bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biphase metamorphism within the Jurassic-early Cretaceous series from the Djedeida range (northeastern Tunisia)
Authors: Rekhiss Farhat , Mguidich Selma , Oualiet Jamel , Turki Mohamed Moncef
Published: June 2010

Situated in the northern Tunisian “Diapir and dome zone” (Tunisian Atlas), the Djedeida hills consist of a south-dipping monoclinal series globally trending E-W. This pelitic-carbonate series latest Jurassic (Maiana Formation) to Early Cretaceous (Hamada and Seroula Formations) in age, exhibits clear mineralogical and structural transformations related to significant changes in pressure and/or temperature conditions. Structural and microstructural analysis allowed us to characterize the metamorphic pattern, and to discuss about the geodynamical context of its occurrence connected to the regional evolution.

Deformation patterns mostly consist of two sets of ubiquitous fracture schistosities well-developped over the entire structure, as well as centimetric to metric folds systematically displayed by thin ferruginized layers. These field-observations, which are consistent with microscopic analysis, show evidences for the occurrence of two distinct deformational events successively affecting the area.

Superposition of the two fabrics led to the development of a pervasive parallelepipedic chipping in the rock mass that is particularly obvious in the pelitic unit. Layer-parallel S1 and strongly oblique S2 schistosities are respectivelly associated with chlorite and illite cristallization. Neoformations of illite into chlorite former phases occur in relation with a simple shearing, which broadly characterizes the second event with evidences such as rotated phenoblasts (quartz and pyrite), chlorite sigmoidal deformation, and mica, calcite, feldspar growth into pressure shadow.

These syn-tectonic mineralogical phases record a low-grade metamorphism evolving into the sequence from the anchizone to the epi-metamorphic facies. Based on structural and mineralogical criterions, this analysis allows us to conclude that the first event is consistent with an early stage metamorphism occurring within crustal-thinning conditions, thus likely to express the lower Mesozoic transtension which affected northern Africa as a consequence of the Te-thyan opening. The second event, suggesting a compressive context, is more probably associated to the Alpine convergence responsible for the Atlasic tectonics affecting the area at the Neogene time.
Using the Montessori Approach for a Clientele with Cognitive Impairments: A Quasi-Experimental Study Design
Authors: Giroux Dominique , Robichaud Line , Paradis Martin
Published: June 2010

Background:

The choice of activities responding to the needs of people with moderate to severe dementia is a growing concern for care providers trying to target the need for a feeling of self-accomplishment by adapting activities to the abilities of elderly patients. The activities created by Maria Montessori seem to be adaptable to this clientele. This study evaluates the short-term effects, as compared to regular activities offered in the milieu.

Methods:

This is a quasi-experimental study where each of the 14 participants was observed and filmed in two conditions: during Montessori activities, during regular activities, and one control condition (no activity).

Results:

The results show that Montessori activities have a significant effect on affect and on participation in the activity. They support the hypothesis that when activities correspond to the needs and abilities of a person with dementia, these positive effects are also observed on behaviours.

Conclusions:

This study enabled its authors to corroborate the findings presented in the literature and to contribute additional elements on the positive effects of the use of Montessori activities and philosophy. Used with people with moderate to severe dementia these allow the satisfaction of their basic psychological needs, their well being, and hence, on their quality of life.
Relationships among Social Support, Perceived Control, and Psychological Distress in Late Life
Authors: Nemeroff Robin , Midlarsky Elizabeth , Meyer Joseph F.
Published: June 2010

Social support has been shown to buffer the relationship between life stress and psychological distress in late life. However, little attention has been paid to personality variables that are associated with the capacity to effectively utilize social support. Although the buffering effects of social support were replicated in our sample of 134 community-dwelling individuals over the age of 65, perceived control was found to significantly moderate the relationship between stress, social support, and psychological distress. Specifically, older adults who were highly satisfied with social support consistently reported less psychological distress than those who were less satisfied with social support, regardless of perceived control. However, under conditions of both low and high satisfaction with social support, external controllers were found to be less reactive to stress than internal controllers. Implications for developing more complex models of the relationship between stress, social support and psychological distress are discussed.
An Inquiry-Based Contextual Approach as the Primary Mode of Learning Science with Microcomputer-Based Laboratory Technology
Authors: Espinoza Fernando , Quarless Duncan
Published: June 2010

Science instruction can be designed to be laboratory-data driven. We report on an investigation of the use of thematic inquiry-based tasks with active incorporation of mathematics, science, and microcomputer-based laboratory technology in standards-correlated activities that enhanced learning experiences. Activities involved students in two major contexts: forensic science investigations and environmental science issues. The core of the project consisted of an analysis of students' proficiency in dealing with discipline-specific content, and of their development of critical thinking process skills. Significant gains were observed in both content proficiency and improvement on critical thinking skills, most noticeably those involving meta-cognitive processes. An interesting and unexpected feature of tool use emerged from the data that provides exciting opportunities for further research. The results provide evidence that such an instructional approach can have a dramatic impact on the development of students' mastery of content and laboratory performance measures of the science material that they encounter.
Avoiding the Pitfalls: Current Practices and Recommendations for Eportfolios in Higher Education
Authors: Chatham-Carpenter April , Seawel Lori , Raschig John
Published: June 2010

Institutions of higher learning use eportfolios for multiple purposes such as to enhance student learning, conduct authentic program/institutional assessment, support students as they prepare for future careers, and meet certification standards. The article investigates existing eportfolio literature and documents our findings of current practices in eportfolio use from a survey of 43 higher education institutions which we delivered in the Spring of 2009. The intent of our research was to learn more about 1) the predominant uses of eportfolios in institutions of higher learning across the globe, 2) the challenges institutions of higher learning face when implementing eportfolios on their campuses, and 3) the considerations institutions of higher learning should address in such an implementation. We present our recommendations for eportfolio implementation along with limitations and suggestions for future research.
A Preliminary Exploration of on-Line Study Question Performance and Response Certitude as Predictors of Future Examination Performance
Authors: Grabe Mark , Flannery Kathryn
Published: June 2010

This research evaluated an online study task intended to improve the study metacognition and examination performance of inexperienced college students. Existing research has commonly operationalized metacognition as the accuracy of examination score predictions. This research made use of the average discrepancy between rated confidence in individual study question responses and the accuracy of the responses to these questions as a second way to assess metacognition. Study questions accuracy, average study question confidence discrepancy, and examination predictions were contrasted as predictors of examination performance. Study question accuracy and examination predictions were significant predictors of performance. The usefulness of the accuracy of confidence ratings in predicting examination performance may have been diminished by the decreasing use of the online study questions by those who performed most poorly on examinations. Those students who ended up scoring in the bottom third on course examinations made significantly less use of the study system after the first examination. The results indicate that performance on study questions offers a useful way to predict future examination performance. The accuracy of rated confidence did improve across examinations possibly indicating students become more aware of the accuracy of their understanding and the variable may have potential value if student compliance with the proposed use of online study questions can be improved.
Assessing Team Learning in Technology-Mediated Collaboration: An Experimental Study
Authors: Andres Hayward P. , Akan Obasi H.
Published: June 2010

This study examined the effects of collaboration mode (collocated versus non-collocated videoconferencing-mediated) on team learning and team interaction quality in a team-based problem solving context. Situated learning theory and the theory of affordances are used to provide a framework that describes how technology-mediated collaboration affects both the technical/operational and social aspects of team-based problem solving. An empirical interpretive research approach using direct observation is used to interpret, evaluate and rate observable manifested behaviors and qualitative content (i.e., discussions) associated with team learning. The study's findings revealed that facilitation of coordinated discourse and team member contributions as well as maintenance of a positive social climate are essential to the realization of greater team learning and interaction quality. Theoretical, methodological, and practical implications of the study are also discussed.
Differentiating Religiousness and Spirituality through Boundaries of the Mind and Daydreaming Styles
Authors: Harrison Anna J. , Singer Jefferson A.
Published: June 2010

The present research examined differences between religiousness and spirituality by looking at their respective relationships to daydreaming and “boundaries of mind.” Having “thick” boundaries implies a degree of separateness among aspects of mind or between a person and the outside world, whereas “thin” boundaries signify fluidity. In order to observe these personality traits in conjunction with a person's religious practices, 113 undergraduate participants received a series of questionnaires. Although religiousness and spirituality were highly related to each other, religiousness showed stronger relationships to thicker boundaries. Relationships between boundary structure and daydreaming style were also investigated, revealing that thin boundaries may have more of a negative connotation than previously thought. Limitations and possibilities for further research are discussed.
Self-Perceived Mating Intelligence Predicts Sexual Behavior in College Students: Empirical Validation of a Theoretical Construct
Authors: O'Brien Daniel T. , Geher Glenn , Gallup Andrew C. , Garcia Justin R. , Kaufman Scott Barry
Published: June 2010

The cognitive abilities necessary to successfully navigate mating interactions have been termed “Mating Intelligence,” a theoretical construct that has only recently begun to receive empirical attention. In two studies using samples of undergraduates, we found that one's responses on a self-report Mating Intelligence measure predicts reproductive behavior in both sexes. In the first, higher scores on the survey were associated with more sexual partners in males and early sexual onset in females. The second study, which measured “hook-ups,” or uncommitted sexual encounters, again found higher scores to predict more partners in males. Females with high scores had more hook-ups with males who would be good candidates for long-term relationships. In each study, Mating Intelligence correlated with evolutionarily adaptive decisions for both sexes. While an internal validation found that improvement can be made on this metric, these studies comprise an early step in the empirical study of Mating Intelligence.
Improving Oral Language and Literacy Skills in Preschool Children from Disadvantaged Backgrounds: Remembering, Writing, Reading (RWR)
Authors: McCabe Allyssa , Boccia Judith , Bennett Mary Beth , Lyman Natallia , Hagen Ryan
Published: June 2010

Most reading disabilities can be traced to difficulties acquiring oral language during preschool years due to insufficient linguistic stimulation. The present 2-year project aimed to improve the literacy-related oral language skills of 48 low-income, primarily ELL 4-year-old children in local public preschool by providing for individual conversational experiences with trained university students. Their results were compared to 48 peers at two comparable preschools. Children were tested in the fall and spring on multiple measures. Throughout the year, intervention children met with volunteers each week (26 weeks) for 20 minutes to dictate personal narratives. The control group received the regular public school preschool curriculum only. The improvement of intervention children on multiple measures of oral language ability—notably vocabulary and quality of narrative—was significantly greater than that of their peers.
Beyond Depression: Yearning for the Loss of a Loved One
Authors: Stroebe Wolfgang , Abakoumkin Georgios , Stroebe Margaret
Published: June 2010

Studies assessing the impact of relationship quality and social support on marital bereavement have typically focussed on depressive symptoms as the major (and often only) bereavement outcome. Although sadness and depression are important symptoms of grieving, they are neither the only nor necessarily the most important ones. We argue that in addition to measures of depression, grief measures need to be used in assessing bereavement outcome. However, grief measures do not only assess reactions that are specific to bereavement such as yearning, but also general responses that grief shares with other critical life events (e.g., anxiety, shock, anger, intrusive thoughts, and despair). We would expect marital quality to only affect yearning for the loved one who died, but not other more general grief reactions. In contrast, experiencing support from family and friends, though unlikely to reduce yearning, might ameliorate these general grief symptoms as well as depression. Using data on widows from the Changing Lives of Older Couples (CLOC) study, a large-scale prospective study of older couples, we assessed the relationship between marital quality and social support with depression and grief on the death of a spouse. Consistent with hypotheses, social support but not relationship quality was associated with depression and general grief reactions. In contrast, relationship quality but not social support was associated with yearning. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
African-American Teen Girls Grieve the Loss of Friends to Homicide: Meaning Making and Resilience
Authors: Johnson Celeste M.
Published: June 2010

Few studies have examined the bereavement experiences of African-American teen girls who have mourned the loss of friends due to homicide. This qualitative study examined such bereavement experiences with a sample of 20 African-American teen girls, ages 16–19, living in a large northeastern U.S. city. Meaning making, adolescent developmental theory, ideas regarding traumatic loss, and resilience provided a framework to understand how these teens coped with the tragic loss of a friend. The teen girls in this study demonstrated resilience in their ability to adequately “move on” with their lives. They remained achievement oriented and sustained meaningful relationships with family, valued friends, and others. Early, metaphysical, and motivational meaning constructions contributed to the teens' resilience.
Bereavement Interventions for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: What Works?
Authors: Clute Mary Ann
Published: June 2010

Examination of the theory base for bereavement and loss is currently just beginning for adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). Yet, as life spans increase for individuals with ID, these adults experience more and more loss and bereavement events. Practitioners, especially grief counselors, are finding it increasingly critical for them to understand best practice principles for working with bereaved adults with ID in their daily work. Practitioners also are asked to guide families and care providers regarding grief and death education. This article provides counselors and other professionals with a review of existing bereavement intervention research for adults with ID. Practice recommendations are made on three levels: informal support; formal intervention; and community education.
Drying of Pomegranate Arils: Comparison of Predictions from Mathematical Models and Neural Networks
Authors: Motevali Ali , Minaei Saeid , Khoshtaghaza Mohamad Hadi , Kazemi Mohamad , Mohamad Nikbakht Ali
Published: June 2010

Ten semi-theoretical and empirical models were fitted to the experimental data to evaluate and select the best model for thin-layer drying of pomegranate arils. Experiments were conducted at six temperature levels of 45, 50, 55, 60, 65 and 70 °C and three levels of air velocity (0.5, 1 and 1.5 m/s). Microwave pretreatments were used for samples and the results were compared to those of control (no pretreatments). Regression analysis of mathematical models showed that the Midili model fitted best to the measured data. However, regarding R2 and MSE criteria, neural network modeling yielded a better prediction of pomegranate arils moisture ratio during drying of arils compared to all the mathematical models studied.
Improving Transparency and Relevance of Auditor Communications with Financial Statement Users
Authors: Turner Jerry L. , Mock Theodore J. , Coram Paul J. , Gray Glen L.
Published: June 2010

SUMMARY: Recent SASs (e.g., SAS No. 114 (AICPA 2006b) and SAS No. 115 (AICPA 2008a)) expand required and optional communications from auditors to their clients. Given that some state laws likely allow stockholders to request access to those communications, and given that the ASB and the IAASB currently are examining how the auditor’s report may be made more effective in communicating assurance to financial statement users, we propose expanding the current auditor’s report by adding a set of accompanying footnotes. The footnotes could include auditor comments on information about the audit, the quality of the financial statements, the quality of the financial reporting system, and/or the quality of the client as a business entity. We conclude with suggestions for research that would identify the effects of suggested communications on various stakeholders.
Audit Quality Indicators: A Status Update on Possible Public Disclosures and Insights from Audit Practice
Authors: Bedard Jean C. , Johnstone Karla M. , Smith Edward F.
Published: June 2010

SUMMARY: This paper addresses the current status of the recommendation by the Advisory Committee on the Auditing Profession (ACAP) that auditing firms provide periodic reporting on audit quality indicators. We first consider several reasons why public reporting of audit quality indicators in the U.S. is highly controversial. We then report some information on how global network auditing firms are internally measuring audit quality in the post-Sarbanes-Oxley environment.
Effects of Acute Hypoglycemia on Inflammatory and Pro-atherothrombotic Biomarkers in Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes and Healthy Individuals
Authors: Gogitidze Joy Nino , Hedrington Maka S. , Briscoe Vanessa J. , Tate Donna B. , Ertl Andrew C. , Davis Stephen N.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

Recent large randomized trials have linked adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events with hypoglycemia. However, the integrated physiological and vascular biological mechanisms occurring during hypoglycemia have not been extensively examined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether 2 h of moderate clamped hypoglycemia could decrease fibrinolytic balance and activate pro-atherothrombotic mechanisms in individuals with type 1 diabetes and healthy individuals.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Thirty-five healthy volunteers (19 male and 16 female subjects age 32 ± 2 years, BMI 26 ± 2 kg/m2, A1C 5.1 ± 0.1%) and twenty-four with type 1 diabetes (12 male and 12 female subjects age 33 ± 3 years, BMI 24 ± 2 kg/m2, A1C 7.7 ± 0.2%) were studied during either a 2-h hyperinsulinemic (9 pmol · kg−1 · min−1) euglycemic or hypoglycemic (2.9 ± 0.1 mmol/l) clamp or both protocols. Plasma glucose levels were normalized overnight in type 1 diabetic subjects prior to each study.

RESULTS

Insulin levels were similar (602 ± 44 pmol/l) in all four protocols. Glycemia was equivalent in both euglycemic protocols (5.2 ± 0.1 mmol/l), and the level of hypoglycemia was also equivalent in both type 1 diabetic subjects and healthy control subjects (2.9 ± 0.1 mmol/l). Using repeated ANOVA, it was determined that plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM), intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM), E-selectin, P-selectin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and adiponectin responses were all significantly increased (P < 0.05) during the 2 h of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia as compared with euglycemia in healthy control subjects. All measures except PAI-1 were also found to be increased during hypoglycemia compared with euglycemia in type 1 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, moderate hypoglycemia acutely increases circulating levels of PAI-1, VEGF, vascular adhesion molecules (VCAM, ICAM, E-selectin), IL-6, and markers of platelet activation (P-selectin) in individuals with type 1 diabetes and healthy individuals. We conclude that acute hypoglycemia can result in complex vascular effects including activation of prothrombotic, proinflammatory, and pro-atherogenic mechanisms in individuals with type 1 diabetes and healthy individuals.
A model for tube formation and branching in Cnidaria
Authors: Berking Stefan , Herrmann Klaus
Published: June 2010

When all the cells of a tube are identical, they are unlikely to control how many of them are present in the circumference. However, when the circumference is subdivided into at least two regions of different cells, the tube diameter can be controlled via the width of these regions. We present a model and computer simulations for the formation of a tube which starts as a cone-like protrusion from a flat sheet of cells. Cells can exist in two alternative states. Cells of one state need signalling from those of the other state in order to maintain their state. Hence the cells of the two states arrange in stripes. A pattern-forming system, which defines where in this field of cells a tube will start to form, causes the stripes to become small at that very site. When four stripes originate at that point, and when the angle between the two borders of the stripes (as measured from the centre of the field) is less than 90°, the tissue is forced to protrude in the form of a cone. This model may help to understand the morphogenesis proper of buds of Cnidaria and of tubes, such as that of insect legs and the neural tube of vertebrates.
Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin - A Contemporary Biomarker in Comparison with Traditional Laboratory Markers of Chronic Alcohol Abuse
Authors: Maksić Nebojša , Vodnik Tatjana , Stanković Maja , Milovanović Srđan , Radivojević Ljubiša , Obradović Ivana , Dajak Marijana , Majkić-Singh Nada
Published: June 2010

Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin - A Contemporary Biomarker in Comparison with Traditional Laboratory Markers of Chronic Alcohol Abuse

Timely identification of excessive alcohol use and its potential complications is a prerequisite for successful treatment. Several routine tests have been used in laboratories that may help in diagnosing alcoholism, such as determination of MCV, AST, ALT, GGT, but it has been shown that they lack specificity and sensitivity. Contemporary bio-markers are increasingly being used today that may due to their unique characteristics help in discovering the onset of chronic alcohol abuse, as well as in abstinence and relapse monitoring. The term carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) stands for a small group of human transferrin isoforms (asialo, monosialo, and disialotran sferrin) with a lower degree of glycosylation in comparison to the dominant transferrin isoform (tetrasialotransferrin). Persons consuming large quantities of alcohol (≥50-80 g daily) over a period of at least two weeks have increased concentrations of transferrin isoforms lacking one (disialotransferrin) or both (asialotransferrin) carbohydrate chains. In this paper the traditional markers of chronic alcohol abuse (GGT, AST, ALT, and MCV) were determined, as well as the new biomarker CDT, after which diagnostic evaluation was performed and their usability and clinical value in routine laboratory practice were estimated. These markers were also determined in heavy alcoholics on admission into hospital and after two weeks of therapy, with the aim of estimating their diagnostic value for abstinence and relapse monitoring.
Effects of Serum-Clot Contact Time on Second-Trimester Prenatal Screening Markers and their Stability in Serum
Authors: Bujišić Nada
Published: June 2010

Effects of Serum-Clot Contact Time on Second-Trimester Prenatal Screening Markers and their Stability in Serum

Alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin and unconjugated estriol are screening markers for fetal trisomies and structural disorders of the neural tube defect type. Determination of these biochemical markers is performed in laboratories that receive samples, serum or blood, and sample preparation as well as transport conditions may affect analyte stability and test results. The effect of serum-clot contact time prior to centrifugation (30, 60, 90, 120 minutes and 24 hours) was examined for serum values of alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin and unconjugated estriol, as well as their stability in serum samples over periods of up to five days at 2-8 °C, and 30 days at -20 °C. No statistically significant difference was found for analyte values in serum obtained by centrifuging blood samples after serum-clot contact times of 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes at room temperature and 24 hours at 2-8 °C, i.e. there is a 24-hour tolerance for prolonged serum-clot contact. Alpha-fetoprotein and free estriol serum values do not show statistically significant changes over a period of 5 days at 2-8 °C. Similarly, serum freezing does not affect alpha-fetoprotein and free estriol values. As for human chorionic gonadotropin values showing statistical differences where serum is stored at both +4 °C and at -20 °C, their levels are concentration-dependent. Free estriol serum values at +4 °C over the time period of 5 days showed statistically significant differences.
Oxidative Products of Proteins and Antioxidant Potential of Thiols in Gastric Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Mukthapura Anita , Shimogga Avinash , K Vinodchandran , Shetty Beena , Rao Gayathri
Published: June 2010

Oxidative Products of Proteins and Antioxidant Potential of Thiols in Gastric Carcinoma Patients

It has been suggested that oxidative stress defined as a shift in antioxidant/oxidant balance towards oxidants is associated with the pathogenesis of many diseases, including carcinogenesis. Reactive oxygen species can induce carcinogenesis via injury to macromolecules such as DNA, carbohydrates and proteins. Forty primary gastric carcinoma patients and 40 healthy controls were included in the study. Advanced oxidation protein products, total thiols, total protein, albumin in plasma, % hemolysis in RBC suspension and glutathione in both whole blood and plasma were estimated. Our studies demonstrated a significant increase in advanced oxidation protein products, % hemolysis (p=0.033), A:G ratio (p=0.003) and a highly significant decrease in blood glutathione (p=0.036), total thiols (p=0.001), plasma thiols other than glutathione and total antioxidant activity. The findings suggest that gastric carcinoma is associated with oxygen derived free radicals accumulation, and depletion of total antioxidant activity has lead to oxidative stress and advancement of oxidative-antioxidative disorders followed by progression of gastric cancer.
The Role and Nature of Freedom in Two Normative Theories of Democracy
Authors: Šimsa Martin
Published: June 2010

The Role and Nature of Freedom in Two Normative Theories of Democracy

The article examines the role and the nature of freedom in two normative concepts of democracy, in the work of Hans Kelsen and of Emanuel Rádl. Both authors wrote their work on democracy between the two world wars. Kelsen formulated his concept of democracy in On the Substance and Value of Democracy (1920), a book which has clearly been influenced by the political thinking of Kant and Rousseau. Kelsen shares Rousseau's idea of general will and on this basis the principle of majority. Rádl outlines his theory of freedom and democracy in The War between the Czechs and the Germans (1928), Nationality as a Scientific Problem (1929) and On German Revolution (1933). Rádl distinguishes between three types of freedom and democracy: natural, majority and contractual. Rádl asserts that only in the third type of freedom, in which freedom is connected with responsibility and the law is freedom true. He considers the first type of freedom to be anarchical freedom, which can easily be misused. The second type of freedom is better than the first, but worse than the third. The author compares these concepts of freedom and democracy then and today and shows how they are linked to the questions of justice and solidarity at national and cosmopolitan levels.
Child Labour in Kashmiri Society: A Socio-human Rights Study
Authors: Bhat Bilal , Rather Tareak
Published: June 2010

Child Labour in Kashmiri Society: A Socio-human Rights Study

The Constitution of India guarantees fundamental rights and the full freedom to enjoy childhood. In spite of that millions of children are being put to arduous work for short and narrow gains. By 1989, the standards concerning children were brought together in a single legal instrument agreed to by the international community. It unambiguously spelt out the rights to which every child is entitled, regardless of place of birth, descent, sex, religion, or social origin. A number of aspects, such as gender, family background, cultural acceptance, issues of health and recreation, the legal aspect and so on, have been covered. The life worlds of working children, legal protection to children from exploitation and the human rights perspective of child labour is the main focus of this article.
Education Infrastructure and Unsustainable Development in Africa
Authors: Olutayo A.
Published: June 2010

Education Infrastructure and Unsustainable Development in Africa

Rather than creating the appropriate social relations for the means of production, the perspective on development in Africa has hinged on "infrastructure for development" thus leading to underdevelopment. This is because the social relation of infrastructure for development is parasitic and thus cannot reproduce itself. What it does is to accumulate primitive capital for conspicuous consumption rather than the creation of reproductive capital. Consequently, a dependency relation with the source(s) of primitive capital accumulation is almost inevitable if the dominant group in the relationship, with its foundation in the acquisition of formal education, is to continue to subsist. Ironically, this incapacitates the subordinate group(s) as their recruitment processes are conditioned by the powerful ideological state, now global, apparatuses. The paper shows how this process works through the empirical examples of the acclaimed "success" story of Botswana and the perceived "failed" state of Nigeria.
Electromyography Assessments of the Vastus Medialis Muscle during Soccer Instep Kicking between Dynamic and Static Stretching
Authors: Amiri-Khorasani Mohammadtaghi , Osman Noor , Yusof Ashril
Published: June 2010

Electromyography Assessments of the Vastus Medialis Muscle during Soccer Instep Kicking between Dynamic and Static Stretching

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of static and dynamic stretching within a pre-exercise warm-up on vastus medialis muscle activity during instep kicking and ball velocity in soccer players. The kicking motions of dominant legs were captured from using six synchronized high-speed infra-red cameras at 200 Hz and Electromyography at 100 Hz. There was significant difference in vastus medialis activity after dynamic stretching relative to no stretching condition (0.12 ± 0.06 mV) versus static stretching relative to no stretching condition (-0.21 ± 0.10 mV) with p < 0.001). In addition, there was also a significant difference in ball velocity after dynamic stretching relative to no stretching condition (4.53 ± 2.10 m/s) versus static stretching relative to no stretching condition (-1.48 ± 2.43 m/s) with p < 0.003. We concluded that dynamic stretching during the warm-up, as compared to static stretching, is probably more effective as preparation for optimal muscle activity and finally have high ball velocity which is required in soccer.
An Assessment of Rotational Mobility of the Trunk among Teenagers with Faulty Posture
Authors: Matyja Małgorzata , Saulicz Edward , Saulicz Mariola , Kokosz Mirosław , Gnat Rafał , Kuszewski Michał , Bereszko Joanna , Gogola Anna
Published: June 2010

An Assessment of Rotational Mobility of the Trunk among Teenagers with Faulty Posture

Body posture is determined by many factors, including central regulation connected with anti-gravitational mechanism which develops in ontogenesis. Postural disorders arise as a result of a compensatory anti-gravitational mechanism, in which the main component is reduced postural tone (volume and distribution disorders). Compensation mechanisms consist in improper alignment of particular body segments (distribution disorders) (e.g., increase or decrease of spinal curvatures, external or internal rotation of the lower limbs, valgus and varus deformity of the knees and feet). Such disorders may constitute a reason for abnormal component development, thus limiting trunk rotational mobility.

An aim of the study was to assess the range of trunk rotational mobility.

Pupils (n=123) aged 13-15 underwent the following parameter evaluations: 1. Posture according to Kasperczyk's scoring method, 2. Postural tone volume by analysis of pelvis control in the long sitting, 3. Range of trunk rotation with use of upper tension test (muscle latissimus dorsi and thoracolumbar fascia).

Positive tension test was recorded in 32 children (21 unilateral and 11 bilateral). Diversification of statistical averages of scoring for body posture, from the lowest (x=6.41) in 91 subjects with negative tension test, to the highest (x=7.72) in 11 subjects with double-sided positive result was recorded. Statistical analyzes confirmed significance of correlation between body posture's quality and trunk's rotational mobility (r=0.286 at p=0.001), as well as between volume of postural tone and range of trunk's rotational mobility. Coefficients of correlation amount to, respectively, for tension test and free sitting position r=0.187, p=0.038; and for tension test and corrected sitting position r=0.253, p=0.05. Disorders of muscle tone volume and distribution cause limitation of trunk rotational mobility development.
The Effect of Fatigue on the Kinematics of Free Throw Shooting in Basketball
Authors: Uygur Mehmet , Goktepe Ayhan , Ak Emre , Karabörk Hakan , Korkusuz Feza
Published: June 2010

The Effect of Fatigue on the Kinematics of Free Throw Shooting in Basketball

Fatigue is an indispensible part of a basketball game which may affect an athlete's shooting kinematics. Although kinematic analyses of various sports related movements were extensively done, this study is the first to consider the effects of fatigue on the kinematics of free throw shooting. After measuring the resting heart rate, ten collegiate level, male basketball players (21.8±1.6 y; 192.8±3.6 cm; 84.1±8.5 kg) were asked to perform free throws. Two successful and two unsuccessful free throws were selected. Thereafter, participants were asked to complete the fatigue protocol, which included 30m sprints and 5 vertical jumps at each end, until they reached volitional exhaustion. Additional two successful and two unsuccessful free throws were collected. All shots were recorded by using two digital cameras operating at 60 Hz and placed in a stereoscopic view. The elbow, trunk, knee and ankle joint angles were measured before and after the ball release and at the ball release point. The selected joint angles were compared between successful and unsuccessful free throws, as well as before and after the completion of fatigue protocol. The results demonstrated that fatigue did not effect free throw shooting kinematics (p>0.05) and there was no significant joint angle difference between successful and unsuccessful shots (p>0.05). This study suggested that high level athletes are able to cope with the possible detrimental effects of fatigue while performing coordinated movements such as free throw shooting.
A Comparison of Anthropometry between Ironman Triathletes and Ultra-swimmers
Authors: Knechtle Beat , Baumann Barbara , Knechtle Patrizia , Wirth Andrea , Rosemann Thomas
Published: June 2010

A Comparison of Anthropometry between Ironman Triathletes and Ultra-swimmers

We intended to compare the anthropometry of male and female Ironman triathletes with the anthropometry of male and female ultra-swimmers. Body mass, body mass index and body fat were lower in both male and female triathletes compared to swimmers. Body height and length of limbs were no different between the two groups. In the multi-variate analysis, in male triathletes, body mass (p=0.015) and percent body fat (p=0.0003) were related to race time; percent body fat was also related to the swim split (p=0.0036). In male swimmers, length of the arm was related to race time (p=0.0089). In female triathletes and swimmers, none of the investigated anthropometric variables showed an association with race time. We concluded that Ironman triathletes and ultra-swimmers were different regarding anthropometry and that different anthropometric variables were related to race time. We assume that other factors, such as training and equipment, as opposed to anthropometry, may better predict race time in male and female Ironman triathletes.
Changes in the Blood Antioxidant Defense Capacity During a 24 Hour Run
Authors: Zbigniew Waśkiewicz , Ewa Sadowska-Krępa , Barbara Kłapcińska , Sławomir Jagsz , Małgorzata Michalczyk , Katarzyna Kempa , Stanisław Poprzęcki , Dagmara Gerasimuk
Published: June 2010

Changes in the Blood Antioxidant Defense Capacity During a 24 Hour Run

The objective of this study was to determine whether running a 24-h race would cause oxidative damage and changes in the blood antioxidant defense capacity in endurance-trained athletes. Fourteen male amateur runners (mean age 43.0±10.8 y, body weight 64.3±7.2 kg height 171±5 cm, weekly covered distance 81±43 km, training history 8±9 y) who participated in a 24-hr ultra-marathon and volunteered to give blood samples during the race were enrolled for this study. Blood samples were taken before the run, after completing the marathon distance (42.217 km), after 12 h and at the conclusion of the race.

The capacity of erythrocyte antioxidant defense system was evaluated by measuring the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants (uric acid and glutathione-GSH), and selected biomarkers of oxidative stress (i.e., plasma level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and plasma antioxidant capacity by FRAP ("ferric-reducing ability of plasma")). Moreover, in order to elucidate between-group differences in the total capacity of the blood antioxidant defense system, an index of antioxidant potential (POTAOX) was calculated as a sum of standardized values of activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPX, GR) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (uric acid, GSH).

A progressive decline was observed in activities of SOD and CAT with the distance covered during the race, while the opposite trend was found in activities of GPX and GR that tended to increase. A significant decrease was recorded in GSH content after completing the marathon distance, which tended toward slightly higher values, without reaching the baseline level, at the finish of the race. Plasma concentration of uric acid (UA) was not significantly affected, except for the value recorded after 12 h of running that was significantly (p<0.05) lower, while both markers of oxidative stress (FRAP and MDA) increased significantly after completing the marathon distance. Comparison of the calculated values of the POTAOX index recorded pre-race and throughout the competition implies that the most drastic decline in the total antioxidant capacity occurred at mid-race (i.e. after 12 h of running).
Do G894T Polymorphisms of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase 3 (NOS3) Influence Endurance Phenotypes?
Authors: Cięszczyk Paweł , Sawczuk Marek , Maciejewska Agnieszka , Jascaniene Nijole , Eider Jerzy
Published: June 2010

Do G894T Polymorphisms of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase 3 (NOS3) Influence Endurance Phenotypes?

Endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase gene (NOS3) is taken into account as one of the main regulators of blood pressure and basal vascular dilation - two main factors found to be limiting for endurance performance.

We compared genotypic and allelic frequencies of the NOS3 G894T polymorphism in two groups of men of the same Caucasian descent: elite endurance athletes (rowers; n=63) and sedentary controls (n=160).

We have not found any statistical difference in G894T genotype and allele frequencies in endurance orientated athletes compared to sedentary controls. The difference in G allele frequency between the rowers and controls did not reach statistical significance (73.5% vs. 67.2%, P = 0.307), similar to genotype distribution amongst the rowers (58.7% GG; 39.4% GT; 6.4% TT) compared to controls (43.7% GG; 46.9% GT; 9.4% TT) (P=0.129).

In summary, our results are in contradiction to the hypothesis that NOS3 G894T polymorphism is associated with the physical performance status in rowing. Of course, our findings do not mean that other polymorphisms in NOS3 gene do not have any beneficial effect on performance parameters, but to confirm that hypothesis, we need further studies.
Sex Differences in Growth and Performance of Track and Field Athletes 11-15 Years
Authors: Malina Robert , Sławinska Teresa , Ignasiak Zofia , Rożek Krystyna , Kochan Katarzyna , Domaradzki Jarosław , Fugiel Jarosław
Published: June 2010

Sex Differences in Growth and Performance of Track and Field Athletes 11-15 Years

Objective: To evaluate sex differences in functional performances of youth track and field athletes.

Methods: Four tests of functional capacity were administered to 309 youth 11-15 years training for track and field at sport schools, 136 boys and 173 girls. Grip strength, standing long jump, 2 kg medicine ball throw and 20 m sprint were measured; height, weight and adiposity were also. Two age groups were compared, 11-13 and 14-15 years. ANCOVA was used to test sex differences by age group in the total sample (disciplines combined) and specific disciplines; age, height and weight were covariates.

Results: For the total sample, males in both age groups performed better than females in the four tests but sex differences were greater among 14-15 year olds. Within disciplines, sex differences among sprinters and middle distance and distance runners were greater at 14-15 years. Results varied for general athletics; the magnitude of sex differences was similar for strength in both age groups, greater for the throw at 11-13 years and greater for the jump and sprint at 14-15 years.

Conclusion: Although sex differences in performance were apparent among athletes 11-13 years, they were greater among athletes 14-15 years, reflecting to a large extent the male adolescent spurt in body size, muscle mass, strength and power. Sex differences were more established in sprinters and middle distance and distance runners, and more variable in participants in general athletics.
Physical Education and the Degree of Stress
Authors: Ishii Nobuki , Osaka Saori
Published: June 2010

Physical Education and the Degree of Stress

The purpose of this study was to examine a relationship between the degree of liking and disliking of sport and physical activity, and stress development.

We conducted a survey on Japanese junior high school students (129 boys, 139 girls) in 2007. The survey included such entries as 1) positive vs negative attitude toward physical education classes, 2) the degree of physical education classes-related stress, and 3) personality qualities (goal orientation, sports competence and active coping).

In our survey concerning the degree of predilection for physical education classes, the results were as follows: 171 subjects in Group A said they liked physical education classes; 39 subjects in Group B said they didn't like and 57 subjects in Group C chose "neither". Comparing the degree of stress from physical education classes, Group A scored significantly lower than the others by Tukey's multiple comparison test (p<0.05).

Also, in order to find the key factor which determines the degree of liking and disliking of physical education classes, we measured various values among 52 subjects with a high degree of stress as a dependent variable, and analyzed the personality aspects as an independent variable. As a result, we found a negative correlation between stress levels and sports competence, whereas ego orientation and active coping had a positive effect on the degree of stress.

We showed that those liking physical education experienced low degrees of stress. Conversely, those individuals disliking sport and physical activity should not be expected to experience reduced stress while participating in sports. Furthermore, we can indicate sports competence as a determinant of stress reduction. Consequently, in order to stimulate regular participation in sports activity and to release its stress-reducing potential, it is necessary to develop childhood physical education classes to foster sports competence.