considering only sport branches.
New Tendencies in Sports Training - A Review of the Monograph by Issurin Intitled "The Block Periodization of Sports Training"
Authors: Lyakh Vladimir , Zając Adam , Bujas Przemysław
Published: April 2011

New Tendencies in Sports Training - A Review of the Monograph by Issurin Intitled "The Block Periodization of Sports Training"
Analyzing Variations in Roundness Profile Parameters During the Wavelet Decomposition Process Using the Matlab Environment
Authors: Adamczak Stanisław , Makieła Włodzimierz
Published: April 2011

Analyzing Variations in Roundness Profile Parameters During the Wavelet Decomposition Process Using the Matlab Environment

Signal analysis performed during surface texture measurement frequently involves applying the Fourier transform. The method is particularly useful for assessing roundness and cylindrical profiles. Since the wavelet transform is becoming a common tool for signal analysis in many metrological applications, it is vital to evaluate its suitability for surface texture profiles. The research presented in this paper focused on signal decomposition and reconstruction during roundness profile measurement and the effect of these processes on the changes in selected roundness profile parameters. The calculations were carried out on a sample of 100 roundness profiles for 12 different forms of mother wavelets using MATLAB. The use of Spearman's rank correlation coefficients allowed us to evaluate the relationship between the two chosen criteria for selecting the optimal mother wavelet.
Statistical Validation of the Method for Measuring Radius Variations of Components on the Machine Tool
Authors: Adamczak Stanisław , Janusiewicz Adam , Makieła Włodzimierz , Stępień Krzysztof
Published: April 2011

Statistical Validation of the Method for Measuring Radius Variations of Components on the Machine Tool

This paper deals with the experimental validation of the suitability of the method for measuring radial variations of components on the process tool. The tests were conducted using a computerized PSA6, which was compared to a Talyrond 73. The results of measurement of roundness deviations as well as roundness profiles were analyzed for a sample of 70 shafts. The roundness deviations were assessed by determining the experimental errors, while the profiles obtained with the tested device were compared to those registered by the reference device using three correlation coefficients.
Metal Detector Excited By Frequency-Swept Signal
Authors: Svatoš Jakub , Vedral Josef , Fexa Pavel
Published: April 2011

Metal Detector Excited By Frequency-Swept Signal

This paper describes the theoretical background of electromagnetic induction from metal objects modelling. The response function of a specific case of object shape - a homogenous sphere from ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic material is introduced. Experimental data measured by a metal detector excited with a linearly frequency-swept signal are presented. As a testing target various spheres from different materials and sizes were used. These results should lead to better identification of the buried object.
A New Method of Inductive Sensor Impedance Measurement Applied to the Identification of Vehicle Parameters
Authors: Marszałek Zbigniew , Sroka Ryszard , Stencel Marek
Published: April 2011

A New Method of Inductive Sensor Impedance Measurement Applied to the Identification of Vehicle Parameters

Inductive loop sensors are widely used for detection of presence, measurement of parameters as well as classification of vehicles. Vehicle classification may be performed based on their magnetic profiles. The magnetic profile is a signal which is proportional to the resultant of an impedance change of the sensor, caused by the measured object (the changes are minor - of the order of 1%). Generator and bridge circuits are most commonly used as conditioning circuits for such sensors. As a result we can obtain one output signal proportional to total changes of sensor parameters (R and L). In this paper, a modified bridge circuit that allows independent measurement of the components (R and L) of the sensor's impedance, has been proposed. With that provided, it is possible to receive broader information on the object, which allows higher classification resolution. This paper provides the concept of a circuit, model testing results, processing algorithms used and the test results of a real circuit.
Dynamically Programmable Analog Arrays in Acoustic Frequency Range Signal Processing
Authors: Falkowski Piotr , Malcher Andrzej
Published: April 2011

Dynamically Programmable Analog Arrays in Acoustic Frequency Range Signal Processing

Field programmable analog arrays (FPAA), thanks to their flexibility and reconfigurability, give the designers quite new possibilities in analog circuit design. The number of both academic projects on FPAA and applications of commercially available programmable devices is still growing. This paper explores the properties and parameters of two most popular FPAA circuits: the AnadigmVortex AN221E04 and AnadigmApex AN231E04 from the Anadigm company. The research conducted by the authors led to the discovery of some undocumented features of these devices. Several applications for audio processing were built and tested. The results show that these circuits can be used in medium-demanding audio applications. Thanks to dynamic reconfigurability, they also allow to build an universal analog audio signal processor. These circuits can also act as a versatile platform for rapid prototyping and educational purposes.
Design and Performance of the Converging-Diverging Vortex Flowmeter
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang
Published: April 2011

Design and Performance of the Converging-Diverging Vortex Flowmeter

The converging-diverging structure is introduced to extend the lower limit of measurement of vortex flowmeters. As a compact device, the converging-diverging vortex flowmeter is proposed and designed, and its performance is studied experimentally. It is found that, first of all, an up to 51% extension of the lower measurement limit can be realized through the converging-diverging structure, compared with conventional vortex flowmeters; second, the converging-diverging vortex flowmeter with a trapezoidal bluff body has a larger Strouhal number and smaller pressure loss. The results suggest that the converging-diverging vortex flowmeter provides an alternative device especially suitable for the measurement of low-velocity fluids.
Algorithmic Method for Phase Angle Shift of Noisy Voltages Using Conditional Averaging of Delayed Signal's Absolute Value
Authors: Kowalczyk Adam , Szlachta Anna
Published: April 2011

Algorithmic Method for Phase Angle Shift of Noisy Voltages Using Conditional Averaging of Delayed Signal's Absolute Value

The method of a phase shift angle measurement using conditional averaging of delayed signal absolute value (CAAV) is presented in this paper. The input sinusoidal signal x(t) is without noise. White noise with normal distribution and band limited to low frequencies has been applied as disturbance of delayed sinusoidal signal z(t). Noise n(t) - N(0, σn) is added to the delayed signal - the noised and delayed signal z(t) is obtained. The phase angle shift is proportional to time location of CAAV's minimum (minimum of the characteristic of conditional averaging of delayed signal's absolute value). The phase angle shift can be determined on the basis of conditional averaging value of elaborated algorithm. The characteristics of conditional average of delayed signal's absolute value in the surrounding of the minimum of this function (the results of practical investigations and theoretical calculation) are presented. The experimental variance of characteristic CAAV in surroundings of the minimum (obtained from practical investigations and calculation) is illustrated in the paper. The algorithms of conditional averaging have been elaborated and practically realized in the LabVIEW environment.
A Complex Current Ratio Device for the Calibration of Current Transformer Test Sets
Authors: Çaycı Hüseyin
Published: April 2011

A Complex Current Ratio Device for the Calibration of Current Transformer Test Sets

A practical method with high accuracy in generation and application of error values for calibration of current transformer test sets is described. A PC-controlled three-phase power source with a standard wattmeter is used for generating the nominal and error test currents while an electronically compensated current comparator is used to provide summation and subtraction of them, precisely. With this method, any ratio error and phase displacement values could be generated automatically and nominal and test currents could be grounded on the test set safely. Because of its high accurate ratio and phase error generating capability, any type of test set regardless of its operating principles could be calibrated.
Role-Playing in the Classroom
Authors: Razzak Nina Abdul
Published: April 2011

Faculty at Bahrain Teachers’ College were concerned that their students lacked the ability to succeed in educational contexts designed to promote deep, or active, student-centered, learning. Deep learning is an educational approach that involves critical analysis, the linking of ideas and concepts, creative problem solving, and application. The researcher introduced role-playing to encourage more active learning among the students and to assess gender differences in their reactions to a method that requires a great deal of open-mindedness and risk-taking. Results indicated a high satisfaction rate and few gender differences in reactions towards role-playing, with uniquely interesting implications for both educational institutions and gender studies.
A Process for the Preparation of Chitin and Chitosan from Prawn Shell Waste
Authors: Nessa F , Masum Shah Md , Asaduzzaman M , Roy SK , Hossain MM , Jahan MS
Published: April 2011

Chitin was prepared from prawn shell waste by a chemical process involving demineralization, deproteinization and decolorization. Chitosan was prepared from chitin by deacetylation. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of deacetylation process during chitosan production on the physiochemical and functional properties of prawn shell chitosan. Four experimental chitosan samples were prepared at ambient temperature with different duration of deacetylation process (i.e. 45, 55, 65 and 72 hrs and their characteristics were evaluated. This study demonstrated that duration of deacetylation affected mostly the degree of deacetylation, solubility and viscosity of the product. Therefore, the process of deacetylation of chitin for conversion to chitosan needs careful control and observation. Key words: Prawn shell; Duration of Deacetylation; Chitosan; Ambient temperature; Physicochemical and Functional properties. DOI: 10.3329/bjsir.v45i4.7330 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 45(4), 323-330, 2010
Characterization of Silica Particles and Concentration Dependent Adsorption Study of Biomolecules
Authors: Rahman MA , Miah MAJ , Ahmad H
Published: April 2011

Submicron-sized silica particles were initially characterized by scanning electron micrograph, FTIR spectroscopy and XRD analysis. The observations revealed that the highly dispersed amorphous silica particles were relatively monodispersed and the particles surface was covered with hydrogen bonded OH groups. Relatively higher magnitude of adsorption of cationic emulsifier and coagulation of silica particles suggested that particles were negatively charged. A comparative study of adsorption behavior of different biomolecules such as trypsin, albumin and lysozyme was also done at the respective isoelectric pH value. The magnitude of adsorption increased with the increase in the amount of immobilization per unit mass of silica particles. Key words: Silica; Amorphous; Adsorption behavior; Emulsifier; Biomolecules DOI: 10.3329/bjsir.v45i4.7377 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 45(4), 363-366, 2010
Optimization of Biogas Generation from Press Mud in Batch Reactor
Authors: Rouf MA , Bajpai PK , Jotshi CK
Published: April 2011

Press mud collected from sugar mills in Punjab, India were characterized and found to contain 75-80% organic matter, which mainly consists of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, protein, sugar, wax, etc. Biogas generation from press mud in a 2-litre batch reactor was studied at solid concentrations of 4 to 12%. Maximum yield of biogas was 0.24 L/g with 6% solids. Effect of Co++ and Ni++ concentrations on biogas yield was also studied. It was maximum at 5 μ moles/L of Co++ and 6 μ moles/L of Ni++. The optimum C/N ratio for biogas generation was 18, which was higher than the normal C/N ratio of 14 in the press mud. Other substrates such as cow dung, bagasse and cane pith when mixed with press mud in different proportions have influenced biogas generation. Press mud when mixed with cow dung, biomethanation process became more stable. Particularly, cane pith when mixed with press mud in 1:1 ratio, the generation of biogas increased significantly. The methane content of the biogas was about 65%. Key words: Anaerobic digestion; Press mud; Biogas DOI: 10.3329/bjsir.v45i4.7383 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 45(4), 371-376, 2010
Effects of Varieties on Growth, Yield and Benefit Cost Ratio of Soybean
Authors: Basak NC , Pandit JC
Published: April 2011

DOI: 10.3329/bjsir.v45i4.7384 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 45(4), 377-380, 2010
A Lightweight Data Integrity Scheme for Sensor Networks
Authors: Kamel Ibrahim , Juma Hussam
Published: April 2011

Limited energy is the most critical constraint that limits the capabilities of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Most sensors operate on batteries with limited power. Battery recharging or replacement may be impossible. Security mechanisms that are based on public key cryptographic algorithms such as RSA and digital signatures are prohibitively expensive in terms of energy consumption and storage requirements, and thus unsuitable for WSN applications. This paper proposes a new fragile watermarking technique to detect unauthorized alterations in WSN data streams. We propose the FWC-D scheme, which uses group delimiters to keep the sender and receivers synchronized and help them to avoid ambiguity in the event of data insertion or deletion. The watermark, which is computed using a hash function, is stored in the previous group in a linked-list fashion to ensure data freshness and mitigate replay attacks, FWC-D generates a serial number SN that is attached to each group to help the receiver determines how many group insertions or deletions occurred. Detailed security analysis that compares the proposed FWC-D scheme with SGW, one of the latest integrity schemes for WSNs, shows that FWC-D is more robust than SGW. Simulation results further show that the proposed scheme is much faster than SGW.
Une métropole de l'ère globale: Atlanta
Authors: Manzagol Claude
Published: April 2011

Booming Sunbelt metropolises are major elements of the restructuring of the U.S. urban system and the reshaping of the national economic landscape. In Atlanta, the city that was once the capital of the Deep South, Coca-Cola and C.N.N. epitomize the structuring of economic processes on a planetary scale. Manufacturing never played a major role in Atlanta ; transportation accessibility was the underlying reason for its birth and growth. Atlanta's economic base is mainly composed of communication, banking and producer services activities. More and more strongly linked with the centers of the world economy, Atlanta exemplifies the informational city. Atlanta also reflects the changing face of the American city. The traditional C.B.D. no longer monopolizes headquarters and other high-order activities, which are now increasingly found in new metropolitan-level suburban centers. These edge cities completely reshape the modern American metropolis. But the accumulation of problems in the core and the deepening gap between social groups is probably the main issue confronting contemporary America.