bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smoking and other pre-gestational risk factors for spontaneous preterm birth
Authors: Grillo Eugênio , Freitas Paulo Fontoura
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVES: to investigate pre-gestational risk factors for spontaneous preterm birth and, the role of smoking and its cumulative effects on prematurity. METHODS: a case-control study analyzed a data set of all births occurring in a tertiary maternity hospital between April 2002 and July 2004. Spontaneous preterm births of single and live newborns without malformations were selected as cases. Controls were all the term births of live and single newborns without malformations during the same period. Three outcomes were studied: all preterm births (<37 weeks), less than 35 weeks and less than 32 weeks of gestational age. Logistic regression was used to obtain the independent effect of pre-gestational risk factors. RESULTS: maternal age of less than 20 years, low schooling, low maternal pre-gestational body mass index and smoking showed significant, independent association with spontaneous preterm birth for the three outcomes. For all these risk factors, excepting maternal smoking, odds ratios increased with decreasing gestational age at birth and this trend was significant for low maternal age and low pre-gestational body mass index. CONCLUSIONS: the cumulative effects of smoking calls for the need to encourage smoking cessation among pregnant women, especially those who are underweight and in the older age groups, because of the increased risk of delivering premature babies.
Comparing breast feeding practices in baby friendly and non-accredited hospitals in Salvador, Bahia
Authors: Ortiz Priscilla Nunes , Rolim Rafaela Borges , Souza Mateus Freire Lima e , Soares Poliana Louzada , Vieira Tatiana de Oliveira , Vieira Graciete Oliveira , Lyra Priscila Pinheiro Ribeiro , Silva Luciana Rodrigues
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVES: to compare compliance with Steps 4 to 10 of "The Steps to Successful Breastfeeding" in two hospitals accredited by the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI group) with two not yet accredited hospitals in Salvador. METHODS: a cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 women in BFHI-accredited hospitals and 103 women in non-BFHI-accredited hospitals by collecting data on their obstetric history, any breast feeding counseling received during antenatal care, and data on delivery and hospitalization. Data were obtained by applying questionnaires and reviewing patients' medical charts. The chi-square test was used for bivariate variables and Student's t test for continuous variables. RESULTS: statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were found between the BFHI-accredited group and the non-BFHI group with respect to steps 5 (77% vs 35.9%), 6 (81% vs 31%), 8 (77% vs 52.4%), and 9 (100% vs 94.2%). No differences were found between the two groups with respect to steps 4, 7 or 10. Satisfactory compliance with the requirements of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in BFHIaccredited hospitals was found only with respect to steps 6, 7 and 9. CONCLUSIONS: these results highlight the benefits of BFHI accreditation but emphasize the need for continuous and systematic evaluation in order to promote breastfeeding and provide support in BFHIaccredited maternity hospitals.
Relações de trabalho no mundo corporativo: possível antecedente do empreendedorismo?
Authors: Beyda Tânia Tisser , Casado Renata Utchitel
Published: January 2012

Este estudo teve por objetivo compreender a transição de profissionais qualificados que abriram mão de carreiras corporativas para empreender seus próprios negócios, mantendo-se em suas áreas profissionais. As pesquisadoras buscaram identificar nas narrativas dos entrevistados dilemas, motivações, satisfações e indícios que pudessem demonstrar de que forma suas experiências corporativas impulsionaram e/ou influenciaram as suas experiências empreendedoras.Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, de caráter exploratório (DENZIN e LINCOLN, 1994). Oito casos foram analisados à luz da literatura de relações de trabalho, que reconhece a erosão nas relações de longo-prazo entre empregado e empregador (CAPELLI, 1999) e os decorrentes encargos impostos sobre os profissionais (HARVEY, 1992). Os resultados deste estudo reforçam fatores motivadores do empreendedorismo já antecipados pela literatura, como a busca por flexibilidade, autonomia e melhor qualidade de vida. Além disso, revelam antecedentes não considerados pelos modelos explicativos do empreendedorismo, como a busca por uma prática profissional capaz de refletir valores e crenças pessoais não encontrados no mundo corporativo. Este estudo ilustra como, no Brasil, o empreendedorismo está emergindo como uma resposta dos indivíduos às insatisfações, dilemas e questionamentos enfrentados em suas respectivas trajetórias profissionais.
Difference in pozzolanic behaviour of Tunisian clays with lime and cement
Authors: Chakchouk Ahlem , Samet Basma , Bouaziz Samir
Published: January 2012

Two local clays, one from the region of Tabarka and the other from Medenine, were tested as pozzolanic materials. The characterisation of the raw and the calcined clays included X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetry and infra-red spectroscopy. The pozzolanic activity was evaluated by mechanical tests, performed on calcined clay–lime and on calcined clay–cement mini-cylinders, and by physical method (dosage of calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) by differential scanning calorimetry). The identification of the hydrated phases was done by XRD, differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy. Kaolinitic clay from Tabarka was found to have the highest pozzolanic activity, compared with the illito-kaolinitic clay from Medenine containing some haematite. It was demonstrated that the haematite contained in the last clay did not contribute to the pozzolanic reaction in the presence of calcium hydroxide while in the presence of cement, the pozzolanic reactivity is improved. The haematite contained in Medenine clay contributes to the reaction with cement to form iron substituted ettringite and iron-substituted C–S–H. Furthermore, a new hydrated ferritic phase (Ca3Fe2(OH)12) is formed. The major hydraulic products such as C–S–H, C2ASH8 and C4AH13 were identified.
Determining yield and ultimate loads for moment-resisting frame buildings
Authors: Nazri Fadzli Mohamed , Alexander Nicholas A.
Published: January 2012

This paper derives and presents an analytical expression for the ultimate load of a general class of multi-storey, uniform, moment-resisting frame. This expression is compared and validated with non-linear finite element analysis for the design of buildings with a range of different heights according to the Eurocodes. An empirical relationship between first yield and frame failure load is derived. The extent of damage in the building at the onset of failure is correlated to interstorey drift and linked to performance-based design limit states. Additionally, an analytical expression for the extent of damage at failure is proposed. This relationship defines the extent of damage as a function of the number of storeys in the framework.
Prediction of service life of concrete structures using corrosion rate model
Authors: Vedalakshmi R.
Published: January 2012

The uncertainties that exist in the chloride diffusion model may lead to considerable error in the prediction of the time to initiation of corrosion in the service life estimation of concrete structures. An alternative approach based on polarisation resistance (Rp value) has been proposed. Enhancement of the service life of concrete made using blended cements was measured experimentally using the electrochemical impedance technique (EIS) in the presence of 0, 0·5 and 1% of added chloride. The time to initiation of corrosion (Ti) predicted from the Rp value agreed well with the value from the weight loss measurement, whereas it was overestimated by the chloride diffusion model. Using the Maaddawy mathematical model, the time to propagation (Tp) was obtained. From the results it was concluded that in the presence of 1% of added chloride, the time to failure Tf = (Ti + Tp) of Portland pozzolana cement (PPC) and Portland slag cement (PSC) concrete was four and ten times higher than that of ordinary Portland cement concrete, respectively, even in low-strength concrete of 20 MPa. Parameter Tf increased as the strength of the concrete increased. The Tf value predicted by the corrosion rate model agreed very well with the Tf from the weight loss measurement and cracks on the concrete surface. The reduced rate of diffusion of chloride due to pore constriction and the higher chloride binding ability of blended cements lead to the enhancement of the service life of concretes when exposed to marine atmospheric conditions. The estimation revealed that a rebar embedded at 25 mm cover in 40 MPa PPC and PSC concrete (0% Cl− added) could have a service life of more than 100 years.
Astronomical optical interferometry, II: Astrophysical results
Authors: Jankov S.
Published: January 2012

Optical interferometry is entering a new age with several ground- based
long-baseline observatories now making observations of unprecedented spatial
resolution. Based on a great leap forward in the quality and quantity of
interferometric data, the astrophysical applications are not limited anymore
to classical subjects, such as determination of fundamental properties of
stars; namely, their effective temperatures, radii, luminosities and masses,
but the present rapid development in this field allowed to move to a
situation where optical interferometry is a general tool in studies of many
astrophysical phenomena. Particularly, the advent of long-baseline
interferometers making use of very large pupils has opened the way to faint
objects science and first results on extragalactic objects have made it a
reality. The first decade of XXI century is also remarkable for aperture
synthesis in the visual and near-infrared wavelength regimes, which provided
image reconstructions from stellar surfaces to Active Galactic Nuclei. Here I
review the numerous astrophysical results obtained up to date, except for
binary and multiple stars milliarcsecond astrometry, which should be a
subject of an independent detailed review, taking into account its importance
and expected results at microarcsecond precision level. To the results
obtained with currently available interferometers, I associate the adopted
instrumental settings in order to provide a guide for potential users
concerning the appropriate instruments which can be used to obtain the
desired astrophysical information.
A simple multistage closed-(box+reservoir) model of chemical evolution
Authors: Caimmi R.
Published: January 2012

Simple closed-box (CB) models of chemical evolution are extended on two
respects, namely (i) simple closed-(box+reservoir) (CBR) models allowing gas
outflow from the box into the reservoir (Hartwick 1976) or gas inflow into
the box from the reservoir (Caimmi 2007) with rate proportional to the star
formation rate, and (ii) simple multistage closed-(box+reservoir) (MCBR)
models allowing different stages of evolution characterized by different
inflow or outflow rates. The theoretical differential oxygen abundance
distribution (TDOD) predicted by the model maintains close to a continuous
broken straight line. An application is made where a fictitious sample is
built up from two distinct samples of halo stars and taken as representative
of the inner Galactic halo. The related empirical differential oxygen
abundance distribution (EDOD) is represented, to an acceptable extent, as a
continuous broken line for two viable [O/H]-[Fe/H] empirical relations. The
slopes and the intercepts of the regression lines are determined, and then
used as input parameters to MCBR models. Within the errors (-+?), regression
line slopes correspond to a large inflow during the earlier stage of
evolution and to low or moderate outflow during the subsequent stages. A
possible inner halo - outer (metal-poor) bulge connection is also briefly
discussed. Quantitative results cannot be considered for applications to the
inner Galactic halo, unless selection effects and disk contamination are
removed from halo samples, and discrepancies between different oxygen
abundance determination methods are explained.
Maximum mass ratio of AM CVn-type binary systems and maximum white dwarf mass in ultra-compact X-ray binaries
Authors: Arbutina Bojan
Published: January 2012

AM CVn-type stars and ultra-compact X-ray binaries are extremely interesting
semi-detached close binary systems in which the Roche lobe filling component
is a white dwarf transferring mass to another white dwarf, neutron star or a
black hole. Earlier theoretical considerations show that there is a maximum
mass ratio of AM CVn-type binary systems (qmax ? 2/3) below which the mass
transfer is stable. In this paper we derive slightly different value for qmax
and more interestingly, by applying the same procedure, we find the maximum
expected white dwarf mass in ultra-compact X-ray binaries.
Star formation rate in Holmberg IX dwarf galaxy
Authors: Andjelic M.M.
Published: January 2012

In this paper we use previously determined H? fluxes for dwarf galaxy Holmberg
IX (Arbutina et al. 2009) to calculate star formation rate (SFR) in this
galaxy. We discuss possible contaminations of H? flux and, for the first time,
we take into account optical emission from supernova remnants (SNRs) as a
possible source of contamination of H? flux. Derived SFR for Holmberg IX is
3:4 x 10-4M.yr-1. Our value is lower then in previous studies, due to
luminous shock-heated source M&H 9-10, possible hypernova remnant, which we
excluded from the total H? flux in our calculation of SFR.
Umbral dots observed in photometric images taken with 1.6 m solar telescope
Authors: Andic A.
Published: January 2012

Umbral dots (UDs) were observed using the 1.6 meter solar telescope. Achieved
conventional diffraction limit in the TiO 705.68 nm spectral line used was
0.001. The 418 UDs were analysed. Median diameter was 0 .005 and median
intensity difference between darkest part of the UD's background and
brightest part of the UDs was 37%. Despite the achieved resolution, no UDs
substructures were visible. The analysed UDs appeared to be circular.
Quantifying the Effect of Metformin Treatment and Dose on Glycemic Control
Authors: Hirst Jennifer A. , Farmer Andrew J. , Ali Raghib , Roberts Nia W. , Stevens Richard J.
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVE

Metformin is the first-line oral medication recommended for glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. We reviewed the literature to quantify the effect of metformin treatment on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in all types of diabetes and examine the impact of differing doses on glycemic control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched from 1950 to June 2010 for trials of at least 12 weeks’ duration in which diabetic patients were treated with either metformin monotherapy or as an add-on therapy. Data on change in HbA1c were pooled in a meta-analysis. Data from dose-comparison trials were separately pooled.

RESULTS

A total of 35 trials were identified for the main analysis and 7 for the dose-comparison analysis. Metformin monotherapy lowered HbA1c by 1.12% (95% CI 0.92–1.32; I2 = 80%) versus placebo, metformin added to oral therapy lowered HbA1c by 0.95% (0.77–1.13; I2 = 77%) versus placebo added to oral therapy, and metformin added to insulin therapy lowered HbA1c by 0.60% (0.30–0.91; I2 = 79.8%) versus insulin only. There was a significantly greater reduction in HbA1c using higher doses of metformin compared with lower doses of metformin with no significant increase in side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence supports the effectiveness of metformin therapy in a clinically important lowering of HbA1c used as monotherapy and in combination with other therapeutic agents. There is potential for using higher doses of metformin to maximize glycemic control in diabetic patients without increasing gastrointestinal effects.
Interdecadal oscillations in Atmospheric Angular Momentum variations
Authors: Abarca-del-Rio R. , Gambis D. , Salstein D.
Published: January 2012

Interdecadal oscillations in Atmospheric Angular Momentum variations

Global Atmospheric Angular Momentum (AAM) is an intrinsic index for describing processes that affect the atmospheric circulation on time scales ranging from intraseasonal to secular. It is associated with length-of-day (LOD) variability through conservation of global angular momentum in planet Earth and thus is of considerable importance for quantifying how the Earth acts as a system. The availability of lengthy AAM time series computed from the recent 20th Century atmospheric reanalyses (1870-2008), complemented by the NCAR-NCEP reanalysis in the overlapping period of 1948-2008 allows the investigation of the role of decadal and interdecadal cycles as well as the recent overall trend in AAM. Thus, we extend to the entire 20th century (and prior, back to 1870) results concerning decadal time scales and a secular positive trend detected over recent decades by different authors. In addition, we also note that AAM has features of interdecadal time scales that modulate the lower frequency variability. These interdecadal time signals oscillate with periods of about 30-50 years, and we found an indication of an 80-90 year period. Short term signals interact with the long-term (secular) trend. Particularly over the years 1950-1985 the global positive trend in AAM appears to result from a conjunction of constructive positive slopes from all lower frequency signals (interdecadal short-term trends and the long-term positive secular trend). Since the mid 1980s, however, the interdecadal oscillation short-term trend contribution decreases, as does the total signal in global AAM. These oscillations appear as two interdecadal modes originating within the Pacific (associated principally with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and also ENSO) from which they propagate poleward, with differing characteristics in each hemisphere.
Leading with Pedagogical Tact- a Challenge in Children's Sports in Sweden
Authors: Hertting Krister
Published: January 2012

Leading with Pedagogical Tact- a Challenge in Children's Sports in Sweden

The purpose of this article is to elucidate and problemize meetings between children and leaders in children's sport. The competitive sport is high valuated in the Swedish society and sport for children is central in the Swedish youth politics. The foundation in Swedish sport, as well as in the other Nordic countries, has for a long time relied on voluntary commitment. Approximately 650 000 people are voluntary engaged as leaders in sport in Sweden and 70% of children between 7 and 14 years compete in sports clubs. There is, however, a tension in the Swedish sport system. The sports for children has double missions - ‘association nurturing’ and ‘competition nurturing’, missions which are not always in harmony. In the daily activity it is the voluntary leaders who have to deal with these missions, which creates a field of tension. In this article I argue for a bridge between these missions by a leadership based on pedagogical tact. The empirical outlook is a narrative based on statements from leaders, children and parents in a study dealing with voluntary leadership within children's football. In the end I argue that focusing on this bridge is a win-win situation, both for children and sports.
Psychological Predictors of Job Performance and Career Success in Professional Sport
Authors: Stanimirovic Rosanna , Hanrahan Stephanie
Published: January 2012

Psychological Predictors of Job Performance and Career Success in Professional Sport

The measurement of psychological factors specific to sport has provided sport psychologists with valuable information for performance enhancement interventions. It is necessary, however, to consider that the predictive validity of the measures when related to job performance or career success in professional sport is limited (Humara, 2000). This literature review describes theoretical and empirical evidence related to (a) utility and validity of psychological measures that predict job performance, including general mental ability (GMA), personality, and emotional intelligence (EI); (b) descriptions of the psychological factors affecting successful and unsuccessful performances at major sporting events such as the Olympic Games; (c) examination of the psychological measures related to performance of successful athletes; and (d) an overview of EI as a construct relevant to job performance and career success of athletes. The aim of the literature review is to present evidence for a systematic method of assessment as recommended by Schmidt and Hunter (1998) that includes GMA and appropriate supplementary measures for sport. A method that encourages the existence and/or development of psychological competencies can enhance the professional experience for the athletes and potentially the return on investment for the professional sporting organization.
Self-Defense Competency of American College Students in Self-Defense Class in Physical Education Program
Authors: Chen Gong
Published: January 2012

Self-Defense Competency of American College Students in Self-Defense Class in Physical Education Program

The purpose of this project was to investigate physical self-defense competency of American college students in laboratory situation. The physical self-defense competency was examined through five categories of physical self-defense abilities that occurred in real life situation, including abilities of dealing with throws, standing holds, floor holds, knife attacks, and gun attacks. The results indicated that female and male students demonstrated high level of self-defense competency on dealing with throws, standing holds, and floor holds. The results also indicated effective strategies and skills for college men and on women dealing with knife attacks.
A Close Look at the Physical Fitness Levels of Elementary Age Students with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Davis Kathryn , Zhang Guili , Hodson Patricia , Boswell Boni , Decker James
Published: January 2012

A Close Look at the Physical Fitness Levels of Elementary Age Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Introduction: Little is known about the physical fitness levels of school-aged children with intellectual disabilities, when comparing groups of healthy weight and unhealthy weight. Purpose: To compare the fitness levels of healthy weight and unhealthy weight children with intellectual disabilities in three elementary schools in the southeastern United States. Methods: Four fitness measures (PACER, Modified Curl-Ups, Modified Pull-ups, and the Back-Saver Sit-and-Reach) were obtained from 26 youth (10 girls, 16 boys; 10.01 + 1.22). Additionally, fitness levels of students who were overweight/obese were statistically compared with those with healthy weights. Results: A pattern of overall low fitness levels was found in comparison to criterion-referenced standards regarding all of the fitness measures, and students who were overweight/obese performed poorly compared to those with healthy weight. The only statistically significant finding was the comparison of healthy and unhealthy weight groups on the modified pullup. Conclusions: The study suggests a strong need for adaptive physical education and active recess programs that are appropriate for developing the fitness levels of elementary students with intellectual disabilities.
The Jewish Gymnastics in the Czech Lands until 1918
Authors: Šinkovský Roman
Published: January 2012

The Jewish Gymnastics in the Czech Lands until 1918

In the second half of the 19th century there was a significant change in the club's life and physical activities in the Habsburger Monarchy. The German gymnastics system (Turnbewegung) was the strongest one with regions, subregions and clubs in every smaller city. But towards the end of the 19th century the uprising of anti-Semitic attitude Jews started to flee or they were made to leave this organization. They built their own organization with similar ideology and structure. Nevertheless, its influence and importance was rather marginal. Although we could find areas where Jewish gymnastics had its steady position within the community. The Czech lands belonged among the leading territories within the Jewish Gymnastics Organization (Jüdische Turnbewegung).
Modélisation du trajet global de la flèche avec différents types d'équipements
Authors: Dinu Daniel , Houel Nicolas , Dellenbach Marc
Published: January 2012

Modélisation du trajet global de la flèche avec différents types d'équipements

Skill in archery directly depends on the interaction between the subject, the bow and the arrow when shooting. Researches in biomechanics of archery have frequently described the different coordination and muscular activation during the shoot of the subject. Few of them describe the influence of the bow (mechanical characteristics, stabilizers, etc.) on the subject's skill and physical capacities. The aim of the study is to compare the influence of two bows on the subject's skill. An international level archer shot a sequence of twelve arrows (A1) X10, 380 (Easton) and a sequence of twelve arrows (A2) X10 Pro Tour, 380 (Easton). Each sequence of arrows were shot with two bows (B1: 27 inch Inno carbon bow handle associated with 70 inch and 38 lb bow limb; B2 : 25 inch Inno bow carbon handle associated with 70 inch and 40 lb bow limb). All archers' shots were performed on a 70 m distant target. For each arrow, heights at shot (H1) and on the target (H2) were measured. The velocity (km.h-1) of the arrow was recorded using Stalker ATS radar when it left the bow. The angle (α) between the arrow and the horizontal axis was estimated using the previous measurement and the Newton's law. Multi-varied Anova test was used to define the influence of bows and arrows on the shot parameter (V) and archer's skill (α, H2). Results show that the use of the B2A2 condition would be the less interesting for this archer's skill in order to perform the centre of the target. Indeed, H2 with B2A2 condition is usually 10 cm above the centre of the target. The use of the B2A1 condition could permit the archer to perform the centre of the target as accurately as the B1 conditions. When using B2A1 condition, a shot is realized with smaller velocity (219±0.3 versus 226±0 km.h-1) and bigger angle α (5.45±0.3 versus 5.16±0.03 degree). For this archer, B2A1 condition could help him to reach the centre of the target with less energy to bend the bow and shoot with less velocity, and bigger range of angle when shooting (0.6 versus 0.08 degree).
Rationale of Self-defense Education in American Schools
Authors: Chen Gong
Published: January 2012

Rationale of Self-defense Education in American Schools

The purpose of this article is to examine the critical roles and benefits of self-defense and self-defense education for students in American middle and high schools. The article will analyze crime trends and the self-defense education status in America, and discuss rationale of self-defense and self-defense education from both the theoretical and practical perspectives. This article tried to provide a comprehensive view on theories and practice of self-defense education for American school students. Self-defense instructors can consider the ideas presented herein to persuade their school administrators to initiate or strengthen their self-defense education programs, convince parents of the need, and obtain their support and cooperation. Ideas we presented can also be useful in motivating students to learn self-defense while helping instructors develop a comprehensive understanding of self-defense education.
Ontogenetic Development of Kinematic Parameters of the Running Stride
Authors: Vanderka Marián , Kampmiller Tomáš
Published: January 2012

Ontogenetic Development of Kinematic Parameters of the Running Stride

Authors of the research deal with cross-section analysis of ontogenetic characteristics of basic kinematic parameters of the running stride in terms of age and gender from 7 to 18 years of age. There were monitored: average velocity, stride frequency and length, duration of support and flying phase, as well as other derived indicators at 10 m with 15 m flying start. Sample consisted of 1299 male and 1288 female students of elementary and high schools in Bratislava. Authors determined high age dependency of running speed and stride length on age. On the other hand, there was high ontogenetic stability of the indicators (stride frequency, duration of support and flying phase) in the population of 7 to 18 year-old youth. Ontogenetically stable parameters deteriorated partially in prepubescent and at the beginning of the pubescent period in the age 11 - 15. This relates to rapid growth of body height and weight and deterioration of biomechanical and coordination conditions of an organism. Those finding lead the authors to the conclusion, that ontogenetically stable indicators comprise so called dispositional factors in evaluating the rate of talent for running speed.
Evaluation of Sports Organization Worth
Authors: Sonntag Axel
Published: January 2012

Evaluation of Sports Organization Worth

When the level of funding for sport compared to the overall state budget, or be related to the gross domestic product can be ascertained that in the past twenty years, the money directed to this area is constantly decreasing. In the imaginary scale of the European Union are under study, some country is among the lowest rungs. The analysis is not only taking the top sport, but also activities in the field of sport for all, support for youth, sports and similar construction. This article aims to report on funding opportunities in sport. What are the possible ways of acquiring money from different sources public, private and international (public budget, entrepreneurial appropriation, bank credits, EU sources of physical training).
Physical Activity Effects in Elderly Female: Evaluation through Six-minute Walking Test
Authors: Merati Matteo , Beretta Alice , Eid Luca , Casolo Francesco , Lovecchio Nicola
Published: January 2012

Physical Activity Effects in Elderly Female: Evaluation through Six-minute Walking Test

Study aim. Aerobic capacity is very important for elderly. Daily living activities, such as walking, doing housework and shopping, require a good strength, but also a good aerobic endurance. The aim of this study was to verify the effects of regular training activity on a typical daily action, such as deambulation. Material and methods. Twenty-six volunteer elderly women randomly divided into two groups, group II (age = 64,5 ± 3,58 years, weight = 61,67 ± 4,25 kg, height = 1,62 ± 0,04 m; BMI = 23,67 ± 1,79 kg m-2), group I (age = 65,21 ± 4,59 years, weight = 63,36 ± 7,59 kg, height = 1,62 ± 0,06 m; BMI = 24,1 ± 1,98 kg m-2) participated in this study. Groups performed endurance training for eight weeks (2 days per week, 1 hour each, for experimental group II; 1 day per week, 1 hour each, for experimental group I). Exercises involved in many possibilities of physical expression to keeping all body in motion for at least 30 min. During the second 30 min exercises for abdominal and lower limb muscles were proposed. The physical efficacy was tested through 6 min walking test. Results. After the training all people increased the distance in the test. Group II participants significantly improved their distance (pre-training = 636.25 m, post-training = 673.75 m). Group I reported also improvements (pre = 568.21 m; post = 600 m), but with a minor level of significance. Conclusions. Specific regular physical activity provides significant benefits adopting two sessions per week but it is also important do not underestimate the possibility, where people can not, of a one training session per week. Regular and adequate levels of physical activity allow improving daily living activity helping the elderly to keep their autonomy as long as possible.
Young Coaches and Supportive Environments
Authors: Meckbach Jane , Larsson Lena
Published: January 2012

Young Coaches and Supportive Environments

Sport is a very popular recreational activity for young people in Sweden. To support children's and young people's sporting activities, the Swedish Parliament has invested EUR 200,000 over a four-year period. This initiative was given the name Idrottslyftet [Lift for Sport] and one of its goals was to recruit and retain young coaches. The aim of the study is to examine the investment made in young coaches with the focus on supportive environments. Questions are asked: (i) How have the various projects been structured and what were the desired objectives? (ii) What is meant by the term ‘supportive environment’? iii) Which young coaches is the project aimed at and who is the ‘right’ kind of coach? The data consists of plans and project descriptions. Moreover, this study uses a qualitative text analysis and has a cultural-sociological perspective based on Bourdieu's theories and concepts. The analysis shows that investments have consisted mainly of training programmes to recruit new coaches. The supportive environments are a priority and master-pupil relationship is a given model. The findings indicate that there is a belief that a re-examination of the traditionally prominent values is required if young people are to be recruited as coaches.
Reducing Fatigue in Wind-Excited Support Structures of Traffic Signals with Innovative Vibration Absorber
Authors: Christenson Richard E. , Hoque Sharida
Published: January 2012

Support structures of traffic signals are flexible, lightly damped structures that are highly susceptible to wind-induced vibration. The sustained large-amplitude deflections caused by these dynamic vibrations can result in fatigue cracking and failure. The proposed innovative vibration absorber reduces fatigue in support structures of traffic signals with the use of the mass of the signal head as a damped-vibration absorber. This novel concept, referred to as a signal head vibration absorber (SHVA), provides energy absorption in the form of increased damping to the lightly damped signal support structure. A prototype smart vibration absorber, envisioned as an inexpensive retrofit to signal support structures that were experiencing excessive wind-induced vibration, was tested in a full-scale laboratory experiment at the University of Connecticut. The SHVA was experimentally shown to have increased the damping in the signal support structure from 0.2% of the critical damping ratio to 10.1%. For steady state vibration, this difference is equivalent to a 98.3% reduction in the response and virtually eliminates any deflections. A single SHVA can be applied to a wide range of signal support structures while still achieving reasonable performance. The SHVA can change the way vibration in traffic signal support structures is mitigated.
A computational investigation of iceberg capsize as a driver of explosive ice-shelf disintegration
Authors: Guttenberg Nicholas , Abbot Dorian S. , Amundson Jason M. , Burton Justin C. , Cathles L. Mac , MacAyeal Douglas R. , Zhang Wendy W.
Published: January 2012

Potential energy released from the capsize of ice-shelf fragments (icebergs) is the immediate driver of the brief explosive phase of ice-shelf disintegration along the Antarctic Peninsula (e.g. the Larsen A, Larsen B and Wilkins ice shelves). The majority of this energy powers the rapidly expanding plume of ice-shelf fragments that expands outward into the open ocean; a smaller fraction of this energy goes into surface gravity waves and other dynamic interactions between ice and water that can sustain the continued fragmentation and break-up of the original ice shelf. As an initial approach to the investigation of ice-shelf fragment capsize in ice-shelf collapse, we develop a simple conceptual model involving ideal rectangular icebergs, initially in unstable or metastable orientations, which are assembled into a tightly packed mass that subsequently disassembles via massed capsize. Computations based on this conceptual model display phenomenological similarity to aspects of real ice-shelf collapse. A promising result of the conceptual model presented here is a description of how iceberg aspect ratio and its statistical variance, the two parameters related to ice-shelf fracture patterns, influence the enabling conditions to be satisfied by slow-acting processes (e.g. environmentally driven melting) that facilitate ice-shelf disintegration.
The historical global sea-level budget
Authors: Moore J.C. , Jevrejeva S. , Grinsted A.
Published: January 2012

We analyze the global sea-level budget since 1850. Good estimates of sea-level contributions from glaciers and small ice caps, the Greenland ice sheet and thermosteric sea level are available over this period, though considerable scope for controversy remains in all. Attempting to close the sea-level budget by adding the components results in a residual displaying a likely significant trend of ~0.37mma–1from 1955 to 2005, which can, however, be reasonably closed using estimated melting from unsurveyed high-latitude small glaciers and ice caps. The sea-level budget from 1850 is estimated using modeled thermosteric sea level and inferences from a small number of mountain glaciers. This longer-term budget has a residual component that displays a rising trend likely associated with the end of the Little Ice Age, with much decadal-scale variability that is probably associated with variability in the global water cycle, ENSO and long-term volcanic impacts.
Cross-Cultural Segments in International Student Travel: An Analysis of British and Chinese Market
Authors: Xu Feifei , Morgan Michael , Moital Miguel
Published: January 2012

This article uses a global-centric approach to identify clusters of segments that cross national and cultural boundaries in the student travel market in the UK and China, a relatively underresearched area. Based on students' motivations of travel, the article uses cluster analysis on
523 questionnaires from students in the two countries. The results indicated five cross-national segments in the student travel market, namely; the conservatives, the enthusiasts, the adventurers, the fun seekers, and the learners. Significant differences among the five segments, in terms
of their driven motivation and traveling preferences, were identified. The results suggested that underneath the superficial differences, British and Chinese students can be segmented into similar clusters. The results of the study provide an important understanding of the student market,
contributing to focus the marketing efforts differently when attempting to target different segments cross national.
Casino Security Risks and Outsourcing Criteria
Authors: Lee Timothy Jeonglyeol
Published: January 2012

Security is a major issue for casinos and other gambling establishments. millions of dollars change hands at a casino in any one day and patrons must feel safe and that the gaming is honest and secure. This study consists of two parts. The first focuses on the security risks facing
casinos including those associated with theft, cheating, cyber threats, underage gambling, and Internet gambling. The second investigates the criteria that should be taken into consideration when choosing an outside security organization for a casino. These include image and reputation, cost
effectiveness, communication and level of control, knowledge and experience of security, and culture and employees. Recommendations are made on how overall security can be improved on gambling premises and how successful implementation of outsourced security can be made.
RETURN VISITS AMONG FILIPINO MIGRANTS IN DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND
Authors: OBSEQUIO-GO MARIA ELENA , DUVAL DAVID TIMOTHY
Published: January 2012

he purpose of this article is to present top-line data from a recent study investigating travel to the Philippines by Filipino migrants living in Dunedin, New Zealand. The study was conducted to provide an initial assessment of migrant mobilities among a small subpopulation of Filipino migrants. Financial and logistical constraints prevented broad coverage of Filipino migrants across New Zealand, although such research is currently in the planning stages. The study itself is part of a larger, multisite research project based at the University of Otago designed to investigate the relationship between migration and temporary mobility.
Identification and characterization of microsatellite loci in the rush Juncus effusus (Juncaceae)1
Authors: Michalski Stefan G. , Durka Walter
Published: January 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed for the common wetland plant Juncus effusus to assess levels of within‐ and among‐population genetic diversity.

• Methods and Results: Using a next‐generation sequencing approach we identified new microsatellite loci, from which 23 were further characterized in a large population of J. effusus. Expected heterozygosity ranged from 0 to 0.64 with a mean of 0.407. Inbreeding coefficients (mean = 0.984) were very high, confirming earlier suggestions of an inbred mating system. Cross‐amplification was tested in J. conglomeratus, J. inflexus, J. drummondii, and J. filiformis, with best results in the former.

• Conclusions: The described microsatellite markers will be helpful in assisting studies on, e.g., reproduction, taxonomy, and phylogeography in J. effusus and related species.
Proteinase 3 Contributes to Transendothelial Migration of NB1-Positive Neutrophils
Authors: Kuckleburg Christopher J. , Tilkens Sarah B. , Santoso Sentot , Newman Peter J.
Published: January 2012

Neutrophil transmigration requires the localization of neutrophils to endothelial cell junctions, in which receptor–ligand interactions and the action of serine proteases promote leukocyte diapedesis. NB1 (CD177) is a neutrophil-expressed surface molecule that has been reported to bind proteinase 3 (PR3), a serine protease released from activated neutrophils. PR3 has demonstrated proteolytic activity on a number of substrates, including extracellular matrix proteins, although its role in neutrophil transmigration is unknown. Recently, NB1 has been shown to be a heterophilic binding partner for the endothelial cell junctional protein, PECAM-1. Disrupting the interaction between NB1 and PECAM-1 significantly inhibits neutrophil transendothelial cell migration on endothelial cell monolayers. Because NB1 interacts with endothelial cell PECAM-1 at cell junctions where transmigration occurs, we considered that NB1–PR3 interactions may play a role in aiding neutrophil diapedesis. Blocking Abs targeting the heterophilic binding domain of PECAM-1 significantly inhibited transmigration of NB1-positive neutrophils through IL-1β–stimulated endothelial cell monolayers. PR3 expression and activity were significantly increased on NB1-positive neutrophils following transmigration, whereas neutrophils lacking NB1 demonstrated no increase in PR3. Finally, using selective serine protease inhibitors, we determined that PR3 activity facilitated transmigration of NB1-positive neutrophils under both static and flow conditions. These data demonstrate that PR3 contributes in the selective recruitment of the NB1-positive neutrophil population.
What is the importance of executing rituals ‘correctly’ and why do people continue to engage in them?
Authors: Viviers Hennie
Published: January 2012

Rituals, borne out of our embodied practical reason, are deeds that are counterintuitive in terms of cause and effect. From a cognitive point of view, two kinds of religious rituals can be identified: special agent rituals, where superhuman agents act on human patients (onceoff, highly emotional; e.g. initiations, weddings) and special instrument and patient rituals, where human agents act on superhuman patients (repeated, less emotional; e.g. sacrifices, Holy Communion). The idea of ‘correctness’ applies more stringently to the first kind than the second, for instance: Jacob’s blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh in Genesis 48. Rituals stabilise, reconstitute and replicate our ‘cosmos’ or imaginative worlds as they realign our intersubjective relations. They are tenacious and persistent, because they evoke, usually in an emotional and motivational way, our sense of urgency, our deeply felt need to maintain sound social relations and our intuitive ability to form notions of a counterintuitive world. The aim of this article was therefore to highlight and illustrate the role our evolved mental tools play when conducting rituals, especially when conducting some rituals ‘correctly’ and others less stringently so. Furthermore, the psychological appeal that rituals have on the human mind was also explained.
Videostroboscopy in Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disorder
Authors: Raghunandhan S , Natarajan Kiran , Raghunandhan S , Nagasundaram Jawahar , Prashanth Srividya
Published: January 2012

Introduction

Acid reflux disease of the larynx has been established as a separate clinical entity in the present day, requiring the nuances of a skilled laryngologist for its early diagnosis and appropriate management. Clinical presentations of laryngopharyngeal reflux disorder may vary from very subtle to mammoth proportions, ranging across a panorama of features like chronic laryngitis, indolent laryngeal ulcers or granulomas, onto life-threatening glottic/sub-glottic stenosis and laryngeal malignancies very rarely. With the advent of videostroboscopy, laryngologists have now acquired a ‘cutting-edge’ sensitive tool to look into the intricacies of the larynx and thereby study the pathological effects of laryngopharyngeal reflux in great detail.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of videostroboscopy with voice analysis, as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in a cohort of patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux disorder.

Study method

This prospective study was conducted over a two-year period, among 50 patients with hoarseness of voice and features of reflux laryngitis, who underwent videostroboscopy with voice analysis at initial diagnosis and at routine follow-up, to objectively study the response and outcome of anti-reflux therapy on the larynx.

Observation and result

Videostroboscopy provided a vivid picture of the changes in larynx due to chronic acid reflux and proved efficacious in precisely judging the treatment responses.

Conclusion

Our study reflects the recent concept highlighted in world literature that videostroboscopy is an ideal, sensitive tool for early diagnosis and in prognosis of acid induced laryngeal disorder.
Benign Corrosive Stricture Excision by Lateral Pharyngotomy
Authors: Meher Ravi , Brar Tripti , Rathore PK , Aggarwal Virad , LNU Aditi
Published: January 2012

Benign corrosive lesion of aerodigestive tract is difficult to treat. We report a case of a 3-year-old male child who accidentally ingested acid and presented to the emergency a few hours later with difficulty in breathing and dysphagia. He was admitted and underwent a tracheotomy. A feeding jejunostomy was also done. The patient was then planned for an endoscopic examination followed by a lateral pharyngotomy. A few weeks later, a bougie dilatation of the esophageal stricture was done and the dysphagia was relieved.