bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technological, Marketing and Complementary Competencies Driving Innovative Performance of Slovenian Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Rajkovič Tanja , Prašnikar Janez
Published: August 2009

Technological, Marketing and Complementary Competencies Driving Innovative Performance of Slovenian Manufacturing Firms

The paper discusses innovative performance of firms and underlying competencies, namely technological, marketing and complementary. Competencies are regarded as networks of various capabilities and other firm assets and can be used for cross-industry comparisons. The study is based on a survey carried out among 50 established Slovenian manufacturing companies addressing competencies which they employ in their 65 distinct product lines. Three distinct segments of firms are established based on innovative performance indicators. Used are techniques of multivariate statistics, including cluster analysis and analysis of variance. The results imply that the most innovative firms simultaneously develop technological, marketing and complementary competencies. The implications of our findings are valuable to the firms aligning their competencies with their strategy, as well as to policy makers in technology following countries.
Some Aspects of the Health-Care Institutions Management in Slovenia
Authors: Vadnjal Jaka , Bernik Jurij , Baričič Andrej
Published: August 2009

Some Aspects of the Health-Care Institutions Management in Slovenia

Not much has research has so far been done into the peculiarities of health-care organization management. The motivation was to explore the possible perspectives of the health-organization management system in comparison to other business forms. The hypotheses were tested through a questionnaire that was mailed to managers in health-care institutions. It has been confirmed to a certain degree that managers with a medical training background have different managerial scopes, oriented more to their own profession, including economics of their organization, need for enhanced knowledge and, their managerial style. The implications of the study are at two levels. The future design of training programs for top and middle management institutions will be influenced by the results and findings. At the other level, the implications are expected to arouse interest in the field of multidisciplinary education course design as well as some providing possible background for development of business consulting services in the field.
Information-Communication Technology (ICT) in our Lives: the Interplay of ICT and Romantic Relationships
Authors: Pagon Milan , Bizjak Uroš
Published: August 2009

Information-Communication Technology (ICT) in our Lives: the Interplay of ICT and Romantic Relationships

Relationships among different aspects of romantic relationship quality, the usage of information and communication technologies (ICT), characteristics of a relationship, demographics, and personality were examined on a sample of 407 students in the Republic of Slovenia. The findings suggest that the most important factor in determining the quality of a romantic relationship is companionship (joint activities of a romantic couple). Romantic couples who generally spent more time in joint activities also spent more time using ICT in maintaining their romantic relationship. The usage of ICT in a romantic relationship itself does not influence the quality of that relationship. The general usage of ICT, however, deteriorates the quality of the romantic relationship. Once we take into account the impact of companionship, personality variables do not provide any unique contributions to romantic relationship quality.
The Relevance of Systems Methodologies in the Development of Organizational Systems
Authors: Kljajić Miroljub
Published: August 2009

The Relevance of Systems Methodologies in the Development of Organizational Systems

The relationship between systems development and systems methodologies is discussed in this paper. As the measure of system development on the macro level, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is assumed to be the consequence of systems Research and Development (R&D), which is estimated indirectly by the number of published articles in the last 40 years. It was supposed that profit and governmental organizations are systems comprised of Production, Management and Information Systems (IS), and that their quality performance is related with its income generation, which in the future would impact the overall GDP of a country. Under such view, we also assume that such organizational processes are qualitatively improved by the application of knowledge generated by research publications, and in this study, we research for the specific case of the Systems Approach (SA), Systems Engineering (SE), Operational Research (OR), Information Systems Development (ISD) and Simulation, as the research topics for coping with organizational improvement. We looked for the articles containing the afore-mentioned variables as topic keywords, which indicate sufficient correlations with GDP and carrying information on sustainable development. We found a positive trend in the evolution of research methodologies, such as SE, ISD and OR, towards a Systems Approach and Simulation as a holistic methodology. As a result, we have proved the dynamic hypothesis of a high correlation between GDP of Top 10 + Slovenia and R&D expressed by the above-mentioned variables.
Heuristic Approach to Inventory Control with Advance Capacity Information
Authors: Jakšič Marko , Rusjan Borut
Published: August 2009

Heuristic Approach to Inventory Control with Advance Capacity Information

There is a growing trend of information sharing within modern supply chains. This trend is mainly stimulated by recent developments in information technology and the increasing awareness that accurate and timely information helps firms cope with volatile and uncertain business conditions. We model a periodic-review, single-item, capacitated stochastic inventory system, where a supply chain member has the ability to obtain advance capacity information (‘ACI’) about future supply capacity availability. ACI is used to reduce the uncertainty of future supply and thus enables the decision-maker to make better ordering decisions. We develop an easily applicable heuristic based on insights gained from an analysis of the optimal policy. In a numerical study we quantify the benefits of ACI and compare the performance of the proposed heuristic with the optimal performance. We illustrate the conditions in which the procedure is working well and comment on its practical applicability.
Selection Criteria for Six Sigma Projects in Slovenian Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Gošnik Dušan , Hohnjec Matej
Published: August 2009

Selection Criteria for Six Sigma Projects in Slovenian Manufacturing Companies

Researches reveal that successful six sigma implementation is related to proper six sigma project prioritisation and selection. This research is limited to the selection of six sigma projects in some manufacturing companies in Slovenia. The purpose of this study is to identify what criteria are considered for prioritisation and selection of six sigma projects and how six sigma projects are selected. A research sample is limited by the number of companies which have implemented six sigma so far. The results indicate that Slovenian manufacturing organisations tend to select six sigma projects based on criteria such as customer satisfaction, connection with a business strategy financial benefits, and growth of the organisation. Several tools and techniques such as quality cost analysis, brainstorming and interviews are used to identify and prioritise projects. Identification of the most commonly used criteria to select six sigma projects can help practitioners to select projects based on multiple criteria by using tools and techniques identified in this study. This topic has not been applied in the field of Slovenian manufacturing companies and thus it presents the first study in this field in Slovenia.
Description of Third Instar Larvae of Terellia Colon and T. Virens (Diptera, Tephritidae)
Authors: Korneyev S.
Published: August 2009

Description of Third Instar Larvae ofTerellia ColonandT. Virens(Diptera, Tephritidae)

Third instar larvae of T. colon (Meigen, 1826) and T. virens (Loew, 1846) are described and figured for the first time based on material from Kyiv Region (Ukraine).
Description of A New Spider Species of The Genus Gnaphosa (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) From Pakistan
Authors: Ovtchinnikov S. , Ahmad B. , Inayatullah M.
Published: August 2009

Description of A New Spider Species of The Genus Gnaphosa (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) From Pakistan

Gnaphosa pakistanica Ovchinnikov, Ahmad et Inayatullah, sp. n. from Pakistan is described. Comments on the other two species recorded from Pakistan are given.
A New Water Mite (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Sperchontidae) From The Himalaya Mountains (Nothern India)
Authors: Pešić V. , Gerecke R.
Published: August 2009

A New Water Mite (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Sperchontidae) From The Himalaya Mountains (Nothern India)

A water mite Sperchon ivonae Pesic et Gerecke, sp. n. (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Sperchontidae) from a stream in the Himalaya Mountains (Himachal Pradesh State, Northern India) is described. Type material is deposited in the collection of the Naturhistorisches Museum Basel.
Ecological Characteristic of Calanoids (Copepoda, Calanoida) of the Inland Waters of Ukraine
Authors: Samchyshyna L.
Published: August 2009

Ecological Characteristic of Calanoids (Copepoda, Calanoida) of the Inland Waters of Ukraine

The article presents analyze of known published data and own observations on ecology of freshwater and brackish calanoid copepods of fauna of Ukraine. The briefly characteristic of main types of waterbodies inhabited by calanoids is given. The relation of species to the important ecological factors of water environment like temperature, habitat permanence, salinity, pH, current, suspended matters, and interaction with other hydrobionts is analyzed.
A New Species of the Genus Pseudotorymus (Hymenoptera, Torymidae) From Crimea
Authors: Zerova M. , Seryogina L.
Published: August 2009

A New Species of the Genus Pseudotorymus (Hymenoptera, Torymidae) From Crimea

Pseudotorymus juniperi Zerova, sp. n. is described and compared with similar species of Pseudotorymus. The new species is reared from cecidomyiid galls on Juniperus excelsa.
New and Little-Known Ulidiidae (Diptera, Tephritoidea) from Europe
Authors: Kameneva E.
Published: August 2009

New and Little-Known Ulidiidae (Diptera, Tephritoidea) from Europe

New and Little-Known Ulidiidae (Diptera, Tephritoidea) from Europe. Kameneva E. P.— Improved keys to European species ofTetanopsandUlidiaare provided. The shape of projections of the phallus glans is found to be essential to distinguish species in the genusUlidia. Ulidia erythrophthalma(Meigen, 1826),U. albidipennisLoew, 1845,U. nigripennisLoew, 1845,U. parallelaLoew, 1845 andU. atrataLoew, 1868 are shown to be separate species and redescribed with the use of genitalic characters. The following synonymy is established:Homalocephala albitarsisZetterstedt, 1838 =Ortalis diopsidesWalker, 1849, syn. n. =Ortalis costalisWalker, 1849, syn. n.Homalocephala apicalis(Wahlberg, 1838) =Psairoptera bisetaFrey, 1909, syn. n. =Psairoptera similisCresson, 1924, syn. n.;Homalocephala mamaeviKrivosheina et Krivosheina, 1995 is recorded for the first time from Europe (Austria, Sweden).Euxesta stigmatiasLoew, 1873 is recorded for the first time in the Palaearctic Region based on a single unintentionally introduced specimen from Bulgaria. New finds of other ulidiid species in European countries are listed. Several species previously known only from Europe are recorded from Asia.
Dynamics of Infection with Strongylidae of the Przewalski Horse (Equus Przewalskii) Population in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
Authors: Zvegintsova N. , Zharkikh T. , Yasynetska N.
Published: August 2009

Dynamics of Infection with Strongylidae of the Przewalski Horse (Equus Przewalskii) Population in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

Dynamics of Infection with Strongylidae of the Przewalski Horse (Equus przewalskii) Population in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Zvegintsova N. S., Zharkikh T. L., Yasynetska N. I.— In 1998 and in 1999, several Przewalski horses (PH) from the Reserve Askania Nova were transferred to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ), a free-roaming breeding population was therefore established. Parasitological monitoring of the population was carried out between 1998 and 2006. Before the transportation, PHs were dewormed with Albendazole. On arrival, the PHs were placed in large pasture enclosures for acclimatization, where they were kept between a few weeks and eight months before releasing into the wild. Besides PHs, some domestic working horses were kept in the enclosures. After transportation to CEZ, the level of infection with intestinal helminths in PHs increased. Probably, it was due to the following factors: 1) larvae of helminthes, which survived in intestines after deworming, developed, 2) the pasture in acclimatization enclosures was contaminated with parasites, as PHs shared the enclosures with domestic horses. Over the first three years, the prevalence of Strongylidae were 98.8%, the mean intensities varied from 248.0 ± 51.3 to 612.0 ± 278.2 eggs per gram faeces (epg). A mean intensity in bachelor males was higher than in members of harem groups, as the bachelors had closer contacts with domestic horses. After domestic horses had been transferred outside of CEZ in 2001, the overall intensity in PHs has progressively decreased. During 2004-2006, the mean intensity became stable with range 80.9 ± 25.5 to 138.9 ± 33.2 epg, with prevalence of 93.1%. In 3.5% of faecal samples,Parascaris equorum(Ascarididae) were found; a mean intensity was 29.0 ± 10.7 epg. A few eggs ofAnoplocephala perfoliata(Anoplocephalidae) were found in three samples only. Due to negligible contamination of pastures excluded from farming industry long ago, there are comparatively low levels of infection in the free-roaming PHs. The present level of infection is considered harmless to the horses as clinical symptoms of helminthoses were never noticed.
The Variability of Exoskeleton Elements in Polyplacocystis Ambigua (Protista, Centrohelida)
Authors: Gaponova L. , Dovgal I.
Published: August 2009

The Variability of Exoskeleton Elements inPolyplacocystis Ambigua(Protista, Centrohelida)

The Variability of Exoskeleton Elements inPolyplacocystis ambigua(Protista, Centrohelida). Gaponova L. P., Dovgal I. V.— Article dealt with the investigation of variability of the scales of periplast inPolyplacocystis ambigua(Penard, 1904). New quantative character of periplast scale (wide of rim) was introduced. Renewed diagnosis ofP. ambiguawhere the quantative characteristics of perilpast scales are taken into account is given.
Goodayia Rostellatum Gen. N., Sp. N. (Protozoa) - A Monothalamous Foraminiferan from the Black Sea
Authors: Sergeeva N. , Anikeeva O.
Published: August 2009

Goodayia RostellatumGen. N., Sp. N. (Protozoa) - A Monothalamous Foraminiferan from the Black Sea

Goodayia rostellatumgen. n., sp. n. (Protozoa) - a Monothalamous Foraminifera from the Black Sea. Sergeeva N. G., Anikeeva O. V.-Goodayia rostellatumgen. n., sp. n. is described from the open slope of the Black Sea along the northwestern part of the Crimean Peninsula (160 m water depth). The test of this very delicate, organic-walled, monothalamous (single-chambered) foraminifer is elongated and becomes wider from the middle to the apertural end. Test wall consists of two layers, and the protoplasm is separated from the inner layer by a more or less distinct space. The protoplasm is finely granular, homogeneous, without foreign inclusions. The single terminal apertural structure has an asymmetric, beak-like shape with the aperture located under the beak. The nucleus is situated more or less in the middle of the test. The shape and size of the test, the presence of two membranes, and the single terminal aperture are the features reminiscent of the generaGloiogullmiaandRhynchogromia.However, the new genus has significant differences from these taxa, notably the absence of any foreign mineral or organic particles adhering to the test wall, and the beak-shaped apertural structure.
Extra Upper Premolars in a Specimen of Myotis Blythii (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae)
Authors: Ghazali M.
Published: August 2009

Extra Upper Premolars in a Specimen ofMyotis Blythii(Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae)

Extra Upper Premolars in a Specimen ofMyotis blythii(Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae). Ghazali M. A.— A case of extra upper premolars is described in a specimen ofMyotis blythiifrom Kerch peninsula (Ukraine, Crimea). Additional teeth are situated near the third premolars from both sides of the jaw. Giving into account their size and position it was supposed that they appear as a result of complete splitting of the third premolar primordium.
New Species of the Chalcidoid Wasps of the Families Eurytomidae and Torymidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) from Iran
Authors: Zerova M. , Seryogina L. , Karimpour Yu.
Published: August 2009

New Species of the Chalcidoid Wasps of the Families Eurytomidae and Torymidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) from Iran

Three new species of the Family Eurytomidae (Eurytoma lactucae Zerova, sp. n.; Bruchophagus trjapitzini Zerova, sp. n.; Nikanoria shohadae Zerova, sp. n.) and two species of Family Torymidae (Glyphomerus flavabdomen Zerova, sp. n.; Cryptopristus salviae Zerova, sp. n.) are described from Iran; ten palearctic species from the same Families are indicated for Iranian fauna for the first time (Eurytoma abdita Zerova, E. calicotomae Zerova, Eurytoma robusta Mayr, Bruchophagus astragali Fedoseeva, Adontomerus impolitus Askew et Nieves, Exopristoides hypecoi Zerova et Stojanova, Exopristus trigonomerus Ruschka, Idiomacromerus papaveris (Förster), Glyphomerus aylax Stojanova, Pseudotorymus militarsis (Boheman).
Tetrix Tuerki (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae): Distribution in Ukraine, Ecological Characteristic and Features of Biology
Authors: Pushkar T.
Published: August 2009

Tetrix Tuerki (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae): Distribution in Ukraine, Ecological Characteristic and Features of Biology

The presence of Tetrix tuerki (Krauss, 1876) in the Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains and Transcarpathian Region nowadays is confirmed. Three different morphological forms of T. tuerki are distinguished based on the wings and prothorax lengths: brachypterous, mesopterous and macropterous forms. Only two forms of adults (mesopterous and brachypterous) and the larvae of middle and the last instars hibernate. Adults of macropterous individuals of T. tuerki appear in June, developing from the hibernated larvae. Some larvae of T. tuerki are emerged from eggs and become the adults at the same year, transforming mesopterous and brachypterous forms. In spring T. tuerki (brachypterous and mesopterous individuals) lives on sandy-pebble alluvion of mountain river coasts, but in summer it (macropterous individuals) prefers alluvions near the middle part of the river far from its coasts. All three morphological forms of T. tuerki inhabit the middle flows of mountain rivers and the foothills outside a mountain system; brachypterous and mesopterous individuals are widespread in the upper reaches and in the lower flows of mountain rivers where alluvions are rare. Body length of specimens of T. tuerki, inhabiting upper and lower flows mountain rivers are smaller then in other river sides. Vibratory signals of T. tuerki are described for the first time and the oscillograms of the vibratory signals are provided.
Formation of Pattern and Diagnostic Instar Features of the Head in Caterpillars from Genus Peridea (Lepidoptera, Notodontidae)
Authors: Dolinskaya I.
Published: August 2009

Formation of Pattern and Diagnostic Instar Features of the Head in Caterpillars from Genus Peridea (Lepidoptera, Notodontidae)

Pattern and colouration of caterpillar head of all larval instar of 7 species from genus Peridea Stephens, 1828 are studied. Formation of caterpillar head pattern in ontogenesis is discussed. Diagnostic characters, both specific and larval instars, are recorded for the first time. Key to species according to larval instars is given. Evidently, only larvae of the 1st instar demonstrate different directions in the pattern formation. This characteristic can be used for clearing of taxonomic relations in the genera and on the earliest ontogenetic stages (1st larval instar) only. In the following (2nd-5th) instars, the pattern became more or less of the same type. It depends on stripes shape or colouration only and can serve as good specific diagnostic character. To determine larval instar, both width of the head capsule and head pattern should be taken into account.
A Review of Fruit Flies of the Genus Rhagoletis (Diptera, Tephritidae) of Iran and Bordering Countries, with the Key to Species
Authors: Namin S. , Rasoulian G.
Published: August 2009

A Review of Fruit Flies of the Genus Rhagoletis (Diptera, Tephritidae) of Iran and Bordering Countries, with the Key to Species

The genus Rhagoletis Loew includes many economically important pests of fleshy fruits. Six species of this genus occurring in Iran and bordering countries are briefly reviewed, and a key to species is provided. Rhagoletis flavicincta Enderlein is recorded for the first time from Iran.
Life Cycle of the Trematode Neodiplostomum oriolinum (Diplostomatidae) under Natural Conditions in Primorye Region (Russia)
Authors: Besprozvannykh V.
Published: August 2009

Life Cycle of the Trematode Neodiplostomum oriolinum (Diplostomatidae) under Natural Conditions in Primorye Region (Russia)

The life cycle and developmental stages of the trematode Neodiplostomum oriolinum Oschmarin, 1963 are described. It was experimentally established that under natural conditions of Primorye Region, the first intermediate hosts of this trematode are snails Polypylis semiglobosa, Helicorbis sujfunensis, and the second are tadpoles of Rana dybowskii. Adult worms were developed in chicken and rat. Based on comparative morphological analysis of adult worms developed under experimental conditions and data given in P. G. Oshmarin (1963) paper it is assumed that N. oriolinum and N. paraoriolinum Oschmarin, 1963 are synonyms.
A New Amphipod Species Echinogammarus karadagiensis sp. n. (Amphipoda, Gammaridae) from Crimean Coasts (Black Sea).
Authors: Grintsov V.
Published: August 2009

A New Amphipod Species Echinogammarus karadagiensis sp. n. (Amphipoda, Gammaridae) from Crimean Coasts (Black Sea).

Echinogammarus karadagiensis Grintsov, sp. n. (Amphipoda, Gammaridae) is described and illustrated based on specimens collected from the pebble-sand beach on Crimean coasts (0 m) (Black Sea). Morphological and ecological data are given.
New Collembola Species from the Floodplain Forests of the Transcarpathian Lowland (Ukraine)
Authors: Kaprus' I. , Tsalan J.
Published: August 2009

New Collembola Species from the Floodplain Forests of the Transcarpathian Lowland (Ukraine)

As a result of an ecological study of the springtails communities of floodplain oak forests (Transcarpathian Lowland),Spinonychiurus epaphiusKaprus' et Tsalan, sp. n. andTetracanthella pericarpaticaKaprus' et Tsalan, sp. n. are collected and described.S. epaphiussp. n. belongs to species group of Onychiuridae with abdominal sternum III, divided into two subsegments. AT. pericarpaticasp. n. new species is distinguished among similar taxa by reduced chaetotaxy of body.
The Discovery of the Intermediate Host for the Trematode Moliniella anceps (Trematoda, Echinostomatidae) in Ukraine
Authors: Kudlai O.
Published: August 2009

The Discovery of the Intermediate Host for the Trematode Moliniella anceps (Trematoda, Echinostomatidae) in Ukraine

The freshwater molluscs Lymnaea stagnalis (Linnaeus, 1758) are first reported as intermediate hosts of the trematode Moliniella anceps (Molin, 1859) Hübner, 1939, the parasite of meadow birds (Rallidae), in Ukraine (Dneprodzerzhynsk Reservoir, Poltavska oblast). Description and figure of metacercariae are provided.
Species Composition of the Family Arrhopalitidae (Collembola, Symphypleona)
Authors: Vargovitsh R.
Published: August 2009

Species Composition of the Family Arrhopalitidae (Collembola, Symphypleona)

Species composition of a recently revised family Arrhopalitidae is provided. 31 species are listed within the genus Arrhopalites Börner, 1906 and 83 species and subspecies within the genus Pygmarrhopalites Vargovitsh, 2009. 79 species are transferred from the genus Arrhopalites to Pygmarrhopalites; now combinations are listed.
Evolution of Motor Control: From Reflexes and Motor Programs to the Equilibrium-Point Hypothesis
Authors: Latash Mark
Published: August 2009

Evolution of Motor Control: From Reflexes and Motor Programs to the Equilibrium-Point Hypothesis

This brief review analyzes the evolution of motor control theories along two lines that emphasize active (motor programs) and reactive (reflexes) features of voluntary movements. It suggests that the only contemporary hypothesis that integrates both approaches in a fruitful way is the equilibrium-point hypothesis. Physical, physiological, and behavioral foundations of the EP-hypothesis are considered as well as relations between the EP-hypothesis and the recent developments of the notion of motor synergies. The paper ends with a brief review of the criticisms of the EP-hypothesis and challenges that the hypothesis faces at this time.
Differences in Peripheral Perception between Athletes and Nonathletes
Authors: Zwierko Teresa
Published: August 2009

Differences in Peripheral Perception between Athletes and Nonathletes

In team games, due to the great number of stimuli, perceptive skills have a cardinal significance, especially in players' anticipation and decisionmaking processes. The aim of this study was to compare peripheral perception of handball players (n=16) and nonathletes (n=16) of the same age. A comparative analysis involves abilities connected with general visual functions - such as the field of vision (hardware system) and reaction time to visual stimuli (software system). Peripheral perception was examined using the peripheral perception test included in the Vienna Test System (Schuhfried, Austria). The results show that the examined groups did not differ in regards to visual functions connected with the peripheral field of vision and the correctness of stimuli recognition. Handball players had a significantly shorter response time to stimuli appearing in the peripheral field of vision compared to nonathletes.
Information Processes, Stimulation and Perceptual Training in Fencing
Authors: Borysiuk Zbigniew , Waskiewicz Zbigniew
Published: August 2009

Information Processes, Stimulation and Perceptual Training in Fencing

Learning and development of motor skills and techniques in fencing and other sports with open motor habits are based on perceptual processes involving the senses of vision, touch, and hearing. In fencing, the same stimuli can yield defensive or offensive actions, which are strictly related to the tactics and strategy. Different types of stimulation determine reaction time, movement time, and muscle bioelectric tension (EMG) in fencing. From the training process, controlling the significance of dominant stimuli should be taken into account. The results of presented studies of advanced and novice fencers show that the time of reaction to tactile stimulation is similar or slightly shorter than to acoustic stimuli followed by visual stimuli. The advanced fencers were faster than the novice fencers in all the studied parameters. The EMG signal was significantly lower in case of advanced fencers in all three types of stimulation. It can be a proof that the psycho-motor superiority of elite fencers results in a reduction of the bioelectrical tension of muscles involved in performing the motor tasks. Perceptual skills enable athletes to respond to important signals in sport competition and ignore disrupting ones which lower the effectiveness of sports combat. Time pressure during sports competition makes it necessary to reduce as much as possible the decision-making time and the time of sensorimotor responses in the motor phase. The study results show that experienced athletes make decisions much faster than their novice colleagues. It conforms to the main strategy of perceptual training, (i.e., gaining maximum benefits at the lowest expense). Speed of decision-making is strictly associated with the stimuli detection effectiveness and re-creation of acquired motor patterns.
Blood-Brain Barrier and Exercise – a Short Review
Authors: Nierwińska Katarzyna , Malecka Elżbieta , Chalimoniuk Małgorzata , Żebrowska Aleksandra , Langfort Józef
Published: August 2009

Blood-Brain Barrier and Exercise – a Short Review

Blood-brain barier (BBB) segregates central nervous system (CNS) from the circulating blood. BBB is formed by the brain capillary endothelial cells with complex tight junctions between them as well as by astrocytes and pericytes. BBB is responsible for transport of selected chemicals into and out of the CNS as well as for its protection from fluctuations in plasma composition following meals, during exercise and from circulating agents such as neurotransmitters, xenobiotics and other potentially harmful substances capable to disturb neural function. BBB may be compromised during CNS injury, infection, fever and in some nerodegenerative diseases. The increase of BBB permeability was observed also during exercise as documented by changes of plasma S-100 protein levels, used as a peripheral marker of BBB integrity. Marked change in BBB integrity during exercise may disturb normal brain function and contribute to the development of central fatigue. Moreover, serum S-100β may indicate level of injury in individuals suffering brain injuries during sports. There are also data suggesting that acute effect of physical exercise on serum S100β levels may not be related with CNS injury. Further studies to establish whether training and which type of it may modulate BBB permeability are needed.
Evaluation of the Blood Antioxidant Capacity in Two Selected Phases of the Training Cycle in Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Michalczyk Małgorzata , Kłapcińska Barbara , Sadowska-Krępa Ewa , Jagsz Sławomir , Pilis Wiesław , Szołtysek-Bołdys Izabela , Chmura Jan , Kimsa Elżbieta , Kempa Katarzyna
Published: August 2009

Evaluation of the Blood Antioxidant Capacity in Two Selected Phases of the Training Cycle in Professional Soccer Players

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a regular pre-season training on the aerobic performance and the blood antioxidant defense capacity in soccer players from the Polish Premier League club (n=19) and IVth League team (n=15). The players participated in an incremental treadmill running exercise to volitional fatigue twice (i.e., at the beginning (Trial A) and the end (Trial B) of the pre-season spring training). In venous blood samples, taken at rest and 3 min post-test, the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GSH-Px, CAT, GR) and concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants (GSH, tocopherols, retinol, uric acid) and malondialdehyde as a lipid peroxidation biomarker were measured. With the aim of between-group comparisons and possible conclusions on training-induced changes in the capacity of the blood antioxidant defense, the POTAX index was calculated as a sum of standardized activities of antioxidant enzymes and concentrations of non-enzymatic antioxidants.

The results of the present study indicate that the players from the Premier League club were characterized by only slightly higher maximal oxygen uptake rates, the differences compared to IVth League team, as assessed in both trials, were statistically insignificant. Participation in the pre-season training resulted in a moderate improvement of aerobic performance, although only a few players were characterized by VO2max comparable to the international-class elite performers. No distinct differences were observed in the level of aerobic performance between higher- and lower-classified players.

Pre-season training led to an improvement in the global blood antioxidant capacity expressed in terms of POTAOX indices, although the changes in the activities and concentrations of individual components of the antioxidant system were less pronounced. Training-induced level of antioxidant conditioning was higher among the Premier League players, which may be related to differences in the training schedule and nutritional preparation of the athletes.
Determination and Prediction of One Repetition Maximum (1RM): Safety Considerations
Authors: Niewiadomski Wiktor , Laskowska Dorota , Gąsiorowska Anna , Cybulski Gerard , Strasz Anna , Langfort Józef
Published: August 2009

Determination and Prediction of One Repetition Maximum (1RM): Safety Considerations

Strength training is recommended for slowing age-dependent deterioration of muscular strength and for rehabilitating patients with muscle weakening illnesses. Reliable assessment of muscle strength is important for proper design of strength training regimes for prevention, rehabilitation, and sport. One repetition maximum (1RM) is an established measure of muscular strength and is defined as the value of resistance against which a given movement can be performed only once. Proper assessment of 1RM is time consuming, and may lead to muscle soreness as well as temporary deterioration of the function of the tested muscles. Attempts at indirect 1RM determination based on the maximum number of repetitions performed have predicted 1RM with a variable degree of accuracy. Cardiovascular safety has been neglected in 1RM determination, although arterial blood pressure increases considerably when exercising against maximal or near maximal resistance. From the perspective of cardiovascular safety, favorable 1RM measurement methods should avoid performance of repetitions until failure; movement against high resistance and muscle fatigue both increase blood pressure. Although such techniques are likely less accurate than the current methods, their prediction accuracy be sufficient for therapeutic strength training.
Serum Osteocalcin Concentration in Treadmill-Trained Adult Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Nowak Alicja , Pogrzebna Maria , Celichowski Jan , Pilaczyńska-Szcześniak Łucja
Published: August 2009

Serum Osteocalcin Concentration in Treadmill-Trained Adult Male Wistar Rats

Mechanical stress is considered to be essential for the regulation of bone mass. The purpose of this study was to determine whether treadmill exercise at moderate intensity induces alterations in blood osteocalcin concentration in rats. Male Wistar rats, aged 5 months, were divided randomly into two groups: trained animals (n = 6) and controls (n = 7). Trained rats were exercised 5 days/week for 4 weeks on a motor-driven treadmill. Each exercise session lasted 60 minutes and the average locomotion speed was 16.2 m/min. After completion of the training period, a blood sample was taken for osteocalcin measurement and the hindlimbs medial gastrocnemius muscles were excised and weighed. Comparative analysis showed significantly lower circulating osteocalcin levels in the exercised rats in comparison to control animals. It is possible that the observed decreased blood osteocalcin concentration is transient in nature. Factors including stress may also influenced the results.

Serum osteocalcin concentration in treadmill-trained rats
Changes in Aerobic and Anaerobic Power Indices in Elite Handball Players Following a 4-Week General Fitness Mesocycle
Authors: Boraczyński Tomasz , Urniaż Jerzy
Published: August 2009

Changes in Aerobic and Anaerobic Power Indices in Elite Handball Players Following a 4-Week General Fitness Mesocycle

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 4-week training programme during the first phase of the preparation period on selected indices of somatic structure as well as aerobic and anaerobic power in elite handball players. Nine handball players from a first league team took part in the study; their average age was 25.5±3.7 years, body mass 86.5±7.6 kg (I session) and 87.9±7.3 kg (II session) (p<0.01), lean body mass - 74.4±6.6 kg (I) and 76.2± 6.2 kg (II) (p<0.01), body fat mass 12.1±3.1 kg (I) and 11.7±3.1 kg (II) respectively. Two evaluations were conducted - the first at the end of the season, the second at the initial phase of the preparation period. The second phase was preceded by a 4- week period of general endurance and strength training. Aerobic fitness was assessed indirectly, taking into account the results of the PWC170 test. The absolute and relative values of the PWC170 index increased significantly from 236.6 W to 269 W (p<0.01) and from 2.73 W/kg to 3.06 W/kg (p<0.01). The values of maximum oxygen uptake - VO2max were significantly improved from 3.65 l/min to 3.98 l/min (p<0.01) and from 42.3 ml/kg/min to 45.4 ml/kg/min (p<0.05). Anaerobic fitness was assessed using the 30-second Wingate test. A statistically significant improvement of the basic indices of aerobic fitness following the 4-week training programme proved its high effectiveness. Maintaining the level of the basic indices of anaerobic power despite the absence of specific training loads, seems to corroborate the strong effect of genetic factors on the level of anaerobic fitness and the effectiveness of strength training programs.
Groin Pain in Athletes – Clinical Experience
Authors: Ficek Krzysztof , Rzepka Remigiusz , Orawczyk Tomasz , Żołnierczyk Zbigniew
Published: August 2009

Groin Pain in Athletes – Clinical Experience

Dysfunction of lumbo-pelvic area is a common problem in many sports. Due to insufficient data supporting variables predisposing to lumbo-pelvic dysfunction, and a lack of standards in thorough assessment, understanding the overall problem continues to provide clinical complications; and unfortunately, the prognosis is less than promising. Most often this type of non-contact injury in the groin area is seen in dynamic sports involving running, sprinting, and sports performed over longer time periods, where fatigue plays an important role (soccer, rugby, hockey). There have been proposals in identifying most probable factors influencing the occurrence of pelvic overload injury. Among those we can list: muscle strength and balance, training regimen (including warm-up), fatigue, flexibility, body mechanics, sports specific activities, movement technique, previous injury, and psychological state. During clinical assessment by the physician and physiotherapist, many of these risks of injury factors are found. Currently more attention is given to neuromuscular factors that can affect risk of this pathology.

Our clinical experience suggests that poor neuromuscular control and lack of strength may significantly contribute to injury in the lumbo-pelvic and groin area. Certain objective indexes (e.g., hamstrings to quadriceps strength H/Q, stability deficits) can be important indicators of injury risk, as well as guidelines for motor dysfunction recovery.
The Influence of Sodium Phosphate Supplementation on VO2max, Serum 2,3-diphosphoglycerate Level and Heart Rate in Off-road Cyclists
Authors: Czuba Miłosz , Zając Adam , Poprzecki Stanisław , Cholewa Jarosław
Published: August 2009

The Influence of Sodium Phosphate Supplementation on VO2max, Serum 2,3-diphosphoglycerate Level and Heart Rate in Off-road Cyclists

The main objective of the work was to evaluate the influence of a six day supplementation with sodium phosphate on circulatory and pulmonary variables, the level of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) and the concentration of inorganic phosphates in blood serum of elite off-road cyclists. The research material included 19 cyclists which were randomly divided into a experimental group, supplemented with sodium phosphate and a control group receiving a placebo The subjects in the experimental group ingested sodium diphosphate in a dose of 50mg/kg of fat free mass per day. The supplement was ingested in even doses, four times per day. The control group received 4g of glucose in gelatin capsules (500mg), which were also divided into 4 even portions. During the experiment a significant (p<0.05) increase in maximal oxygen uptake was observed (VO2max), maximal minute ventilation (VEmax), as well as oxygen pulse (O2/HR). Also a significant decrease in resting and maximal exercise heart rate occurred. This was also true for each exercise load. A significant (p<0.05) increase in the serum concentration of non-organic phosphates (P) was observed which was accompanied by a decrease in serum calcium (Ca) concentration. The changes in the resting and post exercise concentration of 2,3-DPG were non significant, yet the supplementation procedure showed a tendency for increased level of this variable.
Benefits of Sleep in Motor Learning – Prospects and Limitations
Authors: Blischke Klaus , Erlacher Daniel , Kresin Heiko , Brueckner Sebastian , Malangré Andreas
Published: August 2009

Benefits of Sleep in Motor Learning – Prospects and Limitations

During the recent years it has been shown repeatedly that, after initial learning, elapse of time preserves, but sleep enhances performance in procedural motor skills. To date, however, the majority of experimental studies in this area employed some sort of a sequential finger tapping skill as a criterion task. Thus it is unclear yet, if any (and which) other types of motor skills do indeed benefit from sleep. In order to answer this question, and to provide theoretical statements about the memory system regarding benefits of sleep in motor learning, we carried out a series of studies following a "multi-task research strategy". Although we successfully replicated sleep-related improvements in the production of newly acquired sequential finger skills (FT-Task) under different learning conditions (i.e., guided or unguided), we did not find any such effect of sleep in discrete motor tasks requiring precise production of (a) a specific relative timing pattern (Diamond Tapping-Task), or (b) a sub-maximal force impulse (vertical Counter Movement Jump), and we also failed to find any specifically sleep-related effects on subsequent performance in (c) a continuous visuo-motor pursuit-tracking task. These results are considered in relation to other work, and the respective theoretical implications are discussed.
Force Coordination in Object Manipulation
Authors: de Freitas Paulo , Krishnan Vennila , Jaric Slobodan
Published: August 2009

Force Coordination in Object Manipulation

Purpose: The purpose of this review is to present our recent findings related to the studies of hand function based on the coordination of forces exerted against hand-held objects.

Basic procedures: A novel device has been developed for recording grip (GF; acting perpendicularly at the hand-object contact) and load force (LF; acting tangentially) during uni- and bimanual manipulation tasks performed under either static or dynamic conditions. Both healthy participants and neurological patients were tested. The outcome measures were obtained from the task performance (i.e., the ability to exert accurate LF profiles), GF-LF coordination and GF modulation.

Main findings: The method applied proved to not only to be both reliable and valid, but also sufficient to detect differences between the dominant and non-dominant hand, as well as between healthy participants and mildly involved neurological patients. Marked differences in most of the depended variables were also detected between unidirectional and bi-direction tasks (i.e., in the tasks where LF acts in one and in two alternating directions). The later finding could not be based neural mechanisms known for their role in manipulative actions, such as on employing ad hoc muscle synergies or on the afferent activity of skin mechanoreceptors.

Conclusions: The employed methodological approach can be applied not only to explore various manipulation activities, but also to serve as a basis for future development of specific clinical tests for populations that demonstrate impaired hand function.
Evaluation of Consecutive Maximum Contractions as a Test of Neuromuscular Function
Authors: Suzovic Dejan , Nedeljkovic Aleksandar , Pazin Nemanja , Planic Nenad , Jaric Slobodan
Published: August 2009

Evaluation of Consecutive Maximum Contractions as a Test of Neuromuscular Function

The aim of the study was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of consecutive maximum contractions (CMC) as a test of neuromuscular function. Eleven participants performed externally paced isometric CMC (i.e., a series of consecutive maximum force exertions and relaxations) of the quadriceps muscle. The derived variables included the peak forces, and the maximum rates of force development and relaxation. The results revealed high within-day reliability of CMC variables, while their correlations with the jumping performance were consistently higher than those of the variables of the standard strength test (SST). CMC variables also showed fairly stable values across a wide range of frequencies, while their peak force revealed a strong relationship with maximum force of SST despite being about considerably lower. Therefore, we conclude that CMC could be developed into a standard test of neuromuscular function. In addition to capturing the muscle actions based on different neural activation pattern than SST, CMC could also be based on simpler testing procedure, lower force exertion, and self-selected frequencies.
Pro-Oxidative Processes and Cytokine Response to Training in Professional Basketball Players
Authors: Zembroń-Łacny Agnieszka , Slowińska-Lisowska Małgorzata , Superlak Edward
Published: August 2009

Pro-Oxidative Processes and Cytokine Response to Training in Professional Basketball Players

In the present study, we evaluated the plasma concentration of inflammatory mediators including cytokines and their relation with oxidative damage markers in training cycles of basketball players.

Sixteen professional players of the Polish Basketball Extraleague participated in the study. The basketball players were observed during the preparatory period and the play-off round. Twenty healthy and untrained males composed of the reference group.

The comparative study has shown significantly higher levels of lipid peroxidation (TBARS) and protein carbonylation (PC) in nonathletes than in basketball players during the observed training periods. Tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), similarly to TBARS and PC, was significantly higher in nonathletes than athletes, except at the end of the play-off round. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) was lower in nonathletes than athletes in the preparatory period but it was higher in athletes in play-off round. In basketball players, the high level of IL-6 directly correlated with TBARS (r = 0.763, p<0.001) and PC (r = 0.636, p<0.001) during the preparatory period, whereas the high level of TNF α inversely correlated with TBARS (r = −0.601, p<0.001) and PC (r = −0.650, p<0.001) in the play-off round. The activity of creatine kinase (CK) was significantly increased during the training mezocycles in basketball players compared with nonathletes, and reached the highest activity at the end of the play-off round. CK activity did not correlate with oxidative damage markers and cytokines in both untrained and trained subjects.

Our results have shown the reduction in oxidative damage and improvement in cytokine response following professional training, as well as the relationship between inflammatory and pro-oxidative processes in basketball players.