bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Rainfall Prediction Skill over South Africa: One- versus Two-Tiered Forecasting Systems
Authors: Landman Willem A. , DeWitt David , Lee Dong-Eun , Beraki Asmerom , Lötter Daleen
Published: September 2011

Forecast performance by coupled ocean–atmosphere or one-tiered models predicting seasonal rainfall totals over South Africa is compared with forecasts produced by computationally less demanding two-tiered systems where prescribed sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies are used to force the atmospheric general circulation model. Two coupled models and one two-tiered model are considered here, and they are, respectively, the ECHAM4.5–version 3 of the Modular Ocean Model (MOM3-DC2), the ECHAM4.5-GML–NCEP Coupled Forecast System (CFSSST), and the ECHAM4.5 atmospheric model that is forced with SST anomalies predicted by a statistical model. The 850-hPa geopotential height fields of the three models are statistically downscaled to South African Weather Service district rainfall data by retroactively predicting 3-month seasonal rainfall totals over the 14-yr period from 1995/96 to 2008/09. Retroactive forecasts are produced for lead times of up to 4 months, and probabilistic forecast performance is evaluated for three categories with the outer two categories, respectively, defined by the 25th and 75th percentile values of the climatological record. The resulting forecast skill levels are also compared with skill levels obtained by downscaling forecasts produced by forcing the atmospheric model with simultaneously observed SST in order to produce a reference forecast set. Downscaled forecasts from the coupled systems generally outperform the downscaled forecasts from the two-tiered system, but neither of the two systems outscores the reference forecasts, suggesting that further improvement in operational seasonal rainfall forecast skill for South Africa is still achievable.
Hypocaloric Home Parenteral Nutrition and Nutrition Parameters in Patients Following Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Hamilton Cynthia , Dasari Vijaya , Shatnawei Abdullah , Lopez Rocio , Steiger Ezra , Seidner Douglas
Published: September 2011

Background: Surgical intervention is considered an acceptable treatment for morbid obesity. Complications following bariatric surgery procedures (BSPs) may necessitate home parenteral nutrition (HPN). No studies have been published on patients receiving HPN following BSP complications. The study aim was to determine if hypocaloric HPN has an effect on body mass index (BMI), albumin, and HPN complications. Methods: A historic cohort of patients was identified from a clinical database. Obese patients (BMI ≥35 kg/m2) who underwent BSP and received HPN for an anastomotic leak/fistula or bowel obstruction were included. Comparisons for start and end of therapy were made for calorie and protein intake, BMI, white blood cell count, and serum albumin level. Readmissions and metabolic and infectious complications were recorded. Obese patients received hypocaloric feeds to promote weight loss and protein for wound healing. Results: Twenty‐three patients were included for an average study length of 1.5 months. Patients received an average of 1.2 g of protein and a median of 13.6 kcal per kg actual body weight (ABW) per day. BMI decreased by 7.1% ± 5.2%, from a median of 39.8 to 37.1, and serum albumin increased by 12.5%, from 2.8 ± 0.5 to 3.2 ± 0.6 g/dL. Readmissions occurred in 52.2% of patients with 40.0% of complications related to HPN. Conclusions: Hypocaloric HPN is efficacious in maintaining adequate nutrition while allowing for weight loss in morbidly obese patients following complications of bariatric surgery. Frequency of HPN complications was comparable to those reported in the literature.
Reading, Writing, and Obesity
Authors: Schaub Jason , Marian Mary
Published: September 2011

The childhood obesity epidemic has left healthcare professionals and laymen alike questioning the best strategy to improve children's health in the future. To effectively combat childhood obesity, we must have a thorough understanding of the establishment and development of programs currently responsible for pediatric health. This article explores the history of two influential programs affecting children's diet and physical activity levels in schools: the National School Lunch Program and physical education classes. It is revealed that the National School Lunch Program contributes to the overall school nutrition environment, including the presence of fast food and vending machines on campuses. The history of physical education is traced back to ancient Greece, and it is shown that the familiar sports‐based curriculum is an advent of the 19th century, with the roots of physical education originating from the founders of preventive medicine. Select childhood obesity and health intervention studies are reviewed with a focus on identifying notable features pertaining to the effectiveness of these programs. Future directions and recommendations, based on the history of these programs as well as evidence from current pediatric health studies, outlining the basis for a modernized health‐based physical education curriculum designed to address today's public health concerns, are further discussed.
A Review of Evidence‐Based Strategies to Treat Obesity in Adults
Authors: Laddu Deepika , Dow Caitlin , Hingle Melanie , Thomson Cynthia , Going Scott
Published: September 2011

Obesity, with its comorbidities, is a major public health problem. Population‐based surveys estimate 2 of every 3 U.S. adults are overweight or obese. Despite billions of dollars spent annually on weight loss attempts, recidivism is high and long‐term results are disappointing. In simplest terms, weight loss and maintenance depend on energy balance, and a combination of increased energy expenditure by exercise and decreased energy intake through caloric restriction is the mainstay of behavioral interventions. Many individuals successfully lose 5%–10% of body weight through behavioral approaches and thereby significantly improve health. Similar success occurs with some weight loss prescriptions, although evidence for successful weight loss with over‐the‐counter medications and supplements is weak. Commercial weight loss programs have helped many individuals achieve their goals, although few programs have been carefully evaluated and compared, limiting recommendations of one program over another. For the very obese, bariatric surgery is an option that leads to significant weight loss and improved health, although risks must be carefully weighed. Lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity, healthy food choices, and portion control, must be adopted, regardless of the weight loss approach, which requires ongoing support. Patients can best decide the appropriate approach working with a multidisciplinary team, including their health care provider and experts in nutrition, exercise, and behavioral intervention.
Surgical Management of Obesity
Authors: Miller Marcus R. , Choban Patricia S.
Published: September 2011

Surgical treatment of morbid obesity remains the most effective modality available. Procedures have evolved over the past 50 years and have utilized caloric restriction and malabsorption, alone or in combination. Optimizing outcome and preserving good nutrition health is the goal of the multidisciplinary care that these patients need. The objective of this article is to review the evolution of bariatric surgery with an emphasis on the current procedures being performed in the United States. Recommendations for diet and vitamin/mineral supplementation for specific procedures are reviewed, as well as identification and management of some procedure‐related complications.
Sickness Behavior Clustering in Children With Cancer
Authors: Hockenberry Marilyn J. , Hooke Mary C. , McCarthy Kathy , Gregurich Mary Ann
Published: September 2011

Despite knowing that pediatric cancer patients experience multiple concurrent symptoms, most research focuses on individual symptoms. This study is a secondary data analysis from previous research evaluating symptom clusters and carnitine plasma levels in 67 children and adolescents aged between 7 and 18 years, before and after receiving ifosfamide, doxorubicin, or cisplatin chemotherapy. In preparation for cluster analysis, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, depression, and performance status symptoms were rated in categories of none, mild, moderate, or severe. A conceptual approach was used to evaluate the identification of unique patterns of symptoms that cluster as well as what subgroup members of pediatric oncology patients assemble together. Comparison of symptoms is made with the recent literature on sickness behavior symptoms. The hierarchical agglomerative cluster analysis was used to identify and classify variables into groups based on similarities they possess. This cluster analysis increases awareness of sickness behavior symptoms, patterns, interaction, and synergy. Increasing knowledge of the complex symptom experiences of pediatric oncology patients provides the scientific basis for new directions in symptom intervention.
Comparing Administration of Nutrition Support With Prescribed Dose
Authors: Mosby Terezie Tolar , Griffith Lara Kelley , Jones Megan , Allen Ginny , Yang Jie , Wang Chong , Leung Wing , Williams Ruth
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether pediatric bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients receive the prescribed dose of nutrition support (NS). Data were obtained from electronic and paper charts at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The amount of NS received was compared with the amount prescribed. Data were collected on 32 patients for 63 hospital stays in which NS was administered. The mean percentage of nutrition prescription met and percentage of total estimated energy met were 69% and 72%, respectively. Allogeneic BMT patients received significantly more of their nutrition prescription (92%) than autologous BMT patients did (54%, P < .01). Malnourished patients were significantly more likely to receive the full dose of NS than patients who were considered nourished or obese ( P < .05). This study showed that patients who were most in need of NS were more likely to receive the full dose.
Indentation of rigidly supported sandwich beams with foam cores exhibiting non-linear compressive behaviour
Authors: Pitarresi Giuseppe , Amorim João
Published: September 2011

A generalized analytical approach to investigate the indentation of sandwich beams under concentrated loads is presented, based on the Winkler foundation theory. A segment-wise model is implemented to the case of fully backed sandwich beams with polymeric foam cores exhibiting generic non-linear compressive behaviours. Closed-form analytical solutions of the indentation curve are obtained for simplified foam compression behaviours: elastic-perfectly-plastic, bilinear and bilinear-perfectly-plastic. Analytical predictions are compared with experimental data from sandwiches employing foam cores with peculiar non-linear behaviours. The proposed models are found to give a better match of the experimental data than the classic elastic-perfectly-plastic model.
Efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of glatiramer acetate in the treatment of relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Boster Aaron , Bartoszek Mary Pat , O’Connell Colleen , Pitt David , Racke Michael
Published: September 2011

The current Multiple Sclerosis (MS) therapeutic landscape is rapidly growing. Glatiramer acetate (GA) remains unique given its non-immunosuppressive mechanism of action as well as its superior long-term safety and sustained efficacy data. In this review, we discuss proposed mechanisms of action of GA. Then we review efficacy data for reduction of relapses and slowing disability as well as long term safety data. Finally we discuss possible future directions of this unique polymer in the treatment of MS.
The prospect of induced pluripotent stem cells for diabetes mellitus treatment
Authors: Soejitno Andreas , Prayudi Pande Kadek Aditya
Published: September 2011

A continuous search for a permanent cure for diabetes mellitus is underway with several remarkable discoveries over the past few decades. One of these is the potential of pancreatic stem/progenitor cells to rejuvenate functional β cells. However, the existence of these cell populations is still obscure and a lack of phenotype characterization hampers their use in clinical settings. Cellular reprogramming through induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology can become an alternative strategy to generate insulin-producing cells in a relatively safe (autologous-derived cells, thus devoid of rejection risk) and efficient way (high cellular proliferation) but retain a precise morphological and genetic composition, similar to that of the native β cells. iPS cell technology is a technique of transducing any cell types with key transcription factors to yield embryonic-like stem cells with high clonogenicity and is able to give rise into all cell lineages from three germ layers (endoderm, ectoderm, and mesoderm). This approach can generate β-like pancreatic cells that are fully functional as proven by either in vitro or in vivo studies. This novel proof-of-concept stem cell technology brings new expectations on applying stem cell therapy for diabetes mellitus in clinical settings.
Multi-method characterization of the ferrihydrite to goethite transformation
Authors: Houben G. , Kaufhold S.
Published: September 2011

The reactivity of soils and sediments is often described by parameters such as the specific surface area (SSA) and the cation exchange capacity (CEC). Both, however, are bulk values controlled by the presence and crystallinity of different phases, e.g. clay minerals and iron oxides. Amongst the latter, ferrihydrite and goethite are the most abundant minerals. Goethite gradually forms from a ferrihydrite precursor, a process involving a decrease in surface area. Today the BET gas adsorption technique is the most common method to measure SSA. In this study, BET surface areas of synthetic and natural ferrihydrite and goethite of variable crystallinity were compared to (a) mineral-specific measurements, including infrared analysis (IR), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and (b) bulk methods, such as cation exchange capacity and oxalate-soluble iron. Correlations showed that the SSA can be indirectly inferred from all methods. There is no general correlation between IR and BET measurements due to the variability of adsorbed water, which depends on drying and ambient conditions. DTA, particularly using the dehydroxylation peak at 300°C, allows quantification of the goethite content, and hence the SSA, because adsorbed water does not affect this peak. The data set of the present study enabled us to estimate either SSA and/or the content of iron oxides, even in natural mixtures, e.g. those in which smectites determine the SSA.
Mineralogical, crystallographic and technological characteristics of Yaylayolu kaolin (Kütahya, Turkey)
Authors: Yanik G.
Published: September 2011

The Yaylayolu kaolin deposit is situated in the vicinity of Tavşanlı, Kütahya, western Turkey. Mineral identification and characterization studies were conducted using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analyses (DTA), scanning electron microscopy with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM-EDX), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. The degree of crystallinity, Hinckley's index (HI) and the Stoch index (SI) values were determined for kaolinite from the deposit.

Five representative samples from the kaolin deposit were used for ceramic technological tests. Particle size distribution, pH value, loss on ignition, A12O3, Fe2O3and TiO2contents were determined, drying shrinkage, firing shrinkage, dry bend strength, fired bend strength, water absorption, pfefferkorn plasticity index, whiteness of the fired and unfired samples (L* value) and bulk density were measured. The kaolin was found to be suitable for making white cement and wall tiles, floor tiles, and tableware items which are shaped by dry pressing and extrusion.
Mineralogy, micromorphology, geochemistry and genesis of a hydrothermal kaolinite deposit and altered Miocene host volcanites in the Hallaçlar area, Uşak, western Turkey
Authors: Erkoyun H. , Kadіr S.
Published: September 2011

The Hallaçlar kaolinite deposit of the Uşak Province (western Turkey) is hosted by dacite, andesite and siliceous materials of the Miocene Karaboldere volcanites. Mineralogical zonation, such as the prevalence of kaolinite at the centre of the deposit, coexisting with silica polymorphs such as quartz and cristobalite along with feldspar and hornblende, and a relative increase of smectite, illite, chlorite, and Fe-oxide/-hydroxide phases outward and upward, demonstrate that hydrothermal-alteration processes resulted in kaolinization. Micromorphologically, kaolinite occurs as pseudohexagonal blocky kaolinite with coarse-grained quartz in microfractures, and the presence of relatively fine-grained vermiform kaolinite that edges volcanic materials indicates that kaolinite developed in several phases coexisting with goethite, lepidocrocite, hematite, pyrite, jarosite, alunite, and gypsum/anhydrite with smectite in fractures. The highly crystallized Hallaçlar kaolinite is identified by: (1) sharp reflections at 7.23 and 3.57 Å, with triplet and doublet non-basal reflections; (2) sharp infrared spectral bands at 3687, 3651 and 3620 cm-1; (3) well defined, pseudohexagonal and hexagonal kaolinite crystal growth; (4) a chemical index of weathering of 98.6-100; and (5) SiO2/Al2O3ratios between 1.04 and 1.45. Enrichment of Sr and depletion of Rb+Ba, Ti, andHREErelative toLREE, with a distinct negative Eu anomaly, are responses to the fractionation of feldspar and hornblende by the hydrothermal fluid; these results are also supported by the O- and H-isotopic character and formation temperatures of the Hallaçlar kaolinite and smectite; namely, 134.1-183.4°C and 65.6°C, respectively. The negative δ34S (-20.7‰) value of gypsum/anhydrite reflects its formation from geothermal-water-derived sulphur. Under the influence of a tectonically controlled hydrothermal process, feldspar, hornblende and volcanic glass were altered, resulting in the conservation of Al and depletion of Si, Na, Ca, K, Mg and Fe in an open hydrological system such that formation of kaolinite in the central part of the deposit under acidic conditions and development of smectite and illite upward and outward under basic conditions were favoured.
Automation of size fractionation to extract clays and silts
Authors: Deng Youjun , Tenorio Arvide M. G.
Published: September 2011

The objective of this study was to build an automated size fractionator to process up to 16 samples at one time. Most parts used in the apparatus are inexpensive items, available from lawn irrigation, household appliance and aquatic pet supply stores. The device can be used to extract different silt and clay fractions by changing sedimentation time. A bentonite, a kaolin and an ironoxide-rich Oxisol were fractionated by this instrument to sequentially extract particles that have sizes equivalent to <2 µm, <5 µm, <10 µm and <20 µm quartz spheres. A laser diffraction particle size analyser revealed size differences in the different fractions and also showed that the silt fractions contained particles having slightly larger sizes than the assumed diameters of spherical quartz. Scanning electron microscope examination suggested that the greater particle size was mainly due to the non-spherical shapes of the particles and a reduced bulk density of the porous aggregates.
Das bedrohliche Arkadien: Der Feenhügel in der Theologie und Geschichtsschreibung des Mittelalters
Authors: Roling Bernd
Published: September 2011

Medieval literature inherited from the Latin pastoral tradition exemplified by Virgil and others the motif of an ideal landscape, a paradise of shepherds. The Arcadia of classical tradition, inhabited by nymphs, satyrs and the heathen gods, became for the medieval mind a garden of love, where Amor held council (as developed by the French allegorists, for example), or a philosophical paradise, where man was recreated and restored. At the same time, medieval historians and theologians found themselves confronted by a different kind of pagan paradise, namely the famous fairy hill of Romano-Celtic origin, which was inhabited not by fictional, but by real creatures such as elves and fairies. The Church Fathers condemned the fairy hill as a demonic illusion and the fairies as diabolical phantasms. This article will demonstrate that the literary description of the fairy hill in Latin tradition was strongly influenced by the idea of bucolic landscape, although it changed its character significantly: what once had been a literary model, now became a metaphysical reality and a concrete alternative to the contemporary world.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Challenges for Bone Regeneration and Osseointegration
Authors: Razzouk Sleiman , Schoor Robert
Published: September 2011

Bone regeneration is an indispensable procedure for implant placement. Original techniques based on mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy are emerging with the goal of speeding up biology, thereby reducing the osseointegration period. Many products found their way in clinical application, yet their reliability remains uncertain because many in vitro culture‐related challenges are facing these cells once they are out of their biologic environment. In this commentary, these limitations are discussed with the emphasis of their impact on the performance of MSCs. Clinicians should be aware of these issues before implementing this cell‐based regenerative technique.
Limits of policy intervention in a world of neoliberal mechanism designs: Paradoxes of the global crisis
Authors: Dymski Gary
Published: September 2011

The current global context poses several paradoxes: the recovery from the
2009 recession was not a recovery; investment, normally driven by profit
rates, is lagging and not leading economic activity; the crisis is global but
debate involves sub-global levels; and public safety-nets, which have helped
to stabilize national income, are being cut. These paradoxes can be traced,
in part, to the impact of the ?truce? that followed the Keynesian-Monetarist
controversy on economists? ideas about policy activism. This implicit ?truce?
has removed activist macro policy from discussion, and shifted attention
toward institutions as mechanisms for solving game-theoretic coordination
problems. Policy activism then centers on how the ?agents? (nations) can
achieve optimal use of their available resources (or optimal access to
resources) at the global level; and this involves creating and fine-tuning
compacts - neoliberal mechanism designs - that can capture rents and attract
globally mobile capital. This approach leads economists to see the key
problem in the current global crisis as fixing broken neoliberal mechanisms.
However, a global economy dominated by mechanisms that feed on aggregate
demand without generating it faces the prospect of stagnation or collapse.
Bank efficiency: Evidence from a panel of European banks
Authors: Apergis Nicholas , Alevizopoulou Effrosyni
Published: September 2011

The goal of this paper is to investigate the efficiency of the banking
systems in eight European countries over the period 1994 to 2008 by using
the production frontier methodology. The paper shows that risk factors along
with a size variable should be taken into account, otherwise inefficiency
tends to be overstated.
Rethinking the role of regulation in the aftermath of the global financial crisis: The case of the UK
Authors: Slattery David , Nellis Joseph
Published: September 2011

Following the global financial crisis, many countries have embarked on
fundamental reviews of their regulatory systems in an attempt to identify the
causes of the near collapse in financial systems and to pave the way for a
new approach to regulation. The focus of this paper concerns the intellectual
assumptions on which previous regulatory approaches have largely been built,
both in the UK and in a number of other countries. We examine the analysis
provided by the UK?s Turner Review (2009) which follows the ?market failure?
approach to regulation and we contrast this with the alternative ?state
failure? approach. Both approaches only offer partial and polarised views
into the causes of the crisis. We offer a synthesis and argue that a new
conceptual approach to the management of financial markets is required. The
essence of this new approach is the recognition that the state and regulation
are not external to the market. While this paper largely relates to the UK,
it provides potentially important lessons for many other countries.
Effect of Resin Cement System and Root Region on the Push-out Bond Strength of a Translucent Fiber Post
Authors: Calixto LR , Bandéca MC , Clavijo V , Andrade MF , Vaz LGeraldo , Campos EA
Published: September 2011

Clinical Relevance

The use of self-adhesive resin cements is an option for bonding fiber-reinforced composite posts to root canal dentin. Traditional resin cements apparently provide higher bond strengths than self-etch resin cements. Because of this, the bond strength of self-adhesive resin cements to root dentin should be evaluated.
Long-Term Nanoleakage Depth and Pattern of Cervical Restorations Bonded With Different Adhesives
Authors: Mobarak EH , Daifalla LE
Published: September 2011

Clinical Relevance

A mild acetone-based single-step self-etched adhesive system may reveal less nanoleakage in the short-term interval, but unfortunately, this was not sustained after long-term storage.
Effect of Tooth Surface Preparation on the Bonding of Self-Etching Primer Adhesives
Authors: Adebayo OA , Burrow MF , Tyas MJ , Palamara J
Published: September 2011

Clinical Relevance

The effectiveness of some self-etching primer adhesive systems is not significantly affected by the mode of rotary instrumentation used in dentin preparation.
Randomized Clinical Trial of Four Adhesion Strategies: 18-Month Results
Authors: Perdigão J , Dutra-Corrêa M , Saraceni CHC , Ciaramicoli MT , Kiyan VH , Queiroz CS
Published: September 2011

Clinical Relevance

The 18-month retention rate of the two self-etch adhesives used in the present study was similar to that of two etch-and-rinse adhesives from the same manufacturer. However, the quality of enamel margins was significantly better for the two etch-and-rinse adhesives.

Statement of the Problem

With Institutional Review Board approval, 39 patients who needed restoration of noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) were enrolled in this study. A total of 125 NCCLs were selected and randomly assigned to four groups: 1) a three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive, Adper Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (MP, 3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA); 2) a two-step etch-and-rinse adhesive, Adper Single Bond Plus (SB, 3M ESPE); 3) a two-step self-etch adhesive, Adper Scotchbond SE (SE, 3M ESPE); and 4) a one-step self-etch adhesive, Adper Easy Bond (EB, 3M ESPE). A nanofilled composite resin was used for all restorations. Restorations were evaluated at six months and 18 months using modified U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) parameters.

Results

At six months after initial placement, 107 restorations (85.6% recall rate) were evaluated. At 18 months, 94 restorations (75.2% recall rate) were available for evaluation. The 6 mo/18 mo overall retention rates (%) were 100/90.9 for MP; 100/91.7 for SB; 100/90.9 for SE; and 96.4/92.3 for EB with no statistical difference between any pair of groups at each recall. Sensitivity to air decreased significantly for all adhesives from the preoperative to the postoperative stage and was stable thereafter. Interfacial staining did not change statistically from baseline to six months; however, interfacial staining at the enamel margins was statistically worse at 18 months than at baseline for the two self-etch adhesives EB and SE. Marginal adaptation was statistically worse at 18 months compared with baseline only for EB. This tendency was already significant at the six-month recall.

Conclusion

Although 18-month retention was similar for the different adhesion strategies, enamel marginal deficiencies were more prevalent for the self-etch adhesives.
Real Three-Dimensional Objects: Effects on Mental Rotation
Authors: Felix Michael C. , Parker Joshua D. , Lee Charles , Gabriel Kara I.
Published: September 2011

The current experiment investigated real three-dimensional (3D) objects with regard to performance on a mental rotation task and whether the appearance of sex differences may be mediated by experiences with spatially related activities. 40 men and 40 women were presented with alternating timed trials consisting of real-3D objects or two-dimensional illustrations of 3D objects. Sex differences in spatially related activities did not significantly influence the finding that men outperformed women on mental rotation of either stimulus type. However, on measures related to spatial activities, self-reported proficiency using maps correlated positively with performance only on trials with illustrations whereas self-reported proficiency using GPS correlated negatively with performance regardless of stimulus dimensionality. Findings may be interpreted as suggesting that rotating real-3D objects utilizes distinct but overlapping spatial skills compared to rotating two-dimensional representations of 3D objects, and real-3D objects can enhance mental rotation performance.
Sound and Emotion in Milton's Paradise Lost
Authors: Whissell Cynthia
Published: September 2011

This research was designed to test the hypothesis that Milton's poem Paradise Lost is meaningfully patterned with respect to sound. Thirty-six segments from 12 Books of Paradise Lost were scored (Whissell, 2000) in terms of their proportional use of Pleasant, Cheerful, Active, Nasty, Unpleasant, Sad, Passive, and Soft sounds. Paradise Lost includes more Active, Nasty, and Unpleasant sounds and fewer Pleasant, Passive, Soft, and Sad sounds than a representative sample of anthologized poetry. The way in which emotional sounds are patterned (e.g., the rise and fall in the proportion of Pleasant sounds across Books) suggests the presence of three narratives within the work: Sin and Salvation — Foreseen in Heaven (Books I — III), The Fall of Man (Books IV–IX), and Sin and Salvation — Foretold on Earth (Books X–XI). The poem analyzed had updated spelling, and the author's exact intentions when creating it are not accessible to direct investigation, for this among other reasons.
Lateral Head Turning Affects Temporal Memory
Authors: Vicario Carmelo Mario , Pavone Enea Francesco , Martino Davide , Fuggetta Giorgio
Published: September 2011

Spatial attention is a key factor in the exploration and processing of the surrounding environment, and plays a role in linking magnitudes such as space, time, and numbers. The present work evaluates whether shifting the coordinates of spatial attention through rotational head movements may affect the ability to estimate the duration of different time intervals. A computer-based implicit timing task was employed, in which participants were asked to concentrate and report verbally on colour changes of sequential stimuli displayed on a computer screen; subsequently, they were required to reproduce the temporal duration (ranging between 5 and 80 sec.) of the perceived stimuli using the computer keyboard. There was statistically significant overestimation of the 80-sec. intervals exclusively on the rightward rotation head posture, whereas head posture did not affect timing performances on shorter intervals. These findings support the hypothesis that the coordinates of spatial attention influence the ability to process time, consistent with the existence of common cortical metrics of space and time in healthy humans.
Psychosocial Determinants of Young Athletes' Continued Participation over Time
Authors: Jõesaar Helen , Hein Vello
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was to examine the differences in psychosocial and motivational variables between persistent and dropout youth athletes and between groups with different years in training. Team and individual youth athletes completed questionnaires measuring autonomy support from parents and coaches, peer motivational climate, basic psychological needs satisfaction, and sport motivation. The results showed that athletes who dropped out perceived significantly less competence, relatedness, and autonomy need satisfaction, and they perceived less autonomy support from parents and were less intrinsically motivated than persistent athletes. Youth athletes with up to one year in training reported significantly lower effort and intra-team conflict with peers, relatedness need satisfaction, and external motivation than athletes with 1 to 3 years and > 3 years in training. Findings extend knowledge of the psychosocial determinants of sport continuation behaviour among young athletes.
A Study of Fitts' Law on Goal-Directed Aiming Task with Moving Targets
Authors: Chiu Tien-Ting , Young Kuu-Young , Hsu Shang-Hwa , Lin Chun-Ling , Lin Chin-Teng , Yang Bing-Shiang , Huang Zong-Ren
Published: September 2011

Most research based on Fitts' law define a log-linear relationship between temporal and spatial accuracy in goal-directed aiming tasks using stationary targets. Whether this relationship holds or not when the targets have varying velocities, and how the behavioral strategies and physical activities may change accordingly are of interest. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between temporal and spatial accuracy in goal-directed aiming tasks with moving targets. Participants were asked to aim at two target widths using a joystick. Results demonstrated that in a goal-directed aiming task there was a negative effect on performance when target velocity was increased or target width was decreased. Participants moved faster and then made more systematic errors in a high-velocity target condition. Results may be applicable to the complex perceptual-motor behavior of people who perform tasks using computers.
An Analysis of an Optimal Selection Process for Characteristics and Technical Performance of Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Lin Wen-Bin , Chen Mei-Jung , Tung I-Wu , Chen Mei-Yen
Published: September 2011

Selection of a qualified pitcher has relied previously on qualitative indices; here, both quantitative and qualitative indices including pitching statistics, defense, mental skills, experience, and managers' recognition were collected, and an analytic hierarchy process was used to rank baseball pitchers. The participants were 8 experts who ranked characteristics and statistics of 15 baseball pitchers who comprised the first round of potential representatives for the Chinese Taipei National Baseball team. The results indicated a selection rate that was 91% consistent with the official national team roster, as 11 pitchers with the highest scores who were recommended as optimal choices to be official members of the Chinese Taipei National Baseball team actually participated in the 2009 Baseball World Cup. An analytic hierarchy can aid in selection of qualified pitchers, depending on situational and practical needs; the method could be extended to other sports and team-selection situations.
Proposal for a New Body Sway Evaluation Method
Authors: Kitabayashi Tamotsu , Demura Shinichi , Murase Hitoshi
Published: September 2011

This study is aimed at examining body sway factors for 1,107 healthy people aged 16 to 69 years and to propose a practical body sway evaluation method. The center of foot pressure measurement was carried out twice for 1 min. with a 1-min. rest. 30 parameters with high reliability selected from 6 domains (distance, distribution of amplitude, area, velocity, power spectrum, and body sway vector) were summarized objectively into 4 body sway factors (unit time sway, front-back sway, left-right sway, and high frequency band power). Factor scores were calculated by the estimate equation and the total standard scores of parameters with high factor loadings. Considering this result, a total standard score for each factor was classified into 4 percentile categories based on percentile rank. Using this classification criteria, body sway scores for each individual were classified into any of the above 4 domains for each factor. It was confirmed that young adults mainly belong to percentile Categories A and B and the elderly mainly belong to percentile Categories C and D. It was found that a great effect on body sway occurred when an individual's conscious condition changed (contracting a cold or after exercise). In conclusion, the body sway of healthy people can be explained by these 4 sway factors. An evaluation of the body sway pattern using the 4 sway factors may enable us to concretely understand individuals' disorders and abnormal states in addition to changes in body sway that occur with aging.
Vertical Force and Wrist Deviation Angle When Using a Walker to Stand UP and Sit down
Authors: Leung Cherng-Yee , Yeh Po-Chan
Published: September 2011

Research investigating walkers suggests that safety and assistance for the elderly with weak lower limbs were important. However, the relationship between the use of a walker and the upper limbs has received little investigation. Standing up and sitting down are important daily activities. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore wrist deviation and vertical force among elderly individuals using a walker for assistance to stand up and sit down. In total, 64 elderly volunteers ( M age = 80.22, SD = 9.36) were enrolled. Data were obtained from four load cells and a twin-axis wrist goniometer. Wrist deviation and vertical force were examined when participants used a walker with horizontal handles to assist in standing up and sitting down. Significant wrist angle deviation occurred with the use of a walker, with dorsiflexion of the right hand greater than that of the left. Males exerted significantly greater vertical force. In the sitting position, greater ulnar deviation was seen among experienced walker users, whereas during standing, experienced users exhibited greater dorsiflexion. The horizontal handles of most marketed walkers may cause user wrist deviations, suggesting researchers should pursue improvements in walker design.
Articulatory Behaviors of Nonnative Speakers: Role of L2 Proficiency and Accent Modification
Authors: Chakraborty Rahul , Domsch Celeste , Gonzales Maria D.
Published: September 2011

To sound native-like, nonnative speakers need to approximate the articulatory patterns of native speakers. When nonnative speakers deviate from native speakers' production patterns, it gives rise to a nonnative accent. This study examines how proficiency in a second language (L2) is related to processing skills in L2, as measured by the accuracy of consonant production. 10 monolingual speakers of American English, 10 Bengali-English bilinguals with high proficiency in English, and 10 Bengali-English bilinguals with low proficiency in English participated. The participants spoke 16 nonwords of four different syllable lengths. Productions were phonetically transcribed. Results suggested that nonnative speakers' L2 proficiency differentially interacted with overall phonemic accuracy, usage of appropriate place, manner and voicing features, position of consonants within target words, and syllable length. Implications of these findings are discussed in light of customized strategies for modification of nonnative accents.
Catching of Balls Unexpectedly Thrown or Fired by Cannon
Authors: Kenward Ben , Nilsson Daniel
Published: September 2011

Although learned actions can be automatically elicited in response to expected stimuli for which they have been prepared, little is known about whether learned actions can be automatically initiated by unexpected stimuli. Responses of unwitting participants to balls unexpectedly thrown by an experimenter ( n = 10) or propelled by a hidden ball cannon ( n = 22) were recorded by motion capture. Experience of ball catching correlated negatively with hand movement distance, indicating most responses were defensive, but successful catches were made in response to both thrown and fired balls. Although reaction time was faster in response to fired balls, interception was more frequent in response to thrown balls, indicating that movement cues by the thrower facilitated unexpected ball catching. The latency to begin a catching action by the only successful catcher of an unexpectedly fired ball was 296 msec. Given current knowledge of reaction time tasks and latencies of neural substrates of conscious perception and deliberation, it is probable that there was insufficient time available for conscious preparation of catch attempts. Ball catching may represent an example of a learned response which can be rapidly and unconsciously initiated without contextual priming or expectation of the stimulus.
Task Characteristics and the Contextual Interference Effect
Authors: Kruisselbrink L. Darren , Van Gyn Geraldine H.
Published: September 2011

The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the influence of blocked and random practice on the acquisition and retention of a criterion multisegment motor task practiced alongside either two similar-distractors tasks or two different-distractors tasks. The random-practice similar-distractors group made more decision-making errors and performed the criterion task more slowly than the blocked-practice similar-distractors group during the acquisition phase. Following a brief filled retention interval, the blocked-practice similar-distractors group demonstrated a loss of acquired performance capabilities, whereas the random-practice similar-distractors group did not. The blocked- and random-practice different-distractors groups performed similarly throughout the experiment. Results are interpreted within Glenberg's component-levels theory, in which it was argued that random practice must stimulate the differential storage of multilevel contextual components associated with the multiple motor tasks being learned to produce a contextual interference effect. The theoretical and practical implications of differential storage versus nonrepetition as a function of random practice are discussed.
Static Images with Different Induced Intensities of Human Body Movements Affect Subjective Time
Authors: Nather Francisco Carlos , Bueno José Lino Oliveira
Published: September 2011

Modulation of subjective time was examined using static images eliciting perceptions of different intensities of body movement. Undergraduate students were exposed to photographs of dancer sculptures in different dance positions for 36 sec. and asked to estimate the exposure duration. Lower movement intensities were related to shorter estimated durations. Mean durations for images of unmoving dancers were underestimated and for dancers taking a ballet step were overestimated. Temporal estimations were also related to the order of presentation of the stimuli, which suggested that subjective time estimations were influenced by the experimental context. Subjective time is related not only to the visual perception of moving images, but also of elicited perceptions of movement in static images, suggesting an embodiment effect on subjective time estimation.
Different Step-Over Movement Strategies for Disturbance Stimulations
Authors: Shin Sohee , Demura Shinichi
Published: September 2011

This study examined differences in performance when 10 healthy adult participants took steps under three different disturbance stimulations (with opened and closed eyes and with the use of light), with and without an obstacle present. In the voluntary condition, participants recognized the obstacle beforehand and stepped over it quickly; in the light condition, participants recognized the obstacle beforehand and quickly stepped over it after light stimulation; in the closed eyes condition, participants did not recognize the obstacle beforehand, but after opening their eyes when hearing a sound, they quickly stepped over the obstacle. The swing time of the gait was significantly longer in obstacle conditions for all stimulations. The swing time was significantly longer under the closed eyes condition than the light and voluntary conditions. The clearances were significantly higher in order of the closed eyes, light, and voluntary conditions in the presence of an obstacle.
Simple determination of nonionic surfactants in highly-polluted aqueous samples
Authors: Šváb Marek , Švábová Martina , Mečířová Petra
Published: September 2011

This study examined the direct spectrometric method for determining non-ionic surfactants in highly-polluted samples (i.e., soil leachates) containing high concentrations of humic acids. Meso-tetra-(3,5-dibromo-4-hydrooxyphenyl)-porphyrin served as a coloration agent. The method was tested by use of two polyethoxylate/polypropoxylate — based non-ionic surfactants: Triton CF-21 containing aromatic groups in the structure and Novanik 1047A containing only linear hydrocarbon chains. The main goal was to quantify the influence of interfering species to the results. A test for coincidence of regression lines was employed for objective evaluation of the humic acid influence on the determination. It was observed that for linear surfactant Novanik 1047 A the method provides reliable result and thus, can serve for routine analyses. Regarding Triton CF-21, an interfering effect of humic acids was observed; however, after sufficient dilution of the samples, the method can be used as well. Finally, the method can be used for simple analyses of problematic samples without complicated sample-pretreatment.
Amphiphilic azopolymers capable to generate photo-sensitive micelles
Authors: Moleavin Ioana , Ibanescu Constanta , Hodorog-Rusu Anca , Peptu Ecaterina , Doroftei Florica , Hurduc Nicolae
Published: September 2011

Amphiphilic macromolecular micelles are advantageous for drug delivery applications due to the decrease of side-effects, ease of screening drugs against degradation, long-term stability, targeted delivery and control of the amount of the released drug. A series of amphiphilic azo-polymers having a flexible or rigid main-chain were synthesized and characterized. The presence of chlorobenzyl side-groups allowed both the easy bonding of photo-sensitive or hydrophilic groups and good control of the degree of substitution. The chemical structure was confirmed by 1H-NMR. The critical concentration of aggregation (CCA) was calculated using the fluorescence emission spectrum of pyrene. The interest was focused on a preliminary study concerning the disaggregation capacity of micelles under UV irradiation. The presence of micellar aggregates was confirmed by DLS and SEM and different organization of the amphiphilic polymers was evidenced depending on polymers concentration and polymers structure. In low polymer concentrations in water predominantly globular aggregates were formed. The increase in concentration increased the polydispersity index due to the fusion of micelles and formation of associates of globular aggregates, inter-micellar associates (clusters) and vesicles.
Influence of amino acid sequence on the interaction of short peptides containing 3-[2-(9-anthryl)benzoxazol-5-yl]-alanine with β-cyclodextrin
Authors: Mrozek Justyna , Guzow Katarzyna , Sikorska Emilia , Wiczk Wiesław
Published: September 2011

The influence of peptide sequence and Leu chirality in linear and cyclic peptides containing 3-[2-(9-anthryl)benzoxazol-5-yl]alanine on interaction with β-cyclodextrin were studied using fluorescence and NMR spectroscopy. The analysis of enthalpy-entropy compensation effect (α=1.05±0.02 and TΔS00=15.1±0.5 kJ mol−1) indicates that the entropic contribution connected with the solvent reorganization is the major factor governing the peptides-β-cyclodextrin complexation. Moreover, spatial orientation of guest-host molecule depends more than association constant on Leu residue configuration. However, the cyclization of the peptide chain substantially decrease the association constant with β-CD. An analysis of 2D NMR spectra reveals that inclusion complex is formed by penetration of cyclodextrin cavity from wider and narrow rims by anthryl group in the case of Box(Ant)-SPKL or anthryl and Leu residues for Box(Ant)-SPK(D)L analogue.